Sheet information storage device, control method, and program

Abstract

The aim is to reduce the effort required for users to identify sheet information that needs to be checked after the sheet information has been updated. [Solution] In order to solve the above problems, the sheet information storage device of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a storage means for storing sheet information; an addition means for adding setting items and default setting values ​​for the setting items to the sheet information stored in the storage means; a notification means for notifying the user of sheet information for which the default setting values ​​added by the addition means should be confirmed, based on other setting values ​​for other setting items in the sheet information stored in the storage means before the default setting values ​​were added by the addition means; and a receiving means for receiving changes to the default setting values ​​added by the addition means from the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet information storage device, a control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] After an image forming apparatus is sold, a new post-processing apparatus that can be connected to and used with the image forming apparatus may be sold, and a function for using the post-processing apparatus may be added to the image forming apparatus. The addition of functions is usually performed by updating the firmware, and Patent Document 1 describes a technique for shortening the firmware update time by differential update.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For example, in the production printing market, an image forming apparatus that can handle various types of paper such as thin paper, thick paper, coated paper, and film is used, and the information of the paper is defined for each paper and managed as a paper list. The paper information includes information related to the attributes of the paper such as the basis weight and surface property of the paper, and adjustment values when using the paper such as image position adjustment and secondary transfer voltage adjustment.

[0005] As described in Patent Document 1, when sheet information (sheet information) such as paper attributes and adjustment values is added by adding functions through firmware update, the set values of these sheet information added by the update may not necessarily be optimal values. Therefore, the user needs to check the sheet information of each paper after the firmware update. On the other hand, depending on the added sheet information, there may be papers for which confirmation is not required.

[0006] However, users only wanted to check the sheet information of the documents that needed checking, but they didn't know which documents' sheet information needed checking. In other words, it took extra effort to identify which sheet information needed checking after the sheet information had been updated.

[0007] This invention was made in view of the above problems, and aims to reduce the effort required for users to identify sheet information that needs to be checked after the sheet information has been updated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the sheet information storage device of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a storage means for storing sheet information; an addition means for adding setting items and default setting values ​​for the setting items to the sheet information stored in the storage means; a notification means for notifying the user of sheet information for which the default setting values ​​added by the addition means should be confirmed, based on other setting values ​​for other setting items in the sheet information stored in the storage means before the default setting values ​​were added by the addition means; and a receiving means for receiving changes to the default setting values ​​added by the addition means from the user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the effort required for users to identify sheet information that needs to be checked after the sheet information has been updated can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the printing system 100 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] A diagram showing a mechanical cross-section of the image forming apparatus 103 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Block diagram showing an example of the hardware and software configuration of the image forming apparatus 103 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4]Block diagram showing an example of the hardware and software configuration of the print control device 102 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the paper feed plate table 500 and paper setting management table 510 included in the print control device 102 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of the paper type management setting screen 600 according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the detailed editing screen 700 for paper information according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing an example of the process when a setting value for paper information according to Embodiment 1 is added. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of a notification screen according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of the management settings screen 600 according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 11] A flowchart showing an example of the process when a setting value for paper information according to Embodiment 2 is added. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of the update form template table 1201 according to Embodiment 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in these embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the present invention.

[0012] Note that the following abbreviations are used: CPU stands for Central Control Unit, ROM for Read Only Memory, and RAM for Random Access Memory. Also, HDD stands for Hard Disk Drive, SSD for Solid State Drive, LAN for Local Area Network, USB for Universal Serial Bus, and I / F for Interface.

[0013] Note that in this embodiment, the printing system 100 is an example of a sheet information storage device.

[0014] <Embodiment 1> FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the overall configuration of a printing system 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0015] This printing system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 103 and a print control apparatus 102. And this printing system 100 is communicably connected to a client computer 101. The client computer 101 and the print control apparatus 102 are communicably connected via a Local Area Network (LAN) 110 using an Ethernet cable 109. Also, the print control apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 are connected via an image video cable 107 and a control cable 108. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 103 is not directly connected to the LAN 110. The image forming apparatus 103 and the client computer 101 communicate via the print control apparatus 102.

[0016] Note that the image forming apparatus 103 may be connected to the LAN 110. That is, the image forming apparatus 103 may be directly communicably connected to the client computer 101. The client computer 101 starts an application and gives a print instruction or the like to the printing system 100. The print control apparatus 102 performs image processing in cooperation with the image forming apparatus 103.

[0017] The image forming apparatus 103 is a multifunction device having various functions, etc. It not only performs image processing from the client computer 101 and the print control apparatus 102, but can also copy data read from the scanner unit 104 or transmit it to a shared folder. When scanning an image with the scanner unit 104, various instructions are received from the user via various keys on the operation unit 105. Also, the operation unit 105 displays various information such as the scan state via a panel.

[0018] The static eliminator 117 is a device that removes any remaining charge that could not be removed by the image forming apparatus 103, and prevents the sheets of paper from sticking together after being ejected to the finisher 106. The finisher 106 receives the sheets of paper with the images formed on them and ejects them.

[0019] The print control device 102 includes a controller 300 and a display unit 111, on which information from the print control device 102 is displayed. The user operates the hardware operation buttons 112 of the print control device 102 to control the information displayed on the display unit 111.

[0020] The various information displayed on the display unit 111 is used to display the minimum necessary information (such as power operation and IP address confirmation) for operating the print control device 102. Furthermore, the controller 300 is connected to the external display device 113, keyboard 114, and pointing device 115 of the print control device 102.

[0021] In Embodiment 1, the printing system 100 is described with the print control device 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 as separate systems. However, the processing of the print control device 102 can be incorporated into the image forming apparatus 103, and the print control device 102 does not need to be physically located. Alternatively, the external display device 113 may have a position input device function such as a touchpad and also function as a pointing device 115.

[0022] The paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 (collectively referred to as paper feed unit 116) connected to the image forming apparatus 103 are devices for storing paper (sheets) used for printing. When a print command is received, one paper feed tray is selected, and paper is fed from the selected tray. The number of paper feed units 116 increases or decreases depending on the optional configuration connected to the image forming apparatus 103. Each of the paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 is equipped with a paper guide that contacts the rear end of the placed paper in the width direction and the feed direction to align it. By contacting the paper guide in the width direction and the feed direction, the width and height of the placed paper are detected.

[0023] Figure 2 is a mechanical cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus 103 according to Embodiment 1 (paper feeding sections 116-3 to 116-8 are omitted). Note that this mechanical cross-sectional view is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the image forming apparatus 103. The following explanation will be based on Figure 2.

[0024] The print engine 210 is equipped with paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 (figures of 116-3 to 116-8 are omitted). Various types of sheets can be stored in each paper feed unit. Paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 separate only the top sheet from the stored sheets and transport it to the sheet transport path 202. Developing stations 203 to 206 form toner images using colored toners Y, M, C, and K, respectively. The formed toner image is first transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 207. The intermediate transfer belt 207 then rotates clockwise in Figure 2, and the toner image is transferred to the sheet transported from the sheet transport path 202 by the secondary transfer roller 208.

[0025] The fixing unit 211 is equipped with a pressure roller and a heating roller, and fixes the toner image to the sheet by passing the sheet between the rollers, melting and pressing the toner. After passing through the fixing unit 211, the sheet is transported through the sheet transport path 212 to the sheet transport path 215. If the sheet type requires further melting and pressing for fixing, after passing through the fixing unit 211, it is transported through the sheet transport path 214 to the second fixing unit 213.

[0026] The sheet, which has undergone additional melting and pressing in the second fixing unit 213, is transported to the sheet transport path 215. If the print mode is set to double-sided printing, the sheet is then transported to the sheet inversion path 216, where it is inverted, and then transported to the double-sided transport path 217. The second image is then transferred to the secondary transfer roller 208.

[0027] The sheets transported from the print engine 210 are then transported to the static elimination device 117. The static elimination device 117 consists of a voltage application controller 221, a static elimination roller 222, and an ionizer 223, and is responsible for the static elimination process applied to the transported sheets. The sheets are then transported to the finisher 106 by the transport roller 224.

[0028] The finisher 106 performs finishing processes on the transported sheets, such as stapling (single-point / double-point binding), punching (two-hole / three-hole), and saddle-stitch binding. The finisher 106 has two trays. Sheets are ejected to each tray via sheet transport paths 232 and 233.

[0029] Figure 3(A) is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 103 according to Embodiment 1.

[0030] The controller 300 has a CPU 301, which loads control programs stored in ROM 303 or external storage device 311 into RAM 302, executes the loaded programs, and comprehensively controls various devices connected to the system bus 304. The CPU 301 also outputs image signals as output information to the printing unit (printer engine) 210 connected via the printing interface 307, and receives image signals input from the scanner unit 104 connected via the reading interface 312. The CPU 301 also controls the paper feed unit 116, which is connected to the print engine 210 via the printing interface 307, and acquires the status of the paper feed unit 116.

[0031] The print engine 201, connected via a communication cable 316 to the static eliminator 117 and finisher 106, and via communication interfaces 315, 321, and 331, issues post-processing control instructions for the paper ejected from the image forming apparatus 103. Furthermore, the CPU 301 is capable of communication processing with the print control device 102 via the LAN controller 306 and control cable 108.

[0032] RAM 302 primarily functions as the main memory and work area of ​​the CPU 301. Access to external storage devices 311, such as hard disk drives (HDDs) and USB memory, is controlled by the disk controller (DKC) 308. The hard disk stores various information such as application programs, font data, form data, and paper information, and is also used as a job storage area to temporarily spool print jobs and control the spooled jobs from the outside. Furthermore, it is used as a BOX data storage area to hold image data input from the scanner unit 104 and image data of print jobs as BOX data, which can be accessed from the network and used for printing.

[0033] The USB memory is used for updating the firmware of the image forming apparatus 103. The operation unit 105 is connected to the controller 300 via the operation unit I / F 305, and the user can input various information using software keys or hardware keys. It also has a display mechanism such as a touch panel or display and functions as a display unit for displaying various information. The non-volatile memory 309 stores various setting information that is set from a terminal via the operation unit 105 or the network 110. The video interface 314 receives image data from the print control device 102.

[0034] Next, the internal configuration of the static elimination device 117 will be described. The static elimination device 117 consists of a communication interface 321, a CPU 322, a memory 323, and a static elimination control unit 324, and each component is connected via a system bus 325. The communication interface 321 is connected to the print engine via a communication interface 315 and performs the communication necessary for static elimination of the paper. The CPU 322 controls the entire static elimination device 117 according to the control program stored in the memory 323. The memory 323 is a storage device in which the control program is stored. The control unit 324 controls the voltage application controller 221, the static elimination roller 222, and the ionizer 223 according to instructions from the CPU 322 and performs static elimination processing on the sheet that has been transported after static elimination.

[0035] Next, the internal configuration of the finisher 106 will be described. The finisher 106 consists of a communication interface 331, a CPU 332, a memory 333, and a paper ejection control unit 334, and each component is connected via a system bus 335. The communication interface 331 is connected to the print engine via a communication interface 315 and performs the communication necessary for paper ejection. The CPU 332 controls the entire finisher 106 according to the control program stored in the memory 333. The memory 333 is a storage device in which the control program is stored. The paper ejection control unit 334 controls the transport and ejection of sheets according to instructions from the CPU 332.

[0036] Figure 3(B) is a block diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the image forming apparatus 103 according to Embodiment 1. The functions of each part shown in Figure 3(B) are achieved by the CPU 301 executing the program loaded into the RAM 302.

[0037] The system software 351 controls the image forming apparatus 103. The system software 351 also includes a UI control unit 352, a paper management unit 353, a paper feed tray management unit 354, a network control unit 355, a job management unit 356, a settings management unit 357, and a system update unit 358.

[0038] The UI control unit 352 controls the operation unit 105 via the operation unit I / F 305. The UI control unit 352 can control the display of text and paper size units on the screen according to the system settings.

[0039] The paper management unit 353 manages the paper template table 500 and the paper setting management table 510 shown in Figure 5. The paper feed stage management unit 354 manages the paper information set in correspondence with the paper feed unit 116. The paper template table 500 and the paper setting management table 510 may also be stored in a storage unit (storage means) such as an external storage device 311 or an external storage device 409, thereby storing sheet information.

[0040] The network control unit 355 controls communication with the print control device 102 via the LAN controller 306. The job management unit 356 manages the print processing sequence and the order of jobs. The job management unit 356 controls the data transfer for printing jobs received from the print control device 102 via the LAN controller 306 or the video interface 314, and manages the received jobs.

[0041] The settings management unit 357 manages system settings related to the paper management system. System settings include, for example, the language setting for the text displayed on the paper management system screen and the setting for the display unit system (millimeters or inches) for paper sizes.

[0042] The system update unit 358 is responsible for updating the firmware of the image forming apparatus 103. It reads the firmware stored in an external storage device 311, such as a USB memory stick, via the DKC 308 and updates the control program stored in the ROM 303. In addition to firmware, it also updates the paper information stored on the hard disk.

[0043] Figure 4(A) is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the print control device 102 according to Embodiment 1.

[0044] The controller 400 has a CPU 401, which loads control programs stored in ROM 403 or external storage device 409 into RAM 402 and executes the loaded programs to control various devices connected to the system bus 404. The CPU 401 can also communicate with the image forming apparatus 103 via LAN controller 406 and control cable 108. Furthermore, the CPU 401 can communicate with client computers 101 and the image forming apparatus 103 on the network via LAN controller 407 and LAN 110.

[0045] RAM 402 primarily functions as the main memory and work area of ​​the CPU 401. Access to external storage devices 409, such as hard disk drives (HDDs) and IC cards, is controlled by the disk controller (DKC) 408.

[0046] The external storage device 409 stores application programs, font data, form data, etc., and temporarily spools print jobs. The external storage device 409 is also used as a job storage area for saving spooled jobs that have undergone RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing.

[0047] The operation interface 405 is an interface that connects the operation button section 112, where the user inputs various information, and the display section 111, which presents information to the user, to the controller 400. The video interface 410 transmits the RIP-processed image data to the image forming apparatus 103.

[0048] LAN controllers 406 and 407 connect control cable 108 and LAN 110 to controller 400, respectively.

[0049] The keyboard controller (KBC) 411 processes input from the keyboard 114 and the pointing device 115. The display control unit (CRTC) 412 has internal video memory and draws to the video memory according to instructions from the CPU 401, and outputs the image data drawn to the video memory as a video signal to the display device 113.

[0050] Figure 4(B) is a block diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the print control device 102 according to Embodiment 1. The functions of each part shown in Figure 4(B) are achieved by the CPU 401 executing the program loaded into the RAM 402.

[0051] The system software 451 that controls the print control device 102 includes a UI control unit 452, a paper management unit 453, a paper feed tray management unit 454, a network control unit 455, a job management unit 456, and a settings management unit 457.

[0052] The UI control unit 452 controls the screen displayed by the printing system. The UI control unit 452 can control the display of text and paper size units on the screen according to the system settings.

[0053] The paper management unit 453 communicates with the image forming apparatus 103 and handles the acquired paper information. Data retention is the same as that of the paper template table 500 and paper setting management table 510 in Figure 5.

[0054] The network control unit 455 controls communication with the image forming apparatus 103 via the LAN controller 406, and with the client computer 101 on the network 110 via the LAN controller 407.

[0055] The job management unit 456 manages the printing process sequence and the order of jobs. The job management unit 456 manages jobs received by the print control device 102 and controls the data transfer for printing the received jobs to the image forming apparatus 103 via the LAN controller 406 or the video interface 410.

[0056] The settings management unit 457 manages system settings related to the paper management system. System settings include, for example, the language setting for the text displayed on the paper management system screen and the setting for the display unit system (millimeters or inches) for paper sizes.

[0057] Figure 5(A) shows an example of a paper template table 500 in the image forming apparatus 103 in Embodiment 1, and Figure 5(B) shows an example of a paper setting management table 510.

[0058] The paper template table 500 stores and manages not only information on commercially available paper (name, basis weight, size, etc.), but also adjustment values ​​(setting values) for each setting item when used with the image forming apparatus 103. Information on commercially available paper may be pre-registered in the external storage device 311. Furthermore, the information managed in the paper template table 500 can be added to or rewritten, for example, through firmware updates.

[0059] The paper template table 500 stores information such as the paper name 502, basis weight 503, size 504, width 505, height 506, surface quality 507, and setting values ​​508 for setting items, all associated with a paper ID 501 that identifies the paper. Examples of setting values ​​508 for setting items include the paper transport of the first fuser unit, the paper transport of the second fuser unit, transfer voltage, image position adjustment, and secondary transfer voltage.

[0060] The paper settings management table 510 manages information from the paper template table 500, as well as the original paper ID 511 and the modified flag 512. The paper settings management table 510 also stores paper information created by the user via the operation unit 105. The creation of paper information will be described later.

[0061] The original paper ID 511 refers to paper ID 501 in the paper template table 500, which is the source of the copy. For example, if a user copies paper A and defines (creates) a new paper A called "my paper A", the paper ID 501 corresponding to paper A managed in the paper template table 500 is 1, so the original paper ID 511 will be 1.

[0062] Furthermore, the paper ID 501 in the paper setting management table 510 is calculated by multiplying the value of the original paper ID 501 by 10000 and adding a value indicating which number it was created based on that paper. For example, if a user defines myPaperD based on PaperD, and this is the first time a paper is defined based on PaperD, the value will be 4 (Paper ID 501 corresponding to PaperD managed in the paper template table 500) × 10000 + 1 (number) = 40001.

[0063] Thus, if a second paper is defined based on paper D (my paper F), the paper ID 501 in the paper setting management table 510 will be 40002. Note that this method of determining the paper ID is just one example and is not limited to other methods.

[0064] Furthermore, if a user defines a paper template without using the paper template table 500 as a basis, and the user defines the paper template independently, the original paper ID 511 will be 0.

[0065] The modified flag 512 is 1 if the setting values ​​of any setting items other than the paper name 502 have been changed for paper created based on the paper template table 500, and 0 if they have not been changed. Note that the value of the modified flag 512 is not limited to cases where setting items other than the paper name 502 have been changed; the user may be able to set any setting item. In this embodiment, we will also describe an example in which the modified flag 512 is set to 1 when the user defines paper without using the paper information of the paper template table 500 (where the paper ID 511 based on the paper setting management table 510 is 0).

[0066] The paper management unit 353 edits, adds, deletes, and searches paper information in the paper setting management table 510 based on user instructions.

[0067] The paper template table 500 and the paper setting management table 510 are management tables for managing paper information for each paper ID, and are stored, for example, in an external storage device 311 which is a non-volatile area.

[0068] Figure 6(A) shows the paper type management setting screen 600 displayed on the operation unit 105 of the image forming apparatus 103 in Embodiment 1. The CPU 301 receives user input via the operation unit 105 and displays this screen by executing a control program stored in the ROM 303 or external storage device 311.

[0069] The paper type management settings screen 600 displays a list of paper types 601 registered (managed) in the paper setting management table 510. Scroll buttons 602 and 603 are used to scroll the display of the paper list 601. If the paper list 601 managed in the paper setting management table 510 cannot be displayed at once due to the size of the operation unit 105, the user can check the paper types sequentially by pressing the scroll buttons 602 and 603. In this embodiment, an example is given below in which my paper F, which is not displayed below my paper E, appears when the user scrolls.

[0070] The detailed editing button 604 displays detailed information about the selected paper. When the detailed editing button 604 is pressed, the detailed editing screen 700, described later, is displayed on the operation unit 105. The detailed editing screen 700 displays detailed information about the selected paper, and also displays various change buttons for changing the setting values ​​of the setting items corresponding to the paper.

[0071] The duplicate button 605 is used to duplicate the selected paper. When the duplicate button 605 is pressed, the CPU 301 duplicates the information of the selected paper in the paper setting management table 510 and reflects it in the management settings screen 600. The delete button 606 is used to delete the selected paper information. When the delete button 606 is pressed, the CPU 301 deletes the information of the selected paper in the paper setting management table 510 and reflects it in the management settings screen 600.

[0072] The paper database button 607 is used to display the paper database screen 610 shown in Figure 6(B). The OK button 608 closes the management settings screen 600; when pressed, the management settings screen 600 is no longer displayed on the operation unit 105.

[0073] Figure 6(B) shows the paper database screen 610 displayed on the operation unit 105 of the image forming apparatus 103 in Embodiment 1. When the paper database button 607 is pressed on the management settings screen 600, the CPU 301 displays the paper database screen 610 on the operation unit 105.

[0074] The paper database screen 610 displays a list of paper templates 611 registered (managed) in the paper template table 500. Scroll buttons 612 and 613 are used to scroll through the paper template list 611. If the list of paper templates 611 managed in the paper template table 500 does not fit on the screen at once, the user can press these scroll buttons 612 and 613 to view the paper templates in order.

[0075] The Details button 614 displays detailed information about the selected paper template. When the Details button 614 is pressed, the detailed information about the selected paper template is displayed on the control panel 105.

[0076] The Add button 615 is used to add the selected paper to the paper settings management table 510 (management settings screen 600). When the Add button 615 is pressed, the CPU 301 adds the selected paper information to the paper settings management table 510 based on the paper template table 500. As a result, the added paper is displayed on the management settings screen 600. The Cancel button 616 is used to close the paper database screen 610, and when pressed, the paper database screen 610 is not displayed on the operation unit 105.

[0077] Figure 7 shows the detailed editing screen 700 of the paper information displayed on the operation unit 105 of the image forming apparatus 103 in Embodiment 1. When the detailed editing button 604 on the management settings screen 600 is pressed, the CPU 301 displays the detailed editing screen 700 on the operation unit 105. Furthermore, the following setting changes are made by the user via the operation unit 105, and the CPU 301 accepts these changes.

[0078] Furthermore, the setting value of the static elimination bias setting item described in this embodiment can also be changed through this detailed editing screen 700 (not shown). In addition, when making changes through the detailed editing screen 700, including the static elimination bias setting, it is also possible to change the default setting value that has been added by a firmware update.

[0079] The name change button 701 is used to change the name setting value corresponding to the selected paper. When the name change button 701 is pressed, an input field (not shown) is displayed, and the user can set any name using the keys on the operation unit 105. The basis weight change button 702 is used to change the basis weight setting value corresponding to the selected paper. When the basis weight change button 702 is pressed, an input field (not shown) is displayed, and the user can set any name using the keys on the operation unit 105.

[0080] The size change button 703 is used to change the size setting value corresponding to the selected paper. When the size change button 703 is pressed, size options such as A3 and B5 will be displayed, and the user can set the size by selecting one of the displayed options. The surface finish change button 704 is used to change the surface finish setting value corresponding to the selected paper. When the surface finish change button 704 is pressed, surface finish options such as matte coated paper and glossy paper will be displayed, and the user can set the surface finish by selecting one of the displayed options.

[0081] The first fuser unit's paper transport change button 705 is a button that adjusts the paper transport setting value of the first fuser unit corresponding to the selected paper. When the first fuser unit's paper transport change button 705 is pressed, a setting screen (not shown) is displayed, and the user can set an arbitrary name using the keys on the operation unit 105.

[0082] The secondary transfer voltage change button 706 is used to adjust the setting value of the secondary transfer voltage corresponding to the selected paper. When the secondary transfer voltage change button 706 is pressed, a setting screen (not shown) is displayed, and the user can set an arbitrary name using the keys on the operation unit 105.

[0083] The down button 707 displays the next page. The up button 708 displays the previous page. By pressing the down button 707 and the up button 708, the user can view the pages in order. The close button 709 closes the current screen, and when pressed, the detailed editing screen 700 is no longer displayed on the operation unit 105.

[0084] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process when paper information settings are added in Embodiment 1. Adding settings can be done, for example, through a firmware update, specifically by adding new settings (adjustment values) corresponding to the new setting items.

[0085] Figure 8 shows an example of a case where a new static elimination bias value setting item and static elimination bias setting value are added for the static elimination device 117. The added static elimination bias setting value is assumed to have an initial value (0) set for each paper registered in the paper template table 500.

[0086] Furthermore, the processes shown in this flowchart are executed by CPU 301 and are initiated when, for example, paper information such as firmware update information is received.

[0087] Settings that require confirmation / adjustment are those that are affected by changes in other parameters such as basis weight, such as the static elimination bias value. In this embodiment, we will describe an example in which the setting value of the static elimination bias setting item is newly added to the paper template table.

[0088] In step S801, the CPU 301 replaces the settings of all existing settings stored in the paper template table 500 with the new settings. Note that if only some of the existing settings are updated to the new settings, the configuration may be such that only the relevant settings are updated.

[0089] At this time, if any setting items not managed in the paper template table 500 are added during the update, those setting items and their corresponding setting values ​​(initial values) are added to the paper template table 500 and saved (registered). In this embodiment, an example is given in which the setting value 508 for the static elimination bias setting item is added to the setting information of all paper registered in the paper template table 500.

[0090] Alternatively, CPU301 may perform the update by deleting the stored paper template table 500 and saving a new paper template table 500 that reflects the updated content.

[0091] In step S802, the CPU 301 determines whether all paper types in the paper setting management table 510 have been checked. If the CPU 301 determines in step S802 that all paper types have been checked, it proceeds to step S807. If there are any unchecked paper types, i.e., if it determines that not all paper types have been checked, it proceeds to step S803.

[0092] In step S803, the CPU 301 adds the added setting value, in this case the static elimination bias setting value, to setting value 508 in the paper setting management table 510. For example, if the default value of the static elimination bias setting value is 0, 0 is added to the setting value of all static elimination setting items for the paper registered in the paper setting management table 510. For example, through the processing up to this point, the setting items and their default setting values ​​are added to the sheet information stored in the storage means, such as the paper template table 500.

[0093] In step S804, the CPU 301 determines whether it is necessary to notify the user that the added setting value needs to be checked / adjusted. That is, it determines whether the user should check the added default setting value.

[0094] In this embodiment, the determination is made based on the surface properties 507 managed by the paper setting management table 510. When printing using an electrophotographic method with a laser beam printer, the printed paper may become electrically charged due to the printing method. If multiple electrically charged printed materials are ejected in that state, there is a risk that the charges will interact with each other and unwanted adhesion between the printed materials will occur. Therefore, to prevent this, the static elimination device 117 removes the charge from the printed materials based on the setting of the static elimination bias value.

[0095] The static discharge bias setting is related to the surface properties of the paper. For example, if the paper surface is matte coated (matte coated paper), it tends to accumulate electric charge, requiring user confirmation and adjustment. Furthermore, even within the category of matte coated paper, the characteristics of the paper may differ depending on the manufacturer, and the user needs to set the static discharge bias value according to the paper. myPaperD and myPaperF in this embodiment are examples of this; although the paper parameters such as basis weight 503 are the same, they represent an example where the surface properties differ even within the same category of matte coated surface properties.

[0096] In this embodiment, an example is described in which the CPU 301 determines whether or not an adjustment notification is necessary based on whether or not the surface finish 507 of the paper setting management table 510 is matte coat. That is, if the surface finish 507 of the paper setting management table 510 is matte coat, the CPU 301 determines that it is necessary to notify that confirmation / adjustment is required.

[0097] In other words, in this embodiment, mysheet D and mysheet F correspond to the sheet information that the user should confirm. Furthermore, surface value 507 is an example of other setting values ​​for other setting items of sheet information that were stored by the storage means before the default setting value for the static elimination bias setting item was added, and as mentioned above, notification is made based on this.

[0098] In the example where the added setting item is static elimination bias, the judgment is made based on surface properties. However, the criteria may change if the added setting item is different. For example, in the case where a setting item for secondary transfer voltage is added, the judgment in this step may be made based on the basis weight 503 in the paper setting management table 510. This is because the setting value of the secondary transfer voltage depends on the basis weight parameter. Specifically, for example, it is determined whether the basis weight 503 is 120 (a predetermined threshold) or higher, and if the basis weight 503 is 120 or higher, the user is prompted to check the paper information. On the other hand, if the basis weight 503 is less than 120, the user is not prompted to check the paper information.

[0099] Alternatively, the printing system 100 may receive information for making a decision along with the firmware update information. This information could include, for example, information indicating whether or not to display a prompt for adjustment, and the CPU 301 can use this information to make the decision in this step. That is, if the firmware update information includes information indicating that the setting values ​​of the settings added by this update need to be checked / adjusted for each sheet of paper, the CPU 301 will determine whether or not to notify each sheet of paper.

[0100] If CPU301 determines that notification is necessary, proceed to step S805; otherwise, proceed to step S802.

[0101] In step S805, the CPU 301 determines whether the paper information has been changed based on whether the changed flag 512 is 1. As mentioned above, the changed flag 512 is 1 if the setting values ​​of any setting items other than the paper name 502 have been changed for paper defined by the user based on the paper template table 500, and 0 if they have not been changed. Since the value is determined before the setting value is added, the processing here can be determined by the value of the changed flag 512. As a result, if the paper information other than the paper name 502 has been changed, i.e., the changed flag 512 is 1, the process proceeds to step S806, and if the changed flag is 0, the process proceeds to step S802.

[0102] In step S806, the CPU 301 adds the paper whose paper information was determined to have been changed in S805 to a list that requires verification / adjustment. Specifically, for example, the CPU 301 stores the paper ID 501 and paper name 502 of the paper setting management table 510 corresponding to the paper as a list. In this embodiment, it is explained that paper IDs 501 = 40001, 00001, and 40002, i.e., myPaperD, myPaperE, and myPaperF, were determined to have changed paper information and were added to the list that requires verification / adjustment.

[0103] In step S807, the CPU 301 determines whether the list of items requiring verification / adjustment, which was generated by the processing in steps S802 through 806, is empty. If the CPU 301 determines in step S807 that the list is empty, the process proceeds to step S809. If the CPU 301 determines in step S807 that the list is not empty, the process proceeds to step S808.

[0104] In step S808, the CPU 301 displays information about the listed papers that require confirmation / adjustment on the operation unit 105 and notifies the user. Figure 9(A) shows an example of this notification. Here, myPaperD and myPaperF, which have a surface finish 507 of matte coat, are notified as papers that require confirmation / adjustment. Furthermore, myPaperE, which is a paper defined by the user without being based on the paper templates in the paper template table 500, is also notified as a paper that requires confirmation / adjustment. The CPU 301 terminates this process once the notification is complete.

[0105] In step S809, the CPU 301 displays on the operation unit 105 that a setting value has been added or that the update is complete. Figure 9(B) shows an example of this screen. The CPU 301 terminates the process once the display is complete. Note that the process in S809 is not mandatory, and the process may terminate without it being performed.

[0106] Figure 9(A) is an example of a notification screen displayed on the operation unit 105, showing information about paper types that have been listed by the process described in Figure 8 and should be checked / adjusted due to updates. Here, a list of paper names 502 stored in the paper settings management table corresponding to the listed paper types is displayed. In the example of Figure 9(A), myPaperD, myPaperE, and myPaperF have been added to the list requiring check / adjustment in S806, so their paper names 502 are displayed. At this time, sheet information other than the sheet information that the user should check for added settings is not displayed.

[0107] From a usability perspective, it is preferable to display the paper name 502, but the system is not limited to this. For example, it may also display information managed in the paper setting management table 510, such as the paper ID 501.

[0108] Note that in the example shown in Figure 9(A), information for paper types not added to the list is not displayed, but this is not the only option. For example, the configuration could be such that all paper types registered in the paper setting management table 510 are displayed in a list, and only the information for the paper types added to the list is displayed in an identifiable manner. This could be done, for example, by changing the color of the text displaying the information for that paper type, changing the background color of the field displaying the information for that paper type, or by displaying an object around the text displaying the information for that paper type. Figure 9(B) shows an example of the update completion screen, which is displayed on the operation unit 105. The screen displays text indicating that paper adjustment items (setting items) have been added. Note that this string is not the only option.

[0109] As described above, when paper settings are added, it becomes possible to extract the paper whose information has been modified by the user and display a list of paper that needs to be checked / adjusted. This makes it easy for users to identify which paper should be checked / adjusted. In other words, it reduces the effort required to identify items that need to be checked after updating paper information.

[0110] In this embodiment, the modified flag 512 is set to 1 when anything other than the name is changed. However, it may also be set to 1 only when a specific paper attribute, such as basis weight, is changed, or when a specific adjustment value, such as the double-circuit voltage adjustment, is changed. Alternatively, it may be set to a specific attribute and setting value combination. By doing so, it is possible to narrow down the paper attributes and setting values ​​that are affected by the added setting value, for example, by not displaying a confirmation / adjustment even if the paper color has been changed.

[0111] <Embodiment 2> In Embodiment 1, when a setting value was added, a screen displaying a list of paper types to be checked / adjusted was shown on the operation unit 105. However, there was no way for the user to confirm this after closing the screen. In light of this, Embodiment 2 describes a process for displaying which paper types are subject to check / adjustment on the paper type management setting screen 600.

[0112] The CPU 301 stores the list of paper types that need to be checked / adjusted, created in step S806, in the non-volatile memory 309, and displays the paper type management settings screen 600 with a confirmation mark 1001 indicating that the settings for the corresponding paper types need to be checked / adjusted. An example of this is explained using Figure 10.

[0113] Figure 10 shows an example of the paper type management settings screen 600 with a confirmation mark 1001 placed on the target paper. Here, a circular filled object is displayed to the left of the paper name 502 corresponding to the paper in the list, making it distinguishable from paper that does not belong to the list. Furthermore, the top of the screen displays the message, "We recommend adjusting the settings before printing if the paper has a ● mark," prompting the user to check / adjust the settings. This clearly displays the sheet information that the user should check for added default settings.

[0114] Figure 10(a) shows an example where not all paper types registered in the paper setting management table 510 are displayed on the screen, and Figure 10(b) shows an example of the management settings screen 600 after scrolling has made my paper F newly visible. In Figure 10, in contrast to Figure 9(A), sheet information other than the sheet information that the user should check for added settings is also displayed. Note that the configuration may also be such that sheet information other than the sheet information that the user should check for added settings is not displayed.

[0115] The object is not limited to this; for example, it could be a star shape. Also, the placement of the confirmation mark 1001 is not limited to the left of the paper name 502. It is sufficient that the confirmation mark 1001 is placed on the relevant paper so that it can be distinguished from papers that do not belong to the list. Furthermore, the confirmation mark 1001 is not limited to an object; it could also be a string of text such as "Confirmation Required" or "Changed" to prompt the user to confirm / adjust.

[0116] Confirmation mark 1001 disappears when the detailed settings screen or modification screen for the target paper is displayed, or when the settings are changed. The timing of this disappearance can be chosen by the designer.

[0117] Thus, the timing for clearing the confirmation mark 1001 may vary depending on the setting value. For example, in the case of a setting value that does not necessarily require adjustment, such as the folding position adjustment value which is determined in conjunction with the print data, the mark can be cleared when the detailed paper editing button 604 is pressed, the detailed information is displayed, and the mark is cleared when the user returns to that screen. On the other hand, in the case of paper where it is desirable to change the setting value before printing, such as the static elimination bias value, the mark should be cleared after the adjustment has actually been made. Note that "adjustment" here refers to the display of the setting change screen or the actual change of the setting value by the user.

[0118] Naturally, when you return to the original screen after navigating through these screens, the confirmation mark 1001 on the confirmed / adjusted paper disappears, and the confirmation mark 1001 continues to be displayed on any paper that is in the list but has not yet been confirmed / adjusted. In this way, the user can confirm / adjust the settings of each item on the paper without missing anything by checking / adjusting the settings of the paper that has the confirmation mark 1001 displayed.

[0119] As described above, by displaying information about paper types that require confirmation / adjustment on the paper list screen, it becomes possible to check whether any added settings need to be adjusted even outside of firmware updates.

[0120] <Embodiment 3> In Embodiment 1, confirmation / adjustment was always required if the paper information was changed. However, there are cases where confirmation / adjustment is not always necessary, and this embodiment describes the process in such cases. For example, when the basis weight differs for the same series of paper from a certain manufacturer, the basis weight and the adjustment value may be proportional. For example, as shown in Figure 12, there is a proportional relationship in the static elimination bias value for paper A and paper B. In this case, even if the basis weight is changed, the adjustment value can be set by calculating it from the formula, so it can be adjusted automatically without the user having to confirm / adjust it. Note that this is just one example, and it is not limited to specific paper information or formulas as long as it can be calculated from the information of other papers.

[0121] Figure 12 shows an example of a paper template table 1201 for updates. Here, it is illustrated that the static elimination bias setting value 508 can be calculated as basis weight / 10. In other words, even if the setting value changes due to an update and is a setting value that would normally require confirmation / adjustment, the static elimination bias setting value 508 can be calculated by referring to the setting value of other setting items (basis weight). In this case as well, requiring the user to confirm / adjust would impair usability, so it is preferable to calculate it automatically and not send a notification prompting confirmation / adjustment.

[0122] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in Embodiment 3 where the decision to send a notification is made based on whether it is calculable. Similar to Embodiment 1, this process is started when adjustment values ​​are added due to firmware updates or the like. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 301. Steps S1101 to S1104 are the same as steps S801 to S804, so their explanation is omitted.

[0123] In step S1105, CPU301 determines whether the added setting value is calculable. Specifically, it determines whether the added setting value is a number or a formula; if it is a formula, it determines that it is calculable, and if it is a number, it determines that it is not calculable.

[0124] If CPU 301 determines in step S1105 that the calculation is possible, the process proceeds to step S1106. If it determines in step S1105 that the calculation is not possible, the process proceeds to step S1107.

[0125] In step S1106, the CPU 301 calculates and sets the setting value based on the calculation formula. For example, if the paper created from paper A, i.e., the original paper ID 511, is 1, then the static elimination bias value is set to the value of basis weight / 10. Note that in steps S1105 and S1106, the setting value may also be set using a script, which includes a script for calculation together with the firmware update program, separate from the paper information update data.

[0126] Steps S1107 to S1110 are the same as steps S806 to S809, so their explanation is omitted.

[0127] As described above, if the setting value can be calculated even when the paper information is changed, the appropriate value can be set without notifying the user to confirm or adjust it.

[0128] <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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 102 Printing control device 103 Image forming apparatus 301 CPU (image forming device 103) 401 CPU (Print control device 102)

Claims

1. A storage means for storing sheet information, An additional means for adding setting items and default setting values ​​for the setting items to the sheet information stored in the storage means, A notification means that notifies the user of sheet information to confirm the default setting value added by the additional means, based on other setting values ​​of other setting items in the sheet information that were stored by the storage means before the default setting value was added by the additional means, A receiving means for receiving changes to the default setting values ​​added by the aforementioned additional means from the user. A sheet information storage device characterized by having the following features.

2. The sheet information storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that the notification means displays the sheet information in an identifiable manner.

3. The sheet information storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that the displayed sheet information is the name of the sheet.

4. The sheet information storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that the notification means displays the sheet information in an identifiable manner by displaying the name of the sheet and an object, which are associated with the sheet and stored in the storage means.

5. The sheet information storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that the notification means displays the setting value added by the additional means, including sheet information other than the sheet information that the user should confirm.

6. The sheet information storage device according to claim 2, characterized in that the notification means displays sheet information that the user should confirm, which is the setting value added by the addition means from the sheet information stored by the storage means.

7. The sheet information storage device according to claim 6, characterized in that the notification means does not display any sheet information other than the sheet information for which the user should confirm the setting value added by the addition means, from among the sheet information stored by the storage means.

8. The sheet information storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that the added setting value is the setting value for the static elimination bias, and the other setting value for the other setting item is surface properties.

9. The sheet information storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that the notification means notifies the user of sheet information that the user should confirm based on the setting value added by the additional means.

10. The sheet information storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that the notification means does not provide notification if the added setting item is calculable.

11. A storage process in which sheet information is stored in the storage unit, An additional step of adding setting items and default setting values ​​for the setting items to the sheet information stored in the storage unit, A notification step that notifies the user of sheet information to confirm the default setting value added by the additional step, based on other setting values ​​of other setting items in the sheet information that were stored by the storage unit before the default setting value was added by the additional step, A receiving step that accepts changes to the default settings added by the above additional step from the user. A control method for a sheet information storage device, characterized by having the following features.

12. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 11, characterized in that the notification step displays the sheet information in an identifiable manner.

13. The sheet information storage device control method according to claim 12, characterized in that the displayed sheet information is the name of the sheet.

14. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 13, characterized in that the notification step displays the sheet information in an identifiable manner by displaying the name of the sheet and the object, which are associated with the sheet and stored in the storage unit.

15. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 14, characterized in that the notification step displays the setting value added by the additional step, including sheet information other than the sheet information that the user should confirm.

16. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 12, characterized in that the notification step displays sheet information from the sheet information stored by the storage unit, where the setting value added by the addition step should be confirmed by the user.

17. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 16, characterized in that the notification step does not display any sheet information other than the sheet information for which the user should confirm the setting value added by the addition step, from among the sheet information stored by the storage unit.

18. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 11, characterized in that the added setting value is the setting value for the static elimination bias, and the other setting value for the other setting item is surface properties.

19. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 11, characterized in that the notification step notifies the user of sheet information that the user should confirm based on the setting value added by the additional step.

20. The control method for a sheet information storage device according to claim 11, characterized in that the notification step is not performed if the added setting item is calculable.

21. A program that causes the sheet information storage device to execute the control method described in any one of claims 11 to 20.

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