JP2006003374A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To detect the level of external noise, while restraining the increase in cost and the enlargement of scale in an image forming apparatus to which renewal parts equipped with a radio tag are detachably attached and which is equipped with a communications device performing radio communication with the radio tag. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus 100 is constituted of an apparatus body 2 and the renewal part 3 detachably attached to the apparatus body 2. The radio tag 10 is attached to the renewal part 3. The apparatus body 2 is provided with a reader/writer 30 performing radio communication with the radio tag 10 via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna and a control unit 40 controlling the reader/writer 30 as the communication device 20. The communications device 20 captures external noise by the reception antenna and detects the level of the captured external noise. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a communication device that is detachably mounted with a replacement part including a wireless tag and performs wireless communication with the wireless tag.

  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. In such an image forming apparatus, a configuration in which a wireless tag is attached to a replacement part has been widespread for correction of manufacturing variation of the replacement part and lifetime management. The wireless tag stores various control information such as correction values for correcting manufacturing variations and usage history information. The control information stored in the wireless tag is appropriately read out by the communication device on the apparatus main body side and used for controlling the image forming apparatus. Further, control information is written from the communication device on the apparatus body side to the wireless tag as necessary.

  In the above configuration, wireless communication between the communication device on the apparatus body side and the wireless tag is affected by ambient noise. For example, when a noise source such as a CRT, a motor, or a high voltage application member is present in the vicinity of the communication device, noise may be added to the communication signal and a communication error may occur. If the external noise is strong, repeated communication errors will result in repeated communication errors. In this case, the user may mistakenly assume that the communication device is out of order.

  If the level of the external noise can be detected, it is possible to take appropriate measures according to the noise level. However, if a dedicated sensor for detecting noise is provided, cost and space for that purpose are required.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus capable of detecting the level of external noise while suppressing an increase in cost and scale.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a communication device in which a replacement part including a wireless tag is detachably attached, and performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and the replacement part is used. An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, comprising: noise detecting means for capturing external noise by the receiving antenna and detecting a level of the captured external noise.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the noise detection means detects the level of external noise in a state where the emission of electromagnetic waves from the transmission antenna is stopped.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the communication device includes a signal detection circuit that detects a level of a transmission signal supplied to the transmission antenna or a level of a reception signal received by the reception antenna. The noise detection means detects the level of external noise using the signal detection circuit.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the communication device includes a transmission unit that supplies a transmission signal to the transmission antenna and a reception filter circuit that filters an input signal, and the reception signal received by the reception antenna On the other hand, after performing filtering by the reception filter circuit, a reception unit that performs predetermined reception processing, and a signal that guides a transmission signal supplied from the transmission unit to the transmission antenna to the reception filter circuit from the transmission unit A pulse counter that counts noise pulses included in a transmission signal that is input to the reception filter circuit via the signal line and filtered by the reception filter circuit, and the noise detection unit includes: The external noise received by the receiving antenna is filtered by the reception filter circuit. The pulses contained in the signal after filtering counted by the pulse counter.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the noise detecting means operates a predetermined part for image formation and detects the level of external noise during the operation.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the noise detecting unit causes the image forming apparatus to perform an operation similar to an actual image forming operation, and detects the level of external noise during the operation.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the noise detection unit causes the image forming apparatus to execute the same operation as the actual image forming operation without conveying the recording medium, and the level of the external noise during the operation. Is detected.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, it is determined whether wireless communication with the wireless tag is possible based on the level of external noise detected by the noise detecting means. In a preferred aspect of this configuration, when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, wireless communication with the wireless tag is stopped. If it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, the image forming function is stopped. If it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, the user is notified of this.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the communication mode of the communication device is changed according to the level of the external noise detected by the noise detection means so that the noise resistance increases as the level of the external noise increases. .

  Further, the noise detection unit causes the image forming apparatus to execute an operation similar to an actual image forming operation, or to perform an operation similar to an actual image forming operation without conveying a recording medium. In the case of detecting the level of external noise, the period during which wireless communication with the wireless tag is possible is specified based on the temporal change in the level of external noise detected by the noise detection means. It is preferable to perform wireless communication during the period.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the noise detecting means detects the level of external noise when a predetermined part for image formation is operated and when the operation of the predetermined part is stopped. To do. In a preferred aspect of this configuration, the predetermined component is abnormal based on the difference between the level of external noise detected during operation of the predetermined component and the level of external noise detected during non-operation. Judge whether there is.

  Further, in a preferred aspect of the present invention, the noise detecting means detects the external noise when the image forming apparatus performs the same operation as the actual image forming operation and when the operation is stopped. Detect level. Alternatively, the noise detection unit is configured to cause the image forming apparatus to perform the same operation as the actual image forming operation without conveying the recording medium, and to stop the external noise level when the operation is stopped. Is detected.

  In a preferred aspect of the above configuration, the image forming apparatus is abnormal based on a temporal change in the level of external noise detected during operation of the image forming apparatus and a level of external noise detected during non-operation. It is determined whether or not.

  Further, based on a temporal change in the level of external noise detected during the operation of the image forming apparatus, it is determined whether wireless communication is possible during the image forming operation, and wireless communication is possible during the image forming operation. If it is determined that there is, wireless communication is performed during the image forming operation, and if it is determined that wireless communication is not possible during the image forming operation, image formation is performed based on the level of external noise detected during non-operation. When it is determined that wireless communication is possible while the operation is stopped, wireless communication is performed while the image forming operation is stopped. On the other hand, when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible while the image forming operation is stopped, wireless communication is performed. Stop communication.

  In a preferred aspect of the present invention, there are a plurality of receiving antennas, and the noise detecting means captures external noise by a plurality of receiving antennas, and detects the level of the external noise captured by each receiving antenna.

  In a preferred aspect of this configuration, the type of noise cause is estimated based on the installation position of each receiving antenna and the level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna. In this case, preferably, it is estimated which of the noise source outside the image forming apparatus or the component failure of the image forming apparatus is the cause of the noise.

  Further, the position of the cause of noise is estimated based on the installation position of each receiving antenna and the level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna. In this case, preferably, a position of a noise source outside the image forming apparatus or a failure location of the image forming apparatus is estimated.

  In said structure, it is preferable to notify a user of the result of the said estimation.

  A noise detection method according to the present invention includes a communication device in which a replacement part including a wireless tag is detachably mounted, and performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and the replacement part is used. A noise detection method in an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, wherein external noise is captured by the receiving antenna and the level of the captured external noise is detected.

  A failure detection method according to the present invention includes a communication device in which a replacement part including a wireless tag is detachably mounted, and performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and the replacement part is used. A failure detection method in an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, wherein a predetermined component for image formation is operated and a case where the operation of the predetermined component is stopped by the receiving antenna. The step of capturing external noise and detecting the level of captured external noise, and the difference between the level of external noise detected during operation of the predetermined component and the level of external noise detected during non-operation And determining whether or not the predetermined component is abnormal based on the above.

  The noise cause estimation method according to the present invention includes a communication device in which a replacement part including a wireless tag is detachably mounted, and performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and the replacement part is used. A noise cause estimation method in an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, wherein the reception antenna is plural, the external noise is captured by the plurality of reception antennas, and the level of the external noise captured by each reception antenna And a step of estimating the type or position of the cause of noise based on the installation position of each receiving antenna and the level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna. To do.

  According to the present invention, the level of the external noise is detected by capturing the external noise by the receiving antenna that receives the signal from the wireless tag. Therefore, the level of the external noise can be detected while suppressing an increase in cost and scale. Can do.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail by dividing them into first to sixth embodiments.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 is an apparatus that prints an image on a recording material such as paper, such as a copying machine, a printer, or a facsimile. 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.

  The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus main body 2 (hereinafter referred to as an apparatus main body) and a replacement part 3 that is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 2. The apparatus main body 2 is a substantially fixed part in the image forming apparatus 100. The replacement part 3 is generally a part that is appropriately replaced when worn. Examples of the replacement part 3 include a drum cartridge, a developing unit, a toner cartridge, a transfer unit, and a fixing unit. The number of replacement parts 3 is one in FIG.

  A wireless tag 10 is attached to the replacement part 3. The wireless tag 10 is also called an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag or a non-contact IC tag. The wireless tag 10 stores various control information such as manufacturing variation correction values and usage history information (such as the number of printed sheets). The wireless tag 10 may be a readable / writable type or a read-only type. The specification of the wireless tag system is not particularly limited. For example, the type of the wireless tag system may be a contact type, a proximity type, or a proximity type. More specifically, the communication method (electromagnetic coupling method, electromagnetic induction method, radio wave method, etc.), carrier frequency, modulation method, communication speed, power supply method to the tag (passive type, active type), etc. are appropriately determined. It only has to be done. Here, a proximity type having a communication distance of about 10 cm or less is adopted.

  The apparatus main body 2 includes a reader / writer 30 that reads and writes data from and to the wireless tag 10 via an antenna, and a control unit 40 that controls the reader / writer 30 as a communication device 20 that performs wireless communication with the wireless tag 10. It has been. Here, the reader / writer 30 may include one antenna for transmission and reception as the transmission antenna and the reception antenna, or may include separate antennas for transmission and reception. The reader / writer 30 is provided at a position close to the wireless tag 10. The control unit 40 also functions as a controller that controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The configuration of the communication device 20 is not particularly limited, and for example, the reader / writer 30 and the control unit 40 may be physically integrated.

  As described above, wireless communication between the wireless tag 10 and the reader / writer 30 is affected by ambient noise. For example, when a noise source such as a CRT, a motor, a high voltage application member (transfer roller or the like) exists in the vicinity of the reader / writer 30, noise may be added to the communication signal and a communication error may occur.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, external noise is captured by the receiving antenna provided in the reader / writer 30, and the level of the captured external noise is detected. Then, predetermined processing is executed according to the detected level of external noise. Here, the external noise includes noise coming from the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 and noise generated inside the image forming apparatus 100. Examples of noise sources in the image forming apparatus 100 include a high voltage application member such as a charger and a transfer roller, a motor, a fixing device, and a power supply circuit. In addition, the level of external noise generally means the level of external noise such as the intensity or amount of external noise or a combination thereof. Examples of the level of external noise include noise power and the number of pulses within a predetermined period. Various techniques including a conventionally known technique can be applied to the detection (measurement) of the level of the external noise.

  The noise level detection timing is preferably before the start of wireless communication. This is because it is possible to take appropriate measures such as stopping wireless communication or changing the communication mode according to the detection result. Further, it is more preferable that it is just before the start of wireless communication. This is to reduce the influence of the noise level over time. However, it is also possible to execute detection at other timing such as during wireless communication.

  The detection of the noise level is preferably performed in a state where the emission of electromagnetic waves from the transmission antenna of the reader / writer 30 is stopped. This is to accurately detect the noise level and to reduce power consumption.

  The communication device 20 has a signal detection function for detecting the level of the transmission signal supplied to the transmission antenna or the level of the reception signal received by the reception antenna for failure diagnosis of the reader / writer 30 and the wireless tag 10. May have. In this case, the detection of the noise level is preferably performed using hardware resources or software resources of the signal detection function from the viewpoint of cost and the like. The level of the transmission signal or the reception signal means the intensity or amount of the signal or a combination thereof. Examples of the signal level include the signal power and the number of pulses within a predetermined period.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating detailed configurations of the wireless tag 10 and the communication device 20. In FIG. 2, the communication device 20 has a transmission signal detection function for detecting the level of the transmission signal supplied to the antenna 31 in order to diagnose a failure of the communication function. Furthermore, the communication device 20 includes a noise detection function that detects the level of external noise using the antenna 31 and the transmission signal detection function. The antenna 31 functions as a transmission antenna and a reception antenna.

  First, referring to FIG. 2, a basic configuration related to wireless communication will be described together with a flow of wireless communication processing. Here, a case where the communication device 20 reads control information from the wireless tag 10 will be described as an example. The reading of the control information is executed at an appropriate timing such as when the power is turned on or when the replacement part 3 is replaced. Note that the wireless communication is preferably performed according to a standard such as ISO / IEC14443.

  In the control unit 40, the processor 41 sends a control information transmission request to the control logic circuit 42. The control logic circuit 42 converts the transmission request received from the processor 41 into a predetermined data format of, for example, 106 Kbps according to the communication control protocol, and sends it to the reader / writer 30 via the transmission logic circuit 43.

  In the reader / writer 30, the transmission modulation circuit 32 performs ASK (Amplitude Shift Keying) modulation on the carrier wave (13.56 MHz) with the transmission data received from the transmission logic circuit 43. The transmission signal obtained by the modulation is filtered by the transmission filter circuit 33 and then wirelessly transmitted to the wireless tag 10 via the antenna 31.

  In the wireless tag 10, the antenna 11 receives a signal sent from the reader / writer 30 and sends the received signal to the demodulation circuit 12. The demodulation circuit 12 demodulates the reception signal and passes the obtained reception data to the control circuit 13. After performing error detection (CRC check or the like) on the received data, the control circuit 13 recognizes that the received data is a control information transmission request. The control circuit 13 reads the control information held in the nonvolatile memory 14 and sends the read control information to the modulation circuit 15. The modulation circuit 15 modulates the subcarrier (847 kHz) according to the control information. Then, the carrier wave (13.56 MHz) is modulated by the modulated subcarrier, and the obtained signal is sent to the reader / writer 30 via the antenna 11. Note that the wireless tag 10 also includes other circuits such as a rectifier circuit 16 and a power supply circuit 17.

  When the reader / writer 30 receives the signal returned from the wireless tag 10 by the antenna 31, the reader / writer 30 filters the received signal by the reception filter circuit 34 which is a low-pass filter. Then, the reception demodulated circuit 35 demodulates the received signal (847 kHz) after filtering, and sends the obtained received data to the control unit 40.

  In the control unit 40, the control logic circuit 42 performs error detection (CRC check, etc.) on the received data (control information) received from the reader / writer 30 via the reception logic circuit 44, and converts it into a predetermined data format. To the processor 41. The processor 41 performs a predetermined process such as storing the received control information in a predetermined storage area. The control information stored in the predetermined storage area is used as appropriate for controlling the image forming apparatus 100.

  Next, a transmission signal detection function provided in the communication device 20 will be described. In FIG. 2, the signal line 36 directly inputs the transmission signal supplied from the transmission filter circuit 33 to the antenna 31 from the transmission filter circuit 33 to the reception filter circuit 34. As a result, the reception filter circuit 34 receives the reception signal from the wireless tag 10 and the transmission signal directly transmitted via the signal line 36 without passing through the wireless tag 10. The reception filter circuit 34 allows the subcarrier component (847 kHz) to pass from the received signal due to its circuit characteristics, and allows the eighth harmonic component (847 kHz) of the transmission signal (106 kHz) to pass as a noise pulse. The pulse counter 45 detects a noise pulse included in the output signal from the reception filter circuit 34 and counts the number of noise pulses. Here, the number of noise pulses within a predetermined period is within a predetermined range when the communication device 20 is normal, but becomes an abnormally small value when there is a failure such as a disconnection, and abnormally when there is a failure such as a contact failure. Larger value. The processor 41 determines normality / abnormality of the communication device 20 based on the number of noise pulses counted by the pulse counter 45.

  Here, the pulse counter 45 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the pulse counter 45. The pulse counter 45 includes a rise detection circuit 45a, a rise counter 45b, and a read register 45c. The rising edge detection circuit 45a detects the rising edge of the noise pulse included in the received data while receiving the count enable signal sent from the processor 41. The rise counter 45b counts the number of rises detected by the rise detection circuit 45a while receiving the count enable signal. This rising number corresponds to the number of noise pulses. The rising counter 45b sequentially writes the count value in the read register 45c. This count value is read by the processor 41 and used for failure diagnosis.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing data transmission / reception timing and operation timing of the pulse counter 45 and the like. 4A to 4C, the portions represented by rectangles indicate periods during which data is transmitted and received. 4A shows the timing at which the control logic circuit 42 sends transmission data to the reader / writer 30, and FIG. 4B shows the response data sent from the wireless tag 10 to the reader / writer 30 in response to this transmission data. The reply timing is shown respectively. FIG. 4C shows the timing at which received data is sent from the reader / writer 30 to the control unit 40. 4C, the reception data shown with a slight delay with respect to the transmission data shown in FIG. 4A corresponds to a signal input to the reception filter circuit 34 via the signal line 36. The reception data shown with a slight delay with respect to the response data shown in FIG. 4B corresponds to a reception signal from the wireless tag 10. The processor 41 sends a count enable signal to the pulse counter 45 in accordance with the timing of the received data shown in FIG. Thereby, the pulse counter 45 counts noise pulses at the timing shown in FIG. FIG. 4E shows the timing for reading the count value by the processor 41. The processor 41 determines normality / abnormality of the communication function of the communication device 20 based on the read count value. If it is determined that the data is normal, a process for reading data received from the wireless tag 10 is performed at the timing shown in FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing noise pulses included in the received data. A noise pulse as shown in FIG. 5C is generated for the transmission data of 106 KHz shown in FIG. FIG. 5B shows a signal obtained by ASK modulating a carrier wave (13.56 MHz) with transmission data.

  Next, a noise detection function provided in the communication device 20 will be described. In the present embodiment, the detection of the level of external noise is performed in a state in which the supply of transmission signals to the antenna 31 is stopped immediately before the start of wireless communication.

  In a state where the supply of the transmission signal to the antenna 31 is stopped, the reception filter circuit 34 does not receive the reception signal from the wireless tag 10 and the transmission signal via the signal line 36, and the external signal arrived at the antenna 31. Only noise is input. The reception filter circuit 34 passes components near the subcarrier frequency (847 kHz) from the external noise input from the antenna 31 due to its circuit characteristics. That is, a frequency band component that affects wireless communication is extracted from external noise that has arrived at the antenna 31. The pulse counter 45 detects pulses included in the output signal from the reception filter circuit 34 and counts the number of pulses. Thereby, the level of the external noise is detected.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram in which noise level detection timing is added to FIG.

  Prior to the start of wireless communication with the wireless tag 10, the processor 41 sends a count enable signal to the pulse counter 45 for a predetermined period. Thereby, the pulse counter 45 counts pulses included in the external noise captured by the antenna 31 for a predetermined period (S11). The operation period of the pulse counter 45 at this time is represented by a rectangular block that is hatched in FIG. 7D.

  After completing the transmission of the count enable signal, the processor 41 reads the count value in the predetermined period from the pulse counter 45 (S12). At this time, the processor 41 clears the count value held in the pulse counter 45. Note that the timing for reading the count value is represented by an arrow with hatching in FIG.

  Next, the processor 41 determines whether or not wireless communication is possible based on the read count value (S13). For example, the processor 41 determines that wireless communication is possible if the count value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, and determines that wireless communication is not possible if the count value is greater than the predetermined threshold.

  If it is determined that wireless communication is not possible (S13: NO), the processor 41 stops wireless communication with the wireless tag 10 (S14). Further, the user is notified by displaying on the control panel that external noise exists or cannot be operated normally due to external noise (S15). Further, the processor 41 stops the image forming function of the image forming apparatus 100 (S16).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that wireless communication is possible (S13: YES), the processor 41 sends a transmission request for control information to the reader / writer 30 (S17). In response to this, the transmission filter circuit 33 of the reader / writer 30 transmits a transmission signal. As described above, this transmission signal is wirelessly transmitted to the wireless tag 10 via the antenna 31 and is directly transmitted to the reception filter circuit 34 via the signal line 36. A transmission signal via the signal line 36 is input to the pulse counter 45 via the reception filter circuit 34 and the reception demodulation circuit 35. The processor 41 sends a count enable signal to the pulse counter 45 for a predetermined period in accordance with the timing at which the transmission signal via the signal line 36 is input to the pulse counter 45. Thereby, the pulse counter 45 counts noise pulses included in the transmission signal for a predetermined period (S18).

  After completing the transmission of the count enable signal, the processor 41 reads the count value within the predetermined period from the pulse counter 45 (S19). Next, the processor 41 determines whether or not the communication device 20 is normal based on the read count value (S20). For example, the processor 41 determines that it is normal if the count value is within a predetermined range, and determines that it is abnormal if the count value is not within the predetermined range.

  If it is determined that the communication device 20 is normal (S20: YES), the processor 41 processes the received data from the wireless tag 10 to obtain control information (S21). Then, the image forming apparatus 100 is controlled (S22).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the communication device 20 is abnormal (S20: NO), the processor 41 stops the wireless communication (S23), and notifies the user that the communication device 20 is abnormal (S24). . Further, the processor 41 stops the image forming function of the image forming apparatus 100 (S25).

  In the above description, the image forming function is stopped in steps S16 and S25. However, the image forming function may be maintained. In this case, for example, the processor 41 controls the image forming apparatus 100 using information held in advance on the apparatus body 2 side instead of the control information held in the wireless tag 10. Alternatively, the processor 41 stops the function realized by the control information held in the wireless tag 10.

  In the above description of the operation, it is determined whether or not wireless communication is possible based on the level of external noise. If it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, wireless communication is stopped. It is good also as changing the communication mode of radio | wireless communication according to the level of external noise so that noise tolerance may become so high that is large. Here, communication modes of wireless communication widely include those having a correlation with noise resistance such as modulation scheme, communication speed, carrier power, error correction coding rate, noise filter threshold value, and the like.

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

  (1) Since the level of external noise is detected using a receiving antenna that receives a signal from a wireless tag, the level of external noise can be detected while suppressing an increase in cost and installation space. This makes it possible to take appropriate measures according to the level of external noise.

  (2) Since the level of external noise is detected while radiation of electromagnetic waves from the transmitting antenna is stopped, the level of external noise can be accurately determined without being affected by the transmission signal or the reception signal from the wireless tag. Can be measured. In addition, power consumption can be reduced.

  (3) Since resources are shared by the noise detection function for detecting the level of external noise and the signal detection function for detecting the level of transmission signals and reception signals, an increase in cost and circuit scale can be suppressed. .

  (4) The transmission signal is filtered by the reception filter circuit, and the noise pulse included in the filtered transmission signal is counted by the pulse counter, thereby detecting the level of the transmission signal. Then, the external noise is filtered by the reception filter circuit, and the level of the external noise is detected by counting pulses included in the filtered external noise by the pulse counter. Therefore, the level of the transmission signal and the level of the external noise can be measured with a common circuit, and an increase in cost and circuit scale can be suppressed.

  (5) It is determined whether or not wireless communication is possible based on the detected level of external noise, and when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, wireless communication is stopped, so that unnecessary communication operation can be omitted, Power consumption can be reduced and processing speed can be increased.

  (6) It is determined whether or not wireless communication is possible based on the detected level of external noise. If it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, the image forming function is stopped, so that useless printing operations can be omitted. Cost and power consumption can be reduced.

  (7) It is determined whether or not wireless communication is possible based on the level of the detected external noise. If it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, the user is notified of this, so the user can perform image formation. It can be known that there is a noise source around or inside the device. In addition, the user can know that the communication function and the image forming function are stopped due to noise, not a communication resource failure. As a result, the user can take appropriate measures such as moving the noise source away from the image forming apparatus 100.

  (8) Since the communication mode of the wireless communication is changed according to the detected level of the external noise so that the noise resistance becomes higher as the level of the external noise is larger, appropriate wireless communication according to the noise level is performed. Can do. In general, since noise tolerance and communication speed are in a trade-off relationship, wireless communication can be performed at an appropriate communication speed according to the noise level.

[Second Embodiment]
The image forming apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment is almost the same as the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, in order to avoid duplication of description, common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the processor 41 operates a predetermined part for image formation and detects the level of external noise during the operation. Here, the image forming component is a functional component that operates when voltage or current is applied and contributes to image formation. Examples of the image forming component include a charger, a laser unit, a developing device, a transfer roll, a fixing device, and various actuators (motor, solenoid, etc.). The processor 41 can operate these components by applying voltage or current to these components. For example, by applying a high voltage, it is possible to cause the charger to perform a charging process or to cause the transfer roll to perform a transfer process. Further, by applying an electric current, it is possible to cause the fixing device to perform a fixing process or to rotate the motor.

  The predetermined part to be operated may be one or plural. However, it is preferable that the predetermined parts to be operated are all parts that operate during actual wireless communication or all parts that may generate noise.

  Specifically, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 200 is almost the same as the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIGS. The operation procedure of the image forming apparatus 200 is almost the same as the operation procedure shown in FIG. 6, but the processing content of step S11 is different. In the present embodiment, the processor 41 operates a predetermined part for image formation in step S11 of FIG. 6, and sends a count enable signal to the pulse counter 45 for a predetermined period during the operation. Thereby, the pulse counter 45 counts pulses included in the external noise captured by the antenna 31 for a predetermined period. In step S <b> 12, the processor 41 reads the count value from the pulse counter 45. In the present embodiment, this count value corresponds to the level of external noise during the operation of the predetermined component. In step S13, the processor 41 determines whether or not wireless communication is possible based on the count value.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of operation timing in this embodiment. In the example of FIG. 8, actual wireless communication is performed in a state where voltage application to the charger and current application to the photoconductor driving motor are on. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, the processor 41 counts pulses by the pulse counter 45 in a state where the voltage application to the charger and the current application to the photoconductor driving motor are turned on.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, a predetermined component for image formation is operated, and the level of external noise is detected during the operation, so in an environment similar to the case where wireless communication is actually performed, The level of external noise can be detected. This makes it possible to determine whether or not wireless communication is possible more accurately.

[Third Embodiment]
The image forming apparatus 300 according to the present embodiment is almost the same as the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, in order to avoid duplication of description, common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the processor 41 causes the image forming apparatus 300 to perform an operation similar to the actual image forming operation, and detects the level of external noise during the operation. Here, the operation similar to the image forming operation is, for example, an operation of printing a predetermined test image on a predetermined sheet. This image forming operation for detecting the noise level is executed at an appropriate timing such as immediately after the power is turned on.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing operation timing in the present embodiment. FIG. 9A shows a period during which an image forming operation for noise level detection is performed.

  In one preferable aspect, as shown in FIG. 9B, the processor 41 detects the level of external noise in the periods A to D corresponding to each of a plurality of periods in which wireless communication is actually performed. . Then, the processor 41 determines whether wireless communication is possible for each corresponding period based on the level of the external noise in the detected periods A to D.

  In another preferable aspect, as shown in FIG. 9C, the processor 41 continuously detects the level of the external noise in all or a part of the time period during which the image forming operation for noise level detection is performed. Is detected, and a temporal change in the level of the external noise as shown in FIG. 9D is obtained. For example, the processor 41 continuously measures the number of pulses per unit time (such as 50 msec). Then, the processor 41 specifies a period in which wireless communication is possible based on the obtained time change, and performs wireless communication in the specified period. For example, the processor 41 specifies a period in which the level of external noise is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold as a period during which wireless communication is possible.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus is caused to execute the same operation as the actual image forming operation, and the level of external noise is detected during the operation, so that wireless communication is actually performed. The level of external noise can be detected in the same environment. This makes it possible to determine whether or not wireless communication is possible more accurately. This embodiment is particularly suitable when wireless communication is performed at multiple timings in one image forming operation.

  In addition, a period in which wireless communication is possible is specified based on the detected temporal change in the level of external noise, and wireless communication is executed in the specified period, so wireless communication is performed at an appropriate timing according to the noise environment. It can be performed. As a result, the chance of stopping the wireless communication and the image forming operation can be reduced, and the operating rate of the image forming apparatus can be improved.

  In this embodiment, the image is actually formed on the recording medium. However, the image formation on the recording medium may be omitted. That is, the processor 41 may cause the image forming apparatus 300 to perform the same operation as the actual image forming operation without transporting the recording medium, and detect the level of external noise during the operation. In this case, the processor 41 basically causes each component of the image forming apparatus 300 to perform an operation similar to the actual image forming operation. However, in order to prevent the recording medium from being conveyed, for example, the processor 41 stops the paper feed roll for picking up paper from the paper feed cassette and the paper jam detection function. For example, in order to prevent the toner from adhering to the photosensitive drum at the development site, the charging bias, the laser exposure amount, and the development bias are adjusted to values different from those at the time of actual image formation. According to this aspect, since an unnecessary printed matter is not generated, the level of external noise during the image forming operation can be detected at a lower cost.

[Fourth Embodiment]
The image forming apparatus 400 according to the present embodiment is almost the same as the image forming apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, in order to avoid duplication of description, common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, the processor 41 detects the level of external noise when a predetermined part for image formation is operated. Further, in the present embodiment, the processor 41 detects the level of external noise when the operation of the predetermined component is stopped. The level detection during operation and the level detection during non-operation may be performed in any order.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of operation timing in this embodiment. In FIG. 10, the processor 41 counts the pulses by the pulse counter 45 for a predetermined period with the voltage application to the charger and the current application to the photoconductor driving motor turned off, and the obtained count value. Read C0. Next, as in the second embodiment, the processor 41 performs a predetermined pulse count by the pulse counter 45 in a state where the voltage application to the charger and the current application to the photoconductor driving motor are turned on. Perform the period and read the obtained count value C1.

  The processor 41 then detects the level of external noise (here, the count value C1) detected during the operation of the predetermined components (here, the charger and the motor) and the level of external noise (during the non-operation) (here, the count value C1). Here, based on the difference (C1−C0) from the count value C0), it is determined whether or not the predetermined component is abnormal. For example, the processor 41 determines that the predetermined component is normal if the difference (C1-C0) is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, and determines that the predetermined component is abnormal if the difference is greater than the predetermined threshold. To do.

  If it is determined that there is an abnormality, the processor 41 executes a predetermined abnormality process. For example, the processor 41 notifies the user by displaying on the control panel that the predetermined component is abnormal as an abnormal process. Further, the processor 41 stops the image forming function of the image forming apparatus 400.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the level of the external noise is detected when the predetermined component for image formation is operated and when the operation of the predetermined component is stopped. The level of noise generated by the predetermined component can be grasped based on the level difference.

  Further, since it is determined whether or not the predetermined part is abnormal based on the noise level during operation and non-operation of the predetermined part, it is possible to detect a failure of the predetermined part, Appropriate measures can be taken according to the failure.

[Fifth Embodiment]
The image forming apparatus 500 according to the present embodiment is almost the same as the image forming apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, in order to avoid duplication of description, common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, similarly to the third embodiment, the processor 41 detects the level of external noise when the image forming apparatus 500 performs the same operation as the actual image forming operation. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the processor 41 detects the level of external noise when an operation similar to the image forming operation is stopped. The level detection during operation and the level detection during non-operation may be performed in any order.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of operation timing in this embodiment. FIG. 11A shows a period during which an image forming operation for noise level detection is performed. As shown in FIG. 11B, the processor 41 detects the level C0 of the external noise while the image forming operation is stopped. Next, the processor 41 continuously detects the level of external noise in all or part of the time region during which the image forming operation for noise level detection is performed, as shown in FIG. A time change C (t) of the level of the external noise is obtained. The difference (C (t) −C0) between the time change C (t) and the level C0 detected in this way corresponds to the time change of the noise level generated by the image forming operation.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the level of external noise is detected when the image forming apparatus performs the same operation as the actual image forming operation and when the operation is stopped. The noise level generated by the image forming operation can be detected, and the failure of the image forming apparatus can be detected.

  In the present embodiment, the processor 41 further executes the following first to third processes using the detected time change C (t) and the level C0.

(First process)
The processor 41 determines that the image forming apparatus 500 is abnormal based on the difference between the detected time change C (t) and the level C0 (C (t) −C0), that is, the time change of the noise level generated by the image forming operation. It is determined whether or not. For example, the processor 41 determines that it is normal when the difference (C (t) −C0) is always equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold, and otherwise determines that it is abnormal.

  If it is determined that there is an abnormality, the processor 41 executes a predetermined abnormality process. For example, the processor 41 notifies the user by displaying on the control panel that the image forming apparatus 500 is abnormal as an abnormal process. In addition, the processor 41 stops the image forming function of the image forming apparatus 500.

  As described above, according to the processing, it is determined whether there is an abnormality in the image forming apparatus, and therefore it is possible to take an appropriate action when there is an abnormality in the image forming apparatus. Further, as this measure, the user is notified of the abnormality, so that the user can recognize the failure of the image forming apparatus. Further, since the image forming function is stopped, it is possible to avoid the generation of useless defective printed matter, and to reduce the cost.

(Second process)
The processor 41 determines that each component is abnormal based on the difference (C (t) −C0) between the detected time change C (t) and the level C0 and the operation sequence of each component constituting the image forming apparatus 500. It is determined whether or not. For example, the processor 41 determines that the charger is abnormal when abnormal external noise is generated in synchronization with voltage application to the charger. Then, the processor 41 notifies the user of the determination result.

  In this way, according to the processing, since the presence or absence of abnormality is determined for each component constituting the image forming apparatus, a failure of each component can be detected, and appropriate measures are taken when the component is abnormal. It becomes possible.

(Third process)
Based on the detected time change C (t), the processor 41 determines whether or not wireless communication is possible during the image forming operation. If it is determined that the wireless communication is possible, the processor 41 performs wireless communication during the image forming operation. Communicate. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not possible, it is determined whether or not wireless communication is possible while the image forming operation is stopped based on the detected noise C0. Then, when it is determined that it is possible, wireless communication is performed while the image forming operation is stopped, and when it is determined that it is not possible, wireless communication is not performed. At this time, the image forming function may be stopped.

  Thus, according to the process, wireless communication can be performed at an appropriate timing according to the noise environment. In addition, when wireless communication is impossible both during the image forming operation and during the stop of the image forming operation, the wireless communication is stopped, so that the opportunity for stopping the wireless communication and the image forming operation can be reduced. The operating rate of the forming apparatus can be improved.

  Note that the above first to third processes may be executed in combination.

[Sixth Embodiment]
The image forming apparatus 600 according to the present embodiment is almost the same as the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, in order to avoid duplication of description, common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, image forming apparatus 600 includes a plurality of reception antennas, captures external noise by the plurality of reception antennas, and detects the level of external noise captured by each reception antenna.

  FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 600 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 12, a drum cartridge 3A, a transfer unit 3B, a fixing unit 3C, and a toner cartridge 3D are detachably mounted as replacement parts 3 on the apparatus main body 2. A wireless tag 10 (10A to 10D) is attached to each replacement part 3. On the other hand, on the apparatus main body 2 side, reader / writers 30 (30A to 30D) that perform wireless communication with each wireless tag 10 are provided at positions close to each wireless tag 10. Each reader / writer 30 includes an antenna 31 (31A to 31D). The reader / writers 30 </ b> A to 30 </ b> D are connected to a control unit 40 (not shown in FIG. 6) and are controlled by the control unit 40.

  The processor 41 of the control unit 40 detects the level of external noise captured by each antenna 31 for the antennas 31A to 31D at an appropriate timing, such as immediately before the start of wireless communication. Here, the processor 41 operates predetermined parts for image formation that operate during actual wireless communication, and detects the level of external noise during the operation. However, the detection of the external noise may be performed while the image forming component is not operating. The detection of the level of the external noise captured by the plurality of antennas 31 </ b> A to 31 </ b> D may be performed in parallel in time by the four pulse counters 45, or performed in series in time by the single pulse counter 45. It may be broken.

  Then, the processor 41 estimates the type or position of the noise cause according to a preset rule based on the installation position of each antenna 31 and the level of external noise captured by each antenna 31. Here, examples of the cause of the noise include a noise source outside the image forming apparatus 600, a failure of the reader / writer 30, a failure of components of the image forming apparatus 600 other than the reader / writer 30, and the like. Examples of the position of the noise cause include a position of a noise source outside the image forming apparatus 600, a failure location of a component of the image forming apparatus 600, and the like.

  In one aspect, the processor 41 determines whether or not the level of the detected external noise is abnormal for each antenna 31 by comparison with a predetermined threshold. Then, based on the combination of the antennas 31 determined to be abnormal, the noise cause type and position are estimated.

  Specifically, when it is determined that all the antennas 31 are abnormal, it is estimated that there is a noise source around the image forming apparatus 600. When it is determined that the antenna 31 near the specific physical position is abnormal, it is estimated that specific parts other than the reader / writer 30 in the image forming apparatus 600 are abnormal. If there are three or more antennas 31 and it is determined that there is an abnormality in one specific antenna 31, specific parts other than the reader / writer 30 in the image forming apparatus 600 are abnormal, or The specific reader / writer 30 is estimated to be abnormal.

  More specifically, the processor 41 estimates the type and position of the noise cause according to the noise cause estimation table shown in FIG. In the noise cause estimation table of FIG. 13, the combination of the antennas 31 determined to be abnormal is associated with the noise cause. Although FIG. 13 shows some of the combinations of antennas 31 determined to be abnormal, it is preferable that noise causes are associated with all combinations. However, noise causes do not necessarily have to be associated with all combinations.

  According to the table of FIG. 13, when it is determined that all the antennas 31 are abnormal, the processor 41 determines that there is a possibility that there is a noise source outside the image forming apparatus 600. When it is determined that the antennas 31A, 31B, and 31C are abnormal, components in the vicinity of these antennas 31 (excluding the reader / writer 30) have failed, or the charging state of the recording medium P is abnormal. Judge that there is a possibility. When it is determined that the antennas 31A and 31B are abnormal, it is determined that there is a possibility that a component (excluding the reader / writer 30) in the vicinity of the antennas 31A and 31B has failed. When it is determined that the antenna 31A is abnormal, it is determined that there is a possibility that the reader / writer 30A is out of order. If it is determined that the antenna 31D is abnormal, it is determined that there is a possibility that the reader / writer 30D is out of order.

  In another aspect, the processor 41 estimates, for each antenna 31, the distance from the antenna 31 to the noise source based on the detected level of external noise. Here, it is assumed that the relationship between the level of the external noise and the distance from the antenna 31 to the noise source is given in advance by a calculation formula, a table, or the like based on an actual measurement result, for example. Then, the processor 41 sets the coordinates at which the sum of squares of the distances from these spheres is the minimum for a plurality of spheres with the coordinates of each antenna 31 as the center coordinates and the estimated distance from each antenna 31 to the noise source as the radius. Calculate as the position of the noise source.

  The processor 41 notifies the user of the type or position of the noise cause estimated as described above by displaying it on the control panel. Further, when it is determined that the level of the external noise is abnormal, the processor 41 stops the wireless communication and the image forming function. Furthermore, the processor 41 may notify the user of the detection result of the level of external noise captured by the plurality of antennas 31. In this case, the user can estimate the type and position of the noise cause based on the installation position of each receiving antenna and the level of external noise in each receiving antenna.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the external noise is captured by a plurality of receiving antennas, and the level of the external noise captured by each receiving antenna is detected, so that the spatial distribution of the level of the external noise is detected. It is possible to estimate the type or location of the noise cause. Specifically, it is possible to determine whether the cause of noise is a noise source outside the image forming apparatus, an abnormality in the communication apparatus, or an abnormality in a component of the image forming apparatus other than the communication apparatus. Become. Further, it is possible to specify where the noise source is outside the image forming apparatus or where there is an abnormality inside the image forming apparatus.

  Also, since the type or position of the noise cause is estimated based on the installation position of each receiving antenna and the level of external noise at each receiving antenna, it is possible to take appropriate measures according to the type and position of the noise cause. It becomes possible. In particular, since the estimation result is notified to the user, the user can know the type and position of the noise cause, and it is easy to take appropriate measures such as parts repair according to the noise cause.

  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 embodiment, the noise level is detected in a state where the radiation of the electromagnetic wave from the antenna 31 is stopped. However, it is also possible to detect the noise level during the radiation of the electromagnetic wave. For example, it is possible to simultaneously detect the level of the transmission signal and the level of external noise. In this case, for example, the count number caused by the external noise can be grasped by subtracting the count number caused by the radiation of the electromagnetic wave from the count value obtained by the pulse counter 45. Here, the count number resulting from the emission of electromagnetic waves may be measured in advance.

  In the above embodiment, the drum cartridge, the developing unit, the toner cartridge, the transfer unit, and the fixing unit are illustrated as the replacement parts 3. A device (IIT), an image data generation device, an optional device, and the like can also be exemplified. Optional equipment includes double-sided conveyance device, trayless double-sided conveyance device, finisher (post-processing device such as staple, bookbinding, punch, folding machine), large-capacity paper feed tray, large-capacity paper discharge tray, manual feed tray, special paper transport device Etc.

  In addition, the techniques described in the first to sixth embodiments can be used in appropriate combinations within a range where no contradiction occurs. For example, the cause of noise can be estimated in more detail by combining the fourth or fifth embodiment and the sixth embodiment.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the detailed structure of a wireless tag and a communication apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a pulse counter. It is a figure which shows the transmission / reception timing of data, and operation timings, such as a pulse counter. It is a figure which shows typically the noise pulse contained in reception data. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. It is the figure which added the detection timing of the noise level to FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation timing in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation timing in 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation timing in 4th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation timing in 5th Embodiment. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the structure of the outline of the image forming apparatus which concerns on 6th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows a noise cause estimation table.

Explanation of symbols

  100, 600 Image forming apparatus, 2 Image forming apparatus body (apparatus body), 3 Replacement parts, 3A Drum cartridge, 3B Transfer unit, 3C Fixing unit, 3D Toner cartridge, 10, 10A to 10D Wireless tag, 11 Antenna, 12 Demodulation Circuit, 13 control circuit, 14 memory, 15 modulation circuit, 16 rectifier circuit, 17 power supply circuit, 20 communication device, 30, 30A-30D reader / writer, 31, 31A-31D antenna, 32 transmission modulation circuit, 33 transmission filter circuit, 34 reception filter circuit, 35 reception demodulation circuit, 36 signal line, 40 control unit, 41 processor, 42 control logic circuit, 43 transmission logic circuit, 44 reception logic circuit, 45 pulse counter.

Claims (28)

Image formation in which a replacement part having a wireless tag is detachably mounted, has a communication device that performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and forms an image on a recording medium using the replacement part A device,
An image forming apparatus comprising: noise detecting means for capturing external noise by the receiving antenna and detecting a level of the captured external noise. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the noise detecting unit detects the level of external noise in a state where radiation of electromagnetic waves from the transmitting antenna is stopped. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:
The communication device includes a signal detection circuit that detects a level of a transmission signal supplied to the transmission antenna or a level of a reception signal received by the reception antenna,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the noise detecting means detects a level of external noise by using the signal detection circuit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:
The communication device
A transmission unit for supplying a transmission signal to the transmission antenna;
A reception unit that performs filtering on the received signal received by the reception antenna, and performs a predetermined reception process after filtering the reception signal received by the reception antenna;
A signal line for guiding a transmission signal supplied from the transmission unit to the transmission antenna, from the transmission unit to the reception filter circuit;
A pulse counter that counts noise pulses included in a transmission signal that is input to the reception filter circuit via the signal line and filtered by the reception filter circuit;
With
The image forming apparatus, wherein the noise detection unit filters external noise received by the receiving antenna by the reception filter circuit, and counts pulses included in the filtered signal by the pulse counter. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the noise detecting unit operates a predetermined component for image formation and detects a level of external noise during the operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein
The noise detection unit causes the image forming apparatus to perform an operation similar to an actual image forming operation, and detects the level of external noise during the operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein
The noise detection means causes the image forming apparatus to perform an operation similar to an actual image forming operation without conveying a recording medium, and detects an external noise level during the operation. apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
An image forming apparatus that determines whether wireless communication with the wireless tag is possible based on a level of external noise detected by the noise detecting unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
An image forming apparatus, wherein when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible, wireless communication with the wireless tag is stopped. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein
An image forming apparatus that stops an image forming function when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
An image forming apparatus that notifies a user when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
An image forming apparatus, wherein the communication mode of the communication apparatus is changed according to the level of the external noise detected by the noise detecting means so that the noise tolerance increases as the level of the external noise increases. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein:
An image characterized by identifying a period in which wireless communication with the wireless tag is possible based on a temporal change in the level of external noise detected by the noise detection means, and performing wireless communication in the specified period. Forming equipment. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
The image forming apparatus, wherein the noise detecting unit detects a level of external noise when a predetermined part for image formation is operated and when the operation of the predetermined part is stopped. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein
Determining whether or not the predetermined component is abnormal based on a difference between a level of external noise detected during operation of the predetermined component and a level of external noise detected during non-operation; An image forming apparatus. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein
The noise detecting means detects an external noise level when the image forming apparatus performs an operation similar to an actual image forming operation and when the operation is stopped. Forming equipment. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein
The noise detection means detects the level of external noise when the image forming apparatus performs the same operation as the actual image forming operation without transporting the recording medium and when the operation is stopped. An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 16 or 17,
Whether or not the image forming apparatus is abnormal is determined based on the temporal change in the level of the external noise detected during the operation of the image forming apparatus and the level of the external noise detected during the non-operation. An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 16 or 17,
Based on the temporal change in the level of external noise detected during the operation of the image forming apparatus, it is determined whether wireless communication is possible during the image forming operation,
When it is determined that wireless communication is possible during the image forming operation, wireless communication is performed during the image forming operation.
When it is determined that wireless communication is not possible during the image forming operation, based on the level of external noise detected during non-operation, when it is determined that wireless communication is possible while the image forming operation is stopped, Wireless communication is performed while the image forming operation is stopped. On the other hand, when it is determined that wireless communication is not possible while the image forming operation is stopped, the wireless communication is stopped.
An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
A plurality of receiving antennas;
The noise detection means captures external noise by a plurality of receiving antennas, and detects the level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna.
An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 20, wherein
An image forming apparatus that estimates a noise cause type based on an installation position of each receiving antenna and a level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna. The image forming apparatus according to claim 21, wherein
An image forming apparatus that estimates which of noise sources outside the image forming apparatus or a failure of a part of the image forming apparatus is a cause of noise. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 20 to 22,
An image forming apparatus that estimates a noise-causing position based on an installation position of each receiving antenna and a level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna. The image forming apparatus according to claim 23, wherein
An image forming apparatus characterized by estimating a position of a noise source outside the image forming apparatus or a failure location of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein:
An image forming apparatus that notifies a user of a result of the estimation. Image formation in which a replacement part having a wireless tag is detachably mounted, has a communication device that performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and forms an image on a recording medium using the replacement part A noise detection method in an apparatus,
A noise detection method, wherein external noise is captured by the receiving antenna and a level of the captured external noise is detected. Image formation in which a replacement part having a wireless tag is detachably mounted, has a communication device that performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and forms an image on a recording medium using the replacement part A failure detection method in an apparatus,
Capturing external noise with the receiving antenna and detecting the level of the captured external noise when the predetermined component for image formation is operated and when the operation of the predetermined component is stopped; ,
Determining whether or not the predetermined component is abnormal based on a difference between an external noise level detected during operation of the predetermined component and an external noise level detected during non-operation; When,
A failure detection method characterized by comprising: Image formation in which a replacement part having a wireless tag is detachably mounted, has a communication device that performs wireless communication with the wireless tag via a transmission antenna and a reception antenna, and forms an image on a recording medium using the replacement part A noise cause estimation method in an apparatus,
A plurality of receiving antennas;
Capturing external noise with a plurality of receiving antennas and detecting the level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna;
Estimating the type or position of the noise cause based on the installation position of each receiving antenna and the level of external noise captured by each receiving antenna;
A noise cause estimation method characterized by comprising:

Images