Image forming apparatus and information processing program

Abstract

To achieve maintenance of image quality and reduction of waiting time in a well-balanced manner.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus of an embodiment comprises a forming unit, an adjustment unit, a receiving unit, and a control unit. The forming unit forms an image on a medium. The adjustment unit adjusts an operation condition for the forming unit in forming an image. When the forming unit becomes required to start image formation and a predetermined execution condition is established, the receiving unit receives an operator's designation as to whether to execute the adjustment executed by the adjustment unit before the start of the image formation executed by the forming unit. The control unit causes the adjustment unit to execute the adjustment before causing the forming unit to start the image formation in response to the receiving unit receiving the designation to execute the adjustment before the start of the image formation, and causes the forming unit to start the image formation without causing the adjustment unit to execute the adjustment in response to the receiving unit receiving the designation not to execute the adjustment before the start of the image formation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] An image forming apparatus is known as one of the devices used in a workplace for constructing an office environment or a remote work environment. The image quality of an image forming apparatus changes according to changes in operating conditions. Therefore, image quality maintenance control for maintaining the required image quality is performed. It is preferable to execute this image quality maintenance control immediately before starting the image forming operation in order to perform image formation with the required image quality. However, if the image quality maintenance control is executed after the need to perform the image forming operation has arisen, the image forming operation cannot be started until this image quality maintenance control is completed, resulting in a waiting time. Under such circumstances, it has been desired to be able to achieve a good balance between image quality maintenance and reduction of waiting time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] [[ID=四十]] [[ID=四十一]]The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and an information processing program capable of achieving a good balance between image quality maintenance and reduction of waiting time. [[ID=四十二]] [[ID=四十三]]

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] [[ID=四十七]] The image forming apparatus of this embodiment comprises a forming unit, an adjustment unit, a receiving unit, and a control unit. The forming unit forms an image on a medium. The adjustment unit adjusts the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image. The receiving unit receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the forming unit starts image formation, when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met. The control unit, in response to the receiving unit's specification to perform adjustments before the forming unit starts image formation, causes the adjustment unit to perform adjustments before the forming unit starts image formation, and in response to the receiving unit's specification not to perform adjustments before the forming unit starts image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform adjustments. The reception unit receives further instructions on whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit after the completion of image formation, if the adjustment by the adjustment unit is not performed before the start of image formation by the forming unit. If the control unit starts image formation by the forming unit without having the adjustment unit perform the adjustment in accordance with the instruction not to perform it before the start, and the reception unit has received instructions to perform the adjustment after the completion of image formation, the control unit will have the adjustment unit perform the adjustment after the completion of the started image formation, and will not have the adjustment unit perform the adjustment after the completion of the started image formation if the reception unit has received instructions not to perform the adjustment after the completion of image formation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the mechanical configuration of an MFP according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram schematically showing the configuration involved in the control of the MFP shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the system controller and printer controller in Figure 2. [Figure 4] A flowchart illustrating the processing steps in the control process performed by the processor located in the system controller shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] A flowchart illustrating the processing steps in the control process performed by the processor located in the system controller shown in Figure 3. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the first confirmation screen as an example. [Figure 7] This diagram shows a second confirmation screen as an example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, an MFP (multi-function peripheral) equipped with an image forming apparatus as a printer will be used as an example. First, the configuration of the MFP according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the mechanical configuration of the MFP100 according to this embodiment. Note that Figure 1 does not strictly represent the mechanical configuration of the MFP100, and the shape and positional relationships of some elements may differ from the actual configuration.

[0008] As shown in Figure 1, the MFP100 has a scanner 101 and a printer 102. Scanner 101 reads an image of a document and generates corresponding image data. Scanner 101 uses an image sensor, such as a line sensor using a CCD (charge-coupled device), to generate image data corresponding to the reflected light image from the reading surface of the document. Scanner 101 scans a document placed on the document table using an image sensor that moves along the document. Alternatively, scanner 101 scans a document transported by an ADF (auto document feeder) using a fixed image sensor.

[0009] The printer 102 forms an image on the medium to be image-formed using an electrophotographic method. The medium is typically print paper such as cut sheets. Therefore, the following explanation assumes that print paper is used as the medium. However, a paper sheet material other than cut sheets may be used as the medium, or a sheet material made of a material other than paper, such as resin, may be used. The printer 102 has a color printing function for printing color images on print paper and a monochrome printing function for printing monochrome images on print paper. The printer 102 forms a color image by superimposing element images using, for example, three toners of yellow, magenta, and cyan, or four toners including black. The printer 102 also forms a monochrome image using, for example, black toner. However, the printer 102 may have only one of the color printing function or the monochrome printing function.

[0010] In the configuration example shown in Figure 1, the printer 102 includes a paper feed unit 1, a print engine 2, a fuser unit 3, an ADU (automatic duplexing unit) 4, and an output tray 5. The paper feeding unit 1 includes paper feeding cassettes 10-1, 10-2, 10-3, pickup rollers 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, transport rollers 12-1, 12-2, 12-3, transport roller 13, and registration roller 14. Paper feed cassettes 10-1 to 10-3 store the print paper in a stacked state. The print paper stored in each paper feed cassette 10-1 to 10-3 may be different types of print paper with different sizes and materials, or they may be the same type of print paper. The paper feed unit 1 may also include a manual feed tray.

[0011] The pickup rollers 11-1 to 11-3 pick up one sheet of print paper at a time from each paper cassette 10-1 to 10-3. The pickup rollers 11-1 to 11-3 then feed the picked-up print paper to the transport rollers 12-1 to 12-3. The transport rollers 12-1 to 12-3 feed the printed paper, which has been fed in from the pickup rollers 11-1 to 11-3, to the transport roller 13 via a transport path formed by guide members (not shown).

[0012] The transport roller 13 further transports the printed paper fed from one of the transport rollers 12-1 to 12-3 and feeds it to the registration roller 14. The registration roller 14 corrects the tilt of the print paper. The registration roller 14 adjusts the timing of feeding the print paper to the print engine 2. The paper feed cassette, pickup roller, and transport roller are not limited to three sets, and any number of sets may be provided. Furthermore, if a manual feed tray is provided, it is not necessary to provide any paper feed cassette, or its corresponding pickup roller and transport roller.

[0013] The print engine 2 includes a belt 20, support rollers 21, 22, 23, 24, image forming units 25-1, 25-2, 25-3, 25-4, supply units 26-1, 26-2, 26-3, 26-4, exposure unit 27, transfer roller 28, and belt cleaner 29. The belt 20 is endless and is supported by support rollers 21, 22, 23, and 24 to maintain the state shown in Figure 1. The belt 20 rotates counterclockwise in Figure 1 as the support roller 21 rotates. The belt 20 temporarily carries the image of the toner to be formed on the print paper on its outer surface (hereinafter referred to as the image-carrying surface). In other words, the belt 20 is an example of an image carrier. For belt 20, for example, semiconducting polyimide is used in terms of heat resistance and abrasion resistance. The movement of the image-carrying surface due to the rotation of the belt 20 realizes so-called sub-scanning, and the direction of movement of the image-carrying surface is also called the sub-scanning direction.

[0014] Image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 each include a photoreceptor, charger, developer, transfer unit, and cleaner, and perform electrophotographic image formation in cooperation with the exposure unit 27. The transfer unit is not included in image forming units 25-1 to 25-4, but may be included in another unit, such as a unit including the belt 20, or it may exist independently of any unit. Image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 are arranged along the belt 20 with the axial directions of their respective photoreceptors parallel to each other. Image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 differ only in the color of the toner they use; their structure and operation are the same. Image forming unit 25-1 forms, for example, a black element image. Image forming unit 25-2 forms, for example, a cyan element image. Image forming unit 25-3 forms, for example, a magenta element image. Image forming unit 25-4 forms, for example, a yellow element image. Image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 arrange the elemental images of each color so that they overlap each other on the image-bearing surface of the belt 20. As a result, image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 form a color image on the image-bearing surface of the belt 20 by superimposing the elemental images of each color at the point when they pass through image forming unit 25-1.

[0015] The supply units 26-1, 26-2, 26-3, and 26-4 are detachable toner bottles containing toner, and supply the toner contained in the attached toner bottles to the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 respectively. The toner bottle may contain toner alone, that is, as a so-called one-component developer, or may contain a so-called multi-component developer in which toner is mixed with other substances such as a carrier. When the toner bottle contains a multi-component developer, the supply units 26-1, 26-2, 26-3, and 26-4 supply the toner together with substances such as a carrier. However, the illustration of the passage through which the toner supplied from the supply units 26-1 to 26-4 to the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 passes is omitted in FIG. 1.

[0016] The exposure unit 27 exposes each photosensitive member of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 according to image data representing element images of each color. As the exposure unit 27, a laser scanner or an LED (light emitting diode) head or the like is used. If a laser scanner is used as the exposure unit 27, for example, it includes a semiconductor laser element, a polygon mirror, an imaging lens system, and a mirror. And in this case, the exposure unit 27 selectively irradiates, for example, the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser element according to the image data, to each photosensitive member of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 by switching the emission direction by the mirror. Further, the exposure unit 27 scans the above laser beam in the axial direction (depth direction in FIG. 1) of the photosensitive member by the polygon mirror. This scanning of the laser beam is a so-called main scanning, and its direction is called the main scanning direction.

[0017] The transfer roller 28 is arranged in parallel with the support roller 24 and sandwiches the belt 20 therebetween. The transfer roller 28 sandwiches the printing paper sent out from the resist roller 14 between it and the image carrying surface of the belt 20. Then, the transfer roller 28 transfers the toner image formed on the image carrying surface of the belt 20 to the printing paper using electrostatic force. The belt cleaner 29 removes toner that has not been transferred to the print paper and remains on the image-bearing surface of the belt 20. Thus, the print engine 2 forms an image on the print paper fed by the registration roller 14 using an electrophotographic method. In other words, the print engine 2 is an example of a forming unit.

[0018] The fixing unit 3 includes a fixing roller 30 and a pressure roller 31. The fuser roller 30 houses a heater inside, for example, a heat-resistant metal roller. The heater is, for example, an induction heating (IH) heater, but any other type of heater can be used as appropriate. The fuser roller 30 fixes the toner to the print paper by melting the toner attached to the print paper fed from the print engine 2. The pressure roller 31 is positioned parallel to the fuser roller 30 and pressed against the fuser roller 30. The pressure roller 31 traps the print paper fed from the print engine 2 between itself and the fuser roller 30 and presses it against the fuser roller 30.

[0019] The ADU4 includes multiple rollers and selectively performs the following two operations. The first operation is to feed the print paper that has passed through the fuser unit 3 directly towards the output tray 5. This first operation is performed when single-sided or double-sided printing is completed. The second operation is to transport the print paper that has passed through the fuser unit 3 to the output tray 5, then switch it back and feed it to the print engine 2. This second operation is performed when image formation on only one side of a double-sided print is completed. The output tray 5 receives the printed paper on which the image has been formed and ejected.

[0020] Figure 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration related to the control of the MFP100. In Figure 2, the same elements as those shown in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed explanations are omitted. In addition to the scanner 101 and printer 102, the MFP100 includes a communication unit 103, a system controller 104, and an operation panel 105.

[0021] The communication unit 103 performs processing for communicating with information terminals such as computer devices and image terminals such as facsimile machines via communication networks such as LANs (local area networks) and public communication networks. The system controller 104 comprehensively controls each component of the MFP 100 in order to achieve the intended operation of the MFP 100. The intended operation of the MFP 100 refers to operations that realize various functions that are realized by existing MFPs, for example.

[0022] The operation panel 105 includes an input device and a display device. The operation panel 105 receives instructions from the operator via the input device. The operation panel 105 displays various information to be notified to the operator via the display device. For example, the operation panel 105 can use a touch panel, various switches, and various lamps, either individually or in appropriate combinations.

[0023] The aforementioned fixing unit 3, ADU 4, image forming units 25-1 to 25-4, exposure unit 27, and transfer roller 28 of the printer 102 are elements that are subject to control. In addition to these, the printer 102 also includes a motor group 6 as an element that is subject to control. The motor group 6 includes multiple motors for rotating the pickup rollers 11-1 to 11-3, transport rollers 12-1 to 12-3, transport roller 13, registration roller 14, support roller 21, transfer roller 28, fixing roller 30, various rotating bodies included in the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4, and also the rollers included in the ADU 4.

[0024] The printer 102 further includes a sensor group 7, a printer controller 81, a forming controller 82, an exposure controller 83, a transfer controller 84, a fixing controller 85, an inversion controller 86, and a motor controller 87.

[0025] Sensor group 7 includes various sensors for monitoring the operating status of the device. Sensor group 7 includes image quality sensor group 71. As shown in Figure 1, the image quality sensor group 71 is positioned opposite the region of the image-bearing surface of the belt 20 located between the image forming unit 25-1 and the transfer roller 28. The image quality sensor group 71 includes a plurality of sensors for measuring the density and formation position of the image formed on the image-bearing surface of the belt 20. For example, the image quality sensor group 71 includes three density sensors arranged in the main scanning direction so as to be located at three locations on the front, center, and rear sides of the belt 20. The density sensors are, for example, reflective optical sensors that measure the amount of reflected light on the image-bearing surface of the belt 20.

[0026] The printer controller 81, under the control of the system controller 104, comprehensively controls each component of the printer 102 in order to achieve the intended operation of the printer 102. The forming controller 82, exposure controller 83, transfer controller 84, fixing controller 85, inversion controller 86, and motor controller 87 all operate under the control of the printer controller 81 and control the operation of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4, the exposure unit 27, the transfer roller 28, the ADU 4, and the motor group 6, respectively.

[0027] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configurations of the system controller 104 and the printer controller 81. The system controller 104 includes a processor 1041, main memory 1042, auxiliary storage unit 1043, interface unit 1044, and transmission line 1045.

[0028] By connecting the processor 1041, main memory 1042, and auxiliary storage unit 1043 with a transmission line 1045, a computer is configured to perform information processing for comprehensively controlling each component of the MFP 100. The processor 1041 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 1041 performs the information processing described later according to information processing programs such as the operating system, middleware, and application programs.

[0029] Main memory 1042 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 1042 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. In the read-only memory area, main memory 1042 stores a portion of the information processing program described above. Main memory 1042 may also store data necessary for the processor 1041 to perform processing to control each part in either the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. Main memory 1042 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area for the processor 1041.

[0030] The auxiliary storage unit 1043 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The auxiliary storage unit 1043 can be a combination of well-known storage devices, such as an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), and an SSD (solid state drive), either individually or in combination. The auxiliary storage unit 1043 stores data used by the processor 1041 for various processing tasks, as well as data generated by processing performed by the processor 1041. The auxiliary storage unit 1043 may also store information processing programs. In this embodiment, the auxiliary storage unit 1043 stores the control program PRA. The control program PRA is an information processing program that describes information processing for the control of the MFP 100. The auxiliary storage unit 1043 also stores the user database DBA. The user database DBA is a database for managing users of the MFP 100. The user database DBA includes setting data representing various settings related to the user's use of the MFP 100, associated with a user code as an identifier for identifying each individual user. The interface unit 1044 mediates the exchange of data between the scanner 101, the communication unit 103, the operation panel 105, and the printer controller 81.

[0031] The printer controller 81 includes a processor 811, main memory 812, auxiliary storage unit 813, interface unit 814, and transmission line 815. By connecting the processor 811, main memory 812, and auxiliary storage unit 813 with a transmission line 815, a computer is configured to perform information processing for comprehensively controlling each component of the printer 102. The processor 811 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 811 performs the information processing described later according to information processing programs such as the operating system, middleware, and application programs.

[0032] Main memory 812 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. Main memory 812 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. In the read-only memory area, main memory 812 stores a portion of the information processing program described above. Main memory 812 may also store data necessary for the processor 811 to perform processing to control each part in either the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. Main memory 812 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area for the processor 811.

[0033] The auxiliary storage unit 813 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The auxiliary storage unit 813 can be a well-known storage device, such as an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD, used individually or in combination with others. The auxiliary storage unit 813 stores data used by the processor 811 for various processing tasks, as well as data generated by the processing performed by the processor 811. The auxiliary storage unit 813 may also store information processing programs. In this embodiment, the auxiliary storage unit 813 stores the adjustment program PRB. The adjustment program PRB is an information processing program that describes information processing for adjustment operations to maintain image quality. The interface unit 814 mediates the exchange of data between the system controller 104, the sensor group 7, the forming controller 82, the exposure controller 83, the transfer controller 84, the fixing controller 85, the inversion controller 86, and the motor controller 87.

[0034] Next, the operation of the MFP100 configured as described above will be explained. The various operations and processes described below are examples, and it is possible to change the order of some operations and processes, omit some operations and processes, or add other operations and processes as appropriate. In the following, we will focus on explaining operations that differ from those of existing MFPs of the same type, and will omit explanations of other operations. A distinctive feature of the operation of the MFP100 in this embodiment is the control of the execution of adjustment operations for maintaining image quality.

[0035] First, let's briefly explain the adjustment operations that are subject to execution control. The density and gradation reproduction of the elemental images formed by each of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 vary depending on fluctuations in factors such as development contrast potential, exposure amount, and screen ratio in image data processing. Furthermore, the density and gradation reproduction of the elemental images formed by each of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 also vary depending on the preconditions for image formation, such as the surrounding environment or the degree of deterioration of the photoreceptor and belt 20. The relative positional relationship of the elemental images formed by each of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4 may also fluctuate. These fluctuations affect the image quality of the image formed by the printer 102. The adjustment operation for maintaining image quality compensates for these fluctuations and maintains a predetermined image quality.

[0036] More specifically, the adjustment operation involves measuring the formation status of the test pattern on the image-bearing surface of the belt 20 using the image quality sensor group 71, and adjusting the operating conditions of each of the image forming units 25-1 to 25-4. For this reason, jobs using the printer 102 cannot be executed while the adjustment operation is in progress. The adjustment operation is achieved, for example, by the processor 811 executing information processing based on the adjustment program PRB to operate each part of the printer 102. Thus, by the processor 811 executing information processing based on the adjustment program PRB, the computer with the processor 811 as its central component functions as an adjustment unit.

[0037] Now, when the MF100 is in an operating state that allows it to execute jobs involving image formation by the printer 102, the system controller 104 and the processor 1041 execute control processing to control the execution of adjustment operations based on the control program PRA. Figures 4 and 5 are flowcharts illustrating the processing steps of the processor 1041 during control processing.

[0038] When the MFP100 does not need to execute any jobs, the processor 1041 acts as ACT1, waiting for the MFP100 to be put into use. When a predetermined event occurs, the processor 1041 determines that use has started, YES, and proceeds to ACT2. For example, the processor 1041 determines that use has started when a tap is detected on the touch panel included in the operation panel 105. For example, the processor 1041 determines that use has started when the proximity of an ID (identification) card is detected by a card reader connected to the system controller 104 (not shown in Figure 2). For example, the processor 1041 determines that use has started when the proximity of a human body is detected by a human presence sensor connected to the system controller 104 (not shown in Figure 2). The events that constitute the start of use may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the designer of the FP100.

[0039] In ACT2, the processor 1041 checks whether operator authentication is required. If operator authentication is required, the processor 1041 determines YES and proceeds to ACT3. For example, if the MFP100's operating settings require operator authentication, the processor 1041 determines that operator authentication is required. For example, if the MFP100's operating settings allow operator authentication using an ID card, and an ID card is read by the card reader, the processor 1041 determines that operator authentication is required. For example, if the operation panel 105 instructs the operator to perform operator authentication, the processor 1041 determines that operator authentication is required. The conditions under which operator authentication is required may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the designer of the FP100.

[0040] As ACT3, processor 1041 executes an authentication process to authenticate the operator. The authentication process identifies which of the multiple users pre-registered is operating the MFP100. The authentication process may be a well-known process. Once processor 1041 has completed the authentication process, it proceeds to ACT4. If authentication fails, processor 1041 may return to the waiting state of ACT1 and not proceed to ACT4. If operator authentication is not required, processor 1041 determines NO in ACT2, skips ACT3, and proceeds to ACT4.

[0041] As ACT4, processor 1041 waits for the job to be specified. Then, when the job is specified, for example, through a predetermined operation on the operation panel 105, processor 1041 determines YES and proceeds to ACT5. In ACT5, the processor 1041 checks whether image formation using the printer 102 is necessary for the execution of the specified job. If the specified job does not require image formation, such as a scan job, the processor 1041 determines NO and proceeds to a different process from the one described later in order to execute that job. Note that this process may be the same as the process in another existing MFP, and the explanation is omitted here. On the other hand, if the specified job requires image formation, such as a print job or a copy job, the processor 1041 determines YES and proceeds to ACT6 in Figure 5.

[0042] As ACT6, the processor 1041 checks whether the conditions for executing the adjustment operation are met. The execution conditions are predetermined to be met when a decrease in image quality of the image formed by the printer 102 is expected, or slightly earlier. The execution conditions may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the designer or manager of the MFP 100.

[0043] For example, the execution condition may be set when the period of time since the completion of the image formation operation has exceeded a predetermined time, such as 15 minutes. For example, the execution condition may be set when the difference between the internal temperature of the aircraft when the adjustment operation was last performed and the current internal temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature difference, such as 1°C. For example, the execution condition may be set when the relative change between the internal humidity of the aircraft when the adjustment operation was last performed and the current internal humidity exceeds a predetermined change, such as 10%. For example, the execution condition may be set when the cumulative number of images formed since the last adjustment operation has exceeded a predetermined number, such as 1000. For example, the execution condition may be set when the toner has recovered from an empty state. The execution conditions may be limited to one of several different types of conditions, as in the example above, or all of them may be valid.

[0044] If the execution conditions are met, processor 1041 determines YES in ACT6 and proceeds to ACT7. As ACT7, processor 1041 checks whether the user is a denied user. A denied user is a user who has declared in advance that they will not perform the verification operation described later. Whether or not a user is a denied user is recorded in the user database DBA. For example, if operator authentication was successful in ACT3, processor 1041 checks the user database DBA and, if it is recorded that the user is not a denied user in association with the user code of the user in question, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT8.

[0045] As ACT8, processor 1041 checks whether the mandatory condition is met. The mandatory condition will be described later. If the mandatory condition is not met, processor 1041 determines NO and proceeds to ACT9. As ACT9, processor 1041 displays a first confirmation screen on a display device, for example, the operation panel 105. Processor 1041 displays the first confirmation screen, for example, as a pop-up screen overlaid on a screen already displayed on the device. The first confirmation screen is an operation screen that allows the operator to specify whether or not to perform the adjustment operation. The first confirmation screen is also an operation screen that allows the operator to specify whether to perform the adjustment operation before the start of the job or after the end of the job.

[0046] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the first confirmation screen SCA as an example. The first confirmation screen, SCA, displays a text message prompting the user to specify adjustment operations, along with buttons BUA, BUB, and BUC. The text message "Image Stabilization Control" refers to the adjustment operations. Button BUA is a soft key used by the operator to specify that the adjustment operations be performed before the job starts (hereinafter referred to as immediate execution). Button BUB is a soft key used by the operator to specify that the adjustment operations are not performed (hereinafter referred to as no execution). Button BUC is a soft key used by the operator to specify that the adjustment operations be performed after the job has finished (hereinafter referred to as post-execution).

[0047] If the operator wishes to execute the job immediately, for example, if they do not want any degradation in image quality during the image processing performed in the job they are about to execute, they can specify immediate execution by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping button BUA. If the operator accepts any degradation in image quality during the image processing performed in the job they are about to execute and wishes for the job to start quickly, they can specify no execution by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping button BUB, or specify delayed execution by performing a predetermined operation, such as tapping button BUC.

[0048] Processor 1041 proceeds to ACT11 with the first confirmation screen displayed. As ACT11, processor 1041 checks whether immediate execution is specified. If processor 1041 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT12. As ACT12, processor 1041 checks whether "not executed" is specified. If processor 1041 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT13. As ACT13, processor 1041 checks whether post-execution is specified. If processor 1041 cannot confirm the relevant event, it determines NO and returns to ACT11. Thus, processor 1041 waits for either immediate execution, no execution, or delayed execution to be specified for ACT11 to ACT13. If processor 1041 confirms that immediate execution has been specified as described above, it determines YES in ACT11 and proceeds to ACT14. If processor 1041 confirms that the user is a deny user, it determines YES in ACT7, skips ACT8 to ACT11, and proceeds to ACT14 without receiving any operator specification. As ACT14, processor 1041 instructs printer controller 81 to start the adjustment operation. In response to this instruction, processor 811 in printer controller 81 performs information processing for the adjustment operation based on the adjustment program PRB.

[0049] As ACT15, processor 1041 waits for the adjustment operation to finish. Then, when the adjustment operation under the control of processor 811 is complete, processor 1041 determines YES and proceeds to ACT16. Furthermore, if processor 1041 determines NO in ACT6 because the execution conditions are not met, it proceeds to ACT16 without executing ACT7 to ACT15. Also, if no execution is specified during the waiting state of ACT11 to ACT13, processor 1041 determines YES in ACT12 and proceeds to ACT16 without executing ACT14 and ACT15. In other words, in these cases, it proceeds to ACT16 without performing any adjustment operations.

[0050] As ACT16, processor 1041 starts control processing (hereinafter referred to as job control) to execute the job specified in ACT4. Processor 1041 executes this job control as processing in a separate thread from the control processing shown in Figures 4 and 5, for example. As ACT17, processor 1041 waits for the job under job control to finish. Then, if the job has finished, processor 1041 determines YES and returns to the waiting state of ACT1 in Figure 4.

[0051] On the other hand, if the processor 1041 is in a waiting state for ACT11 to ACT13 and a post-execution is specified, it determines YES in ACT13 and proceeds to ACT18. As ACT18, processor 1041 initiates job control, similar to ACT16. As ACT19, processor 1041 waits for the job to finish, just like in ACT17. If the job is finished, processor 1041 determines YES and proceeds to ACT20.

[0052] As ACT20, processor 1041 instructs printer controller 81 to start the adjustment operation, similar to ACT14. As ACT21, processor 1041 waits for the adjustment operation to complete, similar to ACT15. When the adjustment operation is complete, processor 1041 determines YES and returns to the waiting state of ACT1 in Figure 4.

[0053] Now, if processor 1041 confirms in ACT8 that the mandatory condition is met, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT10. The mandatory condition is predetermined to be met if the state of not performing the adjustment operation continues after determining YES in ACT12. The mandatory condition may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the designer or administrator of MFP100.

[0054] For example, the mandatory condition is defined as the case where the "no execution" designation has been repeated a specified number of times consecutively while in the waiting state of ACT11 to ACT13. In this case, for example, if the processor 1041 determines YES in ACT12, it increments the count value, and if it executes ACT14 or ACT20, it clears the count value. Then, in ACT8, the processor 1041 determines YES if the count value has reached a specified value.

[0055] For example, the mandatory condition is defined as the time elapsed since the last execution of ACT14 or ACT20 reaching a predetermined time. In this case, the processor 1041 measures the time elapsed since the last execution of ACT14 or ACT20. Then, in ACT8, the processor 1041 determines YES if this measured elapsed time exceeds the predetermined time.

[0056] As ACT10, the processor 1041 displays a second confirmation screen on a display device, for example, the operation panel 105. The processor 1041 displays the first confirmation screen, for example, as a pop-up screen overlaid on a screen already displayed on the device. The second confirmation screen is an operation screen that allows the operator to specify whether to perform the adjustment operation before the start of the job or after its completion.

[0057] Figure 7 shows an example of the second confirmation screen (SCB). The second confirmation screen, SCB, displays a text message prompting for adjustment instructions, along with the buttons BUA and BUC. In other words, the second confirmation screen SCB is the same as the first confirmation screen SCA, but with the button BUB removed.

[0058] Even if the processor 1041 displays the second confirmation screen in ACT10, it proceeds to the waiting state of ACT11 to ACT13 in that state. However, since the second confirmation screen is not a screen that can be designated as "not executed," the processor 1041 will not determine "YES" in ACT12 while the second confirmation screen is displayed. Therefore, the processor 1041 proceeds to either ACT14 or ACT20 and executes the adjustment operation.

[0059] Thus, when immediate execution is specified, the processor 1041 performs the adjustment process before the start of a job involving image formation, that is, before the start of image formation. In other words, the processor 1041 receives a specification from the operator regarding whether or not to perform the adjustment operation before the start of image formation, and by having the processor 1041 perform information processing based on the control program PRA, the computer with the processor 1041 as its central component functions as a receiver for such specifications. Furthermore, the processor 1041 controls whether or not to perform the adjustment operation before the start of image formation according to the specification, and by having the processor 1041 perform information processing based on the control program PRA, the computer with the processor 1041 as its central component functions as a control unit that performs such control.

[0060] Furthermore, if "post-execution," which is one of the specifications that does not perform adjustment operations before the start of image formation, is specified, the processor 1041 will execute the adjustment operations after the completion of image formation. Thus, the processor 1041 functions as a control unit that executes adjustment operations after the completion of image formation in accordance with the specification that adjustment operations should not be performed before the start of image formation, by executing information processing based on the control program PRA.

[0061] Furthermore, the processor 1041 receives a specification of "execute after" or "not execute" if the adjustment operation is not performed before the start of image formation. This specification corresponds to a specification of whether or not to execute the adjustment operation after the completion of image formation. The processor 1041 then controls whether to execute it afterward or not, according to the specification. Thus, the processor 1041 functions as a receiving unit that receives a specification of whether or not to execute the adjustment operation after the completion of image formation, by performing information processing based on the control program PRA, and as a control unit that controls whether or not to execute the adjustment operation after image formation according to the specification received by the receiving unit.

[0062] Furthermore, when the coercive condition is met and the processor 1041 receives a specification from the operator via the second confirmation screen, it does not receive a specification on whether or not to perform the adjustment operation after the completion of image formation. If the processor 1041 does not perform the adjustment operation before the start of image formation, it will perform the adjustment operation after the completion of image formation. Thus, by performing information processing based on the control program PRA, the processor 1041 functions as a reception unit that does not receive a specification on whether or not to perform the adjustment operation after the completion of image formation when the coercive condition is met, and as a control unit that performs the adjustment operation before or after the start of image formation in this case.

[0063] Furthermore, if the operator is a user designated as a rejected user, the processor 1041 does not accept the operator's designation regarding the execution of the adjustment operation, and instead executes the adjustment operation at a predetermined timing, either before or after the start. Thus, the processor 1041 functions as a receiving unit that does not accept designations from rejected users and a control unit that executes the adjustment operation at a predetermined timing, by executing information processing based on the control program PRA.

[0064] As described above, when the execution conditions are met and it becomes necessary to start image formation by the printer 102, the MFP100 prompts the operator to specify whether or not to perform adjustment operations before starting image formation. The MFP100 then decides whether or not to perform adjustment operations before starting image formation according to the operator's specification. Thus, if the operator prioritizes image quality, it is possible to perform adjustment operations before starting image formation to achieve image formation at the specified image quality. On the other hand, if the operator is in a hurry to complete image formation, it is possible to speed up the completion of image formation by starting image formation quickly without performing adjustment operations beforehand. Thus, with the MFP100, it is possible to achieve a good balance between maintaining image quality and reducing waiting time according to user needs.

[0065] Furthermore, if post-processing is specified, the MFP100 will start image formation without performing any adjustment operations, and will perform the adjustment operations after the completion of the image formation process. Thus, if there is a waiting period before the next time it is necessary to start image formation, it is possible to perform the adjustment operations during that time.

[0066] Furthermore, the MFP100 determines, based on the operator's specification, whether or not to perform adjustment operations after image formation is complete, if adjustment operations are not performed before image formation begins. Thus, for example, if the operator wants to quickly repeat image formation multiple times, such user needs can be met by not performing adjustment operations after image formation is complete.

[0067] Furthermore, the MFP100 will not accept a "do not execute" setting if the mandatory conditions are met. This prevents adjustment operations from not being performed for extended periods despite the execution conditions being met, thus preventing a drastic decrease in image quality.

[0068] Furthermore, if the operator is a denial user, the MFP100 will perform adjustment operations before image formation begins without requiring any specification from the operator. Thus, users who prioritize image quality and do not wish to confirm whether or not adjustment operations will be performed can register as denial users in advance, thereby eliminating the need to specify whether or not adjustment operations will be performed.

[0069] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: If the execution conditions are met, it is acceptable to only receive a designation for either immediate execution or delayed execution. In this case, if the result in ACT7 is NO, the process will proceed to ACT10, and ACT8, ACT9, and ACT12 will not be performed.

[0070] When the execution conditions are met, the program may always be designated as not executing. In this case, for example, if the processor 1041 determines NO in ACT7, it will proceed to ACT9, and ACT8 and ACT10 will not be performed.

[0071] If the operator is a denied user, it may be assumed that post-execution is specified. In this case, the processor 1041 will proceed to ACT18, for example, in response to the determination of YES in ACT7.

[0072] If the operator is a denied user, it may be treated as if no execution was specified. In this case, the processor 1041 will proceed to ACT16, for example, in response to the determination of YES in ACT7.

[0073] For each denied user, one of the following options is predetermined: immediate execution, delayed execution, or no execution at all. If the operator is a denied user, the predetermined option may be assumed to be assigned to that denied user. In this case, the processor 1041 checks the settings of the user who is the operator in response to the YES determination in ACT7, and proceeds to ACT14 if immediate execution is selected, to ACT16 if no execution is selected, and to ACT18 if delayed execution is selected.

[0074] The system may also be configured to receive instructions regarding the execution of adjustment operations regardless of which user the operator is. In this case, the processor 1041 may, for example, proceed to ACT8, ACT9, or ACT10 depending on whether it determines YES in ACT6.

[0075] If the job includes operations other than image formation, these operations may be started before the adjustment operations are completed. For example, if the target of execution is a copy job, the processor 1041 may perform the document scanning operation while performing the adjustment operations.

[0076] The same procedures can be implemented in various devices other than MFPs, such as photocopiers, printers, and facsimile machines, as long as they perform image formation.

[0077] The number of image forming units is not limited to four; at least one is sufficient.

[0078] For example, it may be an image forming apparatus that performs image formation using a method other than electrophotography, such as an inkjet method.

[0079] Each function realized by the processor 1041 through information processing can also be partially or entirely realized by hardware that performs non-program-based information processing, such as logic circuits. Furthermore, each of the above functions can also be realized by combining the above-mentioned hardware, such as logic circuits, with software control.

[0080] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [Note 1] A forming unit that forms an image on a medium, An adjustment unit for adjusting the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image, A receiving unit that receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met, A control unit which, in response to a specification received by the reception unit to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation, and in response to a specification received by the reception unit not to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, An image forming apparatus equipped with the following. [Note 2] If the control unit has started image formation in the forming unit without having the adjustment unit perform adjustments in response to a designation by the reception unit that such adjustments should not be performed before the start, the control unit shall have the adjustment unit perform adjustments after the completion of said image formation. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 3] The receiving unit further receives a specification on whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit after the completion of image formation if the adjustment by the adjustment unit is not performed before the start of image formation by the forming unit. If the control unit causes the forming unit to start image formation without having the adjustment unit perform adjustments in accordance with a specification not to perform adjustments before the start, and if the receiving unit has received a specification to perform adjustments after the completion of image formation, the control unit will cause the adjustment unit to perform adjustments after the completion of the started image formation, and if the receiving unit has received a specification not to perform adjustments after the completion of image formation, the control unit will cause the adjustment unit to not perform adjustments after the completion of the started image formation. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 4] The reception unit, if predetermined mandatory conditions are met, does not receive a designation as to whether or not to perform the action after the completion of image formation. The control unit, in response to a designation received by the reception unit to perform an action before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation; in response to a designation received by the reception unit not to perform an action before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, and causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment after the completion of said image formation. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 3. [Note 5] The reception unit does not receive instructions regarding the execution of adjustments by the adjustment unit if the operator is a predetermined user. The adjustment unit, when the operator is a predetermined user, determines, according to a predetermined setting, whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 6] A forming unit that forms an image on a medium, An adjustment unit for adjusting the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image, A computer that controls an image forming apparatus equipped with the following: A receiving unit that receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met, A control unit which, in response to a specification received by the reception unit to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation, and in response to a specification received by the reception unit not to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, An information processing program designed to function as such. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0081] 1...Paper feed unit, 2...Print engine, 3...Fusing unit, 4...ADU, 5...Output tray, 6...Motor group, 7...Sensor group, 20...Belt, 21~24...Support rollers, 25-1~25-4...Image forming unit, 26-1~26-4...Supply unit, 27...Exposure unit, 28...Transfer roller, 29...Belt cleaner, 71...Image quality sensor group, 81...Printer controller, 82...Forming controller, 83...Exposure controller, 84...Transfer controller, 85...Fusing controller, 86...Inversion controller, 87...Motor controller, 101...Scanner, 102...Printer, 103...Communication unit, 104...System controller, 105...Operation panel, 811,1041...Processor, 812,1042...Main memory, 813,1043...Auxiliary storage unit, 814,1044...Interface unit, 815,1045...Transmission line.

Claims

1. A forming unit that forms an image on a medium, An adjustment unit for adjusting the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image, A receiving unit that receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met, A control unit which, in response to a specification received by the reception unit to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation, and in response to a specification received by the reception unit not to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, It is equipped with, The receiving unit further receives a specification on whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit after the completion of image formation, if the adjustment by the adjustment unit is not performed before the start of image formation by the forming unit. If the control unit causes the forming unit to start image formation without having the adjustment unit perform adjustments in accordance with a specification not to perform adjustments before the start, and if the receiving unit has received a specification to perform adjustments after the completion of image formation, the control unit will cause the adjustment unit to perform adjustments after the completion of the started image formation, and if the receiving unit has received a specification not to perform adjustments after the completion of image formation, the control unit will cause the adjustment unit to not perform adjustments after the completion of the started image formation. Image forming apparatus.

2. The aforementioned reception unit, if predetermined mandatory conditions are met, does not receive a designation as to whether or not to execute after the completion of image formation. The control unit, in response to a designation received by the reception unit to perform an action before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation; in response to a designation received by the reception unit not to perform an action before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, and causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment after the completion of said image formation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. A forming unit that forms an image on a medium, An adjustment unit for adjusting the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image, A receiving unit that receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met, A control unit which, in response to a specification received by the reception unit to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation, and in response to a specification received by the reception unit not to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, It is equipped with, The reception unit, if the operator is a predetermined user, does not receive any instructions regarding the execution of adjustments by the adjustment unit. The adjustment unit, when the operator is a predetermined user, determines, according to a predetermined setting, whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit. Image forming apparatus.

4. A forming unit that forms an image on a medium, An adjustment unit for adjusting the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image, A computer that controls an image forming apparatus equipped with the following: A receiving unit that receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met, A control unit which, in response to a specification received by the reception unit to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation, and in response to a specification received by the reception unit not to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, To function as such, The receiving unit is further configured to receive a specification on whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit after the completion of image formation, if the adjustment by the adjustment unit is not performed before the start of image formation by the forming unit. If the control unit starts image formation in the forming unit without having the adjustment unit perform adjustments in accordance with a specification not to perform them before starting, and if the receiving unit has received a specification to perform adjustments after the completion of image formation, the control unit will have the adjustment unit perform adjustments after the completion of the started image formation, and if the receiving unit has received a specification not to perform adjustments after the completion of image formation, the control unit will not have the adjustment unit perform adjustments after the completion of the started image formation. Information processing program.

5. A forming unit that forms an image on a medium, An adjustment unit for adjusting the operating conditions of the forming unit when forming an image, A computer that controls an image forming apparatus equipped with the following: A receiving unit that receives the operator's specification of whether or not to perform adjustments by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit when it becomes necessary to start image formation by the forming unit and predetermined execution conditions are met, A control unit which, in response to a specification received by the reception unit to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment before starting the forming unit to begin image formation, and in response to a specification received by the reception unit not to perform an action to be performed before starting, causes the forming unit to begin image formation without causing the adjustment unit to perform an adjustment, To make it function as, The reception unit will not receive instructions regarding the execution of adjustments by the adjustment unit if the operator is a predetermined user. The adjustment unit, when the operator is a predetermined user, determines, according to a predetermined setting, whether or not to perform the adjustment by the adjustment unit before the start of image formation by the forming unit. Information processing program.

Images