Image forming apparatus, display method, and program

Abstract

The aim is to make it easier for users to select their desired paper information. [Solution] The image forming apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that, among a plurality of paper information registered by the registration means, the display means displays paper information registered by measuring the characteristics of the paper by the measuring means and paper information registered by user settings without measuring the characteristics of the paper by the measuring means, in a manner that allows the registration method to be distinguished.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses that in an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral (MFP), a media sensor is used to detect the basis weight and surface property of a sheet, and sheet information based on the detection result is registered.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Registration of sheet information using a media sensor tends to be performed simply by users with little knowledge about media, while registration of sheet information by user setting tends to be performed accurately by users with extensive knowledge about media. Therefore, if the sheet information registered using the media sensor and the sheet information registered by user setting are displayed without being distinguished, there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to select the desired sheet information.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problem, and an object thereof is to make it easier for a user to select desired sheet information.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The image forming apparatus of the present invention comprises a measuring means for measuring the characteristics of paper, a registration means for registering paper information, a display means for displaying a plurality of paper information registered by the registration means, and a printing means for printing an image on paper based on paper information selected from the plurality of displayed paper information. The display means displays, in a manner that allows for distinction between the registration methods of the plurality of paper information registered by the registration means, specifically, paper information registered by measuring the characteristics of the paper by the measuring means and paper information registered by user settings without measuring the characteristics of the paper by the measuring means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This makes it easier for users to select the desired paper information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing the entire printing system in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Hardware configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus in the first embodiment [Figure 3] Hardware configuration diagram of the information processing device in the first embodiment [Figure 4] Software configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus in the first embodiment [Figure 5] Software configuration diagram of the information processing device in the first embodiment [Figure 6] A diagram showing the arrangement of the media type detection means in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating the workflow related to media registration processing. [Figure 8(A)] An example of media registration flow by the control unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(B)] An example of media registration flow by the control unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(C)] An example of media registration flow by the control unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(D)] An example of media registration flow by the control unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(E)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(F)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(G)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(H)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(I)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(J)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(K)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(L)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 8(M)] An example of a media registration flow by the operation unit in the first embodiment [Figure 9(A)] An example of a media registration flow by the web browser in the first embodiment [Figure 9(B)] An example of a media registration flow by the web browser in the first embodiment [Figure 9(C)] An example of a media registration flow by the web browser in the first embodiment [Figure 9(D)] An example of a media registration flow by the web browser in the first embodiment [Figure 9(E)] An example of a media registration flow by the web browser in the first embodiment [Figure 9(F)] An example of a media registration flow by the web browser in the first embodiment [Figure 10] Internal configuration of the media management table in the first embodiment [Figure 11] Flow diagram of media management processing in the first embodiment [Figure 12] Flow diagram of media list display processing in the first embodiment [Figure 13]Flowchart of media information display processing in the first embodiment [Figure 14] Flowchart of media registration process in the first embodiment [Figure 15] (A) to (C) are examples of media editing screens controlled by the control unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] An example of the internal configuration of the media management table in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] Flowchart of media list display process in the second embodiment [Figure 18] Flowchart of media management processing in the second embodiment [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the invention as defined in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention.

[0010] (First Embodiment) First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0011] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the printing processing system according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) 101 is described as an example of an image forming apparatus, and a PC 102 is described as an example of an information processing apparatus. The MFP 101 and the PC 102 are connected to each other via a network 100 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0012] In Figure 1, a single information processing device is shown as an example of a printing system, but the MFP101 and multiple information processing devices may be connected to each other via the network 100 for communication. Furthermore, while the printing system of this embodiment is shown as including an image forming apparatus and an information processing device, it is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus may be used as the printing system. Moreover, for image forming processes that can be performed by the MFP101 alone, such as printing copy jobs or save jobs, an information processing device connected to the network 100 may not be required.

[0013] First, let's explain PC102. PC102 can execute various programs, such as application programs that submit print jobs. PC102 also has various applications installed, such as a printer driver, workflow software, and a web browser, which have the function of converting print data into a printer language compatible with MFP101. Users who want to print can issue print commands from these various applications. The printer driver and workflow software can convert the data output by the application based on the print command into print data that MFP101 can interpret, and send it as print data to MFP101 connected to network 100.

[0014] In this embodiment, a PC is used as an example of an information processing device, but other devices such as smartphones or tablet terminals may also be used. The method for transmitting print data to the image forming apparatus can be modified as appropriate. Print data may be transmitted to the image forming apparatus via a printing application or driver, or print data may be transmitted to the image forming apparatus via a cloud server.

[0015] Next, let's describe the MFP101. The MFP101 has a reading function to read images on a sheet and a printing function to print images onto a sheet. In addition, the MFP101 has post-processing functions such as binding multiple sheets with printed images, aligning multiple sheets, and dividing the output destination of multiple sheets into multiple trays. The sheets include paper such as plain paper, cardboard, and coated paper, as well as film.

[0016] In this embodiment, the MFP101 is described as an example of an image forming apparatus, but for example, an image forming apparatus such as a printer without a reading function may also be used. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus is assumed to have the various configurations described below as an example.

[0017] Alternatively, the MFP may be configured with a DFE103, a device that provides some of the functions of the MFP101, or other incidental functions. In this case, the PC102 can perceive the DFE103 as providing the functions of the MFP101 via the network 100. The DFE103 may be equipped with various input / output devices similar to those provided by the PC102, such as a monitor 105.

[0018] In a system to which the DFE103 is connected, the monitor 105 can be configured to be used as a display and operating means for the DFE103. However, the MFP according to the present invention can also be configured to allow the DFE to be displayed or operated via the operating unit 204.

[0019] The MFP101 is configured with multiple interconnected devices, each with a different function, to enable complex sheet processing. The following describes each component of the MFP101.

[0020] The printer unit 203 forms (prints) an image on the media (sheet) fed from the paper feed unit using toner, based on the image data. The configuration and operating principle of this printer unit 203 are as follows.

[0021] A light beam, such as a laser beam, modulated according to the image data, is reflected by a rotating polyhedron mirror (such as a polygon mirror) and irradiated onto the photosensitive drum as scanning light. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum by this laser light is developed by toner, and the toner image is transferred to a sheet attached to a transfer drum. By sequentially performing this series of image formation processes for yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toners, a full-color image is formed on the sheet. In addition to these four colors, the system may also be configured to transfer spot colors or transparent toners. The sheet on the transfer drum with the full-color image formed thereon is transported to the fuser. The fuser includes rollers and belts, and has a heat source such as a halogen heater built into the rollers. It melts the toner on the sheet with the transferred toner image using heat and pressure, fixing it to the sheet.

[0022] Furthermore, the MFP101 according to this embodiment is configured such that the printer unit 203 selects appropriate printing speed mode, image processing mode, fixing temperature, etc., to be applied during printing, depending on the type of sheet and basis weight used during the printing process by the MFP101.

[0023] Furthermore, the printer unit 203 of the MFP101 according to this embodiment is equipped with a scanner 201 and an operation unit 204 located on the top surface of the printer unit 203. The operation unit 204 provides various interfaces for the user to perform various settings and operations of the printer unit 203 according to this embodiment.

[0024] Furthermore, the MFP101 is configured to allow the attachment of various auxiliary devices in addition to the printer unit 203.

[0025] The high-capacity paper feeder 220 is a paper feeder that can be attached to and detached from the printer unit 203. These paper feeders are equipped with multiple paper feed sections (231, 232, 233, 234). With this configuration, the printer unit 203 can perform printing on high-capacity sheets.

[0026] The sensing unit 221 is a device for reading image information on sheets such as test charts created by the printer unit 203 and performing various adjustments. The sheets read by this unit are discharged into the first escape tray 224, so that the test charts do not get mixed with the output products that will be printed. However, the MFP according to the present invention is configured so that the sheets read by this unit can also be controlled to be discharged onto a tray provided by the processing device 223, which will be described later.

[0027] The stacker 222 is an output device configured to stack a large quantity of output printed by the printer unit 203. Printed sheets are stacked in trays provided within the device. The MFP according to the present invention is configured so that if there are sheets that should not be mixed in with the trays within the device, they can be discharged into a second escape tray 225.

[0028] The processing device 223 is provided for stapling multiple sheet bundles. The device allows for various types of stapling, including corner stapling, two-point stapling, and saddle binding, according to the user's preference. Processed materials are discharged into trays 226 and 227 in the case of corner stapling or two-point stapling, while saddle binding materials are discharged into tray 228.

[0029] The MFP101 can be broadly divided into three parts, with the printer unit 203 serving as the boundary. In Figure 1, the equipment located to the right of the printer unit 203 is called the paper feeding system, and its main role is to continuously supply the sheets loaded inside to the printer unit 203 at the appropriate timing. This equipment also detects the remaining amount of sheets loaded inside. There is also a paper feeding section (229, 230) inside the printer unit 203, which can perform the same functions as the paper feeding system. For the purposes of this explanation, these paper feeding sections in the printer unit 203 will also be referred to as the paper feeding system.

[0030] On the other hand, in Figure 1, the equipment located to the left of the printer unit 203 is called a sheet processing device. It is also called a sheet processing device or post-processing device. The sheet processing device performs various processing operations on the printed sheets, or processes such as stacking. The aforementioned paper feeding device and sheet processing device together will be referred to as the sheet processing device 200 in the following description. The sensing unit 221 does not perform any processing operations on the printed sheets, but it is a unit for processing image information on the printed sheets, and will be described as a type of sheet processing device in this embodiment.

[0031] Next, the configuration of the MFP101 according to this embodiment (mainly the software configuration) will be described.

[0032] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the MFP101 according to the first embodiment. Note that the blocks shown in Figure 2 are divided into system units, and therefore some parts do not necessarily correspond to the equipment configuration units shown in Figure 1.

[0033] The MFP101 is equipped with non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), capable of storing data for multiple jobs to be processed within the device. While this embodiment shows an example of an MFP101 using a hard disk drive, it is not limited to a hard disk drive; any similar high-capacity, non-volatile storage device is acceptable.

[0034] The MFP101 also has a copy function that stores data received from the scanner 201 in the HDD 209 and prints it using the printer unit 203. It also has a printing function that stores job data received from an external device via an external I / F 202 (an example of a communication unit) in the HDD 209 and prints it using the printer unit 203. The MFP101 is a multi-function processing unit (MFP) (also called an image forming apparatus) equipped with these multiple functions. The MFP101 may be capable of either color printing or monochrome printing.

[0035] The scanner 201 reads the original document image, processes the image data obtained from the scanned document, and outputs it. The external I / F 202 transmits and receives image data with facsimile machines, network-connected devices, and external dedicated devices. The HDD 209 stores various management information that is permanently stored, modified, and managed by the MFP 101. The MFP 101 also includes a printer unit 203 that executes the printing process for the data of the print jobs stored in the HDD 209.

[0036] The MFP101 also includes an operation unit 204 with a display unit, which is an example of a user interface unit. The controller unit (control unit) 205, which is an example of a control unit included in the MFP101, has a CPU (not shown) and comprehensively controls the processing and operation of the various units included in the MFP101.

[0037] ROM 207 stores various control programs necessary for this embodiment, including programs for executing various processes shown in the flowchart described later, which are performed by the controller unit 205. ROM 207 also stores display control programs, including user interface screens (hereinafter referred to as UI screens), for displaying various UI screens on the display unit of the operation unit 204.

[0038] The CPU of the controller unit 205 reads and executes programs stored in the ROM 207, thereby causing the MFP 101 to perform various operations according to this embodiment. The ROM 207 also stores programs that allow the controller unit 205 to interpret page description language (PDL) data received from an external device via the external I / F 202 and convert it into raster image data (bitmap image data). Similarly, the ROM 207 also stores programs that allow the controller unit 205 to interpret and process print jobs received from an external device via the external I / F 202. These are processed by software. The ROM 207 is a read-only memory that pre-stores various programs, including boot sequences, font information, and the aforementioned programs. Details of the various programs stored in the ROM 207 will be described later. The RAM 208 is a read-and-write memory that stores image data sent from the scanner 201 and the external I / F 202, as well as various programs and setting information.

[0039] The controller unit 205 also controls the operation of the sheet processing device 200. The sheet processing device 200 corresponds to the paper feeding system and sheet processing device described in Figure 1.

[0040] The HDD 209 also stores image data compressed by the compression / decompression unit 206. This HDD 209 is configured to hold multiple data, such as print data, for the job to be processed.

[0041] The controller unit 205 stores data of jobs to be processed, input via various input units such as the scanner 201 and external I / F 202, into the HDD 209, reads the data from the HDD 209, and outputs it to the printer unit 203 for printing. The controller unit 205 also controls the system so that the job data read from the HDD 209 can be sent to an external device via the external I / F 202. In this way, the controller unit 205 performs various output processes on the data of the jobs to be processed stored in the HDD 209. The controller unit is also configured to read various programs stored in the ROM 207 and control the MFP 101 based on the processing described in those programs.

[0042] The compression / decompression unit 206 compresses and decompresses image data stored in the RAM 208 and HDD 209 using various compression methods such as JBIG and JPEG.

[0043] The media type detection unit 210 is a media sensor that measures the sheet type (paper type), basis weight, surface properties, and other paper characteristics of the sheet used by the MFP 101 when executing the printing process. Specifically, the MFP 101 measures the basis weight of the paper using an ultrasonic sensor included in the media sensor, and measures the surface properties of the paper using an image sensor such as a CIS sensor included in the media sensor. In the MFP 101 of this invention, it is installed on the sheet transport path inside the MFP 101. The arrangement and configuration of the media type detection unit 210 inside the MFP 101 will be described later.

[0044] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of PC102 according to the first embodiment.

[0045] In Figure 3, the CPU 301 executes programs such as the OS, general applications, and bookbinding applications stored in the program ROM of ROM 303 or loaded into RAM 302 from HDD 311. ROM 303 is also used as font ROM and data ROM. RAM 302 functions as the main memory and work area of ​​the CPU 301. The keyboard controller (KBC) 305 controls input from the keyboard 309 and a pointing device (not shown).

[0046] The display controller 306 controls the display on the display unit 310. The disk controller (DKC) 307 controls access to the HDD 311, which stores boot programs, various applications, font data, user files, etc. The network controller (NC) 312 is connected to the network 100 and performs communication control processing with other devices connected to the network 100. The bus 304 connects the CPU 301, RAM 302, ROM 303, and various controllers, and carries data signals and control signals.

[0047] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the program of the MFP101 according to the first embodiment. These programs are stored in the ROM207 and read and executed by the controller unit 205 of the MFP101.

[0048] Boot loader 401 is a program that runs immediately after the MFP101 is powered on. These programs include those that execute the various startup sequences necessary for system startup.

[0049] Operating System 402 is a program intended to provide an execution environment for various programs that implement the functions of MFP101. It primarily provides functions such as resource management of the MFP101's memory, i.e., ROM207, RAM208, HDD209, etc., and basic input / output control of other parts as shown in Figure 2.

[0050] The network control program 403 is executed when sending and receiving data to and from devices connected via the network. This program is used for receiving files to be printed, sending data from external devices, and sending and receiving commands. The network control program also includes a device driver program for controlling the external I / F 202.

[0051] The JDF function program 404 is a program that executes a JDF print function, which is performed by the controller unit 205 at the instruction of the external I / F 202 when JDF job data is received by the MFP 101 via the external I / F 202. In the JDF print function, the controller unit 205 sequentially instructs the operation of each device shown in Figure 2 in the appropriate order based on the processing order and processing conditions described in the program. As a result, the system is controlled so that the JDF print process is finally executed. Each device includes a sheet processing device 200, a printer unit 203, an HDD 209, a compression / decompression unit 206, a RAM 208, etc. The program also includes processing for analyzing the JDF job data received via the external I / F 202, determining whether the JDF contains incorrect settings as a result of the analysis, and performing program processing to change settings to resolve incorrect settings.

[0052] The PDL function program 405 executes the PDL data decompression process and printing function, which are performed by the controller unit 205, when PDL data (image data to be printed) is received by the MFP 101 via the external I / F 202. In the PDL function performed by the controller unit 205, the controller unit 205 sequentially instructs the operation of each device shown in Figure 2 in the appropriate order based on the processing order and processing conditions described in this program. As a result, the system is controlled so that the PDL print process is ultimately executed. These devices include the sheet processing device 200, printer unit 203, HDD 209, compression / decompression unit 206, RAM 208, etc. Furthermore, the PDL function program in this embodiment is configured to operate together with the JDF function program 404 as a means of analyzing various job setting formats when executing the print process.

[0053] The media management program 406 is a program that performs management functions related to the sheets available to the MFP101. The sheet-related information managed by this program is stored in the HDD209. This management program can provide media management functions such as registering new media, retaining registration information, and deleting media that is no longer needed. The management program also has functions such as changing the settings of registered media and adjusting unadjusted media to update their information as optimized media.

[0054] Furthermore, the MFP101 in this embodiment may also be configured to include management functions such as exporting media information to an external device, for example, a PC102, via an external I / F202, or importing media information from a PC102.

[0055] Furthermore, the program manages sheet-related information, including information about print job settings that can be applied during printing. The program also manages which media is set in which of the MFP101's multiple paper feeders (229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234).

[0056] The MFP according to the present invention provides two main means for registering media. The first means, called manual registration, involves a skilled user using the operation unit 204 to register media and perform related adjustments, thereby optimizing and completing the registration process. The second means involves a non-skilled user performing the registration process simply using a media sensor, which will be described later. Various control means necessary for both of these registration means are also provided by the execution of the media management program. Details of the media registration process by the media management program will be described later.

[0057] The job setting management program 407 is a program for controlling various settings related to print jobs executed on the MFP101. Specifically, it is used to control changes to print job setting information, detection and resolution of conflicts between settings, and screen control necessary for these operations.

[0058] The job queue management program 408 is a program that controls various aspects of the execution order of print jobs executed on the MFP101. This program provides functions such as managing the print job queue, executing and stopping print jobs in sequence, and calculating job scheduling to predict job execution times.

[0059] The web server 409 is a program that processes HTML protocol requests from web browsers and other devices running on external devices such as the PC 102. This makes it possible to execute instructions, such as media registration processing, from a remote device such as the MFP 101 via the network 100 and 104, without physically operating the control units (204, 105), etc.

[0060] Other programs 410 are a general term for programs stored in the ROM 207 that the MFP101 can execute, but which are not included in any of the above. These are not important for explaining the effects of the present invention, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0061] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the program configuration of the PC102 according to the first embodiment.

[0062] The boot loader 501 is a program that runs immediately after the PC102 is powered on. These programs include those that execute the various boot sequences necessary for system startup.

[0063] Operating System 502 is a program intended to provide an execution environment for various programs that realize the functions of PC102. It provides functions such as resource management for the device's memory, i.e., ROM303, RAM302, HDD311, etc.

[0064] The network control program 503 is a program that is executed when sending and receiving data to and from devices connected via the network. Specifically, it is used to send print job data to the MFP 101 and instruct it to start printing. It is also used for purposes such as receiving confirmation of receipt of print data from the MFP 101 and receiving status information. Furthermore, the web browser 506, which will be described later, also uses the network control program 503 to send and receive data to external devices using the HTML protocol.

[0065] The job management program 504 is a program for managing jobs sent from PC102 to MFP101. It manages the job list in the order in which the jobs were sent, and various processes such as rearranging the order of jobs, pausing, canceling, and changing settings for jobs can be executed through this program.

[0066] The print function program 505 is executed when the PC 102 sends a print job to the MFP 101 via the network control program 503 and issues an execution command. The program also creates print job data and manages print settings.

[0067] The web browser 506 is a program that communicates with a web server running on an external device via the HTML protocol and sends and receives data. The information displayed on the web browser 506 varies, but in this embodiment, for example, it is configured to be used for media management of the MFP 101. The specific details of media management using the web browser will be described later.

[0068] Other programs 507 are a general term for programs included in PC102 that are not included in any of the above-mentioned programs. These are not important for explaining the effects of the present invention, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0069] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the sheet storage means and sheet transport path inside the printer unit 203 and the large-capacity paper feeder 220, as well as the media type detection unit 210 installed on the transport path.

[0070] Figure 6 shows an example of an MFP equipped with two media type detection units 210. The first media type detection unit 601 is located downstream of the paper feed unit. The second media type detection unit 602 is located upstream of the image forming unit and downstream of the entire paper feed unit (229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234) of the MFP 101.

[0071] Due to its arrangement, the first media type detection unit 601 can only automatically detect sheets fed from the paper feed unit 234. On the other hand, the second media type detection unit 602 can automatically detect sheets fed from all paper feed units (229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234).

[0072] In any of the detection methods, it is necessary to feed the sheet and transport it to the detection unit in order to detect media characteristic information such as sheet type and basis weight using these methods.

[0073] Furthermore, various methods exist for media sensors (601, 602) to detect media characteristics, including basis weight and media type. One example is a method that uses an ultrasonic generator to irradiate the sheet with ultrasound, and measures the transmittance with an ultrasonic sensor to detect the basis weight. Another method involves using a CIS (contact image sensor) to read the surface of the sheet and determining the sheet type from the analysis results of surface irregularities, color, reflectance, etc.

[0074] The present invention is not limited to the examples described above as a means for detecting media type and basis weight, but envisions examples where detection is possible by any method. Therefore, the present invention is effective regardless of the type or method of detection means, as long as the requirements described in the claims are met.

[0075] In the MFP101 of this embodiment, these media sensors (601, 602) are used as a simplified means for media registration, that is, a means for non-skilled users to easily perform media registration processing automatically. Therefore, this means eliminates the need for various complicated processes related to media registration, such as various adjustments that are performed by skilled users using the operation unit 204 for manual registration. In other words, since only the information detectable by the detection means is used as attribute information during media registration, the configuration allows for easy registration of media to the MFP101 without the need for other attribute information or adjustments related to skills.

[0076] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the general processing content and flow of media registration performed by the aforementioned skill holders via the operation unit 204. Note that Figure 7 shows only an example of the processing performed by these skill holders and is not limited to what is shown in Figure 7.

[0077] First, with the aim of investigating the characteristics of the media, we will conduct an investigation of information obtainable from publicly available product information provided by paper manufacturers regarding various characteristics of the media (S701).

[0078] Furthermore, in addition to the investigation based on that information, we obtain actual media and conduct a more detailed investigation into the characteristics of the media, taking into account their appearance, texture, and other properties (S702).

[0079] Based on the results of the above investigation, the MFP101 performs a registration process for the media (paper information) (S703). The paper information registered here includes the basis weight, paper type, paper size, secondary transfer voltage, etc. The paper information registered here may be stored in the HDD209 of the MFP100 or in the storage unit of the DFE103, such as the HDD. This registration process is the manual registration process shown in Figure 8. Details of the manual registration process will be described later in the explanation of Figure 8. The manual registration process is not a simple registration method (automatic registration) using the media type detection unit 210, but rather a process in which the user inputs parameters via the operation unit based on the information obtained from the above steps to register the paper information in the MFP101.

[0080] In subsequent steps, various adjustment processes are performed to ensure that the expected results are obtained when using the registered media. These adjustments include the paper type, basis weight, and geometric characteristics of the media, as well as, in the case of the electrophotographic MFP101, the toner transfer voltage and the gloss of the toner image formed on the media (S704). This adjustment involves changing various attribute values ​​(parameters) or combinations thereof associated with the media to obtain the desired quality and results. The various attribute values ​​(parameters) set here are also included in the paper information.

[0081] Next, a color verification process is performed to confirm that the color quality of the image formed on the registered paper information is as expected or within the expected range (S705). After the above processes have been completed, a test print is performed using the registered media (S706), and the results are verified (S707).

[0082] In this way, a series of processes related to media registration performed by the user are carried out, and the registration process for the media is completed when it is determined that satisfactory results can be obtained for actual production using the media in question.

[0083] If an unsatisfactory result is obtained in any of the above processes, the process in question, or any process performed prior to it, is repeated by modifying the conditions and verifying the results.

[0084] As described above, registering media in an MFP with guaranteed print quality requires several complex and cumbersome processes. Therefore, unless the operator has the skills to perform the flow shown in Figure 7 based on correct knowledge and to properly verify the results, it will be difficult to register media with guaranteed print quality in the MFP101.

[0085] For these reasons, the media type detection unit 210 is installed in the MFP101 as a means to reduce the difficulty of registering paper information even for users who do not possess many skills.

[0086] By using the media type detection unit 210, it becomes possible to register media in the MFP101 in a simple manner based on information automatically detected and measured by the sensor. However, media registered based on automatically detected information are not registered after precise adjustment as shown in Figure 7.

[0087] In other words, for operators who intend to use media that has been strictly registered according to the flow chart in Figure 7 in order to guarantee print quality, there are cases in which they should avoid using media that has been simply registered by the media type detection unit 210. The present invention aims to provide a method that makes it possible to determine how each media was registered in such cases and to prevent the misuse described above.

[0088] Furthermore, the MFP101 is shared and used by multiple operators. These operators typically include both skilled and unskilled users. If each of these users registers media, the media management program 406 in the MFP101 will contain a mix of media registered by users with different skill levels. This can cause problems not only for users of the MFP101, but also for administrators managing registered media entries, as they may have difficulty distinguishing between media registered by skilled users and those registered by unskilled users. However, in the MFP101 of this invention, it is possible to distinguish between media registered according to the flow shown in Figure 7 and simple media registered by the media type detection unit 210, thus avoiding the aforementioned management issues.

[0089] Figure 8 illustrates an example of the media management settings screen displayed on the control panel 204 of the MFP101.

[0090] Figure 8(A) shows an example of a screen 800 displayed on the operation unit 204 of the MFP101. As shown in the figure, it shows a state in which multiple function selection means for selecting various operations of the MFP101 are arranged. The setting / registration button 801 is an object that is selected when performing various settings executed on the MFP101. In this embodiment, the MFP101 is configured so that various media-related settings, such as media registration processing, are also performed via the setting / registration button 801.

[0091] In addition to the setting / registration button 801, Figure 8(A) also shows selection buttons corresponding to various functions. Even if not all of these can be displayed on the screen shown in Figure 8(A), these function selection buttons can be operated by using the scroll button 802.

[0092] Figure 8(B) is a diagram showing an example of the screen state displayed on the operation unit 204 immediately after the setting / registration button 801 is selected, in the screen state shown in Figure 8(A).

[0093] As shown in Figure 8(B), the various setting items of the MFP101 provided by the setting / registration button 801 are arranged in a hierarchical manner for selection. In one example shown in Figure 8(B), the paper setting button 803, adjustment / maintenance button 804, function setting button 805, management setting button 806, etc., are arranged. Furthermore, the MFP101 according to the present invention is configured so that by selecting each selection button, more detailed setting buttons are provided hierarchically.

[0094] Figure 8(C) is a diagram illustrating an example of the screen state displayed on the control panel 204 immediately after the paper setting button 803 is selected, in the screen state shown in Figure 8(B).

[0095] As shown in Figure 8(C), under the paper setting selection button 803, there are several additional items corresponding to different paper settings, one of which is button 807.

[0096] Button 807 is an object provided for performing various operations such as registering, modifying, and deleting media managed by the media management program 406 of the MFP101.

[0097] Figure 8(D) is a diagram illustrating an example of the paper type setting screen that appears on the operation unit 204 immediately after button 807 is selected in the screen state shown in Figure 8(C). The roles of the components and function selection objects provided in the screen shown in Figure 8(D) will be explained below.

[0098] The registered media display area 808 is an area for displaying a list of media registered in the MFP101. In the example shown in Figure 8(D), only two media (media A809 and media B810) are registered, and this is an example where their information is displayed.

[0099] The media information displayed in the media display area 808 includes, as shown in Figure 8(D), the name 813, basis weight 814, size 815, and manufacturing method 816. These represent combinations of media characteristics, or attributes (also called parameters), that are stored in association with each media.

[0100] However, since the media attributes of the media registered by the MFP101 are very diverse, it is not practical to display all of them in the media display area 808 shown in Figure 8(D). Therefore, only some of the information (media attributes) that should be frequently referenced when displayed in a list is selectively shown. When presenting equivalent functionality using a web browser, as described later, the constraints on the screen area used for displaying information are smaller, making it possible to display more information than shown in Figure 8(D).

[0101] A more detailed explanation of the creation means 816 will be provided. The information provided by the creation means 816 is information that makes it possible to identify how each media registered in the MFP 101 was created. In the example shown in Figure 8(D), the creation means 816 for media A809 and media B810 is set to "Paper DB" as shown in the figure. "Paper DB" indicates that the media were created from media that were registered in the MFP 101 from the beginning. In other words, media A809 and media B810 were not created by the user of the MFP 101, but were created by the manufacturer of the MFP 101 and are media that were pre-registered in the device. To put it another way, the paper information for which "Paper DB" is set is paper information created from a set of media information created by the manufacturer of the MFP 101 as a paper database, which will be described later.

[0102] Furthermore, the information indicating media creation methods other than the "Paper Database" is, firstly, "Manual Registration," which indicates that the media was created primarily by skill holders who entered parameters. Secondly, it is "Automatic Registration," which indicates that the media was registered primarily by non-skill holders who used the media type detection unit 210 to automatically determine some of the media attributes in a simplified manner. Details regarding these "Manual Registration" and "Automatic Registration" will be described later.

[0103] The edit button 817 is used to direct the user to a detailed screen for viewing or editing the media attributes of each media displayed in the media display area 808.

[0104] The Create button 818 is used to add new media to the MFP101. The operation when this button is selected will be described later.

[0105] The delete button 819 is used to remove existing media registered in the MFP101 from the media display area 808.

[0106] The paper database selection button 820 is used to register media registered in a database pre-created within the device by the manufacturer of the MFP101, as shown in the media display area 808. In other words, the information displayed as the media creation means 816 when the paper database selection button 820 is selected is "Paper DB".

[0107] The OK button 821 completes the operation shown in the figure and instructs the user to proceed to the screen shown in Figure 8(C).

[0108] Figures 8(D) and 8(H) are screens for displaying a list of multiple paper types registered in the MFP101. The screens in Figures 8(D) and 8(H) may also be displayed when the MFP101 prints an image onto paper based on a print job. For example, when the MFP101 performs a copy, it may be a screen that accepts paper type selection from the user. In that case, the printer unit 203 prints the image onto paper based on the paper type selected by the user on the screens in Figures 8(D) and 8(H). The same process may also be performed when the MFP101 receives a print job from a PC and executes that print job.

[0109] Figure 8(E) shows an example of the screen state displayed on the operation unit 204 immediately after selecting the create button 818 in the screen state shown in Figure 8(D). As shown in the figure, the system in this embodiment provides media creation means based on three different modes.

[0110] The duplicate creation button 822 is an object used to create new media by duplicating media already registered in MFP101. Duplicated media means that all media attributes except the name are identical to the original media, i.e., the source media.

[0111] The manual new creation button 823 is an object used when registering new media without duplicating existing media and without relying on a simple method using the media type detection unit 210. This object is provided as suitable for skill holders when generating optimized media through multiple processes as shown in Figure 7. While manually creating paper information is complicated as shown in Figure 7, this makes it possible to create paper information with the desired accuracy.

[0112] The automatic new creation button 824 is an object used when registering new media not by copying existing media, but by using a simplified method that utilizes the media type detection unit 210. This object allows even those who do not possess the skills to perform the process shown in Figure 7 to create media in a simplified manner and register it with the MFP101 in this embodiment. If the cancel button 825 is selected, the screen will return to the screen shown in Figure 8(D).

[0113] Figure 8(F) shows an example of the screen state displayed on the operation unit 204 immediately after selecting the manual new creation button 823 in the screen state shown in Figure 8(E). As shown in the figure, input fields 826 for various attributes related to the media to be newly created are provided.

[0114] However, regarding the creation means 827, in Figure 8(E), the screen state shown in the figure is reached as a result of selecting the manual new creation button 823. Therefore, the value of the field is fixed as manually registered 828, and the field cannot be edited using this screen.

[0115] As shown in the same figure, Figure 8(D) also displays and allows editing of media attributes that could not be fully displayed due to limitations in the display area.

[0116] Furthermore, the media attributes in the MFP101 are extremely diverse. Therefore, it is not possible to display all of them at once using the screen shown in the figure. For this reason, the system is configured so that users can operate the scroll button 830 to transition to a state where they can view and edit the desired attributes. In addition, a screen number indicator 829, which is not displayed on the screen but can be displayed and edited by operating the scroll button 830, is also provided. Figure 8(G) shows an example of the screen when the scroll button is operated and a display operation is performed on media attributes that were not displayed in the display area of ​​Figure 8(F).

[0117] Furthermore, the example shown in Figure 8(F) is for providing the option to create new media using the manual new creation button 823. When the manual new creation button 823 is selected, the media is created by a skilled operator who utilizes their experience and knowledge to determine appropriate values ​​for each attribute of the media during the process of executing the flow exemplified in Figure 7.

[0118] The OK button 831 indicates that the media attribute editing operation in the figure has been completed.

[0119] Figure 8(H) shows an example of the paper type management settings screen after the series of processes, including the manual registration of new media using the manual new creation button 823, have been completed by going through the screen transitions shown up to Figure 8(G). As shown in the figure, media C832, which is the result of operating the manual new creation button 823, is registered in the media display area 808, and the media creation means 816 is set to "manual registration". The system is configured so that it can be identified that the media was created by the manual new creation button 823.

[0120] The paper information displayed as "Manually Registered" here is paper information registered by user settings without the media type detection unit 210 (media measurement means) measuring the paper characteristics. User settings refer to settings in some or a series of processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 7. Specifically, the paper information displayed as "Manually Registered" is paper information registered by receiving input of setting values ​​such as paper surface properties, basis weight, size, and secondary transfer voltage via the screen in Figure 8(F).

[0121] Here, the paper information displayed as "automatically registered" is paper information that has been registered by the media type detection unit 210 (media measurement means) after the paper characteristics have been measured.

[0122] Furthermore, if the parameters of the paper information displayed as automatically registered paper information are changed by the user's input of parameters, the operation unit 204 will display that paper information as manually registered paper information. In other words, the operation unit 204 will display "Manual Registration" on the paper information creation means 816.

[0123] Furthermore, if paper information is registered by duplicating the paper information displayed as automatically registered paper information, the operation unit 204 will display that paper information as automatically registered paper information. In other words, the operation unit 204 will display "Automatic Registration" on the paper information creation means 816.

[0124] The MFP101's control panel 204 displays automatically registered paper information as "Automatically Registered" and manually registered paper information as "Manually Registered," as shown in the screen in Figure 8(H), thereby allowing users to distinguish between automatically registered and manually registered paper information.

[0125] Note that the display of "automatic registration" and "manual registration" may only be shown if certain conditions are met. For example, if, among the registered paper information, there are paper information with similar or identical names, and at least one of those paper information entries is automatically registered, and the other paper information entries are manually registered, then these conditions may be met. If these conditions are met, the automatically registered paper information and the manually registered paper information will be displayed in a way that allows them to be distinguished. If these conditions are not met, the automatically registered paper information and the manually registered paper information will not be displayed in a way that allows them to be distinguished. In other words, each piece of paper information will be displayed without anything being displayed on the creation means 816.

[0126] Next, the operation of automatic media registration using the media type detection unit 210 will be explained using Figure 8(I) and subsequent figures.

[0127] Figure 8(I) shows an example of an automatic media registration screen using the media type detection unit 210, which is displayed after the automatic new creation button 824 is selected in the screen state shown in Figure 8(E).

[0128] As shown in Figure 6, the MFP101 in this embodiment has a media type detection unit 210 that detects sheets transported from the paper feed unit (229-234) to media sensors (601, 602) provided on the transport path using sensors. Accordingly, as shown in the figure, a storage tray specification button 833 for the registered media is provided, which allows the user to specify the tray in which the sheet to be automatically detected is stored. The example shown in the figure is an example where button 834 for tray 6 is selected.

[0129] If the Cancel button 835 is selected, the automatic new creation process in Figure 8(I) is interrupted and the system is instructed to proceed to the screen in Figure 8(E). If the Next button 836 is selected, the media placed in the tray selected in the same figure is detected by the media sensors (601, 602), and the system proceeds to a further settings screen for media registration based on the detection result.

[0130] Figure 8(J) shows an example of a screen that appears when the "Next" button 836 is selected in the state shown in Figure 8(I).

[0131] As shown in the figure, a media name input field 837 is provided. This is because, even when media is automatically registered based on the results detected by the media sensors (601, 602), the name of the media must be provided by the registrant. In the example shown in the figure, an example is shown where the name "Media D" is provided. If the OK button 839 is selected in this state, the registration process of paper information for automatic new creation is completed. On the other hand, if the Cancel button 838 is selected, the settings are discarded.

[0132] Figure 8(K) shows an example of the state of the media display area 808 immediately after a new media is automatically registered by the automatic new creation button 824, following the screen transitions based on the series of setting operations shown up to Figure 8(L). From this figure, it can be seen that media D840 has been added to the registered media display area 808, and that media is registered with "automatic registration" as its creation means 816.

[0133] The figure illustrates the following: For multiple media registered in the MFP101, it is possible to identify how each media was registered in the MFP by referring to the information in the creation means 816 field.

[0134] Figure 8(L) shows an example of the screen state when, after completing the operations up to Figure 8(K), a new media is registered using the automatic new creation button 824, and the attributes of the automatically registered media are viewed using the edit button 817.

[0135] As shown in the figure, it can be determined that the creation means 827 is set to automatic registration 840. This is the same as the display state in Figure 8(K).

[0136] The values ​​entered into the input fields 826 of the various attributes shown in the same figure and Figure 8(M) include some information determined based on the information sensed by the sensors (601, 602) provided by the media type detection unit 210.

[0137] However, attributes other than those determined by sensing remain unchanged at their initial values ​​when the media is created. In other words, unlike the situation shown in the example of creating media using the manual new creation button 823, the media created is not in the same state as media created as a result of a skill holder storing appropriate attribute values ​​through the various operations shown in Figure 7.

[0138] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of using the display unit 310 of the PC 102 to provide equivalent functionality to the media management settings screen implemented in the operation unit 204 shown in Figure 8.

[0139] Figure 9(A) is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the second media management settings screen implemented in the display unit 310 of the PC102.

[0140] In the display unit 310 of the PC102, the system in this embodiment is configured so that various settings of the MFP, including media management settings, can be performed mainly using the web browser 506. The components of the web browser setting screen 900 shown in the figure will be described below. However, although there is a difference in whether the means of providing the setting target items is a web browser or an operation unit, the information and setting change means provided are almost the same as those via the operation unit 204 shown in Figure 8, except for differences in display format and display hierarchy. Therefore, details regarding the information and setting change means provided in Figure 9 that have already been explained in Figure 8 will be omitted.

[0141] Multiple tabs for selecting the settings target are located at the top of the screen, and in the example shown in the figure, the Paper tab 901 is selected.

[0142] As shown in the figure, when the paper tab 901 is selected, various paper-related settings and media-related information are displayed. The create button 902 is used to select when adding media and corresponds to the create button 818 shown in Figure 8. The media display area 903 corresponds to the media display area 808 shown in Figure 8. However, the display device used by the web browser 506 has a wider display area than the operation unit 204 that the MFP 101 usually has, and generally displays a larger amount of information in a list. Therefore, the example in the figure shows a configuration that can display more information in a list than the media display area 808 shown in Figure 8. Furthermore, the system in this embodiment is configured so that information that cannot be displayed on the screen shown in the figure can be easily displayed by operating the scroll bar 912.

[0143] In one example of the state shown in the figure, the scroll bar 912 is shown as an example of media-related attribute information provided for media A (914) and media B (915). This includes name 904, size 905, basis weight 906, type 907, production method 908, surface quality 909, color 910, image position adjustment 911, etc. Of these, name 904, size 905, basis weight 906, type 907, and production method 908 were viewable information in the media display area 808 in Figure 8, whereas the other information could only be viewed by selecting the edit button 817. In contrast, the media management settings screen using the web browser 506 is generally superior in terms of viewability and operability compared to the operation unit 204 shown in Figure 8.

[0144] If the number of media registered in the MFP101 becomes too large to display on the same screen, you can use the second scroll bar 913 to display and operate the media that are not currently shown on the screen.

[0145] Figure 9(B) shows an example of the screen state that transitions to when the Create button 902 is selected in the state shown in Figure 9(A). As shown in the figure, the registration method selection screen 916 for new media registration is shown first. The manual registration button 917 corresponds to the manual new creation button 823 in Figure 8, and the automatic registration button 918 corresponds to the automatic new creation button 824 in Figure 8. In the figure, selecting the Cancel button 919 interrupts the process in Figure 9(B) and returns to the state in Figure 9(A), and selecting the Next button 920 transitions to the further media registration processing screens shown in Figure 9(C) and later.

[0146] Figure 9(C) is an example of the screen state that transitions to when the "Next" button 920 is selected while the "Manual New" button 823 is selected in Figure 9(B). As shown in the figure, the screen transitions to the input screen for various media attributes due to manual media registration. The media attribute information 922 shown in the figure is equivalent to that shown in Figure 8(F), so the details are omitted. However, the figure shows that the "Manual Registration" button 924 is selected. This is because the screen transitioned to this state while the "Manual Registration" button 917 was selected in Figure 9(B).

[0147] Selecting the scroll bar 923 allows for the display and manipulation of attribute information 922 that cannot be fully shown on the screen shown in the figure. Selecting the OK button 926 creates media based on the information set in the figure. Selecting the Cancel button 925 discards the operations performed in the figure and transitions to the state shown in Figure 9(A).

[0148] Figure 9(D) shows an example of the screen that appears when the OK button 926 is selected in the state shown in Figure 9(C). As shown in the figure, a new media, media C(927), has been added based on the operations performed up to Figure 9(C), and the media creation means 908 is set to manual registration 928.

[0149] Figure 9(E) shows an example of the screen state that occurs when the "Automatic Registration" button is selected and the "Next" button (920) is selected, in the screen state shown in Figure 9(B). As shown in the figure, the screen transitions to the settings screen (929) for automatic media registration.

[0150] As shown in Figure 8(I), in this embodiment of the system, it is necessary to select the paper feed unit containing the media to be registered during automatic registration. Therefore, as shown in the figure, selection buttons for the target paper feed unit (229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234) are presented. The example shown in the figure is an example where button 234 for tray 6 is selected.

[0151] However, as mentioned in Figure 8(J), even with automatic registration, the media name must be specified. Therefore, a media name input area 931 is provided on the same screen.

[0152] Furthermore, the settings screen 929, which is automatically registered via the web browser 506, is provided with an instruction information display unit 930. This facilitates the provision of auxiliary instruction information regarding necessary operations, thereby improving convenience, as is the case with this embodiment of the system.

[0153] Selecting the OK button 933 will create the media based on the information set in the diagram. Selecting the Cancel button 932 will discard the operations performed in the diagram and transition to the state shown in Figure 9(A).

[0154] Figure 9(F) shows an example of the screen that appears when the OK button 933 is selected in the state shown in Figure 9(E). As shown in the figure, a new media, media D (934), has been added based on the operations performed up to Figure 9(E), and the media creation means 908 is set to automatic registration 935.

[0155] Figure 10 illustrates the configuration of the media management table for storing and managing media information of media registered in the MFP101, which is managed by the media management program 406. This table contains fields corresponding to multiple media-related attributes. The contents of each field are described below.

[0156] The ID field 1001 is an identifier uniquely assigned to media registered in the MFP 101. It is for internal use by the media management program 406 and is not visible to users of the MFP 101.

[0157] The media name field 1002 is an area for storing the media name. Unlike the ID field 1001, it does not need to be unique. However, in order for users to recognize and identify the desired media from among multiple media, operational uniqueness must be ensured.

[0158] The size field 1003 is an area for storing the size of the registered media. The basis weight field is an area for storing the weight per unit area of ​​the registered media. The type field 1005 represents the type of the registered media. Types include, for example, plain paper, coated paper with a glossy coating on both sides, and synthetic paper made of plastic material.

[0159] The creation means 1006 field is a field that stores information corresponding to the creation means (816, 918) in Figures 8 and 9. The values ​​stored in this field control the system so that the means by which each media was registered and created in the MFP 101 can be identified.

[0160] The surface properties field 1007 is an area for storing information about the surface properties of the registered media. Surface properties include various types such as fine paper, coated paper, and embossed paper, and this information is used by the MFP 101 to identify the state and shape of the media's surface.

[0161] Color field 1008 is an area for storing information about the color of the registered media. It is primarily used to store the color of colored paper.

[0162] Other field 1009 contains various information about media other than those mentioned above and is stored in the table shown in the figure, but details about it are omitted here.

[0163] The example shown in the figure illustrates the contents of the table in the state shown in Figure 8(K) or Figure 9(F), that is, when media A (809, 914), media B (810, 915), media C (831, 927), and media D (840, 934) are registered.

[0164] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the media management program 406 of the MFP101 in this embodiment. Figure 11 is realized when the controller unit 205 reads the media management program 406 from the ROM 207 and executes it. The execution of this flowchart is triggered by the selection process of button 807 shown in Figure 8(C). Furthermore, Figure 11 corresponds to the display of the paper type management setting screen shown in Figures 8(D, H, K) and thereafter, and the processing flow of various media-related operations performed via that screen. The following explanation will use the display state in Figure 8(K) and the state of the media management table in Figure 10 as examples. Although Figure 9 also shows an example of processing equivalent to that in Figure 8 performed via a web browser, the following flowchart will mainly use the case in Figure 8 as an example. However, the flowchart in Figure 11 is also executed when the equivalent operation in Figure 9 is performed.

[0165] In S1101, the media entries registered in MFP101 are retrieved. This corresponds to the process in which the media management program 406 retrieves a list of media registered in the media management table shown in Figure 10 from HDD209.

[0166] In step S1102, the media entries acquired in the previous step, S1101, are displayed. That is, in the example shown in Figure 8(K), this corresponds to the process of displaying media A, B, C, and D (809, 810, 831, 840) shown in the figure in the registered media display area 808 in the manner shown in the figure. Details of the operation of this step will be described later.

[0167] Once the processing in S1102 is complete, the process proceeds to S1103. In the example shown in Figure 8(K), the system remains in a state of waiting for input from the operator with the display shown in the figure, and stays in this step until some input instruction is given. If any input instruction is given, the process proceeds to S1104 and beyond.

[0168] In S1104, it is determined whether the instruction entered in S1103 is the selection of the create button 818. If the determination in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1108, and the new media creation screen is executed. This corresponds to Figure 8(E) and subsequent processes in Figure 8. Details of the process in S1108 will be described later.

[0169] If the result of the determination in S1104 is false, the process proceeds to S1105 to determine whether the button selected in S1103 is the paper database selection button 820. If the result of the determination in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1109 to select an appropriate media from those pre-registered in the paper database and execute the process to add it as a media entry.

[0170] If the result of S1105 is false, the process proceeds to S1106 to determine whether the button selected in S1103 is the edit button 817. If the result of this step is true, the process proceeds to S1110 to execute the details screen for viewing and editing the attributes of the selected media. Details of the process in S1110 will be described later.

[0171] If the determination result in S1106 is false, the process proceeds to S1107 to determine whether the instruction entered in S1103 was the OK button 821. If the determination result in this step is true, the flow shown in the figure ends. If the determination result in S1107 is false, it means that an operation means provided in Figure 8(K) that does not correspond to any of the above has been operated. Therefore, the process proceeds to S1111 to execute the corresponding operation means. The specific details of the operation process included in S1111 are omitted.

[0172] When processes S1108, S1109, S1110, and S1111 are completed, the system returns to S1101 and then to the display process of the media entries registered in the MFP101. If any processes such as adding media information are being performed at this stage, the display status will be updated by the execution of processes S1101 and later, which will then execute those changes again.

[0173] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the details of the display process for media information for media entries registered in the MFP101, specifically S1102 in Figure 11. This flowchart is realized when the controller unit 205 reads and executes the media management program 406 from the ROM 207.

[0174] In S1201, the media management program 406 obtains the number of media entries registered in the MFP101. Specifically, it obtains the number of valid media entries stored in the media management table shown in Figure 10 by checking.

[0175] From S1202 onwards, a loop is formed. In S1202, the loop counter is initialized to 1, and the process proceeds to S1203.

[0176] In S1203, attribute information about the referenced media is obtained. This corresponds to the process of obtaining the values ​​of each attribute (1001-1009) stored in the media management table in Figure 10 for the media to be inspected.

[0177] In S1204, the information of the creation means 1006 is identified from the media attribute information acquired in S1203, and its value is determined. The result of the determination is determined in steps from S1205 onward.

[0178] In S1205, it is determined whether the value of the media creation means 1006 identified in S1204 is manual registration. If the result of this step is true, the process proceeds to S1209, where the process of displaying "manual registration" as the registration means information for the media currently being processed on the paper type management settings screen is executed. Specifically, the display of the creation means field of media C(831) in Figure 8(K) is performed in the format shown in the figure. This makes it possible to display in a format that allows identification that the media was created by manual registration.

[0179] If the determination result in S1205 is false, the process proceeds to S1206 to determine whether the value of the media creation means 1006 identified in S1204 is automatic registration. If the determination result in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1208 to execute the process of displaying "automatic registration" as the registration means information for the media currently being processed on the paper type management settings screen. Specifically, the display of the creation means field section of media D(840) in Figure 8(K) is performed in the format shown in the figure. This makes it possible to display in a format that allows identification that the media was created by manual registration.

[0180] If the result of the determination in S1206 is false, it corresponds to the case where the value of the media creation means 1006 identified in S1204 is neither automatic registration nor manual registration. Therefore, it is determined that the possible value for creation means 1006 in this case is the paper database. Accordingly, the process proceeds to S1207, and the process of displaying "paper database" as the registration means information for the media currently being processed on the paper type management settings screen is executed. Specifically, the display of the creation means field section for media A and media B (809, 810) in Figure 8(K) is executed in the format shown in the figure. This makes it possible to display in a format that allows identification that the media was registered from the paper database.

[0181] Once the processes described in S1207, S1208, and S1209 are completed, the process proceeds to S1210, where the attributes of the media being processed, excluding the creation method, are displayed on the paper type management settings screen. The execution of the processes up to S1207 has resulted in the display process for one media entry being displayed on the paper type management settings screen.

[0182] The processes from S1203 to S1210 are repeatedly applied to all media entries registered in the media management table. To this end, the loop termination condition determination process in S1211 and S1212, which selects the next media entry to be processed, are executed. If the loop processing continues, the process returns to S1203 and the above process is repeated.

[0183] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the execution of S1110 in Figure 11, which is the screen for viewing and editing specific selected media attributes among the media entries registered in the MFP101. This flowchart is realized when the controller unit 205 reads the media management program 406 from the ROM 207 and executes it.

[0184] In S1301, the media management program 406 acquires attributes related to the media to be viewed and edited from among the media it manages. In S1302, the value of the creation means is identified from these attributes, and in S1303, it is determined. The information of the creation means identified in the processes up to S1303 is determined in the processes from S1304 onward and is used to control the display of the creation means 827 field, which is shown as an example in Figure 8(F, M).

[0185] In other words, if the determination result of S1304 is true, that is, if the creation means determined in S1303 is manual registration, then manual registration 828 is displayed as the creation means 827 in the display information of Figure 8(F,M) and display control is performed.

[0186] If the determination result of S1304 is false and the determination result of S1305 is new, that is, if the creation means determined in S1303 is automatic registration, then the display control is performed with automatic registration 840 as the creation means 827 in the display information of Figure 8(F,M).

[0187] If either the S1304 or S1305 determination result is false, the creation means is determined to be a paper database, and therefore, the display control is performed to indicate that the creation means 827 is a paper DB in the display information of Figure 8(F,M).

[0188] As shown in S1306, S1307, and S1308 above, the system is controlled to determine the difference in the means by which the media to be viewed or edited was created, based on the difference in the value of the media creation means.

[0189] In step S1309, display processing is performed for items other than those created by the creation means 827 described above. The screen state at the stage when the processing up to this step is completed will be equivalent to the state shown in Figure 8(F,M).

[0190] In S1310, the system enters an input waiting state and remains in that step until some operation is performed on the screen state shown in Figure 8(F,M).

[0191] After some screen operation is performed, the process transitions to S1311 to determine whether the executed screen transition was the selection of the OK button 831. If the result of this step is true, the flow shown in Figure 13 is terminated.

[0192] If the result of S1311 is false, it means that an appropriate operation other than pressing the OK button 831 has been performed in Figure 8(F, M). For example, this could be editing any of the displayed items or operating the scroll button 830. In such cases, the process proceeds to S1312, where the corresponding process is executed, the screen state is updated to reflect the result of the operation, and then the process returns to S1303. Details of the process performed in S1312 are omitted.

[0193] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the execution of S1108 in Figure 11, i.e., the media creation process screen for the MFP 101. The media creation process screen is as shown in Figure 8(E). The flowchart in Figure 14 is realized when the controller unit 205 reads the media management program 406 from the ROM 207 and executes it.

[0194] In S1401, the process of displaying the creation method selection screen is performed. This corresponds to the process of displaying the screen shown in Figure 8(E). In S1402, the system waits for input and remains in this step until some operation is instructed on the screen shown in Figure 8(E).

[0195] In S1403, the operation selected in S1402 is determined, and it is determined whether or not it is an instruction for the manual new creation button 823. If the result of the determination in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1408 and beyond, and a series of displays and specified instructions related to the manual registration process are executed. The process in S1408 corresponds to the screen transitions and media registration processes shown in the explanations leading up to Figures 8(E), 8(F), 8(G), and 8(H).

[0196] If the result of the determination in S1403 is false, the process proceeds to S1404 to determine whether the operation selected in S1402 is an instruction for the automatic new creation button 824. If the result of the determination in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1409 and beyond to execute a series of displays and specified instructions related to the automatic registration process. The process in S1409 corresponds to the screen transitions and media registration process shown in the explanations leading up to Figures 8(E), 8(I), 8(J), and 8(K).

[0197] If the determination result in S1404 is false, the process proceeds to S1405, where it is determined whether the operation selected in S1402 is an instruction for the cancel button 825. If the determination result in this step is true, this flow is terminated and the media registration process is interrupted.

[0198] If the determination result in S1405 is false, this corresponds to an instruction to execute one of the processes other than registration or cancellation. For example, this applies when the duplicate creation button 822 in Figure 8(E) is selected. In this case, the process proceeds to S1406, and the corresponding processes are executed, but the details are omitted.

[0199] The flow from S1409 onwards is explained further below.

[0200] In S1409, a series of screen displays and screen transitions related to the automatic media registration screen are executed. This corresponds to the display operation of various setting items resulting from the automatic media registration process shown in Figure 8(I, J).

[0201] In S1410, the system waits in an input-waiting state. If it is determined that some input has been received, in S1411, it is first determined whether the cancel button (835, 838) was selected. If the result of this determination is true, the automatic media registration process that has been performed up to S1410 is interrupted, and the flow shown in Figure 14 is terminated.

[0202] If the result of the determination in S1411 is false, the process proceeds to S1412, where it is determined whether the instruction entered in S1410 is the selection of the OK button 839. If the result for the companion is false, it means that various setting operations related to the automatic registration process are still in progress, so the process proceeds to S1414, the corresponding setting operations are performed, and then the process returns to S1410.

[0203] If the result of the determination in S1412 is true, in S1413 the media automatic registration process that has been performed up to that point is accepted, and the creation means 1006 registers the media corresponding to the media management table shown in Figure 10 as automatically registered media. Then the flow in Figure 14 is terminated. Specifically, the flow up to Figure 8(J) is executed, and when the OK button 839 is pressed, media D (840, 934) in Figure 10 is registered.

[0204] Next, the flow from S1408 onwards will be explained further below.

[0205] In S1408, a series of screen displays and screen transitions related to the manual media registration screen are executed. This corresponds to the display operation of various setting items resulting from the manual media registration process shown in Figure 8(F, G).

[0206] In S1415, the system waits for input, and if it is determined that some input has been received, in S1416, it is determined whether the input was for the OK button 831. If the result of this determination is false, it means that various setting operations related to the manual registration process are still in progress, so the system proceeds to S1418 to perform the corresponding setting operations, and then returns to S1415.

[0207] If the result of the determination in S1416 is true, the manual media registration process that has been performed up to that point is accepted in S1417. Then, the creation means 1006 registers the media corresponding to the media management table shown in Figure 10 as a manually registered media, and the flow in Figure 14 ends. Specifically, the flow up to Figure 8(G) is executed, and when the OK button 831 is pressed, media C (831, 927) in Figure 10 is registered.

[0208] The above describes the first embodiment of the present invention. In an MFP equipped with a media management function, it is common practice for an operator with administrator privileges to manage media registration and other related operations for the MFP. That is, the operator understands the characteristics of various media, sets appropriate attribute values ​​and settings related to the media through the media management function of the MFP, performs various adjustments, and registers them in the MFP. Such management operations are usually performed by an operator (administrator) with knowledge and skills regarding media. As a result, by using the media registered in the MFP, it becomes possible to produce appropriate deliverables with the expected quality.

[0209] However, properly performing the series of media management processes, such as media registration, as described above requires advanced skills, knowledge, and coordination, making it not a simple operation. Therefore, even if an MFP has media management functions, for an operator who does not possess the skills to properly utilize these functions, the process of registering the appropriate media to produce deliverables of appropriate quality is not easy.

[0210] One way to address the aforementioned challenges is to have an MFP equipped with a media sensor that measures the physical characteristics of the media, such as surface texture, weight, and thickness, and identifies the type of media based on the measurement results. In the case of an MFP with a media sensor, even operators who lack the skills and knowledge related to the series of media registration and adjustment functions provided by the media management function can automatically register the appropriate media in the MFP and more easily perform the output generation process using it.

[0211] However, if an automatic media registration method using a media sensor is added in addition to the conventional media management registration method using media management functions, the following further problems arise.

[0212] As mentioned above, using the conventional media management function, media registration and management processes are primarily performed by administrators with the necessary skills and knowledge. Furthermore, media registered by administrators are registered in the MFP as a set of media parameters that are optimally adjusted to enable the generation of appropriate deliverables.

[0213] On the other hand, if an operator without the necessary skills and knowledge uses the media sensor to register media, the media will be registered in the MFP in a simplified state, unlike the highly adjusted media registered by the administrator. In other words, it will be registered in the MFP as a set of media parameters that are not optimally adjusted.

[0214] Let's consider a scenario where, in this state, the MFP is used to select the appropriate media from the registered media and perform the output generation process. In conventional MFPs, it was difficult to identify which of the multiple media displayed in the list was simply registered by the media sensor. Therefore, this problem can be solved by performing the above process.

[0215] (Second Embodiment) When a new media is created by the media management program 406 in the MFP101, information regarding the creation method can be displayed in an identifiable format, making it easy to determine whether the media was registered manually or automatically. This technology, demonstrated in the first embodiment, enables the selection of the appropriate media when using it.

[0216] Even if media is registered using a simplified automated registration method, it is possible to modify and re-register the media's attribute set after a skilled operator has performed various adjustments as described in Figure 7, thereby optimizing the media's attribute set.

[0217] Furthermore, it is possible for skilled individuals to intentionally perform a simplified automated registration process, and then, as described in Figure 7, perform various adjustments to optimize the media.

[0218] In these cases, even if the initial registration was done automatically, the media will ultimately be equivalent to media created through manual registration and will be registered with the MFP101 as optimized media.

[0219] A second embodiment of the present invention relates to a system that stores the creation means at the time of media creation in association with the media, and at the same time enables re-registration as manual registration in accordance with adjustment and modification processing applied to the media thereafter.

[0220] Figure 15(A) shows an example of the media display area 808 in the second embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 8(K) in the first embodiment.

[0221] As shown in Figure 15(A), a change button 1501 is placed next to media D(840), which is an automatically registered media, in the list of media display area 808. By selecting this change button, even if the media was automatically registered during the initial registration, the MFP or the media user explicitly performs the operation of selecting the change button 1501. As a result, the MFP 101 in the second embodiment is controlled so that the media is changed to a media equivalent to a manually registered media.

[0222] Figure 15(B) shows an example of a screen state that transitions to immediately after the change button 1501 is selected in the screen state shown in Figure 15(A). As shown in the figure, as a result of selecting the change button 1501, the media D(840) creation means 816 is changed to manual registration.

[0223] Figure 15(C) shows an example of the media attribute editing screen that appears immediately after selecting the edit button 817 in the screen state shown in Figure 15(B). In Figure 15(C), the information of the creation means 827 has also been changed to manual registration 1502.

[0224] Figure 16 shows an example of the internal state of the media management table at the stage where the series of operations up to Figure 15(C) have been carried out. This corresponds to Figure 10 in the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 16, the creation means 1006 for media D(840,934) in the media management table has the attribute value of "manual registration" set to "manual registration".

[0225] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the details of the media information display process for media entries registered in the MFP101 in the second embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 12 in the first embodiment. Below, only the main differences from the flowchart described in Figure 12 will be explained.

[0226] The determination in S1206 determines the method of creation of the media to be displayed. Specifically, it determines whether or not the media was registered by automatic registration. If the result of the accompanying method is true, the process proceeds to S1208, where the process of displaying "automatic registration" as the registration method information for the media currently being processed on the paper type management settings screen is executed. The process of this step is shown in Figure 12.

[0227] Next, the process proceeds to S1701, where the change button 1501 is displayed. As shown in Figure 15(A), this is a step in which a process is performed to provide the change button 1501, which is an instruction means for changing an automatically registered media to a manual registration, in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0228] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the media management program 406 of the MFP101 in the second embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 11 in the first embodiment. Below, only the parts that differ mainly from the flowchart described in Figure 11 will be explained.

[0229] In addition to the selection means within the screen selected in Figure 8 (D, H, K) determined by S1106, S1801 performs a determination process to determine whether the change button 1501 has been selected. If the determination result in this step is true, the process proceeds to S1802, where the creation means corresponding to the media for which the change button 1501 was selected is changed to manual registration. Specifically, the value of the creation means 1006 for the media shown in Figure 16 is converted to manual registration. Next, since operation by the change button 1501 is no longer necessary for media that has already been converted to manual registration, the button is removed from the display state in S1803.

[0230] As described above, even if the MFP101 is controlled to identify the media creation method, if it is necessary to change the creation method for a predetermined purpose, the creation method at the time of registration can be changed by editing the media.

[0231] (Third embodiment) In the second embodiment, the modification process of the creation means can be configured to allow variable control of whether or not it can be executed according to the operator's authority. In other words, when a media that has been simply automatically registered is changed to manual registration, it is possible to control the system so that the operation is only permitted to users who have the skills to optimally adjust the media. To this end, in the third embodiment of the present invention, a system is provided in the user management function provided by the MFP101 that allows for variable control of whether or not the change button 1501 is displayed according to the user and their authority.

[0232] (Fourth Embodiment) The embodiments described above relate to techniques for displaying information about the creation means selected during media creation in an identifiable form on the operation screen. However, in the usage environment of the MFP101, there may be cases where identification display is not necessary, such as when the number of users is limited or when their knowledge and skills related to media are limited. In such cases, a system can be conceivable that retains information about the creation means used during media creation but can control the display on the operation panel to suppress it as needed. The fourth embodiment of the present invention is a system that allows for variable control of the display and hiding of the creation means.

[0233] (Fifth embodiment) A fifth embodiment of the present invention relates to a system that allows for the selective application of specific processing depending on the primary means of media creation. This makes it possible to apply specific processing only to media created by manual or automatic registration. Examples of the aforementioned processing include backing up media information generated by one of the selected creation means to an external device, or importing it to another MFP and reusing the settings.

[0234] (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.

Claims

1. A measuring means for measuring the characteristics of paper, A registration method for registering paper information, The registration means includes a display means that displays multiple forms of information registered by the registration means, The system includes a printing means that prints an image onto a sheet of paper based on the paper information selected from the multiple displayed paper information, An image forming apparatus characterized in that, among a plurality of paper information registered by the registration means, the display means displays the paper information registered by the measurement means measuring the characteristics of the paper and the paper information registered by user settings without the measurement means measuring the characteristics of the paper, in a manner that allows the registration method to be distinguished.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the display means displays paper information registered by the measurement means measuring the paper characteristics as automatically registered paper information, and displays paper information registered by the user setting without the measurement means measuring the paper characteristics as manually registered paper information.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that when the parameters of the paper information displayed as automatically registered paper information are changed by the user's input of parameters, the display means displays the said paper information as manually registered paper information.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the display means displays the registered paper information, which is duplicated and displayed as the automatically registered paper information, as the automatically registered paper information.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the paper information includes the basis weight of the paper, the type of paper, the size of the paper, and the secondary transfer voltage.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the measuring means measures the basis weight of the paper.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the measuring means further measures the type of paper.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the measurement means is a media sensor.

9. If, among the multiple pieces of paper information registered by the registration means, the name of the paper information registered by the measurement means measuring the paper characteristics and the name of the paper information registered by the user setting without the measurement means measuring the paper characteristics are the same or similar, the display means will display the paper information registered by the measurement means measuring the paper characteristics and the paper information registered by the user setting without the measurement means measuring the paper characteristics in a manner that distinguishes the registration methods. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, among the multiple pieces of paper information registered by the registration means, if the name of the paper information registered by the measurement means measuring the characteristics of the paper and the name of the paper information registered by the user setting without the measurement means measuring the characteristics of the paper are not the same and are not similar, the display means displays the paper information registered by the measurement means measuring the characteristics of the paper and the paper information registered by the user setting without the measurement means measuring the characteristics of the paper without displaying the registration method.

10. A measurement process for measuring the characteristics of the paper, The registration process involves registering paper information, A display step that displays multiple forms of information registered in the registration step, The printing process includes printing an image onto paper based on the paper information selected from the multiple displayed paper information, A display method characterized in that, among the multiple pieces of paper information registered in the registration step, the paper information registered by measuring the paper characteristics in the measurement step and the paper information registered by user settings without measuring the paper characteristics in the measurement step are displayed in a way that allows the registration method to be distinguished.

11. The display method according to claim 10, characterized in that in the display step, the paper information registered by measuring the paper characteristics in the measurement step is displayed as automatically registered paper information, and the paper information registered by user settings without measuring the paper characteristics in the measurement step is displayed as manually registered paper information.

12. The display method according to claim 11, characterized in that, when the parameters of the paper information displayed as automatically registered paper information are changed by the user's input of parameters, the paper information is displayed as manually registered paper information in the display step.

13. The display method according to claim 11, characterized in that the paper information displayed as automatically registered paper information is duplicated and registered, and the registered paper information is displayed as automatically registered paper information in the display step.

14. The display method according to claim 10, characterized in that the paper information includes the basis weight of the paper, the type of paper, the size of the paper, and the secondary transfer voltage.

15. The display method according to claim 10, characterized in that the basis weight of the paper is measured in the measurement step.

16. The display method according to claim 15, characterized in that the type of paper is further measured in the measurement step.

17. The display method according to claim 16, characterized in that the measurement step is performed using a media sensor.

18. A program for causing a computer to perform each step of the display method described in claim 10.

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