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

Abstract

To enhance convenience of an image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: An image forming system controls the operation of light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, 204a3 based on storage states of sheets set for use in print jobs in process and on standby in feed units 202 to 204.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses providing a plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) near a paper feed cassette. In Patent Document 1, a plurality of LEDs are used as indicators that display the remaining amount of paper stored in the paper feed cassette. Specifically, the remaining amount of paper stored in the paper feed cassette is displayed by varying the number of LEDs that are turned on. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-103947 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the display unit described in Patent Document 1 only displays the amount of paper remaining in the paper feed cassette. Therefore, it is difficult for a user who issues a print command to check whether the paper feed cassette contains the amount of paper required for the print job. From this perspective, it is desirable to improve the convenience of image forming devices.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to improve the convenience of image forming apparatuses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The image forming system of the present disclosure is characterized by having a supply unit that stores and supplies sheets on which images based on a print job are formed, a light-emitting unit that is located in a position visible from the outside relative to the supply unit, and a control means that controls the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage state in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs that are currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, the convenience of an image forming apparatus can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an image forming system. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of a DFE. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the external configuration of a feeding unit. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming unit. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a first fixing unit, a second fixing unit, a cooling unit, and an inverting unit. [Figure 3D] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a discharge unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of an entire image forming apparatus. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a management screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a management screen when a schedule setting section is selected. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a first example of processing in the image forming system. [Figure 8] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating a first example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a second example of processing in the image forming system. [Figure 10]10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a second example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a third example of processing in the image forming system. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of processing in the image forming system. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of processing in the image forming system. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fifth example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. (First embodiment) First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an image forming system according to the present embodiment. In this embodiment, an image forming apparatus 101 is an inkjet printer. The image forming apparatus 101 may be, for example, an electrophotographic printer or another printer other than an inkjet printer. The image forming apparatus 101 may also be a multifunction printer having a reading device such as a scanner. In this embodiment, an information processing apparatus 102 is a personal computer (PC). The information processing apparatus 102 may also be a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the image forming apparatus 101 and the information processing apparatus 102 are connected to each other via a network 100 so as to be able to communicate with each other. However, communication between the image forming apparatus 101 and the information processing apparatus 102 is not limited to communication via the network 100. Communication between the image forming apparatus 101 and the information processing apparatus 102 may be wired communication or wireless communication.

[0011] 1 illustrates an example in which one information processing device 102 is provided in the image forming system. However, for example, the image forming device 101 and multiple information processing devices may be connected to each other via the network 100 so that they can communicate with each other. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is illustrated in which the image forming system includes the image forming device 101 and the information processing device 102. However, the image forming system is not limited to a system including the image forming device 101 and the information processing device 102. For example, the image forming system may be configured with only the image forming device 101. Furthermore, in image forming processes that can be performed by the image forming device 101 alone, the information processing device connected to the network 100 does not need to be included in the image forming system. An example of image forming processes that can be performed by the image forming device 101 alone is printing a job stored in the image forming device 101.

[0012] First, an example of the information processing device 102 will be described. The information processing device 102 executes various programs, such as an application program that submits a print job. In addition, various applications, such as a printer driver and workflow software, are installed in the information processing device 102. The various applications realize functions including converting print data into a printer language compatible with the image forming device 101. A user who wishes to print issues a print instruction by using the various applications. The printer driver, workflow software, etc. convert data output by the application based on the print instruction into print data that can be interpreted by the image forming device 101, and perform processing to transmit the print data to the image forming device 101 connected to the network 100.

[0013] The method for transmitting the print data to the image forming apparatus is not limited. The print data may be transmitted from the information processing apparatus 102 to the image forming apparatus 101 via a printing application or a printer driver, or may be transmitted from the information processing apparatus 102 to the image forming apparatus 101 via a cloud server.

[0014] Next, an example of an image forming apparatus 101 will be described. The image forming apparatus 101 has a printing function of printing an image on a sheet. The image forming apparatus 101 also has a post-processing function. The post-processing function includes, for example, a function of aligning multiple sheets on which images have been printed, and a function of discharging the multiple sheets on which images have been formed into multiple trays. Note that the sheets include various types of paper such as plain paper, cardboard, and coated paper. The sheets may also be sheets other than paper, such as overhead projector film.

[0015] The present embodiment also illustrates a case where the image forming system further includes a DFE (Digital Front End) 103. The present embodiment also illustrates a case where a display device 104 is communicatively connected to the DFE 103. The display device 104 includes, for example, a computer display such as a liquid crystal display. Communication between the DFE 103 and the display device 104 is performed, for example, via a communication cable. Communication between the DFE 103 and the display device 104 may be performed wirelessly or the like. The present embodiment also illustrates a case where the DFE 103 is communicatively connected to the image forming apparatus 101 via a network 105. The present embodiment also illustrates a case where the image forming apparatus 101 is connected to the network 100 via the DFE 103. That is, the present embodiment also illustrates a case where the image forming apparatus 101 acquires information from the information processing apparatus 102 via the DFE 103. The information from the information processing apparatus 102 includes, for example, an instruction to execute a print job or the like. As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where communication between the DFE 103 and the image forming apparatus 101 is performed via the network 105. For example, the DFE 103 and the image forming apparatus 101 transmit and receive information such as print data, various commands, and status notifications via the network 105. Note that communication between the image forming apparatus 101 and the DFE 103 is not limited to communication via the network 105. Furthermore, communication between the image forming apparatus 101 and the DFE 103 may be wired communication or wireless communication. Note that the image forming system does not need to include the DFE 103. For example, as described above, the image forming system may be configured with only the image forming apparatus 101.

[0016] In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the image forming apparatus 101 has multiple printing modules. Sheets are transported to the multiple printing modules. The multiple printing modules are devices that perform part of a series of processes, from feeding (supplying) the sheet transported to the printing module to discharging the sheet. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case in which these multiple printing modules are interconnected. The image forming apparatus 101 can perform complex sheet processing using these multiple printing modules. An example of each printing module that constitutes the image forming apparatus 101 will be described below. Note that if the sheet is paper, "feeding" may be interpreted as "paper feeding."

[0017] The printer unit 213 forms (prints) an image using ink on a sheet fed from the feeding unit 214 based on image data, and dries and fixes the image to the sheet. In this embodiment, the printer unit 213 includes an image forming unit 201, a first fixing unit 205, a second fixing unit 206, a cooling unit 207, and an inverting unit 208. In this case, the image forming unit 201, the first fixing unit 205, the second fixing unit 206, the cooling unit 207, and the inverting unit 208 are each an example of a printing module.

[0018] The image forming unit 201 has inkjet heads of various colors, such as yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). The inkjet heads are arranged linearly, for example, perpendicular to the sheet transport direction. The image forming unit 201 forms an image on a sheet by ejecting droplets from the inkjet heads of each color onto the sheet transported below the inkjet heads according to image data. Note that the image forming unit 201 may apply a primer to the sheet prior to ejecting each color of ink to improve the adhesiveness and fixation of the droplets. This embodiment illustrates an example in which image formation processing is performed for each of the colors yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). However, this is not necessarily required. For example, inks of arbitrary colors called special colors other than these colors may be used. Furthermore, inks of colors such as orange, violet, and green may be used as additional inks. Image formation processing may also be performed for these colors.

[0019] The sheet on which the full-color image has been formed in this way is transported to a first fixing unit 205 and a second fixing unit 206. The first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206 each incorporate a heat source, such as a heater. The first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206 use heat to dry the ink on the sheet on which the image has been formed, thereby fixing the image to the sheet. The sheet is then transported to a cooling unit 207. The cooling unit 207 cools the heated sheet.

[0020] The sheet cooled by the cooling unit 207 is transported to the reversing unit 208. The reversing unit 208 reverses the orientation of the sheet to form an image on the back side of the sheet, and transports the sheet again to the image forming unit 201. Note that if an image is to be formed on only one side of the sheet, reversing by the reversing unit 208 does not have to be performed.

[0021] The feeding unit 214 continuously supplies sheets on which images are to be formed to the printer unit 213. FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the feeding unit 214 has three feeding sections 202 to 204. The discharge unit 215 accumulates printed products (sheets). FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which the discharge unit 215 has three discharge sections 209 to 211. In this case, each of the feeding sections 202 to 204 and the discharge sections 209 to 211 is an example of a printing module.

[0022] The notification device 212 notifies the status of the image forming apparatus 101 by lighting a lamp (for example, an LED). In this embodiment, a case where the lighting operation of the lamp in the notification device 212 is controlled by the DFE 103 will be exemplified. In the following description, the image forming unit 201, feeding units 202-204, first fixing unit 205, second fixing unit 206, cooling unit 207, reversing unit 208, and discharging units 209-211 will be collectively referred to as printing modules 201-211 as necessary.

[0023] Printing modules 201-211 that make up image forming apparatus 101 have light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, 201a3-204a3, 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6. Light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, 201a3-204a3, 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6 have, for example, LEDs. The light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, 201a3-204a3, 202a4-204a5, and 203a4-203a5 notify the user of the occurrence of an event in the printing module 201-211 in which the light-emitting unit is located so that the user can identify the occurrence of the event. The notification of the occurrence of an event in the printing module 201-211 can be achieved, for example, by varying the light-emitting mode. The light-emitting mode includes, for example, at least one of the following: whether or not the light is lit, the color of the light, the intensity (brightness when lit), the duration of the light, and the pattern of the light being turned on and off. This embodiment illustrates a case in which the notification by the light-emitting unit is different from the notification in which the content of the notification is changed by changing the shape represented by a combination of multiple light-emitting units that are turned on and off. The information includes, for example, characters, figures, and symbols. The light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 may notify the user of the location and content of an event that has occurred in the printing module 201-211 in which the light-emitting unit is located so that the user can identify the location and content of the event. Note that the user includes, for example, the owner and user of the image forming apparatus 101, the information processing apparatus 102, and the DFE 103.

[0024] Three examples of notification by the light-emitting units 201a1 to 211a1, 201a2 to 211a2, and 201a3 to 204a3 will be described below. First, a first example will be described. Suppose a sheet conveyed to the second fixing unit 206 becomes stuck in the second fixing unit 206 (i.e., a so-called jam occurs). In this case, for example, the light-emitting unit 206a or 206b of the second fixing unit 206 lights up in red to notify the user that an event has occurred in which it is difficult to continue printing due to the stuck sheet in the second fixing unit 206. Note that in this case, for example, the light-emitting units 206a and 206b of the second fixing unit 206 may light up in red.

[0025] Next, a second example will be described. Suppose that a sheet shortage occurs in feed unit 202, 203, or 204 during execution of a print job, making it impossible to continue processing. In this case, for example, light-emitting unit 202a, 203a, or 204a of feed unit 202, 203, or 204 lights up in red to notify the user that the feed unit is running out of sheets. Note that in this case, for example, all light-emitting units 202a to 204a of feed units 202 to 204 may light up in red.

[0026] Next, a third example will be described. Suppose that the amount of sheets stacked in discharge unit 209, 210, or 211 reaches a predetermined amount during execution of a print job, and no more sheets can be stacked. In this case, for example, light-emitting unit 209a1, 210a1, or 211a1 of discharge unit 209, 210, or 211 lights up in red to notify the user that sheets cannot be stacked in that discharge unit. Note that in this case, for example, all of light-emitting units 209a1 to 211a1 of discharge units 209 to 211 may light up in red.

[0027] Information equivalent to the information notified by light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 can also be notified by, for example, display device 104 or notification device 212 provided in DFE 103. However, the user needs to determine which of the multiple printing modules constituting image forming apparatus 101 the event occurred in and the details of the event that occurred in the printing module. Therefore, the user needs to go to the location where display device 104 is installed and check the details of the information displayed on display device 104. Furthermore, the lamp lighting operation by notification device 212 does not easily notify the user quickly which of the multiple printing modules the event occurred in.

[0028] On the other hand, in this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 are arranged with respect to printing modules 201-211 at positions that are visible to the user from outside image forming apparatus 101. The positions that are visible to the user from outside image forming apparatus 101 are, for example, positions on the surfaces of printing modules 201-211. The positions that are visible to the user from outside image forming apparatus 101 may also be, for example, positions inside printing modules 201-211. In this case, holes that connect the inside and outside of printing modules 201-211 may be formed in printing modules 201-211. Light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 may be visible to the user from outside image forming apparatus 101 through the holes. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a case where light-emitting units 201a-211a, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3 are provided in all of the printing modules 201-211 of the image forming apparatus 101 is illustrated. However, this is not necessarily the case. For example, as long as one or more printing modules are provided with a light-emitting unit, some printing modules may not be provided with a light-emitting unit. For example, light-emitting units may be provided in two or more of all of the printing modules 201-211 of the image forming apparatus 101. The number of two or more printing modules may be the same as the total number of printing modules in the image forming apparatus 101, or may be less than the total number of printing modules in the image forming apparatus 101. However, it is preferable to provide light-emitting units in as many printing modules as possible. This is because it allows for a larger number of printing modules to be notified of the occurrence of an event by their light-emitting units.

[0029] In this embodiment, the light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 are used to notify the occurrence of an event. In this embodiment, the light-emitting units of the print module in which the event occurred are selectively lit. Therefore, the user can quickly identify the print module in which the event occurred without approaching the image forming apparatus 101 (light-emitting units). The user can also identify the type of event that occurred by the color of the light-emitting units. In this way, the light-emitting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 allow the user to easily grasp the event. Therefore, the operability and convenience of the image forming apparatus 101 can be improved. Specific examples of the light-emitting units 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6 will be described later.

[0030] FIG. 2A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the DFE 103. FIG. 2B is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 101. Note that the blocks shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B are divided into system units. For this reason, there are some parts that do not necessarily correspond to the units of the configuration shown in FIG. An example of the internal configuration of the DFE 103 and the image forming apparatus 101 will be described below.

[0031] First, an example of the internal configuration of the DFE 103 will be described. In FIG. 2A, the network I / F 218 is used to communicate with external devices connected to the network 100. For example, the network I / F 218 receives print job data transmitted from an external device such as the information processing device 102. The network I / F 218 also transmits information such as the status of the image forming device 101 to the external device. The print job data received by the network I / F 218 is processed, for example, by the CPU 217 reading various programs stored in the SSD 221 into the RAM 220 and executing them. Note that the CPU refers to a central processing unit, the RAM refers to random access memory, and the SSD refers to a solid state drive.

[0032] A specific example of the processing executed in this manner is a series of processes related to a print job. The series of processes related to a print job includes, for example, expansion of print job data, RIP processing, image conversion processing, and color conversion processing. The DFE 103 also has an operation unit 222. Various settings for the DFE 103, job settings, adjustment instructions for the image forming apparatus 101, etc. are executed by the user via the operation unit 222. The CPU 217 and each module are connected to each other via a system bus 223.

[0033] The processing by the CPU 217 may be performed by one or more processors other than the CPU (for example, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)) in addition to or instead of the CPU. The processing by the CPU 217 may be performed by a plurality of pieces of hardware sharing the processing. At least a part of the processing by the CPU 217 may be performed by using dedicated hardware. Examples of dedicated hardware include an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). As described above, the processor is not limited to a specific processor (for example, a CPU), a plurality of pieces of hardware sharing the processing, and dedicated hardware may be used, and this is also true for devices other than the DFE 103.

[0034] The print job data processed by the DFE 103 is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 101 by the network I / F 218 via the network 105 .

[0035] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described. The network I / F 225 is used to communicate with external devices connected to the network 105. For example, the network I / F 225 is connected to the network I / F 219 of the DFE 103 so that they can communicate with each other via the network 105. In this case, the network I / F 225 receives print job data from the DFE 103, for example. The network I / F 225 is also used to send and receive statuses and commands to and from the DFE 103.

[0036] The CPU 224 is a unit that controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 101. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the CPU 224 controls modules including the print modules 201 to 211 of the image forming apparatus 101. Each module is connected to the CPU 224 via system buses 228a and 228b so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0037] The CPU 224 reads out various programs stored in the SSD 230 into the RAM 229 and executes them to perform various processes.

[0038] In this embodiment, the DFE 103 and the image forming apparatus 101 are illustrated as having separate CPUs 217 and 224. However, this is not necessarily the case. For example, the DFE 103 and the image forming apparatus 101 may be controlled by the same CPU.

[0039] The sheet management unit 226 is a database that forms a sheet library of the image forming apparatus 101. Parameters of various types of sheets are stored in the sheet management unit 226. The adjustment unit 227 has various sensors. The adjustment unit 227 performs various calibrations and controls the various sensors. In addition to these modules, this embodiment illustrates a case where print modules 201 to 211 are communicably connected to the CPU 224 via system buses 228a and 228b.

[0040] As described above, this embodiment illustrates an example in which the image forming apparatus 101 has, as printing modules, an image forming unit 201, feeding units 202 to 204, a first fixing unit 205, a second fixing unit 206, a cooling unit 207, an inverting unit 208, and discharge units 209 to 211. An example of the internal configuration of the printing module will be described below.

[0041] First, an example of the internal configuration of the cooling unit 207 will be described. The microprocessor 207b controls the sub-modules of the cooling unit 207, and also sends control commands and status notifications to the CPU 224. Conveying sections 207c1 and 207c2 are sheet transport units. Conveying sections 207c1 and 207c2 transport sheets on the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by conveying sections 207c1 to 207c2 is controlled by microprocessor 207b. Passing sensors 207d1 and 207d2 are sensors provided downstream (exit) of conveying sections 207c1 and 207c2, respectively. Passing sensors 207d1 and 207d2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of conveying sections 207c1 and 207c2, respectively. Passing sensors 207d1 to 207d2 are mainly used for detecting sheet accumulation that occurs in conveying sections 207c1 to 207c2 in cooling section 207.

[0042] The light-emitting units 207a1 and 207a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the cooling unit 207. The light-emitting units 207a1 and 207a2 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the cooling unit 207 are notified by the location and color of the lit light-emitting units 207a1 and 207a2. A detailed example of which light-emitting unit lights up in which color when which event has occurred will be described later with reference to FIG. 3C . As described above, the location and details of an event may be notified by methods other than the location and color of the lit light-emitting units 207a1 and 207a2, such as the lighting duration, lighting intensity, and on / off pattern. The same applies to light-emitting units of printing modules other than the cooling unit 207, in that the method of notifying the location and details of an event is not limited in this way.

[0043] Next, an example of the internal configuration of first fixing unit 205 will be described. Microprocessor 205b controls the sub-modules of first fixing unit 205 and sends control commands and status notifications to CPU 224. Conveying units 205c1 and 205c2 are sheet transport units. Conveying units 205c1 and 205c2 transport sheets on the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by conveying units 205c1 to 205c2 is controlled by microprocessor 205b. Passing sensors 205d1 and 205d2 are sensors provided downstream (exit) of conveying units 205c1 and 205c2, respectively. Passing sensors 205d1 and 205d2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of conveying units 205c1 and 205c2, respectively. The passage sensors 205d1 and 205d2 are mainly used for detecting the retention of sheets in the conveying units 205c1 and 205c2 in the first fixing unit 205.

[0044] The light-emitting units 205a1 and 205a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the first fixing unit 205. The light-emitting units 205a1 and 205a2 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the first fixing unit 205 are notified by the positions and colors of the lit light-emitting units 205a1 and 205a2. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting unit lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3C.

[0045] Next, an example of the internal configuration of second fixing unit 206 will be described. Microprocessor 206b controls the sub-modules of second fixing unit 206 and exchanges control commands and status notifications with CPU 224. Conveying units 206c1 and 206c2 are sheet transport units. Conveying units 206c1 and 206c2 transport sheets on the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by conveying units 206c1 to 206c2 is controlled by microprocessor 206b. Passing sensors 206d1, 206d21 to 206d22 are sensors provided downstream (exit) of conveying units 206c1 and 206c2, respectively. Passing sensors 206d1, 206d21 to 206d22 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of conveying units 206c1 and 206c2, respectively. The passage sensors 206d1, 206d21 to 206d22 are mainly used for detecting the retention of sheets that occurs in the conveying units 206c1 to 206c2 in the second fixing unit 206.

[0046] The light-emitting units 206a1 and 206a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the second fixing unit 206. The light-emitting units 206a1 and 206a2 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the second fixing unit 206 are notified by the location and color of the lit light-emitting units 206a1 and 206a2. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting unit lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3C.

[0047] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the image forming unit 201 will be described. Microprocessor 201b controls the sub-modules of image forming unit 201 and exchanges control commands, status notifications, etc. with CPU 224. Conveying units 201c1 and 201c2 are sheet transport units. Conveying units 201c1 and 201c2 transport sheets on the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by conveying units 201c1 to 201c2 is controlled by microprocessor 201b. Passing sensors 201d1 and 201d2 are sensors provided downstream (exit) of conveying units 201c1 and 201c2, respectively. Passing sensors 201d1 and 201d2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of conveying units 201c1 and 201c2, respectively.

[0048] The light-emitting elements 201a1-201a3 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the image forming unit 201. The light-emitting elements 201a1-201a3 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the image forming unit 201 are notified by the location and color of the lit light-emitting elements 201a1-201a3. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting element lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3B.

[0049] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the feeding units 202 to 204 will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the feeding units 202 to 204 are an example of a supply unit that stores and supplies sheets. Also, in this embodiment, the feeding stages 202e1 to 202e3, 203e1 to 203e3, and 204e1 to 204e3 are an example of a supply stage. Also, in this embodiment, the feeding units 202 to 204 have the same internal configuration. Therefore, only an example of the internal configuration of the feeding unit 202 will be described, and detailed description of the feeding units 203 to 204 will be omitted. Note that at least one of the feeding units 202 to 204 may have a mutually different internal configuration.

[0050] Microprocessor 202b controls the sub-modules of feeding section 202 and exchanges control commands, status notifications, etc. with CPU 224. Conveying sections 202c1 and 202c2 are sheet transport units. Conveying sections 202c1 and 202c2 transport sheets on the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by conveying sections 202c1 to 202c2 is controlled by microprocessor 202b. Passing sensors 202d1 and 202d2 are sensors provided downstream (exit) of conveying sections 202c1 and 202c2, respectively. Passing sensors 202d1 and 202d2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of conveying sections 202c1 and 202c2, respectively. The passage sensors 202d1 and 202d2 are mainly used for detecting the accumulation of sheets in the conveying sections 202c1 and 202c2 in the feeding section 202.

[0051] Remaining amount detection sensors 202d3, 202d4, and 202d5 are sensors provided on feeding stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively, of feeding unit 202. Remaining amount detection sensors 202d3, 202d4, and 202d5 are sensors for measuring the remaining amounts of sheets stored (stacked) in feeding stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which remaining amount detection sensors 202d3, 202d4, and 202d5 are attached to the bottoms of feeding stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. As the remaining amounts of sheets stored in feeding stages 202e1 to 202e3 change, the trays inside feeding stages 202e1 to 202e3 move up and down. Remaining amount detection sensors 202d3-202d5 can measure the remaining amount of sheets stored in the tray by, for example, detecting the amount of up and down movement of the tray. Remaining amount detection sensors 202d3-202d5 are mainly used for displaying the remaining amount of sheets stored in feed stages 202e1-e3 and for calculating the paper-out occurrence time for print jobs that are running and waiting. Remaining amount notification units 202g1, 202g2, and 202g3 notify the remaining amount of sheets stored in feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3 of feed unit 202, respectively. Specific examples of remaining amount notification units 202g1-202g3 will be described later with reference to FIG. 3A.

[0052] The light-emitting elements 202a1-202a3 are used to indicate the location and details of an event that has occurred within the feed unit 202. The light-emitting elements 202a1-202a3 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the feed unit 202 are indicated by the position and color of the lit light-emitting elements 202a1-202a3. The light-emitting elements 202a4-202a5 are used to indicate various statuses of the feed stages 202e1-202e3. The light-emitting elements 202a4-202a6 include, for example, LEDs. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting element lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3A. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lighting color of each light-emitting element, including the light-emitting elements 202a1-202a6, is a specific color, but the lighting color of all light-emitting elements is variable and may be any color. In each of the present embodiments, an example of a first light-emitting unit is realized by light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3. In each of the present embodiments, an example of a second light-emitting unit is realized by light-emitting units 202a4 to 202a6, 203a4 to 203a6, and 204a4 to 204a6. In each of the present embodiments, an example of a notification unit is realized by remaining amount notification units 202g1 to 202g3.

[0053] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the inverting unit 208 will be described. Microprocessor 208b controls the sub-modules of reversing unit 208 and sends control commands and status notifications to CPU 224. Conveying units 208c1 and 208c2 are sheet transport units. Conveying units 208c1 and 208c2 transport sheets on the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by conveying units 208c1 to 208c2 is controlled by microprocessor 208b. Passing sensors 208d1 and 208d2, which are examples of detection units, are sensors provided downstream (exit) of conveying units 208c1 and 208c2, respectively. Passing sensors 208d1 and 208d2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of conveying units 208c1 and 208c2, respectively. The passage sensors 208d1 and 208d2 are mainly used for detecting the retention of sheets in the conveying sections 208c1 and 208c2 in the reversing section 208.

[0054] The light-emitting elements 208a1 and 208a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the inverting unit 208. The light-emitting elements 208a1 and 208a2 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the inverting unit 208 are notified by the position and color of the lit light-emitting elements 208a1 and 208a2. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting element lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3C.

[0055] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the ejection units 209 to 211 will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the ejection units 209 to 211 have the same internal configuration. Therefore, only an example of the internal configuration of the ejection unit 209 will be described, and detailed description of the ejection units 210 to 211 will be omitted. Note that at least one of the ejection units 209 to 211 may have a mutually different internal configuration.

[0056] The microprocessor 209b controls the sub-modules of the discharge unit 209 and exchanges control commands and status notifications with the CPU 224. The transport units 209c1 and 209c2 are sheet transport units. The transport units 209c1 and 209c2 transport sheets along the upper and lower transport paths, respectively. The transport process by the transport units 209c1 to 209c2 is controlled by the microprocessor 209b. The passage sensors 209d1 and 209d2 are sensors provided downstream of the transport units 209c1 and 209c2, respectively. The passage sensors 209d1 and 209d2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets downstream of the transport units 209c1 and 209c2, respectively. The passage sensors 209d1 to 209c2 are mainly used to detect sheet accumulation in the transport units 209c1 to 209c2 in the discharge unit 209.

[0057] The light-emitting units 209a1 and 209a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred in the discharge unit 209. The light-emitting units 209a1 and 209a2 include, for example, LEDs. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred in the discharge unit 209 are notified by the position and color of the lit light-emitting units 209a1 and 209a2. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting unit lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3D.

[0058] 3A is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the feeding unit 202. Note that this embodiment illustrates a case where the feeding units 202 to 204 have the same external configuration. Therefore, only one example of the external configuration of the feeding unit 202 will be described, and detailed description of the feeding units 203 to 204 will be omitted. Note that at least one of the feeding units 202 to 204 may have an external configuration different from each other.

[0059] 3A illustrates an example in which feeding unit 202 has three feeding stages 202e1-202e3. Feeding stages 202e1-202e3 can store sheets of different types and sizes. Feeding stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3 have open indicators 202f1, 202f2, and 202f3, respectively, and remaining amount indicators 202g1, 202g2, and 202g3. Feeding stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3 also have light-emitting elements 202a4, 202a5, and 202a6, respectively. Light-emitting elements 202a4, 202a5, and 202a6 indicate various statuses of feeding stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. When open instruction units 202f1, 202f2, and 202f3 are operated, the trays of feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3 are pulled out from feed unit 202, respectively. Remaining amount notification units 202g1, 202g2, and 202g3 notify the remaining amounts of sheets stored in feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. Remaining amount notification units 202g1 to 202g3 notify the remaining amounts of sheets stored in feed stages 202e1 to 202e3 in stages, for example. In this embodiment, a case where remaining amount notification units 202g1 to 202g3 each have a plurality of LEDs is illustrated. The remaining amount indicators 202g1, 202g2, and 202g3 vary the number of lit LEDs among the multiple LEDs depending on the remaining amount of sheets stored in the feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. In this case, the length of the lit area varies depending on the combination of the multiple LEDs that are turned on and off. The user can recognize the remaining amount of sheets based on this length. Meanwhile, as described above, this embodiment illustrates a case in which the notification by the light-emitting units 202a1 to a6 is different from the notification by information whose content is recognized by a variable shape represented by the combination of the multiple light-emitting units that are turned on and off. In this way, this embodiment illustrates a case in which the notification by the light-emitting units 202a1 to a6 and the notification by the remaining amount indicators 202g1, 202g2, and 202g3 are different from each other.

[0060] In this embodiment, the light-emitting units 202a4, 202a5, and 202a6 are lit in green when sheets are being fed from the feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. In this embodiment, the light-emitting units 202a4, 202a5, and 202a6 are lit in red when an error occurs in the feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively. Examples of errors include an overload of sheets or malfunction of the open instruction units 202f1-f3.

[0061] The escape tray 202g is a tray for discharging sheets that may be in a folded state or a multi-fed state, so that the folded sheets or the multi-fed sheets are not transported to the image forming unit 201.

[0062] Although not shown in FIG. 3A, as described above, the feeding section 202 has remaining amount detection sensors 202d3 to 202d5.

[0063] In this embodiment, the feed unit 202 includes three light-emitting units 202a1 to 202a3. The three light-emitting units 202a1 to 202a3 are arranged at positions on the feed unit 202 that are different from the feed stages 202e1 to 202e3. The present embodiment also illustrates a case in which the light-emitting unit 202a1 is located above the light-emitting unit 202a2 on the front surface of the feed unit 202. The present embodiment also illustrates a case in which the lower light-emitting unit 202a2 of the feed unit 202 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the lower transport unit 202c2 of the feed unit 202. The present embodiment also illustrates a case in which the upper light-emitting unit 202a1 of the feed unit 202 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper transport unit 202c1 of the feed unit 202. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light-emitting unit 201a1 notifies a state other than a sheet accumulation as the state of the feeding unit 202. Specifically, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light-emitting unit 201a1 lights up in red even when the sheets discharged onto the escape tray 202g become full. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light-emitting unit 201a1 lights up in yellow when the escape tray 202g becomes close to a tray full state. When the escape tray 202g is full of sheets discharged thereon, the light emitting section 201a1 may be lit in a color other than red or yellow, for example.

[0064] In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 202a3 of the feeding unit 202 is used to notify the remaining number of sheets stored in the feeding stages 202e1-e3 that are set to be used in the ongoing and standby print jobs. For example, the microprocessor 202b calculates the number of sheets stored in each of the feeding stages 202e1-202e3 that are set to be used in the ongoing print job. The number of sheets stored in each of the feeding stages 202e1-202e3 that are set to be used in the ongoing print job is the number of sheets remaining in the feeding stages 202e1-202e3 that are set to be used in the ongoing print job. The microprocessor 202b then compares the number of sheets remaining in the feeding stages 202e1-202e3 that are set to be used in the ongoing print job with the number of unused sheets among the sheets set to be used in the ongoing print job. Of the sheets set to be used in a print job, the amount of unused sheets is the remaining amount of sheets scheduled to be printed in the print job.

[0065] Then, based on the result of this comparison, if the microprocessor 202b determines that there will be a shortage of sheets by the time the print job is completed (in the future), it lights up the light-emitting unit 202a3 in yellow. Furthermore, if the microprocessor 202b determines that there is actually a shortage of sheets, it lights up the light-emitting unit 202a3 in red. Furthermore, if an error occurs in the feed stages 202e1 to 202e3, the microprocessor 202b lights up the light-emitting unit 202a3 in red. Examples of errors include when there is an overload of sheets or when the open instruction units 202f1 to f3 do not operate normally.

[0066] In addition to or instead of when a print job is being executed, when a print job is waiting to be executed in the image forming device 101, the microprocessor 202b may perform the above-mentioned comparison and turn on the light-emitting unit 202a3 based on the result of the comparison.

[0067] The illumination color of the light-emitting unit 202a3 is not limited to yellow and red. As described above, the illumination mode includes, for example, at least one of the following: whether or not the light is on; the illumination color; the illumination intensity; the illumination duration; and the on / off pattern. By varying at least one of these, a display according to the status of the feed stages 202e1-202e3 may be performed. In the example described above, the status of the feed stages 202e1-202e3 includes a state in which there will be a shortage of sheets (in the future) before the print job is completed, a state in which there is actually a shortage of sheets, and a state in which an error has occurred in the feed stages 202e1-202e3.

[0068] FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the image forming unit 201. As shown in FIG. As described above, the notification device 212 notifies the status of the image forming apparatus 101 by lighting a lamp. The image forming unit 201 has a head unit 201e. The head unit 201e includes, for example, an inkjet head and an inkjet head control unit. The ink tank control unit 201f performs, for example, ink replenishment, waste ink replacement, and display of the remaining ink levels.

[0069] In this embodiment, the light-emitting units 201a1 to 202a2 are lit in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper transport unit 201c1 in the image forming unit 201. In addition, in this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 201a3 is lit in red when a sheet is stuck in the lower transport unit 201c2 in the image forming unit 201.

[0070] 3C is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the first fixing unit 205, the second fixing unit 206, the cooling unit 207, and the inverting unit 208. In this embodiment, the inverting unit 208 has an escape tray 208e. When an error or the like occurs in the image forming apparatus 101, a sheet on the conveying path in the image forming apparatus 101 is discharged to the escape tray 208e.

[0071] Furthermore, the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206 use heaters to heat the sheet in order to dry the sheet. For this reason, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which covers 205e and 206e are provided on the tops of the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206, respectively, to prevent a user from accidentally touching the heated parts of the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206.

[0072] This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting unit 205a1 is provided above light-emitting unit 205a2 on the front surface of first fixing unit 205. This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting unit 205a1 on the upper side of first fixing unit 205 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in upper conveying unit 205c1 within first fixing unit 205. This embodiment also illustrates a case where light-emitting unit 205a2 on the lower side of first fixing unit 205 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in lower conveying unit 205c2 within first fixing unit 205.

[0073] This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting unit 206a1 is provided above light-emitting unit 206a2 on the front surface of second fixing unit 206. This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting unit 206a1 on the upper side of second fixing unit 206 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in upper conveying unit 206c1 within second fixing unit 206. This embodiment also illustrates a case where light-emitting unit 206a2 on the lower side of second fixing unit 206 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in lower conveying unit 206c2 within second fixing unit 206.

[0074] In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the light emitting unit 207a1 is provided above the light emitting unit 207a2 on the front surface of the cooling unit 207. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the light emitting unit 207a1 on the upper side of the cooling unit 207 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper transport unit 207c1 inside the cooling unit 207. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the light emitting unit 207a2 on the lower side of the cooling unit 207 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the lower transport unit 207c2 inside the cooling unit 207.

[0075] In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting unit 208a1 is provided above light-emitting unit 208a2 on the front surface of inversion unit 208. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting unit 208a1 on the upper side of inversion unit 208 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in upper transport unit 208c1 within inversion unit 208. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting unit 208a2 on the lower side of inversion unit 208 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in lower transport unit 208c2 within inversion unit 208.

[0076] 3D is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of discharge unit 209. Note that this embodiment illustrates a case where discharge units 209 to 211 have the same external configuration. Therefore, only one example of the external configuration of discharge unit 209 will be described, and detailed description of discharge units 210 to 211 will be omitted. Note that at least one of discharge units 209 to 211 may have an external configuration different from each other.

[0077] In this embodiment, the discharge unit 209 has two discharge locations. The stack unit 209e is a portion used when a large number of sheets are stacked. The stack unit 209e is protected by a door 209f. A small number of sheets are discharged to the sample tray 209g. The sample tray 209g is not protected by a door or the like. In addition, in order to improve the stackability of sheets in the stack unit 209e, this embodiment illustrates a case in which the stack unit 209e has a jogger mechanism (mechanism for aligning sheets) (not shown). Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 1, when the image forming apparatus 101 has multiple discharge units 209 to 211, each of the multiple discharge units 209 to 211 may have a stack unit. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 has a function (tray linking function) that enables multiple stack units to be treated as a single discharge destination.

[0078] The eject instruction unit 209h is operated by the user to unlock the door 209f. When the door 209f is unlocked, the user can access the stack unit 209e inside the discharge unit 209. This allows the user to remove sheets stacked inside the discharge unit 209. The stack amount notification unit 209i displays the stack amount (height) of sheets stacked in the stack unit 209e in stages according to the stack amount.

[0079] In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 209a1 is provided above the light-emitting unit 209a2 on the front surface of the discharge unit 209. In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 209a1 on the upper side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper transport unit 209c1 inside the discharge unit 209. In addition, in this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 209a1 on the upper side lights up in red when the sample tray 209g of the discharge unit 209 is fully loaded with sheets. In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 209a1 on the upper side lights up in yellow when the sample tray 209g of the discharge unit 209 is nearly fully loaded with sheets. Note that when the sample tray 209g of the discharge unit 209 is fully loaded with sheets, the light-emitting unit 209a1 may light up in a color other than red or yellow, for example.

[0080] In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light emitting unit 209a2 on the lower side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in red when sheets are stuck in the lower conveying unit 209c2 inside the discharge unit 209. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light emitting unit 209a2 on the lower side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in red when the sheets stacked in the stack unit 209e of the discharge unit 209 are fully loaded. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light emitting unit 209a2 on the lower side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in yellow when the sheets stacked in the stack unit 209e of the discharge unit 209 are nearly fully loaded. Note that when the sheets stacked in the stack unit 209e of the discharge unit 209 are fully loaded, the light emitting unit 209a2 may light up in a color other than red or yellow, for example.

[0081] 4 is a diagram showing an example of the overall internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 101. An example of the configuration of the sheet transport path in each printing module of the image forming apparatus 101, an example of the positional relationship of the passage sensors, and an example of the arrangement relationship of the light-emitting units will be described with reference to FIG. 4. As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where the feed units 202 to 204 have the same configuration. This embodiment also illustrates a case where the discharge units 209 to 211 have the same configuration. Therefore, FIG. 4 illustrates only the feed unit 202 and the discharge unit 210 of the feed units 202 to 204 and the discharge units 209 to 211, and does not illustrate the feed units 203 to 204 and the discharge units 210 to 211. Detailed description of the feed units 203 to 204 and the discharge units 210 to 211 will be omitted.

[0082] First, the feeding unit 202 will be described. In this embodiment, the case where the conveying units 202c1 and 202c2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4 will be exemplified. Passage sensors 202d1 and 202d2 are disposed downstream of the conveying units 202c1 and 202c2, respectively. The passage sensors 202d1 and 202d2 detect when a sheet being conveyed on the conveying path passes through the detection areas of the passage sensors 202d1 and 202d2. The passage sensors 202d1 and 202d2 in this embodiment are used to detect the occurrence of sheet retention.

[0083] The retention of the sheet is detected, for example, by the following method. Based on instructions from the CPU 224, the microprocessor of each printing module, including the feeding unit 202, controls the transport unit of the printing module that includes the microprocessor. This transports the sheet. When the sheet is transported to a printing module, the transport unit of the printing module is controlled to move the sheet through the printing module and then transport it to the outside of the printing module. Based on the relationship between the sheet transport speed and the shape and length of the transport path within the printing module, the time required for the sheet to be transported from the inside of the printing module to the outside of the printing module is calculated. This time is calculated, for example, by the CPU 224. This time is also the estimated time for the sheet to remain in the printing module. In the following description, this time will be referred to as the in-machine estimated time, as necessary. If a sheet is detected by a passage sensor when the in-machine estimated time in a printing module has elapsed, the CPU 224 can determine that the transport process in the printing module is being performed as expected. On the other hand, if the sheet passage sensor does not detect the sheet even though the expected in-machine time in a print module has elapsed, the CPU 224 can determine that the sheet is not being transported correctly in that print module. That is, the CPU 224 can determine that the transport process in that print module is stalled due to a sheet being stuck in that print module. Therefore, this embodiment illustrates a case where a passage sensor is disposed downstream of the transport path of each print module. This embodiment also illustrates a case where the CPU 224 determines whether the sheet will be transported outside the print module when the expected in-machine time for the sheet in each print module has elapsed, based on the detection result of the passage sensor.

[0084] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 202c2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 202d2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 turns on the lower light-emitting unit 202a2 in red when a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 202c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 202c2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck in the upper conveying path 202c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 202d1. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 turns on the upper light-emitting unit 202a1 in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper conveying path 202c1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the upper conveying path 202c1.

[0085] Next, the image forming unit 201 will be described. In this embodiment, the conveying units 201c1 and 201c2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 201d1 and 201d2 are disposed downstream of the conveying units 201c1 and 201c2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 201c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 201d1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting units 201a1 and 201a2 in red when a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 201c1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 201c1.

[0086] In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 determines whether or not a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 201c2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 201d2. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 lights up the lower light emitting unit 201a3 in red when a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 201c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 201c2. An example of a method for detecting a sheet stuck is as described above, so a detailed description of the method for detecting a sheet stuck will be omitted here.

[0087] Next, the first fixing unit 205 will be described. In this embodiment, the case where the conveying units 205c1 and 205c2 are arranged at the positions shown in FIG. 4 is exemplified. Passage sensors 205d1 and 205d2 are arranged downstream of the conveying units 205c1 and 205c2, respectively. In this embodiment, the case where the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 205c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 205d1 is exemplified. In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting unit 205a1 in red when a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 205c1 is exemplified. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 205c1.

[0088] In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 determines whether or not a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 205c2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 205d2. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 lights up the lower light emitting unit 205a2 in red when a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 205c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 205c2. An example of a method for detecting a sheet stuck is as described above, so a detailed description of the method for detecting a sheet stuck will be omitted here.

[0089] Next, the second fixing unit 206 will be described. In this embodiment, the conveying units 206c1 and 206c2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 206d1, 206d21, and 206d22 are disposed downstream of the conveying units 206c1 and 206c2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 206c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 206d1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting unit 206a1 in red when a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 206c1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 206c1.

[0090] In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 206c2 based on the detection results of the passage sensors 206d21 and 206d22. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting unit 206a2 in red when a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 206c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 206c2. An example of a method for detecting a sheet stuck is as described above, so a detailed description of the method for detecting a sheet stuck will be omitted here.

[0091] Next, the cooling unit 207 will be described. In this embodiment, the transport units 207c1 and 207c2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 207d1 and 207d2 are disposed downstream of the transport units 207c1 and 207c2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper transport path 207c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 207d1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting unit 207a1 in red when a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper transport path 207c1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper transport path 207c1.

[0092] In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 207c2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 207d2. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the CPU 224 lights up the lower light emitting unit 207a2 in red when a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 207c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 207c2. An example of a method for detecting a sheet stuck is as described above, so a detailed description of the method for detecting a sheet stuck will be omitted here.

[0093] Next, the reversing unit 208 will be described. In this embodiment, the case where the conveying units 208c1 and 208c2 are arranged at the positions shown in FIG. 4 is exemplified. Passage sensors 208d1 and 208d2 are arranged downstream of the conveying units 208c1 and 208c2, respectively. In this embodiment, the case where the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 208c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 208d1 is exemplified. In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting unit 208a1 in red when a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 208c1 is exemplified. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 208c1.

[0094] In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 determines whether or not a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 208c2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 208d2. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 lights up the lower light emitting unit 208a2 in red when a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 208c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 208c2. An example of a method for detecting a sheet stuck is as described above, so a detailed description of the method for detecting a sheet stuck will be omitted here.

[0095] Next, the discharge unit 209 will be described. In this embodiment, a case where the conveying units 209c1 and 209c2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4 is exemplified. Passage sensors 209d1 and 209d2 are disposed downstream of the conveying units 209c1 and 209c2, respectively. In this embodiment, a case where the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 209c1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 209d1 is exemplified. In addition, in this embodiment, a case where the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting unit 209a1 in red when a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 209c1 is exemplified. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream of the upper conveying path 209c1.

[0096] In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 determines whether or not a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 209c2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 209d2. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 224 lights up the lower light emitting unit 209a2 in red when a sheet is stuck in the downstream portion of the lower conveying path 209c2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 209c2. An example of a method for detecting a sheet stuck is as described above, so a detailed description of the method for detecting a sheet stuck will be omitted here.

[0097] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a management screen 500. In this embodiment, a case where the management screen 500 is displayed on the display device 104 connected to the DFE 103 is illustrated. With reference to FIG. 5, an example of screen components and a user interface that are common to the subsequent drawings will be described. The user interface may include an operation unit 222 and a GUI (Graphical User Interface). The display of the management screen 500 is controlled by, for example, the DFE 103. Furthermore, the display of the management screen 500 may be displayed on, for example, a device other than the DFE 103. In this case, the display of the management screen 500 may be controlled by, for example, a device other than the DFE 103.

[0098] At the top of the management screen 500, various areas for displaying the status of the image forming apparatus 101 are arranged. The alert area 506 displays a color according to the status of the image forming apparatus 101. The color of the alert area 506 allows the user to be notified of the status of the image forming apparatus 101. In this case, the alert area 506 may display a different color according to the status of the image forming apparatus 101. For example, when the image forming apparatus 101 is in a normal state, the alert area 506 is green, which indicates a normal state.

[0099] The status area 507 displays text information indicating the status of the image forming apparatus 101. The text information displayed in the status area 507 allows the user to be notified of the status of the image forming apparatus 101. Fig. 5 illustrates an example in which "Ready" is displayed in the status area 507, which indicates that the image forming apparatus 101 is in a normal state, is available, and is not in operation.

[0100] The detailed status area 508 displays more detailed information about the status of the image forming apparatus 101. The information displayed in the detailed status area 508 enables the user to be notified of the more detailed status of the image forming apparatus 101. The detailed status area 508 is used when it becomes necessary to notify the user of more detailed information than the simple information displayed in the status area 507, such as when an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 101. FIG. 5 illustrates a case where no information is displayed in the detailed status area 508 because no error has occurred in the image forming apparatus 101.

[0101] At the bottom of the management screen 500, a plurality of user interfaces are arranged for the user to select various operations for the image forming apparatus 101. The schedule setting unit 501 has a user interface that is operated by the user when transitioning to a screen for setting and displaying scheduling information for print jobs executed by the image forming apparatus 101 .

[0102] The job management unit 502 has a user interface that is operated by the user when transitioning to a screen for performing various settings for a print job executed by the image forming apparatus 101 and for operating a print queue. The feed stage setting unit 503 has a user interface that is operated by the user when transitioning to a screen for setting sheets to the plurality of feed stages 202e1 to 202e3, 203e1 to 203e3, and 204e1 to 204e3 that the image forming apparatus 101 has.

[0103] The system setting unit 504 has a user interface that is operated by the user when transitioning to a screen for executing various functions related to the overall system setting of the image forming apparatus 101 . The service execution unit 505 has a user interface that is operated by the user when transitioning to a screen for executing various functions for performing maintenance on the image forming apparatus 101 .

[0104] 5 illustrates an example in which the schedule setting unit 501, job management unit 502, feed stage setting unit 503, system setting unit 504, and service execution unit 505 each have buttons as a user interface (GUI). Also, FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which the feed stage setting unit 503 is selected.

[0105] An example of the functions and screen components that are realized when the feed stage setting section 503 is selected will be described below. 5, sheet setting unit 509 has a user interface that is operated by the user when setting specific sheets for feed stages 202e1 to 202e3, 203e1 to 203e3, and 204e1 to 204e3 of image forming apparatus 101. The sheet setting canceling unit 510 has a user interface that is operated by the user when canceling the setting of the sheet that has been set to a specific feeding stage by the sheet setting unit 509. FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which the sheet setting section 509 and the sheet setting cancellation section 510 are buttons as a user interface (GUI).

[0106] FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which nine feed stage display sections are displayed on the management screen 500 when the feed stage setting section 503 is selected. The feed stage display section has a user interface. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the feed stage display section has buttons as a user interface (GUI). FIG. 5 also illustrates an example in which each feed stage display section displays a feed stage number 511, a sheet remaining amount graph 512, and media information 513. For convenience of notation, FIG. 5 only assigns a reference symbol (511 to 513) to one of the nine feed stage display sections. Note that the term "media" in each drawing refers to sheets.

[0107] FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which, when no sheet is set in the feeding tray, "Not assigned" is displayed as media information 513, which means that no sheet is set.

[0108] 5 illustrates a case where the feed stage numbers 511 of 1, 2, and 3 indicate feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively, of the feed section 202. Also, FIG. 5 illustrates a case where the feed stage numbers 511 of 4, 5, and 6 indicate feed stages 203e1, 203e2, and 203e3, respectively, of the feed section 203. Also, FIG. 5 illustrates a case where the feed stage numbers 511 of 7, 8, and 9 indicate feed stages 204e1, 204e2, and 204e3, respectively, of the feed section 204.

[0109] 5 also illustrates a case where the feed stage display unit displays that media (sheets) are set in the feed stages 202e11, 202e3, 203a1, and 203a2 whose feed stage numbers 511 are 1, 3, 4, and 5. On the other hand, FIG. 5 also illustrates a case where the feed stage display unit displays that no media are set in the feed stages 202e2, 203e3, and 204e1 to 204e3 whose feed stage numbers 511 are 2, 6, 7, 8, and 9.

[0110] 5 illustrates an example in which the feed stage 203e3, whose feed stage number 511 is 6, is selected. Selecting the sheet setting unit 509 in this state means that an instruction is given to set media (sheets) for the feed stage 203e3.

[0111] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the management screen 500 when the schedule setting section 501 is selected while a print job is in the execution state or the execution standby state.

[0112] The schedule area 601 displays the time elapsed until the print jobs in the execution state and the execution standby state are completed. In the media areas 602 and 603, information about media (sheets) used in print jobs that are in an execution state and in a standby state is displayed in order from the top to the bottom, starting with the media that were used in the print job the earliest.

[0113] Print schedules 607 to 609 are information indicating the time required to complete printing of the media (sheets) displayed in media areas 602 and 603. FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which media area 602 displays that the media (sheets) used in the print job are A4 plain paper with a weight of 100 grams per square meter. FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which print schedules 607 and 608 display information indicating the time required to complete printing of such media (sheets). FIG. 6 also illustrates an example in which media area 603 displays that the media (sheets) used in the print job are A4 plain paper with a weight of 300 grams per square meter. FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which print schedule 609 displays information indicating the time required to complete printing of such media (sheets).

[0114] FIG. 6 also illustrates an example in which the print schedule for the media (sheets) displayed in the media area 602 is divided into two print schedules 607 and 608. This means that there will be a shortage of sheets (no sheets left) when the display switches to the media print schedule 608. In this case, the display colors of the print schedules 607 and 608 may be different. For example, the print schedule 607 may be displayed in green, and the print schedule 608 may be displayed in yellow. Also, for example, if there is actually a shortage of sheets as printing progresses (when there are no sheets left), the print schedule may be displayed in a color different from other times. For example, if there is actually a shortage of sheets as printing progresses (when there are no sheets left), the print schedule 609 displayed in the media area 603 may be displayed in red.

[0115] The time required to complete printing is calculated based on the type of media (sheets) set to be used in the print job, the current state of the image forming apparatus 101, etc. This calculation may be performed by the DFE 103, the image forming apparatus 101, or the information processing apparatus 102.

[0116] In the discharge tray areas 604 and 605, information indicating the discharge destinations of media (sheets) set for print jobs in the execution state and the execution standby state is displayed in order of earliest media discharge timing from the top. The display scale change unit 606 has a user interface that is operated by the user when transitioning to a screen for changing the scale of the time axis displayed in the schedule area 601 .

[0117] FIG. 6 also illustrates an example in which the information displayed in the alert area 506, status area 507, and detailed status area 508 changes from the information shown in FIG. 5 as the print job transitions to an execution state (operating state).

[0118] FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which the alert area 506 lights up yellow to warn the user that some processing is required. FIG. 6 also illustrates an example in which the status area 507 displays the printing status of a print job currently being executed. FIG. 6 also illustrates an example in which the detailed status area 508 displays information indicating the specific content of the processing indicated by the alert area 506 as being required. Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates an example in which the detailed status area 508 displays information indicating that processing is required to replenish media A in the feed stage. Note that, for example, the CPU 217 may variably set the timing of issuing a warning via the alert area 506 and the detailed status area 508 based on the time at which the currently executing print job will be interrupted if the processing is not performed.

[0119] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing in the image forming system of this embodiment. FIG. 7 illustrates an example in which the image forming system determines whether printing will stop during execution of a print job (before the print job is completed) due to a lack of sheets. FIG. 7 also illustrates an example in which, when printing stops during execution of a print job due to a lack of sheets, the image forming system controls the illumination of the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 based on the status of the print job and the storage status of sheets in the feed tray. The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 7 is initiated, for example, by the DFE 103 setting one or more print jobs in an execution queue. The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 7 is executed, for example, by the CPU 217 that has loaded various programs stored in the SSD 221 into the RAM 220. The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 7 may be performed by a device other than the DFE 103. For example, if the image forming system is configured with only the image forming apparatus 101, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 7 may be performed by the image forming apparatus 101.

[0120] In S701, the CPU 217 determines whether there will be a shortage of sheets during the execution of a print job or a print job waiting to be executed. As described above, for example, the microprocessor 202b determines whether there will be a shortage of sheets by the time the print job is completed (in the future). The CPU 217 may make the determination in S701 by using the result of this determination. Note that the determination of whether there will be a shortage of sheets by the time the print job is completed (in the future) may be made by a device other than the microprocessor 202b instead of or in addition to the microprocessor 202b. The device other than the microprocessor 202b is, for example, at least one of the CPU 217 and the CPU 224.

[0121] If the result of the determination in S701 is that there will be no shortage of sheets during the print job, the process of S708, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if there will be a shortage of sheets during the print job, the process of S702 is performed.

[0122] In S702, the CPU 217 determines whether or not at least one of the following has occurred: the missing sheets have been replenished in the feed tray; or the print queue has been updated. If the determination in S702 indicates that the missing sheets have been replenished in the feed tray; or the print queue has been updated, the process in S701 is performed again. On the other hand, if the determination in S702 indicates that neither the missing sheets have been replenished in the feed tray; nor the print queue has been updated, the process in S703 is performed. Note that the print queue update here refers to an update that affects whether or not a sheet shortage has occurred and the timing at which a sheet shortage will occur. For example, the print queue update here includes deleting a print job currently waiting to be executed and changing the execution order of the print jobs currently waiting to be executed.

[0123] In S703, the CPU 217 determines whether a warning display time determined based on the time when sheets will run out has been reached. The warning display time is preferably a time before the time when sheets will run out. If the result of this determination is that the warning display time has not been reached, the process of S702 is performed again. On the other hand, if the warning display time has been reached, the process of S704 is performed. Here, the remaining amount and status of sheets at the time when the warning display time is reached are referred to as "Near 0" as necessary. For example, the CPU 217 may variably set the warning display time, similar to the setting of the timing of the warning in the detailed status area 508 illustrated in FIG. 6. For example, the CPU 217 may set the warning display time based on the time when the ongoing print job will be interrupted if the process of replenishing sheets in the feed tray is not performed. The time when the ongoing print job will be interrupted (the time when sheets will run out) is determined based on, for example, the number of unused sheets among the sheets set to be used in the print job and the time required to print that number of sheets. A warning display time is also set for a print job that is waiting to be executed, in the same way as for a print job that is currently being executed.

[0124] Next, in S704, the CPU 217 lights up the light emitting sections 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 of all the feeding sections 202 to 204 in yellow. Next, in S705, the CPU 217 determines whether or not at least one of the following has occurred: the missing sheets have been replenished in the feed tray; and the print queue has been updated. The determination in S705 is the same as the determination in S702. If the result of the determination in S705 is that the missing sheets have been replenished in the feed tray; or the print queue has been updated, the process in S701 is performed again. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S705 is that the missing sheets have not been replenished in the feed tray; or the print queue has not been updated, the process in S706 is performed.

[0125] In S706, the CPU 217 determines whether or not there is actually a shortage of sheets. If the result of this determination is that there is no shortage of sheets, the process of S705 is performed again. On the other hand, if there is a shortage of sheets, the process of S707 is performed. In S707, the CPU 217 lights up in red the light emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 of all the feeding units 202 to 204. When the process of S707 ends, the process according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0126] As described above, if the result of the determination in S701 is that there is no shortage of sheets during the print job, the process of S708 is performed. In S708, the CPU 217 determines whether the print queue was updated before printing was stopped. If the result of the determination in S708 is that the print queue was not updated before printing was stopped, the process of the flowchart in FIG. 7 ends. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S708 is that the print queue was updated before printing was stopped and the job queue was updated before printing was stopped, the process of S701 described above is performed again. Note that the print queue update referred to here means an update that may result in a shortage of sheets. For example, the print queue update referred to here includes adding a print job and changing the sheets set to be used in a print job waiting to be executed. In other words, the print queue update referred to here does not include updates such as deleting a print job waiting to be executed. Furthermore, the causes of printing stopping described in this step do not include a shortage of sheets.

[0127] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the lighting states of the light-emitting elements (alert device 212 and light-emitting elements 202a3-202a6, 203a3-203a6) corresponding to the status of a print job, the status of the image forming device, and various setting information. Light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3 are light-emitting elements provided in feed units 202 and 203, respectively (see FIGS. 1 and 3A). Light-emitting elements 202a4, 202a5, and 202a6 are light-emitting elements provided in feed stages 202e1, 202e2, and 202e3, respectively (see FIGS. 1 and 3A). Light-emitting elements 203a4, 203a5, and 203a6 are light-emitting elements provided in feed stages 203e1, 203e2, and 203e3, respectively (see FIG. 1). Here, only the lighting state patterns of the light-emitting elements necessary for explanation are shown. 8 does not cover all patterns of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit. Also, in this embodiment, an example is shown in which the image forming apparatus 101 has three feeding units 202 to 204. However, for convenience of notation and explanation, the following description will be given on the assumption that only the transport units 202 and 203 are used.

[0128] The job queue column 811 shows a list of print jobs that are currently being executed or waiting to be executed, and information about the media (sheets) set for those print jobs. FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which print jobs are executed in order starting from the print job shown at the top of the column in the job queue 811. For simplicity of explanation, this embodiment illustrates an example in which one type of media (sheets) is set for each print job. However, two or more types of media (sheets) may be set for one print job.

[0129] The device status column 812 displays information indicating whether the image forming apparatus 101 is in a printing state or a printing stopped state. In Fig. 8, the image forming apparatus 101 in a printing state is indicated as "Run," and the image forming apparatus 101 in a printing stopped state is indicated as "Stop."

[0130] The no-sheet status column 813 displays information indicating whether each print job in the job queue 811 is in "Near 0," "no sheets," or neither of the above "room available." The information set in the no-sheet status 813 is determined based on, for example, the remaining amount of media (sheets) stored in the feed units 202 and 203 and the amount of media (sheets) unused in the print job. In the column 814 for the lighting status of the notification device 212, information indicating the lighting status of the notification device 212 is displayed.

[0131] In the media setting information column 815 of the feeding section 202, information indicating the media (sheets) stored in each of the feeding stages 202e1 to 202e3 of the feeding section 202 is displayed. In the media setting information column 816 of the feeding section 203, information indicating the media (sheets) stored in each of the feeding stages 203e1 to 203e3 of the feeding section 203 is displayed. In FIG. 8, "upper stage" means the feeding stages 202e1 and 203e1, "middle stage" means the feeding stages 202e2 and 203e2, and "lower stage" means the feeding stages 202e3 and 203e3.

[0132] The column 817 for the feeding stage currently feeding indicates information indicating the feeding stage to which the sheet is currently being fed. In the column 818 for the lighting status of the light-emitting unit 202a3 of the feeding unit 202, information indicating the lighting status of the light-emitting unit 202a3 is displayed. In the column 819 for the lighting status of the light-emitting unit 203a3 of the feeding unit 203, information indicating the lighting status of the light-emitting unit 203a3 is displayed.

[0133] In the column 820 for the light emitting elements 202a4 to 202a6 of the feeding stages 202e1 to e3, information indicating the lighting status of the light emitting elements 202a4 to 202a6 is displayed. In the column 820 for the light emitting elements 203a4 to 203a6 of the feeding stages 203e1 to e3, information indicating the lighting status of the light emitting elements 203a4 to 203a6 is displayed.

[0134] Status examples 801 to 809 are sets of information shown in the respective columns 811 to 821 when the status of the print job or the status of the feeders 202 and 203 is changed.

[0135] Situation example 801 shows a situation in which job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, there is ample media (sheets) to be used by both print jobs in feed units 202-203, and image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In this case, light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both turned off. Also, only the feed stage in which sheets are being fed (light-emitting unit 202a4 of upper feed stage 202e1 of feed unit 202) is lit in green.

[0136] In this example, light-emitting units 202a4-202a6 and 203a4-203a6 of feed stages 202e1-202e3 and 203e1-203e3 of feed units 202 and 203 light up in green when sheets are being fed, and do not light up in other situations. Therefore, in the following description of FIG. 8, detailed description of the lighting status of light-emitting units 202a4-202a6 and 203a4-203a6 of feed stages 202e1-202e3 and 203e1-203e3 will be omitted.

[0137] A situation example 802 shows a situation in which job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In this case, the light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of the feed units 202 and 203 are both lit in yellow.

[0138] An example situation 803 indicates a situation in which there are no print jobs in the job queue and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In this case, since there are no print jobs, the light emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of the feed units 202 and 203 are both turned off.

[0139] An example situation 804 shows a situation in which job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 has no sheets, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In this case, the light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of the feed units 202 and 203 are both lit in red.

[0140] Situation example 805 shows a situation where job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, medium B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In this case, the light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of the feed units 202 and 203 are both lit yellow. Note that situation example 805 also includes a situation where the remaining amount of medium B used in job 2 is zero, that is, the amount of medium B stored in the middle feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203 is zero.

[0141] A situation example 806 shows a situation in which job 2 exists as a print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In this case, the light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of the feed units 202 and 203 are both lit in yellow.

[0142] A situation example 807 shows a situation in which job 2 exists as a print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 has no sheets, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In this case, the light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of the feed units 202 and 203 are both lit in red.

[0143] A situation example 808 shows a situation in which jobs 1 and 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 has no sheets, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In this case, light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both lit in red.

[0144] Situation example 809 shows a situation in which jobs 1 and 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 is out of sheets, media B used in job 2 is out of sheets, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In this case, light-emitting units 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both lit red.

[0145] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming system controls the operation of the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 based on the storage status of sheets in the feed units 202-204 that are set to be used in the print job being executed and in standby. The storage status is determined based on, for example, the amount of unused sheets among the sheets set to be used in the print job and the amount of sheets stored in the feed units that are set to be used in the print job. Therefore, for example, by looking at the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 provided in the feed units 202-204, a user can recognize a shortage of sheets before the print job that the user has instructed to execute is completed. This reduces the likelihood of overlooking a shortage of sheets. This improves the convenience of the image forming apparatus 101. Furthermore, a shortage of sheets is notified by illuminating the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 provided in the feed units 202, 203, and 204. Therefore, even if the user is located far from the image forming apparatus 101, the user can know that a shortage of sheets will occur. Therefore, the user does not need to come near the image forming apparatus 101 to know that a shortage of sheets exists. This makes it possible to provide an image forming apparatus 101 that allows for more efficient use. For example, if the notification by the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 is different from the notification by changing the shape represented by a combination of multiple light-emitting units that are turned on and off, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus 101 that allows for even more efficient use. Furthermore, if remaining amount notification units 202g1, 202g2, and 202g3 are provided on the feed stages 202e1 to 202e3, 203e1 to 203e3, and 204e1 to 204e3, the user can know how much of the sheets are running low.

[0146] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, a case was illustrated in which the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 of all of the feed units 202 to 204 were illuminated when the sheets set to be used in the print job became Near 0 and Shortage (0). However, if the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 of all of the feed units 202 to 204 were illuminated, the user might not be able to efficiently determine which feed unit should be replenished with sheets. Therefore, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which, of the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3, the light-emitting units of the feed unit storing the Near 0 sheet and the feed unit storing the Shortage (0) sheet are illuminated. This allows the user to more efficiently determine which feed unit should be replenished with sheets. As such, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the control of the operation of the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1 to 8, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0147] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the image forming system of this embodiment. Like Fig. 7, Fig. 9 also illustrates a case in which the image forming system determines whether printing will stop during execution of a print job (before the print job is completed) due to a lack of sheets. Also, like Fig. 7, Fig. 9 also illustrates a case in which, when printing stops during execution of a print job due to a lack of sheets, the image forming system controls the lighting of light-emitting units 202a3-204a3 based on the status of the print job and the storage state of sheets in the feed tray.

[0148] The differences between the flowchart in FIG. 9 and the flowchart in FIG. 7 will be explained below. In the flowchart of Fig. 9, the process of S901 is executed instead of S704 in Fig. 7. In S901, the CPU 217 lights up in yellow only the light emitting unit of the light emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 that stores the sheet that has become Near 0.

[0149] In the flowchart of Fig. 9, the process of S902 is executed instead of S707 in Fig. 7. In S902, the CPU 217 lights up in red only the light emitting unit of the light emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 that actually has a shortage of sheets.

[0150] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit (alert device 212 and light-emitting units 202a3-202a6, 203a3-203a6) corresponding to the status of a print job, the status of the image forming device, and various setting information. FIG. 10 differs from FIG. 8 only in the lighting state of light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3 of feed units 202, 203. In FIG. 10, parts that differ from FIG. 8 are indicated by diagonal lines. Below, an example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit shown in FIG. 10 will be described, focusing on the differences from FIG. 8.

[0151] Situation example 1005 shows a situation in which job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In situation example 805 shown in Fig. 8, light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both lit in yellow. In contrast, in this embodiment, of light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3, only light-emitting element 203a3 of feed unit 203, which has media B set therein, is lit in yellow.

[0152] Situation example 1006 shows a situation in which job 2 is the only print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In this situation example, as in situation example 1005, of light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3, only light-emitting element 203a3 of feeding unit 203 to which media B is set is lit in yellow.

[0153] Situation example 1007 shows a situation where job 2 is the only print job in the job queue, medium B used in job 2 has no sheets, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In situation example 807 shown in Figure 8, light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both lit red. In contrast, in this embodiment, of light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3, only light-emitting element 203a3 of feed unit 203, where medium B is set, is lit red.

[0154] Situation example 1008 shows a situation in which jobs 1 and 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 is out of sheets, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. In situation example 808 shown in Figure 8, light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both lit red. In contrast to this, in this embodiment, light-emitting element 202a3 of feed unit 202, which is set to media A that is out of sheets, is lit red, and light-emitting element 203a3 of feed unit 203, which is set to media B, is lit yellow.

[0155] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming system lights up in yellow only the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 that are associated with feeding units storing sheets that are expected to run out before the print job is completed. Furthermore, the image forming system lights up in red only the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 that are associated with feeding units that actually store the missing sheets. This allows the user to more efficiently determine which feeding unit should be replenished with sheets. The various modifications described in the first embodiment may also be employed in this embodiment.

[0156] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, when a sheet set to be used in a print job reaches Near 0, the light-emitting units of all feeding units storing that sheet are illuminated. However, a feeding stage currently feeding sheets cannot be replenished with sheets. Therefore, even if the light-emitting unit of a feeding unit containing that feeding stage is illuminated, the user cannot replenish the sheet in that feeding stage. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a sheet set to be used in a print job reaches Near 0, the operation of the light-emitting unit of a feeding unit storing that sheet is controlled according to the sheet supply status in that feeding unit. This allows the user to more efficiently identify a feeding unit that can replenish sheets. As described above, this embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments mainly in the control of the operation of the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same parts as those in the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1 to 10, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0157] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the image forming system of this embodiment. Like Fig. 9, Fig. 11 also illustrates a case where the image forming system determines whether printing will stop during execution of a print job (before the print job is completed) due to a lack of sheets. Also, like Fig. 9, Fig. 11 also illustrates a case where, when printing stops during execution of a print job due to a lack of sheets, the image forming system controls the lighting of light-emitting units 202a3-204a3 based on the status of the print job and the storage state of sheets in the feed tray.

[0158] The differences between the flowchart in FIG. 11 and the flowcharts in FIGS. 7 and 9 will be explained below. In the flowchart of Fig. 11, the process of S1101 is executed instead of S901 in Fig. 9. In S1101, the CPU 217 lights up in yellow only the light emitting unit of the light emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 that is a feeding unit that stores a sheet that has become Near 0 and has a feeding stage that is not feeding the sheet.

[0159] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit (alert device 212 and light-emitting units 202a3-202a6, 203a3-203a6) corresponding to the status of a print job, the status of the image forming device, and various setting information. FIG. 12 differs from FIG. 10 only in the lighting state of light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3 of feed units 202, 203. In FIG. 12, parts that differ from FIG. 10 are indicated by diagonal lines. Below, an example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit shown in FIG. 12 will be described, focusing on the differences from FIG. 10.

[0160] Situation example 1202 shows a situation in which jobs 1 and 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In situation examples 802 and 1002 shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3 of feed units 202 and 203 are both lit yellow. In contrast, in this embodiment, media A is being fed in the upper stage of feed unit 202, and media A is not stored in another feed stage of feed unit 202. Therefore, CPU 217 determines that media A cannot be fed in feed unit 202. In this case, of light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3, only light-emitting element 203a3 of feed unit 203 is lit yellow.

[0161] Situation example 1206 shows a situation in which job 2 exists as a print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. In situation example 1006 shown in FIG. 10, of light-emitting elements 202a3 and 203a3, only light-emitting element 203a3 of feed unit 203, to which media B is set, lights up yellow. In contrast, in this embodiment, media B is being fed in the middle stage of feed unit 203, and media B is not stored in another feed stage of feed unit 203. Therefore, CPU 217 determines that media B cannot be fed in feed unit 203. In this case, light-emitting element 203a3 of feed unit 203 is turned off.

[0162] As in the present example situation 1206, there are cases where all of the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3 are turned off even though sheets need to be replenished. In this case, for example, the CPU 217 may determine, among the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3, the light-emitting unit of the feeding unit where the sheet has become Near 0 as the light-emitting unit to be illuminated, and may illuminate that light-emitting unit, for example, in yellow. Furthermore, for example, the CPU 217 may determine, among the light-emitting units 202a3, 203a3, and 204a3, the light-emitting unit of the feeding unit having a feeding stage in which no sheets are stored as the light-emitting unit to be illuminated, and may illuminate that light-emitting unit, for example, in yellow. In this way, it is possible to prompt the user to replenish sheets in the feeding stage in which no sheets are stored.

[0163] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming system controls the operation of the light-emitting units based on the storage status of sheets set to be used in the print job in the feeding units and the supply status of sheets from the feeding units. For example, when a sheet reaches Near 0, the image forming system lights up in yellow only the light-emitting units of the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 that have a feeding stage in which the sheet is stored and that is not currently feeding the sheet. This allows the user to more efficiently identify the feeding units that can replenish sheets. Note that the various modifications described in the first and second embodiments may also be adopted in this embodiment.

[0164] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the first to third embodiments, a case where the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 of the feed units 202 to 204 are lit when a sheet set to be used in a print job becomes Near 0 and is in short supply (0) has been illustrated. However, there is a risk that it is not possible to efficiently determine in which feed stage of the feed unit the sheet is in Near 0 and is in short supply (0) simply by the lighting status of the light-emitting units 202a3 to 204a3 of the feed units 202 to 204. Therefore, in this embodiment, a case where the light-emitting units of the light-emitting units 202a4 to 204a5, 203a4 to 203a5, and 202a6 to 204a6 corresponding to the feed stage storing the sheet that has become Near 0 and the feed stage storing the sheet that has become short supply (0) is lit will be illustrated. This allows the user to more efficiently determine in which feed stage of which feed unit the sheet is in Near 0 and is in short supply (0). As described above, the main difference between this embodiment and the first to third embodiments is the control of the operations of light-emitting units 202a4 to 204a5, 203a4 to 203a5, and 202a6 to 204a6. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same parts as those in the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in Figures 1 to 12, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0165] In this embodiment, the lighting conditions for the light-emitting elements 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6 of the feeding stages are exemplified in addition to the lighting conditions described in the first embodiment, with the following two lighting conditions added: The first lighting condition is to light up in yellow the light-emitting elements of the feeding stages 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6 that house the sheet that has become Near 0. The second lighting condition is to light up in red the light-emitting elements of the feeding stages 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6 that house the sheet that is actually missing.

[0166] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the image forming system of this embodiment. Similar to Fig. 7, Fig. 13 also illustrates a case where the image forming system determines whether printing will stop during execution of a print job (before the print job is completed) due to a lack of sheets. Similar to Fig. 7, Fig. 13 also illustrates a case where, when printing stops during execution of a print job due to a lack of sheets, the image forming system controls the lighting of light-emitting units 202a3-204a3 based on the status of the print job and the storage state of sheets in the feed tray. Fig. 13 also describes an example of lighting control of light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6.

[0167] The differences between the flowchart in FIG. 13 and the flowchart in FIG. 7 will be explained below. In the flowchart of Fig. 13, the process of S1301 is executed instead of S704 in Fig. 7. In S1301, the CPU 217 lights up in yellow the light-emitting unit of the feed stage storing the sheet that has become Near 0, among the light-emitting units 202a4 to 202a6, 203a4 to 203a6, and 204a4 to 204a6. In addition, in S1301, the CPU 217 performs the same process as S704 in addition to the process of causing the light-emitting unit to emit light. Note that in S1301, the CPU 217 may perform, for example, the same process as S901 or S1101 instead of S704 in addition to the process of causing the light-emitting unit to emit light.

[0168] 13, the process of S1302 is performed instead of S707 in FIG. 7. In S1302, the CPU 217 lights up in red only the light-emitting unit of the feed stage that actually stored the missing sheets, among the light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6. In addition, in S1302, the CPU 217 performs the same process as S707 in addition to the process of lighting the light-emitting unit. In addition to the process of lighting the light-emitting unit, the CPU 217 may perform the same process as S902 in place of S707 in S1302.

[0169] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the lighting status of each light-emitting element (alert device 212 and light-emitting elements 202a3-202a6, 203a3-203a6) corresponding to the status of a print job, the status of the image forming device, and various setting information. FIG. 14 differs from FIG. 8 only in the lighting status of light-emitting elements 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6 of feed stages 202e1-202e3, 203e1-203e3. Note that FIG. 14 illustrates a case where the lighting conditions of light-emitting elements 202a3-204a3 of feed units 202-204 are the same as those in the first embodiment (FIG. 8). However, the lighting conditions of light-emitting elements 202a3-204a3 of feed units 202-204 may be any of the lighting conditions described in the first to third embodiments. In FIG. 14, portions different from FIG. 8 are indicated by diagonal lines. An example of the lighting state of each light-emitting unit shown in FIG. 14 will be described below, focusing on the differences from FIG.

[0170] Situation example 1402 shows a situation in which job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. Media A is stored in the upper feed stage 202e1 of feed unit 202 and the upper feed stage 203e1 of feed unit 203. In this case, light-emitting unit 202a3 of feed stage 202e1 of feed unit 202 and light-emitting unit 203a3 of feed stage 203e1 of feed unit 203 are lit in yellow.

[0171] The example situation 1406 shows a situation in which job 2 exists as a print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. Media B is stored only in the middle feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203. In this case, the light-emitting unit 203a4 of the feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203 lights up yellow.

[0172] Situation example 1407 shows a situation in which job 2 exists as a print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is empty, and the image forming apparatus 101 is stopped. Media B is stored only in the middle feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203. In this case, the light-emitting unit 203a4 of feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203 lights up in red.

[0173] Other examples of situations will not be described here, but the light emitting section of the feeding stage storing the media (sheets) in the Near 0 or no sheets (short) state lights up in the color of the corresponding state.

[0174] As described above, in the embodiment, the image forming system lights up in yellow the light-emitting unit of the feed stage storing the Near 0 sheet among the light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the image forming system lights up in red only the light-emitting unit of the feed stage storing the missing sheet among the light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6. This allows the user to more efficiently determine which feed stage of which feed unit has a sheet that is Near 0 and missing (0). Note that the present embodiment may also employ the various modifications described in the first to third embodiments.

[0175] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, when a sheet set to be used in a print job reaches Near 0, the light-emitting units of all feed stages storing that sheet are illuminated. However, a feed stage currently feeding sheets cannot be replenished with sheets. Therefore, even if the light-emitting unit of that feed stage is illuminated, the user cannot replenish the sheet in that feed stage. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a sheet set to be used in a print job reaches Near 0, the operation of the light-emitting unit of the feed stage storing that sheet is controlled according to the sheet supply status of that feed stage. This allows the user to more efficiently identify the feed units and feed stages that can replenish sheets. As such, this embodiment differs from the first to fourth embodiments mainly in the control of the operation of the light-emitting units 202a4-204a5, 203a4-203a5, and 202a6-204a6. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the same parts as those in the first to fourth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIGS. 1 to 14, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0176] Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the image forming system of this embodiment. Like Fig. 13, Fig. 15 also illustrates a case in which the image forming system determines whether printing will stop during execution of a print job (before the print job is completed) due to a lack of sheets. Like Fig. 13, Fig. 15 also illustrates a case in which, when printing stops during execution of a print job due to a lack of sheets, the image forming system controls the lighting of light-emitting units 202a3-204a3 based on the status of the print job and the storage state of sheets in the feed tray. Like Fig. 13, Fig. 15 also illustrates an example of lighting control of light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6.

[0177] The differences between the flowchart in FIG. 15 and the flowchart in FIG. 13 will be explained below. In the flowchart of Fig. 15, the process of S1501 is executed instead of S1301 in Fig. 13. In S1301, the CPU 217 lights up in yellow only the light-emitting units of the light-emitting units 202a4 to 202a6, 203a4 to 203a6, and 204a4 to 204a6 that are feeding stages that store sheets that have become Near 0 and are not feeding the sheets.

[0178] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the lighting state of each light-emitting element (alert device 212 and light-emitting elements 202a3-202a6, 203a3-203a6) corresponding to the status of a print job, the status of the image forming device, and various setting information. The only difference between FIG. 16 and FIG. 14 is the lighting state of light-emitting elements 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6 of feed stages 202e1-202e3, 203e1-203e3. In FIG. 16, portions that differ from FIG. 14 are indicated by diagonal lines. An example of the lighting state of each light-emitting element shown in FIG. 16 will be described below, focusing on the differences from FIG. 14.

[0179] Situation example 1602 shows a situation in which job 1 and job 2 exist as print jobs in the job queue, media A used in job 1 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. Media A is stored in the upper feed tray 202e1 of feed unit 202 and the upper feed tray 203e1 of feed unit 203. Of these feed trays 202e1 and 203e1, feed tray 202e1 is currently feeding. In this case, feed tray 202e1 of feed unit 202 is lit green. Furthermore, feed tray 203e1 of feed unit 203 is lit yellow.

[0180] Status example 1606 shows a situation in which job 2 exists as a print job in the job queue, media B used in job 2 is Near 0, and the image forming apparatus 101 is in operation. Media B is stored only in the middle feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203. The feed stage 203e2 is currently feeding media. In this case, the light for feed stage 203e2 of the feed unit 203 is lit green.

[0181] As in the present example 1606, even when sheets need to be replenished, only the light-emitting unit of the light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6 that corresponds to the feed stage currently feeding sheets may be lit in green, while the other light-emitting units may be turned off. In this case, for example, the CPU 217 may turn on the light-emitting unit of the light-emitting units 202a4-202a6, 203a4-203a6, and 204a4-204a6 that corresponds to the feed stage currently transporting sheets in yellow. Furthermore, for example, the CPU 217 may turn on the light-emitting unit of the feed stage that does not contain sheets in yellow. This may prompt the user to replenish sheets in the feed stage that does not contain sheets. Also, for example, if the light-emitting unit of a feed stage that needs to be replenished with sheets (a feed stage that stores sheets that have become Near 0 and is not currently feeding those sheets) is lit in yellow, the light-emitting unit of a feed stage that is currently feeding those sheets may be turned off without being lit in green.

[0182] Although not shown in the example of FIG. 16 , there may be multiple feed trays that contain Near 0 sheets (media) but are not currently feeding sheets. In this case, the CPU 217 may, for example, determine all of the light-emitting units of the multiple feed trays to be illuminated and illuminate the light-emitting units, for example, in yellow. To reduce the possibility of a shortage of sheets during a sheet supply operation, the CPU 217 may determine only the light-emitting unit of the feed tray with the fewest number of sheets stored therein as the light-emitting unit to be illuminated and illuminate the light-emitting unit, for example, in yellow. In this way, it is possible to explicitly notify the user of the feed tray that prompts the user to replenish sheets. Furthermore, the CPU 217 may, for example, determine only the light-emitting unit of the feed tray with the number of sheets stored therein equal to or less than a predetermined number as the light-emitting unit to be illuminated and illuminate the light-emitting unit, for example, in yellow. In this case, the light-emitting units of multiple feed trays may be illuminated.

[0183] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming system lights up in yellow the light-emitting units of the light-emitting units 202a4 to 202a6, 203a4 to 203a6, and 204a4 to 204a6 that store a sheet that has become Near 0 and that is not currently feeding a sheet. The image forming system also lights up in green the light-emitting units of the light-emitting units 202a4 to 202a6, 203a4 to 203a6, and 204a4 to 204a6 that store a sheet that has become Near 0 and that is currently feeding a sheet. This allows the user to more efficiently identify the feed units and feed stages that can replenish sheets. Note that the various modifications described in the first to fourth embodiments may also be employed in this embodiment.

[0184] (Other Examples) The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples of specific embodiments for carrying out the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited by these. In other words, the present disclosure can be embodied in various forms without departing from its technical concept or main features.

[0185] The disclosure of the present embodiment also includes, for example, the following configurations, methods, and programs. (Configuration 1) a supply unit that stores and supplies sheets on which images based on a print job are formed; a light emitting unit provided at a position visible from the outside relative to the supply unit; and a control means for controlling the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage state in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting. (Configuration 2) The image forming system according to configuration 1, characterized in that the storage state is based on the amount of unused sheets among the sheets set to be used in at least one of the running and waiting print jobs, and the amount of sheets stored in the supply unit that are set to be used in the print job. (Configuration 3) The image forming system described in configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means controls the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage status in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs that are currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting, and the supply status of sheets in the supply unit. (Configuration 4) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the control means causes the light-emitting unit to emit light when the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print jobs being waited for become insufficient in the supply unit before the print job is completed. (Configuration 5) The image forming system according to configuration 4, further comprising a determination unit that determines whether the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print jobs being waited for will run out in the supply unit before the print job is completed. (Configuration 6) 6. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, further comprising a setting unit that sets the timing of light emission of the light emitting unit under the control of the control unit. (Configuration 7) the supply unit has a plurality of supply stages each of which stores and supplies sheets; The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the light-emitting unit includes a first light-emitting unit provided at a position of the supply unit that is different from the positions of the plurality of paper feed stages. (Configuration 8) There are a plurality of supply units, the first light-emitting unit is provided for each of the plurality of supply units, The image forming system according to configuration 7, wherein the control means causes the first light-emitting unit provided for each of the plurality of supply units to emit light when the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs in progress and the waiting print jobs in the supply units run out before the print job is completed. (Configuration 9) There are a plurality of supply units, the first light-emitting unit is provided for each of the plurality of supply units, The image forming system according to configuration 7 or 8, characterized in that, when the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print jobs being waited in the supply unit become insufficient before the print job is completed, the control means causes the first light-emitting unit provided for the supply unit among the plurality of supply units in which the sheets set to be used in the print job are stored to emit light. (Configuration 10) The image forming system described in configuration 9 is characterized in that, when the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs currently waiting in the supply unit become insufficient before the print job is completed, the control means controls the first light-emitting unit provided for the supply unit among the multiple supply units in which the sheets set to be used in the print job are stored differently from the control of the first light-emitting unit that is different from the first light-emitting unit. (Configuration 11) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 7 to 10, wherein the control means controls the first light-emitting unit provided for the supply unit differently depending on whether a sheet is being supplied to the supply unit or not. (Configuration 12) the supply unit has a plurality of supply stages each of which stores and supplies sheets; the light-emitting unit includes a second light-emitting unit provided for each of the plurality of supply stages, The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein a second light-emitting unit provided for the supply tray emits light according to the storage state in the supply tray of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print jobs being waited. (Configuration 13) The image forming system described in configuration 12 is characterized in that the second light-emitting unit emits light in accordance with a state of the supply stage in which the second light-emitting unit is provided, which state is different from the remaining amount of sheets in the supply stage, in a manner different from the manner of emission in accordance with the remaining amount of sheets in the supply stage. (Configuration 14) The image forming system described in configuration 12 or 13 is characterized in that the control means causes the second light-emitting unit provided for the supply tray in which the sheets set to be used for at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and waiting to be executed in the supply unit to emit light when the sheets set to be used for the print job run out before the print job is completed. (Configuration 15) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 12 to 14, wherein the control means controls the second light-emitting unit provided for the supply stage differently depending on whether a sheet is being supplied to the supply stage or not. (Configuration 16) a notification unit provided for the supply stage, 16. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 12 to 15, wherein the notification unit notifies information indicating the amount of sheets stored in the supply tray in which the notification unit is provided. (Configuration 17) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 12 to 16, characterized in that the control means determines which of the second light-emitting units provided for the supply tray storing sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print jobs being waited for is to emit light based on the amount of sheets stored in the supply tray. (Configuration 18) the supply unit has a plurality of supply stages each of which stores and supplies sheets; the light-emitting unit includes a first light-emitting unit provided at a position of the supply unit different from the positions of the plurality of paper feed trays, and a second light-emitting unit provided for each of the plurality of paper feed trays, the first light-emitting unit emits light in accordance with a storage state in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print job being held in a standby state; a second light-emitting unit provided for the supply tray emits light in accordance with a storage state in the supply tray of sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print job being held; 18. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 17, wherein the control means controls the operations of the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit. (Configuration 19) 19. The image forming system according to configuration 18, wherein the light emission mode of the first light-emitting unit and the light emission mode of the second light-emitting unit are different. (Configuration 20) An image forming system described in any one of configurations 1 to 19, characterized in that the notification by light emission from the light-emitting unit is different from a notification in which the content of the notification is changed by changing the shape represented by a combination of multiple light-emitting units that are turned on and off. (Method 1) a supply unit that stores and supplies sheets on which images based on a print job are formed; a light-emitting unit provided at a position visible from the outside relative to the supply unit, A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising a control step of controlling the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage state in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting. (Program 1) 21. A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 20. [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 101: image forming apparatus, 102: information processing apparatus, 103: DFE, 202-204: feeding units, 202a1-202a6, 203a1-203a6, 204a1-204a6: light emitting units

Claims

1. a supply unit that stores and supplies sheets on which images based on a print job are formed; a light emitting unit provided at a position visible from the outside relative to the supply unit; and a control means for controlling the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage state in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, characterized in that the storage status is based on the amount of sheets that have not yet been used among the sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs that are currently running and the print jobs that are waiting, and the amount of sheets that are stored in the supply unit that are set to be used in the print job.

3. The image forming system described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means controls the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage status in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the printing jobs currently being executed and the printing jobs that are waiting, and the supply status of sheets in the supply unit.

4. The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means causes the light-emitting unit to emit light when the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs currently waiting to be executed become insufficient in the supply unit before the print job is completed.

5. 5. The image forming system according to claim 4, further comprising a determination means for determining whether the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print jobs being waited for will run out in the supply unit before the print job is completed.

6. 3. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising a setting unit for setting a timing for emitting light from said light emitting unit under the control of said control unit.

7. the supply unit has a plurality of supply stages each of which stores and supplies sheets; 3. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting unit includes a first light emitting unit provided at a position of the supply unit that is different from the positions of the plurality of paper feed stages.

8. There are a plurality of supply units, the first light-emitting unit is provided for each of the plurality of supply units, The image forming system according to claim 7, characterized in that the control means causes the first light-emitting unit provided for each of the plurality of supply units to emit light when the sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs currently waiting in the supply unit become insufficient before the print job is completed.

9. There are a plurality of supply units, the first light-emitting unit is provided for each of the plurality of supply units, The image forming system of claim 7, characterized in that the control means, when sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and waiting in the supply unit become insufficient before the print job is completed, causes the first light-emitting unit provided for the supply unit among the multiple supply units in which sheets set to be used in the print job are stored to emit light.

10. The image forming system of claim 9, characterized in that, when sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and waiting in the supply unit become insufficient before the print job is completed, the control means controls the first light-emitting unit provided for the supply unit among the multiple supply units in which sheets set to be used in the print job are stored differently from the control of the first light-emitting unit that is different from the first light-emitting unit.

11. The image forming system according to claim 7, characterized in that the control means controls the first light-emitting unit provided for the supply unit differently depending on whether a sheet is being supplied to the supply unit or not.

12. the supply unit has a plurality of supply stages each of which stores and supplies sheets; the light-emitting unit includes a second light-emitting unit provided for each of the plurality of supply stages, The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a second light-emitting unit provided for the supply tray emits light in accordance with the storage state in the supply tray of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting.

13. The image forming system of claim 12, wherein the second light-emitting unit emits light in accordance with a state of the supply stage in which the second light-emitting unit is provided, the state being different from the remaining amount of sheets in the supply stage, in a manner different from the manner of emission in accordance with the remaining amount of sheets in the supply stage.

14. The image forming system of claim 12, characterized in that the control means, when sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and waiting in the supply unit become insufficient before the print job is completed, causes the second light-emitting unit provided for the supply tray in which the sheets set to be used in the print job are stored to emit light.

15. 13. The image forming system according to claim 12, wherein the control means controls the second light-emitting unit provided for the supply stage differently depending on whether a sheet is being supplied to the supply stage or not.

16. a notification unit provided for the supply stage, 13. The image forming system according to claim 12, wherein the notification unit notifies information indicating the amount of sheets stored in the supply tray where the notification unit is provided.

17. The image forming system of claim 12, characterized in that the control means determines which of the second light-emitting units provided for the supply tray in which sheets set to be used in at least one of the running and waiting print jobs are stored to emit light based on the amount of sheets stored in the supply tray.

18. the supply unit has a plurality of supply stages each of which stores and supplies sheets; the light-emitting unit includes a first light-emitting unit provided at a position of the supply unit different from the positions of the plurality of paper feed trays, and a second light-emitting unit provided for each of the plurality of paper feed trays, the first light-emitting unit emits light in accordance with a storage state in the supply unit of sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print job being held in a standby state; a second light-emitting unit provided for the supply tray emits light in accordance with a storage state in the supply tray of sheets set to be used in at least one of the print jobs being executed and the print job being held; 3. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the operations of the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit.

19. 19. The image forming system according to claim 18, wherein a light emitting mode of the first light emitting unit and a light emitting mode of the second light emitting unit are different from each other.

20. The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the notification by the light emission of the light-emitting element is different from the notification in which the content of the notification is changed by changing the shape represented by a combination of multiple light-emitting elements that are turned on and off.

21. a supply unit that stores and supplies sheets on which images based on a print job are formed; a light-emitting unit provided at a position visible from the outside relative to the supply unit, A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising a control step of controlling the operation of the light-emitting unit based on the storage state in the supply unit of sheets that are set to be used in at least one of the print jobs currently being executed and the print jobs that are waiting.

22. 3. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image forming system according to claim 1.

Images