Image diagnostic device, its control method, program, and image forming device

Abstract

To provide a novel mechanism that supports a user in the setting of a sheet to be used in image diagnosis, for example.SOLUTION: An image diagnosis apparatus is configured to: read, by reading means, a sheet with an image formed conveyed from an image forming unit; and diagnose an abnormality of an apparatus by detecting the abnormality in the read image; The image diagnosis apparatus is further configured to: perform setting relating to the image diagnosis according to a user operation; and support a user in setting a sheet more suitable as a sheet to be used in image diagnosis when performing setting for a sheet to be used in image diagnosis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, image diagnostic functions have become known that use sensors, such as scanners, connected to image forming devices to read printed materials and analyze the images to detect abnormalities in the printed materials. These image diagnostic functions print and read dedicated diagnostic charts to detect abnormalities in the image forming device, such as print defects caused by component deterioration or contamination, and identify the cause of the abnormality and suggest necessary solutions to the user. The user can then follow the suggested solutions to replace parts, clean, or perform adjustments, or if they are unable to resolve the issue themselves, can notify the user of a service request and request a service technician to handle the problem.

[0003] When a user performs an image diagnosis, they need to set the image diagnosis items and the paper on which the image diagnosis chart will be printed. The user selects the paper for the image diagnosis chart from the paper set in the paper feed tray, just as when setting up a normal print job. There are various pattern images to be printed on the diagnostic chart depending on the image diagnosis items, but there has been a problem in that depending on the set paper size, the pattern images may not be able to be placed in the specified area or there may be excess area. Patent Document 1 proposes a technology that generates test pattern images for image diagnosis and controls their placement on the diagnostic chart, efficiently placing the required test pattern images based on the paper size used to print the diagnostic chart. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-191326 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the above-mentioned conventional technology has the following problems. Image diagnosis is a method of performing diagnosis by reading test patterns printed on paper with a scanner to detect device abnormalities. Therefore, diagnosis can only be performed within the range of the test pattern printed on the diagnostic chart. In other words, the diagnostic area depends on the size of the paper used for printing.

[0006] Because users can freely set the paper size used for the diagnostic chart, depending on the paper size used, an undiagnosed area may be left undiagnosed. Specifically, if the paper size is wide enough to cover the maximum printable width of the printing device, image diagnosis of the entire area is possible, but if the paper size is narrower than that, the outside of the paper will be left undiagnosed. In such a case, even if the test pattern image is efficiently arranged, an undiagnosed area will exist outside the paper width to be printed, which could result in printing abnormalities if a print job is executed on a paper size wider than that.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of at least one of the above problems, and provides a novel mechanism for assisting in setting paper to be used in image diagnosis. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention is, for example, an image diagnostic device that includes an image diagnostic unit that reads a paper sheet on which an image is formed and that is conveyed from an image forming unit, and diagnoses an abnormality in the device by detecting an abnormality in the read image, a setting unit that performs settings related to the image diagnostic in response to a user operation, and a control unit that supports the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in the image diagnostic when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in the image diagnostic is performed. When the control means receives a selection of paper to be used for image diagnosis via a paper setting screen, it compares the paper width of the selected paper with a predetermined paper width, and if the predetermined paper width is larger, it displays a warning on the paper setting screen that an undiagnosed area exists in the formation width of the image forming means, and the setting means receives a paper width to be set as the predetermined paper width in response to a user operation from a paper width corresponding to the maximum formation width of the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers set in a paper feed tray of the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers included in the history of image formation by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers registered by a user, and a maximum paper width among standard size papers used in the destination region. It is characterized by: [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, for example, a novel mechanism for assisting in the setting of paper to be used in diagnostic imaging can be provided, thereby reducing the number of diagnostic imaging tests that include undiagnosed areas. Furthermore, the present invention can conveniently notify a user that an undiagnosed area exists in the diagnostic imaging test to be performed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is an overall diagram of the hardware configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a mechanism of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 4] A flowchart showing a processing procedure for setting processing for image diagnosis according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] A flowchart showing a processing procedure for performing image diagnosis according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen for performing image diagnosis according to an embodiment; [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting screen for image diagnosis according to an embodiment; [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between an image diagnosis area and a paper width according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of an image diagnosis execution result according to an embodiment; [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen related to a warning display when setting an image diagnostic paper according to an embodiment; [Figure 11] A data list showing the relationship between standard paper sizes and destination information according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] A flowchart showing a processing procedure for paper setting processing for image diagnosis according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting screen for image diagnosis according to an embodiment; [Figure 14] A flowchart showing a processing procedure for paper setting processing for image diagnosis according to an embodiment. [Figure 15]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting screen for image diagnosis according to an embodiment; [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paper setting screen for image diagnosis according to an embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0012] First Embodiment <System configuration> A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. The external controller in this embodiment may also be referred to as an image processing controller, a digital front end, a DFE, a print server, etc. The image forming apparatus may also be referred to as a multifunction device, a multifunction peripheral, or an MFP. In the following, image formation that forms an image on paper (sheet) may also be referred to as printing.

[0013] First, referring to Figure 1, there is shown a configuration of an image processing system according to this embodiment. This image processing system includes an image forming apparatus 101 and an external controller 102. The image forming apparatus 101 and the external controller 102 are communicatively connected via an internal LAN 105 and a video cable 106. The external controller 102 is communicatively connected to a PC 103 via an external LAN 104, and a print instruction is sent from the PC 103 to the external controller 102.

[0014] A printer driver that converts print data into a print description language that can be processed by the external controller 102 is installed in the PC 103. A user who wishes to instruct printing can issue a print instruction from various applications via the printer driver. The printer driver transmits print data to the external controller 102 based on the print instruction from the user. Upon receiving a print instruction from the PC 103, the external controller 102 performs data analysis and rasterization processing, and inputs the print data to the image forming apparatus 101 to issue a print instruction. The external controller 102 inputs the print data to the image forming apparatus 101 via the internal LAN 105, and inputs the rasterized image data via the video cable 106.

[0015] Next, we will explain the image forming apparatus 101. The image forming apparatus 101 is connected to a plurality of devices having different functions, which will be described later, and is configured to be capable of complex printing processes such as bookbinding. The image forming apparatus 101 includes a printing device 107, an inserter 108, an imaging diagnostic device 109, a large-capacity stacker 110, and a finisher 111.

[0016] The printing device 107 forms an image using toner on paper fed into the machine from a paper feed unit located at the bottom of the printing device 107. Note that although paper is used as an example here, other print media may be used. The configuration and operating principle of the printing device 107 will now be described.

[0017] A beam of light, such as a laser beam, modulated according to image data is reflected by a rotating polygon mirror or other type of mirror and irradiated onto a photosensitive drum as scanning light. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum by this laser beam is developed with toner, and the toner image is transferred to paper attached to a transfer drum. This series of image formation processes is carried out sequentially for yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toners, forming a full-color image on the paper. The paper on the transfer drum with the full-color image formed is then transported to a fuser. The fuser includes rollers and belts, and the rollers contain heat sources such as halogen heaters. The fuser uses heat and pressure to melt the toner on the paper to which the toner image has been transferred, fusing it to the paper.

[0018] The inserter 108 is a device for inserting an insert sheet, and can insert a sheet at any position in the group of sheets printed by the printing device 107 and transported.

[0019] The image diagnostic device 109 is capable of performing image diagnosis. The image diagnosis scans an image of the transported paper and compares the generated image data with a pre-registered reference image to determine whether there are any image abnormalities on the printed paper. A detailed description will be given later. If an image abnormality is determined to exist, the abnormality is analyzed, and the abnormality in the image forming device that caused the abnormality and a countermeasure to eliminate the cause are identified. Note that in this embodiment, the printing device 107 and other devices including the image diagnostic device 109 are described as separate devices, but this is not intended to limit the present invention, and they may be integrated into a single device (for example, an image forming device).

[0020] The large-capacity stacker 110 is a device capable of stacking a large amount of paper. The finisher 111 is a device that performs finishing processes (post-processing) on ​​the transported paper. Depending on the settings, finishing processes such as stapling, punching, and saddle-stitching can be performed, and the paper that passes through the finisher 111 is discharged to a paper discharge tray.

[0021] 1 is configured such that the external controller 102 is connected to the image forming apparatus 101, but the present invention is not limited to a configuration in which the external controller 102 is connected. That is, the image forming apparatus 101 may be connected to an external LAN 104, and print data that can be processed by the image forming apparatus 101 may be transmitted from a PC 103. In this case, data analysis and rasterization processing are performed in the image forming apparatus 101, and print processing is executed.

[0022] <System control configuration> Next, the system control configuration of the image forming apparatus 101, external controller 102, and PC 103 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. First, the configuration of the printing apparatus 107 will be described.

[0023] The printing device 107 includes a communication I / F 217, a LAN I / F 218, a video I / F 220, a HDD 221, a CPU 222, a memory 223, an operation unit 224, and a display 225. The printing device 107 further includes a document exposure unit 226, a laser exposure unit 227, an image creation unit 228, a fixing unit 229, and a paper feed unit 230. Each of the components is connected via a system bus 231.

[0024] The communication I / F 217 is connected to the inserter 108, the diagnostic imaging device 109, the large-capacity stacker 110, and the finisher 111 via a communication cable 255, and performs communication to control each device. The LAN I / F 218 is connected to the external controller 102 via the internal LAN 105, and performs transmission and reception of print data, etc. The video I / F 220 is connected to the external controller 102 via a video cable 106, and performs transmission and reception of rasterized image data, etc.

[0025] The HDD 221 is a storage device that stores programs and data. The CPU 222 loads the programs stored in the HDD 221 into the memory 223 and executes the programs to comprehensively control image processing and printing. The memory 223 stores programs and image data required for the CPU 222 to perform various processes, and operates as a work area. The operation unit 224 accepts various setting inputs and operation instructions from the user. The display 225 displays setting information for the image forming apparatus 101, the processing status of print jobs (image forming jobs), and the like.

[0026] The document exposure unit 226 reads documents when using the copy or scan function. The document data is read by illuminating the paper placed by the user with an exposure lamp and capturing an image with a CCD camera. The laser exposure unit 227 is a device that performs primary charging and laser exposure to irradiate the photosensitive drum with laser light to transfer a toner image. The laser exposure unit 227 first performs primary charging, charging the surface of the photosensitive drum to a uniform negative potential. Next, a laser driver irradiates the photosensitive drum with laser light, adjusting the reflection angle with a polygon mirror. This neutralizes the negative charge in the irradiated area, forming an electrostatic latent image. The image creation unit 228 is a device that transfers toner to paper and includes a development unit, transfer unit, toner supply unit, etc., and transfers the toner on the photosensitive drum to paper.

[0027] In the developing unit, negatively charged toner from a developing cylinder is transferred to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum surface, creating a visible image. In the transfer unit, a primary transfer is performed by applying a positive potential to the primary transfer roller to transfer the toner on the photosensitive drum surface to the transfer belt, and a secondary transfer is performed by applying a positive potential to the secondary transfer outer roller to transfer the toner on the transfer belt to paper. The fixing unit 229 is a device that melts and fixes the toner on the paper to the paper using heat and pressure, and is equipped with a heater, fixing belt, and pressure belt. The paper feed unit 230 is a device that feeds paper and controls the paper feed and transport operations using rollers and various sensors. While the image formation unit uses an electrophotographic method using toner, this is not the only printing method. Other methods, such as inkjet printing using ink, may also be used.

[0028] Next, we will explain the configuration of the inserter 108. The inserter 108 has a communication I / F 232, a CPU 233, a memory 234, and a paper feed control unit 235, and each component is connected via a system bus 236. The communication I / F 232 is connected to the printing device 107 via a communication cable 255, and performs communication necessary for control.

[0029] The CPU 233 performs various controls necessary for paper feeding according to a control program stored in the memory 234. The memory 234 is a storage device that saves the control program. The paper feed control unit 235 controls the rollers and sensors based on instructions from the CPU 233, and controls the feeding and transport of paper transported from the paper feed unit of the inserter and the printing device 107.

[0030] Next, the configuration of the image diagnostic apparatus 109 will be described. The image diagnostic apparatus 109 includes a communication I / F 237, a CPU 238, a memory 239, an imaging unit 240, a display unit 241, an operation unit 242, and a HDD 256, and each of these components is connected via a system bus 243. The communication I / F 237 is connected to the printing device 107 via a communication cable 255, and communication required for control is performed. In addition, a reference image used for inspection is also received from the printing device 107 via this communication cable 255 and communication I / F 237, and is stored in the HDD 256.

[0031] The CPU 238 is an example of a control means or a display control means, and performs various controls necessary for inspection according to a control program stored in the memory 239. The memory 239 is a storage device in which the control program is saved. Receiving and saving the reference image is not limited to this; for example, the diagnostic imaging device 109 may have a LAN I / F and communicate with the external controller 102 via an internal LAN. In this case, the diagnostic imaging device 109 can perform the same operation by receiving the reference image from the external controller 102 via the LAN I / F and saving it in the HDD 256.

[0032] The photographing unit 240 photographs the transported paper based on instructions from the CPU 238. The CPU 238 compares the image photographed by the photographing unit 240 with the reference image stored in the HDD 256 to determine whether there are any image abnormalities on the printing paper. The display unit 241 displays image diagnosis results, setting screens, etc. The operation unit 242 is operated by the user and accepts instructions such as changing the settings of the image diagnostic device 109 and registering reference images. The HDD 256 stores the reference images. Note that if the HDD 256 is not provided, the reference images may be stored in the HDD 221 of the printing device 107, and the reference images may be read from the HDD 221 into the memory 239 and used when determining whether there are any image abnormalities on the printing paper.

[0033] Next, we will explain the configuration of the large-capacity stacker 110. The large-capacity stacker 110 has a communication I / F 244, a CPU 245, a memory 246, and a paper discharge control unit 247, and each component is connected via a system bus 248. The communication I / F 244 is connected to the printing device 107 via a communication cable 255, and communication required for control is performed.

[0034] The CPU 245 performs various controls necessary for paper discharge in accordance with a control program stored in the memory 246. The memory 246 is a storage device in which the control program is saved. The paper discharge control unit 247 controls the transport of the transported paper to a stack tray, an escape tray, or the subsequent finisher 111 based on instructions from the CPU 245.

[0035] Next, we will explain the configuration of the finisher 111. The finisher 111 includes a communication I / F 249, a CPU 250, a memory 251, a paper discharge control unit 252, and a finishing processing unit 253. These components are connected via a system bus 254. The communication I / F 249 is connected to the printing device 107 via a communication cable 255, and communication required for control is performed.

[0036] The CPU 250 performs various controls required for finishing and paper discharge in accordance with a control program stored in the memory 251. The memory 251 is a storage device in which the control program is saved. The paper discharge control unit 252 controls paper transport and paper discharge based on instructions from the CPU 250. The finishing processing unit 253 controls finishing processes such as stapling, punching, and saddle stitching based on instructions from the CPU 250.

[0037] Next, we will explain the configuration of the external controller 102. The external controller 102 includes a CPU 208, a memory 209, a HDD 210, a keyboard 211, a display 212, a LAN I / F 213, a LAN I / F 214, and a video I / F 215, and each component is connected via a system bus 216.

[0038] The CPU 208 comprehensively executes processes such as receiving print data from the PC 103, RIP processing, and sending print jobs to the image forming apparatus 101 based on programs and data stored in the HDD 210. The memory 209 stores programs and data required for the CPU 208 to perform various processes and operates as a work area. The HDD 210 stores programs and data required for operations such as print processing. The keyboard 211 is a device for inputting operation instructions for the external controller 102. The display 212 displays information such as applications executed by the external controller 102 using video signals of still images and moving images.

[0039] The LAN I / F 213 is connected to the PC 103 via the external LAN 104, and performs communication such as printing instructions. The LAN I / F 214 is connected to the image forming apparatus 101 via the internal LAN 105, and performs communication such as print jobs as printing instructions. The video I / F 215 is connected to the image forming apparatus 101 via the video cable 106, and performs communication such as rasterized image data.

[0040] Next, we will explain the configuration of the PC 103. The PC 103 includes a CPU 201, memory 202, HDD 203, keyboard 204, display 205, and LAN I / F 206, which are connected via a system bus 207. The CPU 201 creates print data and issues print instructions based on a document processing program stored in the HDD 203, etc.

[0041] The CPU 201 also comprehensively controls each device connected to the system bus. The memory 202 stores programs and data required for the CPU 201 to perform various processes and operates as a work area. The HDD 203 stores programs and data required for operations such as printing. The keyboard 204 is a device for inputting operation instructions for the PC 103. The display 205 displays information such as applications executed by the PC 103 using video signals for still images and moving images. The LAN I / F 206 is connected to the external LAN 104 and performs communication such as printing instructions.

[0042] In the above description, the external controller 102 and the image forming apparatus 101 are connected via the internal LAN 105 and the video cable 106. However, any other configuration may be used as long as the data necessary for printing can be transmitted and received, and for example, a connection using only a video cable may be used. Furthermore, the memories 202, 209, 223, 234, 239, 246, and 251 may be any storage device for storing data and programs. For example, volatile RAM, non-volatile ROM, an internal HDD, an external HDD, a USB memory, or the like may be used instead.

[0043] <Hardware configuration of image forming device> Next, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. First, the printing apparatus 107 will be described. The paper feed decks 301 and 302 of the printing apparatus 107 can store various types of paper. Information about the paper stored in each paper feed deck (paper size, paper type) can be set from the operation unit 224 of the printing apparatus 107. In this embodiment, an example is described in which two paper feed decks 301 and 302 are provided, but a configuration may also be adopted in which multiple paper feed decks are provided by connecting a paper feed deck device (not shown). Each paper feed deck can separate only the topmost sheet of paper stored therein and feed that sheet to paper transport path 303.

[0044] Developing stations 304 to 307 form toner images using color toners of Y, M, C, and K, respectively, to form color images. The toner images formed here are primarily transferred to intermediate transfer belt 308. Furthermore, intermediate transfer belt 308 rotates clockwise in the figure, and the toner images primarily transferred to intermediate transfer belt 308 are transferred at secondary transfer position 309 onto paper transported from paper transport path 303.

[0045] The display 225 displays information for the printing status and settings of the image forming apparatus 101. The fixing unit 311 fixes the toner image to the paper. The fixing unit 311 includes a pressure roller and a heating roller. As the paper passes between these rollers, the toner is melted and pressed to fix the toner image to the paper. After passing through the fixing unit 311, the paper is transported to paper transport path 315 via paper transport path 312. If additional melting and pressing is required for fixing depending on the type of paper, the paper passes through the fixing unit 311 and is transported to second fixing unit 313 via the upper paper transport path. After additional melting and pressing is performed in second fixing unit 313, the paper is transported to paper transport path 315 via paper transport path 314. If the image formation mode is double-sided, the paper is transported to paper inversion path 316, inverted by paper inversion path 316, and then transported to double-sided transport path 317, where the image on the second side is transferred to secondary transfer position 309.

[0046] Next, the inserter 108 for inserting paper will be described. The inserter 108 has an inserter tray 321, and paper fed to the inserter tray 321 is fed through a paper transport path 322 to merge with the transport path. This makes it possible to insert paper at any position in a series of paper sheets transported from the printing device 107 and transport the paper to a subsequent device. Paper sheets that have passed through the inserter 108 are transported to the imaging diagnostic device 109.

[0047] Next, the diagnostic imaging device 109 will be described. Cameras 331 and 332 are arranged facing each other in the diagnostic imaging device 109. Camera 331 is a camera for reading the upper surface of a sheet of paper, and camera 332 is a camera for reading the lower surface of the sheet of paper. The diagnostic imaging device 109 reads an image of the sheet of paper using cameras 331 and 332 when the sheet of paper sequentially conveyed from the printing device 107 reaches a predetermined position on a sheet conveyance path 333. The diagnostic imaging process determines whether there is an image abnormality, and if there is an abnormality, identifies whether there is an apparatus abnormality, the cause of the abnormality, and how to deal with it. The display unit 241 displays the results of the diagnostic imaging performed by the diagnostic imaging device 109. Note that cameras 331 and 332 may be provided in a device other than the diagnostic imaging device 109. In that case, the diagnostic imaging device 109 acquires read images from the device in which cameras 331 and 332 are provided, and performs inspection and diagnostic imaging functions.

[0048] Next, the large-capacity stacker 110 will be described. The large-capacity stacker 110 is a large-capacity stacker that can stack a large amount of paper. The large-capacity stacker 110 has a stack tray 341 as a tray for stacking paper that has been determined to have no quality abnormalities by image diagnosis by the image diagnostic device 109. Paper that has passed through the image diagnostic device 109 is input to and accumulated in the large-capacity stacker 110 via a paper transport path 344. The paper travels from the paper transport path 344 through a paper transport path 345 and is stacked on the stack tray 341.

[0049] The stacker 110 further has an escape tray 346 as a paper output tray. The escape tray 346 is a tray onto which paper determined to have quality abnormalities by image diagnosis by the image diagnostic device 109 is discharged. When outputting to the escape tray 346, the paper is transported from paper transport path 344 to the escape tray 346 via paper transport path 347. When transporting paper to a post-processing device downstream of the large-capacity stacker 110, the paper is transported via paper transport path 348. The inverting unit 349 inverts the paper. This inverting unit 349 is used when loading paper onto the stack tray 341. When loading paper onto the stack tray 341, the inverting unit 349 inverts the paper once so that the orientation of the input paper is the same as the orientation of the output paper. When transporting paper to the escape tray 346 or a downstream post-processing device, the paper is discharged as is without being flipped when loaded, and therefore no inversion operation is performed by the inverting unit 349.

[0050] Next, the finisher 111 will be described. The finisher 111 is a device that performs finishing processing on transported sheets according to a function specified by the user. Specifically, the finisher 111 has finishing functions such as stapling (one-point or two-point binding), punching (two-hole or three-hole), and saddle stitching. The finisher 111 is equipped with a paper output tray 351 and a paper output tray 352. Paper is output to the paper output tray 351 via a paper transport path 353. However, finishing processing such as stapling cannot be performed on the paper transport path 353. When a finishing processing such as stapling is to be performed, the paper is output to the paper output tray 352 via a paper transport path 354, and the finishing function specified by the user is executed in a processing unit 355.

[0051] The paper output trays 351 and 352 can each be raised and lowered, and it is also possible to lower the paper output tray 351 so that the sheets that have been finished by the processing unit 355 are stacked on the paper output tray 351. When saddle stitch binding is specified, the saddle stitch processing unit 356 staples the sheets in the center, folds the sheets in half, and outputs them to the saddle stitch binding tray 358 via the paper transport path 357. The saddle stitch binding tray 358 is configured as a belt conveyor, and the saddle stitched bundle stacked on the saddle stitch binding tray 358 is transported to the left.

[0052] <Image diagnosis setting processing> The processing procedure of the image diagnosis setting processing executed by the image diagnosis apparatus 109 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The processing described below is realized by, for example, the CPU 238 of the image diagnosis apparatus 109 loading a control program stored in the HDD 256 into the memory 239 and executing it. This flowchart starts when the user invokes a diagnosis setting screen 600 (described later) on the display unit 241 via the operation unit 242 to start setting up the image diagnosis.

[0053] In S401, the CPU 238 accepts items for which image diagnosis is to be performed via a user operation on a diagnosis setting screen 600. An example of the diagnosis setting screen will now be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 shows an example of the diagnosis setting screen 600 that accepts settings and execution instructions for image diagnosis in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the diagnosis setting screen 600 is described as being displayed on the display unit 241 of the image diagnostic apparatus 109, but it may also be displayed on the display 225 of the printing apparatus 107 or the display 212 of the external controller 102. The diagnosis setting screen 600 includes target items 601 to 603 for which image diagnosis is to be performed, a paper setting button 604, and a diagnosis execution button 605. The diagnosis setting screen 600 is displayed based on an instruction from the user on the operation screen at any timing, such as before execution of a print job.

[0054] Target items 601 to 603 are display areas for specifying the target factors for which image diagnosis is to be performed. Target setting 601 allows you to set whether or not to perform image diagnosis for misalignment factors, target setting 602 for stain (streak) factors, and target setting 603 for stain (spot) factors. It is possible to set whether or not to diagnose each item individually, and here, operating the item button sets it to "diagnose," and operating it again deselects it. When the target setting for each image diagnosis is set to "diagnose," you can further set the color of the target to be diagnosed. As a detailed setting, you can individually set the colors used in image formation, and here you can individually set each of the Y, M, C, and K toner colors. Each toner color is selected when operated once, and deselected when operated again.

[0055] When the paper setting button 604 is operated, the screen transitions to a paper setting screen 700, which will be described later in FIG. 7, and the selection of the paper to be used for the image diagnosis is accepted. FIG. 6 shows an example in which information on the paper feed tray and size is displayed next to the paper setting button 604 as the set paper information. The displayed information is not limited to this, and information on the name and type of paper may also be displayed. When the diagnosis execution button 605 is operated, an instruction is given to execute the image diagnosis items set in 601 to 603 using the paper set in 604.

[0056] An example of the paper setting screen will now be described with reference to Fig. 7(a). Fig. 7(a) shows an example of a paper setting screen 700 for setting the paper to be used for image diagnosis in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the paper setting screen 700 is displayed on the display unit 241 of the image diagnostic apparatus 109, but it may also be displayed on the display 225 of the printing device 107 or the display 212 of the external controller 102. The paper setting screen 700 is displayed when the user operates the paper setting button 604 on the diagnosis setting screen 600.

[0057] Reference numeral 701 denotes a list of paper feed trays configured in the image forming apparatus 101. Here, as an example, a configuration having three paper feed trays is shown. Reference numerals 702 and 703 display paper information currently set in the paper feed trays. The paper feed tray information and set paper information of the image forming apparatus 101 are stored in the memory 223 of the printing device 107, and the CPU 238 of the diagnostic imaging apparatus 109 queries the CPU 222 to acquire the paper information and stores it in the memory 239. The CPU 238 reads the information and displays it in each display area of ​​the paper setting screen 700. Reference numeral 704 denotes a back button for confirming the settings and ending the screen. When a user selects any tray in which paper to be used for printing is set and presses the back button 704, the screen returns to the diagnostic setting screen 600. Return to the explanation of FIG. 4. After the image diagnosis items 601 to 603 are selected, in S402 the CPU 238 accepts paper settings for the diagnostic chart to be printed for diagnostic imaging. When the user selects one of the paper trays from the paper feed tray list 701 in S402, the CPU 238 compares the selected paper information with a predetermined width in S403. In this embodiment, the predetermined width is the maximum width that the image forming apparatus 101 can print, i.e., the maximum width that can be formed by the image forming apparatus 101. The maximum width that the image forming apparatus 101 can print is the paper width that corresponds to the maximum width that can be formed by the image forming unit and is dependent on the hardware configuration. It is also the width at which the toner image formed in the development stations 304-307 and transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 308 to the secondary transfer position 309 onto the paper transported from the paper transport path 303 can be stably printed. The maximum printable width varies depending on the product, but is often determined as a specification by the manufacturer or distributor of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0058] Here, the relationship between the chart for image diagnosis, the paper width, and the maximum printable width of the image forming apparatus 101 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8(a) shows an example of the chart for image diagnosis. Fig. 8(b) is a diagram simulating the state in which a toner image has been printed on paper conveyed through the paper conveyance path 303 at the secondary transfer position 309, and 820 indicates the maximum printable width of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0059] Reference numerals 800 and 810 indicate diagnostic chart paper on which pattern images for image diagnosis are printed. As indicated by the arrows, the upward direction in the figure is the paper transport direction. Reference numerals 801 and 821 are examples of pattern images used in image diagnosis. Here, pattern images of a certain density range are arranged in the main scanning direction, the number of which is equal to the number of toner types, in order to detect stains (streaks) in image diagnosis item 602, particularly vertical streaks. However, the layout of the diagnostic chart is not limited to this, and pattern images that can be used for image diagnosis may be freely arranged according to the image diagnosis item. Reference numerals 802 and 812 indicate the paper width of the diagnostic chart. By printing the test pattern image 801 across the entire width of the paper, image diagnosis can be performed across the entire area of ​​the paper width.

[0060] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8B, if the paper width 812 of the diagnostic chart 810 is smaller than the maximum printable width 820, undiagnosed areas 821, where a pattern image for image diagnosis cannot be printed, will exist on the left and right of the paper width 810. For example, assume that the maximum printable width 820 of the image forming apparatus 101 is 364 mm, the width of B3 size paper. If A3 size paper, which is 297 mm wide, is used for image diagnosis, the width will be insufficient by 364 - 297 = 67 mm. Therefore, if the paper transport reference position is in the center, undiagnosed areas 821 will exist on both the left and right sides by 33.5 mm.

[0061] This will be explained in more detail in Figure 8(c). 830 indicates the page of a user's print job. Here, we consider a case where image diagnosis is performed on A3 size paper 810, and then the print job is printed using B3 size paper 830. As mentioned above, image diagnosis can only be performed on the A3 size paper width, so undiagnosed areas 832 exist on the left and right of the area to be printed on print page 830, which has a B3 size paper width 831.

[0062] The presence of an undiagnosed area within a print page means that the quality of that area has not been checked by image diagnosis, and there is a possibility that an image abnormality may occur. However, for a user who has previously performed image diagnosis and is aware that the image is in a good condition, it is difficult to recognize that there is an undiagnosed area and that there is a possibility that an image abnormality may occur depending on the paper width used when the image diagnosis was performed. Therefore, this embodiment is characterized in that when an undiagnosed area exists, the user is notified of this fact so that they can be made aware of it.

[0063] Returning to the description of FIG. 4 , as described above, in S403, a determination is made by comparing the set paper width with a predetermined width, such as the maximum printable width. Here, the predetermined width is set as the maximum printable width, but this does not limit the present invention. For example, the predetermined width may not be the maximum printable width, but may be a width recommended by the device or a width set by an administrator, etc. If the determination determines that the set paper width is small (YES in S403), the process proceeds to S404; otherwise, the process of this flowchart ends. In S404, the CPU 238 issues a warning to the user that an undiagnosed area exists, and the process of this flowchart ends. As described above, according to this embodiment, by displaying a warning when selecting paper, the user is made aware of the possibility of an undiagnosed area and is assisted in selecting paper to be used for image diagnosis. In this embodiment, a form in which a warning is displayed is described, but this does not limit the present invention. For example, information regarding recommended paper or more suitable paper may be displayed. Other forms will be described in other embodiments.

[0064] 7B shows an example of a method for issuing a warning in this embodiment. The warning according to this embodiment is realized during a series of paper setting operations on the paper setting screen 700. The CPU 238 selects the paper feed tray 701 in which paper is set in S402, compares the paper width in S403, and if it determines that the paper width is smaller than a predetermined width, creates a warning message 705 notifying the user and displays it on the screen 700. The warning message 705 displayed here is an example, but it is desirable that the content be such that the user is aware that there is an undiagnosed area on this paper and that it is recommended to use paper of a larger width.

[0065] <Image diagnosis processing> The processing procedure of the image diagnosis processing in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The processing described below is realized by, for example, the CPU 238 of the image diagnosis apparatus 109 loading a control program stored in the HDD 256 into the memory 239 and executing it. This flowchart starts when the image diagnosis setting processing described in Fig. 4 is completed and the diagnosis execution button 605 on the diagnosis setting screen 600 is operated.

[0066] In S501, the CPU 238 instructs the printing device 107 to print a test chart. Next, in S502, the CPU 238 instructs the imaging unit 240 to read an image in accordance with the transport timing of the transported test chart image. The CPU 238 then records the read scan image data in the memory 239, and proceeds to S503. In S503, the CPU 238 determines whether or not there is a device abnormality in the scan image data acquired in S502. The CPU 238 searches for a device abnormality, and if it determines that there is a device abnormality, it proceeds to S504, and if it determines that there is no device abnormality, it proceeds to S511.

[0067] In S504, the CPU 238 identifies the type of device abnormality that has occurred. The type of device abnormality may be identified by checking whether the characteristics of each device abnormality have occurred in the scanned image data. Alternatively, the type of device abnormality may be identified by comparing the image data of the test chart document stored in the HDD 256 of the image diagnostic device 109 with the scanned image data obtained in S502. The CPU 238 records the presence or absence of the identified device abnormality for each type of abnormality in the memory 239. There may also be cases where an abnormality is detected but the type cannot be identified. If the type of abnormality cannot be identified, the CPU 238 records this in the memory 239. When the processing is completed, the process proceeds to S505.

[0068] In S505, the CPU 238 determines whether or not the type of abnormality was identified in S504. If it was identified, the process proceeds to S506; if it was not identified, the process proceeds to S511. In S506, the CPU 238 extracts feature quantities defined for each type of identified apparatus abnormality. For example, if the type of apparatus abnormality is vertical streaks, the feature quantities here refer to various parameters such as the position of the streaks, the width of the streaks, the number of streaks, and the period of the streaks. The CPU 238 stores the extracted feature quantities in the memory 239 and then proceeds to S507.

[0069] In S507, the CPU 238 analyzes the period of the apparatus abnormality from the type of apparatus abnormality identified in S504 and the feature amount extracted in S506. For example, if the type of apparatus abnormality is vertical streaks, the period of occurrence of the streaks is analyzed by comparing the position and number of the streaks with periodic width information of each roller of the developing stations 304 to 307 or the fixing unit 311 that is recorded in advance in the HDD 256. The CPU 238 stores the analyzed period in the memory 239 and then proceeds to S508.

[0070] In S508, the CPU 238 identifies the cause of the apparatus abnormality based on the type of apparatus abnormality identified in S504, the feature amount extracted in S506, and the cycle analyzed in S507. The cause of the apparatus abnormality is identified, for example, by storing a table of apparatus abnormality feature amounts and corresponding causes of occurrence and applying the feature amount extracted in S506 to the table. When the CPU 238 identifies the cause of the apparatus abnormality, it records this in the memory 239. There are also cases where the cause of occurrence cannot be identified. If the CPU 238 cannot identify the cause, it records this in the memory 239. When the processing is completed, the process proceeds to S509.

[0071] In S509, the CPU 238 determines whether or not the cause of the problem was identified in S508. If the cause of the problem was identified, the process proceeds to S510; if the cause of the problem was not identified, the process proceeds to S511. In S510, the CPU 238 determines a countermeasure for the cause of the problem identified and stored in S508. This countermeasure is determined, for example, by holding a table that stores causes of the problem and the corresponding countermeasures, and applying the countermeasure to the cause of the problem identified in S508. Examples of countermeasures include executing an image adjustment function, replacing parts, or cleaning parts. Once the CPU 238 determines a countermeasure, the CPU 238 records it in the memory 239. There are also cases where the CPU 238 cannot identify a countermeasure. If the CPU 238 cannot identify a countermeasure, the CPU 238 records that fact in the memory 239. When the processing is complete, the process proceeds to S511.

[0072] In S511, the CPU 238 displays the information of the imaging diagnosis executed in S501 to S510 as the imaging diagnosis result on the display unit 241. Note that when a close button 904 on an imaging diagnosis result screen 900, which will be described later, is operated, the CPU 238 ends the processing of this flowchart. Through the processing described above, the imaging diagnostic apparatus 109 can identify the presence or absence of an apparatus abnormality from the paper printed by the printing device 107, and if an apparatus abnormality is found, the type, cause, and how to deal with the abnormality, and provide the result to the user.

[0073] <Result screen> An example of an image diagnosis result screen 900 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. In this embodiment, the image diagnosis result screen 900 is displayed on the display unit 241 of the image diagnosis apparatus 109, but it may also be displayed on the display 225 of the printing apparatus 107 or the display 212 of the external controller 102. This screen is displayed as the image diagnosis result information in S511 above. The image diagnosis result screen 900 includes diagnosis date and time information 901, a diagnosis result list 902, detailed diagnosis result information 903, and a close button 904.

[0074] Date and time information 901 indicates information on the date and time when chart image diagnosis was performed and the results were confirmed. Diagnosis result list 902 indicates a list of the results of the image diagnosis that was performed. Here, all items for which diagnosis was performed, their contents, and diagnosis results are displayed. The displayed contents are not limited to this, and for example, only items for which an abnormality was detected may be displayed. Detailed information 903 indicates the detailed diagnosis results obtained in S501 to S510.

[0075] As described above, the diagnostic imaging device according to this embodiment reads paper on which an image is formed and conveyed from the image forming unit (printing device 107) using the reading unit (cameras 331, 332) and detects abnormalities in the read image to diagnose device abnormalities. Furthermore, the diagnostic imaging device performs settings related to diagnostic imaging in response to user operations. When the paper used for diagnostic imaging is set, the device assists in setting a paper that is more suitable for the diagnostic imaging. More specifically, according to this embodiment, in the paper setting process for performing diagnostic imaging, the device compares the paper width of the selected paper size with the maximum printable width of the image forming device. If the set paper width is smaller, the device notifies the user. This allows the user to easily grasp the presence of an undiagnosed area when executing a print job using larger paper depending on the paper size used for diagnostic imaging, and recognizes the possibility of image abnormalities. As described above, this embodiment provides a novel mechanism for assisting in the setting of paper used for diagnostic imaging, thereby reducing the number of diagnostic imaging operations that involve undiagnosed areas. Furthermore, this embodiment can conveniently notify the user that an undiagnosed area exists in the diagnostic imaging to be performed.

[0076] <Second embodiment> A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the first embodiment, the predetermined width used as a comparison target for determining an undiagnosed area in image diagnosis was the maximum printable width of the image forming apparatus 101 (the maximum width formed by the image forming apparatus 101). By comparing with the maximum printable width, a warning message 705 is displayed whenever an attempt is made to set paper smaller than the maximum width in image diagnosis. While this can raise a strong awareness among users, depending on the user's printing environment, it is possible that the type and size of paper used is roughly fixed and paper of the maximum printable width is not used. For such users, displaying a warning message every time may be annoying. Therefore, in this embodiment, a method for controlling the frequency of notifications to the user by changing the predetermined width used as a comparison target for determining an undiagnosed area depending on the user's printing environment will be described.

[0077] <Warning settings screen> An example of a warning setting screen 1000 for switching the criteria for warning display according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10 . In this embodiment, the warning setting screen 1000 is displayed on the display unit 241 of the diagnostic imaging apparatus 109, but may also be displayed on the display 225 of the printing apparatus 107 or the display 212 of the external controller 102. The warning setting screen 1000 includes various settings 1001 to 1005 for switching the predetermined width, which is the criteria for displaying a warning when setting paper, a setting button 1006, and a back button 1007. The warning setting screen 1000 may be displayed, for example, by providing a warning display setting button (not shown) in the paper setting screen 700 and operating the button by the user. Alternatively, the warning display setting button may be provided on a setting screen (not shown) for setting the entire system of the diagnostic imaging apparatus 109.

[0078] Numerals 1001 to 1005 indicate selectable items for the judgment criteria that can be set. Numeral 1001 is a setting method in which the maximum printable width of the printing device is set as the predetermined width. This is the setting value described in the first embodiment above. By setting it in this way, the user can be sure to know when paper with a non-diagnostic area is set.

[0079] Reference numeral 1002 denotes a setting method in which the maximum paper width among the set paper feed trays is set as the predetermined width. The CPU 238 references the paper information of the currently set paper feed tray and determines the maximum paper width. By using the maximum paper width among multiple paper feed trays as the determination standard, the user can easily set the maximum paper width available for printing without having to perform operations such as replacing paper or changing settings.

[0080] Reference numeral 1003 denotes a setting method for setting the predetermined width to the widest paper among the paper sheets in the print history of past printing executed by this image forming apparatus 101. The CPU 238 queries the CPU 222 of the printing apparatus 107 for past print history information and determines the widest paper sheet from among the paper sheets that the user has used in past print jobs. By using the widest paper sheet among the paper sheets that have been used in the past as the criterion for determination, it is possible to display a warning in accordance with the user's print operation environment.

[0081] Reference numeral 1004 denotes a setting method for setting the maximum paper width in a paper list for which the user has registered paper information as the specified width in this image forming apparatus 101. The CPU 238 queries the CPU 222 of the printing apparatus 107 about the user-registered paper list and determines the maximum paper width from the paper list. By using the maximum width in the paper list registered for use by the user as the determination criterion, a warning can be displayed in accordance with the user's printing operation environment.

[0082] Reference numeral 1005 denotes a setting method for setting the maximum width that fits within the printable width of standard sizes that are commonly used and easily available in the destination region, based on destination information configured in the image forming device 101. The CPU 238 queries the CPU 222 of the printing device 107 for destination information related to the installation region configured as environmental information, and acquires standard standard size information for the configured destination. Based on the acquired standard size information, the CPU 238 determines the paper that is closest to the maximum width that can be printed by the image forming device 101 (the maximum printable width by the image forming device 101) among the standard sizes.

[0083] Reference numeral 1006 denotes a setting button. When the setting button 1006 is operated, the CPU 238 records the width information selected from 1001 to 1005 in the memory 239 as the predetermined width information to be used as a comparison target in S403. Reference numeral 1007 denotes a back button. When the back button 1007 is operated, the CPU 238 closes the warning setting screen 1000 and returns to the previous screen that was displayed up to that point.

[0084] As described above, according to this embodiment, various paper widths can be set as the reference predetermined width. Note that these reference widths are not set as the maximum width that can be used for diagnostic imaging, but are widths that serve as a reference for comparison with the set width set during diagnostic imaging. In other words, a user can perform diagnostic imaging using paper with a width that exceeds the set reference predetermined width, and there is no restriction on the use of paper with such widths.

[0085] FIG. 11 shows an example of a table showing the relationship between destinations and common standard paper sizes in this embodiment. This table is stored in the HDD 256 and can be accessed by the CPU 238 in the memory 239 as needed. Reference numeral 1101 denotes a list of standard paper names. Reference numeral 1102 denotes a list of size information for each paper. Reference numerals 1103 to 1105 denote destination lists linking regional information (e.g., Europe, Japan, and the Americas) with paper commonly used in each region. The relationship between the paper list and destination information is not limited to the example shown here. Other paper sizes, such as SRA3 size paper and B2 size paper, which are not standardized in Japan but are commonly used, may also be included in the paper list. Furthermore, the destination information is not limited to these three regions, and different destination information may exist grouped into different regions, such as South America and Asia. By using the standard standard size in the region where the image forming apparatus 101 is installed as a judgment criterion, users can compare the paper with readily available and familiar paper.

[0086] As described above, the diagnostic imaging device according to this embodiment accepts a paper width to be set as a predetermined reference paper width from among multiple paper widths in response to a user operation. The multiple paper widths include the paper width corresponding to the maximum width formed by the image forming unit, the maximum paper width among the paper set in the paper feed tray of the image forming unit, and the maximum paper width among the paper included in the image formation history by the image forming unit. Furthermore, the multiple paper widths include the maximum paper width among the paper registered by the user and the maximum paper width among the standard paper sizes used in the destination region. Thus, according to this embodiment, the predetermined paper width to be compared with the width of the paper used in diagnostic imaging can be selected from multiple methods associated with the user's printing operation environment, thereby displaying a warning at a timing tailored to the user's request.

[0087] <Third embodiment> A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the above first and second embodiments, a method was described in which, when a user selects one of the paper feed trays from the paper feed tray list 701 to be used for printing on the paper feed setting screen 700 for diagnostic imaging, the paper set in that paper feed tray is used to compare the width with a predetermined width. In this embodiment, a method will be described in which, instead of a flow in which a determination is made triggered by the user's selection of a paper feed tray, a determination is made automatically when the paper feed setting screen 700 is displayed, a recommended paper size is determined, and the user is notified in advance.

[0088] <Paper setting process> The processing procedure for the paper setting process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 238 of the diagnostic imaging apparatus 109 loading a control program stored in the HDD 256 into the memory 239 and executing it. This flow starts when the user operates the paper setting button 604 in the diagnosis setting screen 600 on the display unit 241 via the operation unit 242 to call up the paper setting screen 700.

[0089] In S1201, the CPU 238 reads from the memory 239 the settings for the warning display settings described in the second embodiment with reference to FIG. 10. Note that, if the settings read here have not been configured for warning display, default settings, for example, the maximum printable width, are read as the predetermined width. Next, in S1202, the CPU 238 determines a recommended paper width based on the setting information read in S1201. The paper widths for each setting are the same as items 1001 to 1005 described in the second embodiment, and therefore will not be described here. In S1203, the CPU 238 displays the recommended paper width information determined in S1202 on the paper setting screen 700 to notify the user, and then ends the processing of this flowchart.

[0090] Fig. 13 shows an example of a paper setting screen in this embodiment. 701 to 704 are the same as those described in Fig. 7, so their description will be omitted here. The CPU 238 displays a message 1301 on the paper setting screen to notify the user of recommended paper width information. Here, as an example of a message, recommended paper size information and judgment criteria information for which a warning has been set are displayed.

[0091] As described above, when an operation to transition to the paper setting screen is performed, the diagnostic imaging device according to this embodiment determines the paper width recommended for use in diagnostic imaging and displays on the paper setting screen a message that the determined paper width is recommended as the paper to be used in diagnostic imaging. According to this embodiment, when the user is about to select paper to be used in diagnostic imaging, the user can be notified in advance of appropriate paper size information determined based on the warning display settings. This allows the user to know what paper size to set when setting the paper.

[0092] <Fourth embodiment> A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the above first to third embodiments, a method for issuing a warning when a non-diagnostic area exists on the selected paper, or for notifying recommended paper information in advance, was described, assuming that the user manually selects paper for diagnostic imaging. In this embodiment, a method for automatically setting paper in a paper feed tray when paper information recommended in the paper settings for diagnostic imaging is present, will be described. Furthermore, a method for preventing selection of a paper feed tray in which paper smaller than the recommended paper width is set, will also be described.

[0093] <Paper setting process> The processing procedure for the paper setting process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 238 of the diagnostic imaging apparatus 109 loading a control program stored in the HDD 256 into the memory 239 and executing it. This flow starts when the user operates the paper setting button 604 in the diagnosis setting screen 600 on the display unit 241 via the operation unit 242 to call up the paper setting screen 700.

[0094] Steps S1401 and S1402 are the same as steps S1201 and S1202, and therefore their explanation will be omitted. Up to this point, the CPU 238 determines the recommended paper width information. Next, in step S1403, the CPU 238 selects the first paper feed tray from among the multiple paper feed trays present, and proceeds to the next step.

[0095] In S1404, the CPU 238 compares the paper width set in the paper feed tray selected in S1403 with the recommended paper width determined in S1402. If the set paper width is smaller than the recommended paper width (YES), the process proceeds to S1405, and if the set paper width is the same as or larger than the recommended paper width (NO), the process proceeds to S1406. In S1405, the CPU 238 sets the paper in the target paper feed tray to a non-selectable state, and the process proceeds to S1409. The non-selectable state will be described later.

[0096] On the other hand, in S1406, the CPU 238 determines whether or not there is an already selected paper feed tray. If there is no already selected paper feed tray (NO), the process proceeds to S1407, and if there is already selected paper feed tray (YES), the process proceeds to S1408. It is assumed that there are multiple paper feed trays in which paper that meets the conditions is set.

[0097] In S1407, the CPU 238 controls the target paper feed tray to be in a selected state, and proceeds to S1409. The selected state will be described later. Meanwhile, in S1408, the CPU 238 compares the paper width set for the currently selected paper feed tray with the paper width that has already been selected. If the paper width of the currently selected paper feed tray is larger than the selected paper width (YES), proceed to S1407, where the CPU 238 newly selects the paper feed tray in which the larger paper is set. On the other hand, if the selected paper width is the same or larger (NO), proceed to S1409.

[0098] In S1409, CPU 238 determines whether all paper feed trays have been selected and the flow of S1404 to S1408 has been executed. If there are any paper feed trays that have not yet been executed (NO), the process proceeds to S1410, and if all paper feed trays have been checked (YES), the process proceeds to S1411. In S1410, CPU 238 selects the next paper feed tray that has not yet been checked, returns the process to S1404, and continues the processing flow.

[0099] In S1411, the CPU 238 determines whether a paper feed tray that meets the conditions has been selected. If a selected paper feed tray exists (YES), the process proceeds to S1413; if a selected paper feed tray does not exist (NO), the process proceeds to S1412. In S1412, the CPU 238 displays the recommended paper information determined in S1402, and then proceeds to S1413. Here, because the current paper feed tray does not contain paper that meets the conditions, displaying the recommended paper information is expected to have the effect of encouraging the user to change the paper. In S1413, the CPU 238 cancels the state of the paper feed tray that was made unavailable for selection in S1405, and ends the processing of this flowchart. When this is complete, the paper setting processing flow ends.

[0100] FIG. 15 shows an example of a paper setting screen in this embodiment. 701 to 704 and 1301 are the same as those described in FIG. 13, so their description will be omitted here. 1501 and 1502 represent information indicating that selection of a paper feed tray is disabled in S1405. As an example, the CPU 238 controls the screen so that it does not respond even if a button is operated by the user, and displays the state so that the user can easily identify it, for example, by graying out the button. Any other method may be used as long as it is possible to indicate that the tray is disabled. 1503 represents information about the paper feed tray that was selected in S1407.

[0101] As described above, when an operation to transition to the paper setting screen is performed, the diagnostic imaging device according to this embodiment determines the paper width recommended for use in diagnostic imaging and displays the paper setting screen with the determined paper width in a selected state. Thus, according to this embodiment, the system determines the paper settings for diagnostic imaging and automatically selects a paper feed tray that meets the conditions, eliminating the need for the user to manually select the paper. Furthermore, by graying out paper feed trays that do not meet the conditions and making them unavailable for selection, this effectively prevents the user from unintentionally selecting a paper feed tray that is set to smaller paper.

[0102] In this embodiment, the paper feed tray that is not selectable is finally released in S1413, but it may remain in the non-selectable state, and when the user operates the tray button 1501, a pop-up message will appear asking whether or not to release the tray, and the tray may be released.

[0103] <Fifth embodiment> A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In this embodiment, a method for always displaying a warning on the paper setting screen will be described.

[0104] 16 shows an example of a paper setting screen in this embodiment. 701 to 704 are the same as those described in FIG. 7, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. The CPU 238 constantly displays a message 1601 on the paper setting screen 700 to the effect that it is recommended to use paper of as large a width as possible for diagnostic imaging. The message displayed here may simply advise the user to set paper of a larger width, or may convey specific paper size information based on each recommended paper width set in the warning display settings described above.

[0105] As described above, the diagnostic imaging device according to this embodiment displays information about paper suitable for diagnostic imaging on the screen displayed during diagnostic imaging settings. By constantly displaying a warning in this manner, it is possible to make the user aware that the image width of the paper set for diagnostic imaging affects the diagnostic area.

[0106] The disclosure of this specification includes the following imaging diagnostic apparatus, its control method, program, and image forming apparatus. (Item 1) A diagnostic imaging device, an image diagnosis means for reading a sheet of paper on which an image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by a reading means and detecting an abnormality in the read image to thereby diagnose an abnormality in the apparatus; a setting means for setting the image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control means for supporting the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in image diagnosis is performed; An imaging diagnostic device comprising: (Item 2) The control means Item 1. The diagnostic imaging device according to item 1, characterized in that when a selection of paper to be used for diagnostic imaging is accepted via a paper setting screen, the paper width of the selected paper is compared with a predetermined paper width, and if the predetermined paper width is larger, a warning indicating that an undiagnosed area exists within the forming width of the image forming means is displayed on the paper setting screen. (Item 3) The setting means 3. The diagnostic imaging device according to item 2, characterized in that the image forming means receives a paper width to be set as the predetermined paper width in response to a user operation from among a paper width corresponding to a maximum formation width by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers set in a paper feed tray in the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers included in a history of image formation by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers registered by a user, and a maximum paper width among standard size papers used in a destination region. (Item 4) The control means Item 4. The diagnostic imaging device according to item 3, characterized in that when an operation to transition to the paper setting screen is performed, a paper width recommended for use in diagnostic imaging is determined, and a message indicating that the determined paper width is recommended as the paper to be used in diagnostic imaging is displayed on the paper setting screen. (Item 5) The control means 5. The diagnostic imaging apparatus according to item 4, wherein the recommended paper width is determined based on the set predetermined paper width. (Item 6) The control means 6. The diagnostic imaging device according to any one of items 3 to 5, characterized in that when an operation for transitioning to the paper setting screen is performed, a paper width recommended for use in diagnostic imaging is determined, and the paper setting screen is displayed with the determined paper width controlled to a selected state. (Item 7) The control means 7. The image diagnostic apparatus according to item 6, wherein the paper width different from the recommended paper width is controlled to be unselectable on the paper setting screen. (Item 8) 8. The image diagnostic apparatus according to item 7, wherein the control means displays the paper width that has been controlled to be unselectable on the paper setting screen in an identifiable manner. (Item 9) 9. The image diagnostic device according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the setting means displays information about paper suitable for image diagnosis on a screen displayed in settings related to the image diagnosis. (Item 10) A control method for an image diagnostic apparatus in which a sheet on which an image is formed and which is conveyed from an image forming means is read by a reading means, and an abnormality in the read image is detected to diagnose an abnormality in the apparatus, comprising: a setting step in which a setting means sets settings related to image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control step in which the control means supports the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in the image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in the image diagnosis is performed; 10. A method for controlling an imaging diagnostic apparatus, comprising: (Item 11) A program for causing a computer to execute each step of a control method for an image diagnostic apparatus that reads, by a reading means, a sheet on which an image is formed and that is conveyed from an image forming means, and diagnoses an abnormality in the apparatus by detecting an abnormality in the read image, the control method comprising: a setting step in which a setting means sets settings related to image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control step in which the control means supports the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in the image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in the image diagnosis is performed; A program comprising: (Item 12) An image forming apparatus, an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet; a reading means for reading a sheet on which an image is formed; an image diagnosis means for reading the paper on which the image is formed and conveyed from the image forming means by the reading means and detecting an abnormality in the read image to diagnose an abnormality in the apparatus; a setting means for setting the image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control means for supporting the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in image diagnosis is performed; An image forming apparatus comprising:

[0107] <Other embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0108] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 101: image forming device, 102: external controller, 103: PC, 104: external LAN, 105: internal LAN, 106: video cable, 107: printing device, 108: inserter, 109: diagnostic imaging device, 110: large capacity stacker, 111: finisher, 238: CPU, 241: display unit, 242: operation unit, 700: paper setting screen

Claims

1. A diagnostic imaging device, an image diagnosis means for reading a sheet of paper on which an image is formed and which is conveyed from the image forming means by a reading means and detecting an abnormality in the read image to thereby diagnose an abnormality in the apparatus; a setting means for setting the image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control means for supporting the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in image diagnosis is performed; Equipped with The control means When a selection of a paper to be used for image diagnosis is received via a paper setting screen, the paper width of the selected paper is compared with a predetermined paper width, and if the predetermined paper width is larger, a warning is displayed on the paper setting screen indicating that an undiagnosed area exists within the formation width of the image forming means; The setting means an image diagnostic device that accepts a paper width to be set as the predetermined paper width in response to a user operation from among a paper width corresponding to a maximum formation width by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers set in a paper feed tray of the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers included in a history of image formation by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers registered by a user, and a maximum paper width among standard size papers used in a destination region.

2. The control means 2. The diagnostic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, when an operation to transition to the paper setting screen is performed, a paper width recommended for use in diagnostic imaging is determined, and a message indicating that the determined paper width is recommended as the paper to be used in diagnostic imaging is displayed on the paper setting screen.

3. The control means 3. The diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the recommended paper width is determined based on the set predetermined paper width.

4. The control means 2. The image diagnostic device according to claim 1, wherein, when an operation for transitioning to the paper setting screen is performed, a paper width recommended for use in image diagnosis is determined, and the paper setting screen is displayed with the determined paper width controlled to a selected state.

5. The control means 5. The image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the paper width setting screen is controlled to be unselectable for paper widths different from the recommended paper width.

6. 6. The image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control means displays the paper width that has been controlled to be unselectable on the paper setting screen in a identifiable manner.

7. 7. The image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit displays information about paper suitable for image diagnosis on a screen displayed for setting the image diagnosis.

8. A control method for an image diagnostic apparatus in which a sheet on which an image is formed and which is conveyed from an image forming means is read by a reading means, and an abnormality in the read image is detected to diagnose an abnormality in the apparatus, comprising: a setting step in which a setting means sets settings related to image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control step in which the control means supports the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in the image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in the image diagnosis is performed; Including, In the control step, When a selection of a paper to be used for image diagnosis is received via a paper setting screen, the paper width of the selected paper is compared with a predetermined paper width, and if the predetermined paper width is larger, a warning is displayed on the paper setting screen indicating that an undiagnosed area exists within the formation width of the image forming means; In the setting step, a control method for an imaging diagnostic device, characterized in that a paper width to be set as the predetermined paper width in response to a user operation is accepted from among a paper width corresponding to a maximum formation width by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers set in a paper feed tray of the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers included in a history of image formation by the image forming means, a maximum paper width among papers registered by a user, and a maximum paper width among standard size papers used in a destination region.

9. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of a control method for an image diagnostic apparatus that reads, by a reading means, a sheet on which an image is formed and that is conveyed from an image forming means, and diagnoses an abnormality in the apparatus by detecting an abnormality in the read image, the control method comprising: a setting step in which a setting means sets settings related to image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control step in which the control means supports the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in the image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in the image diagnosis is performed; Including, In the control step, When a selection of a paper to be used for image diagnosis is received via a paper setting screen, the paper width of the selected paper is compared with a predetermined paper width, and if the predetermined paper width is larger, a warning is displayed on the paper setting screen indicating that an undiagnosed area exists within the formation width of the image forming means; In the setting step, A program that accepts a paper width to be set as the specified paper width in response to a user operation from a paper width corresponding to the maximum formation width by the image forming means, the maximum paper width among the papers set in the paper feed tray of the image forming means, the maximum paper width among the papers included in the history of image formation by the image forming means, the maximum paper width among the papers registered by the user, and the maximum paper width among the standard size papers used in the destination region.

10. An image forming apparatus, an image forming means for forming an image on a sheet; a reading means for reading a sheet on which an image is formed; an image diagnosis unit that reads the paper on which the image is formed and that is conveyed from the image forming unit by the reading unit and detects an abnormality in the read image to diagnose an abnormality in the apparatus; a setting means for setting the image diagnosis in response to a user operation; a control means for supporting the setting of a paper sheet more suitable for use in image diagnosis when the setting of the paper sheet to be used in image diagnosis is performed; Equipped with The control means When a selection of a paper to be used for image diagnosis is received via a paper setting screen, the paper width of the selected paper is compared with a predetermined paper width, and if the predetermined paper width is larger, a warning is displayed on the paper setting screen indicating that an undiagnosed area exists within the formation width of the image forming means; The setting means An image forming apparatus characterized in that it accepts a paper width to be set as the specified paper width in response to user operation from among a paper width corresponding to the maximum formation width by the image forming means, the maximum paper width among the papers set in the paper feed tray of the image forming means, the maximum paper width among the papers included in the history of image formation by the image forming means, the maximum paper width among the papers registered by the user, and the maximum paper width among the standard size papers used in the destination region.

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