Image forming system, control method, and program

Abstract

To enhance convenience of an image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: An image forming system performs light emission by light-emitting sections (light-emitting informing sections 201a1 to 201a3, and the like) and display of resolution work procedure screens by a display section 104 based on a detection result of passage sensors (passage sensors g11, g12, g2, and the like.)SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming device in which a five-segment patrol lamp is provided above a stacker unit. Patent Document 1 also discloses that when an abnormality occurs in the image forming device, the patrol lamp notifies the user that the abnormality has occurred as primary information and the details of the abnormality as secondary information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-74935 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, for example, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, a single patrol lamp is used to notify the user of an abnormality in an image forming device. In this case, it is not easy to quickly enable a user to understand the abnormality simply by, for example, lighting multiple segments of a single patrol lamp. Also, for example, it is not easy to associate the location where the abnormality occurred in the image forming device with the lighting of the patrol lamp. Also, for example, it is necessary for the user to learn how to light the patrol lamp. Therefore, for example, from the above 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 comprises a detection unit that detects the state of an image forming device, a light-emitting unit that is provided in a position that is visible from the outside of the image forming device, a display unit, and a first control means that controls the light emission by the light-emitting unit and the display by the display unit based on the results of the detection of the state by the detection unit, and is characterized in that the light emission by the light-emitting unit includes light emission in a manner that corresponds to the state, and the display by the display unit includes display of information indicating measures to be taken in accordance with the state. [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] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of a printing module. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a management table. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an internal process of the image forming apparatus when a notification is received from a print module. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an error location identifier management table. [Figure 9]10 is a flowchart showing a process when a notification is received from the image forming apparatus. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a first example of processing when an internal notification of an update of the error location identifier list is received. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the start-up process of an error scenario. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first example of a resolution work procedure screen. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing processing when an instruction is received from a DFE. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an internal process of the image forming apparatus when an instruction is received from the CPU. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the lighting state of the light-emitting notification unit and the display content of the display unit. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing a process when a notification is received from the image forming apparatus. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing a second example of processing when an update notification of the error location identifier list is received. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of a resolution work procedure screen. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing a process when an operation on the resolution work procedure screen is accepted. 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 (Light Emitting Diode)). 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] The printing modules 201-211 constituting the image forming apparatus 101 each have light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 as an example of a light-emitting unit. The light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 each have, for example, an LED. The light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 notify the user of the occurrence of an event, etc. in the printing module 201-211 in which the light-emitting notification unit is located, in a manner that allows the user to identify the event. The notification of the occurrence of an event, etc. in the printing modules 201-211 in a manner that allows the user to identify the event can be achieved, for example, by using different light emission modes. The light-emitting aspects include, for example, at least one of the following: whether or not the light is on, the color of the light, the intensity (brightness when on), the duration of the light, and the pattern of the light on / 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 notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 may notify the user of the location and content of an event that occurred in the printing module 201-211 in which the light-emitting notification unit is located so that the user can identify the location and content of the event. The user includes, for example, the owner and user of the image forming apparatus 101, the information processing apparatus 102, and the DFE 103. The user may also be, for example, a technician who repairs or maintains the image forming apparatus 101, the information processing apparatus 102, and the DFE 103.

[0024] Three examples of notification by the light-emitting notification sections 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 second fixing unit 206 becomes stuck in second fixing unit 206 (i.e., a so-called jam occurs). In this case, for example, light-emitting notification unit 206a or 206b of 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 second fixing unit 206. Note that in this case, light-emitting notification units 206a and 206b of second fixing unit 206 may light up in red, for example.

[0025] Next, a second example will be described. Suppose that a print job is being executed in feed unit 202, 203, or 204 and the process cannot be continued due to a shortage of sheets. In this case, for example, light-emitting notification 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 notification 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 notification 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 light-emitting notification units 209a1 to 211a1 of discharge units 209 to 211 may light up in red.

[0027] Information equivalent to the information reported by light-emitting reporting units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 can also be reported by, for example, display device 104 or reporting 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 reporting device 212 does not easily inform the user quickly which of the multiple printing modules the event occurred in.

[0028] On the other hand, in this embodiment, an example is shown in which light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 are arranged with respect to print 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 print modules 201-211. Alternatively, the positions that are visible to the user from outside image forming apparatus 101 may be, for example, positions inside print modules 201-211. In this case, holes that connect the inside and outside of print modules 201-211 may be formed in print modules 201-211. Light-emitting notification 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, an example is shown in which all of the printing modules 201 to 211 of the image forming apparatus 101 are provided with light-emitting alert units 201a to 211a, 201a2 to 211a2, and 201a3. However, this is not necessarily the case. For example, as long as one or more printing modules are provided with a light-emitting alert unit, some printing modules may not be provided with a light-emitting alert unit. For example, two or more of all of the printing modules 201 to 211 of the image forming apparatus 101 may be provided with a light-emitting alert unit. 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 alert units in as many printing modules as possible. This is because it increases the number of printing modules that are notified of the occurrence of an event by their light-emitting alert units.

[0029] This embodiment also illustrates a case where an event occurs by using such a light-emitting notification unit. This embodiment also illustrates a case where the light-emitting notification unit of the print module in which the event occurred is selectively illuminated. Therefore, the user can quickly identify the print module in which the event occurred without approaching the image forming apparatus 101 (light-emitting notification unit). The user can also identify the type of event that occurred by the color of the light-emitting notification unit. Thus, the light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 allow the user to easily grasp the event. This improves the operability and convenience of the image forming apparatus 101.

[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 media (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 mutually connected to the CPU 224 via system buses 228a and 228b so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0040] As described above, in this embodiment, 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 discharging 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 sends control commands and status notifications to the CPU 224. The eMMc (embedded multi media card) 207c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 207b. The RAM 207d is a memory for expanding the programs to be executed by the microprocessor 207b and for storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 207e1 and 207e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 207e1 and 207e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 207e1 to 207e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 207b. Passage sensors 207g1 and 207g2, which are examples of detection units, are sensors provided at the outlets of the conveying units 207e1 and 207e2, respectively. Passage sensors 207g1 and 207g2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets at the exits of conveying units 207e1 and 207e2, respectively. Passage sensors 207g1-207g2 are mainly used for detecting sheet accumulation in conveying units 207e1-207e2 within cooling unit 207. Open / close sensors 207g3 and 207g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / closed states of doors 207h1 and 207h2, respectively, disposed in front of cooling unit 207. Doors 207h1 and 207h2 are disposed on the upper and lower sides of the front of cooling unit 207, respectively (see FIG. 3C).

[0042] The light-emitting alert units 207a1 and 207a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the cooling unit 207. In this embodiment, a case where the location and details of an event that has occurred within the cooling unit 207 are notified by the position and color of the illuminated light-emitting alert units 207a1 and 207a2 is illustrated. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting alert unit illuminates in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3C . Also, as described above, the location and details of an event that has occurred may be notified by methods other than the position and color of the illuminated light-emitting alert units 207a1 and 207a2, such as the illumination duration, illumination intensity, and on / off pattern. The same applies to light-emitting alert units of printing modules other than the cooling unit 207, in that the method of notifying the location and details of an event that has occurred is not limited.

[0043] Next, an example of the internal configuration of first fixing unit 205 will be described. The microprocessor 205b controls the sub-modules of the first fixing unit 205 and sends control commands and status notifications to the CPU 224. The eMMc 205c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 205b. The RAM 205d is a memory for expanding the programs executed by the microprocessor 205b and storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 205e1 and 205e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 205e1 and 205e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 205e1 to 205e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 205b. Passage sensors 205g1 and 205g2, which are examples of detection units, are sensors provided at the outlets of the conveying units 205e1 and 205e2, respectively. Passage sensors 205g1 and 205g2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of a sheet at the exit portions of conveyance units 205e1 and 205e2, respectively. Passage sensors 205g1-205g2 are mainly used for detecting sheet retention in conveyance units 205e1-205e2 within first fixing unit 205. Open / close sensors 205g3-205g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / closed states of doors 205h1-205h2 arranged on the front or upper surface of first fixing unit 205. Note that this embodiment illustrates a case where doors 205h1 and 205h2 are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the front surface of first fixing unit 205, respectively (see FIG. 3C). Open / close sensor 205g5 is a sensor provided for detecting the open / closed state of a cover arranged on the upper surface of first fixing unit 205.

[0044] The light-emitting notification units 205a1 and 205a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the first fixing unit 205. In this embodiment, a case will be 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 light-emitting notification units 205a1 and 205a2 that have been lit. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting notification 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. The microprocessor 206b controls the sub-modules of the second fixing unit 206 and exchanges control commands and status with the CPU 224. The eMMc 206c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 206b. The RAM 206d is a memory for expanding the programs executed by the microprocessor 206b and storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 206e1 and 206e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 206e1 and 206e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 206e1 to 206e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 206b. Passage sensors 206g1, 206g21 to 206g22, which are examples of detection units, are sensors provided at the exits of the conveying units 206e1 and 206e2, respectively. Passage sensors 206g1, 206g21-206g22 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of a sheet at the exits of conveyance units 206e1, 206e2, respectively. Passage sensors 206g1, 206g21-206g22 are mainly used to detect sheet retention in conveyance units 206e1-206e2 within second fixing unit 206. Open / close sensors 206g3-206g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / closed states of doors 206h1-206h2 disposed on the front or upper surface of second fixing unit 206. Note that this embodiment illustrates a case where doors 206h1, 206h2 are disposed on the upper and lower sides of the front surface of second fixing unit 206, respectively (see FIG. 3C). Open / close sensor 206g5 is a sensor provided for detecting the open / closed state of a cover disposed on the upper surface of third fixing unit 206.

[0046] The light-emitting notification units 206a1 and 206a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the second fixing unit 206. In this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the second fixing unit 206 are notified by the positions and colors of the light-emitting notification units 206a1 and 206a2 that have been lit. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting notification 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. The microprocessor 201b controls the sub-modules of the image forming unit 201, and exchanges control commands and status notifications with the CPU 224. The eMMc 201c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 201b. The RAM 201d is a memory for expanding the programs to be executed by the microprocessor 201b and for storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 201e1 and 201e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 201e1 and 201e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 201e1 to 201e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 201b. Passage sensors 201g11 to 201g12 and 201g2, which are examples of a detection unit, are sensors provided at the exits of the conveying units 201e1 and 201e2, respectively. Passage sensors 201g11-201g12, 201g2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of a sheet at the exit portions of conveying units 201e1 and 201e2, respectively. Passage sensor 201g12 is a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a sheet at the entrance portion of head unit 201i of conveying unit 201e1. Head unit 201i will be described later with reference to FIG. 3B. Passage sensors 201g11-201g12, 201g2 are mainly used for detecting sheet retention that occurs in conveying units 201e1-201e2 in image forming unit 201. Note that this embodiment illustrates an example in which open / close sensors 201g3 and 201g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / close states of doors 201h1 and 201h2, respectively, arranged in front of image forming unit 201. The doors 201h1 and 201h2 are respectively arranged on the upper and lower sides of the front surface of the image forming unit 201 (see FIG. 3B).

[0048] The light-emitting notification units 201a1-201a3 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the image forming unit 201. In this embodiment, a case will be 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 notification units 201a1-201a3. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting notification unit 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 case where the feeding units 202 to 204 have the same internal configuration will be illustrated. Therefore, only an example of the internal configuration of the feeding unit 202 will be described, and a 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] The microprocessor 202b controls the sub-modules of the feeding unit 202 and sends control commands and status notifications to the CPU 224. The eMMc 202c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 202b. The RAM 202d is a memory for expanding the programs to be executed by the microprocessor 202b and for storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 202e1 and 202e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 202e1 and 202e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 202e1 to 202e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 202b. Passage sensors 202g1 and 202g2, which are examples of a detection unit, are sensors provided at the outlets of the conveying units 202e1 and 202e2, respectively. Passage sensors 202g1 and 202g2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets at the exits of conveying sections 202e1 and 202e2, respectively. Passage sensors 202g1-202g2 are mainly used for detecting sheet accumulation in conveying sections 202e1-202e2 in feeding section 202. Open / close sensors 202g3 and 202g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / closed states of doors 202h1 and 202h2, respectively, arranged in front of feeding section 202. Doors 202h1 and 202h2 are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the front of feeding section 202, respectively (see FIG. 3A).

[0051] The light-emitting notification units 202a1-202a3 and 202a2 are intended to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within the feed unit 202. In this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within the feed unit 202 are notified by the positions and colors of the lit light-emitting notification units 202a1-202a3. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting notification unit lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3A.

[0052] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the inverting unit 208 will be described. The microprocessor 208b controls the sub-modules of the reversing unit 208 and exchanges control commands and status with the CPU 224. The eMMc 208c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 208b. The RAM 208d is a memory for expanding the programs to be executed by the microprocessor 208b and for storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 208e1 and 208e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 208e1 and 208e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 208e1 to 208e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 208b. Passage sensors 208g1 and 208g2, which are examples of a detection unit, are sensors provided at the exits of the conveying units 208e1 and 208e2, respectively. Passage sensors 208g1 and 208g2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets at the exits of conveying units 208e1 and 208e2, respectively. Passage sensors 208g1-208g2 are mainly used for detecting sheet accumulation in conveying units 208e1-208e2 within reversing unit 208. Open / close sensors 208g3 and 208g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / close states of doors 208h1 and 208h2, respectively, located in front of reversing unit 208. Doors 208h1 and 208h2 are located on the upper and lower sides of the front of reversing unit 208, respectively (see FIG. 3C).

[0053] Light-emitting notification units 208a1 and 208a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred within reversing unit 208. In this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred within reversing unit 208 are notified by the positions and colors of lit light-emitting notification units 208a1 and 208a2. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting notification unit lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3C.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The microprocessor 209b controls the sub-modules of the discharge unit 209 and sends control commands and status notifications to the CPU 224. The eMMc 209c stores programs to be executed by the microprocessor 209b. The RAM 209d is a memory for expanding the programs to be executed by the microprocessor 209b and for storing execution results obtained by executing the programs. The conveying units 209e1 and 209e2 are sheet conveying units. The conveying units 209e1 and 209e2 convey the sheets on the upper and lower conveying paths, respectively. The conveying process by the conveying units 209e1 to 209e2 is controlled by the microprocessor 209b. Passage sensors 209g1 and 209g2, which are examples of a detection unit, are sensors provided at the outlets of the conveying units 209e1 and 209e2, respectively. Passage sensors 209g1 and 209g2 are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of sheets at the exit portions of conveyance sections 209e1 and 209e2, respectively. Passage sensors 209g1-209g2 are mainly used for detecting sheet accumulation in conveyance sections 209e1-209e2 in discharge section 209. Open / close sensors 209g3 and 209g4 are sensors provided for detecting the open / close states of doors 209h1 and 209h2, respectively, arranged in front of discharge section 209. Doors 209h1 and 209h2 are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the front of discharge section 209, respectively (see FIG. 3D).

[0056] The light-emitting notification units 209a1 and 209a2 are used to notify the location and details of an event that has occurred in the discharge unit 209. In this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which the location and details of an event that has occurred in the discharge unit 209 are notified by the positions and colors of the lit light-emitting notification units 209a1 and 209a2. Note that a detailed example of which light-emitting notification unit lights up in which color when which event occurs will be described later with reference to FIG. 3D.

[0057] A door (cover) is provided on the entire surface or top surface of the transport path of the print module, and the transport path of the print module is located inside the print module. Therefore, for example, when a sheet becomes stuck during printing and a user performs maintenance work, such as removing the sheet stuck on the transport path, the user opens the door (cover) to access the transport path. After completing the necessary maintenance work, the user closes the door (cover) to restore the image forming apparatus 101 to its original state. Therefore, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 detects the completion of recovery work from the stuck sheet state from a change in the open / close state of the door (cover) and then internally executes the subsequent recovery process. In this case, the open / close sensors (open / close sensors 201g3 to 201g4, etc.) of each print module are used to detect the opening and closing of the door (cover) associated with the recovery work performed by the user. In the description of this embodiment, the user who performs the maintenance work is not limited to the owner and user of the image forming apparatus 101 (for example, a person who issues a print instruction to the image forming apparatus 101). The user who performs the maintenance work may be, for example, a worker on the manufacturer side of the image forming apparatus 101.

[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 the feeding unit 202 has three trays 202k1 to 202k3. The trays 202k1 to 202k3 can store sheets of different types and sizes. The trays 202k1, 202k2, and 202k3 also have tray open instruction units 202i1, 202i2, and 202i3 and remaining amount display units 202j1, 202j2, and 202j3, respectively. When the tray open instruction units 202i1, 202i2, and 202i3 are operated, the trays 202k1, 202k2, and 202k3 are respectively pulled out from the feeding unit 202. The remaining amount display units 202j1, 202j2, and 202j3 display the remaining amount of sheets stored in the trays 202k1, 202k2, and 202k3, respectively.

[0060] The escape tray 202l is a tray for discharging sheets that may be in a folded state or a multi-fed sheet, so that the folded sheets or the multi-fed sheets are not transported to the image forming unit 201.

[0061] In this embodiment, the feed unit 202 has three light-emitting alert units 202a1 to 202a3. This embodiment also illustrates a case in which light-emitting alert unit 202a1 is located higher than light-emitting alert unit 202a2 on the front surface of the feed unit 202. This embodiment also illustrates a case in which light-emitting alert unit 202a2 on the lower side of the feed unit 202 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the lower conveyance unit 202e2 within the feed unit 202. This embodiment also illustrates a case in which light-emitting alert unit 202a1 on the upper side of the feed unit 202 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper conveyance unit 202e1 within the feed unit 202. This embodiment also illustrates a case in which light-emitting alert unit 202a1 alerts a state of the feed unit 202 other than a sheet stuck state. Specifically, in this embodiment, the light-emitting notification unit 201a1 lights up in red when the sheets discharged onto the escape tray 202l become full. Also, in this embodiment, the light-emitting notification unit 201a1 lights up in yellow when the escape tray 202l is close to being full. When the sheets discharged onto the escape tray 202l become full, the light-emitting notification section 201a1 may light up in a color other than red or yellow, for example.

[0062] In addition, in this embodiment, an example is given in which the light-emitting notification unit 202a3 of the feeding unit 202 lights up to notify that there are no or few sheets remaining stored in the cassettes 202k1 to 202k3 of the feeding unit 202.

[0063] 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 201i. The head unit 201i includes, for example, an inkjet head and an inkjet head control unit. The ink tank control unit 201j performs, for example, ink replenishment, waste ink replacement, and display of the remaining ink levels.

[0064] In this embodiment, the light-emitting alert units 201a1 to 202a2 light up in red when a sheet is stuck in the upper transport unit 201e1 in the image forming unit 201. Normally, one light-emitting alert unit is provided for each of the upper and lower transport units 201e1 and 201e2. However, maintenance of the head unit 201i requires particularly high skill. Therefore, in this embodiment, the image forming unit 201 has two light-emitting alert units 201a1 and 201a2 that light up when a sheet is stuck in the upper transport unit 201e1 in the image forming unit 201. The light-emitting alert unit 201a2 is a light-emitting alert unit that notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the head unit 201i. The light-emitting alert unit 201a1 is a light-emitting alert unit that notifies the user that a sheet is stuck downstream (on the exit side) of the head unit 201i. In this embodiment, the light-emitting notification unit 201a1 and the light-emitting notification unit 201a2 are provided above the light-emitting notification unit 201a3. In this embodiment, the lower light-emitting notification unit 201a3 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying unit 201e2 in the image forming unit 201, as an example.

[0065] FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating 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 includes an escape tray 208i. When an error occurs in the image forming apparatus 101, a sheet on the conveying path within the image forming apparatus 101 is discharged to the escape tray 208i. The first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206 also heat the sheet using a heater to dry the sheet. Therefore, in this embodiment, covers 205i and 206i are provided above the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206, respectively, to prevent a user from accidentally touching the heated portions of the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206.

[0066] This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting alert unit 205a1 is provided above light-emitting alert unit 205a2 on the front surface of first fixing unit 205. This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting alert unit 205a1 on the upper side of first fixing unit 205 lights up in red when a sheet has become stuck in upper conveyance unit 205e1 within first fixing unit 205. This embodiment also illustrates a case where light-emitting alert unit 205a2 on the lower side of first fixing unit 205 lights up in red when a sheet has become stuck in lower conveyance unit 205e2 within first fixing unit 205.

[0067] This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting alert unit 206a1 is provided above light-emitting alert unit 206a2 on the front surface of second fixing unit 206. This embodiment illustrates a case where light-emitting alert unit 206a1 on the upper side of second fixing unit 206 lights up in red when a sheet has become stuck in upper conveyance unit 206e1 within second fixing unit 206. This embodiment also illustrates a case where light-emitting alert unit 206a2 on the lower side of second fixing unit 206 lights up in red when a sheet has become stuck in lower conveyance unit 206e2 within second fixing unit 206.

[0068] In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting alert unit 207a1 is provided above light-emitting alert unit 207a2 on the front surface of cooling unit 207. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting alert unit 207a1 on the upper side of cooling unit 207 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in upper transport unit 207e1 within cooling unit 207. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting alert unit 207a2 on the lower side of cooling unit 207 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in lower transport unit 207e2 within cooling unit 207.

[0069] In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting alert unit 208a1 is provided above light-emitting alert unit 208a2 on the front surface of inversion unit 208. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting alert unit 208a1 on the upper side of inversion unit 208 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in upper transport unit 208e1 within inversion unit 208. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which light-emitting alert unit 208a2 on the lower side of inversion unit 208 lights up in red when a sheet is stuck in lower transport unit 208e2 within inversion unit 208.

[0070] 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.

[0071] In this embodiment, the discharge unit 209 has two discharge locations. The stack unit 209i is a portion used when a large number of sheets are stacked. The stack unit 209i is protected by a door 209h2. A small number of sheets are discharged to the sample tray 209j. The sample tray 209j is not protected by a door or the like. In addition, in order to improve the stackability of sheets in the stack unit 209i, this embodiment illustrates a case in which the stack unit 209i 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.

[0072] The eject instruction unit 209k is operated by a user to unlock the door 209h2. When the door 209h2 is unlocked, the user can access the stack unit 209i inside the discharge unit 209. This allows the user to remove sheets stacked inside the discharge unit 209. The stack amount notification unit 209l displays the stack amount (height) of sheets stacked in the stack unit 209i in stages according to the stack amount.

[0073] In this embodiment, the light-emitting notification unit 209a1 is provided above the light-emitting notification unit 209a2 on the front surface of the discharge unit 209. In this embodiment, the light-emitting notification 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 209e1 inside the discharge unit 209. In addition, in this embodiment, the light-emitting notification unit 209a1 on the upper side lights up in red when the sample tray 209j of the discharge unit 209 is fully loaded with sheets. In this embodiment, the light-emitting notification unit 209a1 on the upper side lights up in yellow when the sample tray 209j of the discharge unit 209 is nearly fully loaded with sheets. Note that when the sample tray 209j of the discharge unit 209 is fully loaded with sheets, the light-emitting notification unit 209a1 may light up in a color other than red or yellow, for example.

[0074] In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light-emitting notification unit 209a2 on the lower side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in red when sheets are stuck in the lower transport unit 209e2 inside the discharge unit 209. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light-emitting notification unit 209a2 on the lower side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in red when the sheets stacked in the stack unit 209j of the discharge unit 209 are fully loaded. In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where the light-emitting notification unit 209a2 on the lower side of the discharge unit 209 lights up in yellow when the sheets stacked in the stack unit 209i of the discharge unit 209 are nearly fully loaded. Note that when the sheets stacked in the stack unit 209i of the discharge unit 209 are fully loaded, the light-emitting notification unit 209a2 may light up in a color other than red or yellow, for example.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the overall internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 101. With reference to FIG. 4, 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 notification units will be described. As described above, in this embodiment, the feed units 202 to 204 have the same configuration. Also, in this embodiment, the discharge units 209 to 211 have the same configuration. Therefore, in FIG. 4, of the feed units 202 to 204 and the discharge units 209 to 211, only the feed unit 202 and the discharge unit 210 are illustrated, and the feed units 203 to 204 and the discharge units 210 to 211 are not illustrated. Also, detailed descriptions of the feed units 203 to 204 and the discharge units 210 to 211 are omitted.

[0076] First, the feeding unit 202 will be described. In this embodiment, the case where the conveying units 202e1 and 202e2 are arranged at the positions shown in FIG. 4 will be exemplified. Passage sensors 202g1 and 202g2 are arranged at the outlets of the conveying units 202e1 and 202e2, respectively. The passage sensors 202g1 and 202g2 detect when a sheet being conveyed on the conveying path passes through the detection areas of the passage sensors 202g1 and 202g2. The passage sensors 202g1 and 202g2 in this embodiment are used to detect the occurrence of sheet retention.

[0077] 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 is not detected by the passage sensor 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 at the exit (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.

[0078] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 202e2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 202g2. In this embodiment, when a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 202e2, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 202a2 in red. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 202e2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck in the upper conveying path 202e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 202g1. In this embodiment, when a sheet is stuck in the upper conveying path 202e1, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 202a1 in red. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the upper conveying path 202e1.

[0079] Next, the image forming unit 201 will be described. In this embodiment, the conveying units 201e1 and 201e2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 201g11 and 201g2 are disposed at the exits of the conveying units 201e1 and 201e2, respectively. A passage sensor 201g12 is disposed at the entrance of the head unit 201i. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 201e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 201g11. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 turns on the upper light-emitting notification unit 201a1 in red when a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 201e1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 201e1. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the entrance of the head unit 201i of the upper conveying path 201e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 201g12. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 201a2 in red. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the entrance of the head unit 201i of the upper conveying path 201e1.

[0080] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 201e2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 201g2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 201a3 in red when a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 201e2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 201e2. 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.

[0081] Next, the first fixing unit 205 will be described. In this embodiment, the conveying units 205e1 and 205e2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 205g1 and 205g2 are disposed at the exits of the conveying units 205e1 and 205e2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 205e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 205g1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 205a1 in red when a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 205e1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 205e1.

[0082] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 205e2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 205g2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 205a2 in red when a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 205e2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 205e2. 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.

[0083] Next, the second fixing unit 206 will be described. In this embodiment, the conveying units 206e1 and 206e2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 206g1, 206g21, and 206g22 are disposed at the exits of the conveying units 206e1 and 206e2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 206e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 206g1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 206a1 in red when a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 206e1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 206e1.

[0084] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 206e2 based on the detection results of the passage sensors 206g21 and 206g22. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 206a2 in red when a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 206e2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 206e2. 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.

[0085] Next, the cooling unit 207 will be described. In this embodiment, the transport units 207e1 and 207e2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 207g1 and 207g2 are disposed at the exits of the transport units 207e1 and 207e2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper transport path 207e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 207g1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 207a1 in red when a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper transport path 207e1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper transport path 207e1.

[0086] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 207e2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 207g2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 207a2 in red when a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 207e2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 207e2. 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 reversing unit 208 will be described. In this embodiment, the conveying units 208e1 and 208e2 are disposed at the positions shown in FIG. 4. Passage sensors 208g1 and 208g2 are disposed at the exits of the conveying units 208e1 and 208e2, respectively. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 208e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 208g1. In addition, in this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 208a1 in red when a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 208e1. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 208e1.

[0088] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 208e2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 208g2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 208a2 in red when a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 208e2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 208e2. 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 discharge unit 209 will be described. In this embodiment, the case where the conveying units 209e1 and 209e2 are arranged at the positions shown in FIG. 4 is exemplified. Passage sensors 209g1 and 209g2 are arranged at the exits of the conveying units 209e1 and 209e2, respectively. In this embodiment, the case where the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 209e1 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 209g1 is exemplified. In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the CPU 224 lights up the upper light-emitting notification unit 209a1 in red when a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 209e1 is exemplified. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck at the exit of the upper conveying path 209e1.

[0090] In this embodiment, the CPU 224 determines whether a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 209e2 based on the detection result of the passage sensor 209g2. In this embodiment, the CPU 224 lights up the lower light-emitting notification unit 209a2 in red when a sheet is stuck at the outlet of the lower conveying path 209e2. This notifies the user that a sheet is stuck in the lower conveying path 209e2. 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] The upper doors 201h1, 202h1, 205h1, 206h1, 207h1, 208h1, and 209h1 have door solenoids 201n1, 202n1, 205n1, 206n1, 207n1, 208n1, and 209n1, respectively. The lower doors 201h2, 202h2, 205h2, 206h2, 207h2, 208h2, and 209h2 have door solenoids 201n2, 202n2, 205n2, 206n2, 207n2, 208n2, and 209n2, respectively. The door solenoids have solenoid coils. When current flows through the solenoid coils, electromagnetic force is generated from the door solenoids. This electromagnetic force attracts the iron cores, locking the doors. While the door solenoid is energized, the iron core is always attracted to the side that locks the door, so the door is locked. When the solenoid coil is de-energized, the attractive force acting on the door disappears, and the door is unlocked.

[0092] Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of each microprocessor when each of the print modules 201 to 211 receives a signal from its own sensor. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 starts, for example, when each microprocessor receives a signal from one of the sensors of the print module that includes that microprocessor.

[0093] As described above, the printing modules 201-211 each have a door (e.g., door 201h1) for accessing an area within the upper transport section (e.g., transport section 201e1). The printing modules 201-211 also have an opening / closing sensor (e.g., opening / closing sensor 201g3) that detects whether the upper door (e.g., door 201h1) is open or closed, and an upper door solenoid (e.g., door solenoid 201n1) that locks the upper door. The printing modules 201-211 also have an upper light-emitting alarm unit (e.g., light-emitting alarm units 201a1, 201a2) that notifies the occurrence of an error (abnormal state) such as a sheet being stuck in the upper transport section (e.g., transport section 201e1). The printing modules 201-211 also have an upper passage sensor (e.g., passage sensors g11, g12) that detects a sheet being stuck in the upper transport section (e.g., transport section 201e1).

[0094] The printing modules 201-211 also have doors (201h2, etc.) for accessing areas within the lower transport section (transport section 201e2, etc.). The printing modules 201-211 also have opening / closing sensors (opening / closing sensor 201g4, etc.) that detect the opening / closing of the lower door (door 201h2, etc.) and lower door solenoids (door solenoid 201n2, etc.) that lock the lower door. The printing modules 201-211 also have lower light-emitting alarm units (light-emitting alarm unit 201a3, etc.) that notify of the occurrence of an error (abnormal state) such as a sheet being stuck in the lower transport section (transport section 201e2, etc.). The printing modules 201-211 also have lower passage sensors (passage sensor g2, etc.) that detect a sheet being stuck in the lower transport section (transport section 202e1, etc.).

[0095] In this embodiment, a case where a unique identifier is assigned to each sub-module (door, sensor, light-emitting alarm, etc.) of these print modules is exemplified. Also, in this embodiment, a case where each print module is managed using a management table 600 illustrated in FIG. 6 is exemplified. The management table 600 stores the identifier of each sub-module of each print module. The management table 600 is stored in a storage medium so that it can be accessed by the microprocessors (microprocessor 201b, etc.) of the print modules 201 to 211, the CPU 224, and the CPU 217 of the DFE 103. In this embodiment, a case where a sub-module (sensor, door, light-emitting alarm), etc. to which a notification or instruction is sent is specified using an identifier stored in the management table 600 is exemplified.

[0096] 6, column 601 stores information for identifying print modules 201 to 211. In FIG. 6, to make it easier to understand the information managed in management table 600, column 601 shows the names of print modules. However, the information stored in column 601 is not limited to the names of print modules. For example, column 601 may store identifiers assigned to print modules 201 to 211. The same applies to column 602, which will be described next, in that identifiers assigned to print modules 201 to 211 may be stored instead of names.

[0097] Column 602 stores information for identifying the transport unit (transport unit 201e1, 201e2, etc.) of each printing module 201 to 211. As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where each printing module 201 to 211 has an upper transport unit (transport unit 201e1, etc.) and a lower transport unit (transport unit 201e2, etc.).

[0098] Column 603 stores information for identifying the light-emitting notification units (light-emitting notification units 201a1, 201a2, 201a3, etc.). Fig. 6 illustrates an example in which identifiers of the light-emitting notification units are stored in column 603. The same applies to columns 604 to 607, which will be described later, in which identifiers of each sub-module are stored.

[0099] As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where each of the printing modules 201 to 211 has an upper light-emitting notification unit (light-emitting notification units 201a1, 201a2, 202a1, etc.) and a lower light-emitting notification unit (light-emitting notification unit 201a2, 202a2, etc.). Also, this embodiment illustrates a case where the image forming unit 201 has two light-emitting notification units 201a1 and 201a2 as its upper light-emitting notification units.

[0100] Column 604 stores information for identifying the passing sensors (passing sensors 201g11, 201g12, 201g2, 202g1, 201g2, etc.). As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where each print module 201-211 has an upper passing sensor (passing sensors 201g11, 201g12, 202g1, etc.) and a lower passing sensor (passing sensor 201g2, etc.). This embodiment also illustrates a case where the image forming unit 201 has two passing sensors 201g11 and 201g12 as upper passing sensors.

[0101] Column 605 stores information for identifying the door (door 201h1, 201h2, etc.). As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where each printing module 201 to 211 has an upper door (door 201h1, etc.) and a lower door (door 201h2, etc.). When the upper door (door 201h1, etc.) is opened, the user can access the upper transport unit (transport unit 201e1, etc.) (perform work on the upper transport unit). When the lower door (door 201h2, etc.) is opened, the user can access the lower transport unit (transport unit 201e2, etc.) (perform work on the lower transport unit).

[0102] Column 606 stores information for identifying the open / close sensor (open / close sensor 201g3, 201g4, etc.). As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where an upper open / close sensor (open / close sensor 201g3, etc.) is provided on the upper door (door 201h1, etc.) in each of the print modules 201 to 211. This embodiment also illustrates a case where a lower open / close sensor (open / close sensor 201g4, etc.) is provided on the lower door (door 201h2, etc.) in each of the print modules 201 to 211.

[0103] Column 607 stores information for identifying the door solenoid (door solenoid 201n1, 201n2, etc.). As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where an upper door solenoid (door solenoid 201n1, etc.) is provided on an upper door (door 201h1, etc.). This embodiment also illustrates a case where a lower door solenoid (door solenoid 201n2, etc.) is provided on a lower door (door 201h2, etc.).

[0104] An example of referencing the management table 600 is as follows. Here, a case where a door unlock instruction is issued indicating that a door should be unlocked is illustrated. In this case, the CPU 224 references the management table 600 and determines the print module to which the door unlock instruction should be sent based on the door identifier specified in the door unlock instruction. The CPU 224 searches column 605 for data that matches the door identifier specified in the door unlock instruction, and determines the print module to which the door unlock instruction should be sent by referencing column 601 of the found data. As described above, this embodiment illustrates a case where notifications and instructions exchanged between the print modules 201-211, the CPU 224, and the DFE 103 include identifiers managed in the management table 600. The print modules 201-211, the CPU 224, and the DFE 103 that receive the notifications and instructions can identify the targets of the notifications and instructions (sensors, doors, print modules, door solenoids, etc.) by referencing the management table 600.

[0105] In addition, this embodiment illustrates a case where a unique identifier is assigned to the content of a notification or instruction. In this case, for example, when a notification or instruction is transmitted, an identifier corresponding to the type of the notification or instruction may be included in the notification or instruction. Upon receiving a notification or instruction, the print modules 201 to 211, the CPU 224, and the DFE 103 determine the type of the notification or instruction based on the identifier corresponding to the type of the notification or instruction.

[0106] 5 is the same process in each of the print modules 201 to 211. Therefore, here, the process in the image forming unit 201 will be exemplified as the process in the flowchart of FIG.

[0107] In S501, the microprocessor 201b determines whether a sheet is retained based on the sheet detection results of the upper passage sensors 201g11, 201g12 or the lower passage sensor 201g2. For example, the microprocessor 201b determines that a sheet is retained when the passage sensors 201g11, 201g12, and 201g2 continue to detect a sheet for a specified time or longer. If the result of this determination is that a sheet is retained, the process of S502 is performed. On the other hand, if a sheet is not retained, the process of S505, which will be described later, is performed.

[0108] In S502, the microprocessor 201b determines whether the identifier of the passage sensor 201g11, 201g12, or 201g2 that detected the retention of a sheet has already been stored in the RAM 201d as the passage sensor that detected the retention of a sheet. If the result of this determination is that the identifier of the passage sensor that detected the retention of a sheet has already been stored, the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 ends. On the other hand, if the identifier of the passage sensor that detected the retention of a sheet has not already been stored, the processing of S503 is performed.

[0109] In S503, the microprocessor 201b stores the identifier of the passage sensor that detected the retention of the sheet in the RAM 201d as the passage sensor that detected the retention of the sheet. Next, in S504, the microprocessor 201b transmits a sheet retention notification to the CPU 224. The microprocessor 201b includes the identifier of the passage sensor stored in S504 in the sheet retention notification. When the process of S504 ends, the process according to the flowchart of FIG. 5 ends.

[0110] As described above, if it is determined in S501 that no sheet is retained, the process of S505 is performed. In S505, the microprocessor 201b determines whether the upper opening / closing sensor 201g3 or the lower opening / closing sensor 201g4 has detected that the door 201h1 or 201h2 is open. If the result of this determination is that the door 201h1 or 201h2 is open, the process of S506 is performed.

[0111] In step S506, the microprocessor 201b transmits a door open notification to the CPU 224. The microprocessor 201b includes in the door open notification an identifier of the open / close sensor that detected the door opening. When the processing of S506 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 5 ends.

[0112] If the result of the determination in S505 described above is that opening of door 201h1 or 201h2 is not detected, the process of S507 is performed. In S507, the microprocessor 201b determines whether the upper opening / closing sensor 201g3 or the lower opening / closing sensor 201g4 has detected that door 201h1 or 201h2 is closed. If the result of this determination is that closing of door 201h1 or 201h2 is not detected, the process according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 ends. On the other hand, if closing of door 201h1 or 201h2 is detected, the process of S508 is performed.

[0113] In S508, the microprocessor 201b transmits a door close notification to the CPU 224. The microprocessor 201b includes in the door close notification the identifier of the door open / close sensor that detected the door being closed.

[0114] Next, in S509, the microprocessor 201b activates a passage sensor located at a position accessible from the door where the opening / closing sensor that detected the door closing is installed. For example, when the upper opening / closing sensor 201g3 detects the closing of the door 201h1, the microprocessor 201b activates the upper passage sensors 201g11 and 201g12. When the lower opening / closing sensor 201g4 detects the closing of the door 201h2, the microprocessor 201b activates the lower passage sensor 201g2.

[0115] Next, in S510, the microprocessor 201b determines whether or not there is a passing sensor that did not detect a sheet retention among the passing sensors stored in the RAM 201d as passing sensors that detected a sheet retention. If the result of this determination is that there is no passing sensor that did not detect a sheet retention, the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 ends. On the other hand, if there is a passing sensor that did not detect a sheet retention, the processing of S511 is performed.

[0116] In S511, the microprocessor 201b transmits a sheet retention release notification to the CPU 224. The microprocessor 201b includes the identifiers of the passing sensors that did not detect a sheet retention in the sheet retention release notification. The microprocessor 201b also deletes the identifiers of the passing sensors that did not detect a sheet retention and that are stored in the RAM 201d as passing sensors that detected a sheet retention. When the processing of S511 ends, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 5 ends.

[0117] Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the CPU 224 when a notification is received from each of the print modules 201 to 211. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 7 starts, for example, when the CPU 224 receives a notification from any of the print modules 201 to 211.

[0118] In S701, the CPU 224 determines whether the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a sheet retention notification. If the result of this determination is that the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is not a sheet retention notification, the process of S712, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a sheet retention notification, the process of S702 is performed.

[0119] In S702, the CPU 224 determines whether or not printing processing is in progress. Printing processing is a series of processes related to printing, from the start of sheet feeding to the completion of sheet discharge. If the result of this determination is that printing processing is not in progress, the processes of S703 to S707 are omitted, and processing of S708, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if printing processing is in progress, processing of S703 is performed.

[0120] In S703, the CPU 224 transmits a print error notification to the DFE 103 via the network I / F 225. The CPU 224 includes in the print error notification an identifier of the image printed on the retained sheet or an identifier of the image to be printed.

[0121] Next, in S704, the CPU 224 determines a new transport route for the sheet that can no longer be discharged to the stack unit 209i where it was originally intended to be discharged. The CPU 224 sends a transport route change instruction to each of the print modules 201 to 211. For example, the CPU 224 determines the escape tray 202l, 208i, or sample tray 209j that is closest to the current position of the target sheet as the new discharge destination, and determines the route from the current position to the new discharge destination as the new transport route. The CPU 224 includes a unique identifier defined for the transport route and the identifier of the target sheet in the transport route change instruction.

[0122] Next, in S705, the CPU 224 determines whether the new transport route is blocked by a retained sheet. If the result of this determination is that the new transport route is blocked, the process of S706 is performed. On the other hand, if the new transport route is not blocked, the process of S707 is performed.

[0123] In S706, the CPU 224 transmits a conveyance stop instruction to each of the print modules 201 to 211. The CPU 224 includes an identifier of the sheet in the conveyance stop instruction as information for identifying the sheet whose conveyance is to be stopped. When the process of S706 ends, the process of S708, which will be described later, is performed.

[0124] If it is determined in S705 that the new transport route is not blocked, the process of S707 is performed. In S707, the CPU 224 transmits a transport route change instruction to each of the print modules 201 to 211. The CPU 224 includes in the transport route change instruction a unique identifier defined for each transport route and the identifier of the sheet whose transport route is to be changed. When the process of S706 ends, the process of S708 is performed.

[0125] In S708, the CPU 224 identifies the error position identifier that has occurred based on the notification received from any of the print modules 201 to 211, and stores the identified error position identifier in the RAM 229. In this embodiment, the condition for generating the error position identifier is defined in the error position identifier management table 800 illustrated in FIG.

[0126] 8 is a diagram showing an example of the error location identifier management table 800. The error location identifier management table 800 is stored in, for example, the SSD 230 so that the CPU 224 can access the error location identifier management table 800. The error location identifier management table 800 is read into the RAM 229 by the CPU 224, for example.

[0127] Column 801 stores an error location identifier. Column 802 stores the conditions under which the error location identifier stored in column 801 is in an occurrence state. The error location identifier is generated when the condition stored in column 802 is met, and disappears when the condition is no longer met.

[0128] An example of referencing the error position identifier management table 800 is as follows. Here, an example is shown in which the CPU 224 receives a sheet retention notification including the identifier R7001 of the upper passage sensor 205g1 from the first fixing unit 205. In this case, in S708, the CPU 224 refers to the error position identifier management table 800 to identify and store the occurrence of the error position identifier E1001.

[0129] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 7, when the processing of S708 ends, the processing of S709 is performed. In S709, the CPU 224 notifies the DFE 103 of the occurrence or disappearance of an error location identifier. The CPU 224 includes the occurred or disappeared error location identifier in the notification. Furthermore, if there is an occurred error location identifier, the CPU 224 stores the currently occurring error location identifier in the RAM 229. Furthermore, if there is a disappeared error location identifier, the CPU 224 removes the disappeared error location identifier from the currently occurring error location identifiers stored in the RAM 229.

[0130] Next, in S710, the CPU 224 determines whether or not there is an error location identifier stored as the currently occurring error location identifier. If the result of this determination is that there is an error location identifier stored as the currently occurring error location identifier, the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 7 ends. On the other hand, if there is no error location identifier stored as the currently occurring error location identifier, the processing of S711 is performed. In S711, the CPU 224 transmits a print error resolution notification to the DFE 103 via the network I / F 225. When the processing of S711 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0131] As described above, if it is determined in S701 that the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is not a sheet retention notification, the process of S712 is carried out. In S712, the CPU 224 determines whether the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a door-open notification. If the result of this determination is that the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a door-open notification, the process of S708 described above is performed. On the other hand, if the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is not a door-open notification, the process of S713 is performed.

[0132] In S713, the CPU 224 determines whether the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a sheet retention release notification. If the result of this determination is that the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a sheet retention release notification, the process of S714 is omitted and the process of S715, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is not a sheet retention release notification, the process of S714 is performed.

[0133] In S714, the CPU 224 determines whether the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a door close notification. If the result of this determination is that the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is not a door close notification, the process of S710 described above is performed. On the other hand, if the notification received from the print modules 201 to 211 is a door close notification, the process of S715 is performed.

[0134] In S715, the CPU 224 identifies the error position identifier that has been eliminated by the notification received from one of the print modules 201 to 211 and stores it in the RAM 229. In this embodiment, a case will be exemplified in which the CPU 224 refers to the error position identifier management table 800 to identify the eliminated error position identifier. For example, in S708, the CPU 224 refers to the error position identifier management table 800, identifies the occurrence of error position identifier E1001, and stores it. Thereafter, in S701, the CPU 224 receives a sheet retention release notification from the first fixing unit 205, including the identifier R7001 of the upper passage sensor 205g1. In this case, in S715, the CPU 224 refers to the error position identifier management table 800, and identifies and stores the eliminated error position identifier E1001. When the processing of S715 ends, the processing of S709 described above is performed.

[0135] 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the DFE 103 when a notification is received from the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224). The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 starts, for example, when the CPU 217 of the DFE 103 detects the reception of a notification from the image forming apparatus 101.

[0136] In S901, the CPU 217 determines whether the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is a print error notification. If the result of this determination is that the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is not a print error notification, processing in S904, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is a print error notification, processing in S902 is performed.

[0137] In S902, the CPU 217 suspends printing of the job in progress, and stores the identifier of the image notified in the print error notification in the RAM 220 as the resume position when printing starts. Next, in S903, the CPU 217 transmits a door unlock instruction, which indicates that all doors (doors 201h1, 201h2, etc.) should be unlocked, to the CPU 224 of the image forming apparatus 101 via the network I / F 218. When the processing of S903 ends, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 ends.

[0138] As described above, if it is determined in S901 that the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is not a print error notification, the process of S904 is performed. In S904, the CPU 217 determines whether the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is a print error resolution notification. If it is determined that the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is a print error resolution notification, the process of S908, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is not a print error resolution notification, the process of S905 is performed.

[0139] In S905, the CPU 217 determines whether the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is a deletion notification of an error position identifier. If the result of this determination is that the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is a deletion notification of an error position identifier, processing in S906 is performed. In S906, the CPU 217 deletes the error position identifier for which the deletion notification was received from the error position identifier list, and issues an internal notification to update the error position identifier list. When processing in S906 ends, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 ends.

[0140] If the result of the determination in S905 is that the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is not a notification of the disappearance of the error position identifier, the processing of S907 is performed. If the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is not a notification of the disappearance of the error position identifier, the processing of S907 is performed. In S907, the CPU 217 adds the error position identifier notified of its occurrence to the error position identifier list, and internally notifies the update of the error position identifier list. When the processing of S907 is completed, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 9 is completed.

[0141] As described above, if it is determined in S904 that the notification received from the image forming apparatus 101 is not a print error resolution notification, the process of S908 is performed. In S908, the CPU 217 transmits a door lock instruction to the CPU 224 of the image forming apparatus 101 via the network I / F 218, the door lock instruction indicating that all doors (doors 201h1, 201h2, etc.) should be locked.

[0142] Next, in S909, the CPU 217 resumes the execution of the suspended print job from the resume position stored in S902. When the process of S909 ends, the process according to the flowchart in FIG.

[0143] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the DFE 103 when an internal notification of an update of the error location identifier list is received. The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 10 starts, for example, when the CPU 217 of the DFE 103 detects the internal notification of an update of the error location identifier list.

[0144] In S1001, the CPU 217 compares the current error location identifier list with the error location identifier list from the previous execution of the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10. In the following description, the error location identifier list from the previous execution of the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10 will be referred to as the previous error location identifier list as necessary.

[0145] Next, in S1002, the CPU 217 determines whether or not there is an error location identifier in the current error location identifier list that is not in the previous error location identifier list. If the result of this determination is that there is an error location identifier in the current error location identifier list that is not in the previous error location identifier list, the process of S1009, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if there is no error location identifier in the current error location identifier list that is not in the previous error location identifier list, the process of S1003 is performed. When the process of S1003 is performed, an error location identifier that is not in the previous error location identifier list has been added to the current error location identifier list.

[0146] In S1003, CPU 217 determines whether any light-emitting notification unit among light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 is currently lit. The method for determining whether any light-emitting notification unit is lit is not limited. For example, the determination whether any light-emitting notification unit is lit may be made by storing the content of a lighting instruction transmitted in S1005, which will be described later. Alternatively, CPU 217 may transmit an instruction to transmit the light-emitting status of the light-emitting notification unit to image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via network I / F 218. In this case, CPU 217 may determine whether any light-emitting notification unit is lit by acquiring the light-emitting status of the light-emitting notification unit from image forming apparatus 101.

[0147] If it is determined that any of the light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 is currently lit, the process of step S1007, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if no light-emitting notification unit is currently lit among the light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3, the process of step S1004 is performed.

[0148] In S1004, the CPU 217 determines whether the addition of the error location identifier added to the current error location identifier list to the error location identifier list is a start condition for any error scenario. The error location identifier added to the current error location identifier list is identified based on the results of the processes of S1001 and S1002. If the result of this determination is that the addition of the error location identifier added to the current error location identifier list to the error location identifier list is not a start condition for any error scenario, the process according to the flowchart of FIG. 10 ends.

[0149] On the other hand, if the condition for starting any error scenario is that the error location identifier added to the current error location identifier list is added to the error location identifier list, the process of S1005 is performed. In S1005, the CPU 217 starts the error scenario determined to be applicable in S1004 or S1011 (described later). Then, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218 to light up the light-emitting notification unit specified in the start-up process of the error scenario in the color specified in the start-up process of the error scenario.

[0150] An example of the start-up process of an error scenario will now be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an error scenario definition 1100 that defines an error scenario. The error scenario definition 1100 is defined for each error. The error scenario definition 1100 is stored, for example, as a file in the SSD 221. The CPU 217 of the DFE 103 analyzes the error scenario definition 1100 to determine the start and end of the error scenario, update the display on the display device 104, and so on.

[0151] FIG. 11 illustrates an example in which an error scenario start definition part 1101 includes an error scenario start condition part 1110 and an error scenario start time processing part 1111. The error scenario start condition section 1110 specifies (describes) a condition for starting an error scenario. Fig. 11 illustrates an example in which the occurrence of error location identifier E1001 is specified as the start condition for an error scenario. In this case, when the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10 starts as a result of error location identifier E1001 being added to the error location identifier list, the CPU 217 determines "Yes" in S1004. That is, in S1004, the CPU 217 determines that the addition of the error location identifier added to the error location identifier list is the start condition for any error scenario.

[0152] A process to be executed when an error scenario is started is specified (described) in the error scenario start processing unit 1111. Fig. 11 illustrates an example in which lighting of the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 with identifier L13 in red is specified. In this case, in S1005, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to light the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 in red to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218.

[0153] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 10, when the process of S1005 is completed, the process of S1006 is performed. In S1006, the CPU 217 causes the display device 104 to display an error resolution procedure. When the process of S1006 is completed, the process according to the flowchart of Fig. 10 is completed. Note that the processes of S1005 and S1006 may be performed approximately simultaneously. Furthermore, the process of S1005 may be performed after the process of S1006.

[0154] As described above, if it is determined in S1003 that any of the light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 is currently lit, the process of S1007 is performed. In S1007, the CPU 217 determines whether or not the condition for advancing the error resolution procedure for the error scenario being executed to the next step is met. Specifically, the CPU 217 determines whether or not the addition of an error location identifier added to the current error location identifier list to the error location identifier list is a condition for advancing the error resolution procedure for the error scenario being executed. The CPU 217 also determines whether or not the removal from the error location identifier list of an error location identifier in the current error location identifier list that has been removed from the previous error location identifier list is a condition for advancing the error resolution procedure for the error scenario being executed.

[0155] If the result of this determination is that the conditions for advancing the error resolution procedure for the error scenario being executed to the next step are not met, the processing according to the flowchart in Figure 10 ends. On the other hand, if the conditions for advancing the error resolution procedure for the error scenario being executed to the next step are met, the processing of S1008 is performed. In S1008, the CPU 217 advances the error resolution procedure for the error scenario being executed to the next step, and updates the display of the error resolution procedure on the display device 104.

[0156] Here, an example of an error resolution procedure and an example of a display of the error resolution procedure will be described with reference to FIGS. 11, a resolution work procedure to be displayed on the display device 104 while an error scenario is being executed is specified (described) in an error scenario resolution work procedure specification section 1103. In FIG. 11, an example is shown in which the error scenario resolution work procedure specification section 1103 includes resolution work procedure step specification sections 1130 to 1133. The number of resolution work procedure step specification sections may be one or more.

[0157] Work steps for resolving errors are specified in the resolution work procedure step designation sections 1130 to 1133. Fig. 11 illustrates a case where the resolution work procedure step designation sections 1130 to 1133 include step instruction designation sections 1141, 1142, 1145, and 1147, and step start condition designation sections 1143, 1146, and 1148. As illustrated in the resolution work procedure step designation section 1131, the resolution work procedure step designation section 1131 may also include a step display image designation section 1144. An image to be displayed together with the error resolution procedure is designated in the step display image designation section 1144.

[0158] The resolution work procedure step designation unit 1130 of step 1 does not have a step start condition designation unit. Therefore, the work step designated by the resolution work procedure step designation unit 1130 starts simultaneously with the start of the error scenario. The resolution work procedure step designation unit 1131 of step 2 includes a step start condition designation unit 1143. Figure 11 illustrates an example in which the occurrence of error location identifier E1002 is designated as the start condition of the error scenario in the step start condition designation unit 1143. Assume that during execution of the above-mentioned step 1, the error location identifier E1002 is added to the error location identifier list, thereby starting the processing according to the flowchart of Figure 10. In this case, in S1007, the CPU 217 determines that the condition for advancing the error resolution procedure of the error scenario being executed to the next step is met.

[0159] 12 is a diagram showing an example of resolution work procedure screens 1200 and 1210. The resolution work procedure screens 1200 and 1210 are display examples of the error resolution procedure described above. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the resolution work procedure screens 1200 and 1210 are displayed on the display device 104. Fig. 12(a) is a diagram showing an example of a resolution work procedure screen 1200 that is displayed when an error resolution procedure occurs (at the aforementioned step 1). Fig. 12(b) is a diagram showing an example of a resolution work procedure screen 1210 that is displayed when the work step of the error resolution procedure has progressed (at the aforementioned step 2).

[0160] 12(a) and 12(b), a work instruction display section 1201 is an area for displaying the error resolution procedure specified in the error scenario resolution work procedure specification section 1103 of the error scenario definition 1100. The work instruction display section 1201 includes step display sections 1202 to 1205. The step display sections 1202 to 1205 display the contents of the error resolution procedures specified in the step instruction specification sections 1141, 1142, 1145, and 1147.

[0161] Fig. 12(a) illustrates an example in which the error resolution procedure specified in the step instruction specification section 1141 of the resolution procedure step specification section 1130 for step 1 described above is highlighted in the step display section 1202. Fig. 12(b) illustrates an example in which the error resolution procedure specified in the step instruction specification section 1142 of the resolution procedure step specification section 1131 for step 2 described above is highlighted in the step display section 1203. In this way, this embodiment illustrates an example in which the display of the error resolution procedure is changed depending on the progress of the error resolution procedure.

[0162] For example, in S1006, the CPU 224 causes the display device 104 to display a resolution work procedure screen 1200 shown in FIG. 12(a). Also, for example, if the condition specified in the step start condition designation field 1143 of the resolution work procedure step designation field 1131 of step 2 described above is satisfied, the CPU 224 causes the display device 104 to display a resolution work procedure screen 1210 shown in FIG. 12(b) in S1008. As described above, a highlighted display is performed in the step display field 1203. Also, as described above, the resolution work procedure step designation field 1131 of step 2 includes a step display image designation field 1144. Therefore, the CPU 217 causes the image designated in the step display image designation field 1144 to be displayed in the image display field 1206 of the resolution work procedure screen 1210 shown in FIG. 12(b).

[0163] Returning to the explanation of Figure 10, if the result of the determination in S1002, as described above, is that there is an error location identifier in the current error location identifier list that is not in the previous error location identifier list, the processing of S1009 is performed. In S1009, the CPU 217 determines whether the disappearance of error location identifiers that have disappeared from the previous error location identifier list is an end condition for the error scenario being executed. The error location identifiers that have disappeared from the error location identifier list are identified based on the results of the processing of S1001 and S1002. If the result of this determination is that the disappearance of error location identifiers that have disappeared from the previous error location identifier list is not an end condition for the error scenario being executed, the processing of S1007 described above is performed.

[0164] On the other hand, if the termination condition for the error scenario being executed is that the error location identifiers that have been removed from the previous error location identifier list are no longer present, the process of S1010 is performed. In S1010, the CPU 217 terminates the error scenario being executed, and transmits an instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit, which is specified in the termination process for the error scenario, to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218.

[0165] Next, in S1011, the CPU 217 erases the display of the error resolution procedure on the display device 104. Note that the processing of S1010 and the processing of S1011 may be executed substantially simultaneously. Also, the processing of S1010 may be executed after the processing of S1011.

[0166] Next, in S1012, the CPU 217 determines whether or not the error location identifier list contains an error location identifier that is specified as a start condition for the error scenario. If the result of this determination is that the error location identifier list does not contain an error location identifier that is specified as a start condition for the error scenario, the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10 ends. On the other hand, if the error location identifier list contains an error location identifier that is specified as a start condition for the error scenario, the processing of S1005 described above is performed.

[0167] For example, in S1012, the CPU 217 determines whether or not an error location identifier is specified as a start condition for an error scenario, starting from the error location identifier at the top of the error location identifier list (i.e., the error location identifier added first). If the CPU 217 cannot find an error location identifier specified as a start condition for an error scenario, it terminates the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10. On the other hand, if an error location identifier specified as a start condition for an error scenario is found, the CPU 217 executes the processing of S1005 described above.

[0168] Here, an example of the process at the end of an error scenario will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 illustrates an example in which the error scenario end definition part 1102 includes an error scenario end condition part 1120 and an error scenario end time processing part 1121. The condition for terminating the error scenario is specified (described) in the error scenario termination condition section 1120. Fig. 11 illustrates an example in which the disappearance of the error location identifier E1001 is specified as the termination condition for the error scenario. In this case, when the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10 starts as a result of the error location identifier E1001 being removed from the error location identifier list, the CPU 217 determines "Yes" in S1009. In other words, the CPU 217 determines that the disappearance of the error location identifier that was removed from the previous error location identifier list is the termination condition for the error scenario being executed.

[0169] A process to be executed when an error scenario is ended is specified (described) in the error scenario end processing unit 1121. Fig. 11 illustrates an example in which turning off of the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 with the identifier L13 is specified. In this case, in S1011, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 with the identifier L13 to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218.

[0170] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the image forming apparatus 101 when an instruction is received from the DFE 103. The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 13 starts, for example, when the CPU 224 of the image forming apparatus 101 detects the reception of an instruction from the DFE 103.

[0171] In S1301, the CPU 224 determines whether or not the instruction received from the DFE 103 is a door lock instruction. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the DFE 103 is a door lock instruction, processing of S1308, which will be described later, is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the DFE 103 is a door lock instruction, processing of S1302 is performed.

[0172] In S1302, the CPU 224 determines whether the instruction received from the DFE 103 is a door unlock instruction. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the DFE 103 is not a door unlock instruction, the process of S1303 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the DFE 103 is a door unlock instruction, the process of S1304 is performed.

[0173] In S1303, the CPU 224 transmits a door unlock instruction to the print module having the door specified in the door unlock instruction. When the process of S1303 ends, the process according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0174] In S1304, the CPU 224 determines whether the instruction received from the DFE 103 is an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alarm unit. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the DFE 103 is an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alarm unit, the process of S1305 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the DFE 103 is not an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alarm unit, the process of S1306 is performed.

[0175] In S1305, the CPU 224 transmits a light-emitting notification unit illumination instruction to the print module having the light-emitting notification unit specified in the light-emitting notification unit illumination instruction. When the process of S1305 ends, the process according to the flowchart of FIG. 13 ends.

[0176] In S1306, the CPU 224 determines whether the instruction received from the DFE 103 is an instruction to turn off the light-emitting alarm unit. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the DFE 103 is not an instruction to turn off the light-emitting alarm unit, the processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 13 ends. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the DFE 103 is an instruction to turn off the light-emitting alarm unit, the processing of S1307 is performed.

[0177] In S1307, the CPU 224 transmits a light-emitting notification unit turn-off instruction to the print module having the light-emitting notification unit specified in the light-emitting notification unit turn-off instruction. When the process of S1307 ends, the process according to the flowchart in FIG. 13 ends.

[0178] As described above, if it is determined in S1301 that the instruction received from the DFE 103 is a door lock instruction, the process of S1308 is performed. In S1308, the CPU 224 transmits the door lock instruction to the print module having the door specified in the door lock instruction. When the process of S1308 ends, the process according to the flowchart in FIG. 13 ends.

[0179] Fig. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the print modules 201 to 211 when an instruction is received from the CPU 224. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 14 starts, for example, when the print modules 201 to 211 receive an instruction from the CPU 224. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 14 is equivalent in each of the print modules 201 to 211. Therefore, here, the processing in the image forming unit 201 will be illustrated as an example of the processing in the flowchart in Fig. 14.

[0180] In S1401, the microprocessor 201b determines whether or not the instruction received from the CPU 224 is a door lock instruction. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the CPU 224 is a door lock instruction, the process of S1402 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the CPU 224 is not a door lock instruction, the process of S1403 is performed.

[0181] In S1402, the microprocessor 201b starts energizing the door solenoid corresponding to the door specified in the door lock command received from the CPU 224. For example, if the door specified in the door lock command is the upper door 201h1 with an identifier D1, the CPU 224 starts energizing the upper door solenoid 201n1 with an identifier K1 (see FIG. 6). Also, for example, if the door specified in the door lock command is the lower door 201h2 with an identifier D2, the CPU 224 starts energizing the lower door solenoid 201n2 with an identifier K2 (see FIG. 6). As described above, when a current flows through the solenoid coil of a door solenoid, an electromagnetic force is generated, and the iron core is attracted by this electromagnetic force, thereby locking the door. When the processing of S1402 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 14 ends.

[0182] As described above, if it is determined in S1401 that the instruction received from CPU 224 is not a door lock instruction, the process of S1403 is performed. In S1403, microprocessor 201b determines whether or not the instruction received from CPU 224 is a door unlock instruction. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from CPU 224 is a door unlock instruction, the process of step S1404 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from CPU 224 is not a door unlock instruction, the process of step S1405 is performed.

[0183] In S1404, the microprocessor 201b stops the power supply to the door solenoid corresponding to the door specified in the door unlock command received from the CPU 224. As described above, when the power supply to the solenoid coil of the door solenoid is stopped, the electromagnetic force generated by the door solenoid stops, and the iron core returns to its original position. Therefore, the door locked by the door solenoid is unlocked. When the processing of S1404 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 14 ends.

[0184] As described above, if it is determined in S1403 that the instruction received from CPU 224 is not an instruction to unlock the doors, the process of S1405 is performed. In S1405, microprocessor 201b determines whether or not the instruction received from CPU 224 is an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alert unit. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from CPU 224 is an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alert unit, the process of S1406 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from CPU 224 is not an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alert unit, the process of S1407 is performed.

[0185] In S1406, the microprocessor 201b lights up the light-emitting alert unit specified in the light-emitting alert unit lighting instruction in the color specified in the light-emitting alert unit lighting instruction. For example, if the light-emitting alert unit lighting instruction specifies L1 as the light-emitting alert unit identifier and red as the light-emitting alert unit lighting color, the microprocessor 201b lights up light-emitting alert unit 201a1 in a red dot. For example, if the light-emitting alert unit lighting instruction specifies L23 as the light-emitting alert unit identifier and red as the light-emitting alert unit lighting color, the microprocessor 201b lights up light-emitting alert unit 201a2 in red. For example, if the light-emitting alert unit lighting instruction specifies L2 as the light-emitting alert unit identifier and red as the light-emitting alert unit lighting color, the microprocessor 201b lights up light-emitting alert unit 201a3. When the processing of S1406 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 14 ends.

[0186] As described above, if it is determined in S1405 that the instruction received from CPU 224 is not an instruction to turn on the light-emitting alert unit, the process of S1407 is performed. In S1407, microprocessor 201b determines whether the instruction received from CPU 224 is an instruction to turn off the light-emitting alert unit. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from CPU 224 is an instruction to turn off the light-emitting alert unit, the process of S1408 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from CPU 224 is not an instruction to turn off the light-emitting alert unit, the process of S1409 is performed.

[0187] In S1408, the microprocessor 201b turns off the light-emitting notification unit specified in the instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit. When the process of S1408 ends, the process according to the flowchart of FIG.

[0188] As described above, if it is determined in S1407 that the instruction received from the CPU 224 is not an instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit, the process of S1409 is performed. In S1409, the microprocessor 201b determines whether or not the instruction received from the CPU 224 is an instruction to change the transport route. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the CPU 224 is an instruction to change the transport route, the process of S1410 is performed. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the CPU 224 is not an instruction to change the transport route, the process of S1411 is performed.

[0189] In S1410, the microprocessor 201b instructs one of the conveying units 201e1 to 201e2 that corresponds to the new conveying route to convey the sheet using the sheet conveying route instructed in the conveying route change instruction as the new conveying route. When the process of S1410 ends, the process according to the flowchart in FIG. 14 ends.

[0190] As described above, if it is determined in S1409 that the instruction received from the CPU 224 is not an instruction to change the transport route, the process of S1411 is performed. In S1411, the microprocessor 201b determines whether or not the instruction received from the CPU 224 is an instruction to stop transport. If the result of this determination is that the instruction received from the CPU 224 is not an instruction to stop transport, the process of the flowchart in Fig. 14 ends. On the other hand, if the instruction received from the CPU 224 is an instruction to stop transport, the process of S1412 is performed.

[0191] In S1412, the microprocessor 201b instructs one of the conveying units 201e1 to 201e2 that is currently conveying a sheet to stop conveying the sheet specified in the conveyance stop instruction. In this case, the passage sensors 201g11 and 201g2 detect the retention of the sheet whose conveyance has been stopped. If the sheet to be printed has not yet entered the image forming unit 201, the microprocessor 201b cancels the sheet reception standby (prevents the sheet from being conveyed into the image forming unit 201). Furthermore, if the sheet has already been handed over to the first fixing unit 205, which is the downstream printing module, the microprocessor 201b ends the processing of S1412 without performing any processing. When the processing of S1412 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 14 ends.

[0192] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of the lighting state of the light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 and an example of the display content of the display device 104. With reference to FIG. 15, an example of the lighting state of the light-emitting notification units and an example of the display content of the display unit after the process according to the flowchart of FIG. 10 is executed due to an update of the error location identifier will be described. Here, an example is shown in which three error location identifiers E3001, E2001, and E1001 occur in this order, and the error location identifiers disappear when the user performs the error resolution procedure. Also, an example is shown in which the start conditions, start processing, end conditions, and end processing of three error scenarios with identifiers 10, 11, and 12 are defined by the error scenario definition 1100 as shown in the error scenario summary 1500 illustrated in FIG. 15(a). In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the conditions for generating error location identifiers are defined in the error location identifier management table 800.

[0193] Correspondence table 1510 shown in FIG. 15(b) shows an example of the correspondence relationship between the lighting states of light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 and the display content of display device 104. Column 1511 stores updated content of the error location identifier list. Here, an example is shown in which processing according to the updated content shown in column 1511 is executed according to the flowchart of FIG. 10. Column 1512 stores the identifier of the light-emitting notification unit that is lit immediately after the execution of the processing, and the lighting color of the light-emitting notification unit. Column 1513 stores the identifier of the error scenario that corresponds to the error resolution procedure displayed on display device 104. In correspondence table 1510, transitions of the lighting states of light-emitting notification units 201a1-211a1, 201a2-211a2, and 201a3-204a3 and the display content of display device 104 are illustrated in order from the top row. 10 is performed once to obtain information for one row (information stored in each of columns 1511 to 1513) of correspondence table 1510. Hereinafter, the information for one row of correspondence table 1510 will be referred to as states 1521 to 1527.

[0194] In the initial state 1521, there is no update of the error location identifier, no lit light-emitting notification section, and no display on the display device 104. In this case, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. The next state 1522 is the state after the occurrence of error location identifier E3001. In this case, in the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 10, S1002 is judged as Yes, and processing of S1003 is performed. Since no light-emitting indicator is lit when the first state 1521 ends, no light-emitting indicator is lit when processing of S1003 is performed. Therefore, S1003 is judged as No, and processing of S1004 is performed. According to the error scenario outline 1500 shown in FIG. 15(a), the occurrence of error location identifier E3001 is the start condition for error scenario 10. Therefore, S1004 is judged as Yes, and processing of S1005 is performed. According to the error scenario outline 1500 shown in FIG. 15(a), the start processing of error scenario 10 is to light up light-emitting indicator 204a2 with identifier L8 in red. Therefore, in S1005, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to light the light-emitting notification unit 204a2 with the identifier L8 in red to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218. Then, in S1006, the CPU 217 causes the display device 104 to display the error resolution procedure for error scenario 10. Then, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 10 ends.

[0195] In states 1523 and 1524 after the occurrence of error location identifiers E2001 and E1001 shown in Fig. 15(b), a Yes decision is made in S1003, and processing in S1007 is performed. According to the error scenario overview 1500 shown in Fig. 15(a), the occurrence of error location identifiers E2001 and E1001 is not a start condition for the next step of the error scenario being executed. Therefore, a No decision is made in S1007, and processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 10 ends.

[0196] In a state 1525 after the error position identifier E3001 has disappeared, as shown in FIG. 15(b), a Yes determination is made in S1002, and the process of S1009 is performed. According to the error scenario outline 1500 shown in FIG. 15(a), the disappearance of the error position identifier E3001 is the termination condition for error scenario 10. Therefore, a Yes determination is made in S1009, and the process of S1010 is performed. According to the error scenario outline 1500 shown in FIG. 15(a), the termination process for error scenario 10 is to turn off the light-emitting notification unit 204a2 with the identifier L8. Therefore, in S1010, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit 204a2 with the identifier L8 to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218.

[0197] Then, in S1011, the CPU 217 erases the display of the error resolution procedure for error scenario 10. At this point, the error location identifier list contains error location identifiers E2001 and E1001. Therefore, the CPU 217 first determines whether the error location identifier E2001 is an error start condition. According to the error scenario overview 1500 shown in FIG. 15A, the occurrence of the error location identifier E2001 is a start condition for error scenario 11. Therefore, the determination in S1012 is Yes, and the processing of S1005 is performed. According to the error scenario overview 1500 shown in FIG. 15A, the start processing of error scenario 11 is to light the light-emitting notification unit 208a1 with the identifier L9 in red. Therefore, in S1005, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to light the light-emitting notification unit 208a1 with the identifier L9 in red to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218. Then, in S1006, the CPU 217 displays the error resolution procedure of error scenario 11 on the display device 104. Then, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG.

[0198] 10. In the state 1526 after the error location identifier E2001 has disappeared, the process according to the flowchart of FIG. 10 proceeds in the same manner as in the state 1525 after the error location identifier E3001 has disappeared. In this case, in S1010, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit 208a1 with identifier L9 to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218. Then, in S1011, the CPU 217 erases the display of the error resolution procedure for error scenario 11. At this point, the error location identifier list contains error location identifier E1001. Therefore, the CPU 217 determines whether the error location identifier E1001 is an error start condition. According to the error scenario summary 1500 shown in FIG. 15(a), the occurrence of error location identifier E1001 is a start condition for error scenario 12. Therefore, the determination in S1012 is Yes, and the process of S1005 is performed. According to the error scenario summary 1500 shown in FIG. 15(a), the start processing of error scenario 12 is to light the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 with the identifier L13 in red. Therefore, in S1005, the CPU 217 sends an instruction to light the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 with the identifier L13 in red to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218. Then, in S1006, the CPU 217 causes the display device 104 to display the error resolution procedure of error scenario 12. Then, the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 10 ends.

[0199] 10. In state 1527 after the error location identifier E1001 has disappeared, the process proceeds in the same manner as in states 1525 and 1526 after the error location identifiers E3001 and E2001 have disappeared. In this case, in S1010, the CPU 217 transmits an instruction to turn off the light-emitting notification unit 205a1 with identifier L13 to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218. Then, in S1011, the CPU 217 erases the display of the error resolution procedure for error scenario 12. At this point, there are no error location identifiers in the error location identifier list. Therefore, a No determination is made in S1012, and the process in the flowchart of FIG. 10 ends.

[0200] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming system causes the light-emitting notification unit (light-emitting notification unit 201a1 to 201a3, etc.) to emit light and the display device 104 to display the resolution work procedure screen 1200 based on the detection results of the passing sensors (passing sensors g11, g12, g2, etc.).

[0201] For example, if a sheet is stuck at the exit of conveyance unit 201e1, image forming apparatus 101 lights light-emitting alert unit 201a1 in a predetermined light-emitting mode (for example, red). Furthermore, if a sheet is stuck at the entrance of head unit 201i of conveyance unit 201e1, image forming apparatus 101 lights light-emitting alert unit 201a2 in a predetermined light-emitting mode (for example, red). Furthermore, if a sheet is stuck in conveyance unit 201e2, image forming apparatus 101 lights light-emitting alert unit 201a3 in a predetermined light-emitting mode (for example, red). Furthermore, when lighting light-emitting alert units (light-emitting alert units 201a1 to 201a3, etc.) as described above, image forming apparatus 101 displays error resolution procedure screens 1200 and 1210, which show error resolution procedures, on display device 104. In this case, it is preferable that the illumination time of the light-emitting notification unit 201a3 and the display time of the resolution procedure screens 1200 and 1210 on the display device 104 overlap at least partially. For example, the timing at which the illumination time of the light-emitting notification unit 201a3 starts and the timing at which the display device 104 starts displaying the resolution procedure screens 1200 and 1210 may be approximately the same (preferably the same).

[0202] Therefore, for example, if an error such as a jammed sheet occurs in a transport unit (transport units 201e1-201e2, etc.), the light-emitting notification unit (light-emitting notification units 201a1-201a3, etc.) corresponding to the transport unit lights up, allowing the user to quickly recognize the occurrence of the error. Also, a user who is located far from the image forming apparatus 101 can recognize the location where the error such as a jammed sheet occurred. Furthermore, in conjunction with the lighting of the light-emitting notification unit, information related to the work to resolve the error that occurred in the transport unit, such as the error resolution procedure for the transport unit corresponding to the light-emitting notification unit, is displayed, so that the user can be provided with information necessary for performing the work to resolve the error. Therefore, for example, the user can be allowed to efficiently take measures according to the status of the image forming apparatus 101. This improves the convenience of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0203] In the present embodiment, the abnormal state of the image forming apparatus 101 is exemplified as a case where a sheet is stuck in the transport path of the image forming apparatus 101. Sheets can be stuck in any of the print modules 201 to 211. Therefore, the example described in this embodiment is preferable because it allows the user to quickly understand where the sheet is stuck. However, the abnormal state of the image forming apparatus 101 is not limited to a sheet being stuck in the transport path of the image forming apparatus 101. For example, the abnormal state of the image forming apparatus 101 may be an abnormal amount of droplets ejected from the inkjet head or an abnormal amount of heating in the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the information indicating a countermeasure for the abnormal state of the image forming apparatus 101 is exemplified as a case where information including a procedure to be performed by the user of the image forming apparatus 101 is displayed. However, the countermeasure for the abnormal state of the image forming apparatus 101 is not limited to a task performed by the user of the image forming apparatus 101. For example, measures to be taken when the image forming apparatus 101 is in an abnormal state may include requesting repairs from the manufacturer of the image forming apparatus 101. Furthermore, the state of the image forming apparatus 101 is not limited to an abnormal state. For example, the state of the image forming apparatus 101 may be a state in which the image forming apparatus 101 is in a normal state but requires replacement of a part (for example, a state in which there is little ink remaining).

[0204] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, a case was illustrated in which, in conjunction with the illumination of a light-emitting notification unit (light-emitting notification units 201a1-201a3, etc.), a user is notified of an error resolution task to resolve an error that has occurred in a transport unit (transport units 201e1-201e2, etc.) corresponding to the light-emitting notification unit. However, the user does not necessarily check the display on display device 104 before performing the error resolution task. For example, image forming apparatus 101 has some locations that become hot during printing. If the error resolution task to be performed by the user includes work in these high-temperature locations, it is preferable to ensure that the user checks the display on display device 104 before performing the error resolution task. Therefore, in this embodiment, an example of such a technique will be described. As described above, the present embodiment and the first embodiment differ mainly in the configuration and processing for prompting the user to check the display on display device 104 and then perform the error resolution task. 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 15, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0205] Fig. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the DFE 103 when a notification is received from the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224). The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 16 starts, for example, when the CPU 217 of the DFE 103 detects the reception of a notification from the image forming apparatus 101. As in the first embodiment, this embodiment also illustrates a case where the type of notification is determined by an identifier that is included in the notification and corresponds to the type of notification.

[0206] The processes of S1601, S1602, and S1604 to S1609 are the same as the processes of S901, S902, and S904 to S909 in FIG. 9, respectively. In the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 16, the processing of S1603 (not S903) is performed after the processing of S1602. In S1603, the CPU 217 transmits, via the network I / F 218, a door unlock instruction indicating that a door for accessing a location other than the pre-operation confirmation request location is to be unlocked. The pre-operation confirmation request location is a location where the user must check the display on the display device 104 before performing the error resolution work. The destination of the door unlock instruction is the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224). Examples of locations where the user must check the display on the display device 104 before performing the error resolution work include the fixing units of the first fixing unit 205 and the second fixing unit 206, which become hot during printing, and the head unit 201i, which has a significant impact on print quality. In this embodiment, a case where these three locations are the pre-operation confirmation request locations will be exemplified.

[0207] In this case, the doors for accessing the pre-work confirmation request location are doors 201h1, 205h1, and 206h1. On the other hand, the doors for accessing locations other than the pre-work confirmation request location are doors other than doors 201h1, 205h1, and 206h1 (door 201h2, etc.). As described in the first embodiment, door 201h1 is the upper door of image forming unit 201. Door 205h1 is the upper door of first fixing unit 205. Door 206h1 is the upper door of second fixing unit 206. Therefore, in S1603, CPU 217 transmits a door unlock instruction to the doors other than these three doors 201h1, 205h1, and 206h1. When the processing of S1603 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 16 ends.

[0208] Fig. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the DFE 103 when an update notification of the error location identifier list is received. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 17 starts, for example, when the CPU 217 of the DFE 103 detects an internal notification of an update of the error location identifier list.

[0209] The processes of S1701 to S1705 and S1708 to S1714 are respectively the same as the processes of S1001 to S1005 and S1006 to S1012 in Fig. 10. However, the information displayed in S1708 may differ from the information displayed in S1006.

[0210] In the processing according to the flowchart of FIG. 17, after the processing of S1705, S1706 and S1707 are performed in this order, and after the processing of S1706 or S1707 is performed, the processing of S1708 is performed.

[0211] In S1706, the CPU 217 determines whether the transport unit corresponding to the light-emitting alarm unit that was instructed to turn on in S1705 is located at a pre-work confirmation required location. As described above, the pre-work confirmation required location is a location where the user must check the display on the display device 104 before performing error resolution work. Also, as described above, an example of a door for accessing the pre-work confirmation required location is a door other than doors 201h1, 205h1, and 206h1 (door 201h2, etc.).

[0212] If the result of the determination in S1706 is that the transport unit corresponding to the light-emitting alarm unit that issued the lighting instruction is not at the pre-work confirmation required location, the process of S1707 is omitted and the process of S1708 is performed. In S1708, the CPU 217 displays the error resolution procedure on the display device 104. In this case, the resolution work procedure screen including the error resolution procedure displayed in the process of S1708 is the same as, for example, the resolution work procedure screens 1200 and 1210 displayed in the process of S1006 in Fig. 10. On the other hand, if the transport unit corresponding to the light-emitting alarm unit that issued the lighting instruction is at the pre-work confirmation required location, the process of S1707 is performed.

[0213] In S1707, the CPU 217 adds a door unlock operation as the first step of the error resolution procedure of the error scenario being executed. The door unlock operation is an operation for unlocking the door. The door to be subjected to the unlock operation added to step 1 of the error resolution procedure of the error scenario is identified based on the result of the determination in S1706. After the processing of S1707 is performed, the processing of S1708 is performed. In S1708, the CPU 217 displays the error resolution procedure on the display device 104. An example of a resolution work procedure screen including the error resolution procedure displayed in the processing of S1708 in this case will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing examples of resolution work procedure screens 1800, 1810, and 1820.

[0214] Fig. 18(a) is a diagram showing an example of a resolution work procedure screen 1800 that is displayed when an error resolution procedure occurs. The error resolution procedure displayed on the resolution work procedure screen 1800 shown in Fig. 18(a) adds a door unlock operation as the first step of the error resolution procedure to the error resolution procedure displayed on the resolution work procedure screen 1200 shown in Fig. 12(a). Fig. 18(b) is a diagram showing an example of a password input screen 1810 for the door unlock operation. Fig. 18(c) is a diagram showing an example of a resolution work procedure screen 1820 that is displayed after the door unlock operation is completed.

[0215] 18(a) and 18(c), a work instruction display section 1801 is an area for displaying an error resolution procedure. The work instruction display section 1801 includes step display sections 1802 to 1806. The step display section 1802 displays information indicating that the door unlock operation is to be performed as the first work step of the error resolution procedure. Also, an unlock button 1807 is displayed immediately below the step display section 1802. The unlock button 1807 is a button that is pressed by the user to perform the door unlock operation. The resolution procedure screen 1800 shown in FIG. 18(a) illustrates an example in which the content of the error resolution procedure indicating the door unlock operation and the unlock button 1807 are highlighted.

[0216] Step display sections 1803 to 1806 display the same content as that displayed in step display sections 1202 to 1205 shown in Fig. 12. Specifically, step display sections 1803 to 1806 display the content of the error resolution procedures specified in step instruction specification sections 1141, 1142, 1145, and 1147. However, because step display section 1802 has been added, the step numbers of step display sections 1803 to 1806, which display the content of the work steps subsequent to the door unlock operation, are shifted back by one each compared to step display sections 1202 to 1205 shown in Fig. 12.

[0217] When the unlock button 1807 is pressed, the CPU 217 displays a password entry screen 1810 shown in Fig. 18(b) on the display device 104. The user operates a password entry operation section 1811 displayed on the password entry screen 1810 to correctly enter a pre-registered password, thereby completing the door unlock operation.

[0218] Thereafter, the CPU 217 displays a resolution work procedure screen 1820 shown in Fig. 18(c) on the display device 104. The resolution work procedure screen 1820 shown in Fig. 18(c) illustrates a case where the error resolution procedure specified in the step instruction specification section 1141 of the resolution work procedure step specification section 1130 of step 1 described in the first embodiment is highlighted in the step display section 1803. In this embodiment, the case where the processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 17 ends when the displays exemplified in FIGS. 18(a) to 18(c) are displayed in S1708 will be exemplified.

[0219] 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the DFE 103 when a user operation is accepted on the resolution work procedure screen 1800 displayed on the display device 104 in S1714. The processing according to the flowchart in FIG. 19 starts, for example, when the CPU 217 of the DFE 103 accepts a user operation on the resolution work procedure screen 1800.

[0220] In S1901, the CPU 217 determines whether a door unlock operation has been received. The door unlock operation is a task added to the error scenario being executed in S1707 as the first step of the error resolution procedure for that error scenario. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the door unlock operation includes pressing the unlock button 1807 and correctly inputting a pre-registered password by operating the password input operation unit 1811. In this case, when the unlock button 1807 is pressed, the CPU 217 displays a password input screen 1810 shown in FIG. 18(b) on the display device 104. Thereafter, the CPU 217 determines whether the password input on the password input screen 1810 matches the pre-registered password. In this embodiment, a case is illustrated in which the CPU 217 determines that the door unlock operation has been received if the password input on the password input screen 1810 matches the pre-registered password. On the other hand, in this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which, if the password entered on the password entry screen 1810 does not match a password registered in advance, the CPU 217 determines that the door unlock operation has not been accepted.

[0221] 19 is terminated. On the other hand, if a door unlock operation is received, the process of S1902 is performed. In S1902, the CPU 217 transmits a door unlock instruction for the door that is the target of the unlock operation to the image forming apparatus 101 (CPU 224) via the network I / F 218. Next, in S1903, the CPU 217 advances the error resolution procedure of the error scenario being executed to the next step, and updates the display of the error resolution procedure on the display device 104. For example, the CPU 217 causes the display device 104 to display a resolution work procedure screen 1820 shown in Fig. 18(c). When the processing of S1903 ends, the processing according to the flowchart of Fig. 19 ends.

[0222] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming system restricts the execution of error resolution work until the user performs an operation in response to the display of the error resolution procedure on the display device 104, and then releases the restriction after the operation is performed. Therefore, in addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent the user from performing error resolution work without checking the details of the error resolution work.

[0223] For example, the image forming apparatus 101 notifies the user that an error, such as a sheet jamming, has occurred in a transport unit (such as transport units 201e1-201e2) by turning on a light-emitting notification unit (such as light-emitting notification units 201a1-201a3) in S1705. At approximately the same time as this notification, the image forming apparatus 101 displays a troubleshooting procedure screen 1800, to which a door unlocking operation has been added, on the display device 104 in S1708. The user becomes aware of the error in the transport unit through the notification from the light-emitting notification unit, but the door for accessing the transport unit is locked. Therefore, the user cannot begin troubleshooting the error. Before starting troubleshooting, the user must check the display on the display device 104 and unlock the door. Thus, in this embodiment, turning on a light-emitting notification unit when an error occurs quickly notifies the user of the occurrence of the error, and unlocking the door after checking the display on the display device 104 allows the user to confirm information related to the operation in advance. Therefore, for example, before performing work on a transport section that includes a high-temperature section, the user can be alerted to the work.

[0224] In this embodiment, the door unlocking operation is exemplified as including pressing the unlock button 1807 and entering a password. However, the door unlocking operation is not limited to these operations. For example, entering a password does not have to be included in the door unlocking operation. For example, if any operation is performed on the solution work procedure screen 1800, it can be assumed that the user has confirmed the display content of the solution work procedure screen 1800. Therefore, for example, the door unlocking operation may be any operation on the solution work procedure screen 1800.

[0225] (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.

[0226] The disclosure of the present embodiment also includes, for example, the following configurations, methods, and programs. (Configuration 1) a detection unit that detects the state of the image forming apparatus; a light emitting unit provided at a position visible from outside the image forming apparatus; A display unit; a first control means for controlling the light emission by the light emitting unit and the display by the display unit based on the result of the detection of the state by the detection unit; and The light emission by the light-emitting unit includes light emission in a manner corresponding to the state, The image forming system is characterized in that the display by the display unit includes display of information indicating how to deal with the state. (Configuration 2) The image forming system according to configuration 1, wherein the first control means controls the light emission by the light-emitting unit associated with the detection unit and the display by the display unit based on the result of detection of the state by the detection unit. (Configuration 3) 3. The image forming system according to claim 2, further comprising a setting unit that sets the light emitting unit corresponding to the detection unit. (Configuration 4) There are a plurality of the detection units and a plurality of the light-emitting units, 4. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein the light emitting unit is associated with at least one of the detecting units. (Configuration 5) 5. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the time during which the light emitting unit emits light and the time during which the display unit displays an image overlap at least partially. (Configuration 6) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the first control means controls the light emission by the light emitting unit and the display by the display unit when the state detected by the detection unit is abnormal. (Configuration 7) The image forming system according to configuration 6, further comprising a determining unit that determines whether the state detected by the detecting unit is abnormal or not. (Configuration 8) 8. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the state of the image forming apparatus includes a state in which a sheet cannot be conveyed in a conveyance path for the sheet on which an image is formed based on a print job. (Configuration 9) the image forming apparatus has a plurality of modules, each of which performs a part of a series of processes from sheet supply to sheet discharge on a sheet being conveyed; 9. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the detection unit detects the state of one or more modules among the plurality of modules. (Configuration 10) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein, after the light-emitting unit emits light and the display unit displays an image, when the countermeasure is taken, the first control means ends the light-emitting and display, and causes a light-emitting unit other than the light-emitting unit to emit light and a display unit to display an image. (Configuration 11) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, wherein the first control means determines the order in which the light emitting unit emits light and the display unit displays light based on the order of detection by the detection unit. (Configuration 12) 12. The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the first control means changes the display on the display unit in accordance with the progress of the countermeasure. (Configuration 13) The image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, further comprising a second control means for controlling the state of the image forming device in a state in which the handling is restricted until a user operates the display on the display unit, and for canceling the state in which the handling is restricted after the operation is performed. (Configuration 14) The display by the display unit includes displaying information indicating a measure according to the state and displaying information for instructing to release a restriction on the measure, The image forming system according to configuration 13, wherein the second control means releases the restriction on the handling after a predetermined operation is performed on the information for instructing the release of the restriction on the handling. (Method 1) a detection step of detecting a state of the image forming apparatus; a first control step of controlling light emission by a light-emitting unit provided at a position visible from outside the image forming apparatus and display by a display unit based on a result of detection of the state by the detection step; and The light emission by the light-emitting unit includes light emission in a manner corresponding to the state, A control method, characterized in that the display by the display unit includes displaying information indicating how to deal with the condition. (Program 1) 15. A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the image forming system according to any one of configurations 1 to 14. [Explanation of symbols]

[0227] 101: image forming apparatus, 102: information processing apparatus, 103: DFE, 104: display device, 201a1 to 211a1, 201a2 to 211a2, 201a3 to 204a3: light-emitting notification units

Claims

1. a detection unit that detects the state of the image forming apparatus; a light emitting unit provided at a position visible from outside the image forming apparatus; A display unit; a first control means for controlling the light emission by the light emitting unit and the display by the display unit based on a result of the detection of the state by the detection unit; and The light emission by the light-emitting unit includes light emission in a manner corresponding to the state, The image forming system is characterized in that the display by the display unit includes display of information indicating how to deal with the state.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the first control means controls the light emission by the light emitting unit associated with the detection unit and the display by the display unit based on the result of the detection of the state by the detection unit.

3. 3. The image forming system according to claim 2, further comprising a setting unit for setting the light emitting unit corresponding to the detection unit.

4. There are a plurality of the detection units and a plurality of the light-emitting units, 4. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein the light emitting unit is associated with at least one of the detecting units.

5. 4. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein a period during which the light emitting unit emits light and a period during which the display unit displays an image overlap at least partially.

6. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first control means controls the light emission by the light emitting unit and the display by the display unit when the state detected by the detection unit is abnormal.

7. 7. The image forming system according to claim 6, further comprising a determining unit that determines whether the state detected by the detecting unit is abnormal or not.

8. 4. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the state of the image forming apparatus includes a state in which a sheet cannot be transported in a transport path on which an image is formed based on a print job.

9. the image forming apparatus has a plurality of modules, each of which performs a part of a series of processes from sheet supply to sheet discharge on a sheet being conveyed; 4. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit detects the state of one or more modules among the plurality of modules.

10. The image forming system of any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that after the light-emitting unit emits light and the display unit displays an image, when the action is taken, the first control means ends the light-emitting and display, and causes a light-emitting unit other than the light-emitting unit to emit light and a display unit to display an image.

11. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first control means determines the order in which the light emitting unit emits light and the display unit displays information based on the order of detection by the detection unit.

12. 4. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the first control means changes the display on the display unit in accordance with the progress of the countermeasure.

13. An image forming system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it has a second control means that puts the state of the image forming device into a state in which the response is restricted until a user operates the display on the display unit, and releases the state in which the response is restricted after the operation is performed.

14. The display by the display unit includes displaying information indicating a measure according to the state and displaying information for instructing to release a restriction on the measure, 14. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the second control unit releases the restriction on the handling after a predetermined operation is performed on the information for instructing the release of the restriction on the handling.

15. a detection step of detecting a state of the image forming apparatus; a first control step of controlling light emission by a light-emitting unit provided at a position visible from outside the image forming apparatus and display by a display unit based on a result of the detection of the state by the detection step; and The light emission by the light-emitting unit includes light emission in a manner corresponding to the state, A control method, characterized in that the display by the display unit includes displaying information indicating how to deal with the condition.

16. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images