Image forming apparatus, image forming method and program

Abstract

To reduce a blank portion generated in transition from trial printing to actual printing in image formation on continuous paper.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprises a conveying unit that conveys continuous paper, and an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being conveyed by the conveying unit, and during execution of trial printing by the image forming unit, switches to actual printing corresponding to the trial printing. For example, during the execution of the trial printing (step S1), when there is an actual printing instruction from an operation unit (step S2; YES), the image forming apparatus causes the image forming unit to suspend image formation for the trial printing after the completion of image formation on a page under execution (steps S4, S5), applies a marker (step S7), and causes the image forming unit to execute the actual printing (steps S9, S10).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, in test printing on a sheet-fed press, all pages of a copy or only specific pages are printed multiple times to check the quality, and if there are no problems, production printing is carried out. With a sheet-fed press, printing is done on one sheet at a time, so different sheets of paper are printed for test printing and production printing.

[0003] In response to this, image forming systems that form images on continuous paper such as roll paper are also used (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). When performing test printing and production printing on continuous paper, printing is performed continuously on sheets of paper that are originally connected.

[0004] Conventionally, proof printing has been performed on an entire copy or on a page-by-page basis. Execution instructions for proof printing can include printing one copy at a time or a specific page at a time, or printing one copy at a time or specific pages repeatedly. However, if printing is instructed on one copy at a time or specific pages at a time, the paper feed must be stopped and restarted each time, so it is common to print one copy at a time or specific pages repeatedly and then interrupt the job midway. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-88534 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-8467 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in an image forming device that forms images on continuous paper, even if a job is interrupted, the transport of the paper (continuous paper) cannot be immediately stopped, which creates a problem in that blank areas are generated between the time the trial printing is interrupted and the time the actual printing begins.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems in the conventional technology, and an object of the present invention is to reduce blank areas that occur when transferring from test printing to production printing in image formation on continuous paper. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1 provides a printing method for a printing apparatus including: a conveying unit that conveys continuous paper; an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being conveyed by the conveying unit; and a control unit that switches test printing by the image forming unit to production printing corresponding to the test printing. When switching from the test printing to the production printing, the control unit suspends the image formation of the test printing by the image forming unit even if the image formation is in the middle of a page, and starts the image formation of the production printing. It is an image forming apparatus.

[0009] The invention described in claim 2 is an image forming apparatus described in claim 1, in which the control unit switches from the trial printing to the actual printing without stopping the transport operation of the continuous paper by the transport unit and the image forming operation by the image forming unit.

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 is an image forming apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, in which the control unit, when switching from the trial print to the actual print, places a marker on the continuous paper to distinguish between the trial print and the actual print.

[0011] The invention described in claim 4 is an image forming apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 3, which is provided with an operation unit that accepts predetermined operations from a user, and the control unit switches from the test print to the actual print when the predetermined operation is accepted by the operation unit.

[0012] The invention described in claim 5 is an image forming apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 3, which is provided with a reading unit that reads a printed matter on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit, and the control unit causes the reading unit to read the printed matter on which the trial printing has been performed, and if it determines based on the reading result that there is no problem with the quality of the printed matter on which the trial printing has been performed, it switches from the trial printing to the actual printing.

[0013] The invention described in claim 6 is an image forming apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein when the print data is data consisting of multiple pages or variable data, the control unit causes the image forming unit to start image formation from the first page when switching from the trial printing to the actual printing.

[0015] Claim 7 The invention described in is an image forming method for an image forming apparatus including a transport unit that transports continuous paper and an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being transported by the transport unit, wherein, during execution of test printing by the image forming unit, switching to production printing corresponding to the test printing is performed. control including process In the control step, when switching from the test printing to the production printing, the image formation of the test printing by the image forming unit is interrupted even if it is in the middle of a page, and the image formation of the production printing is started.

[0016] Claim 8 The invention described in the item (1) is a program for causing a computer of an image forming apparatus, which includes a transport unit that transports continuous paper and an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being transported by the transport unit, to function as a control unit that switches from test printing by the image forming unit to production printing corresponding to the test printing during the test printing by the image forming unit. When switching from the trial printing to the production printing, the control unit suspends the image formation of the trial printing by the image forming unit even if it is in the middle of a page, and starts the image formation of the production printing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, in image formation on continuous paper, it is possible to reduce blank areas that occur when transitioning from test printing to production printing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a first switching process. [Figure 4] 10 is an example of a production printing switching screen. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of applying a marker to continuous paper. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of applying a marker to continuous paper. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of applying a marker to continuous paper. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a second switching process in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is an example of image formation when test printing is switched to production printing midway through a page. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart showing a third switching process in the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an inspection method for a specific page. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an inspection method for a specific range of each page. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining an inspection method based on the presence or absence of a specific NG cause. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing a fourth switching process in the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An image forming apparatus, an image forming method, and a program according to embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0020] [First embodiment] First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 10. The image forming apparatus 10 uses continuous paper P as a recording medium and forms an image on this continuous paper P. In this example, roll paper is used as the continuous paper P.

[0021] The image forming device 10 includes a control unit 11, an operation display unit 12, an image forming unit 13, an output image reading unit 14 (reading unit), a communication unit 15, a paper feeding unit 16, a conveying unit 17, a winding unit 18, and a memory unit 19.

[0022] The control unit 11 is configured with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The CPU of the control unit 11 reads out various programs such as system programs and processing programs stored in the storage unit 19, expands them in the RAM, and executes various processes according to the expanded programs.

[0023] The operation display unit 12 includes a display unit 12a and an operation unit 12b. The display unit 12a is configured with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and the like, and displays various screens according to the instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 11. For example, the display unit 12a displays a button for switching from test printing to production printing ("Start Production Printing" button 22 in FIG. 4). The operation unit 12b is configured with various function keys and a touch panel formed to cover the display screen of the display unit 12a, and accepts various operations from the user. For example, the operation unit 12b is used to instruct switching from proof printing to production printing.

[0024] The image forming unit 13 forms an image on the continuous paper P being transported by the transport unit 17. Here, the image forming unit 13 that forms an image by an electrophotographic method will be described as an example. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming unit 13 includes four sets of photosensitive members 131 corresponding to the color components of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), an exposure unit 132, a development unit 133, an intermediate transfer belt 134, a transfer roller 135, and a fixing unit 136.

[0025] The exposure unit 132 irradiates and exposes the charged photosensitive member 131 with laser light, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive member 131 . The developing unit 133 supplies toner of a predetermined color (Y, M, C, K) onto the exposed photoconductor 131 using a developing roller, thereby developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoconductor 131. The toner images (monochromatic images) of each color formed on the photoconductors 131 corresponding to the colors Y, M, C, and K are transferred one by one onto the intermediate transfer belt 134, and a toner image (color image) in which layers of each color are superimposed is formed. The intermediate transfer belt 134 is an endless belt wound around multiple rollers. A bias voltage of the opposite polarity to that of the toner is applied to the transfer roller 135, so that the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 134 is transferred onto the continuous paper P. The fixing unit 136 fixes the toner image transferred onto the continuous paper P onto the continuous paper P by applying heat and pressure.

[0026] The output image reading unit 14 is provided downstream of the image forming unit 13 on the paper transport path. The output image reading unit 14 reads a printout on which an image has been formed on the continuous paper P by the image forming unit 13, and generates read image data for red (R), green (G), and blue (B). The output image reading unit 14 is a color sensor that receives light emitted from a light source and reflected from the surface of the continuous paper P with a light receiving element, and outputs an RGB signal according to the intensity of the light. The output image reading unit 14 is configured, for example, by a line sensor in which multiple light receiving elements are arranged at predetermined intervals in the paper width direction, which is perpendicular to the paper transport direction.

[0027] The communication unit 15 transmits and receives data to and from an external device such as a PC (Personal Computer) connected via a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication unit 15 receives, for example, a job including image data for printing from the external device.

[0028] The paper feed unit 16 feeds the continuous paper P to the image forming unit 13. Inside the housing of the paper feed unit 16, the rolled continuous paper P is wound around a support shaft and held rotatably. In the paper feed unit 16, the continuous paper P wound around the support shaft is transported to the image forming unit 13 at a constant speed via multiple rollers. Also, although only one continuous paper P is shown in FIG. 1, multiple continuous papers P may be held.

[0029] The transport unit 17 is a transport mechanism for the continuous paper P. The transport unit 17 transports the continuous paper P fed from the paper feed unit 16 to the image forming unit 13 using multiple rollers, and transports the continuous paper P that has passed through the image forming unit 13 to the winding unit 18.

[0030] The winding unit 18 winds up the continuous paper P (printed output) transported from the image forming unit 13. Inside the housing of the winding unit 18, the continuous paper P is wound around a support shaft and held in a roll shape. In the winding unit 18, the continuous paper P transported from the image forming unit 13 passes through multiple rollers and is wound up around the support shaft at a constant speed.

[0031] The storage unit 19 is configured by, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor nonvolatile memory, etc. The storage unit 19 stores various programs, including system programs and processing programs, executed by the control unit 11, and data required for executing these programs.

[0032] While the image forming unit 13 is performing test printing, the control unit 11 switches to production printing corresponding to the test printing. Production printing is printing of printed material that will actually be used, such as printing for delivery. A proof print is a print carried out for the user's confirmation before the actual print. In a proof print, the same print data as the actual print is used to print an entire copy or just a specific page (for example, the first page). The print data includes image data for each page, paper type specification, variable print settings, number of copies, etc.

[0033] The final print and the corresponding proof print are created based on the same print data. However, the print data settings can be specified separately for the final print and the proof print, and the proof print settings are often specified partially, such as for only one copy or only specific pages. One copy is the unit when creating multiple copies of the same printed material.

[0034] The control unit 11 switches from test printing to production printing without stopping the operation of conveying the continuous paper P by the conveying unit 17 and the image forming operation by the image forming unit 13.

[0035] When switching from test printing to production printing, the control unit 11 places a marker on the continuous paper P to distinguish between test printing and production printing. The marker may be anything that indicates a position in the paper transport direction relative to the continuous paper P. The marker may be, for example, a line (straight line, dashed line, etc.) or a figure formed by the image forming unit 13. The marker may also be a blank area (an area where no image is formed) provided on the continuous paper P.

[0036] When the control unit 11 receives a predetermined operation from the user at the operation unit 12b, it switches from test printing to production printing.

[0037] When the print data is data consisting of multiple pages, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 to start image formation from the first page when switching from test printing to production printing.

[0038] When switching from test printing to production printing, the control unit 11 suspends the test printing image formation by the image forming unit 13 even if it is in the middle of one copy, and starts production printing image formation.

[0039] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described. 3 is a flowchart showing the first switching process executed in the image forming apparatus 10. The first switching process is a process for switching from proof printing to production printing by a user operation, and is realized by cooperation between the CPU of the control unit 11 and a program stored in the storage unit 19.

[0040] First, the control unit 11 controls the transport unit 17 to transport the continuous paper P, while controlling the image forming unit 13 to perform test printing on the transported continuous paper P (step S1). Specifically, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to repeatedly print the print data to be printed, one copy at a time or a specific page at a time, based on the test printing settings specified by the user.

[0041] Here, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a production printing instruction has been issued by a user through the operation unit 12b (step S2). A production printing instruction is an instruction to switch from test printing to production printing.

[0042] 4 shows an example of the production printing switching screen 20 displayed on the display unit 12a. The production printing switching screen 20 includes a “Stop printing” button 21 and a “Start production printing” button 22. The "Stop Printing" button 21 is a button for instructing the stopping of printing. The "Start Production Printing" button 22 is a button for instructing the start of production printing (switching from test printing to production printing).

[0043] In step S2, if there is no instruction for final printing from the operation unit 12b (step S2; NO), the process returns to step S1 and the process is repeated.

[0044] In step S2, if an instruction for production printing is given from the operation unit 12b (step S2; YES), that is, if the "Start Production Printing" button 22 is pressed on the production printing switching screen 20, the control unit 11 determines whether the test printing is to be performed on multiple pages (step S3). If the test printing is to be performed on multiple pages, this includes the case where the entire copy consisting of multiple pages is set as the test printing target. If the test printing is not to be performed on multiple pages, this includes the case where a specific page (a single page) is set as the test printing target, or the case where the entire copy consisting of a single page is set as the test printing target.

[0045] If the test printing is to be performed on multiple pages (step S3; YES), the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to terminate image formation of the currently running page, and then interrupts image formation of the test printing on the next page and subsequent pages (step S4).

[0046] In step S3, if the test printing does not involve multiple pages (step S3; NO), that is, if the test printing involves a single page, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to end image formation for the page currently being printed, and then interrupts image formation for the test printing of the next copy and subsequent copies (step S5).

[0047] After step S4 or step S5, the control unit 11 controls the conveying unit 17 to continue conveying the continuous paper P (step S6), while controlling the image forming unit 13 to apply a marker on the continuous paper P to distinguish between a trial print and a final print (step S7).

[0048] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the print data is data consisting of multiple pages based on the job data for the final printing corresponding to the test printing that was being executed (step S8). If the print data consists of multiple pages (step S8; YES), the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to execute production printing from the first page (step S9). In other words, even if the test printing was interrupted at a page among the multiple pages, the control unit 11 starts production printing from the first page.

[0049] In step S8, if the printing data is not data consisting of multiple pages (step S8; NO), that is, if the printing data is data consisting of a single page, the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to perform actual printing of a single page (step S10). After step S9 or step S10, the first switching process ends.

[0050] Figure 5 shows an example of applying marker M1 to continuous paper P. Here, the print data to be printed consists of four pages (A to D) per copy, and only the first page (A) is printed repeatedly in the test print. In addition, the areas near both ends of the continuous paper P in the paper width direction, which is perpendicular to the paper transport direction, are cutting areas 31 (areas that will be cut later; they will be cut at the time of delivery). In the cutting area 31 of the continuous paper P, a circular marker M1 is printed at the position in the paper transport direction where the paper switches from test printing to production printing. Because the marker M1 itself is included in the cutting area 31, by cutting off the cutting area 31, the marker M1 will not affect the printed product in the production print.

[0051] Figure 6 shows an example of applying marker M2 to continuous paper P. Here too, the print data to be printed is one copy consisting of four pages (A to D), and only the first page (A) is printed repeatedly in the test print. On the continuous paper P, a linear marker M2 is printed along the paper width direction at the position in the paper transport direction where the test print switches from test print to production print. Note that marker M2 is applied in the image formation area, but by cutting the test print area so that marker M2 is not included in the production print area, it is possible to prevent marker M2 from affecting the printed product in the production print.

[0052] Figure 7 shows an example of applying marker M3 to continuous paper P. Here too, the print data to be printed is one copy of which consists of four pages (A to D), and in the test print, only the first page (A) is printed repeatedly. In the paper transport direction of the continuous paper P, a marker M3 consisting of a blank area is provided at the position where the test print switches to the production print.

[0053] As described above, according to the first embodiment, while a test print is being performed, the printing is switched to the actual printing corresponding to the test print, thereby reducing the blank areas that occur when transitioning from test print to actual printing during image formation on the continuous paper P. In the past, when test printing was interrupted, the image forming operation was temporarily stopped, which resulted in blank pages being generated between the time test printing was interrupted and the time actual printing began. However, in the first embodiment, if an instruction for actual printing is received from the user while test printing is in progress, the system switches from test printing to actual printing, thereby reducing the blank pages that appear on the continuous paper P.

[0054] Furthermore, when switching from test printing to production printing, the operation of conveying the continuous paper P by the conveying unit 17 and the image forming operation by the image forming unit 13 are not stopped, so that a decrease in productivity can be suppressed.

[0055] In addition, in the past, it was difficult to distinguish between the test print area and the actual print area on the continuous paper P, so the test print area was either cut off from the continuous paper P or manually drawn with a marker on the continuous paper P. However, either method required the image formation operation to be stopped once, which reduced productivity. For example, in the method of cutting off the test print portion, after stopping the test print image formation operation and the continuous paper P transport operation, it is necessary to rewind the continuous paper P onto the winding section 18 before starting the actual printing, which is not only time-consuming but also results in a lot of paper waste. Furthermore, even in the method of manually drawing a marker, it is necessary for a person to stop the image forming operation of the test print and the transport operation of the continuous paper P before carrying out the work, which is time-consuming.

[0056] In contrast, in the first embodiment, when switching from trial printing to production printing, a marker is placed on the continuous paper P to distinguish between trial printing and production printing, making it easier for the user to distinguish between the trial printing area and the production printing area on the continuous paper P.

[0057] Furthermore, after the user has confirmed the finished product of the test print, if the user issues a command for production printing by operating the operation unit 12b, the test print can be switched to production printing.

[0058] Furthermore, when switching from test printing to production printing, the image formation of the test printing by the image forming unit 13 is interrupted even if it is in the middle of one copy, and the image formation of the production printing is started, so that the excess test printing portion that must be discarded can be reduced. For example, by interrupting at the end of the page being processed, waste of the continuous paper P and image forming operation for the remaining pages of one copy can be eliminated.

[0059] Furthermore, when the print data is made up of multiple pages, even if the test printing is interrupted midway through one page, image formation can be started from the first page for the actual printing.

[0060] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. The image forming apparatus in the second embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming apparatus 10 shown in the first embodiment, and therefore, illustration and description of the configuration will be omitted, and Figures 1 and 2 will be used. The configuration and processing characteristic of the second embodiment will be described below.

[0061] In the first embodiment, when an instruction for actual printing is given, the image of a page that is in the middle of image formation is formed to the end, but in the second embodiment, when an instruction for actual printing is given, trial printing is interrupted even if the page is in the middle of being formed.

[0062] When switching from test printing to production printing corresponding to the test printing, the control unit 11 suspends the image formation of the test printing by the image forming unit 13 even if it is in the middle of a page, and starts the image formation of the production printing.

[0063] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. 8 is a flowchart showing the second switching process executed in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. The second switching process is realized by the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 11 and a program stored in the storage unit 19.

[0064] The processing in steps S11 and S12 is similar to the processing in steps S1 and S2 in the first switching processing (see FIG. 3), and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0065] In step S12, if an instruction for actual printing is received from the operation unit 12b (step S12; YES), the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to interrupt the image formation of the trial print in the middle of the page being executed (step S13).

[0066] The processing in steps S14 to S18 is similar to the processing in steps S6 to S10 in the first switching processing (see FIG. 3), and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. After step S17 or step S18, the second switching process ends.

[0067] Figure 9 shows an example of image formation when switching to production printing midway through a page during test printing. In this example, the print data to be printed is one copy consisting of three pages (A to C), and only the first page (A) is printed repeatedly during test printing. On the continuous paper P, a linear marker M4 is printed along the paper width direction at the position in the paper transport direction where test printing switches to production printing. Specifically, as a result of the user issuing a command to start production printing midway through the second test printing, image formation of the first page (A) is interrupted midway through the second test printing, and image formation for production printing begins immediately, using marker M4 as a separator.

[0068] As described above, according to the second embodiment, while a test print is being performed, the process switches to the production print corresponding to the test print, thereby reducing the blank areas that occur when transitioning from test print to production print in image formation on continuous paper P.

[0069] Furthermore, since the continuous paper P in the range where the test printing was performed needs to be discarded, it is desirable to reduce this as much as possible. In the second embodiment, when switching from test printing to production printing, the image formation for the test printing by the image forming unit 13 is interrupted even if it is in the middle of a page, and the image formation for production printing is started, so that the excess test printing portion that needs to be discarded can be reduced.

[0070] In step S13 of the second switching process, if the test printing is for a single page, the test printing image formation may be continued to the end of the page without interrupting the test printing image formation in the middle of the page being executed.

[0071] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. The image forming apparatus in the third embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming apparatus 10 shown in the first embodiment, and therefore, illustration and description of the configuration will be omitted, and Figures 1 and 2 will be used. The configuration and processing characteristic of the third embodiment will be described below.

[0072] The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that instead of determining whether the print data is data consisting of multiple pages, it determines whether the print data is variable data. Variable data is data used in variable printing, in which variable information is substituted for fixed information (common information) and printed.

[0073] When the print data is variable data, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 to start image formation from the first page when switching from test printing to production printing corresponding to the test printing. Specifically, the control unit 11 causes image formation to be performed while replacing the variable part data in order from the first data.

[0074] When switching from test printing to production printing, the control unit 11 suspends the test printing image formation by the image forming unit 13 even if it is in the middle of a page, and starts production printing image formation.

[0075] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described. 10 is a flowchart showing the third switching process executed in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. The third switching process is realized by the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 11 and a program stored in the storage unit 19.

[0076] The processing of steps S21 to S25 is the same as the processing of steps S11 to S15 in the second switching processing (see FIG. 8), and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0077] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the print data is variable data or not based on the job data of the final printing corresponding to the test printing that was being executed (step S26). If the print data is variable data (step S26; YES), the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to execute production printing from the first page (step S27). In other words, even if the test printing was interrupted at a page among multiple pages, production printing will start from the first page. Specifically, the control unit 11 replaces the information in the variable parts (addresses, etc.) and causes the image forming unit 13 to print different printed materials (variable printing).

[0078] In step S26, if the print data is not variable data (step S26; NO), the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 13 to execute production printing from the intermediate page (step S28). In other words, if the data is not variable data, it is treated as if there is no difference in content between pages. For example, if the same printing target, such as a label, continues, printing may start from the intermediate page. The "intermediate page" from which production printing starts may be the page that was being executed when the test printing was interrupted, or the page following the page that was being executed. After step S27 or step S28, the third switching process ends.

[0079] As described above, according to the third embodiment, while a test print is being performed, the process switches to the production print corresponding to the test print, thereby reducing the blank areas that occur when transitioning from test print to production print during image formation on the continuous paper P.

[0080] Furthermore, when the print data is variable data, even if the test printing is interrupted at a page in the middle of the variable printing, image formation can be started from the first page for the actual printing.

[0081] [Fourth embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. The image forming apparatus in the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the image forming apparatus 10 shown in the first embodiment, and therefore, illustration and description of the configuration will be omitted, and Figures 1 and 2 will be used. The configuration and processing characteristic of the fourth embodiment will be described below.

[0082] In the first, second and third embodiments, the user operates (manually) to switch from test printing to production printing, but in the fourth embodiment, the test printing is automatically switched to production printing when the test printed material passes inspection.

[0083] The control unit 11 controls the output image reading unit 14 to read the printed matter that has been test printed by the image forming unit 13. The control unit 11 inspects the quality of the printed matter (inspection) based on the reading result (read image data) obtained by the output image reading unit 14. If the control unit 11 determines that there is no problem with the quality of the test printed matter, it switches from test printing to production printing that corresponds to the test printing.

[0084] For example, the control unit 11 compares the comparison read image data obtained by reading a prepared printout for inspection (target printout) by the output image reading unit 14 with the read image data obtained from the test printout to determine whether or not the image was formed correctly in the test printout. The control unit 11 may also compare the image data for printing (image data used for image formation) with the read image data obtained from the test printout to determine whether or not the image was formed correctly in the test printout.

[0085] The control unit 11 determines that there is no problem with the quality of the test print in the following cases (1) to (3), for example. (1) When the inspection result for a specific page is OK The inspection method for a specific page will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 shows a printout that was produced by test printing of print data in which one copy is made up of three pages. In the test printing, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 to repeatedly form images of the first, second, and third pages. The control unit 11 causes the output image reading unit 14 to read a specific page 41 (here, the first page). The control unit 11 performs inspection based on the read image data obtained by reading the area of ​​the specific page 41. If the inspection result of the specific page 41 is OK, the control unit 11 determines that there is no problem with the quality of the test printed matter.

[0086] (2) When the inspection result for a specific area (partial area) is OK The inspection method for the specific ranges on each page will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 shows a printout that has been test printed in variable printing where the contents of specific ranges 51 to 56 change. During the test printing, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 to form an image while replacing the contents of the specific areas 51 to 56. The control unit 11 causes the output image reading unit 14 to read the specific areas 51 to 56 of each page. The control unit 11 performs inspection based on the read image data obtained by reading the specific areas 51 to 56 of each page. If the inspection results for the specific areas 51 to 56 of each page are OK, the control unit 11 determines that there is no problem with the quality of the test printed matter.

[0087] (3) When a specific cause of NG (a physical error such as a streak) is removed An inspection method based on the presence or absence of a specific NG cause will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 shows a printout obtained by test printing of print data including a plurality of pages 61 to 66. In the test printing, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 13 to form images on each of pages 61 to 66. The control unit 11 causes the output image reading unit 14 to read each of pages 61 to 66. The control unit 11 performs inspection based on the read image data obtained by reading each of pages 61 to 66. In FIG. 13, streaks 67 in the paper transport direction are detected on pages 61 to 64, but streaks 67 are no longer detected halfway through page 64. When streaks 67, which were the cause of a quality inspection failure, are no longer detected, the control unit 11 determines that there is no problem with the quality of the test printing.

[0088] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment will be described. 14 is a flowchart showing a fourth switching process executed in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. The fourth switching process is a process for switching from test printing to production printing based on the test printing inspection results, and is realized by cooperation between the CPU of the control unit 11 and a program stored in the storage unit 19.

[0089] First, the control unit 11 controls the transport unit 17 to transport the continuous paper P, while controlling the image forming unit 13 to perform test printing on the continuous paper P being transported (step S31).

[0090] Next, the control unit 11 controls the output image reading unit 14 to read the printed matter test printed by the image forming unit 13, and inspects the test print based on the read image data obtained by the output image reading unit 14 (step S32). Specifically, the control unit 11 determines whether the intended image formation has been performed, whether there are any stains or scratches on the printed matter, etc., based on whether the read image data obtained by the output image reading unit 14 matches the comparison read image data or the image data for printing.

[0091] Here, the control unit 11 determines whether the test print passes inspection (step S33). Specifically, the control unit 11 determines whether there is a problem with the quality of the test print using the determination methods shown in (1) to (3) above. If the test print does not pass inspection (step S33; NO), that is, if there is a problem with the quality of the test print, the process returns to step S31 and is repeated. Note that if the test print does not pass inspection, and some kind of correction or setting change is required in the image forming apparatus 10, appropriate measures are taken.

[0092] In step S33, if the test print passes inspection (step S33; YES), that is, if there is no problem with the quality of the test print, the process proceeds to step S34.

[0093] The processing of steps S34 to S41 is similar to the processing of steps S3 to S10 in the first switching processing (see FIG. 3), and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. After step S40 or step S41, the fourth switching process ends.

[0094] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, while a test print is being performed, the process switches to the production print corresponding to the test print, thereby reducing the blank areas that occur when transitioning from test print to production print during image formation on the continuous paper P.

[0095] Furthermore, if it is determined that there is no problem with the quality of the printout produced by the trial printing, the trial printing can be automatically switched to the actual printing.

[0096] The description of each of the above embodiments is merely an example of the image forming apparatus, image forming method, and program according to the present invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The detailed configuration and operation of each part of the image forming apparatus may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0097] For example, characteristic processes of each embodiment may be combined. Specifically, in the process of automatically switching to production printing when the test print passes inspection, as in the fourth embodiment, the test print image formation may be interrupted midway through the page being printed, as in the second embodiment. Furthermore, in the process of automatically switching to production printing when the test print passes inspection, as in the fourth embodiment, if the print data is variable data, as in the third embodiment, the image forming unit 13 may be made to start image formation from the first page when switching from test printing to production printing.

[0098] The computer-readable medium for storing the program for executing each process is not limited to the above examples, and a portable recording medium may also be used. Also, a carrier wave may be used as a medium for providing program data via a communication line. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 10 Image forming device 11 Control section 12 Operation display section 12a Display section 12b Operation section 13 Image forming unit 14 Output image reading unit 16 Paper feed section 17 Conveyor 18 Winding section 19 Memory section 22 "Start production printing" button M1 marker M2 marker M3 Marker M4 Marker P Continuous paper

Claims

1. a conveying unit that conveys the continuous paper; an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being transported by the transport unit; a control unit that switches over to production printing corresponding to the test printing while the test printing is being performed by the image forming unit; Equipped with The control unit interrupts the image formation of the test print by the image forming unit even if the image formation is in the middle of a page when switching from the test print to the production print, and starts the image formation of the production print.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit switches from the test printing to the production printing without stopping the transport operation of the continuous paper by the transport unit and the image forming operation by the image forming unit.

3. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, when switching from the test printing to the production printing, applies a marker on the continuous paper to distinguish between the test printing and the production printing.

4. an operation unit that accepts predetermined operations from a user; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit switches from the test printing to the production printing when the predetermined operation is received from the operation unit.

5. a reading unit that reads a printed matter on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit, The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit causes the reading unit to read the printed matter from which the trial printing has been performed, and when it determines based on the reading results that there is no problem with the quality of the printed matter from which the trial printing has been performed, it switches from the trial printing to the actual printing.

6. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit causes the image forming unit to start image formation from the first page when switching from the trial printing to the actual printing if the print data is data consisting of multiple pages or variable data.

7. 1. An image forming method in an image forming apparatus including a conveying unit that conveys continuous paper and an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being conveyed by the conveying unit, a control step of switching to production printing corresponding to the test printing during execution of the test printing by the image forming unit, In the control process, when switching from the trial printing to the production printing, the image formation of the trial printing by the image forming unit is interrupted even if it is in the middle of a page, and the image formation of the production printing is started.

8. A computer of an image forming apparatus including a transport unit that transports continuous paper and an image forming unit that forms an image on the continuous paper being transported by the transport unit, A program for causing the image forming unit to function as a control unit that switches from test printing to production printing corresponding to the test printing during test printing, The control unit is a program that, when switching from the test printing to the production printing, causes the image forming unit to suspend the image formation of the test printing even if it is in the middle of a page, and starts the image formation of the production printing.

Images