Image forming apparatus, method of controlling the same, and storage medium

Abstract

The present invention provides, for example, a novel mechanism that allows a user to easily adjust print control parameters.SOLUTION: According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image forming apparatus including an output unit configured to output a first screen on which a print sheet is settable, and a second screen for setting a parameter corresponding to a type of the print sheet, the parameter being used to control driving of the image forming apparatus, and a determination unit configured to determine whether to include a first object in the first screen, the first object being used to cause a transition from the first screen to the second screen.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8-1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] It is known that the paper type of paper fed in a print job can be identified from a paper type database (media library) stored in advance in an image forming device. High-quality output can be obtained by using print control parameters for the identified paper type in image formation control. To accommodate a wide variety of paper types, some image forming devices are known that can register user-defined paper types in the media library by duplicating pre-stored paper types and allowing the user to freely change the print control parameters for the paper type. Patent document 1 proposes a technology in which a paper type detection sensor (media sensor) is provided on the paper transport path of an image forming device to measure characteristics of the paper, such as the surface texture and basis weight of the paper, and the media sensor measures and identifies the paper type that will be used to replicate the user-defined paper. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-26815 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When a user selects a pre-stored paper type and copies it to create a user-defined paper, or when a user uses a media sensor to identify a paper type and copies it to create a user-defined paper, the user must adjust the print control parameters after creating the user-defined paper. However, while adjusting print control parameters is not a problem for knowledgeable users, it can be difficult for office users who are not usually aware of it.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of at least one of the above problems, and provides a novel mechanism that allows a user to easily adjust print control parameters. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is an image forming device that includes, for example, an output means for outputting a first screen on which printing paper can be set and a second screen for setting parameters that control the operation of the image forming device corresponding to the type of printing paper, and a determination means for determining whether a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen should be included in the first screen, and is characterized in that the determination means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen if there is printing paper for which the parameters have already been set. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the user can easily adjust print control parameters. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of a fixing unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Schematic diagram of a media sensor according to an embodiment. [Figure 5-1] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 5-2] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 5-3] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 6-1] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 6-2] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 6-3] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 6-4] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart of a control process in an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 8-1] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 8-2] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 8-3] Display screen of image forming apparatus according to an embodiment [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart of a control process in an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the claimed invention. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0010] In this specification, the term "image forming apparatus" broadly includes apparatuses that form (record) images on recording materials (recording media), such as single-function printers, copiers, multifunction machines, commercial printing machines, etc. The recording apparatus may also be a system (image forming system) that connects a recording apparatus main body that forms an image on recording materials with devices such as a sheet processing apparatus and a sheet feeding apparatus.

[0011] <Device configuration> The basic configuration and operation of an image forming apparatus 201 according to this embodiment will be described using FIGS. 1 and 2. The image forming apparatus 201 includes a CPU 10, a ROM 11, a RAM 12, an instruction / display unit 13, a media sensor 14, an image forming unit 201B, and a fixing unit 201E. The CPU 10 shown in FIG. 2 is a control unit that controls the entire image forming apparatus 201. More specifically, the CPU 10 controls, for example, switching of display screens. Furthermore, when a user changes print control parameters corresponding to a paper type, the CPU 10 associates the changed print control parameters with the paper type and stores them in a first storage area of ​​the RAM 12. The ROM 11 stores control programs and initial values ​​of various settings. The CPU 10 executes a control program read from the ROM 11 to implement the image formation procedure and the procedures of each flowchart, which will be described later. Various information is stored in the RAM 12 under the control of the CPU 10. Furthermore, the first storage area of ​​the RAM 12 stores print control parameters for each paper type. The RAM 12 may be a rewritable memory that does not require a storage operation. Also, a hard disk drive (HDD) may be provided, and the information stored in the RAM 12 may be stored in the HDD.

[0012] The instruction / display unit 13 includes an operation panel 205 and accepts operations on the operation panel 205 (an example of the "accepting means" of the present invention). For example, when an instruction to start a print operation or the like is input, the instruction information is sent to the CPU 10. The operation panel 205 includes, for example, a touch panel display and buttons that can display an operation screen and allow input to the operation screen. The instruction information to start a print operation or the like may be input by a user operating the instruction / display unit 13, or may be input from an external device such as a personal computer, tablet terminal, or smartphone connected via a network (not shown).

[0013] When instruction information to start a print operation is input, CPU 10 drives and controls a paper feed / conveyance motor (not shown) in accordance with the instruction information to feed and convey paper. CPU 10 also controls image formation (printing) by image forming unit 201B by setting print control parameters for image forming unit 201B. Image forming unit 201B prints on paper based on the print control parameters set by CPU 10.

[0014] 1, an image forming apparatus main body 201A of an image forming apparatus 201 includes an image forming unit 201B that forms an image on a sheet. An image reading device 202 is installed substantially horizontally above the image forming apparatus main body 201A. An ejection space S for ejecting sheets is formed between the image reading device 202 and the image forming apparatus main body 201A. An operation panel 205 that accepts operations from a user is provided on the top of the image forming apparatus 201.

[0015] The image forming apparatus main body 201A includes a cassette feeding section 230. The cassette feeding section 230 feeds sheets P from a feeding cassette 1, which is a sheet storage means for storing sheets P. The cassette feeding section 230 includes a pickup roller 2, which is a sheet feeding means, and a separation section, which includes a feed roller 3 and a retard roller 4, for separating the sheets P fed from the pickup roller 2. The image forming apparatus main body 201A also includes a manual feed section 235. The manual feed section 235 feeds sheets P from a manual paper feed tray 5, which is a means for holding sheets P. The manual feed section 235 includes a sheet feeding means and a separation section, similar to the cassette feeding section 230.

[0016] Image forming unit 201B, which is an image forming means, is a four-drum full-color type and includes a laser scanner 210 and four process cartridges 211 that form toner images in four colors: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Each process cartridge 211 includes a photosensitive drum 212, a charger 213 that is a charging means, and a developing unit 214 that is a developing means. Image forming unit 201B also includes a secondary transfer unit 201D and a fixing unit 201E that are disposed above the process cartridges 211. Image forming apparatus main body 201A also includes toner cartridges 215 that supply toner to the developing units 214.

[0017] The secondary transfer unit 201D includes a transfer belt 216 wound around a drive roller 216a and a tension roller 216b. A primary transfer roller 219 is provided inside the transfer belt 216, contacting the transfer belt 216 at a position opposite the photosensitive drum 212. The transfer belt 216 is rotated in the direction of the arrow by a drive roller 216a driven by a drive unit (not shown). A secondary transfer roller 217 that transfers a color image formed on the transfer belt 216 onto the sheet P is provided at a position opposite the drive roller 216a of the secondary transfer unit 201D. A fixing unit 201E is disposed above the secondary transfer roller 217, and a first discharge roller pair 225a, a second discharge roller pair 225b, and a double-side reversing unit 201F are disposed above and to the upper left of the fixing unit 201E. The double-sided reversing section 201F is provided with a pair of reversible reversing rollers 222 and a re-conveying path R for conveying the sheet P, on one side of which an image has been formed, again to the image forming section 201B.

[0018] <Operation of image forming device> Next, the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 201 will be described. First, when the image forming apparatus 201 receives image data of an original to be printed, the image information is subjected to image processing, converted into an electrical signal, and transmitted to the laser scanner 210 of the image forming unit 201B. In the image forming unit 201B, the surface of the photosensitive drum 212, the surface of which has been uniformly charged to a predetermined polarity and potential by the charger 213, is sequentially exposed to a laser. As a result, electrostatic latent images of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are sequentially formed on the photosensitive drum of each process cartridge 211, respectively.

[0019] Thereafter, this electrostatic latent image is developed and visualized with toner of each color, and at the same time, the toner images of each color on each photosensitive drum are transferred to transfer belt 216 in succession, superimposed on one another, by a primary transfer bias applied to primary transfer roller 219. As a result, a toner image is formed on transfer belt 216. In parallel with this toner image formation operation, sheets P are transported one by one by cassette feeding unit 230 to pair of registration rollers 240, and skew is corrected by pair of registration rollers 240. After skew is corrected, sheet P is transported to secondary transfer unit 201D by pair of registration rollers 240. In secondary transfer unit 201D, the toner images are transferred all at once onto sheet P by a secondary transfer bias applied to secondary transfer roller 217.

[0020] Next, the sheet P onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to the fixing unit 201E. In the roller nip formed by the pressure roller 220a and the fixing / heating roller 220b, the toners of each color are melted and mixed under heat and pressure, and are fixed as a color image on the sheet P. At this time, the adhesive force of the melted toner causes the sheet P to stick to the fixing / heating roller 220b. If the stiffness of the sheet P is weak, it will be taken up by the rotating fixing / heating roller 220b. Therefore, a separation plate for separating the sheets is provided downstream of the fixing / heating roller 220b.

[0021] Thereafter, the sheet P on which the image has been fixed is discharged into the discharge space S by a first discharge roller pair 225a and a second discharge roller pair 225b provided downstream of the fixing unit 201E, and is stacked on a stacking unit 223 protruding from the bottom surface of the discharge space S. When images are formed on both sides of the sheet P, after the images are fixed, the sheet P is transported to a re-conveyance path R by a reversing roller pair 222, and is transported again to the image forming unit 201B.

[0022] Returning to FIG. 2, the control blocks controlled by CPU 10 of image forming apparatus 201 will be described. Image forming apparatus 201 has a media sensor 14 on the paper transport path. Media sensor 14 is a paper type detection sensor 100 that detects the type of paper fed through the paper transport path. Media sensor 14 detects the surface properties, thickness, etc. of the paper being transported. CPU 10 then determines the paper type from the detection results. Note that the act of media sensor 14 detecting the surface properties, thickness, etc. of the paper and CPU 10 determining the paper type from the detection results is also expressed as detecting or determining the paper type with media sensor 14.

[0023] <Explanation of the fixing unit> The details of the fixing unit 201E will be described using Figure 3. The fixing unit 201E is an assembly including a fixing and heating roller 220b and a pressure roller 220a. The fixing and heating roller 220b includes a heater holder 207, a fixing heater 204 disposed on the underside of the heater holder 207 along the longitudinal direction of the heater holder (perpendicular to the drawing), and a fixing film 203 made of an elastic layer. Each arrow R in Figure 3 indicates the direction of rotation. The arrow T in Figure 3 indicates the direction of movement of the paper M carrying toner 301.

[0024] The pressure roller 220a is disposed between the side plates of the fixing device, with both ends of its core metal bearings for free rotation. The fixing unit 201E is arranged parallel to the pressure roller 220a, with the fixing heater 204 side facing in contact with the pressure roller 220a, and both ends of the heater holder 207 are pressed with a predetermined pressure by a biasing mechanism (not shown). As a result, the surface of the fixing heater 204 is pressed against the pressure roller 220a with the fixing film 203 sandwiched therebetween against the elasticity of the pressure roller 220a, forming a fixing nip portion 206 of a predetermined width.

[0025] The pressure roller 220a is driven to rotate at a predetermined peripheral speed in the counterclockwise direction indicated by arrow R by a drive mechanism (not shown). The fixing heater 204 is a ceramic substrate having a resistance heating element formed thereon. A temperature detection sensor 208 is in contact with the fixing heater 204. The CPU 10 detects the temperature of the fixing heater 204 from the output of the temperature detection sensor 208 and controls the power supplied to the fixing heater 204 so that the temperature of the fixing heater 204 reaches a predetermined target temperature. The target temperature of the fixing heater 204 is determined by the type of paper being fed and the ambient temperature, etc. The CPU 10 determines the target temperature of the fixing heater 204 using paper type information set via the instruction / display unit 13 or paper type information detected by the media sensor 14. As described above, the target temperature of the fixing unit 201E is set lower for thin paper than for plain paper, and higher for thick paper.

[0026] <Media sensor explanation> Next, the media sensor 14 will be described in detail using Figure 4. Inside the media sensor 14, an LED 481 (an example of a "light-emitting section" in the present invention) is arranged as a light-emitting element, and a photodiode 480 (an example of a "light-receiving section" in the present invention) is arranged as a light-receiving element. The light emitted by the LED 481 is reflected by a predetermined reflective area, and the photodiode 480 can detect the amount of reflected light. The media sensor 14 also has a guide section 483 that guides the paper M.

[0027] The CPU 10 receives an input signal from the photodiode 480 as the output value of the media sensor 14. The CPU 10 can determine the type of paper being fed according to differences in this output value, which depend on the surface texture and thickness of each sheet of paper. The CPU 10 then optimally controls the image formation speed and the target temperature of the fixing unit 201E according to the paper type detected here. As described above, by the CPU 10 using the media sensor 14 to determine the paper type, the user does not need to be aware of the paper type when setting it. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 201 is provided with a mode (hereinafter also referred to as an automatic media setting mode) that automatically sets print control parameters and the like using this function.

[0028] Meanwhile, the image forming apparatus 201 also provides a mode in which the user manually sets the paper type to be used (hereinafter also referred to as manual media setting mode). The user can operate the instruction / display unit 13 to preset either the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode for each paper feed cassette. The default mode is the automatic media setting mode. A setting value indicating whether the setting mode is the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode is stored in RAM 12. The configuration of the media sensor 14 described above is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the media sensor 14 may be configured to combine an ultrasonic sensor such as a piezoelectric element in addition to a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, or may have other configurations.

[0029] <How to register user-defined paper 1> FIGS. 5-1(A) to 5-3(E) are diagrams schematically illustrating screens displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. A method for registering a user-defined paper sheet will be described using FIGS. 5-1(A) to 5-3(E). A user-defined paper sheet is information about a paper type that is uniquely set by the user, unlike the information about pre-prepared basic paper sheets. The user can then set characteristics of that paper type, such as basis weight and surface texture, as well as print control parameters (control parameters for image formation) such as the fixing temperature. In this embodiment, print control parameters for the user-defined paper sheet are created using print control parameters for the basic paper sheet that are pre-stored in a first storage area of ​​RAM 12. The CPU 10 then stores the created print control parameters for the user-defined paper sheet in the first storage area of ​​RAM 12.

[0030] More specifically, the procedure for a user to select a paper type will be described using FIG. 5-1(A). The user can select three options—"Basic Paper," "User-Defined Paper," and "All"—by touching a pull-down menu 502. FIG. 5-1(A) illustrates an example in which a user selects a basic paper type. The CPU 10 reads paper information stored in the RAM 12 in response to the selection and displays it in the form of a list 503. The user can register a user-defined paper by selecting a basic paper type from the paper types displayed in the list 503, touching the copy icon 505, and then entering a new name. The user can also confirm and edit the details of the selected basic paper type by selecting a basic paper type from the paper types displayed in the list 503 and touching the details / edit icon 504. The display screen is configured so that it does not respond to the delete icon 506. This setting prevents the registered information for the basic paper type from being deleted.

[0031] FIG. 5-1(B) shows an example in which the user selects a user-defined paper type from pull-down menu 512. In this case, list 513 displays a list of user-defined paper types that CPU 10 has read from RAM 12. The user can register a new user-defined paper type based on a registered user-defined paper type by selecting a user-defined paper type from the paper types displayed in list 513 and touching copy icon 515. The user can also confirm and edit print control parameters such as basis weight and size by selecting a user-defined paper type from the paper types displayed in list 513 and touching detail / edit icon 514. The user can also delete the selected user-defined paper type by selecting a user-defined paper type from the paper types displayed in list 513 and touching delete icon 516.

[0032] Figure 5-2(C) is an example of a screen that is displayed when the details / edit icons 504, 514 are touched. This screen displays the parameters required to control printing for each paper type in list format. Each parameter column also has a change icon, which can be touched to edit the parameter. More specifically, the "Name" column displays the name pre-registered in the device for basic paper, and the name registered by the user for user-defined paper. The "Type" column displays the type of paper selected by the user. The "Basis Weight" column displays the weight per unit area of ​​the paper. The "Size" column displays the size of the paper. The "Surface" column displays the type of paper, which describes the characteristics of the paper's surface shape.

[0033] <Adjusting print control parameters> The "secondary transfer voltage" displayed on the screen in Figure 5-2(C) is the value required to transfer the toner from the intermediate transfer body, and is set to a value large enough to prevent abnormal discharge. For example, if the paper used for printing has moisture content or resistance values ​​significantly different from the standard values, the default secondary transfer voltage may not provide optimal transfer. Therefore, in such cases, the secondary transfer voltage is set to a value different from the default value. Also, if the resistance value of the paper used for printing is higher than the standard value, the default secondary transfer voltage may be insufficient. Therefore, in such cases, the secondary transfer voltage is set to a value higher than the default value. Also, if the moisture content of the paper used for printing is lower than the standard value, abnormal discharge is more likely to occur, which may result in image defects. Therefore, in such cases, the secondary transfer voltage is set to a value lower than the default value. As such, the secondary transfer voltage must be set or adjusted to an appropriate value depending on the type of paper used for printing.

[0034] Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 201, a coarse adjustment chart or a fine adjustment chart (not shown) is printed to set and adjust the secondary transfer voltage for the printing paper, and these charts are read by the image reading device 202. In this way, the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage is determined so that the transfer efficiency falls within a specified range. More specifically, to newly register or re-register the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage, the user touches the change icon 522 (FIG. 5-2(C)) in the field displaying "Secondary Transfer Voltage." The display screen then transitions to the chart print screen shown in FIG. 5-2(D). When the print start icon 532 is touched, the CPU 10 prints the chart and displays the screen shown in FIG. 5-3(E). The user places the printed chart in the feeder and presses the read start icon 542. The CPU 10 then scans the chart, calculates the necessary adjustment values, and stores the adjustment values ​​in the RAM 12 in association with the user-defined paper selected in FIG. 5-1(B). When the adjustment value is saved, the display of "Not set" for "Secondary transfer voltage adjustment" on the detailed display screen 521 shown in FIG. 5-2(C) is changed to "Set."

[0035] Furthermore, "Image Position Adjustment" displayed on the screen in FIG. 5-2(C) is an adjustment item for adjusting the image position on each of the front and back sides of the paper. That is, in the image position adjustment, the image position adjustment values ​​for the top and left edges of each of the front and back sides are set as movement amounts. For this adjustment, the CPU 10 also prints a chart for adjusting the image position on the front and back sides. The user places the printed chart in the feeder and presses the start reading icon 542. The CPU 10 then scans the chart, calculates the necessary adjustment values, and saves the adjustment values ​​in RAM 12 in association with the user-defined paper selected in FIG. 5-1(B). Once the adjustment values ​​are saved, the display of "Image Position Adjustment" on the detailed display screen 521 shown in FIG. 5-2(C) changes from "Not Set" to "Set."

[0036] The screen in FIG. 5-2(C) displays, as examples of print control parameters, basis weight, size, surface properties, secondary transfer voltage adjustment, and image position adjustment, but various other parameters are also set. Touching the arrow icon 523 shown in FIG. 5-2(C) displays the other parameters on the screen to which the screen transitions. Examples of other parameters include toner amount adjustment and margin adjustment. By selecting the basic paper or user-defined paper in this way and touching the copy icons 505 and 515, the user-defined paper and its print control parameters can be easily registered.

[0037] <How to register user-defined paper 2> Another example of a method for registering user-defined paper will be described using Figures 6-1(A) to 6-4(H). This method uses the media sensor 14 to allow the user to register user-defined paper without being aware of the paper type. Figure 6-1(A) shows an example of a setting screen that the CPU 10 displays on the operation panel 205 when the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the paper feed tray. On this screen, the user can set the size and type of paper placed in the paper feed tray. More specifically, when the "First-time paper" icon 601 is touched on the screen of Figure 6-1(A), the flow for creating user-defined paper begins, and the display screen changes to the screen of Figure 6-1(B). The screen of Figure 6-1(B) displays a screen for selecting a base paper type for registering user-defined paper. Note that this base paper type has already been set as a print paper type and has already been registered in the image forming apparatus 201. When the "automatic detection when printing" icon 602 is touched on the screen, the paper type is automatically detected using the media sensor 14, and subsequent registration of user-defined paper is executed according to the detected paper type.

[0038] On the other hand, when the "Select from list" icon 603 is touched on the screen of FIG. 6-1(B), the user can select a base paper type from a paper type list 604 displayed on the screen. The paper type list 604 is an example of a "list that displays the print paper that has already been set so that it can be selected for each type of print paper." Then, when the "Next" icon 605 (an example of the "fourth object" of the present invention) is touched with a predetermined paper type selected, the screen transitions to the secondary transfer voltage adjustment screen of FIG. 6-2(C).

[0039] On the screen of FIG. 6-2(C), touching the print start icon 606 prints a chart for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage. Here, if the "Auto detect when printing" icon 602 is selected on the screen of FIG. 6-1(B), the media sensor 14 measures the paper when the first paper on which the secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart is printed is fed, and the paper type is determined. The CPU 10 copies the determined paper type and registers it in the paper type database as a user-defined paper. At this point, the CPU 10 stores data measured by the media sensor, such as basis weight and surface properties, in the RAM 12 as print control parameters for the user-defined paper.

[0040] After printing the secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart based on the stored print control parameters for the user-defined paper, the CPU 10 transitions the screen to the screen shown in FIG. 6-2(D). The transitioned screen displays a command to start reading the printed secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart. When the user touches the read start icon 607 on the screen, the CPU 10 reads the secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart and calculates the adjustment values. The CPU 10 stores the calculated adjustment values ​​in RAM 12 as print control parameters for the user-defined paper. The CPU 10 then prints and scans the image position adjustment chart in the same way as the secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart (FIGS. 6-3(E) and (F)), calculates the adjustment values, and saves the calculated adjustment values ​​in RAM 12 as print control parameters for the user-defined paper.

[0041] Note that the print control parameters are not limited to secondary transfer voltage adjustment and image position adjustment, and may be any parameters that can be associated with paper and implemented. Adjustments to these multiple print control parameters can be performed simultaneously in the user-defined paper registration flow. While an example of performing both secondary transfer voltage adjustment and image position adjustment is shown, each adjustment may or may not be possible depending on the paper size and type. In this case, the CPU 10 automatically determines the necessary adjustments based on the paper size and type and controls the screen display for secondary transfer voltage adjustment and image position adjustment. However, if the "Auto Detect During Printing" icon 603 is touched on the paper type selection screen shown in Figure 6-1(B), the paper is automatically measured by the media sensor 14 when the paper is fed to print the secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart, and the paper type is determined. The CPU 10 may also control each component to feed only one sheet of paper before performing the adjustments and then determine the adjustment menu.

[0042] Next, the CPU 10 transitions the screen to the screen shown in FIG. 6-4(G). The transition destination screen allows the user to input the name of the user-defined paper. The user inputs an arbitrary name in the name input field 610 and touches the OK icon 611. The CPU 10 then changes the name of the user-defined paper in the paper type database to the name input in FIG. 6-4(G), and transitions the screen to the screen shown in FIG. 6-4(H). In this way, the registration of the user-defined paper is completed. Note that FIG. 6-4(H) is the same paper setting screen for the paper feed tray as FIG. 6-1(A), but the area 612 that displays the paper type displays the name of the user-defined paper registered in the user-defined paper registration flow.

[0043] The control flow for registering user-defined paper as described above will be explained using Figure 7. Each step in the flowchart in Figure 7 is realized by the CPU 10 reading out a control program from the ROM 11, expanding it in the RAM 12, and executing it. Before the processing of this flowchart begins, the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the manual paper feed tray 5. Then, the CPU 10 displays the paper setting screen (Figure 6-1(A)) including the "First-time paper use" icon 601, and this icon 601 is touched.

[0044] In S701, the CPU 10 accepts the selection of a paper type to be duplicated in order to register a user-defined paper. The paper type to be duplicated is automatically set when the "Auto detect when printing" icon 602 in FIG. 6-1(B) is selected, and is selected from the paper type list 604 when the "Select from list" icon 603 is touched. The CPU 10 then accepts a touch on the "Next" icon 605 and proceeds to S702.

[0045] In S702, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type selected from the paper type list 604 in S701 is a type of paper for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is possible. If the CPU 10 determines that it is not possible, secondary transfer voltage adjustment is skipped and the process proceeds to S706. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that it is possible, the process proceeds to S703. Also, if the "Auto detect when printing" icon 602 is selected in S701, the process automatically proceeds to S703. In S703, the CPU 10 displays a print screen for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage (FIG. 6-2(C)), starts printing when it receives a touch on the start print icon 606, and proceeds to S704.

[0046] In S704, the CPU 10 determines whether the "Auto Detect When Printing" icon 602 was touched in S701. If the CPU 10 determines that the icon was touched, the process proceeds to S710. In S710, the CPU 10 measures paper type data such as basis weight and surface texture using the media sensor 14 when paper is fed, and identifies the paper type by comparing the measurement data with the paper type data stored in RAM 12. In S711, the CPU 10 determines whether the print adjustment parameters for the identified paper type are adjustable. Note that this determination may be made using a variable stored in RAM 12 indicating whether the print adjustment parameters are adjustable. If the CPU 10 determines that the print adjustment parameters are adjustable, the process proceeds to S705. If the CPU 10 determines that the print adjustment parameters are not adjustable, the process skips the secondary transfer voltage adjustment in S705 and proceeds to S706. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the "Auto Detect When Printing" icon 602 was not touched in S704, the process proceeds directly to S705 without proceeding to S710 and S711.

[0047] In S705, the CPU 10 displays a scan screen for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage, reads in a print chart (FIG. 6-2(D)), calculates adjustment values, and proceeds to S706. In S706, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type of the source paper is paper for which image position adjustment can be performed. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper is paper for which image position adjustment can be performed, the process proceeds to S707. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that image position adjustment cannot be performed, the process proceeds to S709 without proceeding to S707 and S708. In S707, the CPU 10 prints a chart for adjusting the image position (FIG. 6-3(E)). In S708, the CPU 10 reads in the printed chart for adjusting the image position (FIG. 6-3(F)), and calculates adjustment values. In S709, the CPU 10 displays the screen of FIG. 6-4(G) and accepts input of the name of the user-defined paper. Then, the CPU 10 associates the input name of the user-defined paper with the adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage and the adjustment value for the image position adjustment, and stores them in the RAM 12. Then, the series of processes ends.

[0048] <Adjusting parameters for registered user-defined paper> 8-1(A) to 8-3(E) will be used to explain the process in which the user readjusts the parameters of a registered user-defined paper after the user has registered the user-defined paper. Note that Fig. 8-1(A) is an example of an adjustment screen that the CPU 10 displays on the operation panel 205 when the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the paper feed tray and determines that the detected paper type is user-defined paper.

[0049] The CPU 10 determines whether parameters related to secondary transfer voltage and image position adjustment have already been stored in RAM 12 in association with the corresponding print paper. If the CPU 10 determines that these parameters have already been stored in RAM 12, the CPU 10 displays the name of the registered user-defined paper and a simple adjustment icon 802 in area 801 on the screen of FIG. 8-1(A). Also, a "First-time paper" icon 807 is displayed on FIG. 8-1(A) in the same way as on the screen of FIG. 6-1(A). When this "First-time paper" icon 807 (an example of the "second object" of the present invention) is touched, the flow for creating the user-defined paper starts, and the display screen transitions to the screen of FIG. 6-1(B) (an example of the "third screen" of the present invention).

[0050] The screen of FIG. 8-1(A) is an example of a "first screen" of the present invention, and the simple adjustment icon 802 is an example of a "first object" of the present invention. These determination processes are an example of a "determination by a determination means" of the present invention. When the simple adjustment icon 802 is touched, the CPU 10 transitions the display screen to a secondary transfer voltage adjustment screen of FIG. 8-1(B) (an example of a "second screen" of the present invention). When a print start icon 803 (an example of a "third object" of the present invention) is touched on the screen of FIG. 8-1(B), the CPU 10 prints a chart for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage. Then, the CPU 10 transitions the screen to the screen of FIG. 8-2(C).

[0051] When the read start icon 804 is touched on the screen of FIG. 8-2(C), the CPU 10 reads the secondary transfer voltage adjustment chart and calculates the adjustment value. The CPU 10 then stores the calculated adjustment value in the RAM 12 as a print control parameter for the user-defined paper. Subsequently, on the screens shown in FIGS. 8-3(D) and (E), operations similar to the touch operations on the screens shown in FIGS. 8-2(B) and (C) are performed. This results in printing of the image position adjustment chart, scanning, calculation of the adjustment value, and storage of the image position adjustment value. The screens of FIGS. 8-2(B) to 8-3(E) may be equivalent to the screens of FIGS. 6-2(C) to 6-3(F).

[0052] Next, the control flow for adjusting the parameters of the registered user-defined paper will be described using Figure 9. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 10 reading out a control program from the ROM 11 and loading it into the RAM 12. This flowchart starts when the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the paper feed tray, displays the paper setting screen (Figure 8-1(A)), determines that the paper type is a registered user-defined paper, and touches the simple adjustment icon 802.

[0053] In S901, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type is one for which secondary transfer voltage adjustment is possible. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is one for which adjustment is possible, the process proceeds to S902. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is one for which adjustment is not possible, the process skips S902 and S903 and proceeds to S904. In S902, the CPU 10 displays a print screen (FIG. 8-2(B)) for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage, and when the print start icon 803 is pressed, the CPU 10 feeds paper and starts printing. In S903, the CPU 10 displays a scan screen (FIG. 8-2(C)) for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage, and when the read start icon 804 is touched, the CPU 10 reads the print chart and calculates new adjustment values.

[0054] In S904, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type is a type for which image position adjustment can be performed. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a type for which image position adjustment can be performed, the process proceeds to S905. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a type for which image position adjustment cannot be performed, the process skips S905 and S906 and proceeds to S907. In S905, the CPU 10 displays a print screen (FIG. 8-3(D)) for the image position adjustment chart, and executes printing of the image position adjustment chart in response to touching of the print start icon 805. In S906, the CPU 10 displays a scan screen (FIG. 8-3(E)) for the image position adjustment, and reads the image position adjustment chart in response to touching of the read start icon 806, and calculates new adjustment values. In S907, the CPU 10 stores the calculated new adjustment values ​​for the secondary transfer voltage and the image position adjustment in the RAM 12 (an example of "updating parameters" in the present invention). Then, the series of processes ends. The CPU 10 and the like that execute the processes from S901 to S907 are an example of the "adjustment means" of the present invention.

[0055] (Actions and Effects) According to the image forming apparatus 201, when a user-defined paper has been registered, the easy adjustment icon 802 is displayed on the paper feed setting screen (FIG. 8-1(A)). If an image defect or misalignment occurs, the user can touch this easy adjustment icon 802, and the above-mentioned guidance screen for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage and guidance screen for adjusting the image position are displayed in sequence (FIGS. 8-2(B) to 8-3(E)). Therefore, even an average user can easily adjust the print control parameters that have been set. This allows the user to prevent deterioration in the quality of printed matter. This allows the user to continuously maintain high quality in printed matter.

[0056] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 201, the CPU 10 automatically determines whether or not the secondary transfer voltage and image position can be adjusted depending on the paper type. Also, in the image forming apparatus 201, the media sensor 14 can automatically detect the paper type. This improves the accuracy with which a typical user can appropriately set and adjust print control parameters.

[0057] Furthermore, with the image forming apparatus 201, if a user-defined paper has not yet been registered, the user touches the "First-time paper" icon on the paper feed setting screen (FIG. 6-1(A)). This allows the user to select the base paper for the user-defined paper on the next screen (FIG. 6-1(B)). Furthermore, with the base paper for the user-defined paper selected, the "Next" icon 605 is touched. This sequentially displays a guidance screen (FIGS. 6-2(C) and (D)) that guides the user to adjust the secondary transfer voltage and a guidance screen (FIGS. 6-3(E) and (F)) that guides the user to adjust the image position. Following this series of screen transitions, the user can easily set new print control parameters for the unregistered user-defined paper. This allows even an average user to create high-quality printouts.

[0058] (Variation) In the above embodiment, the secondary transfer voltage is adjusted, followed by the image position adjustment, but the reverse order is also possible. Furthermore, while the secondary transfer voltage adjustment and image position adjustment are described as examples of parameter adjustment, the image forming apparatus 201 may have other adjustment menus, and similarly determine and implement the necessary adjustments depending on the paper type. When registering user-defined paper, if the secondary transfer voltage cannot be adjusted in S711, the process of S709 may be omitted and the user-defined paper registration flow may be terminated. Furthermore, if both the secondary transfer voltage and image position adjustment are not adjustable, the process of S709 may be omitted and the user-defined paper registration flow may be terminated.

[0059] The CPU 10 may also determine whether the registered user-defined paper allows adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage and image position, and if the CPU 10 determines that neither is adjustable, may hide the easy adjustment icon 802 (FIG. 8-1(A)). This determination may be made based on the paper type. The paper type may also be automatically detected by the media sensor 14. Hiding the easy adjustment icon 802 in this manner is an example of "determining not to include the first object in the first screen if the parameters cannot be set" in the present invention.

[0060] The image forming apparatus 201 may be configured with a communication module that includes a network interface card (NIC), a wireless circuit, etc., and is capable of communicating with an external device (e.g., a user terminal). The communication module may transmit screen information displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the external device, and may receive instructions from the external device for registering user-defined paper and setting and adjusting print control parameters.

[0061] <Other embodiments> The present invention 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.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0062] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention.

[0063] The disclosure of this specification includes the following image forming apparatus, its control method, and program. (Item 1) an output means for outputting a first screen on which a printing paper type can be set and a second screen for setting parameters for controlling the driving of an image forming apparatus corresponding to the type of printing paper; a determination means for determining whether or not a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen is to be included in the first screen, The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the determination means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen when there is a print sheet for which the parameters have already been set. (Item 2) The image forming device described in item 1, characterized in that the first screen includes a second object for transitioning to a third screen including a list that displays the printing paper that has already been set so that it can be selected by type of printing paper. (Item 3) The image forming apparatus according to item 1 or 2, characterized in that the determination means determines not to include the first object in the first screen if the type of printing paper is a type for which the parameters cannot be set. (Item 4) The image forming apparatus described in item 3 is characterized in that the type of printing paper is identified using the amount of light detected by a sensor equipped with an emitting unit and a receiving unit, and the amount of light received by the receiving unit that is emitted from the emitting unit and reflected by the printing paper. (Item 5) 5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the second screen includes a third object for starting printing of information relating to the parameters. (Item 6) a receiving means for receiving an operation on an object included in the displayed screen; and an adjusting means for adjusting the parameters, When the receiving means receives an operation on the third object, The image forming apparatus described in item 5 is characterized in that, if the parameter is settable, the adjustment means prints information about the parameter on the printing paper, reads the printed printing paper, and updates the parameter corresponding to the type of printing paper using the information about the parameter printed on the read printing paper. (Item 7) Item 3. The image forming apparatus according to item 2, wherein the third screen includes a fourth object for transitioning to the second screen for setting the parameters corresponding to the selected printing paper. (Item 8) 8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the parameters include at least one of a secondary transfer voltage and a position of the image printed on the printing paper. (Item 9) A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: an output step in which an output means outputs a first screen on which a printing paper can be set and a second screen for setting parameters for controlling the driving of an image forming apparatus corresponding to the type of printing paper; a determining step by a determining means to determine whether or not a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen is to be included in the first screen, The control method for an image forming apparatus, wherein the determining means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen if there is a print sheet for which the parameters have already been set. (Item 10) A program for causing a computer to execute each step of a control method for an image forming apparatus, the control method comprising: an output step in which an output means outputs a first screen on which a printing paper can be set and a second screen for setting parameters for controlling the driving of an image forming apparatus corresponding to the type of printing paper; a determining step by a determining means to determine whether or not a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen is to be included in the first screen, The program, wherein the determining means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen when there is a print paper for which the parameters have already been set. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 10: CPU, 11: ROM, 12: RAM, 13: instruction / display unit, 14: media sensor, 100: paper type detection sensor, 201: image forming apparatus, 201A: image forming apparatus main body, 201B: image forming unit, 201E: fixing unit, 202: image reading device, 203: fixing film, 204: fixing heater, 205: operation panel, 206: fixing nip unit, 207: heater holder, 208: temperature detection sensor, 210: laser scanner, 480: photodiode, 481: LED, 483: guide unit , 502, 512: Pull-down, 503, 513: List, 504, 514: Details / Edit icon, 505, 515: Duplicate icon, 521: Details display screen, 522: Change icon, 532, 606, 803, 805: Start printing icon, 542, 607, 804, 806: Start reading icon, 601, 807: "First time paper use" icon, 602: "Auto detect when printing" icon, 603: "Select from list" icon, 604: Paper type list, 802: Easy adjustment icon

Claims

1. an output means for outputting a first screen on which a printing paper type can be set and a second screen for setting parameters for controlling the operation of an image forming apparatus corresponding to the type of printing paper; a determination means for determining whether or not a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen is to be included in the first screen, The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the determining means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen when there is a printing paper sheet for which the parameters have already been set.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first screen includes a second object for transitioning to a third screen including a list displaying the print paper that has already been set so that the print paper can be selected for each type of print paper.

3. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said determining means determines that said first object should not be included in said first screen when said type of printing paper is a type for which said parameter cannot be set.

4. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the type of printing paper is identified using the amount of light detected by a sensor having an emitting element and a receiving element, and the amount of light received by the receiving element is the amount of light emitted from the emitting element and reflected by the printing paper.

5. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second screen includes a third object for starting printing of information relating to the parameters.

6. a receiving means for receiving an operation on an object included in the displayed screen; and an adjusting means for adjusting the parameters, When the receiving means receives an operation on the third object, The image forming apparatus of claim 5, wherein the adjustment means, when the parameter is settable, prints information about the parameter on the printing paper, reads the printed printing paper, and updates the parameter corresponding to the type of printing paper using the information about the parameter printed on the read printing paper.

7. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the third screen includes a fourth object for transitioning to the second screen for setting the parameters corresponding to the selected print paper.

8. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parameters include at least one of a secondary transfer voltage and a position of the image printed on the printing paper.

9. A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: an output step in which an output means outputs a first screen on which a printing paper can be set and a second screen for setting parameters for controlling the driving of an image forming apparatus corresponding to the type of printing paper; a determining step by a determining means to determine whether or not a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen is to be included in the first screen, The control method for an image forming apparatus, wherein the determining means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen when there is a print sheet for which the parameters have already been set.

10. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of a control method for an image forming apparatus, the control method comprising: an output step in which an output means outputs a first screen on which a printing paper can be set and a second screen for setting parameters for controlling the driving of an image forming apparatus corresponding to the type of printing paper; a determining step by a determining means to determine whether or not a first object for transitioning from the first screen to the second screen is to be included in the first screen, The program, wherein the determining means determines that the first object should be included in the first screen when there is a print sheet for which the parameter has already been set.

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