Image Forming Control Device for Sheet Collection Order
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming systems face challenges in correctly collecting sheets with images formed on them, as the order of discharge destinations is displayed but not the order of sheets corresponding to each image forming job, leading to difficulties in collecting sheets in the correct order, especially when sheets are stacked across multiple trays or bundles.
Innovation Solution
A control device and method that includes an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus connected via a network, which displays system configuration and sheet bundle images, along with order information, to enable accurate identification and collection of sheets based on job IDs and tray positions, using a CPU to manage communication, storage, and display functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If sheets are discharged to multiple discharge destinations in a divided manner, then the stacking capacity is improved and image formation can continue, but the operator cannot identify the correct collection order of sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the discharge destination information by displaying not only which tray receives sheets but also the discharge timing order. This allows operators to understand both the spatial distribution (which tray) and temporal sequence (when discharged) of sheets, enabling correct collection order identification even when sheets are divided across multiple trays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback to the operator by displaying the discharge timing order and tray correspondence on the control panel. This feedback mechanism allows the operator to monitor the discharge process and determine the correct collection sequence, transforming the previously invisible discharge order into visible, actionable information.
2Measurement precision
If discharge destination order is displayed, then the location of sheet bundles is identifiable, but the collection order of sheets corresponding to each image forming job cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by displaying the discharge timing order and tray correspondence information before the operator begins collection. This advance information provision allows the operator to plan the collection sequence in advance, making the collection operation straightforward and error-free.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the temporal dimension of discharge timing to the spatial information of tray location. By displaying both the discharge order and which tray each discharge went to, the system provides comprehensive guidance that combines location and sequence information, making sheet collection intuitive and accurate.
3Productivity
If multiple large-capacity stackers are connected, then the system can handle high-volume printing orders continuously, but the complexity of managing and tracking sheets across multiple devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel serves multiple functions: it displays not only the discharge destination identification but also the discharge timing order and tray correspondence information. This multi-functional display consolidates multiple pieces of information that would otherwise require separate indicators or systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the discharge timing information and tray correspondence information into a single integrated display on the control panel. This consolidation of information presentation reduces the complexity of managing multiple stackers by providing a unified view of the discharge status across all devices, making system tracking more manageable.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control device, to control a system having an image forming apparatus to form an image on a sheet based on an image forming job and a sheet discharge apparatus (320, 340) having stacking trays for the sheet, includes a storage storing stacking state information for each stacking tray, a generator, a display controller, and an input portion. The generator generates a system configuration image (1101), and a sheet bundle image (1601 - 1603) representing a sheet bundle stacked on each stacking tray based on the stored stacking state information. The display controller displays a screen in which the sheet bundle image (1601 - 1603) is combined at a position of each stacking tray in the system configuration image (601).