JP2007171585A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a user from forgetting to bring back a document, a recording paper, etc. by notifying the user when discrimination start conditions are satisfied and information conditions are satisfied. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus Pr1 has: a plurality of information side sensors SN1-SN7 which detect an object brought back by the user after an image is formed; a discrimination start condition storage means C1A which stores the discrimination start conditions for starting the discrimination whether the user is informed or not, based on the detection results of the information side sensors SN1-SN7; a discrimination start condition discriminating means C1B which discriminates whether the discrimination start conditions are satisfied or not; an information condition storage means C1C which stores the information conditions for discriminating whether the user is informed or not, based on the detection results of the information side sensors SN1-SN7; an information condition discriminating means C1D which discriminates whether the information conditions are satisfied or not, when the discrimination start conditions are satisfied; and an informing means C4 which informs the user, when the information conditions are satisfied. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a FAX, a copying machine, or a copying machine having all or a plurality of these functions, and in particular, a change when a manuscript, printed recording paper, or a charged image forming apparatus is used. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a sensor for detecting an object to be taken back by a user after image formation such as an ID card for authentication.

In an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a fax machine, or a copier, only the recording paper copied after the copying operation may be taken home and the manuscript may be forgotten. In addition, the user may forget to change the record paper by using a copy machine installed in a store such as a convenience store.
As a technique for preventing such a user from forgetting to take home, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-53385) discloses a charging process by a charging unit in an image forming apparatus having a document detection unit and a charging unit. A technique for notifying a user by generating a warning signal such as a buzzer sound when a document remains after completion is described.

JP-A-5-53385

(Problems of conventional technology)
However, in the prior art, since the notification is performed by combining the detection results of the two sensors, there is a problem that it cannot be handled when there are a large number of sensors. Therefore, in actuality, it has been necessary to develop a configuration and a system individually according to individual usage conditions such as counter management of offices and billing management of convenience stores.

In view of the above-described circumstances, the present invention has the following description contents (O01) and (O02) as technical problems.
(O01) Prevent forgetting to take home the original or recording paper.
(O02) To provide a configuration that prevents the user from forgetting to take home appropriately without actually developing it.

(Invention)
Next, the present invention that has solved the above problems will be described. In order to facilitate the correspondence between the elements of the present invention and elements of specific examples (examples) of the embodiments described later, Add the code enclosed in parentheses. The reason why the present invention is described in correspondence with the reference numerals of the embodiments described later is to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and not to limit the scope of the present invention to the embodiments.

(First invention)
In order to solve the technical problem, the image forming apparatus (Pr1) of the first invention is:
A plurality of notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) for detecting an object to be brought back by the user after image formation;
A determination start condition storage means (C1A) for storing a determination start condition for starting determination of whether or not to notify the user based on the detection results of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7);
A determination start condition determination means (C1B) for determining whether or not the determination start condition is satisfied;
Notification condition storage means (C1C) for storing a notification condition for determining whether or not to notify the user based on the detection result of the notification side sensor (SN1 to SN7);
Notification condition determination means (C1D) for determining whether or not the notification condition is satisfied when the determination start condition is satisfied;
A notification means (C4) for notifying the user when the notification condition is satisfied;
It is provided with.

(Operation of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the first aspect of the invention having the above-described configuration requirements, the plurality of notification sensors (SN1 to SN7) detect an object that the user brings back after image formation. The determination start condition storage means (C1A) stores a determination start condition for starting determination of whether or not to notify the user based on the detection results of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7). The discrimination start condition discrimination means (C1B) discriminates whether or not the discrimination start condition is satisfied. The notification condition storage means (C1C) stores a notification condition for determining whether or not to notify the user based on the detection results of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7). The notification condition determination means (C1D) determines whether or not the notification condition is satisfied when the determination start condition is satisfied. The notification means (C4) notifies the user when the notification condition is satisfied.

  Accordingly, in the image forming apparatus (Pr1) of the first aspect of the invention, the user is notified that the notification condition is satisfied when the determination start condition is satisfied, so that it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to take home a document or printing paper. In addition, when the determination start condition is satisfied, the notification condition set for the plurality of notification sensors (SN1 to SN7) is determined, so that the notification sensor (SN1 to SN7) and the monitoring side are used as in the prior art. Unlike the case where one sensor is used, the number of sensors is not limited. Therefore, it is possible to provide an appropriate configuration that prevents the user from forgetting to take home according to the actual condition of use.

(First Embodiment 1)
An image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to a first aspect of the present invention is the first aspect of the present invention, wherein
Sensor priority order storage means (C2B) for storing the priority order of the plurality of notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7);
Based on the detection result of the notification side sensor (SN1 to SN7) with high priority, the notification means (C4) for notifying the user of the take-back of the object detected by the notification side sensor (SN1 to SN7) with high priority )When,
It is provided with.

(Operation of Form 1 of the First Invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the first aspect of the first invention having the above-described configuration requirements, the sensor priority storage unit (C2B) stores the priority of the plurality of notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7). The notification means (C4) takes a target object detected by the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) having a high priority to the user based on the detection result of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) having a high priority. To be notified. Therefore, since the order notification with a high priority is performed, the objects can be sequentially collected according to the notification, and forgetting to take home can be prevented.

(First Embodiment 2)
An image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to a second aspect of the first invention is the image forming apparatus according to the first invention or the first aspect of the first invention.
A notification presence / absence storage unit that stores whether or not to notify the user of the take-away of each object when each of the notification sensors (SN1 to SN7) detects the object when the determination start condition is satisfied. C2A),
It is provided with.
(Operation of the second aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the second aspect of the first invention having the above-described structural requirements, the notification presence / absence storage means (C2A) satisfies the determination start condition and each of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) When the object is detected, it is stored whether to notify the user of the take-away of each object. Therefore, notification can be made according to the presence or absence of the stored notification.

(Embodiment 3 of the first invention)
The image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the third aspect of the present invention is the second aspect of the first aspect of the present invention.
Notification presence / absence setting means (C2) for setting whether to notify the user of the take-away of each object when each of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) detects the object when the determination start condition is satisfied. )When,
The notification presence / absence storage means (C2A) for storing the setting by the notification presence / absence setting means (C2);
It is provided with.
(Operation of the third aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the third aspect of the first invention having the above-described configuration requirements, the notification presence / absence setting means (C2) satisfies the determination start condition and each of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) Whether or not to notify the user of take-away of each object when the object is detected is set. The notification presence / absence storage means (C2A) stores the setting by the notification presence / absence setting means (C2). Therefore, whether or not to perform notification can be appropriately set according to the use environment.

(First aspect 4)
An image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to a fourth aspect of the first invention is the same as that according to the third aspect of the first invention.
The notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) detachably attached to the image forming apparatus (Pr1);
Sensor detection means (C3) for detecting attachment / detachment of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7);
A notification standard setting storage means (C3B) for storing a standard setting for whether to notify when the notification side sensor (SN1 to SN7) is detected;
The notification presence / absence setting means (C2) for automatically setting the standard setting stored in the notification standard setting storage means (C3B) when the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) are detected;
It is provided with.

(Operation of the fourth aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the fourth aspect of the first invention having the above-described configuration requirements, the sensor detection means (C3) is provided on the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus (Pr1). Detects attachment / detachment. The notification standard setting storage means (C3B) stores a standard setting as to whether or not to notify when the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) are detected. The notification presence / absence setting means (C2) automatically sets the standard setting stored in the notification standard setting storage means (C3B) when the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) are detected. Therefore, the attachment / detachment of the notification side sensors (SN1 to SN7) can be automatically detected, and the standard setting can be automatically set. As a result, even if the number of sensors increases or decreases, it can be easily handled, and versatility is enhanced.

(First embodiment 5)
An image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to a fifth aspect of the first invention is any one of the first invention and the first to fourth aspects of the first invention.
The notification means (C4) for performing notification by turning on a warning lamp (KL);
It is provided with.
(Operation of the fifth aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the fifth aspect of the first invention having the above-described configuration requirements, the notification means (C4) can perform notification by turning on a warning lamp (KL).

(First Embodiment 6)
An image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to a sixth aspect of the first invention is any one of the first invention and the first to fifth aspects of the first invention.
The notification means (C4) for performing notification by displaying a notification message image on the information display screen (UI1);
It is provided with.
(Operation of the sixth aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the sixth aspect of the first invention having the above-described configuration requirements, notification can be performed by displaying a notification message image on the information display screen (UI1).

(First embodiment 7)
An image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to a seventh aspect of the first invention is any one of the first invention and the first to sixth aspects of the first invention.
The notification means (C4) for performing notification by executing the notification by transmitting an e-mail or log data of the notification message to the information processing device (Sb) connected via the network (N);
It is provided with.
(Operation of the first aspect 7)
In the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the seventh aspect of the first invention having the above configuration requirements, the e-mail and log data of the notification message are transmitted to the information processing apparatus (Sb) connected via the network (N). Thus, the notification can be performed by executing the notification.

(Embodiment 8 of the first invention)
The image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the eighth aspect of the first invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first invention and the first to seventh aspects of the present invention.
A plurality of monitoring sensors (SN1 to SN8),
It is provided with.
(Operation of the eighth aspect of the first invention)
Since the image forming apparatus (Pr1) according to the eighth aspect of the first invention having the above-described configuration includes a plurality of monitoring side sensors (SN1 to SN8), the determination start conditions corresponding to various situations should be used. Can do.

The above-described present invention has the following effects (E01) and (E02).
(E01) It is possible to prevent forgetting to take a manuscript or recording paper.
(E02) It is possible to provide a configuration that prevents the user from forgetting to take home appropriately without actually developing it.

Next, specific examples (examples) of the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.
In order to facilitate understanding of the following description, in the drawings, the front-rear direction is the X-axis direction, the left-right direction is the Y-axis direction, the up-down direction is the Z-axis direction, and arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, The direction indicated by Z and -Z or the indicated side is defined as the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, the lower side, or the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, and the lower side, respectively.
In the figure, “•” in “○” means an arrow heading from the back of the page to the front, and “×” in “○” is the front of the page. It means an arrow pointing from the back to the back.

FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
In FIG. 1, a digital copying machine Pr1 as an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is installed in a store that provides a self-service copy service, and an administrator server via a network N (general public line). (Information processing apparatus) Connected to Sb. The copying machine Pr1 is connected to a charging device KS for charging the usage fee for the copy service, and is also connected to a store register (not shown) via a cable. Further, the copying machine Pr1 includes an ID card reading device that reads a prepaid card reader (prepaid card reader) PCR that reads a prepaid card that charges a usage fee, and an ID card that authenticates an administrator who manages the image forming apparatus. A device (ID card reader) IDR is connected.

  The copying machine Pr1 records an image of an image reading device (scanner unit) PrA that reads a document image, an automatic document transport device ADF that automatically transports the document to an image reading position of the image reading device PrA, and the read image. And an image recording unit (printer unit) PrB. A user interface UI is installed on the front surface of the scanner unit PrA. In addition, a platen glass (not shown) is provided on the upper surface of the scanner unit PrA between the automatic document feeder ADF and the scanner unit PrA for setting and reading one document at a time. The automatic document feeder ADF includes a document setting tray ADF1 on which a document before reading is set and a document discharge tray ADF2 on which a document after reading is discharged. The image recording unit PrB is provided with a plurality of paper feed trays TR for feeding printing paper, and a paper discharge tray (output tray) TRh is provided between the image recording unit PrB and the scanner unit PrA.

(Description of the control part of Example 1)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram (function block diagram) illustrating the functions of the control unit of the image forming apparatus, the register, and the administrator server according to the first embodiment.

(Description of register functions)
When the clerk determines that there are no people around the copier, the register confirms that the copier has no forgotten items (objects forgotten to take home (manuscripts, printing paper, change etc.)) Button input signal transmission means RC1 for transmitting a button input signal for notifying the copying machine Pr1 that the button FKB and the register absence confirmation button FKB have been input.
(Description of functions of the administrator server Sb)
The administrator server Sb has a computer main body H1, an input device composed of a display (information display screen) H2, a keyboard H3 and a mouse H4, a hard disk drive and a CD-ROM drive (not shown), and the like. The hard disk of the computer main body H1 of the administrator server Sb receives, as a function means, notification information (e-mail in the first embodiment) transmitted from the copier Pr1 when something left behind is outside the copy service usage time. E-mail receiving means SC1 is stored.

(Description of control unit of image forming apparatus)
In FIG. 2, a controller C of the copier Pr1 according to the first embodiment includes an I / O (input / output interface) that performs input / output of signals with the outside and adjustment of input / output signal levels, and a program for performing necessary processing. And a ROM (read only memory) or hard disk in which data and the like are stored, a RAM (random access memory) for temporarily storing necessary data, and a CPU that performs processing according to a program stored in the ROM ( A central processing unit) and a microcomputer having a clock oscillator and the like, and various functions can be realized by executing a program stored in the ROM or the like.

(Signal input element connected to the controller C)
The controller C includes a UI (user interface), a platen original detection sensor SN1, a pre-read original detection sensor SN2, a post-read sensor detection sensor SN3, a paper discharge tray sensor SN4, a change presence sensor SN5, a prepaid card presence sensor SN6, an ID. Signals from signal input elements such as a card presence sensor SN7, an interpersonal sensor SN8, a platen open / close detection sensor SN9, and other various sensors (monitoring side sensor / notification side sensor) not shown are input.
The UI includes input keys such as a display (information display screen) UI1, a copy start key UI2, a numeric keypad UI3, and a notification presence / absence setting key UI4. Is input to the controller C.

The platen document detection sensor SN1 detects whether or not there is a document on the platen glass of the image reading device PrA on which the read document is set.
The pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 detects whether or not a document before reading by the image reading device PrA remains in the document set tray ADF1 of the automatic document feeder ADF.
The after-reading sensor detection sensor SN3 detects whether or not the document after being read by the image reading device PrA remains in the document discharge tray ADF2 of the automatic document feeder ADF.
The paper discharge tray sensor SN4 detects whether or not the output paper remains on the paper discharge tray TRh.

The change presence / absence sensor SN5 detects whether or not change remains in the change return port KSa of the charging device KS.
The prepaid card presence / absence sensor SN6 detects whether or not a prepaid card is inserted in the prepaid card reader PCR.
The ID card presence / absence sensor SN7 detects whether or not an ID card is inserted in the ID card reader IDR.
The interpersonal sensor SN8 detects a person in the vicinity of the copying machine Pr1.
The platen open / close detection sensor SN9 detects whether or not the platen glass of the image reading device PrA is opened or closed in order to set or take out a document on the platen glass.

(Control element connected to the controller C)
The controller C forms an image according to the image information, records the image on an image reading device (scanner unit) PrA that reads an original image, and paper fed from the paper feed tray TR, and discharges it to the discharge tray TRh. The image recording apparatus (printer unit) PrB, the automatic document feeder ADF, the warning lamp KL (notification member), and other control elements are connected to output their operation control signals.

(Function of the controller C)
The controller C has a function (control means) for executing a process corresponding to an output signal from each signal output element, information received via the network N, and a signal and outputting a control signal to each control element. Have. The function (control means) of the controller C will be described next.
C1: Notification determination means The notification determination means C1 includes a monitoring side determination start condition storage means C1A, a monitoring side start condition determination means C1B, a notification condition storage means C1C, a notification condition determination means C1D, and a determination time counting means C1E. It is determined whether or not a condition for notifying the user of forgetting to take home is established.

FIG. 3 is a list explanatory diagram of a monitoring-side discrimination start condition, a notification-side notification condition, and notification contents according to the first embodiment.
C1A: Monitoring-side discrimination start condition storage means The monitoring-side discrimination start condition storage means C1A is a discrimination start condition for starting discrimination on whether to notify the user based on the detection results of the notification side sensors SN1 to SN7. Remember. The monitoring-side discrimination start condition storage unit C1A according to the first embodiment stores the discrimination start condition illustrated in FIG. 3 as the discrimination start condition. Accordingly, in the platen document detection sensor SN1 as a monitoring sensor, it is determined that the platen document detection sensor SN1 detects the absence of document after the copy start key UI2 is input and the platen open / close detection sensor SN9 detects opening / closing. If the copy start key UI2 is input and the platen open / close detection sensor SN9 is opened / closed and it is detected that there is no document, the determination start condition is satisfied.

In the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 and the post-reading sensor detection sensor SN3, it is determined that the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 and the post-reading sensor detection sensor SN3 detect the absence of a document after the copy start key UI2 is input. It has become.
In the discharge tray sensor SN4, the determination start condition is that the discharge tray sensor SN4 detects that the discharge tray TRh is empty (no paper).
In the change presence / absence sensor SN5, the determination start condition is that the change presence / absence sensor SN5 detects the absence of change from the change change state.
In the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 and the ID card presence sensor SN7, the determination start condition is that the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 and the ID card presence sensor SN7 detect that the prepaid card or ID card has been taken out.
In the personal sensor SN8, the determination start condition is that no person is detected in the vicinity of the copying machine Pr1.
In addition, the fact that the current time is outside the usage time (20:00 to 6:00 in the first embodiment) and that a register absence confirmation button (described later) is input is also stored as a determination start condition. Yes.

C1B: Monitoring-side start condition determining means (discrimination start condition determining means)
The monitoring-side start condition determining means C1B has button input signal receiving means C1B1 for receiving a button input signal for notifying the copying machine Pr1 that the register absence confirmation button FKB has been input, and whether the determination start condition is satisfied. Whether or not is determined for each determination condition.
C1C: Notification Condition Storage Unit The notification condition storage unit C1C stores a notification condition for determining whether to notify the user based on detection results of the notification side sensors SN1 to SN7. The notification condition storage unit C1C according to the first embodiment stores the notification condition illustrated in FIG. 3 as the notification condition. Therefore, in the platen document detection sensor SN1 as the notification side sensor, the copy start key UI2 is input, and the platen open / close detection sensor SN9 detects opening / closing, and then the document presence state has exceeded a predetermined platen notification determination time t1. The notification condition is satisfied, and when the copy start key UI2 is input and the determination time t1 elapses after the platen opening / closing detection sensor SN9 is opened / closed, the notification condition is satisfied.

In the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 and the post-reading sensor detection sensor SN3, the notification condition is that the document presence state elapses for a predetermined ADF notification determination time t2 after the copy start key UI2 is input. .
In the paper discharge tray sensor SN4, the notification condition is that the paper discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the presence of paper in the paper discharge tray TRh.
In the change presence / absence sensor SN5, a notification condition is that the change presence / absence sensor SN5 detects the presence of change.
In the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 and the ID card presence sensor SN7, the notification condition is that the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 and the ID card presence sensor SN7 detect that a prepaid card or ID card is inserted. .

C1D: Notification Condition Determination Unit The notification condition determination unit C1D determines whether the notification condition is satisfied for each of the notification side sensors SN1 to SN7 when the determination start condition is satisfied.
C1E: Discriminating time counting means The discriminating time counting means C1E has a platen discriminating time clock timer TM1 and an ADF discriminating time clock timer TM2, and clocks the discriminating times t1, t2 by the timers TM1, TM2.
C1F: Current timekeeping means (built-in clock)
The current time counting means C1F measures the current time. Incidentally, the current time counting means C1F of the first embodiment is constituted by a built-in clock of the copying machine Pr1.

C2: Notification presence / absence setting unit The notification presence / absence setting unit C2 includes a notification presence / absence setting table storage unit C2A, a sensor priority storage unit C2B, and a notification presence / absence setting table image display unit C2C, and satisfies the determination start condition. And when each said notification side sensor detects the said object, it sets whether to notify a user of the take-away of each target object.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a notification presence / absence setting table image according to the first embodiment, FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram of a notification presence / absence setting table image when all the sensors and the like are connected, and FIG. 4B is a connection of some sensors. It is explanatory drawing of the notification presence / absence setting table image when not being performed.
C2A: Notification presence / absence setting table storage means (notification presence / absence storage means, notification method storage means)
The notification presence / absence setting table storage unit C2A stores whether or not to notify the user of the take-away of each object when the determination start condition is satisfied and each notification sensor detects the object. The notification presence / absence setting table storage unit C2A according to the first embodiment uses a notification presence / absence setting table (see FIG. 4) in which items on the determination start condition side (monitoring side) and the notification sensor side are tabulated as to whether or not to notify. Remember. The notification presence / absence setting table storage unit C2A according to the first embodiment stores a notification method (a warning lamp, a message image, or an e-mail according to the first embodiment) when each notification condition is satisfied.

C2B: Sensor priority order storage means The sensor priority order storage means C2B stores the priority order of the plurality of notification side sensors. In the sensor priority storage unit C2B according to the first embodiment, the left side of the notification presence / absence setting table has higher priority than the right side, and the same monitoring side has higher priority than the lower side. Is remembered.
C2C: Notification presence / absence setting table image display means (notification presence / absence setting image display means)
The notification presence / absence setting table image display means C2C is for setting whether or not to notify the user of the take-away of each object when the determination start condition is satisfied and each notification-side sensor detects the object. The notification presence / absence setting table image 11 (notification presence / absence setting image, see FIG. 4) is displayed on the display unit UI1. In FIG. 4, the notification presence / absence setting table image 11 executes setting with an item display unit 12 having a setting item image 12 a on which setting items are displayed, and an item column 12 b on which monitoring side sensors and the like and notification side sensors are displayed. A setting execution instruction image 13 (see “OK” icon in FIG. 4), a setting cancellation instruction image 14 (see “Cancel” icon in FIG. 4) for canceling the setting, and a priority for changing the priority order. And a rank change image 16. In FIG. 4, it is configured to be switched on and off by touching a position corresponding to each item of the display unit UI1 on which the notification presence / absence setting table image 11 is displayed. It can be performed. Further, by inputting the priority order change image 16 in a state where the monitoring item column (“reading glass” or “output tray” column) is selected, the monitoring item column 12b and each setting item 12a as a whole are input. Can be moved to the left or right, and the priority can be changed.

C3: Sensor detection means The sensor detection means C3 is a standard when each sensor is connected to the connected sensor storage means C3A for storing the connected sensors SN1 to SN8 and the monitoring device (administrator server Sb and register). It has notification standard setting storage means C3B for storing (default) notification presence / absence setting, and determines whether or not each of the notification side sensors SN1 to SN7, the interpersonal sensor SN8, the administrator server Sb, and the register are connected. The sensor detection unit C3 according to the first embodiment performs detection when the copying machine Pr1 is turned on. When a new sensor or the like is connected, the notification presence / absence setting unit C2 is notified of the standard notification presence / absence setting. When the sensor or the like is disconnected, the notification presence / absence setting means C2 is notified of the disconnection and the setting is invalidated (see FIG. 4B).

C4: Notification means The notification means C4 has a notification priority determination means C4A, a notification message image display means C4B, a lamp control means C4C, and an e-mail transmission means C4D, and when the notification condition is satisfied Notify the user.
C4A: Notification priority determining means The notification priority determining means C4A determines the priority of the notification condition and determines the content to be notified when a plurality of notification conditions are satisfied.
C4B: Notification message image display means The notification message image display means C4B displays the display unit UI1 when the notification method when the notification condition stored in the notification presence / absence setting table storage means C2A is satisfied is notification by a message image. Displays a notification message image. In the first embodiment, the notification message image shown in FIG. 3 is displayed.

C4C: Lamp Control Unit The lamp control unit C4C turns on the warning lamp KL when the notification method when the notification condition stored in the notification presence / absence setting table storage unit C2A is satisfied is notification by a warning lamp.
C4D: E-mail transmission unit The e-mail transmission unit C4D is registered in advance when the notification method when the notification condition stored in the notification presence / absence setting table storage unit C2A is satisfied is notification by e-mail. An e-mail with notification contents (see FIG. 3) is transmitted to the e-mail address.

FL1: First priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag The first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1 has an initial value of “0000000” and satisfies the determination conditions of the sensor on the monitoring side whose priority is set to the first. In addition, when each notification condition is satisfied, the value of the corresponding notification condition is “1”, and when the notification condition is canceled, the value of the corresponding notification condition is “0”. For example, in FIG. 4, since the priority order of the platen document detection sensor SN1 as the monitoring sensor is set to No. 1, when the setting shown in FIG. 4 is set, the first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1 Is used as a flag relating to the platen document detection sensor SN1, and when the setting is changed, it is used as a flag relating to the sensor having the first priority according to the change. In the case where the setting shown in FIG. 4 is performed, when the determination start condition of the platen document detection sensor SN1 is satisfied, the recording sheet is detected on the discharge tray TRh (the fourth notification condition is satisfied); When change is detected in the change receiver (the fifth notification condition is satisfied), the first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1 becomes “0001100”, and the recording paper is detected on the discharge tray TRh (fourth). When the prepaid card is detected (satisfying the sixth notification condition), the first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1 becomes “0001010”.

FL2 to DL10: second priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag to tenth priority monitoring sensor determination flag The second priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL2 to the tenth priority monitoring sensor determination flag FL10 have an initial value of “0000000” and have priority. When the determination conditions of the sensors on the monitoring side, etc., in which the rank is set to No. 2 to No. 10 are satisfied and each notification condition is satisfied, the value of the corresponding notification condition is “1”, and the notification condition is The value of the notification condition corresponding to the cancellation is “0”.

(Description of Flowchart of Example 1)
(Description of Flowchart of Discrimination Start Condition Discrimination Process for Platen Document)
FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the platen document discrimination start condition discrimination process of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 5 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 5 is started when the copying machine Pr1 is powered on.

In ST1 of FIG. 5, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST1a. If no (N), ST1 is repeated.
In ST1a, all the values of the flag for the platen document detection sensor SN1 (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority order setting, in FIG. 4, the first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1) are set to “0”. . Then, the process proceeds to ST2.
In ST2, it is determined whether or not the detection result of the platen document detection sensor SN1 is that there is a document. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST3. If no (N), the process returns to ST1.
In ST3, it is determined whether or not opening is detected by the platen open / close detection sensor SN9. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST4. If no (N), ST3 is repeated.
In ST4, it is determined whether or not a blockage is detected by the platen open / close detection sensor SN9. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST5, and if no (N), ST4 is repeated.
In ST5, it is determined whether or not the detection result of the platen document detection sensor SN1 indicates that there is no document. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST6, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7.

In ST6, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST1a. If no (N), the process returns to ST3.
In ST7, the sensor priority order discrimination number n is set to 1. Then, the process proceeds to ST8.
In ST8, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST1a. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.
In ST9, based on the priority order of the notification side sensors SN1 to SN7, it is determined whether there is an nth priority sensor having an nth priority. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST10. If no (N), the process returns to ST7.

In ST10, it is determined whether or not the notification presence / absence setting of the nth priority sensor is turned on (notification is executed). If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST11, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST14.
In ST11, it is determined whether or not the notification condition of the nth priority sensor stored in the notification condition storage unit C1C is satisfied. For example, in the case of the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2, it is determined whether or not the ADF notification determination time t2 has elapsed with a document being present. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST12. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST13.
In ST12, the value of the corresponding priority sensor of the priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag (any one of FL1 to FL10) corresponding to the priority order on the monitoring side of the platen document detection sensor SN1 is set to “1”. For example, when the setting shown in FIG. 4 is performed and the ADF notification determination time t2 elapses when the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 with the second priority is in a state where there is a document, the first priority monitoring sensor FL1. Set the second digit from the left to “1”. Then, the process proceeds to ST14.
In ST13, the value of the corresponding priority sensor of the priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag (any one of FL1 to FL10) corresponding to the priority order on the monitoring side of the platen document detection sensor SN1 is set to “0”. Then, the process proceeds to ST14.
In ST14, the sensor priority determination number n is incremented by one. That is, n = n + 1. Then, the process returns to ST8.

(Explanation of flowchart of discrimination start condition discrimination process for ADF)
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the ADF determination start condition determination process of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1. In the first embodiment, the determination start condition determination process related to the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 and the determination start condition determination process related to the post-reading document detection sensor SN3 described in FIG. 6 are the same and executed in parallel. Therefore, only the determination start condition determination process related to the document detection sensor SN2 before reading will be described, and the description of the determination start condition determination process related to the document detection sensor SN3 after reading will be omitted.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In the determination start condition determination process related to the pre-read document detection sensor SN2 of FIG. 6, ST21 to ST24 are executed instead of ST1 to ST6 of the platen document determination start condition determination process of FIG.
In ST21, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST21a. If no (N), ST21 is repeated.
In ST21a, all the values of the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 flag (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the second priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL2) are set to “0”. To do. Then, the process proceeds to ST22.
In ST22, it is determined whether or not the detection result of the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 is that there is a document. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST23, and, if no (N), the process returns to ST1.
In ST23, it is determined whether or not the detection result of the document detection sensor SN2 before reading indicates that there is no document. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST24, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7.
In ST24, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST21a. If no (N), the process returns to ST23.
Next, the same processing as ST7 to ST14 of the platen original discrimination start condition discrimination processing is executed.

(Explanation of Flowchart of Discrimination Start Condition Discrimination Process of Paper Discharge Tray Sensor)
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of determination start condition determination processing of the paper discharge tray sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is performed according to a program stored in the ROM, the hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 7 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In the discrimination start condition discrimination process of the paper discharge tray sensor SN4 of FIG. 7, ST31 and ST32 are executed instead of ST1 to ST5 of the platen original discrimination start condition discrimination process of FIG. 5, and ST33 is executed instead of ST8. .
In ST31, it is determined whether or not the discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the presence of printing paper. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST31a. If no (N), ST31 is repeated.
In ST31a, all the values of the flag for the discharge tray sensor SN4 (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority order setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the fourth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL4) are set to “0”. . Then, the process proceeds to ST32.
In ST32, it is determined whether or not the paper discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the absence of printing paper. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7, and if no (N), ST32 is repeated.
Next, the process of ST7 is executed, and the process proceeds to ST33.
In ST33, it is determined whether or not the discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the presence of printing paper. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST31a. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.

(Explanation of flowchart of discrimination start condition discrimination processing of change presence / absence sensor)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of determination start condition determination processing of the change presence / absence sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is performed according to a program stored in the ROM, the hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 8 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In the determination start condition determination process of the change presence / absence sensor SN5 of FIG. 8, ST41 and ST42 are executed instead of ST1 to ST5 of the platen original determination start condition determination process of FIG. 5, and ST43 is executed instead of ST8.
In ST41, it is determined whether or not change change sensor SN5 has detected change. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST41a. If no (N), ST41 is repeated.
In ST41a, all the values of the flags for the change presence / absence sensor SN5 (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the fifth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL5) are all set to “0”. Then, the process proceeds to ST42.
In ST42, it is determined whether or not the change presence / absence sensor SN5 has detected no change. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7, and if no (N), ST42 is repeated.
Next, the process of ST7 is executed, and the process proceeds to ST43.
In ST43, it is determined whether or not change change sensor SN5 has detected change. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST41a. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.

(Explanation of flowchart of discrimination start condition discrimination process of prepaid card presence sensor and ID card presence sensor)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the determination start condition determination process of the card presence sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1. In the first embodiment, the determination start condition determination process related to the prepaid card presence / absence sensor SN6 and the determination start condition determination process related to the read ID card presence / absence sensor SN7 described in FIG. 9 are the same and executed in parallel. Only the determination start condition determination process regarding the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 will be described, and the description of the determination start condition determination process regarding the ID card presence sensor SN7 will be omitted.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 9 is started when the copying machine Pr1 is powered on.

In the determination start condition determination process of the prepaid card presence / absence sensor SN6 of FIG. 9, ST51 and ST52 are executed instead of ST1 to ST5 of the platen original determination start condition determination process of FIG. 5, and ST53 is executed instead of ST8. .
In ST51, it is determined whether or not the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 detects the presence of a card. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST51a. If no (N), ST51 is repeated.
In ST51a, all the values of the flag for the prepaid card presence / absence sensor SN6 (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the sixth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL6) are set to “0”. . Then, the process proceeds to ST52.
In ST52, it is determined whether or not prepaid card presence / absence sensor SN6 has detected no card. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7, and if no (N), ST52 is repeated.
Next, the process of ST7 is executed, and the process proceeds to ST53.
In ST53, it is determined whether or not the prepaid card presence sensor SN6 detects the presence of a card. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST51a. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.

(Explanation of flowchart of discrimination start condition discrimination process of interpersonal sensor)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the discrimination start condition discrimination process of the interpersonal sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 10 is performed according to a program stored in the ROM or hard disk of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 10 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In the discrimination start condition discrimination process of the human sensor SN8 of FIG. 10, ST61 and ST62 are executed instead of ST1 to ST5 of the platen original discrimination start condition discrimination process of FIG. 5, and ST63 is executed instead of ST8.
In ST61, it is determined whether or not the interpersonal sensor SN8 has detected a person. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST61a. If no (N), ST61 is repeated.
In ST61a, all the values of the flag for personal sensor SN8 (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority order setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the eighth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL8) are set to “0”. Then, the process proceeds to ST62.
In ST62, it is determined whether or not the interpersonal sensor SN8 no longer detects a person. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7, and if no (N), ST62 is repeated.
Next, the process of ST7 is executed, and the process proceeds to ST63.
In ST63, it is determined whether or not the interpersonal sensor SN8 has detected a person. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST61a. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.

(Explanation of flowchart of discrimination start condition discrimination process based on usage time)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of determination start condition determination processing based on usage time of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 11 is performed according to a program stored in the ROM or hard disk of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 11 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In the discrimination start condition discrimination process based on the usage time of FIG. 11, ST70 to ST71 are executed instead of ST1 to ST5 of the platen document discrimination start condition discrimination process of FIG. 5, and ST72 is executed instead of ST8.
ST70 sets all the values of the non-utilization time determination flags (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the ninth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL9) to “0”. Then, the process proceeds to ST71.
In ST71, it is determined whether or not the current time measured by the current time counting means (built-in clock) C1F is outside the use time (20:00 to 6:00). If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7, and if no (N), ST71 is repeated.
Next, the process of ST7 is executed, and the process proceeds to ST72.
In ST72, it is determined whether or not the current time measured by the current time counting means (built-in clock) C1F is within the usage time (6:00 to 20:00). If yes (Y), the process returns to ST70, and if no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.

(Explanation of flowchart of discrimination start condition discrimination process by absence confirmation button)
FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the determination start condition determination process by the absence check button of the register according to the first embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 12 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 12 is started when the copying machine Pr1 is powered on.

In the determination start condition determination process by the absence confirmation button FKB in FIG. 12, ST80 and ST81 are executed instead of ST1 to ST5 of the platen original determination start condition determination process in FIG. 5, and ST8 is omitted. Then, in the discrimination start condition discrimination process by the absence confirmation button FKB in FIG. 12, if no (N) in ST9, the process returns to ST80.
In ST80, all the values of the flag for the absence confirmation button FKB (any one of FL1 to FL10 depending on the priority setting, in the case of FIG. 4, the tenth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL10) are set to “0”. Then, the process proceeds to ST81.
In ST81, it is determined whether or not a register absence confirmation button FKB has been input, that is, whether or not a button input signal has been received. If yes (Y), proceed to ST7.

(Explanation of flow chart of discrimination time counting process for platen)
FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the discrimination time counting process for the platen according to the first embodiment.
Processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 13 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The platen discrimination time counting process shown in FIG. 13 is a process of measuring the passage of the platen discrimination time t1 used when determining whether or not the notification condition of the platen document detection sensor SN1 as the notification side sensor is satisfied. Yes, the flowchart of the discrimination time counting process for platen shown in FIG. 13 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In ST91 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST92, and if no (N), ST91 is repeated.
In ST92, it is determined whether or not opening is detected by the platen open / close detection sensor SN9. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST93, and if no (N), ST92 is repeated.
In ST93, it is determined whether or not a blockage is detected by the platen open / close detection sensor SN9. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST94, and if no (N), ST93 is repeated.

In ST94, the platen discrimination time count timer TM1 starts measuring the platen discrimination time t1. Then, the process proceeds to ST95.
In ST95, it is determined whether or not the detection result of the platen document detection sensor SN1 indicates that there is no document. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST96, and if no (N), ST95 is repeated.
In ST96, the platen discrimination time counting timer TM1 is stopped to stop timing. Then, the process returns to ST91.

(Explanation of flowchart of ADF discrimination time counting process)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the ADF discrimination time counting process according to the first embodiment.
Processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 14 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The ADF discriminating time counting process shown in FIG. 14 is an ADF discriminating time used when discriminating whether the notification conditions of the pre-reading document detection sensor SN2 or the post-reading sensor detection sensor SN3 as the notification side sensor are satisfied. This is a process for measuring the elapse of t2, and the flowchart of the ADF discrimination time counting process shown in FIG. 14 is started by turning on the power of the copying machine Pr1.

In ST101 of FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the copy start key UI2 has been input. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST102, and if no (N), ST101 is repeated.
In ST102, the ADF discrimination time count timer TM2 starts counting the ADF discrimination time t2. Then, the process proceeds to ST103.
In ST103, it is determined whether or not the detection results of the document detection sensor SN2 before reading and the sensor detection sensor SN3 after reading indicate that there is no document. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST104, and if no (N), ST103 is repeated.
In ST104, the ADF discriminant time count timer TM2 is stopped to stop time count. Then, the process returns to ST101.

(Description of flowchart of notification processing)
FIG. 15 is a flowchart of notification processing according to the first embodiment.
Processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 15 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk, or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The notification process flowchart shown in FIG. 15 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In ST111 of FIG. 15, it is determined whether or not there is at least one “1” flag among the values of the first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1 to the tenth priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL10. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST112, and if no (N), ST111 is repeated.
In ST112, it is determined whether or not there are a plurality of “1” in each value of the notification determination flags FL1 to FL10. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST113, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST114.
In ST113, the notification contents corresponding to the notification determination flags FL1 to FL10 are notified by the set notification method (image display, warning lamp lighting or mail transmission). Then, the process proceeds to ST115.
In ST114, notification contents with the highest priority among the priority levels of notification determination flags FL1 to FL10 and the priority levels in the flags are notified by a set notification method (image display, warning lamp lighting or mail transmission). To do. The priority order is determined based on the priority order set in the notification presence / absence setting table, and the notification determination flags FL1 to FL10 have a lower priority number and the notification determination flags FL1 to FL10. The value on the left side of the digit is determined to have a higher priority. For example, in FL1 and FL3, if FL1 has a higher priority and the first priority monitoring sensor notification determination flag FL1 is “00001010”, the fourth and sixth notification conditions are satisfied, so the fourth notification It is determined that the condition has a higher priority. Then, the process proceeds to ST115.

In ST115, it is determined whether or not the notification determination flags FL1 to FL10 during notification have become “0”. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST116, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST118.
In ST116, it is determined whether or not there are notification determination flags FL1 to FL10 having a new value "1". If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST117, and, if no (N), the process returns to ST115.
In ST117, it is determined whether or not the values of the notification determination flags FL1 to FL10 whose values are newly “1” have a higher priority than the value currently being notified. If yes (Y), the process returns to ST114, and, if no (N), the process returns to ST115.
In ST118, the notification is terminated, and the process returns to ST111.

(Description of flowchart of notification presence / absence setting process)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart of notification presence / absence setting processing according to the first embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 16 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart of the notification presence / absence setting process shown in FIG. 16 is started when the power of the copying machine Pr1 is turned on.

In ST121 of FIG. 16, it is determined whether or not the notification presence / absence setting key UI4 has been input. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST122, and if no (N), ST121 is repeated.
In ST122, the notification presence / absence setting table image 11 (see FIG. 4) is displayed on the display unit UI1. Then, the process proceeds to ST123.
In ST123, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting each setting item image 12a of the notification presence / absence setting table image 11 is made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST124, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST125.
In ST124, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process returns to ST123.
(1) The input setting item ON / OFF setting is reversely converted, and the converted setting contents are temporarily stored.
(2) The notification presence / absence setting table image 11 is updated according to the input.

In ST125, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting each item column 12b has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST126, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST127.
In ST126, the image in the item column 12b is updated according to the input. That is, a reverse display indicating that the selected state is present is performed. Then, the process returns to ST123.
In ST127, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the priority order change image 16 for changing the priority order has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST128. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST129.
In ST128, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process returns to ST123.
(1) Temporarily store the priority changed according to the input.
(2) The notification presence / absence setting table image 11 is updated according to the input.

In ST129, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the setting execution instruction image 13 (see the “OK” icon in FIG. 4) has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST130, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST131.
In ST130, the setting content of notification presence / absence is updated to the temporarily stored content. Then, the process returns to ST121.
In ST131, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the setting cancellation instruction image 14 (see the “cancel” icon in FIG. 4) has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST132, and, if no (N), the process returns to ST123.
In ST132, the temporarily stored contents are discarded. Then, the process returns to ST121.

(Description of flowchart of sensor detection processing)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart of sensor detection processing according to the first embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 17 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like of the copying machine Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the copying machine Pr1.
The flowchart of the sensor detection process shown in FIG. 17 is started when the copying machine Pr1 is powered on.

In ST141 in FIG. 17, all monitoring sensors and monitoring devices (such as the administrator server Sb) connected to the copying machine Pr1 are detected. Then, the process proceeds to ST142.
In ST142, the detected sensor or the like is compared with the content stored in the connection sensor storage unit C3A to determine whether or not there is a newly connected sensor. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST143. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST144.
In ST143, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the sensor detection process in FIG. 17 is terminated.
(1) Enable monitoring side settings for new sensors, etc. with default (standard) settings.
(2) Enable notification side settings such as new sensors with default settings.

In ST144, the detected sensor or the like is compared with the content stored in the connection sensor storage means C3A to determine whether or not there is a removed sensor or the like. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST145. If no (N), the sensor detection process of FIG. 17 ends.
In ST145, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the sensor detection process in FIG. 17 is terminated.
(1) The monitoring side setting of the removed sensor is set to unconnected and invalidated.
(2) The notification side setting of the removed sensor is set to unconnected and invalidated.

(Operation of Example 1)
In the copying machine Pr1 of the first embodiment having the above-described configuration, the detection state of the notification side sensors SN1 to SN7 when the determination start condition is satisfied by the monitoring sensors SN1 to SN8, the usage time, the absence confirmation button FKB, etc. Is determined. When the notification condition is satisfied, a notification is given by a warning lamp KL, a notification message image, or the like.
For example, in FIG. 4, when the discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the absence of paper and satisfies the determination start condition, and the platen document detection sensor SN1 detects the document and satisfies the notification condition, a message image is used. The user is notified. Therefore, even after the copying operation, only the copied printing paper is taken out from the paper discharge tray TRh, and the user is notified even if the original on the platen glass is almost forgotten. Conversely, when the platen document detection sensor SN1 detects the absence of a document and satisfies the determination start condition, and the discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the presence of paper and satisfies the notification condition, the message image is displayed to the user. Notification is made. Furthermore, if the sensor start condition is satisfied when the human sensor SN8 no longer detects a person, and the other sensors SN1 to SN7 detect it, the user picks up a manuscript, printing paper, change, card, etc. Since the user is about to leave the copying machine Pr1 while forgetting, the user is notified when the warning lamp is turned on.
As a result, it is possible to reduce that the user forgets to take home a document, printed printing paper, change, a prepaid card, an ID card, and the like.

Further, since the priority order is set in the copying machine Pr1 of the first embodiment, for example, in FIG. 4, when the paper discharge tray sensor SN4 detects the absence of paper and satisfies the determination start condition, the platen original detection is performed. When the sensor SN1 detects the document and satisfies the notification condition, and the change presence / absence sensor SN5 detects the change and satisfies the notification condition, the message image indicates that the document with high priority is forgotten. It is announced. Then, when the document is removed and the notification condition of the platen document detection sensor SN1 is cleared, it is notified that the change is forgotten. Therefore, forgetting to take home can be reduced by taking out the manuscript and the like according to the order of notification.
Furthermore, since the presence / absence of a notification and the priority order can be set, it can be appropriately set according to the use environment such as what is often forgotten to take home. Further, since it is difficult to think of placing a document on the platen glass when using the ADF, it is possible to turn off the determination of the notification condition when there is a document on the ADF and a document on the platen glass. (See FIG. 4).

  Further, in the copying machine Pr1 of the first embodiment, the sensors SN1 to SN8 and the monitoring device are automatically detected, and are automatically validated with standard settings when connected, and set to unconnected when removed. As a result, there is no need to develop a system according to each usage environment when there is or is not each sensor depending on the usage environment such as store, convenience store, office, home, visitor, etc. Can be used. As a result, it is possible to reduce the labor and cost of individually developing the system.

(Example of change)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to the said Example, A various change is performed within the range of the summary of this invention described in the claim. It is possible. Modification examples (H01) to (H07) of the present invention are exemplified below.
(H01) In the above-described embodiment, message images, warning lamps, and e-mails are exemplified as the notification method. However, the notification method is not limited thereto, and any notification method such as a warning buzzer or voice guidance can be adopted. Also, the notification method is not limited to one notification method such as an image or a lamp, and these can be combined.

(H02) In the above embodiment, the standard setting is automatically applied when a new sensor or the like is attached / detached. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when a new sensor is attached / detached, It is also possible to display an image that announces the setting.
(H03) In the above-described embodiment, the notification presence / absence setting table is stored as the notification presence / absence setting storage method. However, the notification presence / absence setting table is not limited to the table, and can be stored by any method.
(H04) In the above-described embodiment, the sensor and the monitoring device are not limited to those illustrated, and any sensor or monitoring device (for example, a printer server) can be employed. It is also possible to determine the notification condition and the determination start condition based on whether or not there remains.

(H05) In the above embodiment, the copying machine Pr1 is exemplified as the image forming apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a printer, a FAX, or a copying machine having all or a plurality of functions may be used.
(H06) In the above-described embodiment, notification is given for a high priority item. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to display the contents to be notified in bullets and notify all at once. It is.
(H07) In the above embodiment, the sensors SN1 to SN7 are used as sensors on the monitoring side and the notification side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and one or a plurality of sensors are excluded from the sensors on the monitoring side or the sensors on the notification side. It is also possible. It is also possible for the user to set this.

FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram (function block diagram) illustrating the functions of the control unit of the image forming apparatus, the register, and the administrator server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a list explanatory diagram of a monitoring-side discrimination start condition, a notification-side notification condition, and notification contents according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a notification presence / absence setting table image according to the first embodiment, FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram of a notification presence / absence setting table image when all the sensors and the like are connected, and FIG. 4B is a connection of some sensors. It is explanatory drawing of the notification presence / absence setting table image when not being performed. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the platen document discrimination start condition discrimination process of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the ADF determination start condition determination process of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of determination start condition determination processing of the paper discharge tray sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of determination start condition determination processing of the change presence / absence sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the determination start condition determination process of the card presence sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the discrimination start condition discrimination process of the interpersonal sensor of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of determination start condition determination processing based on usage time of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the determination start condition determination process by the absence check button of the register according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the discrimination time counting process for the platen according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the ADF discrimination time counting process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of notification processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of notification presence / absence setting processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of sensor detection processing according to the first embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

C1A: discrimination start condition storage means,
C1B ... Discrimination start condition discrimination means,
C1C ... notification condition storage means,
C1D: Notification condition determination means,
C2 ... notification presence / absence setting means,
C2A ... notification presence / absence storage means,
C2B ... priority order storage means,
C3: Sensor detection means,
C3B ... Notification standard setting storage means,
C4 ... notification means,
KL ... warning lamp,
N ... Network,
Pr1 ... image forming apparatus,
Sb ... Information processing device,
SN1 to SN7 ... notification side sensor,
SN1 to SN8 ... monitoring side sensor,
UI1 ... Information display screen.

Claims (9)

A plurality of notification side sensors for detecting an object to be taken back by the user after image formation;
A determination start condition storage means for storing a determination start condition for starting determination of whether to notify the user based on the detection result of the notification side sensor;
A determination start condition determination means for determining whether or not the determination start condition is satisfied;
Notification condition storage means for storing a notification condition for determining whether to notify the user based on a detection result of the notification side sensor;
Notification condition determination means for determining whether the notification condition is satisfied when the determination start condition is satisfied;
A notification means for notifying a user when the notification condition is satisfied;
An image forming apparatus comprising: Sensor priority storage means for storing the priority of the plurality of notification side sensors;
Based on the detection result of the notification sensor having a high priority, the notification means for notifying the user of the take-back of the object detected by the notification sensor having the high priority;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A notification presence / absence storage means for storing whether or not to notify the user of the take-away of each object when the determination start condition is satisfied and each notification sensor detects the object;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A notification presence / absence setting means for setting whether to notify the user of the take-away of each object when the determination start condition is satisfied and each notification-side sensor detects the object;
The notification presence / absence storage means for storing the setting by the notification presence / absence setting means;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: The notification side sensor detachable from the image forming apparatus;
Sensor detecting means for detecting attachment and detachment of the notification side sensor;
A notification standard setting storage means for storing a standard setting as to whether or not to notify when the notification side sensor is detected;
The notification presence / absence setting means for automatically setting the standard setting stored in the notification standard setting storage means when the notification sensor is detected;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising: The notification means for performing notification by turning on a warning lamp,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The notification means for performing notification by displaying a notification message image on an information display screen;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The notification means for performing notification by executing the notification by transmitting an e-mail or log data of the notification message to an information processing apparatus connected via a network;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: Multiple monitoring sensors,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:

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