Image forming apparatus, warning method and warning program

Abstract

To notify the risk of infection.SOLUTION: An MFP 100 comprises: an operation detection unit 51 that detects an operation performed by an operator; a cleaning detection unit 53 that detects that the MFP is cleaned; a state detection unit 55 that detects a dangerous state in which the MFP is operated by the operator and then operated without being cleaned; and a notification unit 57 that notifies the dangerous state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a warning method, and a warning program, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus used by multiple users, a warning method executed by the image forming apparatus, and a warning program that causes a computer controlling the image forming apparatus to execute the warning method. [Background technology]

[0002] An image forming apparatus, such as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) that combines multiple functions such as a fax, copy, and scanner, may be used by multiple users.

[0003] With the recent global spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), there has been an increase in anxiety about operating MFPs that are used by multiple users. Disinfecting an MFP after use will alleviate anxiety for the next user, but there is no guarantee that it has been disinfected. For this reason, users must disinfect the MFP before operating it.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2010-164815 describes an electronic device that has an operation unit operated by a user and responds to the operation of this operation unit, characterized in that the electronic device is equipped with an ion generating means that generates and releases ions, and an ion release control means that starts releasing ions from the ion generating means toward the operation unit after the operation of the operation unit or the response operation to the operation has ended.

[0005] However, the electronic device described in JP 2010-164815 A releases ions after an operation is completed, but the next user may operate the device before the ions are released, making it impossible to grasp the actual risk of infection. Also, the electronic device described in JP 2010-164815 A releases ions only toward the operation unit, making it impossible to grasp the risk of infection when operating anything other than the operation unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-164815 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one of the objects of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that is capable of notifying a user of the risk of infection.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a warning method capable of notifying a person of the risk of infection.

[0009] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a warning program that can notify users of the risk of infection. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and according to one aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes an operation detection means for detecting an operation by an operator, a cleaning detection means for detecting cleaning, a state detection means for detecting a dangerous state in which the image forming apparatus is operated by an operator without being cleaned, and a notification means for notifying of the dangerous state.

[0011] According to this aspect, an image forming device can be provided that can notify an operator of a dangerous state in which the device is operated without being cleaned after being operated by the operator, thereby notifying the operator of the risk of infection.

[0012] Preferably, the system further comprises operator identifying means for identifying operators, and the state detecting means detects a dangerous state for each of the plurality of operators.

[0013] Following this aspect, operators at risk of infection can be identified and notified.

[0014] Preferably, the operation detection means detects an operation by an operator for each of the plurality of members, the cleaning detection means detects that each of the plurality of members has been cleaned, and the state detection means detects a dangerous state for each of the plurality of members.

[0015] According to this aspect, a dangerous state is detected for each component, so that the risk of infection can be grasped for each of a plurality of components.

[0016] Preferably, the device further comprises an operation history storage means for storing a history of operations performed by an operator, and a cleaning history storage means for storing a history of cleaning, and the condition detection means detects a dangerous condition that has occurred after a predetermined date and time.

[0017] According to this aspect, a dangerous state after an operation by an infected operator is detected, so that the risk of infection can be accurately grasped.

[0018] Preferably, the cleaning device further comprises an operator identification means for identifying an operator, an authentication means for authenticating the operator identified by the operator identification means, an operation reception means for accepting an operation if the authentication means successfully authenticates the operator and not accepting the operation if the authentication means fails to authenticate the operator, and a process execution means for executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation, wherein the operation reception means accepts an operation without the authentication means authenticating the operator if it is detected that all of the multiple components have been cleaned.

[0019] According to this aspect, if it is detected that all of the multiple components have been cleaned, the operation is accepted without authentication of the operator. Therefore, when there is no risk of infection, the operation for authentication is not required, thereby improving convenience.

[0020] Preferably, the system further comprises a reading device that reads identification information that identifies the operator, authentication means that authenticates the operator based on the identification information read by the reading device, operation accepting means that accepts the operation if the authentication means successfully authenticates the operator and does not accept the operation if the authentication means fails to authenticate the operator, and processing execution means that executes processing in accordance with the accepted operation, wherein the operation accepting means accepts the operation without authentication of the operator by the authentication means if it is detected that all of the multiple components other than the reading device have been cleaned and that the reading device has not been cleaned since it was operated.

[0021] According to this aspect, if it is detected that all components other than the reading device have been cleaned, and if it is detected that the reading device has not been cleaned since it was last operated, operation is accepted without authentication of the operator. This allows operation without the risk of infection, improving convenience.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, the warning method is performed by an image forming apparatus, which includes an operation detection step for detecting an operation by an operator, a cleaning detection step for detecting that cleaning has been performed, a condition detection step for detecting a dangerous condition in which the operator operates the device without cleaning it again, and a notification step for notifying the operator of the dangerous condition.

[0023] According to this aspect, a warning method can be provided that can notify of a risk of infection.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, the warning program causes a computer controlling the image forming apparatus to execute an operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator, a cleaning detection step of detecting that cleaning has been performed, a condition detection step of detecting a dangerous condition in which the image forming apparatus is operated by the operator without being cleaned, and a notification step of notifying the dangerous condition.

[0025] According to this aspect, a warning program can be provided that can notify users of the risk of infection. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an MFP according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the hardware configuration of an MFP. [Figure 3] 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of functions of a CPU included in the MFP according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a format of a history record. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of a state detection process. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of a warning process. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the format of a history record in the first modified example. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a state detection process in the first modified example. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a warning process in the first modified example. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of post-symptomatic risk notification processing in the first modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the format of a history record in the second modified example. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an operation reception process in a second modified example. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a member state detection process in a second modified example. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the format of a history record in the third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals. The names and functions of these components are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an MFP according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the hardware configuration of the MFP. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, MFP 100 includes document reading unit 130 for reading a document, automatic document feeder 120 for transporting the document to document reading unit 130, image forming unit 140 for forming an image on paper or the like based on image data, paper feed unit 150 for supplying paper to image forming unit 140, post-processing device 155, operation panel 160 as a user interface, and camera 170 for capturing an image of a subject. MFP 100 also includes main circuit 110.

[0029] Camera 170 is an imaging device that captures an image of a subject and outputs image data. Camera 170 is fixedly attached to the main body of MFP 100 above operation panel 160. Camera 170 includes a lens and a photoelectric conversion element, and focuses light collected by the lens onto the photoelectric conversion element, which photoelectrically converts the received light and outputs image data to CPU 111. The photoelectric conversion element is a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor, or the like. The lens of camera 170 is preferably a wide-angle lens.

[0030] The automatic document feeder 120 automatically transports multiple documents set on the document tray 125 one by one to a document reading position of the document reading unit 130, and discharges the documents, from which the images formed on them have been read by the document reading unit 130, onto a document discharge tray 127. The automatic document feeder 120 is equipped with a document detection sensor that detects documents placed on the document tray 125.

[0031] A plurality of types of originals of different sizes are placed on the original tray 125. The original tray 125 includes an original size adjustment plate that aligns the originals according to the respective sizes of the plurality of types of originals, and a size detection sensor that detects the position of the original size adjustment plate. The size detection sensors are, for example, photoelectric sensors, and are arranged at a plurality of predetermined positions relative to the original size adjustment plate.

[0032] The document reading unit 130 has a rectangular reading surface for reading a document. The reading surface is formed by, for example, a platen glass. The automatic document feeder 120 is connected to the main body of the MFP 100 so as to be rotatable around an axis parallel to one side of the reading surface, and is openable and closable. The document reading unit 130 is disposed below the automatic document feeder 120. When the automatic document feeder 120 is rotated and opened, the reading surface of the document reading unit 130 is exposed. This allows a user to place a document on the reading surface of the document reading unit 130. The automatic document feeder 120 can be switched between an open state in which the reading surface of the document reading unit 130 is exposed and a closed state in which the reading surface is covered. The automatic document feeder 120 is equipped with an open / close detection sensor that detects the open state of the automatic document feeder 120. The open / close detection sensor is, for example, a contact switch that is ON when the automatic document feeder 120 is closed and OFF when it is open.

[0033] The document reading unit 130 includes a light source that emits light and a photoelectric conversion element that receives the light, and scans an image formed on a document placed on the reading surface. When a document is placed in the reading area, the light emitted from the light source is reflected by the document, and the reflected light forms an image on the photoelectric conversion element. When the photoelectric conversion element receives the light reflected by the document, it converts the received light into an electrical signal to generate image data. The document reading unit 130 outputs the image data to the CPU 111.

[0034] The paper feed unit 150 includes paper feed trays 150A and 150B and a manual feed tray 150C. Each of the paper feed trays 150A and 150B is movable in the front-to-rear direction relative to the device body. The relative positions of the paper feed trays 150A and 150B with respect to the device body differ between when the device is in operation and when the image forming unit 140 is being supplied with paper, and when the user is replenishing paper. Each of the paper feed trays 150A and 150B is located in a retracted position that positions it relative to the housing of the device body during operation, and when replenishing paper, it is located in an open position that exposes a portion of the tray from the device body. Because the relative positional changes between the paper feed trays 150A and 150B and the device body are the same, the following explanation will be given using paper feed tray 150A as an example. When the user pulls out the paper feed tray 150A from the retracted position toward the front, the paper feed tray 150A slides to the open position. When paper feed tray 150A is in the open position, if the user pushes paper feed tray 150A from the front to the back, paper feed tray 150A will slide to the retracted position. Position detection sensors that detect the positions of paper feed trays 150A and 150B are provided for each paper feed tray. The position detection sensors are, for example, contact switches that are ON when paper feed trays 150A and 150B are in the retracted position and OFF when paper feed trays 150A and 150B are in the open position.

[0035] When not in use, the manual feed tray 150C is folded by the user to a stored state with the paper loading surface vertical, and when in use, the user pulls it out to a usage state with the paper loading surface inclined toward the main body. The MFP 100 is equipped with a state detection sensor that detects whether the manual feed tray 150C is in the stored state or the usage state. The state detection sensor is, for example, a contact switch that is OFF when the manual feed tray 150C is in the stored state and ON when it is in use.

[0036] Paper feed unit 150 transports the sheets stored in two paper feed trays 150A and 150B and manual feed tray 150C to image forming unit 140. Image forming unit 140 is controlled by CPU 111 and forms images by a well-known electrophotographic method, forming images on sheets transported by paper feed unit 150 based on image data input from CPU 111, and ejecting the sheets with the images formed to post-processing device 155. The image data that CPU 111 outputs to image forming unit 140 includes image data input from document reading unit 130 as well as image data such as print data received from the outside.

[0037] The image forming unit 140 forms a toner image on paper using a well-known electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 140 includes a photosensitive drum, a developing device that develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum with toner, and a toner bottle that stores toner and supplies toner to the developing device. The MFP 100 is provided with a front door 141 that can be opened and closed at the front of the portion of the main body that houses the image forming unit 140. When the front door 141 is opened by a user, the image forming unit 140 is exposed to the outside. In this state, the user can replace the toner bottle, the developing device, or the photosensitive drum. When the front door 141 is closed by a user, the image forming unit 140 is hidden by the front door 141. The MFP 100 is provided with a front sensor that detects whether the front door 141 is open or closed. The front sensor is, for example, a contact switch that is turned OFF when the front door 141 is open and turned ON when the front door 141 is closed.

[0038] The MFP 100 has a paper transport path for transporting paper through the paper feed unit 150 and the image forming unit 140. The MFP 100 has a side door 153 that can be opened and closed on the side of the main body where the paper transport path is located. When the user opens the side door 153, the paper transport path is exposed to the outside. In this state, the user can remove paper that has become jammed in the paper transport path. When the user closes the side door 153, the paper transport path is hidden by the side door 153. Note that the side door 153 may form part of the paper transport path. The MFP 100 has a side sensor that detects whether the side door 153 is open or closed. The side sensor is, for example, a contact switch that is turned OFF when the side door 153 is open and turned ON when the side door 153 is closed.

[0039] Main circuit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111 that controls the entire MFP 100, a communication interface (I / F) unit 112, a ROM 113, a RAM 114, an HDD 115 as a large-capacity storage device, a facsimile unit 116, a microphone 117, a speaker 118, and a drug sensor 119. CPU 111 is connected to automatic document feeder 120, document reading unit 130, image forming unit 140, paper feed unit 150, operation panel 160, camera 170, and external storage device 180, and controls the entire MFP 100.

[0040] ROM 113 stores programs executed by CPU 111 or data required to execute the programs. RAM 114 is used as a work area when CPU 111 executes the programs. RAM 114 also temporarily stores image data continuously sent from document reading unit 130.

[0041] Operation panel 160 is provided on the top surface of MFP 100. Operation panel 160 includes display unit 161 and operation unit 163. Display unit 161 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), and displays an instruction menu for the user, information related to acquired image data, and the like. Note that instead of an LCD, any device that displays images, such as an organic EL (electroluminescence) display, can be used.

[0042] The operation unit 163 includes a touch panel 165, a hard key unit 167, and a non-contact sensor 169. The touch panel 165 is of a capacitance type. However, the touch panel 165 is not limited to the capacitance type, and other types such as a resistive film type, a surface acoustic wave type, an infrared type, or an electromagnetic induction type can be used.

[0043] Touch panel 165 is provided with its detection surface superimposed on the upper or lower surface of display unit 161. Here, the size of the detection surface of touch panel 165 is the same as the size of the display surface of display unit 161. Therefore, the coordinate system of the display surface and the coordinate system of the detection surface are the same. Touch panel 165 detects, on the detection surface, a position indicated by a user on the display surface of display unit 161, and outputs the coordinates of the detected position to CPU 111. Because the coordinate system of the display surface and the coordinate system of the detection surface are the same, the coordinates output by touch panel 165 can be converted into coordinates of the display surface.

[0044] Hard key unit 167 includes a plurality of hard keys. The hard keys are, for example, contact switches. Touch panel 165 detects a position on the display surface of display unit 161 designated by the user. Since users often operate MFP 100 in an upright position, the display surface of display unit 161, the operation surface of touch panel 165, and hard key unit 167 are arranged facing upward. This is to allow the user to easily view the display surface of display unit 161 and to easily designate operation unit 163 with their fingers.

[0045] Non-contact sensor 169 is a sensor that detects heat emitted by the user without contact. For example, an infrared sensor is used as non-contact sensor 169. When the user brings their hand close to non-contact sensor 169, non-contact sensor 169 detects the heat emitted from the hand. Non-contact sensor 169 may also be a photoelectric sensor. In this case, non-contact sensor 169 includes a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit that receives light irradiated from the light emitting unit. When the user inserts their hand between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit, it is detected that the light receiving unit no longer receives the light irradiated from the light emitting unit.

[0046] The communication I / F unit 112 is an interface for connecting the MFP 100 to a network. The communication I / F unit 112 communicates with other computers or data processing devices connected to the network using a communication protocol such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or FTP (File Transfer Protocol). The network to which the communication I / F unit 112 is connected is a local area network (LAN), and the connection type may be wired or wireless. The network is not limited to a LAN, and may be a wide area network (WAN), a public switched telephone network (PSTN), the Internet, or the like.

[0047] Facsimile unit 116 is connected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) and transmits facsimile data to the PSTN or receives facsimile data from the PSTN. Facsimile unit 116 stores the received facsimile data in HDD 115, converts it into print data that can be printed by image forming unit 140, and outputs it to image forming unit 140. As a result, image forming unit 140 forms an image of the facsimile data received by facsimile unit 116 on paper. Facsimile unit 116 also converts the data stored in HDD 115 into facsimile data and transmits it to a facsimile device connected to the PSTN.

[0048] Microphone 117 collects sound, converts the collected sound into audio data, which is electronic data, and outputs it to CPU 111. Speaker 118 is controlled by CPU 111 and outputs sound according to the audio data output from CPU 111. Drug sensor 119 is a sensor that detects a drug for disinfection. The drug is, for example, alcohol. Drug sensor 119 is disposed on the exterior of MFP 100 and detects a drug that is sprayed or applied to the exterior of MFP 100. Therefore, when a user disinfects MFP 100 by spraying or applying a drug such as alcohol onto it, drug sensor 119 detects the drug. Drug sensor 119 outputs the result of detecting the drug to CPU 111.

[0049] Post-processing device 155 receives sheets of paper on which images have been formed by image forming unit 140 and performs post-processing on the sheets. Post-processing includes, but is not limited to, a process of sorting multiple sheets of paper by transporting the multiple sheets of paper to one of multiple paper output trays, a process of punching holes in the sheets of paper, and a process of stapling the sheets of paper.

[0050] External storage device 180 is controlled by CPU 111, and is equipped with a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory) 180A or a semiconductor memory. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which CPU 111 executes a program stored in ROM 113, but CPU 111 may also control external storage device 180 to read a program to be executed by CPU 111 from CD-ROM 180A, store the read program in RAM 114, and execute it.

[0051] The recording medium for storing the program to be executed by CPU 111 is not limited to CD-ROM 180A, but may be a flexible disk, a cassette tape, an optical disk (MO (Magnetic Optical Disc) / MD (Mini Disc) / DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)), an IC card, an optical card, a mask ROM, an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), or other semiconductor memory.

[0052] Furthermore, the CPU 111 may download a program from a computer connected to the network and store it in the HDD 115, or the computer connected to the network may write the program to the HDD 115, and the program stored in the HDD 115 may be loaded into the RAM 114 and executed by the CPU 111. The program here includes not only programs that can be directly executed by the CPU 111, but also source programs, compressed programs, encrypted programs, etc.

[0053] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of functions of a CPU included in the MFP according to the present embodiment. The functions shown in Fig. 3 are realized by CPU 111 included in MFP 100 as CPU 111 executes a warning program stored in ROM 113, HDD 115, or CD-ROM 180A. Referring to Fig. 3, CPU 111 includes an operation detection unit 51, a cleaning detection unit 53, a status detection unit 55, a notification unit 57, an authentication unit 91, an operation acceptance unit 93, and an image processing unit 95.

[0054] Operation detection unit 51 detects an operation by an operator of MFP 100 on at least one of a plurality of members included in MFP 100. Operation detection unit 51 includes an operator identification unit 61, a sensor detection unit 63, a job detection unit 65, and an error detection unit 67.

[0055] The operator identifying unit 61 identifies the operator operating the MFP 100. The operator identifying unit 61 acquires user identification information. The identification information includes a device ID recorded on a card or portable information device assigned to the user, the user's biometric information, and a PIN (Personal Identification Number) assigned to the user. The card includes a magnetic card or an IC card, and stores a card ID as the device ID. The biometric information includes a fingerprint, an iris, and a vein pattern. The biometric information may also be facial authentication information used for facial authentication. The MFP 100 is provided with an identification information reading device. When a device ID is used as the identification information, the identification information reading device is a near-field wireless communication device for communicating with a card reading device or a portable information device via NFC (Near Field Communication). When biometric information is used as the identification information, the identification information reading device is a fingerprint reading device, an iris reading device, or a vein pattern reading device. When a PIN is used as the identification information, the identification information reading device is the operation unit 163. When a user operates the touch panel 165 to input a user ID as a PIN code, the user identified by the input user ID is identified as the operator. When performing face authentication using an image captured by the camera 170, the operator identifying unit 61 analyzes an area in the image that includes the user's face, thereby identifying the face-authenticated user as the operator.

[0056] The authentication unit 91 authenticates the user operating the MFP 100 based on the identification information accepted by the operator identification unit 61. If the authentication of the user is successful, the authentication unit 91 sets the operation state of the MFP 100 to an operable state. After the user is successfully authenticated, if the user logs out from the MFP 100, the authentication unit 91 sets the operation state to an inoperable state. In other words, the authentication unit 91 sets the operation state to an operable state from the time the user is successfully authenticated until the user logs out from the MFP 100. If the authentication of the user fails, the authentication unit 91 sets the operation state to an inoperable state. The authentication unit 91 outputs the operation state to the operation acceptance unit 93.

[0057] When the identification information is acquired, the authentication unit 91 executes an authentication process based on the identification information. When the authentication unit 91 executes the authentication process and succeeds in authenticating the user, the authentication unit 91 sets the operation state of the MFP 100 to an operable state.

[0058] The operation reception unit 93 controls the operation unit 163 and receives operations input by the user to the operation unit 163. The operations received by the operation reception unit 93 do not include operations in which the user inputs identification information. When the operation state is set to an operable state by the authentication unit 91, the operation reception unit 93 outputs the operation received by the operation unit 163 to the image processing unit 95. When the operation state is set to an inoperable state by the authentication unit 91, the operation reception unit 93 does not output the operation received by the operation unit 163 to the image processing unit 95.

[0059] Image processing unit 95 controls hardware resources included in MFP 100 to execute processing. The hardware resources include automatic document feeder 120, document reading unit 130, image forming unit 140, paper feed unit 150, communication I / F unit 112, HDD 115, and facsimile unit 116. Therefore, processing executed by image processing unit 95 includes scanning processing in which document reading unit 130 reads a document, image forming processing in which image forming unit 140 forms an image on paper supplied from paper feed unit 150, data processing in which data is stored in HDD 115, and data transmission / reception processing in which data is transmitted / received by controlling communication I / F unit 112 or facsimile unit 116. Image processing also includes processing in which CPU 111 converts the image data. Image processing includes sharpening processing that emphasizes image edges, smoothing processing that smooths image edges, color conversion processing that converts colors, and format conversion processing that converts the format of image data. The image processing unit 95 executes image processing in accordance with an operation input from the operation receiving unit 93 .

[0060] Sensor detection unit 63 of operation detection unit 51 detects operations by an operator on multiple components of MFP 100 based on the outputs of various sensors included in MFP 100. The multiple components included in MFP 100 include touch panel 165, hard key unit 167, automatic document feeder 120, document tray 125, paper feed trays 150A and 150B, and manual tray 150C. Furthermore, if MFP 100 is equipped with a card reader, fingerprint authentication device, or vein reading device, the authentication device is included in the multiple components.

[0061] When detecting an instruction from the operator via touch panel 165, sensor detection unit 63 detects an operation on touch panel 165 by the operator. When the operator instructs one of the multiple hard keys of hard key unit 167, sensor detection unit 63 detects an operation on hard key unit 167 by the operator. When an open / close detection sensor provided in automatic document feeder 120 detects the open state or closed state of automatic document feeder 120, sensor detection unit 63 detects an operation on automatic document feeder 120 by the operator. When a size detection sensor provided in document tray 125 of automatic document feeder 120 detects movement of a document size adjustment plate of document tray 125, sensor detection unit 63 detects an operation on document tray 125 by the operator.

[0062] When a change in the position of paper feed trays 150A and 150B is detected by a position detection sensor provided for each of paper feed trays 150A and 150B, sensor detection unit 63 detects an operation on paper feed trays 150A and 150B by the operator. When a change in the state of manual feed tray 150C is detected by a state detection sensor provided for manual feed tray 150C, sensor detection unit 63 detects an operation on manual feed tray 150C by the operator.

[0063] Job detection unit 65 detects a component to be operated by a user based on a job executed by MFP 100. When a job specifies an image forming process, job detection unit 65 detects an operation on post-processing device 155. Jobs that specify an image forming process include a print job for forming an image from print data, a copy job for forming an image from image data obtained by scanning a document, and a fax reception job for forming an image from facsimile data received by facsimile. When a job specifies a document reading process, job detection unit 65 detects an operation on automatic document feeder 120. Jobs that specify a document reading process include a copy job, a scan job for storing image data obtained by scanning a document in HDD 115 or the like, and a fax transmission job for transmitting image data obtained by scanning a document by facsimile.

[0064] The error detection unit 67 detects a component to be operated by the user based on an error that occurs in the MFP 100. An error table in which the component to be operated by the user in response to each error type is predetermined and stored in the HDD 115. When an error occurs, the error detection unit 67 references the error table and detects an operation on a component corresponding to the type of error that has occurred. The error types include a document jam error, a paper jam error, and a low toner error. In the error table, a document jam error is associated with the automatic document feeder 120, a paper jam error is associated with the side door 153, and a low toner error is associated with the front door 141. When a document jam error is detected, the error detection unit 67 detects an operation on the automatic document feeder 120. When a paper jam error is detected, the error detection unit 67 detects an operation on the side door 153. When a low toner error is detected, the error detection unit 67 detects an operation on the front door 141.

[0065] When the operation detection unit 51 detects an operation, it may display a message urging the operator to clean on the display unit 161. The message may be, for example, "After use, please disinfect with an alcohol disinfectant dish. Once you have finished disinfecting, please press the disinfected button while holding the alcohol disinfectant dish."

[0066] The cleaning detection unit 53 detects that multiple components have been cleaned by a user. The user who is the subject of the cleaning event detected by the cleaning detection unit 53 is not limited to the operator operating the MFP 100, but also includes a cleaner who approaches the MFP 100 for the purpose of cleaning the MFP 100 without operating the MFP 100. The cleaning detection unit 53 includes a contact detection unit 71, a voice detection unit 73, a command detection unit 75, a drug detection unit 77, and a motion detection unit 79. The contact detection unit 71 detects that cleaning of multiple components has been completed in response to the non-contact sensor 169 detecting the user's hand. After completing cleaning to disinfect the MFP 100, the user can input to the MFP 100 that the cleaning has been completed without touching the MFP 100 by bringing their hand close to the non-contact sensor 169.

[0067] The voice detection unit 73 controls the microphone 117 and acquires voice information by performing voice recognition on the voice data output from the microphone 117. The voice detection unit 73 detects that cleaning of multiple components has been completed when the acquired voice information includes a predetermined command. The command is, for example, "cleaning completed" or "cleaning finished." By uttering the command after completing cleaning to disinfect the MFP 100, the user can input to the MFP 100 that the cleaning has been completed without touching the MFP 100. The command may include information that identifies one of the multiple components. In this case, the voice detection unit 73 detects that cleaning of each of the multiple components has been completed.

[0068] The command detection unit 75 controls the communication I / F unit 112 to communicate with an external device. The external device may be a computer connected to the MFP 100 via a network, or a smartphone connected via a wireless communication network such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The command detection unit 75 detects that cleaning of multiple components has been completed in response to the communication I / F unit 112 receiving a predetermined cleaning command from the external device. The cleaning command indicates, for example, "cleaning completed" or "cleaning finished." After completing cleaning to disinfect the MFP 100, the user can operate the external device to have the external device send a cleaning command to the MFP 100, thereby inputting to the MFP 100 that the cleaning has been completed without touching the MFP 100. The command may include information identifying one of the multiple components. In this case, the command detection unit 75 detects that cleaning of each of the multiple components has been completed.

[0069] The drug detection unit 77 controls the drug sensor 119 to detect the drug. When the drug sensor 119 detects the drug for disinfection, it detects that cleaning of the multiple components has been completed. Therefore, when a user disinfects the MFP 100 by spraying or applying a drug such as alcohol to the MFP 100, the drug sensor 119 detects the drug. The drug sensor 119 may be provided for each of the multiple components. In this case, the drug detection unit 77 detects that cleaning of each of the multiple components has been completed.

[0070] Action detection unit 79 controls camera 170 and analyzes the moving image output by camera 170. Action detection unit 79 detects the user's actions included in the moving image and detects the cleaning action for each of the multiple components of MFP 100. In response to detecting the cleaning action of the user on a component, action detection unit 79 detects that cleaning of that component has been completed.

[0071] Status detection unit 55 detects the cleaning status of MFP 100. The cleaning status of MFP 100 includes an uncleaned status in which MFP 100 has not been cleaned after being operated, and a cleaned status in which MFP 100 has been cleaned. Status detection unit 55 includes an operation history storage unit 81, a cleaning history storage unit 83, and an infection date and time reception unit 85. Operation history storage unit 81 generates a history record in response to an operation detected by operation detection unit 51, and adds the history record to a history table stored in HDD 115. The history record generated by operation history storage unit 81 is an operation history, and includes the date and time the operation was detected and a cleaning status indicating an uncleaned status.

[0072] The cleaning history storage unit 83 generates a history record in response to cleaning detection unit 53 detecting that cleaning has been performed, and adds the history record to the history table stored in HDD 115. The history record generated by the cleaning history storage unit 83 is a cleaning history, and includes the date and time that cleaning was detected and a cleaning status indicating a cleaned state.

[0073] The infection date and time receiving unit 85 receives the date and time when any of a plurality of users was infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). For example, when a user inputs the date and time into the operation unit 163, the infection date and time receiving unit 85 receives the date and time input into the operation unit 163.

[0074] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the format of a history record. Referring to Fig. 4, the history record includes a date and time field and a status field. The date and time when an operation or cleaning was detected is set in the date and time field. The status field is set to the cleaning status, and either "uncleaned" indicating an uncleaned state or "cleaned" indicating a cleaned state is set.

[0075] 3, the state detection unit 55 detects a dangerous state based on the history table. Specifically, the state detection unit 55 detects a dangerous state by referring to the history table. The state detection unit 55 selects multiple history records included in the history table in chronological order from oldest to newest, and detects a dangerous state when an operation is detected without cleaning being performed after the operation is detected.

[0076] When a dangerous state is detected, the notification unit 57 notifies the user of the dangerous state. For example, the notification unit 57 sends an email containing information notifying the user of the dangerous state to a predetermined destination via the communication I / F unit 112. The information notifying the user of the dangerous state includes, for example, the date and time when the operation that was determined to be a dangerous state was accepted, or information about the job executed in accordance with that operation. The information about the job includes the type of process (e.g., document scanning, printing, copying), the number of documents or prints, the paper size, and other details of the process. The notification unit 57 also sends the information notifying the user of the dangerous state to a computer assigned to a predetermined user.

[0077] Notification unit 57 may notify of a dangerous state by controlling an LED provided in MFP 100 to emit light. Notification unit 57 may also control speaker 118 to output a voice synthesized from information notifying of a dangerous state.

[0078] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a state detection process. The state detection process is performed by CPU 111 included in MFP 100 as CPU 111 executes a warning program stored in ROM 113, HDD 115, or CD-ROM 180A. Referring to FIG. 5, CPU 111 included in MFP 100 determines whether or not an operation has been detected (step S01). If an operation has been detected, the process proceeds to step S02; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S05.

[0079] In step S02, the member that was the target of the operation is identified, and the process proceeds to step S03. In step S03, a history record corresponding to the operation detected in step S01 is generated, and the process proceeds to step S04. The history record includes the date and time when the operation was detected and "uncleaned," which indicates an uncleaned cleaning state. In step S04, the history record is added to a history table stored in HDD 115, and the process proceeds to step S05.

[0080] In step S05, it is determined whether cleaning has been detected. If cleaning has been detected, the process proceeds to step S06; if not, the process returns to step S01. In step S06, the member to be cleaned is identified, and the process proceeds to step S07. In step S07, a history record corresponding to the cleaning detected in step S05 is generated, and the process proceeds to step S08. The history record includes the date and time when cleaning was detected and "cleaned," which indicates a cleaned state, as the cleaning status. In step S08, the history record is added to the history table stored in HDD 115, and the process returns to step S01.

[0081] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of warning processing. The warning processing is processing that is executed by CPU 111 included in MFP 100 as CPU 111 executes a warning program stored in ROM 113, HDD 115, or CD-ROM 180A. Referring to Fig. 6, CPU 111 included in MFP 100 reads out a history table stored in HDD 115 (step S11), and proceeds to the processing at step S12.

[0082] In step S12, multiple history records included in the history table are selected in chronological order, and processing proceeds to step S13. In step S13, it is determined whether the history record selected for processing indicates operation history. If the status field of the history record is set to "uncleaned," it is determined that the history record indicates operation history. If the history record indicates operation history, processing proceeds to step S14; otherwise, processing proceeds to step S17. In step S14, it is determined whether a warning flag is set ON. The warning flag is a flag that indicates the status of MFP 100, and is set ON between operation and cleaning, and is set OFF between cleaning and operation. If the warning flag is set ON, processing proceeds to step S15; otherwise, processing proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the warning flag is set ON, and processing proceeds to step S17.

[0083] In step S15, a danger state is notified, and processing proceeds to step S17. The danger state is notified, and includes at least the date and time included in the history record selected for processing in step S12. In addition, if information about a job executed according to the operation is stored in the history record, information about that job may be included in the danger state.

[0084] In step S17, it is determined whether the history record selected for processing in step S12 indicates a cleaning history. If the status field of the history record is set to "cleaned," it is determined that the history record indicates a cleaning history. If the history record indicates a cleaning history, processing proceeds to step S18; if not, processing proceeds to step S19. In step S18, the warning flag is set to OFF, and processing proceeds to step S19.

[0085] In step S19, it is determined whether or not there is an unselected history record. If there is an unselected history record, the process returns to step S12, but if there is not, the process ends.

[0086] <First Modification> The history record may include an operator ID for identifying the operator. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the format of the history record in the first modified example. Referring to FIG. 7, what differs from the format shown in FIG. 4 is that an operator field has been added. In the operator field, an operator ID for identifying the operator who performed the operation or the operator ID for identifying the operator who cleaned is set. In this case, the history record defines the cleaning status for each operator.

[0087] Therefore, a warning can be issued for each operator if the appliance is operated without being cleaned after it was last operated. In the first modification, if the same person operates the appliance consecutively after the previous operator operated it, it is possible to prevent the appliance from being judged as a dangerous state. Furthermore, in the first modification, the dangerous state can be notified only to the operator who operated it. Therefore, the user who is notified of the dangerous state can easily judge whether or not they are in a dangerous state.

[0088] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of state detection processing in the first modified example. The processing shown in Fig. 8 differs from the processing shown in Fig. 5 in that steps S03 and S07 are changed to steps S03A and S07A, respectively, and that steps S02A and S06A are added between steps S02 and S03A and between steps S06 and S07A, respectively. The other processing is the same as the processing shown in Fig. 5, so individual descriptions will not be repeated.

[0089] In step S02A, the operator who input the operation detected in step S01 is identified, and the process proceeds to step S03A. A user who is successfully authenticated through user authentication is identified as the operator. In step S03A, a history record corresponding to the operation detected in step S01 is generated, and the process proceeds to step S04. The history record includes the date and time the operation was detected, an operator ID for identifying the operator identified in step S02A, and "uncleaned" indicating an uncleaned cleaning status.

[0090] In step S06A, the operator who input the operation detected in step S01 is identified, and the process proceeds to step S07A. The user who is successfully authenticated through user authentication is identified as the operator. In step S07A, a history record corresponding to the cleaning detected in step S05 is generated, and the process proceeds to step S08. The history record includes the date and time the operation was detected, an operator ID for identifying the operator identified in step S06A, and "cleaned" indicating a cleaned state as the cleaning status.

[0091] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the warning process in the first modified example. The process shown in Fig. 9 differs from Fig. 6 in that steps S21 and S22 are added between steps S14 and S15. The rest of the process is the same as the process shown in Fig. 6, so description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0092] In step S14, if it is determined that the warning flag is set to ON, this indicates that MFP 100 has not been cleaned since it was operated. In step S21, a history record indicating the most recent operation history is identified, and processing proceeds to step S22. A history record whose date and time is earlier than the history record to be processed and whose status is set to "uncleaned" is identified. In step S22, it is determined whether the operators are different. The operator ID set in the operator field of the history record selected for processing in step S12 is compared with the operator ID set in the operator field of the history record identified in step S21. If the operator IDs are different, processing proceeds to step S15; if the operator IDs are the same, processing proceeds to step S16.

[0093] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of post-symptomatic risk notification processing in the first modified example. Referring to Fig. 10, differences from the processing shown in Fig. 6 are that steps S12, S14, S16, and S18 are changed to steps S12A, S14A, S16A, and S18A, respectively, that steps S31 and S32 are added before step S11, and that step S33 is added between steps S14A and S16A. The other processing is the same as the processing shown in Fig. 6, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0094] In step S31, the ID of the person infected with COVID-19 is accepted, and the process proceeds to step S32. When the operator ID of a user infected with COVID-19 is input into the operation unit 163, the operator ID is accepted as the ID of the person infected. In step S32, the date and time of infection is accepted. When the date and time at which the person infected is predicted to have been infected is input into the operation unit 163, that date and time is accepted as the date and time of infection. Note that the order of steps S31 and S32 may be reversed.

[0095] In step S12A, a history record is selected in chronological order from the infection date and time onward, and processing proceeds to step S13. In step S13, it is determined whether the history record selected for processing indicates an operation history. If the history record indicates an operation history, processing proceeds to step S14A; otherwise, processing proceeds to step S17. In step S14A, it is determined whether a post-symptom warning flag is set ON. The post-symptom warning flag is a flag indicating operation by an infected person, and is set ON between operation by the infected person and cleaning, and is set OFF between cleaning and operation by the infected person. If the post-symptom warning flag is set ON, processing proceeds to step S15; otherwise, processing proceeds to step S33.

[0096] In step S33, it is determined whether the operator is a person who has developed an illness. It is determined whether the operator ID set in the operator field of the history record selected to be processed in step S12A matches the person who has developed an illness ID accepted in step S31. If they match, it is determined that the operator and the person who has developed an illness match, and if they do not match, it is determined that the operator and the person who has developed an illness do not match. If the operator and the person who has developed an illness match, the process proceeds to step S16A; if not, the process proceeds to step S16A. In step S16A, the post-onset warning flag is set ON, and the process proceeds to step S17.

[0097] If it is determined in step S14A that the post-symptom warning flag is set to ON and the process proceeds to step S15, this means that the MFP 100 has not been cleaned since being operated by the person with the onset of the disease. In step S15, the operator identified by the operator ID set in the operator field of the history record selected for processing in step S12A is notified of the dangerous state. The dangerous state includes a message indicating that the MFP 100 was operated without being cleaned since being operated by the person with the onset of the disease. This allows a user viewing the dangerous state to know that there is a risk of infection. The dangerous state may also include the date and time set in the date and time field of the history record selected for processing in step S12A. Furthermore, the dangerous state may also include information indicating the content of the job executed on that date and time. This allows a user viewing the dangerous state to recall operations previously input into the MFP 100 and determine the probability of infection.

[0098] <Second Modification> In the above-described embodiment, the history record includes the date and time and the state, but the history record may also include the name of the component.

[0099] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the format of a history record in the second modified example. Referring to Fig. 11, what differs from the format shown in Fig. 4 is that a component field has been added. The component field contains the name of the component that was the target of operation or the name of the component that was the target of cleaning. In this case, the history record indicates, for each component, either the operated state or the cleaned state.

[0100] Therefore, a warning can be issued for each of multiple components when they are operated without being cleaned after each operation. In this case, the dangerous state includes the names of the components. Therefore, when a user sees the names of the components included in the dangerous state, it is easy for the user to determine whether or not they are in a dangerous state.

[0101] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operation reception processing in the second modified example. The operation reception processing is processing that is executed by CPU 111 included in MFP 100 as CPU 111 executes a warning program stored in ROM 113, HDD 115, or CD-ROM 180A. Referring to FIG. 12, CPU 111 included in MFP 100 sets the operation state to an inoperable state (step S41), and proceeds to step S42. The inoperable state is an operation state in which operation unit 163 does not accept an operation to cause MFP 100 to execute a process. The operation state includes an inoperable state and an operable state in which operation unit 163 can accept an operation to cause MFP 100 to execute a process.

[0102] In step S42, a component state detection process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S43. The component state detection process is a process for detecting the component state indicating whether or not each of a plurality of components has been cleaned after being operated. By executing the component state detection process, a component warning flag is set for each of a plurality of components. The component warning flag is set to ON between being operated and being cleaned, and is set to OFF between being cleaned and being operated.

[0103] In step S43, it is determined whether or not there is a component whose component warning flag is set to ON. If there is one or more components whose component warning flag is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S44; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S47.

[0104] In step S44, it is determined whether the member for which the member warning flag is set to ON is only the reading device. If the member warning flag for only the reading device is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S47, but if not, the process proceeds to step S45. In step S45, the identification information is read by the reading device, and the process proceeds to step S46. In step S46, it is determined whether authentication based on the identification information has been successful. If authentication has been successful, the process proceeds to step S47, but if not, the process ends.

[0105] In step S47, the operation state is set to an operable state, and the process proceeds to step S48. Therefore, if all of the multiple members have been cleaned, or if the reading device has not been cleaned after operation but all other members have been cleaned, the operation state is set to an operable state without authenticating the operator. In this case, a history record is generated for the operator as an operation by a predetermined guest user.

[0106] In step S48, it is determined whether or not an operation has been accepted. If an operation has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S49; if not, the process proceeds to step S51. The process enters a standby state until an operation is accepted, and if an operation is accepted during this standby state, the process proceeds to step S49. If a predetermined time has passed without an operation being accepted during this standby state, the process proceeds to step S51.

[0107] In step S49, it is determined whether the accepted operation is an operation to instruct logout. If an operation to instruct logout is accepted, the process proceeds to step S51; if not, the process proceeds to step S50. In step S50, processing is performed in accordance with the accepted operation, and the process returns to step S48.

[0108] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the component state detection process in the second modified example. The component state detection process is a process executed in step S42 of the operation reception process. Referring to FIG. 13, the history table stored in HDD 115 is read (step S61), and the process proceeds to step S62. In step S62, a plurality of history records included in the history table are selected in chronological order from the oldest to the newest, and the process proceeds to step S63. In step S63, it is determined whether the history record selected for processing indicates an operation history. If the status field of the history record is set to "uncleaned," it is determined that the history record indicates an operation history. If the history record indicates an operation history, the process proceeds to step S64; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S65. In step S64, a component warning flag is set ON, and the process proceeds to step S65. The component warning flag is a flag that indicates the state of a component. Therefore, the component warning flag is associated with a component name for identifying the component. The component warning flag is set to ON during the period from when the corresponding component is operated until when it is cleaned, and is set to OFF during the period from when the corresponding component is cleaned until when it is operated. Therefore, in step S64, the component warning flag associated with the component name set in the component item of the history record selected for processing in step S62 is set to ON.

[0109] In step S65, it is determined whether the history record selected for processing in step S62 indicates a cleaning history. If the history record indicates a cleaning history, the process proceeds to step S66; if not, the process proceeds to step S67. In step S66, the component warning flag is set to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S67. The component warning flag associated with the component name set in the component item of the history record selected for processing in step S62 is set to OFF.

[0110] In step S67, it is determined whether or not there is an unselected history record. If there is an unselected history record, the process returns to step S62, but if there is not, the process returns to the operation reception process.

[0111] <Third Modification> The history record may include an operator ID for identifying the operator and the name of the component. In this case, the history record indicates, for each component and for each operator, whether the component is in an operated state or a cleaned state.

[0112] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the format of a history record in the third modified example. Referring to FIG. 14, what is different from the format shown in FIG. 4 is that an operator field and a component field have been added. The operator field contains an operator ID for identifying the operator who performed the operation or the operator who cleaned. The component field contains the name of the component that was the target of the operation or the name of the component that was the target of the cleaning. In this case, the history record indicates either the operated state or the cleaned state for each component. The history record in the third modified example indicates either the operated state or the cleaned state for each operator and each component.

[0113] As described above, MFP 100 in this embodiment functions as an image forming apparatus, detects operation by an operator, detects cleaning by the operator, detects a dangerous state in which the MFP is operated by the operator without being cleaned after operation, and notifies the user of the dangerous state. Therefore, since the dangerous state in which the MFP is operated by the operator without being cleaned after operation is notified, it is possible to notify the user of the risk of infection.

[0114] Furthermore, the MFP 100 identifies operators and detects dangerous conditions for each of the multiple operators, thereby identifying operators at risk of infection and notifying the identified operators.

[0115] Furthermore, MFP100 in the first modification detects an operation by an operator for each of a plurality of components, detects cleaning by an operator for each of a plurality of components, and detects a dangerous state for each of a plurality of components. Therefore, because a dangerous state is detected for each of a plurality of components, it is possible to grasp the risk of infection for each of a plurality of components.

[0116] Furthermore, MFP100 in the first variant stores a history of operations performed by operators, a history of cleaning performed by operators, and detects dangerous states occurring after a predetermined date and time. This allows for the detection of dangerous states occurring after an infected operator has performed operations, making it possible to accurately grasp the risk of infection.

[0117] Furthermore, in the MFP 100 of the second modification, if it is detected that all of the multiple components have been cleaned, operation is accepted without authentication of the operator. Therefore, when there is no risk of infection, authentication operation is not required, improving convenience.

[0118] Furthermore, in the second modified example, MFP100 accepts operation without operator authentication if it detects that all of the multiple components except the identification information reader have been cleaned and that the identification information reader has not been cleaned since it was last operated. This allows operation without the risk of infection, improving convenience.

[0119] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 100 MFP, 110 main circuit, 111 CPU, 112 communication I / F unit, 113 ROM, 114 RAM, 115 HDD, 116 facsimile unit, 117 microphone, 118 speaker, 119 drug sensor, 120 automatic document feeder, 125 document tray, 127 document output tray, 130 document reading unit, 140 image forming unit, 141 front door, 150 paper feed unit, 150A, 150B paper feed tray, 150C manual feed tray, 153 side door, 155 post-processing unit, 160 operation panel, 161 display unit, 163 operation unit, 165 touch panel, 167 hard key unit, 169 non-contact sensor, 170 camera, 180 external storage device, 180A CD-ROM, 51 operation detection unit, 53 Cleaning detection unit, 55 status detection unit, 57 notification unit, 61 operator identification unit, 63 sensor detection unit, 65 job detection unit, 67 error detection unit, 71 contact detection unit, 73 voice detection unit, 75 command detection unit, 77 drug detection unit, 79 action detection unit, 81 operation history memory unit, 83 cleaning history memory unit, 85 infection date and time reception unit, 91 authentication unit, 93 operation reception unit, 95 image processing unit.

Claims

1. an operation detection means for detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection means for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection means for detecting a dangerous state in which the device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification means for notifying the user of the dangerous state; an operator identification means for identifying an operator, The state detection means detects the dangerous state for each of a plurality of operators in the image forming apparatus.

2. An operation detection means for detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection means for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection means for detecting a dangerous state in which the device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification means for notifying the user of the dangerous state, the operation detection means detects an operation by an operator for each of a plurality of members; the cleaning detection means detects that each of the plurality of members has been cleaned, The state detection unit detects the dangerous state for each of a plurality of members in the image forming apparatus.

3. An operation detection means for detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection means for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection means for detecting a dangerous state in which the device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification means for notifying the user of the dangerous state; an operation history storage means for storing a history of operations performed by an operator; a cleaning history storage means for storing a cleaning history; The state detection unit detects the dangerous state after a predetermined date and time.

4. An operation detection means for detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection means for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection means for detecting a dangerous state in which the device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification means for notifying the user of the dangerous state; an operator identification means for identifying an operator; authentication means for authenticating the operator identified by the operator identification means; an operation receiving means for receiving an operation when authentication of the operator by the authentication means is successful, and not receiving the operation when authentication of the operator by the authentication means is unsuccessful; a processing execution means for executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation, 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation accepting unit accepts the operation without authentication of the operator by the authentication unit when it is detected that all of the plurality of members have been cleaned.

5. An operation detection means for detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection means for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection means for detecting a dangerous state in which the device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification means for notifying the user of the dangerous state; a reader for reading identification information for identifying an operator; an authentication means for authenticating an operator based on the identification information read by the reading device; an operation receiving means for receiving an operation when authentication of the operator by the authentication means is successful, and not receiving the operation when authentication of the operator by the authentication means is unsuccessful; a processing execution means for executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation, An image forming apparatus, wherein the operation accepting means accepts an operation without authentication of the operator by the authentication means when it detects that all of the multiple components other than the reading device have been cleaned and it detects that the reading device has not been cleaned since it was operated.

6. an operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an operator identifying step of identifying an operator by the image forming apparatus; The warning method, wherein the state detecting step includes detecting the dangerous state for each of a plurality of operators.

7. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the user of the dangerous state, The operation detection step includes detecting an operation by an operator for each of a plurality of members; the cleaning detection step includes detecting that each of the plurality of members has been cleaned; The warning method, wherein the condition detection step includes detecting the dangerous condition for each of a plurality of members.

8. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an operation history storage step of storing a history of operations performed by an operator; a cleaning history storage step of storing a cleaning history in the image forming apparatus; The warning method, wherein the condition detection step includes detecting the dangerous condition after a predetermined date and time.

9. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an operator identification step of identifying an operator; an authentication step of authenticating the operator identified in the operator identification step; an operation receiving step of receiving an operation when authentication of the operator is successful in the authentication step, and not receiving the operation when authentication of the operator is unsuccessful in the authentication step; a processing execution step of executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation by the image forming apparatus; The warning method, wherein the operation accepting step includes accepting an operation without authenticating the operator in the authenticating step when it is detected that all of the plurality of members have been cleaned.

10. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an authentication step of authenticating the operator based on the identification information read by a reading device that reads the identification information that identifies the operator; an operation receiving step of receiving an operation when authentication of the operator is successful in the authentication step, and not receiving the operation when authentication of the operator is unsuccessful in the authentication step; a processing execution step of executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation by the image forming apparatus; A warning method in which the operation acceptance step accepts an operation without authenticating the operator in the authentication step if it is detected that all of the multiple components other than the reading device have been cleaned and if it is detected that the reading device has not been cleaned since it was operated.

11. an operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an operator identifying step of identifying an operator by a computer that controls the image forming apparatus; The state detection step includes detecting the dangerous state for each of a plurality of operators.

12. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the user of the dangerous state, the operation detection step includes detecting an operation by an operator for each of a plurality of members; the cleaning detection step includes detecting that each of the plurality of members has been cleaned; The state detection step includes detecting the dangerous state for each of a plurality of members.

13. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an operation history storage step of storing a history of operations performed by an operator; a cleaning history storage step of storing a cleaning history by a computer that controls the image forming apparatus; The state detection step includes detecting the dangerous state after a predetermined date and time.

14. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an operator identification step of identifying an operator; an authentication step of authenticating the operator identified in the operator identification step; an operation receiving step of receiving an operation when authentication of the operator is successful in the authentication step, and not receiving the operation when authentication of the operator is unsuccessful in the authentication step; a processing execution step of executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation by a computer that controls the image forming apparatus; The operation receiving step includes receiving an operation without authenticating the operator in the authentication step when it is detected that all of the plurality of members have been cleaned.

15. An operation detection step of detecting an operation by an operator; a cleaning detection step for detecting that the cleaning has been performed; a state detection step for detecting a dangerous state in which the cleaning device is operated by an operator without being cleaned; a notification step of notifying the dangerous state; an authentication step of authenticating the operator based on the identification information read by a reading device that reads the identification information that identifies the operator; an operation receiving step of receiving an operation when authentication of the operator is successful in the authentication step, and not receiving the operation when authentication of the operator is unsuccessful in the authentication step; a processing execution step of executing a process in accordance with the accepted operation by a computer that controls the image forming apparatus; The operation reception step is a warning program that receives an operation without authenticating the operator in the authentication step if it is detected that all of the multiple components other than the reading device have been cleaned and if it is detected that the reading device has not been cleaned since it was operated.

Images