Image forming system

Abstract

Factors other than component wear may affect the results of wear detection. [Solution] An image forming system comprising an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with both a display device and the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus comprises an image carrier that carries a developer image, a transfer unit that transfers the developer image carried on the image carrier to a recording material, a rotating unit provided upstream of the transfer unit in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating unit is configured to take an initial position that allows it to contact the recording material and to transition from the initial position to a detected position when pressed by the recording material, and a recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating unit in the initial position but detects the rotating unit that has transitioned to a detected position, wherein if the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating unit until it stops detecting the rotating unit is shorter than a predetermined time, the information processing apparatus communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the rotating unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system that forms an image on a recording material.

Background Art

[0002] The image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 detects wear of components based on fluctuations in the conveyance time from when the recording material is fed until the detection unit detects the recording material.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Factors other than component wear may affect the result of wear detection. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to reduce the influence of factors other than component wear on the result of wear detection.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present invention is as follows.

[0006] An image forming apparatus, A display device capable of displaying information and an information processing device capable of communicating with both the image forming apparatus, Comprising, The image forming apparatus, An image carrier that carries a developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image carried on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating unit provided upstream of the transfer unit in the conveyance direction in which the recording material is conveyed, the rotating unit taking an initial posture in which it can contact the recording material and being configured to transition from the initial posture to a detected posture when pressed by the recording material. A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, A transmission unit that transmits information regarding the detection result of the recording material detection unit to the information processing device, Equipped with, The information processing device includes a processing unit that processes the information relating to the detection result, Based on the processing results of the information by the processing unit, If the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, the information processing device communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the rotating part. An image forming system characterized by the following features. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the influence of factors other than part wear on the wear detection results. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Block diagram of the image forming system according to Example 1. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus according to Example 1. [Figure 3] Perspective views (a-c) showing the area around the transport section according to Example 1. [Figure 4] Plan view (a, b) showing the area around the flag according to Example 1. [Figure 5] A plan view showing the area around the flag according to Example 1. [Figure 6] Diagrams (a, b) illustrating the wear detection method according to Example 1. [Figure 7] Diagrams (a, b) illustrating the wear detection method according to Example 1. [Figure 8] Flowchart for wear detection according to Example 1. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram of the display device according to Example 1. [Figure 10] A perspective view showing the area around the transport section according to Example 2. [Figure 11]Explanatory diagrams (a, b) showing the wear detection method according to Example 2. [Figure 12] Explanatory diagrams (a, b) showing the wear detection method according to Example 2. [Figure 13] Flowchart of wear detection according to Example 2. [Figure 14] Schematic diagram of the display device according to Example 2.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0010] 《Example 1》 The image forming system 1 according to Example 1 will be described. First, the configuration of the image forming system 1 will be described using FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of the image forming system 1. The image forming system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 100, an information processing apparatus 200, and a display device 90. The image forming apparatus 100 can communicate with a host computer 65. The host computer 65 has a main body 66 that instructs the image forming apparatus 100 to print, and an operation display unit 67 that receives an operation of a print instruction from the user. The operation display unit 67 is also a display unit capable of displaying information.

[0011] The image forming apparatus 100 comprises a control unit 70, a RAM 83, a ROM 84, and a first operation display unit 81. The control unit 70 includes a controller 79, a CPU 80, and a first transmission unit 82 (communication unit), and controls the image forming apparatus 100. The controller 79 receives print instructions from the main unit 66 of the host computer 65. Upon receiving a print instruction, the controller 79 issues a print instruction to the CPU 80, which then controls the image forming operation. The RAM 83 provides a workspace for the CPU 80 to control the image forming operation and stores primary data, etc. The ROM 84 stores programs and various data that control the image forming apparatus 100. The first transmission unit 82 transmits information (data) held by the image forming apparatus 100 to an information processing device. The first operation display unit 81 is capable of displaying information, and the user can confirm the information via the first operation display unit. The user can also input settings for the image forming apparatus 100 via the first operation display unit.

[0012] The information processing device 200 is a device that receives information (data) from the first transmission unit 82 (control unit 70) and performs information processing, and performs data processing related to the wear of the rotating part 50, which will be described later. The information processing device 200 can communicate with both the image forming apparatus 100 and the display device 90. The information processing device has a calculation unit 201 and a second transmission unit 202. The calculation unit 201 performs data processing related to the wear of the flag 50 (rotating part) using the data received from the first transmission unit 82. The detection of wear of the flag 50 will be described later. The second transmission unit 202 sends a notification (information) to the receiving unit 92 of the display device 90, causing the display device 90 to display the information.

[0013] The display device 90 is, for example, a terminal for maintenance management of the image forming apparatus 100. The display device 90 is capable of communicating with the information processing device 200 and includes a second display unit 93 that can display information and a receiving unit 92 that receives information from the second transmission unit 202. The receiving unit 92, upon receiving information from the second transmission unit 202, causes the second display unit 93 to display the information. The second display unit 93 displays information regarding the wear of the flag 50, thereby allowing the user of the display device 90 to recognize the condition of the wear of the rotating part.

[0014] [Configuration of the image forming apparatus] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, an electrophotographic laser beam printer will be described as an example of an image forming apparatus to which the present invention can be applied. Note that the present invention is not limited to laser beam printers, but can be applied to image forming apparatuses such as copiers and inkjet printers.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 100 comprises a cassette 14 (storage section), a paper feed roller 11 (paper feed section), a pair of separation rollers 15 (separation section), and a pair of transport rollers 37 (transport section). The transport roller pair 37 consists of a first register roller 32 and a second register roller 33. The image forming apparatus 100 also comprises a flag 50 (rotating section), an image forming section 100A, a laser scanner 103, a fuser 40, a pair of discharge rollers 107, and a discharge tray 108.

[0016] The configuration and operation of the image forming unit 100A will now be described. The image forming unit 100A forms an image on the recording material using four developer colors: yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. In the following description, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black will be denoted as Y, M, C, and K respectively, and components that function in accordance with each color will be distinguished by adding one of these letters to the end of their name. The image forming unit 100A includes four photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, and 101K. The image forming unit 100A also includes developer cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, and 104K. The image forming unit 100A also includes primary transfer rollers 106Y, 106M, 106C, and 106K. The image forming unit 100A also includes an intermediate transfer belt 102 (image carrier) and a secondary transfer roller 105 (transfer section). The laser scanner 103, controlled by the control unit 70 which has received a print instruction, irradiates the surface of the charged photoreceptor drums 101Y~K with laser light. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photoreceptor drums 101Y~K. The developing cartridges 104Y~K each contain yellow, magenta, cyan, and black developers, and also include developing units 104bY, 104bM, 104bC, and 104bK. The developing units 104bY~bK use the developers to form a toner image (developer image) on the photoreceptor drums 101Y~K. Next, the primary transfer rollers 106Y~K transfer the developer image formed on the photoreceptor drums 101Y~K to the intermediate transfer belt 102. The intermediate transfer belt 102 carries the primary transferred developer image and transports it toward the secondary transfer roller 105. The secondary transfer roller 105 transfers the developer supported on the intermediate transfer belt 102 to the recording material S.

[0017] In parallel with the image forming operation of the image forming unit 100A described above, the printing material S contained in the cassette 14 is fed one sheet at a time by the paper feed roller 11 and finally discharged to the discharge tray 108. As shown in Figure 2, the recording material S is transported in the transport direction Dc from the time it is fed to the paper feed roller 11 until it is discharged to the discharge tray 108. The separation unit 15 separates the recording material from the multiple recording materials when multiple recording materials are fed by the paper feed roller 11. The transport unit 37 transports the recording material S transported by the separation unit 15 toward the secondary transfer roller 105. In the transport direction (Dc) in which the recording material S is transported, the transport unit 37 is located downstream of the separation unit 15 and upstream of the secondary transfer roller 105. The secondary transfer roller 105 transfers the developer carried on the intermediate transfer belt 102 to the recording material S transported to the secondary transfer roller 105 by the transport unit 37. The secondary transfer roller 105 transports the recording material S to the fuser 40, where the fuser 40 heats and pressurizes the recording material S, thereby fixing the developer image onto the recording material S. The recording material S with the developer image fixed is transported by the fuser 40 and discharged into a discharge tray 108 capable of supporting the recording material.

[0018] [Configuration for controlling the transport speed of recording material] The image forming apparatus 100 controls the transport speed of the recording material S so that the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 102 is transferred to the target position on the recording material S in the transport direction of the recording material S. In the following description, the configuration related to the transport speed control of the recording material S will be explained using Figures 2 to 4. Figure 3(a) is a perspective view showing the area around the transport section 37. Figure 3(b) is a view of the area around the transport section 37 in the direction of arrow R shown in Figure 3(a). Figure 3(c) is a cross-sectional view of the transport section 37 cut by plane A shown in Figure 3(b). Figures 4(a) and 4(b) are cross-sectional views of the transport section 37 cut by plane B shown in Figure 3(b), respectively. Figure 4(a) shows the state in which the flag 50 takes the initial posture described later. Figure 4(b) shows the state in which the flag 50 takes the detected posture described later.

[0019] First, the configuration of the conveying section 37 will be explained. As shown in Figure 3, the first resist roller 32 includes first resist rollers 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d. The metal shaft 23 is the axis of rotation of the first resist rollers 32a to d, which support the first resist rollers 32a to d. That is, as the metal shaft 23 rotates, the first resist rollers 32a to d rotate integrally with the metal shaft 23. A resist roller bearing 34a is attached to one end of the metal shaft 23, and a resist roller bearing 34b is attached to the other end. The resist roller bearings 34a and 34b are each supported by the resist guide 35. In other words, the first resist rollers 32a to d are supported by the resist guide 35 via the resist roller bearings 34a and 34b. In addition, a resist roller gear 41 is provided on the metal shaft 23, and when drive is transmitted to the resist roller gear 41 by a drive source (not shown), the metal shaft 23 and the first resist rollers 32a to d rotate integrally. The second resist roller 33 rotates in response to the rotation of the first resist roller 32.

[0020] As shown in Figures 3(b) and 3(c), the second resist roller 33 includes second resist rollers 33a, 33b, 33c, and 33d. Each of the second resist rollers 33a to 33d is positioned opposite each of the first resist rollers 32a to 32d. As described above, the transport roller pair 37 consists of the first resist roller 32 and the second resist roller 33. As shown in Figure 3(b), each of the second resist rollers 33a to 33d is pivotally supported by each of the holders 38a to 38d. As shown in Figure 3(c), each of the holders 38a to 38d has pivot points 38sa, 38sb, 38sc, and 38sd. Each of the holders 38a to 38d is supported by the resist guide 35 so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow W shown in Figure 3(c) with respect to the pivot points 38sa to 38sd. As shown in Figure 3(c), the spring 39 biases the holder 38 in the P direction such that the second resist roller 33 each contacts the first resist roller 32.

[0021] [Conveyor speed control] Next, the transport speed control of the recording material S will be explained using Figures 2, 3, and 4. The CPU 80 controls the timing of when the recording material S reaches the secondary transfer roller 105 so that the toner image is transferred to the recording material S at the correct position by the secondary transfer roller 105. To perform this control, the image forming apparatus 100 detects the position of the recording material S using a flag 50 and a photosensor 36 (recording material detection unit). First, the configuration of the photosensor 36 will be explained using Figures 3(b) and 4.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3(b), the photosensor 36 is a transmissive photosensor comprising a light-emitting unit 36a and a light-receiving unit 36b, and is supported by the resist guide 35. As shown in Figure 2, the photosensor 36 is positioned downstream of the separation unit 15 and upstream of the secondary transfer roller 105 in the transport direction Dc, and detects the transported recording material and outputs a signal to the control unit 70.

[0023] The light-emitting unit 36a and the light-receiving unit 37b are positioned opposite each other. A slit 36as is formed in the light-emitting unit 36a, and light passing through the slit 36as is directed toward the light-receiving unit 37b. As will be described later, if the light-receiving unit 36b is positioned in a way that blocks the light emitted by the flag 50, it will not receive the light. As a result, the light-receiving unit 36b will transmit a signal to the control unit 70. On the other hand, if the light-receiving unit 37b is positioned in a way that does not block the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 36a, it will receive the light. As a result, the light-receiving unit 37b will not transmit a signal to the control unit 70.

[0024] Next, the configuration of the flag 50 will be described. As shown in Figure 3(b), the flag 50 rotates integrally with the flag rotation axis 50a, using the flag rotation axis 50a as the axis of rotation. One end and the other end of the flag rotation axis 50a are each pivotally supported by the resist guide 35. The arrow r shown in Figure 3(b) indicates the rotation axis direction of the flag 50. Preferably, the rotation axis direction of the flag 50 and the rotation axis direction of the transport unit 37 are the same. In the rotation axis direction of the flag 50, the flag 50 is located between the second resist roller 33b and the second resist roller 33c. As shown in Figure 2, in the transport direction Dc in which the recording material S is transported, the flag 50 is located downstream of the separation unit 15 and upstream of the secondary transfer roller 105. The dotted line H shown in Figure 3(b) is a virtual line extending horizontally. As indicated by the dotted line H, in the vertical direction, at least a portion of the position of the flag 50 when it takes its initial position, which will be described later, is the same position as the second resist roller 33 (transport unit).

[0025] Next, the rotational movement of the flag 50 will be explained using Figure 4. Figure 4(a) shows the state before the recording material A is fed to the paper feed roller 11. Also, the arrow B shown in Figure 4(a) indicates the transport path B through which the recording material S is transported by the transport unit 37. In this state, a part of the flag 50 (the part to be contacted 50b) is biased by a biasing member (not shown) so that it is positioned in a location where it can contact the transported recording material S. In other words, the part to be contacted 50b is biased by the biasing member so that it is positioned in the transport path B. The posture that the flag 50 takes when the part to be contacted 50b is positioned in a location where it can contact the transported recording material S is called the initial posture.

[0026] When the recording material S is transported from the cassette 14, the leading edge of the recording material S comes into contact with the contacted portion 50b, pressing the contacted portion 50b upward. As a result, in Figure 4(a), the flag 50 rotates counterclockwise. Consequently, as shown in Figure 4(b), the flag 50 transitions from its initial position to a detectable position where a portion of the flag 50 (the detected portion 50c) is detected by the photosensor 36. In other words, in the detectable position, the detected portion 50c of the flag 50 is positioned to obstruct the slit 36as. As a result, as described above, the light receiving unit 36b transmits a signal to the control unit 70, and the control unit 70 can detect the recording material S. After the flag 50 assumes the detectable position, the recording material S is transported while maintaining contact with the flag 50. That is, the recording material S is transported while rubbing against the flag 50. During this time, the light receiving unit 36b continues to transmit a signal to the control unit 70, and the control unit 70 continues to detect the recording material S. When the rear end of the recording material S passes the position of the flag 50, the flag 50 no longer comes into contact with the recording material S and is biased by the biasing member, causing it to rotate clockwise in Figure 4. As a result, the detected part 50c no longer obstructs the slit 36as as the flag 50 transitions from the detected position to the initial position, and the light receiving part 36b stops transmitting a signal to the control unit 70. Consequently, the control unit 70 stops detecting the recording material S. Finally, the flag 50 transitions from the detected position to the initial position. The photosensor 36 does not detect the flag 50 when it is in the initial position. This rotational movement of the flag 50 is repeated each time a recording material is transported, and a detection signal is sent to the control unit 70.

[0027] As described above, the control unit 70 changes the speed at which the first register roller 32 transports the recording material toward the secondary transfer roller 105 based on the signal output by the photosensor 36 when it detects the flag 50. More specifically, it accelerates or decelerates the rotation of the first register roller 32. This allows the timing of when the recording material S reaches the secondary transfer roller to be adjusted.

[0028] [Flag wear detection] Next, we will explain the detection of wear on the flag 50. As mentioned above, the flag 50 rubs against the transported recording material S, causing wear on the contacted portion 50b. In particular, if the amount of paper dust contained in the recording material S is large, the contacted portion 50b is likely to wear down significantly. Therefore, the image forming system 1 in this embodiment detects the wear of the flag 50 and notifies the degree of wear of the flag 50 and provides information prompting replacement.

[0029] First, let's explain the malfunctions that occur due to wear of the flag 50. A portion of the detected part 50c (margin part) included in range M of Figure 4(b) blocks the slit 36as once during the transition of the flag 50 from its initial position to the detected position, and then passes through the slit 36as. The reason for leaving this margin part is that when the transported recording material S and the flag 50 in the detected position are rubbing against each other, the position of the flag 50 is not constant and may change slightly. If there were no margin part, the slight change in the position of the flag 50 could cause the detected part 50c to repeatedly block and not block the slit 36as in a short period of time. In other words, the light receiving unit 36b would repeatedly transmit a signal to the control unit 70 and not transmit a signal in a short period of time. Consequently, the time from when the control unit 70 detects the recording material S until it stops detecting it would be shortened, and the control unit 70 may mistakenly detect that a transport abnormality has occurred. By providing a margin portion in the flag 50, even if the orientation of the flag 50 changes slightly, the margin portion continues to block the slit 36as, thus enabling stable detection of the recording material S.

[0030] The flag 50 shown in Figure 5 represents a more worn state than that in Figure 4. In the state where the flag 50 is not worn, as shown in Figure 4(b), the angle by which the flag 50 rotates from the initial position to the detected position is θ1. On the other hand, in the state where the flag 50 is worn, as shown in Figure 5, the angle by which the flag 50 rotates from the initial position to the detected position is θ2, which is smaller than θ1. Thus, when the rotation angle of the flag 50 becomes smaller, the margin range M becomes smaller, and the possibility of the aforementioned false detection increases. Therefore, the image forming system 1 in this embodiment detects wear of the flag 50 and provides notification according to the detection result.

[0031] As described above, wear on the flag 50 reduces the angle by which the flag 50 rotates from its initial position to the detected position. Therefore, if the time during which the flag 50 is positioned at the detected position due to the recording material S contacting the flag 50 is shorter than a predetermined time, the image forming system 1 can detect that the flag 50 has worn down.

[0032] Next, using Figures 6 and 7, the method by which the image forming system 1 detects wear of the flag 50 will be explained. Figure 6(a) is a diagram showing the time change of the state in which the control unit 70 has detected the flag 50. "On" in Figure 6(a) indicates that the control unit 70 has detected the flag 50, and "Off" indicates that the control unit 70 has not detected the flag 50. Figure 6(b) shows the time change of the rotational speed (set speed V) of the first register roller 32 set by the control unit 70. T1 shown in Figures 6(a) and (b) indicates the timing when the orientation of the flag 50 switches from the initial orientation to the detected orientation. T2 indicates the timing when the orientation of the flag 50 switches from the detected orientation to the initial orientation. As shown in Figure 6(b), the control unit 70 controls the transport speed of the first register roller 32 from the timing T1 onwards when it detects the recording material S.

[0033] As described later, the control unit 70 determines the wear of the flag 50 based on the difference (difference) between the paper length L0, which is the set length of the recording material, and the paper length L1, which is calculated based on the detection result of the photosensor 36. The paper length L0 is a value set by the control unit 70 and is length data in the transport direction Dc of the recording material stored in the cassette 14. For example, the paper length L0 is the paper length of the printing paper set by the user via the operation display unit 67 of the host computer 65. Alternatively, for example, the paper length L0 may be the paper length of the printing paper set by the user via the first operation display unit 81 of the image forming apparatus 100. Alternatively, for example, the image forming apparatus 100 may be equipped with a sensor (size detection unit) that detects the size of the recording material stored in the cassette 14, and the paper length L0 may be set based on the detection result of the sensor. The set paper length L0 data is transmitted from the first transmission unit 82 to the information processing device 200.

[0034] Next, the paper length L1 will be explained. The timing T1 and timing T2 acquired by the control unit 70, and the set value of the set speed V of the first register roller 32 from T1 to T2 are transmitted from the first transmission unit 82 to the information processing device 200.

[0035] Next, the calculation unit 201 of the information processing device 200 calculates the paper length L1, which is calculated using the following formula, based on the timing T1, timing T2, and the set speed V from T1 to T2, which are received from the control unit 70.

[0036]

number

[0037] The paper length L1 is a predicted value of the length of the recording material S in the transport direction of the recording material S, and corresponds to the area shown by the shaded area in Figure 6(b).

[0038] Figure 7(a) is a graph showing the change in paper difference length L2 with respect to the number of sheets of paper passed through. The calculation unit 201 calculates the paper difference length L2. The paper difference length is the difference between L1 and L0, which is given by the following formula. L2 = L1 - L0

[0039] As shown in Figure 7(a), as the wear of the flag 50 progresses, the value of L1 decreases, and therefore the value of the paper difference length L2 decreases. In other words, the wear status of the flag 50 can be understood by observing the trend of decreasing paper difference length L2.

[0040] Here, the time during which the flag 50 is positioned at the detected location due to the recording material S contacting the flag 50 can be defined as the difference between the timing at which the flag 50 moves to the detected location and the timing at which the flag 50 moves away from the detected location. Hereafter, the time during which the flag 50 is positioned at the detected location due to the recording material S contacting the flag 50 will be referred to as the detected time. Furthermore, the paper length L1 mentioned above can be referred to as the length of the recording material S obtained based on the detected time.

[0041] As described above, if the detection time is shorter than a predetermined time, the image forming system 1 can detect wear on the flag 50.

[0042] However, the duration of detection varies depending on the length of the recording material S. In other words, even if the flag 50 is not worn, the duration of detection will vary depending on the length of the recording material S. This means that when the length of the recording material S changes, wear of the flag 50 may be falsely detected.

[0043] Therefore, in the wear detection according to this embodiment, the image forming system 1 detects wear of the flag 50 by comparing the paper length L1 with a reference length. As a result, when detecting wear of the flag 50 based on the length of the detection time, the influence of the length of the recording material S can be suppressed. Here, the paper length L0 is an example of a reference length.

[0044] In this embodiment, in order to further improve the accuracy of wear detection of flag 50, a wear index value V1 is calculated by taking a moving average of multiple L2 data. Next, the wear index value V1 will be explained. The information processing device 200 divides the data of multiple paper difference lengths L2 into multiple intervals with 500 sheets of recording material as the boundary. That is, the data of paper difference lengths L2 from the 1st to the 500th sheet is interval 1, the data of paper difference lengths L2 from the 501st to the 1000th sheet is interval 2, and the data of paper difference lengths L2 from the 1001st to the 1500th sheet is interval 3. The intervals are divided according to the increase in the number of printed sheets. The information processing device 200 extracts the top 5% (25 sheets) of paper difference lengths L2 with the largest values ​​for each interval. The information processing device 200 calculates the average value of the extracted 25 sheets of paper difference lengths L2 and calculates the interval average value L2a. Next, the information processing device 200 calculates a moving average (wear index value V1) with respect to the interval average value L2. In this embodiment, a single wear index value V1 is obtained using data from section 1 to section 5. 1~5 Next, we calculate a single wear index value V1 using the data from interval 2 to interval 6. 2~6 The calculation unit 201 of the information processing device 200 calculates the wear index value V1, which is a moving average of the interval average value L2 of the five intervals. Figure 7(b) is a graph showing the change in the wear index value V1 for each number of sheets of paper passed through. As shown in Figure 7(b), the wear index value V1 decreases as the number of sheets of paper passed through increases.

[0045] The method for determining flag wear will be explained using Figures 7(b) and 8. In this embodiment, the information processing device 200 holds two thresholds, THR1 and THR2, and determines whether the wear index value V1 is smaller than either threshold THR1 or THR2. The information processing device 200 makes different decisions depending on the comparison result between the wear index value V1 and thresholds THR1 and THR2. THR2 is smaller than threshold THR1.

[0046] When V1 ≤ THR2, the information processing apparatus 200 determines that the wear amount of the flag 50 is large. When THR1 < V1 ≤ THR2, the information processing apparatus 200 determines that the wear amount of the flag 50 is medium. When V1 ≥ THR1, it is determined that the wear amount of the flag 50 is small. Thus, by setting a plurality of threshold values, the wear degree of a plurality of flags 50 can be detected, and the information to be notified can be changed as will be described later.

[0047] Note that when the recording material is continuously fed, the outer diameter of the first resist roller 32 may become smaller due to wear. In this case, the actual conveyance speed of the first resist roller 32 becomes slower than the set speed V. Therefore, the proportion of the influence of the wear of the first resist roller 32 as a cause of the change in the paper difference length L2 increases, and the accuracy of the wear detection of the flag 50 decreases. Thus, in the present embodiment, in order to suppress the change in the paper length L1 due to the wear influence of the first resist roller 32, rotation speed correction of the first resist roller 32 according to the number of sheets fed is performed. For example, when the rotation speed of the first resist roller 32 at the start of use of the image forming apparatus 100 is set to 100%, the rotation speed of the first resist roller 32 is changed so that the rotation speed becomes 103% when 1,000,000 sheets of the recording material are conveyed. The setting of this correction amount is stored in advance in the ROM 84 of the image forming apparatus 100, and the rotation speed is corrected each time according to the number of sheets fed. That is, the set value of the rotation speed of the first resist roller 32 is changed according to the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 (conveying unit).

[0048] [Flag Wear Detection Flow] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for determining the wear degree of the flag 50 in the present embodiment. The process based on FIG. 8 is performed by the information processing apparatus 200. Note that the data of the paper length L0 and the data of the paper length L1 used as the wear detection data are transmitted from the first transmission unit 82 to the information processing apparatus 200.

[0049] First, the calculation unit 201 calculates the paper length L1 based on the formula described above (S801). Next, the calculation unit 201 calculates the paper difference length L2 based on the method described above (S802). Next, the calculation unit 201 calculates the wear index value V1 based on the method described above (S803). Next, the information processing device 200 determines the degree of wear of flag 50 based on the calculated wear index value V1 as follows: If the wear index value V1 is less than or equal to the threshold THR2, it is determined that the degree of wear of flag 50 is high (S804). If the wear index value V1 is greater than the threshold THR2 and less than or equal to the threshold THR1, the information processing device 200 determines that the degree of wear of flag 50 is moderate (S805). If the wear index value V1 is greater than THR1, the information processing device 200 determines that the degree of wear of flag 50 is low (S806). Next, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to display information regarding the wear of the flag 50 if the wear of the flag 50 is significant or moderate (S807, S808).

[0050] Figure 9 shows an example of information displayed by the display device 90. The information displayed by the display device 90 includes at least one of the following: information indicating the degree of wear of the flag 50, and information prompting the replacement of the flag 50. If the degree of wear of the flag 50 is high, for example, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to cause the display device 90 to display the following information. "The flag has reached the end of its lifespan and is at high risk of jamming. Please replace it immediately."

[0051] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, information indicating the degree of wear is displayed.

[0052] If the degree of wear of flag 50 is moderate, for example, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to cause the display device 90 to display the following information. "The flag's lifespan is nearing its end. Please prepare to replace it."

[0053] The degree of wear is also displayed. Furthermore, if the degree of wear is moderate, information prompting the cleaning of paper dust attached to flag 50, or information prompting the change to printing paper with less paper dust, may be displayed.

[0054] As described above, in this embodiment, the wear status of the flag 50 is determined according to the comparison result between the wear index value V1 and the threshold. In other words, it can also be said that, if the time from when the photosensor 36 detects the flag 50 until it stops detecting the flag 50 is shorter than a predetermined time, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to display information regarding the wear of the flag 50.

[0055] Furthermore, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to display information regarding wear of the rotating part 50 based on the following data. This data consists of a paper length L0 (length data) indicating the length of the recording material stored in the storage section, a setting value for setting the rotational speed at which the transport section transports the recording material, and a detection signal from the photosensor 36. The paper length L0 is referred to as the first length data. The information processing device 200 determines a paper length L1 (second length data) indicating the length of the recording material transported to the first register roller 32 based on the following data. This data consists of the first length data, a detection signal from the photosensor 36, and a setting value for setting the rotational speed at which the first register roller 32 transports the recording material. Then, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to display information regarding wear of the rotating part based on the difference between the first length data and the second length data. In other words, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device to display information regarding wear of the rotating part based on a comparison of the first length data and the second length data.

[0056] Let me explain one of the effects of this embodiment. As described above, wear detection in this embodiment is performed based on the detection time, from the moment the flag 50 is moved to the detected position until the moment the flag 50 is moved away from the detected position. In other words, it does not include the time from when the recording material contained in the cassette 14 is fed until the flag 50 is moved to the detected position. The time from when the recording material contained in the cassette 14 is fed until the flag 50 is moved to the detected position is called the arrival time. The leading edge positions of the multiple recording materials contained in the cassette 14 may vary in the transport direction Dc. That is, as the leading edge position of the recording material moves downstream in the transport direction Dc, the arrival time becomes shorter. If wear detection were performed based on a time that includes the arrival time, the arrival time would vary depending on the leading edge position of the recording material, and the variation in the leading edge position of the recording material would affect the wear detection result. However, as described above, this embodiment is performed based on the detection time and does not include the arrival time, so the influence of the leading edge position of the recording material on the wear detection result can be reduced.

[0057] Example 2 In Example 1, a method for detecting the degree of wear of the flag 50 was described. In Example 2, a method for determining the degree of wear of the first register roller 32, which is a conveying means, will be described. Parts that overlap with the description in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0058] In Example 1, the photosensor 36 detects the transported recording material by detecting the flag 50, but in Example 2, a photosensor 44 is used that directly shines light on the recording material and detects the reflected light to detect the recording material. This is because, in the wear detection of the first resist roller 32 described later, if the flag 50 and photosensor 36 of Example 1 were used, the wear of the flag 50 would reduce the accuracy of the wear detection of the first resist roller 32. Therefore, in this example, a photosensor 44 is used that directly shines light on the recording material and detects the reflected light.

[0059] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the area around the photosensor 44. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an encoder wheel 42 and an encoder sensor 43 (rotation detection unit). The encoder wheel 42 rotates around a metal shaft 23, which is the rotation axis of the transport unit. The encoder sensor 43 is a transmissive photointerrupter and is supported by a resist guide 35. The encoder sensor 43 includes a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit. The light-emitting unit emits light toward the light-receiving unit, and the light-receiving unit outputs a detection result corresponding to the light-receiving result as a signal to the control unit 70. The encoder wheel 42 is a thin resin disc with multiple slits formed at equal intervals. The encoder wheel 42 is positioned between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit and rotates integrally with the rotation of the metal shaft 23. When the encoder wheel 42 rotates, the light from the light-emitting unit of the encoder sensor 43 may be blocked by the encoder wheel 42 or may pass through the slits. The control unit 70 can measure the rotation speed of the encoder wheel 42 by counting the number of times the light receiving unit receives light in a predetermined time while the encoder wheel 42 is rotating. Since the encoder wheel 42 and the first register roller 32 rotate together on the same axis, the encoder sensor 43 can detect the rotation speed of the register roller gear 41 and the first register roller 32 by measuring the rotation speed of the encoder wheel 42. In other words, the encoder sensor 43 can detect the rotation speed of the first register roller 32 and output a signal to the control unit 70.

[0060] [Wear detection of registration rollers] Next, the method for detecting the degree of wear of the first register roller 32 will be explained using Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11(a) is a diagram showing the time change in the detection state of the recording material by the control unit 70. "On" in Figure 11(a) indicates that the control unit 70 has detected the recording material, and "Off" indicates that the control unit 70 has not detected the recording material. Figure 11(b) shows the total number of rotations of the register roller gear 41 set by the control unit 70. T3 shown in Figures 11(a) and (b) indicates the timing when the encoder sensor 43 detected the leading edge of the recording material. T4 indicates the timing when the encoder sensor 43 stopped detecting the recording material (the timing when the trailing edge of the recording material was detected). As shown in Figure 11(b), the control unit 70 controls the transport speed of the first register roller 32 from the timing T3 onwards when the recording material S was detected. The total number of rotations N indicates the total number of rotations of the encoder wheel 42 (total number of rotations of the register roller gear 41) detected by the encoder sensor 43 in the interval between T3 and T4.

[0061] Similar to Example 1, Example 2 also determines the degree of wear of the first register roller 32 based on the difference (difference) between the paper length L0, which is the set length of the recording material, and the paper length L3, which is calculated based on the detection result of the photosensor 44. The method for setting the paper length L0 is the same as in Example 1, so the explanation will be omitted. The method for calculating the paper length L3 will be explained.

[0062] Next, the calculation unit 201 of the information processing device 200 calculates the paper length L3, which is calculated by the following formula, based on the following values. These values ​​are the timings T3 and T4 received from the control unit 70, the total number of rotations N of the encoder wheel 42 detected in the interval between T3 and T4, and the transport distance α per unit rotation of the first register roller 32. L3 = N × α

[0063] In other words, L3 is a value calculated by the product of the total rotations N and the transport distance α. The transport distance α per unit rotation of the register roller gear 41 is a set value pre-stored in the image forming apparatus 100 or the information processing apparatus 200. The total rotations of the encoder wheel 42 detected in the interval between T3 and T4 can be said to be the rotations of the register roller 42 (detected rotations) during the time from when the photosensor 44 detects the recording material until it stops detecting it.

[0064] Figure 12(a) is a graph showing the change in paper difference length L4 with respect to the number of sheets passed through. The calculation unit 201 calculates the paper difference length L4. The paper difference length L4 is the difference between L1 and L0, which is given by the following formula. L4 = L3 - L0

[0065] As shown in Figure 12(a), as the wear of the first register roller 32 progresses, the outer diameter of the first register roller 32 decreases, and therefore the value of L3 increases. Consequently, the value of the paper difference length L4 increases. By observing the trend of increasing paper difference length L4, the wear status of the first register roller 32 can be understood. In this embodiment, as in Embodiment 1, in order to further improve the accuracy of wear detection of the first register roller 32, a wear index value V2 is calculated by moving average multiple L4 data. The method for calculating the wear index value V2 is the same as the wear index value V1 in Embodiment 1, so an explanation is omitted.

[0066] Next, the method for determining wear of the first resist roller 32 will be explained using Figure 12(b). In this embodiment, the information processing device 200 holds two thresholds, THR3 and THR4, and determines whether the wear index value V2 is greater than either threshold THR3 or THR4. The information processing device 200 makes different judgments depending on the comparison result between the wear index value V2 and thresholds THR3 and THR4. THR4 is greater than threshold THR3.

[0067] When V1 ≤ THR3, the information processing apparatus 200 determines that the wear amount of the first resist roller 32 is small. When THR3 < V1 ≤ THR4, the information processing apparatus 200 determines that the wear amount of the first resist roller 32 is medium. When V1 > THR4, it is determined that the wear amount of the first resist roller 32 is large.

[0068] [Wear Detection Flow of Flag] FIG. 13 is a flowchart for determining the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 in this embodiment. The process based on FIG. 13 is performed by the information processing apparatus 200. Note that the data of the paper length L3 and the data of the paper length L4 used as wear detection data are transmitted from the first transmission unit 82 to the information processing apparatus 200.

[0069] First, the calculation unit 201 calculates the paper length L3 based on the above-described formula (S901). Next, the calculation unit 201 calculates the paper difference length L4 based on the above-described method (S902). Next, the calculation unit 201 calculates the wear index value V2 based on the above-described method (S903). Next, the information processing apparatus 200 determines the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 as follows based on the result of the calculated wear index value V2. If the wear index value V2 is greater than the threshold THR4, it is determined that the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 is large (S904). The information processing apparatus 200 determines that the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 is medium if the wear index value V2 is greater than the threshold THR3 and less than or equal to the threshold THR4 (S905). The information processing apparatus 200 determines that the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 is small if the wear index value V2 is less than or equal to THR3 (S906). Next, when the wear degree of the first resist roller 32 is large or medium, the information processing apparatus 200 communicates with the display device 90 so that the display device 90 displays information regarding the wear of the first resist roller 32 (S904, S905).

[0070] Figure 14 shows an example of information displayed by the display device 90. The information displayed by the display device 90 includes at least one of the following: information indicating the degree of wear of the first register roller 32, and information prompting the replacement of the first register roller 32.

[0071] If the first register roller 32 is worn to a large degree, for example, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to cause the display device 90 to display the following information. "The registration roller has reached the end of its lifespan. Please replace it immediately."

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, information indicating the degree of wear is displayed. If the degree of wear of the first register roller 32 is moderate, for example, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 so that the display device 90 displays the following information. "The register roller is nearing the end of its lifespan. Please prepare for replacement."

[0073] As described above, in this embodiment, the control unit 70 detects the degree of wear of the first register roller 32 based on the number of detected rotations from the time it detects the recording material S until it stops detecting it. In other words, it can also be said that: If the number of rotations of the transport unit during the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the recording material until it stops detecting it is greater than a predetermined number of rotations, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 so that the display device 90 displays information regarding the wear of the transport unit. More specifically, based on data indicating the number of detected rotations and data indicating the transport distance of the recording material per unit rotation of the transport unit, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 so that the display device 90 displays information regarding the wear of the transport unit. The information device 200 also obtains second length data indicating the length of the recording material transported by the transport unit based on data indicating the number of detected rotations and distance data indicating the transport distance of the recording material per unit rotation of the transport unit. Then, when the paper length L0 is referred to as the first length data, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to display information regarding the wear of the transport unit, based on data showing the difference between the first length data and the second length data.

[0074] As described above, the image forming system 1 in this embodiment performs wear detection based on the time from when the photosensor 44 detects the recording material until it stops detecting the recording material. Therefore, the influence of variations in the timing of the recording material feeding of the paper feed roller 11 on wear detection can be reduced. In other words, the influence of factors other than wear of the first register roller 32 on the wear detection result can be reduced.

[0075] Let me explain one of the effects of this embodiment. As described above, wear detection in this embodiment is performed based on the time from when the photosensor 44 detects the recording material to when the photosensor 44 stops detecting the recording material (detected time). In other words, it does not include the time from when the recording material contained in the cassette 14 is fed until the photosensor 44 detects the recording material. The time from when the recording material contained in the cassette 14 is fed until the photosensor 44 detects the recording material is called the arrival time. The leading edge positions of the multiple recording materials contained in the cassette 14 may vary in the transport direction Dc. That is, as the leading edge position of the recording material moves downstream in the transport direction Dc, the arrival time becomes shorter. If wear detection were performed based on a time that included the arrival time, the arrival time would vary depending on the leading edge position of the recording material, and the variation in the leading edge position of the recording material would affect the wear detection result. However, as described above, this embodiment is performed based on the detected time and does not include the arrival time, so the influence of the leading edge position of the recording material on the wear detection result can be reduced.

[0076] In Examples 1 and 2, wear detection was performed by the information processing device 200, but the wear detection in Examples 1 and 2 may also be performed by the control unit 70 of the image forming apparatus 100. In this case, the first operation display unit of the image forming apparatus 100 may display the degree of wear and information prompting replacement as described above. The image forming apparatus 100 may also be able to communicate with the display device 90 so that the degree of wear and information prompting replacement are displayed on the display device 90. Specifically, the first transmission unit 82 communicates with the display device 90 so that the display device 90 displays information regarding the wear of the rotating part if the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time. Also, the first transmission unit 82 communicates with the display device 90 so that the display device 90 displays information regarding the wear of the transport part if the rotation speed of the transport part during the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the recording material until it stops detecting it is greater than a predetermined rotation speed.

[0077] In Example 1, the wear status of the flag 50 was detected using a wear index value V1, but the wear index value used should be any index value that correlates with the length of time from when the flag 50 is detected by the photosensor 36 until it is no longer detected. Similarly, in Example 2, a wear index value V2 is used, but the wear index value should be any index value that correlates with the total number of rotations N of the encoder wheel 42 from when the recording material is detected by the photosensor 44 until it is no longer detected.

[0078] In this embodiment, the light receiving unit 36b is configured to transmit a signal to the control unit 70 when the flag 50 is positioned to block light. Conversely, the light receiving unit 36b is configured not to transmit a signal to the control unit 70 when the flag 50 is positioned to not block light. However, the light receiving unit 36b may be configured not to transmit a signal to the control unit 70 when the flag 50 is positioned to block light, and not to transmit a signal to the control unit 70 when the flag 50 is positioned to not block light.

[0079] In Example 1, the difference (paper difference length L2) was used as an indicator to show the difference between paper length L0 (first length data) and paper length L1 (second length data). However, other indicators may be used to show the difference between the first length data and the second length data. For example, the division of the first length data and the second length data can be used as an indicator to show the difference. Similarly, in Example 2, other indicators may be used to show the difference between paper length L0 and paper length L2.

[0080] In this embodiment, the paper length L1 was determined based on a setting value for setting the rotational speed at which the first register roller 32 transports the recording material. However, any setting value other than the rotational speed setting of the first register roller 32 may be used as long as it is a setting value for setting the speed at which the first register roller 32 transports the recording material. That is, the information processing device 200 communicates with the display device 90 to display information regarding wear of the rotating part based on the setting value for setting the speed at which the first register roller 32 transports the recording material.

[0081] This embodiment includes the following configuration.

[0082] (Item 1) Image forming apparatus and An information processing device capable of communicating with both a display device capable of displaying information and the image forming apparatus, Equipped with, The image forming apparatus is An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating part provided upstream of the transfer part in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating part is configured to take an initial position that allows contact with the recording material, and to transition from the initial position to a detection position when pressed by the recording material, A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, Equipped with, If the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, the information processing device communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the rotating part. An image forming system characterized by the following features.

[0083] (Item 2) The system includes a transport unit that transports the recording material toward the transfer unit, Based on the signal output by the recording material detection unit upon detection of the rotating unit, the speed at which the transport unit transports the recording material toward the transfer unit is changed. The image forming system according to item 1, characterized by the features described above.

[0084] (Item 3) The image forming apparatus has a storage section for storing the recording material, The image forming system according to item 2, characterized in that the information processing device communicates with the display device to display information regarding wear of the rotating part, based on length data indicating the length of the recording material stored in the storage unit, a setting value for setting the speed at which the transport unit transports the recording material, and a detection signal from the recording material detection unit.

[0085] (Item 4) The aforementioned length data is defined as the first length data. Based on the detection signal and the set value, a second length data indicating the length of the recording material conveyed to the transport unit is determined. The information processing device communicates with the display device to display information regarding the wear of the rotating part based on the difference between the first length data and the second length data. The image forming system according to item 3, characterized by the features described above.

[0086] (Item 5) The set value is changed according to the degree of wear of the conveying section. An image forming system according to any one of items 2 to 4, characterized in that it is the same as described in item 2 to 4.

[0087] (Item 6) The aforementioned information includes at least one of the following: information indicating the degree of wear of the rotating part, and information prompting the replacement of the rotating part. An image forming system according to any one of items 1 to 5, characterized by the above.

[0088] (Item 7) Image forming apparatus and An information processing device capable of communicating with both the image forming apparatus and the information display device, Equipped with, The image forming apparatus is An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A storage section for housing the aforementioned recording material, A paper feeding unit for feeding the recording material stored in the storage unit, When multiple recording materials are fed by the paper feeding unit, a separation unit separates the recording materials from the multiple recording materials, In the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, a transport unit is located downstream of the separation unit and upstream of the transfer unit, and transports the recording material toward the transfer unit, A recording material detection unit is located downstream of the separation unit and upstream of the transfer unit in the transport direction, and detects the recording material and outputs a signal. A rotation detection unit that detects the rotation speed of the transport unit and outputs a signal, It has, If the rotational speed of the transport unit during the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the recording material until it stops detecting it is greater than a predetermined rotational speed, the information processing device communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the transport unit. An image forming system characterized by the following features.

[0089] (Item 8) Based on the signal output by the recording material detection unit upon detection of the recording material, the transport unit changes the speed at which it transports the recording material toward the transfer unit. The image forming system described in item 7, characterized by the features described herein.

[0090] (Item 9) The rotational speed of the transport unit during the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the recording material until it stops detecting it is defined as the detection rotational speed. The data indicating the length of the recording material housed in the aforementioned storage section is defined as the first length data. The information processing device obtains a second length data indicating the length of the recording material transported to the transport unit, based on the data indicating the detected rotational speed and the distance data indicating the transport distance of the recording material per unit rotation of the transport unit. Based on data showing the difference between the first length data and the second length data, the information processing device communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding the wear of the transport unit. The image forming system according to item 7 or 8, characterized by the features described above.

[0091] (Item 10) The information includes at least one of the following: information indicating the degree of wear of the transport unit, and information prompting the replacement of the transport unit. An image forming system according to any one of items 7 to 9, characterized by the features described herein.

[0092] (Item 11) The image forming apparatus has a rotating shaft for the transport section, The image forming apparatus has an encoder wheel that rotates with respect to the rotation axis of the transport unit, and has an encoder wheel with a plurality of slits formed therein. The rotation detection unit includes a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit that receives light emitted from the light-emitting unit that has passed through the slit. An image forming system according to any one of items 7 to 10, characterized by the features described herein.

[0093] (Item 12) An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a display device, An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating part provided upstream of the transfer part in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating part is configured to take an initial position that allows contact with the recording material, and to transition from the initial position to a detection position when pressed by the recording material, A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, If the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, a communication unit communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the rotating part. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising:

[0094] (Item 13) An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a display device, An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A storage section for housing the aforementioned recording material, A paper feeding unit for feeding the recording material stored in the storage unit, When multiple recording materials are fed by the paper feeding unit, a separation unit separates the recording materials from the multiple recording materials, In the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, a transport unit is located downstream of the separation unit and upstream of the transfer unit, and transports the recording material toward the transfer unit, A recording material detection unit is located downstream of the separation unit and upstream of the transfer unit in the transport direction, and detects the recording material and outputs a signal. A rotation detection unit that detects the rotation speed of the transport unit and outputs a signal, A communication unit communicates with the display device to cause the display device to display information regarding wear of the conveying unit if the rotational speed of the conveying unit during the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the recording material until it stops detecting it is greater than a predetermined rotational speed. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising:

[0095] (Item 14) An information processing device capable of communicating with both an image forming apparatus and an information display device, The image forming apparatus is An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating part provided upstream of the transfer part in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating part is configured to take an initial position that allows contact with the recording material, and to transition from the initial position to a detection position when pressed by the recording material, A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, Equipped with, If the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, the device communicates with the display device to display information regarding wear of the rotating part. An information processing device characterized by the following:

[0096] (Item 15) An information processing device capable of communicating with both an image forming apparatus and an information display device, The image forming apparatus is An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A storage section for housing the aforementioned recording material, A paper feeding unit for feeding the recording material stored in the storage unit, When multiple recording materials are fed by the paper feeding unit, a separation unit separates the recording materials from the multiple recording materials, In the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, a transport unit is located downstream of the separation unit and upstream of the transfer unit, and transports the recording material toward the transfer unit, A recording material detection unit is located downstream of the separation unit and upstream of the transfer unit in the transport direction, and detects the recording material and outputs a signal. A rotation detection unit that detects the rotation speed of the transport unit and outputs a signal, Equipped with, If the rotational speed of the transport unit during the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the recording material until it stops detecting it is greater than a predetermined rotational speed, the display device communicates with the display device to display information regarding wear of the transport unit. An information processing device characterized by the following: [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 1. Image forming system 100 Image forming apparatus 200 Information Processing Devices 90 Display device 102 Image carrier 105 Transfer section 50 Rotating parts 36 Recording material detection unit 70 Control Unit

Claims

1. Image forming apparatus and An information processing device capable of communicating with both a display device capable of displaying information and the image forming apparatus, Equipped with, The image forming apparatus is An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating part provided upstream of the transfer part in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating part is configured to take an initial position that allows it to contact the recording material, and to transition from the initial position to a detection position when pressed by the recording material, A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, A transmission unit that transmits information regarding the detection result of the recording material detection unit to the information processing device, Equipped with, The information processing device includes a processing unit that processes the information relating to the detection result, Based on the processing results of the information by the processing unit, if the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, the information processing device communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the rotating part. An image forming system characterized by the following features.

2. The system includes a transport unit that transports the recording material toward the transfer unit, Based on the signal output by the recording material detection unit upon detection of the rotating unit, the speed at which the transport unit transports the recording material toward the transfer unit is changed. The image forming system according to claim 1.

3. The image forming apparatus has a storage section for storing the recording material, The image forming system according to claim 2, characterized in that the information processing device communicates with the display device to display information regarding wear of the rotating part, based on length data indicating the length of the recording material stored in the storage unit, a setting value for setting the speed at which the transport unit transports the recording material, and a detection signal from the recording material detection unit.

4. The aforementioned length data is defined as the first length data. Based on the detection signal and the set value, a second length data indicating the length of the recording material conveyed to the transport unit is determined. The information processing device communicates with the display device to display information regarding the wear of the rotating part based on the difference between the first length data and the second length data. The image forming system according to claim 3, characterized in that it is as described above.

5. The set value is changed according to the degree of wear of the conveying section. The image forming system according to feature 4.

6. The aforementioned information includes at least one of the following: information indicating the degree of wear of the rotating part, and information prompting the replacement of the rotating part. The image forming system according to claim 1.

7. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a display device, An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating part provided upstream of the transfer part in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating part is configured to take an initial position that allows it to contact the recording material, and to transition from the initial position to a detection position when pressed by the recording material, A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, A control unit that processes information related to the detection result of the recording material detection unit, Based on the processing results of the information by the control unit, if the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, the communication unit communicates with the display device so that the display device displays information regarding wear of the rotating part. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising:

8. An information processing device capable of communicating with both an image forming apparatus and an information display device, The image forming apparatus is An image carrier that holds the developer image, A transfer unit that transfers the developer image supported on the image carrier to a recording material, A rotating part provided upstream of the transfer part in the transport direction in which the recording material is transported, the rotating part is configured to take an initial position that allows it to contact the recording material, and to transition from the initial position to a detection position when pressed by the recording material, A recording material detection unit that does not detect the rotating part when it has assumed the initial position, but detects the rotating part when it has transitioned to the detected position, A transmission unit that transmits information regarding the detection result of the recording material detection unit to the information processing device, Equipped with, The information processing device includes a processing unit that processes the information relating to the detection result, Based on the processing results of the information by the processing unit, if the time from when the recording material detection unit detects the rotating part until it stops detecting the rotating part is shorter than a predetermined time, the display device communicates with the display device to display information regarding wear of the rotating part. An information processing device characterized by the following:

Images