JP2005134501A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus having little influence on image quality even when activity or the like of a replenisher fluctuates with respect to an image forming apparatus which carries out development while adding a replenisher. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus for forming an image by allowing an exposed photosensitive material to be processed in a treating tank with a treating liquid stored therein, is equipped with a supply means to supply a replenisher to the treating tank and a reading means to read the information of the replenisher in a recording medium attached to a conveyance container of the replenisher. The supply means controls the supply of the replenisher based on the read information about the replenisher. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that develops an exposed silver halide photosensitive material with a predetermined processing solution, and further relates to an image forming apparatus that can perform development processing while keeping the activity of the processing solution constant.

  In an image forming apparatus that forms a predetermined image using a silver halide photosensitive material, such as a general photographic or digital photographic developing machine, or a proofer that creates color proofs for printed matter, an exposed photosensitive material or an image is formed. The photosensitive material is exposed in the forming apparatus, and a predetermined development process is performed. There are various patterns in the development process depending on the use of the photosensitive material and the specifications of the apparatus. For example, a pattern in which a color development process, a bleach-fixing process, and a stabilization process are sequentially performed is known.

  In each treatment, a dedicated treatment solution is used, but since each treatment is a chemical treatment, the activity of the solution decreases with the use of the treatment solution. Further, since a part of the processing solution moves as the photosensitive material is conveyed, the amount of the solution also varies. Therefore, in an image forming apparatus, a dedicated replenishing liquid (hereinafter referred to as a replenishing liquid) having a higher liquid concentration than the processing liquid is generally prepared, and this replenishing liquid is gradually transferred from the replenishing liquid tank to the processing tank at a constant rate. By providing a replenishing mechanism, a device has been devised so that a constant chemical treatment is always performed.

  By the way, the replenisher supplied in the market has variations such as activity mainly resulting from differences in production lots, which may cause variations in color tone, hunting of color density, and the like. Specifically, it may affect the color development of the fringe portion of the halftone dot, and may affect the tone of the halftone dot, particularly the black tone (so-called K plate halftone dot). However, it is very difficult to reduce this variation to the point where it does not affect the color density and color tone at all, and the range of manufacturing standards for replenishers is determined within the range that the user can accept. Is the actual situation.

  For such variations, for example, when the image forming apparatus is started up every day, a standard image is formed by running a calibration chart or a control strip, and the result of the image formation is reflected in the exposure conditions of the photosensitive material. By doing so, it becomes possible to cope with fluctuations across the day to some extent. In general photo lab systems (automatic developing machines) and the like, such measures are often used.

  However, in recent years, there has been a tendency for demands for accurate reproduction of color tones to increase, and in particular in the field of proof for confirming the print finish in advance, the allowable variation range of density and color tone has become very narrow. In addition, daily calibration is not always performed, and it is often used under severe use conditions. Even if calibration is performed, subsequent daily fluctuations cannot be dealt with. In this case, if the calibration is performed many times a day, the work efficiency is remarkably lowered.

By the way, although not related to liquid processing such as replenisher and development, an image forming material provided with a recording medium in which image forming information is recorded in a paper magazine of silver halide photosensitive material, and an image forming apparatus using the same Is disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1). Further, although not related to a silver halide light-sensitive material, a so-called standing pouch is disclosed in which a non-contact type IC chip is mounted on a notch portion of a seal portion of a folded bottom tape. (For example, see Patent Document 2).
JP 2003-207873 A JP 2003-95280 A

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that has little influence on image quality even if the activity of the replenisher varies. It is another object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus that does not burden the operator, can cope with daily fluctuations, and can accept a relatively wide range of manufacturing standards for replenishers.

  The present invention is an image forming apparatus that forms an image by processing an exposed photosensitive material in a processing tank in which a processing liquid is stored, and a supply unit that supplies a replenisher of the processing liquid to the processing tank; Reading means for reading replenisher information of a recording medium attached to a replenisher transporting container, and the supply means adjusts the supply of the replenisher based on the read replenisher information. An image forming apparatus.

  Here, it is preferable that the replenisher information is information that can specify the activity or concentration of the replenisher stored in the transport container.

  The replenisher supply means includes a replenisher tank that stores the replenisher, and the replenisher tank is provided with a sensor that detects the amount of the replenisher. It is preferable to have a configuration provided with a calculation means for calculating the supply amount of the replenisher to the treatment tank from the information and the liquid amount.

  Here, it is preferable that a detection unit that detects the introduction of the replenisher into the replenisher tank is provided, and the supply amount is switched after the introduction is detected.

  Further, it is preferable that the introduction is detected by a return operation of the replenisher tank. Further, it is preferable that the charging is detected by stopping the rise of the liquid level in the replenishing liquid tank.

  Further, it is preferable that the input is detected by inputting a replenishment end signal.

  Further, it is preferable that the transport container is provided with a lid opening means or a bag breaking means, and the charging is detected by executing an opening operation by the lid opening means or a bag breaking action by the bag breaking means.

  Further, a replenisher table storing data for specifying a replenisher that can be used as a replenisher for the treatment liquid is provided, and the read replenisher information is compared with the data stored in the replenisher table. It is preferable to have a configuration provided with determination means for determining the suitability of the replenisher stored in the transport container.

  Further, it is preferable that the recording medium is an IC tag and the reading unit is a reader of the IC tag.

  Further, it is preferable that the IC tag is a non-contact IC tag having a wireless function.

  Further, it is preferable that the recording medium is a two-dimensional code and the reading unit is a two-dimensional code reader.

  It is preferable that the image forming apparatus is connected to a network and includes a communication unit that can communicate with a support server on the network.

  Further, the replenisher information includes information that can identify a production lot of a replenisher stored in the transport container, and information that can identify the production lot from the support server via the communication unit, It is preferable to have a configuration including an information acquisition means for acquiring information that can specify the activity or concentration of the replenisher.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the replenishing liquid table includes an updating unit that is updated by communication with the support server.

  Even if the activity of the replenisher varies, the effect on the image quality is small. There is no burden on the operator of the image forming apparatus. It is possible to cope with daily fluctuations, and the range of manufacturing standards for the replenisher is relatively wide.

  Here, as an example of an image forming apparatus, an image is formed by sequentially performing an exposure process in which a proof (color calibration) of a printed material is exposed by an LED using a silver halide photosensitive material and a developing process in which the exposed photosensitive material is developed. A description will be given using an apparatus. Further, the developing process will be described using an example that undergoes three processes: a color developing process, a bleach-fixing process, and a stabilizing process. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and the image forming apparatus may be a general photographic developing unit having no exposure process, or a digital photographic exposing and developing unit. It may be. Furthermore, another liquid processing apparatus using a photosensitive material may be used. Further, the development process may be another pattern development process.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic internal structure of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus 1 includes an exposure unit 10 that exposes the silver halide photosensitive material 12, a developing unit 20 that develops the exposed photosensitive material, and a control unit 100 that controls the whole.

  The exposure unit 10 performs the following operations. A silver halide photosensitive material 12 wound in a roll shape around a cylindrical central cylinder 11 is drawn out to a required length and cut, and is adsorbed and supported on an exposure drum 17 provided below the exposure unit 10. Subsequently, the three types of LEDs 15 of R, G, and B, which are provided on the support base 16 so as to be movable in the direction parallel to the drum rotation axis, are translated while appropriately emitting light, and the exposure drum 17 is simultaneously rotated. Thus, two-dimensional scanning is performed, and the photosensitive material 12 is exposed according to predetermined image data. The exposed photosensitive material is peeled off from the drum and sent to the developing unit 20 through the accumulator mechanism 18. The accumulator mechanism 18 is adjacent to the exposure drum 17 and absorbs a difference in operation timing between the exposure process and the development process.

  The developing unit 20 is provided in parallel with the exposure unit 10 and includes a liquid processing unit and a drying unit 40. The developing unit 20 sequentially receives the photosensitive material exposed by the exposure unit 10 and performs development processing. The liquid processing unit includes a color developing tank 30, a bleach-fixing tank 31, three stabilizing tanks 32 to 34, a transport mechanism 35 provided so that a photosensitive material sequentially passes through these tanks, various sensors, and the like. It consists of a replenisher supply mechanism for controlling the concentration of the treatment tank. The replenisher supply mechanism temporarily stores a replenisher tank 21 for temporarily storing a replenisher for the color developer, a pump 25 for transferring the replenisher to the color developer tank 30, piping therefor, and a replenisher for the bleach-fixer. The replenisher tank 22 to be stored, the pump 26 for transferring the replenisher liquid to the bleach-fixing tank 31, piping for the same, the replenisher tank 23 for temporarily storing the replenisher liquid for the stabilizing liquid, and the replenisher liquid to the third stable state. A pump 27 for transferring to the tank 34 and piping therefor; a tank 24 for diluting the processing liquid; and a pump 28 for transferring the diluted water to the color developing tank 30, the bleach-fixing tank 31, and the third stabilizing tank 34, respectively. It consists of piping and automatic valves for that purpose. By providing the replenisher tank in this manner, it is possible to continuously perform the processing in each processing tank even during the replenishment operation of the replenisher.

  The drying unit 40 uses the blower 41 to dry the photosensitive material that has undergone development processing, and discharges the completed proof from the discharge port 42.

  A schematic diagram of a B-B ′ cross section in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 2. In the color developing tank 30 in which the color developing solution 36 is stored, the exposed photosensitive material 12 is immersed and subjected to color developing processing. Under the color developing tank 30, the replenishing liquid tank 21 for the color developing solution and the replenishing liquid are taken out from the outlet line 57 of the replenishing liquid tank 21 and injected into the color developing tank 30 from the inlet line 58 at a constant replenishment speed. A metering pump 25 is provided. Inside the replenishing liquid tank 21, there are provided a float type liquid level sensor 54 for measuring the amount of the replenishing liquid, and a float 55 that surrounds the detector 54 and floats up and down on the liquid level 56. An upper surface of the replenisher tank 21 opposite to the pump 25 is provided with an inlet 51 for introducing the replenisher from the replenisher transporting container and a lid 50 of the inlet 51 that can be opened and closed with the hinge 59 as a rotation shaft. The front surface of the replenisher tank 21 is provided with a lock mechanism 38 that locks the lid 50 when the lid 50 is closed, a sensor 52 that detects the open / closed state of the lid 50, and an antenna 53 for an IC tag reader. A warning lamp 37 is provided on the front face of the color developing tank to warn that the replenisher stored in the transport container is incompatible with the image forming apparatus.

  FIG. 2 shows a state in which the insertion port lid 50 is opened. The back surface of the lid 50 is provided with a packing that can seal the insertion port 51 in a state where the lid 50 is closed. Similarly, the other end of the hinge on the back surface of the lid 50 is provided with a claw, and the device portion corresponding to the claw is provided with an insertion hole into which the claw can be inserted when the lid 50 is closed. When inserted into the insertion hole, the claw is fixed by the lid lock mechanism 38, and the lid 50 is in a state where the insertion port 51 is sealed with packing. The lid lock mechanism 38 is provided with a sensor 52 that detects the open / closed state of the lid 50. When the lid is unlocked and the lid 50 is opened by manual operation, the sensor 52 sends an open signal to the control unit 100. A similar replenisher supply mechanism is also provided for the bleach-fix solution, the stabilizer, and the dilution water.

  By providing the lid lock mechanism and the warning light in this way, it is possible to prevent the replenisher that is not suitable for the image forming apparatus from being introduced. In addition, since the lid opening / closing sensor is provided, it is possible to detect the start and end timings of the replenisher supply operation. For this reason, even when the activity of the replenisher in the replenisher tank is changed due to the introduction of a new replenisher, the replenisher replenishment speed and pattern can be changed according to this timing.

  Next, FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the replenisher transport container 60. The replenisher container 60 shown in FIG. 3 is made of hard polyethylene, and has a handle 60 and a replenisher inlet 62 for carrying on the main body. The transport container may be of a type in which a refill solution is filled in a soft resin bag and the bag is stored in a paper carton. An IC tag 63, which is an example of a recording medium, is attached to the lower front surface of the inlet 62 of the transport container. When the replenisher is introduced into the replenisher tank 21, the IC tag 63 is attached to the reader unit 80. It approaches the antenna 53 and becomes communicable with the image forming apparatus.

  Here, a schematic diagram of the schematic configuration of the IC tag 63 and its reader unit 80 is shown in FIG. The IC tag 63 includes an antenna 71 and an IC chip 72. The IC chip 72 includes a communication unit 73, a control unit 74, and a memory 75, and communicates with the reader unit 80 wirelessly without contact. The coiled antenna 71 is connected to the communication unit 73 and receives drive power and transmits / receives signals by induced electromotive force. The communication unit 73 temporarily stores power and modulates and demodulates signals. The control unit 74 is connected to the communication unit 73 and the memory 75, and reads data from the memory according to the received command. The memory 75 stores information that can specify the model number of the replenisher, information that can specify the production lot, and information that can specify the activity or concentration of the replenisher.

  Here, the information that can specify the activity or liquid concentration of the replenisher is directly the activity and liquid concentration, but these are not included in the IC tag, but added to the model number of the replenisher, and the production lot Only the number and the code for identifying each transport container may be stored in the IC tag. In this case, the image forming apparatus may be able to obtain information on the activity and concentration of the replenisher to be added from the production lot number and the like via a support server on the Internet. In this case, the manufacturing lot number of the replenisher, the code for identifying each transport container, and the like become information that can specify the activity or concentration of the replenisher.

  In this way, when charging the replenisher, the information about the replenisher stored in the transport container can be read from the IC tag attached to the transport container. Whether the image forming apparatus is compatible or incompatible can be determined. Further, since information that can specify the activity or concentration of the replenisher can be obtained, the supply pattern and speed of the replenisher to the treatment tank can be calculated based on this information.

  The IC tag 63 is not particularly limited as long as the replenisher information is written and can be read out. For example, the selection may be made as appropriate according to the size and communication format of the IC tag 63, whether or not the power battery is built in, the mounting position of the IC tag 63, and the antenna mounting position and distance of the image forming apparatus. It is preferable that the communicable distance can be detected when the transport container is brought within about 1 to 2 m from the antenna 53. If it can be detected too far, it may occur that the replenisher that is about to be poured into the replenishment tank cannot be distinguished from other stock replenishers. To prevent misrecognition due to an empty transport container, when the replenisher is put into the replenisher tank, it is stored in the IC tag in conjunction with the rise in the liquid surface position due to the addition of the replenisher and the closing operation. It is preferable to erase the replenisher information and write used information. Further, a history table regarding the replenisher used on the apparatus side may be prepared, and malfunctions may be prevented while referring to it.

  In addition to the above, information such as a processing solution name, a target photosensitive material code, a target image forming apparatus code, a target replenisher tank code, and the like may be written in the memory of the IC tag 63. Good. In addition, it is preferable that these pieces of information are encrypted from the viewpoint of product information protection. It is also preferable to use an overwrite-type IC tag so that a read / write history can be retained.

  Note that what can be used as a recording medium is not limited to the IC tag having the above wireless function. For example, a contact-type IC tag may be used to transfer information by connecting a predetermined circuit terminal when supplying the replenisher. A two-dimensional code may be used. The two-dimensional code is a code having information in the horizontal and vertical directions, that is, in the two-dimensional direction. Two-dimensional codes are preferred because they are more resistant to dirt than barcodes and can increase the amount of information, and are less expensive than IC tags but are less expensive. In this case, a two-dimensional code CCD reader or scanner is used as the reader.

  The reader unit 80 includes a communication unit 82 and a control unit 83, and reads replenisher information from the IC tag 63 via the antenna 53. The communication unit 82 is connected to the antenna 53 and the control unit 83, modulates and demodulates signals to be transmitted and received under the control of the control unit 83, and exchanges signals with the IC tag 63. Further, power is supplied to the IC tag 63. The control unit 83 controls the entire reader unit 80, and transmits the data to the IC tag 63 and sends the received data to other parts of the control unit 100 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to a predetermined procedure. Other functions of the reader unit 80 will be described later.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a portion related to the replenisher supply mechanism in the control unit 100 of the image forming apparatus 1. In addition to these, the control unit 100 includes a part that controls the operation of the other parts of the exposure unit 10 and the development unit 20, but a description thereof will be omitted.

  The control unit 100 includes four liquid level sensors and floats (for example, 54 and 55) provided in the four replenisher tanks 21 to 24, and three types of replenisher and dilution water inlets (for example, 51). Four lid lock mechanisms (for example, 38) and lid opening / closing sensors (for example, 52), four antennas (for example, 53) provided for each type of replenisher, and four metering pumps (for example, 25) for transferring replenisher Is connected. However, since the operation is independent for each type of replenisher, in FIG. 5, for simplicity, a case where each of these is one color developer is shown in a simplified manner. The following description is based on the simplified FIG. 5, but the same applies to processing solutions other than the color developer. In addition to the above, the control unit 100 is connected to an input device 111 that receives an operation input of the image forming apparatus, a display 110 that displays the operation status of the apparatus, and a warning lamp 37 that warns when the replenisher is incompatible. .

  The control unit 100 includes a lid opening / closing detection unit 101, a liquid level warning unit 102, a liquid level detection unit 103, a reader unit 80, a supply amount calculation unit 104, a supply control unit 105, a replenishment liquid table 106, a communication unit 107, and a compatibility determination. Part 108 is provided.

  The lid opening / closing detection unit 101 detects the opening / closing of the lid 50 of the replenisher tank 21 via the lid opening / closing sensor 52. When the lid 50 changes from the closed state to the open state, a signal to that effect is sent to the liquid amount detection unit 103. Further, even when the lid 50 is changed from the open state to the closed state, a signal to that effect is sent to the liquid amount detection unit 103. This is because the transition timing to the open state of the lid can be determined as the timing when the supply of the replenisher is started, and the transition timing to the closed state of the lid can be determined as the timing at which the charging of the replenisher is completed. This is because the operation of the liquid amount detection unit 103 is switched. Thus, since the opening / closing of the lid is detected and the timing at which a new replenisher is introduced is determined, the supply amount of the replenisher to the treatment tank can be switched using this timing.

  In order to detect the timing when the replenisher is introduced, the rise of the liquid level in the replenisher tank and the stop of the rise may be detected instead of opening and closing the lid. In this case, the lid open / close sensor is not required, but the operator may supply one replenisher in two or more times or may supply two types of replenisher at a time. When the replenisher information of the IC tag 63 is constantly monitored and the transport container is separated from the antenna and cannot be read from the IC tag 63 or when different replenisher information is read, the liquid surface position up to that point The amount of the replenisher supplied to the processing tank may be calculated by combining the above data, the data of the subsequent liquid surface position, and the replenisher information read out respectively. Therefore, in this case, the readable distance of the antenna 53 is preferably relatively short, such as several tens of centimeters. In addition, since the liquid level may rise or stop when judging whether the liquid level rises or not, a suitable elapsed time that the fluctuation is considered to be contained is left, or a time average based on a certain time is used. do it.

  Here, the transition of the lid 50 to the closed state, the detection of the rise and stop of the liquid level are examples of the return operation of the replenisher tank 21 to the normal operation state. It is not limited to this. For example, when opening the front door at the place where the replenisher tank is stored when the replenisher is introduced, the operation in which the front door is closed again may be the return operation. In addition, in the image forming apparatus in which the operator pulls out the replenisher tank toward the front side when the replenisher is introduced, the operation in which the replenisher tank drawn out is pushed into the original position may be the return operation. Further, the return operation may be performed when an input indicating that the replenishment operation is completed is input from the input device after the start of the replenishment operation is detected by some means. In this case, on the display of the image forming apparatus, a warning display indicating that the replenishment operation has been performed is displayed upon detection of the start of replenishment, and the warning is not erased unless an input indicating the completion is made. Is desirable. Also, using a transport container filled with a refill solution in a soft resin bag and wrapped in a paper carton, the bag is automatically broken with a predetermined needle or blade, or opened to refill the refill solution. A mechanism for supplying the replenisher to the tank may be provided, and the bag opening operation or the lid opening operation may be performed as a return operation. In any case, an operation for returning the entire apparatus including the replenisher tank and the liquid surface position to a state where normal operation can be continued may be referred to as a return operation.

  During the normal operation, the liquid level warning unit 102 detects that the liquid level position 56 of the replenishment liquid tank 21 that is regularly monitored by the liquid level detection unit 103 falls below a certain level, When the charging is necessary, a predetermined warning display is displayed on the display 110.

  The liquid amount detection unit 103 measures the liquid level sensor 54 of the replenishment liquid tank 21 at regular intervals, and when the liquid level position 56 of the replenishment liquid tank 21 falls below a predetermined level, the liquid amount warning unit 102 Then, a predetermined warning screen for prompting replenishment of the replenisher is displayed. Further, when a signal indicating that the lid 50 has been opened is received from the lid opening / closing detection unit 101, it can be determined that the replenishment operation of the replenisher has started, so the liquid level position of the liquid surface 56 of the replenisher tank 21 is measured. Also, an operation start signal is sent to the reader unit 80. On the other hand, when a signal indicating that the lid 50 is closed is received from the lid opening / closing detection unit 101, it can be determined that the replenishment operation of the replenisher has been completed. Therefore, the first liquid level measurement data when the lid 50 is opened and the lid 50 are closed. The last measurement data immediately before is sent to the supply amount calculation unit 104.

  Thus, since the first and last two measurement data from when the lid 50 is opened to when the lid 50 is closed are obtained, the amount of the replenisher that has been put into the replenisher tank and the absolute amount of the replenisher after the addition are obtained. . Using this data and the activity or liquid concentration data obtained from the IC tag, the amount of replenisher supplied to the treatment tank can be determined.

  The reader unit 80 communicates with the IC tag via the antenna 53 and acquires replenisher information stored in the IC tag. The reader unit 80 starts an IC tag detection operation by energizing the antenna 53 in response to an operation start signal from the liquid amount detection unit 103 or a start input of a replenishment liquid charging operation from the input device 111. The energization of the antenna 53 is stopped by the end of. When the reader unit 80 detects the IC tag, it transmits a replenisher information read command to the IC tag. When the replenisher information is received, information that can identify the model number of the replenisher is sent to the compatibility determination unit 108. Also, information that can specify the activity or concentration of the replenisher is sent to the supply amount calculation unit 104.

  The supply amount calculation unit 104 sends the first liquid level measurement data when the lid 50 is opened and the last measurement data immediately before the lid 50 is opened from the liquid amount detection unit 103, and the replenishment liquid data is sent from the reader unit 80. Then, the supply amount of the replenisher is calculated and the result is sent to the supply control unit 105. The calculation is performed as follows. First, the amount of the replenisher liquid charged into the replenisher tank and the total amount of the replenisher after replenishment are obtained from a predetermined calculation formula using the liquid volume measurement data and the replenisher liquid data. Next, using this liquid amount data, the activity data calculated at the time of the replenishment liquid input last time, and the activity data of the newly added replenishment liquid obtained from the reader unit 80, the processing liquid is calculated from a predetermined calculation formula. The amount of replenisher supplied to the tank 30 is calculated. Although a specific calculation method is arbitrary, in this example, it is as follows. In order to simplify the calculation, first, an activity code is set in 11 stages from -10 to 10 as activity information read from the IC tag. In addition, from the standard activity and the normal one-time input amount of replenisher, a formula for calculating the standard supply amount in consideration of the amount of liquid in the treatment tank and the activity assumed at the time of calculation is obtained in advance. As the activity code increases or decreases by 1, the table is managed so that the supply amount is increased or decreased at a rate of 10 cc / square meter. Here, the square meter is the area of the exposed portion of the photosensitive material processed in the color developing tank. Of course, it is needless to say that the replenishment amount may be calculated using both the replenisher information and the liquid amount information, instead of using such a standard supply amount.

  Thus, since the calculation of the supply amount is started by the end of the charging into the replenisher tank and the data is sent to the supply control unit 105, at the timing when the activity in the replenisher tank changes due to the end of the charging, It becomes possible to change the supply amount of the replenisher supplied to the treatment tank. Further, since the replenisher is supplied according to the exposure area of the photosensitive material to be color-developed, the activity in the processing tank is stabilized. Furthermore, the supply amount of the replenisher can be changed to reflect the variation in the activity of the newly added replenisher.

  The supply control unit 105 obtains the exposure area of the exposed photosensitive material sent to the color developing tank from the control data of the exposure unit 10 and drives the metering pump 25 with the supply amount obtained by the supply amount calculation unit 104. Then, an amount of replenisher corresponding to the exposure area is supplied to the color developing tank 30. In addition, when new supply amount data is sent from the supply amount calculation unit 104, the supply control unit 105 immediately switches to the new supply amount and drives the metering pump 25. In this case, instead of immediately switching the supply amount, a certain waiting time for making the replenisher in the replenisher tank uniform may be provided.

  As described above, since the replenisher in an amount corresponding to the amount consumed by the photosensitive material put in the color developing tank is supplied to the processing tank at any time along with the development processing, the activity of the liquid in the processing tank is increased. This stabilizes the quality of the image formed. Further, since the supply amount is switched in accordance with the replenisher supply timing, the variation in the activity of the replenisher does not affect the activity of the processing tank. As a result, a replenisher whose activity varies from that in the past can be used in the image forming apparatus, so that it is possible to allow a relatively wide variation in activity during the manufacture and shipment of the replenisher.

  When the compatibility determination unit 108 receives information from the reader unit 80 that can specify the model number of the replenisher to be newly introduced, it checks this with the replenisher table 106. The replenisher table 106 stores model numbers of replenishers that can be used in the image forming apparatus 1. When the model number of the replenisher to be newly added does not correspond to these, a warning lamp 37 indicating that it is not compatible is turned on. On the other hand, when the model number matches the model number of the replenishing liquid table 106, the warning lamp 37 is not turned on or turned off. Further, the lid locking mechanism 38 is released so that the operator can open the lid 50. By doing so, it is possible to prevent an error in supplying a replenisher that is not suitable for the image forming apparatus.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the communication unit 107 communicates with an external support server 120 provided on the Internet 130. The support server 120 sends new data or a program to the image forming apparatus via the Internet when the operation program of the image forming apparatus is improved or the model number of the replenisher that can be used is increased or decreased. The unit 107 receives this and stores or installs it in a predetermined location. When the change data of the usable replenisher model number is received, the replenisher table 106 is updated. Thereby, since the model number information of the replenisher that can be used is constantly updated, no problem occurs even if the model number is increased or changed.

  Here, in the case of a special treatment liquid whose activity is likely to change due to changes over time, the manufacturing date information is included in the replenishing liquid information, or the manufacturing date information is obtained via the communication unit 107. Based on the above, the supply amount of the replenisher to the treatment tank may be changed.

  Next, a flow of a series of processes relating to charging of the replenisher will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, when the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 is started, the flow of FIG. 7 is also started. First, it is determined whether or not an input for supplying the replenisher is made from the input device 111 (step S005). This is the case when a new replenisher is to be added to fill the replenisher tank, even when the replenisher is still in the replenisher tank, but you want to perform unattended operation for a long time after that. It is a step for. If no input is made, the flow branches downward from step S005, the liquid level detection unit 103 measures the liquid level position 56 using the liquid level sensor 54, and whether or not the level is below the minimum level that needs to be replenished. Judgment is made (step S010). If the liquid level is not lowered, the flow branches left from step S010 and returns to step S005. Hereinafter, the standby state in which these steps are repeated is continued until either S005 step or S010 step is satisfied.

  When an input for replenishment is made in step S005, the flow branches to the right and proceeds to step S020. When a drop in the liquid level is detected in step S010, the flow branches downward and the liquid level warning unit 102 displays a predetermined warning screen for prompting the replenisher to be introduced on the display 110, and the process proceeds to step S020. To do.

  In step S020, the reader unit 80 energizes the antenna 53 (step S020), and enters a standby state waiting for the approach of the IC tag (step S025). When the IC tag is detected, the flow branches downward from step S025, and the compatibility determination unit 108 determines whether or not the model number of the replenisher filled in the transport container is compatible with the image forming apparatus 1 ( Step S030). If not, the flow branches to the right from step S030 to turn on a warning light indicating that the replenisher is not compatible (step S035), and then proceeds to step S025 to step S025 until a compatible replenisher approaches. To repeat S035 step. If it is determined in step S030 that the model number is suitable, the flow branches downward and the lid lock mechanism 38 is released (step S040). Further, when the warning light 37 is lit, it is turned off.

  Subsequently, the flow moves to step S045 and enters a standby state where the corresponding replenisher tank lid is opened (step S045). If the lid is opened, the flow branches downward from step S045, and the liquid level detector 103 measures the liquid level using the liquid level sensor in the replenisher tank (step S050). It is determined whether or not it has been closed (step S055). The flow repeats steps S050 and S055 until the lid is closed. Thus, as long as the lid is open, the liquid amount detection unit 103 repeats the measurement of the liquid surface position. When it is detected in step S055 that the lid is closed, the flow branches downward, and the liquid amount detection unit 103 detects the first liquid level measurement data when the lid is opened and the last measurement immediately before the lid is closed. The data is confirmed and sent to the supply amount calculation unit 104 (step S060). Subsequently, the supply amount calculation unit 104 calculates the new supply amount of the replenisher using the measurement data and the activity data of the replenisher sent to the reader unit 80 and sends it to the supply controller 105 ( S065 step). The supply control unit 105 appropriately changes the discharge amount or operation time of the metering pump 25 using the new supply amount data (step S070), and the flow ends.

  In this way, it is possible for the operator to replenish the replenisher as necessary, or to replenish the replenisher by warning the decrease of the replenisher in the replenisher tank. Even if the activity of the replenisher varies, it is possible to absorb the variation and form a stable quality image. As a result, the range of allowable variations in the manufacturing standard for the replenisher can be set relatively wide, and the management cost in the manufacture of the replenisher can be reduced.

  In this example, the variation in the characteristics of the replenisher is absorbed by the difference in the amount supplied from the replenisher tank to the processing tank, but the exposure amount may be adjusted instead of the supply amount. In addition, it may be prepared in two stages of supply amount and exposure amount. If the variation is small, only one of the supply amount or exposure amount is prepared, and if the variation is large, both are prepared. Also good.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic internal structure of an example of an image forming apparatus. It is the schematic diagram which showed schematic structure of the B-B 'cross section of the apparatus of FIG. It is the figure which showed the example of the conveyance container of a replenishment liquid. It is the schematic diagram which showed schematic structure of the IC tag and the reader part. It is the block diagram which showed the outline | summary of the part regarding the replenishment liquid injection | pouring of a control part. It is the conceptual diagram which showed the example of a connection with a support server. It is a schematic flowchart of the process regarding injection | throwing-in of replenisher.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 10 Exposure part 11 Center cylinder 12 Silver halide photosensitive material 15 LED
16 Support base 17 Exposure drum 18 Accumulation mechanism 20 Developing section 21 Color developer replenisher tank 22 Bleach fixer replenisher tank 23 Stabilizer replenisher tank 24 Water tank 25-28 Metering pump 30 Color developer tank 31 Bleach fixing Tank 32 First Stabilizing Tank 33 Second Stabilizing Tank 34 Third Stabilizing Tank 35 Conveying Mechanism 36 Color Developer 37 Warning Lamp 38 Cover Locking Mechanism 39 Overflow 40 Drying Unit 41 Blower 42 Discharge Port 50 Lid 51 Input Port 52 Lid Open / Close Sensor 53 Antenna 54 Float type liquid level sensor 55 Float 56 Liquid level 57 Exit line 58 Entrance line 59 Hinge 60 Handle 60 Transport container 62 Inlet 63 IC tag 71 Antenna 72 IC chip 73 Communication unit 74 Control unit 75 Memory 80 Reader unit 82 Communication unit 83 IC Tag Control Unit 100 Image Forming Apparatus Control Unit 101 Lid opening / closing detection unit 102 Liquid level warning unit 103 Liquid level detection unit 104 Supply amount calculation unit 105 Supply control unit 106 Replenishment liquid table 107 Communication unit 108 Compatibility determination unit 110 Display 111 Input device 120 Support server 130 Internet

Claims (15)

  An image forming apparatus that forms an image by processing an exposed photosensitive material in a processing tank in which a processing solution is stored, the supply unit supplying a replenishing solution for the processing solution to the processing tank, and transporting the replenishing solution An image forming apparatus comprising: a reading unit that reads replenisher information of a recording medium attached to a container, and the supply unit adjusts the supply of the replenisher based on the read replenisher information.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the replenisher information is information that can specify an activity or a liquid concentration of a replenisher stored in the transport container.   The replenishing liquid supply means includes a replenishing liquid tank that stores the replenishing liquid, and the replenishing liquid tank includes a sensor that detects the amount of the replenishing liquid. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a calculation unit that calculates a supply amount of the replenisher liquid to the processing tank from the liquid amount.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a detecting unit that detects charging of the replenishing liquid into the replenishing liquid tank, and the supply amount is switched after the charging is detected.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the charging is detected by a return operation of the replenisher tank.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the charging is detected by stopping the rise of the liquid level in the replenisher tank.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the input is detected by inputting a replenishment end signal.   5. The apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a lid opening means or a bag breaking means for the transport container, wherein the charging is detected by performing an opening operation by the lid opening means or a bag breaking action by the bag breaking means. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.   A replenisher table storing data for specifying replenishers that can be used as a replenisher for the treatment liquid, and comparing the read replenisher information with the data stored in the replenisher table to carry the transport The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a determination unit that determines whether the replenisher stored in the container is appropriate.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording medium is an IC tag, and the reading unit is a reader of the IC tag.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the IC tag is a non-contact IC tag having a wireless function.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording medium is a two-dimensional code, and the reading unit is a two-dimensional code reader.   13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a communication unit connected to a network and capable of communicating with a support server on the network.   The replenisher information includes information that can identify a production lot of a replenisher stored in the transport container, and the information that can identify the production lot from the support server via the communication means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising an information obtaining unit that obtains information capable of specifying a degree of activity or a liquid concentration. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the replenishing liquid table includes an updating unit that is updated by communication with the support server.

Images