Image forming system

Abstract

To solve the problem that, when a recording material hardly applying varnish by a varnish application device is conveyed from an image forming apparatus to the varnish application device, surface processing treatment cannot be sufficiently performed and a desired result cannot be obtained by a user.SOLUTION: When varnish coating treatment is inputted via input means, the input means is controlled so as not to receive input relating to a recording material without a coating layer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system that applies a varnish coating process to a recording material on which a toner image has been formed. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrophotographic image forming apparatuses generally have multiple paper feed cassettes capable of transporting recording materials, allowing users to select and print on a variety of different sizes and types of recording materials. Taking advantage of their capabilities for small-lot production and variable data printing, these apparatuses have recently entered the production market, which was previously dominated by offset printing machines.

[0003] Furthermore, in recent years in the production market, recording materials on which images have been formed by image forming devices have been subjected to surface treatment using varnishes whose main components are resins and solvents, in order to impart gloss, protect the surface, or decorate it (Reference 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-176044 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Recently, an image forming system has been proposed that realizes on-demand printing by connecting a post-processing device to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording material, and performing the processes from image formation on the recording material to the post-processing in a continuous manner without interruption. Therefore, it has been considered to connect a varnish application device that performs the above-mentioned surface treatment using varnish as a post-processing device.

[0006] However, recording materials on which images can be formed by an image forming apparatus are not necessarily recording materials that can be surface-treated with varnish by a varnish application device. Therefore, if recording materials that are difficult to varnish by a varnish application device are transported from an image forming apparatus to a varnish application device, there is a risk that the surface treatment will not be sufficient and the user will not be able to obtain the desired product.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an image forming system that can prevent users from being unable to obtain the desired results in an image forming system that performs an in-line varnish application process on recording material on which an image has been formed by an image forming device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the image forming system according to the present invention comprises an image forming apparatus capable of performing an image forming process to form an image on a recording material, a varnishing apparatus capable of performing a varnishing process to apply varnish to the surface of the recording material on which an image has been formed by the image forming apparatus, a receiving means capable of receiving instructions regarding the type of recording material and an instruction for the varnishing process, and a control means, wherein the types of recording material include a first type and a second type, the first type of recording material having a coating layer before an image has been formed, and the second type of recording material not having a coating layer before an image has been formed, and the control means controls the receiving means so as to accept an instruction to perform the varnishing process on the first type of recording material but not to accept an instruction to perform the varnishing process on the second type of recording material, and when an instruction to perform the varnishing process on the first type of recording material is received, the control means controls the receiving means so as to accept an instruction to perform the varnishing process on the first type of recording material but not to accept an instruction to perform the varnishing process on the second type of recording material, and when the control means receives an instruction to perform the varnishing process on the first type of recording material, the image is applied to the coating layer of the first type of recording material. is formed Varnish Coating It is characterized by being [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, in an image forming system that performs an in-line varnish application process on recording material on which an image has been formed by an image forming apparatus, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the user is unable to obtain the desired product. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] Control block diagram explaining the control unit [Figure 3] Figure showing the results of the evaluation of the adhesion between the paper and the varnish layer [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart showing a control process according to a first embodiment; [Figure 5] Figure showing the print settings screen on the control panel [Figure 6] Figure showing the paper setting screen on the control panel [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a control process according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] A graph showing the evaluation results of paper basis weight and curl amount [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a control process according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a setting screen of the operation unit according to the third embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, etc. of the components described in the embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0012] First Embodiment First, the configuration of an image forming system 1000 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In the image forming system 1000 of this embodiment, an image forming apparatus 100 that forms a toner image on a recording material S is connected to a varnish application device 200 that applies varnish to the recording material S on which the toner image has been fixed by the image forming apparatus 100.

[0013] The image forming apparatus 100 and the varnish application apparatus 200 are connected in series, and the varnish application apparatus 200 is capable of applying varnish to the recording material conveyed from the image forming apparatus 100. In other words, it is possible to apply varnish to the recording material from the time the recording material is fed by the image forming apparatus 100 until the time the recording material is discharged outside the image forming system 1000.

[0014] "Image forming device" The image forming apparatus 100 shown in Fig. 1 is a tandem-type electrophotographic full-color printer. The image forming apparatus 100 has image forming units Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd that form yellow, magenta, cyan, and black images, respectively. The image forming apparatus 100 forms a toner image on a recording material S in response to an image signal from an external device 91 (Fig. 2), such as a document reading device (not shown) or a personal computer connected to the image forming apparatus 100 so as to be able to communicate with the image forming apparatus 100.

[0015] In this embodiment, the image forming units Pa to Pd, primary transfer rollers 24a to 24d, intermediate transfer belt 130, multiple rollers 13 to 15, and outer secondary transfer roller 11 constitute an image forming unit 300 that forms a toner image on recording material S. Examples of recording material S on which an image can be formed by image forming apparatus 100 include various types of sheet materials such as plain paper, cardboard, rough paper, textured paper, recycled paper, coated paper, plastic film (resin media), and cloth.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming units Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd are arranged side by side along the direction of movement of the intermediate transfer belt 130. The intermediate transfer belt 130 is stretched around multiple rollers (13, 14, and 15) and configured to run in the direction of arrow R2. The intermediate transfer belt 130 carries and transports the toner image that has been primarily transferred. A secondary transfer outer roller 11 is arranged at a position opposite to the secondary transfer inner roller 14 that stretches the intermediate transfer belt 130, with the intermediate transfer belt 130 sandwiched therebetween, forming a secondary transfer unit T2 that transfers the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 130 to the recording material S. A fixing device 8 is arranged downstream of the secondary transfer unit T2 in the recording material transport direction.

[0017] A cassette 10 containing a recording material S is disposed at the bottom of the image forming apparatus 100. The recording material S is conveyed from the cassette 10 toward a registration roller 12 by a conveyance roller 16. Thereafter, the registration roller 12 starts to rotate in synchronization with the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 130 as described below, and the recording material S is conveyed to the secondary transfer unit T2. Note that although only one cassette 10 is shown here, a plurality of cassettes 10 may be disposed so as to be able to accommodate recording materials S of different sizes and thicknesses. In this case, the recording material S is selectively conveyed from one of the plurality of cassettes 10. Furthermore, the recording material S is not limited to being accommodated in the cassette 10, and a configuration may be adopted in which a recording material S placed on a manual feed unit (not shown) is conveyed, or a configuration in which a recording material S accommodated in a storage device connected externally to the image forming apparatus 100 is conveyed.

[0018] The four image forming units Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd included in the image forming apparatus 100 have substantially the same configuration except for the different developing colors. Therefore, the yellow image forming unit Pa will be described here as a representative, and descriptions of the other image forming units Pb, Pc, and Pd will be omitted.

[0019] The image forming unit Pa is provided with a cylindrical photosensitive drum 3a as a photosensitive member. The photosensitive drum 3a is driven to rotate in the direction of arrow R1. Around the photosensitive drum 3a, a charging device 2a, an exposure device La, a developing device 1a, a primary transfer roller 24a, and a drum cleaning device 4a are arranged.

[0020] The process of forming, for example, a full-color image using the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. First, when the image forming operation begins, the surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 3a is uniformly charged by the charging device 2a. The charging device 2a is, for example, a corona charger that irradiates charged particles associated with corona discharge to charge the photosensitive drum 3a to a uniform negative dark potential. Next, the photosensitive drum 3a is scanned and exposed to laser light corresponding to an image signal emitted from the exposure device La. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image signal is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 3a. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 3a is developed into a visible toner image using a developer containing toner and carrier contained in the developing device 1a. In this embodiment, the developing devices 1a to 1d each use a two-component developer containing non-magnetic toner and magnetic carrier.

[0021] The toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 3a is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 130 at a primary transfer section T1 formed between the photosensitive drum 3a and a primary transfer roller 24a disposed across the intermediate transfer belt 130. At this time, a primary transfer bias is applied to the primary transfer roller 24a. Any toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 3a after the primary transfer is removed by a drum cleaning device 4a.

[0022] This operation is performed sequentially at each of the yellow, magenta, cyan, and black image forming portions Pa to Pd, and the four color toner images are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 130. Thereafter, in synchronization with the formation of the toner images, the recording material S stored in the cassette 10 is conveyed to the secondary transfer portion T2. Then, by applying a secondary transfer bias to the outer secondary transfer roller 11, the full-color toner images formed on the intermediate transfer belt 130 are secondarily transferred all at once onto the recording material S. Any toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 130 after the secondary transfer is removed by a belt cleaning device 22.

[0023] Next, the recording material S onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to the fixing device 8. In the fixing device 8, the recording material S carrying the toner image is nipped and transported in the fixing nip T3, whereby the recording material S is heated and pressurized, and the toner is melted and fixed to the recording material S. That is, the toner of the toner image formed on the recording material S is melted and mixed by the heat and pressure, and is fixed to the recording material S as a full-color image. In this way, a series of image formation processes is completed.

[0024] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 is capable of double-sided printing. In the case of single-sided printing, the recording material S that has passed through the fixing device 8 passes through the discharge conveyance path 31 and is discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100. On the other hand, in the case of double-sided printing, the recording material S that has passed through the fixing device 8 is conveyed to the conveyance path 32 and sent to the reversal path 33. The recording material S sent to the reversal path 33 is switched back and conveyed toward the double-sided conveyance path 34, whereby the front and back sides of the recording material S are swapped. The recording material S with its front and back sides swapped is conveyed along the double-sided conveyance path 34 toward the registration roller 12, and a toner image is formed on the other side through a process similar to that when a toner image is formed on one side. Then, the recording material S with the toner images fixed on both sides passes through the discharge conveyance path 31 and is discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0025] Here, we will explain the developer used to develop the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 3a into a toner image. In this embodiment, a two-component developer containing toner and carrier is used. The toner has a low melting point and contains a binder resin, a colorant, and a release agent (wax).

[0026] [Varnish application device] 1, in this embodiment, a varnish application device 200 serving as a surface processing device is connected to the image forming apparatus 100. The varnish application device 200 is configured to be freely connectable to the image forming apparatus 100 as one of peripheral devices (referred to as an optional unit, etc.) that can be added later to expand the functions of the image forming apparatus 100. The varnish application device 200 applies varnish to the recording material S discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 to coat the entire surface as a surface processing device for the purposes of imparting gloss and protecting the surface in order to increase the added value of the recording material S.

[0027] In addition, the varnish application device 200 does not have to be directly connected to the image forming device 100, and may be configured as an inline image system in which an inserter, image reading device, etc. is interposed between the image forming device 100 and the varnish application device 200.

[0028] The varnish application device 200 will now be described. The varnish application device 200 has a tank (not shown) that stores varnish, a supply means (not shown) that supplies varnish from the tank to the application roller 201, and the application roller 201 and opposing roller 202 that form a varnish application nip T4 where the varnish is applied to the recording material S. The varnish application device 200 also has a pressure mechanism (not shown) that presses the application roller 201 and opposing roller 202 against each other, and an ultraviolet lamp 203 for curing the varnish applied to the recording material S.

[0029] The varnish application device 200 has a conveying path separated into a varnish application route 205 along which varnish is applied to the recording material S, and a varnish bypass route 204 along which varnish is not applied to the recording material S, and is capable of switching the conveying path of the recording material S to either one. That is, by switching a flapper 206, the recording material S can be conveyed to the varnish application route 205 when varnishing is to be performed, or to the varnish bypass route 204 when varnishing is not to be performed. The varnish used here can be a UV varnish that hardens with ultraviolet light, depending on the desired texture.

[0030] The application roller 201 is formed in a size that allows it to apply varnish supplied from a tank (not shown) over almost the entire width of the recording material S, which is perpendicular to the conveyance direction of the recording material S. The ultraviolet lamp 203 irradiates the varnish applied to the recording material S by the application roller 201 with UV light of a wavelength corresponding to the varnish, thereby curing the varnish. Like the application roller 201, the ultraviolet lamp 203 is capable of irradiating UV light over almost the entire width of the recording material S, and is only turned on when varnish is being applied.

[0031] The means for applying varnish to the recording material S is not limited to a roller system using the application roller 201 and the opposing roller 202, but may also be an injection-type line head, for example. When a line head is used, it is possible to apply varnish to any position on the recording material S, rather than the entire surface. Therefore, by using a line head, it is possible to form varnish images such as lines, symbols, and letters. Furthermore, although UV varnish is used as the varnish, it is not limited to this, and oil-based varnish or water-based varnish may also be used. However, when oil-based or water-based varnish is used, it is desirable to use an IR (infrared) lamp rather than an ultraviolet lamp 203 as a drying means for drying the varnish. Furthermore, the varnish may be dried using hot air, or an IR lamp and hot air may be used in combination.

[0032] [Control Unit] The image forming apparatus 100 is equipped with a control unit 80. The control unit 80 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. However, in addition to those shown in the figure, various devices such as motors and power supplies that operate the image forming apparatus 100 are connected to the control unit 80, but as this is not the main focus of the invention, illustration and description of these devices will be omitted here.

[0033] The control unit 80, which serves as a control means, performs various controls of the image forming apparatus 100, such as image formation operations. The control unit 80 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 81, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 82, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) 83. The ROM 83 stores, for example, various programs and various data used to control the image forming system 1000. The CPU 81 executes the various programs stored in the ROM 83 to operate the image forming apparatus 100 and the varnish application device 200.

[0034] In this embodiment, as will be described later, the CPU 81 can control the temperatures of the fixing roller 40 and the pressure roller 41 in the fixing device 8. Working data and input data are stored in the RAM 82. The RAM 82 can also temporarily store the results of calculations performed when various programs are executed.

[0035] The CPU 81 is connected to a bus 84 via RAM 82, ROM 83, an input / output interface (I / F) 85, a varnish application device control unit 86, an input reception unit 87, a temperature detection unit 88, a motor control unit 90, and other components. The CPU 81 can receive print signals from an operation unit 95 via the I / F 85, which serves as an example of an input device. The print signals are generated based on the process settings set by the user, and include whether or not to execute each process (e.g., image formation process, varnish application process), the number of sheets to be processed, and the type of recording material to be used for each process. The operation unit 95 includes a selection unit 93 and a display unit 94. The selection unit 93 receives user instructions for executing various programs (e.g., image formation process) and various data inputs. The I / F 85 receives print signals in response to user input via the operation unit 95. The display unit 94 is, for example, an LCD screen, capable of displaying various screens, such as a display screen displaying the operating status of the image forming apparatus 100 and the varnish application device 200 and a menu screen presenting various executable programs.

[0036] In this embodiment, when a user instructs the execution of an image formation job, the user can input information such as whether to print in color or monochrome mode, the type of recording material S, and whether to perform a varnishing process to finish the surface with varnishing. Virtual controls simulating the switches of the operation unit 95 may be displayed on the display unit 94, and these virtual controls may be used to accept user operations to execute various programs and input various data. In other words, the operation unit 95 may be a so-called touch panel. Alternatively, the operation unit 95 may also be used as the display device of an external device 91, such as a personal computer, connected via a wired or wireless communication network.

[0037] The CPU 81 can acquire image signals and various data from the external device 91 via an input acceptance unit 87, which is an example of an input means. In this embodiment, when an execution command for an image formation job is acquired from the external device 91, information on whether to execute a varnish application process can be acquired. Although not shown, the image forming apparatus 100 may be equipped with a document reading device, and the CPU 81 may be able to acquire an image signal of a document read by the document reading device via the input acceptance unit 87. The acquired image signal is stored in the RAM 82 as image data.

[0038] The temperature detection unit 88 detects the temperatures of the fixing roller 40 and the pressure roller 41 based on the detection results of the thermistors 42a and 42b. The CPU 81 controls the heater control unit 89 based on the temperatures detected by the temperature detection unit 88. The heater control unit 89 controls the heaters 40a and 41a so that the temperatures of the fixing roller 40 and the pressure roller 41 become target temperatures. In this embodiment, the CPU 81 controls the heater 40a using the heater control unit 89 so that the surface temperature of the fixing roller 40 becomes a desired temperature within a range of, for example, 140 to 190°C, which is a target temperature at which a toner image can be fixed to the recording material S. The target temperature of the fixing roller 40 is set to a predetermined temperature depending on the type and basis weight of the recording material S to achieve both the fixability of the toner on the recording material S and the gloss of the fixed toner image. On the other hand, the CPU 81 controls the heater 41a using the heater control unit 89 so that the surface temperature of the pressure roller 41 becomes, for example, 100 to 120°C.

[0039] The motor control unit 90 controls the rotation of the motor 92. The CPU 81 controls the rotation speed of the fixing roller 40 via the motor control unit 90, thereby adjusting the conveying speed of the recording material S in the fixing device 8 when the toner image is fixed.

[0040] The varnish application device control unit 86 controls the varnish application device 200 connected to the image forming device 100. The CPU 81 controls the varnish application device 200 by sending and receiving electrical signals via the bus 84. Therefore, if electrical signals cannot be sent and received between the image forming device 100 and the varnish application device 200 via the bus 84, the CPU 81 can determine that the image forming device 100 and the varnish application device 200 are not connected.

[0041] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 is configured to have the varnish application device control unit 86, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the varnish application device 200 may be provided with a varnish application device control unit 86 that is capable of communicating with the CPU 81, thereby electrically connecting the image forming apparatus 100 and the varnish application device 200.

[0042] The drive control unit 96 performs conveyance control by controlling conveyance units such as the conveyance roller 16 and registration roller 12 of the image forming apparatus 100. The drive control unit 96 also performs control related to image processing via the image processing unit 150. The drive control unit 96 also controls drive motors (not shown) and the like provided in the image forming apparatus 100 to rotate the image forming units Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd, the intermediate transfer belt 130, and the like.

[0043] In this embodiment, as an example, the drive control unit 96 is configured to control the transport and image forming processes of the image forming apparatus 100, but each of these may be controlled by a plurality of control units.

[0044] [Evaluation of adhesion between paper and varnish layer] Next, we will explain the evaluation of adhesion between paper and varnish layer. We evaluated the adhesion between paper and varnish layer for various types of paper that had been varnished. The adhesion between paper and varnish layer was evaluated using scratch hardness (pencil method) standardized in "JIS K5600-5-4."

[0045] The papers used were plain paper without a coated layer and thick paper (uncoated paper), such as "OK Prince Wood-Free" manufactured by Oji Paper Co., Ltd., with a basis weight of 52.3 g / m. 2 ", 64g / m 2 ", 81.4g / m 2 ", 104.7g / m 2 ", 127.9g / m 2 ", 157g / m 2 ", 209.3g / m 2 The coated paper used was "View High Corona A" manufactured by Oji F-Tex Co., Ltd., with a basis weight of 52.3 g / m 2 " and Oji Paper Co., Ltd.'s "OK Top Coat Plus" basis weight "52.3 g / m 2 ", 73.3g / m 2 ", 84.9g / m 2 ", 104.7g / m 2 ", 127.9g / m 2 ", 157g / m 2 " and UPM FINESSE GLOSS "200g / m 2 The synthetic paper used was "New Yupo" manufactured by Yupo Corporation, with a basis weight of 51.4 g / m 2 ", 73.2g / m 2 ", 84.7g / m 2 ", "100.1g / m 2 ", 115.5g / m 2 ", 158g / m 2 ", "200g / m 2 ", and as a resin media, "VF-1420N" manufactured by Kokuyo Co., Ltd., with a basis weight of 144 g / m 2 ", Folex "BG-72 WO" thickness "0.125 mm" (basis weight 180 g / m 2 ), "Thickness 0.180 mm" (basis weight 250 g / m 2 ) was used.

[0046] The scratch hardness of a reference sample obtained by coating the varnish used here on a glass plate without a toner image and curing it was measured. It showed a hardness of 6H, so a scratch hardness of 6H or higher was considered acceptable for this evaluation. The results are shown in Figure 3. As Figure 3 shows, the scratch hardness was 6H or higher on coated paper, synthetic paper, and resin media, but the scratch hardness on plain paper and cardboard was 3H or lower, failing to meet the 6H standard.

[0047] Because the above-mentioned coated paper, synthetic paper, and resin media have a coating layer on their surface, it is difficult for varnish to penetrate into the interior of the recording material S, and when varnish (UV) is applied by the application roller 201, the varnish tends to remain on the surface of the recording material S. In this evaluation, the scratch hardness of the coated paper, synthetic paper, and resin media was "6H" or higher, which is thought to be because the varnish remained on the surface of the recording material S, allowing the UV light irradiated by the ultraviolet lamp 203 to sufficiently harden the varnish on the recording material S.

[0048] Furthermore, since the above-mentioned plain paper and thick paper do not have a coating layer on their surfaces, when varnish (UV) is applied by the application roller 201, the varnish easily penetrates into the interior of the recording material S. In this evaluation, the scratch hardness of plain paper and thick paper was "3H" or less, which is thought to be because even when UV light is irradiated from the ultraviolet lamp 203, the UV light cannot reach the interior of the recording material S, and the varnish cannot be sufficiently hardened.

[0049] The above evaluation results show that when uncoated paper such as plain paper or thick paper without a coating is used as the recording material S, the varnish does not adhere well to the recording material S and is easily peeled off. Furthermore, because varnish easily penetrates uncoated paper, it is difficult to achieve the three-dimensional effect and glossiness that can be achieved with varnish on recording materials with a coating, such as coated paper. Therefore, even if a varnish application process is performed on uncoated paper, it is highly likely that the end product will not be what the user desires.

[0050] However, the above-mentioned uncoated paper, such as plain paper and thick paper, coated paper, synthetic paper, and resin media are all recording materials that can be used for image formation in the image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, there is a risk that a user may make a mistake in the settings and input an instruction to perform varnishing on plain paper or thick paper. As a result, the image forming system 1000 may perform varnishing on uncoated paper, resulting in a product that is prone to varnish peeling or lacks the desired three-dimensional effect or gloss, as described above. Therefore, there is a risk that the user may not be able to obtain the product they desire.

[0051] Therefore, in this embodiment, by suppressing the setting of the varnish application process for uncoated paper that does not have a coating layer when the user sets up the print, the user is prevented from being unable to obtain the desired result.

[0052] [Image formation system control] Next, the operation and control of the image forming system 1000 in this embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart in FIG.

[0053] The control flow shown in Fig. 4 starts when a print signal is received in a standby state in which the entire image forming system 1000 has been adjusted. Here, the standby state refers to a state in which the temperature of the fixing device 8 in the image forming apparatus 100 has reached a predetermined temperature at which a toner image can be fixed, and an image can be formed on a recording material immediately upon receiving a print signal. The standby state also refers to a state in which the varnish application device 200 has supplied varnish to the varnish application roller 201, and the irradiation power of the ultraviolet lamp 203 has reached a predetermined irradiation power, allowing varnish to be applied to a recording material and the applied varnish to be cured.

[0054] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user makes print settings via the operation unit 95, but similar control processing can be executed when making print settings using the external device 91. When making print settings using the external device 91, the display screens described below are displayed on a display unit provided in the external device 91.

[0055] The CPU 81 can execute a print setting mode in which settings related to image formation processing and other processing are made by the user operating the operation unit 95. Note that this print setting mode is executed by the user operating a software key such as "print setting" displayed on the display unit 96.

[0056] When the print setting mode is executed by the user (S101 Yes), the CPU 81 displays a print setting screen on the display unit 94 of the operation unit 95 (S102). FIG. 5 is an example of the print setting screen. In the setting screen shown in FIG. 5, software keys for "Paper Setting," "Magnification," "Double-Sided," "Original Type," "Color Selection," "Density," "Finishing," and "Varnishing" are displayed on the display unit 94. The user can input detailed settings corresponding to each software key by operating each software key. Note that these input operations from the user may be accepted by software keys displayed on the touch panel or via the selection unit 93. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which selection keys other than the software keys shown in FIG. 5 are provided.

[0057] If the print setting mode has not been accepted (S101 No), the CPU 81 waits until the print setting mode is accepted, and maintains the standby state of the image forming system 1000.

[0058] Next, the CPU 81 determines whether or not "varnish" has been selected on the print setting screen (S103).

[0059] If the "varnish processing" setting has not been accepted (S103 No), the CPU 81 displays a paper selection screen for image formation on the display unit 94 (S104). Note that the determination in S103 may be configured to determine that "varnish application processing has not been accepted" if only image formation processing has been accepted, and proceed to S104.

[0060] Fig. 6(a) is an example of a paper selection screen for image formation. As shown in Fig. 6(a), the paper selection screen for image formation is a display screen in which all recording materials that can be fed by the image forming apparatus 100 can be selected, and there are no restrictions on the types of recording materials that can be selected. In other words, the user can select any of the multiple types of recording materials displayed on the setting screen of Fig. 6(a).

[0061] In this embodiment, an example is shown in which four cassettes are provided, each containing a different recording material, but other configurations are also possible. For example, if a storage device is connected to the image forming apparatus 100 as an optional device, the recording materials stored in the storage device may be added to the setting screen of FIG. 6(a).

[0062] The user can input settings for which recording material to perform image formation processing by operating the software keys corresponding to each recording material provided on the display screen shown in Figure 6(a).

[0063] On the other hand, if the setting of "varnish" is accepted (S103 Yes), the CPU 81 displays a paper selection screen for varnishing processing on the display unit 94 (S105).

[0064] FIG. 6(b) is an example of a paper selection screen for varnishing. As shown in FIG. 6(b), only recording materials that can be varnished by the varnishing device 200 can be selected on the paper selection screen for varnishing. Here, recording materials that can be varnished by the varnishing device 200 are coated paper with a coating layer on the surface. As described above, in this embodiment, plain paper, cardboard, rough paper, textured paper, recycled paper, cloth, and the like are considered uncoated paper. Furthermore, coated paper includes coated paper, resin media such as OHT and film, which are primarily made of plastic film, and synthetic paper.

[0065] The user can input which recording material to perform the image formation process and varnishing process on by operating the software keys corresponding to each recording material provided on the display screen shown in Figure 6(b).

[0066] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6(b), in order to prevent the application of varnish to recording materials other than coated paper, only coated paper, which is a recording material having a coating layer, can be selected. Therefore, in FIG. 6(b), options other than coated paper are not displayed for recording materials that can be fed by the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 6(a). Note that, although this embodiment will be described using an example of an image forming apparatus 100 that accommodates only one type of coated paper, if multiple types of coated paper are accommodated, additional types of recording materials may be displayed on the setting screen in FIG. 6(b).

[0067] However, other configurations may be used on the paper selection screen as long as only coated paper, which is a recording material having a coating layer, is selectable. For example, as shown in FIG. 6(c), the software keys corresponding to uncoated paper may be displayed lighter than the software keys corresponding to coated paper. Also, as shown in FIG. 6(d), the software keys corresponding to uncoated paper may be displayed darker than the software keys corresponding to coated paper, or may be displayed with halftone dots or the like to make them less visible. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6(e), a display indicating that any paper other than coated paper is unavailable may be used.

[0068] The manual paper feeder (not shown) is selectable because there is a possibility that the user may load coated paper. However, if the device does not have a manual paper feeder, it is not necessary to provide an indication of this manual feed.

[0069] In this way, in this embodiment, the CPU 81 can accept image formation processing or varnish application processing for the recording material selected by the user by performing input operations via the display screens shown in Figures 6(a) to (e).

[0070] Then, the CPU 81 determines whether or not the paper setting is complete on the paper selection screen displayed in S104 or S105 (S106). If the paper setting is not complete (S106 No), the CPU 81 waits until the paper setting is complete.

[0071] If the paper setting is complete (Yes in S106), the CPU 81 determines whether or not an instruction to execute the printing process set in S101 to S106 has been received from the user via the operation unit 95 (S107).

[0072] If the instruction to execute the print process has not been received (S107 No), the process waits until the instruction to execute the print process is received. Note that the instruction to execute the print process from the user can be received by operating a start key displayed as a software key on the display unit 94 of the operation unit 95 or a start key provided as a hardware key on the operation unit 95.

[0073] When an instruction to execute the printing process is received (S107 Yes), the CPU 81 controls the drive control unit 96 based on the information set in S102 to execute the image forming process (S108). Here, the CPU 81 executes the image forming process on the recording material set in S105, which is fed from the cassette 10 or another recording material storage device.

[0074] Then, the CPU 81 determines whether or not to execute a varnish application process on the recording material on which the image has been formed in S108, based on the process information set in S102 (S109).

[0075] If the varnish application process is to be performed (S109 Yes), the CPU 81 causes the varnish application device control unit 86 to operate the flapper 206, and transports the recording material S that has been subjected to the image formation process in S108 to the varnish application route 205 (S110). The CPU 81 controls the varnish application device control unit 86 to perform the varnish application process on the recording material transported to the varnish application route (S111).

[0076] Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether all processes included in the print settings received in S101 to S106 have been completed (S112), and if not all processes have been completed (S112 No), returns to S108 and executes the process on the next recording material. In this way, by returning to S108 again after the varnishing process, it is also possible to alternately output a product on which the recording material S has been varnishing processed and a product on which the varnishing process has not been processed.

[0077] On the other hand, if the varnish application process is not to be performed on the recording material on which the image was formed in S108 (S109 No), the CPU 81 causes the varnish application device control unit 86 to operate the flapper 206, and conveys the recording material S on which the image was formed in S108 to the varnish bypass route 204 (S113). Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether all processes included in the print signal received in S101 have been completed (S112). If all processes have been completed (S112 Yes), the CPU 81 transitions the image forming system 1000 to a standby state and ends this flow. If all processes have not been completed (S112 No), the CPU 81 returns to S108 and performs the process on the next recording material.

[0078] As described above, when the user inputs print settings, if varnishing is selected, the CPU 81 does not allow settings for uncoated paper on the paper setting screen. In other words, if varnishing is selected, the CPU 81 does not allow input for uncoated paper on the paper setting screen.

[0079] This prevents the user from accidentally inputting an instruction to apply varnish to uncoated paper, which can prevent the user from obtaining the desired result due to the varnish peeling off easily or the result lacking the desired three-dimensional effect or gloss.

[0080] In addition, after outputting the finished product obtained by performing a varnish application process on uncoated paper, the user can be prompted to input processing information that reconfigures the recording material S, thereby preventing a decrease in workability due to the need to re-output the finished product obtained by performing a varnish application process on coated paper.

[0081] Second Embodiment Next, a different embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the user sets the varnishing setting and then sets the paper setting to set the type of recording material S, but in this embodiment, the user sets the paper setting and then sets the varnishing setting, which is different. In the image forming system described below, the main configurations of the image forming apparatus 100 and the varnish application apparatus 200 are the same as those in the first embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used and the description will be omitted.

[0082] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user selects "Paper Settings" before "Varnish" on the print setting screen shown in Fig. 5. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user sets print settings via the operation unit 95, but similar control processing can also be executed when the print settings are set using the external device 91. When the print settings are set using the external device 91, the display screen described below is displayed on a display unit provided in the external device 91.

[0083] First, the CPU 81 displays the paper setting screen shown in Fig. 6(a) on the display unit 94 of the operation unit 95 (S201). As shown in Fig. 6(a), on the paper selection screen in S201, all recording materials that can be fed by the image forming apparatus 100 can be selected.

[0084] Then, the CPU 81 determines whether the paper setting by the user has been completed via the paper setting screen displayed in S201 (S202). If the paper setting has not been completed (S202 No), the CPU 81 waits until the paper setting is completed and maintains the standby state of the image forming system 1000.

[0085] Then, when the paper setting is completed (Yes in S202), the CPU 81 displays the print setting screen shown in FIG. 5 again (S203) and accepts other print settings.

[0086] Next, the CPU 81 determines (S204) whether or not an instruction to execute the print process set in S201 to S203 has been received from the user via the operation unit 95. If an instruction to execute the print process has not been received (No in S204), the CPU 81 waits until an instruction to execute the print process is received. Note that an instruction to execute the print process from the user can be received by operating a start key displayed as a software key on the display unit 94 of the operation unit 95 or a start key provided as a hardware key on the operation unit 95.

[0087] If an instruction to execute the printing process has been received (Yes in S204), the CPU 81 determines whether or not "varnish" has been selected on the print setting screen based on the information set in S203 (S205).

[0088] If the "varnish" setting is accepted (S205 Yes), the CPU 81 determines whether the type of recording material set in S201 is uncoated paper (S206). If it is uncoated paper (S206 Yes), the CPU 81 displays the paper selection screen for varnishing shown in FIG. 6B on the display unit 94 (S207) and prompts the user to reset the recording material. The settings in FIG. 6B are the same as those in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0089] Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether the user has reset the recording material based on the paper selection screen for the varnish application process displayed in S207 (S208). If the recording material has not been reset (No in S208), the CPU 81 waits until the reset is complete. If the recording material has been reset, the CPU 81 proceeds to S209.

[0090] Incidentally, even if the setting of "varnish" has not been accepted (S205 No) or the set recording material S is coated paper (S206 YEs), the CPU 81 proceeds to the process of S209.

[0091] Then, the CPU 81 controls the drive control section 96 to feed the recording material set in S201 or S207 from the cassette 10 or another recording material storage device, and executes the image forming process (S209).

[0092] Based on the processing information set in S102, the CPU 81 determines whether or not to execute a varnish application process on the recording material on which the image was formed in S209 (S210).

[0093] If the varnish application process is to be performed (S210 Yes), the CPU 81 causes the varnish application device control unit 86 to operate the flapper 206, and transports the recording material S that has been subjected to the image formation process in S209 to the varnish application route 205 (S211). The CPU 81 controls the varnish application device control unit 86 to perform the varnish application process on the recording material transported to the varnish application route (S212).

[0094] Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether all processes included in the print settings received in S201 to S208 have been completed (S213), and if not all processes have been completed (S213 No), returns to S209 and executes the process on the next recording material. In this way, by returning to S208 again after the varnishing process, it is also possible to alternately output a product on which the recording material S has been varnishing processed and a product on which the varnishing process has not been processed.

[0095] On the other hand, if the varnish application process is not to be performed on the recording material on which the image was formed in S209 (S210 No), the CPU 81 causes the varnish application device control unit 86 to operate the flapper 206, and conveys the recording material S on which the image was formed in S209 to the varnish bypass route 204 (S214). Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether all processes included in the print signal received in S101 have been completed (S213). If all processes have been completed (S213 Yes), the CPU 81 transitions the image forming system 1000 to a standby state and ends this flow. If all processes have not been completed (S213 No), the CPU 81 returns to S209 and performs the process on the next recording material.

[0096] In this embodiment, a paper setting screen for varnish is displayed in S207 to prompt the user to reset the recording material, but it is also possible to provide a "Cancel" software key on the screen shown in Figure 6(b) to prompt the user to reset the print settings from scratch.

[0097] As described above, when the user inputs print settings, if varnishing is selected and a setting for uncoated paper is made on the paper setting screen, the CPU 81 displays a message prompting the user to reset the recording material. In other words, if varnishing is selected, the CPU 81 does not allow input for uncoated paper on the paper setting screen.

[0098] This prevents the user from accidentally inputting an instruction to apply varnish to uncoated paper, which can prevent the user from obtaining the desired result due to the varnish peeling off easily or the result lacking the desired three-dimensional effect or gloss.

[0099] In addition, after outputting the finished product obtained by performing a varnish application process on uncoated paper, the user can be prompted to input processing information that reconfigures the recording material S, thereby preventing a decrease in workability due to the need to re-output the finished product obtained by performing a varnish application process on coated paper.

[0100] In addition, if "Paper Settings" is selected on the setting screen of Figure 5, control may be performed based on the flow of Figure 7, and if "Varnishing" is selected on the setting screen of Figure 5, control may be performed based on the flow of Figure 6.

[0101] <Third embodiment> Next, a different embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that this embodiment differs from the above-described embodiment in that it uses a configuration in which the thickness of the varnish layer applied to the recording material S by the varnish application device 200 is variable. In the image forming system described below, the main configurations of the image forming device 100 and the varnish application device 200 are the same as those in the first embodiment, so the same reference numerals will be used and the description will be omitted.

[0102] The image forming system of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the thickness of the varnish layer on the recording material S can be set as desired. This configuration is achieved by changing the amount of varnish supplied to the application roller 201 by setting a supply means (not shown) and the contact pressure between the application rollers 201 and 202 by setting a pressure mechanism (not shown). In this embodiment, as an example, the supply means and pressure mechanism of the varnish application device 200 can be set so that the varnish layer thickness is 10 μm, 20 μm, or 30 μm. The change in varnish layer thickness during the varnish application process by the varnish application device 200 is included as processing information in the print signal input by the user.

[0103] Using the image forming system of this embodiment, coated paper of different basis weights was varnished with different thicknesses of varnish applied. The results of measuring the amount of curl of the paper after the varnish application process are shown in Figure 8.

[0104] The coated paper used was "View High Corona A" manufactured by Oji F-Tex Co., Ltd., with a basis weight of 52.3 g / m 2 " and "OK Top Coat Plus" manufactured by Oji Paper Co., Ltd., with a basis weight of 73.3 g / m 2 " and "79.1g / m 2 " and "84.9g / m 2 " and "104.7g / m 2 " and "127.9g / m 2 All recording materials were A3 size.

[0105] When the stiffness of these recording materials was measured by the Gurley method specified in "J.TAPPI Paper and Pulp Test Method No. 40-83: Testing Method for Stiffness of Paper and Paperboard by Load Bending Method," it was found that the stiffness of the recording material depends on the basis weight or thickness of the recording material. In other words, the stiffness of the recording material can be estimated from the basis weight or thickness of the recording material.

[0106] The thickness of the applied varnish was changed by adjusting the amount of varnish supplied to the application roller 201 and the contact pressure between the application roller 201 and the recording material S.

[0107] Regarding curl of the recording material, the recording material after varnish coating was placed on a flat plate with the varnished surface facing up, and the maximum distance from the surface of the flat plate to the edge of the paper was taken as the curl amount. In this embodiment, the maximum allowable curl amount was set to "10 mm."

[0108] According to Figure 6, when the thickness of the applied varnish is "10 μm", the basis weight is "73.3 g / m 2 If the coated paper was larger than 20 μm, the maximum allowable curl amount was not exceeded. In addition, when the thickness of the applied varnish was 20 μm and 30 μm, the basis weight was 79.1 g / m. 2 For coated papers larger than 1 / 2" the maximum allowable curl amount was not exceeded.

[0109] That is, when varnishing thin paper with low stiffness, even coated paper, depending on the thickness of the varnish layer, shrinkage as the varnish dries or hardens can cause curling or waving of the recording material. Recording material with significant curling or waving can degrade the quality of the finished product. Furthermore, curling of the recording material can cause the recording material to jam in the conveying path, resulting in poor conveyance. Furthermore, when performing other processes, such as binding or folding, on recording material varnished by the varnish application device 200, the curling of the recording material can prevent the other processes from being performed. Thus, this embodiment prevents curling that occurs when varnishing prevents users from obtaining the desired finished product.

[0110] [Image formation system control] Next, the operation and control of the image forming system 1000 in this embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the control flow of the image forming system in the second embodiment.

[0111] The control flow shown in Figure 9 starts when a print signal is received in a standby state where the image forming system 1000 has been adjusted as a whole. Here, the standby state refers to a state in which the temperature of the fixing device 8 in the image forming apparatus 100 has reached a predetermined temperature at which a toner image can be fixed, and an image can be formed on a recording material immediately upon receiving a print signal. The standby state also refers to a state in which the varnish application device 200 has supplied varnish to the varnish application roller 201, and the irradiation power of the ultraviolet lamp 203 has reached a predetermined irradiation power, allowing varnish to be applied to a recording material and the applied varnish to harden.

[0112] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user makes print settings via the operation unit 95, but similar control processing can be executed when making print settings using the external device 91. When making print settings using the external device 91, the display screens described below are displayed on a display unit provided in the external device 91.

[0113] The CPU 81 can execute a print setting mode in which settings related to image formation processing and other processing are made by the user operating the operation unit 95. Note that this print setting mode is executed by the user operating a software key such as "print setting" displayed on the display unit 96.

[0114] When the print setting mode is executed by the user (Yes in S301), the CPU 81 displays the print setting screen shown in FIG. 5 on the display unit 94 of the operation unit 95 (S302).

[0115] If the print setting mode has not been accepted (S301 No), the CPU 81 waits until the print setting mode is accepted, and maintains the standby state of the image forming system 1000.

[0116] Next, the CPU 81 determines whether or not "varnish" has been selected on the print setting screen (S303).

[0117] If the "varnish processing" setting is accepted (S303 Yes), the CPU 81 displays the varnish thickness setting screen shown in FIG. 10(a) on the display unit 94 (S304). FIG. 10(a) is an example of the varnish thickness setting screen. As shown in FIG. 10(a), the varnish thickness setting screen allows the user to select the varnish thickness to be applied by the varnish application device 200. In this embodiment, as described above, the varnish thickness to be applied by the varnish application device 200 can be set to "10 μm," "20 μm," or "30 μm." The user can set the varnish thickness during varnishing by operating the "10 μm," "20 μm," or "30 μm" software keys provided on the setting screen shown in FIG. 10(a). Furthermore, the varnish thickness can be set by selecting the software key for each thickness shown in FIG. 10(a) and then pressing the OK software key.

[0118] Then, the CPU 81 determines whether the varnish thickness set in S304 is 10 μm (S305). If the varnish thickness is 10 μm, the paper setting screen for varnish shown in FIG. 10(b) is displayed (S306). As described above, when a varnish thickness of 10 μm is selected, even if the paper is coated, as described above, the paper will have a basis weight of 73.3 g / m2. 2 If the thickness is less than this, the amount of curl of the recording material after the varnish application process increases.

[0119] Therefore, in this embodiment, a recording material other than coated paper and a basis weight of 73.3 g / m 2 Therefore, in FIG. 10(b), the coating layer is applied to a recording material having a basis weight of 73.3 g / m. 2 Therefore, in FIG. 10B, only coated paper with a basis weight of 73.3 g / m2 or more can be selected from the recording materials that can be fed by the image forming apparatus 100. 2 Options other than the coated paper listed above are displayed in a darker color (grayed out) than the other options.

[0120] Furthermore, if the varnish thickness set in S304 is not 10 μm (S305 No), that is, if the varnish thickness is set to 20 μm or 30 μm in S304, the CPU 81 displays the paper setting screen for varnish shown in FIG. 10(c) (S307. As described above, if the varnish thickness is 20 μm or more, even if the paper is coated, as described above, the paper will have a basis weight of 79.1 g / m². 2 If the thickness is less than this, the amount of curl of the recording material after the varnish application process increases.

[0121] Therefore, in this embodiment, a recording material other than coated paper and a basis weight of 79.1 g / m 2 Therefore, in FIG. 10(c), the coating layer is applied to a recording material having a basis weight of 79.1 g / m. 2 Therefore, in FIG. 10C, the recording material that can be fed by the image forming apparatus 100 is limited to a basis weight of 79.1 g / m. 2Options other than the coated paper listed above are displayed in a darker color (grayed out) than the other options.

[0122] As mentioned above, the thicker the varnish, the greater the curl of the sheet when the varnish application process is performed. Therefore, the paper selection screen shown in Figure 10(c) has fewer selectable recording materials than the paper selection screen shown in Figure 10(b).

[0123] 10(b) and 10(c), other configurations may be used as long as only coated paper, a recording material with a coating layer and a basis weight equal to or greater than a predetermined value corresponding to the thickness of the varnish, is selectable. For example, as shown in FIG. 6(b), software keys for recording materials other than coated paper and coated paper with a basis weight equal to or less than a predetermined value corresponding to the thickness of the varnish may be hidden. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6(c) and FIG. 6(e), other display may be used to indicate that software keys for recording materials other than coated paper and coated paper with a basis weight equal to or less than a predetermined value corresponding to the thickness of the varnish are unavailable.

[0124] The manual paper feed unit (not shown) is selectable because there is a possibility that the user may load coated paper. However, if the device does not have a manual paper feed unit, it is not necessary to provide this "manual feed" option.

[0125] On the other hand, if the "varnish" setting has not been accepted (S303 No), the CPU 81 displays a paper selection screen for image formation on the display unit 94 (S308). The paper selection screen for image formation in this embodiment is a display screen in which all of the software keys shown in FIG. 10(b) or FIG. 10(c) are available for use, and in which there are no restrictions on the types of recording material that can be selected, as shown in FIG. 6(a).

[0126] The determination in S303 may be configured such that if only the image forming process has been received, it is determined that "the varnishing process has not been received" and the process proceeds to S308.

[0127] Then, the CPU 81 determines whether or not the paper setting is complete on the paper selection screen displayed in S104 or S306 to S308 (S309). If the paper setting is not complete (S309 No), the CPU 81 waits until the paper setting is complete.

[0128] In this manner, in this embodiment, the CPU 81 can accept image formation processing or varnish application processing for the recording material selected by the user by performing input operations via the display screens shown in Figure 6(a) and Figures 10(b) to (c).

[0129] If the paper setting is complete (S309 Yes), the CPU 81 determines (S310) whether or not an instruction to execute the print process set in S301 to S306 has been received from the user via the operation unit 95. If an instruction to execute the print process has not been received (S310 No), the CPU 81 waits until an instruction to execute the print process is received. Note that an instruction to execute the print process from the user can be received by operating a start key displayed as a software key on the display unit 94 of the operation unit 95 or a start key provided as a hardware key on the operation unit 95.

[0130] When an instruction to execute the printing process is received (S310 Yes), the CPU 81 controls the drive control unit 96 based on the information set in S301 to S306 to execute the image forming process (S311). Here, the recording material set in S306 to S308 is fed from the cassette 10 or another recording material storage device to execute the image forming process.

[0131] Then, the CPU 81 determines whether or not to execute a varnish application process on the recording material on which the image was formed in S311, based on the process information set in S303 to S305 (S312).

[0132] If the varnish application process is to be performed (S312 Yes), the CPU 81 causes the varnish application device control unit 86 to operate the flapper 206, and transports the recording material S that has been subjected to the image formation process in S311 to the varnish application route 205 (S313). The CPU 81 controls the varnish application device control unit 86 to perform the varnish application process on the recording material transported to the varnish application route based on the varnish thickness set in S304 (S314).

[0133] Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether all processes included in the print settings received in S301 to S309 have been completed (S315), and if not all processes have been completed (S315 No), returns to S311 and executes the process on the next recording material. In this way, by returning to S311 again after the varnishing process, it is also possible to alternately output a product on which the recording material S has been varnishing processed and a product on which the varnishing process has not been processed.

[0134] On the other hand, if the varnish application process is not to be performed on the recording material on which the image was formed in S311 (S312 No), the CPU 81 causes the varnish application device control unit 86 to operate the flapper 206, and conveys the recording material S on which the image was formed in S311 to the varnish bypass route 204 (S316). Thereafter, the CPU 81 determines whether or not all of the processes set in S301 to S309 have been completed (S315). If all of the processes have been completed (S315 Yes), the CPU 81 transitions the image forming system 1000 to a standby state and ends this flow. If all of the processes have not been completed (S315 No), the CPU 81 returns to S108 and performs the process on the next recording material.

[0135] As described above, when the user inputs print settings, if varnishing is selected, the CPU 81 disables settings for uncoated paper on the paper setting screen. It also disables settings for coated paper, which increases the amount of curl in the recording material depending on the thickness of the varnish applied during the varnishing process. In other words, if varnishing is selected, the CPU 81 does not allow input for uncoated paper on the paper setting screen, and it does not allow input for coated paper with a basis weight below a certain level.

[0136] This prevents the user from mistakenly inputting an instruction to perform varnishing on uncoated paper. It also prevents the user from mistakenly inputting an instruction to perform varnishing on recording materials that are predicted to curl more when varnishing is performed. This prevents the user from achieving the desired end product, such as a product where the varnish is easily peeled off or where the desired three-dimensional effect or glossiness is not achieved. It also prevents the user from achieving the desired end product due to curling of the recording material, and prevents conveyance problems caused by curling.

[0137] In addition, after outputting the finished product obtained by performing a varnish application process on uncoated paper, the user can be prompted to input processing information that reconfigures the recording material S, thereby preventing a decrease in workability due to the need to re-output the finished product obtained by performing a varnish application process on coated paper.

[0138] In this embodiment, an example has been shown in which the user sets the type of recording material S after setting the varnishing setting, but it may also be configured so that the varnishing setting is performed after the user sets the paper, as in the second embodiment. In this case, as in the second embodiment, the display unit 94 may display a message prompting the user to reset the recording material when the varnishing setting is performed.

[0139] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the varnish application device 200 is configured to include a varnish bypass route 204, but other configurations are possible as long as the recording material can be transported without being varnished. For example, a configuration may be provided in which a varnish removal unit is provided to remove varnish from the surface of the varnish application roller 201, and in the case where the recording material S is uncoated paper, the supply of varnish to the varnish application roller 201 is stopped and the varnish is removed from the surface of the varnish application roller 201. In this way, after the varnish has been removed from the surface of the varnish application roller 201, the uncoated paper is transported via the varnish application route 205, making it possible to discharge the recording material that has not been varnished without switching the transport path.

[0140] Furthermore, when an inkjet line head is used to apply varnish to the recording material S, it is possible to stop the application of varnish at will by controlling the line head. Therefore, even by transporting uncoated paper along the varnish application route 205, it is possible to discharge recording material that has not been subjected to the varnish application process without switching the transport route.

[0141] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 80 provided inside the image forming apparatus 100 controls the entire image forming system, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the entire image forming system may be controlled by an external device housed in a different housing from the image forming apparatus 100 and connected to the image forming apparatus so as to be able to input and output data. Furthermore, the entire image forming system may be controlled by a control unit provided in the varnish application apparatus 200. [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] 8 Fixing device 10 cassettes 12 Registration roller 80 Control Unit 81 CPU 85 Input / Output Interface Section 86 Varnish application device control unit 87 Input reception section 94 Display section 95 Operation section 100 Image forming device 200 Varnish application device 201 Application roller 202 opposing roller 204 Niss Bypass Route 205 Varnish application route 206 Flapper S recording material

Claims

1. an image forming apparatus capable of performing an image forming process for forming an image on a recording material; a varnish application device capable of applying varnish to the surface of a recording material on which an image has been formed by the image forming device; a receiving unit capable of receiving an instruction regarding the type of recording material and an instruction regarding the varnish application process; a control means; The types of the recording material include a first type and a second type, the first type of recording material having a coating layer before an image is formed, and the second type of recording material not having a coating layer before an image is formed, the control means controls the receiving means so as to receive an instruction to perform the varnish application process on the first type of recording material and not to receive an instruction to perform the varnish application process on the second type of recording material; An image forming system characterized in that, when an instruction to perform the varnish application process on the first type of recording material is received, an image is formed on the coating layer of the first type of recording material and varnish is applied.

2. The image forming system described in claim 1, characterized in that if the control means receives an instruction to perform the varnish application process before the type of recording material is selected, it controls the reception means so that the second type of recording material cannot be selected.

3. the receiving means has a display unit capable of displaying keys for selecting the type of recording material, The image forming system described in claim 2, characterized in that the control means controls the display unit so that a key for selecting the second type of recording material is not displayed when an instruction to perform the varnish application process is received before the type of recording material is selected.

4. the receiving means has a display unit capable of displaying keys for selecting the type of recording material, The image forming system described in claim 2, characterized in that the control means controls the display unit to display the key for selecting the second type of recording material in an unselectable state when an instruction to perform the varnish application process is received before the type of recording material is selected.

5. The image forming system described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that when the control means receives an instruction to perform the varnish application process after the second type of recording material has been selected via the reception means, it controls the display unit to display a message indicating that the recording material should be reselected.

6. The control means can receive the thickness of the varnish layer in the varnish application process via the receiving means, The image forming system described in any one of claims 3 or 4, characterized in that when the thickness of the varnish layer received through the receiving means is smaller than a predetermined thickness, the control means displays a first display on the display unit showing selectable recording materials, and when the thickness of the varnish layer is greater than or equal to the predetermined thickness, the control means displays a second display on the display unit showing fewer selectable recording materials than in the first display.

7. The image forming system described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the varnish application device has an application roller that applies varnish to the recording material, and an opposing roller that is positioned opposite the application roller and transports the recording material together with the application roller.

8. 7. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the varnish applying device has a line head that injects varnish onto the recording material.

9. The varnish application device has a first transport path that performs the varnish application process and a second transport path that does not perform the varnish application process, The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, when the control means allows only the image forming device to perform image forming processing, the control means transports the recording material on which the image has been formed by the image forming device to the second transport path.

10. The first type of recording material has a coating weight of 20 g / m ２ ~40g / m ２ 10. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the recording material has a coating layer of the formula:

11. The first type of recording material has a coating weight of 12 g / m ２ ~40g / m ２ 10. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the recording material has a coating layer of the formula:

12. an image forming apparatus capable of performing an image forming process for forming an image on a recording material; a varnish application device capable of applying varnish to the surface of a recording material on which an image has been formed by the image forming device; a receiving unit capable of receiving an instruction regarding the type of recording material and an instruction regarding the varnish application process; a control means; The types of the recording material include a first type and a second type, the first type of recording material having a coating layer before an image is formed, and the second type of recording material not having a coating layer before an image is formed, The image forming system is characterized in that, when the control means receives an instruction to perform the varnish application process when the first type of recording material is selected, it controls so that an image is formed on the coating layer of the first type of recording material and the varnish is applied, and when the control means receives an instruction to perform the varnish application process when the second type of recording material is selected, it controls so that an image is not formed on the second type of recording material.

13. An image forming apparatus capable of performing image forming processing to form an image on a recording material; a varnish application device capable of applying varnish to the surface of a recording material on which an image has been formed by the image forming device; a receiving unit capable of receiving an instruction regarding the type of recording material and an instruction regarding the varnish application process; a control means; The types of the recording material include a first type and a second type, the first type of recording material having a coating layer before an image is formed, and the second type of recording material not having a coating layer before an image is formed, The image forming system is characterized in that, when the control means receives an instruction to perform the varnish application process when the first type of recording material is selected, it controls so that an image is formed on the coating layer of the first type of recording material and varnish is applied, and when it receives an instruction to perform the varnish application process when the second type of recording material is selected, it causes the user to select the type of recording material again.

14. the receiving means has a display unit capable of displaying keys for selecting the type of recording material, 14. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the control means controls the display unit so that, when the type of recording material is to be selected again, the key for selecting the second type of recording material is not displayed.

15. the receiving means has a display unit capable of displaying keys for selecting the type of recording material, 14. The image forming system according to claim 13, wherein the control means controls the display unit so that, when the type of recording material is to be selected again, the key for selecting the second type of recording material is displayed in an unselectable state.

16. The image forming system described in any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the varnish application device has an application roller that applies varnish to the recording material, and an opposing roller that is positioned opposite the application roller and transports the recording material together with the application roller.

17. 16. The image forming system according to claim 12, wherein the varnish applying device has a line head that injects varnish onto the recording material.

18. The varnish application device has a first transport path that performs the varnish application process and a second transport path that does not perform the varnish application process, The image forming system according to any one of claims 12 to 17, characterized in that, when the control unit allows only the image forming device to perform image forming processing, the control unit conveys the recording material on which the image has been formed by the image forming device to the second conveying path.

19. The first type of recording material has a coating weight of 20 g / m ２ ~40g / m ２ 19. The image forming system according to claim 12, wherein the recording material has a coating layer of the formula:

20. The first type of recording material has a coating weight of 12 g / m ２ ~40g / m ２ 19. The image forming system according to claim 12, wherein the recording material has a coating layer of the formula:

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