Image forming apparatus and control method for image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus, etc., that can appropriately deal with events such as jams that occur. [Solution] An image forming apparatus comprising: a restricting member that restricts user access to the inside of the housing according to the operating state; a display unit capable of displaying guidance including an operation method related to the restricting member for resolving an event that hinders the execution of a job; and a control unit that controls the execution of the job, wherein if the resolution of the event involves moving the housing, the control unit restricts the execution of the job after the event has been resolved based on the guidance and until it receives a confirmation instruction indicating that the user has acknowledged the message regarding the movement of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus and the like.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that when a jam occurs in a sheet conveyance path provided on the back side of the apparatus, the entire apparatus may need to be moved for jam processing.

[0003] Also, Patent Document 2 discloses that when a jam occurs, the installation status of the image forming apparatus is determined, and if the apparatus needs to be moved, a message to that effect is displayed on the jam release screen. If further action is required after the apparatus is moved, a "Please press after movement is complete" button is displayed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image forming apparatus and the like that can appropriately handle events such as generated jams.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure comprises a restricting member that restricts user access to the inside of the housing according to the operating state, a display unit capable of displaying guidance including an operation method for the restricting member to resolve an event that hinders the execution of a job, and a control unit that controls the execution of the job, wherein if the resolution of the event involves moving the housing, the control unit restricts the execution of the job after the event has been resolved based on the guidance and until it receives a confirmation instruction indicating that the user has acknowledged the message regarding the movement of the housing.

[0007] Furthermore, the control method for an image forming apparatus according to this disclosure is a control method for an image forming apparatus equipped with a restricting member that restricts user access to the inside of the housing according to the operating state, characterized in that when an event that hinders the execution of a job occurs, guidance is displayed including an operation method for the restricting member to resolve the event, and if the resolution of the event involves moving the housing, the execution of the job is restricted after the resolution of the event based on the guidance until a confirmation instruction is received indicating that the user has acknowledged the message regarding the movement of the housing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, etc., that can appropriately deal with events such as jams that occur. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure illustrates the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] This diagram illustrates the processing flow according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, a multifunction device capable of performing jobs such as copying, faxing, and emailing in a single housing will be described as one form of an image forming apparatus. In this disclosure, the image forming apparatus is not limited to a multifunction device, but may also be a printer, copier, fax machine, etc., as long as it is capable of forming an image on paper based on an input print job. The following embodiments are examples for illustrating this disclosure, and the technical content of the claims will not be limited to the following descriptions.

[0011] In general image forming apparatuses, when a paper jam occurs during the execution of a print job or the like during paper conveyance, the print job is interrupted and guidance (sometimes referred to as jam guidance) for eliminating the paper jam is displayed on an operation panel or the like. In the present disclosure, an event in which the execution of a print job is inhibited due to a generated paper jam is referred to as a jam.

[0012] To eliminate the generated jam, the user needs to open a cover provided to be openable and closable with respect to the housing (outer housing) of the apparatus or remove a paper feed tray provided to be detachable from the housing of the apparatus and access the inside of the apparatus according to the position of the generated jam, and remove the paper that caused the paper jam.

[0013] In conventional image forming apparatuses, when the cover opened by the user during jam elimination is closed, the jam guidance is terminated, the display content on the operation panel is returned to the execution screen of the print job before the jam occurred, and the print job is automatically restarted.

[0014] By the way, for example, in a model in which a cover is provided on the back side of the image forming apparatus, it may be necessary to move the image forming apparatus (movement that swaps the front and back of the image forming apparatus) to open and close the cover. In the case of a model having such a configuration, it is assumed that the user performs an operation of swapping the front and back of the image forming apparatus, then opening the cover on the back side to eliminate the jam, closing the opened cover, and then returning the image forming apparatus to its original state.

[0015] However, as in the conventional case, if it is recognized that the jam has been eliminated when the cover on the back side is closed and the print job is restarted, the user may move the image forming apparatus to return it to its original state while the print job is being executed. If the image forming apparatus is moved after the restart of the print job (during execution), it may have an adverse effect on the apparatus and image quality.

[0016] In the present disclosure, an image forming apparatus and the like that can appropriately handle events such as generated jams are realized in the following embodiments.

[0017] [1 First Embodiment] [1.1 Functional Configuration] Figure 1 is an external perspective view illustrating the overall configuration of the multifunction printer 100 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a functional configuration diagram of the multifunction printer 100. The multifunction printer 100 has a housing 25 that forms the exterior of the device. The housing 25 is a bottomed box-shaped member that houses at least an image forming unit 19 (described later) and a paper feeding (transport) mechanism (not shown) for feeding paper from a mounted paper tray 31 to the image forming unit 19. The housing 25 is provided with a cover 27, which is a cover member configured to be openable and closable on the rear side (in the -(minus) y-axis direction in the figure), and a cover 29, which is a cover member configured to be openable and closable on the right side side (in the x-axis direction in the figure). Note that the cover 29 may also be provided on the left side side (in the -(minus) x-axis direction in the figure), or on both the left and right sides.

[0018] Furthermore, a paper feed tray 31, a box-shaped member with an open top for storing paper, is provided at the lower front of the housing 25 so as to be detachable from the front of the housing 25 (in the y-axis direction in the figure). Covers 27 and 29 are restrictive members that restrict user access to the inside of the housing 25 when they are in the "closed" state and allow access to the inside of the housing 25 when they are in the "open" state. Similarly, the paper feed tray 31 is also a restrictive member that restricts user access to the inside of the housing 25 when it is in the "installed (stored)" state and allows access to the inside of the housing 25 when it is in the "removed" state.

[0019] A multifunction device 100 having such a housing 25 comprises a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image forming unit 19, an image input unit 21, and a storage unit 23.

[0020] The control unit 11 comprehensively controls the entire multifunction device 100. The control unit 11 can be composed of one or more processing units (e.g., a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a SoC (System on Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 23. The control unit 11 may also be composed of one or more control circuits.

[0021] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user. The display unit 13 can be configured with, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 13 displays an operation screen according to the status of the multifunction device 100 (for example, a home screen (not shown), an execution screen (operation screen) related to setting and executing each job, or jam guidance, etc.).

[0022] The operation input unit 15 receives information input from the user or other parties. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys and buttons, including hard keys and software keys. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows information input via the display unit 13. When the operation input unit 15 is configured as a touch panel, it can detect user touch, tap, swipe operations on objects such as operation keys and buttons displayed via the display unit 13, and acquire coordinate information and pressure information on the touch panel. Common input methods for the touch panel can be, for example, resistive, infrared, electromagnetic induction, and capacitive touch methods.

[0023] The communication unit 17 includes either a wired or wireless interface, or both, for communicating with other devices via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, or a fax line. The communication unit 17 may also include interfaces related to (short-range) wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth®, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi®, ZigBee®, IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or wireless USB.

[0024] The image forming unit 19 feeds paper from the paper tray 31, forms an output image (printed image) on the paper based on image data, and then discharges the paper into the output tray. The image forming unit 19 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer employing an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 19 performs image formation using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to the toner color (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

[0025] The image input unit 21 can be configured as a scanner device having an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CIS (Contact Image Sensor), as well as an automatic document feeder (ADF) and a flatbed for scanning documents. The image input unit 21 is not particularly limited in its configuration as long as it is capable of generating image data by reading the reflected light image from the document image with the image sensor. The image input unit 21 can also be configured as an interface capable of acquiring image data in file formats such as TIFF, BMP, or JPEG stored in a storage device such as a USB memory, or image data transmitted from an external terminal device (not shown). The image input unit 21 may also generate image data for data transmission by applying, for example, shading correction or density correction to the acquired image data.

[0026] The memory unit 23 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and data necessary for the operation of the multifunction printer 100. The memory unit 23 can be composed of storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0027] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 23 stores a control program 231, a job control program 233, a guidance display program 235, and a message confirmation and judgment program 237, and reserves a setting information storage area 239.

[0028] The control program 231 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when comprehensively controlling the multifunction device 100. After reading the control program 231, the control unit 11 controls the operation of hardware such as the display unit 13, operation input unit 15, communication unit 17, image forming unit 19, and image input unit 21.

[0029] The job control program 233 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing various jobs such as copy jobs, print jobs, scan jobs, fax jobs, and image transmission jobs. After reading the job control program 233, the control unit 11 sets the device mode of the multifunction printer 100 to the job mode (copy mode, print mode, scan mode, fax mode, image transmission mode, etc.) for executing each job and executes the job for which it has received an execution instruction. If an event such as a jam occurs during the execution of a print job, for example, the control unit 11 interrupts the print job that is currently running. Furthermore, if resolving the jam requires the movement of the housing 25, the control unit 11 restricts the resumption (execution) of the interrupted job until the user confirms a message regarding the movement of the housing 25 after the jam has been resolved based on guidance. Here, the resolution of a jam as described in this disclosure refers to a state in which the jammed paper has been removed and the factors hindering the execution (resumption) of the print job have been eliminated. The resolution of the jam may be determined subjectively by the user, or it may be determined mechanically by the multifunction printer 100 (for example, based on whether or not jammed paper has been detected).

[0030] The guidance display program 235 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when displaying guidance to resolve an event such as a jam that has occurred. When the control unit 11 reads the guidance display program 235, for example, if the event that occurred is a jam, it identifies the location where the jam occurred. The control unit 11 then displays guidance that includes how to operate a restricting member to access the identified jam location. For example, if a jam occurs at a location accessible through the cover 27 on the back of the multifunction printer 100, the control unit 11 displays guidance that includes how to open and close the cover 27.

[0031] The message confirmation determination program 237 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when it needs to move the multifunction printer 100 to resolve a jam, and it needs to determine whether the user has confirmed the message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 that was displayed after the jam was resolved. If the control unit 11 reads the message confirmation determination program 237 and determines that it has received a confirmation instruction indicating that the message has been confirmed by the user, it decides to resume (execute) the print job that was interrupted due to the jam.

[0032] The configuration information storage area 239 is a storage area that stores device configuration information for the multifunction printer 100, configuration information necessary for job execution, guidance-related information necessary for displaying jam guidance, messages related to the movement of the multifunction printer 100, and so on.

[0033] [1.2 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the first embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 3. The processing described in Figure 3 is performed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction printer 100 when it reads the control program 231, the job control program 233, the guidance display program 235, the message confirmation and judgment program 237, etc.

[0034] When processing begins, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to execute a print job via a print job execution screen (not shown) or the like (step S10).

[0035] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received an instruction to execute a print job, it executes the print job (Step S10; Yes → Step S12). If it determines that it has not received an instruction to execute a print job, the control unit 11 waits until it receives an instruction to execute the print job (Step S10; No).

[0036] When a print job is executed, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a jam has occurred (step S14). If it determines that a jam has occurred, the control unit 11 interrupts the print job that is currently running (step S14; Yes → step S16). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that no jam has occurred, it terminates the process (step S14; No → terminate).

[0037] After the print job is interrupted, the control unit 11 displays guidance for resolving the jam (step S18).

[0038] The user follows the displayed guidance to access the inside of the multifunction printer 100 (casing 25) and attempt to resolve the jam by removing the jammed paper. The control unit 11 then determines whether or not the user has selected the end button to receive an instruction to end the guidance (step S20).

[0039] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a user's instruction to select the exit button, it determines whether the jam has been resolved (step S20; Yes → step S22). On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received a user's instruction to select the exit button, the control unit 11 waits until it receives such instruction (step S20; No).

[0040] In step S22, if the control unit 11 determines that the jam has been resolved, it terminates the display of the guidance (step S22; Yes → step S24). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the jam has not been resolved, it continues to display the guidance (step S22; No → step S18).

[0041] When the guidance display ends in step S24, the control unit 11 displays a message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 (step S26).

[0042] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to select the OK button on the displayed message, which indicates that the user has confirmed the message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 (step S28).

[0043] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a selection instruction for the OK button, it resumes the print job that was interrupted in step S16 and terminates the process (step S28; Yes → step S30 → termination).

[0044] If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a selection instruction for the OK button, it determines whether or not it has received a cancellation instruction for the print job (step S28; No → step S32). If it determines that it has received a cancellation instruction for the print job, the control unit 11 terminates the process without restarting the print job (step S32; Yes → terminate). If it determines that it has not received a cancellation instruction for the print job, the control unit 11 returns to step S28 (step S32; No → step S28).

[0045] [1.3 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the first embodiment will be described. Figures 4(a) to 4(d) illustrate an example of the configuration of guidance screens W100 to W106 displayed by the control unit 11 when a jam occurs. The guidance screens W100 to W106 illustrated in Figures 4(a) to 4(d) are examples of jam guidance provided to the user to resolve the jam that has occurred, and are configured so that the jam can be resolved by operating according to the procedure shown in the order of Figures 4(a), 4(b), 4(c), and 4(d). Figures 4(a) to 4(d) relate to guidance for resolving a jam via a cover 27 provided on the back side of the multifunction printer 100. In Figures 4(a) to 4(d), common components will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0046] Figure 4(a) shows an example configuration of the guidance screen W100 displayed by the control unit 11 after a jam occurs, and is a screen known as a jam map. The guidance screen W100 includes an event display area R10 that displays the details of the event that occurred, a guidance display area R12 that displays the content of the guidance, an exit button B10, and a next button B12.

[0047] The event display area R10 illustrated in Figure 4(a) is an example that displays "Paper jam," indicating that the event that occurred is a jam. The guidance display area R12 schematically represents the location of the jam using a triangular arrow in the figure. The user can visually confirm the location of the jam by checking the schematic diagram displayed in the guidance display area R12. Note that the schematic diagram representing the location of the jam may be changed depending on the number of jam locations (for example, if there is one jam location, either the front or right side diagram where the jam occurred may be used).

[0048] The end button B10 is a button that accepts a user's instruction to end the guidance. When the control unit 11 receives a user's instruction to select the end button B10, it executes the processing related to step S20 and onward in Figure 3.

[0049] The Next button B12 is a button that accepts a screen transition instruction from the user. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user for the Next button B12, it transitions the screen to the guidance screen W102 as illustrated in Figure 4(b).

[0050] Figure 4(b) shows an example configuration of the guidance screen W102 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to a selection instruction from the next button B12 on the guidance screen W100. The display configuration of the guidance screen W102 is the same as the guidance screen W100 exemplified in Figure 4(a), with the addition of a back button B14.

[0051] The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W102 displays instructions on how to operate the cover 27 for accessing the inside of the multifunction printer 100. Figure 4(b) is an example in which the guidance display area R12 displays a message that reads, "Please open the rear cover," along with an illustration including an arrow indicating the direction in which to open the cover 27 and the cover 27 itself, as instructions for operating the cover 27.

[0052] The back button B14 is a button that accepts screen transition instructions from the user. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user for the back button B14, it transitions the screen to the guidance screen W100 as exemplified in Figure 4(a).

[0053] Figure 4(c) shows an example configuration of the guidance screen W104 displayed by the control unit 11 after receiving a selection instruction from the next button B12 on the guidance screen W102. The display configuration of the guidance screen W104 is the same as that of the guidance screen W102 illustrated in Figure 4(b).

[0054] The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W104 displays instructions on how to access the inside of the multifunction printer 100 and remove jammed paper, following the instructions on how to operate the cover 27 displayed in the guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W102. Figure 4(c) is an example of how the paper removal method is displayed in the guidance display area R12, showing a message that reads, "If there is jammed paper, please remove it slowly," along with an illustration including an arrow indicating the direction of paper removal and a sheet of paper.

[0055] Figure 4(d) shows an example configuration of guidance screen W106, which is displayed by the control unit 11 after receiving a selection instruction for the next button B12 on guidance screen W104. Since guidance screen W106 is the final screen of the guidance related to jam resolution, the next button B12 exemplified in guidance screens W100 to W104 is not provided.

[0056] The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W106 displays instructions on how to operate the cover 27 after removing jammed paper. Figure 4(d) is an example of how the instructions for operating the cover 27 are displayed in the guidance display area R12, including a message that reads "Please close the cover," an illustration of the cover 27 and an arrow indicating the closing direction of the cover 27.

[0057] In the first embodiment, even if the user confirms the message "Please close the cover." displayed in the guidance display area R12 and actually closes the cover 27, the interrupted print job will not be resumed until the end button B10 on the guidance screen W106 is selected and the user receives confirmation of the message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 (an instruction to select the OK button), as illustrated in the following figure. This configuration prevents adverse effects on the device and image quality when the print job is resumed.

[0058] Figure 5 shows an example configuration of the message screen W108, which displays a message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the end button B10 on the guidance screen W106 in Figure 4(d). Note that in the guidance screens W100 to W104 in Figures 4(a) to 4(c), the user can also select the end button B10. If the end button B10 is selected in any of the guidance screens W100 to W104, and the paper jam has been resolved at that time, the control unit 11 will terminate the jam guidance and display the message screen W108.

[0059] The message screen W108 includes a message display area R14 that displays "If you move the machine, return it to its original position and then press [OK]" as an example of a message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100, an OK button B16 that accepts a selection instruction when the message displayed in the message display area R14 is confirmed by the user, and a cancel button B18 that accepts a command to cancel an interrupted print job.

[0060] When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user for the OK button B16, it resumes the print job that was interrupted in step S16 of Figure 3. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user for the Cancel button B18, it cancels the print job that was interrupted in step S16 of Figure 3. The OK button B16 also functions as a button to exit the display of the message screen W108. Furthermore, when the control unit receives a selection instruction for the Cancel button B18, instead of canceling the interrupted print job, it is also possible to configure the system to display an inquiry screen (selection screen) asking the user whether to cancel or not, as shown in Figure 8 below.

[0061] The control unit 11 displays a message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 in the message display area R14, thereby alerting the user that it is necessary to return the multifunction printer 100 to its original position if it has been moved, and reducing any adverse effects on the device or image quality caused by the movement of the multifunction printer 100 after the print job has been resumed (while it is running).

[0062] Incidentally, regarding the display of the message screen W108 related to the display of a message concerning the movement of the multifunction printer 100, it is also possible to, for example, determine the operating status of other covers or paper trays (other restrictive components) other than the cover targeted for operation in the guidance, display a message corresponding to the operating status of those other restrictive components, and then display the message screen W108.

[0063] For example, Figure 6 shows one example of a message screen W110 that displays messages regarding the operating status of other restrictive components (e.g., cover 29, paper feed tray 31, lower cover not shown, etc.) other than the cover 27 that was operated to resolve the jam.

[0064] The message screen W110 includes a message display area R16 regarding the operating status of other regulatory components and an OK button B16. Note that the OK button B16 can have the same configuration as the OK button B16 provided on the message screen W108 illustrated in Figure 5, so its explanation is omitted here.

[0065] The message display area R16 is an area for displaying messages regarding the operating status of other regulatory components, and Figure 6 is an example of the message displayed, "The cover is open. Please close it." After the user confirms the message and closes the cover, and the OK button B16 is selected, the control unit 11 displays a message screen W108 related to the display of a message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100.

[0066] In addition to messages regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100, the operation of the multifunction printer 100 after the OK button B16 is selected may also be displayed. For example, Figure 7 shows one example configuration of a message screen W112 in which a display area R18 that displays the operation of the multifunction printer 100 after the OK button B16 is selected by the user is provided within the message display area R14.

[0067] Display area R18 shows the actions of the multifunction printer 100 after the user selects the OK button B16. Figure 7 is an example of the actions of the multifunction printer 100 displayed, showing "[OK] to resume. Do not move the machine after resuming."

[0068] In this way, by informing the user of the actions of the multifunction printer 100 after selecting the OK button B16, the user can imagine how the multifunction printer 100 will operate, and the user can be made aware that it is necessary to move the multifunction printer 100 back to its original position before selecting the OK button B16.

[0069] Furthermore, in the message screens W108 and W112 exemplified in Figures 5 and 7, if the user selects the cancel button B18, it is also possible to configure the system to display an inquiry screen (selection screen) asking the user whether to cancel or not, rather than canceling the interrupted print job.

[0070] For example, Figure 8 shows one example configuration of the inquiry screen W114 that the control unit 11 displays when it receives a selection instruction for either the cancel button B18 on the message screens W108 or W112.

[0071] The inquiry screen W114 includes an inquiry display area R20 that displays the content of the inquiry to the user, an OK button B20, and a Cancel button B22. The inquiry display area R20 is an area that displays the content of the inquiry to the user, and Figure 8 is an example in which the inquiry content is "Do you want to cancel the job? If you want to cancel, please select [OK]." The OK button B20 is a button that accepts the user's confirmation of the inquiry content. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the OK button B20, it cancels the interrupted print job. On the other hand, the Cancel button B22 is a button that accepts the user's cancellation instruction for the inquiry content. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the Cancel button B22, it transitions the screen to the message screen W108 exemplified in Figure 5.

[0072] As described above, according to the first embodiment, even if the jam is resolved and the cover that was opened to resolve the jam is closed, the interrupted print job will not be resumed until the exit button on the guidance screen is selected and the input of a confirmation instruction (an instruction to select the OK button) regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 is received. Therefore, it is possible to prevent adverse effects on the device and image quality caused by moving the multifunction printer after the print job has been resumed (while it is running).

[0073] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment describes a configuration in which jams occur in multiple locations (for example, two locations). In the second embodiment, a configuration is described in which jams are continuously resolved at the locations where jams have occurred by using a cover 27 accessible from the rear side of the multifunction printer 100 and a paper feed tray 31 accessible from the front side of the multifunction printer 100.

[0074] The functional configuration of the multifunction device 100 according to the second embodiment can be the same as that of the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0075] [2.1 Processing Flow] The processing flow according to the second embodiment can be explained by replacing the flowchart in Figure 3 of the first embodiment with the flowchart in Figure 9. Therefore, in Figure 9, the same steps as in Figure 3 are given the same step numbers and their explanations may be omitted.

[0076] In step S16, after the print job is interrupted, the control unit 11 identifies the location of the jam (step S34). Then, the control unit 11 displays guidance (step S36).

[0077] The control unit 11 then determines whether or not it has received a command from the user to select the exit button (step S20). If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a command from the user to select the exit button, it determines whether or not all jams that occurred have been resolved (step S20; Yes → step S38). If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a command from the user to select the exit button, it continues to display the guidance (step S20; No → step S36).

[0078] If the control unit 11 determines that all jams have been resolved, it terminates the guidance display (step S38; Yes → step S24). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that not all jams have been resolved, it returns to step S36 (step S38; No → step S36).

[0079] Here, the guidance display process in step S36 of Figure 9 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 10. The control unit 11 obtains guidance from the storage unit 23 corresponding to the jam location identified in step S34 of Figure 9 (step S361).

[0080] Next, the control unit 11 displays the guidance acquired in step S361 (step S363). Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a user instruction to select the "Next" button (step S365). If it determines that it has received a user instruction to select the "Next" button, the control unit 11 returns to step S361 (step S365; Yes → step S361). On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received a user instruction to select the "Next" button, the control unit 11 terminates the process (step S365; No → Terminate).

[0081] Incidentally, Figure 9 shows an example of processing when jam occurs in multiple locations, and Figure 3 shows an example of processing when jam occurs in one location. However, even if jam occurs in only one location, the processing described in Figure 9 can be applied.

[0082] [2.2 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the second embodiment will be described. Figures 11(a) to (d) and 12(a) to (c) illustrate an example of the configuration of guidance screens W100 to W120 displayed by the control unit 11 when jams occur in multiple locations (two locations). Here, Figure 11(a) is the same as Figure 4(a), except that the number of triangular arrows indicating the jam locations is different. Figures 11(b) to 11(d) illustrate guidance for accessing the inside of the multifunction printer 100 via the cover 27 on the back side of the multifunction printer 100 to resolve the jam, and are the same as the guidance screens W100 to W106 (Figures 4(b) to 4(d)) exemplified in Figure 4 of the first embodiment. Also, Figures 12(a) to 12(c) are guidance screens for accessing the inside of the multifunction printer 100 via the paper feed tray 31 on the front side of the multifunction printer 100 to resolve the jam.

[0083] As in conventional technology, after the jam is resolved via the cover 27 on the back of the multifunction printer 100 (Figures 11(a) to 11(d)), if the user closes the cover 27 in accordance with the guidance content "Please close the cover." displayed in the guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W106, and attempts to resume the print job without displaying the remaining guidance as exemplified in Figures 12(a) to 12(c), the jam guidance will be restarted because the jam that can be resolved by accessing from the front of the multifunction printer 100 has not been addressed, and the guidance related to the jam that can be resolved by accessing from the back of the multifunction printer 100 (Figures 11(a) to 11(d)) will be displayed. Here, if the user follows the guidance and performs the operation to resolve the jam via the cover 27 on the back of the multifunction printer 100, the printer attempts to resume the print job without displaying the remaining guidance exemplified in Figures 12(a) to 12(c) when the cover 27 is closed by the user. However, since the jam that can be resolved by accessing from the front of the multifunction printer 100 has not been addressed, the jam guidance is resumed, and this process repeats, resulting in a situation where the print job cannot be resumed. Furthermore, if the user proceeds to the guidance screen W116 by selecting the Next button B12 without performing the operation to resolve the jam via the cover 27 on the back of the multifunction printer 100 when the jam guidance is resumed, the guidance regarding the jam that can be resolved by accessing from the front of the multifunction printer 100 (Figures 12(a) to 12(c)) can be displayed. However, even in this case, the problem remains that the guidance exemplified in Figures 12(a) to 12(c) is not displayed the first time the guidance is displayed.

[0084] On the other hand, in the second embodiment, even if the user closes the cover 27 according to the guidance content displayed in the guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W106, the jam guidance process will not end unless the user selects the exit button B10. When the control unit 11 receives the selection instruction for the next button B12, it transitions the screen to the guidance screen W116 illustrated in Figure 12(a).

[0085] The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W116 displays instructions on how to operate the paper feed tray 31 to access the inside of the multifunction printer 100. Figure 12(a) is an example in which the guidance display area R12 displays a message that reads, "Please pull out tray 2," along with an illustration including an arrow indicating the direction of removal of the paper feed tray 31 and the paper feed tray 31 itself, as instructions on how to operate the paper feed tray 31.

[0086] Figure 12(b) shows an example configuration of the guidance screen W118 displayed by the control unit 11 after receiving a selection instruction from the next button B12 on the guidance screen W116. The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W118 displays, following the operation method of the paper tray 31 displayed in the guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W116, a method for accessing the inside of the multifunction printer 100 and removing jammed paper. Figure 12(b) is an example in which the guidance display area R12 displays a message that reads, "If there is jammed paper, please remove it slowly," and an illustration including an arrow indicating the direction of paper removal and a sheet of paper as a method for removing paper.

[0087] Figure 12(c) shows an example configuration of the guidance screen W120 that the control unit 11 displays after receiving a selection instruction from the next button B12 on the guidance screen W118.

[0088] The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W120 displays instructions on how to operate the paper feed tray 31 after removing jammed paper. Figure 12(c) is an example of how the instructions for operating the paper feed tray 31 are displayed in the guidance display area R12, including a message that reads "Please return tray 2," an arrow indicating the direction in which to install the paper feed tray 31, and an illustration of the paper feed tray 31.

[0089] In the second embodiment, even if the user confirms the message "Please return tray 2." displayed in the guidance display area R12 and actually installs (stores) the paper feed tray 31, the interrupted print job will not be resumed until the end button B10 on the guidance screen W120 is selected and the user receives confirmation of the message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 as illustrated in Figure 5 (an instruction to select the OK button). This configuration prevents adverse effects on the device and image quality due to the movement of the multifunction printer after the print job has been resumed (while it is running). Furthermore, in the second embodiment, even if jams occur in multiple locations (for example, a first event and a second event), the guidance for resolving the second event can be displayed consecutively after the user's operation based on the guidance for resolving the first event, so that the user can resolve all jams without missing any.

[0090] By the way, in the second embodiment, as an example of jams occurring in multiple locations, the combination of the area where the rear cover 27 is opened and the area where the front paper feed tray 31 is pulled out was given, but the locations where jams occur are not limited to these, and for example, (a) the area where the rear cover 27 is opened and the area where the rear cover (not shown) of the paper feed tray 31 is opened, (b) the area where the rear cover 27 is opened and the automatic document feeder area can also be mentioned.

[0091] [3 Third Embodiment] The third embodiment includes a detection unit that detects the movement of the multifunction printer or the movement of the user, and restricts the display of messages related to the movement of the multifunction printer based on the detection results from the detection unit.

[0092] [3.1 Functional Configuration] The functional configuration of the multifunction printer 110 according to the third embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram of the mechanism configuration of the multifunction printer 110. The multifunction printer 110 includes a detection unit 33 in addition to the configuration of the multifunction printer 100 according to the first embodiment. Note that the configuration other than the detection unit 33 can be substantially the same as the configuration of the multifunction printer 100 according to the first embodiment, so its explanation here will be omitted.

[0093] The detection unit 33 is a gyro sensor capable of detecting the movement of the multifunction printer 110, or a human presence sensor capable of detecting the movement of the user. When the detection unit 33 detects the movement of the multifunction printer 110 or the movement of the user, it outputs the detection signal to the control unit 11. Based on the detection result from the detection unit 33, the control unit 11 restricts the display of messages related to the movement of the multifunction printer 110. Here, the user operation (specific operation) that the control unit 11 restricts the display of messages related to the movement of the multifunction printer 110 (housing 25) is: (a) If the user does not move the multifunction printer 110, but instead moves to the back of the multifunction printer 110 to perform an operation (process) related to clearing the jam, (b) Examples include when the user leans out from the front of the multifunction printer 110 to perform an operation (process) related to clearing the jam.

[0094] [3.2 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow according to the third embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 14. The processing described in the flowchart in Figure 14 is one in which step S40 is added between the processing of step S24 and step S26 in Figure 3.

[0095] In step S40, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has detected a specific operation by the user based on the detection result from the detection unit 33 (step S40). If it determines that it has detected a specific operation by the user, the control unit 11 skips the processing in steps S26 and S28 and resumes the print job (step S40; Yes → step S30). On the other hand, if it determines that it has not detected a specific operation by the user, the control unit 11 executes the processing from step S26 onwards (step S40; No → step S26).

[0096] By the way, Figure 14 describes an embodiment in which the process related to detecting a specific operation by the user (step S40) is executed between steps S24 and S26. However, the process related to step S40 can be executed at any time after the process related to interrupting the print job (step S16), and there are no particular restrictions.

[0097] As described above, according to the third embodiment, when a specific operation by the user is detected, the display of messages regarding the movement of the multifunction printer can be restricted, thereby further improving the operability related to jam resolution.

[0098] [4 Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment is a configuration in which, in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, etc., when the cover 27 on the back side of the multifunction printer 100 (110) is opened and closed in order to resolve a jam that has occurred, a button that accepts a rotation instruction to rotate the display content of the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) toward the user is displayed, and code information indicating the content of the guidance is displayed on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15).

[0099] [4.1 Example of Operation] Figure 15(a) shows an example configuration of a guidance screen W104 equipped with a rotation button B30 that receives a rotation instruction to rotate the guidance content displayed on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) toward the user.

[0100] For example, when a user moves to the back of the multifunction printer 100 (110) to resolve a jam, or after moving, they can rotate the display content of the guidance screen W104 by selecting the rotate button B30. Figure 15(b) shows the guidance screen W104 rotated 180 degrees by the user's selection of the rotate button B30. In the example in Figure 15(b), the display content of the guidance screen W104 is rotated 180 degrees by a single selection of the rotate button B30. However, for example, each time the rotate button B30 is selected (pressed), the display content of the guidance screen W104 may be rotated to a predetermined rotation angle such as 90 degrees, 180 degrees, 270 degrees, or 360 degrees from the display position (facing position) shown in Figure 15(a). The display content rotated by selecting the rotate button B30 can be returned to its original display position by selecting the return button B32. Furthermore, the button B32 for returning the display may be displayed in place of the rotation button B30 if the guidance screen W104 is rotated due to the selection of the rotation button B30. In addition, while Figures 15(a) and (b) describe a configuration in which the display content of the guidance screen W104 is rotated by selecting the rotation button B30 provided on the guidance screen W104, the display content of the guidance may also be rotated by physically rotating the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) itself, for example, by providing a mechanical rotation mechanism (not shown) on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15).

[0101] On the other hand, Figure 15(c) shows an example configuration of a code screen W122 that displays code information indicating the content of the guidance. The code screen W122 can be called up, for example, by selecting a call button provided on the jam guidance screen, and this call button may be displayed only when a jam occurs that can be resolved by accessing it from the back side of the multifunction printer 100 (casing 25). For example, when a user attempts to resolve a jam while looking at the operation screen of a mobile device such as a smartphone, they can obtain the content displayed on the guidance screen by reading the code information Q10 displayed on the code screen W122. In this case, the code information may be a one-dimensional code such as a barcode (e.g., EAN code, JAN code, Codbar, CODE128, etc.) or a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be a stack-type two-dimensional code (e.g., PDF417, CODE49, etc.) or a matrix-type two-dimensional code (e.g., Quick Response Code (QR Code®), DataMatrix, VeriCode, Aztec, etc.).

[0102] The code information Q10 contains, for example, address information for accessing an unillustrated server (which may be the multifunction printer 100 itself) that manages information related to the guidance screen. The user can use the code information reading function of their smartphone to read the address information embedded in the code information and obtain information related to the guidance screen from the server identified by that address information.

[0103] Even if the user is positioned (moved) to the back of the multifunction printer 100 (casing 25), they can still resolve the jam by referring to the guidance screen displayed on their smartphone's operation screen, thus significantly improving the ease of use when resolving jams.

[0104] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, even if the opening and closing of the cover on the back of the multifunction printer is required to resolve the jam that has occurred, the user can operate the printer while checking the guidance screen displayed directly in front of them, thus enabling more efficient resolution of the jam.

[0105] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified without departing from the gist of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0106] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and implemented to the extent that is technically possible.

[0107] Furthermore, in the embodiments, the programs that run in each device are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) in order to realize the functions of the embodiments described above. The information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during processing, and then stored in storage devices such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0108] Here, the computer-readable non-transient recording medium on which the program in the information processing device is recorded may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray® Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing the functions of the embodiments described above. Furthermore, the functions of this disclosure are realized by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs, etc., based on the instructions of the program.

[0109] Furthermore, when distributing the program to the market, it can be stored on a portable storage medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is, of course, also included in this disclosure.

[0110] Furthermore, each functional block or feature of the apparatus used in the embodiments described above can also be implemented and executed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. An electrical circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The aforementioned electrical circuit may consist of digital circuits or analog circuits. Also, if advances in semiconductor technology lead to the emergence of integrated circuit technologies that replace current integrated circuits, one or more aspects of this disclosure may use new integrated circuits based on such technologies. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 11 Control Unit 13 Display section 15 Operation Input Section 17 Communications Department 19 Image forming unit 21 Image Input Section 23 Memory section 25 cabinets Covers 27 and 29 31 Paper feed tray 33 Detection unit

Claims

1. A restricting member that restricts user access to the inside of the enclosure depending on the operating state, A display unit capable of displaying guidance including an operation method for the regulatory member to resolve an event that disrupts the execution of a job, The system includes a control unit that controls the execution of the job, The control unit, If the resolution of the aforementioned event involves moving the housing, the image forming apparatus is characterized in that, after the resolution of the aforementioned event based on the guidance, the execution of the job is restricted until a confirmation instruction is received indicating that the user has acknowledged the message regarding the movement of the housing.

2. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when the user selects an exit button to indicate the end of an operation based on the guidance, it determines whether the event has been resolved, and if it determines that the event has been resolved, it displays a message regarding the movement of the housing.

3. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, upon receiving a selection instruction for the termination button, it determines the operating state of other regulating members other than the regulating member for resolving the event, and displays a message corresponding to the operating state of the other regulating member.

4. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, in conjunction with the display of a message regarding the movement of the housing, the operation details of the image forming apparatus after the user has entered a confirmation instruction are displayed.

5. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, in conjunction with the display of a message regarding the movement of the housing, a selection screen is displayed that accepts the option of whether or not to cancel the execution of the job.

6. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when a first event and a second event that hinder the execution of the job occur, after the user has taken action based on the guidance for resolving the first event, the guidance for resolving the second event is continuously displayed on the display unit.

7. The system includes a detection unit that detects the movement of the image forming apparatus or the movement of the user, The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display of messages related to the movement of the housing is restricted based on the detection results by the detection unit.

8. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it displays an operation button for receiving a rotation instruction for the displayed content in the display unit or code information indicating the content of the guidance in the display unit.

9. The aforementioned restraining member is The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a cover member that is openable and closable on the rear side of the housing.

10. A control method for an image forming apparatus equipped with a restricting member that restricts user access to the inside of the enclosure according to the operating state, If an event occurs that disrupts the execution of the job, guidance will be displayed, including instructions on how to operate the regulatory member to resolve the event. A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized in that, if the resolution of the aforementioned event involves moving the housing, the execution of the job is restricted after the resolution of the aforementioned event based on the guidance, until a confirmation instruction is received indicating that the user has acknowledged the message regarding the movement of the housing.

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