Image forming system, storage part selection method for image forming system, and storage part selection program

Abstract

To minimize printing standby time by selecting a tray on the basis of the physical properties of a recording medium.SOLUTION: An image forming system 5 comprises: a plurality of storage parts 521-523 and paper feeding stages 531-533 that store sheets 9; a medium sensor 520 that detects the physical properties of the sheets 9; and a CPU 500 that, when there are a plurality of storage parts storing the sheets 9 of a type designated in a print job, selects a storage part storing the sheets 9 having physical properties in which the time until the print job is started becomes shorter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Consider an image forming system in which multiple trays are filled with printing paper of different paper types. When the image forming system receives an instruction to execute a print job, it selects a tray that contains printing paper of the same paper type as the paper type specified in the print job, and prints on the printing paper transported from the selected tray.

[0003] For example, the abstract of Patent Document 1 states that "When the paper stored in one paper feed tray runs out while paper supplied from that tray is being transported, the control unit of the image forming system selects another paper feed tray and performs switching control to transport the paper stored in that other paper feed tray to the transport unit.In addition, when performing the above switching control, the control unit selects the other paper feed tray based on the physical property values ​​measured by the physical property measurement unit, which are associated with the paper feed tray in which the paper to be measured is stored in the paper feed tray information table." [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2024-13 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the image forming system described in Patent Document 1, when a print job is started, a user specifies a tray, the specified tray is selected, and printing is performed on the printing paper stored in this tray. Recent image forming systems have the function of detecting the physical properties of the printing paper and the function of automatically adjusting the fixing temperature to match the physical properties of the printing paper.If this image forming system has multiple trays, and a user specifies a tray that contains printing paper with inappropriate physical properties, the start of the print job may be delayed due to the image forming system's automatic fixing temperature adjustment function.

[0006] For example, the moisture content of paper stored in a tray will be different if it is immediately opened and if it has been stored in the tray for a long time. This is because, for example, if the humidity in the storage section is low and the paper is stored in the storage section for a long time, the paper will dehumidify and the moisture content will decrease. Conversely, if the humidity in the storage section is high and the paper is stored in the storage section for a long time, the paper will absorb moisture and the moisture content will increase.

[0007] As a result, the moisture content of the paper stored in each tray varies depending on the tray or the time the paper was opened. The higher the moisture content of the paper, the greater its heat capacity and therefore the higher the fixing temperature required. Therefore, the physical properties of the paper stored in each tray may have changed since it was stored.

[0008] When a print job is started, the time it takes to adjust the fixing temperature varies depending on the physical properties of the paper being printed. Therefore, for paper with a high moisture content and therefore requiring a high fixing temperature, the image forming system takes longer to adjust the fixing temperature before the print job actually starts. This increases the time the user has to wait for printing.

[0009] Furthermore, if a tray becomes empty during a print job and the system switches to a tray containing paper with different physical properties, the fixing temperature (temperature adjustment time) appropriate for that paper also changes. Therefore, the image forming system detects the physical properties of the paper stored in the newly selected tray and adjusts the fixing temperature accordingly. In other words, if a tray containing print paper with different physical properties from the print paper corresponding to the current fixing temperature is selected, the image forming system takes a certain amount of time to adjust the temperature before actually resuming the print job, increasing the user's waiting time for printing.

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming system, a storage unit selection method for an image forming system, and a storage unit selection program that minimize print wait time by selecting a tray based on the physical properties of the recording medium. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] That is, the above-mentioned problems of the present invention are solved by the following configuration. (1) a plurality of storage units for storing recording media; a physical property detection unit that detects physical property information of the recording medium; a control unit that, when there are a plurality of storage units that store recording media of a type specified in a print job, selects a storage unit that stores a recording medium with physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is started; An image forming system comprising: (2) The control unit before starting the print job, the physical property detection unit detects the physical property of the recording media stored in each of the plurality of storage units; The image forming system according to (1). (3) The control unit selecting a storage unit that stores a recording medium having physical properties that minimizes the time until the print job is started from among a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job; The image forming system according to (1). (4) The control unit selecting a storage unit that stores a recording medium having physical properties with the smallest heat capacity from among a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job; (3) An image forming system according to (3). (5) The control unit When there are a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job and that have similar heat capacities, the storage unit that has the least amount of recording media loaded is selected. (3) An image forming system according to (3). (6) The control unit When there are a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job and that have similar heat capacities, a storage unit that has a longer storage time for the recording media is selected. (3) An image forming system according to (3). (7) The physical properties are: The moisture content of the recording medium is The image forming system according to (1). (8) The physical property detection unit The recording medium is disposed on a transport path that transports the recording medium from the plurality of storage units to an image forming unit. The image forming system according to (1). (9) The control unit feeding the recording media from each of the plurality of storage units before starting the print job; The physical property detection unit detecting the physical properties of the recording media in each of the plurality of storage sections; (8) An image forming system according to (8). (10) The physical property detection unit provided in each of the plurality of storage sections, The control unit before starting the print job, causing each of the physical property detection units to detect the physical properties of the recording media stored in each of the plurality of storage units; The image forming system according to (1). (11) The control unit When the storage unit runs out of recording media during execution of the print job, a storage unit that stores a recording medium with physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is resumed is selected again. The image forming system according to (1). (12) The printing apparatus further includes a reception unit that receives a print job in which a type of recording medium is specified. The image forming system according to (1). (13) A plurality of storage units for storing recording media; a physical property detection unit that detects a physical property of the recording medium, receiving a print job specifying a type of recording medium; determining a storage unit that stores a recording medium of the type specified in the print job; When a plurality of storage units for storing the type of recording medium are determined, selecting a storage unit for storing a recording medium with physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is started; A storage unit selection method for an image forming system comprising: (14) A plurality of storage units for storing recording media; a physical property detection unit that detects the physical property of the recording medium, accepting a print job specifying a type of recording medium; a step of determining a storage unit that stores a recording medium of the type specified in the print job; a step of selecting a storage unit that stores a recording medium having physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is started when a plurality of storage units that store the type of recording medium are determined; A storage section selection program for executing the above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, by selecting a tray based on the physical properties of the recording medium, it is possible to minimize the print waiting time. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration of an image forming system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an image forming system. [Figure 3A] 1 is a flowchart (part 1) showing a paper type discrimination process performed by the image forming system according to the first embodiment before executing a print job. [Figure 3B] 10 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the paper type discrimination process performed by the image forming system according to the first embodiment before executing a print job. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a priority setting table in which a CPU sets a priority for each storage unit, thereby setting paper feed priority. [Figure 5] 1 is a graph showing the rate at which paper absorbs and desorbs moisture. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the configuration of an image forming system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an image forming system. [Figure 8A] 10 is a flowchart (part 1) showing a paper type discrimination process performed by an image forming system according to a second embodiment before a print job is executed. [Figure 8B] 10 is a flowchart (part 2) showing a paper type discrimination process performed by an image forming system according to a second embodiment before a print job is executed. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing the process performed by an image forming system according to a third embodiment when a tray runs out of paper while a print job is being executed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The following describes in detail embodiments of the present invention. Note that the embodiments described below are examples for realizing the present invention, and may be modified or changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Furthermore, in each drawing, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0015] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an image forming system 5 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the image forming system 5.

[0016] 1, the image forming system 5 is configured to include an operation panel 51, a paper feeder 52, and an image forming device 53. The paper feeder 52 and the image forming device 53 are connected in order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the paper transport.

[0017] The operation panel 51 is configured with a touch panel, a numeric keypad, a start button, and a stop button. As a result, the operation panel 51 is used to display various information and input various instructions. The operation panel 51 is also configured with a reception unit 511. The reception unit 511 receives a print job in which the type of paper 9 is specified. The operation panel 51 is attached to the image forming device 53, for example.

[0018] The paper feeder 52 includes a plurality of storage sections 521 to 523. Each of the plurality of storage sections 521 to 523 stores paper sheets 9 to be used for image formation. The paper feeder 52 sends out the paper sheets 9 stored in the plurality of storage sections 521 to 523 one by one to the image forming device 53. Note that in this embodiment, paper sheets 9 are used as an example of a recording medium, but the recording medium is not limited to paper sheets and may be, for example, standard long sheets or OHP sheets.

[0019] The media sensor 520 detects the physical properties of the paper 9 being conveyed. The physical properties of the paper 9 include, for example, the moisture content (heat capacity) of the paper 9. The media sensor 520 is disposed on a conveyance path that conveys the paper 9 from the multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 to the image forming unit 539 of the image forming device 13. The CPU 500 conveys the paper 9 one sheet at a time from each of the storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533, detects it with the media sensor 520, and conveys it to a purge tray (not shown). In this way, the CPU 500 detects the physical properties of the paper 9 stored in each storage unit.

[0020] The image forming apparatus 53 is configured to include paper feed trays 531 to 533 in the main body, a transport roller, a transfer roller 534, a fixing roller 535, a reversing path 536, a media sensor 520, and an image forming section 139.

[0021] Paper feed trays 531-533 of the main body store paper 9 used for image formation. Conveying unit 55 transports paper 9, which has been transported from paper feed trays 531-533 of the main body or from multiple storage units 521-523 of paper feed device 52, downstream one sheet at a time. Image forming device 53 may be configured with any image forming means, such as an inkjet printer or a laser printer, and the details thereof are not limited. Note that paper feed trays 531-533 of the main body are a specific example of a storage unit.

[0022] Transfer roller 534 is installed downstream of the transport roller and transfers each CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key plate) toner image onto paper 9. Fixing roller 535 fixes the toner image transferred onto paper 9 to paper 9 by heating and pressurizing paper 9. Image forming system 1 has a function to automatically adjust the fixing temperature of fixing roller 535 according to the physical properties of the printing paper detected by media sensor 520.

[0023] The image forming unit 539 forms an image on the paper 9 based on the image data for printing. The image forming unit 539 forms an image on the paper 9 using, for example, an electrophotographic image creation process. The electrophotographic image creation process is an image formation method that includes the steps of charging, exposing, developing, and transferring. The image forming unit 539 is configured to include a transfer roller.

[0024] The reversing path 536 is a path that reverses the paper 9 discharged from the fixing rollers 535 and sends it to the conveying rollers again. This allows the image forming device 53 to print on both sides of the paper 9.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming system 5 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 500, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 501, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 502, and a storage unit 503.

[0026] The CPU 500 executes programs to perform various arithmetic processing and constitutes a control unit that manages the entire system. The ROM 501 is a non-volatile memory that stores various programs and data that control the image forming system 1. The RAM 502 is a volatile memory that temporarily stores programs and data as a work area for the CPU 500.

[0027] The storage unit 503 is a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk, and stores various programs or various data. The CPU 500 executes the programs stored in the ROM 501 or the storage unit 503, thereby realizing a computer that executes each process.

[0028] CPU 500 functions as a control unit by executing a program stored in ROM 501. Specifically, when CPU 500 accepts a print job at acceptance unit 511 of operation panel 51, CPU 500 selects a tray (storage unit) from storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that stores paper 9 with physical properties that shorten the time until the print job starts. In other words, if there are multiple storage units that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job, CPU 500 selects a tray that stores paper 9 with physical properties that shorten the time until the print job starts.

[0029] In this case, the CPU 500 may select a tray from among the multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that stores paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and with physical properties that will minimize the time until the print job starts. Here, the CPU 500 can select a tray from among the multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that stores paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and with physical properties that have the smallest heat capacity. In other words, the physical property refers to the moisture content of the paper 9. Paper with the physical property that has the smallest heat capacity is paper with the smallest moisture content.

[0030] Furthermore, before starting a print job, the CPU 500 can detect the physical properties of the paper 9 conveyed from each of the multiple storage units 521-523 using the media sensor 520. This allows the CPU 500 to select a tray from the multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that stores paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and with the physical properties of the smallest heat capacity. Furthermore, if there are multiple trays from the multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and with similar heat capacities, the CPU 500 may select the tray with the smallest stack of paper 9. This allows the CPU 500 to quickly empty the tray with the smallest stack of paper 9 from among the paper storage units that store paper of similar physical properties.

[0031] In this specification, the plurality of storage units 521-523 and the plurality of paper feed stages 531-533 that store paper sheets 9 are also collectively referred to simply as trays. Trays refer to storage units.

[0032] The image forming device 53 is also configured to include a communication unit 512, an image storage unit 513, and a conveyance unit 55.

[0033] The communication unit 512 is a network interface for communicating with other devices, and is connected to, for example, an external server. The image storage unit 513 stores, for example, image data to be printed.

[0034] The transport path is a path along which the paper 9 is transported from each of the storage sections 521-523 and paper feed stages 531-533 to the paper discharge tray. The transport path includes a transport roller, a transfer roller 534, a fixing roller 535, and a reversing path 536.

[0035] The conveying unit 55 is configured to include all rollers such as a conveying roller, a transfer roller 534, a fixing roller 535, and a reversing path 536. The CPU 500 controls the conveying of the paper 9 on the conveying path by driving the conveying unit 55 with a conveying motor (not shown).

[0036] <Operation of the First Embodiment> 3A and 3B are flowcharts showing the paper type discrimination process that the image forming system 5 according to the first embodiment performs before executing a print job.

[0037] First, the image forming system 5 receives a print job in which the type of paper 9 is specified at the reception unit 511 of the operation panel 51 (step S01).

[0038] Before starting a print job, CPU 500 of image forming system 5 causes media sensor 520 to detect the physical properties of paper sheets 9 stored in each of multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533. Specifically, CPU 500 transports one sheet of paper sheet 9 from each of multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533, and causes each media sensor 520 to detect the physical properties of the paper sheet 9 (step S02).

[0039] Then, the CPU 500 determines the paper type (step S03). The CPU 500 determines whether the same paper type is present in any of the storage units 521-523 and paper feed stages 531-533 (step S04). If the same paper type is present in any of the trays (storage units) (Yes in step S04), the process proceeds to step S05. On the other hand, if the same paper type is not present in any of the trays (No in step S04), the process in FIG. 3A ends.

[0040] In step S05, CPU 500 determines whether the same paper type is present in multiple trays (storage units) among multiple storage units 521 to 523 and paper feed stages 531 to 533 (step S05). If the same paper type is present in a single tray (No in step S05), the process proceeds to step S06.

[0041] On the other hand, if the same paper type is present in multiple trays (Yes in step S05), the process proceeds to step S09.

[0042] In step S06, CPU 500 selects a tray that stores the same paper type and adjusts the temperature of the fixing unit according to the physical properties of the paper stored in this tray. When CPU 500 executes the print job using the paper in the selected tray (step S07), the process in FIG. 3A ends.

[0043] In step S09, CPU 500 determines whether there are differences in physical properties among the multiple trays that store paper of the same paper type (step S09). If there are differences in physical properties among the multiple trays that store paper of the same paper type (Yes in step S09), the process proceeds to step S11. On the other hand, if there are no differences in physical properties among the multiple trays that store paper of the same paper type (No in step S09), the process proceeds to step S17.

[0044] In step S11, the CPU 500 sets the paper feeding priority of each of the storage units 521 to 523 and the paper feed stages 531 to 533 in accordance with the physical properties (heat capacity) of the paper sheets 9 stored in the storage units 521 to 523 and the paper feed stages 531 to 533. Then, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0045] On the other hand, in step S17, CPU 500 determines whether there are differences in storage section conditions among multiple trays having the same physical properties. If there are differences in storage section conditions among multiple trays having the same physical properties (Yes in step S17), the process proceeds to step S19. The storage section conditions refer to the amount of paper 9 stored in each of storage sections 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533, and the amount of time that has elapsed since the paper 9 was loaded in these storage sections.

[0046] On the other hand, if there is no difference in the storage section conditions of multiple trays with the same physical properties (No in step S17), the process proceeds to step S21. The CPU 500 selects trays that store the same paper type in numerical order and adjusts the temperature of the fixing section according to the physical properties of the paper in the tray. When the CPU 500 executes the print job using the paper in the selected tray (step S22), the process in FIG. 3B ends.

[0047] In step S19, CPU 500 sets paper feed priorities for each of storage units 521-523 and paper feed stages 531-533 based on the amount and time of stacking of sheets 9 stored in storage units 521-523 and paper feed stages 531-533 (storage unit conditions). Then, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0048] In step S13, CPU 500 displays and proposes on operation panel 11 the storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 in the selection order that minimizes the print wait time, and automatically sets them (step S13). Then, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a priority setting table in which the CPU 500 sets the paper feeding priority by setting the priority order for each of the storage sections 521 to 523 and the paper feeding stages 531 to 533.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 4, the priority setting table 41 has columns for paper physical properties, storage section, correction result, and priority for each tray (storage section). Here, the paper physical properties column lists the moisture content [%]. The storage section column lists the time [min] the paper has been stored in the paper storage section and the amount of paper loaded [sheets]. The correction result lists the amount of correction calculated based on the following formula (1).

[0051]

number

[0052] For example, paper feed tray 531 in FIG. 1 is assigned to tray #4 in FIG. 4. Paper feed tray 532 in FIG. 1 is assigned to tray #5 in FIG. 4. Paper feed tray 533 in FIG. 1 is assigned to tray #6 in FIG. 4. Similarly, storage units 521-523 in FIG. 1 are assigned to trays #1-#3 in FIG. 4. In other words, storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 provided in image forming system 1 are assigned to trays #1-#6 in FIG. 4.

[0053] As a result, the CPU 100 calculates the correction result based on the formula (1) and sets the paper feeding priority of each storage section in the priority order column of FIG. 4 in ascending order of numerical value.

[0054] Therefore, for example, when the paper types are the same but the physical properties (moisture content) differ, the CPU 500 selects tray #1, which has the least moisture content of the paper 9 (priority 1). Also, when the paper types are the same and the moisture content of the paper 9 is the same, the CPU 500 selects, for example, tray #3, which has the longest loading time, between trays #3 and #4 (priority 3). Furthermore, when the paper types are the same and the moisture content of the paper 9 is the same and the loading time is the same, the CPU 500 selects, for example, tray #6, which has the least loading amount, between trays #5 and #6 (priority 5).

[0055] Figure 5 is a graph showing the rate at which paper absorbs and dehydrates. In Figure 5, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the change in moisture content. The first and fourth quadrants of the graph show the moisture absorption process. The second and third quadrants of the graph show the moisture desorption process.

[0056] As shown in the second and third quadrants of Figure 5, when the humidity of trays #1 to #6 is lower than that of the paper 9, the paper 9 dehumidifies and the humidity decreases as time passes after the paper 9 is loaded on trays #1 to #6. On the other hand, as shown in the first and fourth quadrants of Figure 5, when the humidity of trays #1 to #6 is higher than that of the paper 9, the paper 9 absorbs moisture and the humidity increases as time passes after the paper 9 is loaded on trays #1 to #6.

[0057] Furthermore, the smaller the amount of paper 9 stored in the tray, the greater the change in moisture content, since the paper is more susceptible to the influence of the tray environment.

[0058] Based on these, the CPU 500 sets the paper feed priority in the priority column based on the heat capacity (moisture content) and the storage section conditions, as in the priority setting table 41 shown in FIG.

[0059] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 3B, the description will continue. In step S13, CPU 500 displays, proposes, and automatically sets trays #1 to #6 in the selection order that minimizes print wait time based on priority setting table 41 in Fig. 4. CPU 500 then selects a tray based on the paper feed priority and adjusts the temperature of the fuser unit (step S15). CPU 500 then executes the print job using paper from the selected tray (step S16), and the processing in Fig. 3B ends.

[0060] As described above, the image forming system 5 according to the first embodiment is configured to include a plurality of storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533, a media sensor 520, and a CPU 500. The media sensor 520 detects the physical properties of the paper 9 in each of the plurality of storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533. If there are multiple trays among the plurality of storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that store the type of paper 9 specified in the print job, the CPU 500 selects the tray that stores the paper 9 with the physical properties that will shorten the time until the print job starts.

[0061] This allows the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 according to the first embodiment to start a print job earlier based on the physical properties of the paper 9 in the priority setting table 41. Therefore, the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 according to the first embodiment can minimize the print wait time by selecting a tray based on the physical properties of the paper 9.

[0062] Furthermore, before starting a print job, the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 can detect the physical properties of the sheets 9 stored in each of the storage sections 521-523 and paper feed stages 531-533 using the media sensor 520. This allows the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 to select a tray that allows the print job to be started sooner when executing the print job.

[0063] In addition, the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 may select, from among the multiple storage sections 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job, a tray that stores paper 9 with physical properties that will minimize the time until the print job starts.

[0064] Furthermore, the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 may select a tray from among the multiple storage units 521-523 and paper feed trays 531-533 that stores paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and that has the physical property of the smallest heat capacity. This allows the image forming system 5 to select a tray that can start the print job most quickly. In this case, the physical property of heat capacity can be the amount of moisture in the paper 9.

[0065] Furthermore, when there are multiple trays that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and that have similar heat capacities, the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 may select a tray that holds the least amount of paper 9. This allows the CPU 500 of the image forming system 5 to select a tray that can start the print job sooner.

[0066] Second Embodiment 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment, and FIG.

[0067] 6, the image forming system 1 is configured to include an operation panel 11, a paper feeder 12, an image forming device 13, a finisher 14, and a relay unit 15. The paper feeder 12, the image forming device 13, the relay unit 15, and the finisher 14 are connected in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side of paper transport.

[0068] The operation panel 11 is configured with a touch panel, a numeric keypad, a start button, and a stop button. As a result, the operation panel 11 is used to display various information and input various instructions. The operation panel 11 is also configured with a reception unit 111. The reception unit 111 receives a print job in which the type of paper 9 is specified. The operation panel 11 is attached to the image forming device 13, for example.

[0069] The paper feeder 12 includes a plurality of storage sections 121-123. Each of the storage sections 121-123 stores paper sheets 9 to be used for image formation. The paper feeder 12 sends out the paper sheets 9 stored in the storage sections 121-123 one by one to the image forming device 13. Note that in this embodiment, paper sheets 9 are used as an example of a recording medium, but the recording medium is not limited to paper and may be, for example, a standard long sheet or an OHP sheet. Furthermore, media sensors 124-126 are attached to each of the storage sections 121-123.

[0070] Media sensors 124 to 126 detect the physical properties of the sheets 9 stored in the respective storage sections 121 to 123. Media sensors 127 and 128 detect the physical properties of the sheets 9 stored in the paper feed trays 131 and 132. The physical properties of the sheets 9 include, for example, the moisture content (heat capacity) of the sheets 9.

[0071] The image forming apparatus 13 is configured to include paper feed trays 131 and 132, a transport roller 133, a transfer roller 134, a fixing roller 135, reversing paths 136 and 137, media sensors 127 and 128, and an image forming section 139.

[0072] The paper feed trays 131 and 132 store paper sheets 9 used for image formation. The transport rollers 133 transport the paper sheets 9 transported from the paper feed trays 131 and 132 or from the multiple storage sections 121 to 123 of the paper feed device 12 downstream one by one. The image forming device 13 may be configured with any image forming means, such as an inkjet printer or a laser printer, and the details thereof are not limited. The paper feed trays 131 and 132 of the main body are a specific example of a storage section.

[0073] The transfer roller 134 is disposed downstream of the conveying roller 133 and transfers each of the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key plate) toner images onto the paper 9. The fixing roller 135 fixes the toner images transferred onto the paper 9 to the paper 9 by applying heat and pressure to the paper 9.

[0074] The image forming unit 139 forms an image on the paper 9 based on the image data for printing. The image forming unit 139 forms an image on the paper 9 using, for example, an electrophotographic image creation process. The electrophotographic image creation process is an image formation method that includes the steps of charging, exposing, developing, and transferring. The image forming unit 139 is configured to include a transfer roller 134.

[0075] The reversing paths 136 and 137 are paths that reverse the paper 9 discharged from the fixing roller 135 and send it back to the conveying roller 133. This allows the image forming device 13 to print on both sides of the paper 9.

[0076] The relay unit 15 relays and transports the paper 9 output from the image forming device 13 to the finisher 14 connected downstream. The relay unit 15 is synchronized with the transport speed of the paper 9 transported from the image forming device 13.

[0077] The finisher 14 performs designated post-processing on the paper 9 sent from the relay unit 15 and then discharges the post-processed paper 9 from a paper discharge tray 151 .

[0078] As shown in FIG. 7, the image forming system 1 includes a CPU 100, a ROM 101, a RAM 102, and a storage unit 103.

[0079] The CPU 100 executes programs to perform various arithmetic processing and also constitutes a control unit for overall management. The ROM 101 is a non-volatile memory that stores various programs and data for controlling the image forming system 1. The RAM 102 is a volatile memory that temporarily stores programs and data as a work area for the CPU 100.

[0080] The storage unit 103 is a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk, and stores various programs or various data. The CPU 100 executes the programs stored in the ROM 101 or the storage unit 103, thereby realizing a computer that executes each process.

[0081] CPU 100 functions as a control unit by executing a program stored in ROM 101. Specifically, when CPU 100 accepts a print job at acceptance unit 111 of operation panel 11, CPU 100 selects a tray (storage unit) that stores paper 9 with physical properties that shorten the time until the print job starts. In other words, when there are multiple storage units that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job, CPU 100 selects a tray that stores paper 9 with physical properties that shorten the time until the print job starts.

[0082] In this case, CPU 100 may select a tray that stores paper 9 with the physical property that allows the shortest time until the print job starts, from among multiple storage units 121-123 that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job. Here, CPU 100 can select a tray that stores paper 9 with the physical property that has the smallest heat capacity, from among multiple storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job. In other words, the physical property refers to the moisture content of paper 9.

[0083] Furthermore, before starting a print job, CPU 100 can detect the physical properties of paper sheets 9 stored in each of multiple storage units 121-123 using media sensors 124-128. Therefore, CPU 100 can select a tray that stores paper sheets 9 with the smallest thermal capacity among multiple storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 that store paper sheets 9 of the type specified in the print job. Furthermore, when there are multiple storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 that store paper sheets 9 of the type specified in the print job and with similar thermal capacities, CPU 100 may select the tray with the smallest stack of paper sheets 9. This allows CPU 100 to quickly empty the tray with the smallest stack of paper sheets 9 among paper storage units that store paper sheets with similar physical properties.

[0084] In this specification, the plurality of storage sections 121 to 123 and the plurality of paper feed trays 131 and 132 that store paper 9 are also collectively referred to simply as trays. Trays refer to storage sections.

[0085] The image forming apparatus 13 also includes a communication unit 112 , an image storage unit 113 , and a conveyance unit 152 .

[0086] The communication unit 112 is a network interface for communicating with other devices, and is connected to, for example, an external server. The image storage unit 113 stores, for example, image data to be printed.

[0087] The transport path is a path along which the paper 9 is transported from each of the plurality of storage sections 121 to 123 to the paper discharge tray 151. The transport path is configured to include a transport roller 133, a transfer roller 134, a fixing roller 135, and reversing paths 136 and 137.

[0088] The conveying unit 152 is configured to include all rollers such as the conveying roller 133, the transfer roller 134, the fixing roller 135, and the reversing paths 136 and 137. The CPU 100 controls the conveying of the paper 9 along the conveying path by driving the conveying unit 152 with a conveying motor (not shown).

[0089] <Operation of the second embodiment> 8A and 8B are flowcharts showing the paper type discrimination process that the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment performs before executing a print job.

[0090] First, the image forming system 1 receives a print job in which the type of paper 9 is specified at the reception unit 111 of the operation panel 11 (step S01).

[0091] Before starting a print job, CPU 100 of image forming system 1 causes media sensors 124-128 to detect the physical properties of sheets 9 stored in each of multiple storage sections 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 (step S02A). The subsequent processing is the same as the flowcharts shown in Figures 3A and 3B.

[0092] As described above, the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment is configured to include a plurality of storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132, media sensors 124-128, and a CPU 100. The media sensors 124-128 detect the physical properties of the paper 9 in each of the plurality of storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132. When there are a plurality of trays among the plurality of storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 that store the type of paper 9 specified in the print job, the CPU 100 selects the tray that stores the paper 9 with the physical properties that will shorten the time until the print job starts.

[0093] This allows the CPU 100 of the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment to start the print job earlier based on the physical properties of the paper 9 in the priority setting table 41. Therefore, the CPU 100 of the image forming system 1 according to the second embodiment can start the print job earlier, thereby reducing the waiting time of the user until the print job starts.

[0094] Furthermore, before starting a print job, CPU 100 of image forming system 1 can detect the physical properties of sheets 9 stored in each of the storage sections 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 using media sensors 124-128. This allows CPU 100 of image forming system 1 to select a tray that allows the print job to be started sooner when executing the print job.

[0095] In addition, the CPU 100 of the image forming system 1 may select a tray from among the multiple storage sections 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job, that stores paper 9 with the physical properties that will minimize the time until the print job starts.

[0096] Furthermore, the CPU 100 of the image forming system 1 may select a tray from among the multiple storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 that stores paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and that has the physical property of the smallest heat capacity. This allows the image forming system 1 to select a tray that can start the print job most quickly. In this case, the physical property of heat capacity can be the amount of moisture in the paper 9.

[0097] Furthermore, when there are multiple trays that store paper 9 of the type specified in the print job and that have similar heat capacities, CPU 100 of image forming system 1 may select a tray that holds the least amount of paper 9. This allows CPU 100 of image forming system 1 to select a tray that can start the print job sooner.

[0098] <Third embodiment> In the third embodiment, a process will be described in which a print job is executed according to the second embodiment and the paper storage unit runs out of paper 9 while the print job is being executed. Specifically, when the selected tray runs out of paper while the print job is being executed, the CPU 100 reselects a tray that stores paper 9 so that the time until the print job is resumed will be shorter.

[0099] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a process performed when the tray runs out of paper while the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment is executing a print job.

[0100] When a tray runs out of paper during execution of a print job, the CPU 100 of the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment determines whether the print mode is valid (step S101). In the third embodiment, the print mode refers to a print mode for which a paper feed priority is set in the priority setting table 41.

[0101] If the print mode is not valid (No in step S101), the process proceeds to step S105. On the other hand, if the print mode is valid (Yes in step S101), the process proceeds to step S103.

[0102] In step S105, CPU 100 executes printing in the default print mode. The default print mode means printing in the normal print mode. Therefore, CPU 100 executes the print job by selecting multiple storage units 121-123 and paper feed trays 131, 132 in the order of the numbers assigned to these storage units. Then, CPU 100 resumes the print job and ends the processing of FIG. 9.

[0103] In the third embodiment, the CPU 100 may separately set in advance as a default print mode to select a tray of a specific image forming device 13 when the image forming device 13 runs out of paper.

[0104] In step S103, CPU 100 refers to priority setting table 41 and applies the paper feed priority to select one of trays #1 to #6. Once a tray is selected, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0105] In step S107, CPU 100 supplies paper 9 to image forming unit 139 from a tray selected based on the paper feeding priority in priority setting table 41.

[0106] Then, CPU 100 determines whether the print job has ended (step S109). If the print job has ended (Yes in step S109), CPU 100 ends the processing of FIG.

[0107] On the other hand, if the print job has not ended (No in step S109), the process proceeds to step S111.

[0108] In step S111, CPU 100 determines whether or not it has detected that a tray is out of paper during execution of the print job (step S111). If it has detected that a tray is out of paper during execution of the print job (No in step S111), the process returns to step S107. By returning to step S107, CPU 100 supplies paper 9 from the selected tray to image forming unit 139 and continues the print job.

[0109] On the other hand, if CPU 100 detects that the paper is out during execution of the print job (Yes in step S111), the process proceeds to step S113.

[0110] In step S113, CPU 100 recalculates the paper feed priority and selects one of the trays (storage units). Then, the process returns to step S107. By returning to step S107, CPU 100 supplies paper 9 to image forming unit 139 from the selected tray based on the recalculated paper feed priority. In this way, CPU 100 can continue the print job.

[0111] In step S113, the CPU 100 detects the physical properties of the sheets of paper 9 in the storage units 121-123 and the paper feed trays 131, 132, for example, using the media sensors 124-128 attached to the storage units 121-123 and the paper feed trays 131, 132. In this case, each of the media sensors 124-128 measures the moisture content of the sheets of paper 9.

[0112] Furthermore, the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment is not limited to detecting the physical properties of paper using the media sensors 124-128.

[0113] As described above, in the third embodiment, when the selected paper storage unit runs out of paper while a print job is being executed, the CPU 100 reselects from among the trays (storage units) a tray that stores paper 9 that will shorten the time until the print job is resumed. Paper 9 that will shorten the time until the print job is resumed refers to paper that has physical properties closest to the physical properties of the paper 9 being printed on in the print job.

[0114] According to the third embodiment, even if a tray runs out of paper, the image forming system 1 can reselect a tray that stores paper 9 so that the time until the print job is resumed will be shorter.

[0115] As a result, the image forming system 1 according to the third embodiment can resume the print job early, thereby improving user convenience.

[0116] (Variation) The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention, for example, the following (a) to (b).

[0117] (a) The image forming system 1 according to the first and second embodiments may further include a reception unit 111 that receives a print job in which the type of paper 9 is specified. (b) The image forming devices 13, 53 of the image forming systems 1, 5 may be configured with any image forming means such as an inkjet printer or a laser printer, and the details thereof are not limited. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 5. Image forming system 9. Paper (recording media) 51 Operation panel 52 Paper feeder 53 Image forming device 511 Reception 512 Communications Department 513 Image Storage Unit 521~523 Storage section 520 Media Sensor 539 Image forming unit 55 Conveyor 1. Image forming system 11 Operation panel 12 Paper feeder 13 Image forming device 14 Finisher 15 Relay Unit 111 Reception 112 Communications Department 113 Image Storage Unit 121~123 Storage area 124~128 Media Sensor 139 Image forming unit 14 Finisher 15 Relay Unit 151 Paper output tray 152 Conveyor 41 Priority Setting Table

Claims

1. a plurality of storage units for storing recording media; a physical property detection unit that detects physical property information of the recording medium; a control unit that, when there are a plurality of storage units that store recording media of a type specified in a print job, selects a storage unit that stores a recording medium with physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is started; An image forming system comprising:

2. The control unit before starting the print job, the physical property detection unit detects the physical property of the recording media stored in each of the plurality of storage units; The image forming system according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit selecting a storage unit that stores a recording medium having physical properties that minimizes the time until the print job is started from among a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job; The image forming system according to claim 1 .

4. The control unit selecting a storage unit that stores a recording medium having physical properties with the smallest heat capacity from among a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job; The image forming system according to claim 3 .

5. The control unit When there are a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job and that have similar heat capacities, the storage unit that has the least amount of recording media loaded is selected. The image forming system according to claim 3 .

6. The control unit When there are a plurality of storage units that store recording media of the type specified in the print job and that have similar heat capacities, a storage unit that has a longer storage time for the recording media is selected. The image forming system according to claim 3 .

7. The physical properties are: The moisture content of the recording medium is The image forming system according to claim 1 .

8. The physical property detection unit The recording medium is disposed on a transport path that transports the recording medium from the plurality of storage units to an image forming unit. The image forming system according to claim 1 .

9. The control unit feeding the recording media from each of the plurality of storage units before starting the print job; The physical property detection unit detecting the physical properties of the recording media in each of the plurality of storage sections; The image forming system according to claim 8 .

10. The physical property detection unit provided in each of the plurality of storage sections, The control unit before starting the print job, causing each of the physical property detection units to detect the physical properties of the recording media stored in each of the plurality of storage units; The image forming system according to claim 1 .

11. The control unit When the storage unit runs out of recording media during execution of the print job, a storage unit that stores a recording medium with physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is resumed is selected again. The image forming system according to claim 1 .

12. The printer further includes a reception unit that receives a print job in which a type of recording medium is specified. The image forming system according to claim 1 .

13. a plurality of storage units for storing recording media; a physical property detection unit that detects a physical property of the recording medium, receiving a print job specifying a type of recording medium; determining a storage unit that stores a recording medium of the type specified in the print job; When a plurality of storage units for storing the type of recording medium are determined, selecting a storage unit for storing a recording medium with physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is started; A storage unit selection method for an image forming system comprising:

14. a plurality of storage units for storing recording media; a physical property detection unit that detects the physical property of the recording medium, accepting a print job specifying a type of recording medium; a step of determining a storage unit that stores a recording medium of the type specified in the print job; a step of selecting a storage unit that stores a recording medium having physical properties that shortens the time until the print job is started when a plurality of storage units that store the type of recording medium are determined; A storage section selection program for executing the above.

Images