JP2007127951A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable forming an environmentally-friendly, high quality color image by maintaining toner colors constant. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus forms images by transferring toner images, formed with a plurality of corresponding color toners, onto a recording medium. The image forming apparatus includes: a color patch forming means by which, for each of the plurality of color toners, a predetermined color patch set in advance is formed on an image carrier or intermediate transfer body prior to the image formation; a color sensor which measures the color of the each of the formed color patches and outputs color information; and a color monitoring means by which the color of the color toner with which each color patch has been formed is monitored based on the color information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, or a facsimile machine, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus capable of detecting deterioration of toner used.

  In copying machines, printers, facsimile machines, and the like, electrophotographic image forming apparatuses that use toner as a developer are known. Recently, image forming apparatuses capable of high-speed processing of full-color, high-definition images. For example, a tandem full-color image forming apparatus is commercially available.

  The tandem full-color image forming apparatus includes, for example, a photosensitive drum, a charging device, and a developing device corresponding to four color toners of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black), respectively. 4 sets of image forming units composed of cleaning devices and the like are arranged along the intermediate transfer belt, and the toner images of the respective colors formed by the respective image forming units are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt and collectively recorded. It is designed to be transferred to the medium.

  In such an image forming apparatus, recently, as a countermeasure for the environment, a toner called residual toner or waste toner remaining on the photosensitive drum or the intermediate transfer belt without being transferred to a recording medium is collected by a cleaning device. The collected toner is returned to the developing device and recycled.

  However, when the collected toner and the new toner are mixed and used in the developing device, for example, when the amount of the collected toner is mixed or the mixing ratio is high, the collected toner is significantly deteriorated. However, there has been a problem that inadequate development processing is performed, the color of the formed image is deteriorated, and the color reproduction cannot be performed faithfully.

Therefore, when recycling the toner, a technique has been disclosed in which the collected toner and the new toner are mixed and agitated in substantially equal amounts and returned to the developing device for K (black) toner (for example, patents). Reference 1). In addition, a technology is disclosed in which when the collected toner is returned to the developing device for K (black) toner, the return amount of the collected toner is determined based on the detection of the toner density in the developing device or the density of the reference image. (For example, see Patent Document 2).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-140428 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-110329

  However, since Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 only perform toner density detection for the toner after returning the collected toner to the developing device, it is possible to manage the deterioration of the charging performance of the toner. Changes in the color of the K (black) toner due to the change in the color mixture ratio of the four colors Y, M, C, and K, white color called talc used as a blending filler for paper powder and recording media, and It is not possible to detect a change in color, such as a smooth talc powder that is gray, and the K (black) toner is brownish.

  In other words, the techniques disclosed in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 are not so problematic when performing black and white image formation, but when forming a high-quality color image that requires faithful color reproduction. In particular, this color change due to the collected toner has been a big problem.

  Further, the toner whose color has changed has a problem that charging performance of the toner as a developer is often deteriorated.

  In view of the above problems, the present invention makes it possible to maintain a constant color of the toner, thereby maintaining a constant color of the toner. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of forming images.

This invention can achieve the said objective by taking the following structure.
1. In an image forming apparatus for forming an image by transferring a toner image formed on an image carrier or an intermediate transfer member with a plurality of color toners to a recording medium based on image information,
Color patch forming means for forming a predetermined color patch set in advance on the image carrier or intermediate transfer body for each color toner of the plurality of color toners;
A color sensor that measures the color of the formed color patch and outputs color information;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a color monitoring unit that monitors the color of the color toner on which the color patch is formed based on the color information.
2. The color monitoring means is
Color data created based on the color information output from the color sensor for the measured color patch, and standard color data preset for the color toner forming the measured color patch; 2. The image forming apparatus according to 1, wherein when the colors are determined to be different, the developer deterioration information indicating that the developer is deteriorated is output.
3. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing amount detection means for calculating the mixing amount of the contamination mixed in the color toner,
Judging that the mixing amount detection unit detects that the mixing amount of the mixed material with respect to the color toner forming the measured color patch exceeds a predetermined reference mixing amount, the color tone is determined to be different. 3. The image forming apparatus as described in 2 above.
4). The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing ratio detection means for calculating the mixing ratio of the contaminants mixed in the color toner,
When the mixing ratio detection unit detects that the mixing ratio of the mixed material with respect to the color toner on which the measured color patch is formed is different from a preset reference mixing ratio, it is determined that the color is different. 3. The image forming apparatus as described in 2 above.
5. A display means,
3. The image forming apparatus according to 2, wherein when the developer deterioration information is output, the color monitoring unit displays on the display unit the deterioration of the developer.
6). The color monitoring means is
If it is judged that the color is different from the measured color patch,
3. The image forming apparatus according to 2, wherein the developer deterioration information is output for each color toner on which a color patch is formed.
7). The color sensor is a color sensor having sensitivity to colors of R (red), G (green), and B (blue), or colors of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan). 2. The image forming apparatus according to 1, wherein the image forming apparatus comprises a color sensor having a high sensitivity.
8). In an image forming apparatus for forming an image by transferring a toner image formed on an image carrier or an intermediate transfer member with a plurality of color toners to a recording medium based on image information,
Color patch forming means for forming a predetermined color patch set in advance on the image carrier or intermediate transfer body for each color toner of the plurality of color toners;
A color sensor that measures the color of the formed color patch and outputs color information;
Based on the color information, color monitoring means for monitoring the color of the color toner on which the color patch is formed;
Either the residual toner remaining on the image carrier or the intermediate transfer member without being transferred to the recording medium or the color toner processed as waste toner, or both toners are conveyed to the toner developer of a predetermined color as recycled toner. Toner recycling means to input,
The color monitoring means includes color data created based on color information of a predetermined color toner output from the color sensor, and standard color data preset for a predetermined color toner. And when it is judged that the color is different,
An image forming apparatus, wherein one or both of the operations of transporting or feeding the recycled toner to the toner developer of the predetermined color is stopped.
9. The color monitoring means is
The color data created based on the color information of the toner of the predetermined color output from the color sensor is compared with the reference color data set in advance for the toner of the predetermined color. If the taste is judged normal,
9. The image forming apparatus according to 8, wherein one or both of the operations of conveying or feeding the recycled toner to the toner developer of the predetermined color are resumed.
10. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing amount detection means for calculating the mixing amount of the contamination mixed in the color toner,
Judging that the mixing amount detection unit detects that the mixing amount of the mixed material with respect to the color toner forming the measured color patch exceeds a predetermined reference mixing amount, the color tone is determined to be different. The image forming apparatus according to 8 or 9, wherein:
11. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing ratio detection means for calculating the mixing ratio of the contaminants mixed in the color toner,
When the mixing ratio detection unit detects that the mixing ratio of the mixed material with respect to the color toner on which the measured color patch is formed is different from a preset reference mixing ratio, it is determined that the color is different. 10. The image forming apparatus according to 8 or 9,
12 A display means,
The color monitoring means is
When one or both of the operations of transporting or feeding to the toner developer of the predetermined color are stopped, a display indicating that the operation of the toner recycling unit is stopped is displayed on the display unit. 8. The image forming apparatus according to 8.
13. The color sensor is a color sensor having sensitivity to colors of R (red), G (green), and B (blue), or colors of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan). 9. The image forming apparatus according to 8, wherein the image forming apparatus is composed of a color sensor having high sensitivity.
14 14. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 8 to 13, wherein the predetermined color toner is black toner.

  The present invention is provided with a color monitoring means for monitoring the color tone of the color toner, so that image formation can be performed with toner whose color tone is maintained almost constant, so that faithful color reproduction is always realized. And an image forming apparatus capable of forming a high-quality color image can be provided.

  In addition, the color monitoring means outputs the developer deterioration information indicating that the developer is deteriorated when it is determined that the color is different based on the mixing amount or mixing ratio of the contaminants, A toner image can always be formed with a developer that has not deteriorated, and an image forming apparatus capable of forming a high-quality color image can be provided.

  Also, if equipped with toner recycling means, in response to the developer deterioration information, when the collected toner is stopped by recycling and the developer is maintained in an appropriate state by replenishing new toner, etc., It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can restart the recycling of toner, is environmentally friendly, and can form a high-quality color image.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, in each drawing, the thing of the same code | symbol shall show the same thing, and shall be demonstrated in detail suitably with reference to other related drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a color patch color measurement method according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a spectral sensitivity characteristic of the color toner according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure for monitoring and controlling the color of the toner according to the present embodiment. .

  The configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The image forming apparatus in the embodiment of the present invention is an electrophotographic copying machine. Reference numeral 20 denotes an image forming apparatus, and 30 denotes an automatic document feeder (ADF) mounted on the image forming apparatus 20.

  In the image forming apparatus 20, a manual feed tray 2 for supplying a relatively small amount of transfer material P, which is a recording medium, is provided on the right side surface portion of the housing 1, and a paper discharge tray 3 is provided on the left side surface portion. .

  On the paper discharge tray 3, a transfer material P, which is supplied from a paper feed cassette 12 and a manual tray 2 described later and on which an image is formed, is discharged and stacked.

  The transfer material P includes normal transfer paper made of plain paper and special transfer paper made of OHP sheet or the like, but in this embodiment, normal transfer made of plain paper is used unless otherwise specified. Paper (also simply referred to as transfer paper P) is used.

  A caster 4 made of a roller member is provided on the bottom surface of the housing 1 so that the image forming apparatus 20 can be moved.

  A control panel CP as a display unit and an operation input unit for operating the image forming apparatus 20 is provided in the upper part of the front surface of the housing 1.

  The control panel CP includes a liquid crystal display device as the display means DP, or a touch panel type liquid crystal display device in which a touch panel or the like is incorporated in the liquid crystal display device.

  In addition, a keyboard for inputting numerical values or the like for inputting various image forming conditions such as whether the image formed on the recording medium is color or black and white, and control-related information such as the number of copies, the number of copies, or the transfer paper size. Operation input means including a start button (also referred to as a copy button) SK for executing a series of image forming operations such as KB and copying is provided as an input device.

  In particular, the touch panel type display means DP allows the user to input information such as selection and setting of information displayed on the display unit when the user touches a pattern such as a button on which a number, character, symbol, or the like is displayed on the display unit. It can be used as an operation input means.

  Inside the housing 1 are provided control means EC, transfer means 8, cleaning means 9, fixing device 10, image forming means 11, image reading means 13, paper supply / discharge means 14, intermediate transfer member 16, and the like. ing.

  The control means EC, also called a control circuit, is a means for controlling all operations of the image forming apparatus 20, and is composed of an electric circuit composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like. Based on a control program or control data stored in advance in the CPU, all means constituting the image forming apparatus 20 are driven and controlled.

  Further, when an accessory device such as the ADF 30 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20, similarly, the control unit EC operates smoothly as a system of the image forming apparatus 20 in cooperation with these accessory devices. The drive is controlled to

  Further, even when connected to a personal computer or other information equipment via a LAN (local area network), etc., the control means EC cooperates with these equipment to provide information necessary for operation. It shall be possible to smoothly control drive without any problems including memory and transfer.

  In the present embodiment, details will be described later. In particular, the control unit EC forms color patches for each color of color toner (also simply referred to as toner) prior to image formation, and the formed color patches. The color tone is measured and compared with a reference color tone that has been set and stored in advance. If the color tone is different, a warning display for prompting the replenishment of new toner can be performed.

  The image forming unit 11 is a unit for forming an image based on image information (including figures, photographs, symbols, and alphanumeric characters). This embodiment is called a tandem system, and an image forming unit 11Y that forms a yellow (Y) image, an image forming unit 11M that forms a magenta (M) image, and an image forming unit that forms a cyan (C) image. 11C, an image forming unit 11K that forms a black (K) image is disposed inside the image forming apparatus 20 in the vertical direction from the top to the bottom along the intermediate transfer member 16 constituted by a belt or the like. .

  Since the image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K constituting the image forming unit 11 perform the same operation except for the color of the toner used, the image forming unit 11Y that forms a yellow (Y) image is used here. Detailed description will be made with only the symbols attached.

  The image forming unit 11Y includes, for example, a photosensitive drum (also referred to as a photosensitive member) 5Y as an image carrier that rotates in a predetermined image forming direction (for example, counterclockwise) by a driving source such as a motor. A charging unit 6Y that uniformly charges the drum 5Y and an exposure unit (not shown) that is converted into a signal based on image information (also referred to as image data) of the original and forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 5Y. The exposure light EY and the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5Y are transferred to the intermediate transfer member for each color toner that visualizes the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 5Y as a toner image. A transfer unit 8Y (also referred to as a primary transfer unit) that transfers the toner image to the intermediate transfer member 16, and a cleaning unit 9Y that scrapes off toner, paper dust, and the like remaining on the photosensitive drum 5Y. And it is made of.

  The toner images formed by the respective image forming units are sequentially transferred and superimposed on, for example, a belt-like intermediate transfer body 16 (also referred to as a transfer belt) that rotates clockwise.

  The toner images of the respective colors transferred to the intermediate transfer body 16 are given a charge opposite to the polarity of the toner image by the transfer roller 8 as transfer means to the transfer paper P, and are transferred from the intermediate transfer body 16 by electrostatic force. Transferred onto the transfer paper P.

  The transfer paper P onto which the toner image has been transferred is subjected to a fixing process in the process of passing through the fixing device 10, for example, by applying heat and pressure to melt and fix the toner image. The transfer paper P on which a color image is formed with Y, M, C, and K toners is then discharged to the paper discharge tray 3.

  As in the present embodiment, an image forming apparatus using an intermediate transfer member can superimpose toner images formed by the respective image forming units on the intermediate transfer member. Widely used.

  The intermediate transfer member is not limited to the transfer belt as long as it can transfer the toner image formed by the image forming unit, and may be a cylindrical photosensitive member (also referred to as a photosensitive drum).

  The transfer unit 8 is also referred to as a transfer separation unit, and in the present embodiment, the transfer unit 8 is configured as a transfer roller 8 using a contact transfer method, and is disposed at a transfer position facing the photosensitive drum 5 or the intermediate transfer unit 16. The toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 is transferred to the intermediate transfer member 16, and the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer member 16 is given a charge having a polarity opposite to the polarity of the toner image to the transfer paper P. It is a means for transferring with electrostatic force.

  Note that 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K (only 8Y is given a symbol) have the same configuration, and transfer the toner images formed by the image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K to the intermediate transfer member 16. The means used.

  The cleaning unit 9 removes toner remaining on the intermediate transfer member 16 (also referred to as residual toner), paper powder, and the like, and includes a blade, a brush roller, and the like. 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K (symbols are attached only to 9Y) are cleaning units that are used to clean the photosensitive drums of the image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K with the same configuration.

  In the present embodiment, toner collected as residual toner (also referred to as waste toner) from the intermediate transfer member 16 by the cleaning unit 9 is, for example, K of the image forming unit 11K by a toner recycling unit (not shown). (Black) The toner is transported and put into toner developing means (also referred to as a developing device).

  As will be described in detail later, in the toner recycling means, the collected toner is fed into the K (black) toner developing means or in the conveyance path for conveying the collected toner to the K (black) toner developing means. At the position, an opening / closing means for controlling the conveyance and input of the collected toner is provided.

  The control means EC measures the color of the toner of the color patch formed prior to image formation, and when it is determined that the color of the toner is different, the opening / closing means provided in the toner recycling means is closed. Execute and stop the recycling operation of transporting and feeding the collected toner.

  Also, when new toner is replenished after stopping the recycling operation of the collected toner, the opening / closing means is opened, and the recycling operation of transporting and feeding the collected toner is resumed. Yes.

  In the present embodiment, the toner collected from the intermediate transfer member 16 is supplied to the K (black) toner developing means to recycle the toner. For example, the image forming units 11Y, 11M, It is configured in the same manner as the toner recycling means described above so that the toner collected by cleaning the respective photosensitive drums 11C and 11K can be transported to and supplied to the developing means for each color toner. For each toner, control such as toner recycling may be performed.

  Although not shown, the fixing device 10 includes, for example, a heating roller including a heater, a pressure roller, and the like. The toner image transferred to the transfer paper P is heated (for example, about 200 ° C.), pressure, and the like. It is a means for melting and fixing (fixing).

  The image reading unit 13 includes a reading optical system including a light source LT, a mirror group MR, an imaging lens LZ, and the like, and a reading device ES including an electric circuit including a CCD (solid-state imaging device).

  The reading device ES scans and reads a document placed on a platen glass (not shown) provided on the upper portion of the housing 1 or conveys it to a reading position by an automatic document feeder 30. The read image information of the original is read and converted into image data, and the image data is stored in a storage means provided in the control means EC.

  For example, when the document transported by the ADF 30 is read by the image reading unit 13, the light source LT irradiates the document transported to the reading position, and the reflected light from the document is reflected by the imaging lens LZ via the mirror group MR. An image is formed on the CCD surface of the reading device ES, and image information output from the CCD is stored as image data.

  The paper supply / discharge means 14 is configured as a paper supply cassette 12 and a paper supply / discharge conveyance means (transfer paper conveyance means) including a motor as a drive source, a plurality of rollers, and the like.

  The paper feed cassette 12 includes, for example, a cassette 12a that stores special transfer paper, a cassette 12b that stores plain paper, and the like.

  The paper supply / discharge transport means as the paper supply / discharge means 14 includes transport paths A, B, C, D, etc., and can execute a single-side mode or a double-side mode.

  For example, after selecting special transfer paper or plain paper according to an instruction from the control means EC, by rotating a motor as a drive source, a plurality of roller groups and the like are driven to rotate appropriately from the paper cassette 12 The sheet is fed and conveyed toward the intermediate transfer body 16 at a proper timing. After the toner image is melted and fixed (fixed) by the fixing device 10 and an image is formed, the sheet is conveyed to the sheet discharge tray 3.

  The intermediate transfer member 16 is also called a transfer belt, and is composed of a belt-like object stretched around a plurality of rollers. In the present embodiment, the intermediate transfer member 16 is rotated clockwise by a drive source such as a motor (not shown). It is designed to rotate.

  When using an intermediate transfer member, the electrical characteristics (volume resistivity, surface resistivity, etc.), thickness, structure (for example, the number of layers such as single layer, two layers, three layers, etc.), material, material, etc. It is desirable to select and use various appropriate ones according to image forming conditions.

  In the present embodiment, in particular, a sensor unit SU is provided to face the intermediate transfer body 16, and for example, R (red), G (green), and B (blue) are provided in the sensor unit SU. A color sensor having sensitivity to each color, a color sensor having sensitivity to each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan), a sensor SD for density measurement, and the like are provided for image formation. It is possible to measure the color, density, etc. of the color patch formed in advance.

  The entire ADF 30 is covered with an ADF casing 31, and the ADF 30 is provided with a document table 32 and a paper discharge unit 33 outside the ADF casing 31.

  On the document table 32, for example, a plurality of documents WP with the document surface (front surface) of the first page at the top is placed. The placed document WP is conveyed to a reading position by a document conveying device including a plurality of rollers and the like, read by a reading device ES, and discharged to a paper discharge unit 33.

  The document conveying device is operated in conjunction with the control means EC of the image forming apparatus 20 by a drive control circuit (not shown).

  Note that a detailed description of the image forming operation relating to the single-side mode and the double-side mode in the present embodiment is omitted.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 2, the measurement of the color tone of the color patch in the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a measurement state of the color patch color, and FIG. 2A shows colors formed on the intermediate transfer body 16 with toners of respective colors (Y, M, C, K). FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a positional relationship between a patch (PY, PM, PC, PK) and a sensor unit SU fixed to the intermediate transfer member 16 so as to be opposed thereto. In FIG. 2B, the color patches (PY, PM, PC, PK, and the like) formed on the intermediate transfer body 16 are conveyed in the direction of the arrow by the movement of the intermediate transfer body 16 and measured by various sensors of the sensor unit SU. It is a side view which shows the state performed.

  As color patches, PY is formed of yellow toner, PM is formed of magenta toner, PC is formed of cyan toner, and PK is formed of black toner.

  In addition, the color sensor as a color sensor shows a color sensor having sensitivity to red for red, SG for green, and SB for blue. In the present embodiment, the density sensor SD for measuring the density of the color patch is provided in the sensor unit SU together with the color sensors (SR, SG, SB).

  The density sensor SD can measure the density of each color patch and detect the state of deterioration of the developer. In this embodiment, the density sensor SD outputs density information to the control means EC. Primarily, it functions to form a color patch with a constant density.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, in this embodiment, in order to be able to form a high-quality image, the color of the toner is monitored prior to image formation.

  Therefore, in order to monitor the color of each color toner, the control means EC uses a color patch for each color on the intermediate transfer body 16 under a preset condition such as shape, number and arrangement, and exposure and development. Is formed.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, when the intermediate transfer member 16 is moved in the direction of the arrow, each color patch (PY, PM, PC, PK,) is changed to each color sensor (SR) of the sensor unit SU. , SG, SB) and the density sensor SD measure the color patch color and density.

  For example, when each color patch is conveyed to a measurement position indicated by a one-dot chain line with respect to various sensors of the sensor unit SU, the color and density are measured by each sensor.

  In the present embodiment, the color tone is measured for a predetermined area of the color patch. However, as will be described later, this is performed with respect to a color patch formed with a target color toner. This is because it is possible to calculate the mixing amount and mixing ratio of a color toner other than the target color toner, a paper powder, a talc, and the like.

  It should be noted that one location may be measured for a predetermined area of each color patch, or accuracy may be improved by performing an operation such as measuring a plurality of locations and taking an average. good.

  In this embodiment, color patches are arranged in a straight line in the order of PY, PM, PC, and PK in the direction of travel of the intermediate transfer member 16, and multiple measurements can be performed during movement. However, the color patch shape and arrangement order, the color sensor arrangement order, etc. are not limited to this, as long as the color patches can be measured. Absent.

  Here, the measurement of color (color measurement) will be briefly described. First, when the color patches formed on the intermediate transfer body 16 with the respective color toners are conveyed toward the measurement positions of the respective color sensors (SR, SG, SB), the color sensors (SR, SG). , SB) starts color measurement.

  For example, a color patch (PY) formed with Y (yellow) toner is measured for color by each of the color sensors SR, SG, and SB, and color information output from each of the color sensors SR, SG, and SB. Are synthesized and created as color data (PY).

  As the color data, the spectral reflectance of the color patch prepared for each of the color toners Y, M, C, and K is measured. For example, the wavelength of light (nm) is shown on the horizontal axis as shown in FIG. By showing the spectral reflectance on the vertical axis, a graph of spectral sensitivity characteristics is created and details are omitted, but each spectral sensitivity characteristic is converted into data as color data.

  The created color data (PY) is stored in a storage unit (to be described later) of the control unit EC, and the mixing amount, mixing ratio, and the like of the mixed material are calculated for the color patch (PY). PY) is stored as a mixing amount (PY) or a mixing ratio (PY).

  The same applies to the color patches (PM), (PC), and (PK) formed with the respective toners of M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black).

  As the color data, the spectral reflectance of the color patch created for each of the color toners Y, M, C, and K is measured, and the wavelength (nm) of light is plotted on the horizontal axis as shown in FIG. In addition, a graph of spectral sensitivity characteristics is created by showing the spectral reflectance on the vertical axis, and although details are omitted, each spectral sensitivity characteristic is converted into data as color data.

  Therefore, as will be described later, the created color data can identify the color of Y, M, C, and K color toners based on the color data of the color patch formed with the target color toner. ing.

  At the same time, since the spectral sensitivity and the like of the contaminant can be identified, the amount of the contaminant, the content of the contaminant, the contamination ratio, and the like can be easily calculated.

  In order to monitor the color tone of the color toner, reference color data to be compared is set in order to discriminate the created color data.

  For example, as the reference color data, allowable color data in which a slight allowable range is provided for the peak wavelengths of the spectral sensitivity characteristics of the color toners Y, M, C, and K as shown in FIG. Is preset and stored.

  Similarly, when calculating the mixing amount and mixing ratio of contaminants such as paper dust and talc, a certain allowable range is provided in advance for the reference mixing amount and mixing ratio to be compared, and the allowable mixing It is set and stored in advance as quantity data and allowable mixture ratio data.

  The control means EC in the present embodiment is set for each color toner, such as color data, mixing amount data or mixing ratio data created by measuring a color patch formed for each color toner. Development that indicates that the developer has deteriorated when, for example, each color toner is determined to have a different color by comparing the reference color data, the mixing amount data, or the mixing ratio data. Agent deterioration information is output.

  Note that it is determined that the color is normal because a slight tolerance is provided for the reference color data, mixing amount data, or mixing ratio data, such as allowable color data, allowable mixing amount data, or allowable mixing ratio data. Even if the upper limit of the allowable range is exceeded or less than the lower limit of the allowable range, it has been determined that the allowable range has been exceeded because the range that does not cause any problems is set as the allowable range. Yes.

  Accordingly, the created color data, mixing amount data, or mixing ratio data, and allowable color data, allowable mixing amount data, or allowable mixing ratio as preset reference color data, mixing amount data, or mixing ratio data. When comparing with the data, if the created color data, mixing amount data, or mixing ratio data is within the allowable range, it is determined that the color is normal. Otherwise, it exceeds the allowable range. Therefore, it is determined that the color is different, and developer deterioration information is output.

  In this embodiment, when the developer deterioration information is output, a warning display indicating that the developer has deteriorated is displayed on the display means, or in some cases, the image forming operation is stopped, The user is encouraged to supply new toner, so that high-quality images can be continuously formed.

  In this embodiment, when the developer deterioration information is output, for example, the opening / closing means of the toner recycling means is automatically operated, and the collected toner is supplied to the developing means for K (black) toner. In order to prevent the toner from being conveyed and loaded, the conveyance and loading operations are stopped, or new toner is replenished so that a high-quality image can be formed.

  For example, when new toner is replenished, the opening / closing means of the toner recycling means is actuated again, and the operation in which the collected toner is conveyed to the K (black) toner developing means and put in is resumed. The color of the color patch is measured again, and if the measurement result is within a predetermined allowable range and the color is determined to be normal, the image forming operation can be executed.

  Further, as in the present embodiment, the color sensor as a color sensor does not use a color sensor having sensitivity to each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan), and R ( When a sensor having sensitivity to each of red, G (green), and B (blue) is used, the measurement data is Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C according to the color tone of the color toner. It is necessary to perform data conversion using a conversion equation set in advance or to correct the converted data so as to correspond to the color of the (cyan) toner.

  In addition to the color measurement data obtained by the color sensors (SR, SG, SB), the determination is made in consideration of the density measurement data obtained by the density sensor SD, so that the development considering the charging property in addition to the color taste. You may make it judge the state of deterioration of an agent.

  Next, a circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, a case where the image forming apparatus is a copying machine will be described in order to simplify the description.

  Reference numeral 100 denotes an overall configuration of various means and circuits as an image forming system including the image forming apparatus 20. Reference numeral 110 denotes a CPU that controls the entire image forming apparatus, and stores various mode programs for controlling the image forming apparatus 20, data necessary for executing the programs, and the like.

  An information control circuit 120, an image processing circuit 140, a drive control circuit 150, a power supply circuit 400, and the like are connected to the CPU 110. These circuits constitute the control means EC shown in FIG. 1 so that the entire image forming apparatus 20 can be controlled.

  The information control circuit 120 is connected to the external information device 500 via an interface (I / F) 130 according to an instruction from the CPU 110 to transfer image information such as characters and images, transfer paper size necessary for image formation, and the like. Setting information such as density and magnification is input and stored in the storage means 160. The setting information stored in the storage unit 160 is output to the image processing circuit 140, the drive control circuit 150, the display unit 300, or the like.

  Further, the information control circuit 120 is necessary for the operation of information including JOB data including image information and setting information input from the external information device 500, circuits including the image processing circuit 140 and the drive control circuit 150, and various means. It has a function of determining necessary instruction information and transmitting necessary information smoothly and smoothly to each circuit and various means of the image forming apparatus so that the operation of the image forming apparatus is not hindered.

  The external information device 500 is mainly a computer or an Internet server, but in some cases, it can output other image forming apparatuses on a local area network (LAN), a digital camera, or measured information. Information equipment such as a measuring device is assumed.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the information control circuit 120 operates the color sensors (SR, SG, SB), the density sensor SD, and the like constituting the sensor unit SU as sensor means, and adjusts the color patch color. Color patches are measured based on the spectral sensitivity characteristics of the color toner stored in advance in the storage unit as shown in FIG. 3, and the color information which is the measurement data output from each color sensor is synthesized. The color tone data of the toner of the color to be formed is generated, and the mixing amount data or the mixing ratio data is generated and stored in the storage means 160 or output.

  Further, the information control circuit 120 generates the created color data, mixing amount data, mixing ratio data, and the like, and the reference allowable color data, allowable mixing amount data, allowable mixing ratio data, etc. stored in the storage means in advance. Are compared, the developer deterioration information indicating that the developer has deteriorated is output.

  Further, when the information control circuit 120 outputs the developer deterioration information, the information control circuit 120 displays on the display means 300 described later that the developer is deteriorated, or in some cases, forms an image in cooperation with the CPU 110. By stopping the operation, the user is encouraged to supply new toner, and high-quality images can be continuously formed.

  When the developer deterioration information is output, for example, the opening / closing means of a toner recycling means (not shown) is automatically closed via a drive control circuit 150 described later, and the collected toner is removed. The operation of feeding and feeding the K (black) toner to the developing means is stopped, or new toner is replenished so that a high-quality image can be formed.

  When new toner is replenished, the color of the color patch is measured again, and if it is determined that the measurement result is within a predetermined allowable range and substantially matches, for example, development is performed. The agent deterioration cancellation information is output, the opening / closing means of the toner recycling means is opened, and the recovered toner is transported to the K (black) toner developing means and can be resumed.

  The interface (I / F) 130 is information exchange means, and is configured to be connected to the above-described computer, other image forming apparatuses, and external information equipment 500 such as an Internet server via various networks.

  The operation input unit 200 is an input device provided on the control panel CP of the image forming apparatus 20. The above-described liquid crystal display device DP, keyboard KB, start button SK, etc., which are touch panel type display means, are assumed.

  In addition, the operation input unit 200 may be an input unit for setting various operation modes of the image forming apparatus 20 depending on circumstances. For example, the operation modes that can be set and input are omitted in detail, but the color mode, black and white mode, or single-sided printing mode and double-sided printing mode for printing, and the face-up ejection mode and face-down for the delivery of transfer paper A paper discharge mode is provided.

  The display means 300 includes a liquid crystal display device or a touch panel type display device DP in which a touch panel or the like is incorporated in the liquid crystal display unit described above.

  The display means 300 includes an operation procedure when inputting information with the operation input means 200, a list display of various information, a display of information stored in the storage means 160, a status display during operation of the image forming apparatus 20, and a warning. Display etc. are displayed. In particular, in the present embodiment, when developer deterioration information is output, for example, by a message such as “Developer replacement”, “please replenish Y (yellow) toner”, a display with a design, etc. A display indicating that the developer has deteriorated is performed.

  The image processing circuit 140 converts the image information of the document read by the image reading unit 13 into image data that can be stored in accordance with the storage unit 160 or stored in the storage unit 160 according to an instruction from the CPU 110. When the image forming unit 11 forms an image based on the image data, it is a circuit that converts it into data, signals, etc. suitable for the image forming method of the image forming unit 11.

  The drive control circuit 150 cooperates with the image processing circuit 140 in response to an instruction from the CPU 110 to move the transfer unit 8, the fixing unit 10, the image forming unit 11, the image reading unit 13, the paper supply / discharge unit 14, the ADF 30, and the like. This is a circuit for operating at an appropriate timing to perform an image forming operation based on a preset operation mode.

  In this embodiment, when the developer deterioration information is output from the information control circuit 120, the opening / closing means of the toner recycling means is closed, and the collected toner is conveyed to the K (black) toner developing means. In order to prevent the toner from being charged, the conveyance and loading operations are stopped or new toner is replenished.

  In addition, when the developer deterioration release information is output from the information control circuit 120 after the collected toner is transported or stopped, the toner recycling means is opened and opened, and the collected toner is changed to K (Black) It is possible to resume the transporting operation and the charging operation for transporting the toner to the developing means.

  The transfer roller as the transfer unit 8 is operated by the drive control circuit 150 and applies an electric charge having a polarity opposite to the polarity of the toner image superimposed on the intermediate transfer body 16 to transfer the toner image onto the transfer paper P. To do. 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K are image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K, and perform an operation of transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 to the intermediate transfer member 16.

  Further, the transfer roller as the transfer unit 8 that transfers the toner image from the intermediate transfer body 16 to the transfer paper P appropriately applies a charge having the same or opposite polarity to the toner attached to the transfer roller 8 to the transfer roller. Thus, it can be attached to the intermediate transfer member 16 and cleaned.

  The fixing device 10 performs a fixing process by melting and fixing the toner image transferred onto the transfer paper P by heat and pressure or the like according to an instruction from the drive control circuit 150.

  The image forming unit 11 is operated by the drive control circuit 150 according to an instruction from the CPU 110, and the image processing circuit 140 is based on the image data stored in the storage unit 160 in each of the image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K. Each color toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 5, and the formed toner image is transferred to the intermediate transfer body 16.

  The image reading unit 13 is operated by the drive control circuit 150 and reads the image information of the document conveyed to the reading position by the reading device ES. The read image information is converted into digital image data by the image processing circuit 140, for example. And is stored in the storage means 160.

  The paper supply / discharge unit 14 is operated in cooperation with the transfer unit 8, the fixing device 10, the image forming unit 11, and the like by the drive control circuit 150 based on a program preset in the CPU 110, and smoothly transfers the transfer paper P. The operation is carried out at the right time.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic document feeder (ADF) 30 is a device that automatically conveys documents placed on a document placing table 32 to a reading position one by one by a document conveying device. The CPU 110 operates in cooperation with the drive control circuit 150 according to the instruction of the CPU 110.

  The storage unit 160 stores JOB data including image data necessary for forming an image, setting conditions for controlling the image forming apparatus 20, and information such as programs for various setting modes. Yes.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the measurement data of each color patch by the color sensors (SR, SG, SB) and the density sensor SD, the color data created based on the measurement data, the mixing amount data, the mixing ratio data, And reference color data, reference data such as mixing amount data and mixing ratio data, allowable color data, allowable mixing amount data and allowable mixing ratio data, and reference data such as the spectral sensitivity characteristics of each color toner. It can be memorized.

  When a power switch (not shown) is turned on by a user's operation, the power supply circuit 400 is appropriately energized from the power source to the entire image forming apparatus. When the power switch is shut off, the power supply is shut off. It has become so.

  Even when the power switch is turned on (ON), for example, in the power saving mode for setting the image forming apparatus in a standby state, the CPU 110 instructs the memory 110 to temporarily store the memory contents. Only necessary energization is continued, and other energization such as a heater of the fixing device can be cut off.

  In addition, even when the power is turned off (OFF) by the power switch, the CPU 110 and the like are operated instead of shutting off all the power as in the power saving mode in which the image forming apparatus is in a standby state. The image forming operation or the like may be started quickly in response to, for example, a case where the power supply necessary for this is performed and the power switch is turned on (ON) or image information is input via the LAN.

  Next, referring to FIG. 5, the procedure of toner color monitoring control in this embodiment will be described. Note that description will be made with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 as necessary. In order to simplify the description, it is assumed that the image forming apparatus is a color copying machine.

(ST1)
This is a step of performing an operation of forming a color patch. That is, in the present embodiment, a color patch is formed in order to monitor the color of the toner.

  The color patch forming operation is performed, for example, when the power of the image forming apparatus is turned on, when any toner is replaced with a new toner, a warning is displayed, and new toner is replenished. Alternatively, when the cumulative number of copies of the image forming apparatus reaches a preset number of copies for periodic inspection related to image formation, repair, replacement of parts, or image formation related to the image forming means 11 of the image forming apparatus It is automatically executed to check whether or not the toner is in a state where a high-quality image can be formed when a general periodic inspection of the apparatus is performed. .

  The color patches are generated according to instructions from the CPU 110, for example, based on a color patch forming program stored in the storage unit 160 in advance, via the image processing circuit 140 and the drive control circuit 150. Are formed on the intermediate transfer body 16 on the basis of a preset shape, quantity, arrangement, and the like for each color toner by the developing means (also referred to as a developing device or a developing device). Proceed to the next step.

  Although details are omitted, as described above, in addition to automatically performing the color patch forming operation, in the present embodiment, the user performs the procedure according to a preset procedure as necessary. By operating the operation input means 200, a color patch can be formed and the color of the toner can be monitored.

(ST2)
This is a step of executing a colorimetric operation for monitoring the color of the color patch. In the present embodiment, the information control circuit 120 is operated in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 110, and as shown in FIG. 2, for example, Y, M, C, respectively, by the color sensors (SR, SG, SB) of the sensor means SU. , The spectral sensitivity of the color patches (PY, PM, PC, PK) formed for each color of the toner is measured, and the measured spectral sensitivity is measured data for the Y, M, C, and K toners, respectively. The information is stored in the storage unit 160 and proceeds to the next step.

(ST3)
This is a step of converting the color data. In the present embodiment, color patches are measured by color sensors (SR, SG, SB) having sensitivity to the respective colors R (red), G (green), and B (blue). The measurement data measured by (SR, SG, SB) is synthesized, and the color data of the toner of the target color on which the color patch is formed is created.

  Next, since the color data of the target color toner is measured and created by the color sensors (SR, SG, SB), the color toner Y (yellow), M (magenta), C ( It is necessary to convert to color data corresponding to the color of cyan) and K (black).

  Therefore, although details are omitted, the information control circuit 120 reads out the color data measured by the color sensors (SR, SG, SB) from the storage unit 160, and the image processing circuit 140 uses the toner based on a predetermined conversion formula or the like. To color data corresponding to Y, M, C, and K.

  Then, separately from the color data as measurement data, the converted color data is stored in the storage means 160, and the process proceeds to the next step.

  When a color sensor having sensitivity to each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan) is used, conversion to color data corresponding to Y, M, C, and K of toner is performed. However, in some cases, it is necessary to perform correction to match the actual color of the toner.

  The reason why the color data as the measured data is stored in the storage means 160 and is left is, for example, to match the actual color of the toner in order to monitor the appropriate color. In addition, when it becomes necessary to correct the color data conversion formula or the like, it can be used as original data.

(ST4)
This is a step for calculating the degree of color mixing based on the color data. For example, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the information control circuit 120 applies the converted color data to the Y toner color patch formed by the Y (yellow) toner developing means. The spectral sensitivity is analyzed, and the spectral sensitivity data as the Y toner color data is stored in the storage unit 160.

  Further, the spectral sensitivity with respect to a predetermined region of the Y toner color patch is analyzed, and color toner other than the target Y toner, that is, in this case, each of M, C, and K toners, paper dust, and talc. By analyzing the spectral sensitivity data of the contaminants such as, for example, the amount and ratio of each contaminant for a predetermined region are calculated and stored in the storage means 160 in association with the target Y toner. To do.

  Similarly, for each color patch for each of M, C, and K toners formed by the developing means for M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black) toners, Spectral sensitivity data as color data is stored in the storage unit 160, and the amount and ratio of each contaminant mixed in a predetermined area are calculated and stored in the storage unit 160 in association with the target color toner. Then proceed to the next step.

(ST5)
This is a step for determining whether or not the color is normal. In this embodiment, the information control circuit 120, specifically, the color data created for the target color toner as the toner on which the color patch is formed and the reference of the target color toner. Color data is compared.

  As the reference color data of the toner of the target color, allowable color data having a slight allowable range is provided in advance and stored in the storage unit 160, and the information control circuit 120 performs the target color data. This allowable color data is compared with the created color data for the toner of the selected toner, and if the created color data is within the allowable range of the allowable color data, it is determined that the color is normal. Then, the process proceeds to ST6, and if it is out of the allowable range, it is determined that “the color is different”, and the information control circuit 120 outputs the developer deterioration information and proceeds to ST8.

  In other words, since the reference color data has an allowable range, it is determined whether the generated color data is within the allowable range of the reference color data when compared with the generated color data. Therefore, even if there is some variation in the created color data, it is possible to easily determine the color. The allowable range is set based on various experiments and experiences so that a high-quality image can be formed.

  Further, when determining the color tone, for example, the mixing amount data and the mixing ratio data of the contamination calculated and created in step ST4 are compared with the reference mixing amount data and the mixing ratio data, respectively. Alternatively, it may be determined whether or not the color is different by combining the color data created for the target color toner and the determination based on the standard color data.

(ST6)
This is a step of executing an image forming operation. That is, in step ST5, it is determined that the “color tone of toner” is normal. Therefore, in order to realize a high-quality image, the CPU 110 includes the information control circuit 120, the image processing circuit 140, the drive control circuit 150, and the like. By operating and performing image formation based on the image information, a high-quality image is formed and the process proceeds to the next step.

(ST7)
This is a step for performing toner R (recycle) control. That is, the toner recycling unit is operated in conjunction with the execution of image formation via the drive control circuit 150 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 110, and recycling is performed in consideration of the environment such as residual toner, and image formation is performed based on the next image information. The operation related to the monitoring control of the color tone of the toner is finished.

(ST8)
This is a step for displaying a warning. That is, since the developer deterioration information is output from the information control circuit 120 for the toner of the target color determined as “different in color” in ST5, the display unit 300 displays, for example, “Developer replacement The message indicating that the developer has deteriorated is displayed by a message such as “” or a display with a symbol.

  When the warning is displayed, for example, the development is such that the toner remaining in the developing unit for the target color toner is discarded and replaced with a new toner, or an appropriate amount of new toner is replenished. The user is prompted to perform the agent replacement operation and the like, and proceeds to the next step.

  At this time, for example, the color, the amount of contamination, or the mixing ratio regarding the toner of the target color is displayed as data or schematically on the display means 300 at the same time, and developed to the user. You may make it become reference of the replacement | exchange work of an agent. The same display may be performed for other color toners.

(ST9)
This is a step of prohibiting toner R control. In the present embodiment, according to the instruction from the CPU 110, almost the same time as the warning display of ST8 by the display means 300, the operation of the toner recycling means is prohibited via the drive control circuit 150, and further toner by recycling residual toner or the like The process proceeds to the next step by preventing image deterioration and preventing the image formation operation from being formed so that an unsatisfactory color image is not formed.

  When the operation of the toner recycling unit is prohibited, in the present embodiment, a display indicating that the operation of the toner recycling unit is prohibited is displayed on the display unit 300.

(ST10)
In this step, it is determined whether or not a developer replacement operation such as toner supply has been performed. In the present embodiment, although not illustrated, for example, when a switch unit or the like is provided in a developing unit or a mounting portion of a toner cartridge and the information control circuit 120 detects that the switch unit or the like has been operated, It is determined that the developer replacement operation has been executed.

  When the information control circuit 120 detects that the developer replacement operation has been executed by the operation of the switch means or the like, it outputs the developer deterioration release information and cancels the prohibition of the operation of the toner recycling means. Or canceling the warning display and returning to ST1 in order to monitor and control the color of the toner again.

  If it is not detected that the developer replacement operation has been performed, the process returns to ST8 in order to continue the warning display and the like.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, in order to monitor the color with high accuracy, for example, all the toner collected as the residual toner from the intermediate transfer member 16 is collected by the toner recycling unit by the image forming unit. In the case where the toner is transported to and supplied to the 11K K (black) toner developing means, only the color of the color patch may be monitored by the K (black) toner.

  In addition, with respect to those provided with toner recycling means for collecting the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 5 forming the toner images of the respective colors and recycling them to the developing means 7 for the respective color toners, the toners of the respective colors On the other hand, it is desirable to monitor the color of the toner by forming a color patch.

  In addition, when determining the tint, etc., whether the amount of contamination or the mixing ratio is determined depends on how the color monitoring control is executed, but the deterioration of the developer When making a judgment based on the amount of contaminants, it is only necessary to determine the amount of contaminants. The specific contents of the contaminants are determined, and detailed measures are taken to prevent developer deterioration for each contaminant. In such a case, it is desirable to obtain the mixing ratio.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the mixing amount and mixing ratio of the contaminants are obtained in ST4, which is a step before the determination of the tint, but the calculation is performed when it is determined that the tint is different. You may make it do.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when it is determined that the color is different, a high-quality image cannot be formed, so that the image forming operation cannot be executed. By operating the operation input means 200, the image forming operation may be executed with the knowledge that a high-quality image cannot be formed.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, for example, color data based on spectral sensitivity, which is created by forming a color patch for each color toner and measuring each color patch, is used as a reference. By comparing with the color data of the toner, the color of the toner is monitored, and a high-quality image can be formed with a developer having a constant toner color and no deterioration.

  Accordingly, the color patch formation method, measurement method, measurement data conversion method, and the like are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

  In this embodiment, since the color monitoring means for monitoring the color tone of the color toner is provided, the image can be formed with the toner whose color tone is maintained almost constant. It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of realizing high-quality color reproduction and forming a high-quality color image.

  In addition, the color monitoring means outputs the developer deterioration information indicating that the developer is deteriorated when it is determined that the color is different based on the mixing amount or mixing ratio of the contaminants, A toner image can always be formed with a developer that has not deteriorated, and an image forming apparatus capable of forming a high-quality color image can be provided.

  Also, if equipped with toner recycling means, in response to the developer deterioration information, if the collected toner is stopped by recycling and the developer is maintained in an appropriate state by replenishing new toner, etc., It has become possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can restart the recycling of toner, is environmentally friendly, and can form high-quality color images.

  Although the case where the image forming apparatus is a copying machine has been described, it is needless to say that the image forming apparatus is not limited to a copying machine, and may be a printer, a facsimile machine, or a complex machine thereof.

1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus in the present embodiment. The schematic diagram which shows the measuring method of the hue of the color patch of this Embodiment. 6 is a graph illustrating an example of spectral sensitivity characteristics of the color toner according to the exemplary embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of toner color monitoring control in the present embodiment;

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Case 2 Manual feed tray 3 Paper discharge tray 4 Caster 5 Photoconductor drum 6 Charging means 7 Developing means 8 Transfer means 9 Cleaning means 10 Fixing device 11 Image forming means 12 Paper feed cassette 13 Image reading means 14 Feed / discharge means 16 Intermediate Transfer body 20 Image forming apparatus 30 Automatic document feeder

Claims (14)

In an image forming apparatus for forming an image by transferring a toner image formed on an image carrier or an intermediate transfer member with a plurality of color toners to a recording medium based on image information,
Color patch forming means for forming a predetermined color patch set in advance on the image carrier or intermediate transfer body for each color toner of the plurality of color toners;
A color sensor that measures the color of the formed color patch and outputs color information;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a color monitoring unit that monitors the color of the color toner on which the color patch is formed based on the color information. The color monitoring means is
Color data created based on the color information output from the color sensor for the measured color patch, and standard color data preset for the color toner forming the measured color patch; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the colors are determined to be different, developer deterioration information indicating that the developer is deteriorated is output. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing amount detection means for calculating the mixing amount of the contamination mixed in the color toner,
Judging that the mixing amount detection unit detects that the mixing amount of the mixed material with respect to the color toner forming the measured color patch exceeds a predetermined reference mixing amount, the color tone is determined to be different. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing ratio detection means for calculating the mixing ratio of the contaminants mixed in the color toner,
When the mixing ratio detection unit detects that the mixing ratio of the mixed material with respect to the color toner on which the measured color patch is formed is different from a preset reference mixing ratio, it is determined that the color is different. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2. A display means,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the developer monitoring information is output, the color monitoring unit displays on the display unit that the developer has deteriorated. The color monitoring means is
If it is judged that the color is different from the measured color patch,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the developer deterioration information is output for each color toner on which a color patch is formed. The color sensor is a color sensor having sensitivity to colors of R (red), G (green), and B (blue), or colors of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan). The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is configured by a color sensor having high sensitivity. In an image forming apparatus for forming an image by transferring a toner image formed on an image carrier or an intermediate transfer member with a plurality of color toners to a recording medium based on image information,
Color patch forming means for forming a predetermined color patch set in advance on the image carrier or intermediate transfer body for each color toner of the plurality of color toners;
A color sensor that measures the color of the formed color patch and outputs color information;
Based on the color information, color monitoring means for monitoring the color of the color toner on which the color patch is formed;
Either the residual toner remaining on the image carrier or the intermediate transfer member without being transferred to the recording medium or the color toner processed as waste toner, or both toners are conveyed to the toner developer of a predetermined color as recycled toner. Toner recycling means to input,
The color monitoring means includes color data created based on color information of a predetermined color toner output from the color sensor, and standard color data preset for a predetermined color toner. And when it is judged that the color is different,
An image forming apparatus, wherein one or both of the operations of transporting or feeding the recycled toner to the toner developer of the predetermined color is stopped. The color monitoring means is
The color data created based on the color information of the toner of the predetermined color output from the color sensor is compared with the reference color data set in advance for the toner of the predetermined color. If the taste is judged normal,
9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein one or both of the operations of conveying or feeding the recycled toner to the toner developer of the predetermined color are resumed. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing amount detection means for calculating the mixing amount of the contamination mixed in the color toner,
Judging that the mixing amount detection unit detects that the mixing amount of the mixed material with respect to the color toner forming the measured color patch exceeds a predetermined reference mixing amount, the color tone is determined to be different. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus. The color monitoring means is
Based on the created color data, having a mixing ratio detection means for calculating the mixing ratio of the contaminants mixed in the color toner,
When the mixing ratio detection unit detects that the mixing ratio of the mixed material with respect to the color toner on which the measured color patch is formed is different from a preset reference mixing ratio, it is determined that the color is different. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus. A display means,
The color monitoring means is
When one or both of the operations of transporting or feeding to the toner developer of the predetermined color are stopped, a display indicating that the operation of the toner recycling unit is stopped is displayed on the display unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8. The color sensor is a color sensor having sensitivity to colors of R (red), G (green), and B (blue), or colors of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan). The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image forming apparatus includes a color sensor having high sensitivity. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the toner of the predetermined color is black toner.

Images