Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image formation device which enables reduction of labor for medium refill work while respecting user's intention.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, an image formation device has a display device, an input device, a supply unit, a controller, and a printer. The input device detects an input command. The supply unit supplies a set medium. The controller acquires medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit and causes the display device to display first group medium selection buttons for selecting the medium set in the supply unit and second group medium selection buttons for selecting the medium which is not set in the supply unit while distinguishing the first group medium selection buttons from the second group medium selection buttons. When the input device detects one button being selected from the first group medium selection buttons or the second group medium selection buttons displayed by the display device, the printer prints an image on the medium indicated by the selected medium selection button.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, image forming apparatuses such as digital multi-function printers have a function of printing images not only on ordinary paper but also on a plurality of types of special media (special paper). The image forming apparatus does not have all the compatible special paper pre-set. However, conventional image processing apparatuses present a paper selection screen on which any special paper can be selected regardless of whether it has been set or not. Therefore, it is easy for the user to select special paper that is not set in the image forming apparatus. When the user selects special paper that is not set, there is a problem that it is necessary to replenish the selected special paper to the image forming apparatus. [[ID=!13]]

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that can reduce the labor of replenishing media while respecting the user's intention in order to solve the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to the embodiment, the image forming apparatus includes a display device, an input device, a supply unit, a controller, and a printer. The input device detects input instructions. The supply unit supplies the set medium. The controller acquires medium setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit and distinguishes between a first group of medium selection buttons for selecting a medium set in the supply unit and a second group of medium selection buttons for selecting a medium not set in the supply unit, and displays them on the display device. When the input device detects that one of the first group of medium selection buttons or the second group of medium selection buttons displayed on the display device has been instructed, the printer prints an image on the medium indicated by the instructed medium selection button. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction device as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the control system configuration in a digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a paper setting table in a digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of a paper setting table in a digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the paper selection screen (first paper selection screen) displayed on the operation panel of a digital multifunction printer, which is an image processing unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of a paper selection screen (second paper selection screen) displayed on the operation panel of a digital multifunction printer used as an image processing unit according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a second example of the paper selection screen displayed on the operation panel of a digital multifunction printer, which is an image processing unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 8]Figure 8 shows a second example of the paper selection screen displayed on the operation panel of a digital multifunction printer, which is an image processing unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a third example of the paper selection screen displayed on the operation panel of a digital multifunction printer, which serves as an image processing unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a printing process using special paper in a digital multifunction printer as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] This embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of the digital multifunction printer (MFP; Multi-Functional Peripheral) 1 as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment will be described.

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example configuration of a digital multifunction printer 1 as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the digital multifunction device 1 includes a scanner 2, a printer 3, and an operation panel 4.

[0009] Scanner 2 is installed on top of the main unit of the digital multifunction printer 1. Scanner 2 is a device that optically reads images from documents. Scanner 2 has a document glass on which documents to be scanned are placed. Scanner 2 has an image reading mechanism for scanning documents on the document glass. The image reading mechanism of Scanner 2 consists of a carriage and a photoelectric converter unit installed below the document glass. Scanner 2 may also be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF).

[0010] The printer (image forming unit) 3 has paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, and 214. These paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, and 214 store media such as paper on which images are formed. The manual feed tray 22 is a supply unit that supplies the set media to the printer 3. The media stored in the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, and 214 can be any media that can be transported by the transport system described later. For example, each paper feed cassette 211, 212, 213, and 214 is detachable from the bottom of the digital multifunction printer body.

[0011] Furthermore, the printer 3 has a manual feed tray 22. The manual feed tray 22 is for placing media such as paper on which an image will be formed. The manual feed tray 22 is a supply unit that supplies the set media to the printer 3. Any media that can be transported by the transport system described later is acceptable to be placed in the manual feed tray 22.

[0012] Each paper feed cassette 211, 212, 213, and 214 has a paper feed roller 231, 232, 233, and 234, respectively. Each paper feed roller 231, 232, 233, and 234 takes out one sheet of media at a time from each paper feed cassette 211, 212, 213, and 214. The manual feed tray 22 also has a paper feed roller 235. The paper feed roller 235 takes out one sheet of media at a time from the manual feed tray 22.

[0013] The paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, and 214, which act as supply units, are each loaded with various media (Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd) on which the printer 3 can print images. The manual feed tray 215, also acting as a supply unit, is loaded with media on which the printer 3 can print images. The types of media that can be loaded into the paper feed cassettes 211, 212, 213, 214 and the manual feed tray 215 are predetermined. For example, some media cannot be stored in the paper feed cassettes 211-214 but can be loaded into the manual feed tray 215.

[0014] The conveyance system (conveyance mechanism) 23 conveys a medium (hereinafter referred to as paper) within the printer 3. The conveyance system 23 is composed of a plurality of conveyance rollers and the like. The conveyance system 23 conveys the paper taken out by the paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234, 235 by means of the conveyance rollers provided at various positions on the conveyance path. The conveyance rollers constituting the conveyance system 23 include the registration roller 24. The registration roller 24 is provided in front of the image transfer position where an image is transferred onto the paper on the conveyance path. The registration roller 24 supplies the paper to the image transfer position at the timing of transferring the image.

[0015] The image forming unit 25 is composed of a plurality of image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254. The plurality of image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254 form images with the toner set in each of them. For example, the image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254 form images with toner of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black colors respectively.

[0016] The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image as an image to be developed in each color on each image carrier in each of the image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254. The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the image carrier by scanning the image carrier with light that emits according to the image data. For example, the exposure device 26 irradiates the photosensitive drum as the image carrier through a polygon mirror that rotates the light emitted from the light emitting unit, thereby scanning in the main scanning direction. Also, the irradiation position of the light from the exposure device 26 moves in the sub-scanning direction as the photosensitive drum rotates. The position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 25 are adjusted by controlling the exposure device 26.

[0017] Each of the image forming units 251, 252, 253, 254 develops the electrostatic latent image on each image carrier with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). The intermediate transfer belt 27 is an intermediate transfer member. Each image forming unit 25 transfers (primary transfers) the toner images of each color developed with toner of each color on each image carrier onto the intermediate transfer belt 27.

[0018] The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the transferred toner image and conveys it to the secondary transfer position (the image transfer position onto the paper). The secondary transfer position is the position where the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27 is transferred onto the paper. The secondary transfer position is the position where one support roller that supports the intermediate transfer belt 27 and the secondary transfer roller 28 face each other. The secondary transfer roller 28 and the support roller facing the secondary transfer roller constitute the image transfer unit. The registration roller 24 conveys the paper to the secondary transfer position in synchronization with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. The transfer unit composed of the secondary transfer roller 28 and the support roller transfers the toner image held on the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto the paper at the secondary transfer position (image transfer position).

[0019] For example, when forming a color image, each image forming unit 251, 252, 253, and 254 transfers the toner images developed with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 in an overlapping manner. The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the color image in which the toner images of each color overlap. The transfer unit 28 transfers the color image formed by toner of a plurality of colors on the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto the paper at the secondary transfer position. The registration roller 24 conveys the paper to the secondary transfer position in synchronization with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. Thereby, the color image is transferred onto the paper.

[0020] The transfer unit composed of the secondary transfer roller 28 and the support roller supplies the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to the fixing device 29. The fixing device 29 fixes the toner image onto the paper. The fixing device 29 includes a heating unit, a heat roller, a pressure roller, and the like. The heating unit heats the heat roller. The heat roller and the pressure roller perform a fixing process of heating the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer unit in a pressurized state. The paper that has been fixed by the heat roller and the pressure roller in the fixing device 29 is conveyed to the paper discharge tray 30 or the duplex unit 31 via the conveyance roller.

[0021] The paper discharge tray 30 is a platform where the medium that has completed the printing process including image transfer and fixing processes is discharged. The double-sided unit 31 resupplies the medium, which has had an image formed on the first surface (front), in a state where it can be image formed on the second surface (back). For example, the double-sided unit 31 reverses the front and back sides of the medium by switching it back using a roller or the like, and then resupplies it to the resist roller 24.

[0022] The control panel 4 is the user interface. The control panel 4 displays instructions and accepts input to the operation buttons. For example, the user inputs setting information on the control panel 4. The control panel 4 has a display unit (display device) 41 and an operation unit (input device) 42. For example, the display unit 41 and the operation unit 42 are made up of display devices with touch panels. The touch panel, which is the operation unit 42, is provided on the display screen of the display device, which is the display unit 41. The touch panel, which is the operation unit 42, detects the area on the display screen of the display unit 41 that the user touches.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the control system in the digital multifunction printer 1, which is configured as described above, will be explained. Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the control system configuration in a digital multifunction printer 1, which is an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. The digital multifunction device 1 has a system control unit (controller) 5 that controls the entire device. The system control unit 5 is connected to the scanner 2, printer 3, and operation panel 4. In the configuration example shown in Figure 2, the system control unit 5 includes a processor 50, memory 51, image memory 52, image processing unit 53, storage device 54, and communication interface (I / F) 55, etc.

[0024] The processor 50 connects to the processors 70 of the scanner 2 and printer 3, and the processor 80 of the control panel 4 via an interface. The processor 50 implements various processing functions by executing programs stored in memory 51 or storage device 54. For example, the processor 50 outputs operation instructions to each unit and processes various information from each unit by executing programs stored in memory 51.

[0025] Memory 51 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and NVM. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. NVM is rewritable, non-volatile memory. NVM stores configuration data, etc. The image memory 52 stores image data. For example, the image memory 52 functions as a page memory for expanding the image data to be processed.

[0026] The image processing unit 53 processes the image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 outputs image data that has undergone image processing such as correction, compression, or decompression on the input image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 may be equipped with an image processing processor. The image processing unit 53 may also perform image processing on the image for printing according to the characteristics of the medium, such as special paper on which the image is printed.

[0027] The storage device 54 stores data such as control data, control programs, and setting information. The storage device 54 is composed of rewritable non-volatile memory. For example, the storage device 54 is composed of a storage device such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive). In this embodiment, the storage device 54 has a paper (media) setting table 541. The paper setting table 541 stores paper setting information (media setting information) related to various types of paper in the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0028] Communication I / F55 is an interface for data communication with external devices. For example, Communication I / F55 is an interface for receiving printable images from external devices via the network print function. Communication I / F55 is also an interface for communicating with external devices that serve as output destinations for scanned images via the network scan function. Furthermore, Communication I / F55 may include an interface for sending fax data generated from scanned images to fax recipients via the fax function.

[0029] Furthermore, in the digital multifunction printer 1 according to this embodiment, the communication I / F 55 includes an interface for connecting to an external device that will be the recipient of notifications regarding paper replenishment requests. The external device that connects to the communication I / F 55 to receive notifications regarding paper replenishment requests is, for example, a terminal device such as a cash register terminal operated by a store employee or a handheld terminal carried by a store employee.

[0030] Furthermore, the communication interface 55 may include an interface for communicating with a server connected to the digital multifunction printer 1. The server connected to the communication interface 55 may be a device that provides the digital multifunction printer 1 with a group of images to be used as candidates for printing. The server connected to the communication interface 55 may also be a device that stores various setting information for the digital multifunction printer 1 and log data showing the operation history of the digital multifunction printer 1. For example, the server connected to the communication interface 55 may hold a paper setting table 541 that stores the paper setting information for the digital multifunction printer 1 as described above.

[0031] Next, we will describe an example of the control system configuration in printer 3. As shown in Figure 2, the printer 3 includes a processor 70, memory 71, transport system 23, image forming unit 25, exposure device 26, transfer unit 28, and fuser 29. The processor 70 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 71. For example, the processor 70 controls the operation of various parts within the printer 3 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing programs. The processor 70 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. The processor 70 performs print processing and other operations in response to operation instructions from the system control unit 5.

[0032] Memory 71 includes various types of memory, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is rewritable, non-volatile memory.

[0033] The transport system 23 transports paper within the printer 3 under the control of the processor 70. The transport system 23 drives the paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234, and 235 located in the paper feed cassette 21 (211, 212, 213, 214) or manual feed tray 22, which contain the paper selected by the user, in response to operation instructions from the processor 70. By driving the transport rollers in each part, the transport system 23 transports the paper picked up by the specific paper feed rollers 231, 232, 233, 234, and 235.

[0034] The exposure apparatus 26 irradiates each photoreceptor drum of the image forming unit 25 with light (laser light) to form an electrostatic latent image, in response to operation instructions from the processor 70. The processor 70 adjusts the printing position and magnification by controlling the irradiation position of the laser light on the photoreceptor drum by the exposure apparatus 26. The processor 70 performs image adjustment by operation control according to the printing range, starting from the printing reference described later, so that the desired printing range is achieved.

[0035] Each image forming unit 25 (251, 252, 253, 254) develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum with toner of each color in accordance with the operation instructions from the processor 70. The image forming unit 25 also transfers the toner formed on the photoreceptor drum to the intermediate transfer belt 27 (primary transfer).

[0036] The transfer roller, acting as the transfer unit 28, transfers the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the paper (secondary transfer) in accordance with the operation instructions from the processor 70. The fuser unit 29 drives the heat roller and pressure roller in accordance with the operation instructions from the processor 70. The heating unit of the fuser unit 29 also raises the surface temperature of the heat roller to the desired fixing temperature in accordance with the control of the processor 70. When the fuser unit 29 is controlled to the fixing temperature, it fixes the toner image transferred to the paper to the paper.

[0037] Next, we will describe an example of the control system configuration in the control panel 4. As shown in Figure 2, the control panel 4 includes a processor 80, memory 81, display unit 41, and operation unit 42. The processor 80 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 81. For example, the processor 80 controls the operation of each part of the control panel 4 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing programs. The processor 80 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 via an interface. For example, the processor 80 notifies the system control unit 5 of information entered by the user.

[0038] Memory 81 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and data memory. RAM functions as working memory or buffer memory. ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory. ROM functions as program memory. Data memory is rewritable, non-volatile memory.

[0039] The display unit 41's display content is controlled according to operation instructions from the processor 80. The touch panel, which functions as the operation unit 42, is provided on the display screen of the display unit 41 and detects the touch position on the display screen. For example, the processor 80 displays icons that can be selected on the operation unit (touch panel) 42 on the display screen of the display unit 41 along with operation guidance. The processor 80 determines the information to be entered by the user according to the touch position detected by the touch panel, which functions as the operation unit 42. The operation panel 4 may also be provided with operation buttons such as hard keys such as a start key and a reset key.

[0040] Next, the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 of the digital multifunction printer 1, which is an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment, will be described. When the system control unit 5 of the digital multifunction device 1 performs a printing process using the printer 3, it prints the image on the medium (paper) specified by the user. The system control unit 5 manages the paper (paper type) set in each paper feed location (paper cassette or manual feed tray) using the paper setting table 541. In addition, the system control unit 5 presents the user with paper that can be used for printing, not just the paper set in the paper feed location.

[0041] Figures 3 and 4 show examples of the configuration of the paper setting table 541 managed by the digital multifunction printer 1, which is an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. In the configuration examples shown in Figures 3 and 4, the paper setting table 541 stores information that associates "paper type," "paper settings," and "paper loading location."

[0042] "Paper type" indicates the type of paper used as the medium for printing images. Generally, "Paper type" refers to the type of paper used as the medium on which images are printed using a printer. The paper setting table 541 shown in Figure 3 stores information not only about regular paper but also about various special media (special papers) used for specific purposes. In the example shown in Figure 3, the "Paper type" for special papers includes clear files, water-resistant paper, stickers, cloth paper, magnetic sheets, paper files, OHP transparencies, and plastic sheets.

[0043] "Paper settings" is information indicating the paper settings. "Paper settings" indicates whether the corresponding type of paper (the type of paper indicated by the paper type) is loaded in any of the paper feed locations (paper cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22) of the digital multifunction printer 1. "Paper settings" also indicates whether the corresponding type of paper is a medium that is permitted for use in printing according to the specifications of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0044] For example, if "Paper Settings" is set to "Set," it indicates that the corresponding type of paper is set in one of the paper feed locations (paper cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22) within the digital multifunction printer 1. If "Paper Settings" is set to "Not Set (Not Set)," it indicates that the corresponding type of paper is not set in any of the paper feed locations (paper cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22) of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0045] The "Paper Settings" may indicate that the paper type cannot be used for printing on printer 3 of the digital multifunction device 1. For example, if the "Paper Settings" is set to "Not Supported," it indicates that the corresponding paper type cannot be used for printing on printer 3 of the digital multifunction device 1. Additionally, the "Paper Settings" may indicate whether or not the paper is in stock. For example, if the "Paper Settings" is set to "Out of Stock," it indicates that the corresponding type of paper cannot be used for printing on the printer 3 of the digital multifunction device 1.

[0046] The "Paper Load Location" indicates the location where the paper is loaded (paper feed location). The "Paper Load Location" indicates the paper cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22 where the corresponding type of paper is loaded. Furthermore, for paper where the "Paper Setting" is "Not Loaded" or "Not Supported," no information is stored as the "Paper Load Location."

[0047] According to the paper setting table 541 shown in Figure 3, the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 can determine where each type of paper is set in the digital multifunction printer 1. Furthermore, the processor 50 of the system control unit 5 can determine which types of paper are not set and which types of paper are not supported, based on the paper setting table 541.

[0048] When the processor 50 performs printing using special paper, it displays a paper selection screen on the control panel 4 to allow the user to select the paper to be used for printing. The processor 50 creates the paper selection screen based on the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541. The processor 50 sets the paper selected by the user on the paper selection screen as the paper to be used for printing.

[0049] The paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 is updated each time the paper loaded in the paper cassette 21 or manual feed tray 22 is changed. For example, if a magnetic sheet is loaded into the manual feed tray of the digital multifunction printer 1, the paper setting table 541 is updated to the paper setting information shown in Figure 4. The paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 is updated in response to setting operations performed by the user (staff).

[0050] For example, an employee who has placed a magnetic sheet in the manual feed tray will use the control panel 4 to indicate that the magnetic sheet has been placed in the manual feed tray. In this case, the system control unit 5 updates the paper setting for the magnetic sheet in the paper setting table 541 to "set" and updates the paper setting location to the manual feed tray. As a result, the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 is updated to the paper setting information shown in Figure 4.

[0051] The digital multifunction printer 1 may also be equipped with a media sensor that detects the type of special paper set in the paper feed location, such as the paper feed cassette 21 or the manual feed tray 22. In this case, the system control unit 5 may update the paper setting information stored in the paper setting table 541 according to the detection result from the media sensor.

[0052] Furthermore, when indicating the availability of special paper as a "paper setting," the digital multifunction printer 1 may acquire information indicating the availability of special paper managed by an external device. In this case, the system control unit 5 may set the "paper setting" of special paper that is out of stock and managed by the external device to "out of stock." In addition, the system control unit 5 may prevent the user from selecting special paper that is out of stock.

[0053] Figures 5 and 6 show examples of the display of the paper selection screen based on the paper setting table 541 managed by the digital multifunction printer 1 as an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment (first display example). Figure 5 shows an example of the first page paper selection screen (first paper selection screen) displayed on the display unit 41 of the operation panel 4 when a special media (special paper) is selected as the medium to be used for printing. The first paper selection screen shown in Figure 5 displays an image area 101, a group of buttons 111-114 that constitute the first group of buttons (first button group) 110, and other buttons (switch buttons) 102.

[0054] Image area 101 is a display area for displaying the image to be printed. The image set by the user as the image to be printed is displayed in image area 101. The buttons 111-114 in the first group (first group) 110 are paper selection buttons for selecting the paper loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1. That is, in the first paper selection screen, the display unit 41 displays a group of paper selection buttons for selecting the paper already loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0055] The "Other" button 102 is a button that instructs the user to switch from the first paper selection screen, which displays the first group of paper selection buttons, to the second paper selection screen, which displays the second group of paper selection buttons. The first group of paper selection buttons 111-114 displayed on the first paper selection screen are buttons for selecting paper that has already been loaded into the digital multifunction printer 1. Therefore, the "Other" button 102 can also be said to be a button that instructs the user to display the paper selection buttons (the second group of paper selection buttons) for selecting unloaded paper. In other words, the "Other" button 102 is a switch button that instructs the user to switch the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen.

[0056] Figure 6 shows an example of the display of the second page of the paper selection screen (second paper selection screen) shown on the display unit 41 when special paper is selected as the medium to be used for printing. The second paper selection screen shown in Figure 6 displays an image area 101, multiple buttons 121-123 that constitute the second group of buttons (second button group) 120, and a back button (switch button) 103.

[0057] Image area 101 is a display area that displays the image to be printed, similar to the first paper selection screen shown in Figure 5. The second group of buttons 120 includes multiple buttons 121-123. Buttons 121-123 are paper selection buttons for selecting paper that is not loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1. On the second paper selection screen, the display unit 41 displays the paper selection buttons 121-123 for selecting paper that is not loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1 as the second group of buttons 120.

[0058] The back button 103 is a button that instructs the user to switch from the second paper selection screen, which displays the second group of paper selection buttons, to the first paper selection screen, which displays the first group of paper selection buttons. The second group of paper selection buttons 121-123 displayed on the second paper selection screen are buttons for selecting paper that is not yet loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1. Therefore, the back button 103 can also be said to be a button that instructs the user to display the paper selection buttons (first group of paper selection buttons) for selecting loaded paper. In other words, the back button 103 is a switch button that instructs the user to switch the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen.

[0059] In this embodiment, the digital multifunction printer 1 first displays a first paper selection screen on the display unit 41, which displays the first group of paper selection buttons. The digital multifunction printer 1 switches the paper selection screen displayed on the display unit 41 to a second paper selection screen, which displays the second group of paper selection buttons, in accordance with the user's operation instructions.

[0060] By displaying the first paper selection screen first, users can more easily select the first group of paper selection buttons. Furthermore, displaying the second paper selection screen requires user instruction while the first paper selection screen is displayed. As a result, users will find it difficult to select the second group of paper selection buttons, which are for paper that is not yet loaded. In other words, the digital multifunction printer 1 can guide the user to prioritize selecting the first group of paper selection buttons, which are for paper that is already loaded. By making it difficult to select paper that is not yet loaded and requires replenishment, the effort required of service providers to replenish special paper in the digital multifunction printer can be reduced, and users can also reduce the waiting time for replenishment.

[0061] Furthermore, the paper selection screen for special paper types displayed by the digital multifunction printer 1 is not limited to the first display example shown in Figures 5 and 6. In other words, the digital multifunction printer 1 is not limited to switching the first paper selection screen displayed initially to the next paper selection screen (second paper selection screen) in response to user input via the switch button. Below, the second and third display examples will be described as other examples of paper selection screen displays.

[0062] Figures 7 and 8 show a second example of the paper selection screen. The second display example shown in Figures 7 and 8 is an example in which a scroll bar 201 is displayed for switching the paper selection buttons shown on the special paper selection screen. The paper selection screen shown in Figure 7 is a configuration in which a scroll bar 201 is displayed in place of the other button 102 in the first paper selection screen shown in Figure 5. In the paper selection screen shown in Figure 7, the scroll bar 201 is displayed at the top, and the first group of paper selection buttons 111-114 are displayed as paper selection buttons.

[0063] Furthermore, the paper selection screen shown in Figure 8 is a configuration in which a scroll bar 201 is displayed in place of the back button 103 in the second paper selection screen of Figure 6 described above. In the paper selection screen shown in Figure 8, the scroll bar 201 is displayed at the bottom, and the second group of paper selection buttons 121-123 are displayed as paper selection buttons.

[0064] The paper selection screen shown as the second display example is initially displayed in the state shown in Figure 7. In other words, the paper selection screen of the second display example is controlled to initially display the first group of paper selection buttons 111-114. Furthermore, the paper selection screen of the second display example is controlled to change the displayed paper selection buttons in response to the movement of the scroll bar 201 by the user.

[0065] The scroll bar 201 shown in Figures 7 and 8 transitions upward or downward in response to user operation. For example, when the scroll bar 201 changes from the state shown in Figure 7 to the state shown in Figure 8, the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen switch from the first group of buttons to the second group of buttons. For example, when the scroll bar 201 is moved downward, the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen are gradually replaced from the first group of buttons to the second group of buttons. As illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen may be configured to gradually transition from the first group of buttons to the second group of buttons in response to user instructions.

[0066] Figure 9 shows a third example of the paper selection screen. The third display example shown in Figure 9 is an example of a paper selection screen for special paper, where the buttons in the first group are displayed in a way that makes them easier to select than the buttons in the second group. In the third display example shown in Figure 9, the paper selection screen displays the first group of paper selection buttons 311-314 larger than the second group of paper selection buttons 321-323. As a result, according to the paper selection screen shown in Figure 9, the larger first group of paper selection buttons are more likely to be selected than the second group of paper selection buttons. Furthermore, the first group of paper selection buttons 311-314 and the second group of paper selection buttons 321-323 may be displayed in different colors or with different densities. In other words, the paper selection screen in the third display example is displayed in a way that makes the first group of paper selection buttons more likely to be selected than the second group of paper selection buttons.

[0067] As illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, the digital multifunction printer according to this embodiment displays a paper selection screen on the display unit that makes it easier to select pre-loaded paper. As a result, the digital multifunction printer can provide a user interface that allows the user to freely select special paper while prioritizing the pre-loaded special paper that does not require further replenishment.

[0068] Next, the operation of the printing process using special paper by the digital multifunction printer 1, which is an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment, will be described. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a printing process using special paper by a digital multifunction printer 1, which is an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. Here, we assume that the digital multifunction printer 1 is installed in a store such as a convenience store. In this operating configuration, the replenishment of special paper in the digital multifunction printer 1 is performed by a store employee (staff member). The user will use the operation panel 4 of the digital multifunction printer 1 to specify the operation mode for printing images on special paper.

[0069] The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 in the digital multifunction printer 1 is set to an operating mode for printing on special paper in response to user instructions on the operation panel 4. When the processor 50 is set to an operating mode for printing on special paper, it performs the process of setting the image to be printed (print target image).

[0070] The processor 50 of the system control unit 5 acquires a group of images that are candidates for the image to be printed in response to user operation, and displays the acquired group of images on the display unit 41 (ACT11). For example, the processor 50 may acquire a group of images stored in the storage device 54 as candidates for the image to be printed. Alternatively, the processor 50 may acquire candidates for the image to be printed from a specific server with which it communicates via the communication interface 55. Furthermore, the processor 50 may acquire candidates for the image to be printed from a terminal device connected via an interface such as the communication interface 55. In addition, the processor 50 may acquire an image of the document scanned by the scanner 2 as a candidate for the image to be printed in response to user operation.

[0071] When the processor 50 displays images (group of images) as candidates for the image to be printed on the display unit 41, it accepts the specification of the image to be printed (ACT 12). For example, the processor 50 detects the image selected by the user from the candidates displayed on the display unit 41 via the touch panel, which acts as the operation unit 42. If the user specifies an image to be printed (ACT 12, YES), the processor 50 sets the image specified by the user as the image to be printed.

[0072] Furthermore, when the processor 50 is set to an operating mode for printing on special paper, it acquires paper setting information for the digital multifunction device 1 (ACT 13). For example, the processor 50 acquires paper setting information for various types of paper from a paper setting table 541 located in the storage device 54. The paper setting table 541 may also be located on a server that can communicate via the communication interface 55. In this case, the processor 50 only needs to acquire the paper setting information from the paper setting table 541 located on the server with which it communicates via the communication interface 55.

[0073] When the processor 50 obtains the paper setting information from the digital multifunction device 1, it generates a paper selection screen for selecting the paper to be displayed on the display unit 41 (ACT14). For example, the processor 50 generates a paper selection screen with the configuration (layout) shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0074] Furthermore, the processor 50 identifies the first group of paper selection buttons to be displayed on the paper selection screen based on the paper setting information of the digital multifunction printer 1. The first group of paper selection buttons displayed on the paper selection screen are buttons for selecting any of the special papers already loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1. The processor 50 identifies the special papers (loaded special papers) loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1 based on the paper setting information. The processor 50 displays the paper selection buttons for selecting each loaded special paper as the first group of paper selection buttons on the paper selection screen (ACT15).

[0075] For example, when the processor 50 obtains the paper setting information shown in Figure 3, it identifies the special papers (clear files, water-resistant paper, stickers, cloth paper) that are loaded in each of the paper cassettes 211-214 of the digital multifunction printer 1. In this case, as shown in Figure 5, the processor 50 displays paper selection buttons 111-114 for selecting each of the loaded special papers (clear files, water-resistant paper, stickers, cloth paper). The processor 50 also displays other buttons (for example, the "Other" button 102) along with the first group of paper selection buttons 111-114 on the paper selection screen.

[0076] When the processor 50 displays a paper selection screen including the first group of paper selection buttons, it receives a selection instruction for any of the paper selection buttons (ACT16). For example, when the processor 50 displays the first paper selection screen shown in Figure 5, it detects that either the paper selection buttons 111-114 or the switch button (other button) 102 is instructed.

[0077] If the user selects one of the first group of paper selection buttons (ACT16, YES), the processor 50 sets the paper (special paper) corresponding to the selected paper selection button as the paper to be used for printing (ACT17). Once the special paper for printing the image is set, the processor 50 executes a printing process to print the image to be printed onto the set special paper (ACT18). For example, if the paper selection button 111 shown in Figure 5 is selected, the processor 50 executes a printing process to print the image onto a clear file.

[0078] Furthermore, if a switch is instructed while the first group of paper selection buttons is displayed (ACT16, NO), the processor 50 displays the second group of paper selection buttons on the paper selection screen instead of the first group of paper selection buttons (ACT19). For example, if the other button 102 shown in Figure 5 is instructed, the processor 50 displays the second group of paper selection buttons 120 on the paper selection screen instead of the first group of paper selection buttons 110. In this case, the processor 50 identifies the special papers not yet loaded in the digital multifunction printer 1 based on the paper setting information, excluding special papers not supported by the digital multifunction printer 1. Once the processor 50 has identified each of the unloaded special papers, it displays the corresponding paper selection buttons for selecting each unloaded special paper as buttons in the second group on the paper selection screen.

[0079] For example, the processor 50 identifies special paper types (magnetic sheets, paper files, OHPs) that are not loaded into the digital multifunction printer 1, excluding those that are not supported, based on the paper setting information in the paper setting table 541 shown in Figure 3. In this case, the processor 50 displays paper selection buttons 121-123 to select each of the unloaded special paper types (magnetic sheets, paper files, OHPs), as shown in Figure 6. Here, the processor 50 displays a back button (switch button) 103 on the paper selection screen, along with the second group of paper selection buttons 121-123, to instruct the user to switch screens (the paper selection buttons to display).

[0080] When the paper selection screen, including the second group of paper selection buttons, is displayed, the processor 50 receives a selection instruction for any of the paper selection buttons (ACT20). For example, when the second paper selection screen shown in Figure 6 is displayed, the processor 50 detects that either the paper selection buttons 121-123 or the back button (switch button) 103 is selected.

[0081] If a switch is instructed while the second group of paper selection buttons are displayed (ACT20, NO), the processor 50 returns to ACT15. In this case, the processor 50 displays the first group of paper selection buttons instead of the second group of paper selection buttons on the paper selection screen displayed on the display unit 41.

[0082] Furthermore, if the user selects any of the second group of paper selection buttons (ACT20, YES), the processor 50 displays a warning that an attendant will replenish the selected special paper (ACT21). The processor 50 then determines whether the user consents to the attendant replenishing the special paper (ACT22).

[0083] Here, the processor 50 displays a warning that an attendant will replenish the special paper and requests confirmation from the user. For example, the processor 50 displays a screen on the display unit 41 that warns the attendant that an attendant will replenish the special paper and requests the user to select "OK" or "Cancel". The user indicates "OK" if they agree to the attendant replenishing the special paper, or "Cancel" if they want to cancel the order for the special paper.

[0084] If the selected special paper is instructed to be canceled (ACT22, NO), the processor 50 returns to ACT15 and displays the paper selection screen showing the buttons for the first group on the display unit 41. Alternatively, if the selected special paper is instructed to be canceled, the processor 50 may return to ACT19 and display the paper selection screen showing the buttons for the second group.

[0085] If the processor 50 is instructed to approve the replenishment of special paper by an attendant (ACT22, YES), it sends a notification to the attendant requesting that they replenish (set) the selected special paper (ACT23). The processor 50 sends a notification requesting the replenishment of special paper to a pre-configured recipient.

[0086] For example, if a cash register terminal operated by an employee (store clerk) is connected to the processor 50 via the communication interface 55, the processor 50 will send a notification to the cash register terminal requesting the replenishment of special paper. Alternatively, the processor 50 may also send a notification requesting the replenishment of special paper to a handheld terminal carried by an employee (store clerk) who is able to communicate via the communication interface 55. Furthermore, the processor 50 may be connected to an in-store announcement system via the communication interface 55 and output a notification requesting the replenishment of special paper via the in-store announcement system.

[0087] After receiving a request for replenishment of special paper, the processor 50 waits for the requested special paper to be loaded into one of the paper feed locations (paper cassette or manual feed tray) (ACT24). For example, when an attendant receives notification of a request for replenishment of special paper, they perform the replenishment work of loading the requested special paper into the paper feed location of the digital multifunction printer 1. After loading the specified special paper into the paper cassette 211-214 or the manual feed tray 22, the attendant uses the control panel 4 to instruct the updating of the paper setting information.

[0088] The processor 50 updates the paper setting table 541 in response to an instruction from an operator to update the paper setting information after special paper has been loaded. For example, when a magnetic sheet is added to the manual feed tray 22, the paper setting table 541 is updated in response to an instruction to update the paper setting information on the operation panel 4. As a result, the paper setting table 541 stores information (paper setting information) indicating that a magnetic sheet has been loaded in the manual feed tray 22, as shown in Figure 4.

[0089] When the paper setting information is updated, the processor 50 proceeds to ACT17 and sets the selected (replenished) paper (special paper) as the paper (medium) to be used for printing. When the special paper on which the image will be printed is set, the processor 50 executes a printing process to print the image to be printed onto the set special paper (ACT18). This allows the digital multifunction printer to print images onto special paper replenished by an attendant.

[0090] As described above, the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment acquires paper setting information indicating special paper already set in the paper feed location. The image forming apparatus preferentially displays a first group of paper selection buttons on the display unit for selecting the set special paper identified based on the paper setting information. In addition, the image forming apparatus displays a second group of media selection buttons on the paper selection screen for selecting unset special paper in response to a user's operation instruction to switch the display of the paper selection buttons.

[0091] This allows the image forming apparatus to prioritize the selection of pre-loaded special paper, while also allowing users to select unloaded special paper according to their input. In other words, the image forming apparatus can accept the user's preference for special paper selection while also encouraging the selection of special paper that does not require replenishment. As a result, the image forming apparatus can reduce the effort required for tasks such as replenishing special paper.

[0092] 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1...Digital multifunction printer (image forming apparatus), 2...Scanner, 3...Printer, 4...Operation panel, 5...System control unit (controller), 21 (211, 212, 213, 214)...Paper feed cassette (supply unit), 22...Manual feed tray (supply unit), 23...Transport system (transport mechanism), 41...Display unit (display device), 42...Operation unit (input device), 50...Processor, 51...Memory, 52...Image memory, 53...Image processing unit, 54...Storage device, 55...Communication interface, 541...Paper (medium) setting table.

Claims

1. Display device and, An input device that detects the input instructions, A supply unit that supplies the set media, A controller that acquires media setting information indicating the media set in the supply unit, distinguishes between a first group of media selection buttons for selecting media set in the supply unit and a second group of media selection buttons for selecting media not set in the supply unit, and displays them on the display device, When the input device detects that one of the media selection buttons from the first group or the second group displayed by the display device has been selected, a printer is provided that prints an image on the medium indicated by the selected media selection button. An image forming apparatus equipped with the following features.

2. Furthermore, it has a communication interface for communicating with external devices, The controller, when the second group of media selection buttons is instructed, sends a notification to the external device via the communication interface requesting that the medium indicated by the instructed media selection button be set in the supply unit, and prints the image using the printer after the medium indicated by the instructed media selection button has been set in the supply unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. When the controller is displaying the first group of media selection buttons, which indicate the media set in the supply unit, on the display device, and a command is given to switch the displayed media selection buttons, the controller will display the second group of media selection buttons on the display device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. Furthermore, it has a memory that stores media setting information indicating the media set in the supply unit, The controller obtains media setting information from the memory indicating the medium set in the supply unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. Furthermore, it has a communication interface for communicating with external devices, The controller obtains media setting information indicating the medium set in the supply unit from an external device that communicates via the communication interface. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

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