Image forming apparatus and image forming program

Abstract

To support reduction in work volume required for adjustment on conveyance of sheets of paper using an adjustment value on the conveyance of sheets of paper corresponding to types, etc. of the sheets of paper that has been executed, differently from a case where an adjustment value on the conveyance of sheets of paper corresponding to types. etc. of sheets of paper is not stored.SOLUTION: An image forming device receives sheets-of-paper information on types of sheets of paper for forming an image (S10), acquires assist information, which is the information corresponding to the sheet-of-paper information and concerning the conveyance of sheets of paper, on supply assist for sheets of paper, which is executed by supplying a gas to the sheets of paper (S20), and adjustment information on position adjustment for the sheets of paper after the supply assist of the sheets of paper (S30), and executes control to associate the sheets-of-paper information, the assist information, and the adjustment information, and stores them in a storage part (S50).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, techniques for reducing problems with paper transport in air paper feeders have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This technique is applied to a paper feed parameter management system in which an image forming apparatus equipped with a paper feeder that feeds paper by blowing air and suction is connected to a management device via a communications network. The image forming apparatus transmits to the management device paper type information for the paper to be fed, adjusted paper feed parameters, and transport results for paper fed using the paper feed parameters. The management device collects adjustment results that associate the paper type information, paper feed parameters, and transport results, and sets paper feed parameters corresponding to the paper type information used for the image forming apparatus to be processed based on the transport results.

[0003] There is also known a technology for preventing overlapping and slippage when feeding sheets (paper) (see, for example, Patent Document 2). This technology includes a sheet feeding means for feeding sheets one by one, an air heater for generating hot air, a fan for blowing the hot air to the sheet feeding means, a sheet detection sensor for detecting the feeding state of the sheets fed by the sheet feeding means, and a controller for controlling the air blowing state based on the detection result of the sheet feeding state detection sensor. The controller also includes a sheet slippage amount calculation means and a multi-feed determination means for determining whether sheets are overlapping. The multi-feed detection sensor is used in the normal paper feeding mode, and the multi-feed detection sensor is used in the backup paper feeding mode.

[0004] Furthermore, a technique for setting the volume of assist air for paper is also known (see, for example, Patent Document 3). In this technique, the behavior of the paper is detected while the air blowing means is operating during non-image formation, and the volume of air that can appropriately assist the paper is determined from the detected results, and set as the volume of air used for normal paper feeding. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-070166 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-241568 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-140359 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Incidentally, image forming apparatuses perform adjustments related to paper transport depending on the type of paper, etc. When adjusting paper transport by, for example, blowing air during paper transport, the position of the paper is adjusted after the paper is fed to reduce misalignment of the image caused by unstable paper movement during paper transport. However, if adjustments related to paper transport were performed each time a paper setting process was performed in the image forming apparatus, for example, for each paper setting, the amount of work involved in the adjustments would increase each time a paper transport adjustment was performed. For example, even if adjustment values for paper feed adjustments and paper position adjustments were stored for reuse, simply storing the adjustment values for each adjustment makes it difficult to determine which adjustment value is appropriate. Therefore, the amount of work involved in the adjustments would increase each time a paper transport adjustment was performed.

[0007] The present disclosure aims to provide an image forming device and a program that can help reduce the amount of work required to adjust paper transport compared to when adjustment values for paper transport are not stored according to the type of paper, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a processor; The processor: Accepts paper information regarding the type of paper on which the image is to be formed; Acquire information corresponding to the received paper information and relating to the transport of the paper, the information including assistance information relating to paper supply assistance by supplying gas to the paper and adjustment information relating to position adjustment of the paper after the paper supply assistance; Controlling the storage of the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information in association with each other in a storage unit It is an image forming apparatus.

[0009] A second aspect of the present disclosure is the image forming apparatus of the first aspect, The processor: extracting a designated information set from a plurality of information sets including the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information stored in association with each other in the storage unit; controlling a paper supply auxiliary unit that supplies gas to the paper when supplying the paper stored in the paper storage unit based on auxiliary information corresponding to the paper information in the extracted information set; A position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the paper is controlled based on adjustment information corresponding to the paper information in the extracted information set.

[0010] A third aspect of the present disclosure is the image forming apparatus of the first aspect, The processor: Acquire auxiliary information set in correspondence with the received paper information; extracting adjustment information corresponding to the received paper information and the acquired auxiliary information based on a plurality of information sets including the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information stored in association with each other in the storage unit, and acquiring the extracted adjustment information; The received paper information, the set auxiliary information, and the extracted adjustment information are associated with each other, set as a new information set, and stored in the storage unit.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is the image forming apparatus of the third aspect, The processor: When at least one of the auxiliary information and the adjustment information is changed using the information set stored in the storage unit, the changed information is acquired; A new information set updated with the changed information is stored in the storage unit.

[0012] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the image forming apparatus of the fourth aspect, The processor: When the auxiliary information or the adjustment information is changed using the information set stored in the storage unit, the changed one of the information is acquired; For the other unchanged information, an information set including one of the changed pieces of information is identified based on the information set stored in the storage unit, and control is performed to store information corresponding to the other unchanged information included in the identified information set as unchanged information in a new information set.

[0013] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, The processor: performing control to form a predetermined confirmation image using the associated paper information, auxiliary information, and adjustment information; receiving information indicating whether or not it is possible to store the associated paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information after controlling the formation of the confirmation image; Based on the received permission information, control is performed as to whether or not the associated paper information, auxiliary information, and adjustment information are to be stored in the storage unit.

[0014] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, Further comprising a display unit, The processor The control unit 100 controls the display of the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information on the display unit.

[0015] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a paper supply assisting unit that assists in supplying the paper to an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper by supplying gas to the paper from a paper storage unit that stores the paper; a position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the paper when forming an image on the paper; A program for controlling an image forming apparatus comprising: The processor Accepts paper information regarding the type of paper on which the image is to be formed; Acquire information corresponding to the received paper information and relating to the transport of the paper, the information including assistance information relating to paper supply assistance by supplying gas to the paper and adjustment information relating to position adjustment of the paper after the paper supply assistance; Controlling the storage of the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information in association with each other in a storage unit It is a program that executes processing including the above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the first and eighth aspects, the effect is achieved of being able to help reduce the amount of work required to adjust paper transport compared to when information regarding paper transport corresponding to the type of paper, etc. is not stored. According to the second aspect, the effect is that the amount of work required for adjusting paper transport can be reduced compared to when adjusting paper supply and adjusting the position of paper without using adjusted information regarding paper transport. According to the third aspect, the effect is that the amount of work involved in adjusting the position of paper can be reduced compared to when adjusting the position of paper is performed without using the associated and stored paper information, auxiliary information, and adjustment information. According to the fourth aspect, compared to the case where the updated auxiliary information and adjustment information are not stored, by obtaining auxiliary information and adjustment information that is compatible with the image forming device, it is possible to obtain the effect that the auxiliary information and adjustment information can be reused. According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to obtain an effect that the amount of work required for adjustments relating to paper conveyance can be reduced compared to when unaltered auxiliary information or adjustment information is not used. According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to obtain an effect that the accuracy of the information relating to the transport of the paper stored in the storage unit can be improved compared to when control for forming a confirmation image is not performed. According to the seventh aspect, it is possible to check the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information, compared to when no display unit is provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an electrical configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of print parameters related to paper transport according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of information about printing parameters related to paper transport according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for storing print parameters in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of a printing parameter setting screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a confirmation print process according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for making adjustments related to paper transport in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a search condition for paper information according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] An example of an embodiment for implementing the technology of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that components and processes that perform the same operations, actions, and functions are given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is merely a schematic illustration to allow a sufficient understanding of the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, descriptions of configurations that are not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0019] In this disclosure, "air assist" refers to a paper feed assist function that adjusts the paper feed in relation to the paper transport by at least one of blowing air (for example, supplying gas at positive pressure) and suction (for example, supplying gas at negative pressure). Also, "alignment" refers to a position adjustment function that adjusts the position of the paper in relation to the transport of the paper, forming an image at a predetermined position on the transported paper.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming system 10 as an example of an image forming apparatus of the present disclosure for implementing the technology of the present disclosure.

[0021] The image forming system 10 is configured to include an image forming device 12 having an image forming section where an image is formed, a connecting device 13, paper feeding devices 14A and 14B, and post-processing devices 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, and 16E which are finishers.

[0022] Paper feeders 14A and 14B are paper feeders for supplying paper to image forming device 12. Post-processing devices 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, and 16E are devices for performing post-processing on paper on which an image has been formed by image forming device 12 and then discharging the paper, such as devices for stapling, punching, folding (in half or in three), gluing, and trimming.

[0023] The image forming device 12 forms an image on an intermediate transfer body based on image data, and transfers the image formed on the intermediate transfer body onto paper, thereby forming (printing) the image on paper.

[0024] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment. The image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment is configured to include an image forming unit 20 that forms an image on a sheet of paper and a paper storage unit 22 that supplies stored sheets of paper to the image forming unit 20.

[0025] The paper storage section 22 is for supplying paper P stored therein to the image forming section 20. In this embodiment, four paper storage sections 221, 222, 223, and 224 are provided inside the image forming device 12. When describing the paper storage sections without distinguishing between them, they are collectively referred to as paper storage section 22, and when distinguishing between them, they are designated by the numbers 1 to 4.

[0026] The paper storage section 22 is capable of changing the size of the paper P stored by adjusting the position of internal partition members (not shown), and stores stacks of paper P. In this embodiment, the paper P is stored stacked on a tray (not shown). The paper storage section 22 drives the tray on which the paper P is stacked by a motor (not shown), and lifts it up.

[0027] The paper storage section 22 is provided with an air assist unit 24. The air assist unit 24 prevents double feeding of paper sheets P due to static electricity, humidity, and the like, and supplies gas such as air to the paper storage section 22 to assist in removing paper sheets P. When paper sheets are pulled from the tray to the paper transport path, the air assist unit 24 blows gas such as hot air or cold air from a predetermined position (for example, the side) of the stack of paper sheets stacked in the tray to separate the topmost paper sheet P from the sheets below, creating gaps between the sheets, and maintaining constant humidity for the stored paper sheets P. That is, the air assist unit 24 performs air assist, which is an auxiliary process related to paper transport, by blowing gas from the side of the stack of paper sheets, for example, to separate the topmost paper sheet from the paper directly below it when paper sheets are pulled from the tray to the transport path.

[0028] The gas supplied by the air assist unit 24 is not limited to air, and any gas may be used. However, to simplify the following explanation, the case where air is supplied will be described.

[0029] The sheet P picked up from the top of the sheets P stacked on the tray is transported to the image forming unit 20 via a sheet transport path 40 by a plurality of roller pairs 39.

[0030] The image forming device 12 is also provided with a manual feed tray 42 for manually feeding paper P. The paper P placed on the manual feed tray 42 is guided onto a paper transport path 40 by a manual feed roller 41 and a roller pair 39 inside the image forming device 12, and is transported to the image forming unit 20 via the paper transport path 40.

[0031] In the image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment, a paper receiving opening 50 is provided below the manual tray 42 to receive paper P supplied from the paper feeder 14. The paper P received through the paper receiving opening 50 is transported to the image forming unit 20 via the paper transport path 40.

[0032] The image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment is provided with an alignment unit 23 that adjusts the position of paper P transported to the image forming unit 20 via the paper transport path 40. The alignment unit 23 adjusts the position of the transported paper after it is fed to reduce misalignment of the image on the paper caused by unstable transport of the paper, such as slippage and skewing of the paper during transport. The alignment unit 23 applies at least one of offset adjustment and skew adjustment as alignment to adjust the position of the paper P. In offset adjustment, the position of the paper being transported is shifted by a predetermined distance in at least one direction, including the transport direction, the reverse transport direction, and a direction intersecting the transport direction (e.g., left and right), relative to a reference position of the paper being transported. In skew adjustment, the paper is rotated by a predetermined angle from the angle between the transport direction and the longitudinal direction of the paper before adjustment.

[0033] The air assist unit 24 is an example of a paper supply assist unit of the present disclosure, and the alignment unit 23 is an example of a position adjustment unit of the present disclosure.

[0034] The image forming section 20 includes a photosensitive member 26, a charger 28, a light beam scanning device 30, a developing device 32, an intermediate transfer member 34, a transfer device 36, a charge remover / cleaner 38, a transfer device 44, and a fixing device 46.

[0035] Photoconductor 26 rotates at a predetermined speed in the direction opposite to the direction of arrow A. A charger 28 is provided around photoconductor 26 to charge the peripheral surface. Light beam scanning device 30 irradiates the peripheral surface of photoconductor 26, which has been charged by charger 28, with a light beam based on image data to form an electrostatic latent image. Developing device 32 includes roller 32A, and develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the peripheral surface of photoconductor 26 by causing roller 32A to deposit toner stored therein.

[0036] Intermediate transfer body 34 is an endless belt provided below photoreceptor 26, and rotates in the direction of arrow B by a number of rollers at the same rotational speed as photoreceptor 26. A transfer device 36 is disposed at the position where photoreceptor 26 and intermediate transfer body 34 come into contact. The toner image on the circumferential surface of photoreceptor 26 is transferred to intermediate transfer body 34. Discharger / cleaner 38 has the function of discharging the circumferential surface of photoreceptor 26 and the function of removing residual toner remaining on the circumferential surface.

[0037] Meanwhile, paper P conveyed via paper conveyance path 40 is sent between intermediate transfer body 34 and transfer device 44, and the toner image on intermediate transfer body 34 is transferred by transfer device 44. After the toner image has been transferred to paper P, the toner is melted and fixed by fixation device 46, and the paper P is then discharged to the outside of image forming device 12 by discharge roller pair 49.

[0038] The image forming apparatus 12 is provided with an ejection tray 56 onto which the paper P having an image formed thereon is ejected. The paper P having an image formed thereon is ejected to the ejection tray 56 via a paper transport path 58 by an ejection roller pair 49 and an ejection roller 55 inside the image forming apparatus 12. Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment, a paper ejection opening 62 for ejecting the paper P to the post-processing device 16 is provided below the ejection tray 56. When the paper P having an image formed thereon is to be ejected to the post-processing device 16, it is transported from the paper ejection opening 62 to the post-processing device 16A via a paper transport path 60.

[0039] The image forming device 12 also has a reversing path 48 for double-sided printing, and the paper P with an image formed on one side is reversed in the reversing path 48 and transported again to the intermediate transfer body 34, where the image is transferred.

[0040] Furthermore, paper feeders 14A (not shown) and 14B are connected to the image forming device 12 via a connecting device 13. The connecting device 13 is provided with a paper supply port (paper receiving port 50 of the image forming device 12).

[0041] Paper feeder 14B of this embodiment is configured to include two paper storage sections 22 (paper storage sections 225 and 226). Paper storage section 22 of paper feeder 14B has substantially the same configuration as paper storage section 22 inside image forming device 12, and removed paper P is received into image forming device 12 from a paper supply port (shared with paper receiving port 50) via paper transport path 52 and supplied to image forming section 20.

[0042] The paper feeder 14A, which is not shown in the figure, has a configuration substantially similar to that of the paper feeder 14B, and the paper P transported from the paper feeder 14A is received into the image forming device 12 from the paper supply port (paper receiving port 50) via the paper transport path 54 and is supplied to the image forming section 20.

[0043] Furthermore, post-processing devices 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, and 16E (16C-D, not shown) that are finishers are connected to the image forming device 12. The post-processing device 16A is provided with a paper receiving opening 62 that corresponds to the paper discharge opening 62 of the image forming device 12.

[0044] The post-processing device 16A of this embodiment is configured to include two paper discharge sections 64 (paper discharge sections 641, 642). Paper P on which an image has been formed is received into the post-processing device 16A through a paper receiving inlet (paper discharge port) 62 and discharged to paper discharge section 641 via paper transport path 66. The paper is also discharged to paper discharge section 642 via paper transport path 67. The paper is then transported to the post-processing device 16B via paper transport path 68.

[0045] Post-processing device 16B is configured to include one paper discharge section 64 (paper discharge section 643). Paper P on which an image has been formed is discharged to paper discharge section 643 via paper transport path 69. It is also transported to post-processing devices 16C to 16E via paper transport path 68.

[0046] Note that post-processing devices 16C to 16E (not shown) each include a paper discharge unit 64 and a corresponding paper transport path, similar to post-processing devices 16A and 16B. Paper P transported via paper transport path 68 is discharged to the corresponding paper discharge unit 64 via the paper transport path.

[0047] In this embodiment, the image forming device 12 is capable of performing a paper adjustment process that assists (air assists) the feeding of paper in relation to the transport of paper, and a position adjustment process that adjusts (aligns) the position of the paper to form an image at a predetermined position on the transported paper.

[0048] Next, an example of the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 12 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Note that the image forming apparatus 12 can be realized by a configuration including a general-purpose computer device such as a server or a personal computer (PC).

[0049] The image forming apparatus 12 includes a control unit 70 for overall control, which includes a computer main unit 70X. The computer main unit 70X includes a central processing unit (CPU) 71, a random access memory (RAM) 72, a read-only memory (ROM) 73, and an input / output port (I / O) 74, which are interconnected via a bus 76. A storage unit 75 is connected to the bus 76 as an auxiliary storage device that may be realized by a hard disk drive (HDD) or a nonvolatile flash memory. A communication unit 77 and a user interface (UI) unit 78 as an operation unit including a display device such as a touch panel are also connected to the I / O 74. The storage unit 75 stores various data 75D used by the image forming apparatus 12.

[0050] The UI unit 78 is an example of a display unit in the present disclosure.

[0051] The communication unit 77 is connected to each of the image formation-related units constituting the image forming apparatus 12, and can exchange data and commands with each unit in the image forming apparatus 12 so as to be able to control the units. The communication unit 77 is also configured to be able to communicate with external devices. The storage unit 75 also stores a unique program 75M for implementing the various functions of each unit in the image forming apparatus 12 related to image formation. The CPU 71 reads the unique program 75M from the storage unit 75, expands it in the RAM 72, and executes the processing. As a result, the image forming apparatus 12, which has executed the unique program 75M, operates so as to be able to execute the various functions related to image formation described above.

[0052] A control program 75P that makes adjustments related to paper transport, which will be described later, is stored in the storage unit 75. The CPU 71 reads the control program 75P from the storage unit 75, loads it into the RAM 72, and executes the processing. As a result, the computer main body 70X that executes the control program 75P operates as the control unit 70. The control program 75P may be provided by a recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0053] In the image forming device 12, adjustments are made to the paper transport according to the paper type, etc., before an image is formed on the paper. The paper is transported using the adjusted paper transport adjustment values, and an image is formed on the transported paper. However, if adjustments to the paper transport are made using air blowing or the like during paper supply, the paper position is adjusted after the paper has been supplied after the adjustments to the paper transport have been made using air blowing or the like to reduce image misalignment caused by paper slippage and skewing during paper transport. However, if adjustments to the paper transport are made every time a paper setting process is performed, the amount of work required for the adjustments increases. Furthermore, simply storing the adjustment values for each adjustment makes it difficult to reuse the adjustment values. In this embodiment, adjustment values for the paper transport according to the paper type, etc., can be reused, thereby reducing the amount of work required for adjusting the paper transport.

[0054] In this embodiment, in order to reduce the amount of work required for adjustments related to paper transport, paper information included in printing parameters including adjustment values related to paper transport for the transported paper is associated with and stored as adjustment values for the paper transport corresponding to the paper information. The air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value are applied to the adjustment values related to paper transport. In other words, information associating the paper information, air assist adjustment value, and alignment adjustment value as printing parameters related to paper transport is stored in memory unit 75 as data 75D so as to be referenceable.

[0055] The paper information is a concept that includes the type and characteristics of paper, such as material, weight, and size. The air assist adjustment value is an example of auxiliary information related to paper supply assistance of the present disclosure, and the alignment adjustment value is an example of adjustment information related to paper position adjustment of the present disclosure. The printing parameters are an example of an information set of the present disclosure.

[0056] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of printing parameters related to paper transport. In the example shown in Fig. 4, a table 90 is shown in which paper information, air assist adjustment values, and alignment adjustment values are associated as printing parameters associated with information related to paper transport. In table 90, at least the paper information, air assist adjustment values, and alignment adjustment values are associated with each other.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 4, table 90 associates alignment adjustment values with paper information and air assist adjustment values. The paper information includes multiple pieces of attribute information. The attribute information is an example of information that can identify paper information indicating the paper on which an image is formed. In this embodiment, information indicating each of the paper size, weight such as basis weight, paper type, and paper surface condition (coated) is applied. For example, the first piece of paper information indicates each piece of attribute information that indicates information values of "A4" as the paper size, "80 gsm" as the weight, "Plain" as the paper type, and "Uncoated" as the paper surface condition (coated).

[0058] The air assist adjustment value can store multiple adjustment values (first adjustment value, ...). For example, air assist involves blowing air from the side of a stack of sheets as they are pulled from a tray into the transport path. In this embodiment, a case is described in which air is blown from multiple sides at the same or different air volumes to create gaps between sheets, thereby assisting transport. The image forming apparatus 12 assists transport of sheets by arranging fans at multiple different positions to blow air onto the sheets and setting the air volumes from the fans. The fans may be positioned anywhere around the sheets. Table 90 shows that a single air assist adjustment value includes settings (air assist adjustment values) for fans at different positions, for example, the first fan to the nth fan. The air assist adjustment value may be categorized into multiple levels, such as minimum air volume to maximum air volume, and a value for each level may be set. Alternatively, the air volume may be set according to the number of levels.

[0059] Furthermore, in table 90, alignment adjustment values are stored in correspondence with paper information and air assist adjustment values. Alignment, for example, adjusts at least one of the paper offset and skew. Alignment adjustment may be performed at the image formation position in image forming device 12, or may be performed during transport. Therefore, alignment adjustment values can be stored as a profile (alignment profile) having one or more adjustment locations and adjustment amounts. For example, an example is shown showing information "AL1-1" indicating an alignment profile indicating adjustment locations and adjustment amounts as the alignment adjustment value corresponding to the first paper information and the first adjustment value of the air assist adjustment value.

[0060] Note that the information stored as printing parameters related to paper transport in the present disclosure is not limited to the table 90 shown in Fig. 4. For example, it may be stored as information in a database or the like that associates paper information, air assist adjustment values, and alignment adjustment values (Fig. 5).

[0061] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of information about printing parameters related to paper transport. The example shown in Fig. 5 shows a database 92 including records that associate information items indicating paper information, air assist adjustment values, and alignment adjustment values as printing parameters related to paper transport. In the database 92, at least information indicating paper information, air assist adjustment values, and alignment adjustment values is associated.

[0062] Next, a control process related to adjustments regarding paper transport, which is executed in the image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment, will be described in detail.

[0063] In the image forming apparatus 12, the entire image forming apparatus 12 is controlled by the control unit 70. In this embodiment, when the image forming process is performed in the image forming apparatus 12, in order to reduce the amount of work required for adjustments related to paper transport, a storage process of printing parameters is performed that makes it possible to reuse adjustment values related to paper transport corresponding to the type of paper, etc.

[0064] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a control process for storing print parameters including adjustment values related to paper transport in image forming apparatus 12. The control process shown in Fig. 6 shows a process executed before image formation for storing print parameters including adjustment values related to paper transport for transported paper. Note that the control process shown in Fig. 6 is executed when an instruction from a user is received via UI unit 78.

[0065] When the CPU 71 receives a print parameter setting (e.g., creation or editing) instruction from the user via the communication unit 77, it starts the print parameter setting process in step S10 and executes processing to display a print parameter setting screen. That is, in step S10, the print parameter setting screen is displayed on the UI unit 78, and the print parameters are set by the user. In this step S10, when at least the paper information is set by the user, the CPU 71 acquires the set paper information.

[0066] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which a print parameter setting screen is displayed on UI unit 78 to set print parameters, but the display of print parameters is not limited to UI unit 78. For example, image forming apparatus 12 may communicate with an external terminal, and display information may be sent from image forming apparatus 12 to the external terminal and displayed on the external terminal (e.g., a display device), or information set on an external terminal (e.g., a designated device) may of course be received by image forming apparatus 12.

[0067] 7 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a print parameter setting screen displayed on the UI unit 78. The setting screen can be used as both a creation processing screen displayed during print parameter creation processing and an editing processing screen displayed during print parameter editing processing.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 7, setting screen 80 includes display areas 81 that display the names of print parameters, and each display area includes a setting area 81A that allows input or update of the name. In the example shown in Fig. 7, information "Media1" is input as the setting value for the name of the print parameter.

[0069] In addition, the setting screen 80 includes display areas that display information related to each of the information indicated by the printing parameters, such as paper information, air assist, alignment, and other information, and each display area includes a setting area for setting setting values.

[0070] Specifically, the setting screen 80 includes a display area 82 that displays information related to paper information, and the display area 82 includes setting areas 82A to 82D for setting setting values for attribute information included in the paper information. The attribute information is an example of information that can identify paper information that indicates the paper on which an image is formed. In this embodiment, information indicating each of the paper size, weight such as basis weight, paper type, and paper surface condition (coat) is applied. The example shown in FIG. 7 shows an example in which the paper size is "A4," the weight is "80 gsm," the paper type is "Plain," and the paper surface condition (coat) is "Uncoated" as setting values.

[0071] The setting screen 80 also includes a display area 83 that displays information related to air assist, and the display area 83 includes setting areas 83A-83n for setting a setting value (air assist adjustment value). As described above, air assist assists paper transport by arranging fans in multiple different positions in the image forming apparatus 12 to blow air onto paper and setting the air volume from the multiple fans. In the example shown in FIG. 7, setting areas 83A-83n are shown for setting the setting values (air assist adjustment values) for fans 1 through n as examples of fans in different positions. The setting values (air assist adjustment values) may be categorized into multiple levels, such as minimum air volume to maximum air volume, and a value for each level may be set (see setting area 83A), or a value for the number of levels may be set (see setting area 83n).

[0072] The setting screen 80 also includes a display area 84 that displays information related to alignment, and the display area 84 includes a setting area 84A for setting a setting value (alignment adjustment value). As described above, alignment can be set as a profile (alignment profile) that adjusts at least one of the offset and skew of the paper. In the example shown in FIG. 7, information on "AL1-1" that indicates an alignment profile is displayed as an example of a setting value (alignment adjustment value).

[0073] Furthermore, the setting screen 80 includes a confirmation print button 86, a cancel button 87, and a decide button 88. The confirmation print button 86 is an instruction button for instructing the process of printing a print to confirm the suitability of the print parameters (details will be described later). The cancel button 87 is an instruction button for instructing the cancellation process of erasing the setting values set as print parameters and returning them to the previous setting values. The decide button 88 is an instruction button for instructing the setting values that have been set to be set as print parameters.

[0074] The display area 85 is an area for displaying and setting setting values other than those mentioned above, which are included as printing parameters related to the image forming process, but since it includes normal setting values in the image forming device 12, its explanation will be omitted.

[0075] The image formed on the print for checking whether the printing parameters are appropriate is an example of a check image in the present disclosure.

[0076] 6, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S20 after acquiring the paper information. In step S20, as part of the printing parameter setting process, first, a process of setting an air assist adjustment value corresponding to the set paper information is performed. In step S20, when the air assist adjustment value is set by the user, the CPU 71 acquires the set air assist adjustment value.

[0077] Specifically, in step S20, the CPU 71 acquires the air assist adjustment values, which are the settings for each of the first through nth fans, set by the user. For example, the air assist adjustment values for each fan input by the user in the setting areas 83A to 83n are acquired. Alternatively, the air assist adjustment value may be selected from a plurality of predetermined air assist adjustment values, as described above.

[0078] Next, when the setting of the air assist adjustment value is completed, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S30. In step S30, a process is performed to set an alignment adjustment value corresponding to the set paper information. In step S30, when the alignment adjustment value is set by the user, the CPU 71 acquires the set alignment adjustment value.

[0079] Specifically, in step S30, the CPU 71 acquires alignment adjustment values, which are set values set by the user. For example, the CPU 71 acquires an alignment profile input by the user in the setting area 84A. Note that the alignment profile may be selected from a plurality of predetermined alignment profiles (alignment adjustment values).

[0080] Next, when the setting of the alignment adjustment values is completed, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S40. In step S40, it determines whether or not to apply the set paper information, air assist adjustment value, and alignment adjustment value as printing parameters. That is, it determines whether or not to apply the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value associated with the set paper information as printing parameters. In step S40, it is possible to determine whether or not to apply them using instruction information from the UI unit 78 by the user. That is, the CPU 71 makes a positive determination in step S40 if the instruction information from the UI unit 78 indicates that the adjustment values should be applied as printing parameters, and makes a negative determination in step S40 if the instruction information indicates that the adjustment values should not be applied. Specifically, when the enter button 88 is pressed, the CPU 71 makes a positive determination in step S40, indicating that the adjustment values should be applied to the printing parameters. Furthermore, when the cancel button 87 is pressed, the CPU 71 makes a negative determination in step S40, indicating that the adjustment values should not be applied to the printing parameters. If the CPU 71 makes a negative determination in step S40, it ends this processing routine without applying (storing) the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value corresponding to the set paper information as printing parameters.

[0081] On the other hand, if the CPU 71 makes a positive determination in step S40, it executes a storage process in step S50 and then terminates this processing routine. In step S50, the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value associated with the set paper information are stored as printing parameters in storage unit 75, thereby saving the paper information and adjustment values. Storing these printing parameters in storage unit 75 can be executed, for example, by storing new printing parameters in table 90 (FIG. 4) or database 92 (FIG. 5), or by updating existing printing parameters.

[0082] In this way, the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value are associated and stored as adjustment values related to paper transport that correspond to paper information, including information such as paper type. This makes it possible to handle the paper information, air assist adjustment value, and alignment adjustment value as a single printing parameter. By using the stored printing parameters, it becomes possible to use adjustment values related to paper transport that correspond to the set paper information, reducing the amount of work required to adjust paper transport.

[0083] When setting print parameters, the user may wish to check the image formed on the paper to determine whether or not to apply the air assist adjustment values and alignment adjustment values corresponding to the set paper information as print parameters. The image forming device 12 can execute a confirmation print process to form an image that reflects the air assist adjustment values and alignment adjustment values corresponding to the set paper information as print parameters.

[0084] Next, an example of the confirmation print process will be described in detail.

[0085] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the confirmation print process. The confirmation print process shown in Fig. 8 is executed when a confirmation print instruction is received from the user via the UI unit 78, that is, when it is detected that the confirmation print button 86 has been pressed on the print parameter setting screen (Fig. 7).

[0086] When the confirmation print button 86 is pressed, the CPU 71 receives an instruction to execute a confirmation print of the set print parameters in step S60, and proceeds to step S70. In step S70, a process for printing the confirmation print (confirmation print process), i.e., an image forming process for forming an image on paper reflecting the print parameters, is executed. In the confirmation print process, a predetermined test image that allows the user to visually check the alignment is applied as the image to be printed on paper. It should be noted that the test image is assumed to be stored in advance in data 75D of the memory unit 75.

[0087] Next, when printing of the confirmation print is completed, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S80. In step S80, it determines whether to apply the printing parameters of the printed confirmation print. That is, it determines whether to apply the paper information for which the confirmation print was instructed, and the air assist adjustment values and alignment adjustment values associated with the paper information, as printing parameters for the paper. In step S80, this determination can be made using instruction information from the UI unit 78 by the user. For example, if the instruction information from the UI unit 78 indicates that the adjustment values should be applied as printing parameters, the CPU 71 returns a positive result in step S80, and if the instruction information indicates that the adjustment values should not be applied, the CPU 71 returns a negative result in step S80. Specifically, as described above, the CPU 71 obtains whether the Enter button 88 or the Cancel button 87 has been pressed, and returns a positive result in step S80 if the Enter button 88 has been pressed, and returns a negative result if the Cancel button 87 has been pressed. If the CPU 71 makes a negative determination in step S80, it ends this processing routine without applying (storing) the set paper information, air assist adjustment value, and alignment adjustment value as printing parameters.

[0088] On the other hand, if the CPU 71 makes a positive determination in step S80, it executes a storage process in step S90 and then ends this processing routine. In step S90, similar to step S50 (FIG. 6) described above, the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value associated with the set paper information are stored in the storage unit 75 as printing parameters.

[0089] The information used in the determination process in step S80 above is an example of information indicating whether or not the information of the present disclosure can be stored.

[0090] Note that multiple confirmation prints may be printed. For example, printing parameters to which predetermined minute adjustment values are applied in multiple stages to the alignment adjustment values of the set printing parameters may be printed as candidate printing parameters, and the user may be allowed to select the printing parameters to apply from the multiple candidate confirmation prints printed.

[0091] In this way, by printing a confirmation print, the user can confirm whether the set printing parameters are settings (adjustment values) that can be used as printing parameters for the paper on which an image is to be formed. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of reusable printing parameters, i.e., the printing parameters stored in the storage unit. Therefore, by using the printing parameters stored in the storage unit, it is possible to further reduce the amount of work required for adjustments related to paper transport.

[0092] Incidentally, adjustments related to paper transport for setting printing parameters are made according to paper information such as the type of paper. For example, when performing air assist adjustment during paper supply, paper alignment adjustment is also performed to reduce image misalignment. However, performing alignment adjustment work every time air assist adjustment work is performed increases the amount of work required to adjust paper transport. Furthermore, even if printing parameters are stored for reuse, it is difficult to identify appropriate printing parameters for the paper, and the amount of work required to identify the printing parameters increases. The image forming apparatus 12 of this embodiment is configured to enable setting alignment adjustment values that reduce the amount of work required by the user when setting printing parameters for paper, compared to, for example, setting alignment adjustment values without considering the air assist adjustment value corresponding to the paper information.

[0093] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a control process for adjusting paper transport in the image forming apparatus 12. The control process shown in Fig. 9 is executed before image formation when creating or editing print parameters including adjustment values related to the transport of transported paper. Note that the control process shown in Fig. 9 is executed when an instruction to create or edit print parameters is received from the user via the UI unit 78.

[0094] In step S100, the CPU 71 executes processing to display the print parameter setting screen (FIG. 7), similar to step S10 (FIG. 6) described above. That is, the print parameter setting screen is displayed on the UI unit 78, and the print parameters are set by the user. In this step S100, when at least the paper information is set by the user, the CPU 71 acquires the set paper information.

[0095] Next, in step S102, the CPU 71 performs a process of setting the print parameters, first setting the air assist adjustment value corresponding to the set paper information. In step S102, when the air assist adjustment value is set by the user, the CPU 71 acquires the set air assist adjustment value.

[0096] Next, in step S104, the CPU 71 performs a process of searching for an alignment adjustment value from among the printing parameters stored in the storage unit 75. Specifically, the CPU 71 extracts an alignment adjustment value that corresponds to the paper information and air assist adjustment value that have been set from among the existing printing parameters stored in the storage unit 75. The process of extracting the alignment adjustment value is performed, for example, by referencing table 90 (FIG. 4) or database 92 (FIG. 5) and identifying the alignment adjustment value that corresponds to the set paper information and air assist adjustment value. Note that in step S104, if no alignment adjustment value is found, information such as "not found" is displayed as the search result.

[0097] In step S104, a process can be performed to search for alignment adjustment values according to predetermined search conditions. The search conditions are conditions for identifying stored printing parameters that match the set paper information and air assist adjustment values. The search conditions identify printing parameters that match the set paper information and air assist adjustment values, and stored printing parameters that fall within a predetermined tolerance range. The alignment adjustment values are searched for using the printing parameters identified by the search conditions.

[0098] The search conditions can specify at least a tolerance range for the paper information. This is because even if the paper information is slightly different, the alignment adjustment may still be applicable, and the alignment adjustment value can be searched for as a candidate. The tolerance range may be defined in stages, or a priority order may be defined.

[0099] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of search conditions for paper information. In the figure, a "○" symbol indicates that the attribute information in the paper information to be searched matches. Note that in this embodiment, "match" includes a predetermined error range. A "△" symbol indicates that the attribute information in the paper information to be searched is within a predetermined tolerance range. In this embodiment, "within the tolerance range" includes cases where the image formation control for the paper and the control for the paper, such as the paper transport control, are the same control. A "×" symbol indicates that the attribute information is within a limited tolerance range or is ignored. "Within the limited tolerance range" means that the attribute information is applied except for predetermined non-applicable values, and "ignored" means that all attribute information values are applied.

[0100] For example, the first search condition indicates that the attribute information in all paper information matches. The second search condition indicates that the paper size in the attribute information matches and the other attribute information is within an acceptable range. The fifth search condition indicates that the paper size and weight in the attribute information are within an acceptable range, the paper type is ignored, and the coated paper matches.

[0101] Priority can be assigned to multiple search conditions. In the example shown in Figure 10, the priority can be set to decrease from the first search condition to the fifth search condition. Alternatively, a selected search condition from multiple search conditions may be applied.

[0102] Although the above describes a case where five types of attribute information are applied as paper information, the search conditions are not limited to this. For example, if there are configurable parameters for paper control, such as image formation control and transport control, the parameters may be included in the search conditions. Furthermore, although the above describes a case where paper information is applied as a search condition, the search conditions are not limited to this, and an air assist adjustment value may also be applied.

[0103] Next, in step S106, the CPU 71 determines whether or not there is a matching alignment adjustment value using the search result of step S104. If an alignment adjustment value is found in the search result, the answer in step S106 is affirmative and the process proceeds to step S109, but if not, the answer is negative and the process proceeds to step S108.

[0104] In step S109, the CPU 71 determines an alignment adjustment value to be associated with the set paper information and air assist adjustment value from the alignment adjustment values found in the search results of step S104. If multiple alignment adjustment values are found as candidates, the CPU 71 sets an alignment adjustment value selected by the user or one that conforms to predetermined setting conditions. This setting condition may be, for example, a condition for setting the alignment adjustment value with the highest priority.

[0105] In step S108, the CPU 71 acquires a predetermined initial value (default value) of the alignment adjustment value from the storage unit 75 and sets it as the alignment adjustment value associated with the set paper information and air assist adjustment value. The initial value (default value) of the alignment adjustment value is an alignment adjustment value that corresponds to the paper information and air assist adjustment value and is stored in advance in the storage unit 75.

[0106] Next, in step S110, the CPU 71 assigns the alignment adjustment value determined in step S108 or step S109 to a printing parameter.

[0107] In the next step S112, the CPU 71 determines whether the printing parameters to which the alignment adjustment values have been assigned have been decided. In this step S112, the CPU 71 can determine whether or not the printing parameters have been decided using instruction information from the UI unit 78 by the user. For example, if the instruction information from the UI unit 78 indicates that the printing parameters have been decided, the CPU 71 makes a positive determination in step S112, and if the instruction information indicates that the printing parameters have not been decided, the CPU 71 makes a negative determination in step S112. Specifically, the CPU 71 acquires information indicating that any of the above-mentioned confirmation print button 86, decision button 88, or cancel button 87 has been pressed. If the decision button 88 has been pressed, the CPU 71 makes a positive determination in step S112, and if the confirmation print button 86 or the cancel button 87 has been pressed, the CPU 71 makes a negative determination. If the determination in step S112 is negative, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S114, and if the determination is positive, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S118.

[0108] In step S114, the CPU 71 determines whether or not to print a confirmation print by determining whether or not the confirmation print button 86 has been pressed. If the result in step S114 is negative, the CPU 71 returns the process to step S100, and if the result is positive, the CPU 71 proceeds to step S116.

[0109] In step S116, the CPU 71 executes processing to change the settings of the adjustment values (air assist adjustment value, alignment adjustment value), and proceeds to step S118. Specifically, similar to steps S20 and S30, processing is performed to set (change) the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value. In step S116, when the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value are set (changed) by the user, the CPU 71 acquires the set (changed) air assist adjustment value and determines it as a printing parameter.

[0110] In step S118, the CPU 71 associates the paper information, the air assist adjustment value, and the alignment adjustment value as the determined printing parameters and stores them in the storage unit 75, and then ends this processing routine.

[0111] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 12 equipped with an intermediate transfer body has been described in detail, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be, for example, an image forming apparatus that does not have an intermediate transfer body, such as a tandem type. Also, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 12 that forms an electrostatic latent image (image) by a light beam has been described in detail, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be, for example, an image forming apparatus that does not use a light beam, such as an inkjet type.

[0112] As described above, in this embodiment, the air assist adjustment value and alignment adjustment value are associated with paper information and stored as adjustment values related to paper transport indicated by the paper information. Therefore, the stored information makes it possible to treat the paper information, air assist adjustment value, and alignment adjustment value as a single printing parameter. This makes it possible to use the adjustment values related to paper transport that correspond to the set paper information by using the stored printing parameters, thereby reducing the amount of work required to adjust paper transport.

[0113] In addition, in this embodiment, a confirmation print is printed that reflects the air assist adjustment values and alignment adjustment values associated with the paper information as printing parameters. This allows the user to confirm whether the set printing parameters are settings (adjustment values) that can be used as printing parameters for the paper on which an image is to be formed, thereby improving the accuracy of the reusable stored printing parameters. Therefore, by using the printing parameters stored in the storage unit, it is possible to further reduce the amount of work required for adjustments related to paper transport.

[0114] Furthermore, in this embodiment, among the printing parameters, paper information, air assist adjustment values, and alignment adjustment values are associated and stored in the storage unit. This allows for paper information, such as when air assist adjustment is performed on paper, to acquire alignment adjustment values that correspond to those adjustments and assign them to the printing parameters. This reduces the amount of work required for adjusting paper transport, such as performing alignment adjustment to acquire alignment adjustment values after air assist adjustment, or acquiring the alignment adjustment value desired by the user from multiple printing parameters.

[0115] Furthermore, if a deviation specific to the image forming device occurs due to conditions such as paper characteristics and the environment, the user may need to make fine adjustments manually. According to the image forming device of this embodiment, the adjustment values made by the user during the work are stored in the storage unit, so it is possible to reuse the adjustment values specific to the image forming device, and it is possible to reduce the amount of work required to adjust paper transport for each image forming device.

[0116] [Other forms] Although the technology of the present disclosure has been described in detail above with respect to a specific embodiment, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to such an embodiment, and various other embodiments are possible within the scope of the technology of the present disclosure.

[0117] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the processing is performed by executing a program stored in a storage unit, but the processing of the program may be realized by hardware.

[0118] Furthermore, the processes in the above-described embodiments may be stored as a program on a storage medium such as an optical disk and distributed.

[0119] In this disclosure, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPUs, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPUs: Graphics Processing Units, ASICs: Application Specific Integrated Circuits, FPGAs: Field Programmable Gate Arrays, programmable logic devices, etc.). Furthermore, the operations of the processors in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processors is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 10. Image forming system 12 Image forming device 14 Paper feeder 20 Image forming unit 22 Paper storage section 23 Alignment section 24 Air assist section 70 Control Unit 71 CPU 75 Memory section 75D Data 75P control program 77 Communications Department 78 UI section 80 Settings screen 81 Display area 81A Setting area 82 Display area 82A Setting Area 83 Display area 83A~83n setting area 84 Display area 84A Setting area 85 Display area 86 Confirmation print button 87 Cancel button 88 Decision button 90 tables 92 databases

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: Accepts paper information regarding the type of paper on which the image is to be formed; Acquire information corresponding to the received paper information and relating to the transport of the paper, the information including assistance information relating to paper supply assistance by supplying gas to the paper and adjustment information relating to position adjustment of the paper after the paper supply assistance; performing control to associate the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information and store them in a storage unit; The processor: Acquire auxiliary information set in correspondence with the received paper information; extracting adjustment information corresponding to the received paper information and the acquired auxiliary information based on a plurality of information sets including the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information stored in association with each other in the storage unit, and acquiring the extracted adjustment information; The received paper information, the set auxiliary information, and the extracted adjustment information are associated with each other, set as a new information set, and stored in the storage unit. Image forming device.

2. The processor: extracting a designated information set from a plurality of information sets including the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information stored in association with each other in the storage unit; controlling a paper supply auxiliary unit that supplies gas to the paper when supplying the paper stored in the paper storage unit based on auxiliary information corresponding to the paper information in the extracted information set; A position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the paper is controlled based on adjustment information corresponding to the paper information in the extracted information set. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The processor: When at least one of the auxiliary information and the adjustment information is changed using the information set stored in the storage unit, the changed information is acquired; The new information set updated with the changed information is stored in the storage unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

4. The processor: performing control to form a predetermined confirmation image using the associated paper information, auxiliary information, and adjustment information; After controlling the formation of the confirmation image, the associated paper information, the auxiliary information, and receiving information indicating whether or not the adjustment information is to be stored; Based on the received permission information, control is performed as to whether or not the associated paper information, auxiliary information, and adjustment information are to be stored in the storage unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. Further comprising a display unit, The processor Controlling the display of the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information on the display unit The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. a paper supply assisting unit that assists in supplying the paper to an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper by supplying gas to the paper from a paper storage unit that stores the paper; a position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the paper when forming an image on the paper; A program for controlling an image forming apparatus comprising: The processor Accepts paper information regarding the type of paper on which the image is to be formed; Acquire information corresponding to the received paper information and relating to the transport of the paper, the information including assistance information relating to paper supply assistance by supplying gas to the paper and adjustment information relating to position adjustment of the paper after the paper supply assistance; performing control to associate the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information and store them in a storage unit; Acquire auxiliary information set in correspondence with the received paper information; extracting adjustment information corresponding to the received paper information and the acquired auxiliary information based on a plurality of information sets including the paper information, the auxiliary information, and the adjustment information stored in association with each other in the storage unit, and acquiring the extracted adjustment information; The received paper information, the set auxiliary information, and the extracted adjustment information are associated with each other, set as a new information set, and stored in the storage unit. A program that executes a process including the following.

Images