PRINTING SYSTEM, PROGRAM, CONTROL METHOD FOR INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS

Abstract

To provide a mechanism that precisely perform adjustment when adjusting without using a result read by a reading device, and reduces time and effort on an adjusting person when adjusting by using the result read by the reading device.SOLUTION: A printing system that has a printing means for printing an image on a sheet, carrying the sheet on which the image is printed by the printing means to a reading device, and capable of executing the adjustment for printing an image on the sheet on the basis of the image read by the reading device, includes: an operating means; and a control means that controls to execute a manual adjusting function for executing adjustment on the basis of an adjustment value received through the operating means after the authentication of an adjusting person, and to execute an automatic adjusting function for executing adjustment on the basis of the image read by the reading device without the authentication of the adjusting person.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing system, P Program , information processing device control method, and information processing device - Patents.com This is regarding. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a technique in which an image is printed on a sheet, the user sets the sheet in a scanner, and the secondary transfer voltage is automatically adjusted by reading the image (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Conventionally, there have been cases where an image is printed on a sheet, the sheet is transported to a reading device, and the image is read by the reading device to adjust the secondary transfer voltage, etc. This can reduce the user's effort in making adjustments. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-37185 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When making adjustments without using the results read by a reading device, operations such as inputting correct adjustment values ​​are required. Therefore, it is desirable to perform authentication before adjustments so that the adjustments are made by someone with the knowledge to perform the adjustments correctly.

[0006] On the other hand, when adjustment is performed using the results read by a reading device, there is a low possibility of making an error in inputting the correct adjustment value, etc. If authentication is required even in such a case, the adjuster will have to go through the extra work of performing authentication.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems. A manual adjustment function that executes a predetermined adjustment based on an adjustment value received via an operation means. When making adjustments, do so accurately. This is an automatic adjustment function that prints an image on another sheet, transports the other sheet to a reading device, and performs a specified adjustment based on the image read by the reading device. When adjustments are made, a mechanism is provided that reduces the work required by the adjuster. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention relates to Paper a printing means for printing on the By user operation Reception desk to receive means for printing the image on the printing means; The above paper and print it on the Paper is conveyed to a reading device, and the reading device reads Paper Based on the image read from Supports paper information Auto-adjust feature performs predefined adjustments a manual adjustment function for executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to paper information based on an adjustment value based on the operation accepted by the accepting unit; and a control means for controlling the manual adjustment function to execute the above when the manual adjustment function is selected. User Execute authentication of the User and when the automatic adjustment function is selected, the manual adjustment function is executed. User and controlling the automatic adjustment function to be executed without executing the authentication of When the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information is executed, the control means requires the authentication to execute the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information. The present invention is characterized by the above. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention A manual adjustment function that executes a predetermined adjustment based on an adjustment value received via an operation means. When making adjustments, do so accurately. This is an automatic adjustment function that prints an image on another sheet, transports the other sheet to a reading device, and performs a specified adjustment based on the image read by the reading device. When adjustments are made, the work required by the adjuster can be reduced. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a print control device according to a first embodiment; and FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a software configuration of the print control device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a top screen of a paper management application executed by the print control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart for explaining a process for generating a top screen when a paper management application is started in a print control device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an initialization process of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting management table included in the print control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 shows a paper feed tray screen that is displayed when a paper feed tray button on a top screen is pressed in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Chart for adjusting secondary transfer voltage read by the reading device according to the first embodiment [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a result of reading a chart for adjusting a secondary transfer voltage by a reading device according to the first embodiment; [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an operation screen for a secondary transfer voltage of a paper management application according to the first embodiment; [Figure 13] Flowchart of adjustment processing of paper management application according to the first embodiment [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a manual chart for a secondary transfer voltage in the first embodiment. [Figure 15] Operation screen flow of paper management application in embodiment 1 [Figure 16] Operation screen flow of paper management application in embodiment 1 [Figure 17] Flowchart of adjustment processing of paper management application according to the first embodiment [Figure 18] Flowchart of adjustment processing of paper management application according to the second embodiment [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a manual adjustment screen of a paper management application according to the second embodiment; [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an authentication setting screen of a paper management application according to a third embodiment. [Figure 21]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an authentication setting screen of a paper management application according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention, and not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the present invention.

[0012] <Embodiment 1> FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a printing system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0013] The printing system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 103 and a print control apparatus 102. The printing system 100 is connected to a client computer 101 so as to be able to communicate with the client computer 101. The client computer 101 and the print control apparatus 102 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a local area network (LAN) 110 using an Ethernet cable 109. The print control apparatus 102 and the image forming apparatus 103 are connected to each other via an image video cable 107 and a control cable 108. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 103 is not directly connected to the LAN 110. The image forming apparatus 103 and the client computer 101 communicate with each other via the print control apparatus 102. The image forming apparatus 103 may be connected to the LAN 110. In other words, the image forming apparatus 103 may be directly connected to the client computer 101 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The client computer 101 starts an application to give a print instruction to the printing system 100. The print control apparatus 102 performs image processing in cooperation with the image forming apparatus 103.

[0014] The image forming device 103 is a multifunction device having various functions, and not only processes images sent from the client computer 101 and the print control device 102, but also copies data read by a scanner unit 104 and transmits it to a shared folder. When scanning an image with the scanner unit 104, various instructions are accepted from a user via various keys on an operation panel 105. The operation panel 105 also displays various information such as the scan status via the panel. A paper ejection unit 106 receives paper on which an image has been formed and ejects the received paper.

[0015] The print control device 102 has a controller unit 300 and a display unit 111, and information in the print control device 102 is displayed on the display unit 111. The user operates the operation button unit 112 of the hardware of the print control device 102 to operate the information displayed on the display unit 111. The information displayed on the display unit 111 is used for the purpose of displaying the minimum information required for operating the print control device 102 (power operation and confirmation of IP address). In addition, an external display device 113, a keyboard 114, and a pointing device 115 of the print control device 102 are connected. In the first embodiment, the print system 100 is described assuming that the print control device 102 and the image forming device 103 are separate systems, but the process of the print control device 102 may be included inside the image forming device 103, and the print control device 102 may not be physically located. In addition, the external display device 113 may have a position input device function such as a touch pad and also function as the pointing device 115.

[0016] Paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 (collectively referred to as paper feed units 116) connected to image forming apparatus 103 are devices that store paper to be used for printing, and when a print instruction is received, one paper feed tray is selected, and paper is fed from the selected paper feed tray. Note that the number of paper feed units 116 can be increased or decreased depending on optional configurations connected to image forming apparatus 103.

[0017] The reading device 117 has a built-in sensor that reads the chart printed for various adjustments such as image position (printing position) adjustment, density unevenness correction, and secondary transfer voltage adjustment.

[0018] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the mechanism of the image forming apparatus 103 (paper feed units 116-3 to 116-8 are omitted) according to the embodiment 1. The following description will be given with reference to FIG.

[0019] The print engine 210 includes paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 (116-3 to 116-8 are not shown). Each paper feed unit can store various sheets. The paper feed units 116-1 to 116-8 separate only the topmost sheet from the stored sheets and transport it to the sheet transport path 203. The developing stations 203 to 206 form a toner image using color toners of Y, M, C, and K, respectively. The formed toner image is first primarily transferred to an intermediate transfer belt 207. Then, the intermediate transfer belt 207 rotates clockwise in FIG. 2, and the toner image is transferred by a secondary transfer roller 208 to a sheet transported from the sheet transport path 202. The fixing unit 211 includes a pressure roller and a heating roller, and fixes the toner image to the sheet by passing the sheet between the rollers to melt and press the toner. The sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 211 is conveyed to a sheet conveying path 215 via a sheet conveying path 212. If the sheet type requires further melting and pressure bonding for fixing, the sheet passes through the fixing unit 211 and is then conveyed to a second fixing unit 213 via a sheet conveying path 214. The sheet that has been subjected to additional melting and pressure bonding in the second fixing unit 213 is conveyed to the sheet conveying path 215. Here, if the print mode is set to double-sided printing, the sheet is conveyed to a sheet reversing path 216, where it is reversed and then conveyed to a double-sided conveying path 217. Then, the image on the second side is transferred to a secondary transfer roller 208.

[0020] The sheet conveyed from the print engine 210 is conveyed to the reading device 117. A first CIS (Contact Image Sensor) 221 and a second CIS 222 are arranged vertically in the reading device 117. Although a CIS is used in this embodiment, the present invention is not limited to a CIS as long as the CIS has a mechanism capable of reading patches and markers on the sheet. The first CIS reads the upper surface of the sheet, and the second CIS reads the lower surface of the sheet. When the sheet conveyed to the sheet conveying path 223 reaches a predetermined position, the reading device 117 reads the patches on the sheet using the first CIS 221 and the second CIS 222. Then, the reading results according to the patches and markers are fed back to the print engine 210 as image position information, density information, and the like. The handling of the reading results will be described later. The reading device 117 is an optional device and is configured to be detachable from the print engine 210. FIG. 2A shows a system having the reading device 117, and FIG. 2B shows a system not having the reading device 117.

[0021] The finisher 231 performs finishing processes such as stapling (one-place / two-place binding), punching (two-hole / three-hole), and saddle stitching on the conveyed sheets. The finisher 231 has two trays 106. Sheets are discharged to the respective trays via sheet conveyance paths 232 and 233. The finisher 231 is configured to be detachable from the print engine 210 or the reading device 117.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 103 according to the first embodiment.

[0023] The controller 300 includes a CPU 301, which loads a control program stored in a ROM 303 or an external storage device 311 into a RAM 302, executes the loaded program, and generally controls various devices connected to a system bus 304. The CPU 301 also outputs an image signal as output information to a print unit (printer engine) 210 connected via a print interface 307, and receives an image signal input from a scanner unit 104 connected via a read interface 312. The CPU 301 also controls a paper feed unit 116 connected to the print engine 210 via the print interface 307, and acquires the status of the paper feed unit 116. The CPU 301 is also capable of communication processing with the print control device 102 via a LAN controller 306 and a control cable 108. The RAM 302 mainly functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like for the CPU 301. Access to an external storage device 311 such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or an IC card is controlled by a disk controller (DKC) 308. The hard disk is used as a job storage area for storing application programs, font data, form data, etc., temporarily spooling print jobs, and controlling the spooled jobs from the outside. Furthermore, the hard disk is used as a BOX data storage area for storing image data input from the scanner unit 104 and image data of print jobs as BOX data, and for referencing from a network or for printing. In the first embodiment, an HDD is used as the external storage device 311, and various logs such as a job log and an image log are stored. The operation panel 105 is connected to the controller 300 via an operation panel interface 305, and a user can input various information from a software key or a hardware key. The non-volatile memory 309 stores various setting information set from a terminal via the operation panel 105 or the network 110. The video interface 314 receives image data from the print control device 102.The CPU 301 also acquires patch and density information read by the reading device 117 connected via a reading device interface 315 and a communication interface 321 of the reading device 117. The reading device 117 has a CPU 322, a ROM 323, a RAM 324, and an image capturing unit 325 connected to a system bus 326, and controls the reading of patches and markers and sends the read patch and density information to the print engine.

[0024] FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the print control apparatus 102 according to the first embodiment.

[0025] The controller 400 has a CPU 401, which loads a control program stored in a ROM 403 or an external storage device 409 into a RAM 402. By executing the loaded program, the controller 400 controls various devices connected to a system bus 404 in an integrated manner. The CPU 401 can communicate with the image forming apparatus 103 via a LAN controller 406 and a control cable 108. The CPU 401 can also perform communication processing with the client computer 101 and the image forming apparatus 103 on the network via a LAN controller 407 and a LAN 110. The RAM 402 mainly functions as a main memory, a work area, etc. of the CPU 401. Access to the external storage device 409, such as a hard disk (HDD) or an IC card, is controlled by a disk controller (DKC) 408. The hard disk stores application programs, font data, form data, etc., and temporarily spools print jobs. It is used as a job storage area for RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing of the spooled jobs and storing them again. An operation unit interface 405 controls an interface between the operation button unit 112 through which the user inputs various information, and the display unit 111 that presents information to the user, and the controller 400. A video interface 410 transmits RIP-processed image data to the image forming apparatus 103. A keyboard controller (KBC) 411 performs processing related to input of information from the keyboard 114 and pointing device 115. A display control unit 412 has an internal video memory, and draws in the video memory according to instructions from the CPU 401, and outputs the image data drawn in the video memory to the display device 113 as a video signal.

[0026] Fig. 4B is a block diagram for explaining the software configuration of the print control device 102 according to the embodiment 1. Note that the functions of the respective units shown in Fig. 4B are achieved by the CPU 401 executing a program loaded in the RAM 402.

[0027] System software 451 that controls the print control device 102 includes a UI control unit 452, a paper management unit 453, a paper feed tray management unit 454, a network control unit 455, a job management unit 456, and a setting management unit 457. The UI control unit 452 controls the screens displayed in the print system. The UI control unit 452 can control the switching of the display of the text displayed on the screen and the display unit system of paper size according to the system settings. The paper management unit 453 communicates with the image forming device 103, and manages the acquired paper information in a paper setting management table 800 in FIG. 8.

[0028] The network control unit 455 controls communication with the image forming apparatus 103 via the LAN controller 406, and with the client computer 101 on the network 110 via the LAN controller 407. The job management unit 456 manages the print processing sequence and the order of jobs. The job management unit 456 manages jobs received by the print control apparatus 102, and controls data transfer to print the received jobs to the image forming apparatus 103 via the LAN controller 406 or the video interface 410. The setting management unit 457 manages system settings related to the paper management system. System settings include, for example, language settings for text displayed on the screen of the paper management system, and unit system settings (millimeters or inches) for displaying paper sizes.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a top screen 500 of a paper management application executed by the print control apparatus 102 according to the first embodiment.

[0030] The top screen 500 shows an example of a screen displaying information about the paper feed tray of the image forming apparatus 103 connected to the print control apparatus 102. The top screen 500 renders an image in its video memory in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 401, and the image data rendered in the video memory is output to the display device 113 as a video signal and displayed.

[0031] When the paper management application is started, it acquires the device configuration information of the image forming apparatus 103 and displays the correct image according to this option information. FIG. 5 shows a state in which eight paper feed trays are connected. 510 to 517 are paper feed tray buttons corresponding to each paper feed tray. Paper feed unit open buttons 520 to 527 are buttons that instruct the paper feed tray to be opened. That is, when a paper feed tray is closed and the paper feed unit open button is pressed, the paper feed tray is opened. The paper management application creates and displays these paper feed tray buttons based on the paper feed tray information of the image forming apparatus 103 acquired when the application is started. The paper feed tray button has an area for displaying information such as the paper name set in the paper feed tray and the amount of remaining paper. When the state of the paper feed tray is changed in the image forming apparatus 103 and the controller 400 receives a paper feed tray state change event from the image forming apparatus 103, the controller 400 reacquires the paper feed tray information. The controller 400 then redraws the display area of ​​the paper feed tray button according to the acquired paper feed tray information.

[0032] The paper list button 501 is a button for issuing an instruction to display the paper list screen 530. In the first embodiment, when the paper list button 501 is pressed, the controller 400 displays the paper list screen 530 in the foreground.

[0033] The setting button 502 is a button for instructing to display a screen for changing the system settings of the paper management application. When the setting button 502 is pressed, the controller 400 displays the current system settings in accordance with the system settings saved in the external storage device 409.

[0034] 6 is a flowchart explaining the process of creating a top screen 500 when a paper management application is started on the print control device 102 according to the first embodiment. Note that although the paper management application according to the first embodiment is described as running on the print control device 102, this is not limited thereto, and it can also run on the client computer 101, for example. Here, an example in which the print control device 102 executes the application will be explained. Note that the process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 401 loading a program stored in the ROM 403 into the RAM 402 and executing it.

[0035] This flowchart begins when the print control device 102 is started.

[0036] First, in S601, the CPU 401 determines the model of the connected image forming device 103 that is the target of paper management. Here, the CPU 401 determines the model of the image forming device 103, and uses the determination result when creating the device configuration screen of the top screen 500 or when absorbing the specification difference between models. At this time, the CPU 401 communicates with the image forming device 103, and acquires model information from information returned from the image forming device 103 in S707 of FIG. 7, which will be described later. Furthermore, the CPU 401 determines the model of the image forming device 103 based on model determination information previously stored. In this way, when the model of the connected image forming device 103 is determined, the process proceeds to S602. In S602, the CPU 401 communicates with the image forming device 103, and acquires information on the device configuration of the image forming device 103 from information returned in S709 of FIG. 7. Then, the device configuration connected to the image forming device 103 is determined. Furthermore, the CPU 401 uses the determination result when creating the device configuration screen of the top screen 500, when specifying information on the paper feed tray, and when absorbing the specification differences between models.

[0037] Next, the process proceeds to S603, and the CPU 401 acquires from the image forming apparatus 103, sheet feed tray information of the image forming apparatus 103. This sheet feed tray information includes the configuration of the sheet feed trays, such as the sheet feed tray, manual feed tray, and long sheet tray, and information on the paper set in each sheet feed tray. Furthermore, the CPU 401 identifies the sheet feed trays connected to the image forming apparatus 103 that is the target of sheet management, and specifies the number of connected sheet feed trays. Then, the process proceeds to S604, and the CPU 401 communicates with the image forming apparatus 103, and acquires, from the information returned in S711 of FIG. 7, sheet information set in each sheet feed tray and information on whether the corresponding sheet feed tray can be automatically pulled out by pressing the sheet feed tray open buttons 520 to 527. Then, the process proceeds to S605, and the CPU 401 creates information on the sheet feed tray buttons 510 to 517 to be displayed on the top screen 500. When creating button information, in the case of a paper feed tray that can be automatically pulled out by pressing a paper feed tray open button, paper feed tray open buttons 520-527 are created and displayed on the paper feed tray buttons 510-517.

[0038] Next, the process proceeds to S606, where the CPU 401 communicates with the image forming apparatus 103 and acquires the paper list information returned from the image forming apparatus 103 in S713 of FIG. 7. Next, the process proceeds to S607, where the CPU 401 creates information for the paper list screen 530 to be displayed on the top screen 500. Each piece of paper information on the paper list screen 530 also includes information on whether or not paper can be set for each paper feed tray of the image forming apparatus 103. Next, the process proceeds to S608, where the CPU 401 communicates with the image forming apparatus 103 to acquire the adjustment value for each adjustment from the information returned in S715 of FIG. 7 in order to use the adjustment value information display on the paper list screen 530. Then, the process proceeds to S609, where the CPU 401 creates a character string to be displayed in the paper information based on the adjustment value acquired in S608. Here, if the adjustment value has been changed from the default value, "no adjustment" is displayed, and if the adjustment value has been changed from the default value, "adjusted" is displayed. The process then proceeds to S610, where the CPU 401 creates the top screen 500 based on the model and configuration information of the image forming apparatus 103 acquired in S601 and S602, the paper feed stage button information created in S605, the paper list information created in S607, and the adjustment value information created in S609. The process then proceeds to S611, where the CPU 401 registers in the print control apparatus 102 the destination of a change notification event process that notifies the image forming apparatus 103 when the paper feed stage information and paper information of the image forming apparatus 103 have been changed. If the registration is successful in this way, a wait process for a change notification event is performed. Once the wait process for the change notification event has been performed, the startup process ends.

[0039] 6 has been described as the operation when the paper management application is started. However, the paper feed tray information, paper list information, adjustment values, etc. of the image forming apparatus 103 may change at any time while the paper management application is in use. Therefore, communication with the paper management application and the image forming apparatus 103, and the associated updates of each piece of information are executed as necessary, regardless of whether the operation is performed by the paper management application or the image forming apparatus 103. It is assumed that information is synchronized between the paper management application and the image forming apparatus 103.

[0040] 7 is a flowchart for explaining the initialization process of the image forming apparatus 103 according to the embodiment 1. The process shown in this flowchart is achieved by the CPU 301 reading a program stored in the ROM 303 into the RAM 302 and executing the program.

[0041] First, in S701, the CPU 301 acquires model information of the image forming apparatus 103 from the external storage device 311 and creates it as returnable data. Then, the process proceeds to S702, where the CPU 301 acquires device configuration information connected to the image forming apparatus 103 from the external storage device 311 and creates it as returnable data. Next, the process proceeds to S703, where the CPU 301 acquires paper feed stage information of the image forming apparatus 103 from the external storage device 311 and creates it as returnable data. Next, the process proceeds to S704, where the CPU 301 acquires paper list information of the image forming apparatus 103 from the external storage device 311 and creates it as returnable data. Next, the process proceeds to S705, where the CPU 301 acquires adjustment value information of the image forming apparatus 103 from the external storage device 311 and creates it as returnable data. This acquisition of adjustment value information is performed for all items that can be adjusted in the image forming apparatus 103.

[0042] Next, the process proceeds to S706, where the CPU 301 determines whether an inquiry about model information has been received from the print control device 102, and if an inquiry about model information has been received in S601 of Fig. 6, the process proceeds to S707, where the model information created in S701 is returned to the print control device 102, and the process proceeds to S708. Note that if an inquiry about model information has not been received in S706, the process also transitions to S708.

[0043] In S708, the CPU 301 determines whether an inquiry for device configuration information has been received from the print control device 102, and proceeds to S709 if an inquiry for device configuration information has been received in S602 of Fig. 6. In S709, the CPU 301 returns the device configuration information created in S702 to the print control device 102 and proceeds to S710. On the other hand, if an inquiry for device configuration information has not been received in S708, the CPU 301 also proceeds to S710.

[0044] In S710, the CPU 301 determines whether or not an inquiry about paper feed stage information has been received from the print control device 102. If an inquiry about paper feed stage information has been received in S603 and S604 in Fig. 6, the process proceeds to S711, where the paper feed stage information created in S703 is returned to the print control device 102, and the process transitions to S712. Note that if an inquiry about paper feed stage information has not been received in S710, the process also proceeds to S712.

[0045] In S712, the CPU 301 determines whether an inquiry for paper list information has been received from the print control device 102, and proceeds to S713 if an inquiry for paper list information has been received in S606 of Fig. 6. In S713, the CPU 301 returns the paper list information created in S704 to the print control device 102, and proceeds to S714. Also, if an inquiry for paper list information has not been received in S712, the CPU 301 proceeds to S714.

[0046] In S714, the CPU 301 determines whether or not an inquiry for adjustment value information has been received from the print control device 102. If an inquiry for adjustment value information has been received in S608 of FIG. 6, the process proceeds to S715, where the adjustment value information is returned to the print control device 102, and the process proceeds to S716. If an inquiry for paper feed stage information has not been received in S714, the process proceeds to S716. In S716, the CPU 301 determines whether or not a request for registration of destination information for sending an event has been received from the print control device 102 when the state of the image forming device 103 is changed. If so, the process proceeds to S717, where the CPU 301 adds the print control device 102 to the destination of the event, and the process proceeds to S718. On the other hand, if a request for registration of the destination of the event has not been received in S716, the process also proceeds to S718. In S718, if the processes of S706, S708, S710, S712, S714, and S716 have all been successful, the CPU 301 ends the initialization process. On the other hand, if all of them have not been successful, the process proceeds to S706.

[0047] Incidentally, the sheet feed stage 116 in the first embodiment is an example of a sheet feed stage, and may be a sheet feed stage of another mechanism such as an inserter or a manual feed tray, and the form is not limited thereto.

[0048] Returning to FIG. 5 for the explanation, for example, when the paper feed stage button 510 for paper feed stage 1 is pointed to with the pointing device 115 or the like, a paper setting screen for paper feed stage 1 is displayed, and it becomes possible to set the paper for paper feed stage 1 and change the paper setting value that has been set. The paper feed stage buttons 511 to 517 are the same as the paper feed stage button 510, and therefore their explanation is omitted. Although not described in detail in the embodiment, it goes without saying that the paper feed stages include all paper feed stages such as the inserter and manual feed tray. In the following explanation, the pointing device 115 or the like is used when operating an application such as pressing a button, but such explanation is omitted.

[0049] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting management table 800 that the print control apparatus 102 according to the first embodiment has.

[0050] In this paper setting management table 800, the name of the paper, size information such as basis weight, size, width, height, etc., surface properties, and setting values ​​of multiple adjustment items are registered in association with a paper ID that identifies the paper. The setting values ​​of the adjustment items include, for example, paper transport in the first fixing unit, paper transport in the second fixing unit, transfer voltage, image position adjustment, and secondary transfer voltage.

[0051] The paper management unit 453 can edit, add, delete, and search for paper information in the paper setting management table 800. The paper setting management table 800 is a management table for managing paper information for each paper ID, and is stored in the external storage device 409, which is a non-volatile area. Although it is described as being stored in the external storage device 409, it may be stored on the external storage device 310 side of the image forming apparatus 103, and the print control device 102 may obtain the paper setting management table 800 from the image forming apparatus 103 and store it in the RAM 402 during program execution. The paper feed stage management unit 454 communicates with the image forming apparatus 103 and manages the obtained paper feed stage information.

[0052] FIG. 9 shows a paper feed stage screen that is displayed when one of the paper feed stage buttons 510 to 517 on the top screen 500 is pressed in the first embodiment.

[0053] The paper feed tray screen 900 is rendered in the video memory in accordance with instructions from the CPU 401, and the image data rendered in the video memory is output as a video signal to the display device 111 for display. The paper feed tray screen 900 includes a paper list display area 901, a paper information display area 902, a button 903 for displaying a setting screen for paper information other than 902, an OK button 904, and a cancel button 905. In addition, a pull-down menu 906 for selecting a method for displaying the paper list, and a paper search input area 907 are included.

[0054] The paper list display area 901 is an area that displays a paper list. Here, paper types are displayed in the column direction, and paper information such as paper attributes are displayed in the row direction. The paper being selected here is displayed in inverted color so that it is clear that it is selected. When the paper feed tray screen 900 is displayed, the paper set in the paper feed tray is selected on the paper list display area 901. When a paper is selected from the paper list display area 901, information on the selected paper is displayed in the paper information display area 902. Here, when a different paper is selected in the paper list display area 901 and an OK button 904 is pressed, the controller 400 sets the paper for the image forming apparatus 103. Also, when a different paper is selected in the paper list display area 901 and a cancel button 905 is pressed, the controller 400 closes the paper setting screen 900 without setting the paper for the image forming apparatus 103.

[0055] Next, each item in the paper information display area 902 will be described. In order to improve user convenience, in the first embodiment, as an example, only paper information that the user frequently uses is displayed. This user is an adjuster who performs adjustments. Specifically, the name of the paper and various adjustment items (image position adjustment, secondary transfer voltage adjustment, curl correction amount, glossiness / black quality adjustment, trailing edge whiteout correction, saddle stitch setting, and paper fan air volume adjustment) are displayed. In the paper information display area 902, the currently selected paper name and whether or not various adjustment values ​​have been changed from the initial values ​​of the image forming device 103 are displayed. If they have not been changed, "no adjustment" is displayed, and if they have been changed, "adjusted" is displayed. An adjustment button is displayed for an item that can be adjusted from the print control device 102, and an adjustment screen corresponding to the adjustment button can be displayed by pressing the adjustment button. For the secondary transfer voltage adjustment described later, an adjustment screen can be displayed by pressing the secondary transfer adjustment button 908 in the paper information display area 902.

[0056] A detailed adjustment button 903 is pressed when checking information not displayed in the paper information display area 802 and changing the settings.

[0057] A pull-down menu 906 for selecting the method for displaying the paper list displays options for filtering and displaying the papers displayed in the paper list display area 901 .

[0058] The paper search input area 907 is an area for the operator to input keywords for searching for a desired paper from the papers in the paper list display area 901. The search input area 907 allows incremental search, and a search is automatically performed each time a character is input.

[0059] Next, the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage in this embodiment will be described. Depending on the type of sheet used by the user, if the moisture content or resistance value of the paper is significantly different from that of standard paper, the default secondary transfer voltage may not be able to perform optimal transfer. To explain in more detail, the secondary transfer voltage must first be applied with a secondary transfer voltage necessary to transfer the toner on the intermediate transfer body. Then, the secondary transfer voltage is set to a voltage that does not cause abnormal discharge when the secondary transfer voltage is further increased. Depending on the state of the user's paper, the resistance is high at the default setting, so the voltage required to transfer the toner is insufficient, and the secondary transfer voltage must be increased. Also, there are some papers for which the secondary transfer voltage must be lowered because the moisture content of the paper has decreased and discharge is likely to occur, so that the default setting will cause a deterioration in image quality due to abnormal discharge. Therefore, it is necessary to select the optimal secondary transfer voltage by changing and outputting the secondary transfer voltage. In this embodiment, the secondary transfer voltage is adjusted by reading the charts such as those shown in Figures 10(A) and (B) with the reading device 117 and adjusting the voltage so that the transfer efficiency falls within the specified range. In the chart of FIG. 10, a blue solid 1001 and a black solid 1002 are printed while changing the secondary transfer voltage applied to the secondary transfer roller 208 when the print engine 210 prints by executing automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage, which will be described later. FIG. 10(A) is a chart (here called a coarse adjustment chart) printed while changing the secondary transfer voltage evenly over the entire adjustable range of the secondary transfer voltage (here, from 1750V to 3250V in increments of 150V). The coarse adjustment chart is used to roughly adjust the secondary transfer voltage, and is used, for example, before using paper that has not yet been adjusted. FIG. 10(B) is a chart (here called a fine adjustment chart) printed with a blue solid 1003 and a black solid 1004 while changing the secondary transfer voltage in fine steps (here, from 2500V to 3000V in increments of 50V) near a certain secondary transfer voltage. The fine adjustment chart is used when finely adjusting the secondary transfer voltage after adjustment with the coarse adjustment chart, or when re-adjusting an adjusted paper due to the passage of time, etc.The reading device 117 reads these charts with the photographing unit 325 in response to an instruction from the CPU 322, stores the read result in the RAM 324, and notifies the CPU 301 via the communication interface 321 and the reading device interface 315. The CPU 301 stores the read result in the RAM 302 and judges whether the blue solid and the black solid are both within the regulation. FIG. 11 illustrates the read result. In this example, the blue solid transfer efficiency of 90% or more and the black rank of 8 or more are OK. In this figure, both conditions are met and printed with a secondary transfer voltage of 2650V to 2800V. The CPU 301 stores the lowest voltage among them as an adjustment value in the external storage device 311 as the secondary transfer voltage for the corresponding paper. In this embodiment, the lowest voltage among those that meet the conditions is stored, but for example, the one with the best conditions may be adopted. In addition, the secondary transfer voltage is stored only for the front side in the case of one-sided printing, and for the front side and back side in the case of double-sided printing. In the case of double-sided printing, the blue and black are printed in a position that does not overlap on the front and back to avoid affecting reading.

[0060] FIG. 12 shows an example of the secondary transfer voltage adjustment screen of the paper management application after the secondary transfer adjustment button 908 is pressed.

[0061] Fig. 13 is a flowchart relating to the adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage in embodiment 1. The flowchart of controller 400 in Fig. 13 is performed by CPU 401 reading a program stored in ROM 403 into RAM 402 and executing it. The flowchart of controller 300 in Fig. 13 is performed by CPU 301 reading a program stored in ROM 303 into RAM 302 and executing it. In addition, processing involving communication between controller 400 and controller 300 is performed by CPU 401 and CPU 301 via LAN controller 306, control cable 108, and LAN controller 406.

[0062] First, in S1301, the CPU 401 determines whether the result of determining the device configuration connected to the image forming apparatus 103 in S502 described above includes the reading device 117. If it is determined that the image forming apparatus 103 has the reading device 117, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1302, and if the image forming apparatus 103 does not have the reading device 117, the process advances to S1311.

[0063] In S1302, the CPU 401 displays on the display device 113 an automatic adjustment screen for performing adjustment using the automatic adjustment function shown in Fig. 12A, and proceeds to S1303. The automatic adjustment screen in Fig. 12A has a chart selection area 1201 for selecting whether to use the coarse adjustment chart or the fine adjustment chart for adjustment, and a print side selection area 1202 for selecting whether to adjust only the front side or both sides. There is an execute button 1203 for automatically adjusting the secondary transfer voltage, and a cancel button 1204 for canceling the adjustment and returning to the paper feed stage screen 900.

[0064] In S1303, the CPU 401 determines whether the execute button 1203 has been pressed, and if the execute button 1203 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S1304. In S1304, the CPU 401 stores in the RAM 402 the current adjustment value of the secondary transfer voltage.

[0065] In S1305, the CPU 401 issues an instruction to the controller 300 to execute automatic adjustment together with the settings selected by the radio buttons 1201 and 1202 in Fig. 15. Having received the instruction to execute automatic adjustment in S1351, the CPU 301 of the controller 300 executes automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage in S1352. The result of the automatic adjustment, including the adjustment value after adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage is completed, is stored in the external storage device 311.

[0066] In S1353, the CPU 401 notifies the paper management application of the completion of adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage, and upon receiving the notification of the completion of adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage in S1306, the CPU 401 requests the controller 300 for the adjusted value in S1307.

[0067] The CPU 301 of the controller 300, which has received the request for the adjusted value in S1354, notifies the CPU 401 of the adjusted value of the secondary transfer voltage after adjustment, which is stored in the external storage device 311 in S1355. The CPU 401, which has received the adjusted value of the secondary transfer voltage after adjustment in S1308, displays the execution result of the secondary transfer voltage shown in FIG. 12B on the front side 113 in S1309. An area 1211 is a display area of ​​the values ​​before and after adjustment, and here, it is shown that the front side has been adjusted from 0 to +2, and the back side has been adjusted from 0 to +1. In S1310, the CPU 401 determines whether the manual adjustment button 1212 or the OK button 1213 in FIG. 12B has been pressed. If it is determined in S1310 that the manual adjustment button 1212 has been pressed, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1311, and if the OK button 1213 has been pressed, the CPU 401 ends the process. Next, in S1311, the CPU 401 executes authentication processing. Details of the authentication processing will be described later with reference to FIG. 17. Then, the process proceeds to S1312, where it is determined whether the authentication is successful. If the authentication is successful, the process proceeds to S1313, where the CPU 401 displays the manual adjustment screen for the secondary transfer voltage shown in FIG. 12C on the display device 113. On the other hand, if it is determined in S1312 that the authentication is unsuccessful, the CPU 401 ends the process without displaying the manual adjustment screen for the secondary transfer voltage shown in FIG. 12C. The manual adjustment screen for the secondary transfer voltage shown in FIG. 12C is a screen for performing adjustment by the manual adjustment function. The manual adjustment screen for the secondary transfer voltage includes an output button 1221 for a manual adjustment chart, an adjustment value input area 1222 for inputting an adjustment value, an OK button 1223, and a cancel button 1223. The adjustment value input area 1222 displays the result after the automatic adjustment received by the CPU 401 in S1308. When the output button 1221 for the manual adjustment chart is pressed, a setting screen for the manual adjustment chart is displayed as shown in Fig. 12(D). The setting screen for the manual adjustment chart has a chart selection area 1231 for selecting whether to use the coarse adjustment chart or the fine adjustment chart for adjustment, as in the automatic adjustment, and a print side selection area 1232 for selecting whether to adjust the front side only or both sides. 1233 is a paper feed location selection area for the chart, but since this is an example in which paper is selected from the paper feed stage buttons 510 to 517, the selected paper feed stage is displayed.The print button 1234 is a button for issuing an instruction to print a chart for manual use to the controller 300. The cancel button 1235 is a button for closing the screen of FIG. 12(D) and returning to the screen of FIG. 12(C). In S1314, the CPU 401 judges whether the print button 1234 has been pressed, and if it is judged that the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S1315. If the button has not been pressed, that is, if fine adjustment is to be performed without chart output, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1316. In S1315, the CPU 401 instructs the controller 300 to output a chart for manual use. Here, the information of 1231, 1232, and 1233 is also notified as chart settings. In S1356, the CPU 301 of the controller 300 judges whether an instruction to output a chart for manual use has been received. If it is judged that an instruction to output a chart for manual use has been received, the CPU 301 outputs the chart for manual use in S1357. FIG. 14(A) is an example of a manual chart for coarse adjustment, and FIG. 14(B) is an example of a manual chart for fine adjustment. These charts have the same pattern, but are different in that adjustment values ​​are printed in 1401 and 1402 to make it easier for the user to determine the adjustment values. These adjustment values ​​are displayed in voltage steps. If an instruction to output a manual chart is not received in S1356, CPU 301 advances the process to S1358. S1356 to 1358 mean that manual adjustment is accepted even if an instruction to output a manual chart is not received.

[0068] The explanation of S1316 on the controller 400 side will be moved on. In S1316, the CPU 401 judges whether or not an instruction to execute manual adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage has been given. That is, it judges whether or not the OK button 1223 in FIG. 12C has been pressed. If the OK button 1223 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S1317, and if the OK button 1223 has not been pressed and the cancel button 1223 has been pressed instead, the CPU 401 ends the process. In S1317, the value of the adjustment value input area 1222 is notified to the controller 300. In S1358, the controller 300 receives the value of the adjustment value input area 1222, and stores the received value in the external storage device 311. Note that instead of the manual adjustment button 1212 on the screen in FIG. 12B, the manual adjustment screen itself in FIG. 12C may be displayed.

[0069] Fig. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the authentication process in S1311 of Fig. 13 according to embodiment 1. The flowchart of the controller 400 in Fig. 17 is performed by the CPU 401 reading a program stored in the ROM 403 into the RAM 402 and executing it.

[0070] First, in S1701, the CPU 401 displays the login screen (authentication screen) 1620 in FIG. 16 on the display device 113, prompts for user authentication, and proceeds to S1702.

[0071] In S1702, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the login button 1623 has been pressed on the login screen 1620. If it is determined that the login button 1623 has been pressed on the login screen 1620, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1703. The CPU 401 transmits information on the ID (system administrator ID) and password entered on the login screen 1620 to the image forming apparatus 103. On the other hand, if it is determined that the cancel button 1624 has been pressed on the login screen 1620, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1706. Then, the CPU 401 notifies the upper layer that the authentication has been cancelled, and ends the process.

[0072] The CPU 301 of the image forming device 103 determines whether the transferred system administrator ID and PIN match the authentication information stored in the external storage device 211, and if the authentication information matches, notifies the print control device 102 that the authentication was successful.

[0073] Thus, in S1704, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the user has been successfully authenticated based on the authentication result notified from the image forming apparatus 103. If it is determined that the authentication has been successful, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1705, and if it is determined that the authentication has failed, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1701. Thus, the login screen 1620 continues to be displayed until the authentication is successful on the login screen 1620 or the cancel button 1624 is pressed, and the user is prompted to re-enter the ID and PIN. Then, the process advances to S1705, where the upper layer is notified that the user has been successfully authenticated, and the CPU 401 ends the process.

[0074] As described above, according to the first embodiment, if the reading device 117 is attached when the secondary transfer voltage is adjusted, automatic adjustment is performed by the reading device without authentication, allowing even an operator with low skill to perform the adjustment. On the other hand, if the reading device 117 is not attached, authentication is performed before the operator performs manual adjustment, and it is possible to prevent the input of an erroneous adjustment value by confirming that the operator is an authenticated user skilled in manual adjustment.

[0075] <Embodiment 2> In the first embodiment, a case has been described in which the automatic adjustment screen is always displayed when the reading device 117 is attached. In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the display of the automatic adjustment screen is prohibited under certain conditions even if the reading device 117 is attached.

[0076] For example, in the case of paper with a special coating, the adjustment value calculated during automatic adjustment of the secondary transfer voltage may be 0 due to the combination of the sensor performance of the reading device 117 and the characteristics of the paper. In such a case, a specially trained operator performs manual adjustment. It is undesirable for an operator who has not received special training to then perform automatic adjustment and overwrite the adjustment value with 0.

[0077] Fig. 19 is an example of a manual adjustment screen for the secondary transfer voltage. It is almost the same as Fig. 12(C), but Fig. 19 adds a check box 1901 for checking whether to prohibit automatic adjustment. When an operator who has passed authentication checks the adjustment prohibition check box before performing manual adjustment and then presses the OK button 1223, subsequent automatic adjustments are prohibited. To cancel the prohibition on automatic adjustments, the operator simply unchecks the check box.

[0078] Fig. 18 is a process flowchart of the paper management application executed by the controller 400 in the embodiment 2. The flowchart of the controller 400 in Fig. 18 is executed by the CPU 401 reading a program stored in the ROM 403 into the RAM 402 and executing it.

[0079] First, in S1801, as a result of determining the device configuration connected to the image forming apparatus 103 in S502 described above, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the image forming apparatus 103 has the reading device 117. If it is determined that the image forming apparatus 103 has the reading device 117, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1802, and if it is determined that the image forming apparatus 103 does not have the reading device 117, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1806.

[0080] Next, in S1802, the CPU 401 refers to an internal setting value reflecting the value of the automatic adjustment prohibition checkbox shown in Fig. 19, and determines whether or not automatic adjustment is prohibited. If it is determined that automatic adjustment is not prohibited, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1803. If it is determined that automatic adjustment is prohibited, the CPU 401 advances the process to S1806.

[0081] The automatic adjustment execution process in S1803 and the process in S1804 are the same as steps S1302 to S1308 in FIG. 13, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0082] In S1804, the CPU 401 causes the display device 113 to display the execution result of the secondary transfer voltage shown in FIG.

[0083] In step S1805, the CPU 401 determines whether the manual adjustment button 1212 in FIG. 12B has been pressed or the OK button 1213 has been pressed.

[0084] If it is determined in S1805 that the OK button 1213 has been pressed, the CPU 401 ends the processing shown in the flowchart of Fig. 18. On the other hand, if it is determined that the manual adjustment button 1212 has been pressed, the CPU 401 advances the processing to S1806.

[0085] The authentication process and the secondary transfer voltage manual adjustment process from steps S1806 to S1813 are the same as steps S1311 to S1317 in FIG. 13, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0086] In S1814, the CPU 401 sets a flag prohibiting execution of automatic adjustment.

[0087] As described above, under certain conditions, it is possible to prohibit automatic adjustment even if the reading device 117 is attached after manual adjustment is performed. This makes it possible to prevent the operator from accidentally overwriting the adjustment value by automatic adjustment after intentionally performing manual adjustment.

[0088] <Embodiment 3> In the first embodiment, authentication was required when making manual adjustments. However, in certain cases, it may be preferable to be able to specify whether or not to require authentication for manual adjustments for each adjustment item or each paper type. In the third embodiment, such an example will be specifically described.

[0089] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a paper adjustment function management table 2000 possessed by the print control device 102 according to the third embodiment. In this paper adjustment function management table 2000, adjustment items are divided into groups, and for each adjustment item, whether automatic adjustment can be performed and whether authentication is required during manual adjustment are managed. Whether each adjustment item can be automatically adjusted is determined by the device's capabilities and the setting of the automatic adjustment prohibition flag shown in FIG. 19. In addition, whether authentication is required during manual adjustment can be arbitrarily switched by the administrator using a setting screen (not shown). In this embodiment, authentication is not required during manual adjustment of leading edge / trailing edge margin adjustment. This is because even an operator with relatively little experience can determine the size of the margin, and it is preferable to improve convenience rather than the trouble of authentication.

[0090] 21 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting management table 2100 possessed by the print control device 102 according to the third embodiment. In addition to the paper setting management table described in FIG. 8, this paper setting management table 2100 allows the user to specify whether or not authentication is required for manual adjustment for each paper ID. In this example, authentication is required for all papers other than fine surface paper. This is because papers other than fine paper are relatively scarce in stock, so it is not easy to reprint if the manual adjustment values ​​are not appropriate, and preventing erroneous operation is more important than convenience.

[0091] As described above, in the third embodiment, by making it possible to specify whether or not to perform authentication during manual adjustment for each adjustment item or paper type, it is possible to prevent operators who are not sufficiently skilled from inputting incorrect setting values ​​while at the same time improving convenience.

[0092] <Other embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 102 Printing control device 103 Image forming device 113 Display device 301 CPU 401 CPU

Claims

1. 1. A printing system comprising: A printing means for printing an image on a sheet of paper; A reception means for receiving an operation by a user; a control means for controlling the printing means to print the image on the paper, the paper to be conveyed to a reading device, and an automatic adjustment function for executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to paper information based on the image read from the paper by the reading device, and a manual adjustment function for executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to paper information based on an adjustment value based on the operation received by the receiving means, the control means performs control so as to execute authentication of a user when the manual adjustment function is selected, and executes the manual adjustment function after the authentication of the user, and performs control so as to execute the automatic adjustment function without executing authentication of the user when the automatic adjustment function is selected; When the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information is executed, the control means requires the authentication in order to execute the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information. A printing system comprising:

2. The printing system described in Claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls to execute the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information if the authentication is successful after the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information has been executed, and does not control to execute the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper if the authentication is not successful.

3. The receiving means receives a setting for whether or not to perform the authentication when the control means controls to execute the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information for each type of paper, When the setting for performing the authentication is not set in association with the paper information, the control unit does not perform the authentication when controlling to execute the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information; When the setting for performing the authentication is set in association with the paper information, the control unit performs the authentication when controlling to execute the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information.

2. The printing system according to claim 1.

4. A printing system as described in claim 1, characterized in that it has a setting means for setting the prohibition of execution of the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information when the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information is executed.

5. The receiving means, when a setting is made by the setting means to prohibit execution of the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information, receives an operation to cancel the setting from the authenticated user, The printing system according to claim 4 , wherein the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information becomes executable when the operation to cancel the setting is accepted by the accepting unit.

6. The printing system described in Claim 5, characterized in that the user is a user who manages the printing system.

7. The receiving means further receives a setting of whether or not to perform the authentication when the control means controls to execute the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information, If the setting is not made, the control unit does not perform the authentication when controlling to execute the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information. When the setting is made, the control means performs the authentication when controlling to execute the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information.

2. The printing system according to claim 1.

8. The printing system according to claim 7, characterized in that the accepting means accepts the setting for each item for which the specified adjustment is performed.

9. The printing system according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined adjustment includes an adjustment of a secondary transfer voltage.

10. 2. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined adjustment includes an adjustment of a print position.

11. 11. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the reading device is provided downstream of the printing means in a sheet transport direction.

12. A program for causing a computer to execute a control method for an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus that prints an image on paper and having a reception unit that receives an operation by a user, the control method comprising: a step of printing the image on the paper, transporting the paper to a reading device, and executing an automatic adjustment function of executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to paper information based on the image read from the paper by the reading device, and a manual adjustment function of executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to the paper information based on an adjustment value based on the operation received by the receiving means, In the step, when the manual adjustment function is selected, authentication of a user is performed, and the manual adjustment function is performed after the authentication of the user, and when the automatic adjustment function is selected, the automatic adjustment function is performed without authenticating the user, When the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information is executed, the step of requiring the authentication to execute the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information. A program characterized by:

13. The program according to claim 12 , wherein the predetermined adjustment includes adjustment of a secondary transfer voltage.

14. 13. The program according to claim 12, wherein the predetermined adjustment includes an adjustment of a print position.

15. 15. The program according to claim 12, wherein the reading device is provided downstream of the printing device in a sheet transport direction.

16. A method for controlling an information processing device capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image on paper and having a reception unit, comprising: a step of printing the image on a sheet of paper, conveying the sheet of paper to a reading device, and executing an automatic adjustment function of executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to the sheet information based on the image read from the sheet of paper by the reading device, and a manual adjustment function of executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to the sheet information based on an adjustment value based on a user's operation accepted by the accepting means, In the step, when the manual adjustment function is selected, authentication of a user is performed, and the manual adjustment function is performed after the authentication of the user, and when the automatic adjustment function is selected, the automatic adjustment function is performed without authenticating the user, When the manual adjustment function corresponding to the paper information is executed, the step of requiring the authentication to execute the automatic adjustment function corresponding to the paper information. A control method comprising:

17. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing device that prints an image on paper, the information processing apparatus having a reception unit that receives an operation by a user, a control means for executing an automatic adjustment function for printing the image on the paper, transporting the paper to a reading device, and executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to paper information based on the image read from the paper by the reading device, and a manual adjustment function for executing a predetermined adjustment corresponding to the paper information based on an adjustment value based on the operation received by the receiving means, the control means performs user authentication when the manual adjustment function is selected, executes the manual adjustment function after the authentication of the user, and executes the automatic adjustment function without performing the authentication of the user when the automatic adjustment function is selected.

Images