JP2005313551A - Image forming apparatus and image forming system using it - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus which can manage the number of pieces of paper with an RFID tag. <P>SOLUTION: In this image forming apparatus, a device in an automatic printing mode setting state detects a communication partner by the RFID tag; information can be acquired from the communication partner by RFID tag communication means 40 and 80; and after that, the number of pieces of information, which can be acquired from the communication partner by the means 40 and 80, is counted by a counter function, so that the number of the pieces of paper can be recognized. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus and an image reading apparatus having an RFID tag reading unit, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copying machine, and a scanner, and an image forming system using the same.

A printing apparatus, which is a kind of normal computer output apparatus, prints and prints characters, symbols, charts, and the like on information in a computer in a predetermined format (see, for example, Patent Document 1). .
However, a normal printing device only prints and prints characters, symbols, charts, etc. on printing paper. The printing paper size, paper type, paper printable size, paper shape, and unique serial number for each paper Automatically set the print settings based on the information, etc., notify the user using the visual, auditory, and tactile senses of the human senses based on the recognized information, or perform the printing process based on the recognized information It was something that could not be changed.
Alternatively, as in the printing apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the scope is limited to information acquisition and printing from printing paper loaded with an ID chip storing paper quality information in a printing apparatus connected to a PC (personal computer). It had been.
JP 2003-54075 A

For example, the RFID tag information attached to the original paper in a copying machine or scanner is read while the paper is being transported, and the number of tags read is counted, and there is no print processing based on the information.
In addition, there is a problem of electromagnetic interference between tag reading means with respect to RFID tags having different functions at a plurality of communication frequencies attached on a single sheet. Further, there is no printing apparatus that realizes communication by a single tag reading unit in a state where tags having different RFID communication frequencies are mixed.
In addition, when a staple, punch hole, or paper folding is instructed at the position of the RFID tag attached to the paper, the function is not limited. Further, no warning notification based on the instruction is made to the user.
In addition, the display means of the device is controlled by a combination of a sensor for detecting light and sound and the RFID tag reading means, and wasteful power has not been reduced.
In addition, since RFID communicates with electromagnetic waves, the communication area has a spatial expansion, and when incorporated in a small device or the like, there are problems such as a plurality of adjacent RFIDs causing radio wave interference and false detection.
In addition, when processing such as stapling, punching, and paper folding is performed as post-processing of the printing apparatus, there is a problem in that parts are destroyed if they are performed at the position of the RFID tag.

Also, when there is no user detection by a sensor for detecting light or sound and no use request by the RFID tag reading means, control such as darkening the display means of the device has not been performed.
In addition, when a user detection by a sensor for detecting light or sound and a use request by the RFID tag reading means do not occur within a specified time, a warning display etc. on the display means of the device is also performed. It wasn't.
In addition, when the user's detection by the sensor that detects light and sound and the use request by the RFID tag reading means do not occur within the specified time, the supply power is controlled to control the fixing temperature. It was not done either.
An object of the present invention is to read RFID information from an original sheet with an RFID tag and automatically set a print mode such as an original size and a binding direction, or to an RFID tag on a print sheet (tray, manual feed, etc.) instead of the original sheet. Can be automatically set from the information on the printing paper itself (thick paper, OHP sheet, etc.) and the printing mode (raising and lowering the fixing temperature, binding margin, trimming, enlarged printing, printing speed, etc.) By arranging the RFID reader function, even when a plurality of original papers and printing papers are arranged, it is possible to read information individually during the conveyance of the paper one by one. An image that automatically switches from the manual print mode setting state to the automatic print mode setting state when the communication partner by tag is detected and information is acquired Forming apparatus and to provide an image forming system using the same.

In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention according to claim 1 is configured to manually set a print mode in an image forming apparatus that reads a print mode setting and automatically manages setting based on RFID tag information attached to a sheet. A first control unit having a manual print mode setting function manually from the operation panel, or connected to the image forming apparatus through a communication interface (I / F). RFID tag communication means that is possible and is disposed in the middle of paper conveyance, a determination means that determines print mode setting information to be set from information read from an RFID tag attached to the paper by the RFID communication means, and the determination Second control means having an automatic print mode setting function for automatically setting a print mode from information of the means, and the manual print mode Printing is performed based on the setting result of either the automatic print mode setting function or the automatic print mode setting function, and after the RFID tag communication means can acquire information from the communication partner, the manual print mode setting state is canceled and the automatic print mode is set. In order to recognize the number of sheets and the transition means for shifting to the setting, after the RFID tag communication means can acquire information from the communication partner, the number of information that can be acquired from the communication partner by the RFID tag communication means is counted. Counter means.
Further, according to the present invention, after the information can be acquired from the communication partner by the RFID tag communication means, the recognition means for recognizing the classification of the tag information of the communication partner and the counter value for each classification are counted. Storage means for storing the information.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the counter values stored in the storage means are read out and displayed as a list on the operation panel.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the counter value stored in the storage unit is read out and printed on a sheet as a list.
The present invention according to claim 5 includes a plurality of RFID tag communication means communicating at different frequencies or a connectable interface means, and reads a plurality of RFID tag information in one original reading operation or paper printing operation. It is configured to be possible.
Further, according to the present invention, the RFID tag communication means capable of changing the frequency or the interface means capable of connection can be provided, and communication with a plurality of types of RFID tags can be performed by changing the frequency. It is characterized by.
Further, the present invention according to claim 7 is characterized in that the RFID tag information communication means is provided with a structure for locally limiting electromagnetic waves emitted from the RFID communication means by a metal shield material or an electromagnetic shield material. To do.
Further, the present invention according to claim 8 further comprises position recognition means for the RFID tag for prohibiting or canceling the setting of the staple, punch hole, paper folding, cutting, and perforation position at the component position of the RFID tag. It is characterized by that.
The present invention according to claim 9 is characterized in that, together with the prohibition of the setting, a display intended for warning is given to the operation panel and the light emitting means.

The invention according to claim 10 includes an optical sensor that detects an object by a change in the amount of received light or a sound sensor that detects an object by a change in the amount of received sound, or an interface means that can be connected, The operation panel is displayed only in a state where the object is detected, and a part or all of the display is turned off when the object is not detected and the communication state with the RFID tag is not detected.
Further, the present invention according to claim 11 has a clock function, and the communication with the RFID tag is normal when the key depression from the operation panel or the input of print data from the external connection device is not performed. If at least one of the time periods during which the operation is not performed is not within a preset time, a part or all of the display on the operation panel is turned off.
The invention according to claim 12 is a state in which a key press from the operation panel or an input such as print data input from an external device is not performed, and a communication with the RFID tag is not normally performed. When the time measured in at least one of the times exceeds a preset time, the power supplied to the fixing temperature of the printer unit is controlled.
According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is provided, and the image forming apparatus is wired or wirelessly connected via a communication interface unit with an externally connected device. It is characterized in that display, message notification, and status notification on an external connection device such as a host computer, a PDA, and a mobile phone are performed by communication, and control is possible by these external connection devices.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the apparatus in the automatic print mode setting state in the image forming apparatus detects a communication partner using an RFID tag and can acquire information, the number of sheets with RFID can be obtained by an internal counter function. Can be recognized.
This makes it possible to manage the number of ID-tagged papers, add points according to the number of counts, or discount printing fees, etc., urging the user to use tagged paper. I can expect.
In addition, the internal count information can be visually recognized as counter information outside the device, or displayed on the operation panel of the device, so that the administrator or user of the device can easily recognize the count number. It becomes possible.

Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention and an image forming method applicable to the image forming apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings.
The image forming apparatus includes, for example, a copying function for copying a document image, a facsimile function for transmitting / receiving image data via a communication line, and a printer function for printing based on image data supplied from an external device via an external interface. In other words, the image forming apparatus is configured as a composite digital copying apparatus (hereinafter abbreviated as a copying apparatus).
FIG. 1 is a sectional view schematically showing the internal structure of a copying apparatus which is an image forming apparatus of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus of the present invention, for example, an electrophotographic digital copying apparatus 50, includes an image reading unit that functions as a reading unit that reads an original image and generates image data, that is, a scanner unit 50a, and An image forming unit that functions as an image forming unit that forms an image based on image data, that is, a printer unit 50b is included.
Further, the copying apparatus 50 is formed on the upper portion of the scanner unit 50a so as to be openable and closable with respect to a later-described document table, that is, a document table of the scanner unit 50a. An automatic document feeder 51 is provided as a conveying unit that functions as a document presser that feeds the document D and places the document D placed on the document table in close contact with the document table.
The scanner unit 50 a is disposed at the top of the document table 52 made of transparent glass, facing the automatic document feeder 51 in a closed state and on which the document D is set, and one end of the document table 52. A document scale 49 indicating the position where the document D should be set on the document table 52 is also provided.

Below the original table 52, an exposure lamp 54 that illuminates the original D placed on the original table 52, an auxiliary reflector 58 for condensing the light beam from the exposure lamp 54 on the original D, and the original D A first mirror 56 that bends the reflected beam from the left side in the figure is arranged.
The exposure lamp 54, the auxiliary reflecting plate 58, and the first mirror 56 are fixed to the first carriage 57, and are arranged to be movable in parallel with the document table 52 as the first carriage 57 moves.
The first carriage 57 is configured to be moved in parallel along the document table 52 by transmitting a driving force of a pulse motor (not shown) via a toothed belt (not shown).
A second carriage 59 is disposed on the left side of the document table 52 in the drawing, that is, in the direction in which the reflected beam reflected by the first mirror 56 is guided. In the second carriage 59, a second mirror 60 for bending the reflected beam from the document D guided by the first mirror 56 downward and a third mirror 61 for bending rightward in the drawing are arranged at right angles to each other. .
The second carriage 59 is driven by the first carriage 57 by a toothed belt (not shown) that drives the first carriage 57 and parallel to the first carriage 57 along the document table 52 at a speed of 1/2. Moved to.
An imaging lens that forms an image of the reflected beam from the second carriage 59 at a predetermined magnification in a plane below the first carriage 57 and including the optical axis of the beam folded back through the second carriage 59. 62, and a line sensor 53 including a plurality of CCD image sensors for converting the reflected beam, which is focused by the imaging lens 62, into an electrical signal, that is, image data.
Here, the direction in which the plurality of CCD image sensors in the line sensor 53 are arranged is the main scanning direction, and the direction in which the first carriage 57 and the second carriage 59 move is the sub-scanning direction.

On the other hand, the printer unit 50b forms and outputs the image data stored in the image memory. That is, the photosensitive drum 12 is rotated in the direction of the arrow, and at the same time, the residual toner and non-uniform potential adhering to the photosensitive drum 12 are prevented from reaching the charging charger 13 and the developing units 14 and 15.
That is, the charge removal lamp (QL) 16, the pre-transfer charge removal lamp (PTL) 17, the transfer charger 18, the separation charger 19, the eraser 20, and the cleaning unit 21 are driven to pass through the charge removal lamp 16 and the photosensitive drum 12. So that the surface potential of the substrate becomes substantially zero.
Thereafter, the surface of the photosensitive drum 12 is uniformly charged by the charging charger 13, the image data stored in the image memory is read, and a laser beam is emitted from a semiconductor laser (not shown) accordingly.
Laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser is incident on a polygon mirror (laser light generator) 22 that is condensed by a cylinder lens (not shown) and rotationally scanned, and the reflected light passes through an optical system (lens) 23 and a mirror 24. Then, the surface of the photosensitive drum 12 is irradiated to form an electrostatic latent image.
Next, the latent image formed on the photoconductive drum 12 is subjected to black developing unit 14 or a color developing unit that develops with black toner after removing charges of the non-image part (unnecessary part protruding from the image forming area) by the eraser 20. A toner is attached from the color developing unit 15 that performs development with the toner to form a visible image. At this time, the density of the image can be adjusted by changing the developing bias potential.
On the other hand, one of the calling roller 25 and the three paper feed rollers 26 is driven by turning on a paper feed clutch that can selectively take out the drive of a main motor (not shown) to a preselected paper feed stage (described later). The set transfer paper is fed toward the stopped registration roller pair 27.

A registration sensor 28 is disposed in front of the registration roller pair 27. The registration sensor 28 is, for example, a reflective photosensor, and is turned on when the leading edge of the transfer paper reaches the opposite position. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the paper feed clutch is returned to the off state, and the transfer paper being conveyed is stopped.
Note that the timing of turning off the paper feed clutch is set longer than the time during which the transfer paper is conveyed between the registration sensor 28 and the registration roller pair 27. Therefore, the front end of the transfer paper is brought into contact with the registration roller pair 27, and the transfer paper stands by in a state where the front end is bent to prevent skew and the like.
Thereafter, the registration clutch is turned on at a timing in accordance with the leading edge of the image on the photosensitive drum 12, and the registration roller pair 27 is driven to rotate, whereby the waiting transfer sheet is conveyed again toward the transfer unit. .
When the transfer paper reaches the transfer portion, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 12 is transferred onto the transfer paper surface by the action of the transfer charger 18, and then the action of the separation charger 19 held integrally with the transfer charger 18. Thus, the charging potential on the surface of the transfer paper is lowered to reduce the adhesion between the transfer paper and the photosensitive drum 12, and then the transfer paper is separated from the surface of the photosensitive drum 12 by the separation claw 29.
Next, the transfer paper is fed to the fixing unit by the conveyance belt 30 stretched by two rollers, the toner image is thermally fixed by the fixing roller 31, and then the switching claw is selected if the single-side mode is selected as the copy mode. The paper is discharged to an external paper discharge tray (not shown) through the upper side of 32, and if the duplex mode is selected, it is sent to the lower paper refeeding conveyance path 33 by switching the switching claw 32.
The residual toner on the photosensitive drum 12 after the image transfer is removed by the cleaning brush 21a and the cleaning blade 21b constituting the cleaning unit 21 and recovered in the toner recovery tank 21c. The entire surface is exposed by the charge eliminating lamp 16.

By the way, this copying apparatus 50 is provided with three paper feed cassettes 34 to 36, which are set with transfer papers of different sizes, as removable paper feed cassettes capable of storing only specific size transfer papers collectively. Yes.
Also provided is a manual feed table (manual feed tray) 37 on which transfer paper that is not stored in any of the paper feed cassettes, that is, transfer paper of an unspecified size can be set.
When copying using transfer paper stored in any of the paper feed cassettes 34 to 36, after selecting the cassette size with a size selection key on an operation panel (not shown), the copy start key is pressed. As a result, the transfer paper is fed from the paper feed cassette.
In the figure, reference numerals 38a to 38c denote size detection sensors for detecting the size of each storage sheet of each of the paper feed cassettes 34 to 36. For example, five photo interrupters are used.
In addition, a light-shielding plate for size identification (not shown) is attached to the front end of each of the paper feed cassettes 34 to 36. The light shielding plate has a notch that varies depending on the size of the transfer paper to be stored in the cassette.
When the paper feed cassettes 34 to 36 are mounted, the size detection sensors 38a to 38c are configured such that only the photo interrupter sandwiching the light shielding portion of the light shielding plate blocks the optical path. Can be output to the control unit.
On the other hand, when copying using transfer paper of an unspecified size, the manual feed table 37 is opened from the closed state indicated by the phantom line in the arrow A direction to the use state indicated by the solid line, and then the desired surface is displayed on the upper surface. When the transfer sheet is set and the copy start key is pressed, the transfer sheet is fed from the manual feed table 37.
When the manual feed table 37 is rotated in the opening direction, the bottom plate raising arm 39 that lifts the transfer paper placement bottom plate provided in the first paper feed cassette 34 is lowered in conjunction therewith.
An opening / closing detection sensor (not shown) for detecting opening / closing of the manual feed table 37 is installed at a position facing the manual feed table 37 of the copying apparatus.
Note that an RFID tag reading means 40 is arranged at a position before any of the sheet feeding cassettes 34 to 36 or the transfer sheet fed from the manual feed table 37 reaches the registration position, and the RFID tag attached to the transfer sheet. The function to communicate with is performed.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a part mainly related to image processing of the control unit of the digital copying apparatus of FIG. 1 includes a video processing circuit 101, an image processing circuit 102, a video writing processing circuit 103, an LD control unit 104, a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as “CPU”) 105, a ROM 106, a RAM 107, an image memory 108, An interface unit 109 and a system bus 110 are provided.
The video processing circuit 101 performs A / D conversion on image data (signal output from the CCD color image sensor 100) read by the scanner unit 50a, and performs black offset correction, shading correction, and pixel position correction.
FIG. 3 is a block circuit diagram showing details of the image processing circuit of FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the image processing circuit 102 includes a color separation circuit 120, an MTF correction circuit 121, a scaling circuit 122, a γ correction circuit 123, and an image quality processing circuit 124.
The image processing circuit 102 performs image processing on the image data input from the video processing circuit 101 with the above configuration. This process will be described in detail later.
Returning to FIG. 2, the video writing processing circuit 103 controls the printer unit 50 b in accordance with the image data input from the image processing circuit 102. The LD control unit 104 controls light emission of a laser diode (LD) 112 that is a semiconductor laser in accordance with a video signal from the video writing processing circuit 103.
The CPU 105 comprehensively controls the entire digital copying apparatus according to a control program in the ROM 106. The ROM 106 is a read-only memory that stores various fixed data including a control program for operating the CPU 105. A RAM 107 is a readable / writable memory that is used primarily by the CPU 105 during data processing.
The image memory 108 is a readable / writable memory that stores the image data sent from the image processing circuit 102. An interface unit 109 controls an interface between the image processing circuit 102 and the system bus 110, and the system bus 110 controls data exchange between the circuits.
The operation panel 111 includes an input unit for inputting various types of information including instructions for editing contents according to the present invention and a display unit for displaying various types of information.

Next, the image processing by the control unit shown in FIG. 2 will be described in further detail. R, G, and B image signals read by the CCD color image sensor 100 are A / D converted by an appropriate gain given by the video processing circuit 101, and black offset correction, shading correction, and pixel position correction are performed. It is.
These image signals are outputted as red image data RDT0 to RDT0, green image data GDT0 to GDT7, and blue image data BDT0 to 7 which are 8-bit digital data synchronized with a predetermined clock.
Here, the black offset correction is correction for subtracting the black level of the dark current of the CCD 100 from the image data. The shading correction is a correction performed to remove unevenness in the light amount of the exposure lamp 54 in the main scanning direction and unevenness due to sensitivity differences between the CCDs for the respective colors of the CCD color image sensor 100.
This correction is performed by reading a white plate having a uniform density before starting scanning of the document, storing the data for each pixel, and dividing by the data of the white plate for each pixel storing the image data being read.
The pixel position correction is to correct this positional deviation when there is a pixel positional deviation in the sub-scanning direction when a CCD color image sensor 100 having three lines is used.
In the image processing circuit 102, the RGB image data (RDT0 to 7, GDT0 to 7, BDT0 to 7) and the black image data BLKDT0 to 7 output from the video processing circuit 101 are separated by the color separation circuit 120 shown in FIG. Is done.
Further, the image data BLKDT0 to 7 are subjected to MTF correction by the MTF correction circuit 121, then subjected to electrical scaling in the main scanning direction by the scaling circuit 122, and further subjected to γ correction by the γ correction circuit 123, followed by image quality processing. The circuit 124 performs image quality processing such as dithering and error diffusion.
Here, the MTF correction is to correct deterioration of optical frequency characteristics and the like with a two-dimensional spatial filter. The black image data BLKDT0 to 7 subjected to various corrections are sent to the interface unit 109 in FIG. 2, and the black image data BLKDT0 to 7 are stored in the image memory 108.
The image data BLKDT0 to 7 are also sent to the video writing processing circuit 103, where they are converted into video signals that can correspond to the writing speed of the printer unit 50b and input to the LD control unit 104.
In accordance with the input image signal, the pulse width of the current applied to the laser diode 112 and the amount of current are controlled, and optical writing is performed on the photosensitive drum 12 shown in FIG. 1 to form an electrostatic latent image.
Note that the image processing circuit 102 shares an address bus and a data bus with the CPU 105 of the main control unit, and communicates via these. The CPU 105 also performs motor control of the scanner unit 50a and the printer unit 50b. In addition, various clutches and solenoids are also controlled.

Referring to FIG. 1, an automatic document feeder 51 includes a cover 64 having a rear end edge thereof attached to an upper rear end edge of a copying apparatus 50 via a hinge device (not shown). As described above, the entire automatic document feeder 51 is rotationally displaced in response to the document table 52 of the image reading unit 4 so as to be opened and closed.
A document feed stand 65 capable of holding a predetermined number of, for example, 50 documents D, is provided on the upper left portion of the cover 64 slightly. The documents D set on the document feeder 65 are sequentially taken out one by one on the left side of the document feeder 65 in the drawing, that is, on one end side of the automatic document feeder 51, and the image reading unit is opened from the left end in the diagram. A pickup roller 67 for supplying to one end side of the document table 52 of 50a is arranged.
An empty sensor 66 serving as a document detection sensor that functions as a detection unit that detects whether or not the document D is set on the document feed table 65 is disposed at a predetermined position on the document feed table 65. .
Note that a document width detection sensor (not shown) that functions in the same manner as the document position detection sensor 55 that detects the position where the document D is set on the document table 52 may be disposed on the document feed table 65.

With respect to the document take-out direction of the pickup roller 67, the document feed roller 68 that sends the document D picked up by the pickup roller 67 toward the document table 52, and the leading end of the document D fed by the paper feed roller 68 are An aligning roller 69 for positioning is arranged.
An aligning sensor 70 that detects the arrival of the document D at the aligning roller 69 is disposed between the aligning roller 69 and the paper feed roller 68. Inside the cover 64, a transport belt 71 is disposed at a position facing the document table 52 of the image reading unit 50a with the automatic document feeder 51 closed.
The conveying belt 71 is provided with a size that covers almost the entire document table 52, and the document D conveyed from the document feeding table 65 via the pickup roller 67, the sheet feeding roller 68 and the aligning roller 69. 52 to a predetermined position.
The conveyor belt 71 is stretched over belt rollers 72 arranged in a pair on the left and right in the drawing, and is rotated in both directions on the right side and the left side in the drawing by a belt driving mechanism (not shown).
At the right side of the automatic document feeder 51, a reversing roller 73 that feeds the document D moved from the left side to the right side in the drawing by the transport belt 71 toward the outside of the cover 64, and the document D A switching flapper 75 for switching the document D conveyed by the pinch roller 74, the reverse roller 73, and the pinch roller 74 is disposed.
This switching flapper 75 switches whether the conveyed document D is returned to the conveying belt 71 again or discharged onto a predetermined discharge position, that is, on the cover 64. When the switching flapper 75 is switched to the discharge side, a discharge roller 76 that discharges the document D conveyed by the reverse roller 73, a jam sensor 77 that detects a jam of the document in the vicinity of the reverse roller 73, and the like Is arranged.
Further, an RFID tag reading unit 80 is disposed on a document conveyance path in the automatic document feeder 51, and the RFID tag reading unit 80 functions to communicate with an RFID tag attached to a document sheet during document conveyance. Has come to fulfill.

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a configuration of an operation panel provided in the upper front portion of the copying machine main body which is an image forming apparatus. The operation panel 111 of FIG. 4 is provided on the upper front of the apparatus main body 50 for inputting various copying conditions and a copy start signal for starting a copy operation.
As shown in FIG. 4, on the operation panel 111, a copy button 126 for setting a copy mode for executing a copy function, a FAX button 127 for setting a FAX mode for executing a facsimile function, and a printer function are executed. A printer button 128 for setting a printer mode is provided.
The operation panel 111 has a numeric keypad 129 for inputting numerical values such as the number of copies in the copy mode, a start button 130 for instructing the start of copying, and is used to correct the number of copies or to stop the copying operation. A clear / stop button 131, an all clear button 132 for clearing all selected modes and various set conditions, and a magnification setting button 133 for setting a copying magnification are provided.
The start button 130 functions as input means for instructing the start of reading of a document set on the document feeding table 65 and for instructing the formation of an image based on the image data.
Further, the operation panel 111 detects the size of the transfer paper size button 134 for selecting and setting the size of the transfer paper on which an image is to be formed, detects the size of the document placed on the document table, and automatically sets the paper size. An automatic paper selection button 135, an original size button 136 for setting the original size, and an automatic setting for automatically setting the copy magnification based on the transfer paper size set by the transfer paper size button 134 and the detected original size. A magnification selection button 137 is provided.

In addition to these various setting buttons, an operation guide button 138 for displaying guidance information such as the contents of the set mode and operation procedures, a preheat button 139 for setting a preheat state, and an interrupt instruction during operation of the printer unit An interrupt button 140 is provided.
In the approximate center of the operation panel 111, there is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (LCD) that functions as a notification means for displaying various messages to the user in terms of the state of the apparatus, the operation procedure, and the user. A configured display panel 141 is provided. The display panel 141 displays the operation for each function on the screen.
The display panel 141 includes a message area composed of three areas, an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage for providing information to the user, a “basic” button for designating a basic operation, and an “edit” for designating an editing operation. Title area with title switching buttons such as buttons, "Extended" button for specifying extended operations, "Specify" button for specifying setting operations, and a field for displaying the number of originals, number of copies, etc. Has an area.
In the basic operation, a normal copying operation, that is, a first image forming mode in which an original image is read and an image corresponding to the original image, that is, a normal image is formed on a transfer sheet, is executed. In the editing operation, it is possible to set a special copying operation, that is, a second image forming mode in which an original image is read and the original image is reversed in the sub-scanning direction, that is, a mirror image is formed on the transfer paper.

Here, an outline of the solution intended by the present invention will be described. The image forming apparatus of the present invention assumes that the RFID tag paper is used as original paper or printing paper, and the apparatus includes an RFID tag reading unit or an interface to which a reading unit of another unit can be connected. It is assumed that the reading means can be installed internally or externally.
Further, it is assumed that the operation panel has an input function such as a button and a touch panel and a display function such as an LED, LCD, and CRT, and can be installed internally or externally.
The operation panel is an operation that other devices such as PDAs, cellular phones, portable computers, remote controllers, and network home appliances use wireless communication such as wireless LAN, wireless public line, optical communication, and sound communication. It is also assumed that control is performed using means.
It is also assumed that control is performed using an input / output function of a host computer connected to the apparatus via a wired / wireless network.
In addition, the acquisition of RFID tag information of the image forming apparatus is performed while the original paper or printing paper is placed on the original table or paper feed tray and is not detected in a stationary state, but during the conveyance of the original paper or the printing paper. Since it is configured, the RFID tag information on the paper can be easily read one by one with a single RFID reading means.
In addition, because there are cases where paper with RFID tags and paper with no RFID tags are mixed, the printing mode settings such as binding margin, trimming, enlargement / reduction, printing speed, color mode adjustment, fixing temperature setting, etc. can be performed as described above. There are two modes: a mode set manually from the panel and a mode set automatically based on RFID tag information.
Accordingly, in the present invention, as a result of the normal communication between the RFID tag and the reading unit, the reading unit is based on a printing apparatus having a function of acquiring tag information and shifting from the manual setting mode to the automatic setting mode. It is assumed that the present invention is applied to a printing apparatus such as a copying machine, a scanner, and a printer, or a complex system.
The present invention has a counter function based on at least one of software and hardware, and counts the number of successful communication between the RFID tag and the reading means, thereby counting the number of sheets with RFID tags. Is assumed to be calculated.
Assuming that the count value is a finite value, it is assumed that the printing apparatus has a clear function of the count value, or that a sufficiently large count value is assumed and the clear function is not provided.
In addition, a function of temporarily or permanently storing the count value in the apparatus or a removable medium, and a form of data transfer and data storage to an externally connected electronic device such as a host computer are also assumed.

The present invention has a counter function based on at least one of software and hardware functions, and after successful mutual communication between the RFID tag and the reading means, the read RFID tag is subjected to a specific classification procedure. By classifying and counting for each classification, for example, it is assumed that the number is calculated by the number of paper for each paper size, the number of paper for each paper color, and the number of paper for each paper type such as plain paper / thick paper / film. .
The count value is assumed to be a finite value, and it is assumed that the device has a clear function of the count value, and that a sufficiently large count value is assumed and the clear function is not provided.
In the present invention, it is assumed that the counter value is read directly from the counter function or from the internal storage means once stored, and displayed on the display means of the operation panel as counter numerical value information to notify the user.
It is also assumed that display, message notification, and status notification to an externally connected device such as a host computer, a PDA, or a mobile phone are performed by wired or wireless communication via a communication interface means with the externally connected device.
It is also assumed that counter information is notified to a sound generator, a vibration generator, and a braille keyboard device that can be built in or connected to the device.
In the present invention, when the image forming apparatus has a printing function or can be connected to the printing apparatus, the counter value is printed on paper in a specific data format such as a table format or a text format. Yes.
It is also assumed that data is printed only with the counter value, or is printed as a document including the counter value together with other information such as device setting information or a part of the print document.
In the present invention, a plurality of RFID tag reading means for communicating at different frequencies are incorporated or have a connectable function. By communicating with the RFID tag at different frequencies, it communicates with a plurality of different types of RFID tags. It is assumed that the system is capable of.
Further, a system is also assumed in which the function of a circuit is substantially switched by supplying electromagnetic waves of different frequencies even in the same RFID tag, so that different commands are responded.
Assuming a case where a plurality of different RFID tags are attached on a single sheet, a case where it corresponds to an RFID tag of a different manufacturer or standard, and a case where a plurality of RFID tags are arranged at close positions on a sheet. Yes.

In the present invention, a single RFID tag reading means capable of communicating at different frequencies is incorporated or has a function capable of being connected, and the RF frequency of the reading means can be changed selectively or steplessly. A system that can do this is assumed.
Further, a system is also assumed in which the function of a circuit is substantially switched by supplying electromagnetic waves of different frequencies even in the same RFID tag, so that different commands are responded. A case where a plurality of different RFID tags are attached on one sheet of paper or a case where RFID tags of different manufacturers and standards are supported is assumed.
In the present invention, by arranging a workpiece that functions as an electromagnetic shielding material, such as a metal, a conductor, or a magnetic body, in the vicinity of or around the RFID tag reading means and that has a shape that prevents electromagnetic wave diffusion outside a certain range. It is assumed that the electromagnetic wave emission facilitator from the RFID reading means is limited.
It is assumed that when multiple RFID tags on paper are in close proximity, or when RFID tag reading means is close in a small image forming apparatus, access errors due to radio wave interference and erroneous data reading are prevented. Yes.
In the present invention, it is assumed that the image forming apparatus itself or a connectable configuration has means for realizing stapling, punching, paper folding, cutting, and perforation creation functions, and these functions are limited. doing.
Forbid the designation of staples, punches, paper folds, perforations as described above for the position of circuit components such as RFID tags and antennas on paper, or automatically cancel the designation once set It is assumed that the paper conveyance itself is stopped. In addition, regarding paper folding, it is assumed that designation is permitted only to the antenna unit.

The present invention has a function of displaying a warning on the display means of the operation panel and notifying the user when the above-described stapling, punching, paper folding, cutting, and perforation creation are restricted. As a display target, notification by light emitting means such as a pilot lamp or LED is also assumed.
It is also assumed that display, message notification, and status notification to an externally connected device such as a host computer, a PDA, or a mobile phone are performed by wired or wireless communication via a communication interface means with the externally connected device. It is also assumed that a warning notification is given to a sound generation device, a vibration generation device, and a braille keyboard device that can be built in or externally connected to the printing device.
In the present invention, in addition to the RFID tag reading means, a light (infrared ray, visible ray, ultraviolet ray) sensor, a sound (sound wave, ultrasonic wave) sensor, or the like can be built-in or connected. It has a function to detect changes.
The optical sensor or sound sensor detects the presence or absence of a person around the device, and controls whether or not to display the operation panel from the information acquired from the tag by the RFID tag reading means and the human detection information from the sensor. Is assumed. It is assumed that power saving is realized by turning off the display when neither of the acquired information is available.
In the present invention, the device has a clock function based on at least one of software and hardware, and the time measured when the input from the operation panel or the job print data is not input from the externally connected device, the RFID It is assumed that power saving is realized by turning off the display on the operation panel when at least one of the time measured when the tag reading means and the tag do not communicate with each other exceeds a specified time.
In the present invention, the device has a clock function based on at least one of software and hardware, and the time measured when the input from the operation panel or the job print data is not input from the externally connected device, the RFID Fixing for the purpose of lowering the fixing temperature, which is generally considered to have the highest power consumption in a printing device, when at least one of the time measured when the tag reading means and the tag do not communicate with each other exceeds a specified time It is assumed that power saving is realized by cutting or reducing the power supplied to the unit.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the image forming apparatus described above, the first embodiment will be described (FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5).
In the non-printing state (standby state) of the image forming apparatus, the CPU 105 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 106, and the state of the preset mode (in this embodiment, the manual printing mode) is Is retained.
In the flowchart of FIG. 5, after the power is turned on (S1), initial setting of the inside of the apparatus is performed (S2), and a transition is made to the manual print mode setting state (S3). Thereafter, the print standby state is entered (S4). In this state, a document sheet is placed on the document table 65.
When a copy request is made by pressing a button from the operation panel 111 (S4), the leading edge of the first original paper is fed by the pickup roller 67 and the paper feed roller 68 (S5) and passes through the RFID tag reading means 80. If the RFID is attached to the original paper, data is exchanged with the reading means 80 by a prescribed communication protocol (S7).
At this time, as a result of successful exchange of specified data (S8), the apparatus shifts from the manual print mode setting state to the automatic print mode setting state (S10), and the print mode data acquired from the RFID tag on the paper (S9) To change the internal print mode settings (such as setting the optimal fuser temperature for paper quality and thickness, and setting the print margin and trimming settings for already laid-out printing paper). Printing is executed in the device setting state (S11) (S13).
In this procedure, since the image forming apparatus includes a counter for counting the number of successful RFID communications with the RFID tag original paper, the original paper includes the RFID tag reader 80. Each time a sheet passes, the tags on the paper and the tag reading means in the apparatus communicate with each other, and the number of correctly communicated tags (= number of sheets) is counted (S12).
In addition, as a condition for counting the communication result with the tag, it may be counted with the success of the mutual communication. As a result of analyzing the data in the mutual communication, it is determined whether or not the condition set as the counting condition is met. It is also possible to count.
Further, since this counter function can also be realized by software, the CPU 105 may perform the count operation using the inside of the CPU or the RAM 107 as a temporary storage area. However, when the count data is required to be retained even after the image forming apparatus is turned off, measures such as storing in the ROM 106 are required.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 6. FIG.
In the non-printing state (standby state) of the image forming apparatus, the CPU 105 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 106, and the state of the preset mode (in this embodiment, the manual printing mode) is Is retained.
In the flowchart of FIG. 6, after the power is turned on (S21), initial setting of the inside of the apparatus is performed (S22), and a transition is made to the manual print mode setting state (S23). Thereafter, the print standby state is entered (S24).
In this embodiment, when the apparatus in the automatic print mode setting state detects an RFID communication partner and can acquire information, the number of sheets with RFID is counted by an internal counter function to recognize the number.
In this state, when a document sheet is placed on the document table 65 and a copy request is made by pressing the button from the operation panel 111 (S24), the leading edge of the first document sheet is fed by the pickup roller 67 and the sheet feed roller 68. (S25) When the RFID tag reading means 80 passes and RFID is attached to the original paper, data is exchanged with the reading means 80 by a prescribed communication protocol (S27).
At this time, as a result of successful transfer of the prescribed data (S28), the apparatus shifts from the manual print mode setting state to the automatic print mode setting state (S29), and based on the print mode data acquired from the RFID tag on the paper The internal print mode setting (such as setting of the optimum fixing unit temperature for the paper quality and paper thickness, and the binding margin setting and trimming setting for the already laid-out printing paper) is changed (S30).
Classification processing is performed from the information of the RFID tag (S31), the extracted classification numbers are counted (S32a) to (S32c), new count values are stored (S33a) to (S33c), and printing is performed ( S34).
In this procedure, after the RFID communication between the image forming apparatus and the original paper with the RFID tag is successful, the identification is further performed based on the identification data for classifying the tag among the data stored in the tag. It has a classification processing function that divides data into a plurality of classifications.
For this reason, each time a document sheet passes through the RFID tag reading device 80 one by one, the tag on the sheet and the tag reading means in the device communicate with each other, and each classification is performed by classification processing based on the read classification identification data. The number of tags can be counted (S33a) to (S33c).
Further, since this counter function can also be realized by software, the CPU 105 may perform the count operation using the inside of the CPU or the RAM 107 as a temporary storage area. However, when the count data is required to be retained even after the image forming apparatus is turned off, measures such as storing in the ROM 106 are required.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 4, and FIG.
In the procedure of the second embodiment, the counted count values for each category are read from the RAM 107 and displayed in a list format on the touch panel 141 of the operation panel 111.
In the present embodiment, when the apparatus in the automatic print mode setting state detects an RFID communication partner and can acquire information, the number of sheets with RFID is counted by an internal counter function to recognize the number.
In the non-printing state (standby state) of the image forming apparatus, the CPU 105 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 106, and the state of the preset mode (in this embodiment, the manual printing mode) is Is retained.
In the flowchart of FIG. 7, after the power is turned on (S41), initial setting of the inside of the apparatus is performed (S42), and a transition is made to the manual print mode setting state (S43). Thereafter, the print standby state is entered (S44).
In this state, when a document sheet is placed on the document table 65 and a copy request is made by pressing the button from the operation panel 111 (S44), the leading edge of the first document sheet is fed by the pickup roller 67 and the sheet feed roller 68. (S45), the RFID tag reading means 80 is passed.
As a result, when RFID is attached to the original paper, data is exchanged with the reading means 80 by a prescribed communication protocol (S47). At this time, as a result of the successful data transfer (S48), the apparatus shifts from the manual print mode setting state to the automatic print mode setting state (S49).
Internal print modes (such as setting the optimum fixing unit temperature for paper quality and paper thickness, setting the binding margin for printing and trimming settings for print paper that has already been laid out) based on the print mode data acquired from the RFID tag on the paper Is changed (S50), and classification processing is performed from the information of the RFID tag (S51).
Counting for each extracted classification number (S52a to S52c), storing a new count value (S53a to S53c), displaying the count value in a list form on the display unit 141 of the operation panel 111 (S54) and printing Is executed (S55).
At this time, the CPU 105 analyzes the RFID tag data, counts it according to a preset classification, and centrally manages each data. That is, the counter values once stored are read and displayed as a list.
Since this counter function can also be realized by software, the CPU 105 may use the CPU inside or the RAM 107 as a temporary storage area to perform the counting operation. However, if the count data is required to be retained even after the image forming apparatus is powered off, measures such as storing in the ROM 106 are required.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a list print screen showing a print setting state. The operation of the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 2, FIG. 4, FIG. 7, and FIG.
As an operation of the fourth embodiment, in the procedure of the third embodiment, a specific key input on the operation panel 111 or a counter number list display screen is called by sequentially pressing the operation buttons, and the print request button 130 is displayed. The following operations are executed by pressing.
The counted count values (S53a to S53c) for each category are read out from the RAM 107, and the print image data is developed as bitmap data in the image memory 108 in a list format with the category names and count numbers.
Also, as setting information inside the apparatus, the print setting status such as the paper size and memory size of the paper feed tray and double-sided printing is also generated as list data, and is stored in the image memory 108 in a list format as shown in FIG. Expand as map data.
After the data expansion, the data is transferred to the video writing processing circuit 103 via the interface 109 and the LD controller 104 forms an image. That is, in this embodiment, the counter values once stored in the second and third embodiments are read and printed as a list.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of the RFID tag communication means in the above-described image forming apparatus. A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG.
In the procedure of the first embodiment, a plurality of RFID tag reading means 40 or 80 having different communication frequencies as shown in FIG. 9 are incorporated, and the plurality of RFID tag reading papers pass through the vicinity of the reading means. Reading means alternately transmit radio waves and try to communicate with the RFID tag.
When the communication with the RFID tag is normally performed within a certain number of transmissions or within a certain period, the tag data is read by operating only the reading means of the frequency at which the communication is successful. Meanwhile, the other reading means maintains a non-communication state.
This communication control is performed by controlling the RFID tag reading means 40 or 80 by the CPU 105. The plurality of RFID tags may be incorporated in one LSI chip, mounted on the same printed circuit board, or may be integrated as a subunit.
That is, in this embodiment, readers that communicate at different frequencies (RF) are arranged in the middle of paper conveyance, and a plurality of RFID tag information is read during one original reading operation or one paper printing operation.

FIG. 10 is a graph showing the change over time of the communication frequency in the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG.
In the procedure of the first embodiment, a single RFID tag reading means 40 or 80 capable of changing the communication frequency stepwise is built in, and when the RFID-tagged paper passes near the reading means, the reading means Tries to communicate with the RFID tag by transmitting radio waves while changing the frequency step by step.
The RFID tag reading means first tries to communicate for a certain time at a frequency A from a non-communication state, and when communication with the RFID tag is successful, it continues communication for reading tag data at the same frequency as it is. When there is no response command response from the RFID tag, switching to the next frequency B is attempted.
Similarly, if frequency C → frequency D → frequency E is attempted and no response is received, it is determined that there is no tag on the paper and communication is terminated. This communication control is performed by controlling the RFID tag reading means 40 or 80 by the CPU 105.
In this embodiment, information is read from an RFID tag that functions at a frequency serving as a conveyor by having a function of making the frequency (RF) variable.
The variable frequency can be realized by frequency modulation by an electronic circuit, but can also be realized by frequency modulation using software defined radio that generates waveform timing by software.

FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view for explaining functions in the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the procedure of the first embodiment, with a plurality of RFID tag reading means arranged close to each other, each antenna part is housed in an electromagnetic shield material box 142 that is formed of an electromagnetic shield material and is released only in one direction. To do. In this state, electromagnetic interference between adjacent antennas can be reduced to some extent.
Further, an electromagnetic shield plate 146 is disposed on the back side of the paper to be conveyed with respect to the antenna so that the magnetic flux is not leaked to the surroundings as much as possible. The printing paper 144 is conveyed between the electromagnetic shielding material box 142 and the electromagnetic shielding plate 146.
In the middle, data is exchanged between the RFID tag 145 attached to the printing paper 144 and the RFID reading means 143. By these measures, the electromagnetic interference of the antenna part becomes extremely small.
In this embodiment, in order to limit one of the RFID tag 145 on the sheet, the electromagnetic wave influence range from the RFID communication means is limited by arranging an electromagnetic shield material such as a metal shield or a magnetic material. Misreading is prevented when a plurality of RFID communication means are close to each other or when a plurality of RFID tags are arranged at close positions on a sheet.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the eighth embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, an eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
After the apparatus is turned on (S61), internal data initialization and operation settings (S62) are performed. Next, the process shifts to the manual print mode setting state (S63) and waits for the press of the print request button (S64).
When the button is pressed, the original paper is fed (S65), the print paper is fed from the paper feed tray (S66), and the presence / absence and position of the tag on the paper is detected by the optical sensor arranged on the paper conveyance path (S67). )
Until the printing paper is further conveyed and passes the RFID tag reading means, the apparatus performs polling of RFID communication (S68). If the communication is successful (S69), data is acquired from the tag (S70), the print mode setting in the apparatus is switched to the automatic mode setting based on the data (S71), and the internal setting data is changed (S72).
It is determined whether or not there is a stapling instruction in the data (S73), and if it is instructed, the coordinates of the already read staple position (S74) are calculated and further overlapped with the stapling position instructed from the tag data (S70). It is judged whether to do (S75).
If it is determined in step (S75) that it is in the overlapping position, the staple setting is canceled (S76), and if a printing instruction is given (S77), the printing operation is executed (S78). If there is no instruction, printing is not performed. To finish. Further, the position information may be written in the RFID tag, and the position may be recognized by communication with the tag without using another sensor.
In this embodiment, there is a means for recognizing the tag position on the paper during communication with the RFID tag, and when setting the staple, punching hole, paper folding, cutting, perforation to the target device, or after the setting Even if it exists, since the action to the tag position leads to destruction of the tag part, the action to the tag position is prohibited or canceled.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the ninth embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
After the printer is turned on (S81), internal data initialization and operation settings (S82) are performed. Next, the process shifts to the manual print mode setting state (S83) and waits for the press of the print request button (S84).
When the button is pressed, the original paper is fed (S85), the printing paper is fed from the paper feed tray (S86), and the presence / absence and position of the tag on the paper is detected by the optical sensor arranged on the paper conveyance path ( S87).
Until the printing paper is further conveyed and passes the RFID tag reading means 40, the printing apparatus performs RFID communication polling (S88). If the communication is successful (S89), data is acquired from the tag (S90), the internal print mode setting is switched to automatic mode setting based on the data (S91), and the internal setting data is changed (S92).
It is determined whether or not there is a stapling instruction in the data (S93), and if it is instructed, the coordinates of the already read staple position (S87) are calculated and further overlapped with the stapling position instructed from the tag data (S90). It is judged whether to do (S95).
If it is determined that the position is at the overlapping position, a warning message is displayed on the operation panel 111 (S96) to notify the user. If the user interprets the display contents and instructs forced printing (S97), printing is executed with the current settings (S99), and if the user instructs to change the settings (S98), the print mode is set. Move the process to the routine for resetting.
In this case, if it is determined that they are in the overlapping position, the printing operation is not performed and the printer is temporarily stopped, and printing is resumed by a reset input from the operation panel 111 or a forced printing instruction. In addition, notification to the user using a display device, a sound generator such as a buzzer, a vibration generator, a Braille keyboard, or the like may be used in combination with the operation panel.
In the present embodiment, the target device in the eighth embodiment is used by displaying a warning message on the operation panel or displaying it on a light emitting means such as a pilot lamp or LED along with prohibition or cancellation of the setting. Express intention to the person.

FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram for explaining a system according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a tenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the procedure of the first embodiment, an infrared sensor 147 is disposed on the front surface of the operation panel 111 to electrically convert the amount of received light. Since the output signal is weak, it is electrically amplified by the amplifier 148 and input to the comparator 149. The comparator 149 sets a certain threshold value for the input voltage, and outputs a digital signal of 0 or 1 to the control circuit 150 according to the comparison result.
The control circuit 150 recognizes the presence or absence of the user 156 based on the result, and notifies the result to the communication circuit 155 of the image forming apparatus main body 50 through the communication circuit 151 using a specific protocol. The CPU 105 on the main body side recognizes the result data input from the communication circuit 155 of the main body and determines the operation.
Further, as described above, the operation panel 111 includes a display unit 152 and an input unit 153 as other functions, and is centrally managed by the control circuit 150.
The apparatus detects whether there is a user 156 in front of the apparatus and recognizes the RFID tag attached to the document sheet by the reading unit.
When neither the detection of the user 156 nor the detection of the tag is detected, the display of the operation panel 111 is turned off. At this time, if it is an LCD panel, it may be a function of turning off the backlight, or may be a so-called screen saver function for moving the display position while leaving a part of the display.
In this embodiment, the presence or absence of a person around the apparatus is detected by an optical sensor or a sound sensor, and (when paper is not being transported) in a state where communication with the RFID tag is not performed and a person is not present in front of the apparatus The power saving mode is set to not display.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the eleventh embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, an eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the procedure of the first embodiment, at least a data input operation including a copy print request from the operation panel 111, or a data input device externally connected to the device or an input of tag recognition data by the RFID tag reading means In both cases, when the time that has not been entered exceeds the preset time, part or all of the display on the operation panel 111 is erased.
In the non-printing state (standby state) of the image forming apparatus, the CPU 105 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 106, and the state of the preset mode (in this embodiment, the manual printing mode) is Is retained.
In the flowchart of FIG. 15, after the power is turned on (S101), initial setting of the inside of the apparatus is performed (S102), the state of the apparatus is displayed on the operation panel 111 (S103), and the state is shifted to the manual print mode setting state (S104).
Thereafter, it is determined whether there is a copy request by pressing the button from the operation panel 111 (S105). If there is a request, the status display of the operation panel 111 is held (S106). Polling communication is performed from tag to tag (S107).
If an RFID tag exists and is ready to respond to this polling communication (S108), the status display on the operation panel 111 is similarly held (S106), but there is no copy request and no response from the tag. If there is, it is determined whether or not a preset time-out period has been exceeded (S109), and if it has not been exceeded, the process returns to S105, but if it has exceeded, the display on the operation panel 111 is turned off (S110).
Further, regarding the response from the RFID tag, it may be determined that the response has been made for the first time because the expected value can be read from the tag after the actual communication. Further, if the display function of the operation panel is an LCD panel, it may be a function of turning off the backlight, or may be a so-called screen saver function that moves the display position while leaving a part of the display.
In this embodiment, the target device is provided with a clock function, and is in a power saving mode in which no display is performed when there is no operation request or medical examination request, or when the paper transport interval is not performed within a certain time.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the eleventh embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. In the above-described image forming apparatus, a twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the procedure of the first embodiment, at least a data input operation including a copy print request from the operation panel 111, or a data input device externally connected to the device or an input of tag recognition data at the RFID tag reader In both cases, when the time that has not been input exceeds a preset time, the power supplied to the fixing roller 31 (see FIG. 1) is cut or reduced to lower the fixing temperature.
In the non-printing state (standby state) of the image forming apparatus, the CPU 105 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 106, and the state of the preset mode (in this example, the manual printing mode) is maintained. ing.
In the flowchart of FIG. 16, after the power is turned on (S121), initial setting of the inside of the apparatus is performed (S122), the state of the apparatus is displayed on the operation panel (S123), and a transition is made to the manual print mode setting state (S124).
Thereafter, it is determined whether or not there is a copy request by pressing the button from the operation panel 111 (S125). If there is a request, the fixing roller 31 is turned on (S126). Polling communication is performed (S127).
If the RFID tag is present and is ready to respond to this polling communication (S128), the fixing roller 31 is similarly turned on (S126). It is determined whether or not the time-out time set in (1) has been exceeded (S129), and if it has not been exceeded, the process returns to (S125). If it has been exceeded, the power supplied to the fixing roller 31 is reduced or cut off (S130). .
At this time, the power supplied to the fixing roller 31 may be returned to the state while performing predetermined software processing after detecting one of the data inputs, or an image for the apparatus to print on the printing paper. The data may be restored at the time of development on the RAM 106 or upon completion of the development.

In this embodiment, a clock function is provided, and when there is no operation request or print request, or when the paper conveyance interval is not performed within a certain time, the supply power is cut to lower the fixing temperature of the printing apparatus, Or the power saving mode is set to decrease.
According to the present invention, when the apparatus in the automatic print mode setting state detects the communication partner using the RFID tag and can acquire information, the classification of the tag information of the communication partner is recognized, and the counter value is calculated for each classification. Thus, it can be stored in the storage means.
As a result, the paper value, paper type, paper color, mode to be printed (double-sided printing, aggregated printing, image composition), printing speed, fixing temperature setting, and other counter values stored in the tag, that is, paper It becomes possible to grasp the number. As a result, detailed device management becomes possible.
According to the present invention, the counter value once stored can be read and displayed on the operation panel of the apparatus or an external counter display device. An arbitrary counter value can be fixed or selected and displayed, but all items can also be displayed as a list. As a result, the user / administrator can easily grasp the printing status of the apparatus.
According to the present invention, it is possible to read out the counter values once stored and print the list. By setting to the printing device according to the present invention from an electronic device such as a host computer, PDA, mobile phone, etc., which has an arbitrary counter value connected to the operation panel or device, the device can list all or part of the information as a list Printing can be performed, and the user / administrator can easily grasp the printing status of the apparatus.
According to the present invention, when a plurality of RFID tag sheets functioning at different frequencies are used by arranging readers that communicate at different frequencies (RF) in the middle of paper conveyance, It is possible to read a plurality of RFID tag information during a single paper printing operation.
According to the present invention, by having a function of making the frequency (RF) variable, when a plurality of sheets with RFID tags that function at different frequencies are used, information can be read from RFID tags that function at different frequencies. it can.

According to the present invention, in order to limit the position of the RFID tag on the paper, it is possible to limit the electromagnetic wave influence range from the RFID communication means by arranging an electromagnetic shielding material such as a metal shield or a magnetic material. It becomes.
In particular, erroneous reading can be prevented when a plurality of RFID communication means are close to each other or when a plurality of RFID tags are arranged at close positions on paper.
Also, it has means for recognizing the tag position on the paper during communication with the RFID tag, and when setting the staple, punch hole, paper folding, cutting, perforation to the target device, or even after the setting, to the tag position. It is possible to prohibit or cancel the act. As a result, it is possible to prevent the tag component from being destroyed due to the above action at the tag position.
According to the present invention, it is possible to display an intention message to the user by prohibiting or canceling the setting and displaying a warning message on the operation panel or displaying it on a light emitting means such as a pilot lamp or LED. In particular, operability is improved for elderly people and persons with hearing impairments.
According to the present invention, the presence or absence of a person around the printing apparatus is detected by an optical sensor or a sound sensor, and the user is not communicating with the RFID tag (not carrying paper =) and the user is in front of the printing apparatus. By not displaying in a state that is not, the power consumption of the device can be reduced. This is particularly useful when settings need to be made directly in front of an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a scanner.
According to the present invention, the clock function is provided, and when there is no operation request or print request, or when the paper conveyance interval is not performed within a certain time, the power consumption of the apparatus is reduced by not displaying. It becomes possible. It is also useful when a print request is instructed remotely from a host computer such as a printer in addition to a copying machine and a scanner.
According to the present invention, a control is provided that has a clock function and reduces the power supply to the fixing unit of the printing apparatus when there is no operation request or print request, or when the paper transport interval is not performed within a certain time. Thus, power consumption can be reduced.

1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an internal structure of a copying apparatus which is an image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a part mainly related to image processing of a control unit of the digital copying apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a block circuit diagram showing details of the image processing circuit of FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a configuration of an operation panel provided on an upper front portion of a copying apparatus main body that is an image forming apparatus. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the first embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an operation flow of a second embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an operation flow of a third embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. The figure which showed the list printing screen which showed the print setting state in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic which shows embodiment of the RFID tag communication means in the image forming apparatus as stated above. It is a figure which shows the time change of the communication frequency in the 6th Embodiment of this invention with a graph. The schematic perspective view explaining the function in the 7th Embodiment of this invention. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an operation flow of an image forming apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention; 10 is a flowchart for explaining an operation flow of a ninth embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. The schematic block diagram explaining the system in the 10th Embodiment of this invention. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the eleventh embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation flow of the eleventh embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

40, 80 RFID tag reading means, 50 image forming apparatus, 50b printer unit, 105 CPU, 111 operation panel, 141 touch panel, 143 RFID tag reading means, 144 printing paper, 145 RFID tag, 146 electromagnetic shield plate, 154 interface

Claims (13)

In the image forming apparatus that reads the setting of the print mode and automatically manages the setting from the RFID tag information attached to the paper,
An operation panel for manually setting the print mode, and a first control means having a manual print mode setting function manually from the operation panel;
RFID tag communication means built in the image forming apparatus or connectable to the image forming apparatus through a communication interface, and disposed at a position in the middle of paper conveyance;
Determining means for determining print mode setting information set from information read from an RFID tag attached to the paper by the RFID communication means;
A second control unit having an automatic print mode setting function for automatically setting a print mode from information of the determination unit;
After performing printing based on the setting result of either the manual print mode setting function or the automatic print mode setting function and obtaining information from the communication partner by the RFID tag communication means, the manual print mode setting state is canceled. A transition means for shifting to the automatic print mode setting;
A counter unit that counts the number of information that can be acquired from the communication partner by the RFID tag communication unit after the RFID tag communication unit can acquire information from the communication partner in order to recognize the number of papers. An image forming apparatus. Recognizing means for recognizing the classification of the tag information of the communication partner after the information can be obtained from the communication partner by the RFID tag communication means;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a storage unit that counts and stores a counter value for each classification.   3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the counter value stored in the storage unit is read and displayed as a list on the operation panel.   3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the counter value stored in the storage unit is read and printed on a sheet as a list.   A plurality of RFID tag communication means communicating at different frequencies or a connectable interface means is provided, and a plurality of RFID tag information can be read in one original reading operation or paper printing operation. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   6. An RFID tag communication means capable of changing a frequency or an interface means capable of connection, wherein communication with a plurality of types of RFID tags is made possible by changing the frequency. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   7. The RFID tag information communication means is provided with a structure for locally limiting an electromagnetic wave emitted from the RFID communication means by a metal shield material or an electromagnetic shield material. The image forming apparatus described.   8. The RFID tag position recognizing means is further provided for prohibiting or canceling the setting of the staple, punch hole, paper folding, cutting, and perforation position at the component position of the RFID tag. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, together with the prohibition of the setting, a display intended for warning is performed on the operation panel and the light emitting unit.   An optical sensor for detecting an object by a change in the amount of received light or a sound sensor for detecting an object by a change in the amount of received sound, or a connectable interface means, and the operation is performed only when the object is detected. 10. The display according to claim 1, wherein a display of the panel is performed and a part or all of the display is turned off in a non-detection state of the object, not in a communication state with the RFID tag. Image forming apparatus.   A clock function is provided, and at least one of a time when a key is not pressed from the operation panel or an input such as print data input from an external device is not performed and a time when communication with the RFID tag is not normally performed 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a part or all of the display on the operation panel is erased when the measured time is not within a preset time.   The time measured in advance is at least one of a time when no key pressing from the operation panel or input of print data from an external device is performed, and a time when communication with the RFID tag is not performed normally. 12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the set time is exceeded, a power source supplied to a fixing temperature of the printer unit is controlled. 13. An image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the image forming apparatus is a host computer, a PDA, a mobile phone or the like by wired or wireless communication via a communication interface means with an externally connected device. An image forming system characterized in that a display, a message notification, and a status notification are displayed on an externally connected device and can be controlled by the externally connected device.

Images