Image forming apparatus and program

Abstract

To provide a technique for displaying a result of sheet type detection in a user-friendly manner in an image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus displays a type of sheet that is placed on a sheet holding member according to a pattern selected from a first display pattern that selects a type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member from a first number of types and a second display pattern that selects a type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member from a second number of types less than the first number.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to displaying the type of paper transported in an image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Various proposals have been made regarding detection of paper type in conventional image forming devices such as MFPs (Multi-Functional Peripherals). For example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-356507 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique for detecting recycled paper. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-24837 (Patent Document 2) discloses a technique for accurately detecting the basis weight of paper. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-310284 (Patent Document 3) discloses a technique for displaying the detected paper type. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-356507 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2007-24837 A [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-310284 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an image forming device, displaying the detected paper type can provide useful information to a user, but it can also cause various problems. For example, different models of image forming devices may derive different detection results for the same type of paper. In such a case, a user may feel uncomfortable when a different detection result is presented for the same type of paper between one image forming device and another image forming device.

[0005] In addition, the user may be confused when the name of the paper type used as the detection result of the image forming device is different from the name that the user expects to be displayed for that paper type. More specifically, a user may assign the name "plain paper" to a type of paper that is used daily. In such a case, if the image forming device detects that type of paper as a type other than "plain paper" and displays the detected type name, the user may feel uncomfortable even if the detection result is correct.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has as its objective to provide a technique for displaying the results of detection of the paper type in an image forming apparatus in a manner that is preferable to the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising a conveying means for conveying a sheet placed on a sheet holding member, a detection means for detecting one type of sheet from a first number of types to be conveyed by the conveying means, a display means for displaying the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member, and an input means for receiving instructions regarding a display pattern of the sheet type, wherein the input means receives an instruction to select a display pattern from a first display pattern for selecting the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member from the first number of types and a second display pattern for selecting the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member from a second number of types that is less than the first number, and the display means displays the type that is the detection result of the detection means in accordance with the instruction received by the input means.

[0008] Preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes image forming means for forming an image on the sheet transported by the transport means, the image forming means performing an operation for forming the image in accordance with a detection result of the detection means.

[0009] Preferably, the second display pattern selects the type that is the detection result when the detection result of the detection means is the first type, and selects a type other than the detection result when the detection result of the detection means is the second type.

[0010] Preferably, the second type comprises plain paper. Preferably, the first type includes at least one of tissue paper and recycled paper.

[0011] Preferably, the second display pattern selects a generic name of the detection result of the detection means as the type of the sheet placed on the sheet holding member.

[0012] Preferably, the second display pattern selects, based on the type of the detection result of the detection means, a type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member that is different from the type of the detection result of the detection means.

[0013] Preferably, the input means accepts an input of a type displayed by the display means. Preferably, the display means further displays at least one of the contents of the received instruction, information about the sheet holding member, and a state in which no sheet is stored in the sheet holding member.

[0014] Preferably, the second display pattern is such that no display of the sheet type is made when the detection result of the detection means is a specific result.

[0015] Preferably, the display means and the input means are integrally configured. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a program executed by a computer, the program causing the computer to execute a step of detecting one type of sheet from a first number of types as the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member, and a step of displaying the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member, wherein the step of displaying the type of sheet includes displaying the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member according to a pattern selected from a first display pattern that selects the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member from the first number of types, and a second display pattern that selects the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member from a second number of types that is less than the first number. Effect of the Invention

[0016] According to the present disclosure, the paper type may be displayed including corrections to the detection result by the detection unit, thereby allowing the detection result of the paper type to be displayed in a manner that is preferable to the user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of an image forming apparatus 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a sensor unit 500. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the optical detection means in the sensor unit 500. [Figure 6] 5 is an enlarged view of an ultrasonic detection means in the sensor unit 500. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image forming apparatus 1. [Figure 8]11 is a diagram showing an example of a correspondence relationship between a signal from a sensor unit 500 and a detection result of the type of recording paper P2 in the image forming apparatus 1. FIG. [Figure 9] 10A to 10C are diagrams for explaining the contents of process control according to the type of recording paper P2 in the image forming apparatus 1. [Figure 10] 13 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the detection result of the type of recording paper P2 and the display content of the type by the notifying means 302. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart of a first example of a process executed in the image forming apparatus 1 to display the type of the recording paper P2. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart of a second example of a process executed in image forming apparatus 1 to display the type of recording paper P2. [Figure 13] 4A to 4C are diagrams showing specific examples of display contents on an operation panel 9. [Figure 14] 4A to 4C are diagrams showing specific examples of display contents on an operation panel 9. [Figure 15] 4A to 4C are diagrams showing specific examples of display contents on an operation panel 9. [Figure 16] 4A to 4C are diagrams showing specific examples of display contents on an operation panel 9. [Figure 17] 4A to 4C are diagrams showing specific examples of display contents on an operation panel 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] An embodiment of an image forming apparatus will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0019] <1. Schematic configuration of image forming apparatus> Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the external appearance of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present disclosure, Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0020] 1 and 2, image forming apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 3 that reads an image from document P1, paper feed cassettes 4A-4D that store recording paper P2 on which an image is formed, a transfer unit 5 that transfers a toner image to recording paper P2, a fixing unit 6 that fixes the toner image transferred by transfer unit 5 to recording paper P2, a paper output tray 7 to which recording paper P2 on which an image has been formed by fixing by fixing unit 6 is output, and an operation panel 9 that accepts operations for image forming apparatus 1. In a device body 2 of image forming apparatus 1, image reading unit 3 is provided at an upper portion, and transfer unit 5 is provided at a lower portion.

[0021] As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 includes four paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D. Recording paper P is an example of a sheet. Each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D that accommodates recording paper P is an example of a sheet holding member on which a sheet is placed. In this specification, when referring to a property common to the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D, the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D may be referred to as "paper feed cassette 4."

[0022] In the image forming apparatus 1, a paper discharge tray 7 is provided above the transfer unit 5 to receive the recording paper P2 that has been discharged after an image has been recorded in the transfer unit 5 and the fixing unit 6. A paper feed cassette 4 is provided below the transfer unit 5. The paper feed cassette 4 is insertable into and removable from the device body 2. In the image forming apparatus 1, the recording paper P2 stored in the paper feed cassette 4 is fed into the device body 2. The recording paper P2 is conveyed upward to the transfer unit 5 disposed above the paper feed cassette 4, where the image is transferred onto the recording paper P2. The fixing unit 6 fixes the image transferred onto the recording paper P2. After being processed by the fixing unit 6, the recording paper P2 is discharged to the paper discharge tray 7. The paper discharge tray 7 is provided in the space (recessed space) between the image reading unit 3 and the transfer unit 5.

[0023] The image reading unit 3 includes a scanner unit 31 that reads an image from the document P1, and an automatic document feeder (ADF: Auto Document Feeder) 32 that is provided above the scanner unit 31 and causes the scanner unit 31 to transport the document P1 one sheet at a time. An operation panel 9 is provided on the front side (front surface) of the device main body 2. A user can operate the keys while looking at the display screen of the operation panel 9 to perform setting operations for a function selected from various functions of the image forming device 1, or to instruct the image forming device 1 to execute a task.

[0024] The internal structure of the device body 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The scanner unit 31 of the image reading unit 3 includes a document table 33 having a platen glass (not shown) on the upper surface side, a light source unit 34 that irradiates light onto the document P1, an image sensor 35 that photoelectrically converts the reflected light from the document P1 into image data, an imaging lens 36 that forms an image of the reflected light on the image sensor 35, and a group of mirrors 37 that sequentially reflect the reflected light from the document P1 and make it enter the imaging lens 36.

[0025] The light source unit 34, the image sensor 35, the imaging lens 36, and the group of mirrors 37 are provided inside the document table 33. The light source unit 34 and the group of mirrors 37 are configured to be movable in the left-right direction with respect to the document table 33.

[0026] An ADF 32 is provided on the upper surface side of the scanner unit 31. The ADF 32 can be opened and closed relative to the document table 33, and includes a document placement tray 38 and a document discharge tray 39. The ADF 32 covers the document P1 on the platen glass (not shown) of the document table 33, thereby allowing the document P1 to be in close contact with the platen glass (not shown).

[0027] In the image reading unit 3, when reading an original P1 placed on a platen glass (not shown) of an original table 33, light is irradiated onto the original P1 from a light source unit 34 moving in a rightward direction (sub-scanning direction). The light reflected from the original P1 is sequentially reflected by a group of mirrors 37 that also moves in a rightward direction like the light source unit 34, and enters an imaging lens 36, where an image is formed on an image sensor 35. The image sensor 35 performs photoelectric conversion for each pixel according to the intensity of the incident light, and generates an image signal (RGB signal) corresponding to the image of the original P1.

[0028] On the other hand, when the image sensor 35 reads the original P1 placed on the original placement tray 38, the original P1 is transported to a reading position by an original transport mechanism 40 composed of a plurality of rollers and the like. The light source unit 34 and the mirror group 37 of the scanner unit 31 are fixed at a predetermined position inside the original table 33. The light source unit 34 irradiates the original P1 at the reading position, and the reflected light is imaged on the image sensor 35 via the mirror group 37 and the imaging lens 36 of the scanner unit 31. The image sensor 35 then converts the reflected light into an image signal (RGB signal) corresponding to the image of the original P1. The original P1 is then discharged to the original discharge tray 39.

[0029] The transfer unit 5, which transfers the toner image onto the recording paper P2, includes image creating units 51 which generate toner images of each color, Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (key tone), exposure units 52 provided below each image creating unit 51, an intermediate transfer belt 53 onto which the toner image of each color is transferred from the image creating unit 51 by abutting against the image creating units 51 of each color arranged horizontally, primary transfer rollers 54 provided in a position facing above each of the image creating units 51 of each color so as to sandwich the image creating units 51 and the intermediate transfer belt 53, a drive roller 55 which rotates the intermediate transfer belt 53, a driven roller 56 which rotates as the rotation of the drive roller 55 is transmitted through the intermediate transfer belt 53, a secondary transfer roller 57 provided in a position facing the drive roller 55 across the intermediate transfer belt 53, and a cleaner unit 58 provided in a position facing the driven roller 56 across the intermediate transfer belt 53.

[0030] The image forming unit 51 includes a photoconductor drum 61 that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 53, a charger 62 that charges the outer peripheral surface of the photoconductor drum 61 by corona discharge, a developing unit 63 that attaches the toner that has been stirred and charged to the outer peripheral surface of the photoconductor drum 61, and a cleaner unit 64 that removes the toner remaining on the outer peripheral surface of the photoconductor drum 61 after the toner image is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 53. At this time, the photoconductor drum 61 is installed at a position facing the primary transfer roller 54 with the intermediate transfer belt 53 interposed therebetween, and rotates in a clockwise direction in FIG. 2. Around the photoconductor drum 61, the primary transfer roller 54, the cleaner unit 64, the charger 62, and the developing unit 63 are arranged in order along the rotation direction of the photoconductor drum 61.

[0031] The intermediate transfer belt 53 is made of, for example, an endless belt member having electrical conductivity. The intermediate transfer belt 53 is wound around the drive roller 55 and the driven roller 56 without slack, and rotates in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 2 in accordance with the rotation of the drive roller 55. A secondary transfer roller 57, a cleaner unit 58, and image forming units 51 for each of the Y, M, C, and K colors are arranged around the intermediate transfer belt 53 in the direction of rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 53 in that order.

[0032] The fixing unit 6 fixes the toner image transferred to the recording paper P2. The fixing unit 6 includes a heating roller 59 equipped with a halogen lamp or the like that applies heat to fix the toner image on the recording paper P2, and a pressure roller 60 that presses the recording paper P2 by pinching the recording paper P2 together with the heating roller 59. The surface of the heating roller 59 may be heated by generating an eddy current on the surface by electromagnetic induction.

[0033] In the image forming apparatus 1, each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D is connected to a paper feed path R1. The transport device for transporting the recording paper P2 includes a feed roller 81 for feeding the recording paper P2 stored in each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D from the top layer to the paper feed path R1, a paper feed roller pair 82 for further sending the fed recording paper P2 to the paper feed path R1, a transport roller pair 83 for vertically transporting the recording paper P2 fed by the paper feed roller pair 82 on the main transport path R0, and a skew correction roller 84 disposed downstream of the transport roller pair 83 on the main transport path R0 for transporting the recording paper P2 toward the transfer unit 5. Each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D is provided with a paper feed sensor 80 for detecting the recording paper P2 fed from each paper feed cassette.

[0034] The main transport path R0 is a main transport path for the recording paper P2 in the image formation (printing) process. The paper feed paths R1 are provided for each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D. Each of the paper feed paths R1 merges with the main transport path R0. The paper feed paths R1 are an example of a transport path.

[0035] The recording sheets P2 in each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D are sent out one by one from the top to paper feed path R1 by the rotational drive of the delivery rollers 81 corresponding to each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D, and are then sent out toward the main transport path R0 by the paper feed roller pair 82. The paper feed sensor 80 detects the recording sheets P2 sent out to the paper feed path R1 from each of the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D.

[0036] The image forming apparatus 1 further includes a manual feed tray 4X. In the image forming apparatus 1, the conveying device can send the recording paper P2 placed on the manual feed tray 4X to the main conveying path R0 in the same manner as the recording paper P2 placed in the paper feed cassettes 4A to 4D.

[0037] In the main transport path R0, the recording paper P2 transported from the paper feed roller pair 82 is transported toward the skew correction roller 84 arranged before the transfer unit 5 by the rotational drive of the transport roller pair 83. The skew correction roller 84 transports the recording paper P2 to the transfer unit 5 in synchronization with the formation timing of the toner image in the transfer unit 5 so that the toner image can be properly transferred to the recording paper P2 in the transfer unit 5. In other words, when the recording paper is transported to the skew correction roller 84 by the transport roller pair 83, the skew correction roller 84 is stopped, causing the recording paper P2 to slacken and form a loop, and the paper skew is corrected by the loop before the recording paper is transported to the secondary transfer roller 57.

[0038] A transport sensor (recording paper detection unit) 85 is installed above the transport roller pair 83 (downstream in the transport direction) on the main transport path R0 to detect the recording paper P2 transported vertically by the transport roller pair 83. The skew correction roller 84 is an example of a registration roller.

[0039] A sensor unit 500 is provided below the skew correction roller 84 (on the upstream side in the transport direction). The sensor unit 500 includes a sensor as described below. In the image forming apparatus 1, the type of the recording paper P2 can be detected based on a signal from the sensor of the sensor unit 500. Based on the detection result of the type of the recording paper P2, the image forming apparatus 1 sets process control conditions (such as the transport speed of the recording paper P2) for image formation on the recording paper P2.

[0040] Based on a signal from the sensor unit 500, the image forming apparatus 1 detects the leading edge of the recording paper P2 that has reached just before the skew correction roller 84, and paper transport and loop control in the main transport path R0 can be performed based on the timing at which the recording paper P2 reaches the skew correction roller 84 from the sensor unit 500.

[0041] A pair of discharge rollers 91 that discharges the printed recording paper P2 is disposed at the end, which is the most downstream portion, of the main transport path R0. The printed recording paper P2 is discharged to the paper output tray 7 by the rotational drive of the pair of discharge rollers 91. In the main transport path R0, a paper output sensor 90 that detects the rear end of the recording paper P2 is disposed below the pair of discharge rollers 91 (upstream in the transport direction). In this way, by the paper output sensor 90 detecting the rear end of the recording paper P2, it can be confirmed that the recording paper P2 has been normally discharged from the pair of discharge rollers 91 to the paper output tray 7.

[0042] <2. Hardware configuration of image forming device> Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a main body control unit 10 having the configuration shown in Fig. 3. The main body control unit 10 controls each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1. This causes various operations in the image forming apparatus 1 (such as a printing operation on recording paper P2 and an image reading operation from document P1) to be performed.

[0043] The main body control unit 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 that executes various types of calculation processing and control, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 that stores control programs and the like, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 that temporarily stores calculation data, an image processing unit 104 that generates image data that is the basis for the toner image to be formed in the transfer unit 5, an image memory 105 that temporarily stores the image data obtained by the image processing unit 104, and an input / output interface 106 that transmits and receives signals between each unit that constitutes the image forming apparatus 1.

[0044] When the operation panel 9 receives a signal corresponding to an operation received, the CPU 101 identifies the operation corresponding to the operation received by the operation panel 9. Similarly, when the main body control unit 10 receives a signal transmitted from an external terminal via a communication network 110 such as a LAN (Local Area Network) through the input / output interface 106, it identifies the operation specified by the external terminal. As a result, the CPU 101 reads out a control program based on the operation specified via the operation panel 9 or the external terminal from the ROM 102, and operates based on the control program.

[0045] Based on the control program read from the ROM 102, the CPU 101 outputs signals to the image reading control unit 113, the exposure control unit 114, the transfer control unit 115, the fixing control unit 116, and the transport control unit 118, which drive and control the image reading unit 3, the exposure unit 52, the transfer unit 5, the fixing unit 6, and the paper feeder 8, respectively. Thus, the image forming apparatus 1 drives the image reading unit 3, the exposure unit 52, the transfer unit 5, and the fixing unit 6 in accordance with the designated operation, by receiving signals from the main body control unit 10 to the image reading control unit 113, the transfer control unit 115, and the fixing control unit 116. The image forming apparatus 1 drives the delivery roller 81, the roller pairs 82, 83, and 90, and the skew correction roller 84 in the transport device, by receiving a signal from the main body control unit 10 to the transport control unit 118. The motor 901 is a motor for driving various rollers for transporting recording paper in the image forming apparatus 1. The driving of the various rollers can be achieved by the CPU 101 controlling the operation of the motor 901 via the transport control unit 118.

[0046] The CPU 101 is connected to a sensor unit 500. The CPU 101 controls the operation of the sensor unit 500, and also detects the type of the recording paper P2 based on a signal from the sensor unit 500.

[0047] <3. Printing Operation of Image Forming Device> Next, the printing operation by the image forming apparatus 1 will be described below. When the image forming apparatus 1 receives an instruction to perform a printing operation from the operation panel 9 or an external terminal, the CPU 101 in the main body control unit 10 reads out a control program for the printing operation from the ROM 102 and starts the control operation for the printing operation. First, the CPU 101 drives and controls the conveyance device via the conveyance control unit 118 to feed the topmost recording paper P2 from the paper feed cassette 4 and send it to the main conveyance path R0.

[0048] In order to transfer the toner image onto the recording paper P2 sent to the main transport path R0, the CPU 101 provides control signals to the exposure control unit 114 and the transfer control unit 115, and drives and controls the exposure unit 52 and the transfer unit 5. At this time, the CPU 101 provides, via the image reading control unit 113, to the image processing unit 103, an image signal read from the original P1 by the image reading unit 3, or an image signal received from an external terminal via the input / output interface 106.

[0049] As a result, the image processing unit 103 generates image data for forming toner images of each of the colors Y, M, C, and K based on the image signal provided, and stores the image data in the image memory 105. The image data of each of the colors Y, M, C, and K stored in the image memory 105 is read by the CPU 101 and provided to the exposure control unit 114. Therefore, the exposure control unit 114 drives light emitting elements (not shown) in the exposure unit 52 based on the image data of each of the colors Y, M, C, and K, thereby forming electrostatic latent images on the photoconductor drums 61 of each of the colors Y, M, C, and K. That is, the transfer control unit 115 drives the transfer unit 5, so that in the image forming units 51 of each of the colors Y, M, C, and K, the laser light is irradiated from the exposure unit 52 onto the surface of the photoconductor drum 61 charged by the charger 62, and an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image of each of the colors Y, M, C, and K is formed.

[0050] Toner charged by a developing unit 63 is transferred to the surface of the photoreceptor drum 61 on which this electrostatic latent image is formed, and a toner image is formed on the photoreceptor drum 61, which serves as a first image carrier. When the toner image carried on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 61 comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 53, it is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 53 by the electrostatic force of the primary transfer roller 54, and a toner image in which the colors Y, M, C, and K are superimposed is formed on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 53, which serves as a second image carrier. Meanwhile, untransferred toner remaining on the photoreceptor drum 61 after the toner image has been transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 53 is scraped off by a cleaner unit 64 and removed from the photoreceptor drum 61.

[0051] When the leading edge of the recording paper P2 conveyed to the main conveying path R0 is detected based on a signal from the sensor unit 500, the detection result is given to the transfer control unit 115. As a result, the transfer control unit 115 recognizes that the recording paper P2 has reached the skew correction roller 84. The transfer control unit 115 operates the skew correction roller 84 in accordance with the timing at which the toner image is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 53. At this time, the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 53 moves to a transfer position where it abuts against the secondary transfer roller 57 as the intermediate transfer belt 53 is rotated by the drive roller 55 and the driven roller 56, and is transferred to the recording paper P2 conveyed to the transfer position on the main conveying path R0. The untransferred toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 53 after the toner image has been transferred to the recording paper P2 is scraped off by the cleaner unit 58 and removed from the intermediate transfer belt 53.

[0052] The recording paper P2 onto which the toner image has been transferred at the contact position with the secondary transfer roller 57 is transported to the fixing unit 6 which is made up of the heating roller 59 and the pressure roller 60. At this time, the CPU 101 controls the drive of the fixing unit 6 via the fixing control unit 116 in order to fix the toner image on the recording paper P2 transported to the fixing unit 6 (STEP 123). That is, the fixing control unit 116 controls the rotational operation of the heating roller 59 and the pressure roller 60, and at the same time, controls the heating operation of the heating roller 59.

[0053] As a result, when the recording paper P2 carrying the unfixed toner image passes through the fixing nip portion of the fixing unit 6, it is heated by the heating roller 59 and pressed by the pressure roller 60, and the unfixed toner image is fixed to the paper surface. Then, after the toner image is fixed (after single-sided printing), the recording paper P2 is transported to the pair of paper discharge rollers 91, and is discharged by the pair of paper discharge rollers 91 onto the paper discharge tray 7. At this time, the paper discharge sensor 90 detects the rear end of the recording paper P2, and the detection result is provided to the main body control unit 10. As a result, the main body control unit 10 confirms that the recording paper P2 has been normally discharged onto the paper discharge tray 7.

[0054] <4. Configuration of sensor unit 500> Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the sensor unit 500. In Fig. 4, an arrow R4 indicates the transport direction of the recording paper P2 on the main transport path R0. The sensor unit 500 includes an optical detection means that outputs a signal based on optical detection, and an ultrasonic detection means that outputs a signal based on detection using ultrasonic waves.

[0055] (Optical detection means) 5 is an enlarged view of the optical detection means in the sensor unit 500. The optical detection means includes a light receiver 511 and light sources 512 and 513. The light receiver 511 includes, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor. The light sources 512 and 513 include, for example, LED (Light Emitting Diode) elements.

[0056] When the main transport path R0 is used as a reference, the light source 512 is disposed on the same side as the light receiver 511. In Fig. 5, an arrow AR13 represents light emitted by the light source 512, and an arrow AR14 represents light, of the light represented by the arrow AR13, that is reflected on the recording paper P2 and proceeds to the light receiver 511. The light receiver 511 detects the light that is output from the light source 512 and reflected by the recording paper P2 on the main transport path R0.

[0057] When the main transport path R0 is used as a reference, the light source 513 is disposed on the opposite side of the light receiver 511. In Fig. 5, an area AR11 represents the light emitted by the light source 513, and an arrow AR12 represents the light represented as the area AR11 that passes through the recording paper P2 and heads toward the light receiver 511. The light receiver 511 detects the light that is output from the light source 513, passes through the main transport path R0, and reaches the light receiver 511. When the recording paper P2 is present between the light receiver 511 and the light source 513, the light receiver 511 detects the light that is output from the light source 513 and passes through the recording paper P2.

[0058] The light receiver 511 outputs a signal (a signal according to the amount of light received by the light receiver 511) indicating the result of detecting the light from the light source 512 and / or the light source 513 to the CPU 101. Based on the signal from the light receiver 511, the CPU 101 determines the timing at which the leading edge of the recording sheet P2 reaches the inside of the sensor unit 500, detects the basis weight of the recording sheet P2 in the sensor unit 500, and also detects that the recording sheet P2 in the sensor unit 500 is a specific type of sheet (for example, a transparent sheet for an OHP (Over Head Projector)).

[0059] In this specification, the operation for detecting the leading edge of recording paper P2 using optical detection means is referred to as the "first operation," and the operation for detecting the basis weight of recording paper P2 and / or detecting that it is a particular type of sheet is referred to as the "second operation."

[0060] (Ultrasonic detection means) 6 is an enlarged view of the ultrasonic detection means in the sensor unit 500. The ultrasonic detection means includes a transmitter 522 that emits ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic detection means also includes a receiver 521 that receives ultrasonic waves and outputs a signal according to the intensity of the received ultrasonic waves.

[0061] 6, arrow AR21 represents ultrasonic waves output from transmitter 522. Arrow AR22 represents ultrasonic waves indicated by arrow AR21 that have been attenuated by recording paper P2. Receiver 521 detects ultrasonic waves output from transmitter 522. When recording paper P2 is present between photodetector 511 and transmitter 522, receiver 521 detects ultrasonic waves that have been emitted by transmitter 522 and then attenuated by recording paper P2.

[0062] Receiver 521 outputs a signal according to the intensity of the detected ultrasonic wave to CPU 101. Based on the signal from receiver 521, CPU 101 detects that the leading edge of recording paper P2 is between receiver 521 and transmitter 522, and also detects the type of recording paper P2 (envelope, recording paper with two or more sheets stacked on top of each other, etc.).

[0063] In this specification, the operation for detecting the leading edge of recording paper P2 using the ultrasonic detection means is referred to as the "first operation," and the operation for detecting the basis weight of recording paper P2 and / or detecting that it is a particular type of sheet is referred to as the "second operation."

[0064] That is, in this specification, the optical detection means and the ultrasonic detection means may perform a "first operation" and a "second operation", respectively.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 4 and other figures, the image forming apparatus 1 may include both an optical detection means and an ultrasonic detection means, or may include only one of them.

[0066] 4, the optical detection means is provided upstream of the ultrasonic detection means in the transport path of the recording paper P2. Note that the ultrasonic detection means may be provided upstream of the optical detection means.

[0067] CPU 101 may use either the optical detection means or the ultrasonic detection means to detect the leading edge of recording paper P2 in sensor unit 500, and may use the other to detect the type of recording paper P2. In this case, CPU 101 may detect the leading edge of recording paper P2 using the downstream detection means, and may detect the type of recording paper P2 using the upstream detection means in response to the detection of the leading edge of recording paper P2.

[0068] <5. Functional configuration of image forming device> FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. As shown in FIG.

[0069] 7, in one implementation example, the main body control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 functions as a paper type detection control unit 191, an image formation control unit 192, a notification control unit 193, and an external communication control unit 194 by the CPU 101 executing a given program. The image forming apparatus 1 functions as a state detection unit 201, an input unit 301, and a notification unit 302.

[0070] The state detection means 201 acquires data for detecting the type of the recording paper P2 transported by the transport device, and outputs the data to the paper type detection control unit 191. In one implementation example, the state detection means 201 is realized by a sensor box 500.

[0071] The input means 301 accepts information input to the notification control unit 193. The input means 301 may be a touch sensor and / or a hardware button of the operation panel 9 that accepts information input from a user, or may be the input / output interface 106 that accepts information input from an external device, or may be both of them.

[0072] The notification means 302 outputs information to be notified to the outside. The notification means 302 may be a display of the operation panel 9, a speaker (not shown), or both of them.

[0073] The functions of the main body control unit 10 will be described below. The paper type detection control unit 191 detects the type of the recording paper P2 (hereinafter, also referred to as "paper type") using a signal from the state detection means 201. The detected type will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0074] Image formation control unit 192 controls the operation of the parts that are driven to form an image on recording paper P2 in image forming apparatus 1. These parts include, for example, image reading unit 3, transfer unit 5, fixing unit 6, and a conveying device. Image formation control unit 192 controls the operation of the above parts according to the result of type detection by paper type detection control unit 191. The control content will be described later with reference to FIG. 9 etc.

[0075] The notification control unit 193 controls the notification content of the type of recording paper P2 by the notification means 302, according to the type detection result by the paper type detection control unit 191. The notification content will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0076] The external communication control unit 194 acquires input of information (for example, image formation settings such as "color setting" and "magnification setting") from an external device, and transfers it to the notification control unit 193. The notification control unit 193 further utilizes the information acquired from the external communication control unit 194 to control the notification content in the notification means 302.

[0077] <6. Example of detecting the type of recording paper> Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence relationship between the signal from the sensor unit 500 and the detection result of the type of recording paper P2 in the image forming apparatus 1. The CPU 101 detects the type of recording paper P2 based on the signal from the sensor unit 500 and the correspondence relationship. In addition to the correspondence relationship in the "image forming apparatus 1", Fig. 8 also shows the correspondence relationship in other devices for "reference".

[0078] The detection results are listed as "paper type" in the leftmost column of Fig. 8. The detection results include thin paper, plain paper, plain paper+, thick paper 1, thick paper 1+, thick paper 2, thick paper 3, thick paper 4, and recycled paper.

[0079] FIG. 8 shows the basis weight (unit: g / m2) of the recording paper P2 determined based on the signal from the sensor unit 500. 2 For example, in the image forming apparatus 1, for the type "plain paper," the lower limit is "60" and the upper limit is "90." That is, when the basis weight is 60 g / m 2 More than 90g / m 2 If the above is true, the type of recording paper P2 is determined to be "plain paper."

[0080] On the other hand, for the type of device "plain paper" shown as "reference", the lower limit is "60" and the upper limit is "89". In this device, the basis weight is 60 g / m 2 More than 89g / m 2 If it is below this, the type of recording paper is determined to be “plain paper.” In other words, different detection results may be derived for the same paper depending on the device.

[0081] The correspondence relationship in the “image forming apparatus 1” is stored in a storage device accessible by the CPU 101, such as the ROM 102.

[0082] <7. Process Control> FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the process control in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the type of the recording paper P2.

[0083] The top row of FIG. 9 shows the types of recording paper P2 that can be detected (recycled paper, thin paper, plain paper, plain paper+, thick paper 1, thick paper 1+, thick paper 2, thick paper 3, and thick paper 4).

[0084] The leftmost column in FIG. 9 shows control items (system speed, paper interval, transfer current, fixing temperature, FS prohibition, and double-sided prohibition).

[0085] The system speed indicates the speed at which the recording paper P2 is transported. One of "full speed," "medium speed," and "low speed" is set as the system speed. "Full speed" indicates the highest system speed, "medium speed" indicates the next highest system speed, and "low speed" indicates the lowest system speed.

[0086] The paper interval indicates the interval at which the recording paper P2 is conveyed. As the paper interval, "wide" or "narrow" is set.

[0087] The transfer current indicates the current value supplied to the photoconductor drum 61 for transfer. As shown in Fig. 9, a current value corresponding to each type of recording paper P2 is set. For example, when the type of recording paper is "plain paper" or "plain paper+", a current value for "plain paper" is set.

[0088] The fixing temperature indicates the heating temperature of the heating roller 59 of the fixing unit 6. As shown in Fig. 9, a temperature corresponding to each type of recording paper P2 is set. For example, when the type of recording paper is "plain paper" or "plain paper+", a temperature for "plain paper" is set.

[0089] FS prohibition indicates whether or not there is a restriction on post-processing (stapling, punching, etc.) by a finisher (post-processing device). "Yes" indicates that the post-processing content for the print job will be modified in accordance with a predetermined restriction. One example of a predetermined restriction is the number of sheets that can be stapled set for each type of recording paper. In this case, if the FS prohibition value is "Yes" and the print job specifies that a number of sheets of recording paper exceeding the number that can be stapled will be stapled, the print job is modified so that the number of sheets stapled at one time is equal to or less than the number that can be stapled. On the other hand, "No" indicates that there is no restriction on post-processing, meaning that no changes will be made to the post-processing content for the print job.

[0090] The double-sided prohibition indicates whether double-sided printing is prohibited or not. "Yes" indicates that the print job will be changed so that double-sided printing is not performed even if the print job includes a double-sided printing instruction. "No" means that no change is made to the print job.

[0091] The information shown in FIG. 9 is stored in a storage device accessible by the CPU 101, such as the ROM 102.

[0092] <8.Display setting information> FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the detection result of the type of recording paper P2 and the display content of the type by the notification means 302. In FIG.

[0093] 10 shows the detection results of the type of recording paper P2, including thin paper, plain paper, plain paper+, thick paper 1, thick paper 1+, thick paper 2, thick paper 3, thick paper 4, and recycled paper.

[0094] FIG. 10 shows the basic setting and the option setting. The basic setting displays the type of recording paper P2 according to the detection result. That is, the type displayed in the basic setting is the same as the type of the detection result. Therefore, in the basic setting, the number of types included in the detection result is the same as the number of types that can be displayed.

[0095] On the other hand, the option settings display the type of recording paper P2 that is the detection result in a form that includes corrections. In the option settings, the number of types that can be displayed is smaller than the number of types included in the detection result. In Fig. 10, five types of settings (default setting, user setting A, user setting B, user setting C, and user setting D) are included as option settings.

[0096] For example, in the "default setting," if the detection result is "thin paper," "plain paper," or "plain paper+," "plain paper" is displayed as the type of recording paper P2. In other words, if the detection result is "plain paper," the same type as the detection result is displayed, but if the detection result is "thin paper," the type "plain paper" is displayed as a result of modifying the detection result type.

[0097] In the "default settings," if the detection result is "Cardboard 1," "Cardboard 1+," "Cardboard 2," "Cardboard 3," or "Cardboard 4," the type "Cardboard" is displayed as a result of modifying the detection result. The detection results "Cardboard 1," "Cardboard 1+," "Cardboard 2," "Cardboard 3," and "Cardboard 4" all represent classifications within "Cardboard." In other words, if the detection result is "Cardboard 1," "Cardboard 1+," "Cardboard 2," "Cardboard 3," or "Cardboard 4," the general term for these detection results, "Cardboard," is displayed.

[0098] In the "default setting", if the detection result is "recycled paper", "plain paper" is displayed as the type of recording paper P2. In other words, if the detection result is "recycled paper", the type of the detection result is corrected and the type "plain paper" is displayed.

[0099] "User setting D" specifies that the type of recording paper P2 will not be displayed for some detection results. More specifically, in Fig. 10, the value of the detection result "thick paper 4" for "user setting D" is "-". This means that with "user setting D", when the detection result is "thick paper 4", the type of recording paper P2 will not be displayed.

[0100] Furthermore, "user setting D" specifies that for some detection results, names not included in the detection results are displayed. More specifically, in FIG. 10, the value of the detection result "recycled paper" for "user setting D" is "recycled paper." This means that in "user setting D," when the detection result is "recycled paper," "recycled paper," a name not included in the detection results, is displayed as the type of recording paper P2.

[0101] The user can set the display pattern of the recording paper P2 using the input means 301. Furthermore, when the user selects some optional settings (for example, user setting D) using the input means 301, the user can set a name (for example, a character string such as "recycled paper") to be displayed corresponding to each detection result. The notification control unit 193 updates the display setting information using the set name.

[0102] The information shown in FIG. 10 and settings input by the user are stored in a storage device accessible by the CPU 101, such as the ROM 102.

[0103] <9. Processing flow (1)> Fig. 11 is a flowchart of a first example of processing executed to display the type of recording paper P2 in image forming apparatus 1. Image forming apparatus 1 executes the processing of Fig. 11, for example, by CPU 101 executing a given program. The processing of Fig. 11 is executed, for example, at the timing when image forming apparatus 1 displays a screen including the type of recording paper P2.

[0104] 11, in step S100, CPU 101 acquires settings related to notifications. One example of acquired settings is to select one of basic settings, default settings, user settings A, user settings B, user settings C, and user settings D shown in the display setting information in Fig. 10. Another example is to specify a name (e.g., "recycled paper") to be displayed as the type of recording paper P2 in user settings A, B, C, or D.

[0105] In step S102, the CPU 101 obtains a detection result of the type of the recording paper P2. The detection result is generated based on a signal from the sensor unit 500, for example.

[0106] In step S104, the CPU 101 displays the type of the recording paper P2 based on the setting contents acquired in step S100 and the detection result acquired in step S102.

[0107] For example, if "basic setting" (FIG. 10) is acquired as the setting content in step S100, CPU 101 displays the type of the detection result acquired in step S102 without making any modifications. If "default setting" (FIG. 10) is acquired as the setting content, CPU 101 displays the type of the detection result acquired in step S102 after modifying it as necessary according to the correspondence between the type of the detection result shown as "default setting" in FIG. 10 and the type to be displayed.

[0108] After that, the CPU 101 ends the control of FIG. <10. Processing flow (2)> 12 is a flowchart of a second example of the process executed to display the type of recording paper P2 in image forming apparatus 1. Image forming apparatus 1 executes the process of FIG. 12, for example, by CPU 101 executing a given program. The process of FIG. 12 is executed, for example, at the timing when a screen including the type of recording paper P2 is displayed in image forming apparatus 1. Note that the user may use input means 301 to input a display pattern for recording paper P2. The second A first display pattern or a second display pattern may be set. in In the second display pattern, the number of types included in the detection result is equal to the number of types that can be displayed. in In the case of FIG. 11, the number of types that can be displayed is smaller than the number of types included in the detection result. The process of FIG. 12 is executed on the condition that the second display pattern is set. While the process of FIG. 11 refers to the display setting information (FIG. 10), the process of FIG. 12 does not require referring to the display setting information (FIG. 10).

[0109] 12, in step S200, CPU 101 obtains the detection result of the type of recording paper P2 in the same manner as in step S102.

[0110] In step S202, CPU 101 determines whether the detection result acquired in step S202 is a predetermined type (for example, plain paper). Information identifying the "predetermined type" is set in advance and stored in a given memory. If CPU 101 determines that the detection result is a predetermined type (YES in step S202), control proceeds to step S208; otherwise (NO in step S202), control proceeds to step S204.

[0111] In step S204, CPU 101 determines whether the detection result acquired in step S202 is "Cardboard 1", "Cardboard 1+", "Cardboard 2", "Cardboard 3", or "Cardboard 4". If CPU 101 determines that the detection result is "Cardboard 1", "Cardboard 1+", "Cardboard 2", "Cardboard 3", or "Cardboard 4" (YES in step S204), control proceeds to step S206, and if not (NO in step S204), control proceeds to step S208.

[0112] In step S206, the CPU 101 displays, as the type of recording paper P2, "thick paper," which is a general term for "thick paper 1," "thick paper 1+," "thick paper 2," "thick paper 3," or "thick paper 4." Thereafter, the CPU 101 ends the control of FIG.

[0113] In step S208, the CPU 101 displays a predetermined type name (for example, "plain paper") as the type of the recording paper P2. After that, the CPU 101 ends the control of FIG.

[0114] According to the processing of FIG. 12, if the detection result is "Cardboard 1," "Cardboard 1+," "Cardboard 2," "Cardboard 3," or "Cardboard 4," then "Cardboard" is displayed as the type of recording paper P2, and if the detection result is anything other than these, then a predetermined type (for example, "plain paper") is displayed as the type of recording paper P2.

[0115] <11. Examples of Display> 13 to 17 are diagrams showing specific examples of display contents on operation panel 9. FIG.

[0116] 13 shows a basic screen 901. The basic screen displays default settings for the copy operation in the image forming apparatus 1. The character string "Auto" in the "Paper" field indicates that the paper will be automatically selected according to the size of the document.

[0117] In the image forming apparatus 1, a paper feed cassette to be used for a copy operation can be selected. In the "paper" field, information (size and / or type) of the recording paper stored in the selected paper feed cassette can be displayed (see, for example, FIG. 14 described later). When a change in the recording paper stored in each paper feed cassette is detected, the display of the recording paper information related to the paper feed cassette is reset. An example of detecting a change in the paper is the detection using a sensor of the removal of the paper feed cassette from the device body 2 and the subsequent installation of the paper feed cassette in the device body 2. By resetting the display, "Automatic" is displayed in the "paper" field, as shown in FIG. 13. After the change, the type of the recording paper is detected by conveying the recording paper in the selected paper feed cassette. The detected type is displayed according to the process described with reference to FIG. 11 or FIG. 12. The display of the recording paper information includes the display of the type of the recording paper according to FIG. 11 or FIG. 12.

[0118] 14 shows a state in which a paper feed cassette to be used for a copy operation of the image forming apparatus 1 has been selected. More specifically, the character string "A3_Tray 1_Plain Paper" in the "Paper" field shows that the size of the recording paper P2 stored in the paper feed cassette identified as Tray 1 (e.g., paper feed cassette 4A) is "A3" and the type is "plain paper."

[0119] The type of recording paper P2 on screen 902 etc. is the "type" of recording paper P2 displayed by the process described with reference to FIG. 11 or FIG.

[0120] 15 shows a screen for selecting a paper feed source (manual feed tray or paper feed cassette) for a copy operation. Screen 903 displays the size and type of recording paper P2 stored in each of "Manual Feed" (manual feed tray 4X), "Tray 1" (paper feed cassette 4A), "Tray 2" (paper feed cassette 4B), and "Tray 3" (paper feed cassette 4C). On screen 903, the data for the selected paper feed source (Tray 1) is displayed inverted.

[0121] Screen 903 includes area 903A. Area 903A displays an icon that typically represents image forming apparatus 1. In the icon, the position of the selected paper feed source is displayed in inverted light. The inverted light is an example of information about a member that stores paper.

[0122] Screen 904 in Fig. 16 is displayed when the selected paper source runs out of recording paper. Each paper feed cassette and paper output tray may be provided with a sensor that detects the presence or absence of recording paper in each. CPU 101 may display screen 904 based on the detection output of the sensor. Screen 904 displays "Paper_A3_Plain Paper" along with the message "Please refill paper or change paper feed tray." "Plain Paper" may be the type of recording paper that was previously stored in the corresponding paper feed source.

[0123] Screen 905 in Fig. 17 is a screen for inputting settings related to the display contents (settings acquired in step S100). In screen 905, categories 1 to 9 correspond to the nine types of detection results, namely, thin paper, plain paper, plain paper+, thick paper 1, thick paper 1+, thick paper 2, thick paper 3, thick paper 4, and recycled paper. In screen 905, three types of settings (display 1, display 2, display 3) can be input. "Display 1" may correspond to the basic settings (Fig. 10).

[0124] On screen 905, "Current Selection_Display 2" indicates the display settings currently registered. The user can select one of Display 1 to Display 3 on screen 905. If Display 2 or Display 3 is selected, the user can input a type (or name) that specifies the type of recording paper that the user wants to be displayed for each of categories 1 to 9.

[0125] Each embodiment disclosed herein should be considered as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. In addition, the inventions described in the embodiments and each modified example are intended to be implemented, as far as possible, either alone or in combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 1 Image forming device, 101 CPU, 500 sensor unit, 901 to 905 screens.

Claims

1. A conveying means for conveying a sheet placed on the sheet holding member; a detection means for detecting one type from a first number of types as a type of the sheet conveyed by the conveying means; a display means for displaying the type of the sheet placed on the sheet holding member; an input means for receiving an instruction regarding a display pattern of the sheet type; By the above instruction, a first display pattern for associating the type of sheet detected by the detection means with the type of display of the first number of sheets; and a second display pattern for associating the sheet type detected by the detection means with a second number of sheet display types that is smaller than the first number; A display pattern is selected from the the display means displays, as the type of sheet placed on the sheet holding member, a sheet display type associated with the sheet type detected by the detection means in a display pattern selected in accordance with the instruction, The second display pattern corresponds to a common sheet display type for multiple types of sheets detected by the detection means, in which the control contents of the operation of parts driven for image formation are different from each other.

2. an image forming means for forming an image on the sheet conveyed by the conveying means, 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said image forming means performs an operation for forming an image in accordance with a result of the detection by said detection means.

3. The second display pattern is When the detection result of the detection means is a first type, the sheet type detected by the detection means is associated with the same display type as the sheet type detected by the detection means; 3. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the detection result of the detection means is a second type, the sheet type detected by the detection means is associated with a display type different from the sheet type detected by the detection means.

4. The image forming apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the first type includes plain paper.

5. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the second type includes at least one of thin paper and recycled paper.

6. An image forming device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the display type of the second number of sheets includes a general term for the type of sheets.

7. An image forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the display type of the second number of sheets includes a type different from the type of sheets detected by the detection means.

8. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the input unit receives an input of a character string constituting a display type.

9. An image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the display means further displays at least one of a correspondence between the type of sheet detected by the detection means and the type of sheet display in accordance with the instructions, information about the sheet holding member, and a state in which no sheet is contained in the sheet holding member.

10. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second display pattern corresponds to a specific type of sheet type detected by the detection means being not displayed as the sheet display type.

11. 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display means and the input means are integrally configured.

12. A program executed by a computer of an image forming apparatus, comprising: The program causes the computer to: the image forming apparatus includes a conveying unit that conveys a sheet placed on a sheet holding member, detecting one type from a first number of types as a type of sheet to be conveyed by the conveying means; and executing a step of displaying the type of the sheet placed on the sheet holding member; The step of displaying the type of sheet includes: a first display pattern that associates the sheet type detected in the detecting step with a display type of the first number of sheets; and a second display pattern for associating the sheet type detected in the detecting step with a second number of sheet display types that is smaller than the first number; a sheet type corresponding to the sheet type detected in the detecting step in a pattern selected from the above; A program that associates multiple types of sheets detected in the detection step, in which the second display pattern has different control contents for the operation of parts driven for image formation, with a common sheet display type.

Images