Image forming system and information processing device, and their control methods and programs

Abstract

Conventionally, when printing on long paper, even if the image forming apparatus has multiple trays for long paper, it is possible to select an output tray other than the one automatically selected by the apparatus. Therefore, when printing on long paper, if an output destination other than the tray for long paper is specified, there was a possibility that the paper would fall or be improperly loaded when the long paper was ejected. [Solution] An image forming system having an image forming apparatus that forms and discharges an image on a recording medium, wherein a loading section is selected from among a plurality of loading sections capable of loading the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus by executing a job to load the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus. If the recording medium formed in the job is a long recording medium with a length in the transport direction longer than a standard recording medium, it is determined whether the selected loading section is suitable for loading the long recording medium, and if it is determined that it is not a loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium, a warning is issued.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , ,

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[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system, an information processing apparatus, and their control methods and programs.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an image forming system has been proposed that outputs a printed medium, particularly a long sheet of paper, to an appropriate paper discharge tray. Such an image forming system includes an image forming apparatus and one or more paper discharge apparatuses. It also has a long paper tray as an option. In order to securely hold the discharged long paper, the long paper tray can be additionally installed in the paper discharge tray.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an image forming system that forms an image on a paper (long paper) whose length in the conveyance direction is longer than that of a standard paper. This image forming system is described as selecting a single paper discharge tray that can discharge the paper based on paper information and tray information and discharges the paper so that the conveyance distance of the paper is the shortest.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] [[ID=?]] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1 above, there are no particular restrictions on the user's selection of the paper discharge destination. Also, in the case of long paper, for the purpose of reducing jams, it is discharged to a tray where the conveyance distance of the paper is the shortest. Therefore, even if the image forming apparatus has a plurality of long paper trays, it is not possible to select a paper discharge tray other than the paper discharge tray automatically selected by the apparatus.

[0006] It seems there are some missing or incorrect tag references in the original text for lines ID 36 - 38 which are marked as "?". Please check and correct if needed.The object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the prior art described above.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a technology that enables a long recording medium, in which an image has been formed by an image forming apparatus, to be presented in a manner that allows it to be discharged into an appropriate loading section. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, an image forming system according to one aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, An image forming system having an image forming apparatus for ejecting an image-formed recording medium, A selection means for selecting a stacking unit from among a plurality of stacking units capable of stacking recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, in which a job is executed to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is suitable for loading the long recording medium. The invention is characterized by having a warning means that issues a warning if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to select a loading section for long recording media in an image forming apparatus that is suitable for long recording media. This has the effect of enabling the loading of long recording media without impairing their quality.

[0010] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same or similar components are given the same reference numeral. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] The attached drawings are included in the specification and constitute part thereof, illustrating embodiments of the present invention and are used together with the description to explain the principles of the present invention. [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating the configuration of an image forming system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the printing apparatus, inspection apparatus, information processing apparatus, client computer, etc., of the image forming system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the mechanisms of the printing apparatus, inspection unit, large-capacity stacker, relay transport unit, and finisher according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] A diagram illustrating the long tray according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit of the information processing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit of the information processing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This diagram shows an example of the control panel screen that appears when a custom button is pressed. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of an operation screen for inputting job properties displayed on the display unit of the information processing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] This image shows an example of a warning screen that appears when a non-recommended tray is selected. [Figure 10] This diagram shows an example of the stacking state when long paper sheets are ejected into each tray. [Figure 11] A flowchart illustrating the process of displaying the paper output list by the information processing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] This flowchart illustrates the process of displaying a warning screen when a non-recommended output tray is selected by the user when selecting an output tray in the information processing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] A functional block diagram illustrating the functions of the inspection device according to this embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the main screen displayed on the display unit of the inspection device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 15] The figure which shows an example of the inspection setting screen displayed on the display part of the inspection apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2. [Figure 16] The figure which shows an example of the inspection screen displayed on the display part when inspection is stopped or before inspection starts. [Figure 17] The figure which shows an example of the operation setting screen displayed on the display part of the inspection apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2. [Figure 18] The figure which shows an example of the warning screen displayed when a non-recommended tray is selected on the operation setting screen which concerns on Embodiment 2. [Figure 19] The figure which shows an example of the environment setting screen displayed on the display part of the information processing apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3. [Figure 20] The flowchart which demonstrates the display process of the paper discharge destination list by the information processing apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3. [Figure 21] In Embodiment 3, the figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the display part of the information processing apparatus. [Figure 22] The figure (A) which shows an example of the paper discharge destination list information which concerns on Embodiment 1, the figure (B) which shows the selection option of the radio button which concerns on Embodiment 3, the tray which is preferentially displayed, and the purpose, the figure (C) which shows an example of the paper discharge destination list information which concerns on Embodiment 3.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although a plurality of features are described in the embodiments, not all of these plurality of features are essential for the invention, and the plurality of features may be arbitrarily combined. Further, in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0013] <Embodiment 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an image forming system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0014] This image forming system comprises, broadly speaking, a printing device (image forming apparatus) 101, an inspection device 108, an information processing device 109, and a client computer 110. While the printing device 101 in Embodiment 1 is described using an electrophotographic printing device as an example, it may be a printing device of a different printing method, such as an inkjet or offset printing device.

[0015] The printing device 101 is connected to the information processing device 109 via cable 112. The information processing device 109 is connected to the client computer 110 via network 113.

[0016] The printing device 101 includes a UI panel (operation panel) 102, paper feed decks 103 and 104, and a manual feed tray 117. The UI panel 102 is a user interface equipped with, for example, a capacitive touch panel.

[0017] Furthermore, the printing device 101 is equipped with optional accessories including an inspection unit 106, a high-capacity stacker 107, a relay transport unit 115, and a finisher 116. The inspection unit 106 is connected to the inspection device 108 via a cable 114. The high-capacity stacker 107 is equipped with a main tray and a top tray 320, the main tray being able to hold several thousand sheets of paper at once. The relay transport unit 115 has paper cooling and decurling functions (removes curl from printed paper) and is equipped with a top tray (loading section) 325 on which printed paper can be loaded. The finisher 116 has finishing functions such as stapling and is equipped with multiple trays (loading sections) 341, 342 for loading finished paper.

[0018] A print job is generated on the client computer 110, sent to the information processing device 109 via the network 113, and managed by the information processing device 109. The print job is then sent from the information processing device 109 to the printing device 101 via cable 112, where the printing device 101 performs the printing process on paper (recording medium). The information processing device 109 is, for example, a print controller. Alternatively, the print job may be generated and managed by the information processing device 109, sent to the printing device 101 via the network 112, and managed by the printing device 101.

[0019] Alternatively, the client computer 110, the information processing device 109, and the inspection device 108 may be connected to the cable 112, and each may communicate with the printing device 101 via the cable 112. The inspection device 108 may also be connected to the information processing device 109 and the client computer 110 via the network 113. In other words, the connection configuration of the printing device 101, the information processing device 109, and the client computer 110 shown in Figure 1 is just one example, and it goes without saying that there are various other connection configurations besides those shown in this embodiment. Furthermore, the printing device 101 may also be connected to other devices besides those mentioned above, such as a folding machine or a bookbinding machine.

[0020] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the printing apparatus 101, inspection apparatus 108, information processing apparatus 109, client computer 110, etc., of the image forming system according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] First, let's explain the configuration of the printing device 101.

[0022] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 controls and performs calculations on various parts of the printing device 101 via the system bus 212. The CPU 201 is stored in the memory unit 205 and executes programs loaded into the RAM (Ramdom Access Memory) 202 to perform various controls. The RAM 202 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 201 and is used as the CPU 201's work area and a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 205 also functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the printing device 101.

[0023] The engine interface 209 is responsible for communication and control with the printer engine 210. The paper feed deck interface 204 is responsible for communication and control with the paper feed deck 211. The paper feed deck 211 is a hardware configuration that collectively refers to the paper feed decks 103, 104, and an optional deck (not shown) in Figure 1. The UI panel 203 is the hardware configuration of the UI panel 102 in Figure 1 and provides the user interface for the printing device 101. In this embodiment, the UI panel 203 is equipped with a capacitive touch panel.

[0024] The network interface (hereinafter referred to as NW I / F) 207 is connected to the NW I / F 238 of the information processing device 109 via cable 213 and is responsible for communication between the information processing device 109 and the printer 101. In this example, the interfaces connected to the system buses 212 and 239 are directly connected via cable 213, but the information processing device 109 and the printer 101 may be connected by a network, for example, and the connection method is not limited. The video I / F 206 is connected to the video I / F 233 of the information processing device 109 via video cable 241 and is responsible for the communication of image data between the information processing device 109 and the printer 101.

[0025] Furthermore, the connection interface between the information processing device 109 and the printing device 101 may be a form that integrates the functions of NW I / F 238 and video I / F 233. Also, the connection interface between the printing device 101 and the information processing device 109 may be a form that integrates the functions of NW I / F 207 and video I / F 206.

[0026] Accessory I / F 208 connects to multiple accessory I / Fs 214, 220, 250, and 260 via cable 225. That is, the printing device 101 communicates with the inspection unit 106, the large-capacity stacker 107, the relay transport unit 115, and the finisher 116 via accessory I / F 208.

[0027] Next, I will explain the configuration of the inspection unit 106.

[0028] The CPU 216 executes programs stored in the memory unit 247 by loading them into the RAM 0217 and running them via the system bus 219, thereby controlling and calculating various parts within the inspection unit 106. The RAM 217 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 216 and is used as the CPU 216's work area and a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 247 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the inspection unit 106. The inspection device I / F 215 is connected to the inspection unit I / F 229 of the inspection device 108 via cable 248. That is, the inspection unit 106 communicates with the inspection device 108 via the inspection device I / F 215 and the inspection unit I / F 229.

[0029] The imaging unit 218 is equipped with an imaging function, for example, a contact image sensor (hereinafter referred to as CIS), and photographs the paper passing through the inspection unit 106, and transmits the captured image to the inspection device 108 via the inspection device I / F 215. Note that the CIS of the imaging unit 218 is just one example of a sensor, and other types of sensors such as a CCD image sensor may be used, and the imaging method is not limited. The accessory I / F 214 communicates with the printing device 101, the large-capacity stacker 107, the relay transport unit 115, and the finisher 116 via the cable 225.

[0030] Next, we will explain the configuration of the large-capacity stacker 107.

[0031] The CPU 221 controls and performs calculations on various parts of the large-capacity stacker 107 via the system bus 224 by loading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 248 into the RAM 222. The RAM 222 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 221 and is used as the CPU 221's work area and as a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 248 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the large-capacity stacker 107. The paper output unit 223 controls the paper output operation to the main tray and top tray, as well as monitoring and controlling the loading status of the main tray and top tray, respectively. The accessory I / F 220 communicates with the printing device 101, inspection unit 106, relay transport unit 115, and finisher 116 via cable 225.

[0032] Next, the configuration of the relay transport unit 115 will be explained.

[0033] The CPU 251 controls and performs calculations on various parts of the relay transport unit 115 via the system bus 255 by loading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 254 into the RAM 252. The RAM 252 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 251 and is used as the CPU 251's work area and a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 254 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the relay transport unit 115. The paper output unit 251 controls the paper output operation. The accessory I / F 250 communicates with the printing device 101, inspection unit 106, large capacity stacker 107, and finisher 116 via the cable 225.

[0034] Next, we will explain the configuration of the finisher 116.

[0035] The CPU 261 controls and performs calculations on various parts of the finisher 116 via the system bus 265 by loading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 264 into the RAM 262. The RAM 262 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 261 and is used as the CPU 261's work area and a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 264 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the finisher 116. The post-processing unit 263 controls post-processing operations such as bookbinding, closing, stapling, and folding. The accessory I / F 260 communicates with the printing device 101, inspection unit 106, large-capacity stacker 107, and relay transport unit 115 via the cable 225.

[0036] Next, the configuration of the inspection device 108 will be explained.

[0037] The CPU 226 controls and performs calculations on various parts of the inspection device 108 via the system bus 230 by loading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 228 into the RAM 227. The RAM 227 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 226 and is used as the CPU 226's work area and a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 228 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the inspection device 108. The display unit 245 is, for example, a display connected to the inspection device 108, which accepts user input to the inspection device 108 and displays the status of the inspection device 108. The inspection unit I / F 229 exchanges various information with the inspection unit 106 via the cable 248.

[0038] Next, the configuration of the information processing device 109 will be explained.

[0039] The CPU 234 executes programs stored in the memory unit 236 by loading them into the RAM 235 and running them, thereby controlling and performing calculations on various parts of the information processing device 109 via the system bus 239. The RAM 235 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 234 and is used as the CPU 234's work area and a temporary storage area for various data. The memory unit 236 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the information processing device 109. The NW I / F 237 is connected to the NW I / F 240 of the client computer 110 via the network 113. The information processing device 109 then communicates with the client computer 110 via the NW I / F 237 and NW I / F 240. The PDL analysis unit 231 reads PDL data, such as PDF, PostScript, and PCL, received from the client computer 110 and performs its interpretation process. The display unit 232 is, for example, a display connected to the information processing device 109, which accepts user input to the information processing device 109 and displays the status of the information processing device 109.

[0040] In Embodiment 1, the information processing device 109 and the inspection device 108 are described as not communicating with each other, but the configuration of Embodiment 1 is merely one example. For example, the inspection device 108 may have an NWI / F, and the information processing device 109 may communicate with the inspection device 108 via its NW I / F and NW I / F 237.

[0041] Next, we will describe the configuration of client computer 110.

[0042] The CPU 243 controls and performs calculations on various parts of the client computer 110 via the system bus 246 by loading and executing programs stored in the memory unit 244 into the RAM 242. The RAM 242 is a type of general volatile memory that can be directly accessed by the CPU 243 and is used as a temporary storage area for the CPU 243's work area and various data. The memory unit 244 functions as a temporary storage area and work memory during the operation of the client computer 110. The NW I / F 240 communicates with the information processing device 109 via the network 113.

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the mechanisms of the printing apparatus 101, inspection unit 106, large-capacity stacker 107, relay transport unit 115, and finisher 116 according to Embodiment 1.

[0044] The printing device 101 accepts user input via the UI panel 102 and displays the printing status and equipment status. Various types of paper can be stored in the paper feed decks 103 and 104. Each paper feed deck can separate only the top sheet of paper stored and transport it to the paper transport path 305. The developing stations 301 to 304 use colored toners Y, M, C, and K respectively to form a toner image in order to form a color image. The toner image formed here is first transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 306. The intermediate transfer belt 306 rotates clockwise in the figure, and at the secondary transfer position 307, the toner image is transferred to the paper that has been transported along the paper transport path 305. The fixing unit 308 is equipped with a pressure roller and a heating roller, and as the paper passes between the rollers, the toner is melted and pressed, fixing the toner image to the paper. The paper that has passed through the fixing unit 308 is transported through the paper transport path 309 to the transport path 312. If further melting and pressing are required for fixing depending on the type of paper, after passing through the fixing unit 308, the paper is transported to the second fixing unit 310 using the upper paper transport path, where additional melting and pressing are performed, and then transported to the transport path 312 via the paper transport path 311. If the image forming mode is double-sided, the fixed paper is transported to the paper inversion path 313, inverted, and then transported to the double-sided transport path 314, where the second image is transferred at the secondary transfer position 307.

[0045] Next, the inspection device 106 will be described.

[0046] Inside the inspection unit 106, CIS315 and 316 are arranged facing each other. CIS315 is a sensor for reading the top surface of the paper, and CIS316 is a sensor for reading the bottom surface of the paper. When the paper being transported along the paper transport path 317 reaches a predetermined position, the inspection unit 106 scans the paper using CIS315 and 316. The image data obtained from this scan is transmitted to the inspection device 108 via the inspection device I / F215 and inspection unit I / F229. The CPU 226 of the inspection device 108 determines whether there are defects in the received image data and notifies the inspection unit 106 of the result of the determination again via the inspection unit I / F229 and inspection device I / F215. The CPU 216 of the inspection unit 106 notifies the large-capacity stacker 107, relay transport unit 115, and finisher 16 of the received determination result via accessory I / F214, 220, 250, and 260. Alternatively, notification may be sent to the printing device 101 via accessory interfaces 214 and 208.

[0047] Next, we will describe the high-capacity stacker 107, which is capable of holding a large amount of paper.

[0048] The high-capacity stacker 107 has a main tray 324 as a tray for stacking paper. Paper that has passed through the inspection unit 106 enters the high-capacity stacker 107 via the paper transport path 317. The transported paper is then loaded onto the main tray 324 via the paper transport path 319 and paper transport path 322. Furthermore, the high-capacity stacker 107 has a top tray 320 as an output tray. When outputting paper to the top tray 320, the CPU 221 of the high-capacity stacker 107 transports the paper from the paper transport path 319 to the top tray 320 via the paper transport path 321. The inversion unit 323 is an inversion unit for inverting paper. This inversion unit 323 is used when loading paper onto the main tray 324. When loading paper onto the main tray 324 so that the orientation of the incoming paper is the same as the orientation of the paper when loaded, the paper is inverted once in the inversion unit 323. Furthermore, when transporting to the top tray 320, the paper is ejected without being flipped during loading, so the reversal operation at the reversal unit 323 is not performed.

[0049] Next, I will explain the relay transport unit 115.

[0050] Paper inspected by the inspection unit 106 can be ejected to the top tray 325 via the paper transport path 327. The top tray 325 can be fitted with an additional long tray 326, which will be described later. By installing this long tray 326, paper longer than standard paper in the transport direction, such as long paper of 1 meter or more, can be ejected without loading problems.

[0051] Next, I will explain the finisher 116.

[0052] The finisher 116 applies finishing processing to the transported sheets according to the functions specified by the user. Specifically, the finisher 116 has finishing functions such as stapling (single-point or double-point binding), punching (two-hole or triple-hole punching), and saddle-stitch binding. The finisher 116 is equipped with two output trays 341 and 342, and discharges the sheets to the output trays via the sheet transport path 329. However, stapling and other processing cannot be performed on the sheet transport path 329. When stapling and other processing is required, the finishing function specified by the user is executed in the processing unit 343 via the sheet transport path 340, and the sheets are output to the output tray 342. The output trays 341 and 342 can be raised and lowered, and it is also possible to lower the output tray 341 to load the sheets that have been finished in the processing unit 343 onto the output tray 341. A long tray 326 can also be installed on the output tray 341. By installing the long tray 326, long paper can be discharged and held without loading errors, similar to the relay transport unit 115.

[0053] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the long tray 326 according to Embodiment 1.

[0054] Figure 4(A) shows the top tray 325 of the relay transport unit 115, which can accommodate the long tray 326, and the output tray 341 of the finisher 116. Other trays may also be capable of accommodating the long tray 326. Here, we will explain an example where the long tray 326 can be additionally attached to the top tray 325 of the relay transport unit 115 and the output tray 341 of the finisher 116.

[0055] Figure 4(B) shows the top tray 325 and output tray 341 with the long tray 326 attached. The long tray base 401 houses the extension tray 402, and by pulling out the extension tray 402 as shown in Figure 4(B), even longer sheets of paper can be loaded.

[0056] Figures 5 and 6 show an example of an operation screen displayed on the display unit 232 of the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 1.

[0057] Figures 5 and 6 show the job properties screen 501, where various conditions for a print job are set. There are many conditions for a print job, and buttons for each category are displayed on the left side of the screen. When the user presses the media button 502, an operation screen for setting the print paper is displayed as shown in the figure. The paper size to be printed is displayed in the output paper size 504.

[0058] Furthermore, if the user wishes to change the paper size, they can press the output paper size selection button 601, as shown in Figure 6, to display the size list 602, from which they can select the desired paper size.

[0059] Furthermore, if a user wants to print on paper that is not in the size list 602, pressing the custom button 505 in Figure 5 will display the custom paper size dialog 701 in Figure 7. The user can input and set a custom paper size by selecting the unit of length using the unit selection checkbox 704, entering the paper width in the input area 702, entering the paper height in the input area 703, and pressing the OK button. The paper width and paper height thus set are saved to the non-volatile memory of the storage unit 236 when the OK button 506 is pressed. If the user wants to cancel all the values ​​entered through this screen and does not want to save them, they press the cancel button 507.

[0060] Figure 8 shows an example of an operation screen for inputting job properties displayed on the display unit 232 of the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 1.

[0061] In this operation screen 801, the finishing button 802 on the left side of the screen is selected, and the settings related to finishing are displayed to its right. The output destination 803 allows you to specify where the printed paper will be output. In Figure 8, the output tray 341 of the finisher 116 is selected as the output destination, and the long tray 326 is attached to the output tray 341. Therefore, "Tray (Upper) (Long Tray)" is displayed in the output destination 803. To change the output destination, the user presses the output destination selection button 804 to display the output destination selection candidate list 805. This output destination selection candidate list 805 displays a list of trays that can output the paper printed by the printer 101.

[0062] In Figure 8, the upper tray and the top tray of the relay transport unit 115 are displayed in normal text color, indicating that they are recommended output destinations for long paper. In addition, the words "Long Tray" are displayed next to the names of these output destinations, making it possible to identify that the long tray 326 is installed in that tray. Furthermore, in the output destination selection candidate list 805, other output destination candidates that do not have the long tray 326 installed are displayed in gray text. This is because the output paper size is long paper of 297.0 x 1200.0 mm in the operation screen of Figure 6. In other words, if the tray to which long paper is output is a normal tray without a long tray installed, there is a possibility of loading problems such as misalignment of the stacking position or paper falling. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish between trays that are suitable for loading long paper and those that are not, and the selection of an unsuitable tray is not recommended. Furthermore, when running a job that uses long paper, if the user selects a tray that is not recommended, a warning dialog 901, as shown in Figure 9, will pop up.

[0063] Figure 9 shows an example of a warning screen that appears when an unrecommended tray is selected during the execution of a job using long paper.

[0064] Warning dialog 901 displays a message indicating that the selected tray may fail to load long paper correctly. It also instructs the user to either change the paper size to something other than long paper, or to install a long paper tray in the tray selected as the output destination. Alternatively, it may instruct the user to select a tray that already has a long paper tray installed. Pressing the Cancel button 903 cancels the user's selected output tray. The user can also press the OK button 902 if they wish to confirm the output destination despite the warning. This allows the user to select a tray without a long paper tray as the output destination when running a job that uses long paper.

[0065] Figure 10 shows an example of the stacking state when long sheets of paper are ejected into each tray.

[0066] Figure 10 shows that the top tray 325 of the relay transport unit 115 and the output tray 341 of the finisher 116 are equipped with long trays 326, while the output tray 342 of the finisher 116 is not equipped with a long tray 326. Therefore, the top tray 325 and the output tray 341 are long enough to accommodate the loading of long paper 1001. In contrast, the output tray 342 is not equipped with a long tray 326, so when long paper 1002 is ejected, the leading edge of the paper protrudes significantly from the tray. In such cases, the long paper 1002 may fall from the output tray 342, potentially causing damage or soiling of the paper. Therefore, displaying the warning dialog 901 shown in Figure 9 allows the user to reliably determine which output tray is appropriate for long paper, thus preventing malfunctions caused by improper loading of long paper.

[0067] Next, the process of displaying the paper output list of the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 1 will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 11.

[0068] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the process of displaying the paper output list by the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 1. The process shown in this flowchart is realized by the CPU 234 of the information processing device 109 loading the program stored in the memory unit 236 into the RAM 235 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart is started when the paper output selection button 804 in Figure 8 is pressed.

[0069] First, in S1101, the CPU 234 initializes the output destination list information in RAM 235, which stores information to display the output destination list of the image forming system for which the job is executed. This output destination list information is a data table that the CPU 234 creates in RAM 235 to display the output destination selection candidate list 805 shown in Figure 8. Next, in S1102, the CPU 234 selects the tray to check first from among several trays that could be the output destination (for example, trays 320, 325, 341, 342). Then, in S1103, the CPU 234 obtains the tray information of the selected tray. This tray information includes, for example, whether the long tray 326 is installed in that tray.

[0070] Next, the process proceeds to S1104, where CPU324 determines whether the output paper size for the job to be executed is long paper. If it is long paper, the process proceeds to S1105, where it determines whether the long paper tray 326 is installed in the tray information obtained in S1103. On the other hand, if the output paper size for the job is not long paper in S1104, the process proceeds to S1108. In S1105, if CPU324 determines that the long paper tray 326 is installed in that tray, the process proceeds to S1106, where CPU324 saves that tray as a recommended tray in the output destination list information and proceeds to S1108. Also, if S1105 determines that the long paper tray 326 is not installed in the selected tray, the process proceeds to S1107, where CPU324 saves that tray as a non-recommended tray in the output destination list information and proceeds to S1108. In S1108, CPU324 selects the next tray from among several trays and proceeds to S1109. In S1109, CPU234 determines whether the above-mentioned verification process has been performed for all of the aforementioned trays. If the processing for all trays is not complete, it proceeds to S1103 and performs the same process as described above. In this way, in S1109, CPU234 checks all trays and then proceeds to S1110, where it moves the tray information saved as the recommended tray to the top of the output destination list.

[0071] Figure 22(A) shows an example of the output destination list information generated in the configuration shown in Figure 10.

[0072] In the example shown in Figure 10, the top tray 325 of the relay transport unit 115 and the output tray 341 of the finisher 116 are equipped with long trays 326, and are therefore registered as recommended output trays.

[0073] Next, in S1111, the CPU 234 generates a list of candidate output trays from this output tray list information. At this time, if the recommendation flag in the data table is "1", a black text image is generated, and if the recommendation flag is "0", it is generated with gray text. Then, in S1112, the CPU 234 displays the list of candidate output trays generated in S1111 on the display unit 232 of the information processing device 109. An example of this display is the list of candidate output trays 805 shown in Figure 8 above. This allows the user to easily distinguish between recommended and unrecommended output trays.

[0074] As explained above, this process makes it easier for users to select an output tray equipped with a long paper tray as the output destination for jobs with long paper sizes. This prevents problems with output paper caused by improper loading of long paper in output trays that do not have a long paper tray.

[0075] Next, we will describe the process by which a warning screen is displayed in the information processing device 109 of Embodiment 1 when a user selects an output tray and an unrecommended tray is selected.

[0076] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the process by which a warning screen is displayed in the information processing device 109 in Embodiment 1 when a user selects an output tray and an unrecommended tray is selected. The process shown in this flowchart is implemented by the CPU 234 of the information processing device 109 loading a program stored in the memory unit 236 into the RAM 235 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart is started, for example, when the job properties screen shown in Figure 5 is displayed.

[0077] First, in S1201, CPU234 waits for the user to change the output paper size or the output destination. When it detects that either the output paper size or the output destination has been changed, it proceeds to S1202, where CPU234 determines whether the job's output paper is long. If it determines that it is long, it proceeds to S1203; otherwise, it proceeds to S1211. In S1203, CPU234 reads and retrieves the information of the output destination selected by the user. Then, in S1204, CPU234 determines whether the output tray selected by the user is the recommended tray. If it determines that it is the recommended tray, it proceeds to S1209, where it stores the information of the output paper size and output destination selected by the user as information that the user has changed.

[0078] On the other hand, if in S1204 the CPU determines that the tray selected by the user is a non-recommended tray, the process proceeds to S1205, where the CPU 234 displays, for example, the warning dialog 901 shown in Figure 9 above. Then, in S1206, the CPU 234 waits for the OK button 902 or the Cancel button 903 to be pressed in the warning dialog 901. If the OK button 902 or the Cancel button 903 is pressed, the process proceeds to S1207, where the CPU 234 closes the warning dialog 901. Then, in S1208, the CPU 234 determines whether the user pressed the OK button 902. If it is determined that the OK button 902 was pressed, the process proceeds to S1209, where the CPU 234 retains the output paper size and destination information selected by the user without changing them and proceeds to S1211. As a result, when the output paper for a job is long, the user can recognize the warning and decide to use an output tray that does not have a long paper tray installed as the output destination.

[0079] On the other hand, if CPU234 determines in S1208 that the cancel button 903 has been pressed, it proceeds to S1210, where CPU234 cancels the paper size and output destination information changed by the user, reverts to the previous information changed by the user, and proceeds to S1211. Then, in S1211, CPU234 displays the job properties screen again, for example as shown in Figure 8, and terminates this process.

[0080] As explained above, this process allows the system to warn the user if the job's output paper size is long and the user has selected an output tray that does not have a long paper tray installed. The user can then either change the output tray or the output paper size in accordance with the warning, or run the job with the intended output tray and output paper size without making any changes.

[0081] As described above, Embodiment 1 makes it possible to eject long printed materials into the appropriate output tray. This prevents malfunctions caused by improper loading of long paper in the output tray.

[0082] <Embodiment 2> In the above-described Embodiment 1, the long-format printing process in a print job managed by the information processing device 109 was explained. The image forming system according to this embodiment can also be connected to an inspection device 108. Printed paper that passes the inspection by the inspection device 108 is output to the tray selected by the output destination display unit 803 in Figure 8, which is specified by the information processing device 109. On the other hand, printed paper that fails the inspection is output as inspection error paper to a different output destination than that of the printed paper that passed the inspection. Therefore, Embodiment 2 will explain the execution of inspection of long-format paper and the specification of the output destination for long-format paper that fails the inspection. Note that the configuration of the image forming system and the hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 2 are the same as in Embodiment 1 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0083] First, the inspection function of the inspection device 108 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0084] Figure 13 is a functional block diagram illustrating the functions of the inspection device 108 according to this embodiment. These functions are realized when the CPU 226 of the inspection device 108 loads the program stored in the memory unit 228 into the RAM 227 and executes it.

[0085] The equipment communication unit 1301 communicates with the inspection unit 106 through the inspection unit I / F 229. The inspection unit 106 reads the printed paper for inspection using the imaging unit 218 and receives it as image data. The equipment communication unit 1301 also notifies the inspection unit 106 of the inspection results, and the printing device 101 receives the inspection results from the inspection unit 106 and changes the output destination of the inspected paper according to the results. The UI processing unit 1302 displays the status of the inspection job and accepts input of inspection conditions from the user. Inspection setting data 1303 is a value such as a threshold that determines whether the inspection passes or fails. Reference data 1304 is reference image data, which is the correct image used for inspection. This reference image data may be acquired as image data obtained by the inspection unit 106 reading the correct image paper, or it may be RIP data received from the information processing device 109. Inspection image data 1305 is image data of the printed paper read by the imaging unit 218 of the inspection unit 106 when the inspection is executed. The evaluation unit 1306 compares the reference data 1304 with the inspection image data 1305 to determine whether the image printed on the paper meets the inspection criteria. For example, if the inspection is for "stain (dot) detection," the evaluation unit 1306 determines that the inspection is passed if the size of a dot present in the inspection image data 1305 but not in the reference data 1304 is below a certain threshold, and fails if it exceeds the threshold. Note that the inspection image data received from the inspection unit 106 may be tilted or misaligned due to the paper transport conditions. The position correction unit 1307 rotates the image data read by the imaging unit 218 and / or moves its coordinates to correct the image, which is then used as the inspection image data 1305.

[0086] Figure 14 shows an example of the main screen 1401 displayed on the display unit 245 of the inspection device 108 according to Embodiment 2. In the center of the main screen 1401, already registered test data 1403 is displayed. Figure 14 shows an example where there is tested data named "Poster 001" and untested data named "Meeting Materials 002". To create new test data, the user presses the "Create New" button 1402. To select existing test data and edit it, the user presses the "Edit" button 1404. To run the test, the user presses the "Open Test Screen" button 1405.

[0087] Figure 16 shows an example of the inspection screen 1601 that is displayed on the display unit 245 when the inspection is stopped or before the inspection starts.

[0088] When the Start Inspection button 1602 is pressed in this state, the system switches to inspection mode, and a comparative inspection is performed between the reference image 1603 and the printed paper. The Inspection Results 1607 is an area that displays the inspection results based on a comparison between the reference data and the inspection image data. In this example, it shows that no misalignment, reading failures, or inspection failures have occurred. The Close button 1608 is a button that instructs the user to close this screen and return to the previous screen.

[0089] When the "New" button 1402 or the "Edit" button 1404 in Figure 14 is pressed, the inspection settings screen 1501 in Figure 15 is displayed.

[0090] Figure 15 shows an example of the inspection setting screen 1501 displayed on the display unit 245 of the inspection device 108 according to Embodiment 2.

[0091] The start-load button 1502 causes the inspection unit 106 to read a sheet of paper with the correct image printed on it, and acquires the scanned image as a reference image. Alternatively, the reference image may be acquired as RIP data from the information processing device 109. The acquired reference image is displayed in the reference image display area 1503. Button 1506 is used to select the reference image to display in the reference image display area 1503 if there are multiple reference images. In Figure 15, the first of 15 reference images is displayed. The user can set the area to be inspected by specifying the position on the displayed reference image. For example, a priority inspection area 1505 and a standard inspection area 1504 can be specified as the inspection area. Furthermore, the inspection level for spot stains and streak stains can be specified for each area. The higher the inspection level value, the more rigorous the inspection. Therefore, the higher the inspection level value, the more likely it is to be judged as unacceptable even for small spots or thin streaks. In the inspection level display area 1507, both the priority inspection area 1505 and the standard inspection area 1504 are inspected for spot stains and streak stains, with the inspection level set to "5" in the priority inspection area 1505. The standard inspection area 1504 is set to inspection level "3", which is less stringent than the priority inspection area 1505. The OK button 1508 instructs the user to enable and save the settings on this screen, while the Cancel button 1509 instructs the user to disable the settings on this screen and return to the original screen. The operation setting button 1510 specifies the operation of the inspection device 108 when the inspection is performed, and when this operation setting button 1510 is pressed, the operation setting screen shown in Figure 17 is displayed.

[0092] Figure 17 shows an example of the operation setting screen 1701 displayed on the display unit 245 of the inspection device 108 according to Embodiment 2.

[0093] This operation setting screen 1701 allows you to input and confirm the setting information necessary for inspection. Escape mode is a mode for separating papers that fail inspection from papers that pass inspection. When the escape mode radio button 1702 is set to ON, papers that pass inspection and papers that fail inspection can be ejected separately to the specified output destinations. When the escape mode radio button 1702 is set to OFF, papers that fail inspection are output to the same output destination as papers that pass inspection. Paper size 1706 sets the paper size of the reference image to be used for comparison during inspection. In Figure 17, a long size of 297 x 1200 mm is selected. The output destination display unit 1703 for inspection error papers displays the tray to which inspection target papers that have been determined to have an inspection error or have failed inspection are ejected. In the example in Figure 17, the top tray 325 of the relay transport unit 115 is selected as the output destination for papers that fail inspection. The OK button 1707 instructs the user to enable and save the settings on this screen, while the Cancel button 1708 instructs the user to disable the settings on this screen and return to the original screen.

[0094] In this state, if the user wants to change the output destination of the paper that failed inspection, they press the output destination change button 1704 to display the list of candidate output destinations 1705 for the paper that failed inspection. In the list of candidate output destinations 1705 for the paper that failed inspection, trays that do not have the long tray 326 installed are displayed in gray text, similar to the output destination display unit 803 in Figure 8. This is because, in Figure 17, the paper size 1706 indicates that long paper of 297 x 1200 mm has been selected. When outputting long paper that has failed inspection, trays that do not have the long tray 326 installed may experience loading problems such as misalignment of the paper's stacking position or paper falling. In other words, when long paper is selected, the system does not recommend to the user that the output tray does not have the long tray 326 installed as the output destination. If the user mistakenly selects one of these unrecommended trays as the output destination, the warning dialog 1801 shown in Figure 18 is displayed.

[0095] Figure 18 shows an example of a warning screen displayed when a non-recommended tray is selected on the operation settings screen 1701. The content of the screen in Figure 19 is exactly the same as the warning dialog 901 in Figure 9 relating to Embodiment 1, so its explanation is omitted.

[0096] Furthermore, the process for displaying the output destination list of inspection error papers of the inspection device 108, and the process for displaying the warning screen when selecting an output destination, in Embodiment 2 can be performed in the same manner as the flowcharts in Figures 11 and 12 in Embodiment 1, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0097] As described above, according to Embodiment 2, in the inspection of long printed materials, it is possible to eject paper that is determined to be unsatisfactory or erroneous as a result of the inspection into the appropriate output tray. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of soiling or folding of printed materials due to improper loading of long printed materials that are determined to be unsatisfactory or erroneous.

[0098] <Embodiment 3> In Embodiment 1 described above, a warning was displayed if the user attempted to select a tray without a long paper tray as the output destination for long paper. However, there are cases where a warning is unnecessary. For example, there are cases where the long paper tray 326 is not installed, and a stand is placed under tray 342 to prevent long paper from falling out of the tray. In such cases, there is no risk of malfunction even if tray 342 is selected as the output destination for long paper. Therefore, it is preferable to be able to choose whether or not to display such a warning depending on the situation. Thus, Embodiment 3 describes an example in which the user can choose whether or not to display a warning when they select a tray without a long paper tray as the output destination for long paper. Note that the configuration of the image forming system and the hardware configuration of each device in Embodiment 3 are the same as in Embodiment 1 described above, so their descriptions will be omitted.

[0099] Figure 19 shows an example of the environment setting screen 1901 displayed on the display unit 232 of the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 3. On this environment setting screen 1901, the user can choose whether or not to display a warning when they select a tray without a long paper tray installed as the output destination for long paper.

[0100] The environment settings screen 1901 has multiple settings items, categorized accordingly. The category names are listed on the left side of the screen. Selecting the print server 1902 and output destination 1903 here displays the output destination settings dialog 1904. This output destination settings dialog 1904 has multiple settings items. Checkbox 1905 is a switch that selects whether to display the warning dialog 901 shown in Figure 9, for example. If checkbox 1905 is not checked, no warning will be displayed even if a tray without a long paper tray is selected as the output destination for long paper. Also, the radio button 1906 for selecting the priority tray for outputting long paper has four options, and you can specify the tray that will be preferentially displayed in the output destination selection candidate list 805 in Figure 8. Figure 22(B) shows the relationship between the options of radio button 1906 and the priority displayed tray in the output destination selection candidate list 805 in Figure 8.

[0101] Figure 22(B) shows the trays that are displayed preferentially in response to the selection of the radio button 1906 for selecting the output tray for long paper, and the purpose of selecting that tray.

[0102] Radio button 1906 offers four options: no priority tray, bottom tray, top tray, and specify a tray. In the example in Figure 19, the radio button corresponding to "specify a tray" is selected. The user-specified "bottom tray" is displayed as the priority tray 1907 for outputting long paper. When the save button 1909 is pressed, the settings selected on this screen are saved to the memory unit 236. When the cancel button 1908 is pressed, all selections on this screen are canceled and the user returns to the previous screen.

[0103] Next, the process of displaying the paper output list in the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 3 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 20.

[0104] Figure 20 is a flowchart illustrating the process of displaying the paper output list by the information processing device 109 according to Embodiment 3. The process shown in this flowchart is realized by the CPU 234 of the information processing device 109 loading the program stored in the memory unit 236 into the RAM 235 and executing it. The process shown in this flowchart is started, for example, when the paper output selection button 804 in Figure 8 is pressed. Furthermore, the processes S2001 to S2006 in the flowchart of Figure 20 are the same as the processes S1101 to S1106 in Figure 11, so their explanation is omitted.

[0105] If the paper used in the job is long and the tray does not have a long paper tray installed, the process proceeds to S2007, where CPU234 determines whether it is set to display a warning that it is not a long paper tray. Whether or not to display this warning is determined by whether checkbox 1905 in Figure 19 is checked. If checkbox 1905 is checked and the setting to display a warning is enabled, the process proceeds to S2008, where CPU234 adds the information of that tray to the output destination list as deprecated and proceeds to S2009.

[0106] On the other hand, if S2007 determines that no warning should be displayed, the process proceeds to S2006, where CPU234 adds the tray's information to the output destination list as a recommendation, as there is no need to display a warning, and proceeds to S2009. In S2009, CPU234 moves the tray to be checked to the next tray, and repeats the process from S2003 to S2009 until S2010 determines that all output trays have been checked. In this way, if S2010 determines that all trays have been checked, the process proceeds to S2011. In S2011, CPU234 reads the priority tray settings, as explained with reference to Figure 19, from the storage unit 236 and proceeds to S2013.

[0107] In S2013, if "No Priority Tray" is selected for radio button 1906, CPU234 proceeds to S2017. On the other hand, if anything other than "No Priority Tray" is selected in S2013, it proceeds to S2013. In S2013, CPU234 saves the specified tray to the top of the output destination list as the priority tray, depending on the type selected for radio button 1906. That is, if "Bottom Tray" is selected, it proceeds to S2014, saves the bottom tray to the top of the output destination list, and proceeds to S2017. Also, if "Specify Tray" is selected, it proceeds to S2015, saves the tray specified by the user to the top of the output destination list, and proceeds to S2017. Also, if "Top Tray" is selected, it proceeds to S2016, saves the top tray to the top of the output destination list, and proceeds to S2017.

[0108] Figure 22(C) shows an example of output destination list information in a case where a warning is not displayed for not using the long tray.

[0109] In the example shown in Figure 22(C), all output trays are designated as recommended trays, and the user would, for example, specify tray 342, the lower tray of finisher 116 at the top of the output destination list, as the output tray for long paper.

[0110] Since S2017 and S2018 in Figure 12 are the same as S1111 and S1112 in Figure 11, their explanation will be omitted.

[0111] This process allows you to choose whether or not to display a warning screen when selecting a long paper output tray, specifically one that does not have a long paper tray installed. Furthermore, to minimize paper bending along the path and prevent difficulty in removing smaller paper sizes, the user can prioritize setting their preferred output tray as the output destination.

[0112] Figure 21 shows an example of an operation screen 2101 displayed on the display unit 232 of the information processing device 109 in Embodiment 3.

[0113] This operation screen is based on the output destination list information in Figure 22(C). In the output destination selection candidate list 2104, the "Tray (Lower)" which the user has specified as the priority display is shown at the top of the list 2102. Also, because the warning display is disabled, trays without the long tray 326 installed are not displayed in gray text, as shown in Figure 8. Therefore, the warning display shown in Figure 18 will not be displayed regardless of which output destination is used for long paper.

[0114] As described above, according to Embodiment 3, when selecting an output tray for long paper, it is possible to choose whether or not to display a warning screen when a tray without a long paper tray is selected as the output destination. Furthermore, when repeatedly selecting a specific output destination for long paper, if that specific output destination is a tray without a long paper tray, it is possible to prevent the repeated display of a warning screen, which would impair convenience.

[0115] Furthermore, when selecting an output tray for long printouts, it will be possible to prioritize displaying a specific output tray. This reduces the effort required to search for the output tray when selecting an output tray for long printouts, thereby improving convenience.

[0116] Furthermore, the output tray equipped with the long tray may be set or specified, for example, from the information processing device 109. Alternatively, the output tray may be equipped with a sensor to detect the presence or absence of the long tray, and the output tray equipped with the long tray may be automatically detected based on the detection result of the sensor, thereby identifying the output tray equipped with the long tray.

[0117] In the above-described embodiment, whether a tray is suitable for long paper was determined by whether a long paper tray 326 is installed in that tray. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, it may be determined by whether the tray was originally capable of holding long paper that has been ejected. Alternatively, it may be determined by whether the user has modified the shape of the tray to accommodate long paper to match the size of the paper that is ejected and loaded. In short, the determination of whether a tray is suitable for long paper is not limited to the above-described embodiment.

[0118] (Other embodiments) 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 having 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.

[0119] This specification and drawings disclose the following image forming systems and information processing devices, as well as control methods and programs therefor.

[0120] <Item 1> An image forming system having an image forming apparatus for ejecting an image-formed recording medium, A selection means for selecting a stacking unit from among a plurality of stacking units capable of stacking recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, in which a job is executed to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is suitable for loading the long recording medium. A warning means that issues a warning if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, An image forming system characterized by having the following features.

[0121] <Item 2> The image forming system according to item 1, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is a loading unit equipped with a long tray that can load the long recording medium without causing loading defects.

[0122] <Item 3> The image forming system according to item 1 or 2, characterized in that the selection means displays a list of the plurality of loading units and causes the user to select a loading unit from the list on which to load the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus.

[0123] <Item 4> The image forming system according to item 3, characterized in that the display of the list of the multiple loading sections displays in a way that allows identification of the loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium.

[0124] <Item 5> The image forming system according to item 3, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording medium are displayed preferentially.

[0125] <Item 6> The image forming system according to item 3, further comprising means for specifying which loading unit is to be displayed preferentially in the display of the list of the plurality of loading units.

[0126] <Item 7> The image forming system according to item 3, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording media are displayed at the top of the list.

[0127] <Item 8> The image forming system according to item 3, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections equipped with long trays capable of loading long recording media without causing loading defects are displayed in an identifiable manner.

[0128] <Item 9> The image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 8, further characterized in that the warning means provides instructions for a solution to resolve the cause of the warning.

[0129] <Item 10> The image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 9, further comprising means for determining the loading section selected by the selection means as a loading section for loading recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus.

[0130] <Item 11> The system further includes a setting means for setting whether or not to issue a warning using the aforementioned warning means, The image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 10, characterized in that if the setting means is set not to issue the warning, the warning means will not issue a warning even if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

[0131] <Item 12> An inspection means for inspecting the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus, The system further includes a designation means for designating a destination for recording media that have failed inspection by the aforementioned inspection means, If the recording medium formed in the job is a long recording medium, the determination means further determines whether the loading section designated by the designation means is a loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium. The image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 11, characterized in that the warning means issues a warning when the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

[0132] <Item 13> An information processing device, A selection means for selecting a loading unit to load recording media discharged from an image forming apparatus, from among a plurality of loading units capable of loading recording media that are image-formed and discharged by the image forming apparatus that is the target of the job execution, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is suitable for loading the long recording medium. A warning means that issues a warning if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

[0133] <Item 14> The information processing apparatus according to item 13, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is a loading unit equipped with a long tray capable of loading the long recording medium without causing loading defects.

[0134] <Item 15> The information processing device according to item 13 or 14, characterized in that the selection means displays a list of the plurality of loading units on a display unit and causes the user to select a loading unit from the list on which to load the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus.

[0135] <Item 16> The information processing device according to item 15, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording medium are displayed in an identifiable manner.

[0136] <Item 17> The information processing device according to item 15, characterized in that, in displaying a list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording medium are displayed preferentially.

[0137] <Item 18> The information processing device according to item 15, further comprising means for specifying a loading unit to be displayed preferentially in the display of the list of the multiple loading units.

[0138] <Item 19> The information processing device according to item 15, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording media are displayed at the top of the list.

[0139] <Item 20> The information processing device according to item 15, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading units, loading units equipped with long trays capable of loading long recording media without causing loading defects are displayed in an identifiable manner.

[0140] <Item 21> The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 13 to 20, wherein the warning means further provides instructions for a solution to resolve the cause of the warning.

[0141] <Item 22> The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 13 to 21, further comprising means for determining the loading section selected by the selection means as a loading section for loading recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus.

[0142] <Item 23> The system further includes a setting means for setting whether or not to issue a warning using the aforementioned warning means, The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 13 to 22, characterized in that, if the setting means is set not to issue the warning, the warning means will not issue a warning even if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

[0143] <Item 24> If an inspection device for inspecting the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus is connected to the image forming apparatus, the system further includes a designating means for specifying the destination of recording media that fail inspection by the inspection device, If the recording medium formed in the job is a long recording medium, the determination means further determines whether the loading section designated by the designation means is a loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium. The information processing apparatus according to any one of items 13 to 23, characterized in that the warning means issues a warning when the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

[0144] <Item 25> A control method for an image forming system having an image forming apparatus for ejecting an image-formed recording medium, A selection step of selecting a stacking unit from among a plurality of stacking units capable of stacking recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, in which a job will be executed to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination step is made to determine whether the loading unit selected in the selection step is suitable for loading the long recording medium. A warning step is given if the determination step determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, A control method characterized by having the following features.

[0145] <Item 26> A control method for controlling an information processing device, The selection means for the information processing apparatus includes a selection step of selecting a stacking section from among a plurality of stacking sections capable of stacking recording media that have been image-formed and discharged by the image forming apparatus, which is the target of the job execution, to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, The determination means of the information processing device includes a determination step of determining whether the loading unit selected in the selection step is suitable for loading the long recording medium if the recording medium formed in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, The warning means of the information processing device provides a warning when the determination step determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, A control method characterized by having the following features.

[0146] <Item 27> A program that causes a computer to perform each step of the control method described in item 25 or item 26.

[0147] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are attached to make the scope of the invention public. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0148] 101...Printing device, 108...Inspection device, 109...Information processing device, 232...Display unit, 245...Display unit, 326...Long tray

Claims

1. An image forming system having an image forming apparatus for ejecting an image-formed recording medium, A selection means for selecting a stacking unit from among a plurality of stacking units capable of stacking recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, in which a job is executed to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is suitable for loading the long recording medium. A warning means that issues a warning if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, An image forming system characterized by having the following features.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is a loading unit equipped with a long tray that can load the long recording medium without causing loading defects.

3. The image forming system according to claim 1, characterized in that the selection means displays a list of the plurality of loading units and causes the user to select a loading unit from the list on which to load the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus.

4. The image forming system according to claim 3, characterized in that the display of the list of the plurality of loading sections displays in a way that allows identification of the loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium.

5. The image forming system according to claim 3, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording medium are displayed preferentially.

6. The image forming system according to claim 3, further comprising means for specifying which loading unit is to be displayed preferentially in the display of the list of the plurality of loading units.

7. The image forming system according to claim 3, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording media are displayed at the top of the list.

8. The image forming system according to claim 3, characterized in that the display of the list of the multiple loading sections displays in an identifiable manner loading section equipped with a long tray capable of loading the long recording medium without causing loading defects.

9. The image forming system according to claim 1, further characterized in that the warning means provides instructions for a solution to resolve the cause of the warning.

10. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising means for determining the loading section selected by the selection means as a loading section for loading recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus.

11. The system further includes a setting means for setting whether or not to issue a warning using the aforementioned warning means, The image forming system according to claim 1, characterized in that if the setting means is set not to issue the warning, the warning means will not issue a warning even if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

12. An inspection means for inspecting the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus, The system further includes a designation means for designating a destination for recording media that have failed inspection by the aforementioned inspection means, If the recording medium formed in the job is a long recording medium, the determination means further determines whether the loading section designated by the designation means is a loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium. The image forming system according to claim 1, characterized in that the warning means issues a warning when the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

13. An information processing device, A selection means for selecting a loading unit from among a plurality of loading units capable of loading recording media on which images are formed and discharged by an image forming apparatus that is the target of the job execution, to load the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is suitable for loading the long recording medium. A warning means that issues a warning if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the determination means determines whether the loading unit selected by the selection means is a loading unit equipped with a long tray capable of loading the long recording medium without causing loading defects.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the selection means displays a list of the plurality of loading units on a display unit and causes the user to select a loading unit from the list on which to load the recording medium discharged from the image forming apparatus.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the display of the list of the plurality of loading sections displays in a way that allows identification of the loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium.

17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the plurality of loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording medium are displayed preferentially.

18. The information processing device according to claim 15, further comprising means for specifying a loading unit to be displayed preferentially in the display of the list of the plurality of loading units.

19. The information processing apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the multiple loading sections, loading sections suitable for loading the long recording media are displayed at the top of the list.

20. The information processing apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, in the display of the list of the plurality of loading units, loading units equipped with long trays capable of loading the long recording media without causing loading defects are displayed in an identifiable manner.

21. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the warning means further provides instructions for a solution to resolve the cause of the warning.

22. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising means for determining the loading section selected by the selection means as a loading section for loading recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus.

23. The system further includes a setting means for setting whether or not to issue a warning using the aforementioned warning means, The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that if the setting means is set not to issue the warning, the warning means will not issue a warning even if the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

24. If an inspection device for inspecting the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus is connected to the image forming apparatus, the system further includes a designating means for specifying the destination for the discharge of recording media that fail inspection by the inspection device, If the recording medium formed in the job is a long recording medium, the determination means further determines whether the loading section designated by the designation means is a loading section suitable for loading the long recording medium. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the warning means issues a warning when the determination means determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium.

25. A control method for an image forming system having an image forming apparatus for ejecting an image-formed recording medium, A selection step of selecting a stacking unit from among a plurality of stacking units capable of stacking recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, in which a job will be executed to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, If the recording medium produced in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, a determination step is made to determine whether the loading unit selected in the selection step is suitable for loading the long recording medium. A warning step is given if the determination step determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, A control method characterized by having the following features.

26. A control method for controlling an information processing device, The selection means for the information processing apparatus includes a selection step of selecting a stacking section from among a plurality of stacking sections capable of stacking recording media that have been image-formed and discharged by the image forming apparatus, which is the target of the job execution, to stack the recording media discharged from the image forming apparatus, The determination means of the information processing device includes a determination step of determining whether the loading unit selected in the selection step is suitable for loading the long recording medium if the recording medium generated in the job is a long recording medium with a longer length in the transport direction than a standard recording medium, The warning means of the information processing device provides a warning when the determination step determines that the loading section is not suitable for loading the long recording medium, A control method characterized by having the following features.

27. A program that causes a computer to execute each step of the control method described in claim 25 or claim 26.

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