Image processing device and control method for the image processing device

Abstract

In the operation of multifunction printers, this reduces the burden on maintenance personnel in dealing with paper jam problems and prevents situations where a paper feed slot is temporarily unusable when a user is using the printer, even if a paper jam occurs. [Solution] The image processing device maintains a paper jam history table and a paper feed slot management table, and displays paper jam history information and the status information of each paper feed slot based on these. For each entry of a paper feed slot, a key is provided for inputting the stopping and restarting of the paper feeding operation based on the status information. This key stops the paper feeding operation of a paper feed slot for which stopping has been input, and restarts the paper feeding operation of a paper feed slot for which restart has been input. When the paper feeding operation is stopped, no paper is fed from the corresponding paper feed slot, and when the paper feeding operation is in the active state, paper is fed from the corresponding paper feed slot.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to an image processing apparatus and a control method thereof suitable for reducing the burden on maintenance personnel for paper jams in a multi-functional device such as a multi-function peripheral (MFP) and enabling stable operation of the multi-function peripheral at the user site.

Background Art

[0002] A multi-function peripheral (MFP) in a business environment is a device that integrates major business functions such as printing, copying, scanning, and faxing, and is a core component in business operations.

[0003] Maintenance of a multi-function peripheral is a service that provides regular maintenance and repair support to ensure long-term use of the device. By concluding a maintenance contract, users can quickly repair malfunctions, reduce the downtime of the device, and significantly lower the incidence of malfunctions and defects.

[0004] Regarding the maintenance of a multi-function peripheral, for example, there is a disclosure in Patent Document 1. In the multi-function peripheral (composite image processing apparatus) described in Patent Document 1, for each processing system such as a reading system and a recording system, a maintenance personnel can selectively set the monitoring of its status and the execution / prohibition of operation control through key input. This is said to reduce the impact of system downtime by enabling maintenance and repair work without stopping all devices.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Regarding the maintenance of the multifunction printer described in Patent Document 1, as shown in Figure 2, the maintenance worker can prohibit the execution of various functions of the multifunction printer according to those functions.

[0007] On the other hand, in the operational field of multifunction printers, paper jams (hereinafter also referred to as "paper jams") when feeding paper are a relatively frequent problem. Therefore, maintenance personnel tend to spend a great deal of effort resolving paper jams.

[0008] When maintenance personnel deal with paper jams, they may encounter situations where they cannot immediately repair a paper feed slot that frequently jams, such as not having the necessary parts on hand, delays in obtaining the parts, or an unknown cause.

[0009] In such cases, users can take operational measures to prevent paper jams, such as emptying the paper feed slot that frequently jams.

[0010] However, if the printer receives print data specifying a paper feed slot prone to frequent paper jams, a "no paper" error will occur, rendering the user unable to use the multifunction printer or requiring extra effort to resolve the error. Furthermore, this is expected to increase the number of on-site visits for maintenance personnel.

[0011] The objective of this invention is to reduce the burden on maintenance personnel in the operation of a multifunction printer when dealing with paper jam problems, and to prevent situations where the multifunction printer becomes temporarily unusable when a user is using it, even if there is a paper feed slot that is jammed, thereby ensuring stable operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The image processing apparatus of the present invention is preferably an image processing apparatus that processes paper fed from a paper feed slot, and has a paper jam history table that stores paper jam history information of paper feeding from the paper feed slot, and a paper feed slot management table that stores status information for each paper feed slot, and a paper jam history display means that displays the paper jam history information, a paper feed slot management means that displays the status information for each paper feed slot and sets the operation of the paper feed slot, and means that input the stop and restart of the paper feeding operation for each paper feed slot displayed on the paper feed slot management means, means that puts the paper feeding operation of a paper feed slot for which a stop operation has been input into a stopped state, and means that puts the paper feeding operation of a paper feed slot for which a restart operation has been input into an active state, and when the paper feeding operation is in a stopped state, paper is not fed from the corresponding paper feed slot, and when the paper feeding operation is in an active state, paper is fed from the corresponding paper feed slot. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, in the operation of a multifunction printer, the burden on maintenance personnel in the event of a paper jam in the multifunction printer is reduced, and even if there is a paper feed slot where a paper jam occurs, it is possible to prevent the multifunction printer from becoming temporarily unusable when a user is using it, thereby enabling stable operation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of a data processing system using an image processing device. [Figure 2] This is a hardware configuration diagram of an image processing device. [Figure 3] This is a functional configuration diagram of an image processing device. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a paper jam history table. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a paper feed slot management table. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of an administrator information table. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing an example of a maintenance menu. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a dashboard screen. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of a paper jam history display screen. [Figure 10A] It is a diagram showing an example of a paper feed setting screen (part 1). [Figure 10B] It is a diagram showing an example of a paper feed setting screen (part 2). [Figure 11] It is a state transition diagram of a paper feed port. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a top screen. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing the processing when performing paper feed settings in an image processing apparatus. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing the printing process when there is a paper feed port that has been stopped.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. In this embodiment, as an example of an image processing apparatus, a multifunction peripheral will be described as an example. However, the idea of the present invention can also be applied to printers, copiers, printing machines, etc. that feed paper from a paper feed port (paper feed cassette) and print characters and images.

[0016] First, the configuration of a data processing system and an image processing apparatus using the image processing apparatus according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a data processing system using an image processing apparatus. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 3 is a functional configuration diagram of the image processing apparatus.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the data processing system using the image processing apparatus is configured such that the information processing apparatus 10 and the image processing apparatus 100 are connected by a network 5. The network 5 may be a wired connection, a wireless connection, a LAN (local area network), or a global network such as the Internet.

[0018] The information processing device 10 is, for example, a PC (personal computer) and performs various information processing tasks. In particular, when printing is required by application software, the print content is sent to the printer driver, which converts it into a description using PDL (Page Description Language) and sends it to the image processing device 100 as print data. It also captures image data of scanned images using the image processing device 100.

[0019] The image processing device 100 receives print data from the information processing device 10 and forms an image on the fed paper based on the received print data. Alternatively, a printer server may be provided between the information processing device 10 and the image processing device 100 to enable printing via the printer server.

[0020] The controller 101 of the image processing device 100 generates bitmap data based on the print data described by PDL and transmits the generated bitmap data to the print engine / scanner engine 103. The controller 101 also controls various parts of the image processing device 100 and performs various functions. Details of the controller 101 hardware will be described later with reference to Figure 2.

[0021] The print engine / scanner engine 103 forms an image on paper using toner in an electrophotographic manner, based on the bitmap data received from the controller 101 or the bitmap data read by the scanner.

[0022] In this embodiment, the controller 101 and the print engine / scanner engine 103 are separate components, but they may be integrated into a single unit.

[0023] The operation panel 102 is a panel that displays information to the user and accepts instructions and data input for the image processing device 100. The operation panel 102 is a touch panel and has the function of selecting and specifying displayed items by operations such as tapping and double-tapping.

[0024] The consumables 104 consist of toner, a photosensitive drum, a developer, and paper to be fed. The consumables 104, configured as a device such as a toner, are detachable from the image processing device 100.

[0025] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the image processing device controller using Figure 2. The controller 101 of the image processing device 100 consists of a CPU 201, RAM 202, ROM 203, network I / F 204, panel I / F 205, engine I / F 206, DMAC 207, and non-volatile storage device 210, as shown in Figure 2. Each hardware component is connected by a bus 211.

[0026] The CPU 201 (Central Processing Unit) loads programs stored in the ROM 203 and non-volatile memory device 210 into the RAM 202, executes processing based on those programs, and controls the image processing device 100.

[0027] RAM (Random Access Memory) 202 is a volatile semiconductor memory device that temporarily stores programs and work data executed by the CPU 201.

[0028] RAM202 also stores PDL data, intermediate data generated by interpreting the PDL data, bitmap data generated by rendering the intermediate data, and other work data such as temporary processing status and log information necessary for other processing.

[0029] ROM (Read Only Memory) 203 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory device that stores the firmware, which is the basic program executed by the CPU 201.

[0030] The network interface (I / F) 204 interconnects the information processing device 10 and the controller 101 via the network 5, and acts as an interface for relaying data communication between the two, i.e., data transmission and reception. The network interface (I / F) 204 is, for example, a communication circuit that supports the Ethernet® standard in the case of a wired connection, and a communication circuit that conforms to the IEEE 802.11 communication standard in the case of a wireless connection.

[0031] The external I / F208 is an interface circuit that connects external devices, for example, using the USB protocol.

[0032] The panel interface 205 is an interface that connects the operation panel 102 and the controller 101. The CPU 201 controls the screen displayed on the operation panel 102 via the panel interface 205, outputting characters and images, and accepting user input.

[0033] The engine interface 206 is an interface circuit that interconnects the controller 101 and the print engine / scanner engine 103. The CPU 201 sends and receives data and control commands to and from the print engine / scanner engine 103 via the engine interface 206.

[0034] The DMAC (Direct Memory Access Controller) 207 is a controller circuit that enables direct data transfer between RAM 202, ROM 203, and peripheral devices without going through the CPU 201.

[0035] The non-volatile storage device 210 is a device that stores setting data such as the settings of the image processing device 100, paper jam history, and paper feed stop operation settings, as well as installed computer programs. The non-volatile storage device 210 is a semiconductor storage device such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or eMMC (embedded Multi Media Card) that can retain data even when the power is turned off, or a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The non-volatile storage device 210 also holds a paper jam history table 701, a paper feed management table 702, and an administrator information table 703. Details of these tables will be explained later.

[0036] Next, the functional configuration of the image processing device will be explained using Figure 3.

[0037] As shown in Figure 3, the image processing apparatus 100 has the following functional units: a control unit 801, a printing unit 802, a scanning unit 803, a fax unit 804, a rendering unit 805, a communication unit 810, a paper feed slot operation control unit 820, a display and operation unit 830, and a maintenance and management unit 840.

[0038] The control unit 801 is a functional unit that controls the operation and status of the image processing device 100. The printing unit 802 is a functional unit that controls printing onto paper by the printer engine. The scanning unit 803 is a functional unit that controls the reading (scanning) of paper by the scanner engine. The fax unit 804 is a functional unit that supports the fax function of transferring and receiving images via communication. The rendering unit 805 is a functional unit that converts PDL data into bitmap data. The communication unit 810 is a functional unit that controls communication with external devices. The paper feed slot operation control unit 820 is a functional unit that monitors the paper jam status at the paper feed slot and controls operations related to paper feeding. The display and operation unit 830 is a functional unit that displays information about the image processing device 100 to the user and accepts operation instructions.

[0039] The maintenance management unit 840 is a functional unit that manages the maintenance status of the image processing device 100, and consists of sub-functional units: a replacement parts management unit 841, a paper jam management unit 842, a confirmation information display unit 843, and an error display unit 844.

[0040] The replacement parts management unit 841 manages the wear status of replacement parts and notifies the user of the time for periodic replacement. The paper jam management unit 842 records and manages the history of paper jams and notifies the user of the automatic shutdown of frequently occurring paper feed slots and the scheduled restart of operations depending on the frequency of jams. The confirmation information display unit 843 monitors information such as dirt and the condition of parts of the print engine / scanner engine 103 and prompts cleaning or inspection as needed. The error display unit 844 manages past error logs and operational stop status, allowing the user to check the history. This makes it easier to understand the root cause of problems.

[0041] Next, Figures 4 to 6 will be used to explain the data structure related to maintenance used in the image processing device. Figure 4 shows an example of a paper jam history table. Figure 5 shows an example of a paper feed slot management table. Figure 6 shows an example of an administrator information table.

[0042] The paper jam history table 701 is a table for managing the history of paper jams that have occurred in the image processing device 100. As shown in Figure 4, the paper jam history table 701 consists of fields for occurrence date and time 701a, resolution date and time 701b, jam cause 701c, paper size 701d, paper feed position 701e, and number of sheets fed 701f.

[0043] The occurrence date and time 701a stores the date and time the paper jam occurred in yyyy / mm / dd hh:mm format. The resolution date and time 701b stores the date and time when paper feeding resumed for the first time from the paper feed slot where the paper jam occurred, in yyyy / mm / dd hh:mm format. The jam phenomenon 701c stores a string or identifier that describes the phenomenon when the paper jam occurred. The paper size 701d stores the size of the paper at the time the paper jam occurred in the relevant paper feed slot, such as "postcard", "B5", "A4", "A3", etc. The paper size may be a standard size such as A3, A4, B4, A5, B5, or it may be a custom size where the width and height of the paper can be freely set. The paper feed position 701e stores the location of the paper feed slot where the paper jam occurred as a string or identifier. The paper feed slot is a general term for any mechanism that feeds paper, including paper trays and paper cassettes, and can be uniquely identified within the image processing device 100 system as "manual feed," "cassette 1," etc. The paper count 701f stores the total number of sheets fed into the corresponding paper feed slot since the image processing device 100 began operation.

[0044] The values ​​set in the paper jam history table 701 may be automatically set using system information acquired from the image processing device 100, or they may be entered by a maintenance worker via the operation panel 102.

[0045] The paper feed slot management table 702 is a table that manages the status of the paper feed slot of the image processing device 100. As shown in Figure 5, the paper feed slot management table 702 consists of fields for paper feed position 702a, remaining paper amount 702b, paper size 702c, paper type 702d, operating status 702e, and restart date and time 702f.

[0046] The paper feed position 702a stores the location of the corresponding paper feed slot as a string or identifier. The remaining paper amount 702b stores the current remaining amount of paper in the corresponding feed slot as a percentage. This value can be determined, for example, by a sensor detecting the thickness of the remaining paper in the paper feed slot. The paper size 702c stores the type of paper currently set for the corresponding paper feed slot. The paper type 702d stores a string or identifier representing the type of paper, such as "thin paper," "plain paper," or "thick paper." The paper type can be detected, for example, by a basis weight sensor that operates during reading. The operating status 702e stores a string or identifier representing the status of the corresponding paper feed slot. There are three values ​​for the operating status: "operating," "stopped," and "scheduled to resume." "Operating" means that the corresponding paper feed slot is in a state where it can feed paper without any problems. "Stopped" means that the function of the corresponding paper feed slot is stopped. "Scheduled to resume" means that the function of the corresponding paper feed slot is stopped, and a restart date and time has been specified. The restart date and time 702f stores the restart date and time in yyyy / mm / dd hh:mm format, when the value of the operating status 702e is "scheduled to restart".

[0047] The administrator information table 703 is a table that stores information about the administrator of the manufacturer or service company assigned to the image processing device 100. As shown in Figure 6, the administrator information table 703 consists of the fields: management area code 703a, administrator ID 703b, name 703c, telephone number 703d, and email address 703e.

[0048] The management area code 703a stores a code representing the installation location of the image processing device 100 as determined by the manufacturer or service company. The administrator ID 703b stores an identifier that uniquely identifies the administrator. The name 703c stores the name of the administrator. The telephone number 703d stores the telephone number used to contact the administrator. The email address 703e stores the email address used to contact the administrator.

[0049] Next, we will describe the user interface that the image processing device provides to maintenance personnel and users using Figures 7 to 12. Figure 7 shows an example of a maintenance menu. Figure 8 shows an example of a dashboard screen. Figure 9 shows an example of a paper jam history display screen. Figure 10A shows an example of the paper feed settings screen (part 1). Figure 10B shows an example of the paper feed settings screen (part two). Figure 11 is a diagram showing the state transitions of the paper feed slot. Figure 12 shows an example of the top screen.

[0050] The maintenance menu 300 is a menu displayed on the operation panel 102 for maintenance personnel to access maintenance functions when performing maintenance on the image processing device 100.

[0051] The maintenance menu 300 displays the menu setting key 301, software update key 302, engine check key 303, and dashboard key 304, as shown in Figure 7.

[0052] Menu setting key 301 is used to access the menu setting screen (not shown) where various settings can be changed.

[0053] The software update key 302 is used to access a software update screen (not shown) that allows users to rewrite software stored in the ROM 203 and non-volatile memory device 210, or to update configuration information.

[0054] The engine check key 303 is a key used to access the engine function check screen (not shown), which performs operational checks on the mechanical and electrical components that make up the print engine / scanner engine 103.

[0055] Detailed explanations of the menu settings screen, software update screen, and engine function check screen will be omitted.

[0056] The dashboard key 304 is used to access the dashboard screen 310 shown in Figure 8, which allows you to check the operating status of the print engine / scanner engine 103.

[0057] When a maintenance worker taps the dashboard key 304, the dashboard screen 310 shown in Figure 8 is displayed. The dashboard screen 310 displays the operating status of the print engine / scanner engine 103 in four blocks, and it is possible to move from each block to a detailed screen for that specific information. The four blocks are: replacement parts display block 330, check point display block 340, error display block 350, and paper jam display block 360.

[0058] The replacement parts display area 332 of the replacement parts display block 330 is an area that shows the names of the consumable parts 104 and their respective wear rates. By tapping the replacement parts key 331 above the replacement parts display area 330, the maintenance worker can display a replacement parts details display screen (not shown) that shows more detailed information.

[0059] The inspection area 342 of the inspection area display block 340 is an area that displays information to detect dirt on the print engine / scanner engine 103 and prompt cleaning. By tapping the inspection area key 341, maintenance personnel can display a detailed inspection area display screen (not shown) that shows more detailed information.

[0060] The error display area 352 of the error display block 350 is an area that displays the history of error information regarding malfunctions or shutdowns of the image processing device 100. By tapping the error key 351, maintenance personnel can display an error details screen that shows more detailed information.

[0061] Detailed explanations of the replacement parts details screen, the checkpoint details screen, and the error details screen will be omitted.

[0062] The paper jam display area 362 of the paper jam display block 360 is an area that displays the history of paper jam information. By tapping the paper jam key 361, a maintenance worker can display the paper jam history screen 400 shown in Figure 9 below.

[0063] Additionally, error location guidance 320 is displayed on the left side of the dashboard screen 310. The error location guidance 320 displays location information related to the content displayed in the replacement parts display area 332, the check location display area 342, the error display area 352, and the paper jam display area 362, using an illustration of the image processing device 100.

[0064] Next, we will explain the paper jam history screen using Figure 9. The paper jam history screen 400 is a screen that displays paper jam history information in the image processing device 100. The paper jam history screen 400 is displayed on the operation panel 102 by tapping the paper jam key 361 on the dashboard screen 310.

[0065] The paper jam history screen 400 consists of a paper jam history display area 410, a clear key 401, and a paper feed setting key 402.

[0066] The paper jam history display area 410 is an area that displays information about the paper jam history, and displays the contents of the paper jam history table 701 in Figure 4 in an edited format. In the example shown in Figure 9, the date and time the paper jam occurred, the date and time the paper jam was resolved, the cause and paper size when the paper jam occurred, and the total number of sheets of paper fed from that paper feed slot are displayed. The number of entries displayed in the paper jam history 400 may be a fixed value, or it may be a variable value within the limits of the system's memory capacity.

[0067] By checking the paper jam history 400, maintenance personnel can determine whether there are any paper feed ports where paper jams frequently occur and how often they occur. For example, in the example display in Figure 9, it can be seen that paper jams frequently occur in paper feed cassette 1.

[0068] The clear key 401 is used to erase the history data displayed in the paper jam history display area 410. By tapping the clear key 401, the maintenance worker erases the relevant records in the paper jam history table 701 shown in Figure 4.

[0069] The paper feed setting key 402 is used to access the paper feed management screen 500. When a maintenance worker taps the paper feed setting key 402, the paper feed management screen 500 shown in Figure F is displayed.

[0070] The paper feed slot management screen 500 is a screen for checking detailed information about the paper feed slot and controlling operations related to the paper feed slot.

[0071] As shown in Figure 10A, the paper feed slot management screen 500 consists of a paper feed slot operation setting key 501, a paper feed slot information display area 510, and a cancel key 540.

[0072] The cancel key 540 is used to cancel the input on the paper feed management screen 500 and return to the original state.

[0073] The paper feed slot information display area 510 is an area where the status information of each paper feed slot is displayed, and the contents of the paper feed slot management table 702 shown in Figure 5 are displayed in an edited format.

[0074] Then, corresponding to each entry in the paper feed slot information display area 510, a paper feed slot operation setting key 501 is displayed to the right, as shown in Figure 10A. The paper feed slot operation setting key 501 is a key for setting the operation of each paper feed slot, and maintenance personnel set the operation of the paper feed slot by tapping this key.

[0075] When the status of the corresponding paper feed slot is "operating" (the value of the operating status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 is "operating"), the key top of the paper feed slot operation setting key 501 displays "[Stopped]". When a maintenance worker taps the paper feed slot operation setting key 501, the status of the corresponding paper feed slot changes to "Stopped" (S1→S2 in Figure 11), and the value of the operating status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 is updated to "Stopped".

[0076] Then, entries for paper feed slots whose status is "Stopped" are displayed grayed out, as shown in Figure 10B. When the status of the corresponding paper feed slot is "Stopped," the keytop of the paper feed slot operation setting key 501 displays two patterns, [Resume Immediately] and [Specify Resumption of Operation], which can be changed by double-tapping (a gesture of touching twice in a short time). If multiple paper feed slots are set to "Stopped," all of the corresponding paper feed slot entries will be displayed grayed out, and the keytops of all corresponding paper feed slot operation setting key 501 will be changed.

[0077] When the paper feed slot status is "Stopped," and a maintenance worker taps [Immediate Restart] on the paper feed slot operation setting key 501, the status of the corresponding paper feed slot immediately changes to "Operating" (S2→S1 in Figure 11), and the value of the operation status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 is updated to "Operating." When the paper feed slot status is "Stopped," and a maintenance worker taps [Specify Operation Restart] on the paper feed slot operation setting key 501, the operation restart date input area 520 is displayed as shown in Figure 10B, prompting the maintenance worker to specify the date for restarting the paper feed slot operation.

[0078] The operation restart date input area 520 consists of a restart year menu 520a, a restart month menu 520b, a restart date menu 520c, a restart schedule confirmation key 520d, and a restart schedule hold key 520e. The restart year menu 520a, restart month menu 520b, and restart date menu 520c are pull-down menus for entering the year, month, and day, respectively, to return the operation status from "stopped" to "operating" for the paper feed slot where [Specify Operation Restart] was tapped immediately before. By tapping [Specify Operation Restart], entering the year, month, and day from the menu, and tapping the restart schedule confirmation key 520d, the restart schedule for the corresponding paper feed slot can be set. As a result, the status of the corresponding paper feed slot changes to "scheduled to restart" (S2→S3 in Figure 11), the value of the operation status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 is updated to "scheduled to restart," and the value of the year, month, and day specified is stored in the restart date and time 702f. Furthermore, regarding the restart date and time, the time at which the paper feed slot is reopened may be, for example, the start time of business hours (9:00 PM), or a user interface that allows for more detailed hour and minute settings may be provided.

[0079] On the other hand, if the date and time for resuming operation cannot be determined, the maintenance worker taps [Resumption Schedule Pending]. In this case, the resumption schedule is treated as undecided, and the value of the operation status 702e in the paper feed management table 702 remains "Stopped" (S2→S2 in Figure 11).

[0080] As described above, when a maintenance worker configures the settings for resuming operation, an email is sent to the email address 703e in the administrator information table 703 of Figure 6 to inform the administrator of this information (details will be described later).

[0081] Furthermore, this information is also displayed on the top screen of the image processing device 100, as shown below.

[0082] The top screen 600, as shown in Figure 12, consists of a copy key 601, a printer key 602, a scan key 603, a fax key 604, a setting key 610, a maintenance key 620, and a status display area 630.

[0083] The copy key 601, printer key 602, scan key 603, and fax key 604 are keys used to access the printer, scanner, and fax functions of the image processing device 100, respectively.

[0084] The setting key 610 is a key that brings up the screen for configuring various settings of the image processing device 100. The maintenance key 620 is a key that brings up the maintenance menu shown in Figure 7. The status display area 630 is an area that displays the necessary status for the user to use the image processing device 100.

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 12, the information specified on the paper feed management screen 500 is displayed. Specifically, it shows that "Cassette 1" is currently stopped, and the scheduled restart date and time is June 1, 2024. Although not shown in the illustration, if the scheduled restart date and time is pending, it will display that the scheduled date and time is undecided.

[0086] Next, we will explain the process of setting the paper feed in an image processing device using Figure 13.

[0087] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the process for setting the paper feed in an image processing device.

[0088] First, when a maintenance worker taps the paper jam key 313 on the dashboard screen 310 shown in Figure 8, the image processing device 100 displays the paper jam history screen 310 (S101).

[0089] Next, the image processing device 100 determines whether or not the paper feed setting key 402 has been tapped (S102). If the paper feed setting key 402 has been tapped (S102: YES), it displays the paper feed setting screen 500 (S103).

[0090] Next, when the paper feed slot operation setting key 501 displayed on the paper feed setting screen 500 is tapped to [Stop Operation] (S104: [Stop Operation]), the image processing device 100 changes the display of the entry in the paper feed slot information display area 510 to gray out (S110).

[0091] Next, the image processing device 100 changes the value of the operating status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 to "stopped" (S111).

[0092] Next, the image processing device 100 changes the keytop of the paper feed setting key 402 to either [Immediate Restart] or [Operation Restart Specified] (S112).

[0093] Next, when the paper feed slot operation setting key 501 displayed on the paper feed setting screen 500 is tapped to [Resume Immediately] (S104: [Resume Immediately]), the image processing device 100 changes the display of the entry in the paper feed slot information display area 510 from grayed out to normal display (S120), and returns to S104.

[0094] Next, the image processing device 100 changes the value of the operating status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 to "operating" (S121).

[0095] Next, the image processing device 100 changes the keytop of the paper feed setting key 402 to [Stop Operation] (S122), and terminates the process.

[0096] Next, when the paper feed slot operation setting key 501 displayed on the paper feed setting screen 500 is tapped to [Operation Restart Specified] (S104: [Operation Restart Specified]), the image processing device 100 displays the restart date input area 520 (S130).

[0097] Next, the maintenance worker enters the scheduled restart date and time in the restart date input area 520 (S131). Then, when the maintenance worker taps the restart schedule confirmation key 520d (S132), the image processing device 100 changes the value of the operation status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 to "scheduled to restart", sets the restart date and time 702f value (S133), and proceeds to S135.

[0098] Next, when the maintenance worker taps the resume scheduled hold key 520e (S134), we go to S135.

[0099] Next, the image processing device 100 refers to the administrator information table 703 shown in Figure 6. If the administrator's email address is set (S135:YES), it proceeds to S136; otherwise, if the email address is not set (S135:NO), it proceeds to S137.

[0100] If an administrator's email address is set, an email is sent to email address 703e informing the user of the planned restart date and time (or undecided date) and that the paper feed tray is currently out of service (S136).

[0101] If the administrator's email address is not set, or after an email has been sent, the image processing device 100 is configured to display information on the status display area 630 of the top screen 600 indicating that the paper feed slot in question has stopped working and the scheduled date and time for restarting (or the date and time that is yet to be determined) (S137).

[0102] Next, we will explain the printing process when there is a paper feed slot that has been shut down, using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the printing process when there is a paper feed slot that has been disabled.

[0103] First, the image processing device 100 refers to the information of the paper feed slot whose operating status 702e in the paper feed slot management table 702 is "stopped" (S201).

[0104] Next, if the user has not specified a paper feed slot when printing (S202:NO), the image processing device 100 selects the paper feed slot whose operating status 702e is "operating" as the paper feed target (S203).

[0105] Next, if the user has specified a paper feed slot when printing (S202:YES), the image processing device 100 determines whether the operating state 702e of the specified paper feed slot is "operating" (S204). If the operating state 702e of the specified paper feed slot is not "operating" (S204:NO), the process proceeds to S203. If the operating state 702e is "operating" (S204:YES), the image processing device 100 selects the specified paper feed slot (S205).

[0106] Next, the image processing device 100 determines whether the specified paper size and paper type match the information of the selected paper feed slot (S206). If they match (S206: YES), it performs the printing process (S207) and then terminates the process.

[0107] Next, if they do not match, the image processing device 100 displays an error on the operation panel 102 indicating that the paper size and paper type do not match (S208, not shown), prompting the user to change the paper size and paper type.

[0108] Then, if it is detected that a different paper size or type has been set in the paper feed slot to be fed (S209:YES), the process returns to S206 to re-evaluate whether the paper size and type match.

[0109] As described above, this embodiment makes it possible to address situations where paper jams frequently occur in the paper feed slot when feeding printing paper, such as when the necessary repair parts are not available, when it takes time to obtain the necessary repair parts, or when the cause is unknown and immediate repair is not possible.

[0110] In other words, it is possible to set the paper feed slot to be disabled from the control panel until a paper feed slot that frequently jams is repaired, and if print data is received that specifies printing using the disabled paper feed slot, it is possible to print from a paper feed slot other than the disabled one.

[0111] Furthermore, when setting the paper feed slot to disabled, maintenance personnel can set a scheduled repair date from the control panel, informing the user that the paper feed slot is disabled and the scheduled repair date, and also notifying the administrator via email or other means.

[0112] (Composition 1) An image processing device that processes paper fed from a paper feed slot, A paper jam history table that stores paper jam history information for paper feeding from the aforementioned paper feed slot, It maintains a paper feed slot management table that stores the status information of each of the aforementioned paper feed slots, A paper jam history display means for displaying the history information of the aforementioned paper jams, A paper feed slot management means that displays the status information of each of the aforementioned paper feed slots and sets the operation of the paper feed slots, The paper feed slot management means provides means for inputting the stopping and restarting of the paper feeding operation for each of the paper feed slots displayed on the paper feed slot management means, A means for stopping the paper feeding operation of a paper feed slot that has been instructed to stop paper feeding, It has means for setting the paper feeding operation of the paper feed slot to an operational state when a restart of the paper feeding operation is input, An image processing apparatus characterized by not feeding paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is stopped, and feeding paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is in operation.

[0113] (Configuration 2) The image processing apparatus according to configuration 1, characterized in that the display of each entry of the paper feed slot shown on the paper feed slot management means differs depending on whether the paper feeding operation is stopped or in operation.

[0114] (Composition 3) An image processing apparatus according to either configuration 1 or configuration 2, characterized in that it has means for inputting the date for restarting the paper feeding operation for a paper feed slot in which the paper feeding operation is stopped, and when the date for restarting the paper feeding operation arrives, the paper feeding operation of the corresponding paper feed slot is changed from the stopped state to the operating state.

[0115] (Composition 4) Furthermore, keep an email address to contact the administrator. The image processing apparatus according to configuration 3, characterized in that when a stop in the paper feeding operation is input to the paper feed slot and a date for resuming the paper feeding operation is input, an email informing the paper feed slot of the stop and resumption dates of the paper feeding operation is sent to the email address.

[0116] (Composition 5) Furthermore, it has a means for displaying the status of the image processing device, The image processing apparatus according to configuration 3, characterized in that when a stop in the paper feeding operation is input to the paper feed slot and a date for the resumption of the paper feeding operation is input, the status display means of the image processing apparatus displays the date of the stop and resumption of the paper feeding operation.

[0117] (Composition 6) An image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that when the paper feeding operation is stopped, and the corresponding paper feed slot is specified during printing, printing is performed from another paper feed slot that is in operation.

[0118] (Method 1) A control method for an image processing device that processes paper fed from a paper feed slot, The aforementioned image processing device is A paper jam history table that stores paper jam history information for paper feeding from the aforementioned paper feed slot, It maintains a paper feed slot management table that stores the status information of each of the aforementioned paper feed slots, The image processing apparatus includes a paper jam history display means for displaying the history information of the paper jam, The image processing device performs a paper feed slot management step in which it displays the status information of each of the paper feed slots and sets the operation of the paper feed slots, The image processing device receives input to stop and restart the paper feeding operation for each of the paper feed slots displayed in the paper feed slot management step, The image processing device includes the steps of stopping the paper feeding operation of the paper feed slot upon receiving a signal to stop the paper feeding operation, The image processing device includes the step of setting the paper feeding operation of the paper feed slot to an operational state when a restart of the paper feeding operation is input, A control method for an image processing device, characterized in that the image processing device does not feed paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is stopped, and feeds paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is in operation.

[0119] (Program 1) A computer program that performs each step described in Method 1 using a computer. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 5…Network, 10…Information processing device, 100…Image processing device, 102…Control panel, 103…Print engine / Scanner engine, 104…Consumables 201...CPU, 202...RAM, 203...ROM, 204...Network I / F, 205...Panel I / F, 206...Engine I / F, 207...DMAC, 210...Non-volatile memory device, 211...Bus 801...Control unit, 802...Printing unit, 803...Scanning unit, 804...Fax unit, 805...Rendering unit, 810...Communication unit, 820...Paper feed slot operation control unit, 830...Display / operation unit, 840...Maintenance Management Department, 841...Replacement Parts Management Department, 842...Paper Jam Management Department 843...Confirmation information display unit, 844...Error display unit, 701...Paper jam history table, 702...Paper feed slot management table, 703...Administrator information table

Claims

1. An image processing device that processes paper fed from a paper feed slot, A paper jam history table that stores paper jam history information for paper feeding from the aforementioned paper feed slot, It maintains a paper feed slot management table that stores the status information of each of the aforementioned paper feed slots, A paper jam history display means for displaying the history information of the aforementioned paper jams, A paper feed slot management means that displays the status information of each of the aforementioned paper feed slots and sets the operation of the paper feed slots, The paper feed slot management means provides means for inputting the stopping and restarting of the paper feeding operation for each of the paper feed slots displayed on the paper feed slot management means, A means for stopping the paper feeding operation of a paper feed slot that has been instructed to stop paper feeding, It has means for setting the paper feeding operation of the paper feed slot to an operational state when a restart of the paper feeding operation is input, An image processing apparatus characterized by not feeding paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is stopped, and feeding paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is in operation.

2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display of each entry of the paper feed slot shown on the paper feed slot management means is different depending on whether the paper feeding operation is stopped or in operation.

3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, having means for inputting the date for restarting the paper feeding operation for a paper feed slot in which the paper feeding operation is stopped, and characterized in that when the date for restarting the paper feeding operation arrives, the paper feeding operation of the corresponding paper feed slot is changed from the stopped state to the operating state.

4. Furthermore, keep an email address to contact the administrator. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that when a stop in the paper feeding operation is input to the paper feed slot and a date for resuming the paper feeding operation is input, an email informing the paper feed slot of the stop and resumption dates of the paper feeding operation is sent to the email address.

5. Furthermore, it has a means for displaying the status of the image processing device, The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that when a stop in the paper feeding operation is input to the paper feed slot and a date for the resumption of the paper feeding operation is input, the status display means of the image processing apparatus displays the date of the stop and resumption of the paper feeding operation.

6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when the paper feeding operation is stopped and the corresponding paper feed slot is specified during printing, printing is performed from another paper feed slot that is in operation.

7. A control method for an image processing device that processes paper fed from a paper feed slot, The aforementioned image processing device is A paper jam history table that stores paper jam history information for paper feeding from the aforementioned paper feed slot, It maintains a paper feed slot management table that stores the status information of each of the aforementioned paper feed slots, The image processing apparatus includes a paper jam history display means for displaying the history information of the paper jam, The image processing device performs a paper feed slot management step in which it displays the status information of each of the paper feed slots and sets the operation of the paper feed slots, The image processing device includes a step of receiving input to stop and restart the paper feeding operation for each of the paper feed slots displayed in the paper feed slot management step, The image processing device includes the steps of stopping the paper feeding operation of the paper feed slot upon receiving a signal to stop the paper feeding operation, The image processing device includes the step of setting the paper feeding operation of the paper feed slot to an operational state when a restart of the paper feeding operation is input, A control method for an image processing device, characterized in that the image processing device does not feed paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is stopped, and feeds paper from the corresponding paper feed slot when the paper feeding operation is in operation.

8. A computer program that performs each of the steps described in claim 7 by a computer.

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