Paper feeder, image forming apparatus, adjustment method, and adjustment program

Abstract

To efficiently train the system to determine paper type from physical quantities. [Solution] The paper feeder comprises a detection unit for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, a first paper type determination unit 53 for determining the first paper type based on the physical quantity, a first screen display unit 71 for displaying a first screen for accepting a change to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, a first paper type acceptance unit 73 for accepting the changed first paper type, a second paper type determination unit 55 for determining the second paper type, which is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the physical quantity and the first paper type, a second screen display unit 81 for displaying a second screen for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, and a second paper type acceptance unit 83 for accepting the changed second paper type.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a paper feeding device, an image forming device, an adjustment method, and an adjustment program, and particularly to a paper feeding device that conveys a recording medium, an image forming device including the paper feeding device, an adjustment method executed by the paper feeding device, and an adjustment program that causes a computer to execute the adjustment method.

Background Art

[0002] An image forming device such as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) forms an image on a recording medium according to the image forming conditions set therein. There have emerged image forming devices that form images under image forming conditions determined corresponding to the type of recording medium.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-14041 discloses a printing control device that selects the type of a printing medium from a plurality of types of printing media and instructs printing on a printing device, the printing control device including display means for displaying a list of a plurality of types of printing media printable by the printing device, display control means for displaying a UI screen including items for specifying the printing medium to be used for the printing when the type of the printing medium to be used for the printing cannot be specified from the list, determination means for determining, among the plurality of types of printing media, the type of the printing medium closest to the printing medium to be used for the printing based on the items input using the UI screen, and printing control means for causing the printing device to perform printing under printing conditions corresponding to the type of the printing medium determined by the determination means.

[0004] However, even when the paper type of the recording medium is the same, the basis weight may be different. The image quality of images formed under the same image forming conditions on recording media having different basis weights may be different. Therefore, it is preferable that the image forming conditions be determined from the paper type and the basis weight.

[0005] On the other hand, image forming machines have emerged that use optical sensors or the like to automatically determine the type and basis weight of the recording medium. This function requires that the relationship between the output value of the optical sensor and the paper type and basis weight be predetermined. However, this relationship may vary depending on individual machine differences and the environmental conditions in which the machine is installed. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-14041 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a paper feeder capable of efficiently learning the process of determining paper type and basis weight from physical quantities.

[0008] Another object of this invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of efficiently learning the process of determining paper type and basis weight from physical quantities.

[0009] Another object of this invention is to provide an adjustment method that can efficiently learn the process of determining paper type and basis weight from physical quantities.

[0010] Another object of this invention is to provide an adjustment program that can efficiently learn the process of determining paper type and basis weight from physical quantities. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to one aspect of this invention, the paper feeding device comprises: a detection unit for detecting the physical quantity of a recording medium; a first paper type determination unit for determining a first paper type based on the physical quantity; a first screen display unit for displaying a first screen for accepting a change to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined; a first paper type acceptance unit for accepting the changed first paper type; a second paper type determination unit for determining a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the physical quantity and the first paper type; a second screen display unit for displaying a second screen for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed; and a second paper type acceptance unit for accepting the changed second paper type.

[0012] According to another aspect of this invention, the paper feeder includes: a detection unit for detecting a physical quantity of a recording medium; a first paper type determination unit for determining a first paper type based on the physical quantity; a first paper type reception unit for receiving a change to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined; a second paper type determination unit for determining a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium; a second paper type reception unit for receiving a change to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined; a first threshold correction unit for correcting a first threshold used for determining the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the changed first paper type; and a second threshold correction unit for correcting a second threshold used for determining the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type.

[0013] According to yet another aspect of this invention, the image forming apparatus comprises the above-mentioned paper feeding device and an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium under image forming conditions determined for the paper type determined by the paper type determination unit and the basis weight determined by the basis weight determination unit.

[0014] According to yet another aspect of this invention, the adjustment method causes the paper feeder to perform the following steps: a detection step of detecting a physical quantity of the recording medium; a first paper type determination step of determining a first paper type based on the physical quantity; a first screen display step of displaying a first screen for accepting a change to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined; a first paper type acceptance step of accepting the changed first paper type; a second paper type determination step of determining a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the physical quantity and the first paper type; a second screen display step of displaying a second screen for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed; and a second paper type acceptance step of accepting the changed second paper type.

[0015] According to yet another aspect of this invention, the adjustment method causes the paper feeder to perform the following steps: a detection step of detecting a physical quantity of the recording medium; a first paper type determination step of determining a first paper type based on the physical quantity; a first paper type acceptance step of accepting a change to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined; a second paper type determination step of determining a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium; a second paper type acceptance step of accepting a change to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined; a first threshold correction step of correcting a first threshold used for determining the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the changed first paper type; and a second threshold correction step of correcting a second threshold used for determining the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type.

[0016] According to yet another aspect of this invention, the adjustment program causes the computer to execute a detection step for detecting a physical quantity of the recording medium; a first paper type determination step for determining a first paper type based on the physical quantity; a first screen display step for displaying a first screen for accepting a change to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined; a first paper type acceptance step for accepting the changed first paper type; a second paper type determination step for determining a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the physical quantity and the first paper type; a second screen display step for displaying a second screen for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed; and a second paper type acceptance step for accepting the changed second paper type.

[0017] According to still another aspect of the present invention, the adjustment program causes a computer to execute a detection step of detecting a physical quantity of a recording medium, a first paper type determination step of determining a first paper type based on the physical quantity, a first paper type reception step of receiving a change in the first paper type after the first paper type is determined, a second paper type determination step of determining a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium, a second paper type reception step of receiving a change in the second paper type after the second paper type is determined, a first threshold correction step of correcting a first threshold used for determining the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the changed first paper type, and a second threshold correction step of correcting a second threshold used for determining the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the MFP in the present embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing an overview of the hardware configuration of the MFP. [Figure 3] It is a schematic side view showing an internal configuration of a part of the image forming unit and the paper feeding unit. [Figure 4] It is a side view showing a detection area in the conveyance path. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of functions of the CPU of the MFP in the present embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of a type table. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of a speed table. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of conveyance control processing. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the first image forming process. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the second image forming process. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of a time chart. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a change in image formation conditions for an example of a change in the type of recording medium. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of a time chart in the first modification.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of an image forming system in one embodiment of the present invention. In some drawings after FIG. 1, in order to clarify the positional relationship, arrows indicating the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction orthogonal to each other are attached. The X direction and the Y direction are orthogonal to each other in the horizontal plane, and the Z direction corresponds to the vertical direction. Further, in the following description, in the X direction, the direction in which the arrow points is referred to as the right side, and the opposite direction is referred to as the left side. Also, in the Y direction, the direction in which the arrow points is referred to as the front side, and the opposite direction is referred to as the rear side.

[0021] Referring to FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes a paper feeding device 2, an image forming device 3, an image inspection device 4, and a post-processing device 5. The post-processing device 5 includes a processing device 6, a conveying device 7, a cutting device 8, and a paper discharge tray 9. The paper feeding device 2, the image forming device 3, the image inspection device 4, the processing device 6, the conveying device 7, the cutting device 8, and the paper discharge tray 9 are arranged side by side in this order from the paper feeding device 2 toward the left.

[0022] The processing device 6 performs punching and folding on multiple sheets of paper discharged from the image inspection device 4. Punching is the process of punching holes in multiple sheets of paper. Folding is the process of folding the booklet based on the center. The processing device 6 forms one booklet BK each time a predetermined number of sheets of paper are discharged from the image inspection device 4. In this embodiment, booklet BK refers to a stack of a predetermined number of sheets of paper. Note that booklet BK includes a stack of single sheets of paper.

[0023] The conveying device 7 has a built-in conveying belt and conveys the booklets BK discharged from the processing device 6 to the cutting device 8. The cutting device 8 performs flattening and cutting on the booklets BK received from the conveying device 7. In this example, the flattening process is the process of flattening the spine of the booklets BK, and the cutting process is the process of cutting the fore-edge of the booklets BK. The output tray 9 collects multiple booklets BK discharged from the cutting device 8.

[0024] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the internal structure of a paper feed device. Referring to Figure 2, the paper feed device 2 includes a first paper feed tray 11, a second paper feed tray 12, a third paper feed tray 13, a control unit 41, a first sensor 43, and a second sensor 45. Each of the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, and the third paper feed tray 13 can accommodate multiple recording media. In this example, paper is used as the recording medium. In addition to paper, overhead projector (OHP) film can also be used as the recording medium.

[0025] The paper type, size, and orientation of the paper stored in the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, and the third paper feed tray 13 are all the same. The paper type, size, and orientation of the paper stored in the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, and the third paper feed tray 13 may be the same or different. The paper feed device 2 takes one sheet of paper at a time from any of the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, and the third paper feed tray 13 and supplies it to the image forming apparatus 3. The paper taken from any of the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, and the third paper feed tray 13 is transported to the first supply roller 14.

[0026] The first supply roller 14 transports paper supplied from either the first paper feed tray 11, the second paper feed tray 12, or the third paper feed tray 13 along the transport path P1. The transport path P1 is a path leading to the image forming apparatus 3. The first supply roller 14, the first sensor 43, the second sensor 45, and the second paper feed roller 15 are arranged in this order along the transport path P1. The first sensor 43 and the second sensor 45 are positioned between the first supply roller 14 and the second paper feed roller 15. The order in which the first sensor 43 and the second sensor 45 are arranged is not limited. The second sensor 45 may be positioned upstream of the first sensor 43 in the paper transport direction.

[0027] The first sensor 43 is a transmissive photoelectric sensor. The first sensor 43 has a first light-emitting unit 43A and a first light-receiving unit 43B. The first light-emitting unit 43A and the first light-receiving unit 43B are positioned opposite each other, straddling the transport path P1. Light emitted from the first light-emitting unit 43A is received by the first light-receiving unit 43B. The first sensor 43 outputs a first light-receiving amount to the control unit 41, which indicates the amount of light received by the first light-receiving unit 43B while the paper Pa is not present in the detection area between the first light-emitting unit 43A and the first light-receiving unit 43B. The first sensor 43 also outputs a second light-receiving amount to the control unit 41, which indicates the amount of light received by the first light-receiving unit 43B while the paper Pa is passing through the detection area between the first light-emitting unit 43A and the first light-receiving unit 43B.

[0028] The second sensor 45 is a reflective photoelectric sensor. The second sensor 45 includes a second light-emitting unit 45A, a second light-receiving unit 45B, and a reference plate 45C. The second light-emitting unit 45A, the second light-receiving unit 45B, and the reference plate 45C are arranged facing each other across the transport path P1. The second light-emitting unit 45A and the second light-receiving unit 45B are arranged side by side in the paper transport direction. The second light-emitting unit 45A and the second light-receiving unit 45B are located in the space above the transport path P1, and are located in the space below the transport path P1, apart from the reference plate 45C. The reference plate 45C is a material having a predetermined reflectivity.

[0029] When there is no paper Pa in the detection area between the second light-emitting unit 45A and the second light-receiving unit 45B and the reference plate 45C, the light emitted from the second light-emitting unit 45A is reflected by the reference plate 45C and received by the second light-receiving unit 45B. While the paper Pa is passing through the detection area between the second light-emitting unit 45A and the second light-receiving unit 45B and the reference plate 45C, the light emitted from the second light-emitting unit 45A is reflected by the paper Pa and received by the second light-receiving unit 45B.

[0030] The second sensor 45 outputs a third light-receiving amount to the control unit 41, indicating the amount of light received by the second light-receiving unit 45B, when there is no paper Pa in the detection area between the second light-emitting unit 45A and the second light-receiving unit 45B and the reference plate 45C. The second sensor 45 outputs a fourth light-receiving amount to the control unit 41, indicating the amount of light received by the second light-receiving unit 45B while the paper Pa is passing through the detection area between the second light-emitting unit 45A and the second light-receiving unit 45B and the reference plate 45C. Note that the second sensor 45 does not necessarily have a reference plate 45C. This is effective when the amount of light received by the second light-receiving unit 45B is constant while the paper is not being transported along the transport path P1. In this case, the second sensor 45 outputs a value to the control unit 41 indicating the amount of light received by the second light-receiving unit 45B while the second light-emitting unit 45A is emitting light.

[0031] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus. Referring to Figure 4, the image forming apparatus 3 includes image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K, which correspond to yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. Here, "Y", "M", "C", and "K" represent yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. Printing data for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black is input to the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K, respectively. Since the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K only differ in the color of the toner they handle, we will describe the image forming unit 20Y for forming a yellow image here.

[0032] The image forming unit 20Y includes a developer 21Y, a photoreceptor drum 22Y which is an image carrier, a charging roller 23Y, an exposure device 24Y, a primary transfer roller 26Y, a toner bottle 27Y, and a toner hopper 28Y.

[0033] The toner bottle 27Y, toner hopper 28Y, and developer unit 21Y are arranged in this order along the toner transport path. The toner hopper 28Y is positioned directly in front of the developer unit 21Y. Toner is supplied from the toner hopper 28Y to the developer unit 21Y via the toner transport path.

[0034] The developing unit 21Y includes a developing roller 25Y, which has a built-in magnetic roller that holds the charged toner stored in the developing unit 21Y by magnetic force. The photoreceptor drum 22Y has a cylindrical shape, and the charging roller 23Y, exposure unit 24Y, developing roller 25Y, and primary transfer roller 26Y are arranged in order around the photoreceptor drum 22Y along the rotational direction of the photoreceptor drum 22Y.

[0035] After the surface of the photoreceptor drum 22Y is charged by the charging roller 23Y, it is irradiated with laser light emitted by the exposure device 24Y. The exposure device 24Y exposes the image-corresponding portion of the surface of the photoreceptor drum 22Y to form an electrostatic latent image. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photoreceptor drum 22Y. Subsequently, the developer 21Y develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 22Y with toner. Specifically, the toner held by the developing roller 25Y is placed on the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 22Y by the action of an electric field, thereby forming a toner image on the photoreceptor drum 22Y. The toner image formed on the photoreceptor drum 22Y is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 29, which is an image carrier, by the action of an electric field by the primary transfer roller 26Y.

[0036] The intermediate transfer belt 29 is suspended by a drive roller R1 and a driven roller R2 to prevent slack. When the drive roller R1 rotates clockwise in Figure 1, the intermediate transfer belt 29 rotates clockwise in the figure at a predetermined speed. As the intermediate transfer belt 29 rotates, the driven roller R2 rotates clockwise.

[0037] As a result, the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K transfer toner images onto the intermediate transfer belt 29 in this order. The timing at which each of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K transfers toner images onto the intermediate transfer belt 29 is adjusted by detecting reference marks attached to the intermediate transfer belt 29. As a result, yellow, magenta, cyan, black, and white toner images are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 29.

[0038] The receiving roller R5, secondary transfer roller R3, fixing roller pair R4, and discharge roller R6 are arranged in this order along the transport path P1 in the transport direction. The receiving roller R5 receives the paper transported from the paper feed device 2 and transports the paper toward the secondary transfer roller R3.

[0039] The secondary transfer roller R3 is positioned opposite the drive roller R1. An electric field force is generated between the secondary transfer roller R3 and the drive roller R1 by the secondary transfer roller R3. As a result, when the paper being transported along the transport path P1 passes between the secondary transfer roller R3 and the drive roller R1, the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 29 is transferred to the first surface of the paper by the action of the electric field force. The paper with the transferred toner image is then transported to the fuser roller pair R4. The fuser roller pair R4 heats and pressurizes the paper as it passes between them. This melts the toner and fixes it to the first surface of the paper.

[0040] A switching claw 33 is positioned on the transport path P1 between the fuser roller pair R4 and the discharge roller R6. The image forming apparatus 3 includes a reversal mechanism 30 below the transport path P1. The reversal mechanism 30 includes a reversal path P2, a reversal roller R7 positioned in the reversal path P2, and a retractable tray 34. The switching claw 33 switches the direction of paper travel to either the transport path P1 or the reversal path P2. When the switching claw 33 has switched the direction of paper travel to the transport path P1, the paper transported by the fuser roller pair R4 travels along the transport path P1 and is received by the discharge roller R6. The discharge roller R6 receives the paper transported by the fuser roller pair R4 and transports the paper. The paper transported by the discharge roller R6 travels along the transport path P1 and is supplied to the image inspection apparatus 4.

[0041] When the switching claw 33 switches the direction of paper travel to the reverse path P2, the paper transported by the fuser roller pair R4 travels along the reverse path P2. The reverse path P2 includes a retraction path 31 and a resupply path 32. The retraction path 31 is a path from the upstream position of the switching claw 33 on the transport path P1 to the retraction tray 34. The resupply path 32 is a path from the retraction tray 34 to the upstream position of the receiving roller R5 on the transport path P1.

[0042] When the switching claw 33 switches the paper's direction of travel to the reversal path P2, the paper being transported by the fixing roller pair R4 enters the retraction path 31. Multiple rollers are arranged in the retraction path 31, and these multiple rollers transport the paper. The paper transported by the multiple rollers in the retraction path 31 moves along the retraction path 31 and is received by the reversal roller R7.

[0043] The reversing roller R7 rotates in the forward direction to transport the paper toward the retraction tray 34. After transporting a predetermined amount of paper to the retraction tray 34, the reversing roller R7 reverses its direction of rotation and rotates in the reverse direction. As the reversing roller R7 rotates in the reverse direction, the paper that has been partially placed in the retraction tray 34 is transported in the opposite direction to the direction it was previously transported and enters the resupply path 32. Multiple rollers are arranged in the resupply path 32, and these multiple rollers transport the paper. The paper transported by the multiple rollers is transported along the resupply path 32 and enters the transport path P1.

[0044] The receiving roller R5 receives the paper being transported along the resupply path 32 by multiple rollers in the resupply path 32 and transports the paper toward the secondary transfer roller R3. The upward-facing side of the paper received by the receiving roller R5 after passing through the resupply path 32 is the second side opposite to the first side that faced upward while the paper was being supplied from the paper feed device 2 and transported along the transport path P1. Therefore, an image is formed on the second side of the paper while it is being transported along the transport path P1 by the receiving roller R5 as it is being transported along the resupply path 32.

[0045] When forming a full-color image, the image forming apparatus 3 drives all of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. When forming a monochrome image, the image forming apparatus 3 drives one of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. It is also possible to form an image by combining two or more of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K.

[0046] Figure 4 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the control unit of the paper feeder. Referring to Figure 4, the control unit 41 of the paper feeder 2 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 201 for controlling the entire paper feeder 2, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202 for storing programs to be executed by the CPU 201, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203 used as a workspace for the CPU 201, an SSD (Solid State Drive) 204 for non-volatile data storage, a communication unit 205, a first sensor 43, a second sensor 45, and an external storage device 206. The CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, SSD 204, communication unit 205, first sensor 43, second sensor 45, and external storage device 206 are connected to a bus 207.

[0047] The communication unit 205 is an interface for serial communication with external devices. Serial communication is, for example, the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard. External devices capable of communicating via the USB standard can be connected to the communication unit 205. Here, the communication unit 205 is connected to the communication I / F unit 112 (see Figure 5) of the image forming apparatus 3, which will be described later. The CPU 201 can send and receive data with the CPU 111 of the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication unit 205. The communication unit 205 may also be connected to an external network such as the Internet.

[0048] The external storage device 206 is controlled by the CPU 201. The external storage device 206 is equipped with a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory) 209 or semiconductor memory. In this embodiment, an example is described in which the CPU 201 executes a program stored in ROM 202. The CPU 201 may also control the external storage device 206 to read a program from CD-ROM 208, store the read program in RAM 203, and execute it.

[0049] Furthermore, the recording medium for storing the program to be executed by the CPU 201 is not limited to the CD-ROM 208, but may also be a flexible disk, cassette tape, optical disk, or semiconductor memory. Optical disks include MO (Magnetic Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), and DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). Semiconductor memory includes IC cards, optical cards, mask ROMs, and EPROMs (Erasable Programmable ROMs). In addition, the CPU 201 may download a program from a computer connected to the network and store it in the SSD 204. Alternatively, a computer connected to the network may write a program to the SSD 204. The CPU 201 may load the program stored in the SSD 204 into the RAM 203 and execute it. The term "program" here includes not only programs that can be directly executed by the CPU 201, but also source programs, compressed programs, encrypted programs, etc.

[0050] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the main circuit of an image forming apparatus. Referring to Figure 5, the main circuit 110 is provided in one of the following: the paper feeder 2, the image forming apparatus 3, the image inspection apparatus 4, or the post-processing apparatus 5. Here, we will explain using the case where the main circuit 110 is provided in the image forming apparatus 3 as an example. Note that the main circuit 110 may be provided in a separate housing from the paper feeder 2, the image forming apparatus 3, the image inspection apparatus 4, and the post-processing apparatus 5.

[0051] The main circuit 110 includes a CPU 111 that controls the entire image forming system 1, a communication interface (I / F) unit 112, a ROM 113, a RAM 114, a hard disk drive (HDD) 115 as a large-capacity storage device, and an external storage device 116. The CPU 111 is connected to the paper feed device 2, the image forming apparatus 3, the image inspection apparatus 4, the post-processing device 5, and the operation panel 18, and controls the entire image forming system 1.

[0052] ROM113 stores the program that the CPU111 executes, or the data necessary to execute that program. RAM114 is used as a workspace when the CPU111 executes the program.

[0053] The control panel 18 is located on the upper part of the housing of the image forming apparatus 3. The control panel 18 includes a display unit 19a and an operation unit 19b. The display unit 19a is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and displays instruction menus for the user, information about acquired image data, etc. Instead of an LCD, any device that displays images may be used, such as an organic electroluminescent (EL) display.

[0054] The operating unit 19b includes a touch panel or hard keys. The touch panel detects a position indicated by the user on the display surface of the display unit 19a. The hard keys are, for example, contact switches.

[0055] The communication interface unit 112 is an interface for communicating with external devices. The communication interface unit 112 communicates using serial communication and packet communication standards. Serial communication is, for example, communication using the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard communication protocol. Packet communication is communication using communication protocols such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or FTP (File Transfer Protocol). The serial communication interface to which the communication interface unit 112 is connected is connected to the communication unit 205 of the paper feeder 2. The CPU 201 of the paper feeder 2 can control the operation panel 18 via the communication unit 205 and the communication interface unit 112. The packet communication network to which the communication interface unit 112 is connected may be a wide area network (WAN), public switched telephone network (PSTN), the Internet, or other networks. Furthermore, the connection method of LAN 101 can be wired or wireless.

[0056] The external storage device 116 is controlled by the CPU 111 and is equipped with a CD-ROM 118 or semiconductor memory. In this embodiment, the CPU 111 may control the external storage device 116 to read a program from the CD-ROM 118, store the read program in the RAM 114, and execute it.

[0057] Furthermore, the recording medium for storing the program to be executed by the CPU 111 is not limited to the CD-ROM 118; other media such as flexible disks, cassette tapes, optical discs, and semiconductor memory may also be used. In addition, the CPU 111 may download the program from a computer connected to the network and store it in the HDD 115. Alternatively, a computer connected to the network may write the program to the HDD 115. The CPU 111 may load the program stored in the HDD 115 into the RAM 114 and execute it.

[0058] Figure 6 shows an example of the functions of the CPU 201 in the paper feeder 2 in this embodiment. The functions shown in Figure 6 are functions realized by the CPU 201 in the paper feeder 2 when it executes adjustment programs stored in the ROM 202, SSD 204, or CD-ROM 208. Referring to Figure 6, the CPU 201 includes a detection control unit 51, a first paper type determination unit 53, a second paper type determination unit 55, a paper type output unit 57, a first adjustment unit 61, and a second adjustment unit 63.

[0059] The detection control unit 51 controls the first sensor 43 and the second sensor 45. The detection control unit 51 calculates the transmittance of the paper Pa based on the first and second light-receiving amounts output by the first sensor 43. The transmittance is the ratio of the second light-receiving amount to the first light-receiving amount. The control unit 41 calculates the reflectance of the paper Pa based on the third and fourth light-receiving amounts output by the second sensor 45. The reflectance is the ratio of the fourth light-receiving amount to the third light-receiving amount. The detection control unit 51 outputs the transmittance and reflectance of the paper Pa as detected values ​​to the first paper type determination unit 53 and the second paper type determination unit 55.

[0060] The first paper type determination unit 53 receives detected values ​​from the detection control unit 51. The first paper type determination unit 53 determines the first paper type based on the detected values. The first paper type determination unit 53 outputs the determined first paper type to the second paper type determination unit 55 and the first adjustment unit 61. Specifically, the first paper type determination unit 53 receives the transmittance and reflectance of the paper Pa from the detection control unit 51. The first paper type determination unit 53 determines the paper type of the paper Pa by comparing the transmittance and reflectance with a first threshold. The first threshold defines the range of reflectance for each of the multiple transmittances for each of the multiple first paper types.

[0061] Figure 7 shows an example of the first threshold. Referring to Figure 7, an example of the first threshold corresponding to plain paper is shown. The horizontal axis is transmittance, and the vertical axis is reflectance. Multiple points plotted from experiments for the transmittance and reflectance of plain paper are shown. The first threshold is determined by regression analysis of the multiple plotted points obtained from the experiments. If the transmittance and reflectance of the paper Pa are within a predetermined range from the first threshold, it is indicated that the first paper type of that paper Pa is plain paper.

[0062] Returning to Figure 6, the first paper type determination unit 53 outputs the determined first paper type to the second paper type determination unit 55 if the operation mode is set to image formation mode. The first paper type determination unit 53 outputs the determined paper type to the first adjustment unit 61 if the operation mode is set to adjustment mode. The operation mode is input to the paper feed device 2 by the user and includes image formation mode and adjustment mode. The user sets the operation mode to image formation mode when they want the image formation system 1 to form an image. The user sets the operation mode to adjustment mode when they want to adjust the settings of the image formation system.

[0063] When the operating mode is set to image formation mode, the second paper type determination unit 55 receives a detected value from the detection control unit 51 and the first paper type from the first paper type determination unit 53. The second paper type determination unit 55 determines the second paper type based on the detected value. The second paper type is a paper type obtained by subdividing the first paper type into multiple types based on basis weight. Specifically, the second paper type determination unit 55 receives the transmittance and reflectance of the paper Pa from the detection control unit 51. The second paper type determination unit 55 determines the basis weight of the paper Pa using a predetermined calculation formula based on the transmittance and reflectance. The second paper type determination unit 55 determines the second paper type from the basis weight of the paper Pa and the second threshold.

[0064] Figure 8 shows an example of a second threshold. Referring to Figure 8, an example of a second threshold corresponding to plain paper is shown. For the first paper type, "plain paper," eight second paper types are defined with the names "thin paper," "plain paper," "plain paper+," "thick 1," "thick 1+," "thick 2," "thick 3," and "thick 4." For each of the eight second paper types, a range of basis weights is defined by a lower limit and an upper limit. The second threshold is a threshold used to further classify the first paper type, which is determined by the first threshold, by basis weight.

[0065] Returning to Figure 6, if the operation mode is set to image formation mode, the second paper type determination unit 55 outputs the determined second paper type to the paper type output unit 57. If the operation mode is set to adjustment mode, the second paper type determination unit 55 outputs the determined paper type to the second adjustment unit 63.

[0066] The paper type output unit 57 outputs the second paper type, which is input from the second paper type determination unit 55, to the image forming apparatus 3. The paper type output unit 57 controls the communication unit 205 to transmit the second paper type to the communication I / F unit 112 of the image forming apparatus 3.

[0067] The first adjustment unit 61 and the second adjustment unit 63 function when the operating mode is set to adjustment mode. The first adjustment unit 61 includes a first screen display unit 71, a first paper type receiving unit 73, a first threshold correction unit 75, and a decision instruction receiving unit 77. The first adjustment unit 61 receives the first paper type from the first paper type determination unit 53.

[0068] The first screen display unit 71 displays the first screen on the display unit 19a of the operation panel 18 in response to the input of the first paper type from the first paper type determination unit 53. The first screen has a first instruction area that accepts a correction instruction for the first threshold and a second instruction area that accepts a transition instruction to the second screen.

[0069] The first paper type receiving unit 73 receives the first paper type entered by the user according to the first screen when the first screen is displayed. The first paper type receiving unit 73 receives the first paper type by controlling the operation unit 19b of the operation panel 18. The first paper type receiving unit 73 receives the first paper type when the operation unit 19b receives an operation in which the user indicates a first indication area included in the first screen. The first indication area includes multiple first paper type indication buttons, each corresponding to one of multiple first paper types. The first paper type receiving unit 73 receives the first paper type corresponding to the indicated first paper type indication button when one of the multiple first paper type indication buttons is indicated. The first paper type received by the first paper type receiving unit 73 is different from the first paper type determined by the first paper type determination unit 53. Here, the first paper type received by the first paper type receiving unit 73 is called the modified first paper type. The first paper type receiving unit 73 outputs the modified first paper type to the first threshold correction unit 75.

[0070] The first threshold correction unit 75 changes the first threshold in response to the input of the modified first paper type. The first threshold correction unit 75 corrects the first threshold corresponding to the original first paper type based on the detected value output by the detection control unit 51 and the modified first paper type. The first threshold correction unit 75 corrects the original first threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type so that the first threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type includes the detected value output by the detection control unit 51. The first threshold correction unit 75 corrects multiple first thresholds corresponding to all first paper types other than the modified first paper type based on the correction amount of the first threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type. The first threshold correction unit 75 outputs the corrected first threshold to the first paper type determination unit 53. After the corrected first threshold is input, if the operation mode is set to image formation mode, the first paper type determination unit 53 determines the first paper type using the corrected first threshold.

[0071] The decision instruction receiving unit 77 receives an instruction to determine the first paper type after the change. The decision instruction receiving unit 77 receives an instruction to determine the first paper type after the change in response to the operation unit 19b receiving an operation in which the user indicates the second instruction area included in the first screen. In response to receiving the instruction to determine the first paper type after the change, the decision instruction receiving unit 77 outputs the first paper type after the change to the second paper type determination unit 55 and outputs a display instruction to the second adjustment unit 63.

[0072] When the operating mode is set to adjustment mode, the second paper type determination unit 55 determines the second paper type in response to the input of the modified first paper type from the determination instruction reception unit 77. The second paper type determination unit 55 determines the second paper type based on the detected value. The second paper type determination unit 55 outputs the determined second paper type to the second adjustment unit 63.

[0073] The second adjustment unit 63 includes a second screen display unit 81, a second paper type receiving unit 83, and a second threshold correction unit 85. The second adjustment unit 63 receives the second paper type from the second paper type determination unit 55 and display instructions from the determination instruction receiving unit 77. The display instructions include the modified first paper type.

[0074] The second screen display unit 81 displays the second screen on the display unit 19a of the operation panel 18 in response to a display instruction input from the decision instruction reception unit 77. The second screen has a third instruction area for receiving the designation of the second paper type and a fourth instruction area for receiving an instruction to decide on the second type. The third instruction area includes a plurality of second paper type instruction buttons, each corresponding to a plurality of second paper types.

[0075] The second paper type receiving unit 83 receives the second paper type entered by the user according to the second screen when the second screen is displayed. The second paper type receiving unit 83 receives the second paper type corresponding to the second paper type instruction button that is instructed when one of the multiple second paper type instruction buttons is instructed. The second paper type received by the second paper type receiving unit 83 is different from the second paper type determined by the second paper type determination unit 55. Here, the second paper type received by the second paper type receiving unit 83 is called the modified second paper type. The second paper type receiving unit 83 outputs the modified second paper type to the second threshold correction unit 85.

[0076] The second threshold correction unit 85 changes the second threshold in response to the input of the modified second paper type. The second threshold correction unit 85 corrects the second threshold based on the basis weight calculated from the detected value output by the detection control unit 51, the modified first paper type, and the modified second paper type. The second threshold determines the relationship between the second paper type and the basis weight. The second threshold correction unit 85 corrects the original second threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type so that the basis weight calculated from the detected value output by the detection control unit 51 is included in the range of basis weights defined for the modified second paper type, which is defined in the second threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type. The second threshold correction unit 85 corrects multiple second thresholds corresponding to all first paper types other than the modified first paper type based on the correction amount of the second threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type. The second threshold correction unit 85 outputs the corrected second threshold to the second paper type determination unit 55 in response to receiving a second paper type determination instruction. After the corrected second threshold is input, the second paper type determination unit 55 determines the second paper type using the corrected second threshold, if the operation mode is set to image formation mode. The second threshold correction unit 85 receives an instruction to determine the modified second paper type in response to the operation unit 19b receiving an operation in which the user indicates a fourth instruction area included in the second screen.

[0077] Figure 9 shows an example of the first screen. Referring to Figure 9, the first screen 301 includes a first instruction area 303 and a second instruction area 305. The first instruction area 303 is the area that receives user instructions for correcting the first threshold. The first instruction area 303 includes first paper type instruction buttons 311 to 314. The first paper type instruction button 311 is associated with plain paper as the first paper type. The first paper type instruction button 312 is associated with coated paper as the first paper type. The first paper type instruction button 313 is associated with colored paper as the first paper type. The first paper type instruction button 314 is associated with plain paper as the first paper type. In the figure, the first paper type instruction button 314 is inverted, and the case where plain paper is selected as the first paper type is shown as an example. When the first screen is initially displayed by the paper feed device 2, the button corresponding to the first paper type determined by the CPU 201 from among the first paper type selection buttons 311 to 314 is highlighted. Subsequently, when the user selects one of the first paper type selection buttons 311 to 314, the selected button is highlighted, and the first paper type corresponding to that button is determined as the first paper type.

[0078] The second instruction area 305 displays the words "Basis Weight Threshold Adjustment". The second instruction area 305 is associated with a command to display the second screen. When the user's operation to indicate the second instruction area 305 is accepted, the second screen is displayed. The first screen displayed on the display unit 19a may be switched to display the second screen, or the second screen may be displayed together with the first screen. If the first threshold has been changed, the second instruction area 305 is an instruction to determine the first paper type after the change.

[0079] The first screen 301 also includes a basis weight display area 321 and a basis weight step area 323. The basis weight is displayed in the basis weight display area 321. When the first screen 301 is first displayed, the basis weight calculated by the paper feed device 2 is displayed. A value for correcting the second threshold is entered in the basis weight step area 323. The value for correcting the second threshold is calculated based on the difference between the second threshold before the change and the detected value. When the first screen 301 is first displayed, nothing is displayed in the basis weight step area 323.

[0080] The first screen 301 also includes a recycled paper step area 331, a colored paper step area 332, a coated paper step area 333, and a plain paper step area 334. Values ​​for correcting the first threshold are entered into each of the recycled paper step area 331, colored paper step area 332, coated paper step area 333, and plain paper step area 334. When the first screen 301 is first displayed, nothing is displayed in the recycled paper step area 331, colored paper step area 332, coated paper step area 333, and plain paper step area 334. When the first paper type is changed by the user selecting one of the first paper type selection buttons 311 to 314, the corresponding values ​​are displayed in each of the recycled paper step area 331, colored paper step area 332, coated paper step area 333, and plain paper step area 334. The user may also be able to directly change these values.

[0081] Figure 10 shows an example of the second screen. Referring to Figure 10, the second screen 351 includes a third instruction area 353, a first paper type display area 355, an external reading instruction button 357, and a fourth instruction area 359. The third instruction area 353 is the area that accepts the specification of the second paper type. The fourth instruction area 359 is the area that accepts the instruction to determine the second paper type. The third instruction area 353 includes second paper type instruction buttons 361 to 368. Second paper type instruction button 361 is associated with thin paper as the second paper type. Second paper type instruction button 362 is associated with plain paper as the second paper type. Second paper type instruction button 363 is associated with plain paper+ as the second paper type. Second paper type instruction button 364 is associated with thick paper 1 as the second paper type. Second paper type instruction button 365 is associated with thick paper 1+ as the second paper type. The second paper type selection button 366 is associated with cardboard 2 as the second paper type. The second paper type selection button 367 is associated with cardboard 3 as the second paper type. The second paper type selection button 368 is associated with cardboard 4 as the second paper type. In the diagram, the second paper type selection button 362 is highlighted, and plain paper is selected as the second paper type. When the second screen is first displayed by the paper feed device 2, the button corresponding to the second paper type selected by the CPU 201 from among the second paper type selection buttons 361 to 368 is highlighted. Subsequently, when the user selects any of the second paper type selection buttons 361 to 368, the selected button is highlighted, and the second paper type corresponding to that button is selected as the second paper type.

[0082] The first paper type display area 355 is the area where the first paper type is displayed. The first paper type is determined by the first screen. When the second screen is displayed, the first paper type determined when the first screen was displayed is shown. Here, the case where plain paper is determined as the first paper type is shown.

[0083] The external reading instruction button 357 displays the words "Paper Brand Input". The external reading instruction button 357 is a button that receives instructions to obtain basis weight from an external source. When the external reading instruction button 357 is pressed, a screen is displayed that accepts instructions for obtaining basis weight from an external source. The instructions for obtaining basis weight from an external source include information related to the paper. Information related to paper input includes the paper's product name, manufacturer name, etc. The paper feeder 2 can obtain the basis weight of a product by searching for the product name on the internet. Alternatively, instead of entering the product name, the user may have a portable information device read an image code, such as a barcode printed on the paper's packaging, and input the code contained in the image code into the paper feeder 2. The image code may include the basis weight itself or a code corresponding to the product name. For example, the paper's basis weight is written on the paper's packaging. Alternatively, the user may directly input the paper's basis weight into the paper feeder 2.

[0084] The second screen 351, like the first screen 301, includes a basis weight display area 321 and a basis weight step area 323. When the second screen 351 is first displayed, the basis weight displayed in the basis weight display area 321 is calculated from the detected value by the paper feed device 2. A value for correcting the second threshold is entered in the basis weight step area 323. The value for correcting the second threshold is calculated based on the difference between the second threshold before the change and the detected value. When the second screen 351 is first displayed, nothing is displayed in the basis weight step area 323. When the user changes the second paper type in the third instruction area 353, a value for correcting the second threshold is displayed in the basis weight step area 323.

[0085] Furthermore, the second screen 351, like the first screen 301, includes a recycled paper step area 331, a colored paper step area 332, a coated paper step area 333, and a plain paper step area 334. These areas 331 to 334 display values ​​for correcting the first threshold if the first paper type has been changed by the user when the second screen 351 is first displayed. The values ​​for correcting the first threshold are calculated based on the difference between the first threshold before the change and the detected value.

[0086] Figure 11 is a first flowchart showing an example of the adjustment process flow. Figure 12 is a second flowchart showing an example of the adjustment process flow. The adjustment process is performed by the CPU 201 of the paper feeder 2 by executing an adjustment program stored in the ROM 202, SSD 204, or CD-ROM 208. Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the CPU 201 starts transporting the paper (step S01) and proceeds to step S02. In step S02, the physical quantities of the paper are acquired, and the process proceeds to step S03. In this embodiment, the physical quantities are the transmittance and reflectance of the paper. The CPU 201 acquires the transmittance based on the output value of the first sensor 43 and the reflectance based on the output value of the second sensor 45.

[0087] In step S03, it is determined whether the transport of a predetermined number of sheets has been completed. If physical quantities have been obtained from the predetermined number of sheets, the process proceeds to step S04; otherwise, the process returns to step S01. In step S04, the physical quantities are determined, and the process proceeds to step S05. Here, the average transmittance and average reflectance of each of the predetermined number of sheets obtained in step S02 are determined as the physical quantities.

[0088] In step S05, the first threshold is obtained, and the process proceeds to step S06. The CPU 201 reads the first threshold stored in the SSD 204. In step S06, the first paper type is determined, and the process proceeds to step S07. The first paper type is determined from the first threshold and the physical quantity. In step S07, the first screen is displayed, and the process proceeds to step S08. For example, the first screen 301 shown in Figure 9 is displayed on the display unit 19a.

[0089] In step S08, it is determined whether the change of the first paper type has been accepted. If the first paper type has been changed, the process proceeds to step S09; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S11. The CPU 201 determines whether any of the multiple buttons corresponding to first paper types other than the first paper type determined in step S06, among the first paper type instruction buttons 311 to 314 included in the first instruction area 303 of the first screen 301, has been selected. In step S09, the first paper type is changed to the changed first paper type, and the process proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the first threshold is corrected, and the process proceeds to step S11. The first threshold is corrected based on the physical quantity and the changed first paper type determined in step S04. The CPU 201 corrects multiple first thresholds corresponding to all first paper types other than the changed first paper type, based on the correction amount of the first threshold corresponding to the changed first paper type.

[0090] In step S11, it is determined whether or not the instruction to determine the first paper type has been received. If the second instruction area 305 of the first screen 301 is indicated, the process proceeds to step S12; otherwise, the process returns to step S08.

[0091] In step S12, a second threshold corresponding to the first paper type is obtained, and the process proceeds to step S13. The first paper type here is the modified first paper type after the change made in step S09. In step S13, the second paper type is determined, and the process proceeds to step S14. The second paper type is determined from the second threshold and the physical quantity determined in step S04.

[0092] In step S14, the second screen is displayed, and the process proceeds to step S15. For example, the second screen 351 shown in Figure 10 is displayed on the display unit 19a. In step S15, it is determined whether or not the change of the second paper type has been accepted. In step S16, the second paper type is changed, and the process proceeds to step S16. The CPU 201 determines whether or not one of the buttons corresponding to a second paper type other than the second paper type determined in step S13, among the second paper type instruction buttons 361 to 368 included in the third instruction area 353 of the second screen 351, has been selected. If the second paper type has been changed, the process proceeds to step S16; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S18. In step S16, the second paper type is changed to the modified second paper type, and the process proceeds to step S17.

[0093] In step S17, the first threshold is corrected, and the process proceeds to step S18. The second threshold, corresponding to the physical quantity determined in step S04 and the modified first paper type, is corrected.

[0094] In step S11, it is determined whether or not the instruction to determine the first paper type has been received. If the second instruction area 305 of the first screen 301 is indicated, the process proceeds to step S12; otherwise, the process returns to step S08.

[0095] In step S12, a second threshold corresponding to the first paper type is obtained, and the process proceeds to step S13. The first paper type here is the modified first paper type after the change made in step S09. In step S13, the second paper type is determined, and the process proceeds to step S14. The second paper type is determined from the physical quantity determined in step S04 and the second threshold obtained in step S12.

[0096] In step S14, the second screen is displayed, and the process proceeds to step S15. For example, the second screen 351 shown in Figure 10 is displayed on the display unit 19a.

[0097] In step S15, it is determined whether the change to the second paper type has been accepted. If the second paper type has been changed, the process proceeds to step S16; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S18. The CPU 201 determines whether any of the buttons corresponding to the second paper type other than the second paper type determined in step S13, among the second paper type instruction buttons 361 to 368 included in the third instruction area 353 of the second screen 351, has been selected. In step S16, the second paper type is changed to the changed second paper type, and the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the second threshold is corrected, and the process proceeds to step S18. Based on the physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type determined in step S04, the second threshold corresponding to the changed first paper type is corrected. The CPU 201 determines that the second threshold defines the relationship between the second paper type and the basis weight. The CPU 201 corrects the original second threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type so that the physical quantity determined in step S04 is included in the physical quantity determined in the second threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type. Based on the correction amount of the second threshold corresponding to the modified first paper type, the CPU 201 corrects multiple second thresholds corresponding to all first paper types other than the modified first paper type.

[0098] In step S18, it is determined whether or not the instruction to determine the second paper type has been received. If the fourth instruction area 359 on the second screen 351 is indicated, the process ends; otherwise, the process returns to step S15.

[0099] <Variation> (1) In this embodiment, the paper feeder 2 uses a first sensor 43 and a second sensor 45. However, the paper feeder 2 may have only the first sensor 43 and not the second sensor 45. The CPU 201 detects the type of recording medium from the output of the first sensor 43 alone. Alternatively, the paper feeder 2 may have only the second sensor 45 and not the first sensor 43. The CPU 201 detects the type of recording medium from the output of the second sensor 45 alone. Furthermore, the paper feeder 2 may have an ultrasonic sensor in addition to the optical sensors of the first sensor 43 and the second sensor 45. The paper feeder 2 may detect the type of recording medium by combining the output of the optical sensor and the output of the ultrasonic sensor. Alternatively, the paper feeder 2 may have only an ultrasonic sensor. The paper feeder 2 may detect the type of recording medium from the output of the ultrasonic sensor. In short, it is sufficient that a physical quantity for determining the type of recording medium is detected.

[0100] (2) In this embodiment, the first screen 301 and the second screen 351 are separate screens, but the first screen 301 and the second screen 351 may be treated as a single adjustment screen. In this case, the adjustment screen includes at least a first instruction area 303, a second instruction area 305, a third instruction area 353, an external reading instruction button 357, and a fourth instruction area 359. When this adjustment screen is first displayed, the first instruction area 303 and the second instruction area 305 can be instructed, while the external reading instruction button 357 and the fourth instruction area 359 are prohibited from being instructed. For example, the screen is displayed in a manner that indicates to the user that the external reading instruction button 357 and the fourth instruction area 359 cannot be instructed. With this adjustment screen displayed, the external reading instruction button 357 and the fourth instruction area 359 become available for instructing after the second instruction area 305 has been instructed.

[0101] <Summary of Embodiments> (Item 1) A detection unit for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination unit that determines a first paper type based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first screen display unit that displays a first screen for accepting changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, The first paper type reception unit accepts the first paper type after the change, A second paper type determination unit determines a second paper type, which is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type. A second screen display unit that displays a second screen for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, A paper feeder comprising a second paper type receiving section that accepts the second paper type after the change.

[0102] In this scenario, the physical quantity of the recording medium is detected, the first paper type is determined based on the physical quantity, and a first screen is displayed to accept a change to the first paper type after it has been determined. Then, after the first paper type has been changed, the second paper type of the recording medium is determined, and a second screen is displayed to accept a change to the determined second paper type. When the second paper type is determined from the physical quantity and the first paper type, the learning process for determining the first paper type from the physical quantity can be performed before the learning process for determining the second paper type from the physical quantity and the first paper type. Therefore, it is possible to provide a paper feeder that can efficiently learn the process of determining the paper type from the physical quantity.

[0103] (Item 2) A first threshold correction unit that corrects the first threshold used to determine the first paper type based on the detected physical quantity and the changed first paper type, The paper feeder according to claim 1, further comprising: a second threshold correction unit that corrects a second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the detected physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type.

[0104] In this scenario, the first threshold is corrected based on the physical quantity and the modified first paper type, and the second threshold used to determine the second paper type is corrected based on the physical quantity, the modified first paper type, and the modified second paper type. Therefore, the first threshold is corrected before the second threshold is corrected. Consequently, the second threshold can be corrected accurately.

[0105] (Item 3) The paper feeder according to Item 2, wherein the first screen includes a first instruction area for receiving a correction instruction for the first threshold.

[0106] In this scenario, the first screen includes a first instruction area that accepts correction instructions for the first threshold. Therefore, the first screen can accept the modified first paper type.

[0107] (Item 4) The paper feed device according to Item 2, wherein the first screen includes a second instruction area for receiving an instruction to transition to the second screen.

[0108] In this scenario, the first screen includes a second instruction area that accepts a transition instruction to the second screen. Therefore, the second screen can be displayed in response to the acceptance of the transition instruction. Consequently, the second screen can be displayed after the first screen.

[0109] (Item 5) The paper feeder according to Item 2, wherein the second screen includes a third instruction area for receiving the designation of the second type of paper.

[0110] In this scenario, the second screen includes a third instruction area that accepts the selection of the second paper type. Therefore, the second screen can accept the changed second paper type.

[0111] (Item 6) The paper feeder according to Item 1, wherein the second screen display unit displays the second screen in response to the acceptance of the changed first paper type.

[0112] Following this procedure, the second screen will be displayed once the modified first paper type is accepted. Therefore, the second screen can be displayed after the first screen.

[0113] (Item 7) A detection unit for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination unit that determines a first paper type based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first paper type reception unit that accepts changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, A second paper type determination unit determines a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium. After the second paper type has been determined, the second paper type reception department accepts changes to the second paper type, A first threshold correction unit corrects the first threshold used to determine the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the modified first paper type, A paper feeder comprising: a second threshold correction unit that corrects a second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the aforementioned physical quantity, the first paper type after modification, and the second paper type after modification.

[0114] In this scenario, the physical quantity of the recording medium is detected, the first paper type is determined based on the physical quantity, a change to the first paper type is accepted after the first paper type has been determined, and the first threshold used to determine the first paper type is corrected based on the physical quantity and the changed first paper type. Furthermore, the second paper type of the recording medium is determined based on the physical quantity and the first paper type, a change to the determined second paper type is accepted after the second paper type has been determined, and the second threshold used to determine the second paper type is corrected based on the physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type. Since the second threshold is changed after the first threshold is corrected, it is possible to provide a paper feeder that can efficiently learn the process of determining the paper type from the physical quantity.

[0115] (Item 8) The second paper type receiving unit is a paper feeding device according to any one of items 1 to 7, which obtains the basis weight of the recording medium from an external source.

[0116] In this scenario, the basis weight of the recording medium is obtained externally. This helps to suppress user input errors.

[0117] (Item 9) The paper feeder according to any one of Items 1 to 7, wherein the second paper type receiving unit does not accept the changed second paper type before the changed first paper type is accepted.

[0118] Following this scenario, the modified second paper type will not be accepted before the modified first paper type is accepted, allowing the system to correctly learn the process for determining the second paper type.

[0119] (Item 10) The paper feeder according to any one of items 1 to 7, further comprising a prohibition unit that prohibits acceptance of the changed second paper type until the changed first paper type is accepted.

[0120] Following this procedure, the acceptance of the revised second paper type will be prohibited until the revised first paper type is accepted, allowing the system to correctly learn the process for determining the second paper type.

[0121] (Item 11) A paper feeder as described in any of Items 1 to 10, An image forming apparatus comprising: an image forming unit that forms an image on the recording medium with image forming conditions determined for the second paper type determined by the paper type determination unit.

[0122] Following this approach, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can efficiently learn the process of determining paper type from physical quantities.

[0123] (Item 12) A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first screen display step in which a first screen is displayed for accepting changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, The first paper type acceptance step accepts the first paper type after the change, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type, A second screen display step in which a second screen is displayed for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, An adjustment method for causing a paper feeder to perform a second paper type acceptance step, which accepts the second paper type after the change.

[0124] Following this approach, it is possible to provide an adjustment method that enables efficient training of the process of determining paper type from physical quantities.

[0125] (Item 13) A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium, A second paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined, A first threshold correction step, which corrects the first threshold used to determine the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the modified first paper type, An adjustment method that causes a paper feeder to perform a second threshold correction step, which corrects a second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the first paper type after modification, and the second paper type after modification.

[0126] Following this approach, it is possible to provide an adjustment method that enables efficient training of the process of determining paper type from physical quantities.

[0127] (Item 14) A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first screen display step in which a first screen is displayed for accepting changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, The first paper type acceptance step accepts the first paper type after the change, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type, A second screen display step in which a second screen is displayed for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, A second paper type acceptance step that accepts the modified second paper type, and an adjustment program that causes the computer to execute this step.

[0128] Following this approach, it becomes possible to provide an adjustment program that can efficiently learn the process of determining paper type from physical quantities.

[0129] (Item 15) A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium, A second paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined, A first threshold correction step, which corrects the first threshold used to determine the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the modified first paper type, An adjustment program that causes a computer to perform a second threshold correction step, which corrects the second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the first paper type after modification, and the second paper type after modification.

[0130] Following this approach, it becomes possible to provide an adjustment program that can efficiently learn the process of determining paper type from physical quantities.

[0131] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0132] 1 Image forming system, 2 Paper feeder, 3 Image forming apparatus, 4 Image inspection apparatus, 5 Post-processing apparatus, 41 Control unit, 43 First sensor, 43A First light-emitting unit, 43B First light-receiving unit, 45 Second sensor, 45A Second light-emitting unit, 45B Second light-receiving unit, 45C Reference plate, 51 Detection control unit, 53 First paper type determination unit, 55 Second paper type determination unit, 57 Paper type output unit, 61 First adjustment unit, 63 Second adjustment unit, 71 First screen display unit, 73 First paper type reception unit, 75 First threshold correction unit, 77 Determination instruction reception unit, 81 Second screen display unit, 83 Second paper type reception unit, 85 Second threshold correction unit, 201 CPU, 202 ROM, 203 RAM, 205 Communication unit, 206 External storage device, 207 Bus, 208 CD-ROM, 301 First screen, 303 1st instruction area, 305 2nd instruction area, 311~314 1st paper type instruction button, 321 Basis weight display area, 323 Basis weight step area, 331 Recycled paper step area, 332 Colored paper step area, 333 Coated paper step area, 334 Plain paper step area, 351 2nd screen, 353 3rd instruction area, 355 1st paper type display area, 357 External reading instruction button, 359 4th instruction area, 361~368 2nd paper type instruction button.

Claims

1. A detection unit that detects the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination unit that determines a first paper type based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first screen display unit that displays a first screen for accepting changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, The first paper type receiving unit accepts the first paper type after the change, A second paper type determination unit determines a second paper type, which is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type. A second screen display unit that displays a second screen for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, A paper feeder comprising a second paper type receiving unit that accepts the second paper type after the change.

2. A first threshold correction unit corrects the first threshold used to determine the first paper type based on the detected physical quantity and the modified first paper type, The paper feed device according to claim 1, further comprising: a second threshold correction unit that corrects a second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the detected physical quantity, the changed first paper type, and the changed second paper type.

3. The paper feeder according to claim 2, wherein the first screen includes a first instruction area for receiving a correction instruction for the first threshold.

4. The paper feeder according to claim 2, wherein the first screen includes a second instruction area for receiving a transition instruction to the second screen.

5. The paper feeder according to claim 2, wherein the second screen includes a plurality of third instruction areas for receiving the designation of the second type of paper.

6. The paper feeder according to claim 1, wherein the second screen display unit displays the second screen in response to the acceptance of the changed first paper type.

7. A detection unit that detects the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination unit that determines a first paper type based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first paper type reception unit that accepts changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, A second paper type determination unit determines a second paper type determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium. A second paper type reception department that accepts changes to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined, A first threshold correction unit corrects the first threshold used to determine the first paper type based on the physical quantity and the modified first paper type, A paper feeder comprising: a second threshold correction unit that corrects a second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the aforementioned physical quantity, the first paper type after modification, and the second paper type after modification.

8. The paper feeding device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second paper type receiving unit obtains the basis weight of the recording medium from an external source.

9. The paper feeder according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second paper type receiving unit does not accept the changed second paper type before the changed first paper type is accepted.

10. The paper feeder according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a prohibition unit that prohibits acceptance of the changed second paper type until the changed first paper type is accepted.

11. A paper feeder according to any one of claims 1 to 7, An image forming apparatus comprising: an image forming unit that forms an image on the recording medium with image forming conditions defined for the second paper type determined by the second paper type determination unit.

12. A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first screen display step in which a first screen is displayed for accepting changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, The first paper type acceptance step accepts the first paper type after the change, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type, A second screen display step in which a second screen is displayed for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, An adjustment method for causing a paper feed device to perform a second paper type acceptance step, which accepts the second paper type after the change.

13. A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium, A second paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined, A first threshold correction step, in which the first threshold used to determine the first paper type is corrected based on the physical quantity and the first paper type after the change, An adjustment method that causes a paper feed device to perform a second threshold correction step, which corrects a second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the first paper type after modification, and the second paper type after modification.

14. A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first screen display step in which a first screen is displayed for accepting changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, The first paper type acceptance step accepts the first paper type after the change, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium based on the aforementioned physical quantity and the first paper type, A second screen display step in which a second screen is displayed for accepting a change to the second paper type after the first paper type has been changed, A second paper type acceptance step that accepts the second paper type after the change, and an adjustment program that causes the computer to execute this step.

15. A detection step for detecting the physical quantity of the recording medium, A first paper type determination step in which a first paper type is determined based on the aforementioned physical quantity, A first paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the first paper type after the first paper type has been determined, A second paper type determination step in which a second paper type is determined by the basis weight of the recording medium, based on the physical quantity and the first paper type of the recording medium, A second paper type acceptance step that accepts changes to the second paper type after the second paper type has been determined, A first threshold correction step, in which the first threshold used to determine the first paper type is corrected based on the physical quantity and the first paper type after the change, An adjustment program that causes a computer to perform a second threshold correction step, which corrects the second threshold used to determine the second paper type based on the physical quantity, the first paper type after modification, and the second paper type after modification.

Images