Image forming apparatus, image forming system, method for controlling image forming apparatus, and program

Abstract

To execute switching of output modes considering a spot color.SOLUTION: A control unit of an image forming apparatus acquires information on a job (step A1). The control unit switches output modes in an image forming unit on the basis of a first switching mode or a second switching mode. In the first switching mode, in image formation according to a color classification determined on the basis of the information on the job, when a predetermined number of images are continuously formed in an output mode different from an output mode corresponding to the color classification (step A9; YES), the control unit switches to the output mode corresponding to the color classification (step A10). In the second switching mode, the control unit instantly switches to the output mode corresponding to the color classification (step A6). When a color classification including a spot color is changed to a color classification not including the spot color (step A8; YES), the control unit instantly switches to an output mode corresponding to the color classification not including the spot color (step A6).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, some image forming apparatuses have a color output mode and a monochrome output mode. Such image forming apparatuses switch the output mode as an apparatus depending on the color type (color or monochrome) of the image data to be formed. The image forming conditions differ between the color output mode and the monochrome output mode. In an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, the image forming conditions include, for example, the scanning speed of a laser beam on a photosensitive drum, changes in the contact or separation state of the photosensitive drum with respect to an intermediate transfer belt, the fixing temperature, etc.

[0003] FIG. 13 shows the color types of each page constituting the image data, an example of switching the output mode according to the color type, and an example of not changing the output mode. In an image forming apparatus, switching the output mode takes time. Therefore, frequent switching of the output mode reduces productivity. For example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 13, assume that the color type is changed from "color (YMCK)" to "monochrome (K)" and then changed back to "color." As shown in the middle part of FIG. 13, when the output mode is switched according to the color type, the mode is switched from "color output mode (YMCK operation)" to "monochrome output mode (K operation)" for one page of monochrome image. After that, the mode is switched from "monochrome output mode" to "color output mode."

[0004] Furthermore, if the color type of the image data is "color," the output mode must be set to "color output mode." On the other hand, if the color type of the image data is "monochrome," a monochrome image can be formed even if the output mode remains in "color output mode." Therefore, as shown in the lower part of Figure 13, it is also possible to control the output mode for monochrome images so that it remains unchanged in "color output mode (YMCK operation)." However, if a monochrome image is formed in "color output mode," unused image forming units will unnecessarily deteriorate due to wear, etc.

[0005] Patent Document 1 proposes an image forming apparatus that switches the output mode from a color output mode to a monochrome output mode when monochrome image data continues for a predetermined number of pages or more. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-121844 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In some image forming devices, spot colors are used in addition to normal process colors. However, the use of spot colors was not taken into consideration when switching output modes in the above-mentioned conventional technology. Therefore, conventional output mode switching control could not be used for image forming devices that use spot colors.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to switch output modes in consideration of features. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1 is an image forming apparatus comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job; and a control unit that switches the output mode in the image forming unit based on a first switching mode that switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type when a predetermined number of consecutive image formations are performed in an output mode other than the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, or a second switching mode that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, wherein the control unit is an image forming apparatus that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the color type that does not include the spot color based on the second switching mode when image formation according to a color type that includes a spot color is performed followed by image formation according to a color type that does not include the spot color.

[0010] The invention described in claim 2 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, wherein, when image formation according to a color type including the spot color is followed by image formation according to a color type not including the spot color, after image formation in an output mode corresponding to the color type including the spot color, while continuing the output mode, when image formation according to a color type not including the spot color occurs for a second predetermined number of consecutive sheets.

[0011] The invention described in claim 3 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires at least one of information regarding a first job, information regarding a second job, and information regarding a combined job in which the first job and the second job are combined, and the control unit switches the output mode in the image forming unit for each job based on the acquired at least one of information regarding the first job, information regarding the second job, and information regarding the combined job.

[0012] The invention described in claim 4 is an image forming apparatus described in claim 1, in which the information regarding the job is information regarding the discharge of the job, and the control unit switches the output mode in the image forming unit based on the information regarding the discharge of the job.

[0013] The invention described in claim 5 is an image forming apparatus described in claim 1, wherein the information regarding the job is information regarding the output of the job, and the control unit switches the output mode in the image forming unit based on the information regarding the output of the job.

[0014] The invention described in claim 6 is an image forming system comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job; and a control unit that switches the output mode in the image forming unit based on a first switching mode that switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type when a predetermined number of consecutive image formations are performed in an output mode other than the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, or a second switching mode that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, wherein the control unit immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the color type that does not include the spot color based on the second switching mode when image formation according to a color type that includes a spot color is performed followed by image formation according to a color type that does not include the spot color.

[0015] The invention described in claim 7 is a control method for an image forming device that includes an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job and an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job, wherein, in image formation according to the determined color type, when a predetermined number of consecutive images are formed in an output mode other than the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, the output mode in the image forming unit is switched based on a first switching mode that switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, or a second switching mode that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, and when image formation according to a color type including a spot color is performed followed by image formation according to a color type not including the spot color, the output mode in the image forming unit is immediately switched to the output mode corresponding to the color type not including the spot color based on the second switching mode.

[0016] The invention described in claim 8 is a program for causing a computer of an image forming device having an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job and an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job to realize the following functions in the computer of an image forming device: a first switching mode that switches to an output mode corresponding to the determined color type when a predetermined number of consecutive image formations are performed in an output mode other than the output mode corresponding to the determined color type; or a second switching mode that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type; and a function that immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to a color type that does not include a spot color based on the second switching mode when image formation according to a color type that includes a spot color is performed followed by image formation according to a color type that does not include the spot color. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, output mode switching can be performed taking into consideration special colors. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a first output process executed by the image forming apparatus. [Figure 4A] This is an example of a color type in which a color component is added to the color output mode. [Figure 4B] This is an example of a color type in which a color component is added to the monochrome output mode. [Figure 4C] This is an example of a color type in which a color component is added to the monochrome spot color output mode. [Figure 4D] This is an example of a color type to which a color component is added for the spot color output mode. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating combinations of color types before and after a change when a color type is changed from one including a spot color to one not including a spot color. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating combinations of color types before and after a change in color type when the color types are changed so as to reduce color components while maintaining spot colors. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating combinations of color types before and after a change in color type when the color types are changed so that spot colors are not included and color components are reduced. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a second output process executed by an image forming apparatus according to a second modification. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of the color type of each page in a combined job. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing a third output process executed by an image forming apparatus according to a third modification. [Figure 11A] This is an example of a color type for one part. [Figure 11B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the discharge order in the case of sorted output. [Figure 11C] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the order of ejection in the case of group output. [Figure 12]13 is a flowchart showing a fourth output process executed by an image forming apparatus according to a fourth modification. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining conventional switching of output modes according to color types. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Advantages and features provided by the embodiments will be understood from the following detailed description and drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below or the examples shown in the drawings.

[0020] [Configuration of image forming device] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. The image forming apparatus 10 forms an image on a sheet of paper as a recording medium based on image data. The image data may be image data obtained by reading an image from a document, or may be image data received from an external device. The image forming apparatus 10 includes an operation unit 13, a display unit 14, a document reading unit 15, a paper feed unit 20, an image forming unit 30, an inverting unit 51, a post-processing unit 40, and the like.

[0021] The operation unit 13 includes various operation buttons and a touch screen. The operation unit 13 outputs operation signals based on user operations to the control unit 11 (see FIG. 2). The various operation buttons include numeric buttons, a start button, etc. The touch screen is provided to cover the display screen of the display unit 14. The user sets the paper feed unit 20, the image forming unit 30, and the post-processing unit 40 via the operation unit 13.

[0022] The display unit 14 is configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The display unit 14 displays various screens in accordance with instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 11.

[0023] The document reading unit 15 includes an ADF (automatic document feeder), a scanner, etc. The document reading unit 15 reads an image of a document and outputs the image data obtained to the control unit 11.

[0024] The paper feed unit 20 includes paper feed trays 21, 22, and 23, and supplies paper to the image forming unit 30. Each of the paper feed trays 21, 22, and 23 stores paper of a predetermined paper type and size.

[0025] The image forming unit 30 forms an image on the paper supplied from the paper supply unit 20. The image forming unit 30 is an electrophotographic image forming unit. Image forming unit 30 includes imaging units 31Y, 31M, 31C, 31K, and 31S corresponding to the respective colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (K), and spot color (S). Examples of spot colors include white, gold, and silver. Image forming unit 30 also includes an intermediate transfer belt 37, a secondary transfer roller 38, and a fixing unit 39. Imaging units 31Y, 31M, 31C, 31K, and 31S are arranged in series (tandem) along the belt surface of intermediate transfer belt 37.

[0026] The image forming unit 31Y includes a photosensitive drum 32Y, a charging unit 33Y, an exposure unit 34Y, a developing unit 35Y, and a primary transfer unit 36Y. The image forming unit 31Y forms a yellow image on the intermediate transfer belt 37. The charging unit 33Y uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 32Y. The exposure unit 34Y scans and exposes the charged photosensitive drum 32Y with a laser beam based on yellow image data to form an electrostatic latent image. The developing unit 35Y develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 32Y by attaching yellow toner to it. The primary transfer unit 36Y transfers the yellow toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 32Y onto the rotating intermediate transfer belt 37 (primary transfer).

[0027] The imaging units 31M, 31C, 31K, and 31S are similar to the imaging unit 31Y except for the colors they handle, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0028] A color toner image in which toner images of up to five colors are superimposed is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 37. The toner images are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 37 in the order of yellow, magenta, cyan, black, and special color. The secondary transfer roller 38 transfers the color toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 37 onto a sheet of paper all at once (secondary transfer).

[0029] The fixing unit 39 includes a heating roller and a pressure roller, and fixes the color toner image onto the paper by applying heat and pressure.

[0030] The reversing unit 51 reverses the paper when forming images on both sides of the paper. The reversing unit 51 reverses the paper that has been transported downstream from the image forming unit 30 in the paper transport direction, and supplies the reversed paper to the image forming unit 30 again.

[0031] The post-processing unit 40 performs post-processing as necessary on the sheets conveyed from the image forming unit 30. The post-processing includes stapling, cutting, punching, folding, sorting, etc. The post-processing unit 40 is equipped with paper output trays 41 and 42.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an operation unit 13, a display unit 14, a document reading unit 15, a communication unit 16, a paper feed unit 20, an image forming unit 30, a post-processing unit 40, a conveying unit 50, etc. Note that a description of the functional units that have already been described will be omitted.

[0033] The control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The CPU reads out various processing programs stored in the storage unit 12 in response to an operation signal input from the operation unit 13 or an instruction signal received by the communication unit 16. The CPU loads the read program into the RAM and controls the operation of each unit of the image forming apparatus 10 in accordance with the program.

[0034] The storage unit 12 is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage unit 12 stores various processing programs, data necessary for executing the programs, etc.

[0035] The communication unit 16 transmits and receives data to and from external devices connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0036] The transport unit 50 includes a plurality of transport rollers. The transport unit 50 transports paper within the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the transport unit 50 supplies paper stored in the paper feed trays 21, 22, and 23 of the paper feed unit 20 to the image forming unit 30. The transport unit 50 transports the paper after image formation to the post-processing unit 40 and discharges the paper onto the paper discharge trays 41 and 42. The transport unit 50 includes an inversion unit 51.

[0037] The control unit 11 (acquisition unit) acquires information about a job. The information about a job includes image data of an image formation target, etc. The information about a job also includes various setting information about the job. The control unit 11 determines the color type based on the acquired job information. The color type is the type of color components that make up the image. In this embodiment, the color type is classified into color (YMCK), monochrome (K), spot color (S), color + spot color (YMCKS), and monochrome + spot color (KS).

[0038] The control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image on paper as a recording medium according to the determined color type. For example, when the color type is "color + spot color," the control unit 11 forms an image using yellow, magenta, cyan, black, and spot color toners.

[0039] The control unit 11 switches the output mode of the image forming unit 30 based on the first switching mode or the second switching mode. The image forming unit 30 has output modes corresponding to each color type. In this embodiment, the control unit 11 can select the output mode from a color output mode (YMCK), a monochrome output mode (K), a spot color output mode (S), a color spot color output mode (YMCKS), and a monochrome spot color output mode (KS). Image formation conditions differ for each output mode. The image formation conditions include, for example, the scanning speed of the laser light from the exposure units 34Y, 34M, 34C, 34K, and 34S relative to the photoconductor drums 32Y, 32M, 32C, 32K, and 32S. The image formation conditions also include a change in the contact or separation state of the photoconductor drums 32Y, 32M, 32C, 32K, and 32S relative to the intermediate transfer belt 37. Specifically, the control unit 11 separates the photosensitive drums of the color components not included in the output mode, among the photosensitive drums 32Y, 32M, 32C, 32K, and 32S, from the intermediate transfer belt 37. The image forming conditions also include the temperature (fixing temperature) of the fixing unit 39. For example, the fixing temperature is set higher for an output mode that includes a spot color than for an output mode that does not include a spot color.

[0040] Control unit 11 determines whether or not a predetermined number of sheets of image formation are continuously performed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the determined color type during image formation according to the determined color type. When a predetermined number of sheets of image formation are continuously performed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, control unit 11 switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type (first switching mode).

[0041] "Image formation according to color type" is image formation using color components included in the color type. "Image formation in output mode" is image formation according to the image formation conditions corresponding to the output mode. In "image formation in output mode," the image forming unit corresponding to the color component specified by the output mode among the image forming units 31Y, 31M, 31C, 31K, and 31S is available for use.

[0042] The "predetermined number" in the first switching mode can be set arbitrarily by the user. For example, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 14 to display a screen for setting the predetermined number. The user sets the desired predetermined number by operating the operation unit 13. The predetermined number set by the user is stored in the memory unit 12.

[0043] In image formation according to the determined color type, the control unit 11 immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type (second switching mode).

[0044] When image formation according to a color type including a spot color is followed by image formation according to a color type not including a spot color, the control unit 11 immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to a color type not including a spot color based on the second switching mode.

[0045] [Operation of image forming device] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described. 3 is a flowchart showing the first output process executed by the image forming apparatus 10. The first output process is realized by software processing performed by the CPU of the control unit 11 in cooperation with a program stored in the storage unit 12.

[0046] First, the control unit 11 acquires information related to the job (step A1). When the image forming apparatus 10 is used as a copier, the control unit 11 acquires image data obtained by the document reading unit 15, setting information input from the operation unit 13, etc. When the image forming apparatus 10 is used as a printer, the control unit 11 acquires image data, setting information, etc. received from an external device via the communication unit 16. The control unit 11 determines the color type of the page to be processed based on the information related to the job.

[0047] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the page to be processed is the first page (step A2). If the page to be processed is the first page (step A2; YES), the control unit 11 sets the output mode of the image forming unit 30 to an output mode corresponding to the color type of the first page (step A3). After step A3, the process proceeds to step A11.

[0048] In step A2, if the page to be processed is not the first page (step A2; NO), the control unit 11 determines whether the color type of the page to be processed matches the currently set output mode (step A4). If the color type of the page to be processed matches the currently set output mode (step A4; YES), the process proceeds to step A11.

[0049] In step A4, if the color type of the page to be processed does not match the currently set output mode (step A4; NO), the process proceeds to step A5. In step A5, the control unit 11 compares the currently set output mode with the color type of the page to be processed, and determines whether or not there is a color component to be added.

[0050] 4A to 4D show combinations of the currently set output mode and the color type of the page to be processed when there is an added color component. FIG. 4A is an example of a color type to which a color component is added for a color output mode. FIG. 4B is an example of a color type to which a color component is added for a monochrome output mode. FIG. 4C is an example of a color type to which a color component is added for a monochrome spot color output mode. FIG. 4D is an example of a color type to which a color component is added for a spot color output mode.

[0051] In step A5, if there is a color component to be added (step A5; YES), control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode of image forming unit 30 (step A6). Specifically, control unit 11 switches to the output mode corresponding to the color type of the page to be processed. After step A6, the process proceeds to step A11.

[0052] In step A5, if there is no color component to be added (step A5; NO), the control unit 11 determines whether the color type of the previous page includes a spot color (step A7). If the color type of the previous page includes a spot color (step A7; YES), the control unit 11 determines whether the color type has been changed to one that does not include a spot color (step A8). In other words, the control unit 11 determines whether the color type of the processing target page does not include a spot color.

[0053] If the color type is changed to one that does not include spot colors (step A8; YES), the control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode in the image forming unit 30 (step A6). Specifically, the control unit 11 switches to the output mode that corresponds to the color type (without spot colors) of the page to be processed.

[0054] Figure 5 shows the combinations of color types before and after the change when the color type is changed from one that includes spot colors to one that does not include spot colors. Figure 5 shows an example of color types that correspond to the case where "YES" is selected in step A8.

[0055] In step A8, if the color type is not changed to one that does not include a spot color (step A8; NO), the process proceeds to step A9. Figure 6 shows the combination of color types before and after the change when the color type is changed so that the color components are reduced while maintaining the spot color. Figure 6 shows an example of color types that corresponds to the case where "NO" is selected in step A8.

[0056] In step A7, if the color type of the previous page does not include a spot color (step A7; NO), the process proceeds to step A9. Figure 7 shows the combination of color types before and after the change when the color type is changed so that spot colors are not included and color components are reduced. Figure 7 shows an example of color types corresponding to the case where "NO" is selected in step A7.

[0057] In step A9, the control unit 11 determines whether image formation in a state where the color type of the page to be processed and the output mode in the image forming unit 30 do not match continues for a predetermined number of pages, including the image formation of the page to be processed. If the number of images formed when the color type and output mode do not match is less than the predetermined number, including the image formed for the page to be processed (step A9; NO), the process proceeds to step A11.

[0058] In step A9, if the image formation in a state where the color type and output mode do not match continues for a predetermined number of pages including the image formation of the page to be processed (step A9; YES), the process proceeds to step A10. In step A10, control unit 11 switches the output mode of image forming unit 30 to an output mode that corresponds to the color type of the page to be processed. After step A10, the process proceeds to step A11. That is, control unit 11 switches the output mode immediately before forming a predetermined number of images in an image formation state in which the color type and the output mode do not match.

[0059] In step A11, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image on a sheet in accordance with the color type of the page to be processed in the set output mode.

[0060] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the output of the job is completed (step A12). If the output of the job is not completed (step A12; NO), the process returns to step A4. Then, the control unit 11 repeats the process from step A4 onwards for the next page to be processed. In step A12, if the output of the job is completed (step A12; YES), the first output process ends.

[0061] As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 switches the output mode of the image forming unit 30 based on the first switching mode or the second switching mode. In the first switching mode, the control unit 11 switches to an output mode corresponding to the color type when a predetermined number of images are formed continuously in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the color type of the image data. In the second switching mode, the control unit 11 immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to the color type of the image data. By selectively using the first switching mode and the second switching mode, the control unit 11 can prevent deterioration of the image forming unit 30 while suppressing a decrease in productivity. In particular, when a color type including a spot color is changed to a color type not including the spot color, the control unit 11 immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to the color type not including the spot color based on the second switching mode. This allows the control unit 11 to avoid unnecessary continuation of image formation conditions suitable for the spot color and to switch the output mode taking the spot color into consideration.

[0062] Normally, when the number of color components in a color type is reduced, the output mode is not immediately switched, but the output mode corresponding to the previous color type is continued for a predetermined number of sheets. In contrast, when the number of spot colors in a color type is reduced, the control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode. This allows the control unit 11 to prevent deterioration of the image forming unit 30 or damage to the paper due to the continuation of the output mode that enables spot color image formation.

[0063] [Variation 1] Next, Modification 1 will be described, focusing on the differences from the above embodiment. In the first modification, the timing of switching from an output mode corresponding to a color type including spot colors to an output mode corresponding to a color type not including spot colors differs from that in the above embodiment.

[0064] The control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 performs the following process when image formation according to a color type including a spot color is performed following image formation according to a color type not including a spot color. After image formation in the output mode corresponding to the color type including a spot color, the control unit 11 determines whether image formation according to a color type not including a spot color will occur continuously for a second predetermined number of sheets while continuing the output mode. If image formation according to a color type not including a spot color occurs continuously for the second predetermined number of sheets while continuing the output mode corresponding to the color type including a spot color, the control unit 11 switches the output mode of the image forming unit 30 to the output mode corresponding to the color type not including a spot color.

[0065] In the above embodiment, the control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode when changing from a color type including a spot color to a color type not including a spot color (second switching mode). Instead, in Modification 1, a condition is added that "after image formation in an output mode corresponding to a color type including a spot color, image formation corresponding to a color type not including a spot color occurs for a second predetermined number of consecutive sheets while continuing that output mode." In this respect, the processing in Modification 1 can be said to be an exception to the second switching mode.

[0066] Furthermore, the processing in Modification 1 can also be said to use the first switching mode in that the output mode is switched when image formation in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the color type of the image data occurs for a second predetermined number of consecutive sheets.

[0067] The "second predetermined number" can be set arbitrarily by the user. For example, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 14 to display a screen for setting the second predetermined number. The user sets the desired second predetermined number by operating the operation unit 13. The second predetermined number set by the user is stored in the memory unit 12. Note that the "second predetermined number" may be the same value as the "predetermined number" in the first switching mode, or may be a different value.

[0068] According to the first modification, even when a color type including a spot color is changed to a color type not including a spot color, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 continues the output mode corresponding to the color type before the change up to the second predetermined number of sheets, thereby enabling the control unit 11 to suppress a decrease in productivity.

[0069] [Variation 2] Next, Modification 2 will be described, focusing on the differences from the above embodiment. In the second modification, in addition to the output mode switching control similar to the above embodiment, it is also possible to select the output mode switching control for each job included in the combined job. A combined job is a job in which multiple jobs are combined.

[0070] The control unit 11 (acquisition unit) of the image forming apparatus 10 acquires at least one of information about a first job, information about a second job, and information about a combined job in which the first job and the second job are combined. The first job and the second job are each a job that constitutes the combined job.

[0071] The control unit 11 switches the output mode in the image forming unit 30 for each job based on at least one of the acquired information about the first job, the second job, and the combined job. For example, when the control unit 11 acquires information about the first job, it switches the output mode for the first job based on the information about the first job. When the control unit 11 acquires information about the second job, it switches the output mode for the second job based on the information about the second job. When the control unit 11 acquires information about the combined job, it switches the output mode for the first job and the output mode for the second job based on the information about the combined job.

[0072] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 of the second modification will be described. 8 is a flowchart showing the second output process executed by the image forming apparatus 10. The second output process is realized by software processing performed by the CPU of the control unit 11 in cooperation with a program stored in the storage unit 12.

[0073] First, the control unit 11 acquires information about the job (step A21). The information about the job may include information about the combined job.

[0074] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the job to be processed is a combined job (step A22). If the job to be processed is not a combined job (step A22; NO), the process proceeds to step A2 of the first output process (see FIG. 3). The process from step A2 onwards is as described above.

[0075] In step A22, if the job to be processed is a combined job (step A22; YES), control unit 11 determines whether or not it is set to switch the output mode on a job-by-job basis (step A23). The setting of whether or not to switch the output mode on a job-by-job basis is stored in storage unit 12. If it is not set to switch the output mode on a job-by-job basis (step A23; NO), the process proceeds to step A2 of the first output process.

[0076] In step A23, if it is set that the output mode is switched on a job-by-job basis (step A23; YES), the process proceeds to step A24. In step A24, control unit 11 sets the output mode in image forming unit 30 to an output mode corresponding to the color type of the first page of the first job of the combined jobs.

[0077] Next, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image on a sheet in accordance with the color type of the page to be processed in the set output mode (step A25).

[0078] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the output of the combined job is complete (step A26). If the output of the combined job is not complete (step A26; NO), the control unit 11 processes the next page. The control unit 11 compares the currently set output mode with the color type of the page to be processed, and determines whether there are any color components to be added (step A27).

[0079] If there is a color component to be added (step A27; YES), the control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode in the image forming unit 30 (step A28). Specifically, the control unit 11 switches to the output mode corresponding to the color type of the page to be processed. After step A28, the process returns to step A25. Then, the control unit 11 repeats the process from step A25 onwards.

[0080] In step A27, if there is no color component to be added (step A27; NO), the control unit 11 determines whether or not the job is to be switched (step A29). That is, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the output of one job included in the combined job has ended and the output of the next job has started. If the job is not switched (step A29; NO), the process returns to step A25, and the control unit 11 repeats the process from step A25 onwards.

[0081] In step A29, if the job is switched (step A29; YES), control unit 11 determines whether the color type is changed before and after the job is switched (step A30). That is, control unit 11 determines whether the color type of the previous page and the color type of the page to be processed are different. If the color type is not changed before and after the job is switched (step A30; NO), the process returns to step A25. Then, control unit 11 repeats the process from step A25 onwards.

[0082] In step A30, if the color type is changed before and after the job is switched (step A30; YES), control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode in image forming unit 30 (step A31). Specifically, control unit 11 switches to the output mode corresponding to the color type of the page to be processed. Control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode even if the change in color type results in a reduction in color components. After step A31, the process returns to step A25. Then, control unit 11 repeats the process from step A25 onwards.

[0083] In step A26, if the output of the combined job is completed (step A26; YES), the second output process ends.

[0084] Figure 9 shows an example of the color type of each page in a combined job. The combined job is a job that combines Job 1, Job 2, and Job 3. Figure 9 shows an example of a case where the color type is changed so that the color component is reduced while still including spot color (S). Specifically, the color type is changed from "color + spot color" to "monochrome + spot color" and from "monochrome + spot color" to "spot color."

[0085] For such a combined job, the image forming apparatus 10 can be set to proceed to "YES" in step A23 of the second output process. With this setting, the control unit 11 determines whether the color type has changed when the jobs constituting the combined job are switched, and if the color type has changed, switches the output mode. Specifically, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image for job 1 in the "color spot color output mode (YMCKS operation)." After outputting job 1, the control unit 11 switches the output mode to the "monochrome spot color output mode (KS operation)." The control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image for job 2 in the "monochrome spot color output mode." After outputting job 2, the control unit 11 switches the output mode to the "spot color output mode (S operation)." The control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image for job 3 in the "spot color output mode."

[0086] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 10 can be set to proceed to "NO" in step A23 of the second output process. With this setting, the control unit 11 switches the output mode when a predetermined number of consecutive images are formed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the color type in response to a change in color type that reduces color components other than spot colors.

[0087] According to Modification 2, in the case of combined jobs, in addition to the same control as in the above embodiment, control unit 11 of image forming apparatus 10 can also select control to switch the output mode on a job-by-job basis. For example, control unit 11 can determine whether the color type is changed when the job is switched, and switch to the output mode corresponding to the color type. In this way, control unit 11 can increase the options for the user in controlling the switching of the output mode.

[0088] In step A31 of the second output process, the control unit 11 may switch the output mode only when the color type is changed so as to reduce color components while maintaining the spot color.

[0089] [Variation 3] Next, Modification 3 will be described, focusing on the differences from the above embodiment. In the third modification, when the job discharge order is specified, in addition to the output mode switching control similar to the above embodiment, it is also possible to select output mode switching control for each discharge order.

[0090] The control unit 11 (acquisition unit) of the image forming apparatus 10 acquires information related to job output. The information related to job output includes, for example, information on sort output, group output, etc. Sorted output means that when multiple copies are output, they are output one copy at a time in order. Group output means that multiple copies are output for each page. The control unit 11 switches the output mode in the image forming unit 30 based on the information about the discharge of the job.

[0091] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 of the third modification will be described. 10 is a flowchart showing the third output process executed by the image forming apparatus 10. The third output process is realized by software processing in cooperation between the CPU of the control unit 11 and a program stored in the storage unit 12.

[0092] First, the control unit 11 acquires information about the job (step A41). The information about the job may include information about the discharge of the job.

[0093] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the job to be processed is a job to output multiple copies (step A42). If the job to be processed is not a job to output multiple copies (step A42; NO), the process proceeds to step A2 of the first output process (see FIG. 3).

[0094] In step A42, if the job to be processed is a job that outputs multiple copies (step A42; YES), the control unit 11 determines whether or not suppression of output mode switching based on the discharge order is set (step A43). The setting for whether or not to suppress output mode switching based on the discharge order is stored in the memory unit 12. For example, for a sort output job, it can be set to limit output mode switching to the minimum necessary. Also, for a group output job, it can be set to limit output mode switching to the minimum necessary. If suppression of output mode switching based on the discharge order is not set (step A43; NO), the process proceeds to step A2 of the first output process.

[0095] In step A43, if suppression of switching of output mode based on discharge order is set (step A43; YES), the control unit 11 sets the output mode in the image forming unit 30 to the output mode corresponding to the color type of the first page (step A44).

[0096] Next, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 30 to form an image on a sheet in accordance with the color type of the page to be processed in the set output mode (step A45).

[0097] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the output of the job is complete (step A46). If the output of the job is not complete (step A46; NO), the control unit 11 processes the next page. The control unit 11 compares the currently set output mode with the color type of the page to be processed, and determines whether there are any color components to be added (step A47).

[0098] If there is a color component to be added (step A47; YES), the control unit 11 immediately switches the output mode in the image forming unit 30 (step A48). Specifically, the control unit 11 switches to the output mode corresponding to the color type of the page to be processed. After step A48, the process returns to step A45. Then, the control unit 11 repeats the process from step A45 onwards.

[0099] In step A47, if there is no color component to be added (step A47; NO), the process returns to step A45, and the control unit 11 repeats the process from step A45 onwards.

[0100] In step A46, if the output of the job is completed (step A46; YES), the third output process ends.

[0101] 11A shows an example of color types for one copy (5 pages). This job includes pages with the color type "color + spot color" and pages with the color type "monochrome + spot color." In other words, spot color is always used on all pages. FIG. 11B shows the ejection order when three copies of the job shown in FIG. 11A are sorted and output. FIG. 11C shows the ejection order when three copies of the job shown in FIG. 11A are output in a group.

[0102] Here, it is assumed that "five sheets" is set as the "predetermined number" in step A9 of the first output process (see FIG. 3). That is, if five consecutive sheets are imaged when the color type and output mode do not match, the output mode is switched. In other words, if the number of consecutive sheets on which image formation occurs when the color type and output mode do not match is less than five, the output mode is not switched. If the user desires to switch the output mode in this way, the process is set to proceed to "NO" in step A43 of the third output process.

[0103] In the case of sort output shown in Figure 11B, after the color type is changed from "color + spot color (YMCKS)" to "monochrome + spot color (KS)," the number of consecutive "monochrome + spot color" sheets is "3 sheets." Therefore, if step A43 of the third output process is set to proceed to "NO," images are formed for all pages while the output mode remains in "color spot color output mode (YMCKS operation)." Therefore, productivity does not decrease in image forming apparatus 10.

[0104] In sort output, by repeating the image formation of one portion in sequence, an event may occur in which image formation is performed on a predetermined number of sheets in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the color type. For this reason, it is possible to set the output mode not to be switched as much as possible during sort output. In this case, it is sufficient to set the process to proceed to "YES" in step A43 of the third output process.

[0105] In the case of group output shown in Figure 11C, after the color type is changed from "color + spot color (YMCKS)" to "monochrome + spot color (KS)," the number of consecutive "monochrome + spot color" sheets is "9 sheets." Therefore, if step A43 of the third output process is set to proceed to "NO," even after the "color + spot color" image formation is completed, the "monochrome + spot color" image is formed while the output mode remains in "color spot color output mode (YMCKS operation)." Then, from the output of the fifth "monochrome + spot color" sheet, the output mode switches to "monochrome spot color output mode (KS operation)." Switching the output mode takes extra time, which reduces productivity.

[0106] While this type of control is selectable, it is also possible to set the output mode to be switched as little as possible during group output. In this case, it is sufficient to set the third output process to proceed to "YES" in step A43.

[0107] According to the third modification, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 can select control to switch the output mode depending on the discharge order (sort output, group output) in addition to the control similar to that of the above embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 can select whether or not to implement control not to switch the output mode for sort output, group output, etc. In this way, the control unit 11 can increase the options for the user in controlling the switching of the output mode.

[0108] After proceeding to "YES" in step A43 of the third output process, the control unit 11 may determine whether to switch the output mode only when the color type is changed so that the color components are reduced while maintaining the spot color.

[0109] [Variation 4] Next, Modification 4 will be described, focusing on the differences from the above embodiment. In the fourth modification, when an output format is specified, in addition to the same output mode switching control as in the above embodiment, it is also possible to select output mode switching control for each output format.

[0110] The control unit 11 (acquisition unit) of the image forming apparatus 10 acquires information related to the output of a job. The information related to the output of a job includes, for example, information (output format) such as sample output, proof output, and final output. Sample output is output for checking the final image. For example, one copy is output as sample output. Proof output is a proof print made before final output. Final output is output to obtain an official deliverable. The control unit 11 switches the output mode in the image forming unit 30 based on information related to the output of the job.

[0111] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 of the fourth modification will be described. 12 is a flowchart showing a fourth output process executed by the image forming apparatus 10. The fourth output process is realized by software processing performed by the CPU of the control unit 11 in cooperation with a program stored in the storage unit 12.

[0112] First, the control unit 11 acquires information about the job (step A51). The information about the job may include information about the output of the job.

[0113] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether an output format is specified in the information about the job (information about the output of the job) (step A52). For example, the control unit 11 determines whether a sample output, proof output, final output, etc. is specified. If an output format is not specified (step A52; NO), the process proceeds to step A2 of the first output process (see FIG. 3).

[0114] In step A52, if an output format is specified (step A52; YES), the control unit 11 determines whether or not suppression of output mode switching depending on the output format is set (step A53). The setting of whether or not to suppress output mode switching depending on the output format is stored in the storage unit 12. For example, it may be set to minimize output mode switching for sample output. If suppression of output mode switching depending on the output format is not set (step A53; NO), the process proceeds to step A2 of the first output process.

[0115] In step A53, if suppression of switching of output mode depending on the output format is set (step A53; YES), the process proceeds to step A54. The processing of steps A54 to A58 is the same as the processing of steps A44 to A48 in the third output processing (see FIG. 10), and therefore description thereof will be omitted. That is, when suppression of output mode switching depending on the output format is set (step A53; YES), the control unit 11 does not switch the output mode except when it is necessary to switch the output mode (step A57; YES).

[0116] According to the fourth modification, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 can select control to switch the output mode depending on the output format, in addition to the control similar to that of the above embodiment. For example, the control unit 11 can select whether or not to control not to switch the output mode for sample output. In this way, the control unit 11 can increase the options for the user in controlling the switching of the output mode.

[0117] In the fourth output process, the output mode switching control may be changed for each type of output format.

[0118] The above-described embodiment and each modification are examples of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these. The detailed configuration and operation of each part constituting the apparatus can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the characteristic processes in the above-described embodiment and each modification may be combined.

[0119] Furthermore, the color type of the image data is not limited to the above example. The color type can be changed as appropriate depending on the color components of the toner used in the image forming apparatus 10. Furthermore, just as yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are collectively treated as "colors," a group containing multiple color components may be treated as one category of color type. The output mode in the image forming unit 30 is not limited to the above example either. The output mode can be changed as appropriate depending on the color components of the toner used in the image forming apparatus 10. Furthermore, the spot color is not limited to the above example, and for example, any of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black may be treated as a spot color. Furthermore, although the case where paper is used as the recording medium has been described, the present invention is not limited to this example.

[0120] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and each modification, the processing performed by the image forming apparatus 10 may be performed by an external device (such as a computer) that can communicate with the image forming apparatus 10. Furthermore, the processing performed by the image forming apparatus 10 may be performed by a plurality of devices in cooperation with each other. Furthermore, each function of the image forming apparatus 10 may be shared and realized by a plurality of devices that constitute an image forming system.

[0121] The computer-readable medium for storing the program for executing each process is not limited to the above examples. A carrier wave may also be used as a medium for providing program data via a communication line.

[0122] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated in detail above, the disclosed embodiments are intended for purposes of illustration and example only, and not for purposes of limitation. The scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the terms of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 10 Image forming device 11 Control section 12 Storage section 13 Control section 14 Display section 15 Document reading unit 16 Communications Department 20 Paper feed section 30 Image forming unit 40 Post-processing section 50 Conveying section

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job; a control unit that switches the output mode in the image forming unit based on a first switching mode that switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type when a predetermined number of images are continuously formed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, or a second switching mode that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type; Equipped with When image formation according to a color type including a spot color is followed by image formation according to a color type not including the spot color, the control unit immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to the color type not including the spot color based on the second switching mode.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when image formation according to a color type including the spot color is followed by image formation according to a color type not including the spot color, the control unit switches the output mode in the image forming unit to the output mode corresponding to the color type not including the spot color when, after image formation in the output mode corresponding to the color type including the spot color, image formation according to the color type not including the spot color is performed for a second predetermined number of sheets in succession while continuing the output mode.

3. the acquiring unit acquires at least one of information about a first job, information about a second job, and information about a combined job in which the first job and the second job are combined; 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit switches the output mode in the image forming unit for each job based on at least one of the acquired information regarding the first job, the information regarding the second job, and the information regarding the combined job.

4. the information about the job is information about ejection of the job, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit switches the output mode of the image forming unit based on information related to the discharge of the job.

5. the information about the job is information about an output of the job, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit switches the output mode of the image forming unit based on information related to the output of the job.

6. an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job; a control unit that switches the output mode in the image forming unit based on a first switching mode that switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type when a predetermined number of images are continuously formed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, or a second switching mode that immediately switches to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type; Equipped with In an image forming system, when image formation according to a color type including a spot color is followed by image formation according to a color type not including the spot color, the control unit immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to the color type not including the spot color based on the second switching mode.

7. 1. A control method for an image forming apparatus including an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job, and an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job, In the image formation according to the determined color type, when a predetermined number of images are continuously formed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, the output mode in the image forming unit is switched based on a first switching mode for switching to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type or a second switching mode for immediately switching to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type; A control method for an image forming device, in which, when image formation according to a color type including a spot color is followed by image formation according to a color type not including the spot color, the control method immediately switches to an output mode corresponding to the color type not including the spot color based on the second switching mode.

8. An image forming apparatus includes an acquisition unit that acquires information about a job, and an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to a color type determined based on the acquired information about the job, a function of switching the output mode in the image forming unit based on a first switching mode for switching to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type when a predetermined number of images are continuously formed in an output mode different from the output mode corresponding to the determined color type, or a second switching mode for immediately switching to the output mode corresponding to the determined color type; a function of immediately switching to an output mode corresponding to a color type not including a spot color based on the second switching mode when image formation corresponding to a color type not including a spot color is performed following image formation corresponding to the color type including the spot color; A program to achieve this.

Images