JP2008070832A - Image forming apparatus and charge calculation device related to image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of calculating not only the loss of paper itself related to the paper jamming, but also the loss amount of toner consumed for paper related to paper jamming, when the paper jamming occurs while writing an image by a cartridge, and a charge calculation device capable of calculating the sum of refund on the basis of the loss amount. <P>SOLUTION: When a jamming detection means detects the paper jamming while writing the image, an engine control part counts the number of sheets of paper related to the jamming by a sheet number counter, and also counts the number of toner loss dots consumed for the paper related to the jamming by a pixel counter, and accumulates, adds and stores the counted number of sheets of paper related to the paper jamming and the number of toner loss dots in the non-volatile storage means of the cartridge. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a laser printer that performs writing and printing of an image on a sheet using a cartridge, and a charge calculation apparatus related to the image forming apparatus, and more particularly to a paper that cannot be printed normally due to a paper jam when the cartridge is replaced. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a charge calculating apparatus according to the image forming apparatus that can refund the toner charge consumed by the printer.

  Conventionally, when using an image forming apparatus using a cartridge, the user is charged only for the amount of consumption for the appropriate usage, or when the printing is not successful, the amount of paper is refunded. Various proposals have been made from the viewpoint of preventing unreasonable loss.

  For example, as a system for calculating the charge for consumables of an image forming apparatus, a readable / writable cartridge memory is integrally attached to a cartridge containing a developer, and the cartridge memory is printed by the image forming apparatus using the cartridge. It is possible to record the number of pixels of image information, and the amount of developer used in the image forming process from the number of printed pixels recorded in the cartridge memory and the consumption per pixel determined by the type of cartridge Is calculated by a seller computer, and a system for calculating the charge of consumables from the calculated usage amount of the developer and the unit price per unit use is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

In addition, when printing is performed using a cartridge, replacement of the cartridge is performed for the number of media that could not be printed normally due to paper jam caused by mechanical factors, double feeding of media such as paper, etc. Sometimes, as a discount method that can be purchased by discounting the amount corresponding to the number of media, a storage means is provided on the cartridge for storing information indicating the usage status of the cartridge, and the cartridge is installed in the printer body. Each time the printer is instructed and printed, the number of times of printing (number of media), the number of actually printed pages, the number of occurrences of errors such as paper jam, and the remaining number of media are stored. In consideration of the information, find the number of media information that may not have been printed correctly from the number of double feeds and the number of paper jams. Of when information to purchase a new cartridge based are known discount scheme can buy discount the price (for example, Patent Document 2).
JP 2002-149020 A JP 2005-193567 A

  However, in the configuration described in Patent Document 1 described above, the amount can be determined based on the usage amount of the developer consumed by the user, but consideration is given to the case where the user cannot print normally due to paper jam or the like. Nothing has been done.

  Further, in the configuration described in Patent Document 2 described above, when the user cannot print normally due to paper jam or double feeding, a discount for loss of paper or other media is considered, but the toner consumed at that time is considered. There are no considerations.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, when there is a paper jam during printing and the cartridge is writing an image, not only the loss of the paper related to the paper jam but also the loss of the toner consumed in the paper related to the paper jam. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus capable of calculating the amount and a fee calculating apparatus capable of calculating a refund amount based on the loss amount.

In order to achieve the above object, the first invention provides a cartridge that has toner and writes an image, an engine control unit that controls the cartridge, a controller that issues a print command to the engine control unit, and paper jam detection An image forming apparatus including a jam detecting unit,
The cartridge has rewritable nonvolatile storage means,
The engine control unit includes a number counter that counts the number of sheets of paper for printing, and a pixel counter that counts the number of toner loss dots when performing image writing.
When the jam detection means detects a paper jam during image writing,
The engine control unit counts the number of paper sheets related to the jam by the number counter, counts the number of toner loss dots consumed by the paper related to the jam by the pixel counter, and relates to the counted paper jam. The number of sheets of paper and the number of toner loss dots are accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge. As a result, for example, when the cartridge is replaced, the number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper related to the paper jam can be accumulated, and not only the number of paper jams but also the amount of toner consumed on the paper jam can be notified to the user. Data for refund can be accumulated.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge that has toner and writes an image, an engine control unit that controls the cartridge, a controller that issues a print command to the engine control unit, a jam detection unit that detects a paper jam, A charge calculation device according to an image forming apparatus, comprising: a charge calculation means for calculating a charge for paper not printed on the toner and a toner charge;
The cartridge has rewritable nonvolatile storage means,
The engine control unit includes a number counter that counts the number of sheets of paper for printing and a pixel counter that counts the number of toner loss dots when image writing is performed. When a jam is detected, the number of paper sheets related to the jam is counted by the number counter, and the number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper related to the jam is counted by the pixel counter. And the cumulative number of the toner loss dots are stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge,
The fee calculation means includes a total number of sheets of paper relating to the jam stored in the nonvolatile storage means, a total number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper relating to the jam, and dots of one standard image in a predetermined period. A fee calculation apparatus that calculates a fee and a toner fee of paper that could not be printed normally based on the relationship between the number and the paper per reference sheet and the toner amount. As a result, for example, when replacing the cartridge, not only the paper wasted due to the paper jam but also the refund amount regarding the wasted toner loss consumed can be calculated, and the refund to the user can be performed quickly.

A third invention is the image forming apparatus according to the first invention, wherein
The non-volatile storage means stores the initial number of toner dots, the rotation life time of the cartridge, and / or the total rotation time of the cartridge,
The engine control unit counts the number of normally printed paper by the number counter, and counts the number of toner loss dots consumed on the normally printed paper by the pixel counter, and the counted normal printed The cumulative number of paper and the number of toner loss dots consumed on normally printed paper are accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge,
The total number of sheets of paper and the total number of toner losses related to the jam, the total number of sheets of normal printed paper and the total number of toner losses, the number of initial toner dots, the number of initial toner dots, and the rotation life time of the cartridge stored in the non-volatile storage means Alternatively, the remaining amount of toner and / or the remaining lifetime of the cartridge is calculated based on the total rotation time of the cartridge. Thus, for example, when changing the model of the image forming apparatus, the remaining amount of toner in use or the remaining lifetime of the cartridge can be calculated, and a numerical value that is the basis for calculating the refund amount to the user can be calculated.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fee calculation apparatus according to the second aspect,
The non-volatile storage means stores the initial number of toner dots, the rotation life time of the cartridge, and / or the total rotation time of the cartridge,
The engine control unit counts the number of normally printed paper by the number counter, and counts the number of toner loss dots consumed on the normally printed paper by the pixel counter, and the counted normal printed The cumulative number of paper and the number of toner loss dots consumed on normally printed paper are accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge,
The charge calculation means stores the total number of papers and toner loss total dots related to the jam, the total number of normally printed papers and the total toner loss dots, the initial toner dot number, stored in the non-volatile storage means, Based on the rotation life time of the cartridge or the total rotation time of the cartridge, the remaining amount of toner and / or the remaining life time of the cartridge are calculated, and the remaining amount of toner and / or the remaining life time of the cartridge and the remaining toner are calculated. The remaining evaluation amount of the cartridge in use is calculated based on the comparison with the amount table of the reference amount and / or the reference time amount of cartridge use. Thereby, for example, when the model of the image forming apparatus is changed, the remaining evaluation value of the cartridge that is being used in the old model can be refunded to the user.

A fifth invention is an image forming apparatus according to the first or third invention, wherein
The image forming apparatus includes an opening / closing unit for inspection and paper feeding, and an operation unit for inputting a user operation and displaying a notification to the user.
When the paper jam detection during image writing by the jam detection means is performed while the opening / closing unit is open, the paper count related to the jam by the number counter and the paper related to the jam by the pixel counter are detected. A notification display indicating that the opening / closing section is open is performed on the operation section without counting the number of consumed toner dots. Thereby, a paper jam caused by opening a cover or a paper tray is careless by the user and can be excluded from refund.

A sixth aspect of the invention is the fee calculation device according to the second or fourth aspect of the invention,
The fee calculation device includes an opening / closing unit for inspection and paper feeding, and an operation unit for inputting a user's operation and displaying a notification to the user.
When the paper jam detection during image writing by the jam detection means is performed while the opening / closing part is opened, the paper count related to the jam by the number counter and the paper related to the jam by the pixel counter are detected. A notification display indicating that the opening / closing section is open is performed on the operation section without counting the number of consumed toner dots. As a result, a paper jam caused by opening a cover or a paper tray is careless by the user and can be excluded from the refund amount.

A seventh invention is the image forming apparatus according to the first, third or fifth invention,
When the jam detecting unit detects a paper jam before image writing, the engine control unit counts the paper related to the jam by the number counter, and stores the paper related to the jam stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. In addition, the pixel counter is accumulated and stored, and the pixel counter is not allowed to perform pixel counting. As a result, for paper jams such as paper jams that waste paper but do not consume toner, only the number of papers can be used as the basis of the refund amount.

An eighth invention is the fee calculation device according to the second, fourth or sixth invention,
When the jam detecting unit detects a paper jam before image writing, the engine control unit counts the paper related to the jam by the number counter, and stores the paper related to the jam stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. In addition, the pixel counter is accumulated and stored, and the pixel counter is not allowed to perform pixel counting. As a result, for paper jams such as paper jams that waste paper but do not consume toner, only the number of papers can be calculated as a return amount.

  According to the present invention, when there is a paper jam, the loss of toner consumed on the paper related to the paper jam can also be stored. When replacing the toner, the donor loss consumed on the paper related to the paper jam is stored. Refunds can be made taking into account minutes.

The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and a fee calculating apparatus according to the image forming apparatus. In FIG. 1, the main components of the image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and the fee calculation apparatus according to the image forming apparatus are a controller 10, an engine control unit 20, a cartridge 30, an operation unit 50, and a paper jam detection unit. 68.

  The controller 10 issues a print command to the engine control unit 20 and controls the operation unit 50. For example, a print command issued from the controller 10 to the engine control unit 20 may be output based on an operation input to the operation unit 50 by the user. The controller 10 may display the print control information of the engine control unit 20 on the operation unit 50 and notify the user.

  The engine control unit 20 plays a role of controlling the print engine. For example, the engine control unit 20 roughly controls the optical writing system 24, the paper transport system 25, the fixing system 26, and the process system 27. The engine control unit 20 may be configured as a calculation unit such as a computer, may be operated by a program, or may be configured by a circuit.

  The engine control unit 20 includes an image writing control unit 22, and performs image writing control by turning on the laser in synchronization with the print data from the controller 10 in the operation of the optical system 24. The image writing control unit 22 may use an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Processing can be performed more quickly than when the computer is operated by a program.

  The image writing control unit 22 has a pixel counter 23. The pixel counter 23 counts the number of pixels that the image writing control unit 22 has turned on the laser to write the image on the paper. The pixel counter 23 may be configured in various forms, and may be configured to count pixels to be written from a control pulse of the optical system 24 performed by the pixel writing control ASIC 22.

  The engine control unit 20 may include a sheet number counter 21 that counts the number of sheets for printing. The number counter 21 may count not only the number of sheets printed normally but also the number of sheets remaining in the image forming apparatus related to the sheet jam during image writing and the number of sheets of paper such as a paper feed jam. . In addition, the count of the number of normally printed sheets and the count of the number of sheets related to the paper jam may be configured by separate counters. The number counter 21 is not particularly required to perform high-speed calculations, and may be executed by software, for example.

  Further, the engine control unit 20 may include a rotation time counter 28 as necessary. The rotation time counter 28 is a counter provided in the cartridge 30 for counting the rotation time of a photoconductor 31 described later. The rotation time counter 28 may also be executed by software, for example.

  The cartridge 30 may be configured as a process cartridge in which a photosensitive member, a developing device, and the like are integrally formed and detachable from the image forming apparatus. For example, a so-called AIO (All In One) cartridge including a photoconductor, a charger, a developing device, and the like may be integrally formed.

  The cartridge 30 includes a nonvolatile memory 40 that is a nonvolatile storage unit. The nonvolatile memory 40 is a rewritable storage unit that stores various types of information. For example, an EEPROM (ID chip) may be used. Further, the nonvolatile memory 40 may be configured as a memory having a predetermined storage area for each item. For example, in a predetermined storage area, the number of papers related to paper jam, the number of papers printed normally, the number of toner lost dots consumed on paper related to paper jams, the toner consumed on paper printed normally The number of lost dots, the total photosensitive member rotation time, or the like may be stored. Since the nonvolatile memory 40 is rewritable, these numerical values may be constantly updated. For example, the total value for a predetermined period may be stored.

  In addition to these data, the nonvolatile memory 40 may store an initial value such as an ID, a cartridge version, a toner filling amount (initial toner dot number), or a rotation life time of the cartridge. These pieces of information may be stored permanently without any particular updates.

  The engine control unit 20 may perform control to read / write the nonvolatile memory 40 that is a nonvolatile storage unit of the cartridge 30. In particular, the number of normally printed papers, the number of papers related to paper jams, the number of toner loss dots consumed on normally printed papers, the number of toner loss dots consumed on papers related to paper jams, etc. Items that are updated by being counted or calculated by the engine control unit 20 may be configured such that the engine control unit 20 controls writing to the nonvolatile memory 40 every time the engine control unit 20 updates. Moreover, the engine control part 20 may read the data memorize | stored in the non-volatile memory 40 as needed, and may perform various calculations using the data.

  The operation unit 50 serves as an interface with a user for receiving a print operation input by the user and displaying necessary information for the user. Input from the user is normally performed through the operation unit 50, and control for executing a specific process in the engine control unit 20 is performed via the controller 10. On the other hand, information from the engine control unit 20 is displayed and notified on the operation unit 50 via the controller 10.

  The paper jam detection unit 68 is a unit that detects a paper jam of the image forming apparatus, and is electrically connected to the engine control unit 20. When a paper jam is detected, a detection signal is output to the engine control unit 20. It is comprised so that. As the paper jam detecting means 68, sensors for detecting various types of paper jams may be used, which are provided, for example, near the paper feed tray, the cartridge, and the paper discharge roller of the transport unit, and detect the paper jam at each position. May be detected.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map for a storage area inside the nonvolatile memory 40 which is a nonvolatile storage means. The nonvolatile memory 40 is assigned an address for each item. The allocation of addresses for each item may be performed by allocating more storage areas in proportion to the amount of data.

  In FIG. 2, the items in the memory map of the nonvolatile memory 40 are “ID”, “cartridge version”, “brand ID”, “maintenance ID”, “new product information”, “recycle counter”, and “lost number counter due to jam”. 41, “Total number of dots of toner lost due to jam” 42, “Photoconductor (cartridge) total rotation time” 43, “Toner filling amount” 44, “Standard printable number of cartridges” 45, “Toner used when normal printing ends” “Layer dot number” 46 and “Normal printing number counter” 47 are given as examples. Among these areas, “ID”, “cartridge version”, “brand ID”, “maintenance ID”, “new product information”, “recycle counter”, “toner filling amount” 44 and “standard printable number of cartridges” 45 is an item that does not require rewriting for a long time in principle.

  On the other hand, "Jam loss count counter" 41, "Total toner loss due to jam" 42, "Photoconductor (cartridge) total rotation time" 43, "Total number of toner dots used after normal printing" 46, and "Normal printing" The “sheet counter” 47 is an item that is rewritten and changed whenever there is a sequential change by the printing operation. For items with changes, every time there is a change, the stored numerical value may be added and stored so that the latest total number is always stored.

  In the non-volatile memory provided in the conventional cartridge, the “lost paper count counter due to jam” 41 is provided, and only consideration has been given to guaranteeing the price of paper that could not be printed normally. In this case, a storage area of “total number of toner loss due to jam” 42 is provided, and when there is a paper jam, the total number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper is also stored, and the price is calculated and refunded. The configuration is such that it can be done. Further, a storage area of “photoreceptor (cartridge) total rotation time” 43 is provided so that the remaining life of the cartridge can be calculated. By providing storage areas for these items in the nonvolatile memory 40, the cartridge 30 can be managed more finely and user-friendly than before.

  Next, an example of the outline of the mechanical configuration of the image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and the fee calculation apparatus according to the image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view when the AIO cartridge 30 is attached to the main body 60 of the image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and the charge calculating apparatus according to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to this embodiment may be preferably applied to a laser printer apparatus. In this embodiment, a laser printer apparatus will be described as an example.

  In FIG. 3, the AIO cartridge 30 includes a photoconductor 31, a charging unit 32, and a developing unit 33. If necessary, a static elimination unit 34 and a cleaning unit 35 may be further provided.

  The main body 60 of the image forming apparatus includes a paper feed roller 61, a registration roller pair 62, a laser diode 63, a transfer unit 64, a fixing unit 65, a paper discharge roller 66, a paper feed tray 67, paper jam detection units 68a and 68b, 68c, 68d. Although not shown, the main body 60 of the image forming apparatus also includes a motor for driving the cartridge 30.

  The outline of printing will be described below. When a printing operation input is made from the operation unit 50, a print command is issued from the controller 10 to the engine control unit 20. The engine control unit 20 controls the transport system 25, drives and controls the paper feed roller 61, and feeds the paper placed on the paper feed tray 67.

  On the other hand, in the AIO cartridge 30, the engine control unit 20 rotates the photoconductor 31, charges the charging unit 32 to charge the photoconductor 31, turns on the laser by the laser diode 63, and images the photoconductor 31. Writing is performed to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface. The electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photoreceptor 31 is developed with toner in the developing unit 33. The toner image developed on the photoreceptor 31 is transferred onto the paper by the transfer unit 35. At this time, the paper is conveyed by the registration roller 62 in a timely manner, and the image is transferred to the fixing unit 65 while transferring the toner image to the paper. The written paper is sent. The normally printed paper on which the toner image is fixed by the fixing unit 65 is discharged by the paper discharge roller 66.

  At this time, for example, the engine control unit 20 counts the number of normally printed sheets by the number counter 21 and counts the number of pixels of toner consumed for normal printing by the pixel counter 23. May be written and stored in the storage areas 47 and 46 of the memory 40. Other storage items related to printing may be similarly written and accumulated in the nonvolatile memory 40.

  When there is a paper jam, the paper jam detection means 68a, 68b, 68c, 68d detects the paper jam at each position and sends a detection signal to the engine control unit 20. The paper jam detection means 68 a and 68 b are for detecting a paper jam and are arranged near the paper feed tray 67. The paper jam detecting means 68c is for detecting a paper jam during image writing, and is provided in the vicinity of the cartridge 30. The paper jam detecting means 68d is for detecting whether the discharge is properly performed, and is provided near the discharge roller.

  Even when there is a paper jam, the engine control unit 20 counts the number of papers related to the paper jam by the number counter 21, counts the number of toner loss dots consumed in the paper related to the paper jam by the pixel counter 23, and the like. The accumulated cumulative addition may be stored in the nonvolatile memory 40 of the cartridge 30.

  Although the printing operation is performed by the mechanical operation as described above, the operation flow of the image forming apparatus described in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 and the fee calculation apparatus according to the image forming apparatus will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic flow during printing of the image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and the fee calculation apparatus according to the image forming apparatus. In addition, about the component similar to having demonstrated in FIG.1, FIG2 and FIG.3, the description is abbreviate | omitted using the same referential mark.

  In step 100, processing during image printing is performed. Paper is fed from the paper feed tray 67 and sent to the cartridge 30. The cartridge 30 is controlled by the engine control unit 20 and undergoes a series of image printing processes such as charging of the photoconductor 31, exposure by a laser 63, and development using toner.

  In step 110, it is determined whether a paper jam has occurred. When the occurrence of paper jam is detected by the jam detection means 68, the routine proceeds to step 120. If no paper jam is detected, the process proceeds to step 150.

  In step 120, it is determined whether or not the cover (not shown) of the image forming apparatus main body 60, the tray 67, and the like are opened and closed for inspection and paper supply. If there is no cover open, tray 67 pull-out, etc., and the opening / closing part is closed, the process proceeds to step 130. On the other hand, if the opening / closing part is open, the process proceeds to step 140.

  In step 130, the image writing process is stopped when a paper jam occurs. Specifically, the rotation of the photosensitive member 31 in the cartridge 30 is stopped, and the operations of the other charging unit 32, developing unit 33, and the like are stopped, and the image forming apparatus main body 60 such as the laser 63 and the transfer 64 is stopped. The operation related to printing is also stopped, and the count-up operation of the normal number by the number counter 21 is also stopped.

  The engine control unit 20 then counts the pixels remaining in the image forming apparatus main body 60 up to the position where the image is written by the pixel counter 23. The image writing that has been completed in the image forming apparatus main body 60 has been completed, but the paper that has not yet been discharged is not handled as normal printing, so the number of written pixels is counted. That is, for paper that has not been discharged, the number of pixels used for image writing is counted regardless of whether or not printing has been completed. By counting the pixels in this way, the number of toner loss dots is counted for all papers that the user cannot handle as normal printing.

  Next, the engine control unit 20 writes the counted number of pixels in the storage area 42 of the nonvolatile memory 40 in the cartridge 30. At this time, if data has already been entered in the total number of lost dots 42 due to jamming, a value obtained by adding the number of pixel dots counted during a new paper jam to that value is stored.

  In addition, regarding the paper that is in the middle of printing that has remained in the image forming apparatus main body 60 due to a jam or has been printed, the number of sheets that have not been discharged is counted by the number counter 21. In this case as well, the engine control unit 20 adds the total loss number counter 41 to the total loss number counter 41 due to a jam that is already stored in the nonvolatile memory 40, and stores the total loss number. When step 130 ends, the process proceeds to step 150.

  On the other hand, in step 140, the user is notified that the paper jam is caused by the user's operation. In this case, since the paper jam is caused by the carelessness of the user, it is considered that there is no need to compensate for the loss of the paper related to the paper jam and the toner consumed thereby. Accordingly, in such a case, the paper jam and pixel count are not performed, and the operation unit 50 is notified accordingly. Specifically, for example, a signal for notifying the controller 10 is sent from the engine control unit 20, so that the controller 10 may perform display control on the operation unit 50. Note that the opening of the opening / closing unit may be detected by a sensor or the like (not shown) normally provided in the image forming apparatus main body 60.

  In step 150, it is determined whether or not page writing has been completed. That is, during the image printing process, it is detected whether the page is still being written or has already been completed. When page writing is completed, the process proceeds to step 160 where the pixel count for one page is counted and held in the image forming apparatus main body 60 until the paper is discharged.

  After step 160, the process proceeds to step 170, and it is determined whether or not the paper discharge is completed. When the paper discharge is completed, the process proceeds to step 180, and each time the paper discharge is completed, the normal printing ends, the number of normal prints is counted by the number counter 21, and the number of toner loss dots due to the normal printing is counted by the pixel counter 23. Further, the engine control unit 20 uses the values counted by these counters as in the case of paper jam, the normal printing number counter 47 in the nonvolatile memory 40 in the cartridge 30 and the total number of used toner dots 46 when normal printing ends. Are accumulated and stored, and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if page writing is not completed in step 150, the process proceeds to step 170 to determine whether or not the paper discharge is completed. If the paper discharge is not completed, the process returns to the beginning. The processing flow from step 100 is repeated. In step 150, when it is determined that the page writing has been completed, the process proceeds to step 160, where the pixel count for one page is held. Writing to the memory 30 is performed and the process is similarly terminated.

  Next, the flow of toner loss calculation when there is a paper jam will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a flow of loss calculation when the cartridge 30 is replaced. For example, in the replacement of the cartridge 30, an example of calculation when the cartridge 30 is collected by contract and a new cartridge 30 is delivered is shown.

  In step 200, toner loss calculation and paper loss calculation are performed. The loss calculation may be executed by various fee calculation means, for example, may be executed by the engine control unit 20.

  The toner loss calculation is performed by, for example, calculating the “total number of lost toner dots due to jam” 42 stored in the nonvolatile memory 40 in the replacement target cartridge 30 during the period from the start of toner use to the toner replacement. By dividing by the number of dots, it is calculated how many toners have been lost in terms of the standard image. The total toner loss refund amount is calculated by multiplying the toner loss number converted into the standard image by the toner refund amount per standard page determined at the time of the contract.

  Similarly, the number of paper lost due to a jam is also set to a value stored in the “lost number counter due to jam” 41, which is a storage area of the nonvolatile memory 40 in the cartridge 30 to be replaced, per page determined by the contract. By multiplying the paper refund amount, it is possible to calculate the refund amount due to paper loss when the cartridge 30 is replaced.

  If the refund amount due to toner loss and the refund amount due to paper loss are summed, the return amount to the user when the cartridge 30 is replaced, that is, the discount amount to the user can be calculated.

  In step 210, the calculated discount amount data is transmitted from the engine control unit 20 to the controller 10. The controller 10 may display the acquired data on the operation unit 50, for example. In this way, the loss calculation process is terminated.

  The loss calculation is not necessarily performed by the engine control unit 20, and may be performed by another terminal or the like. For example, the terminal owned by the user may be caused to read information in the nonvolatile memory 40 in the cartridge 30 and execute charge calculation. Further, the image forming apparatus main body 60 may be provided with a charge calculating means for calculating the loss. Furthermore, for users who are connected to a network or the like and contracted, the loss amount is sent via the network to the consumables management center of the image forming apparatus, and calculated in advance before the visit to the user. You may make it save the calculation effort at the time of a visit. When using the network, for example, the user name, model, serial number. The system may be constructed so that the total amount of lost toner dots, the number of lost sheets, or the data of the return amount itself may be transmitted together with the information such as to calculate the fee for each user.

  As described above, the total number of papers related to the jam stored in the nonvolatile memory 40 as the nonvolatile storage means, the total number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper related to the jam, the number of dots of one standard image, and Based on the relationship between the paper per reference sheet and the toner amount, it is possible to calculate the charge of the paper that could not be printed normally and the toner charge.

  According to the present embodiment, when the user cannot print normally due to the paper jam, not only the paper loss but also the toner loss can be compensated, which can contribute to the convenience of the user's use of the service.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for calculating the remaining compensation amount of the cartridge 30 when the model of the image forming apparatus main body 60 is replaced. When the cartridge 30 described in FIG. 5 is replaced, the toner itself of the cartridge 30 to be replaced is used up, but when the model is replaced, the remaining amount of usable toner is evaluated and the evaluation amount is refunded. In this case, the flow of calculating the remaining amount of toner during use and the remaining life of the cartridge is shown.

  In step 300, the remaining toner and the remaining life of the cartridge 30 are calculated. These calculations may be executed by the engine control unit 20, for example.

  The amount of toner remaining in the cartridge is obtained by subtracting “total number of used toner dots upon completion of normal printing” 46 and “counter for lost sheet count due to jam” 41 from the “toner filling amount” 44 in the storage area of the nonvolatile memory 40 in the cartridge 30. It becomes the value. Here, “toner filling amount” 44 represents the number of dots that can be written (the number of initial toner dots) by the toner filling amount at the time of initial filling, so that the total loss dots of donors consumed for normal printing and paper jam from now on If the number is subtracted, the expected remaining toner amount can be calculated by the number of dots.

  On the other hand, the remaining life of the cartridge is calculated from, for example, “standard printable number of cartridges (rotational life time of photoconductor)” 45 in the storage area of the nonvolatile memory 40, “normal print number counter” 47 and “loss due to jam”. The number may be calculated by subtracting the number stored in the “number counter” 41. In this case, since the actual number of processed parts is subtracted from the number of cartridge parts that can be processed, the remaining life is calculated based on the number of sheets.

  In step 310, the remaining toner amount calculated in step 300 and the remaining life of the cartridge 30 are transmitted from the engine control unit 20 to the controller 10. These data sent to the controller 10 may be displayed on the operation unit 50 of the image forming apparatus main body 60, for example.

  In this way, the remaining toner amount and remaining life of the cartridge 30 in use can be calculated.

  The fee to be refunded to the user can be calculated by calculating the remaining evaluation amount based on the remaining toner amount and remaining life. For example, if the number of remaining toner dots is divided by the number of reference image dots, it is possible to calculate how many sheets can be printed with the remaining toner. The amount can be calculated by multiplying the reference amount. Similarly, the remaining life of parts other than toner can be calculated by multiplying the standard return amount per sheet specified in the amount table by contract. The discount amount to the user at the time of exchange can be calculated.

  The calculation of these refund amounts may be executed by various fee calculation means, for example, by an arithmetic means provided in the image forming apparatus main body 60. Alternatively, the information stored in the nonvolatile memory 40 may be read by a terminal provided by the user and executed. Further, for example, in the case of model replacement for a user who is connected to the management center via a network according to a contract, a discount based on the remaining evaluation value of the remaining toner and the remaining life of the cartridge 30 is reflected in the estimate of model replacement in advance. If this is the case, a smooth response can be made even when the user purchases a new model.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a flow of a counting and calculation method different from that in FIG. 6 for calculating the remaining life of the cartridge 30 described in step 300 of FIG. In FIG. 6, the remaining life time of the cartridge 30 is calculated on the basis of the number of print processed sheets. However, in FIG. 7, the rotation time during printing of the photosensitive member 31 of the cartridge 30 is stored, and the remaining life time is based on this. It differs in the point which calculates time.

  In FIG. 7, in step 400, when a print command is issued from the controller 10 to the engine control unit 20 and the printing process is started, the rotation time counter 28 (see FIG. 1) is cleared. This is because the rotation time of the photoconductor 31 is counted for each printing process.

  In step 410, a cartridge drive motor (not shown) for driving the cartridge 30 is driven. After the rotation time counter 28 is cleared in step 400, the motor is driven. After the motor is driven, charging by the charging unit 32, exposure by the laser diode 63, and toner development by the developing unit 33 are performed at a predetermined timing.

  In step 420, the printing process is started. The toner image is transferred onto the paper by the transfer unit 64, and the image is written on the paper. The fixing unit 65 fixes the printed image.

  In step 430, it is determined whether printing and paper discharge have been completed. When printing is completed, the rotation time counter 28 holds the counted rotation time of the photosensitive member 31 of the cartridge 30. When the paper discharge is completed, the process proceeds to step 440. When printing and paper discharge are not completed, the process returns to step 400, the rotation time count is cleared, and the flow is repeated.

  In step 440, the rotation time counted by the rotation time counter 28 is written by the engine control unit 20 in the “photosensitive member (cartridge) total rotation time” 43, which is a storage area of the nonvolatile memory 31 in the cartridge 30. . At that time, a value obtained by adding the newly counted rotation time to the total rotation time already held in the “total rotation time of the photoconductor (cartridge)” 43 is written and changed.

  In this way, the rotation time of the photoconductor 31 in the cartridge 30 is accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile memory 40. When calculating the remaining life of the cartridge, the “photosensitive” in the storage area in the nonvolatile memory 40 is used. If the “total rotation time of the photosensitive member (cartridge)” 43 is subtracted from the “rotational life time of the body” 45, the remaining life time based on the rotation time of the cartridge 30 can be calculated. Therefore, the remaining life of the cartridge 30 in step 300 of FIG. 6 can be calculated by the method described with reference to FIG.

  As for the charge calculation, the refund amount can be calculated by multiplying the calculated remaining lifetime of the cartridge by the refund amount of the reference time based on the amount table determined by the contract. The charge calculation can be applied in the same manner as described in FIG. 6 using various means.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the remaining life time of the cartridge 30 is calculated by subtracting the total rotation time of the cartridge 30 from the rotation life time of the cartridge 30 based on the rotation time of the cartridge 30. The refund amount can be calculated based on the lifetime.

  Next, an operation example of the image forming apparatus and the charge calculating apparatus according to the present embodiment when there is a paper jam will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the pixel count timing corresponding to the paper feeding operation.

  In FIG. 8, when the first sheet feeding operation starts, a indicates when the first sheet feeding operation ends, b indicates when the second sheet feeding operation starts, and c indicates when the second sheet feeding operation starts. Let d be the point in time when the paper feeding operation ends. Also, k is the time when the first image writing starts, l is the time when the first image writing ends, m is the time when the second image writing starts, and the second image writing ends. Let time be n. Further, let p be the time when the first sheet discharge operation starts. Also, let q be the time when a paper jam has occurred, and r be the time when a paper jam has occurred during image writing.

  When there is a print command from the controller 10 to the engine control unit 20, the engine control unit 20 performs a paper feeding operation. In the timing chart of FIG. 8, the first sheet feeding operation is started at a, and the first sheet feeding operation is ended at b. At this stage, for example, when there is a paper jam at time q and a paper jam is detected by the paper jam detecting means 68a, 68b, or 68c, the count of the number of lost papers related to the paper jam is counted by the number counter 21. Done. However, since the image has not yet been written on the paper, the pixel is not counted. If there is paper that has been printed earlier at this stage, normal printing processing may be performed on the paper.

  When there is no paper jam and the paper is normally fed, image writing starts when the paper reaches a predetermined position. In the transfer unit 64 shown in FIG. 3, the image is written on the paper. In FIG. 8, the image is written on the first sheet at time k. At this time, counting of the writing pixels by the pixel counter 23 is started. While the first image is being written, feeding of the second sheet is started at time point c. At this time, the number counter 21 starts counting the number of second sheets. Further, the image writing is continuously executed for a predetermined time and is finished at the time point l. At this time, the writing pixel count by the writing pixel counter 23 is stopped.

  The first sheet on which the image has been written is conveyed as it is, and the fixing operation of the image on the sheet is performed in the fixing unit 65 shown in FIG. While this operation is being performed, the second sheet feed ends at time d. Then, image writing is performed from the time m on the second sheet. While the image writing continues, the first sheet enters a paper discharge operation at the time point p. Here, when a paper jam occurs at the time point r, for example, at the time point r when the first sheet is not yet discharged and the second image is being written, the second image is written. Stop. Since the first sheet has not been discharged, both the first and second sheets are processed as paper jams, counted as the number of lost papers related to the jam, and the number of pixels consumed for both writings. Is counted as the number of toner loss dots.

  That is, when a paper jam is detected by the fixing unit 65 or the discharge unit during image writing, the image writing is immediately stopped and the count up of the number of sheets as normal printing is stopped.

  In this way, when there is a paper jam, only the number of papers related to the jam is counted, and pixel count is not performed for the toner that is not consumed, so that the user's loss during paper jam ( Paper only) can be counted properly. Conversely, if there is a paper jam during image writing, and there is paper that has already been written at that stage, the paper that has not been normally discharged is counted normally by counting the number of pixels consumed. Anything that cannot be said to be printed is counted, and an appropriate service from the user's standpoint can be provided.

  Next, the operation of the overall printing process of an image forming apparatus such as a laser printer to which the present invention can be applied will be described with reference to FIGS. In addition, about the component demonstrated in FIGS. 1-3, the same referential mark is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing the inching operation of the image forming apparatus. For example, in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, in an initial state, in order to prevent toner leakage during transportation, the developer and the toner are set in separate rooms, and the user pulls out the heat seal. Good. In the pulled-out state, the developer is above the developing roller 33 and the toner is below the developing roller 33, and is not uniformly on the developing roller 33. Here, for example, when the AIO cartridge 30 is attached to the image forming apparatus main body 60 and the front cover (not shown) is closed, the main motor (not shown) rotates, and at the same time, the developing roller 33 in the AIO cartridge 30 and the photosensitive member. 31 etc. are driven. As a result, a predetermined amount of developer is applied on the developing roller 33, and toner is automatically replenished so as to obtain an equilibrium toner density. This is called a TACT (Toner Auto Control Technology) development method, which has a toner density self-control function that self-repairs a portion where the toner density is reduced as a result of being consumed as an image in the developing device and keeps the density constant. It is a method. The present invention can also be suitably applied to an image forming apparatus equipped with such a function.

  In an image forming apparatus that employs such a TACT development system, for example, if the initial toner density is usually about 5%, the control point of the toner density is set higher than that, for example, the center value is about 8%. Yes. Therefore, toner is replenished in the initial state, but this toner replenishment increases the equilibrium toner density (stable point) and causes overshoot. Due to this overshoot, the toner concentration becomes high and scumming occurs, so it is necessary to consume the toner. For this reason, only when the image forming apparatus detects a new article, the halftone image is developed, and the toner is consumed and replenished to adjust the equilibrium toner density.

  FIG. 9 shows that the inching pattern of the item to be written is executed by repeating 15 sets of black 1.5 sec and white 0.75 sec.

  FIG. 10 shows a time chart during warm-up. At the time of warm-up, the part related to the printing process is driven in the state where there is no paper after the power is turned on. However, as shown in the item of the main motor in FIG. Seconds) and then drive the main motor. Thereafter, similarly, as shown in the item of the main motor in FIG. 10, for example, a warm-up time of about 3767 msec when the power is turned on and about 6017 msec when the door is closed may be provided.

  FIG. 11 is a timing chart in the normal printing process.

  First, the pre-work process will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the charging unit 32 composed of a charging roller is on the upstream side in the rotation direction of the photosensitive member 31 with respect to the developing roller 33 to which the toner is actually attached. If the charging application voltage and the developing bias are simultaneously turned on, a portion where only the developing bias VB is applied occurs until the portion of the photoconductor 31 charged by the charging roller 32 reaches the developing roller 33 position. The potential Vs of the photoconductor 31 before the charging voltage is applied is approximately 0 V, and the potential of the photoconductor 31 is 0 V until the portion of the photoconductor 31 charged by the charging roller 32 reaches the position of the developing roller 33. The developing potential (VB−Vs) <0 at the position of the developing roller 33, and the toner adheres and develops. At this time, the maximum normal Vs (black printing partial potential) is, for example, about −140 V, and the developing bias Vb is about −750 V in an apparatus of 150 mm / sec or more, so the black printing partial potential is −750 − (− 140. ) = Development potential of about −610V.

  However, in such an image forming apparatus, when a voltage is applied to the charging roller 32 and the developing roller 33 at the same time, the potential of the photoconductor 31 becomes −750−0 = −750V, which is larger than the above-described black printing portion. The toner is developed at the development potential. That is, extra toner is consumed in the pre-work processing. In addition, since the transfer roller 64 is always in contact with the photoreceptor 31 and the like, and there is no transfer paper in the above-described inching, the transfer roller 64 is considerably soiled. Scraping with the separation claw causes a problem such as dropping the toner on the conveyance unit. In order to prevent such an inconvenience, a timing is taken so that the developing bias VB is turned on when the portion of the photoreceptor 31 charged by the charging application comes to the developing roller 33 portion.

  In this regard, in the preprocessing timing of FIG. 11, when the voltage application timings of the charging item and the developing item are compared, the developing bias VB is applied with a delay of 165 msec after the charging voltage is surely applied. It has been shown.

  By the way, if the timing at which the developing bias VB is turned on is late, the charging potential Vs of the photoconductor 31 is about −950 V this time, so the developing potential (VB−Vs) becomes 0 − (− 950) V = 950V. Carriers adhere with this potential. That is, carrier adhesion occurs when the development potential is positive, and toner adhesion occurs when the development potential is negative. However, carrier adhesion is more problematic than toner adhesion. The development bias VB is applied by a power supply unit called a high-voltage power pack, but this power supply unit does not immediately start with an ON signal and requires a certain rise time. Therefore, the application timing of the development bias VB is set to a timing with a slight margin so that the development potential does not become positive because there are differences in charging, development start-up, and individual differences in the power supply unit. Therefore, in the actual work pretreatment, a little black belt is developed.

  In this regard, in FIG. 11, the development bias VB application is set 165 msec later than the charging voltage application, but the setting is considered so that the timing is not delayed.

  Next, the work process will be described with reference to FIG. The work process is performed by bringing the paper into close contact with the toner image and applying a charge having a reverse polarity opposite to that of the toner from the back side of the paper to electrostatically attract and transfer the toner.

In this regard, FIG. 11 shows that the transfer voltage is applied with reference to the voltage application timing of the LD (laser diode) that has exposed the image.
Next, normal post-work processing will be described with reference to FIG. In the post-operation processing, the applied voltage may be reduced, but since the falling is more varied than the rising, charging is dropped in two stages. This point is also shown in the post-treatment charging voltage application in FIG.

  Next, the transfer roller cleaning process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a timing chart when the transfer roller 64 is cleaned.

  Since the transfer roller 64 is always in contact with the transfer roller 64, the transfer roller 64 becomes dirty due to pre-work processing, post-work processing, and inter-paper soiling. Therefore, for example, the normal printing may be performed before the end of the job after printing 10 sheets. Further, for example, during inching, a black belt is printed many times, so that the cleaning operation may be performed for a considerably long time. The cleaning is usually performed by applying a positive current during transfer, but may be performed by attaching a toner to the photosensitive member 31 side by applying a negative current. Further, the photoreceptor 31 may be finally cleaned by the cleaning blade 35.

  What has been described above is shown in the item of transfer at the timing of post-processing in FIG. That is, it is shown that a positive current flows at the timing of work processing, but a negative current flows at the time of cleaning.

  Next, post-processing at the time of jam will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing the post-processing operation when a jam occurs.

  In FIG. 13, when there is a paper jam on the second sheet, the transfer is stopped there. In the subsequent processing, the applied voltage or current of all the main motor, laser diode 63, charging roller 32, developing roller 33, transfer unit roller 64, and charge eliminating unit 34 is set to zero after a predetermined time. If the present invention is applied, thereafter, the number of sheets of paper jam and the number of consumed toner lost dots are counted and stored in the non-volatile memory 40 in the cartridge 30.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention and the fee calculating apparatus according to the image forming apparatus can be suitably applied to an image forming apparatus that executes a printing process at the timing described with reference to FIGS.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and substitutions can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Can be added.

1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and a fee calculating apparatus according to the image forming apparatus. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a memory map of a storage area inside a nonvolatile memory 40. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view when an AIO cartridge 30 is mounted on the main body 60 of the image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and the charge calculating apparatus according to the image forming apparatus. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic flow during printing of an image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied and a fee calculation apparatus according to the image forming apparatus. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a flow of loss calculation when the cartridge 30 is replaced. It is a flowchart of calculation of the remaining compensation amount of the cartridge 30 at the time of model exchange. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a count and calculation flow different from those in FIG. 6 for calculating the remaining life of the cartridge 30. It is a figure which shows the timing of the pixel count matched with paper feeding operation | movement. 6 is a timing chart illustrating an inching operation of the image forming apparatus. 3 is a timing chart during warm-up of the image forming apparatus. 6 is a timing chart of a normal printing process by the image forming apparatus. 6 is a timing chart when the transfer roller 64 is cleaned. It is a timing chart which shows the operation of post-processing at the time of jam.

Explanation of symbols

10 controller 20 control engine unit 21 number counter 22 image writing control ASIC
23 Pixel counter 24 Optical system writing system 25 Paper transport system 26 Fixing system 27 Process system 30 Cartridge 31 Photoconductor 32 Charging unit (charging roller)
33 Development section (Development roller)
34 Neutralizing unit 40 Non-volatile memory 41 Jam loss count counter storage area 42 Jam toner total dot count storage area 43 Photoconductor (cartridge) total rotation time storage area 44 Toner filling amount storage area 45 Standard printable number of cartridges ( Photosensitive member rotational life time) Storage area 46 Total toner dot count storage area used when normal printing is completed 47 Normal printing number counter storage area 50 Operation section 60 Image forming apparatus main body 61 Paper feed roller 62 Registration roller pair 63 Laser diode 64 Transfer section (Transfer roller)
65 Fixing portion 66 Paper discharge roller 67 Paper feed tray 68, 68a, 68b, 68c, 68d Jam detection means

Claims (8)

An image forming apparatus including a cartridge that has toner and writes an image, an engine control unit that controls the cartridge, a controller that issues a print command to the engine control unit, and a jam detection unit that detects paper jam. And
The cartridge has rewritable nonvolatile storage means,
The engine control unit includes a number counter that counts the number of sheets of paper for printing, and a pixel counter that counts the number of toner loss dots when performing image writing.
When the jam detection means detects a paper jam during image writing,
The engine control unit counts the number of paper sheets related to the jam by the number counter, counts the number of toner loss dots consumed by the paper related to the jam by the pixel counter, and relates to the counted paper jam. An image forming apparatus, wherein the number of sheets of paper and the number of toner loss dots are accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile storage unit of the cartridge. A cartridge having toner and writing an image; an engine control unit that controls the cartridge; a controller that issues a print command to the engine control unit; a jam detection unit that detects a paper jam; and paper that has not been printed normally A charge calculation device according to an image forming apparatus, comprising:
The cartridge has rewritable nonvolatile storage means,
The engine control unit includes a number counter that counts the number of sheets of paper for printing and a pixel counter that counts the number of toner loss dots when image writing is performed. When a jam is detected, the number of paper sheets related to the jam is counted by the number counter, and the number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper related to the jam is counted by the pixel counter. And the cumulative number of the toner loss dots are stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge,
The fee calculation means includes a total number of sheets of paper relating to the jam stored in the nonvolatile storage means, a total number of toner loss dots consumed on the paper relating to the jam, and dots of one standard image in a predetermined period. A fee calculation apparatus that calculates a fee and a toner fee of paper that could not be printed normally based on the relationship between the number and the paper per reference sheet and the toner amount. The non-volatile storage means stores the initial number of toner dots, the rotation life time of the cartridge, and / or the total rotation time of the cartridge,
The engine control unit counts the number of normally printed paper by the number counter, and counts the number of toner loss dots consumed on the normally printed paper by the pixel counter, and the counted normal printed The cumulative number of paper and the number of toner loss dots consumed on normally printed paper are accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge,
The total number of sheets of paper and the total number of toner losses related to the jam, the total number of sheets of normal printed paper and the total number of toner losses, the number of initial toner dots, the number of initial toner dots, and the rotation life time of the cartridge The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the remaining amount of toner and / or the remaining lifetime of the cartridge is calculated based on the total rotation time of the cartridge. The non-volatile storage means stores the initial number of toner dots, the rotation life time of the cartridge, and / or the total rotation time of the cartridge,
The engine control unit counts the number of normally printed paper by the number counter, and counts the number of toner loss dots consumed on the normally printed paper by the pixel counter, and the counted normal printed The cumulative number of paper and the number of toner loss dots consumed on normally printed paper are accumulated and stored in the nonvolatile storage means of the cartridge,
The charge calculation means stores the total number of papers and toner loss total dots related to the jam, the total number of normally printed papers and the total toner loss dots, the initial toner dot number, stored in the non-volatile storage means, Based on the rotation life time of the cartridge or the total rotation time of the cartridge, the remaining amount of toner and / or the remaining life time of the cartridge are calculated, and the remaining amount of toner and / or the remaining life time of the cartridge and the remaining toner are calculated. The charge calculation according to claim 2, wherein the remaining evaluation value of the cartridge in use is calculated based on a comparison with the amount table of the reference amount of the cartridge and / or the reference time amount of cartridge use. apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes an opening / closing unit for inspection and paper feeding, and an operation unit for inputting a user operation and displaying a notification to the user.
When the paper jam detection during image writing by the jam detection means is performed while the opening / closing unit is open, the paper count related to the jam by the number counter and the paper related to the jam by the pixel counter are detected. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a notification indicating that the opening / closing section is open is displayed on the operation section without counting the number of consumed toner dots. The fee calculation device includes an opening / closing unit for inspection and paper feeding, and an operation unit for inputting a user's operation and displaying a notification to the user.
When the paper jam detection during image writing by the jam detection means is performed while the opening / closing part is opened, the paper count related to the jam by the number counter and the paper related to the jam by the pixel counter are detected. 5. The fee calculation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a notification display indicating that the opening / closing section is open is performed on the operation section without counting the number of consumed toner dots.   When the jam detecting unit detects a paper jam before image writing, the engine control unit counts the paper related to the jam by the number counter, and stores the paper related to the jam stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pixel counter is not caused to execute a pixel count while being accumulated and stored in addition to the total number of images.   When the jam detecting unit detects a paper jam before image writing, the engine control unit counts the paper related to the jam by the number counter, and stores the paper related to the jam stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. The charge calculation apparatus according to claim 2, 4 or 6, wherein the pixel counter is not caused to perform pixel counting while being accumulated and stored in the total number.

Images