Image forming system and program

Abstract

To provide an image formation system that can reduce a disposal amount of a recording medium, and time and effort for disposal at image quality adjustment and can provide more exact control in accordance with the physical property value of a recording medium.SOLUTION: An image formation system (system 1) includes: an image formation part 34 for forming an image on a recording medium (sheet); a reading part 22 installed upstream from the image formation part 34 in a transportation direction of a recording medium to read a recording medium; and a detection part 42 installed downstream from the image formation part 34 in the transportation direction of a recording medium to detect a physical property value of a recording medium.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0006] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an image forming apparatus as described in Patent Document 1 is known. Specifically, a measurement pattern (registration mark) is printed on a sheet, the printed sheet is read by a reading unit provided downstream of the image forming unit in the sheet conveyance direction, and a read image is generated. Then, based on the read image, the image forming position is adjusted.

[0003] Also, an image forming apparatus as described in Patent Document 2 is known. Specifically, values related to the physical properties of the sheet before printing are measured by a media sensor. Then, based on the measured physical property values of the sheet, parameters related to sheet processing are determined.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007] The present invention aims to provide an image forming system and program that can reduce the amount and effort required to discard recording media during image quality adjustment, and that can more accurately achieve control according to the physical properties of the recording media. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the image forming system described in claim 1 is: An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a reading unit is provided upstream of the image forming unit and reads the recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a detection unit is provided downstream of the image forming unit and detects the physical properties of the recording medium, A control unit controls the position of image formation by the image forming unit based on the read image generated as a result of reading the recording medium by the reading unit, It is equipped with.

[0010] Claim 2 The invention described in the claim 1 In the image forming system described, The detection unit detects the physical properties of the recording medium on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit.

[0011] Claim 3 The invention described in the claim 1 In the image forming system described above, The recording medium is equipped with a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the recording medium, The detection unit detects the physical properties of the recording medium on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit. The control unit sets the position of the post-processing by the post-processing unit and / or parameters related to the post-processing based on the physical property values ​​detected by the detection unit.

[0012] Claim 4 The invention according to claim 3 in the image forming system according to claim the post-processing by the post-processing unit includes at least one of curl correction, cutting, perforation, creasing, binding, foil stamping, and varnishing processing.

[0013] Claim 5 The invention according to claim is in the image forming system according to claim 1, the reading unit, the image forming unit, and the detection unit are configured to be communicable with each other or communicable only in one direction.

[0014] Claim 6 The invention according to claim 1 in the image forming system according to claim the control unit acquires paper reading information including at least one of information on the outer shape, the printed image, texture, opacity, color, and curl state of the recording medium based on the read image.

[0015] Claim 7 The invention according to claim 6 in the image forming system according to claim the control unit acquires information on the toner coverage rate of the image to be formed on the recording medium.

[0016] Claim 8 The invention according to claim 7 in the image forming system according to claim the control unit determines image formation position information indicating the position of image formation by the image forming unit based on the acquired paper reading information, and adjusts the image formation position information based on the physical property value detected by the detection unit and / or the information on the acquired toner coverage rate.

[0017] Claim 9 The invention according to claim 6 in the image forming system according to claim A first purge tray for purging the recording medium is provided between the reading unit and the image forming unit in the conveyance direction of the recording medium. When a difference of not less than a first threshold value occurs between the paper reading information acquired during the execution of a print job and the paper reading information acquired before the execution of the print job, the control unit discharges the recording medium conveyed during the execution of the print job to the first purge tray.

[0018] Claim 10 The invention according to claim 6 In the image forming system according to claim A preprocessing unit that performs preprocessing including humidity conditioning on the recording medium; <00--0104>A postprocessing unit that performs postprocessing on the recording medium, and When a difference of not less than a first threshold value occurs between the paper reading information acquired during the execution of a print job and the paper reading information acquired before the execution of the print job, the control unit adjusts at least one of the position of the image formation, the parameters related to the image formation, the parameters related to the preprocessing, the position of the postprocessing, and the parameters related to the postprocessing.

[0019] Claim <00--0109>The invention according to claim 3 In the image forming system according to claim A second purge tray for purging the recording medium is provided between the detection unit and the postprocessing unit in the conveyance direction of the recording medium. When a difference of not less than a second threshold value occurs between the physical property value detected by the detection unit in the recording medium on which the job image of the first page of the print job is formed and the physical property value detected by the detection unit in the recording medium on which the job image of a page after the first page is formed, the control unit discharges the recording medium on which the job image of a page after the first page is formed to the second purge tray.

[0020] Claim 12 The invention according to claim 3 In the image forming system according to claim The recording medium is provided with a pre-processing unit that performs pre-processing including humidity control, If the control unit detects a difference of a second threshold or more between the physical property value detected by the detection unit on the recording medium on which the job image of the first page of the print job is formed and the physical property value detected by the detection unit on the recording medium on which the job image of pages after the first page is formed, the control unit adjusts at least one of the image formation position, the parameters related to image formation, the parameters related to pre-processing, the post-processing position, and the parameters related to post-processing.

[0021] Claim 13 The invention described in the claim 3 In the image forming system described above, In the transport direction of the recording medium, an insertion tray into which the recording medium can be inserted is provided upstream of the reading unit, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a first purge tray is provided between the reading unit and the image forming unit for purging the recording medium, The control unit acquires a read image obtained by reading the recording medium, which has been inserted from the insertion tray, had an image formed by the image forming unit, and undergone post-processing by the post-processing unit, and then discharges the reading recording medium into the first purge tray.

[0022] Claim 14 The invention described in the claim 6 In the image forming system described above, The image forming unit forms an image on the recording medium based on the paper reading information.

[0023] Claim 15 The invention described in the claim 6 In the image forming system described above, The detection unit detects the physical properties of the recording medium based on the paper reading information.

[0024] Claim 16 The invention described in the claim 6In the image forming system described above, The recording medium is equipped with a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the recording medium, The post-processing unit performs post-processing on the recording medium based on the paper reading information.

[0025] Claim 17 The program described is An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a reading unit is provided upstream of the image forming unit and reads the recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a detection unit is provided downstream of the image forming unit and detects the physical properties of the recording medium, A computer for an image forming system equipped with, Based on the read image generated by the reading unit as a result of reading the recording medium, the control unit functions as a control unit that controls the position of image formation by the image forming unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the present invention, the amount of recording media to be discarded and the effort required for disposal during image quality adjustment can be reduced, and control according to the physical properties of the recording media can be achieved more accurately. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the image forming system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram showing the control structure of the image forming system according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the initial adjustment process. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows the flow of the reading adjustment process. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the flow of the image formation and adjustment process. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the flow of post-processing and adjustment. [Figure 7]This flowchart shows the flow of pre-job control processing. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows the flow of the post-processing and reading process. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows the flow of control processing during a job. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows the flow of control processing during a job. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0029] (1. Configuration of the image forming system) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the image forming system according to this embodiment (hereinafter referred to as System 1) comprises a paper feeder 10, a reading device 20, an image forming apparatus 30, a detection device 40, an intermediate device 50, and a post-processing device 60. In System 1, the paper feeder 10, reader 20, image forming apparatus 30, detection apparatus 40, intermediate apparatus 50, and post-processing apparatus 60 are arranged in the following order from upstream along the paper transport direction.

[0030] (1-1. Configuration of the paper feed device) The paper feed device 10 includes a paper feed control unit 11, a manual feed tray 12 which is an insertion tray, a transport unit 13, a paper feed unit 14, and the like.

[0031] The paper feed control unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The CPU of the paper feed control unit 11 reads the program stored in ROM, loads it into RAM, and then controls each part of the paper feed device 10 according to the loaded program. For example, the paper feed control unit 11 transports paper (recording medium) from the paper feed trays 141-146 of any of the paper feed units 14 or the manual feed tray 12 to the reader 20, depending on the job.

[0032] The transport unit 13 is equipped with a transport path 131 that connects the paper feed unit 14 or the manual feed tray 12 to the reader 20, and transports paper. The paper feeding unit 14 has paper trays 141 to 146 for storing paper according to predetermined paper types and sizes. The size referred to here is the "nominal size," which will be described later. The manual feed tray 12 is located upstream of the reading unit 22 (described later) of the reader 20 in the paper transport direction, and paper can be inserted into it.

[0033] (1-2. Configuration of the reading device) The reading device 20 is located upstream of the image forming apparatus 30 in the paper transport direction. It reads the paper transported from the paper feed device 10 and outputs the obtained read image data to the image forming control unit 36 ​​(described later) of the image forming apparatus 30. The reading device 20 includes a reading control unit 21, a reading unit 22, a transport unit 23, and a first purge tray, which is a paper output tray 24, etc. The paper output tray 24 is located between the reading unit 22 and the image forming unit 34 (described later) of the image forming apparatus 30, and is used to purge the paper.

[0034] The read control unit 21 includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM. The CPU of the read control unit 21 reads the program stored in ROM, loads it into RAM, and then controls each part of the read device 20 according to the loaded program. For example, the reading control unit 21 has the reading unit 22 read the paper transported from the paper feed device 10, and outputs the obtained read image data to the image forming control unit 36. The reading control unit 21 then transports the read paper to the image forming apparatus 30 by the transport unit 23, or discharges it to the output tray 24.

[0035] The reading unit 22 includes a line image sensor, an illumination unit, and the like. In a line image sensor, multiple image sensors (for example, CCDs (Charge Coupled Devices)) that perform photoelectric conversion for each pixel are arranged in a one-dimensional manner in the width direction of the paper (a direction perpendicular to the paper transport direction). The illumination unit irradiates light onto the paper to enable proper reading. The illumination unit consists of, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) and a diffusion member that evenly spreads the emitted light within the reading area.

[0036] The reading unit 22 reads either the upper surface, lower surface, or both sides of the paper transported from the paper feed device 10, and outputs the resulting read image to the reading control unit 21. Furthermore, the readable range of the reading unit 22 is larger than the paper size so that the outline of the paper can be detected from the read image. Furthermore, the reading unit 22 may include a background member that serves as the background for the paper image when the paper is read by a line image sensor or the like. Furthermore, the reading unit 22 may be configured to have a large space on the paper background side to prevent the light from the illumination unit from spilling over into the background material.

[0037] The transport unit 23 is composed of multiple roller pairs and transports the paper transported from the paper feed device 10 to the reading unit 22. The transport unit 23 then, under the control of the reading control unit 21, transports the paper read by the reading unit 22 to the image forming apparatus 30 or discharges it to the output tray 24. For example, the transport unit 23 transports paper without defects (normal paper) to the image forming apparatus 30. On the other hand, the transport unit 23 discharges paper with defects (abnormal paper) to the output tray 24.

[0038] (1-3. Configuration of the image forming apparatus) The image forming apparatus 30 forms a color image using an electrophotographic method based on image data obtained by reading an image from a document, or on job image data received from an external device (not shown). The image forming apparatus 30 then transports the image-formed paper to the detection device 40. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 30 includes an operation unit 31, a display unit 32, a document reading unit 33, an image forming unit 34, an image forming control unit 36, a storage unit 37, a communication unit 38, and an image processing unit 39.

[0039] The operation unit 31 is equipped with a touch panel formed to cover the display screen of the display unit 32, as well as various operation buttons such as number buttons and a start button, and outputs operation signals based on user operations to the image forming control unit 36.

[0040] The display unit 32 is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like, and displays various screens according to the instructions of the display signals input from the image forming control unit 36.

[0041] The document reading unit 33 is equipped with an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), a scanner, etc., and reads the image of the document and outputs the resulting image data to the image forming control unit 36.

[0042] The image forming unit 34 forms an image on the paper transported from the reading device 20 based on the image data processed by the image processing unit 39. In this embodiment, the paper is a single sheet. The image forming unit 34 includes photosensitive drums 341Y, 341M, 341C, 341K, and 341S corresponding to yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (K), and spot color (S), an intermediate transfer belt 342, a secondary transfer roller 343, a fixing unit 344, an inversion path 345, a paper detection sensor 346, and the like.

[0043] After the photoreceptor drum 341Y is uniformly charged, it is scanned and exposed by a laser beam based on yellow image data to form an electrostatic latent image. Then, yellow toner is applied to the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum 341Y, and development is performed. The photoconductor drums 341M, 341C, 341K, and 341S are the same as the photoconductor drum 341Y, except for the different colors they handle, so we will omit their explanation.

[0044] The toner images of each color formed on the photoconductor drums 341Y, 341M, 341C, 341K, and 341S are sequentially transferred onto the rotating intermediate transfer belt 342 (primary transfer). That is, a color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 342 by superimposing the five toner images. The color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 342 is transferred to the paper all at once by the secondary transfer roller 343 (secondary transfer).

[0045] The fixing unit 344 includes a heating roller for heating the paper onto which the color toner image has been transferred, and a pressure roller for applying pressure to the paper, thereby fixing the color toner image to the paper through heating and pressurizing.

[0046] In the case of single-sided printing (forming an image on one side of a sheet of paper) in the image forming apparatus 30, the paper is transported from the fixing unit 344 to the detection device 40 under the control of the image forming control unit 36. On the other hand, in the case of forming an image on both sides of the paper (double-sided printing), the paper is transported from the fuser unit 344 to the inversion path 345 under the control of the image formation control unit 36, and the paper surface is inverted. After that, the paper is fed again upstream of the paper detection sensor 346 in the paper transport direction.

[0047] The paper detection sensor 346 is located upstream of the secondary transfer roller 343 in the paper transport direction and detects the leading edge of the paper and any unevenness in the paper's position. The image forming control unit 36 ​​controls the image forming position by the image forming unit 34 based on the detection result of the paper detection sensor 346.

[0048] The image formation control unit 36 ​​includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, and the like. The CPU of the image forming control unit 36 ​​reads various processing programs stored in ROM and loads them into RAM, and in cooperation with the various programs loaded into RAM, it comprehensively controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 30.

[0049] Furthermore, the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs paper feeding mode control when feeding paper through the image forming apparatus 30. The paper feeding modes include a low-load mode, a single-sided printing mode, and a double-sided printing mode. The low-load mode is a mode in which, when performing single-sided printing, the paper is transported without performing secondary transfer by the secondary transfer roller 343 or fixing by the fixing unit 344. The single-sided printing mode is a mode in which, when performing single-sided printing, secondary transfer by the secondary transfer roller 343 and fixing by the fixing unit 344 are performed during paper transport. The double-sided printing mode is a mode in which, when performing double-sided printing, secondary transfer by the secondary transfer roller 343 and fixing by the fixing unit 344 are performed during paper transport.

[0050] Furthermore, if the image forming control unit 36 ​​is to perform preprocessing on the output paper by the preprocessing unit 52 described later, it issues an instruction to the intermediate device 50 to perform the predetermined preprocessing. Furthermore, if post-processing is to be performed on the output paper, the image forming control unit 36 ​​issues an instruction to the post-processing device 60 to perform the predetermined post-processing.

[0051] The storage unit 37 is a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or semiconductor memory that stores various data such as programs and image data. The storage unit 37 stores data such as program data and various setting data so that it can be read and written by the image formation control unit 36.

[0052] The communication unit 38 is composed of, for example, a communication control card such as a LAN (Local Area Network) card, and performs various data transmission and reception with external devices (for example, personal computers) connected to a communication network such as a LAN or WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0053] The image processing unit 39 performs necessary image processing on image data stored in the storage unit 37, image data obtained by reading an image from a document by the document reading unit 33, and image data input from an external device, and transmits the processed image data to the image forming unit 34. Image processing includes gradation processing, halftone processing, and color conversion processing. Gradation processing is the process of converting the gradation value of each pixel of the image data into gradation values ​​that have been corrected so that the density characteristics of the image formed on the paper match the density characteristics of the target. Halftone processing includes error diffusion processing and screen processing using systematic dithering. Color conversion processing is the process of converting each RGB gradation value into each CMYK gradation value.

[0054] (1-4. Configuration of the detection device) The detection device 40 is located downstream of the image forming apparatus 30 in the paper transport direction. It detects the physical properties of the paper transported from the image forming apparatus 30 and outputs the detected physical property values ​​to the image forming control unit 36. The detection device 40 detects values ​​(physical property values) related to the physical properties of multiple types of paper, including basis weight, stiffness, moisture content, and surface properties. The physical property values ​​may be information that can be converted into physical properties. The detection device 40 includes a detection control unit 41, a detection unit 42, a transport unit 43, and the like.

[0055] The detection control unit 41 includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM. The CPU of the detection control unit 41 reads the program stored in ROM, loads it into RAM, and then controls each part of the detection device 40 according to the loaded program. For example, the detection control unit 41 has the detection unit 42 detect the paper transported from the image forming apparatus 30 and outputs the obtained physical property values ​​to the image forming control unit 36. The detection control unit 41 then transports the detected paper to the intermediate device 50 using the transport unit 43.

[0056] The detection unit 42 detects the physical properties of the detection location on the paper indicated by the detection location information. The detection unit 42 has sensors for detecting the paper's physical properties, such as basis weight, stiffness, moisture content, and surface properties.

[0057] For example, a sensor for detecting the basis weight of paper comprises a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit, and measures the basis weight by the amount of attenuation of light transmitted through the paper. It then outputs the basis weight as a physical property value to the detection control unit 41.

[0058] Furthermore, the sensor that detects the stiffness of the paper detects physical properties corresponding to the rigidity of the paper. For example, when paper is transported along a curved transport path, the force or displacement exerted by the paper on one of the outer guide plates constituting the transport path is mechanically measured. Then, the stiffness value, as a physical property based on the force or displacement exerted by the paper, is output to the detection control unit 41.

[0059] Furthermore, the sensor for detecting the moisture content of the paper optically detects the amount of light absorbed by OH groups using a near-infrared method, for example. This sensor irradiates the paper with light of a predetermined wavelength in the near-infrared region and utilizes the property that the light absorption rate changes according to the moisture content of the paper. Alternatively, the moisture content may be measured by measuring the change in the amount of light of the reflective component inside the paper using reflected light separated by a polarizing filter. The sensor then outputs the moisture content as a physical property value to the detection control unit 41.

[0060] Furthermore, the sensor for detecting the surface properties (smoothness, degree of smoothness) of the paper includes, for example, a reflection sensor that outputs the intensity and / or intensity ratio of specularly reflected light and scattered reflected light irradiated onto the paper, and measures the surface properties based on this intensity ratio. The surface properties as physical properties are then output to the detection control unit 41.

[0061] In addition to the above-mentioned sensors, the detection unit 42 may also have sensors for detecting the specific gravity and conductivity of the paper.

[0062] The transport unit 43 is composed of multiple roller pairs and transports the paper transported from the image forming apparatus 30 to the detection unit 42. The transport unit 43 then transports the paper detected by the detection unit 42 to the intermediate device 50.

[0063] (1-5. Configuration of the intermediate device) The intermediate device 50 performs pre-processing on the paper transported from the detection device 40 by the pre-processing unit 52, according to the detection result of the detection device 40. The intermediate device 50 includes an intermediate control unit 51, a pre-processing unit 52, a transport unit 53, and a paper output tray 54 which is a second purge tray. The output tray 54 is located between the detection unit 42 and the post-processing unit 62 (described later) of the post-processing device 60, and purges the paper.

[0064] The intermediate control unit 51 includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU of the intermediate control unit 51 reads various processing programs stored in ROM and loads them into RAM, and in cooperation with the various programs loaded into RAM, it comprehensively controls the operation of the intermediate device 50.

[0065] The pre-processing unit 52 performs the following pre-processing on the paper transported from the detection device 40. This pre-processing includes, for example, a humidity control process including a humidification process to humidify the paper and a drying process to dry the paper, as well as a curl correction process.

[0066] The transport unit 53 is composed of multiple roller pairs and transports the paper transported from the detection device 40 to the pre-processing unit 52. The transport unit 53, under the control of the intermediate control unit 51, transports the paper transported from the detection device 40 to the post-processing device 60 or discharges it to the output tray 54. For example, the transport unit 53 transports paper without defects (normal paper) to the post-processing device 60. On the other hand, the transport unit 53 discharges paper with defects (abnormal paper) to the output tray 54.

[0067] (1-6. Configuration of the post-processing device 60) The post-processing device 60 performs post-processing on the paper transported from the intermediate device 50. The post-processing device 60 includes a post-processing control unit 61, a post-processing unit 62, a transport unit 63, and a paper output tray 64.

[0068] The post-processing control unit 61 includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU of the post-processing control unit 61 reads various processing programs stored in ROM and loads them into RAM, and in cooperation with the various programs loaded into RAM, it comprehensively controls the operation of the post-processing device 60.

[0069] The post-processing unit 62 performs post-processing on the paper transported from the intermediate device 50. This post-processing includes, for example, cutting, folding, perforating, creasing, foil stamping, varnishing, and various binding processes. The post-processing unit 62 may also perform curl correction as a post-processing step.

[0070] The transport unit 63 is composed of multiple roller pairs and transports the paper transported from the intermediate device 50 to the post-processing unit 62. The transport unit 63 then discharges the paper that has undergone post-processing by the post-processing unit 62 into the output tray 64.

[0071] Each device in System 1 described above is configured to communicate with one another. In other words, the reading unit 22, the image forming unit 34, and the detection unit 42 are configured to communicate with one another. The reading unit 22, the image forming unit 34, and the detection unit 42 may be configured to communicate in only one direction. This one-way or two-way communication allows for the transmission and reception of information necessary for various controls of each device. The content of the various controls for each device determines when the above communication should be completed. Therefore, the start timing of the communication and the communication speed (the amount of information that can be transmitted and received per unit time) must be designed to meet these requirements. For example, let's consider the case where the position of the perforation process in the post-processing unit 62 is adjusted based on the detection result of the detection unit 42. In this case, the detection result of the detection unit 42 must be notified to the post-processing unit 62 before the post-processing unit 62 prepares to control the perforation process on the paper. In high-speed machines that process a large number of sheets per unit time, the speed at which paper passes through the system 1 tends to be fast. Therefore, it is conceivable that the timing of information notification, as described above, may not be fast enough. In such cases, in order to ensure the time required for the paper to reach each device on the downstream side of the paper feed, the system 1 may be configured as follows. For example, the paper passage path between the detection device 40 and the intermediate device 50 can be deliberately bent and made longer. Furthermore, a temporary storage section capable of temporarily holding multiple sheets of paper is provided, and the paper transport of such sheets can be temporarily stopped as needed. This configuration extends the time it takes for the paper to reach the next device, thereby accommodating the conditions for the timing of information notification.

[0072] In this embodiment, the image forming control unit 36 ​​of the image forming apparatus 30 comprehensively controls the entire system 1, but it is also possible for the reading control unit 21 of the reading device 20 or the detection control unit 41 of the detection device 40 to comprehensively control the entire system 1.

[0073] (2. Operation of the image forming system) Next, we will describe the initial adjustment process performed in System 1 when System 1 according to this embodiment is newly installed. Figure 3 shows a flowchart of the initial adjustment process.

[0074] (2-1. Initial adjustment process) First, the image forming control unit 36 ​​of the image forming apparatus 30 performs the reading adjustment process shown in Figure 4 (step A1). By performing this reading adjustment process, differences in the reading magnification of the read images due to individual differences in the reading device 20 can be corrected.

[0075] In the reading adjustment process, the image forming control unit 36 ​​feeds a reference sheet from the paper feeding unit 14 or the manual feed tray 12 using the paper feeding device 10 (step A11). The standard paper refers to paper of a predetermined type, size, and condition (temperature, moisture content, etc.). Note that "size" here refers to the "name" used to identify the size of the paper. In other words, "size" here refers to standard paper sizes such as A4, A3, or 300mm x 450mm, or the "nominal size" of paper that has been cut to that size. Actual dimensions measured from paper are usually slightly different from the nominal size. The size (actual size) described later refers to these measured dimensions (dimensions obtained from the read image, dimensions measured with a ruler, and dimensions obtained from the read image calibrated using those dimensions). Furthermore, the above conditions (temperature, moisture content, etc.) may be, for example, standard environments defined in various test standards, or average environments in the region where System 1 is installed. However, there are often discrepancies between these and the actual printing work environment. Therefore, the above conditions (temperature, moisture content, etc.) should be set to the most frequently occurring conditions in the space where System 1 is installed (for example, in the case of a printing process, the conditions when it is operating normally and the room temperature and humidity are stable). Furthermore, the paper of the specified type should be left in that environment for a certain period of time or longer to allow it to acclimate to the environment before use. Alternatively, the following steps may be performed using a sheet of paper with predetermined marks printed on it as the reference paper. Specifically, the distance between the marks and the distance between the marks and the edge of the paper are detected from the scanned image. Then, the distance at the same location is measured using a ruler or similar tool, and based on this, the relationship between the size obtained from the scanned image and the measured size is further calibrated.

[0076] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​generates a read image by reading the reference paper transported from the paper feeder 10 in the reading device 20 using the reading unit 22, and outputs the read image to the image forming control unit 36 ​​(step A12). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​feeds the reference paper read in step A12 through each device of the system 1 and discharges it into the output tray 64 of the post-processing device 60 (step A13). In this case, the paper feeding mode in the image forming apparatus 30 is the low-load mode.

[0077] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​obtains the size of the contour of the reference paper as the reference paper size (actual size) based on the read image generated in step A12 (step A14).

[0078] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​receives input via the operation unit 31 of the actual size of the reference paper that was ejected in step A13 and measured by the user using a metal ruler or the like (step A15). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​calibrates the relationship between the size (actual size) obtained from the read image and the measured size (actual size) based on the size (actual size) of the reference paper acquired in step A14 and the size (actual size) of the reference paper received in step A15 (step A16), and terminates this process.

[0079] Returning to Figure 3, the image formation control unit 36 ​​performs the image formation adjustment process shown in Figure 5 (Step A2). By performing this image formation adjustment process, the position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 34 can be adjusted.

[0080] In the image formation adjustment process, the image formation control unit 36 ​​feeds reference paper from the paper feeding unit 14 or the manual feed tray 12 using the paper feeding device 10 (step A21).

[0081] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​forms a predetermined image on the reference paper using the image forming unit 34 (step A22). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​feeds the image-formed reference paper from step A22 through each device of the system 1 and discharges it into the output tray 64 of the post-processing device 60 (step A23).

[0082] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​receives input of the actual position and magnification of the image formed on the reference paper that was ejected in step A23 and measured by the user with a metal ruler or the like, via the operation unit 31 (step A24). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​adjusts the image forming position and magnification by the image forming unit 34 based on the measured image position and magnification received in step A24 (step A25), and terminates this process.

[0083] The image position and magnification input in step A24 may be calculated by the user using a predetermined calculation formula based on actual measured values ​​measured with the aforementioned ruler or the like. Alternatively, the system may be configured so that actual measured values ​​using a ruler between predetermined locations (such as the distance between predetermined marks formed by image formation, or the distance between predetermined marks and the paper edge) are input directly via the operation unit 31, and the image formation control unit 36 ​​calculates the necessary image position and magnification values ​​for adjustment using the predetermined calculation formula based on these values.

[0084] Returning to Figure 3, the image formation control unit 36 ​​performs the post-processing adjustment process shown in Figure 6 (step A3), and then terminates this process. By performing this post-processing adjustment process, the position of the post-processing performed by the post-processing unit 62 can be adjusted.

[0085] In the post-processing adjustment process, the image forming control unit 36 ​​feeds reference paper from the paper feeding unit 14 or the manual feed tray 12 using the paper feeding device 10 (step A31).

[0086] Next, in the image forming apparatus 30 after the image forming adjustment process has been performed, the image forming control unit 36 ​​forms a predetermined image on the reference paper using the image forming unit 34 (step A32). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​transports the image formed on the reference paper in step A32 to the post-processing device 60, and the post-processing unit 62 performs predetermined post-processing on the reference paper (step A33). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​discharges the post-processed reference paper from step A33 to the output tray 64 using the post-processing device 60 (step A34).

[0087] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​receives input via the operation unit 31 of the actual position of the post-processing applied to the reference paper that was ejected in step A34 and measured by the user with a metal ruler or the like (step A35). Then, based on the measured post-processing position received in step A35, the image forming control unit 36 ​​adjusts the post-processing position by the post-processing unit 62 and the image forming position of the user content formed by the image forming unit 34 to match the post-processing position (step A36), and terminates this process.

[0088] The above describes a method in which the user measures the distance to a predetermined location using a ruler or similar tool, but this is not the only method. For example, as an alternative to measuring with a ruler or similar tool, distance scales may be printed on the locations requiring measurement within the predetermined image, and the user may visually confirm the position based on these scales and input the value via the operation unit 31.

[0089] Next, we will describe the pre-job control process that is performed in System 1 before executing a print job. This pre-job control process is executed, for example, when the image forming apparatus 30 receives job information for a print job from an external device (e.g., a personal computer) via the communication unit 38, through the cooperation of the image forming control unit 36 ​​and a program stored in the storage unit 37. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of the pre-job control process.

[0090] (2-2. Pre-job control processing) First, the image forming control unit 36 ​​feeds one sheet of paper (job target paper) on which an image will be formed in the print job (job target paper) from the paper feeding unit 14 via the paper feeding device 10 and transports it to the reading device 20 (step B1).

[0091] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​reads the job target paper using the reading device 20 and generates a read image (step B2).

[0092] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​acquires paper reading information from the read image generated in step B2 and received from the reading device 20, and stores it in the storage unit 37 (step B3). The paper reading information includes paper size (outer dimensions), paper color, pre-printed image on the paper (if the paper has been pre-printed), paper opacity, paper curl, paper texture (surface texture), etc. The method for obtaining paper reading information from the scanned image can be done using a known image processing method. For example, the paper size (outline) is determined by extracting the contour that forms the boundary between the paper and the background (paper edge) based on, for example, the difference in color tone between the paper and the background image in the scanned image, or the shadow of the paper on the background plate (background material), and then determining the size of the rectangle or quadrilateral represented by this contour. The paper color, the pre-printed image on the paper, and the paper texture can be determined based on the distribution and average value of the read image values ​​within the rectangular or quadrilateral areas mentioned above. The degree of paper occlusion can be determined by placing a clearly defined mark with varying degrees of brightness on the background plate (the part hidden by the paper) when the reading device 20 reads the paper, and evaluating how easily this mark is visible in the read image. The curl state of the paper can be determined by evaluating the "clarity" of the boundary between the paper edge and the background plate in the aforementioned contour area, and then assessing the direction in which this evaluation value changes at various points on the paper (for example, the leading edge and the center).

[0093] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​sets detection location information indicating the detection location by the detection unit 42 based on the paper reading information acquired in step B3 (step B4). The detection location is a predetermined location on the paper, and there may be one location or multiple locations per sheet of paper. Specifically, when a pre-printed image on the paper is acquired as paper reading information, the image forming control unit 36 ​​identifies the location where overprinting will be performed based on the pre-printed image and sets the identified location as a detection location. Furthermore, if the paper texture as paper reading information is greater than a predetermined threshold set in advance (for example, if the surface of the paper being processed is relatively uneven), the image forming control unit 36 ​​sets the number of detection points per sheet of paper to be increased, or to widen the detection area of ​​the detection points.

[0094] Alternatively, instead of step B4, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may accept the setting of detection location information via the operation unit 31. Furthermore, if the job information of a print job includes detection location information, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may obtain and set the detection location information from the job information.

[0095] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​feeds the job target paper into the image forming apparatus 30 using one of the paper feeding modes (low load mode, single-sided printing mode, or double-sided printing mode) and transports it to the detection device 40 (step B5).

[0096] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​uses the detection device 40 to detect the physical properties of the detection locations on the job target paper based on the detection location information set in step B4 (step B6).

[0097] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether steps B1 to B6 have been performed for all paper feeding modes (3 modes in this embodiment) for each paper feeding mode (step B7). If steps B1 to B6 are not completed for any of the paper feeding modes (step B7; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​proceeds to step B1. Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs steps B1 to B6 for the paper feeding modes that have not been completed. As a result, the image forming control unit 36 ​​acquires the physical properties of the job target paper for each paper feeding mode.

[0098] On the other hand, if steps B1 to B6 have been completed for all paper feeding modes (step B7; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​sets control information for image forming and post-processing based on the paper reading information acquired in step B3 and the physical property values ​​detected in step B6, stores it in the storage unit 37 (step B8), and terminates this process. The control information for image formation and post-processing includes the image formation position by the image formation unit 34, control parameters for image formation (parameters related to image formation), the position for post-processing by the post-processing unit 62, and control parameters for post-processing (parameters related to post-processing), etc. In other words, the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines image forming position information, which indicates the position of image formation by the image forming unit 34, based on the acquired paper reading information.

[0099] Specifically, the image forming control unit 36 ​​sets the image forming position and the cutting position, which is a post-processing step, based on, for example, the acquired paper size and the pre-printed image. Furthermore, the image forming control unit 36 ​​identifies the degree of expansion and contraction of the paper for each paper feeding mode based on the detected moisture content and stiffness of the paper. Based on this degree of expansion and contraction, the image forming control unit 36 ​​estimates the amount of change in the image forming position, magnification, and cutting position depending on the paper feeding mode. Based on the estimated amount of change, the image forming control unit 36 ​​sets control information for controlling the image forming position and post-processing position. Furthermore, the image forming control unit 36 ​​estimates the amount of change in the surface properties of the paper due to the paper feeding mode, based on the detected surface properties of the paper. Based on the estimated amount of change, the image forming control unit 36 ​​sets control information for controlling the processing temperature and intensity of post-processing such as foil stamping, varnishing, folding, and perforation.

[0100] Note that, as shown here, step B1 involves feeding one sheet of paper for the job, but this is not the only configuration. For example, if multiple types of paper are used in a single job print job, steps B1 to B8 may be repeated for the required number of sheets. Using multiple types of paper in a single job print job is, for example, a case where a post-processing step is set up to bind three types of paper—a cover, the main body, and saddle-stitch paper—to form a booklet. In this case, it is necessary to repeatedly print the above three types of paper while printing multiple copies of the job. Furthermore, while steps B1 to B6 are repeated here for all paper feeding modes, this is not the only option. For example, if the job to be printed is single-sided or double-sided only, steps B1 to B6 may be omitted for paper feeding modes that are not used in the job printing.

[0101] Furthermore, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may further adjust the control information for image forming and post-processing set in step B8 by performing the post-processing read processing shown in Figure 8 after performing the pre-job control processing described above.

[0102] (2-3. Post-processing reading) First, the image forming control unit 36 ​​receives the job target paper from the paper feeder 10, and the image forming unit 34 forms an image on both sides of the paper (step C1). In step C1, the image formed is, for example, an image (chart, etc.) for adjusting the image formation position on both sides of the paper. Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​uses the post-processing device 60 to perform post-processing such as foil stamping or perforation on the paper to be processed (step C2). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​discharges the image-formed and post-processed job target paper into the output tray 64 of the post-processing device 60 (step C3).

[0103] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​receives a notification that the user will insert the job target paper, which was ejected to the output tray 64 in step C3, into the manual feed tray 12 of the paper feed device 10 (step C4). Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​reads the job target paper inserted in step C4 using the reading device 20, generates a read image, and ejects it to the output tray 24 (step C5). Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​acquires information such as the position and magnification at which the image was actually formed, and information about the position at which post-processing was actually performed, from the read image generated in step C5 and received from the reading device 20 (step C6). Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​adjusts the control information for image forming and post-processing based on the image forming position and magnification, post-processing position, etc., acquired in step C6, stores it in the storage unit 37 (step C7), and terminates this process.

[0104] Next, we will describe the in-job control processes that are executed while a print job is running in System 1. The in-job control processing is performed through the cooperation of the image formation control unit 36 ​​and the program stored in the storage unit 37. Figures 9 and 10 show flowcharts of the in-job control process.

[0105] (2-4. In-job control processing) First, the image formation control unit 36 ​​performs steps D1 and D2, which are the same as the pre-job control processing steps B1 and B2. Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​acquires paper reading information from the read image generated in step D2 and received from the reading device 20 (step D3).

[0106] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether the difference between the paper reading information acquired in step D3 and the paper reading information acquired in the pre-job control process is greater than or equal to a preset first threshold (step D4). The first threshold is used to determine whether the paper in the tray matches the paper type information set for the tray. Even when the exact same paper is scanned repeatedly, slight differences in readings occur due to various types of noise. Also, regarding paper size, for example, the paper in a single tray is roughly the same size, but there are slight differences in reality. For example, if the size (nominal size) of the paper in the tray is A3, the nominal paper size is 297 mm in width and 420 mm in length. However, the actual paper size varies by about ±1 to 2 mm in both width and length. There are also manufacturing variations in paper thickness, basis weight, whiteness, etc. Since these variations should be treated as the same type, a first threshold is set to determine whether or not the paper deviates from this range. Paper that deviates from this first threshold is treated as unexpected paper (defective paper) and is processed separately as described later.

[0107] If the difference between the paper reading information obtained in step D3 and the paper reading information obtained in the pre-job control process is less than the first threshold (step D4; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs step D5, which is the same as step B4 of the pre-job control process.

[0108] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​obtains the coverage rate of the next page to be image-formed in the print job (step D6). Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​corrects the detection location information set in step D5 and the control information set in the pre-job control processing step B8 or the control information adjusted in the post-processing reading processing step C7 based on the coverage rate acquired in step D6 (step D7). Since the expansion and contraction of the paper and changes in surface properties before and after image formation processing depend on the coverage rate of the image formed on the paper, performing step D7 allows for more favorable control of image formation and post-processing.

[0109] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​uses the image forming unit 34 to form the job image for the print job on the target paper based on the control information corrected in step D7 (step D8). For example, consider a situation where the paper size of paper B during job printing is measured to be 2 mm longer in the paper transport direction than the paper size of paper A measured during the pre-job control process. The paper size of paper A measured during the pre-job control process is the result of determining the outline of the paper contour from the scanned image and calibrating it based on the results of the initial adjustment process. In this case, for example, the image is formed based on the leading edge of the paper feed direction for each of the papers, A and B, during printing. If the image position for both sides of paper A is correct, then forming the image on paper B with the same control as paper A will result in the following situation. Specifically, if there is no difference in the physical properties such as the shrinkage rate of paper A and B, the image positions formed on paper B will be shifted by 2 mm relative to each other. Therefore, the following controls can be applied when forming the image on paper B to ensure that the front and back positions of the printed result match. Specifically, the image position printed on the front side (the side printed first) is formed 2 mm later from the leading edge of the paper in the printing direction, the image position printed on the back side (the side printed next) is formed 2 mm earlier from the leading edge of the paper in the printing direction, or both the front and back are formed 1 mm later from the leading edge of the paper in their respective printing directions.

[0110] Furthermore, we will explain the case where the measured dimensions of paper A and paper B are the same, and the environment inside the paper tray (temperature, humidity) changes between the time of printing paper A and the time of printing paper B, with the temperature being higher and the humidity lower at the time of printing paper B. In this case, it can be predicted that the amount of paper shrinkage due to the fixing process after printing on the front surface of paper A will be less than the amount of paper shrinkage due to the fixing process after printing on the front surface of paper B. As a result, the print result on paper B will be such that the image on the back surface will be smaller than the image on the front surface by the difference in the amount of paper shrinkage, and the image will be formed in the direction of advancement relative to the direction of paper advancement during back surface printing. Therefore, by, for example, increasing the size of the image formed on the back surface and controlling the printing timing on the back surface in the delay direction, the positional relationship between the front and back images can be maintained. The environment inside the tray may be measured using various sensors (not shown), or it may be estimated from the temperature and humidity of the environment in which System 1 is installed (which can also be easily measured using various sensors (not shown)) and the past operating status of System 1. Furthermore, since the coverage rate mentioned above affects the expansion and contraction of the paper, using the coverage rate to estimate the amount of shrinkage of paper B allows for more accurate control of the relationship between the image positions on the front and back sides.

[0111] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​uses the detection device 40 to detect the physical properties of the detection locations on the job target paper based on the detection location information corrected in step D7 (step D9).

[0112] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether the page currently being processed (the page for which an image was formed in step D8 and for which physical properties were detected in step D9) is a predetermined page from the beginning of the print job (step D10). This predetermined number of pages may be one page or several pages. If the page currently being processed is a predetermined page from the beginning (Step D10; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​stores the paper reading information acquired in Step D3 and the physical property values ​​detected in Step D9 in the storage unit 37 (Step D11). In step D11, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may store the physical property values ​​up to the predetermined page. Alternatively, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may store a representative value obtained by evaluating the average value and variability from the value at the predetermined number of times and each physical property value, excluding outlier values, and calculating the average value.

[0113] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs post-processing on the job target paper using the post-processing device 60 based on the control information corrected in step D7 (step D12). Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​discharges the image-formed and post-processed job target paper as output to the output tray 64 of the post-processing device 60 (step D13). Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether the print job has been completed for all pages (step D14). If the print job is completed on all pages (Step D14; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​terminates this process.

[0114] On the other hand, if there are still pages that are not yet completed (step D14; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​proceeds to step D1.

[0115] Furthermore, if the page currently being processed is not the predetermined page from the beginning (Step D10; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether the physical property values ​​detected from the beginning to the predetermined page, saved in Step D11, are different from the physical property values ​​detected on the currently processed page, acquired in Step D9 (Step D15). The physical property values ​​from the beginning to the predetermined page are, for example, the average value of the physical property values ​​detected from the beginning to the predetermined page. Note that a predetermined margin may be given to the difference between the physical property values ​​detected from the beginning to the predetermined page, saved in Step D11, and the physical property values ​​detected on the currently processed page, acquired in Step D9. If the physical property values ​​detected from the beginning up to a predetermined page are different from the physical property values ​​detected on the page currently being processed (Step D15; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether the difference between the physical property values ​​detected from the beginning up to a predetermined page and the physical property values ​​detected on the page currently being processed is less than a preset second threshold (Step D16).

[0116] If the difference is less than the second threshold (step D16; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​further adjusts the control information corrected in step D7 based on the difference, stores it in the storage unit 37 (step C17), and proceeds to step D12. Specifically, the image formation control unit 36 ​​adjusts, for example, the image formation position and magnification by the image formation unit 34, the cutting position by the post-processing device 60, the foil stamping temperature, the varnishing temperature and application amount, etc. In this case, the temperature and humidity of the environment in which System 1 is installed may be measured using various sensors (not shown) and used as reference information. Furthermore, the formula for determining the control values ​​for the above adjustments may be modified from multiple pieces of information such as the past printing history of System 1 and the measurement history of paper properties. When making such modifications, a predetermined regression equation may be used, or accuracy improvement algorithms such as machine learning may be applied. Furthermore, if step D12 is performed after step D17, the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs post-processing on the job target paper using the post-processing device 60 based on the control information adjusted in step D17.

[0117] Furthermore, if the physical property values ​​detected from the beginning up to a predetermined page are the same as the physical property values ​​detected on the page currently being processed (step D15; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​proceeds to step D12.

[0118] Furthermore, if the difference between the physical properties detected from the beginning up to a predetermined page and the physical properties detected on the page currently being processed is greater than or equal to the second threshold (step D16; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​purges the job target paper on which the currently processed page has been formed by ejecting it to the output tray 54 via the intermediate device 50 as defective paper (step D18). The purpose of step D18 is now explained. In this embodiment, errors in various post-processing steps are predicted and corrected based on the changes in the physical properties of the paper used in the job from the beginning of the job. If the above change is greater than the second threshold, it means that there is a discrepancy in the prediction of the above error, or that the cause of the above change is different from what was assumed in the prediction, so the purpose is to eliminate it as a defective print in advance.

[0119] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​notifies the user that the defective paper has been purged by displaying a message on the display unit 32, etc. (step D19).

[0120] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​determines whether or not to stop the currently running print job (step D20). In step D20, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may decide whether or not to stop the currently running print job based on pre-set information, or it may decide based on user input information via the operation unit 31. If the job is to be stopped (step D20; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​stops the currently running print job (step D21) and terminates this process.

[0121] On the other hand, if the job is not stopped (step D20; NO), the image forming control unit 36 ​​adjusts the control parameters (parameters related to pre-processing) of the humidity control process performed by the pre-processing unit 52 and the control information for the image forming process and post-processing (step D22). Specifically, the image forming control unit 36 ​​adjusts the control information in a predetermined direction, for example, according to the tendency and magnitude of the defect, so that the defect is resolved. Then, the image forming control unit 36 ​​moves the process to step D1 and reprints the page currently being processed.

[0122] If step D8 is performed after step D22, the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs image forming using the image forming unit 34 based on the control information adjusted in step D22. Furthermore, if step D12 is performed after step D22, the image forming control unit 36 ​​performs post-processing using the post-processing device 60 based on the control information adjusted in step D22.

[0123] Furthermore, if the difference between the paper reading information obtained in step D3 and the paper reading information obtained in the pre-job control process is greater than or equal to the first threshold (step D4; YES), the image forming control unit 36 ​​purges the job target paper as defective paper by ejecting it to the output tray 24 using the reader 20 (step D23). In step D23, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may feed the defective paper through the image forming apparatus 30 and discharge it to the output tray 54 via the intermediate device 50. In this case, the paper may be passed through in the following mode to prevent unnecessary processing from being performed within the image forming apparatus 30. For example, a mode in which the paper is transported without performing secondary transfer by the secondary transfer roller 343 and fixing by the fixing unit 344, regardless of the job printing mode (single-sided or double-sided printing).

[0124] Next, the image forming control unit 36 ​​notifies the user that the defective paper has been purged by displaying a message on the display unit 32 (step D24), and then proceeds to step D21.

[0125] As described above, by performing in-job control processing, even if various changes occur in the paper or environment during the print job execution, the print job can be executed at a stable image formation position and post-processing position. This also ensures stable quality in the output of the print job.

[0126] The present invention has been described above based on the above embodiments, but the descriptions in the above embodiments are merely examples of the image forming system according to the present invention and are not limited thereto. For example, in the in-job control processing step D15, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may determine whether the physical property values ​​detected at the beginning of a similar print job executed in the past are different from the physical property values ​​of the page currently being processed detected in step D9.

[0127] Alternatively, instead of the in-job control processing step D23, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may adjust the control parameters for the humidity control process performed by the pre-processing unit 52 and the control information for the image forming process and post-processing based on the paper reading information acquired in step D3, and continue the print job.

[0128] Furthermore, if System 1 includes a database that stores appropriate paper types according to paper reading information and paper physical properties, as well as control information for image formation and post-processing, the image formation control unit 36 ​​may perform the following processing. Specifically, in the pre-job control processing, the image formation control unit 36 ​​obtains appropriate paper types and control information from the database based on the paper reading information acquired in step B3 and the physical properties detected in step B6.

[0129] (3. Effects) As described above, the image forming system (System 1) according to this embodiment includes an image forming unit 34 that forms an image on a recording medium (paper), a reading unit 22 provided upstream of the image forming unit 34 in the transport direction of the recording medium and for reading the recording medium, and a detection unit 42 provided downstream of the image forming unit 34 in the transport direction of the recording medium and for detecting the physical properties of the recording medium. Therefore, by reading the paper before printing, it is possible to perform printing according to the type of paper, thereby reducing the amount of paper waste and the effort required for disposal. Furthermore, by detecting the physical properties of the paper after printing, it is possible to achieve more accurate control according to the physical properties of the recording medium.

[0130] Furthermore, the image forming system according to this embodiment includes a control unit (image forming control unit 36) that controls the position of image formation by the image forming unit 34 based on the read image generated as a result of reading the recording medium by the reading unit 22. Therefore, images can be formed in the appropriate position for each type of paper.

[0131] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the detection unit 42 detects the physical properties of the recording medium on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit 34. Therefore, information about the paper after printing can be easily obtained.

[0132] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, a post-processing unit 62 is provided for performing post-processing on the recording medium. The detection unit 42 detects the physical properties of the recording medium on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit 34, and the control unit (image forming control unit 36) sets the position of the post-processing by the post-processing unit 62 and / or parameters related to the post-processing based on the physical properties detected by the detection unit 42. Therefore, post-processing can be performed at an appropriate position and / or with appropriate parameters depending on the paper size after printing.

[0133] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the post-processing by the post-processing unit includes at least one of the following: curl correction, cutting, perforation, folding, binding, foil stamping, and varnishing. Therefore, curl correction, trimming, perforation, folding, binding, foil stamping, or varnishing can be performed at the appropriate position and / or with appropriate parameters depending on the paper after printing. Of these, curl correction can be performed by adjusting the humidity of the paper (humidification or dehumidification) or by deliberately bending the paper transport path during roller transport to handle the paper in the straightening direction. Furthermore, the paper transport speed during printing may be adjusted (mainly to a slower speed) to enable proper printing on severely curled paper. Alternatively, for severely curled paper, the paper may be temporarily stopped before and after the paper detection sensor 346, and the paper orientation may be corrected by processing control (such as paper registration control).

[0134] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the reading unit 22, the image forming unit 34, and the detection unit 42 are configured to be able to communicate with each other or to communicate in only one direction. Therefore, the reading results from the reading unit 22 and the detection results from the detection unit 42 can be easily obtained.

[0135] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the control unit (image forming control unit 36) acquires paper reading information based on the read image, which includes at least one of the following: information regarding the outline of the recording medium, a pre-printed image, texture, opacity, color, and curl state. Therefore, images can be formed in appropriate positions according to the shape, pre-printed image, texture, opacity, color, and curl state of each sheet of paper.

[0136] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the control unit (image forming control unit 36) acquires information regarding the toner coverage rate of the image to be formed on the recording medium. Furthermore, the control unit (image forming control unit 36) determines image forming position information indicating the position of image formation by the image forming unit based on the acquired paper reading information, and adjusts the image forming position information based on the physical property values ​​detected by the detection unit 42 and / or acquired information on the toner coverage rate. Therefore, images can be formed in appropriate positions according to the paper size and toner coverage rate after printing.

[0137] Furthermore, the image forming system according to this embodiment includes a first purge tray (paper output tray 24) provided between the reading unit 22 and the image forming unit 34 in the transport direction of the recording medium for purging the recording medium. The control unit (image forming control unit 36) discharges the recording medium transported during the print job into the first purge tray if a difference of a first threshold or more occurs between the paper reading information acquired during the print job execution and the paper reading information acquired before the print job execution. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the execution of print jobs based on control information unsuitable for the paper, thereby reducing the amount of wasted paper.

[0138] Furthermore, the image forming system according to this embodiment includes a pre-processing unit 52 that performs pre-processing on the recording medium, including humidity control, and a post-processing unit 62 that performs post-processing on the recording medium. The control unit (image forming control unit 36) adjusts at least one of the following: the image forming position, parameters related to image forming, parameters related to pre-processing, the post-processing position, and parameters related to post-processing, if a difference of a first threshold or more occurs between the paper reading information acquired during the execution of the print job and the paper reading information acquired before the execution of the print job. Therefore, print jobs, including post-processing, can be executed based on appropriate control information for various types of paper.

[0139] Furthermore, the image forming system according to this embodiment includes a second purge tray (paper output tray 54) provided between the detection unit 42 and the post-processing unit 62 in the transport direction of the recording medium for purging the recording medium. The control unit (image forming control unit 36) discharges the recording medium with the job image on the page after the first page into the second purge tray if a difference of a second threshold or more occurs between the physical property values ​​detected by the detection unit 42 on the recording medium on which the job image on the first page of the print job is formed and the physical property values ​​detected by the detection unit 42 on the recording medium on which the job image on the page after the first page is formed. Therefore, if the physical property values ​​detected during a print job change, it is possible to prevent the print job from being executed based on inappropriate control information, which would result in the generation of waste paper.

[0140] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, a pre-processing unit 52 is provided that performs pre-processing including humidity control on the recording medium. The control unit (image forming control unit 36) adjusts at least one of the following if a difference of a second threshold or more occurs between the physical property value detected by the detection unit 42 on the recording medium on which the job image of the first page of the print job is formed and the physical property value detected by the detection unit 42 on the recording medium on which the job image of pages after the first page is formed. The control unit (image forming control unit 36) adjusts at least one of the image forming position, image forming parameters, pre-processing parameters, post-processing position, and post-processing parameters. Therefore, even if the physical properties detected during a print job change, the print job, including post-processing, can be executed based on appropriate control information corresponding to the changed physical properties.

[0141] Furthermore, the image forming system according to this embodiment includes an insertion tray (manual feed tray 12) provided upstream of the reading unit 22 in the transport direction of the recording medium, into which the recording medium can be inserted, and a first purge tray (paper output tray 24) provided between the reading unit 22 and the image forming unit 34 in the transport direction of the recording medium for purging the recording medium. The control unit (image forming control unit 36) acquires a read image from the recording medium that has been image-formed by the image forming unit 34 inserted from the insertion tray and post-processed by the post-processing unit 62, and reads the recording medium, which is then discharged into the first purge tray. Therefore, it is possible to easily obtain information about the paper on which the image was actually formed and post-processed.

[0142] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the image forming unit 34 forms an image on the recording medium based on the paper reading information. Therefore, image formation can be performed based on appropriate control information corresponding to the paper reading information.

[0143] Furthermore, in the image forming system according to this embodiment, the detection unit 42 detects the physical properties of the recording medium based on the paper reading information. Therefore, detection can be performed based on appropriate detection location information corresponding to the paper reading information.

[0144] Furthermore, the image forming system according to this embodiment includes a post-processing unit 62 that performs post-processing on the recording medium, and the post-processing unit 62 performs post-processing on the recording medium based on the paper reading information. Therefore, post-processing can be performed based on appropriate control information corresponding to the paper reading information.

[0145] Although the present invention has been specifically described above based on embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified without departing from its spirit.

[0146] For example, if a print job includes a cutting process, the size of the output after cutting is set in the job information. In this case, the image forming control unit 36 ​​may adjust the cutting position based on the amount of change in the size of the paper to be discharged as output due to changes in temperature and humidity.

[0147] Furthermore, although the image forming apparatus 30 in the above embodiment is described as a dry electrophotographic method, it is not limited to this. The present invention can be applied to image forming methods in which image formation affects the physical properties of a recording medium such as paper, including solvent-based, aqueous-based IJ, UV-curable IJ, and wet electrophotographic methods.

[0148] Furthermore, in System 1, an intermediate device equipped with functions such as inversion processing may be provided between the image forming apparatus 30 and the detection apparatus 40.

[0149] Furthermore, System 1 may be configured to send and receive information for mutual cooperation with a print controller (not shown) that generates and manages print jobs, other image forming systems, business management systems, etc. (not shown).

[0150] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image forming control unit 36 ​​of the image forming apparatus 30 comprehensively controls the entire system 1, but this is not limited to this. A separate control device may be provided, and the control unit of that control device comprehensively controls the entire system 1.

[0151] Furthermore, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of each device constituting System 1 can also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 1. System (Image Forming System) 10 Paper feeder 11 Paper feed control unit 12 manual feed trays 13 Conveying section 131 Transport Route 14 Paper feed section 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146 Paper feed tray 20 Reader 21 Reading Control Unit 22 Reading section 23 Conveying section 24 Paper output tray 30 Image forming apparatus 31 Operation section 32 Display section 33 Manuscript Reading Unit 34 Image forming unit 341Y, 341M, 341C, 341K, 341S Photoconductor Drum 342 Intermediate Transfer Belt 343 Secondary Transfer Roller 344 Fixing section 345 Reversal Path 346 Paper detection sensor 36 Image Forming Control Unit (Control Unit) 37 Memory section 38 Communications Department 39 Image Processing Unit 40 Detection device 41 Detection Control Unit 42 Detection unit 43 Conveying section 50 Intermediate equipment 51 Intermediate control unit 52 Pre-processing section 53 Conveying section 54 Paper output tray 60 Post-processing equipment 61 Post-processing control unit 62 Post-processing 63 Conveying section 64 Paper Output Tray

Claims

1. An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a reading unit is provided upstream of the image forming unit and reads the recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a detection unit is provided downstream of the image forming unit and detects the physical properties of the recording medium, A control unit controls the position of image formation by the image forming unit based on the read image generated as a result of reading the recording medium by the reading unit, An image forming system comprising the following features.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit detects the physical property values ​​of the recording medium on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit.

3. The recording medium is equipped with a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the recording medium, The detection unit detects the physical properties of the recording medium on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit sets the position of post-processing by the post-processing unit and / or parameters related to the post-processing based on the physical property values ​​detected by the detection unit.

4. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein the post-processing by the post-processing unit includes at least one of curl correction, cutting, perforation, folding, binding, foil stamping, and varnishing.

5. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the reading unit, the image forming unit, and the detection unit are configured to communicate with each other or to communicate in only one direction.

6. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires paper reading information based on the read image, which includes at least one of the following: the shape of the recording medium, a pre-printed image, texture, opacity, color, and curl state.

7. The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein the control unit acquires information regarding the toner coverage rate of an image to be formed on the recording medium.

8. The image forming system according to claim 7, wherein the control unit determines image forming position information indicating the position of image formation by the image forming unit based on the acquired paper reading information, and adjusts the image forming position information based on the physical property values ​​detected by the detection unit and / or acquired information regarding the toner coverage rate.

9. In the transport direction of the recording medium, a first purge tray is provided between the reading unit and the image forming unit for purging the recording medium. The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein if the control unit determines that there is a difference of a first threshold or more between the paper reading information obtained during the execution of the print job and the paper reading information obtained before the execution of the print job, it discharges the recording medium transported during the execution of the print job into the first purge tray.

10. A pre-processing unit that performs pre-processing on the recording medium, including humidity control treatment, The system includes a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the recording medium, The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein if a difference of a first threshold or more occurs between the paper reading information acquired during the execution of a print job and the paper reading information acquired before the execution of a print job, the control unit adjusts at least one of the image forming position, the parameters related to image forming, the parameters related to pre-processing, the post-processing position, and the parameters related to post-processing.

11. In the transport direction of the recording medium, a second purge tray is provided between the detection unit and the post-processing unit for purging the recording medium. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein if the control unit determines that there is a difference of a second threshold or more between the physical property value detected by the detection unit on the recording medium on which the job image of the first page of the print job is formed and the physical property value detected by the detection unit on the recording medium on which the job image of the pages after the first page is formed, the control unit discharges the recording medium on which the job image of the pages after the first page is formed into the second purge tray.

12. The recording medium is provided with a pre-processing unit that performs pre-processing including humidity control, The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein if a difference of a second threshold or more occurs between the physical property value detected by the detection unit on the recording medium on which the job image of the first page of the print job is formed and the physical property value detected by the detection unit on the recording medium on which the job image of pages after the first page is formed, the control unit adjusts at least one of the image formation position, the parameters related to image formation, the parameters related to pre-processing, the post-processing position, and the parameters related to post-processing.

13. In the transport direction of the recording medium, an insertion tray into which the recording medium can be inserted is provided upstream of the reading unit, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a first purge tray is provided between the reading unit and the image forming unit for purging the recording medium, The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein the control unit acquires a read image by reading a recording medium that has been inserted from the insertion tray, an image formed by the image forming unit, and post-processed by the post-processing unit, and the read recording medium is discharged into the first purge tray.

14. The image forming unit forms an image on the recording medium based on the paper reading information, according to claim 6.

15. The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein the detection unit detects the physical properties of the recording medium based on the paper reading information.

16. The recording medium is equipped with a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the recording medium, The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein the post-processing unit performs post-processing on the recording medium based on the paper reading information.

17. An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a reading unit is provided upstream of the image forming unit and reads the recording medium, In the transport direction of the recording medium, a detection unit is provided downstream of the image forming unit and detects the physical properties of the recording medium, A computer for an image forming system equipped with, A program that functions as a control unit that controls the position of image formation by the image formation unit based on the read image generated as a result of reading the recording medium by the reading unit.

Images