Image forming apparatus, image forming system, information output method and program

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, an information output method, and a program that enable an operator to easily recognize a model to which a used unit attached to an image forming apparatus to be disposed of can be attached when the used unit is reused in a recycled machine. The printer includes an image forming unit 13 that forms an image on paper, an information processing unit (control unit 11) that acquires or generates compatibility information for units attached to the image forming unit 13, and an output control unit (control unit 11) that causes an output unit (such as a display unit 151) to output the compatibility information acquired or generated by the information processing unit. The compatibility information is information regarding installation locations where units can be attached.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, in order to realize a recycling-oriented society, it is desirable to eliminate wasteful waste, and the importance of reusing resources is increasing. Some image forming devices are collected, refurbished, and sold again as recycled machines. Refurbished machines can reuse used units with remaining life that are removed from discarded image forming devices. This can increase the rate at which resources are reused.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which, when a part of an apparatus itself needs to be replaced, the presence of replaceable parts is detected from other connected apparatuses. According to the configuration described in Patent Document 1, in an image forming system having multiple interchangeable parts as its components, it is possible to make the most of each part. Therefore, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 can improve the availability of each part. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-106462 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, when workers reuse used units installed in image forming apparatuses to be discarded in recycled machines, they may not know which used units can be installed in which models. This is because used units generally do not come with installation instructions. Also, small units such as paper feed rollers may not have identification codes. Therefore, workers may not even know which product a small unit belongs to.

[0006] The configuration described in Patent Document 1 detects the presence of replaceable parts from other connected devices, so it can only manage parts between connected devices. In other words, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 is not capable of obtaining information about used units installed in itself or used units installed in other unconnected devices. Therefore, when using the configuration described in Patent Document 1 to reuse used units installed in an image forming device to be discarded in a recycled machine, workers have a problem in that they do not know which used units can be installed in which model. Furthermore, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 also has a problem in that workers do not even know which small units belong to which product.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide an image forming device, an image forming system, an information output method, and a program that allow an operator to easily recognize the model in which a used unit attached to an image forming device to be discarded can be attached when the used unit is reused in a recycled machine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The invention described in claim 1 has been made to achieve the above object, In the image forming apparatus, an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; an information processing unit that acquires or generates compatibility information of a unit attached to itself; an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information acquired or generated by the information processing unit; Equipped with The compatibility information is information relating to a mounting location to which the unit can be mounted.

[0009] The invention described in claim 2 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, The compatibility information includes the names of units to which the unit can be attached, product names, and destinations.

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 2, The units include a common unit that is a unit related to the formation of a toner image of each color and that can be attached commonly to each color, The information processing unit is characterized in that, when acquiring or generating the compatibility information, it adds color information in which the common unit is used to the unit name of the common unit.

[0011] The invention described in claim 4 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, The output control unit causes the image forming unit to print the compatibility information on the paper, causes a communication unit to transmit the compatibility information to a database, or causes a display unit to display the compatibility information.

[0012] The invention described in claim 5 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, The information processing unit is characterized in that, when generating the compatibility information, it determines whether or not the unit is reusable using a reuse determination reference value of the mounting destination.

[0013] The invention described in claim 6 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, The information processing unit is characterized in that, if there is no reusable model, it determines that the unit is not reusable.

[0014] The invention described in claim 7 is An image forming system in which an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet and a terminal device that manages compatibility information of units installed in the image forming apparatus cooperate with each other, The terminal device a storage unit that stores a database that manages compatibility information of units installed in the image forming apparatus; an acquisition unit that acquires compatibility information managed in the database; a first communication unit that transmits the compatibility information acquired by the acquisition unit to the image forming apparatus; Equipped with the image forming apparatus, an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information transmitted by the first communication unit; The compatibility information is information relating to a mounting location to which the unit can be mounted.

[0015] The invention described in claim 8 is An image forming system in which an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet and a terminal device that manages compatibility information of units installed in the image forming apparatus cooperate with each other, the image forming apparatus, a second communication unit that transmits remaining life information of the unit attached to itself to the terminal device; The terminal device a generation unit that generates compatibility information of the unit based on remaining life information transmitted by the second communication unit; a first communication unit that transmits the compatibility information generated by the generation unit to the image forming device; Equipped with the image forming apparatus, an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information transmitted by the first communication unit; The compatibility information is information relating to a mounting location to which the unit can be mounted.

[0016] The invention described in claim 9 is An information output method for an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, comprising: an information processing step of acquiring or generating compatibility information of a unit attached to the device itself; an output control step of causing an output unit to output the compatibility information acquired or generated in the information processing step; Including, The compatibility information is information relating to a mounting location to which the unit can be mounted.

[0017] The invention described in claim 10 is A computer of an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, an information processing unit that acquires or generates compatibility information of a unit attached to itself; an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information acquired or generated by the information processing unit; It functions as The compatibility information is information about a mount location to which the unit can be mounted. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, when a used unit installed in an image forming apparatus to be disposed of is reused in a recycled machine, an operator can easily recognize a model in which the used unit can be installed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a control structure of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control for determining whether an image forming apparatus can be reused. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of compatibility information output control. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a compatibility information table. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a sheet on which various information about a unit is printed. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of compatibility information output control. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of unit identification information and status information. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the specifications of the drum unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of generated compatibility information. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a control structure of an image forming system according to a first modification. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of compatibility information output control according to Modification 1. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of compatibility information output control according to the first modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0021] The image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment is an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) that has a copy function, a scan function, a facsimile function, and the like in addition to an image forming function. In the work of recycling image forming apparatus 10, a worker at the manufacturer first removes a reusable used unit from image forming apparatus 10, the main body of which is to be disposed of. Next, the worker installs the removed used unit in image forming apparatus 10 to be reused. The manufacturer sells or rents image forming apparatus 10 with the used unit installed as a recycled machine.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a control unit 11, an image reading unit 12, an image forming unit 13, a storage unit 14, an operation panel 15, and a communication unit 16.

[0023] The control unit 11 includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. First, the CPU reads out various processing programs stored in the ROM in response to an instruction signal and loads the programs into the RAM. The instruction signal is received as an operation signal input from the operation unit 152 or via the communication unit 16. Next, the CPU comprehensively controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 in cooperation with the various programs loaded into the RAM.

[0024] The image reading unit 12 reads an image of a document placed on a document table or an automatic document feeder (ADF), not shown, and obtains an image signal. Specifically, the image reading unit 12 scans and exposes the image of the document using the optical system of a scanning exposure device, reads the reflected light using a line image sensor, and obtains an image signal. The image signal is subjected to processes such as A / D conversion, shading correction, and compression, and then input to the control unit 11 as image data. Note that the image data input to the control unit 11 is not limited to that read by the image reading unit 12. For example, it may be image data received from an external device (not shown) via the communication unit 16.

[0025] The image forming unit 13 forms an image made up of four colors, C, M, Y, and K, on ​​a sheet of paper in accordance with the pixel values ​​of the four colors of each pixel of the image-processed original image. The image forming unit 13 includes four writing units 131, an intermediate transfer belt 132, a secondary transfer roller 133, a fixing unit 134, and the like.

[0026] The four writing units 131 are arranged in series (tandem) along the belt surface of the intermediate transfer belt 132 and form images of the respective colors of C, M, Y, and K. The writing units 131 have the same configuration except for the colors of the images they form. Each writing unit 131 includes an optical scanning unit 131a, a photosensitive member 131b, a developing unit 131c, a charging unit 131d, a cleaning unit 131e, and a primary transfer roller 131f.

[0027] When forming an image, each writing unit 131 first charges the photoconductor 131b using the charging unit 131d. Next, each writing unit 131 scans the photoconductor 131b with a light beam emitted from the optical scanning unit 131a based on the original image, forming an electrostatic latent image. Next, each writing unit 131 supplies a color material such as toner using the developing unit 131c to develop the image. This forms an image (toner image) on the photoconductor 131b.

[0028] The images formed on the photoconductor 131b by each writing unit 131 are sequentially superimposed and primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 132 by the respective primary transfer rollers 131f. As a result, images of each color are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 132. The intermediate transfer belt 132 is an image carrier that rotates while being wound around multiple rollers. After the primary transfer, each writing unit 131 removes color material remaining on the photoconductor 131b using the cleaning unit 131e.

[0029] Paper is fed to the image forming unit 13 in time with the image on the rotating intermediate transfer belt 132 reaching the position of the secondary transfer roller 133. Paper is fed to the image forming unit 13 from the manual feed tray T1 or the paper feed tray T2. One of the pair of secondary transfer rollers 133 is in pressure contact with the intermediate transfer belt 132. The other roller of the pair constitutes one of the multiple rollers that wrap around the intermediate transfer belt 132. The image is secondarily transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 132 onto the paper fed to the image forming unit 13 by the pressure of the secondary transfer roller 133. The paper with the secondarily transferred image is transported to the fixing unit 134, where it is fixed, and then discharged to the paper output tray T3. The fixing process is a process in which the fixing roller 134a applies heat and pressure to the paper to fix the image to the paper. When forming images on both sides of the paper, the paper is conveyed to a reversing path 135 to reverse the paper surface, and then the paper is fed again to the position of the secondary transfer roller 133 .

[0030] The storage unit 14 is a non-volatile storage means configured by an HDD, SSD, etc. The storage unit 14 stores various programs, various setting data, etc. in a manner that allows the control unit 11 to read and write the data. The storage unit 14 stores identification information and status information (information indicating the remaining life (remaining life information) and the like) of each unit (see FIG. 8). The storage unit 14 also stores a compatibility information table TA1 (see FIG. 5).

[0031] The operation panel 15 includes a display unit 151 that displays various information to the worker, and an operation unit 152 that accepts operation inputs from the worker.

[0032] The display unit 151 is configured with a color liquid crystal display or the like, and displays an operation screen and the like in accordance with a display control signal input from the control unit 11. The operation screen includes, for example, various setting screens, various buttons, and the operating status of each function.

[0033] The operation unit 152 includes a touch panel provided on the screen of the display unit 151 and various hard keys arranged around the screen of the display unit 151. When a button displayed on the screen is pressed with a finger, a touch pen, or the like, the operation unit 152 first detects the X and Y coordinates of the pressed point of force as a voltage value. Next, the operation unit 152 outputs an operation signal associated with the detected position to the control unit 11. Note that the touch panel is not limited to a pressure-sensitive type and may be, for example, an electrostatic type or an optical type. When a hard key is pressed, the operation unit 152 outputs an operation signal associated with the pressed key to the control unit 11. An operator can operate the operation unit 152 to make settings related to image formation, issue paper transport instructions, and stop the device. Settings related to image formation include, for example, image quality settings, magnification settings, application settings, output settings, and paper settings.

[0034] The communication unit 16 has a communication IC, a communication connector, etc., and is an interface that connects the image forming apparatus 10 to a communication network. The communication unit 16 transmits and receives various information to and from external devices connected to the communication network using a predetermined communication protocol under the control of the control unit 11. The communication unit 16 can also input and output various information via USB.

[0035] The units that can be detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus 10 include, for example, drum units of each color, a transfer unit, a fixing unit, and toner bottle units of each color.

[0036] Next, the control of the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment will be described. First, the control for determining whether the image forming apparatus 10 is reusable or not will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0037] First, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 determines whether the total number of printed sheets is equal to or greater than a first threshold value (step S101). The first threshold value is a threshold value, such as 500,000 sheets, that is used as a criterion for determining whether the image forming apparatus 10 is unreusable. When the control unit 11 determines that the total number of printed sheets is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (step S101: YES), the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the total number of printed sheets is less than the first threshold value (step S101: NO), the process proceeds to the next step S102.

[0038] In step S102, the control unit 11 determines whether the number of years of use is equal to or greater than a second threshold value. The second threshold value is a threshold value, such as five years, that serves as a criterion for determining whether the image forming device 10 is non-reusable. When the control unit 11 determines that the number of years of use is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (step S102: YES), the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the number of years of use is less than the second threshold value (step S102: NO), the process proceeds to the next step S103.

[0039] In step S103, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the device has started up normally. Specifically, the control unit 11 performs a start-up test to determine whether or not the device has started up normally. If the control unit 11 determines that the startup has been normal (step S103: YES), the process proceeds to the next step S104. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the startup has not been normal (step S103: NO), the process proceeds to step S107.

[0040] In step S104, the control unit 11 determines whether the copy function is normal. Specifically, first, the control unit 11 causes the image reading unit 12 to read an image of a document placed on the document table or the ADF. Next, the control unit 11 causes the image reading unit 12 to copy the image data read by the image reading unit 12 onto paper sheets fed from each paper feed tray T2. Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the image data has been successfully copied onto paper sheets fed from each paper feed tray T2. The control unit 11 determines that the copy function is normal if the image data has been successfully copied onto paper sheets fed from all paper feed trays T2. On the other hand, the control unit 11 determines that the copy function is abnormal if the image data has not been successfully copied onto paper sheets fed from at least one paper feed tray T2. When the control unit 11 determines that the copy function is normal (step S104: YES), the process proceeds to the next step S105. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the copy function is not normal (step S104: NO), the process proceeds to step S107.

[0041] In step S105, control unit 11 determines whether the total cost of unit replacement is equal to or greater than a third threshold. The third threshold is a threshold used to determine whether the image forming apparatus 10 is non-reusable, and is, for example, 50,000 yen. Specifically, control unit 11 first acquires remaining life information for regularly replaced units (drum unit, fixing unit, etc.). Next, control unit 11 determines whether the acquired remaining life information exceeds the reuse determination reference value for each unit. If control unit 11 determines that the remaining life information exceeds the reuse determination reference value for each unit, it determines that the unit needs to be replaced. Then, control unit 11 determines whether the total cost of the units determined to need replacement (the total cost of unit replacement) is equal to or greater than a third threshold. When the control unit 11 determines that the total amount is equal to or greater than the third threshold (step S105: YES), the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the total amount is less than the third threshold (step S105: NO), the process proceeds to the next step S106.

[0042] In step S106, control unit 11 determines that its own device is reusable.

[0043] In step S107, the control unit 11 determines that the device itself is not reusable.

[0044] Next, a control (compatibility information output control) for the image forming apparatus 10 determined to be non-reusable to output compatibility information of a unit will be described. There are two methods for the compatibility information output control. First, the first method of the compatibility information output control will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0045] First, the control unit 11 acquires the identification information and status information of the unit (step S201).

[0046] Next, the control unit 11 acquires compatibility information of the unit based on the identification information of the unit (step S202). That is, the control unit 11 functions as an information processing unit of the present invention that acquires compatibility information of the unit attached to itself. Specifically, the control unit 11 acquires compatibility information of the unit by referring to the identification information of the unit and a compatibility information table TA1 (see FIG. 5) stored in the storage unit 14. The compatibility information of the unit is information regarding the attachment destination (model, destination, etc.) to which the unit can be attached. The compatibility information of the unit includes, for example, the name of the unit, product name, and destination to which the unit can be attached.

[0047] The compatibility information table TA1 is a table that associates each reusable unit with the compatibility information of that reusable unit. As shown in FIG. 5, the compatibility information table TA1 has fields for the unit name TA11 of the reusable unit, the installable model TA12, and the installable destination TA13. For example, the first record in the compatibility information table TA1 is a record for the unit name TA11, "drum unit of model A (for Japan)." The first record indicates that the installable models TA12 for the "drum unit of model A (for Japan)" are "model A, model B, and model C," and the installable destinations TA13 are "for Japan and Europe." The second record indicates that the installable models TA12 for the "fuser unit of model B (for North America)" are "model A and model B," and the installable destinations TA13 are "for Japan and North America."

[0048] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the units for which compatibility information was acquired in step S202 include a drum unit (step S203). The drum unit is a unit related to the formation of toner images of each color. The drum unit is also a unit that can be installed commonly to each color. In other words, the drum unit functions as a common unit of the present invention. When the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is included (step S203: YES), the process proceeds to the next step S204. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is not included (step S203: NO), the process proceeds to step S205.

[0049] In step S204, the control unit 11 adds color information used in the drum unit to the unit name of the drum unit. For example, if the color information used in the drum unit is "Y (Yellow)", the unit name becomes "drum unit (Y)". In other words, when obtaining compatibility information, the control unit 11 adds color information used in the common unit to the unit name of the common unit (drum unit).

[0050] In step S205, the control unit 11 causes the output unit to output various pieces of information about the unit. Specifically, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 (output unit) to print the compatibility information on paper. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, the control unit 11 may cause the display unit 151 (output unit) to display the compatibility information. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, the control unit 11 may cause the communication unit 16 (output unit) to transmit the compatibility information to a database in an external device. The various pieces of information about the unit include the unit's identification information, status information, and compatibility information. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as an output control unit of the present invention that causes the output unit to output the compatibility information acquired in step S202.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a sheet on which various information about a unit is printed. As shown in Figure 6, each of the sheets P1 and P2 has unit identification information J1, status information J2, and compatibility information J3 printed on it. The identification information J1 includes the model name, unit name, S / N (serial number), and destination. The status information J2 includes remaining life information.

[0052] Printed on paper P1 as identification information J1 are the model name "Model A," the unit name "Drum Unit (Y)," the S / N "A1," and the destination "Japan." Printed on paper P1 as status information J2 is the remaining life "50%." Printed on paper P1 as compatibility information J3 are the compatible models "Model A, Model B, Model C," and the compatible destinations "Japan, Europe." Printed on paper P2 as identification information J1 are the model name "Model B," the unit name "Fuser Unit," the S / N "B1," and the destination "For North America." Printed on paper P2 as status information J2 is the remaining lifespan "60%." Printed on paper P2 as compatibility information J3 are the compatible models "Model A, Model B" and the compatible destinations "For Japan, For North America." Furthermore, a QR code (registered trademark) J4 is printed on each of the papers P1 and P2, as shown in Fig. 6. The QR code J4 records identification information and status information of the unit.

[0053] Next, the second method of compatibility information output control will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0054] First, the control unit 11 acquires the identification information and status information of the unit (step S301). Fig. 8 shows an example of the identification information and status information of the unit.

[0055] Next, the control unit 11 acquires remaining life information of the units from the status information acquired in step S301 (step S302). As shown in FIG. 8, the remaining life information of the units is information including remaining life 1, remaining life 2, travel distance, travel time, number of printed sheets, etc. Remaining life 1 is the percentage of remaining life that is displayed when the unit is installed in a low-speed machine. Remaining life 2 is the percentage of remaining life that is displayed when the unit is installed in a high-speed machine. Travel distance is the cumulative distance that the intermediate transfer belt 132 has traveled from the time each unit was new until it was removed. Travel time is the cumulative time that the intermediate transfer belt 132 has traveled from the time each unit was new until it was removed. Number of printed sheets is the cumulative number of printed sheets that each unit has printed from the time each unit was new until it was removed.

[0056] Next, the control unit 11 acquires the reuse determination reference value of the model to which the unit can be attached (step S303). Specifically, the control unit 11 refers to the specifications of each unit to acquire the reuse determination reference value of the model to which each unit can be attached.

[0057] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the specifications of a drum unit. As shown in FIG. 9, the reuse determination standard value, replacement time, and life limit are set for each drum unit installed in each model. Specifically, the reuse determination standard value of "7000M (minutes)," the replacement time of "8000M," and the life limit of "10000M" are set for the drum unit installed in model A, a low-speed machine. The reuse determination standard value of "6000M (minutes)," the replacement time of "7000M," and the life limit of "9000M" are set for the drum unit installed in model B, a high-speed machine.

[0058] When the replacement time for a unit is reached, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 151 to display a message saying "Replacement time soon." This allows the user to use the image forming apparatus 10 until a service technician arrives to replace the unit. The message "Replacement time soon" is displayed earlier in high-speed machines than in low-speed machines. This is because high-speed machines print larger volumes than low-speed machines, and therefore wear out faster. In addition, the reuse determination reference value is set earlier than the replacement time, as shown in FIG. 9. This is because if a unit installed in a low-speed machine is past its replacement time and is then installed in a high-speed machine, the message "Replacement time soon" will be displayed as soon as the unit is installed.

[0059] Next, the control unit 11 performs a reuse determination for the unit using the remaining life information acquired in step S302 and the reuse determination reference value acquired in step S303 (step S304). Specifically, if the running time (remaining life information) of the unit is equal to or greater than the reuse determination reference value of the model to which the unit can be attached, the control unit 11 determines that the unit cannot be reused in that model. On the other hand, if the running time (remaining life information) of each unit is less than the reuse determination reference value, the control unit 11 determines that the unit can be reused. That is, when generating compatibility information, the control unit 11 determines whether the unit can be reused using the reuse determination reference value of the attachment destination.

[0060] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the reuse determination criterion value for a low-speed machine (model A) is "7000M," and the reuse determination criterion value for a high-speed machine (model B) is "6000M." For example, as shown in Figure 8, the "drum unit (Y)" of the low-speed machine (model A) has a running time of "5000M." Therefore, the "drum unit (Y)" of the low-speed machine (model A) can be reused in the low-speed machine (model A) because its running time (5000M) is less than the reuse judgment standard value (7000M) for the low-speed machine (model A). Also, the "drum unit (Y)" of the low-speed machine (model A) can be reused in the high-speed machine (model B) because its running time (5000M) is less than the reuse judgment standard value (6000M) for the high-speed machine (model B). The "drum unit (M)" of the low-speed machine (model A) has a running time of "6000M." Therefore, the "drum unit (M)" of the low-speed machine (model A) can be reused in the low-speed machine (model A) because its running time (6000M) is less than the reuse judgment standard value (7000M) for the low-speed machine (model A). Also, the "drum unit (M)" of the low-speed machine (model A) cannot be reused in the high-speed machine (model B) because its running time (6000M) is greater than the reuse judgment standard value (6000M) for the high-speed machine (model B). The "drum unit (Y)" of the high-speed machine (model B) has a running time of "5000M." Therefore, the "drum unit (Y)" of the high-speed machine (model B) can be reused in the low-speed machine (model A) because its running time (5000M) is less than the reuse criterion value (7000M) for the low-speed machine (model A). Also, the "drum unit (Y)" of the high-speed machine (model B) can be reused in the high-speed machine (model B) because its running time (5000M) is less than the reuse criterion value (6000M) for the high-speed machine (model B). The "drum unit (M)" of the high-speed machine (model B) has a running time of "6500M." Therefore, the "drum unit (M)" of the high-speed machine (model B) can be reused in the low-speed machine (model A) because its running time (6500M) is less than the reuse criterion value (7000M) for the low-speed machine (model A). Also, the "drum unit (M)" of the high-speed machine (model B) cannot be reused in the high-speed machine (model B) because its running time (6500M) is greater than the reuse criterion value (6000M) for the high-speed machine (model B).

[0061] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether there is another model to which the unit can be attached (step S305). If the control unit 11 determines that there is another model to which the unit can be attached (step S305: YES), the process proceeds to step S303. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that there is no other model to which the unit can be attached (step S305: NO), the process proceeds to the next step S306.

[0062] In step S306, the control unit 11 determines whether the units include a drum unit. If the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is included (step S306: YES), the process proceeds to the next step S307. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is not included (step S306: NO), the process proceeds to step S308.

[0063] In step S307, the control unit 11 adds color information used in the drum unit to the unit name of the drum unit. For example, if the color information used in the drum unit is "Y (Yellow)", the unit name becomes "drum unit (Y)". In other words, when generating compatibility information, the control unit 11 adds color information used in the common unit to the unit name of the common unit (drum unit).

[0064] In step S308, control unit 11 generates compatibility information for the units. That is, control unit 11 functions as an information processing unit of the present invention that generates compatibility information for the units attached to itself. Specifically, control unit 11 generates compatibility information that includes information on the model for which it was determined in step S304 that the unit can be reused.

[0065] FIG. 10 shows an example of the compatibility information generated in step S308. As shown in FIG. 10, the compatibility information has fields for the unit name TA21, the installable model TA22, and the installable destination TA23. For example, the first record in the compatibility information is a record for the unit name TA21, "drum unit (Y) of model A (sold in Japan)." The first record indicates that the installable models TA22 for "drum unit (Y) of model A (sold in Japan)" are "model A, model B," and the installable destinations TA23 are "Japan, Europe." The second record indicates that the installable model TA22 for "drum unit (M) of model A (sold in Japan)" is "model A," and the installable destinations TA23 are "Japan, Europe." The third record indicates that the installable model TA22 for "drum unit (Y) of model B (sold in North America)" is "model A, model B," and the installable destinations TA23 are "Japan, North America." The fourth record indicates that the "drum unit (M) of model B (for North America)" can be installed on model TA22, which is "model A," and that the "destination" for TA23 is "for Japan and North America."

[0066] Next, the control unit 11 causes the output unit to output various pieces of information about the unit (step S309). Specifically, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 to print the compatibility information on paper. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, the control unit 11 may cause the display unit 151 to display the compatibility information. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, the control unit 11 may cause the communication unit 16 to transmit the compatibility information to a database in an external device. The various pieces of information about the unit include the unit's identification information, status information, and compatibility information. In other words, the control unit 11 functions as an output control unit of the present invention that causes the output unit to output the compatibility information generated in step S308.

[0067] As described above, the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment includes the image forming unit 13, an information processing unit (control unit 11), and an output control unit (control unit 11). The image forming unit 13 forms an image on paper. The information processing unit acquires or generates compatibility information for units attached thereto. The output control unit causes the output unit (display unit 151, etc.) to output the compatibility information acquired or generated by the information processing unit. The compatibility information is information relating to attachment locations to which the unit can be attached. The compatibility information includes the names of units to which the unit can be attached, product names, and destinations. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment can output compatibility information for a used unit installed in the image forming apparatus 10 to be disposed of. Therefore, when reusing a used unit installed in an image forming apparatus to be disposed of in a recycled machine, an operator can easily recognize the model in which the used unit can be installed.

[0068] The units also include common units that are units related to the formation of toner images of each color and that are commonly attachable to each color. When acquiring or generating the compatibility information, the information processing unit adds color information in which the common unit is used to the unit name of the common unit. Therefore, even if a unit that can be installed commonly to each color is used, the worker can recognize the color information that was used. Therefore, when reusing a unit that can be installed commonly to each color, it can be appropriately replaced with a unit of the same color that was used.

[0069] The output control unit also causes the image forming unit 13 to print the compatibility information on paper, causes the communication unit 16 to transmit the compatibility information to a database, or causes the display unit 151 to display the compatibility information. Therefore, it is possible to output, in various ways, compatibility information of a used unit installed in image forming apparatus 10 to be disposed of. Therefore, when a used unit installed in an image forming apparatus to be disposed of is reused in a recycled machine, an operator can more reliably recognize models that can install the used unit.

[0070] Furthermore, when generating the compatibility information, the information processing section determines whether or not the unit is reusable using the reuse determination criterion value of the mounting destination. Therefore, only if the used unit installed in the image forming apparatus to be disposed of is reusable, the used unit can be reused in the recycled machine, thereby preventing the occurrence of problems such as installing a non-reusable used unit.

[0071] Although the present invention has been specifically described above based on the embodiments thereof, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified within the scope of the present invention.

[0072] (Variation 1) For example, in the above embodiment, a configuration in which the present invention is implemented using the image forming apparatus 10 alone is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be implemented using an image forming system 100 in which the image forming apparatus 10 and a PC 20 cooperate with each other. For the sake of simplicity, the same components as those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0073] 11, the image forming system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 10 and a PC 20. The apparatuses constituting the image forming system 100 are connected to a communication network N. Specifically, the communication network N is the Internet, a telephone line network of a telecommunications carrier, a mobile phone communication network, or the like.

[0074] The PC 20 is a terminal device that manages compatibility information of units attached to the image forming apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 11 , the PC 20 includes a control unit 21, an operation unit 22, a display unit 23, a storage unit 24, and a communication unit 25.

[0075] The control unit 21 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. The control unit 21 performs overall control of the operations of each unit of the PC 20 in cooperation with the CPU and program data expanded in a working area of ​​the RAM. The program data is stored in the ROM and the storage unit 24.

[0076] The operation unit 22 includes, for example, a keyboard having character input keys, number input keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, etc. The operation unit 22 accepts operation input from the user and outputs an operation signal according to the operation input to the control unit 21.

[0077] The display unit 23 includes a display such as an LCD, and displays an image based on the display control signal output from the control unit 21 on the display screen.

[0078] The storage unit 24 is configured by, for example, an HDD, a semiconductor memory, etc. The storage unit 24 stores data such as program data and various setting data in a manner that allows the control unit 21 to read and write the data. The storage unit 24 stores a database DB1 that manages compatibility information of units attached to the image forming apparatus 10. That is, in this first modification, the storage unit 14 of the image forming apparatus 10 does not store a compatibility information table TA1 (see FIG. 5).

[0079] The communication unit 25 is a communication interface having a communication IC, a communication connector, etc. Under the control of the control unit 21, the communication unit 25 transmits and receives various information to and from the PC 20 and external devices connected to the communication network N using a predetermined communication protocol.

[0080] Next, the control of the image forming system 100 according to the first modification will be described. First, the first method of compatibility information output control will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0081] First, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 acquires the identification information and status information of the unit (step S401).

[0082] Next, the control unit 11 causes the PC 20 to transmit the identification information and status information acquired in step S401 via the communication unit 16 (step S402).

[0083] Next, the control unit 21 of the PC 20 acquires compatibility information of the unit based on the identification information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 10 (step S403). Specifically, the control unit 21 acquires the compatibility information of the unit by referring to the identification information of the unit and a compatibility information table TA1 (see FIG. 5) managed in the database DB1. That is, the control unit 21 functions as an acquisition unit of the present invention.

[0084] Next, the control unit 21 causes the compatibility information acquired in step S403 to be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication unit 25 (step S404). That is, the communication unit 25 functions as a first communication unit of the present invention that transmits the compatibility information acquired in step S403 to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0085] Next, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 determines whether the units for which compatibility information has been transmitted from the PC 20 include a drum unit (step S405). When the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is included (step S405: YES), the process proceeds to the next step S406. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is not included (step S405: NO), the process proceeds to step S407.

[0086] In step S406, the control unit 11 adds color information used in the drum unit to the unit name of the drum unit.

[0087] In step S407, control unit 11 causes the output unit to output various pieces of information about the unit. Specifically, control unit 11 causes image forming unit 13 to print the compatibility information on paper. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, control unit 11 may cause display unit 151 to display the compatibility information. Alternatively, instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, control unit 11 may cause communication unit 16 to transmit the compatibility information to database DB1 of PC 20. In other words, control unit 11 functions as an output control unit of the present invention that causes the output unit to output the compatibility information transmitted by communication unit 25.

[0088] Next, the second method of compatibility information output control will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0089] First, the control unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 acquires the identification information and status information of the unit (step S501).

[0090] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the units include a drum unit (step S502). When the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is included (step S502: YES), the process proceeds to the next step S503. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that a drum unit is not included (step S502: NO), the process proceeds to step S504.

[0091] In step S503, the control unit 11 adds color information used in the drum unit to the unit name of the drum unit. For example, if the color information used in the drum unit is "Y (Yellow)", the unit name becomes "Drum Unit (Y)".

[0092] In step S504, the control unit 11 causes the identification information and status information acquired in step S501 to be transmitted to the PC 20 via the communication unit 16. That is, the communication unit 16 functions as a second communication unit of the present invention that transmits remaining life information of the unit attached to itself to the PC 20.

[0093] Next, the control unit 21 of the PC 20 acquires remaining life information of the unit from the status information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 10 (step S505).

[0094] Next, the control unit 21 acquires the reuse determination reference value of the model to which the unit can be attached (step S506). Specifically, the control unit 21 refers to the specifications of each unit to acquire the reuse determination reference value of the model to which each unit can be attached.

[0095] Next, the control unit 21 performs a reuse determination for the unit using the remaining life information acquired in step S505 and the reuse determination reference value acquired in step S506 (step S507). Specifically, if the running time (remaining life information) of the unit is equal to or greater than the reuse determination reference value for a model to which the unit can be attached, the control unit 21 determines that the unit cannot be reused in that model. On the other hand, if the running time (remaining life information) of each unit is less than the reuse determination reference value, the control unit 21 determines that the unit can be reused.

[0096] Next, the control unit 21 determines whether there is another model to which the unit can be attached (step S508). If the control unit 21 determines that there is another model to which the unit can be attached (step S507: YES), the control unit 21 proceeds to step S506. On the other hand, if the control unit 21 determines that there is no other model to which the unit can be attached (step S507: NO), the control unit 21 proceeds to the next step S509.

[0097] In step S509, control unit 21 generates compatibility information for the unit. Specifically, control unit 21 generates compatibility information including information about the model for which it was determined in step S506 that the unit can be reused. That is, control unit 21 functions as a generation unit of the present invention that generates compatibility information for the unit based on the remaining life information transmitted by communication unit 16.

[0098] Next, the control unit 21 causes the compatibility information generated in step S509 to be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication unit 25 (step S510). That is, the communication unit 25 functions as a first communication unit of the present invention that transmits the compatibility information generated in step S509 to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0099] Next, control unit 11 of image forming apparatus 10 causes the output unit to output various pieces of information about the unit (step S511). Specifically, control unit 11 causes image forming unit 13 to print the compatibility information on paper. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, control unit 11 may cause display unit 151 to display the compatibility information. Instead of printing the compatibility information on paper, control unit 11 may cause communication unit 16 to transmit the compatibility information to database DB1 of PC 20. The various pieces of information about the unit include unit identification information, status information, and compatibility information.

[0100] (Other variations) Furthermore, the control unit 11 may be configured to determine that the unit is not reusable if there is no reusable model. This prevents the occurrence of problems such as installing a non-reusable used unit in a reclaimed machine, thereby reducing the labor required by workers and downtime of the reclaimed machine.

[0101] In addition, the detailed configuration and operation of each device constituting the image forming system can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 100 Image forming system 10 Image forming device 11 Control unit (information processing unit, output control unit) 12 Image reading unit 13 Image forming unit (output unit) 131 Writing section 131a Optical scanning unit 131b Photoreceptor 131c Development section 131d Charging part 131e Cleaning Department 131f Primary transfer roller 132 Intermediate transfer belt 133 Secondary transfer roller 134 Fixing section 134a Fuser roller 135 Reverse Route 14 Storage section 15 Operation panel 151 Display unit (output unit) 152 Operation section 16 Communication unit (output unit, second communication unit) T1 manual feed tray T2 Paper Tray T3 Output Tray 20 PC (terminal device) 21 Control unit (acquisition unit, generation unit) 22 Control section 23 Display section 24 Memory section 25 Communications Department (1st Communications Department) DB1 database N Communication Network

Claims

1. an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet; an information processing unit that acquires or generates compatibility information of a unit attached to itself; an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information acquired or generated by the information processing unit; Equipped with The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the compatibility information is information regarding a mounting destination to which the unit can be mounted.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the compatibility information includes the name of a unit to which the unit can be attached, a product name, and a destination.

3. The units include a common unit that is a unit related to the formation of a toner image of each color and that can be attached commonly to each color, 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the information processing unit adds color information in which the common unit is used to the unit name of the common unit when acquiring or generating the compatibility information.

4. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output control unit causes the image forming unit to print the compatibility information on the paper, causes the communication unit to transmit the compatibility information to a database, or causes the display unit to display the compatibility information.

5. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing section determines whether the unit is reusable or not by using the reuse determination reference value of the mounting destination when generating the compatibility information.

6. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing section determines that the unit is not reusable if there is no reusable model.

7. An image forming system in which an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet and a terminal device that manages compatibility information of units installed in the image forming apparatus cooperate with each other, The terminal device a storage unit that stores a database that manages compatibility information of units installed in the image forming apparatus; an acquisition unit that acquires compatibility information managed in the database; a first communication unit that transmits the compatibility information acquired by the acquisition unit to the image forming apparatus; Equipped with the image forming apparatus, an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information transmitted by the first communication unit; The image forming system is characterized in that the compatibility information is information regarding a mounting destination to which the unit can be mounted.

8. An image forming system in which an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet and a terminal device that manages compatibility information of units installed in the image forming apparatus cooperate with each other, the image forming apparatus, a second communication unit that transmits remaining life information of the unit attached to itself to the terminal device; The terminal device a generation unit that generates compatibility information of the unit based on remaining life information transmitted by the second communication unit; a first communication unit that transmits the compatibility information generated by the generation unit to the image forming apparatus; Equipped with the image forming apparatus, an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information transmitted by the first communication unit; The image forming system is characterized in that the compatibility information is information regarding a mounting destination to which the unit can be mounted.

9. An information output method for an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, comprising: an information processing step of acquiring or generating compatibility information of a unit attached to the device itself; an output control step of causing an output unit to output the compatibility information acquired or generated in the information processing step; Including, The information output method according to claim 1, wherein the compatibility information is information regarding a mounting location where the unit can be mounted.

10. A computer of an image forming apparatus having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, an information processing unit that acquires or generates compatibility information of a unit attached to itself; an output control unit that causes an output unit to output the compatibility information acquired or generated by the information processing unit; It functions as The program, wherein the compatibility information is information regarding a mounting location where the unit can be mounted.

Images