Image forming apparatus, control method and program for image forming apparatus

Abstract

Even if the paper type used as the basis for a user-defined paper is a type that does not support automatic adjustment of print control parameters, it will still be possible to adjust the print control parameters stored on the user-defined paper. [Solution] An image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters includes: a creation means for creating a user-defined sheet based on registered paper types; an adjustment means for automatically adjusting the print control parameters stored on the user-defined sheet to be created; an acquisition means for displaying a print control parameter adjustment screen and acquiring the adjusted print control parameters via the adjustment screen if the paper type from which the user-defined sheet to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted; and a storage means for storing the adjusted print control parameters in association with the user-defined sheet to be created.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] It is possible to perform high-quality image formation by specifying information corresponding to the paper type fed in a print job from a paper type database (media library) pre-stored in an image forming apparatus and using print control parameters corresponding to the paper type for image formation control. Also, in order to support a wide variety of paper types, there is known an image forming apparatus in which a user-defined paper obtained by replicating a pre-stored paper type and allowing a user to arbitrarily change the print control parameters of the paper type can be registered in a media library. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which a paper type detection sensor (media sensor) for measuring feature amounts of a paper such as the surface property and basis weight of the paper is provided on a paper conveyance path of an image forming apparatus, and the paper type that is the source for replicating the user-defined paper is measured and specified by the media sensor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By automatically adjusting the print control parameters on the paper type that serves as the basis for a user-defined sheet and saving the optimal adjustment values ​​as print control parameters on the user-defined sheet, it becomes possible to create higher-quality images. However, if the paper type that serves as the basis for the user-defined sheet cannot perform automatic adjustment of print control parameters, it is not possible to save the optimal adjustment values ​​as print control parameters on the user-defined sheet, and therefore adjustments for creating high-quality images cannot be made. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and aims to make it possible to adjust the print control parameters saved on the user-defined sheet even if the paper type that serves as the basis for the user-defined sheet cannot perform automatic adjustment of print control parameters. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, and is characterized by comprising: creation means for creating a user-defined sheet based on registered paper types; adjustment means for automatically adjusting the print control parameters stored on the user-defined sheet to be created; acquisition means for displaying a print control parameter adjustment screen and acquiring the adjusted print control parameters via the adjustment screen if the paper type from which the user-defined sheet to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted; and storage means for storing the adjusted print control parameters in association with the user-defined sheet to be created. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, even if the paper type used as the basis for a user-defined sheet is a paper type that does not allow for automatic adjustment of print control parameters, it becomes possible to adjust the print control parameters stored on the user-defined sheet. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2]This figure shows a typical configuration controlled by the CPU. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the fixing section. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates an example configuration of a media sensor. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates how to create a user-defined form. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates how to create a user-defined form. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the screen used to create user-defined forms. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the screen used to create user-defined forms. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the manual adjustment screen for secondary transfer voltage and image position. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the process for creating a user-defined form. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are examples only, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, identical components will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0009] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 201 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the main configuration controlled by the CPU of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment. First, the basic configuration and operation of the image forming apparatus 201 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0010] The CPU 10 in Figure 2 is a control unit that controls the entire image forming apparatus 201. The ROM 11 stores the control program and initial values ​​of various settings according to this embodiment. The CPU 10 executes the control program according to this embodiment, which is read from the ROM 11, to realize the image forming procedure and the procedures of each flowchart described later. The CPU 10 loads the control program read from the ROM 11 into the RAM 12 and executes it, thereby realizing the creation means, adjustment means, acquisition means, and storage means.

[0011] RAM12 stores various information under the control of CPU10. As will be described in detail later, RAM12 stores print control parameters for each paper type in the first memory area. It is desirable that RAM12 be a rewritable memory that does not require memory retention operations. Furthermore, as will be described later, if the user changes the print control parameters corresponding to the referenced paper type, CPU10 adds the changed print control parameters to the first memory area as user-defined print control parameters corresponding to that paper type.

[0012] The instruction / display unit 13 includes a panel or buttons capable of displaying an operation screen, and when an instruction such as "start print operation" is input, it sends the instruction information to the CPU 10. Note that instruction information such as "start print operation" can be input by the user operating the instruction / display unit 13, or it may be input from an external device such as a personal computer, tablet terminal, or smartphone connected via a network (not shown). When instruction information to start print operation is input, the CPU 10 drives and controls a paper feed motor (not shown) according to the instruction information to feed and transport the paper. Furthermore, the CPU 10 controls image formation (printing) by the image forming unit 17 by setting print control parameters for the image forming unit 17.

[0013] The image forming unit 17 prints on the paper based on the print control parameters set by the CPU 10. The media sensor 14 is installed in the paper transport path and detects the type of paper (paper type) being fed through the paper transport path.

[0014] In FIG. 1, 201 is an image forming apparatus, 201A is the main body of the image forming apparatus, and 201B is an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet. 202 is an image reading apparatus installed substantially horizontally above the main body 201A of the image forming apparatus, and a discharge space S for sheet discharge is formed between the image reading apparatus 202 and the main body 201A of the image forming apparatus.

[0015] The cassette feeding unit 230 feeds the sheet P from a feeding cassette 1, which is a sheet storage means for storing the sheet (paper) P. The cassette feeding unit 230 includes a pickup roller 2 as a sheet feeding means, and a separating unit including a feed roller 3 and a retard roller 4 for separating the sheet P fed out from the pickup roller 2. Further, the manual feeding unit 235 feeds the sheet P from a manual paper feed tray 5, which is a means for holding the sheet (paper) P. The manual feeding unit 235 includes a sheet feeding means and a separating unit in the same manner as the cassette feeding unit 230.

[0016] The image forming unit 201B is of a four-drum full-color type, and includes a laser scanner 210 and four process cartridges 211 for forming toner images of four colors: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Here, each process cartridge 211 includes a photosensitive drum 212, a charger 213 as charging means, and a developing device 214 as developing means. Further, the image forming unit 201B includes a secondary transfer unit 201D disposed above the process cartridge 211 and a fixing unit 201E. Note that 215 is a toner cartridge for supplying toner to the developing device 214.

[0017] The secondary transfer unit 201D includes a transfer belt 216 wound around a driving roller 216a and a tension roller 216b. Inside the transfer belt 216, a primary transfer roller 219 that contacts the transfer belt 216 at a position facing the photosensitive drum 212 is provided. Here, the transfer belt 216 is rotated in the direction of the arrow by the driving roller 216a driven by a driving unit (not shown). At a position facing the driving roller 216a of the secondary transfer unit 201D, a secondary transfer roller 217 for transferring the color image formed on the transfer belt 216 to the sheet P is provided. Further, a fixing unit 201E is arranged above the secondary transfer roller 217, and a first discharge roller pair 225a, a second discharge roller pair 225b, and a duplex reversing unit 201F are arranged at the upper left of the fixing unit 201E. The duplex reversing unit 201F is provided with a reversing roller pair 222 capable of forward and reverse rotation and a retransfer path R1 for retransferring the sheet P with an image formed on one side to the image forming unit 201B again.

[0018] On the upper part of the image forming apparatus 201, a display 502 for receiving operations from the user and presenting information to the user is provided.

[0019] <Operation of the image forming apparatus> Next, the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 201 will be described. First, when the image forming apparatus 201 receives the image data of the document to be printed, the image data is processed by image processing and then converted into an electrical signal and transmitted to the laser scanner 210 of the image forming unit 201B. In the image forming unit 201B, the surface of the photosensitive drum 212, which is uniformly charged to a predetermined polarity and potential by the charger 213, is sequentially exposed by the laser. As a result, electrostatic latent images of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are sequentially formed on the photosensitive drums of the respective process cartridges 211.

[0020] Next, this electrostatic latent image is developed and visualized using each color toner, and the primary transfer bias applied to the primary transfer roller 219 sequentially superimposes and transfers the toner images of each color on each photoreceptor drum onto the transfer belt 216. This forms a toner image on the transfer belt 216. In parallel with this toner image formation operation, the sheets P are transported one by one to the register roller pair 240 by the cassette feeding unit 230, etc., and the register roller pair 240 corrects any skew. After the skew is corrected, the sheets P are transported to the secondary transfer unit 201D by the register roller pair 240, where the toner image is transferred onto the sheets P all at once by the secondary transfer bias applied to the secondary transfer roller 217.

[0021] Next, the sheet P onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to the fixing unit 201E, where, in the roller nip section formed by the pressure roller 220a and the heating roller 220b, the toners of each color are melted and mixed under heat and pressure, fixing a color image onto the sheet P. After this, the sheet P with the image fixed is discharged into the discharge space S by the first discharge roller pair 225a and the second discharge roller pair 225b located downstream of the fixing unit 201E, and is loaded onto the loading section 223 protruding from the bottom surface of the discharge space S. When forming an image on both sides of the sheet P, after the image is fixed, the sheet P is transported to the re-transport passage R1 by the reversing roller pair 222, and then transported again to the image forming unit 201B.

[0022] The media sensor 14 is a paper type detection sensor installed in the paper transport path that detects the type of paper (paper type) being fed through the paper transport path. Paper type refers to the type of paper. The media sensor 14 detects the surface properties and thickness of the transported paper, and the CPU 10 determines the paper type from the detection results. In this embodiment, the process of the media sensor 14 detecting the surface properties and thickness of the paper and the CPU 10 determining the paper type from the detection results is referred to as the media sensor 14 detecting or determining the paper type. Further details will be described later. The installation location of the media sensor 14 is not limited to the location shown in Figure 1; it may be installed in other locations.

[0023] <Explanation of the fixing part> Figure 3 is a diagram used to explain the configuration and fixing of the fixing unit 201E. The fixing unit 201E is an assembly consisting of a heater holder 207, a fixing heater 204 fixed to the lower surface of the heater holder 207 along the longitudinal side of the heater holder (perpendicular to the drawing), and an elastic fixing film 203. Each arrow R in Figure 3 indicates the direction of rotation. Also, the arrow T in Figure 3 indicates the direction of movement of the sheet (paper) P on which the toner 301 is placed.

[0024] The pressure roller 205 is mounted with both ends of its core metal bearings rotatably between the side plates of the fixing device. The fixing section 201E is arranged parallel to the pressure roller 205 with the fixing heater 204 side facing the pressure roller 205, and both ends of the heater holder 207 are pressed with a predetermined pressing force by a biasing mechanism (not shown).

[0025] As a result, the surface of the fixing heater 204 is pressed against the fixing film 203 against the elasticity of the pressure roller 205, forming a fixing nip portion 206 of a predetermined width. The pressure roller 205 is driven to rotate at a predetermined peripheral speed in the counterclockwise direction indicated by arrow R by a drive mechanism (not shown). The fixing heater 204 is a resistance heating element formed on a ceramic substrate. A temperature sensing sensor 208 is in contact with the fixing heater 204. The CPU 10 detects the temperature of the fixing heater 204 from the output of the temperature sensing sensor 208 and controls the power supplied to the fixing heater 204 so that the temperature of the fixing heater 204 reaches a predetermined target temperature.

[0026] The target temperature of the fuser heater 204 is determined by the type of paper being fed through and the ambient temperature. The CPU 10 determines the target temperature of the fuser heater 204 according to the paper type set from the instruction / display unit 13 or the paper type detected by the media sensor 14. The target temperature of the fuser unit 170 is set lower for thin paper and higher for thick paper compared to plain paper.

[0027] <Explanation of Media Sensor> Figure 4 illustrates an example configuration of the media sensor 14. Inside the media sensor 14, an LED 481 is arranged as a light-emitting element, and a photodiode 480 is arranged as a light-receiving element. The amount of reflected light emitted by the LED 481 can be detected by the photodiode 480. The media sensor 14 is also provided with a guide section 483 into which the paper M enters.

[0028] The CPU 10 receives the input signal from the photodiode 480 as the output value of the media sensor 14. The CPU 10 can determine the type of paper being fed through the machine based on the differences in the received values ​​due to the surface properties and thickness of each type of paper. The CPU 10 then optimally controls the image formation speed and the target temperature of the fuser 170 according to the paper type detected.

[0029] As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 10 uses the media sensor 14 to determine the paper type, eliminating the need for the user to be aware of and set the paper type. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 201 in this embodiment is equipped with a mode (hereinafter referred to as the automatic media setting mode) that uses a media sensor 14 to determine the type of paper and automatically sets print control parameters, etc., according to the type of paper.

[0030] On the other hand, the image forming apparatus 201 of this embodiment also provides a mode in which the user manually sets the type of paper to be used, as in conventional models (hereinafter referred to as the manual media setting mode). The user can pre-set either the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode for each paper feed cassette by operating the instruction / display unit 13. The default mode is assumed to be the automatic media setting mode. Furthermore, a setting value indicating whether the setting mode is the automatic media setting mode or the manual media setting mode is stored in the RAM 12.

[0031] The configuration of the media sensor 14 described above is just one example, and the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the media sensor 14 may have a configuration that combines an ultrasonic sensor such as a piezoelectric element in addition to a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, or it may have any other configuration.

[0032] <Explanation of user-defined forms> Next, the method for creating user-defined paper will be explained with reference to Figures 5(a) to 5(b) and Figures 6(a) to 6(c). Figures 5(a) to 5(b) and Figures 6(a) to 6(c) are schematic diagrams showing examples of screens displayed on the instruction / display unit 13. In this embodiment, user-defined paper refers to a type of paper uniquely set by the user based on the registered paper types. For the paper type of user-defined paper, it is possible to define characteristics such as basis weight, size, and surface properties, as well as print control parameters (control parameters for image formation) such as fixing temperature, secondary transfer voltage adjustment values, and image position adjustment values ​​within the paper. In this embodiment, user-defined paper is created based on the print control parameters of a pre-prepared basic paper, as described later. The print control parameters of the basic paper are stored in the first memory area of ​​the RAM 12. The print control parameters of the user-defined paper are added to the first memory area of ​​the RAM 12 by the CPU 10 and stored.

[0033] Figure 5(a) shows an example of a screen displaying a list of selectable basic paper types when setting a user-defined paper type. The user can select one of three options—basic paper type, user-defined paper type, or all paper types—using the pull-down menu 501 on the screen shown in Figure 5(a). The screen shown in Figure 5(a) is an example of a screen displayed when a basic paper type is selected using the pull-down menu 511. The CPU 10 reads the paper information stored in the RAM 12 according to the user's selection and displays it in the paper list 502. This paper list 502 displays a list of basic paper types that can be selected when setting a user-defined paper type. The user can select any basic paper type from the paper list 502 and press the duplicate button 504 to register it as a new paper type with a new name based on the registration information of the user-defined paper type. The user can select any basic paper type from the paper list 502 and press the details / edit button 503 to check the details of the basic paper type. In this embodiment, basic paper types cannot be deleted, so the delete button 505 is shaded to prevent it from being pressed. When the OK button 506 is pressed, the CPU 10 terminates the display of the screen shown in Figure 5(a).

[0034] The screen shown in Figure 5(b) is an example of a screen displayed when a user-defined paper type is selected using the pull-down menu 511. The paper list 512 displays a list of user-defined paper types. The CPU 10 reads the paper information stored in RAM 12 according to the user's selection and displays it in the paper list 512. The user can select any user-defined paper type from the paper list 512 and change paper parameters such as basis weight and size by pressing the details / edit button 513. The user can also register a new user-defined paper type based on a registered user-defined paper type by selecting any user-defined paper type from the paper list 512 and pressing the duplicate button 514. Furthermore, the user can delete a selected user-defined paper type by selecting any user-defined paper type from the paper list 512 and pressing the delete button 515. When the OK button 516 is pressed, the CPU 10 terminates the display of the screen shown in Figure 5(b).

[0035] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) show examples of when basic paper and user-defined paper are selected using pull-down menus 501 and 511. However, if all paper types are selected, both basic paper and user-defined paper will be displayed in the paper list.

[0036] Figure 6(a) shows an example of a screen displayed when the detail / edit buttons 503 and 513 shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are pressed. The screen shown in Figure 6(a) allows the user to confirm the settings of the print control parameters necessary to control each paper type. The user can also edit the settings of the print control parameters corresponding to the pressed change button 601 by pressing the change button 601. In the screen shown in Figure 6(a), the name field displays the name pre-registered in the device for basic paper types, and the name registered by the user for user-defined paper types. The type field indicates whether it is basic paper or user-defined paper. The basis weight field displays the paper weight. The size field displays the paper size. The surface characteristics field displays a type representing the surface shape characteristics of the paper. The secondary transfer voltage adjustment field and the image position adjustment field display either "no setting" or "setting." These adjustment values ​​are explained below.

[0037] <Explanation of automatic adjustment using charts> The secondary transfer voltage is the voltage (secondary transfer bias) applied to the secondary transfer roller 217. The secondary transfer voltage is set to a value that is large enough to transfer the toner on the transfer belt 216, which is an intermediate transfer body, to the paper, but large enough not to cause abnormal discharge. For example, when printing on paper of a type that differs significantly from the standard value in terms of moisture content or resistance, the default value of the secondary transfer voltage may not be sufficient for optimal transfer. For example, if the resistance of the paper used for printing is greater than the standard value, the default value will result in insufficient secondary transfer voltage, so it is necessary to apply a secondary transfer voltage greater than the default value. Also, for example, if the moisture content of the paper used for printing is less than the standard value, abnormal discharge is likely to occur, and image defects caused by abnormal discharge may occur, so it is necessary to apply a secondary transfer voltage smaller than the default value. Thus, it is necessary to control the secondary transfer voltage to an appropriate value according to the type of paper used for printing. In order to register an appropriate adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage for the paper, a coarse adjustment chart or fine adjustment chart (not shown) is printed on the paper, and the CPU 10 calculates and determines the adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage by reading these charts so that the transfer efficiency falls within the specified range.

[0038] When a user wishes to register or re-register a secondary transfer voltage adjustment, pressing the change button 601 corresponding to the secondary transfer voltage adjustment causes the CPU 10 to transition the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the chart print screen shown in Figure 6(b). When the print start button 611 on the screen shown in Figure 6(b) is pressed, the CPU 10 prints the adjustment chart (coarse adjustment chart, fine adjustment chart) and displays the screen shown in Figure 6(c). The user places the adjustment chart printed on the paper into the feeder of the image reading device 202 and presses the read start button 621. When the read start button 621 is pressed, the CPU 10 performs a scan of the adjustment chart, obtains the secondary transfer voltage adjustment value based on the information obtained from the adjustment chart, and saves that adjustment value in RAM 12, linked to the paper being registered. When the secondary transfer voltage adjustment value is saved in this way, "Set" is displayed in the secondary transfer voltage adjustment column on the screen shown in Figure 6(a).

[0039] When the OK button 603 is pressed on the screen shown in Figure 6(a), the CPU 10 returns the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screens shown in Figures 5(a) and 5(b). Also, when the cancel button 612 is pressed on the screen shown in Figure 6(b), the CPU 10 returns the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screen shown in Figure 6(a). Also, when the cancel button 622 is pressed on the screen shown in Figure 6(c), the CPU 10 returns the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screen shown in Figure 6(a). If the cancel button 622 is pressed, the CPU 10 may return the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screen shown in Figure 6(b).

[0040] Image position adjustment is an adjustment item that adjusts the image position on the front and back sides of the paper. For example, in image position adjustment, the adjustment values ​​for the image position from the top edge and left edge on the front and back sides of the paper are set as the amount of movement. Regarding image position adjustment, the image forming apparatus 201 prints a chart for adjusting the image position on the front and back sides, and the CPU 10 calculates the adjustment values ​​by reading this chart. If the user wants to register or re-register an image position adjustment, pressing the change button 601 corresponding to image position adjustment will cause the CPU 10 to display a screen similar to the screens shown in Figures 6(b) and 6(c), and to print and read the chart for image position adjustment. Then, the CPU 10 obtains the image position adjustment value based on the information in the obtained image position adjustment chart, and saves that adjustment value in RAM 12, linked to the registered paper. When the image position adjustment value is saved in this way, "Settings Available" will be displayed in the image position adjustment column on the screen shown in Figure 6(a).

[0041] Here, as shown in Figure 6(a), the screen displays the name, type, basis weight, size, surface properties, secondary transfer voltage adjustment, and image position adjustment. However, various other parameters are also recorded and can be viewed by pressing button 602.

[0042] In the explanation above, an example was given in which a user-defined sheet is duplicated by pressing the duplicate buttons 504 and 514 from a basic sheet or a user-defined sheet. In this embodiment, a method is also provided in which the paper type is determined using the media sensor 14, making it easier for the user to set a user-defined sheet without having to be aware of the paper type. Details are described below.

[0043] <Explanation of the user-defined form creation flow> Figures 7(a) to 7(d) and 8(a) to 8(d) show examples of screens for creating user-defined paper without the user having to be aware of the paper type. Figure 7(a) shows an example of a paper setting screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 when the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the paper tray. The presence of paper in the paper tray is detected by, for example, a sensor (not shown). The screen shown in Figure 7(a) allows the user to set the size and type of paper placed in the paper tray. When the user presses the "First-time use paper" button 701 on the screen shown in Figure 7(a), the CPU 10 starts the process of creating user-defined paper and transitions the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screen shown in Figure 7(b).

[0044] The screen shown in Figure 7(b) displays various buttons 711, 712, and 714 for selecting the paper type, which is the basic information for creating a user-defined paper, and a paper type list 713. When the "Automatically detect during printing" button 711 is pressed on the screen shown in Figure 7(b), the image forming apparatus 201 automatically detects the paper type using the media sensor 14 and then creates the user-defined paper according to the detected paper type. When the "Select from list" button 712 is pressed, the user can select the base paper type from the paper type list 713. When the "Next" button 714 is pressed on the screen shown in Figure 7(b), the CPU 10 transitions the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the secondary transfer adjustment screen shown in Figure 7(c).

[0045] The secondary transfer adjustment screen shown in Figure 7(c) is an example of a screen for instructing the start of printing of the secondary transfer adjustment chart. When the print start button 721 on the secondary transfer adjustment screen shown in Figure 6(c) is pressed, the CPU 10 prints a chart for adjusting the secondary transfer voltage. If the "Automatic detection button during printing" 711 was selected on the paper type selection screen shown in Figure 7(b), the media sensor 14 measures the paper when the paper for printing the secondary transfer adjustment chart is fed, and determines the paper type. The CPU 10 duplicates the determined paper type and registers the user-defined paper in RAM 12. At this time, the CPU 10 saves data that can be set as print control parameters, such as basis weight, from the measurement data of the paper measured by the media sensor 14, to the user-defined paper. After printing the secondary transfer adjustment chart based on the print control parameters of the registered user-defined paper, the CPU 10 transitions the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screen shown in Figure 7(d).

[0046] The screen shown in Figure 7(d) is an example of a screen for instructing the start of reading a printed secondary transfer adjustment chart. When the read start button 732 on the screen shown in Figure 7(d) is pressed, the CPU 10 performs a scan of the secondary transfer adjustment chart and obtains the adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage based on the information obtained from the secondary transfer adjustment chart. The CPU 10 associates the obtained adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage with the paper and saves it in the print control parameters of the user-defined paper.

[0047] Subsequently, similar to the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage, the CPU 10 sequentially transitions the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screens shown in Figures 8(a) and 8(b) to obtain the image position adjustment values. The screen shown in Figure 8(a) is an example of a screen for instructing the start of printing the image position adjustment chart, and the screen shown in Figure 8(b) is an example of a screen for instructing the start of reading the printed image position adjustment chart. When the print start button 801 on the screen shown in Figure 8(a) is pressed, the CPU 10 prints the chart for image position adjustment. Then, when the read start button 811 on the screen shown in Figure 8(b) is pressed, the CPU 10 performs a scan of the image position adjustment chart and obtains the image position adjustment values ​​based on the information obtained from the image position adjustment chart. The CPU 10 associates the obtained image position adjustment values ​​with the paper and saves them in the print control parameters of the user-defined paper.

[0048] In the explanation above, the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage and the image position are shown as examples, but any adjustment that can be implemented in conjunction with the paper can be performed using other adjustment menus, and multiple adjustments can be performed at once during the user-defined paper creation process.

[0049] Here, depending on the size and type of paper, there are papers for which automatic adjustment of print control parameters using an adjustment chart is possible and papers for which it is not. For example, special papers for which automatic adjustment of print control parameters using an adjustment chart is not possible include OHP sheets and papers used for second originals. In the case of papers for which automatic adjustment using an adjustment chart is not possible, the CPU 10 displays the manual adjustment screen shown in Figure 9(a) and Figure 9(b) on the instruction / display unit 13. The user can set the adjustment values ​​for the secondary transfer voltage and the image position by performing input operations on the manual adjustment screen shown in Figure 9(a) and Figure 9(b).

[0050] The screen shown in Figure 9(a) is an example of a screen for manually adjusting the secondary transfer voltage. In the screen shown in Figure 9(a), the adjustment input field 901 allows setting the adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage for the front side of the paper and the adjustment value for the secondary transfer voltage for the back side of the paper. In the screen shown in Figure 9(a), the user can manually input and set any secondary transfer voltage adjustment value by entering an adjustment value in the adjustment input field 901 and pressing the OK button 902. The CPU 10 associates the secondary transfer voltage adjustment value set via the screen shown in Figure 9(a) with the paper and saves it as a print control parameter for user-defined paper.

[0051] The screen shown in Figure 9(b) is an example of a screen for manually adjusting the image position. In the screen shown in Figure 9(b), the amount of movement of the image position on the front side of the paper and the amount of movement of the image position on the back side of the paper can be set as image position adjustment values ​​in the adjustment input field 911. In addition, in the screen shown in Figure 9(b), the horizontal and vertical image magnification on the front side of the paper and the horizontal and vertical image magnification on the back side of the paper can be set as image position adjustment values ​​in the adjustment input field 911. In the screen shown in Figure 9(b), by entering adjustment values ​​in the adjustment input field 911 and pressing the OK button 912, the user can manually input and set arbitrary image position adjustment values. The CPU 10 associates the image position adjustment values ​​set via the screen shown in Figure 9(b) with the paper and saves them as print control parameters for user-defined paper.

[0052] Returning to the explanation of Figure 8, after the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage and the image position is completed, the CPU 10 transitions the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the user-defined paper name input screen shown in Figure 8(c). When the user enters an arbitrary name in the name input field 821 and presses the OK button 822, the CPU 10 terminates the user-defined paper creation flow. At this time, the CPU 10 changes the name of the user-defined paper stored in RAM 12 to the name entered on the screen shown in Figure 8(c). Then, the CPU 10 transitions the screen displayed on the instruction / display unit 13 to the screen shown in Figure 8(d).

[0053] The screen shown in Figure 8(d) is similar to the paper setting screen for the paper tray shown in Figure 7(a), but after creating a user-defined paper, the paper type 831 will be set to the user-defined paper created in the user-defined paper creation flow. The above is an example of screen transitions in a user-defined form creation flow.

[0054] Next, an example of the control flow when creating a user-defined form will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 10. Each step in the flowchart in Figure 10 is realized, for example, by the CPU 10 reading the control program from the ROM 11, loading it into the RAM 12, and executing it. In the following explanation, it will be assumed that the screens shown in Figures 7(a) to 7(d), 8(a) to 8(d), and 9(a) to 9(b) are displayed in the instruction / display unit 13 as appropriate.

[0055] Here, we illustrate a case where the CPU 10 detects that paper has been placed in the paper tray, displays the paper setting screen shown in Figure 7(a), and determines that the "First Time Using This Paper" button 701 has been pressed, in which case the flowchart in Figure 10 begins.

[0056] In S1001, the CPU 10 displays the screen shown in Figure 7(b) on the instruction / display unit 13 and accepts the selection of the paper type to be duplicated as a user-defined paper. Once the paper type is selected and the Next button 714 is pressed, the process proceeds to S1002. The selection of the paper type to be duplicated means that the "Automatically detect during printing" button 711 was selected on the screen shown in Figure 7(b) or that a paper type was selected from the paper type list 713.

[0057] In step S1002, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type selected in S1001 is a paper type that can perform automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type that can perform automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage (YES), the process proceeds to S1003. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type that cannot perform automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage (NO), the process proceeds to S1008. Note that if automatic detection during printing was selected when selecting the paper type in step S1001, the CPU 10 determines that automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage is possible, and the process proceeds to S1003.

[0058] In S1003, the CPU 10 performs a printing process related to secondary transfer voltage adjustment, specifically, the printing of an adjustment chart for secondary transfer voltage adjustment. The CPU 10 displays the screen shown in Figure 7(c) on the instruction / display unit 13, and upon receiving confirmation that the print start button 721 has been pressed, feeds paper and starts the printing process.

[0059] In S1004, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type of the source document is set to be automatically detected during printing. In other words, the CPU 10 determines whether the "Automatically detect during printing" button 711 has been pressed in the paper type selection using the screen shown in Figure 7(b), or whether paper has been selected in the paper type list 605. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is set to be automatically detected during printing (YES), the process proceeds to S1005. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is not set to be automatically detected during printing, i.e., that paper has been selected in the paper type list 605 (NO), the process proceeds to S1007.

[0060] In S1006, the CPU 10 identifies the paper type based on the detection result obtained using the media sensor 14 during paper feeding.

[0061] In S1006, the CPU 10 determines whether the paper type identified in S1005 is a paper type that can perform automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type that can perform automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage (YES), the adjustment chart is printed, and the process proceeds to S1007. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is a paper type that cannot perform automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage (NO), the process proceeds to S1008.

[0062] In S1007, the CPU 10 performs a scan process related to secondary transfer voltage adjustment, that is, a scan process of the printed adjustment chart for secondary transfer voltage adjustment, to obtain the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage. The CPU 10 displays the screen shown in Figure 7(d) on the instruction / display unit 13 and, upon receiving confirmation that the read start button 732 has been pressed, executes the reading of the printed adjustment chart. After that, the process proceeds to S1009.

[0063] In S1008, the CPU 10 displays a screen on the instruction / display unit 13 for manually adjusting the secondary transfer voltage shown in Figure 9(a), and accepts input from the user for the adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage. Upon receiving confirmation that the OK button 902 on the screen shown in Figure 9(a) has been pressed, the CPU 10 acquires the adjustment value entered in the adjustment input field 901 and stores it in the RAM 12. The process then proceeds to S1009.

[0064] In S1009, the CPU 10 determines whether the source paper type is capable of automatic image position adjustment. If the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is capable of automatic image position adjustment (YES), the process proceeds to S1010. On the other hand, if the CPU 10 determines that the paper type is not capable of automatic image position adjustment (NO), the process proceeds to S1012.

[0065] In S1010, the CPU 10 executes a printing process related to image position adjustment, specifically, the printing of an adjustment chart for image position adjustment. The CPU 10 displays the screen shown in Figure 8(a) on the instruction / display unit 13, and upon receiving confirmation that the print start button 801 has been pressed, feeds paper and starts the printing process.

[0066] In S1011, the CPU 10 performs a scan process related to image position adjustment, that is, a scan process of the printed adjustment chart for image position adjustment, and obtains the adjustment values ​​for the image position. The CPU 10 displays the screen shown in Figure 8(b) on the instruction / display unit 13 and, upon receiving confirmation that the read start button 811 has been pressed, executes the reading of the printed adjustment chart. After that, the process proceeds to S1013.

[0067] In S1012, the CPU 10 displays a screen on the instruction / display unit 13 for manually adjusting the image position as shown in Figure 9(b), and accepts input from the user for the adjustment value of the image position. Upon receiving confirmation that the OK button 912 on the screen shown in Figure 9(b) has been pressed, the CPU 10 acquires the adjustment value entered in the adjustment input field 911 and stores it in the RAM 12. The process then proceeds to S1013.

[0068] In S1013, the CPU 10 displays the screen shown in Figure 8(c) on the instruction / display unit 13 to accept input for the name of the user-defined paper. Once the name of the user-defined paper is entered and the OK button 822 is pressed, the CPU 10 registers the name of the user-defined paper and the adjustment values ​​(print control parameters) together and completes the series of processes.

[0069] The control flow for creating user-defined paper described above allows users to input arbitrary adjustment values ​​even for paper types that cannot be automatically adjusted using charts when registering the paper type that will serve as the basis for the user-defined paper. Therefore, it becomes possible to set appropriate adjustment values ​​for the print control parameters of user-defined paper, enabling the creation of higher-quality images.

[0070] In the explanation above, the secondary transfer voltage is adjusted first, followed by the image position adjustment; however, the order can be reversed. Also, although only examples of adjusting the secondary transfer voltage and image position are shown, other adjustment menus can also be used in a similar manner, determining and performing the necessary adjustments according to the paper type. Furthermore, if it is determined in S1006 and S1009 shown in Figure 10 that the paper cannot be automatically adjusted using a chart, instead of displaying the manual adjustment screen, a message indicating that automatic adjustment is not possible may be displayed before proceeding to S1003.

[0071] (Other embodiments of the present invention) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by a process in which one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0072] It should be noted that the embodiments described above are merely examples of how the present invention can be implemented, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited by them. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or its main features.

[0073] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configurations and methods, etc. (Composition 1) An image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, A method for creating user-defined forms based on registered form types, An adjustment means for automatically adjusting the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created, If the type of paper used as the basis for the user-defined paper to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted, the acquisition means displays the print control parameter adjustment screen and obtains the print control parameters adjusted via the adjustment screen. An image forming apparatus characterized by having a storage means for storing the adjusted print control parameters linked to the user-defined paper to be created. (Configuration 2) The system includes a determination means for determining whether the type of paper that forms the basis of the user-defined paper is a type of paper that can automatically adjust the print control parameters. If the paper type allows for automatic adjustment of the print control parameters, the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created are obtained by the adjustment means. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, characterized in that, if the type of paper does not allow for automatic adjustment of the print control parameters, the print control parameters to be stored on the user-defined paper to be created are acquired by the acquisition means. (Composition 3) It has a detection means for detecting the type of paper being transported, The image forming apparatus according to configuration 2, characterized in that the determination means determines whether or not the print control parameters can be automatically adjusted based on the type of paper detected by the detection means. (Composition 4) The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the adjustment means automatically adjusts the print control parameters based on information obtained by printing an adjustment chart onto paper and reading the printed adjustment chart. (Composition 5) The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the print control parameter includes at least one of the adjustment values ​​for the secondary transfer voltage and the adjustment value for the image position. (Composition 6) The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the acquisition means displays the adjustment screen for a first print control parameter that cannot be automatically adjusted among the print control parameters, and acquires the adjusted first print control parameter. (Composition 7) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 6, characterized in that the print control parameter, which is different from the first print control parameter, is automatically adjusted by the adjustment means. (Method 1) A control method for an image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, The creation process involves creating a user-defined form based on the registered form types, and An adjustment step for automatically adjusting the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created, If the type of paper used as the basis for the user-defined paper to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted, the process includes an acquisition step of displaying the print control parameter adjustment screen and acquiring the print control parameters adjusted via the adjustment screen, A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising a storage step of storing the adjusted print control parameters in association with the user-defined paper to be created. (Program 1) In the computer of an image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, The creation step involves creating a user-defined form based on the registered form types, and An adjustment step to automatically adjust the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created, If the type of paper used as the basis for the user-defined paper to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted, the acquisition step includes displaying the print control parameter adjustment screen and obtaining the print control parameters adjusted via the adjustment screen. A program for causing a user to create a user-defined form to execute a storage step that stores the adjusted print control parameters. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] 201: Image forming apparatus 10: CPU 11: ROM 12: RAM 13: Instruction / display unit 14: Media sensor 17: Image forming unit

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, A method for creating user-defined forms based on registered form types, An adjustment means for automatically adjusting the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created, If the type of paper used as the basis for the user-defined paper to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted, the acquisition means displays the print control parameter adjustment screen and obtains the print control parameters adjusted via the adjustment screen. An image forming apparatus characterized by having a storage means for storing the adjusted print control parameters linked to the user-defined paper to be created.

2. The system includes a determination means for determining whether the type of paper that forms the basis of the user-defined paper is a type of paper that can automatically adjust the print control parameters. If the paper type allows for automatic adjustment of the print control parameters, the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created are obtained by the adjustment means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the type of paper does not allow for automatic adjustment of the print control parameters, the print control parameters to be stored on the user-defined paper to be created are acquired by the acquisition means.

3. It has a detection means for detecting the type of paper being transported, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the determination means determines whether or not the print control parameters can be automatically adjusted based on the type of paper detected by the detection means.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the adjustment means automatically adjusts the print control parameters based on information obtained by printing an adjustment chart onto paper and reading the printed adjustment chart.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the print control parameter includes at least one of a secondary transfer voltage adjustment value and an image position adjustment value.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the acquisition means displays the adjustment screen for a first print control parameter that cannot be automatically adjusted among the print control parameters, and acquires the adjusted first print control parameter.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the print control parameter, which is different from the first print control parameter, is automatically adjusted by the adjustment means.

8. A control method for an image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, The creation process involves creating a user-defined form based on the registered form types, and An adjustment step for automatically adjusting the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created, If the type of paper used as the basis for the user-defined paper to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted, the process includes an acquisition step of displaying the print control parameter adjustment screen and acquiring the print control parameters adjusted via the adjustment screen, A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising a storage step of storing the adjusted print control parameters in association with the user-defined paper to be created.

9. In the computer of an image forming apparatus that prints on paper based on print control parameters, The creation step involves creating a user-defined form based on the registered form types, and An adjustment step to automatically adjust the print control parameters to be saved on the user-defined paper to be created, If the type of paper used as the basis for the user-defined paper to be created is a type of paper for which the print control parameters cannot be automatically adjusted, the acquisition step includes displaying the print control parameter adjustment screen and obtaining the print control parameters adjusted via the adjustment screen. A program for causing a user to create a user-defined form to execute a storage step that stores the adjusted print control parameters.

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