Image forming apparatus and control method for image forming apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides an image forming apparatus, etc., that allows for flexible control of the display of messages related to the movement of the enclosure when the enclosure is moved in order to deal with an event that has occurred. [Solution] An image forming apparatus comprising a control unit that controls the execution of a job, and a display unit that displays a message regarding the movement of the housing based on the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the display manner of the message regarding the movement of the housing based on predetermined conditions when an event occurs and a response to the event is taken that involves moving 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 an apparatus, it may be necessary to move the entire apparatus for jam processing.

[0003] Also, Patent Document 2 discloses that when a jam occurs, the installation status of an image forming apparatus is determined, and if it is necessary to move the apparatus, a message to that effect is displayed on the jam release screen. If further action is required after the apparatus is moved, a button reading "Please press after movement is complete" 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 flexibly control the display of messages related to the movement of a housing when the movement of the housing is involved in dealing with an event that has occurred.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure comprises a control unit that controls the execution of a job, and a display unit that displays a message regarding the movement of the housing based on the control by the control unit, wherein the control unit controls the display manner of the message regarding the movement of the housing based on predetermined conditions when an event occurs and a response to the event is taken that involves moving the housing.

[0007] Furthermore, the control method for an image forming apparatus according to this disclosure is characterized by controlling the execution of a job, displaying a message regarding the movement of the housing based on the control by the control unit, and, when an event occurs and a response involving the movement of the housing is taken in response to the event, controlling the display manner of the message regarding the movement of the housing based on predetermined conditions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, etc., that can flexibly control the display of messages related to the movement of the housing when the housing is moved in order to deal with an event that has occurred. [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 flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] This figure illustrates an example of operation according to the third embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure illustrates an example of operation 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] Some image forming apparatuses involve opening and closing a cover member provided on the housing of the image forming apparatus in order to deal with events that occur. Depending on the apparatus configuration, this cover member may be located on the back or side of the housing, and in order to operate this cover member, the user may need to move the housing (apparatus) itself (for example, by lifting and flipping the housing to reverse its front and back).

[0012] Examples of events that may involve the movement of such a housing include, for example, paper jams, replacement of maintenance supplies such as toner or a developing unit, release of fixing pressure during printing of thick paper, cleaning of a high-density correction sensor, etc. The user can take appropriate measures according to the event that has occurred to eliminate the event that has occurred.

[0013] Here, the measures according to the present disclosure refer to operations, actions, confirmations, etc. performed by the user to remove the cause of the event that has occurred. For example, when the event that has occurred is a jam, it is the operation of removing the paper that has caused the paper jam; when the event that has occurred is to notify the near end of a maintenance supply, it is the replacement operation of the maintenance supply; when the event that has occurred is specific to printing an image on thick paper, etc., it is the operation of releasing the fixing pressure in the fixing device; when the event that has occurred is a high-density correction error, it is the cleaning operation of the high-density correction sensor. In the present disclosure, the situation where the cause of the event that has occurred is removed by the measure is referred to as the elimination of the event. The elimination of the event may be judged subjectively by the user or may be judged mechanically by the multifunction machine (for example, based on the presence or absence of detection of the paper related to the paper jam, reception of an instruction indicating completion of the measure described later, etc.).

[0014] When the event is eliminated by appropriate measures, if the housing has been moved to eliminate the event, it is necessary to return the moved housing to its original position (state). In the present disclosure, a message displayed with the intention of returning the moved housing to its original position (state) is referred to as a message regarding the movement of the housing.

[0015] By the way, in the conventional technology as illustrated in Patent Document 2, (1) when a message regarding the movement of the casing (for example, "Press when movement is complete") is displayed during the production process of the image forming apparatus or during maintenance / operation checks by service personnel, production and maintenance work is hindered. (2) Depending on the timing of the occurrence of an event (jam), there are situations where jobs continue after the event is resolved, but the display of only a message regarding the movement of the casing (for example, "Press when movement is complete") does not allow the operation to cancel the continuing job, and the job automatically resumes, wasting paper. (3) If a jam or the like also occurs in the document feeder at the same time, if a message regarding the movement of the casing is displayed first, it interferes with the display of work guidance for the document feeder, and the job cannot be properly resumed. (4) When the user looks at the control panel after moving the casing, it is in a position where they have to look down from above, making it difficult to read jam guidance and messages.

[0016] In this disclosure, to address the above problem, an image forming apparatus, etc., is realized in the following embodiment that can flexibly control the display of messages related to the movement of the housing when the housing is moved in order to deal with an event that has occurred.

[0017] [1 First Embodiment] The first embodiment is a configuration in which, after the completion of handling an event that has occurred, the display method of a message regarding the movement of the enclosure is determined based on predetermined conditions, and in particular, if it is determined that the handling of an event that has occurred corresponds to a specific task performed by the user, the display method of the message regarding the movement of the enclosure is determined to restrict the display of the message regarding the movement of the enclosure. [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 memory 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 (SPF: Single Pass Feeder) as a document feeder, and a flatbed for placing and 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, a message confirmation and determination program 237, and a message display determination program 239, and reserves a setting information storage area 241.

[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 event has been resolved based on guidance.

[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 casing 25 of the multifunction printer 100 to resolve an event such as a jam, and it needs to determine whether the user has acknowledged the message regarding the movement of the casing 25 that was displayed after the event was resolved. When 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 acknowledged by the user, it decides to resume (execute) the print job that was interrupted due to the occurrence of the event.

[0032] The message display determination program 239 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when deciding whether or not to display a message regarding the movement of the enclosure 25. If the control unit 11 reads the message display determination program 239 and determines that the action taken in response to the event corresponds to a specific task performed by the user, it restricts the display of the message regarding the movement of the enclosure 25. Here, a specific task is a task that is different from the tasks performed when a general user responds to an event during normal use, such as adjustment work during the production of the multifunction printer 100 or maintenance work performed by a maintenance user (service technician). If the control unit 11 determines that the action taken in response to the event corresponds to a specific task, it restricts the display of the message regarding the movement of the enclosure 25. The control unit 11 can determine whether or not an action corresponds to a specific task by, for example, whether or not the operating mode of the multifunction printer 100 is a maintenance user mode (service mode) that can only be operated by a maintenance user (service technician). Furthermore, during production adjustments, the display of messages related to the movement of the enclosure 25 can be restricted by disabling the function of the message display determination program 239 as a specific task, and the disabled function of the message display determination program 239 can be enabled during the final adjustment (initialization) before shipment.

[0033] The configuration information storage area 241 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 guidance in response to events that occur, messages related to the movement of the enclosure 25, and so on.

[0034] [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 device 100 when it reads the control program 231, job control program 233, guidance display program 235, message confirmation and determination program 237, message display determination program 239, etc. Note that the event to be resolved in Figure 3 is described as an event that involves the movement of the housing 25.

[0035] When processing begins, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a job execution instruction via a job execution screen (not shown) or the like (step S10).

[0036] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a job execution instruction, it executes the job (Step S10; Yes → Step S12). If it determines that it has not received a job execution instruction, the control unit 11 waits until it receives a job execution instruction (Step S10; No).

[0037] When a job is executed, the control unit 11 determines whether or not an event such as a jam has occurred (step S14). If it determines that an event has occurred, the control unit 11 interrupts the running job (step S14; Yes → step S16). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that no event has occurred, it terminates the process (step S14; No → terminate).

[0038] After the job is interrupted, the control unit 11 displays guidance for the user to deal with the event (step S18).

[0039] The user moves the housing 25 according to the displayed guidance and attempts to resolve the event that has occurred by dealing with the event. The control unit 11 then determines whether or not it has received an instruction to complete the handling (step S20). Examples of an instruction to complete the handling include receiving an instruction from the user to select the end button to receive an instruction to end the guidance, detection results of the operating status of restricting members such as covers 27 and 29, and confirmation results of the event's resolution.

[0040] When the control unit 11 determines that it has received an instruction to complete the action, it determines whether the action related to the action falls under a specific action (task) (Step S20; Yes → Step S22). If the control unit 11 determines that the action related to the action falls under a specific action, it omits the processing in Steps S24 and S26, resumes the job that was interrupted in Step S16, and terminates the process (Step S22; Yes → Step S28). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the action related to the action does not fall under a specific action, it displays a message screen regarding the movement of the housing 25 (Step S22; No → Step S24).

[0041] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a selection instruction for the OK button on the displayed message, which indicates that the user has confirmed the message regarding the movement of the housing 25 (step S26).

[0042] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a selection instruction for the OK button, it resumes the job that was interrupted in step S16 and terminates the process (step S26; Yes → step S28 → Termination). If the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a selection instruction for the OK button, it waits until it receives such an instruction (step S26; No).

[0043] [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, as an example of an event. 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 is 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 the 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.

[0044] 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 content 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. Note that the schematic diagram representing the jam location 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 may be used).

[0045] The event display area R10 shown in Figure 4(a) is an example displaying "Paper jam," indicating that the event that occurred is a jam. The guidance display area R12 schematically displays the location of the jam. By checking the schematic diagram displayed in the guidance display area R12, the user can visually confirm the location of the jam.

[0046] The end button B10 is a button that receives a user instruction to end the guidance. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user via the end button B10 indicating completion of the process, it executes the processing related to step S22 onwards in Figure 3.

[0047] The Next button B12 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 Next button B12, it transitions the screen to the guidance screen W102 as illustrated in Figure 4(b).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 arrow indicating the direction in which to open the cover 27 and an illustration including the cover 27.

[0050] The back button B14 is a button that receives a screen transition instruction 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).

[0051] Figure 4(c) shows an example configuration of the guidance screen W104 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to 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).

[0052] 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 arrow indicating the direction of paper removal and an illustration including paper.

[0053] 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.

[0054] The guidance display area R12 of the guidance screen W106 displays instructions on how to operate the cover 27 after the jammed paper has been removed. Figure 4(d) is an example in which the guidance display area R12 displays a message that reads "Please close the cover," an arrow indicating the closing direction of the cover 27, and an illustration including the cover 27, as instructions on how to operate the cover 27.

[0055] In the first embodiment, when the user confirms the message content "Please close the cover." displayed in the guidance display area R12 and inputs the instruction to select the exit button B10 on the guidance screen W106 as an instruction to complete the action, a determination is made as to whether the action related to resolving the jam as an event corresponds to a specific action. If the control unit 11 determines that the action related to resolving the jam does not correspond to a specific action, it displays a message regarding the movement of the housing 25 as illustrated in the following figure. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the action related to resolving the jam corresponds to a specific action, it restricts the display of the message regarding the movement of the housing 25.

[0056] Figure 5 shows one example configuration of the message screen W108, which displays a message regarding the movement of the housing 25, 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 the user can also select the end button B10 on the guidance screens W100 to W104 in Figures 4(a) to 4(c). If the end button B10 is selected on 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.

[0057] The message screen W108 includes a message display area R14 that displays an example message regarding the movement of the chassis 25, "If you move the machine, return it to its original position and then press [OK]. Pressing [OK] will resume the process. Do not move the machine after it has resumed," and an OK button B16 that accepts a selection instruction from the user after they have confirmed the message displayed in the message display area R14. The message screen W108 may also include a cancel button for canceling a job.

[0058] When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user for the OK button B16, it resumes the job (print job) that was interrupted in step S16 of Figure 3. The OK button B16 also functions as a button to exit the message screen W108.

[0059] On the other hand, if the response to an event that occurs corresponds to a specific operation such as the production process of the multifunction printer 100 or maintenance / operational checks performed by a service technician, the display of message screen W108 will be restricted.

[0060] As described above, according to the first embodiment, if the response to an event that occurs corresponds to a specific operation (task) such as the production process of the image forming apparatus or maintenance / operation checks by a service technician, the display of a message regarding the movement of the housing 25 can be restricted to prevent disruption to production and maintenance work. On the other hand, if the response to an event that occurs does not correspond to the above-mentioned specific operation (task), the control unit 11 can display a message regarding the movement of the multifunction printer 100 in the message display area R14 to alert the user that it is necessary to return the housing 25 to its original position if it has been moved.

[0061] [2 Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, under predetermined conditions, if there are jobs to be executed after the completion of handling an event, the message regarding the movement of the enclosure is displayed on the display unit along with a selection button that accepts an instruction to cancel the execution of the job.

[0062] 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. The control unit 11, which has read the job control program 233, can determine whether or not there are jobs to be executed after the completion of handling the event.

[0063] [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 6. Therefore, in Figure 6, the same steps as in Figure 3 are given the same step numbers and their explanations are omitted. Also, for the sake of explanation, steps S10 to S16 of Figure 3 are omitted in the explanation in Figure 6.

[0064] In step S18, the control unit 11 displays guidance for the user to deal with the event (step S18).

[0065] In step S20, if it determines that it has received an instruction to complete the handling, the control unit 11 determines whether or not there is a job to be executed after the handling of the event is completed (step S20; Yes → step S30). If it determines that there is a job to be executed, the control unit 11 displays a second message screen regarding the movement of the housing 25 (step S30; Yes → step S32). The second message screen can be configured by adding a selection button (cancel button) that accepts a screen transition instruction to a screen that accepts an instruction to cancel job execution (job cancellation message screen) to the message screen regarding the movement of the housing 25 (message screen W108) described in the first embodiment. On the other hand, if it determines that there is no job to be executed, the control unit 11 executes the processes of steps S24 and S26 described in Figure 3 (step S30; No → step S24 → step S26). Note that the processes related to steps S24 and S26 are not explained here.

[0066] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the user has selected the cancel button, which is a selection button that accepts a screen transition instruction to the job cancellation message screen, on the second message screen (step S34). If it is determined that the user has selected the cancel button, the control unit 11 displays the job cancellation message screen (step S34; Yes → step S36). If it is determined that the user has not selected the cancel button, the control unit 11 proceeds to step S26 (step S34; No → step S26).

[0067] The control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received a job cancellation instruction from the user via the displayed job cancellation message screen (step S38). If it determines that it has received a job cancellation instruction from the user, the control unit 11 cancels the execution of the target job and terminates the process (step S38; Yes → Termination). On the other hand, if it determines that it has not received a job cancellation instruction from the user, the control unit 11 resumes the execution of the target job and terminates the process (step S38; No → step S28 → Termination).

[0068] [2.2 Example of Operation] Figure 7 shows an example configuration of a message screen W110, which serves as a second message screen displaying messages related to the movement of the enclosure 25. In addition to the configuration of the message screen W108 exemplified in Figure 5, the message screen W110 includes a cancel button B18.

[0069] The Cancel button B18 is a selection button that receives an instruction to display a job cancellation message screen that asks the user whether to cancel or not cancel the interrupted job. When the selection instruction for the Cancel button B18 is received, the control unit 11 displays the job cancellation message screen W112, which is explained in the following figure.

[0070] Figure 8 illustrates an example configuration of the job cancellation message screen W112. The job cancellation message screen W112 includes a message display area R16 that displays "Do you want to cancel the job?" as an example of a message asking the user whether to cancel or not cancel the interrupted job, an OK button B20 that accepts the user's instruction to cancel the job, and a Cancel button B22 that accepts the instruction to cancel the job cancellation instruction. When the control unit 11 receives an instruction from the user to select the OK button B20, it cancels the interrupted job and terminates the process. At this time, the control unit 11 may also display a message screen indicating that the job has been canceled. On the other hand, when the control unit 11 receives an instruction to cancel the job cancellation instruction, it accepts the instruction to cancel the job cancellation instruction and transitions to the message screen W110 exemplified in Figure 7.

[0071] Figure 9 shows an example configuration of the message screen W114 displayed by the control unit 11 when the job is canceled via the job cancellation message screen W112. The message screen W114 can have the same configuration as the message screen W110 exemplified in Figure 7. Upon receiving a user's instruction to select the OK button B20, the message screen W114 can display in the message display area R14 that the interrupted job has been canceled (for example, "Job canceled. If you move the machine, ...").

[0072] As described above, according to the second embodiment, for example, if an event such as a jam occurs, and there are jobs that continue after the completion of handling the event, those jobs can be canceled. This prevents, for example, the wasteful consumption of paper or the like due to the automatic resumption of jobs.

[0073] [3 Third Embodiment] The third embodiment describes a configuration in which, under predetermined conditions, if the event that occurs is accompanied by a jam in the document feeder, a message regarding document removal is displayed before a message regarding the movement of the housing is displayed.

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

[0075] [3.1 Processing Flow] The processing flow according to the third embodiment can be explained by replacing the flowchart in Figure 3 of the first embodiment with the flowchart in Figure 10. Therefore, in Figure 10, the same steps as in Figure 3 are given the same step numbers and their explanations are omitted. In Figure 10, the explanation assumes that the event that occurs involves a jam related to the document feeding device. The third embodiment is a configuration that allows for appropriate handling of each event even when multiple events occur simultaneously.

[0076] When the control unit 11 interrupts the job due to an event, it determines whether the event is related to the document feeder (step S14; Yes → step S16 → step S40).

[0077] If the control unit 11 determines that the event that occurred is related to the document feeder, it displays guidance for dealing with the event (step S40; Yes → step S42). The guidance displayed by the control unit 11 here is guidance for removing the jammed document from the document feeder (document removal guidance). On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the event that occurred is not related to the document feeder, it proceeds to step S18 (step S40; No → step S18).

[0078] In step S42, when the user resolves the document removal guidance, the control unit 11 determines whether it has received a completion instruction, such as an instruction to select the end button to receive the guidance termination instruction (step S44).

[0079] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received an instruction to complete the process, it displays a message screen regarding the removal of the original document (step S44; Yes → step S46).

[0080] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not it has received an instruction from the user to select the OK button on the displayed message screen, which indicates that the message regarding document removal has been confirmed (step S48).

[0081] If the control unit 11 determines that it has received a command to select the OK button, it executes the process from step S18 onwards as described in Figure 3 (step S48; Yes → step S18). In step S18, the control unit 11 displays appropriate guidance according to the event that occurred. For example, if the event that occurred is a printing-related event such as a jam, the control unit 11 displays guidance to resolve the jam as described in the first embodiment. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that it has not received a command to select the OK button, it waits until it receives such a command (step S48; No).

[0082] The processing from step S18 onward can be carried out in the same manner as the processing described in Figure 3, so its explanation is omitted here.

[0083] [3.2 Example of Operation] Next, an example of operation according to the third embodiment will be described. Figures 11(a) to 11(e) illustrate an example of the configuration of document removal guidance screens W200 to W208 displayed by the control unit 11 when a jam occurs in the document feeder. The document removal guidance screens W200 to W208 illustrated in Figures 11(a) to 11(e) are examples of jam guidance provided to the user to resolve the jam that has occurred, and are configured so that the jam is resolved by operating according to the procedure shown in the order of Figures 11(a), 11(b), 11(c), 11(d), and 11(e). In Figures 11(a) to 11(e), components common to the guidance screens W100 to W106 illustrated in Figure 4 will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0084] Figure 11(a) shows an example configuration of the document removal guidance screen W200 displayed by the control unit 11 after a jam occurs, and is a screen known as a jam map. The document removal guidance screen W200 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.

[0085] The event display area R10 shown in Figure 11(a) is an example displaying "Paper jam," indicating that the event that occurred is a jam. The guidance display area R12 schematically displays the location of the jam. By checking the schematic diagram displayed in the guidance display area R12, the user can visually confirm the location of the jam.

[0086] The End button B10 is a button that receives a user's instruction to end the document removal guidance. When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user via the End button B10 indicating completion of the process, it executes the processing related to step S46 onwards in Figure 10.

[0087] The Next button B12 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 Next button B12, it transitions the screen to the document removal guidance screen W202, as illustrated in Figure 11(b).

[0088] Figure 11(b) shows one example configuration of the document removal guidance screen W202 displayed by the control unit 11 in response to the selection instruction of the next button B12 on the document removal guidance screen W200. The display configuration of the document removal guidance screen W202 is the same as the document removal guidance screen W200 exemplified in Figure 11(a), with the addition of a back button B14.

[0089] The guidance display area R12 of the document removal guidance screen W202 displays instructions on how to remove a document from the document feeder. Figure 11(b) is an example of how instructions for removing a document are displayed in the guidance display area R12, including a message stating, "Remove the document and open the cover. If there is a jammed document, remove it slowly," along with arrows indicating the direction to open the document cover and the direction to remove the document, and an illustration including the document cover.

[0090] The back button B14 is a button that receives a screen transition instruction 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 document removal guidance screen W200 as exemplified in Figure 11(a).

[0091] Figure 11(c) shows one example of the configuration of the document removal guidance screen W204 displayed by the control unit 11 after receiving a selection instruction from the "Next" button B12 on the document removal guidance screen W202. The display configuration of the document removal guidance screen W204 is the same as that of the document removal guidance screen W202 illustrated in Figure 11(b).

[0092] The guidance display area R12 of the document removal guidance screen W204 displays the procedure for removing the document, following the procedure displayed in the guidance display area R12 of the document removal guidance screen W202. Figure 11(c) is an example of the procedure for removing the document, in which the guidance display area R12 displays a message that reads, "Open the cover. If there is a jammed document, remove it slowly," along with arrows indicating the direction to open the document cover and the direction to remove the document, and an illustration including the document cover.

[0093] Figure 11(d) shows one example of the configuration of the document removal guidance screen W206 displayed by the control unit 11 after receiving a selection instruction from the next button B12 on the document removal guidance screen W204. The display configuration of the document removal guidance screen W206 is the same as that of the document removal guidance screen W202 illustrated in Figure 11(b).

[0094] In the guidance display area R12 of the document removal guidance screen W206, the procedure for removing the document is displayed, following the procedure displayed in the guidance display area R12 of the document removal guidance screen W204. Figure 11(d) is an example in which the procedure for removing the document is displayed in the guidance display area R12, along with a message that reads, "Open the cover. If there is a jammed document, remove it slowly," arrows indicating the direction to open the document cover and the direction to remove the document, and an illustration including the document cover.

[0095] Figure 11(e) shows an example configuration of the document removal guidance screen W208 displayed by the control unit 11 after receiving a selection instruction for the next button B12 on the document removal guidance screen W206. Since the document removal guidance screen W208 is the final screen of the document removal guidance related to jam resolution, the next button B12 exemplified in the document removal guidance screens W200 to W206 is not provided.

[0096] The guidance display area R12 of the document removal guidance screen W208 displays instructions on how to operate the cover after the jammed document has been removed. Figure 11(e) is an example of the guidance display area R12 displaying a message that reads, "Close the cover. Finally, press [Finish]," along with an arrow indicating the direction in which to close the document cover and an illustration including the document cover.

[0097] In the third embodiment, when the user confirms the message content "Please close the cover. Finally, press [Finish]." displayed in the guidance display area R12, and the control unit 11 receives an instruction to select the finish button B10 on the document removal guidance screen W208 as an indication that the process is complete, the control unit 11 displays a message screen related to document removal, which will be explained in the following figure.

[0098] Figure 12 shows an example configuration of the message screen W210, which displays a message regarding document removal, when the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction for the end button B10 on the document removal guidance screen W208 in Figure 11(e). Note that the user can also select the end button B10 on the guidance screens W200 to W206 in Figures 11(a) to 11(d). If the end button B10 is selected on any of the guidance screens W200 to W206, 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.

[0099] The message screen W210 includes a message display area R20 that displays "After removing the document, close all covers of the document feeder and then press [OK]" as an example of a message regarding document removal, and an OK button B16 that accepts selection instructions when the message displayed in the message display area R20 is confirmed by the user.

[0100] When the control unit 11 receives a selection instruction from the user using the OK button B16, it checks the open / closed status of the cover and the status of the document removal. For example, if the cover is closed but the document has not been removed when the OK button B16 is selected, the control unit 11 determines that the document is still present and issues a warning to the user (for example, by emitting a warning sound such as a beep, or by displaying a warning message on a warning screen). Also, for example, if the cover is open, the document feed roller cannot be driven and the document stopper that restricts the document feed position cannot be placed in a predetermined restricting position, so in this case as well, the control unit 11 may issue a warning to the user.

[0101] On the other hand, if the cover is closed and the document has been removed, the control unit 11 determines that the jam in the document feeder has been cleared and proceeds with the processing from step S18 onwards in Figure 10. In the third embodiment, the processing from step S18 onwards in Figure 10 can be equivalent to the processing described in the flowchart of Figure 3 or Figure 6.

[0102] Here, we will provide a supplementary explanation of the third embodiment, specifically the case where the only event that occurred was a jam in the document feeder.

[0103] If the only event that occurred was a jam in the document feeder, the control unit 11, in step S48 of Figure 10, displays a predetermined message screen if the user selects the OK button B16 on the message screen W210, and then transitions to the job execution screen before the jam occurred.

[0104] For example, Figure 13(a) shows one example of a predetermined message screen that the control unit 11 displays when an event (a jam in the document feeder) occurs during the execution of a copy job, requiring a document return operation.

[0105] The predetermined message screen W300 in Figure 13(a) is an example of a predetermined message screen whose message content is, "Please re-set the unscanned documents in the document feeder, return XX scanned documents, and then press [Start]."

[0106] On the other hand, Figure 13(b) shows an example of a predetermined message screen that the control unit 11 displays when, during the execution of a copy job, an event (a jam in the document feeder) occurs, making it unnecessary to return the documents, but when the scanning of all documents has not been completed.

[0107] The predetermined message screen W302 in Figure 13(b) is an example of a predetermined message screen whose message content is "Please re-set the document in the document feeder before scanning and press [Start]."

[0108] Furthermore, Figure 14(a) shows an example configuration of a predetermined message screen W304 that the control unit 11 displays when the job being executed is a scan job.

[0109] The predetermined message screen W304 in Figure 14(a) is an example of a predetermined message screen whose message content is "Cancelled," indicating that the document scanning has been stopped.

[0110] Furthermore, Figure 14(b) shows an example configuration of a predetermined message screen W306 that the control unit 11 displays when the job being executed is a fax job (direct transmission).

[0111] The predetermined message screen W306 in Figure 14(b) is an example of a predetermined message screen whose message content is "Communication interrupted," indicating that fax transmission based on the scanned document has been canceled.

[0112] Furthermore, Figure 14(c) shows an example configuration of a predetermined message screen W308 that the control unit 11 displays when the job being executed is a fax job (when memory transmission or time-specified transmission is performed and document scanning is completed during partial transmission).

[0113] The predetermined message screen W308 in Figure 14(c) is an example of a predetermined message screen whose message content is "Sending up to page XX that has been scanned," indicating that some documents have been scanned, but the next documents to be scanned are still pending, and that the fax will be sent based on the documents that have already been scanned.

[0114] As described above, according to the third embodiment, if the event that occurs involves a jam in the document feeder, the system is configured to display a message regarding the movement of the housing 25 after addressing the jam in the document feeder. Therefore, the job can be properly resumed without interfering with the display of work guidance regarding the document feeder.

[0115] [4 Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment is a configuration in which, in the first to third embodiments, etc., when the cover 27 on the back side of the multifunction printer 100 is opened or closed in order to resolve an event that has occurred, an operation button that receives a rotation instruction to rotate the display content of the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) toward the user, or code information indicating the content of the guidance is displayed on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15).

[0116] [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.

[0117] For example, when a user moves to the back of the multifunction printer 100 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 104 is rotated by selecting 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).

[0118] On the other hand, Figure 15(c) shows an example configuration of a code screen W116 that displays code information indicating the content of the guidance. The code screen W116 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 W116. 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.).

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, even when the housing 25 is moved to open or close the cover 27 on the back side of the multifunction printer 1000 in order to resolve an event that has occurred, the user can operate while checking the guidance screen displayed directly in front of them, thus enabling a more efficient resolution of the event that has occurred.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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]

[0128] 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 100 MFPs

Claims

1. A control unit that controls the execution of a job, The system includes a display unit that displays a message regarding the movement of the housing based on the control unit, The control unit, An image forming apparatus characterized in that, when an event occurs and a response to the event is taken that involves moving the housing, the display manner of a message regarding the movement of the housing is controlled based on predetermined conditions.

2. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, as a predetermined condition, if it is determined that the action taken in response to the event that has occurred corresponds to a specific action performed by the user, the display of a message regarding the movement of the housing is restricted.

3. The aforementioned specific task is, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that it includes adjustment work during production of the image forming apparatus or maintenance work by a maintenance user.

4. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, as a predetermined condition, the content of the message displayed regarding the movement of the housing is controlled depending on whether or not the job to be executed exists after the event that occurred has been dealt with.

5. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, if there is a job to be executed after the event that occurred has been dealt with, the display unit displays a message regarding the movement of the housing and a selection button that accepts a screen transition instruction to a screen that accepts an instruction to cancel the execution of the job.

6. It is further equipped with a document feeder, The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, as a predetermined condition, if the event that has occurred is accompanied by a jam that has occurred in the document feeder, a message regarding document removal is displayed before a message regarding the movement of the housing is displayed.

7. The control unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, after the display of the message regarding the removal of the original document, a selection button for accepting an instruction to cancel the execution of the job is displayed on the display unit along with a message regarding the movement of the housing.

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

9. Control the execution of the job, Based on the control by the control unit, a message regarding the movement of the housing is displayed. A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized in that, when an event occurs and a response to the event is taken that involves moving the housing, the method controls the display manner of a message regarding the movement of the housing based on predetermined conditions.

Images