Media Processing Device

Abstract

To provide a medium processor and an image formation device which enable confirmation that data has been correctly written in a plurality of RFID tags possessed by a medium.SOLUTION: A medium processor has a conveyance mechanism, an RFID device and a processor. The conveyance mechanism conveys a medium. The RFID device communicates with a plurality of RFID tags possessed by the medium conveyed by the conveyance mechanism. When writing processing of a plurality of writing data to the plurality of RFID tags possessed by the medium by the RFID device has ended, and then any one of the writing data is unreadable from the RFID tags possessed by the medium, the processor detects a writing failure of data to the plurality of RFID tags possessed by the medium.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention comprises: Media Processing Device Regarding. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, some image forming apparatuses, such as digital multifunction peripherals, are equipped with an RFID device that has the function of writing data to an RFID tag attached to a medium on which an image is to be formed. Image forming apparatuses equipped with an RFID device write data to an RFID tag attached to a medium, such as paper, while transporting the medium.

[0003] When a medium has multiple RFID tags, an image forming apparatus may write different data to each of the multiple RFID tags on the medium. Conventionally, RFID devices perform a process to verify that data has been written correctly to each RFID tag during the data writing process. However, an image forming apparatus equipped with an RFID device cannot verify that data has been written correctly to each of the multiple RFID tags on the medium. For example, if one RFID tag is unintentionally overwritten with data intended for another RFID tag, the medium will end up with an RFID tag to which the intended data has not been written. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-179396 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a method for verifying that data has been correctly written to multiple RFID tags on a medium. Media Processing Device The purpose is to provide the following. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an embodiment, a media processing device includes a transport mechanism, an RFID device, and a processor. Along the transport path The RFID device The device is provided with an antenna for communicating with the RFID tag, and is configured to communicate with the RFID tag by setting the communication range of the antenna to a first communication range that includes the writing position on the transport path, or a second communication range that is wider than the first communication range. The processor When first and second RFID tags carried by the medium transported by the transport mechanism move to the write position, the RFID device is controlled to execute a first process of writing first data to the first RFID tag and a second process of writing second data to the second RFID tag, with the communication range of the antenna of the RFID device being the first communication range, and after the first process and the second process are completed, to execute a third process of reading the first data and the second data from the first and second RFID tags with the communication range of the antenna of the RFID device being the second communication range. . [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medium having multiple RFID tags that is to be processed by an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of operation when a media processing device according to an embodiment successfully writes data to the first and second tags of a medium. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of operation of a media processing device according to an embodiment when the process of writing data to the first tag and second tag of a medium fails. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a digital multifunction peripheral serving as an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of a digital multi-functional peripheral (MFP) 1 as an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment will be described.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 includes a scanner 2, a printer 3, an operation panel 4, and an RFID device 6.

[0010] The scanner 2 is installed on top of the main body of the digital multifunction peripheral 1. The scanner 2 is a device that optically reads an image of an original. The scanner 2 has a platen glass on which the original to be scanned is placed. The scanner 2 has an image reading mechanism for scanning the original on the platen glass. The image reading mechanism of the scanner 2 is composed of a carriage and a photoelectric conversion unit installed below the platen glass. The scanner 2 may also be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF).

[0011] The printer (image forming mechanism) 3 has paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C. These paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C store media such as paper to be processed. The media stored in the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C may be any media that can be transported by a transport system, which will be described later. For example, each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C can be detachably attached to the bottom of the digital multifunction peripheral main body. Each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C has paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C, respectively. Each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C removes one sheet of paper from each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C. In this embodiment, each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C stores media with multiple RFID tags.

[0012] The transport system (transport mechanism) 23 transports a medium (hereinafter referred to as paper) within the printer 3. The transport system 23 includes a plurality of transport rollers 23a to 23d and a registration roller 24. The transport system 23 transports the paper picked up by each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C to the registration roller 24. The registration roller 24 transports the paper to a transfer position at the timing when an image is to be transferred.

[0013] The multiple image forming units 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K) each form an image of a respective color (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image, which is an image to be developed in each color, on the image carrier in each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the image carrier by scanning the image carrier with light emitted in accordance with image data. For example, the exposure device 26 scans the image carrier in the main scanning direction by irradiating the light emitted by the light emitting unit onto a photosensitive drum serving as the image carrier via a rotating polygon mirror. Furthermore, the irradiation position of the light from the exposure device 26 moves in the sub-scanning direction as the photosensitive drum rotates. The position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 25 are adjusted by controlling the exposure device 26.

[0014] Each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K) develops an electrostatic latent image on each image carrier with toner of the corresponding color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). The intermediate transfer belt 27 is an intermediate transfer body. Each image forming unit 25 transfers (primarily transfers) the toner image of each color developed with toner of each color on each image carrier onto the intermediate transfer belt 27.

[0015] Intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the transferred toner image and sends it to a secondary transfer position. The secondary transfer position is a position where the toner image on intermediate transfer belt 27 is transferred to paper. The secondary transfer position is a position where support roller 28a and secondary transfer roller 28b face each other. Support roller 28a and secondary transfer roller 28b constitute transfer unit 28. Registration roller 24 transports paper to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on intermediate transfer belt 27. Transfer unit 28 transfers the toner image held on intermediate transfer belt 27 to paper at the secondary transfer position.

[0016] For example, when forming a color image, each image forming unit 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K transfers toner images developed with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 in a superimposed manner. The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds a color image in which the toner images of each color are superimposed. The transfer unit 28 transfers the color image formed by the multiple color toners on the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto a sheet at a secondary transfer position. The registration rollers 24 transport the sheet to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. This allows the color image to be transferred onto the sheet.

[0017] Transfer unit 28 supplies the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to fuser 29. Fuser 29 fuses the toner image onto the paper. Fuser 29 has heating unit 29a, heat roller 29b, and pressure roller 29c. Heating unit 29a heats heat roller 29b. Heat roller 29b and pressure roller 29c perform a fixing process by heating the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by transfer unit 28 while applying pressure. Heat roller 29b and pressure roller 29c in fuser 29 send the paper after the fixing process to conveyance roller 23d. Conveyance roller 23d conveys the paper from fuser 29 to paper discharge unit 30.

[0018] The operation panel 4 is a user interface. The operation panel 4 displays guidance and accepts input of operation buttons or icons. For example, a user inputs setting information on the operation panel 4. The operation panel 4 has a display unit (display) 41, a touch panel 42, and a plurality of operation buttons 43. For example, the touch panel 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41. The touch panel 42 detects a location on the display screen of the display unit 41 that the user touches.

[0019] The RFID device 6 communicates with an RFID tag attached to a medium. The RFID device is a reader / writer that writes data to an RFID tag and reads data written on the RFID tag. The RFID device 6 is installed in the image forming apparatus 1 so as to communicate with an RFID tag attached to a medium (paper) transported by a transport system 23 in the printer 3. The RFID device 6, the transport system 23, and a system control unit 5 (see FIG. 2), which will be described later, constitute a medium processing device.

[0020] The RFID device 6 writes data to an RFID tag attached to the medium at a predetermined write position (writable area) on the path of the medium transported by the transport system 23. If the medium transported by the transport system 23 has multiple RFID tags, the RFID device 6 writes data to each RFID tag as the medium passes through the write position. This allows the RFID device to write different data to each of the multiple RFID tags on the medium.

[0021] Furthermore, the RFID device 6 reads data written in all RFID tags on the medium after it has passed the writing position on the transport path. For example, the RFID device 6 widens the communication range (readable area) by strengthening the carrier wave radio waves it outputs to the RFID tags. The RFID device 6 outputs radio waves so that the entire medium after it has passed the writing position is within its communication range, thereby executing a read process that targets all RFID tags on the medium.

[0022] 1, the RFID device 6 communicates with an RFID tag on a medium (paper) at a position just before an image is transferred onto the medium. The RFID device 6 may be configured to write data to each RFID tag on the medium transported by the transport system 23 and read data from all RFID tags on the medium after writing. The RFID device 6 may be installed at any writing position on the medium transport path of the transport system 23. The RFID device 6 may also be an external device that can be attached to and detached from an interface provided in the digital multifunction peripheral 1.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 1 configured as above will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 1. As shown in FIG. The digital multifunction peripheral 1 has a system control unit 5 that controls the entire device. The system control unit 5 is connected to the scanner 2, printer 3, operation panel 4, and RFID device 6. In the configuration example shown in Fig. 3, the system control unit 5 has a processor 50, a memory 51, an image memory 52, an image processing unit 53, a storage device 54, and a communication interface (I / F) 55.

[0024] Processor 50 is connected via interfaces to processor 70 of scanner 2 and printer 3, processor 80 of operation panel 4, and processor 90 of RFID device 6. Processor 50 realizes various processing functions by executing programs stored in memory 51 or storage device 54. For example, by executing programs stored in memory 51, processor 50 outputs operation instructions to each unit and processes various information from each unit.

[0025] The memory 51 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and NVM. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. NVM is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. NVM stores setting data and the like. Image data is stored in the image memory 52. ​​For example, the image memory 52 functions as a page memory for expanding image data to be processed.

[0026] The image processing unit 53 processes image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 outputs image data that has been subjected to image processing such as correction, compression, or expansion on input image data. The image processing unit 53 also includes a processor for image processing. The image processing processor in the image processing unit 53 has a variable operating frequency (operating speed). The image processing unit 53 changes the processing time required for image processing by changing the operating frequency of the processor. For example, the image processing unit 53 can set the processing time for image processing to a processing speed equivalent to 1.5 times or 2 times the normal speed by overclocking the operating frequency of the processor.

[0027] The storage device 54 stores data such as control data, control programs, and setting information. The storage device 54 is configured with a rewritable nonvolatile memory. For example, the storage device 54 is configured with a storage device such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive).

[0028] The storage device 54 also has a scan counter and a print counter. The scan counter counts the number of pages scanned using the scanner 2. In the digital multifunction peripheral 1 serving as the image reading device according to this embodiment, the scan counter counts the number of pages scanned for each scan speed. The print counter counts the number of pages printed using the printer 3. In the digital multifunction peripheral 1 serving as the image forming device according to this embodiment, the print counter counts the number of pages printed for each print speed.

[0029] The communication I / F 55 is an interface for performing data communication with an external device. For example, the communication I / F 55 is an interface for communicating with an external device as an output destination for outputting an image scanned by the network scan function. The communication I / F 55 is also an interface for receiving an image to be printed and a print instruction from an external device by the network print function. The communication I / F 55 also includes an interface for transmitting FAX data generated from an image scanned by the FAX function to a FAX destination. The communication I / F 55 may also be an interface for communicating with an external device (such as a server) that collects values ​​of a scan counter and a print counter, etc.

[0030] Next, an example of the configuration of the control system in the printer 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 3 includes a processor 70, a memory 71, a conveying system 23, an image forming unit 25, an exposure device 26, a transfer unit 28, a fixing unit 29, and the like. The processor 70 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 71. For example, by executing the programs, the processor 70 controls the operation of each unit in the printer 3 and monitors the operating status of each unit. The processor 70 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 70 performs printing processes and the like in response to operation instructions from the system control unit 5.

[0031] The memory 71 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. The conveyance system 23 conveys paper within the printer 3 under the control of the processor 70. That is, the conveyance system 23 conveys paper by driving conveyance rollers in various parts in accordance with operation instructions from the processor 70.

[0032] In response to operational instructions from the processor 70, the exposure device 26 irradiates each photosensitive drum of the image forming unit 25 with light (laser light) to form an electrostatic latent image. The processor 70 adjusts the print position, magnification, etc. by controlling the irradiation position of the laser light on the photosensitive drum by the exposure device 26. The processor 70 performs image adjustment so that the desired print range is achieved by operational control according to the print range, starting from a print standard (described later).

[0033] The image forming unit 25 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum with toner of each color in accordance with an operation instruction from the processor 70. The image forming unit 25 also transfers (primary transfer) the toner formed on the photosensitive drum to an intermediate transfer belt.

[0034] Transfer unit 28 transfers (secondarily transfers) the toner image transferred onto intermediate transfer belt 27 onto paper in accordance with operational instructions from processor 70. Fixing unit 29 drives heat roller 29b and pressure roller 29c in accordance with operational instructions from processor 70. Furthermore, heating unit 29a of fixing unit 29 adjusts the surface temperature of heat roller 29b to a desired fixing temperature under the control of processor 70. Fixing unit 29 fixes the toner image transferred onto paper onto the paper while being controlled to the fixing temperature.

[0035] Furthermore, processor 70 changes the speed (print speed) of the printing operation by each unit in printer 3 in response to an operation instruction from processor 50. For example, when processor 70 is instructed to print at 1.5 times the default setting speed, processor 70 causes each unit to perform the printing operation at 1.5 times the default setting speed. When processor 70 is instructed to print at twice the default setting speed, processor 70 causes each unit in printer 3 to perform the printing operation at twice the default setting speed.

[0036] Next, an example of the configuration of the control system in the operation panel 4 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the operation panel 4 includes a processor 80, a memory 81, a display unit (display) 41, a touch panel 42, operation buttons 43, and the like. The processor 80 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 81. For example, the processor 80 controls the operation of each part of the operation panel 4 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing the programs. The processor 80 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. For example, the processor 80 notifies the system control unit 5 of information input by the user.

[0037] The memory 81 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten.

[0038] The display content of the display unit 41 is controlled in accordance with operational instructions from the processor 80. The touch panel 42 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41 and detects the touched position on the display screen. For example, the processor 80 displays icons selectable by the touch panel 42 along with operation guides on the display screen of the display unit 41. The processor 80 determines the information to be input by the user in accordance with the touched position detected by the touch panel 42. The operation buttons 43 are constituted by hard keys such as a start key and a reset key.

[0039] Next, an example of the configuration of the control system in the RFID device 6 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the RFID device 6 includes a processor 90 , a memory 91 , a communication control circuit 92 , and an antenna 93 . The processor 90 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 91. For example, the processor 90 controls the operation of each part in the RFID device 6 by executing the programs. The processor 90 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 90 performs operations such as sending commands to RFID tags and processing responses in response to operational instructions from the system control unit 5.

[0040] The memory 91 includes memories such as RAM (random access memory), ROM (read only memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten.

[0041] The communication control circuit 92 processes signals transmitted and received by the antenna 93. The communication control circuit 92 is connected to the processor 90 and the antenna 93. The communication control circuit 92 includes, for example, a modulation circuit, an amplification circuit, an output setting circuit, and a demodulation circuit. The antenna 93 transmits and receives radio waves. The antenna 93 is connected to the communication control circuit 92. The antenna 93 transmits signals from the communication control circuit 92 as radio waves. The antenna 93 also supplies signals received as radio waves to the communication control circuit 92.

[0042] For example, the communication control circuit 92 transmits a signal supplied from the processor as radio waves from an antenna 93. The communication control circuit 92 modulates the signal from the processor 90 using a modulation circuit, amplifies the modulated signal using an amplifier circuit, and outputs the amplified signal from the antenna 93 as radio waves. The communication control circuit 92 also processes radio waves received by the antenna 93 and supplies the processed signals to the processor 90. The communication control circuit 92 amplifies the radio wave signal received by the antenna 93 using an amplifier circuit, demodulates it using a demodulator circuit, and supplies the demodulated signal to the processor 90. The communication control circuit 92 also has a function of controlling the strength of radio waves output from the antenna 93. The communication control circuit 92 outputs radio waves at an output level set in the amplifier circuit by the output setting circuit in accordance with a control command from the processor 90. That is, the RFID device 6 sets the communication range with the RFID tag by using the communication control circuit 92 to set (adjust) the strength of the radio waves output from the antenna 93.

[0043] For example, when writing data to individual RFID tags on the medium S transported by the transport system 23, the processor 90 sets the communication control circuit 92 to limit the communication range to the write position. The communication control circuit 92 sets (adjusts) the output level (strength) of the radio waves output from the antenna 93 so that the communication range is a predetermined write position set on the transport path of the transport system 23. When the RFID device 6 sets the communication range to the predetermined write position, it can write specific data to individual RFID tags passing through the write position.

[0044] Furthermore, when all RFID tags on the medium S after passing the writing position are to be read, the processor 90 sets the communication control circuit 92 so that the communication range includes the entire medium S. The communication control circuit 92 sets the output level of the radio waves output from the antenna 63 so that the communication range includes the entire medium S after passing the writing position. When the RFID device 6 sets the communication range to an area including the entire medium S after passing the writing position, it can read data from all RFID tags on the medium S.

[0045] Next, an example of the configuration of a medium having multiple RFID tags that is to be processed by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image forming apparatus including a medium processing device according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medium having multiple RFID tags that is to be processed by a digital multifunction peripheral 1 as an image forming apparatus including a medium processing device according to an embodiment. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a medium (e.g., paper) S having a first RFID tag (hereinafter referred to as the first tag) Ta and a second RFID tag (hereinafter referred to as the second tag) Tb. The medium S has a shape that can be transported by a transport system 23 such as paper, and the printer 3 can print an image on its surface.

[0046] An image can be printed on the entire surface of the medium S, including the first area where the first tag Ta is provided and the second area where the second tag Tb is provided. For example, the first tag Ta and the second tag Tb are embedded in a sheet of paper that serves as the medium S. Another example of the medium S may be one in which the first area where the first tag Ta is embedded and the second area where the second tag Tb is embedded are each configured as a sticker.

[0047] In the medium S, the first tag Ta and the second tag Tb are arranged side by side in the long side direction. When the medium S is transported along the long side direction, the first tag Ta and the second tag Tb are transported in order through a predetermined area of ​​the transport path. When the transport system 23 transports the medium S along the long side direction, the first tag Ta and the second tag Tb pass in order through a predetermined write position of the RFID device 6 set on the transport path. When passing through the write position, the first tag Ta and the second tag Tb execute a data write process in response to a command from the RFID device.

[0048] The following describes the process of writing data to multiple RFID tags by a digital multifunction peripheral 1 serving as an image forming apparatus including a media processing device according to an embodiment. First, an example of the operation of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the embodiment when the process of writing data to a plurality of RFID tags of one medium S ends normally will be described. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 when the process of writing data to two RFID tags on one medium S ends normally. The digital multifunction peripheral 1 accepts a job such as a print job that includes writing data to two RFID tags that the medium S has (ACT10). For example, the system control unit 5 receives a job that includes a process of writing data to two RFID tags (a first tag and a second tag) that the medium S has via the communication I / F 55. Here, it is assumed that the system control unit 5 has received a job that specifies writing first write data ("1111") to the first tag of the medium S and second write data ("2222") to the second tag.

[0049] The system control unit 5 takes in one medium S from the paper feed cassette 21, which stores a medium S having two RFID tags. The system control unit 5 causes the transport system 23 to transport the taken-in medium S. When the transport system 23 starts transporting the medium S, the system control unit 5 instructs the RFID device 6 to write "1111" to the first tag of the medium S (ACT11). When the RFID device 6 receives the data write instruction, it transmits radio waves for the data write process to the write position on the transport path.

[0050] 3, the medium S is assumed to have a first tag Ta and a second tag Tb arranged side by side in the transport direction of the transport system 23. In this case, the first tag Ta arrives first (first), and the second tag Tb arrives next (second) at the writing position on the transport path of the medium S. When the first tag Ta of the medium S arrives at the writing position on the transport path of the medium S, it is activated by radio waves from the RFID device 6 and outputs a response signal.

[0051] When the RFID device 6 receives the response from the RFID tag (first tag) of the medium S, it outputs a first write command instructing to write "1111" to the first tag (ACT12).

[0052] The first tag of the medium S being transported receives the first write command from the RFID device 6 at the write position. Upon receiving the first write command, the first tag executes a write process of the data specified in the first write command. After writing the data specified in the first write command ("1111"), the first tag transmits a response indicating completion of writing to the RFID device 6 (ACT13).

[0053] When the RFID device 6 receives the response indicating the completion of writing, it transmits a verify command to the tag (first tag) for which writing has been completed, requesting confirmation that "1111" has been written correctly (ACT14).

[0054] The first tag, which has responded that writing of "1111" has been completed, further receives a verify command from the RFID device 6. Upon receiving the verify command, the first tag confirms that the written data is "1111". Upon confirming that "1111" has been written, the first tag transmits a response indicating successful confirmation (OK) to the RFID device 6 (ACT15).

[0055] The RFID device 6 receives a response from the RFID tag (first tag) on ​​the medium S confirming that "1111" has been written. When the RFID device 6 confirms that "1111" has been written to the RFID tag on the medium S, it notifies the system control unit 5 that writing of "1111" has been completed (ACT16).

[0056] When the system control unit 5 receives notification that writing of the first write data "1111" has been completed, it instructs the RFID device 6 to write the second write data ("2222") to the second tag of the medium S (ACT21). When the next tag (second tag) reaches the write position, the RFID device 6 outputs a second write command instructing writing "2222" to the second tag (ACT22).

[0057] The second tag on the medium S being transported receives the second write command from the RFID device 6 at the write position. Upon receiving the second write command, the second tag executes the write process of the data ("2222") specified in the second write command. After writing "2222" specified in the second write command, the second tag transmits a response indicating the completion of writing to the RFID device 6 (ACT23).

[0058] When the RFID device 6 receives the response indicating the completion of writing, it transmits a verify command to the tag (second tag) for which writing has been completed, requesting confirmation that "2222" has been written correctly (ACT24).

[0059] Here, the second tag, which has responded that writing of "2222" has been completed, receives a verify command from the RFID device 6. Upon receiving the verify command, the second tag confirms that the written data is "2222". Upon confirming that the data "2222" has been written, the second tag transmits a response indicating successful confirmation (OK) to the RFID device 6 (ACT25).

[0060] The RFID device 6 receives a response confirming that "2222" has been written from the RFID tag (second tag) on ​​the medium S. When the RFID device 6 confirms that "2222" has been written to the RFID tag on the medium S, it notifies the system control unit 5 that writing of "2222" has been completed (ACT26).

[0061] When the system control unit 5 receives the notification that the first write data and the second write data have been written, it checks whether the two pieces of data have been written to the two RFID tags on the medium S. The system control unit 5 checks the entire medium S and checks whether there are RFID tags with "1111" written and RFID tags with "2222" written.

[0062] When the system control unit 5 receives the write completion notification of "2222," it determines that the RFID device 6 has completed the write process of the two write data to the RFID tag of the medium S. When the system control unit 5 receives the data write completion notification, it instructs the RFID device 6 to read the first write data ("1111") with the entire medium S as the reading range (ACT31).

[0063] When the RFID device 6 receives an instruction to read data with the entire medium S as its reading range, it adjusts the output level of the radio waves so that the entire medium S after passing the writing position becomes its reading range. The RFID device 6 transmits a first read command requesting the reading of "1111" with the entire medium S as its reading range (ACT32).

[0064] After passing the write position, the first tag and second tag on the medium S receive a first read command from the RFID device 6 requesting to read "1111." Here, the first tag in which "1111" is written transmits a response indicating successful reading (OK) to the RFID device 6 in response to the first read command (ACT33). In this case, the second tag in which "1111" is not written (the RFID tag in which "2222" is written) does not respond to the first read command.

[0065] The RFID device 6 receives a response from the RFID tag (first tag) of the medium S indicating that "1111" has been successfully read from the entire reading range of the medium S. Upon receiving the response indicating that "1111" has been successfully read, the RFID device 6 notifies the system control unit 5 that "1111" has been read from the RFID tag on the medium S (ACT34).

[0066] When the system control unit 5 receives the successful reading of "1111", it instructs the RFID device 6 to read the second write data ("2222") from the entire medium S (ACT35).

[0067] When the RFID device 6 receives the instruction to read "2222" with the entire medium S as the reading range, it transmits a second read command requesting to read "2222" with the entire medium S as the reading range (ACT36).

[0068] The first tag and the second tag on the medium S each receive the second read command from the RFID device 6. Here, the second tag in which "2222" is written transmits a response indicating successful reading (OK) to the RFID device 6 in response to the second read command (ACT37). In this case, the first tag in which "2222" is not written (the RFID tag in which "1111" is written) does not respond to the second read command.

[0069] The RFID device 6 receives a response from the RFID tag (second tag) of the medium S indicating that "2222" has been successfully read from the entire reading range of the medium S. Upon receiving the response indicating that "2222" has been successfully read, the RFID device 6 notifies the system control unit 5 that "2222" has been read from the RFID tag on the medium S (ACT38).

[0070] When the system control unit 5 receives a notification indicating that the first write data and the second write data have been successfully read, the system control unit 5 determines that the process of writing data to the RFID tag of the medium S has been completed successfully (ACT41). When the system control unit 5 determines that the write process has been completed successfully, the system control unit 5 may display on the display unit 41 that writing of data to the two RFID tags of the medium S has been completed.

[0071] Next, an example of operation in which the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the embodiment determines that a data write process to a plurality of RFID tags included in one medium S is an error will be described. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 when an error occurs in the process of writing data to two RFID tags on one medium S. The digital multifunction peripheral 1 accepts a job such as a print job that includes writing data to two RFID tags on the medium S (ACT10). As in the above-described operation example, it is assumed that the system control unit 5 receives a job that includes an instruction to write the first write data ("1111") and the second write data ("2222") to the two RFID tags on the medium S.

[0072] The system control unit 5 takes in a medium S having two RFID tags and causes it to be transported by the transport system 23. When the system control unit 5 starts transporting the medium S by the transport system 23, it instructs the RFID device 6 to write "1111" to the first tag of the medium S (ACT11). When the RFID device 6 receives the data write instruction, it transmits radio waves for the data write process, with the write position on the transport path as its communication range. When the first tag of the medium S being transported by the transport system 23 reaches the write position, it is activated by the radio waves from the RFID device 6 and outputs a response signal.

[0073] When the RFID device 6 receives the response from the RFID tag (first tag) of the medium S, it outputs a first write command instructing to write "1111" to the first tag (ACT12).

[0074] The first tag on the medium S being transported receives the first write command from the RFID device 6 at the write position. Upon receiving the first write command, the first tag executes a write process of the data specified in the first write command. After writing the data specified in the first write command ("1111"), the first tag transmits a response indicating completion of writing to the RFID device 6 (ACT13).

[0075] When the RFID device 6 receives the response indicating the completion of writing, it transmits a verify command to the tag (first tag) for which writing has been completed, requesting confirmation that "1111" has been written correctly (ACT14).

[0076] The first tag, which has responded that writing of "1111" has been completed, receives a verify command from the RFID device 6. Upon receiving the verify command, the first tag confirms that the written data is "1111". Upon confirming that "1111" has been written, the first tag transmits a response indicating successful verification (OK) to the RFID device 6 (ACT15).

[0077] The RFID device 6 receives a response from the RFID tag (first tag) on ​​the medium S confirming that "1111" has been written. When the RFID device 6 confirms that "1111" has been written to the RFID tag on the medium S, it notifies the system control unit 5 that writing of "1111" has been completed (ACT16).

[0078] When the system control unit 5 receives the notification that the writing of the first write data "1111" has been completed, it instructs the RFID device 6 to write the second write data ("2222") to the second tag of the medium S (ACT21).

[0079] When the second RFID tag of the medium S reaches the write position, the RFID device 6 outputs a second write command instructing to write "2222" to the tag (ACT52). Here, it is assumed that the second write command from the RFID device 6 is received by the first tag of the medium S, not the second tag.

[0080] When the first tag receives the second write command, it executes the write (overwrite) process of "2222" specified in the second write command. Here, since "1111" was written in the first write command, the first tag overwrites "2222" with "1111". After writing "2222" specified in the second write command, the first tag transmits a response indicating the completion of writing to the RFID device 6 (ACT53).

[0081] When the RFID device 6 receives the response indicating the completion of writing, it transmits a verify command to the tag (first tag) for which writing has been completed, requesting confirmation that "2222" has been written correctly (ACT54).

[0082] Here, the first tag, which has responded that writing of "2222" has been completed, receives a verify command from the RFID device 6. Upon receiving the verify command, the first tag confirms that the written data is "2222". After confirming that "2222" has been written, the first tag transmits a response indicating successful confirmation (OK) to the RFID device 6 (ACT55).

[0083] The RFID device 6 receives a response confirming that "2222" has been written from the RFID tag (first tag) on ​​the medium S. When the RFID device 6 confirms that "2222" has been written to the RFID tag on the medium S, it notifies the system control unit 5 that writing of "2222" has been completed (ACT56).

[0084] When the system control unit 5 receives the write completion notification for the two pieces of write data, it confirms that "1111" and "2222" have been written to the two RFID tags on the medium S. Here, the system control unit 5 checks the entire medium S to confirm that there are RFID tags with "1111" written and RFID tags with "2222" written.

[0085] When the system control unit 5 receives the write completion notification of "2222", it determines that the RFID device 6 has finished writing the two pieces of data to the RFID tag of the medium S. When the system control unit 5 determines that the writing of the two pieces of data has finished, it instructs the RFID device 6 to read the first write data ("1111") with the entire medium S as the reading range (ACT31).

[0086] When the RFID device 6 receives a read instruction with the entire medium S as the read range, it adjusts the output level of the radio waves so that the entire medium S after passing the write position becomes the read range. The RFID device 6 transmits a first read command with the entire medium S as the read range, requesting the RFID tag to read "1111" (ACT32).

[0087] After passing the write position in the read range, the first tag and the second tag on the medium S receive a first read command from the RFID device 6 requesting to read "1111." In this case, the first tag has been overwritten with "2222," so there is no RFID tag on the medium S with "1111" written to it. Therefore, the RFID device 6 cannot receive a response indicating successful reading (OK) of "1111." If the RFID device 6 does not receive a response to the first read command within a predetermined period of time, it notifies the system control unit 5 that reading is not possible (error) (ACT39).

[0088] When the system control unit 5 receives a message indicating that the first write data "1111" cannot be read, it determines that writing of data to the RFID tag of the medium S has failed (ACT42). When the system control unit 5 determines that the data writing process has failed, it displays an error message on the display unit 41 indicating that writing of data to the RFID tag of the medium S has failed.

[0089] Next, an example of operation when the digital multifunction peripheral 1 according to the embodiment receives a print job including a process of writing data to a plurality of RFID tags of one medium will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an operation performed by the digital multifunction peripheral 1 in response to a print job, including a process of writing data to a plurality of RFID tags on a medium. The system control unit 5 of the digital multifunction peripheral 1 acquires a print job received from the communication I / F 55 or a print job in response to a user operation on the operation panel 4 (ACT111).

[0090] When the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 acquires the print job, it determines whether the print job is a process that includes writing data to the RFID tag of the medium S (ACT112). If the print job does not include a process that writes data to the RFID tag (ACT112, NO), the processor 50 executes image printing according to the print job (ACT124).

[0091] If the print job includes a process of writing data to an RFID tag (ACT112, YES), the processor 50 acquires data to be written to an RFID tag of one medium (ACT113). For example, the processor 50 acquires multiple pieces of write data to be written to multiple RFID tags of one medium based on the print job.

[0092] When the processor 50 acquires the plurality of pieces of write data, it defines a variable n and initializes the defined variable n (n=0) (ACT114). After initializing the variable n, the processor 50 increments the initialized n (n=n+1) (ACT115). After incrementing the variable n, the processor 50 instructs the RFID device 6 to perform a write process of the nth data among the data to be written to the RFID tag of the medium S (ACT116). In response to the instruction from the processor 50, the RFID device 6 performs a write process of the nth data on the RFID tag that is transported to the write position for the nth time. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the RFID device 6 performs a write process including writing data and verifying the data on one RFID tag at the write position.

[0093] The processor 50 acquires information indicating the result of the write process in which the nth data was written to the RFID tag of the medium S from the RFID device 6 (ACT117). Upon acquiring the result of the write process, the processor 50 determines whether the nth data was successfully written to the RFID tag of the medium S (ACT118).

[0094] If the data writing fails (ACT118, NO), the processor 50 displays an error message on the display unit 41 to notify the user that the data writing to the RFID tag has failed (ACT123). In this case, the processor 50 may display the error message and eject the medium S that has been taken into the transport system 23 of the printer 3.

[0095] If the writing of the nth data is successful (ACT118, YES), the processor 50 determines whether or not writing of all the write data to the RFID tag is completed (ACT119). If writing of all the data is not completed (ACT119, NO), the processor 50 returns to ACT115, increments the variable n, and repeats the above-mentioned process.

[0096] When writing of all data has been completed (ACT119, YES), the processor 50 executes a process of reading n pieces of data from each RFID tag of the medium S to be processed (ACT120). The processor 50 executes a process of reading n pieces of data by setting the RFID tag reading range of the RFID device 6 to the entire medium S. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the processor 50 instructs the RFID device 6 to read each piece of data that has been set as written data. The RFID device 6 executes a process of reading data instructed by the processor 50 by setting the entire medium S as the reading range.

[0097] The processor 50 acquires the read results of each data from the RFID device 6. The processor 50 determines whether all data has been read from each RFID tag on the medium S based on the read results from the RFID device 6 (ACT122). If all data has been read from the medium S (ACT122, YES), the processor 50 determines that the process of writing data to the multiple RFID tags on the medium S has been successful. If any data has not been read (ACT122, NO), the processor 50 determines that the process of writing data to the multiple RFID tags on the medium S has failed.

[0098] If the processor 50 fails to read the data, that is, if the processor 50 fails to write data to the multiple RFID tags of the medium S, the processor 50 displays an error notice on the display unit 41 (ACT123). For example, the processor 50 displays an error notice on the display unit 41 to notify the user of the failure to write data to the multiple RFID tags of the medium S. Furthermore, when the processor 50 displays the error notice, the processor 50 may eject the medium S taken in by the conveyance system 23 of the printer 3.

[0099] If the processor 50 has read all the data, that is, if the processor 50 has successfully written data to the multiple RFID tags of the medium S, it executes image printing on the medium S (ACT124). For example, the processor 50 prints an image specified in the print job on the surface of the medium S.

[0100] The digital multifunction peripheral 1 may perform image printing on the medium S in parallel with writing and reading processes for a plurality of RFID tags that the medium S has. Furthermore, the digital multifunction peripheral 1 may execute the above-described data writing and reading processes for a plurality of RFID tags that the medium S has after image printing has been completed.

[0101] As described above, the digital multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment uses an RFID device to execute a write process for multiple pieces of write data for each of multiple RFID tags on the medium. The digital multifunction peripheral sets the communication range of the RFID device to an area that includes the entire medium on which the writing of multiple pieces of data has been completed. The digital multifunction peripheral executes a read process that reads all of the write data from the RFID tag on the medium, with the entire medium as its read range. The digital multifunction peripheral detects a failure to write data to the RFID tag if it is unable to read all of the write data from the RFID tag on the medium. As a result, the digital multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment can confirm that multiple pieces of data have been correctly written to multiple RFID tags that the medium has.

[0102] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. The following additionally describes the contents of the claims as originally filed in this application. [1] a transport mechanism for transporting the medium; an RFID device that communicates with a plurality of RFID tags carried by the medium transported by the transport mechanism; a processor that detects a failure in writing data to the plurality of RFID tags of the medium when any of the write data cannot be read from the RFID tag of the medium after the RFID device has completed writing the plurality of write data to the plurality of RFID tags of the medium; A media processing device comprising: [2] the RFID device has a communication range of a predetermined write position on a transport path of the medium in the transport mechanism, and executes a write process of write data for each RFID tag that passes the predetermined write position; [1] A media processing device according to the present invention. [3] the RFID device performs a read process of the write data written in the write process, with a communication range that includes the entire medium after it has passed the write position; [2] A media processing device according to the present invention. [4] When the processor detects that writing of data to the plurality of RFID tags included in the medium has failed, the processor displays an error message on a display unit to notify the user that writing of data has failed. A media processing device according to any one of [1] to [3]. [5] a transport mechanism for transporting the medium; an RFID device that communicates with a plurality of RFID tags carried by the medium transported by the transport mechanism; a printer that forms an image on the medium transported by the transport mechanism; and a processor that forms an image on the medium using the printer when all of the write data has been read from the RFID tags of the medium after the RFID device has completed a write process of the plurality of write data to the plurality of RFID tags having the medium. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1...digital multifunction device (media processing device, image forming device), 2...scanner, 3...printer, 4...operation panel, 5...system control unit, 6...RFID device, 23...transport system (transport mechanism), 50...processor.

Claims

1. a transport mechanism that transports the medium along a transport path; an RFID device including an antenna for communicating with an RFID tag, the RFID device being configured to communicate with the RFID tag by setting the communication range of the antenna to a first communication range that includes a writing position on the conveyance path or a second communication range that is wider than the first communication range; a processor that controls the RFID device so that, when first and second RFID tags carried by the medium transported by the transport mechanism move to the write position, the RFID device executes a first process of writing first data to the first RFID tag and a second process of writing second data to the second RFID tag, with the communication range of the antenna of the RFID device being the first communication range, and, after the first process and the second process are completed, the RFID device executes a third process of reading the first data and the second data from the first and second RFID tags, with the communication range of the antenna of the RFID device being the second communication range; A media processing device comprising:

2. The medium is a single sheet having multiple RFID tags including the first and second RFID tags. The media processing device of claim 1 .

3. The processor controls the RFID device to execute a first process including writing the first data and confirming reading of the first data when the first RFID tag passes the write position, execute a second process including writing the second data and confirming reading of the second data when the second RFID tag passes the write position, and execute the third process when the single sheet is further transported by the transport mechanism after the first process and the second process are completed. The media processing device of claim 2 .

4. The first communication range is such that the second RFID tag is out of communication range when the first RFID tag passes through the writing position, and the first RFID tag is out of communication range when the second RFID tag passes through the writing position. The media processing device of claim 3 .

5. The second communication range is set so that the entire single sheet transported by the transport mechanism after the first process and the second process are completed is within the communication range. The media processing device of claim 4 .

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