JP2005316228A - Image forming apparatus and parts detachable apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To evade disadvantages, such as problems in image quality, malfunction, trouble and accident, accompanying the use of replacement parts, like imitation parts and counterfeits, whose use is not approved by manufacturers, while allowing the use of such replacement parts in an image forming apparatus removably mounted with the replacement parts. <P>SOLUTION: An image forming section 10 is removably mounted with the replacement parts 30. A switching section 20 switches an operation mode of the image forming section 10 between an authentication goods mode corresponding to the case in which the authentication goods are mounted as the replacement parts 30 and a non-authentication goods mode corresponding to the case in which the goods other than the authentication goods are mounted. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus to which a replacement part is detachably mounted and a part detachable apparatus, and more particularly to an operation mode of these apparatuses.

  2. Description of the Related Art As an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printer, an apparatus in which replacement parts such as a drum cartridge and a toner cartridge are detachably attached to an apparatus main body is known. Usually, the manufacturer of the main unit assumes the case where replacement parts approved by the manufacturer, such as genuine products and recommended products, are installed. In this case, the specified image quality and safety performance can be obtained. As such, the device body is designed and manufactured.

  When replacement parts that are not approved for use, such as counterfeits, counterfeits, pirated copies, etc., are mounted on the device body designed and manufactured in this way, the operation in this case is outside the scope of the manufacturer's assumptions. Therefore, various disadvantages may occur. For example, an image quality problem, a malfunction, a malfunction of the apparatus main body, a printing paper breakage (tear, wrinkles, etc.), or an accident (an abnormal sound, a strange odor, a leak, ignition, smoke, explosion, etc.) may occur.

  In order to avoid the above disadvantages, it is automatically determined whether the installed replacement part is a genuine product, etc., and if it is not a genuine product, the image forming operation is prohibited or a warning is displayed. Is employed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for identifying the type of a cartridge including a photosensitive drum, displaying the fact when a different cartridge is loaded, and prohibiting a copy operation. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-260260 discloses a technique for displaying a message to the effect that the unit has been activated when it is determined that the unit has reached the end of its life.

JP 2002-331686 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 1-200272 JP-A 64-57272

  As described above, the use of replacement parts such as imitations whose use is not approved by the manufacturer is not preferable from the viewpoint of safety and the like. However, some consumers wish to use counterfeits. Such a situation is not limited to the image forming apparatus, and can occur widely in a part detachable apparatus in which a replacement part is detachably mounted.

  Accordingly, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus and a part detachable apparatus that can avoid the disadvantages associated with the use of such replacement parts while allowing the use of replacement parts whose use is not approved by the manufacturer. I will provide a.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes an image forming unit on which a replacement part is detachably mounted, an operation mode of the image forming unit, and an authentication product mode corresponding to a case where an authentication product is mounted as the replacement part. Switching means for switching between the non-certified product mode corresponding to the case where a non-certified product is mounted.

  In this specification, replacement parts whose use is permitted by the manufacturer, such as a manufacturer's genuine product and a manufacturer's recommended product, are referred to as “certified products”. In addition, replacement parts that are not approved for use by manufacturers, such as counterfeits, counterfeits, and pirated copies, are referred to as “non-certified products”. Here, the manufacturer is a manufacturer of the image forming unit.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the non-certified product mode, the image forming unit restricts a function realized in the certified product mode while maintaining an image forming function.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming unit acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part in the certified product mode, operates based on the attribute information, and in the non-certified product mode, Instead of the attribute information, the operation is based on information stored in advance in the image forming unit.

  Further, in a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming unit acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part in the certified product mode, and realizes a predetermined function by using the attribute information. In the non-certified product mode, the predetermined function is stopped.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming unit operates in an operation limit range that is stricter than that in the certified product mode in the non-certified product mode.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming unit notifies the user that the current operation mode is the non-authentication product mode in the non-authentication product mode.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the non-certified product mode, the image forming unit acquires identification information indicating a manufacturer name or a product name of the replacement part, and is a manufacturer recognized from the identification information. Alternatively, a preset operation corresponding to the product is executed.

  Here, it is preferable that the image forming unit obtains the identification information from the replacement part.

  In the non-authenticated product mode, the image forming unit preferably acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part and operates based on the attribute information.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the switching unit switches the operation mode according to a switching operation by a user.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the switching means acquires information indicating whether the replacement part is an authorized product from the replacement part, and determines whether the replacement part is an authorized product based on the information. The operation mode is switched according to the determination result.

  An image forming apparatus control method according to the present invention is a control method of an image forming apparatus in which a replacement part is detachably mounted, and an operation product of the image forming apparatus is set as the replacement part and an authentication product is mounted. The mode is switched between the certified product mode corresponding to the case and the non-certified product mode corresponding to the case where a non-certified product is mounted.

  The component detachable device according to the present invention includes an operation unit on which a replacement component is detachably mounted, an operation mode of the operation unit, an authentication product mode corresponding to a case where an authentication product is mounted as the replacement component, and Switching means for switching between non-authenticated product modes corresponding to cases where a non-certified product is mounted.

  In this specification, replacement parts whose use is permitted by the manufacturer, such as a manufacturer's genuine product and a manufacturer's recommended product, are referred to as “certified products”. In addition, replacement parts that are not approved for use by manufacturers, such as counterfeits, counterfeits, and pirated copies, are referred to as “non-certified products”. Here, the manufacturer is a manufacturer of the operation unit.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the non-authenticated product mode, the operation unit restricts functions implemented in the certified product mode while maintaining a minimum function as the device.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the operation unit acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part in the certified product mode, operates based on the attribute information, and operates in the non-certified product mode. Instead of the attribute information, the operation is performed based on information previously stored in the operation unit.

  Further, in a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the certified product mode, the operation unit obtains attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part, and implements a predetermined function by using the attribute information. In the non-certified product mode, the predetermined function is stopped.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the operation unit operates in an operation limit range that is stricter than that in the certified product mode in the non-certified product mode.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the operation unit notifies the user that the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode in the non-certified product mode.

  Further, in a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the non-certified product mode, the operation unit acquires identification information indicating a manufacturer name or a product name of the replacement part and recognizes the manufacturer or the manufacturer recognized from the identification information. A preset operation corresponding to the product is executed.

  Here, it is preferable that the operation unit acquires the identification information from the replacement part.

  In the non-certified product mode, the operation unit preferably acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part and operates based on the attribute information.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the switching unit switches the operation mode according to a switching operation by a user.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the switching means acquires information indicating whether the replacement part is an authorized product from the replacement part, and determines whether the replacement part is an authorized product based on the information. The operation mode is switched according to the determination result.

  The control method of the component detachable device according to the present invention is a control method of a component detachable device in which a replacement component is detachably mounted, and the operation mode of the component detachable device is set as the replacement component. The mode is switched between the certified product mode corresponding to the case where it is attached and the non-certified product mode corresponding to the case where a non-certified product is attached.

  According to the present invention, since the operation mode is switched between the certified product mode corresponding to the case where the certified product is mounted as a replacement part and the non-certified product mode corresponding to the case where a product other than the certified product is mounted, While allowing the use of replacement parts whose use is not approved by the manufacturer, the disadvantages associated with the use of such replacement parts can be avoided.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 is an apparatus that prints an image on a recording material such as paper, such as a copying machine, a printer, and a facsimile machine. In this embodiment, the electrophotographic method will be described as an example of the printing method, but the printing method may be another method such as an ink jet method.

  In FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an image forming unit 10 that forms an image and a switching unit 20 that switches an operation mode of the image forming unit 10.

  The image forming unit 10 is an apparatus main body unit to which one or more replacement parts 30 are detachably mounted, and is a substantially fixed part. The image forming unit 10 executes an image forming operation using the mounted replacement part 30. Specifically, the image forming unit 10 forms a toner image on a recording material based on image data read from a document or print data supplied from a personal computer by an electrophotographic process.

  The replacement part 30 is generally a part that is appropriately replaced when worn. Examples of the replacement part 30 include a drum cartridge, a developing unit, a toner cartridge, a transfer unit, and a fixing unit.

  Generally, a manufacturer (hereinafter referred to as a manufacturer) of the image forming unit 10 assumes a case where a genuine replacement part 30 is mounted on the image forming unit 10, and in this case, a predetermined quality (image quality, durability performance, The image forming unit 10 is designed and manufactured so that safety performance and the like can be obtained. Therefore, when the manufacturer's genuine replacement part 30 is mounted on the image forming unit 10 in the market, the predetermined quality can be obtained. In addition, if the use is not limited to a genuine product and is recommended by the manufacturer, such as a recommended product, even if the replacement part 30 is made by another manufacturer, the operation when the replacement part 30 is mounted is as follows. Since it is within the manufacturer's range, a certain level of quality is expected.

  On the other hand, in the market, in addition to replacement parts 30 (certified products) approved for use by manufacturers, replacement parts 30 that are not approved for use by manufacturers (non-certified products) such as counterfeits, counterfeits, and pirated copies. Product) may be distributed.

  As described above, some consumers desire to use non-certified products such as counterfeits. However, since the operation when a non-certified product is installed is outside the range assumed by the manufacturer, various disadvantages may occur due to unexpected operations when the non-certified product is handled in the same manner as the certified product. There is.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, as the operation mode of the image forming unit 10, in addition to the certified product mode corresponding to the case where the certified product is installed, the non-certified product mode corresponding to the case where the non-certified product is installed. It will be provided. This non-certified product mode is an operation mode for avoiding the disadvantages associated with the use of non-certified products while satisfying the consumer's desire to use non-certified products.

  More specifically, in the authenticated product mode, the image forming unit 10 realizes an additional function in addition to the minimum function as the image forming apparatus. Here, the minimum function as an image forming apparatus is a function of printing an image on a recording material, that is, an image forming function. On the other hand, in the non-authenticated product mode, the image forming unit 10 satisfies the consumer's desire to use the non-authenticated product, while maintaining the image forming function, the disadvantage associated with the use of the non-certified product (malfunction, failure) In order to avoid accidents, etc., the functions implemented in the certified product mode are limited.

  The switching unit 20 switches the operation mode of the image forming unit 10 between the certified product mode and the non-certified product mode. By appropriately switching the operation mode by the switching unit 20, it is possible to avoid the disadvantage associated with the use of the non-certified product while satisfying the consumer's desire to use the non-certified product. The operation mode switching by the switching unit 20 may be performed manually or automatically.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described more specifically with reference to FIG.

  First, a basic configuration related to image formation in the image forming apparatus 1 will be described. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a photosensitive drum 1a that is rotationally driven in an arrow X direction by a motor (not shown), a charger 1b that uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 1a, and a charged photosensitive drum 1a. A laser scanning optical system (ROS: Raster Output Scanner) 1c for forming an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the toner, a developing unit 1d for developing the electrostatic latent image with toner, and a toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 1a. A transfer roll 1e for transferring to the recording material P, a fixing device 1f for fixing the transferred toner image to the recording material P, and a cleaner 1g for collecting residual toner on the photosensitive drum 1a are provided.

  In the present embodiment, among these, the photosensitive drum 1a, the charger 1b, and the cleaner 1g constitute an integrated drum cartridge 30A. The drum cartridge 30 </ b> A is detachably attached to the image forming unit 10 as a replacement part 30. In addition, a toner cartridge 30 </ b> B filled with toner to be supplied to the developing device 1 d is detachably attached to the image forming unit 10 as a replacement part 30 in the image forming unit 10.

  Other than these, that is, ROS 1c, developing unit 1d, transfer roll 1e, and fixing unit 1f are provided on the image forming unit 10 side. On the image forming unit 10 side, a charging power source 10B for applying a charging bias to the charger 1b, an exposure power source 10C for driving the laser light source of the ROS 1c, and a developing power source for applying a developing bias to the developing unit 1d 10D, a transfer power source 10E that applies a transfer bias to the transfer roll 1e, and a fixing power source 10F that supplies power to the heater of the fixing device 1f are provided. Further, a control unit 11 that controls the entire image forming unit 10 including these power supplies 10B to 10F is provided on the image forming unit 10 side. The image forming unit 10 includes a control panel (not shown). This control panel is a touch panel type user interface that displays various information and receives user's instruction input. In this specification, the user includes not only a general user but also a device administrator who manages the image forming apparatus 1 and a service engineer who performs maintenance.

  In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an operation mode holding unit 12 on the image forming unit 10 side in addition to the basic components described above. The operation mode holding unit 12 holds information indicating whether to operate in the certified product mode or the non-certified product mode, and is, for example, a rewritable nonvolatile memory. Information in the operation mode holding unit 12 is rewritten by the switching unit 20, read by the control unit 11, and used for control by the control unit 11. That is, the switching unit 20 switches the operation mode of the image forming unit 10 by rewriting information in the operation mode holding unit 12.

  The drum cartridge 30A and the toner cartridge 30B are attached with non-volatile memories 31A and 31B for storing control information used for the image forming operation, respectively. Reading and writing of information with respect to the nonvolatile memories 31A and 31B is performed by the reader / writer units 13A and 13B provided in the image forming unit 10. Here, the nonvolatile memory 31 is an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag, and exchanges information with the reader / writer unit 13 wirelessly. However, the nonvolatile memory 31 is not particularly limited, and information may be exchanged with the reader / writer unit 13 by wire.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 having the above-described configuration will be described in detail by dividing it into an overall schematic operation and an operation in the non-authenticated product mode. The general image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 1 is widely known and will not be described.

[Overall Operation of Image Forming Apparatus 1]
Here, a first operation example and a second operation example will be shown for the operation of the entire image forming apparatus 1.

(First operation example)
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a first operation example of the entire image forming apparatus 1. In this operation example, for the sake of convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the replacement part 30 is only the drum cartridge 30A.

  When the power of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on (S11), the switching unit 20 acquires information indicating whether or not the cartridge is the certified product from the mounted drum cartridge 30A, and based on the acquired information It is determined whether or not the drum cartridge 30A is a certified product (S12). For example, the switching unit 20 reads the encrypted information stored in the non-volatile memory 31A by the reader / writer unit 13A, and determines whether or not the product is an authentication product based on whether or not the encrypted information can be correctly decrypted. However, the information indicating whether or not the product is an authorized product may be other information such as a barcode (not shown) attached to the drum cartridge 30A or a physical characteristic value of the drum cartridge 30A. Moreover, the determination method of whether it is a certification | authentication product is not specifically limited.

  Next, the switching unit 20 determines whether or not it is necessary to switch to the non-certified product mode (S13). Specifically, when the drum cartridge 30A is a non-certified product and the current operation mode is the certified product mode, it is determined that switching to the non-certified product mode is necessary. The current operation mode is recognized based on information held in the operation mode holding unit 12.

  When it is determined that switching to the non-certified product mode is necessary (S13: YES), the user is prompted to switch to the non-certified product mode (S14). For example, a screen prompting switching is displayed on a display screen such as a control panel (not shown). When a predetermined switching operation by the user is executed according to this screen, the switching unit 20 receives a switching instruction based on the switching operation (S15). Then, in response to the switching instruction, the switching unit 20 rewrites the information in the operation mode holding unit 12 to switch the operation mode from the certified product mode to the non-certified product mode (S16).

  Here, as the predetermined switching operation, for example, there is an operation of inputting a password from a user interface such as a control panel. In this case, the switching unit 20 collates the input password with a password held in advance, and accepts a switching instruction if they match. At this time, if only a specific person such as a device administrator or a service engineer can know the password, the switching operation can be limited to the specific person. However, the specific mode of the switching operation is not particularly limited, and the switching operation includes an input operation from the general user screen of the control panel by a general user, and an operation from the administrator screen of the control panel by the device administrator. Input operation, input operation from engineer screen of control panel by service engineer, input operation from maintenance equipment (personal computer, etc.), connection of switching jig to image forming apparatus 1, network such as Internet or LAN For example, input operation via the Internet. If the switching operation is not performed, it is preferable that the image forming operation is prohibited from the viewpoint of preventing disadvantages such as malfunctions.

  When it is determined that switching to the non-certified product mode is not necessary (S13: NO), the switching unit 20 determines whether switching to the certified product mode is necessary (S17). Specifically, when the drum cartridge 30A is the certified product and the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode, it is determined that switching to the certified product mode is necessary.

  When it is determined that switching to the certified product mode is necessary (S17: YES), the user is prompted to switch to the certified product mode (S18). For example, a screen prompting switching is displayed on a display screen such as a control panel (not shown). When a predetermined switching operation by the user is executed according to this screen, the switching unit 20 receives a switching instruction based on the switching operation (S19). Then, the switching unit 20 switches the operation mode from the non-certified product mode to the certified product mode by rewriting the information in the operation mode holding unit 12 according to the switching instruction (S20). If the switching operation is not performed, for example, the image forming operation is permitted while the non-authenticated product mode is maintained.

  When it is determined that switching to the certified product mode is not necessary (S17: NO), the process proceeds to step S21. In this case, the operation mode is not switched.

  When the processing relating to the switching of the operation mode is completed, the image forming apparatus 1 waits until receiving an image formation start instruction such as pressing a copy button or receiving a print request (S21: NO). When an image formation start instruction is received (S21: YES), the control unit 11 reads information held in the operation mode holding unit 12 (S22).

  When information indicating that the operation should be performed in the certified product mode is read (S23: YES), the control unit 11 supplies the power supplies 10B to 10F and the like so that the image forming unit 10 operates in the preset certified product mode. Is controlled (S24). On the other hand, when information indicating that the operation is to be performed in the non-authenticated product mode is read (S23: NO), the control unit 11 supplies power so that the image forming unit 10 operates in the preset non-authenticated product mode. 10B to 10F and the like are controlled (S25). As a result, the image forming apparatus 1 performs an image forming operation suitable for the certified or non-certified drum cartridge 30A.

  In this operation example, the operation mode is switched according to the user's switching operation. However, the switching unit 20 may perform switching automatically. Further, the user may determine whether or not the drum cartridge 30A is an approved product from the appearance of the drum cartridge 30A or its packaging, and perform an operation mode switching operation according to the determination result.

(Second operation example)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a second operation example of the entire image forming apparatus 1. In this operation example, both the drum cartridge 30A and the toner cartridge 30B are considered as the replacement parts 30. Moreover, in order to avoid duplication of description, description of portions common to the first operation example is omitted.

  When the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on (S31), the switching unit 20 determines whether each of the drum cartridge 30A and the toner cartridge 30B is an authenticated product (S32). Then, the result of this determination is written in the operation mode holding unit 12 (S33). Therefore, the operation mode holding unit 12 holds information indicating whether each of the drum cartridge 30A and the toner cartridge 30B is an certified product or a non-certified product.

  When the writing of information by the switching unit 20 is completed, the image forming apparatus 1 waits until receiving an instruction to start image formation (S34: NO). When an image formation start instruction is received (S34: YES), the control unit 11 reads information held in the operation mode holding unit 12 (S35).

  When both the drum cartridge 30A and the toner cartridge 30B are certified products based on the read information (S36: YES), the control unit 11 controls the power supplies 10B to 10B so that the image forming unit 10 operates in the certified product mode. 10F and the like are controlled (S37). On the other hand, in other cases, that is, when at least one of the drum cartridge 30A and the toner cartridge 30B is a non-certified product (S36: NO), the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 10 to operate in the non-certified product mode. Next, the power supplies 10B to 10F and the like are controlled (S38). At this time, it is preferable that the control unit 11 controls the image forming unit 10 according to which replacement part 30 is a non-certified product. That is, the non-certified product mode is preferably set for each combination of non-certified products. For example, the control unit 11 limits the charging bias when only the drum cartridge 30A is a non-certified product, and stops the function of displaying the remaining amount of toner when only the toner cartridge 30B is a non-certified product. If is a non-certified product, the charging bias is limited and the toner remaining amount display function is stopped. Thereby, appropriate control can be performed according to the combination of non-certified products.

  In the first and second operation examples, the replacement part 30 is determined when the power is turned on. However, the determination is performed at an appropriate timing, for example, when the replacement part 30 is attached or the opening / closing of the main body cover is detected. be able to.

[Operation in non-certified product mode]
The operation in the non-certified product mode will be described below in comparison with the operation in the certified product mode. Here, the first to fifth operation examples will be described separately, but these may be combined as appropriate.

(First operation example)
First, the certified product mode will be described. In general, in the image forming apparatus 1, manufacturing variations occur in the replacement part 30. For example, variations in manufacturing occur in the charging characteristics and sensitivity of the photosensitive drum 1a. Further, the characteristics of the replacement part 30 change with use. For example, the surface layer of the photosensitive drum 1a is scraped with use, and its charging characteristics and sensitivity change. Such manufacturing variations and changes in characteristics accompanying use affect the image.

  Therefore, in order to correct manufacturing variations, changes in characteristics, and the like, in the certified product mode, the image forming unit 10 acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part 30 and operates based on the attribute information. Here, as the attribute information, for example, information stored in the nonvolatile memory 31, a barcode (not shown) attached to the replacement part 30, a physical characteristic value of the replacement part 30, and a combination of these pieces of information Etc.

  The operation in the certified product mode will be described more specifically by taking charge bias control as an example. Prior to the print job, the control unit 11 reads correction data for correcting manufacturing variations in charging characteristics of the drum cartridge 30A from the nonvolatile memory 31A via the reader / writer unit 13A. This correction data is written in the nonvolatile memory 31A at the manufacturing stage of the drum cartridge 30A. Then, the control unit 11 corrects a preset reference charging bias value with the correction data, and controls the charging power supply 10B so that the corrected charging bias is output. As a result, the surface of the photosensitive drum 1a can be charged to a desired potential regardless of manufacturing variations of the drum cartridge 30A.

  Needless to say, the purpose of use of the attribute information acquired from the replacement part 30 is not limited to the correction of the manufacturing variation and the characteristic change.

  Next, the non-certified product mode will be described. For example, when the drum cartridge 30A is a non-certified product, there is a possibility that inappropriate information is written in the nonvolatile memory 31A of the drum cartridge 30A. Further, the characteristics of the photosensitive drum 1a and the charger 1b constituting the drum cartridge 30A may be different from those of the certified product. Accordingly, the attribute information acquired from the non-certified product replacement part 30 may be completely different from that of the certified product. When this is used for the control of the image forming unit 10, unexpected operation, malfunction, failure , There may be a disadvantage such as an accident.

  Therefore, in order to avoid such a disadvantage, in the non-authenticated product mode of this operation example, the image forming unit 10 holds in advance in the image forming unit 10 instead of the attribute information acquired from the replacement part 30. Operates based on the information that is being used.

  The operation in the non-authenticated product mode will be described more specifically by taking charge bias control as an example. In the non-authenticated product mode, the control unit 11 reads out the charging bias value for the non-authenticated product previously stored in the storage area from the predetermined storage area of the image forming unit 10. Then, the charging power supply 10B is controlled so that the charging bias for the non-certified product is output. Here, it is preferable that the charging bias value for the non-certified product is a set value in consideration of safety more than image quality. Further, the charging bias value for non-certified products is not limited to a fixed value, and may be a variable value. For example, the charging bias value for the non-certified product may be a value that varies depending on factors such as the environmental temperature, or may be a value that can be adjusted by the user.

(Second operation example)
In the certified product mode, the image forming unit 10 acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part 30 and uses the attribute information to realize a predetermined function. For example, the control unit 11 reads the remaining toner information from the nonvolatile memory 31B of the toner cartridge 30B, and displays the remaining toner on the control panel using the remaining toner information. As a result, the user can recognize the remaining amount of toner. Here, the toner remaining amount information held in the nonvolatile memory 31B is information that is set by an initial value at the manufacturing stage and is updated by the control unit 11 every time a print job is generated.

  If the toner cartridge 30B is a non-certified product, the initial value set in the manufacturing stage may be inappropriate. Further, since the physical properties of the toner are different from those of the certified product, there is a possibility that the toner remaining amount information cannot be updated accurately. For this reason, if the remaining amount of toner information is read from the non-certified toner cartridge 30B and the remaining amount of toner is displayed based on this information, inaccurate information will be provided to the user.

  Therefore, in the non-authenticated product mode of this operation example, the image forming unit 10 stops a predetermined function realized by using attribute information acquired from the replacement part 30 such as a toner remaining amount display function. However, the image forming unit 10 maintains other appropriately realizable functions.

  Here, the toner remaining amount display function has been described as an example, but the predetermined function realized by using the attribute information of the replacement part 30 is not particularly limited.

(Third operation example)
The certified product mode is set so that predetermined quality (image quality, durability performance, safety performance, etc.) can be obtained when the certified product is mounted as the replacement part 30. Specifically, parameters such as charging bias, transfer bias, and fixing temperature in the certified product mode satisfy predetermined characteristics (for example, dielectric strength, flame retardancy, wear resistance, etc.) of the replacement part 30 as a certified product. It is set on the assumption.

  When the replacement part 30 is a non-certified product, it is unclear whether or not the predetermined characteristic is satisfied. For this reason, if the certified product mode parameters are applied as they are when a non-certified product is installed, there may be disadvantages such as unexpected discharge, temperature rise, overcurrent, component wear, ignition, and smoke generation. .

  Therefore, in the non-authenticated product mode of this operation example, the image forming unit 10 operates within an operation restriction range that is stricter than that of the authenticated product mode. For example, an upper limit or a lower limit that is stricter than the certified product mode is set for output values such as a charging bias, a laser light quantity, a transfer bias, and a fixing temperature. Here, the operation restriction range in the non-certified product mode is set from the viewpoint of preventing failure and ensuring safety. Further, the upper limit or the lower limit, which is stricter than the certified product, is set for the continuous operation time, the continuous output number, the printing speed (process speed), and the like. The operation restriction range may be defined by other than the upper limit and the lower limit. For example, usable printing modes (plain paper mode, thin paper mode, thick paper mode, etc.) can be restricted, and usable recording materials (plain paper, thin paper, thick paper, OHP, etc.) can be restricted.

(Fourth operation example)
As shown in the first to third operation examples, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 differs between the certified product mode and the non-certified product mode. For this reason, the user may mistakenly recognize the operation in the non-authenticated product mode as a failure of the image forming apparatus 1. In addition, it is preferable to notify the user who does not know that the non-certified product is mounted.

  Therefore, in the non-certified product mode of this operation example, the user is notified that the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode. For example, the fact that the non-certified product mode is displayed on the display screen of the control panel or personal computer. However, the notification mode is not particularly limited, and may be notification by voice or the like. Further, during the certified product mode, it may be notified that the current operation mode is the certified product mode.

(Fifth operation example)
Even when a non-certified product is mounted, it is preferable that a high-quality image can be obtained and a more advanced function can be realized. In addition, manufacturers can investigate and obtain attribute information such as physical properties and performance of non-certified products.

  Therefore, in the non-authenticated product mode of this operation example, the image forming unit 10 acquires identification information indicating the manufacturer name or product name of the replacement part 30, and according to the manufacturer or product recognized from this identification information, Perform a preset action.

  Specifically, control information is preset in the image forming unit 10 for each manufacturer name or product name. Here, the control information is information used for control by the image forming unit 10, for example, information for controlling a charging bias, a laser light amount, a fixing temperature, and the like. Control information corresponding to a certain non-certified product is determined based on the characteristics of the product (for example, the sensitivity of the photoconductor and the melting point of the toner).

  The image forming unit 10 receives input of a manufacturer name and a product name from a user via a user interface such as a control panel. Alternatively, the image forming unit 10 reads the manufacturer name or product name from the nonvolatile memory 31 or the barcode of the replacement part 30. However, in this case, the product name or the like needs to be recorded in advance on the replacement part 30 by the manufacturer or the like of the non-certified product. The image forming unit 10 executes an image forming operation based on the control information corresponding to the acquired manufacturer name or product name.

  In order to obtain a higher quality image or to realize a more advanced function in the non-authenticated product mode of this operation example, the image forming unit 10 transmits the attribute information of the replacement part from the non-certified product replacement part 30. May be acquired and operated using the attribute information. Here, the attribute information includes, for example, information stored in the nonvolatile memory 31, a barcode attached to the replacement part 30, a physical characteristic value of the replacement part 30, and a combination of these information. .

  According to the present embodiment described above, the following effects can be obtained.

  (1) As the operation mode of the image forming unit, in addition to the certified product mode corresponding to the case where the certified product is attached, a non-certified product mode corresponding to the case where the non-certified product is attached is provided. Switch between and use. In this way, while satisfying consumers' desire to use non-certified products, avoiding disadvantages such as unexpected behavior, image quality problems, malfunctions, failures, accidents, etc. associated with the use of non-certified products Can do.

  (2) In the certified product mode, the image forming unit acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part, and operates based on the attribute information. In the non-certified product mode, the operation is based on information stored in advance in the image forming unit instead of the attribute information. According to the non-certified product mode, the attribute information of the replacement part is not used for the image forming operation, so that the function of the image forming apparatus is partially limited, while satisfying the user's desire to use the non-certified product. It is possible to avoid disadvantages such as unexpected operations, breakdowns, accidents, etc. due to inappropriate use of attribute information.

  Further, if the operation of acquiring attribute information from the replacement part, such as communication with a nonvolatile memory, is omitted, the time required for acquiring the attribute information can be omitted, and the operation can be speeded up. Further, it is possible to avoid disadvantages such as malfunctions and failures due to input of unexpected attribute information.

  (3) In the certified product mode, the image forming unit acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part, and implements a predetermined function by using the attribute information. In the non-certified product mode, the predetermined function is stopped. According to this non-certified product mode, a predetermined function based on the attribute information of the replacement part is stopped, so that some functions of the image forming apparatus are not realized, but the user's desire to use a non-certified product is satisfied. On the other hand, it is possible to avoid disadvantages such as unexpected operations, failures, accidents, and the like due to inappropriate use of attribute information.

  Further, if the operation of acquiring attribute information from the replacement part, such as communication with a nonvolatile memory, is omitted, the time required for acquiring the attribute information can be omitted, and the operation can be speeded up. Further, it is possible to avoid disadvantages such as malfunctions and failures due to input of unexpected attribute information.

  (4) In the non-authenticated product mode, the image forming unit operates within an operation limit range that is more strict than the certified product mode in consideration of safety. According to this non-certified product mode, the operation and output are limited, so the performance of the image forming device such as image quality is reduced, but the non-certified product is satisfied while satisfying the user's desire to use the non-certified product. It is possible to prevent unexpected discharge, temperature rise, overcurrent, and component wear due to the use of and prevent malfunctions and accidents due to these.

  (5) In the non-certified product mode, the image forming unit notifies the user that the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode. According to the non-certified product mode, the user can grasp that the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the user from noticing that the non-certified product is mounted. In addition, it is possible to prevent the user from misidentifying the function limitation in the non-certified product mode as a failure.

  (6) In the non-certified product mode, the image forming unit acquires identification information indicating the manufacturer name or product name of the replacement part, and is set in advance according to the manufacturer or product recognized from the identification information. Perform the action. According to this non-authenticated product mode, it is possible to achieve suitable image formation when using a non-certified product, and to improve image quality and realize advanced functions. In this non-authenticated product mode, if the image forming unit acquires the above identification information from the replacement part, it is possible to automatically execute appropriate image formation according to the manufacturer or the product. Will improve. Further, in this non-authenticated product mode, if the image forming unit operates based on the attribute information acquired from the replacement part, it is possible to achieve more suitable image formation when using the non-certified product. It is possible to improve image quality and realize advanced functions.

  (7) When the switching unit switches the operation mode according to the switching operation by the user, the user can switch the operation mode according to his / her own intention. Here, if the person who can perform the switching operation is limited to the device manager or service engineer, it is possible to prevent the general user from switching the operation mode by mistake.

  (8) When the switching unit acquires predetermined information from the replacement part, determines whether or not the replacement part is an authorized product based on this information, and switches the operation mode according to the determination result Therefore, the operation mode can be automatically switched, and convenience is improved. Moreover, even when a user unintentionally attaches a non-certified product by mistake, a disadvantage associated with the use of the non-certified product can be avoided.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, it cannot be overemphasized that this invention is not limited to said embodiment.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the drum cartridge, the developing unit, the toner cartridge, the transfer unit, and the fixing unit are exemplified as the replacement parts. (IIT), an image data generation device, an optional device, and the like can also be exemplified. Optional equipment includes double-sided transport device, trayless double-sided transport device, finisher (post-processing device such as staple, bookbinding, punch, folding machine, etc.), large-capacity feed tray, large-capacity discharge tray, manual feed tray, special paper transport device Etc.

  In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus has been described as an example. However, the present invention is widely applicable to a component detachable apparatus in which a replacement part is detachably mounted. Here, examples of the component detachable device include a television, a data recording / reproducing device (video, hard disk recorder, etc.), a speaker, a fixed phone, a mobile phone, a personal computer, and an automobile. In the data recording / reproducing apparatus, as one of the replacement parts, a recording medium such as a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a memory card, and a paper tape is exemplified. In the case of automobiles, tires, mufflers, batteries, air cleaners, oil cleaners, lights, etc. are exemplified as replacement parts.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the component detachable device 2. As shown in FIG. 5, the component detachable apparatus 2 has an operation unit 50 in which the replacement component 70 is detachably mounted and an operation mode of the operation unit 50 when the certified product is mounted as the replacement component 70. A switching unit 60 that switches between a corresponding certified product mode and a non-certified product mode corresponding to a case where a non-certified product is mounted is provided. In the non-certified product mode, the operation unit 50 restricts the functions realized in the certified product mode while maintaining the minimum functions of the device. Here, the minimum function as the device is a basic function derived from the use of the device, for example, a function of receiving and displaying an image in the case of a television, and in the case of a hard disk recorder. Is a function for recording and reproducing information, and in the case of a landline telephone, it is a call function. The configuration and operation of the component detachable device 2 are the same as those of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the above embodiment.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a first operation example of the entire image forming apparatus. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a second operation example of the entire image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a component detachable apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus, 1a Photosensitive drum, 1b Charger, 1c Laser scanning optical system (ROS), 1d Developer, 1e Transfer roll, 1f Fixer, 1g Cleaner, 10 Image forming part, 10B Power supply for charging, 10C Exposure Power supply, 10D development power supply, 10E transfer power supply, 10F fixing power supply, 11 control unit, 12 operation mode holding unit, 13A, 13B reader / writer unit, 20 switching unit, 30 replacement part, 30A drum cartridge, 30B toner cartridge , 31A, 31B Non-volatile memory, 2 parts detachable device, 50 operation parts, 60 switching parts, 70 replacement parts.

Claims (24)

An image forming unit on which a replacement part is detachably mounted;
Switching means for switching the operation mode of the image forming unit between an authenticated product mode corresponding to a case where an approved product is mounted as the replacement part and a non-authenticated product mode corresponding to a case where a non-certified product is mounted. When,
An image forming apparatus comprising: The image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
The image forming unit includes:
In the non-authenticated product mode, an image forming apparatus is configured to restrict functions realized in the certified product mode while maintaining an image forming function. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2,
The image forming unit includes:
In the certified product mode, the attribute information of the replacement part is obtained from the replacement part, and operates based on the attribute information.
In the non-authenticated product mode, the image forming apparatus operates based on information stored in advance in the image forming unit instead of the attribute information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2,
The image forming unit includes:
In the certified product mode, the attribute information of the replacement part is acquired from the replacement part, and a predetermined function is realized by using the attribute information.
In the non-certified product mode, the predetermined function is stopped. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2,
The image forming unit includes:
In the non-authenticated product mode, the image forming apparatus operates within an operation limit range that is stricter than that of the certified product mode. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:
The image forming unit includes:
In the non-certified product mode, the image forming apparatus notifies the user that the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:
The image forming unit includes:
In the non-certified product mode, identification information indicating a manufacturer name or a product name of the replacement part is acquired, and a preset operation corresponding to the manufacturer or product recognized from the identification information is executed. An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming unit acquires the identification information from the replacement part. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7,
The image forming unit includes:
In the non-certified product mode, the attribute information of the replacement part is acquired from the replacement part, and the image forming apparatus operates based on the attribute information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:
The image forming apparatus, wherein the switching unit switches an operation mode in accordance with a switching operation by a user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:
The switching means obtains information indicating whether or not the replacement part is a certified product from the replacement part, determines whether or not the replacement part is a certified product based on the information, and according to the result of the determination An image forming apparatus characterized by switching an operation mode. A control method of an image forming apparatus in which a replacement part is detachably mounted,
The operation mode of the image forming apparatus is switched between a certified product mode corresponding to a case where a certified product is mounted as the replacement part and a non-certified product mode corresponding to a case where a non-certified product is mounted. A control method for an image forming apparatus. An operating part on which a replacement part is detachably mounted;
Switching means for switching the operation mode of the operation unit between an authenticated product mode corresponding to a case where a certified product is mounted as the replacement part and a non-certified product mode corresponding to a case where a non-certified product is mounted; ,
A component detachable apparatus comprising: The component detachable device according to claim 13,
In the non-certified product mode, the operation unit restricts functions realized in the certified product mode while maintaining a minimum function as the device. The component detachable device according to claim 14,
The operating unit is
In the certified product mode, the attribute information of the replacement part is obtained from the replacement part, and operates based on the attribute information.
In the non-certified product mode, the component detachable apparatus operates based on information stored in advance in the operation unit instead of the attribute information. The component detachable device according to claim 14,
The operating unit is
In the certified product mode, the attribute information of the replacement part is acquired from the replacement part, and a predetermined function is realized by using the attribute information.
In the non-certified product mode, the predetermined function is stopped. The component detachable device according to claim 14,
The operating unit is
In the non-certified product mode, the component detachable apparatus operates within a stricter operation restriction range than the certified product mode. The component detachable device according to claim 13 or 14,
The operating unit is
In the non-certified product mode, the component detachable apparatus is configured to notify the user that the current operation mode is the non-certified product mode. The component detachable device according to claim 13 or 14,
The operating unit is
In the non-certified product mode, identification information indicating a manufacturer name or a product name of the replacement part is acquired, and a preset operation corresponding to the manufacturer or product recognized from the identification information is executed. Features a detachable device. The component detachable device according to claim 19,
The operating unit acquires the identification information from the replacement part. The component detachable device according to claim 19,
The operating unit is
In the non-certified product mode, the component detachable apparatus that acquires attribute information of the replacement part from the replacement part and operates based on the attribute information. The component detachable device according to claim 13 or 14,
The component detachable device characterized in that the switching means switches an operation mode in accordance with a switching operation by a user. The component detachable device according to claim 13 or 14,
The switching means obtains information indicating whether or not the replacement part is a certified product from the replacement part, determines whether or not the replacement part is a certified product based on the information, and according to the result of the determination A component detachable device characterized by switching an operation mode. A control method of a component detachable device in which a replacement component is detachably mounted,
Switching the operation mode of the component detachable device between an authenticated product mode corresponding to a case where a certified product is mounted as the replacement part and a non-certified product mode corresponding to a case where a non-certified product is mounted. A control method for a component detachable device.

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