JP2005007597A - Image forming apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain an image forming apparatus in which a sheet subjected to image forming can be discharged, as it is, when an unreasonable postprocessing exceeding the postprocessing capacity is requested, and a postprocessing means can be protected against an unreasonable postprocessing request. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus comprises a means 14 being operated to select sheet type/weight information D1 and a postprocessing mode, units 10Y, 10M, 10C and 10K for forming an image on a sheet of desired thickness selected by the operating means 14, a means O for postprocessing a sheet on which an image is formed by the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C and 10K, and a control means 15 for calculating the number of sheets to be post-processed based on the postprocessing node and the sheet type/weight information selected by the operating means 14, comparing the number of sheets to be post-processed with the number of sheets being transferred from the image forming apparatus body 101 to a postprocessing means 70 and making a decision whether the postprocessing mode is performed or not based on the comparison results. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a color printer or copying machine that forms an image on a sheet of a desired thickness in an image forming system based on arbitrary image information, and then performs post-processing in a post-processing mode in a post-processing system. The present invention relates to an image forming processing apparatus and an image forming processing method that are suitable for application to a multifunction machine or the like.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, tandem type color printers, copiers, and complex machines of these are often used. In these color image forming apparatuses, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (BK) exposure means, a developing device, a photosensitive drum, an intermediate transfer belt, and a fixing device are provided. I have.
[0003]
For example, the Y-color exposure means draws an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum based on arbitrary image information. In the developing device, a color toner image is formed by attaching a Y-color toner to the electrostatic latent image drawn on the photosensitive drum. The photosensitive drum transfers the toner image to the intermediate transfer belt. Similar processing is performed for the other M, C, and BK colors. The color toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt is transferred to a sheet and then fixed by a fixing device.
[0004]
A post-processing device is combined with such a color image forming apparatus to form an image on a sheet having a desired thickness, and then, for example, punch processing, Z-fold processing, half-fold processing, and stapling processing are performed based on the post-processing mode. It is conceivable that a post-processing mode such as. When post-processing is required for such paper after image formation, a method of accepting an image formation request and setting image formation conditions such as the thickness of paper that can be selected from the paper feed tray and the number of sheets that can be processed thereafter is adopted. It is done.
[0005]
Regarding this type of paper feed tray, Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus. According to this image forming apparatus, the manufacturer's model number and the amount of paper loaded for each paper feed tray are set, and the image forming conditions are changed based on the manufacturer's model number and the amount of paper of these papers.
[0006]
Patent Document 2 discloses a method for displaying an operation unit of a copying machine. According to this operation unit display method, a setting screen that also serves as a touch panel is displayed on the display means, and an illustration including an arrangement of a plurality of paper feeding trays is displayed in the setting screen. Operated to select copy paper.
[0007]
Further, Patent Document 3 discloses another image forming apparatus. According to this image forming apparatus, a means for inputting paper type information is provided on the paper feed tray or in the vicinity of the mounting portion. When the paper is replaced or the paper is replenished, Species information is entered. The type of paper stored in the paper feed tray can be identified on the display screen.
[0008]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2003-84507 A
[Patent Document 2]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 06-035282 (second page, FIG. 1)
[Patent Document 3]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 07-125851 (second page, FIG. 6)
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the conventional image forming apparatus combined with the post-processing apparatus has the following problems.
(1) According to Patent Document 1, the amount of paper to be loaded is set for each paper feed tray, and the image forming conditions are changed based on this amount of paper. The concept of drought is treated as cardboard.
{Circle around (2)} Therefore, when the post-processing mode is executed based on such settings, the post-processing operation may be hindered depending on the amount of paper. For example, when thick paper that does not know the amount of paper is set in the paper feed tray, and the number of thick paper exceeding the post-processing function is transferred to the post-processing section, the post-processing mode can no longer be executed. . In addition to this, there is a concern that the post-processing means may become abnormal.
(3) Even if such a setting is possible, it is necessary for the user to set the amount of paper out of an enormous amount of paper types, and there is a possibility that the paper setting operation may be complicated for the user.
(4) Furthermore, the post-processing limit number in the post-processing apparatus can only be set for one type of post-processing, and it is not set optimally for each paper, such as setting it to the paper that is used frequently. Is the current situation.
(5) In addition, including Patent Documents 2 and 3, when an image forming processing system combining this type of image forming apparatus and an accounting apparatus is to be configured, image formation such as paper size, color / monochrome, etc. It is known to set a charging coefficient depending on conditions. However, at present, expensive coated paper or the like is charged as thick paper under uniform paper types and weighting conditions.
[0010]
Accordingly, the present invention solves the above-described problems, and allows an unprocessed sheet to be ejected as it is when there is an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming processing apparatus and an image forming processing method capable of protecting a post processing means from a post processing request.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above problems, an image forming processing apparatus according to the present invention is an apparatus that forms an image on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information, and then performs post-processing based on a post-processing mode. An operation unit that is operated to select sheet thickness information and a post-processing mode, an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet having a desired thickness selected by the operation unit, and the image forming unit The post-processing means that receives the transfer of the paper formed by the post-processing and the post-processing mode selected by the operation means and the thickness information of the paper are calculated, and the post-processing possible number and image formation are calculated. And a control means for comparing the number of sheets transferred from the means to the post-processing means and determining whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the comparison result.
[0012]
According to the image forming processing apparatus of the present invention, the operation unit is operated when an image is formed on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information and then post-processing is performed based on the post-processing mode. Then, the user selects the paper thickness information and the post-processing mode. The image forming unit forms an image on a sheet having a desired thickness selected by the operation unit. The post-processing means performs post-processing upon receiving the transfer of the paper formed by the image forming means. Based on this assumption, the control unit calculates the post-processable number of sheets from the post-processing mode selected by the operation unit and the sheet thickness information, and the post-processable number calculated here and the post-processing from the image forming unit The number of sheets transferred to the means is compared, and it is determined whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the comparison result.
[0013]
For example, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit exceeds the post-processing possible number, the control unit cancels the post-processing mode without executing the post-processing mode selected by the operation unit. Therefore, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit exceeds the number of post-processable sheets, a situation where the post-processing unit is forced to operate, for example, a sheet having a thickness exceeding the post-processing capability is forcibly stapled. It is possible to avoid situations such as saddle stitching, saddle stitching, center folding, and punching. As a result, the paper after the image forming process can be discharged without post-processing and maintaining the current state without waste. In addition, the post-processing means can be protected from an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability.
[0014]
The image forming processing method according to the present invention is a method in which an image is formed on a sheet having a desired thickness in an image forming system based on arbitrary image information, and then post-processing is performed in a post-processing system based on a post-processing mode. A plurality of post-processing modes and a plurality of paper thickness information applicable to the post-processing modes are prepared, and a reception process is performed so as to select a pre-prepared paper thickness information and a post-processing mode. The post-processable number of sheets is calculated from the post-processing mode selected here and the sheet thickness information, and the post-processable number of sheets calculated here and the number of sheets transferred from the image forming system to the post-processing system are calculated. A comparison is made, and whether or not the post-processing mode is executed is determined based on the comparison result.
[0015]
According to the image forming processing method of the present invention, when an image is formed on a sheet having a desired thickness on the basis of arbitrary image information and then post-processing is performed on the basis of the post-processing mode, the post-processing from the image forming system is performed. When the number of sheets transferred to the processing system exceeds the number of sheets that can be post-processed, a situation in which the post-processing system is forced to operate can be avoided. As a result, the paper after the image forming process can be discharged without post-processing and maintaining the current state without waste. In addition, the post-processing system can be protected from an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability.
[0016]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an image forming processing apparatus and an image forming processing method according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(1) First embodiment
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration example of a color image forming apparatus 100 with a post-processing function as each embodiment of the present invention.
In this embodiment, when an image is formed on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information and then post-processing is performed based on the post-processing mode, the number of post-processable sheets and the post-processing unit are changed from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit. Control means for determining whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the result of comparison with the number of sheets transferred to the printer, and the number of sheets transferred from the image forming means to the post-processing means In this case, the paper after the image forming process can be discharged without being post-processed while maintaining the current state, and the post-processing means can be protected from an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability. It is a thing.
[0017]
A color image forming apparatus 100 with a post-processing function shown in FIG. 1 constitutes an example of an image forming processing apparatus, and forms an image on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information. This is a device that performs post-processing based on the processing mode. The color image forming apparatus 100 includes a post-processing unit (post-processing system) 70, an image forming apparatus main body (image forming system) 101, and an image reading apparatus 102. The post-processing means 70 is an extension device (optional device).
[0018]
The image forming apparatus main body 101 is an example of an image forming unit, and an image reading apparatus 102 including an automatic document feeder 201 and a document image scanning exposure apparatus 202 is installed on the upper portion thereof. The document d placed on the document table of the automatic document feeder 201 is transported by a transport unit, and an image on one or both sides of the document is scanned and exposed by the optical system of the document image scanning exposure device 202 to reflect the document image. Incident light is read by the line image sensor CCD.
[0019]
The analog image signal photoelectrically converted by the line image sensor CCD is subjected to analog processing, A / D conversion, shading correction, image compression processing, and the like in an image processing unit (not shown) to become digital image information. The image information is sent to image writing units (exposure means) 3Y, 3M, 3C, and 3K constituting the image forming means.
[0020]
The automatic document feeder 201 described above is provided with automatic double-sided document conveying means. The automatic document feeder 201 reads the contents of a large number of documents d fed from the document placement table all at once and accumulates the document contents in a storage means (electronic RDH function). This electronic RDH function is conveniently used when copying the contents of a large number of originals with the copy function or when transmitting a large number of originals d with the facsimile function.
[0021]
The image forming apparatus main body 101 is called a tandem type color image forming apparatus. The image forming unit fixes a plurality of sets of image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K, an endless intermediate transfer belt 6, a sheet feeding / conveying unit including a refeeding mechanism (ADU mechanism), and a toner image. And a fixing device 17 for this purpose.
[0022]
An image forming unit 10Y for forming a yellow (Y) image includes a photosensitive drum 1Y for forming a Y-color toner image, and a Y-color charging unit 2Y disposed around the photosensitive drum 1Y. An exposure unit 3Y, a developing unit 4Y, and an image forming body cleaning unit 8Y are provided. An image forming unit 10M that forms a magenta (M) color image includes a photosensitive drum 1M that forms an M color toner image, an M color charging unit 2M, an exposure unit 3M, a developing unit 4M, and an image forming unit. Cleaning means 8M.
[0023]
An image forming unit 10C for forming a cyan (C) color image includes a photosensitive drum 1C for forming a C color toner image, a C charging unit 2C, an exposure unit 3C, a developing unit 4C, and an image forming unit. It has body cleaning means 8C. An image forming unit 10K that forms a black (BK) image includes a photosensitive drum 1K for forming a BK toner image, a charging unit 2K, an exposure unit 3K, a developing unit 4K, and an image forming unit for BK color. It has body cleaning means 8K.
[0024]
The charging unit 2Y and the exposure unit 3Y, the charging unit 2M and the exposure unit 3M, the charging unit 2C and the exposure unit 3C, and the charging unit 2K and the exposure unit 3K constitute a latent image forming unit. Development by the developing means 4Y, 4M, 4C, and 4K is performed by reversal development in which a developing bias in which an AC voltage is superimposed on a DC voltage having the same polarity (negative polarity in this embodiment) as the polarity of the toner to be used is applied. . The intermediate transfer belt 6 is wound around a plurality of rollers and is rotatably supported. Each of the Y, M, C, and BK colors formed on each of the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. A toner image is transferred.
[0025]
Here, an outline of the image forming process will be described below. Each color image formed by the image forming units 10 </ b> Y, 10 </ b> M, 10 </ b> C, and 10 </ b> K is subjected to primary transfer bias (not shown) having a polarity opposite to that of the toner to be used (positive polarity in this embodiment). The rollers 7Y, 7M, 7C, and 7K are sequentially transferred (primary transfer) onto the rotating intermediate transfer belt 6 to form a synthesized color image (color image: color toner image). The color image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 6 to the paper P.
[0026]
The paper P stored in the paper feed trays 20A, 20B, and 20C is fed by the feed roller 21 and the paper feed roller 22A provided in the paper feed trays 20A, 20B, and 20C, respectively, and the transport rollers 22B, 22C, and 22D, After passing through the registration roller 23 and the like, the sheet is conveyed to the secondary transfer roller 7A, and the color image is collectively transferred to one surface (front surface) on the paper P (secondary transfer).
[0027]
The paper P on which the color image has been transferred is fixed by the fixing device 17, is sandwiched between the paper discharge rollers 24, and is placed on a paper discharge tray 25 outside the apparatus. The transfer residual toner remaining on the peripheral surfaces of the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K after the transfer is cleaned by the image forming body cleaning units 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K, and enters the next image forming cycle.
[0028]
At the time of double-sided image formation, the paper P formed on one side (front surface) and discharged from the fixing device 17 is branched off from the sheet discharge path by the branching unit 26, and constitutes a sheet feeding and conveying unit. After passing through the circulation sheet passing path 27A, the front and back are reversed by a reversing conveyance path 27B which is a refeed mechanism (ADU mechanism), passes through the refeed conveyance section 27C, and merges at the sheet feeding roller 22D.
[0029]
The reversely conveyed sheet P is conveyed again to the secondary transfer roller 7A through the registration roller 23, and a color image (color toner image) is collectively transferred onto the other side (back side) of the sheet P. The paper P on which the color image has been transferred is fixed by the fixing device 17, is sandwiched between the paper discharge rollers 24, and is placed on a paper discharge tray 25 outside the apparatus. On the other hand, after the color image is transferred to the paper P by the secondary transfer roller 7A, the residual toner is removed by the intermediate transfer belt cleaning means 8A from the intermediate transfer belt 6 that has separated the curvature of the paper P.
[0030]
When these images are formed, the paper P is 52.3 to 63.9 kg / m. ² (1000 sheets) thin paper and 64.0-81.4kg / m ² (1000 sheets) plain paper, 83.0-130.0kg / m ² (1000 sheets) cardboard and 150.0kg / m ² Super thick paper (about 1000 sheets) is used. The thickness of the paper P (paper thickness) is about 0.05 to 0.15 mm.
[0031]
FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration example of the post-processing means 70. The post-processing means 70 shown in FIG. 2 is used in parallel with the image forming apparatus main body 101. The post-processing means 70 is composed of post-processing devices PZ and FS, for example. In this example, the post-processing device PZ has a paper feed port 76 and a paper discharge port 77. The paper feed port 76 of the post-processing device PZ is connected to the paper discharge port 25 ′ of the image forming apparatus main body 101. The post-processing device PZ takes the paper P after image formation from the paper feed port 76 based on the post-processing mode and punches holes at a predetermined position. Similarly, the post-processing device PZ removes the paper P after image formation. Z-folding processing means 72 that takes in and Z-folds based on the predetermined position is provided.
[0032]
A post-processing device FS is connected to the post-processing device PZ. The post-processing device FS has a paper feed port 78. The paper feed port 78 of the post-processing device FS is connected to the paper discharge port 77 of the post-processing device PZ. The post-processing device FS includes a paper inserter 40, a shift processing conveyance unit 42, a stacking unit 43, a middle folding processing unit 73, a staple (saddle stitching) processing unit 74, a paper discharge tray 81, a lift paper discharge tray 82, and a fixed paper discharge. A dish 83 is provided.
[0033]
A paper discharge tray 81 is provided above the post-processing device FS. In this example, the paper P after image formation whose post-processing mode is canceled passes through the post-processing device PZ as it is without being post-processed, and is discharged to the paper discharge tray 81. A paper inserter 40 is provided below the discharge tray 81, and an insert sheet K to be inserted into the sheet P after image formation is stacked based on the post-processing mode. A shift processing conveyance unit 42 is provided below the paper inserter 40, and the insert paper K, the paper P after image formation, and the like are taken in and shifted.
[0034]
A stacking unit 43 is provided below the shift processing conveyance unit 42. In the stacking unit 43, the insert sheets K, the sheets P, and the like that have been shifted by the shift processing transport unit 42 are stacked with their corners aligned so as to facilitate saddle stitching or end binding. A stapling processing unit 74 is provided below the stacking unit 43 so that the insert sheets K, the sheets P, and the like arranged in the stacking unit 43 are saddle-stitched or edge-bound (staple processing) based on the post-processing mode. .
[0035]
An elevating / discharging tray 82 is provided on the downstream side of the shift processing conveyance unit 42 described above, and discharges and stacks the image forming product subjected to the shift processing or stapling processing. The elevating / discharging tray 82 has a structure in which the discharge tray portion can be moved up and down. Below the staple processing means 74, a half-fold processing means 73 is provided so that the image-formed product after the staple processing is subjected to a half-fold process. This process is for enabling the image formed material to be read and opened based on the post-processing mode.
[0036]
Further, a fixed paper discharge tray 83 is provided on the downstream side of the center folding processing means 73 so that the stapled or center folded image formed product is discharged and stacked. Accordingly, the paper P after image formation can be punched, Z-folded, center-folded, and stapled based on the post-processing mode.
[0037]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system of the color image forming apparatus 100 with a post-processing function as the first embodiment according to the present invention.
A color image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 3 is an apparatus that forms an image on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information, and then performs post-processing based on a post-processing mode. The image forming apparatus main body 101 includes image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K, a control unit 15, a communication unit 19, an image processing unit 36, an image memory 37, an operation panel 48, a post-processing unit 70, and a document reading unit 102. Is done.
[0038]
The control unit 15 includes a nonvolatile memory 31, a memory 32 such as a ROM (Read only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 33. The nonvolatile memory 31 stores system program data for controlling the entire image forming apparatus. The nonvolatile memory 31 is provided with a punch mode, a Z-fold mode, a middle-fold mode, and a stipple mode as post-processing modes in advance, and a plurality of paper types / applicable to these post-processing modes. The amount information D1 is stored.
[0039]
A memory 32 such as a RAM is used as a work memory and temporarily stores control commands and the like, for example. When the power is turned on, the CPU 33 reads the system program data from the non-volatile memory 31 or the ROM (not shown), starts the system, and controls the entire image forming apparatus based on the operation data D3 from the operation means 14. The
[0040]
A document reading unit 102 is connected to the control unit 15 to read image information from the document d and generate an analog image signal. The document reading unit 102 performs analog / digital conversion processing or shading correction processing on this image signal, and then outputs R, G, B color image data R, G, B to the image memory 37 through the control means 15. To work. The image memory 37 temporarily stores the image data R, G, B after shading correction. For the image memory 37, a DRAM or a hard disk is used.
[0041]
The image processing means 36 inputs image data R, G, and B relating to the original d to determine the character area, photo area, and halftone area of the original d, or a chromatic or achromatic character image of the original d. The image processing is performed according to the photographic image and the halftone dot image. The image forming data Y, M, C, and BK after the image processing are temporarily stored in the image memory 37 (electronic RDH function).
[0042]
Further, the operation means 14 and the display means 18 are connected to the control means 15. For example, the operation means 14 is composed of a touch panel, and the display means 18 is composed of a liquid crystal display panel. In this example, a touch panel constituting the operation means 14 is combined with a liquid crystal display panel constituting the display means 18 to constitute a GUI (Graphical User Interface) type operation panel 48. Although not shown, the operation panel 48 is provided with a numeric keypad, a start key, a clear key, and the like.
[0043]
The operation panel 48 is operated so as to select the paper type / light amount information D1 as an example of the paper thickness information. In addition to the paper type / color amount information D1, a post-processing mode, a printing operation mode, and the like are also selected. The post-processing mode refers to an operation for post-processing the paper P after image formation. As the post-processing mode, a punch mode, a Z-fold mode, a stipple mode, and a middle-fold mode are prepared. The print operation mode refers to an image forming operation based on print data Din captured from an external device such as a personal computer.
[0044]
In this example, the display means 18 displays a plurality of paper type / color amount information D1 input from the operation panel 48 for each paper feed tray. In this example, the paper type / light amount information D1 is supplied from the control unit 15 to the display unit 18 together with the display data D2 of the operation screen expression. The display data D2 includes data for displaying the basic setting screen, data for displaying the paper type / basis amount setting screen, and data for displaying the stipple limit number screen. Based on these data, the display unit 18 displays a basic setting screen and a paper type / reel amount setting screen, and sets the paper type and reed amount when setting the post-processing mode, or post-processing means for each paper type and reed amount depending on the limited number of sheets. 70 can be controlled.
[0045]
The control unit 15 calculates the post-processable number of sheets from the post-processing mode selected by the operation panel 48 and the paper type / gravity amount information D1, and transfers the post-processable number of sheets and the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70. Compare the number of sheets. In the comparison process, the control unit 15 refers to the post-processing request number input by operating the operation panel 48 in advance regarding the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70.
[0046]
The control means 15 determines whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the comparison result. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this. The amount of paper P is displayed on the tray selection setting screen of the operation panel 48, and it is determined whether or not post-processing is possible when designation of the post-processing number of one unit is received. You may do it.
[0047]
In the control unit 15, for example, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70 exceeds the post-processing possible number, the post-processing unit is configured to cancel the post-processing mode selected by the operation panel 48. 70 is controlled. Further, the above-mentioned display means 18 displays a warning indicating that “post-processing is not possible” when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing means 70 exceeds the post-processable number. This is to inform the user that an image forming job exceeding the post-processing capability has been given.
[0048]
Further, the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K shown in FIG. 6 are connected to the control means 15 and operate to form a document image based on the contents set by the operation panel 48. For example, the control unit 15 controls the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K so as to form an image on a sheet having a desired thickness selected by the operation panel 48. The control unit 15 outputs the image forming data Y for Y color to the image forming unit 10Y, outputs the image forming data M for M color to the image forming unit 10M, and forms the image for C color to the image forming unit 10C. Data C is output, BK color image formation data K is output to the image forming unit 10K, and a color image is formed on the paper P.
[0049]
In addition to the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K, the control unit 15 is connected with a communication unit 19 and a sheet feeding unit 30. The communication means 19 is connected to a communication line such as a LAN, and is used when communicating with an external computer or the like. When the color image forming apparatus 100 is used as a printer, the communication means 19 is used to receive print data Din from an external computer in the print operation mode.
[0050]
The sheet feeding means 30 is composed of the sheet feeding trays 20A, 20B, and 20C shown in FIG. 1, and the control means 15 controls the sheet feeding means 30 based on the sheet feeding control signal S3 in the print operation mode. For example, the sheet feeding unit 30 drives the feed roller 21 and the sheet feeding roller 22A provided in the sheet feeding tray 20A to feed out the paper P stored in the sheet feeding tray 20A and feed it to the image forming unit 39. Made. The paper feed control signal S3 is supplied from the control means 15 to the paper feed means 30.
[0051]
A sheet P having a desired thickness is set in the plurality of sheet feeding trays 20A, 20B, and 20C. The paper type / foam amount information D1 set in these paper feed trays 20A, 20B, and 20C is set by performing an input operation on the operation panel 48. In this example, both the paper type for which the input operation is set and the amount information D1 are displayed on the display unit 18 described above for each paper feed tray on the operation screen that is normally used.
[0052]
As a result, it is possible to set the paper type and amount of paper P to be loaded for each paper feed tray. Note that a means for setting the limit number of sheets in the post-processing means 70 may be separately provided for each paper type, or the amount of paper or a combination of paper types and amounts of paper. When performing post-processing such as stapling or saddle stitching, the control unit 15 can perform control using the limit number condition set by the limit number setting unit.
[0053]
In this example, a post-processing unit 70 is connected to the image forming apparatus main body 101 and receives post-image-formed paper P formed by the image forming apparatus main body 101 for post-processing. The post-processing unit 70 includes a punch processing unit 71, a Z-fold processing unit 72, a middle folding processing unit 73, a staple processing unit 74, and a post-processing control unit 75.
[0054]
The post-processing control unit 75 and the control unit 15 in the image forming apparatus main body 101 are connected by a communication cable based on a communication protocol such as RS231C, for example, and communication processing is performed between the post-processing control unit 75 and the control unit 15. To do. For example, the control unit 15 outputs a post-processing control signal S1 that permits the post-processing mode to the post-processing control unit 75 or cancels the post-processing mode.
[0055]
The post-processing control unit 75 is connected to punch processing means 71, Z-fold processing means 72, center-fold processing means 73, and stipple processing means 74. The punch processing unit 71 executes punch processing based on the punch control signal S11 in the punch mode. The Z-fold processing means 72 executes Z-fold processing based on the Z-fold control signal S12 in the Z-fold mode. The middle folding processing means 73 executes the middle folding process based on the middle folding control signal S13 in the middle folding mode. The stipple processing means 74 executes stipple processing based on the stipple control signal S12 in the stipple mode.
[0056]
Each of the control signals S11 to S14 is generated by the post-processing control unit 75 based on the post-processing control signal S1 and the post-processing mode. The control signal S11 is output from the post-processing control unit 75 to the punch processing unit 71. Similarly, the control signal S12 is output to the Z-folding processing unit 72, and the control signal S13 is output to the middle-folding processing unit 73. S14 is output to the stipple processing means 74, respectively. Accordingly, the paper P after image formation can be punched, Z-folded, center-folded, and stapled based on the post-processing mode.
[0057]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a display example of the basic setting screen P1 in the image forming apparatus main body 101. The basic setting screen P1 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display means 18 when, for example, “Copy” is selected on a menu screen (not shown). The basic setting screen P1 includes a message area AR1, a status icon display area AR2, a number display area AR3, various icon display areas AR4, a remaining memory area AR5, a folder button area AR6, and a screen setting display area AR7.
[0058]
In the message area AR1, a message such as “Can make a copy reservation”, “Can make a copy reservation, please press“ Free JOB ”” is displayed. An “application setting” icon is displayed in the screen setting display area AR7. The “applied setting” icon is provided with keys K1 to K5 such as “image quality adjustment”, “original setting”, “applied function”, “automatic image rotation cancellation”, “original reading”, and the like. The user can select various keys K1 to K5 from the “application setting” icon at the time of copy reservation.
[0059]
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a display example of the paper type / foam amount setting screen P2 in the image forming apparatus main body 101. For example, when the “applied function” key K3 and the start key on the operation panel 48 (not shown) are simultaneously pressed on the basic setting screen P1, the paper type / reel amount setting screen P2 shown in FIG. The display is switched to the paper type / reel amount setting screen P2.
[0060]
Messages such as “paper type / special size setting” and “select paper type for each tray” are displayed on the paper type / raw weight setting screen P2. Below the screen setting display area AR7, “special size setting”, “cancel” and “OK” keys K6 to K8 are displayed. In this example, when the “special size setting” key K6 is pressed, a pop-up screen P21 indicating “paper type” is displayed in the screen setting display area AR7. The pop-up screen P21 displays “plain paper” for each paper feed tray. “1”, “plain paper 5”, “plain paper 2”, and “recycled paper 3” are displayed. In this example, there are four paper feed trays. In this pop-up screen P21, “tray 1” is “plain paper weight 1”, “tray 2” is “plain paper weight 5”, “tray 3” is “plain paper weight 2”, and “tray 4” is “recycled paper weight”. 3 "is set.
[0061]
A paper type selection screen P22 is displayed on the right side of the pop-up screen P21. On the paper type selection screen P22, “plain paper”, “recycled paper”, “colored paper”, “quality paper”, “user paper”, “index paper”, “exclusive paper A”, “exclusive paper B”, “exclusive paper” “Paper C” and “dedicated paper D” are displayed.
[0062]
A paper amount selection screen P23 is displayed on the right side of the paper type selection screen P22. On the paper amount selection screen P23, the amount of paper P (unit: g / mm) for each paper feed tray ² ) Is displayed. “64-74” is displayed in “Paper amount selection 1”, “75-79” is displayed in “Paper amount selection 2”, and “80-105” is displayed in “Paper amount selection 3”. “106 to 162” is displayed in “paper amount selection 4”, and “163 to 209” is displayed in “paper amount selection 5”.
[0063]
In this example, the “plain paper” icon whose display color is changed to “black” is selected. In this way, when the amount of paper P is divided from the paper type classification and a new item of paper P is provided, a simple operation is performed for each paper feed tray on the paper type / weight setting screen P2 when the post-processing mode is set. In addition, finer paper settings can be made. The post-processing conditions set on the paper type / basis amount setting screen P22 are stored in the non-volatile memory 31, and are used when the CPU 33 determines the post-processing conditions. In this example, the post-processing conditions are changed on the paper type / basis amount setting screen P2.
[0064]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display example of the stipple limit number screen P3. On the stipple limit number screen P3, the message area AR1 displays “stipple limit number (paper amount 64 to 80 g paper) 50 50 (2 to 50 sheets)”. This message is a case where the staple mode is selected as the post-processing mode, 80 g / mm 2 is selected as the amount of paper P, and the post-processing limit sheet number is set to 50 sheets.
[0065]
Below the screen setting display area AR7, “next item”, “previous item” and “previous screen” keys K9 to K11, “setting” key K12, and numeric keys “0” to “9” are displayed. . On the stipple limit number screen P3, the limit number in the stipple mode can be confirmed or set for each amount.
[0066]
Next, the first image forming processing method according to the present invention will be described. 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing processing examples (Nos. 1 and 2) in the color image forming apparatus 100, respectively.
In this embodiment, an image is formed on a sheet P having a desired thickness by an image forming apparatus main body (image forming system) 101 based on arbitrary image information, and then a post-processing mode (post-processing system) 70 performs a post-processing mode. It is assumed that post-processing is performed based on the above. As the post-processing mode, a punch mode, a Z-fold mode, a middle-fold mode, and a stipple mode are prepared in advance, and a plurality of paper type / foam amount information D1 applicable to these post-processing modes is stored in the nonvolatile memory 31 in advance. Be prepared.
[0067]
In this example, the flowchart is roughly divided into two, and when these are block # 1 and # 2, block # 1 acquires the post-processing mode and the post-processing limit number set according to the amount of drought. In block # 2, the current sheet supply number is compared with the post-processing limit sheet number. If the sheet supply number exceeds the post-processing limit sheet number, a case where the post-processing mode is canceled will be described as an example.
[0068]
With this as a processing condition, an image formation request is waited at step A1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. Here, the image formation request from the user is input to the CPU 33 through the operation panel 48 of the image forming apparatus main body 101. When there is an image formation request from the user, the process proceeds to step A2. In this example, in step A2 to step A9, that is, in block # 1, the reception process is performed so as to select the paper type / light amount information D1 and the post-processing mode prepared in advance. For example, it is determined whether or not the staple mode is selected in step A2. When the staple mode is selected, the process proceeds to step A3. In step A <b> 3, the CPU 33 calculates the stapling possible number from the stapling mode and the paper type / waist amount information D <b> 1, and acquires the stapling limit number for each paper amount.
[0069]
When the staple limit number is acquired and when the stapling mode is not selected in step A2, the process proceeds to step A4. In step A4, the CPU 33 determines whether the saddle stitching mode is selected. When the saddle stitching mode is selected, the process proceeds to step A5. In step A <b> 5, the CPU 33 calculates the saddle stitchable number of sheets from the saddle stitching mode and the paper type / sheet quantity information D <b> 1, and obtains the saddle stitch limit number for each sheet P quantity.
[0070]
When the saddle stitching limit number is acquired and when the saddle stitching mode is not selected in step A4, the process proceeds to step A6. In step A6, the CPU 33 determines whether the half-fold mode has been selected. If the middle folding mode is selected, the process proceeds to step A7. In step A <b> 7, the CPU 33 calculates the number of sheets that can be folded halfway from the folding mode and the paper type / folding amount information D <b> 1, and obtains the number of folding sheets that can be folded by sheet amount.
[0071]
When the middle folding limit number is acquired and when the middle folding mode is not selected in step A6, the process proceeds to step A8. In step A8, the CPU 33 determines whether the punch mode is selected. When the punch mode is selected, the process proceeds to step A9. In step A <b> 9, the CPU 33 calculates the number of punchable sheets from the punch mode and the paper type / sheet amount information D <b> 1 and acquires the punch limit number for each sheet P amount. When the punch limit number is acquired and when the punch mode is not selected in step A6, the process proceeds to step A10 in the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0072]
In step A10, the CPU 33 controls the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K so as to form a color image on the paper P having a desired thickness selected by the operation panel 48. The CPU 33 outputs the image forming data Y for Y color to the image forming unit 10Y, the image forming data M for M color to the image forming unit 10M, and the image forming data C for C color to the image forming unit 10C. And BK color image formation data K is output to the image forming unit 10K to form a color image on the paper P.
[0073]
Thereafter, in step A11, the CPU 33 compares the current sheet feeding number with the post-processing limit sheet number. For example, the CPU 33 compares the previously calculated post-processable number of sheets with the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70. This comparison process is for determining whether to execute the post-processing mode based on the comparison result.
[0074]
If it is determined that the current number of sheets fed is smaller than the post-processing limit number, the process proceeds to step A12, and the CPU 33 determines whether or not the paper P to be discharged to the post-processing means 70 is the final paper. . At this time, the CPU 33 detects a paper feed final signal or the like output from a known paper feed sensor provided at the paper discharge port 25 ′ and the like, and determines whether or not the paper is the final paper feed based on this paper feed final signal. Determine. In the case of the final fed paper, the CPU 33 supplies a post-processing control signal S1 “permit execution of the post-processing mode” to the post-processing control unit 75 so as to shift to step A13 and execute the post-processing. .
[0075]
The post-processing means 70 outputs a punch control signal S11 to the punch processing means 71 when the punch mode is selected based on the post-processing control signal S1. The punch processing unit 71 performs punch processing on the paper P after image formation based on the punch control signal S11. Similarly, when the Z-folding mode is selected, the Z-folding processing unit 72 performs the Z-folding process on the paper P after image formation based on the Z-folding control signal S12.
[0076]
When the middle folding mode is selected, the middle folding processing unit 73 performs the middle folding process on the paper P after image formation based on the middle folding control signal S13. When the stipple mode is selected, the stipple processing unit 74 performs stipple processing on the paper P after image formation based on the stipple control signal S12. Accordingly, the paper P after image formation can be punched, Z-folded, center-folded, and stapled based on the post-processing mode. If it is not the final sheet, the process returns to step A1 to repeat the above-described processing. When these post-processing is finished, the process proceeds to step A16.
[0077]
If the current number of sheets fed exceeds the limit number in step A11, that is, if the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing means 70 exceeds the post-processable number, the process proceeds to step A14. Then, the CPU 33 cancels the pre-selected post-processing mode. At this time, the paper P after image formation released from the post-processing mode passes through the post-processing device PZ as it is without post-processing, and is discharged above the post-processing device FS shown in FIG. Paper is discharged to the tray 81.
[0078]
In this example, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70 exceeds the post-processing possible number, the process proceeds to step A15 and the display unit 18 of the operation panel 48 indicates “post-processing impossible”. Is displayed as a warning. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step A16, where it is checked whether or not to end the image forming process. When the image forming process is not terminated, the power saving information is detected, and the process returns to step A1 to wait for the image forming request. When the image forming process is ended, the power-off information or the like is detected and the control process is ended.
[0079]
As described above, according to the color image forming apparatus 100 with the post-processing function as the first embodiment according to the present invention, a color image is formed on the paper P having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information, and thereafter When the post-processing is performed based on the post-processing mode, the CPU 33 determines whether the punch, Z-folding information D1 is selected from the punch, Z-fold, middle-fold, or stapling mode selected from the operation panel 48, and the paper type / gravity amount information D1. The number of post-processable sheets such as folding, half-folding, and stapling is calculated. The calculated number of post-processing sheets such as punch, Z-folding, middle folding, or stapling calculated here is transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70. The number of sheets to be printed is compared, and based on the comparison result, it is determined whether or not to execute a mode such as punching, Z-folding, middle-folding, or stapling.
[0080]
If the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70 exceeds the post-processable number of sheets such as punch, Z-fold, half-fold, or staple, as a result of this determination, the CPU 33 selects the operation panel 48. The post-processing mode is canceled without executing the punched, Z-folded, middle-folded or stapled modes.
[0081]
Therefore, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming apparatus main body 101 to the post-processing unit 70 exceeds the post-processable number of sheets such as punching, Z-folding, middle folding, or stapling, the post-processing unit 70 is forced to operate. For example, it is possible to avoid a situation where the paper P having a thickness exceeding the post-processing capability is forcibly stapled, saddle-stitched, center-folded, punched, or the like. As a result, the paper P after the image forming process can be discharged to the discharge tray 81 or the like without being post-processed and maintaining the current state without waste. Moreover, the post-processing means 70 can be protected from an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability.
[0082]
(2) Second embodiment
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system of a color image forming apparatus 200 with a charging processing function according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
In this embodiment, a charging device 80 is provided instead of the post-processing device 70 of the image forming apparatus 100 described in the first embodiment, and the paper type / light quantity information D1 and image forming conditions input from the operation panel 48 are used. The billing process is performed based on this. Of course, in this embodiment, a configuration of the post-processing device 70 + the charging device 80 may be used. In FIG. 9, the same reference numerals and the same names described in the first embodiment have the same functions, and thus description thereof is omitted.
[0083]
The color image forming apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 9 charges an image formed product separately using a charging coefficient for the paper type, the wrinkle amount, or the combination of the paper type and the wrinkle amount. In this example, a charging device 80 is disposed in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus main body 101, and the charging device 80 is connected to the operation means 14 of the operation panel 48, for example. A device with a well-known money registration and settlement function is used for the charging device 80. The CPU 33 of the control means 15 connected to the operation means 14 changes the billing count according to the paper type and the amount of wrinkles.
[0084]
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a charging coefficient setting screen P4 in the image forming apparatus 200. In this example, on the charging coefficient setting screen P4, the charging coefficient can be set for each paper type and amount of paper. For example, the accounting coefficient is input using numeric keys “0” to “9” displayed in the screen setting display area AR7 shown in FIG. When the charging coefficient of the coated paper is set to “2.0”, the coated paper is charged twice as much as the normal paper P.
[0085]
With this setting, “charging coefficient setting (coated paper)” is displayed in the message area AR1 of the charging coefficient setting screen P4, and “2.0 1.0 (0.5-5. 0) "is displayed. The accounting conditions set on the accounting coefficient setting screen P4 are stored in the nonvolatile memory 31, and are used when the CPU 33 determines the accounting conditions. In this example, the charging condition is changed on the charging coefficient setting screen P4. As a result, it became possible to change the billing conditions based on the paper type and the amount of drought that could not be done so far. Expensive coated paper and the like can be set with a charging coefficient corresponding to the coated paper without charging as thick paper under uniform paper type and weighting conditions.
[0086]
Next, the second image forming processing method according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are flowcharts illustrating charging processing examples (parts 1 and 2) in the color image forming apparatus 200, respectively.
In this embodiment, it is assumed that the charging process is performed based on the paper type / foaming amount information D1 and the image forming conditions. Of course, it is assumed that the image forming apparatus main body (image forming system) 101 forms an image on a sheet P having a desired thickness based on image forming conditions based on arbitrary image information.
[0087]
Under these processing conditions, an image formation request is waited at step B1 of the flowchart shown in FIG. Here, the image formation request from the user is input to the CPU 33 through the operation panel 48 of the image forming apparatus main body 101. When there is an image formation request from the user, the process proceeds to step B2.
[0088]
In step B2, the CPU 33 monitors the payment of the usage fee in a timely manner by a known method. For example, if there is no usage fee payment, the process proceeds to step B3 to detect whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. If the fixed time has not passed, the usage fee payment monitoring is continued. If the usage fee has been received, the process proceeds to step B5. If the usage fee has not been paid even after the fixed time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step B4, where the image formation request received in step B1 is canceled and the process returns to step B1. In step B1, the CPU 33 waits for an image formation request.
[0089]
If payment is received in step B2, image forming conditions are input in step B5. At this time, the user operates the operation panel 48 to input the paper type, size, number of copies, and the like to the CPU 33. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step B6, and the CPU 33 monitors the pressing of the start button for a limited time. If the start button is not pressed at this time, the process proceeds to step B7 to detect whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. If the fixed time has not elapsed, the start button is continuously monitored. When the start button is pressed, the process proceeds to step B8 of the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0090]
In step B8, the CPU 33 controls the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K so as to form a color image on the sheet P having a desired thickness selected by the operation panel 48. The CPU 33 outputs the image forming data Y for Y color to the image forming unit 10Y, the image forming data M for M color to the image forming unit 10M, and the image forming data C for C color to the image forming unit 10C. And BK color image formation data K is output to the image forming unit 10K to form a color image on the paper P.
[0091]
Thereafter, in step B9, it is determined whether or not all the image forming processes such as the preset number of copies have been completed. When all the image forming processes such as the preset number of copies have been completed, the process proceeds to step B10. If the image forming process has not been completed, the process returns to step B8 to continue the image forming process described above.
[0092]
In step B10, the CPU 33 calculates whether there is a change. If there is a change and if the start button is not pressed even after a predetermined time has passed in the previous step B7, the process proceeds to step B11 and the settlement money is discharged. At this time, in the former case, for example, the remaining amount obtained by subtracting the image formation fee from the deposit fee is returned. In the latter case, payment is made so that the money previously deposited in step B2 is fully refunded.
[0093]
Thereafter, the process proceeds to step B12, where, for example, it is checked whether or not to end the image forming process on that day. If the image forming process on that day is not finished, power saving information and the like are detected, and the process returns to step B1 to wait for an image forming request. When ending the image forming process on that day, the power-off information or the like is detected and the control process is ended.
[0094]
As described above, according to the color image forming apparatus 200 with the post-processing function as the second embodiment according to the present invention, it is assumed that the charging process is performed based on the paper type / light amount information D1 and the image forming conditions. The CPU 33 forms a color image on the paper P having a desired thickness based on the image forming conditions such as the paper type, size, number of copies, and the like and the arbitrary image information input from the operation panel 48. The Therefore, it is possible to perform an image forming process in which the paper type / basis amount information D1 and the billing process are combined. As a result, it became possible to change the billing conditions based on the paper type and the amount of drought that could not be done so far. Expensive coated paper and the like can be set with a charging coefficient corresponding to the coated paper without charging as thick paper under uniform paper type and weighting conditions.
[0095]
In this embodiment, the case of the color image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 has been described with respect to the image forming apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention can also be applied to a monochrome image forming apparatus.
[0096]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the image forming processing apparatus according to the present invention, when an image is formed on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information and then post-processing is performed based on the post-processing mode. The post-processable number of sheets is calculated in advance from the post-processing mode and the sheet thickness information, and the calculated post-processable number of sheets is compared with the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit. Control means for determining whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the result is provided.
[0097]
With this configuration, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit exceeds the post-processable number, a situation where the post-processing unit is forced to operate, for example, a sheet having a thickness exceeding the post-processing capability is forcibly used. It is possible to avoid situations such as stapling, saddle stitching, center folding, punching, and the like. As a result, the paper after the image forming process can be discharged without post-processing and maintaining the current state without waste. In addition, the post-processing means can be protected from an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability.
[0098]
According to the image forming processing method of the present invention, a sheet prepared in advance when an image is formed on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information and then post-processing is performed based on a post-processing mode. The acceptance processing is performed so as to select the thickness information and the post-processing mode, the post-processing possible number is calculated from the selected post-processing mode and the paper thickness information, and the post-processing possible number is calculated here. Is compared with the number of sheets transferred from the image forming system to the post-processing system, and it is determined whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the comparison result.
[0099]
With this configuration, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the post-processing system is forced to operate when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming system to the post-processing system exceeds the number of post-processable sheets. As a result, the paper after the image forming process can be discharged without post-processing and maintaining the current state without waste. In addition, the post-processing system can be protected from an unreasonable post-processing request exceeding the post-processing capability.
[0100]
The present invention relates to a color printer or copying machine that forms an image on a sheet of a desired thickness in an image forming system based on arbitrary image information, and then performs post-processing in a post-processing mode in a post-processing system. It is extremely suitable when applied to a multifunction machine or the like.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a configuration example of a color image forming apparatus 100 with a post-processing function as each embodiment according to the invention.
FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration example of post-processing means 70.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system of the color image forming apparatus 100 with a post-processing function according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a diagram showing a display example of a basic setting screen P1 in the image forming apparatus main body 101. FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display example of a paper type / foam amount setting screen P2 in the image forming apparatus main body 101.
6 is a diagram showing a display example of a stipple limit number screen P3. FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example (part 1) in the color image forming apparatus 100;
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example (part 2) in the color image forming apparatus 100;
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system of a color image forming apparatus with a charging processing function according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a diagram showing a display example of a charging coefficient setting screen P4 in the color image forming apparatus 200. FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example (part 1) of a charging process in the color image forming apparatus 200.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a charging process example (part 2) in the color image forming apparatus 200;
[Explanation of symbols]
1Y, 1M, 1C, 1K Photosensitive drum
3Y, 3M, 3C, 3K Image writing unit (exposure means)
4Y, 4M, 4C, 4K development means
6 Intermediate transfer member
10Y, 10M, 10C, 10K Image forming unit
14 Operating means
15 Control means
17 Fixing device
18 Display means
19 Communication means
20A to 20C Paper feed tray (paper feed means)
30 Paper feeding means
33 CPU (control means)
48 Operation panel (display means + operation means)
70 Post-processing means (post-processing system)
80 Billing device
100,200 color image forming apparatus
101 Image forming apparatus main body (image forming means; image forming system)
102 Image reading unit
201 Automatic document feeder
202 Document image scanning exposure apparatus

Claims (11)

An apparatus that forms an image on a sheet having a desired thickness based on arbitrary image information, and then performs post-processing based on a post-processing mode,
An operation means operated to select the thickness information of the paper and the post-processing mode;
Image forming means for forming an image on a sheet of desired thickness selected by the operating means;
Post-processing means for performing post-processing in response to transfer of the paper formed by the image forming means;
A post-processable number of sheets is calculated from the post-processing mode selected by the operation unit and the sheet thickness information, and the post-processable number of sheets is compared with the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit. And an image forming processing apparatus comprising: a control unit that determines whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on the comparison result. The control means includes
2. The image according to claim 1, wherein when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit exceeds a post-processable number, the post-processing mode selected by the operation unit is canceled. Formation processing equipment. The operation means includes a display means,
The display means includes
2. The image forming process according to claim 1, wherein, when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit exceeds a post-processable number, a warning message indicating that “post-processing is not possible” is displayed. apparatus. A plurality of paper feed trays for setting sheets of the desired thickness;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thickness information of a sheet set in the sheet feeding tray is input by operating the operation unit. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein thickness information of the plurality of sheets input from the operation unit is displayed on the display unit for each sheet feeding tray. The control means includes
6. The post-processing request number input by operating the operation unit in advance with respect to the number of sheets transferred from the image forming unit to the post-processing unit. Image forming processing apparatus. The control means includes
7. The image forming processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein charging processing is performed based on an image forming condition including sheet thickness information input from the operation unit. A method of forming an image on a sheet having a desired thickness in an image forming system based on arbitrary image information, and then performing post-processing based on a post-processing mode in a post-processing system,
Preparing a plurality of post-processing modes and a plurality of paper thickness information applicable to the post-processing modes;
Acceptance processing to select the thickness information of the paper prepared in advance and the post-processing mode,
Calculate the post-processable number of sheets from the selected post-processing mode and the thickness information of the paper,
Comparing the calculated post-processable number of sheets with the number of sheets transferred from the image forming system to the post-processing system;
An image forming processing method characterized by determining whether or not to execute the post-processing mode based on a comparison result. 9. The image forming processing method according to claim 8, wherein when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming system to the post-processing system exceeds a post-processable number, the post-processing mode selected in advance is canceled. . 10. The content of “impossible of post-processing” is displayed as a warning when the number of sheets transferred from the image forming system to the post-processing system exceeds the number of post-processing sheets. Image forming processing method. 11. The image forming processing method according to claim 8, wherein a charging process is performed based on an image forming condition including the thickness information of the sheet.

Images