Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that displays guidance to solve paper jam more efficiently than before.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprises: an operation unit that receives a user's input operation; a conveying unit that conveys a sheet; an image forming unit that forms an image on the sheet based on image data; a sheet detection unit that detects the state of conveyance of the sheet based on a detection result from a sheet detection sensor on a conveyance path; a display unit that displays various types of information; a storage unit that, when jam occurs during the conveyance of the sheet, stores an image indicating the state of jamming of the sheet and guidance to solve the state of jamming of the sheet; and a control unit. When the jam occurs during the conveyance of the sheet, the control unit causes the display unit to display the images indicating the state of jamming of the sheet in a selectable manner according to a result of detection performed by the sheet detection unit, and when the operation unit receives an image selection operation, causes the display unit to display guidance corresponding to the selected image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus having a guidance display function for resolving paper jams.

Background Art

[0002] In image forming apparatuses such as multifunction printers, there is known a function of displaying on an operation panel guidance for resolving errors such as jams due to paper jams and toner depletion.

[0003] As an invention related to an image forming apparatus having such a guidance display function for resolving jams, conventionally, an invention of a display device that sequentially displays a plurality of jam processing guidance screens corresponding to the locations where jams occur on a control panel has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Also, when an image of a component and a confirmation part corresponding to an error that has occurred is acquired by a camera and it is determined by pattern matching with a reference image taken when no error has occurred that there is a foreign object (jammed paper), an invention of an image forming apparatus that displays an instruction image indicating the foreign object as a guidance image showing a work procedure for resolving the error on a display unit has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In an image forming apparatus having a guidance display function for eliminating conventional jams, the occurrence of a jam is detected by sensors provided at various locations, and a jam processing guidance screen is sequentially displayed based on the on / off states of the sensors.

[0007] However, when a jam occurs at a position where the sensor cannot detect it, appropriate guidance may not be displayed. Also, increasing the number of dedicated sensors or cameras for appropriate guidance display may instead increase costs.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of performing guidance display for eliminating paper jams more efficiently than conventional ones.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] The present invention includes an operation unit that receives a user's input operation, a conveyance unit that conveys paper along a conveyance path, an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper based on the image data when receiving a print command for the image data from the user, a paper detection unit that detects the conveyance state of the paper based on the detection results of paper detection sensors provided at various locations on the conveyance path, a display unit that displays various information to the user, a storage unit that stores a predetermined image indicating the assumed paper jam state and a predetermined guidance for eliminating the paper jam state when a jam occurs in which the paper gets jammed during conveyance of the paper, and a control unit that controls the operation unit, the conveyance unit, the image forming unit, the paper detection unit, the display unit, and the storage unit. When a jam occurs in which the paper gets jammed during conveyance of the paper, the control unit causes the display unit to display an image indicating the predetermined paper jam state selectably to the user according to the detection result of the paper detection unit, and when the operation unit receives a selection operation of the image, causes the display unit to display the guidance for eliminating the paper jam state corresponding to the selected image. An image forming apparatus is provided.

[0010] In the present invention, an "image forming apparatus" is an apparatus that forms and outputs an image, such as a copying machine or a multifunction peripheral having a copying (copying) function like a printer that uses an electrophotographic method for image formation using toner, or an MFP (Multifunctional Peripheral) that also includes functions other than copying. Note that the image forming apparatus of the present invention may be an apparatus that forms an image using a medium other than toner (for example, ink, etc.), and is not limited to the image forming method as long as it has a conveyance unit that conveys paper along a conveyance path.

Advantages of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, when a jam occurs in which the paper gets stuck during paper conveyance, an image indicating a predetermined paper jam situation is displayed on the display unit so that the user can select it according to the detection result of the paper detection unit. Therefore, an image forming apparatus capable of performing guidance display for resolving paper jams more efficiently than before is realized.

[0012] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0013] In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the image indicating the paper jam situation may be an image showing various patterns of paper jams at various locations on the conveyance path when a predetermined cover of the main body is opened.

[0014] In this way, when a jam occurs in which the paper gets stuck during paper conveyance, an image showing various patterns of paper jams at various locations on the conveyance path when the main body cover is actually opened is displayed on the display unit so that the user can select it according to the detection result of the paper detection unit. Therefore, an image forming apparatus capable of performing guidance display for resolving paper jams more efficiently than before can be realized.

[0015] In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, after receiving a print command for image data from a user, when a jam occurs in which the paper gets jammed during paper conveyance, the control unit determines whether the number of printed copies of the image based on the image data is plural. If the number of printed copies of the image is plural, the control unit specifies at which printing the jam occurred and the timing of the jam occurrence, and causes the display unit to display an image indicating the paper jam state determined in advance according to the detection result of the paper detection unit and the timing of the jam occurrence so that the user can select it.

[0016] In this way, when a jam occurs in which the paper gets jammed during paper conveyance, an image indicating the paper jam state determined in advance according to the detection result of the paper detection unit and the timing of the jam occurrence is displayed on the display unit so that the user can select it, thereby realizing an image forming apparatus capable of performing guidance display for resolving paper jams more efficiently than in the prior art.

[0017] In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, after receiving a print command for image data from a user, when a jam occurs in which the paper gets jammed during paper conveyance, the control unit specifies the paper size of the image based on the image data, and causes the display unit to display an image indicating the paper jam state determined in advance according to the detection result of the paper detection unit and the paper size so that the user can select it.

[0018] In this way, when a jam occurs in which the paper gets jammed during paper conveyance, an image indicating the paper jam state determined in advance according to the detection result of the paper detection unit and the paper size is displayed on the display unit so that the user can select it, thereby realizing an image forming apparatus capable of performing guidance display for resolving paper jams more efficiently than in the prior art.

[0019] In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the paper size includes a first paper size and a second paper size larger than the first paper size, the first paper size may include A4 and B5 paper sizes, and the second paper size may include A3 and B4 paper sizes.

[0020] In this way, in consideration of the paper jamming situations assumed when the paper size is the first paper size (A4, B5) and the second paper size (A3, B4), an image indicating the paper jamming situation determined in advance according to the detection result of the paper detection unit and the paper size is displayed on the display unit so that the user can select it. Therefore, it is possible to realize an image forming apparatus that can perform guidance display for resolving paper jams more efficiently than in the prior art.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the following description is illustrative in all respects and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0023] 〔Embodiment 1〕 <Configuration of Digital Multi-Function Peripheral 1> Hereinafter, based on FIGS. 1 to 3, an overview of a digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an example of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0025] The digital multifunction peripheral 1 is a device that has a copying function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function, and digitally processes and outputs image data read from a document.

[0026] The digital multifunction peripheral 1 has a copy (reproduction) function, a print function, and a FAX function as printing modes, and a printing function corresponding to an operation input from the operation panel 108 (FIG. 3) or reception of a print job from an external device such as a personal computer (PC) is selected by the control unit 100 (FIG. 3).

[0027] <Internal Configuration of Digital Multifunction Peripheral 1> Next, based on FIG. 2, the internal configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 will be briefly described. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 of FIG. 1.

[0028] In the digital multifunction peripheral 1, a color image using each of the colors black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y) is printed on printing paper (hereinafter also simply referred to as "paper"). Alternatively, a monochrome image using a single color (for example, black) is printed on the paper.

[0029] Therefore, four each of the developing unit 12, the photosensitive drum 13, the drum cleaning unit 14, and the charger 15 are provided. In order to form four types of toner images corresponding to each color, four image stations Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd are configured, each of which is associated with black, cyan, magenta, and yellow.

[0030] In any of the image stations Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd, the toner image is formed as follows. The drum cleaning unit 14 removes and recovers the residual toner on the surface of the photosensitive drum 13. Thereafter, the charger 15 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 13 to a predetermined potential. Then, the optical scanning unit 11 exposes the uniformly charged surface to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface. Thereafter, the developing unit 12 develops the electrostatic latent image. As a result, toner images of respective colors are formed on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 13.

[0031] Also, the intermediate transfer belt 21 rotates and moves in the direction of arrow C. The belt cleaning unit 22 removes and recovers the residual toner on the rotating and moving intermediate transfer belt 21. The toner images of respective colors on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 13 are sequentially transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 21 and superimposed, and a color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 21.

[0032] The sheet is pulled out from any one of the four paper feed trays 18 in the paper feed unit 20 by the pickup roller 33 and fed to the secondary transfer unit 23 via the paper conveyance path R1. Alternatively, it is fed from the manual feed tray 19 by a pickup roller 33 (not shown) and fed to the secondary transfer unit 23 via the paper conveyance path R1.

[0033] A PS roller 34 for temporarily stopping the sheet and aligning the leading edges of the sheets is disposed in the paper conveyance path R1. Also, a paper feed roller 35 or the like for promoting the paper feed is disposed. After temporarily stopping the sheet, the PS roller 34 conveys the sheet in accordance with the transfer timing of the toner image to the nip area between the intermediate transfer belt 21 and the transfer roller 23a.

[0034] A nip area is formed between the transfer roller 23a of the secondary transfer unit 23 and the intermediate transfer belt 21. When the paper passes through the nip, the color toner image formed on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 21 is transferred to the paper.

[0035] After passing through the nip area, the paper is sandwiched between the heating roller 24 and the pressure roller 25 of the fixing unit 17 and heated and pressurized. By this heating and pressurization, the color toner image is fixed on the paper.

[0036] The paper that has passed through the fixing unit 17 is discharged to the discharge tray 39a or 39b via the discharge roller 36a or 36b.

[0037] The discharge destination of the paper is controlled by the control unit 100 described later, and the conveyance path is switched so that the paper is guided to either the discharge tray 39a or 39b by a switching mechanism (not shown).

[0038] Since the switching mechanism for the paper conveyance path is well-known in the technical field of image forming apparatuses, detailed illustration thereof is omitted.

[0039] Subsequently, based on FIG. 3, the electrical configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 will be described.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 includes a control unit 100, a communication unit 101, an image data acquisition unit 102, an image processing unit 103, a storage unit 104, an image forming unit 105, a conveyance unit 106, a paper detection unit 107, and an operation panel 108.

[0041] Hereinafter, each component of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 will be described.

[0042] The control unit 100 integrally controls the digital multifunction peripheral 1 and includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, various interface circuits, and the like.

[0043] In order to control the operation of the entire digital multi-function device 1, the control unit 100 monitors and controls all loads such as detection by each sensor, motors, clutches, operation panel 108, etc.

[0044] The communication unit 101 is a part that communicates with information processing devices such as external computers and portable information terminals and fax machines via wired or wireless networks, and transmits and receives various data such as emails and faxes to and from these external devices.

[0045] The image data acquisition unit 102 is a part that detects and reads a document placed on the document table or a document conveyed from the document tray, and generates image data. It is also a part that acquires image data generated by an external information processing device (not shown) or a fax machine (not shown), etc.

[0046] The image processing unit 103 is a part that processes the image data generated or acquired by the image data acquisition unit 102 according to a command from the operation unit 1082 so as to be suitable for output such as enlargement and reduction.

[0047] The storage unit 104 is an element or storage medium that stores information necessary to realize various functions of the digital multi-function device 1, control programs, etc. For example, semiconductor elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), storage media such as hard disks, flash memory units, and SSDs are used.

[0048] Note that the program and data may be stored in different devices, such as a data holding area being a hard disk drive and a program holding area being a flash memory unit.

[0049] The image forming unit 105 is a part that prints and outputs the image data generated or acquired by the image data acquisition unit 102 and processed by the image processing unit 103 onto paper.

[0050] The image forming unit 105 includes electrical components related to the optical scanning unit 11, developing unit 12, photoreceptor drum 13, drum cleaning unit 14, and charger 15 in FIG. 2. The image forming unit 105 further includes electrical components related to the intermediate transfer belt 21, fixing unit 17, paper conveyance path R1, paper feeding unit 20, and discharge trays 39a, 39b.

[0051] The conveyance unit 106 is a part that conveys the paper stored in the paper feed tray 18, manual feed tray 19, and document set table in the paper feeding unit 20 to the image forming unit 105, and discharges it from the discharge trays 39a, 39b after printing.

[0052] The paper detection unit 107 consists of a plurality of paper detection sensors provided at predetermined positions on the paper conveyance path, and is a part that detects the paper conveyance status and paper jams.

[0053] The operation panel 108 is a unit equipped with a liquid crystal display (LCD), and includes a display unit 1081 and an operation unit 1082.

[0054] The display unit 1081 is a part that displays various information. The display unit 1081 is composed of, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an EL display, etc., and is a display device such as a monitor or a line display for displaying electronic data such as the processing status of an operating system or application software. The control unit 100 displays the operation and status of the digital multifunction machine 1 through the display unit 1081.

[0055] The operation unit 1082 consists of a touch panel and physical operation keys such as a power key, and is also a part that receives commands from the user.

[0056] <Guidance display process for jam resolution when paper jam occurs in the digital multifunction machine 1> Next, based on FIGS. 4 to 8, guidance display processing for jam resolution when a paper jam occurs in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of guidance display processing for jam resolution when a paper jam occurs in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 of FIG. 1.

[0057] In FIG. 4, assume a case where a jam caused by paper jamming occurs.

[0058] When a jam caused by paper jamming occurs, in step S1, the control unit 100 specifies the conveyance status of the paper detected by the paper detection unit 107 (step S1).

[0059] FIG. 5 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the paper conveyance status of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 of FIG. 1 and the assumed paper jamming status.

[0060] In Embodiment 1, a plurality of paper detection sensors are provided at various locations on the paper conveyance path R1 to detect the paper conveyance status.

[0061] In Embodiment 1, assume that one paper detection sensor is provided between the pickup roller 33 and the paper feed roller 35, one on the paper feed roller 35, one on the PS roller 34, one between the paper feed roller 35 and the PS roller 34, one at the fixing unit 17, and one between the PS roller 34 and the fixing unit 17.

[0062] Based on the detection results of these paper detection sensors, the control unit 100 specifies the paper conveyance status and the assumed paper jamming status assumed from the paper conveyance status.

[0063] (When the paper stays at the fixing unit 17) For example, when the paper detection unit 107 detects the paper at the fixing unit 17, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one paper jammed at the fixing unit 17 as the paper is in a state of staying at the fixing unit 17.

[0064] (When the paper has not reached the fixing unit 17) When the paper detection unit 107 detects a sheet of paper between the PS roller 34 and the fixing unit 17, the control unit 100 determines that the paper is in a state of not reaching the fixing unit 17, and specifies that there is one sheet of paper jam situation assumed in the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0065] (When the paper stays on the PS roller 34) When the paper detection unit 107 detects a sheet of paper with the PS roller 34, the control unit 100 determines that the paper is in a state of staying on the PS roller 34, and assumes that there is one sheet of paper jam situation in the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0066] (When the paper has not reached the PS roller 34) When the paper detection unit 107 detects a sheet of paper between the paper feed roller 35 and the PS roller 34, the control unit 100 determines that the paper is in a state of not reaching the PS roller 34, and assumes that there is one sheet of paper jam situation in the paper feed unit 20.

[0067] (When the paper stays on the paper feed roller 35) When the paper detection unit 107 detects a sheet of paper with the paper feed roller 35, the control unit 100 determines that the paper is in a state of staying on the paper feed roller 35, and assumes that there is one sheet of paper jam situation in the paper feed unit 20.

[0068] (When the paper has not reached the paper feed roller 35) When the paper detection unit 107 detects a sheet of paper between the pickup roller 33 and the paper feed roller 35, the control unit 100 determines that the paper is in a state of not reaching the paper feed roller 35, and assumes that there is one sheet of paper jam situation in the paper feed unit 20.

[0069] Next, in step S2, the control unit 100 causes the display unit 1081 to display a candidate image of the paper jam situation according to the paper conveyance status (step S2).

[0070] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a message for notifying the occurrence of paper jam in the digital multifunction machine 1 of FIG. 1.

[0071] FIG. 6(A) shows an example of a message when there is only one sheet of paper jammed in the fixing unit 17 in the assumed paper jam situation.

[0072] In the example of FIG. 6(A), an image where a paper jam has occurred in the fixing unit 17 is displayed together with the message "A paper jam has occurred. There may be a paper jam at the position of the following image. Selecting the image will start the guidance for removing the paper."

[0073] When the user selects an image, the control unit 100 starts the guidance for removing the paper corresponding to the image.

[0074] FIG. 6(B) shows an example of a message when there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet jammed in the secondary transfer unit 23 in the assumed paper jam situation.

[0075] In the example of FIG. 6(B), images where paper jams have occurred in the fixing unit 17 and the secondary transfer unit 23 respectively are displayed together with the message "A paper jam has occurred. Please open the main body cover and select an image close to the state of the paper inside the machine. Selecting the image will start the guidance for removing the paper."

[0076] The left image in FIG. 6(B) shows an image when two small-sized (e.g., A4 paper, etc.) sheets of paper are jammed in the fixing unit 17 and the secondary transfer unit 23 respectively. On the other hand, the right image in FIG. 6(B) shows an image when one large-sized (e.g., A3 paper, etc.) sheet of paper is jammed from the fixing unit 17 to the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0077] In this case, in order to identify whether two small-sized sheets of paper are jammed or one large-sized sheet of paper is jammed, and which of the assumed paper jam situations it is, the user opens the main body cover and selects an image close to the state of the paper inside the digital multi-function machine 1.

[0078] When the user selects an image, the control unit 100 starts the guidance for removing the paper corresponding to the image.

[0079] Next, in step S3 of FIG. 4, the control unit 100 determines whether the user has selected a candidate image (step S3).

[0080] When the user selects a candidate image (when the determination in step S3 is Yes), in step S4, the control unit 100 causes the display unit 1081 to display guidance for clearing paper jams corresponding to the selected image (step S4).

[0081] Next, in step S5, after the user removes the paper and then the main body cover is closed (step S5), in the subsequent step S6, the control unit 100 determines based on the detection result of the paper detection unit 107 whether all the jammed paper has been removed (step S6).

[0082] When all the jammed paper has been removed (when the determination in step S6 is Yes), the control unit 100 ends the guidance display process for jam resolution and starts a predetermined warm-up operation.

[0083] On the other hand, when not all the jammed paper has been removed (when the determination in step S6 is No), the control unit 100 returns the process to step S2.

[0084] In addition, when paper jams occur at two or more positions, the control unit 100 deletes the image corresponding to the position where the paper has been removed and causes the display unit 1081 to display only the images corresponding to the positions where the paper has not been removed yet.

[0085] In this way, when a jam occurs in which the paper jams during paper conveyance, an image indicating a predetermined paper jam situation is displayed on the display unit 1081 so that the user can select it according to the detection result of the paper detection unit 107, and thus a digital multifunction peripheral 1 that can perform guidance display for clearing paper jams more efficiently than before can be realized.

[0086] 〔Embodiment 2〕 <Guidance Display Processing for Jam Resolution When Paper Jam Occurs in the Digital Multifunction Machine 1 According to Embodiment 2 of the Present Invention> Next, based on FIGS. 7 to 9, guidance display processing for jam resolution when a paper jam occurs in the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described.

[0087] Since the configuration of the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 2 is the same as the configuration of the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 (FIGS. 1 to 3), the description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of guidance display processing for jam resolution when a paper jam occurs in the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0089] Note that since the processes in steps S11 and S14 to S18 in FIG. 7 respectively correspond to the processes in steps S1 to S6 in FIG. 4 (Embodiment 1), the description thereof will be omitted.

[0090] Here, the processes in steps S12 and S13 in FIG. 7, which are not described in Embodiment 1, will be described.

[0091] In step S11 in FIG. 7, after specifying the conveyance status of the paper detected by the paper detection unit 107 (step S11), in step S12, the control unit 100 specifies the content (number of printed sheets) of the job (step S12).

[0092] In the subsequent step S13, the control unit 100 specifies at which printing of the job the jam occurred, that is, the occurrence timing of the jam (step S13).

[0093] In Embodiment 2, it is assumed that a paper detection sensor is provided in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, and the control unit 100 specifies the conveyance status of the paper based on the detection result of the paper detection sensor.

[0094] The difference from Embodiment 1 is that the control unit 100 specifies the assumed paper jam situation by referring not only to the detection result of the paper detection unit 107 but also to the number of printed sheets of the job at the time of jam occurrence and the jam occurrence timing.

[0095] FIG. 8 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the paper conveyance status of the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention and the assumed paper jam situation when the number of printed sheets of the job is plural.

[0096] Note that when the number of printed sheets of the job is only one, it is the same as in Embodiment 1 (FIG. 5), so the description is omitted.

[0097] Hereinafter, the case where the number of printed sheets of the job is plural will be described.

[0098] (When the paper stays in the fixing unit 17) In the example of FIG. 8, when the paper detection unit 107 detects the paper at the fixing unit 17, the control unit 100 specifies the jam occurrence timing of the job assuming that the paper is in a state of staying at the fixing unit 17.

[0099] When a jam occurs during the job from the first sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20 in the assumed paper jam situation.

[0100] Note that the assumed paper jam situation may be appropriately changed according to the paper conveyance speed of the digital multifunction machine 1.

[0101] Also, when a jam occurs during the printing of the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet in the fixing unit 17 in the assumed paper jam situation.

[0102] (When the paper has not reached the fixing unit 17) When a jam occurs during the job from the first sheet to the middle of the job with the paper in a state of not reaching the fixing unit 17, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20 in the assumed paper jam situation.

[0103] Also, when a jam occurs during printing of the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0104] (When the paper stays on the PS roller 34) When a jam occurs on the first sheet with the paper staying on the PS roller 34, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the secondary transfer unit 23 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20.

[0105] Also, when a jam occurs during printing from the second sheet to the middle of the job, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17, one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23, and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20.

[0106] Also, when a jam occurs on the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0107] (When the paper does not reach the PS roller 34) When a jam occurs on the first sheet with the paper not reaching the PS roller 34, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20.

[0108] Also, when a jam occurs during printing from the middle of the job to the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20.

[0109] (When the paper stays on the paper feeding roller 35) When the paper detection unit 107 detects that the paper stays on the paper feeding roller 35 and a jam occurs on the first sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20.

[0110] Also, when a jam occurs during printing from the middle of the job to the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20.

[0111] (When the paper has not reached the paper feed roller 35) When a jam occurs on the first sheet with the paper not reaching the paper feed roller 35, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the paper feed unit 20.

[0112] Also, when a jam occurs during printing from the middle of a job to the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet jammed in the paper feed unit 20.

[0113] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a message for notifying the occurrence of paper jamming in the digital multi-function machine 1 of FIG. 1.

[0114] When it is assumed that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet jammed in the paper feed unit 20, as shown in FIG. 9, together with the message "A paper jam has occurred. There may be a paper jam at the position of the following image. Selecting the image will start the guidance for removing the paper.", images of paper jams occurring in the fixing unit 17 and the paper feed unit 20 are respectively displayed.

[0115] In this way, when a jam occurs where the paper gets jammed during paper conveyance, an image indicating a predetermined paper jamming situation according to the detection result of the paper detection unit 107 and the occurrence timing of the jam is displayed on the display unit 1081 so that the user can select it, thereby realizing the digital multi-function machine 1 that can perform guidance display for resolving paper jamming more efficiently than before.

[0116] 〔Embodiment 3〕 <Guidance display process for resolving jams when a paper jam occurs in the digital multi-function machine 1 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention> Next, based on FIGS. 10 to 12, the guidance display process for resolving jams when a paper jam occurs in the digital multi-function machine 1 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described.

[0117] Since the configuration of the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 3 is the same as that of the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 1 (Figs. 1 to 3), the description thereof is omitted.

[0118] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of guidance display processing for resolving a jam when paper jam occurs in the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0119] Note that since the processes in steps S21 and S23 to S28 in FIG. 10 respectively correspond to the processes in steps S11 and S13 to S18 in FIG. 7 (Embodiment 2), the description thereof is omitted.

[0120] Here, the process in step S22 in FIG. 10, which is different from that in Embodiment 2, will be described.

[0121] In step S21 of FIG. 10, after specifying the conveyance status of the paper detected by the paper detection unit 107 (step S21), in step S22, the control unit 100 specifies the content of the job (paper size and number of printed sheets) (step S22).

[0122] In Embodiment 3, it is assumed that a paper detection sensor is provided in the same manner as in Embodiments 1 and 2, and the control unit 100 specifies the conveyance status of the paper based on the detection result of the paper detection sensor.

[0123] The difference from Embodiments 1 and 2 is that the control unit 100 refers not only to the detection result of the paper detection unit 107 but also to the paper size, the number of printed sheets of the job at the time of jam occurrence, and the jam occurrence timing to specify the assumed paper jam situation.

[0124] FIG. 11 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the conveyance status of the paper in the digital multi-functional peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention and the assumed paper jam situations when the paper size is small and large when the number of printed sheets of the job is plural.

[0125] Here, the small size is a predetermined paper size such as A4, B5, LT, etc. In addition, the large size is a predetermined paper size such as A3, B4, WLT, etc. LT and WLT are designations for inch-based papers, referring to papers with sizes of LT: 11×8.5 [inch] and WLT: 17×11 [inch], respectively.

[0126] Note that when the number of printed sheets for a job is only 1, regardless of the paper size, it is the same as in Embodiment 1 (Figure 5), so the description is omitted.

[0127] Hereinafter, the case where the number of printed sheets for a job is plural will be described.

[0128] (When the paper stays in the fixing unit 17) In the example of Figure 10, when the paper detection unit 107 detects the paper in the fixing unit 17, the control unit 100 further specifies the generation timing of the job assuming that the paper is in a state of staying in the fixing unit 17.

[0129] When a jam occurs during the printing of the first sheet to the middle of the job, if the paper size is small, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20. If the paper size is large, it is assumed that one sheet of paper is staying from the fixing unit 17 to the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0130] When a jam occurs during the printing of the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 regardless of the paper size.

[0131] (When the paper has not reached the fixing unit 17) When a jam occurs during the printing of the first sheet to the middle of the job with the paper in a state of not reaching the fixing unit 17, if the paper size is small, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the secondary transfer unit 23 and one sheet in the paper feeding unit 20. If the paper size is large, it is assumed that one sheet of paper is staying from the secondary transfer unit 23 to the paper feeding unit 20 (however, depending on the paper feeding destination).

[0132] Here, "by the paper feed destination" means that in the case of paper feeding from the uppermost paper tray, since it is highly likely that the feeding of the next sheet has not started, the jammed paper in this case is the above-mentioned single sheet. However, in the case of paper feeding from the lowermost paper tray, it indicates that the feeding of the next sheet may have started and there may be another sheet of paper remaining in the paper feeding section.

[0133] Also, when a jam occurs during printing of the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet of paper jammed in the secondary transfer unit 23 regardless of the paper size.

[0134] (When the paper stays at the PS roller 34) When a jam occurs at the first sheet while the paper stays at the PS roller 34, the control unit 100 assumes that in the case of a small paper size, there is one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23 and one sheet in the paper feeding section 20, and in the case of a large paper size, one sheet of paper is staying from the secondary transfer unit 23 to the paper feeding section 20 (however, depending on the paper feed destination).

[0135] Also, when a jam occurs during the second sheet to the middle of the job, the control unit 100 assumes that in the case of a small paper size, there is one sheet in the fixing unit 17, one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23, and one sheet in the paper feeding section 20, and in the case of a large paper size, one sheet of paper is staying from the secondary transfer unit 23 to the paper feeding section 20 (however, depending on the paper feed destination).

[0136] Also, when a jam occurs at the last sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that in the case of a small paper size, there is one sheet in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23, and in the case of a large paper size, there is one sheet in the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0137] (When the paper has not reached the PS roller 34) When a jam occurs at the first sheet while the paper has not reached the PS roller 34, the control unit 100 assumes that regardless of the paper size, there is one sheet of paper jammed in the paper feeding section 20.

[0138] Also, when a jam occurs during job processing to the printing of the final sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20 regardless of the paper size.

[0139] (When the paper stays at the paper feed roller 35) When a paper detection unit 107 detects that the paper stays at the paper feed roller 35 and a jam occurs at the first sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20 regardless of the paper size.

[0140] Also, when a jam occurs during job processing to the printing of the final sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20 regardless of the paper size.

[0141] (When the paper does not reach the paper feed roller 35) When the paper does not reach the paper feed roller 35 and a jam occurs at the first sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20 regardless of the paper size.

[0142] Also, when a jam occurs during job processing to the printing of the final sheet, the control unit 100 assumes that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and one sheet jammed in the paper feeding unit 20 regardless of the paper size.

[0143] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a message for notifying the occurrence of paper jamming in the digital multifunction machine 1 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0144] When the paper size is large size and it is assumed that there is one sheet jammed in the fixing unit 17 and the secondary transfer unit 23, as shown in FIG. 12, a message "A paper jam has occurred. There may be a paper jam at the following image positions. Selecting an image will start guidance for removing the paper." is displayed together with an image of the paper jam occurring from the fixing unit 17 to the secondary transfer unit 23.

[0145] In this way, when a jam occurs in which the sheet is jammed during sheet conveyance, an image indicating the jammed state of the sheet determined in advance according to the detection result of the sheet detection unit 107 and the sheet size is displayed on the display unit 1081 so that the user can select it. Thus, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 capable of performing guidance display for eliminating paper jams more efficiently than before can be realized.

[0146] [Embodiment 4] <Guidance display process for eliminating jams when a paper jam occurs in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention> Next, based on FIGS. 13 to 15, the guidance display process for eliminating jams when a paper jam occurs in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described.

[0147] Since the configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 is the same as the configuration of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 1 (FIGS. 1 to 3), the description thereof will be omitted.

[0148] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the guidance display process for eliminating jams when a paper jam occurs in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0149] Note that the processes in steps S31 to S36 in FIG. 13 respectively correspond to the processes in steps S1 to S6 in FIG. 4 (Embodiment 1), and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

[0150] In Embodiment 4, it is assumed that a sheet detection sensor is provided in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, and the control unit 100 specifies the sheet conveyance status based on the detection result of the sheet detection sensor.

[0151] The difference from Embodiment 1 is that the control unit 100 does not refer to the content of the job at the time of jam occurrence, and when the sheet size is small or large, all candidate images of the jammed state of the sheets assumed when the number of printed sheets of the job is only one or a plurality are displayed for the user to select.

[0152] FIG. 14 is a table showing an example of the relationship between the paper conveyance status of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention and the assumed paper jam status when the paper size is small and large in the case where the number of printed sheets of a job is plural.

[0153] The table in FIG. 14 is a table that integrates all of the tables in FIG. 5 (Embodiment 1) (when the number of printed sheets of a job is only 1 sheet), the table in FIG. 8 (Embodiment 2) (when the number of printed sheets of a job is plural), and the table in FIG. 11 (Embodiment 3) (when the number of printed sheets of a job is plural and the paper size includes small and large sizes).

[0154] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a message for notifying the occurrence of a paper jam in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0155] When the paper conveyance status stays in the fixing unit 17, various assumed paper jam statuses can be considered according to the number of printed sheets of the job (plural sheets / only 1 sheet), the occurrence timing of the jam (first sheet ~ during job / last sheet / first sheet), and the paper size (small size / large size) according to the table in FIG. 14.

[0156] In this case, as shown in FIG. 15, together with the message "A paper jam has occurred. Open the main body cover and select an image close to the state of the paper inside the machine. When you select an image, guidance for removing the paper will start.", three candidate images in which a paper jam has occurred are displayed.

[0157] Therefore, the user opens the main body cover and selects an image close to the actual state of the paper inside the machine from among the three candidate images.

[0158] In this way, when a jam occurs in which the sheet gets jammed during sheet conveyance, in order to display on the display unit 1081 in a selectable manner an image indicating the assumed sheet jamming situation according to the detection result of the sheet detection unit 107, the number of printed sheets of the job, the generation timing of the job, and the sheet size, it is possible to realize the digital multi-function peripheral 1 that can perform guidance display for eliminating paper jams more efficiently than before.

[0159] Preferred embodiments of the present invention also include those obtained by combining any of the above-described embodiments. In addition to the above-described embodiments, there can be various modifications to the present invention. Those modifications should not be construed as not belonging to the scope of the present invention. The present invention should include the meaning equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0160] 1: Digital multi-function peripheral, 11: Optical scanning unit, 12: Developing unit, 13: Photoconductor drum, 14: Drum cleaning unit, 15: Charger, 17: Fixing unit, 18: Paper feed tray, 19: Manual feed tray, 20: Paper feeding unit, 21: Intermediate transfer belt, 22: Belt cleaning unit, 23: Secondary transfer unit, 23a: Transfer roller, 24: Heating roller, 25: Pressure roller, 33: Pickup roller, 34: PS roller, 35: Paper feed roller, 36a, 36b: Discharge roller, 39a, 39b: Discharge tray, 100: Control unit, 101: Communication unit, 102: Image data acquisition unit, 103: Image processing unit, 104: Storage unit, 105: Image forming unit, 106: Conveying unit, 107: Sheet detection unit, 108: Operation panel, 1081: Display unit, 1082: Operation unit, C: Arrow direction, Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd: Image station, R1: Sheet conveyance path

Claims

1. An operation unit that receives a user's input operation, A conveyance unit that conveys a sheet along a conveyance path, An image forming unit that forms an image on the sheet based on the image data when receiving a print command for the image data from the user, A sheet detection unit that detects the conveyance state of the sheet based on the detection results of sheet detection sensors provided at various locations on the conveyance path, A display unit that displays various information to the user, A storage unit that stores a predetermined image indicating a presumed jam state of the sheet when a jam occurs in which the sheet gets jammed during conveyance of the sheet, and guidance predetermined for eliminating the jam state of the sheet, Comprising an operation unit, the conveyance unit, the image forming unit, the sheet detection unit, the display unit, and a control unit that controls the storage unit, When a jam occurs in which the sheet gets jammed during conveyance of the sheet, the control unit causes the display unit to display, in a selectable manner to the user, an image indicating a predetermined jam state of the sheet according to the detection result of the sheet detection unit, An image forming apparatus, characterized in that when the operation unit receives a selection operation of the image, the display unit displays the guidance for eliminating the jam state of the sheet corresponding to the selected image.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image indicating the jam state of the sheet is an image indicating the states of various patterns in which sheets are jammed at various locations on the conveyance path when a predetermined cover of the main body is opened.

3. After receiving a print command for image data from the user, when a jam occurs in which the sheet gets jammed during conveyance of the sheet, the control unit determines whether the number of printed sheets of the image based on the image data is plural, and when the number of printed sheets of the image is plural, specifies at which printing the jam occurred and the timing of the occurrence of the jam, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display unit displays, in a selectable manner to the user, an image indicating a predetermined jam state of the sheet according to the detection result of the sheet detection unit and the timing of the occurrence of the jam.

4. After receiving a print command for image data from the user, when a jam occurs in which the sheet gets jammed during conveyance of the sheet, the control unit specifies the sheet size of the image based on the image data, The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein an image indicating a jam state of the paper, which is determined in advance according to a detection result of the paper detection unit and the paper size, is displayed on the display unit so as to be selectable by a user.

5. The paper size includes a first paper size and a second paper size larger than the first paper size, The first paper size includes paper sizes of A4 and B5, The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second paper size includes paper sizes of A3 and B4.

Images