JP2008116828A - Color image forming apparatus, image forming program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a color image forming apparatus in which the start timing of image formation can be measured simply, and the adjustment of a paper spacing and image spacing can be performed simply, an image forming program, and a recording medium. <P>SOLUTION: The value of the paper spacing PS is calculated on a paper conveyance side and the creation of the image spacing IS is requested for an image creation controller based on the value of the calculated image spacing IS or the value of the image spacing IS necessary for the image formation control is selected and the image spacing IS of the selected value is created and when the signal output from a write unit is asserted, the information indicating the time required for movement is reported to the controller. The time before resist is restarted is calculated based on the information indicating the time required for the movement on a paper conveyance controller side to count the time before the calculated resist is restarted. The resist is restarted upon ending of the counting and the transfer paper is conveyed to a second transfer position. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a color image forming apparatus, an image forming program, and a recording medium, and in particular, a color image that performs secondary transfer by aligning the leading edge position of a toner image primarily transferred to an intermediate transfer belt and the leading edge position of a transfer sheet. The present invention relates to a forming apparatus.

  In general, image formation by a color image forming apparatus is performed by feeding transfer paper stored in a paper feed tray one by one by a paper feed roller, transporting it to a registration section through a transport path, and then on an intermediate transfer belt. A toner image composed of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black) transferred to (transferred to) is transferred onto a transfer sheet (secondary transfer), and is fixed by a fixing roller and a pressure roller. This is performed by fixing a toner image on transfer paper (for example, Patent Document 1).

  In performing the image formation, the transfer paper conveyed from the paper feed tray toward the secondary transfer position is temporarily stopped at the nip portion of the registration roller located near the downstream of the secondary transfer position. Then, the front end position of the toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt is synchronized with the front end position of the transfer paper, and the temporarily stopped transfer paper is conveyed to the secondary transfer position. That is, the rotation of the resist roller that has been stopped is restarted (resist restart) in accordance with the arrival of the leading edge position of the toner image at the secondary transfer position. As a result, it is possible to perform secondary transfer in which the leading edge position of the toner image primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt and the leading edge position of the transfer paper are combined, and a good image can be obtained.

  By the way, in order to temporarily stop the transfer paper at the nip portion of the registration roller located near the downstream of the secondary transfer position, when there is a print request for a plurality of sheets, the leading edge of each transfer paper after the second sheet is It is necessary to make an adjustment so that the distance between the transfer paper and the transfer paper (paper interval) does not overlap with the end of the transfer paper on the previous page of each transfer paper.

  On the other hand, when the interval (paper interval) between the transfer sheet conveyed toward the upstream of the conveyance path and the transfer sheet conveyed continuously to the transfer sheet is too large, the transfer sheet is conveyed continuously. Before the transfer paper reaches the nip portion of the registration roller, the leading edge position of the toner image reaches the secondary transfer position, and the leading edge position of the continuously conveyed transfer paper and the leading edge position of the toner image are determined. The images cannot be matched and a good image cannot be obtained.

  In order to prevent delay of the transfer sheet with respect to the toner image, when there are a plurality of print requests, for example, when there are two print requests, the end of the first transfer sheet and the second sheet The distance between the leading edge of the transfer paper (paper distance) is larger than the distance between the trailing edge of the first toner image transferred on the intermediate transfer belt and the leading edge of the second toner image (image distance). Short is desirable.

  However, in the conventional color image forming apparatus, the time when the transfer paper conveyed from the paper feed tray to the registration roller reaches the predetermined position is set as a reference time at the start of image formation. However, there is a problem that it is difficult to adjust the paper interval and the image interval.

JP 2005-31188 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and a color image forming apparatus and an image forming program capable of easily measuring the start timing of image formation and easily adjusting the paper interval and the image interval. And a recording medium.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention controls a conveyance of a transfer medium on a conveyance path, and also controls a paper conveyance control unit that controls stop and driving of a registration roller, and an image carrier. An image forming control unit that controls the writing of the toner image and primarily transfers the toner image formed on the image carrier onto the intermediate transfer belt, and controls stopping and driving of the registration roller by the paper conveyance control unit. A color image forming apparatus that performs secondary transfer by aligning the leading edge position of the transfer medium on the conveyance path and the leading edge position of the toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt by the image forming control unit. The paper conveyance control unit is configured to determine an interval between the transfer mediums between the first transfer medium that is transported on the transport path and the second transfer medium that is transported continuously to the first transfer medium. value A first toner to be primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculation unit; Write control means for starting a writing operation at the leading end of the second toner image when an image interval between the image and a second toner image that is primary-transferred continuously to the first toner image is created. It is characterized by having.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the paper transport control unit creates an image interval based on the transfer medium interval value calculated by the medium interval calculation unit with respect to the image formation control unit. The image forming control unit further includes a requesting image interval requesting unit, wherein the image forming control unit writes the value of the image interval requested by the image interval requesting unit and the writing operation of the leading edge of the second toner image by the writing control unit The image interval value required to start the image, and if the required image interval value exceeds the requested image interval value, the required image interval value is selected and the required When the image interval value is equal to or less than the requested image interval value, the image control unit further includes an image interval selecting unit that selects an image interval value according to the request, and the writing control unit includes the image interval Selected by selection means And when creating an image spacing values, to initiate the burning process of the tip of the second toner image, it is preferable.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming control unit starts writing the leading edge of the first toner image to the paper transport control unit by the writing control unit. The paper conveyance control unit further includes notification means for notifying information indicating a required time until the leading edge of the first toner image reaches the position to be secondarily transferred via the intermediate transfer belt. Based on the information indicating the required time notified from the notification means, a time until the registration roller is driven to transport the first transfer medium toward the secondary transfer position is calculated. And a registration driving unit that drives the registration roller when the time until the registration roller calculated by the driving time calculation unit elapses has elapsed. Have to, it is desirable.

  Further, according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the image forming control unit, the notifying unit conveys the paper when the writing control unit starts the writing operation of the leading edge of the first toner image. It is desirable to notify the control unit of information indicating the required time.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the paper transport control unit counts the time until the registration roller calculated by the drive time calculation unit is driven, and the timer count unit The image interval requesting unit further includes a minimum value predicting unit that predicts the minimum value of the transfer medium interval based on the time counted by the timer counting unit only when the counting is started. The image interval based on the minimum value of the transfer medium interval predicted by the minimum value prediction unit instead of the request for creating the image interval based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculation unit It is desirable to request the creation of

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the image forming control unit, the notifying unit conveys the paper when the writing operation at the end of the first toner image is completed by the writing control unit. Information indicating the required time is notified to the control unit, and in the paper transport control unit, the minimum value predicting unit counts the count by the timer counting unit when the information is notified from the notification unit. It is desirable to predict the minimum value of the transfer medium interval when the process is started.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the image forming control unit, the notifying unit conveys the paper when the writing operation at the end of the first toner image is completed by the writing control unit. Information indicating the required time is notified to the control unit, and in the paper conveyance control unit, the medium interval calculation unit is configured to count the count by the timer count unit when the information is notified from the notification unit. In the case that the transfer medium interval value is not calculated, the image interval request means calculates the image interval request based on the transfer medium interval value calculated by the medium interval calculation means. It is desirable to do.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the image forming control unit, the writing control unit creates an image interval having a value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading end of the second toner image. In this case, the writing operation of the leading edge of the second toner image is started, and the notifying unit provides the paper conveyance control unit with information indicating the required time after the necessary image interval is created. In the paper conveyance control unit, the minimum value predicting unit is configured to detect the interval between the transferred media when the timer count unit starts counting when the information is notified from the notification unit. It is desirable to predict the minimum value of.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the image forming control unit, the writing control unit creates an image interval having a value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading end of the second toner image. In this case, the writing operation of the leading edge of the second toner image is started, and the notifying unit provides the paper conveyance control unit with information indicating the required time after the necessary image interval is created. In the paper conveyance control unit, when the information is notified from the notification unit, the medium interval calculation unit determines that the count of the transferred medium interval is not started by the timer count unit. Preferably, the image interval requesting unit requests the creation of an image interval based on the transfer medium interval value calculated by the medium interval calculating unit.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the paper conveyance control unit, the medium interval calculation unit calculates the transfer medium interval value a plurality of times, and the image interval request unit includes the medium interval calculation unit. Each time the value of the transfer medium interval is calculated, the image formation based on the value of the transfer medium interval is requested, and in the image formation control unit, the writing control means includes the image interval When the value of the image interval required for the request exceeds the value of the image interval already generated, when the image interval is generated based on the value of the image interval required for the request, the second interval It is desirable to start writing operation at the front end of the toner image.

  Further, according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the paper transport control unit, the image interval requesting unit is configured such that the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculating unit is equal to the image interval according to the previous request. It is desirable to request creation of an image interval based on the value of the transfer medium interval only when the value is exceeded.

  The present invention also relates to an image forming program, which controls the conveyance of a transfer medium on a conveyance path, performs primary transfer of a toner image formed on an image carrier to an intermediate transfer belt, and drives a registration roller. In the image forming program for performing secondary transfer by controlling the leading edge position of the transfer medium on the conveying path and the leading edge position of the toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt by controlling, the conveying path is conveyed. A medium interval calculating step for calculating a value of a transfer medium interval between the first transfer medium to be transferred and a second transfer medium continuously conveyed to the first transfer medium; and the medium interval calculating step. A first toner image that is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt based on the calculated transfer medium interval value, and a primary toner image that is continuously transferred to the first toner image. When creating an image distance between the second toner image, thereby executing a write control step of starting the write operations of the tip of the second toner image to a computer, characterized by.

  The present invention also relates to a recording medium, wherein the image forming program described above is stored in a computer-readable manner.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the paper transport control unit includes the first transfer medium that is transported on the transport path and the second transfer medium that is transported continuously to the first transfer medium. A transfer medium interval value is calculated, and the image forming control unit, based on the transfer medium interval value calculated by the paper conveyance control unit, a first toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt; When the image interval between the first toner image and the second toner image that is primary-transferred continuously is created, the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image is started, so that the image formation start timing is simplified. Thus, there is an effect that the transfer medium interval and the image interval can be easily adjusted.

  According to a preferred configuration of the present invention, the paper conveyance control unit requests the image formation control unit to create an image interval based on the calculated transfer medium interval value, and the image formation control unit The image interval value requested by the paper conveyance control unit is compared with the image interval value necessary for starting the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image, and the required image interval value is determined by the request. If the required image interval value is selected and the required image interval value is less than or equal to the requested image interval value, the image interval for the request is selected. When the image interval of the selected value is created and the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image is started, the image interval is made larger than the transfer medium interval, and at least the same value is set. The interval can be That there is an effect that delay to the secondary transfer position of the transfer medium can be prevented.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, in the image forming control unit, the leading end of the first toner image is intermediate after the writing operation of the leading end of the first toner image is started with respect to the paper conveyance control unit. Information indicating the time required to reach the position where the secondary transfer is performed via the transfer belt is notified, and the paper conveyance control unit performs the first transfer based on the information notified from the image forming control unit. The time until the registration roller is driven to transport the medium toward the secondary transfer position is calculated, and the registration roller is driven when the calculated time has elapsed, so the registration roller is re-driven. There is an effect that the timing can be easily measured.

  Further, according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming control unit detects the leading end of the first toner image with respect to the paper transport control unit when the writing operation of the leading end of the first toner image is started. Since the information indicating the required time from when the writing operation is started until the leading edge of the first toner image reaches the position where the leading edge of the first toner image is secondarily transferred via the intermediate transfer belt is notified, the information indicating the required time is notified. As a result, it is possible to accurately measure the timing for re-driving the registration rollers.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the paper transfer control unit performs the secondary transfer of the calculated first transfer medium only when the time until the registration roller is driven is started. Estimate the minimum value of the transfer medium interval based on the time it takes to drive the registration rollers to transport it toward the position, and create an image interval based on the predicted minimum transfer medium interval Since it is requested to the control unit, it is possible to create the minimum image interval based on the predicted minimum transfer medium interval, and it is possible to improve the productivity.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image formation control unit notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time when the writing operation at the end of the first toner image is completed. When the paper conveyance control unit receives the notification and starts counting the time until the registration roller is driven, the paper conveyance control unit predicts the minimum value of the transfer medium interval. There is an effect that a high image interval based on the transfer medium can be created.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image formation control unit notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time when the writing operation at the end of the first toner image is completed. When the paper conveyance control unit receives the notification and the count of time until the registration roller is driven has not started, the paper conveyance control unit calculates a value of the transfer medium interval and calculates the calculated transfer medium interval. Since the creation of the image interval based on the value is required, even if the minimum value of the transfer medium cannot be predicted, the transfer medium interval and the image interval can be easily adjusted. Play.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming control unit generates the second toner image when the image interval having a value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading end of the second toner image is created. After starting the writing operation at the front end and creating the necessary image interval, the paper conveyance control unit is notified of information indicating the required time, and when the paper conveyance control unit receives the notification, Since the minimum value of the transfer medium interval is predicted when counting of the time until the registration roller is driven is started, the time for predicting the transfer medium interval of the minimum value can be extended, and more accurate There is an effect that a high image interval can be created.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the image forming control unit generates the second toner image when the image interval having a value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading end of the second toner image is created. After starting the writing operation at the front end and creating the necessary image interval, the paper conveyance control unit is notified of information indicating the required time, and when the paper conveyance control unit receives the notification, When counting of the time until the registration roller is driven has not started, the value of the transfer medium interval is calculated, and the creation of the image interval based on the calculated transfer medium interval value is requested. Even when it is not possible to predict a more accurate minimum value of the medium, there is an effect that it is possible to easily adjust the distance between the transfer medium and the image.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the paper conveyance control unit calculates the transfer medium interval value a plurality of times, and calculates the transfer medium interval value every time the transfer control unit calculates the transfer medium interval value. The image forming control unit is requested to create an image interval based on the transferred medium interval value, and the image forming control unit determines that the image corresponding to the request is greater than the image interval value already generated. When the image interval based on the interval value is created, the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image is started, so that an accurate image interval based on the latest paper interval value can be created, There is an effect that productivity can be further improved.

  According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the paper transport control unit sets the transfer medium interval value to the transfer medium interval value only when the calculated transfer medium interval value exceeds the image interval value for the previous request. Since the creation of the image interval based on the request is requested, the image creation control unit side requests the image creation control unit side to request a shorter image interval than the previous image interval value. Thus, there is an effect that the delay to the secondary transfer position of the medium to be transferred with respect to the toner image due to the fact that it cannot be reflected on can be prevented.

  Further, according to the image forming program of the present invention, the interval between the transfer mediums of the first transfer medium transported along the transport path and the second transfer medium transported continuously to the first transfer medium is determined. A first toner image that is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt, and a first toner image based on a value of a paper interval calculation step that calculates a value and a transfer medium interval value that is calculated in the medium interval calculation step. It is possible to execute on the computer a writing control step for starting a writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image when an image interval with the second toner image continuously primary transferred is created. There is an effect.

  Further, according to the recording medium of the present invention, the value of the transfer medium interval between the first transfer medium transported on the transport path and the second transfer medium transported continuously to the first transfer medium. A first toner image that is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt based on the value of the paper interval calculation step calculated by the media interval calculation step and the media interval calculation step, and the first toner image. And storing a program for executing on the computer a writing control step for starting a writing operation at the leading end of the second toner image when an image interval with the second toner image to be primarily transferred is created. There is an effect that can be.

  Exemplary embodiments of a color image forming apparatus, an image forming program, and a recording medium storing the image forming program according to the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. In addition, constituent elements in the following embodiments include those that can be easily assumed by those skilled in the art or those that are substantially the same.

(First embodiment)
First, the configuration of the color image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a color image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The color image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment is roughly composed of an image forming unit 110 and a paper transport unit 120. The components of the color image forming apparatus 100 include a scanner unit (not shown) for reading a document image and a paper discharge unit (not shown) for discharging the transfer paper Pa. Since it is not related to the characteristic part of the invention, the description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in the figure, the image forming unit 110 is irradiated with four laser beams B1 to B4 from the writing unit 1 and toner image forming units 2Y, 2M, and 4M that form images corresponding to four colors YMCK. 2C, 2K and YMCK toner images formed by toner image forming units 2Y, 2M, 2C, 2K are superimposed to form a full color toner image (primary transfer), and intermediate transfer belt 3 Consists of a secondary transfer device 4 that transfers (secondary transfer) a full-color toner image formed on the belt 3 to a transfer paper Pa, and a fixing device 5 that fixes the full-color toner image transferred to the transfer paper Pa. Has been.

  The writing unit 1 includes an LD (not shown) as a light source for irradiating the laser beams B1 to B4. Note that the writing unit 1 may include an LD array, VICSEL, LED, EL, or the like as a light source instead of the LD.

  The toner image forming units 2Y, 2M, 2C, and 2K are shown in this figure so that Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black) images are sequentially superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 3. As described above, the intermediate transfer belt 3 is disposed along the conveyance rotation direction. The configuration of each toner image forming unit 2Y, 2M, 2C, 2K will be briefly described as a representative of the toner image forming unit 2Y.

  As shown in the figure, the toner image forming unit 2Y writes a photosensitive drum 21Y as an image carrier, a charging device 22Y for charging the photosensitive drum 21Y, and a laser beam B1 from the writing unit 1. A developing device 23Y for visualizing the latent image, a primary transfer device 24Y for primary transfer of the visible image developed by the developing device 23Y to the intermediate transfer belt 3, and a photosensitive drum 21Y after the primary transfer. The cleaning device 25Y for cleaning the remaining visible image and the neutralization value 26Y for neutralizing the photoconductor 21Y are configured.

  As shown in the figure, the paper transport unit 120 takes out the paper feed trays 61 to 64 for storing the transfer paper Pa and the transfer paper Pa stored in each of the paper feed trays 61 to 64 and transfers the taken-out transfer. Paper feeding devices 65 to 68 for feeding paper Pa, and transfer paper Pa fed from each of the paper feeding trays 61 to 64 for feeding the paper Pa toward the upstream side of the conveyance path 80 using a paper feeding roller. A vertical conveyance unit 69 and a registration roller 70 for performing registration are configured.

  Each of the paper feed trays 61 to 64 stores transfer paper Pa having a different size for each paper feed tray. Further, whether or not the transfer paper Pa is taken out from each of the paper feed trays 61 to 64 by the paper feed devices 65 to 68 can be confirmed by the paper feed sensors 71 to 74.

  When the registration roller 70 detects the transfer paper Pa conveyed from the vertical conveyance unit 69 by the registration detection sensor 75, the registration roller 70 temporarily stops the transfer paper Pa at the nip portion by stopping the rotation and re-drives at a predetermined timing (registration). Resume). As a result, the leading end position of the color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 3 and the leading end position of the transfer paper Pa can be transferred (registered), and good image formation can be performed. .

  Here, a basic image forming process performed in the color image forming apparatus 100 will be briefly described.

  When printing is requested by a user's operation on a keyboard (not shown) or a touch panel (not shown), the paper transport unit 120 feeds the transfer paper Pa having the size required for the printing request. Then, the fed transfer paper Pa is conveyed to the registration roller 70 via the respective sheet feeding devices 65 to 68 and the respective vertical conveying rollers constituting the vertical conveying unit 69. Since the registrar 70 is not driven when the transfer paper Pa reaches the nip portion, the transfer paper Pa temporarily stops at the nip portion of the registration roller 70.

  On the other hand, on the image forming unit 110 side, first, image processing is performed on image data relating to a print request by an image processing unit (not shown). Then, based on the image data subjected to the image processing, the laser beam B1 is irradiated from the writing unit 1 to the photosensitive drum 21Y of the Y (yellow) toner image forming unit 2Y, and the Y image is developed. Primary transfer is performed on the transfer belt 3. Note that the irradiation of the photosensitive drum 21Y with the laser beam B1 is started before the transfer paper Pa on the paper transport unit 120 side reaches the nip portion of the registration roller 70.

  When the Y toner image is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 3, the laser beam B2 is irradiated from the writing unit 1 to the photosensitive drum 21M of the M (magenta) toner image forming unit, and the M image Is developed and superimposed on the Y image on the intermediate transfer belt 3. Thereafter, similarly, a C (cyan) image and a K (black) image are sequentially superimposed. As a result, a full-color toner image is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 3.

  The registration roller 70 is restarted at a predetermined timing so that the leading end position of the full-color toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 3 by the processing on the image forming unit 110 side and the leading end position of the transfer paper Pa overlap each other. The transfer paper Pa that is driven and temporarily stopped at the nip portion is conveyed in the direction of the secondary transfer device 4. In the secondary transfer device 4, secondary transfer is performed in which the leading end position of the full-color toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 3 and the leading end position of the transfer paper Pa are combined.

  Then, the transfer paper Pa on which the full-color toner image is transferred is conveyed to the fixing device 5. Then, the transfer paper Pa passes while being sandwiched between the heating roller 51 and the pressure roller 52 constituting the fixing device 5. As a result, the full-color toner image transferred to the transfer paper Pa is fixed to the transfer paper Pa by thermal fusion. Thereafter, the transfer paper Pa is discharged to a paper discharge unit (not shown).

  The image forming apparatus 100 described above includes an image forming control unit 300 (see FIG. 2) for controlling the image forming unit 110 and a paper conveyance control unit 200 (see FIG. 2) for controlling the paper conveying unit 120. It is comprised including. The image forming unit 110 performs various processes including the above-described processes under the control of the image forming control unit 300, and the paper transport unit 120 performs various processes including the above-described processes under the control of the paper transport control unit 200. Process.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the paper conveyance control unit 200 and the image formation control unit 300 according to the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the paper conveyance control unit 200 and the image formation control unit 300 are connected to each other via a bus so as to communicate with each other. Note that each of the paper conveyance control unit 200 and the image formation control unit 300 is an arithmetic device that can realize its function by a CPU, for example.

  As shown in the figure, the paper conveyance control unit 200 mainly includes a transfer paper feeding unit 220, a paper interval calculation unit 222, an image interval request unit 224, a drive time calculation unit 226, and a timer count unit 228. The registration driving unit 230 is further included, and is connected to the storage unit 210.

  The transfer paper feeding unit 220 causes the paper feeding devices 65 to 68 to take out the transfer paper Pa stored in the paper feed trays 61 to 64, and the removed transfer paper Pa through the vertical paper feeding unit 69. It is for conveying in the direction.

  The paper interval calculation unit 222 calculates the value of the paper interval PS of the transfer paper Pa that is continuously conveyed on the conveyance path 80. If it demonstrates concretely using FIG. 3, the space | interval of the 1st transfer paper Pa1 conveyed on the conveyance path 80 and the 2nd transfer paper Pa2 conveyed continuously to the 1st transfer paper Pa1, for example will be explained. This is for calculating the value of (paper interval PS1). More specifically, a paper interval PS1 that is an interval between the end Pa1E of the first transfer paper Pa1 and the front end Pa2T of the second transfer paper Pa2 is calculated. Further, as shown in the figure, for example, when there is a third transfer paper Pa3 that is further conveyed on the conveyance path 80 continuously to the second transfer paper Pa2, the second transfer paper Pa2 is changed to the first transfer paper Pa2. The transfer paper Pa1 may be considered, and the third transfer paper Pa3 may be considered as the second transfer paper Pa2. The same applies to the case where there is a fourth transfer paper Pa4.

  Note that the distance between the leading edge of the transfer paper and the leading edge of the transfer paper transported continuously (for example, the distance between the leading edge Pa2T of the second transfer paper Pa2 and the leading edge Pa3T of the third transfer paper Pa3). It may be calculated as a paper interval value. Further, the paper interval PS may be indicated by a distance or may be indicated by a time. A plurality of detection sensors (not shown) are arranged on the conveyance path 80 in order to calculate the paper interval PS.

  The image interval request unit 224 requests the image formation control unit 300 to create an image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval PS calculated by the paper interval calculation unit 222. Specifically, it requests creation of an image interval IS having the same value as the value of the paper interval PS calculated by the paper interval calculation unit 222.

  Here, the image interval IS refers to an interval between toner images Im formed in a continuous image. More specifically, referring to FIG. 3, for example, a first toner image Im1 and a second toner image Im2 that is primary-transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 3 continuously to the first toner image Im1. This is the interval (image interval IS1). More specifically, for example, it refers to the distance between the end Im1E of the first toner image Im1 and the front end Im2T of the second toner image Im2.

  It should be noted that the distance between the leading edge of the toner image and the leading edge of the toner image that is primarily transferred continuously (for example, the distance between the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2 and the leading edge Im3T of the third toner image Im3). ) May be the image interval IS. The image interval IS may be indicated by a distance or may be indicated by a time.

  Note that the image interval request unit 224 according to the first embodiment requests creation of an image interval IS having the same value as the paper interval PS, but requests creation of an image interval IS having a value exceeding the value of the paper interval PS. It may be configured to.

  The drive time calculation unit 226 temporarily stops the registration roller 70 so that the leading edge ImT of the toner image Im primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 3 and the leading edge PaT of the transfer paper Pa are secondarily transferred. This is for calculating the time until re-driving.

  The timer count unit 228 counts the time calculated by the drive time calculation unit 226 until the transfer roller Pa is conveyed from the nip portion to the secondary transfer position by driving the registration roller 70. When the timer count unit 228 finishes counting the time until the registration roller 70 is redriven, the registration roller 70 is redriven and the transfer paper Pa is conveyed toward the secondary transfer device 4.

  When the timer count unit 228 finishes counting the time until the registration roller 70 is driven, the registration driving unit 230 restarts the registration roller 70 (resist resumption) and temporarily stops at the nip portion of the registration roller 70. The transfer paper Pa is conveyed toward the transfer device 4.

  The storage unit 210 stores various programs and various data for controlling each unit constituting the paper conveyance control unit 200. Specifically, the storage unit 210 uses RAM, ROM, HDD, an optical disk, a flexible disk, a nonvolatile memory, and the like. It is a storage means that can realize the function.

  The image formation control unit 300 mainly includes an image interval selection unit 320, an image interval creation unit 322, a writing unit 324, and a notification unit 326 as shown in FIG. It is connected to the.

The image interval selection unit 320 includes a value of the image interval IS according to a request from the paper conveyance control unit 200,
The image interval IS is selected based on the value of the image interval IS necessary until the writing operation of the leading edge of the next toner image Im can be started. More specifically, for example, with respect to the image interval IS1, writing of the value of the image interval IS according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 and the end Im1E of the first toner image Im1 is completed. The image interval IS having a value required until the writing operation of the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2 is started, and the required value of the image interval IS is requested from the paper conveyance control unit 200. When the value of the image interval IS is exceeded, the value of the necessary image interval IS is selected. On the other hand, when the value of the required image interval IS is equal to or less than the value of the image interval IS requested from the paper conveyance control unit 200, the value of the image interval IS related to the request is selected. By selecting the image interval IS by the image interval selection unit 320, it is possible to create an appropriate image interval IS according to the situation.

  The image interval creation unit 322 has the value selected by the image selection unit 320 to transport the transfer paper Pa to the secondary transfer position before or at least simultaneously with the toner image Im reaching the secondary transfer position. The interval IS is set in the storage unit 310. The interval between the end of writing of the end of the toner image Im by the writing control unit 324 and the start of writing of the end of the next toner image Im by the image interval creating unit 322 setting the image interval IS. As a result, the image interval IS is created.

  The writing unit 324 receives image data subjected to image processing from an image processing unit (not shown), creates LD data based on the received image data, and laser beams B1 to B4 based on the created LD data. The irradiation from the writing unit 1 to the photosensitive drums 21Y to 21K is controlled. The writing unit 324 causes the writing unit 1 to start writing work after the image interval IS set by the image interval generating unit 322 is generated.

  When the irradiation of the laser beam B1 is started from the writing unit 1 under the control of the writing unit 324, the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted. Further, when the irradiation of the laser beam B4 from the writing unit 1 is finished under the control of the writing unit 324, the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated.

  The notification unit 326 is for notifying the paper conveyance control unit 200 of various information. The notification unit 326 receives a distance (an arrow shown in FIG. 4) from the “first irradiation position (position on the photosensitive member 21Y irradiated with the laser beam B1)” from the writing unit 1 to the “secondary transfer position”. (See) is notified of the time required for the leading edge of the toner image Im to move (hereinafter referred to as “movement required time”). By the processing by the notification unit 326, the paper conveyance control unit 200 can easily grasp the optimum time for resuming the registration.

  The image forming control unit 300 knows the time for the moving place, and notifies the paper conveying control unit 200 of the time for the moving place. Time management becomes possible. When the writing unit 1 starts irradiation with the laser beam B1, the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted. Therefore, the image forming control unit 300 can accurately grasp the start time of irradiation of the laser beam B1 by the writing unit 1 by asserting the signal output from the writing unit 1, and uses the highly accurate time as a reference. It is possible to grasp the time required for moving places.

  The storage unit 310 stores various programs and various data for controlling each unit constituting the image forming control unit 300, and specifically, realized by a RAM, a ROM, an HDD, an optical disk, a flexible disk, a nonvolatile memory, and the like. It is a storage means that can.

  With the above configuration, an image interval creation process and a resist re-drive process, which are characteristic parts of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing and registration redrive processing according to the first embodiment. In the description of the image interval creation process, a case where the image interval IS1 shown in FIG. 3 is created will be described.

  First, when a print request is received from a user, the paper conveyance control unit 200 feeds transfer paper from the paper feed trays 61 to 64 by processing of the transfer paper feed unit 220. Next, by the processing of the paper interval calculation unit 222, the first transfer paper Pa1 and the first transfer paper Pa1 on the conveyance path 80 that are fed from the paper feed trays 61 to 64 and conveyed in the direction of the registration roller 70. The value of the paper interval PSI with respect to the second transfer paper Pa2 continuously conveyed is calculated (step SA-1).

  Next, by the processing of the image interval request unit 224, the image formation control unit 300 is requested to create the image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval PS1 calculated in step SA-1 (step SA-2). . Specifically, the image forming control unit 300 is requested to create an image interval IS having the same value as the value of the paper interval PS1 calculated in step SA-1.

  Next, on the image forming control unit 300 side, the processing of the image interval selecting unit 320 starts writing the value of the image interval IS according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 and the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2. The value of the image interval IS required until the image is compared (step SA-3).

  The value of the image interval IS required for the request from the paper transport control unit 200 is compared with the value of the image interval IS required to start the writing operation of the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2 in step SA-3. When exceeding (step SA-3: Yes), the value of the required image interval IS is selected by the processing of the image interval selection unit 320 (step SA-4).

  On the other hand, the value of the image interval IS required for the comparison from step SA-3 to start the writing operation of the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2 is the image interval IS required for the paper conveyance control unit 200. When it is equal to or smaller than the value (step SA-3: No), the requested value of the image interval IS is selected by the processing of the image interval selection unit 320 (step SA-5).

  Next, when the value of the image interval IS selected in step SA-4 or step SA-5 exceeds the value of the image interval IS that has already been created (step SA-6: Yes), the image interval creation processing unit 322. As a result, the value of the image interval IS1 selected in step SA-4 or step SA-5 is set in the storage unit 310 (step SA-7).

  On the other hand, if the value of the image interval IS selected in step SA-4 or step SA-5 is equal to or less than the value of the image interval IS that has already been created, the image interval IS1 is assumed to have been created, and the processing procedure is performed. Proceeds to step SA-8.

  Next, when the image interval IS1 is created and the writing unit 1 starts irradiating the laser beam B1 to the photoconductor 21Y based on the LD data under the control of the writing unit 324, the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted. To do. When the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted, the processing of the notification unit 326 notifies the paper conveyance control unit 300 of information indicating the time required for moving (step SA-8).

  Next, when the paper conveyance control unit 200 receives the information notified in step SA-8, the drive time calculation unit 226 processes the first transfer paper Pa1 on the basis of the information indicating the time required for moving. The time until the registration roller 70 is re-driven for conveyance toward the next transfer device 4 is calculated (step SA-9).

  Next, by the processing of the timer count unit 228, the time until the resist re-drive calculated in Step SA-9 is counted (Step SA-10).

  When the count by the process of the timer count unit 228 is completed (step SA-11: Yes), the registration 70 is redriven by the process of the registration drive unit 230 (step SA-12). As a result, the first transfer paper Pa1 that is temporarily stopped at the nip portion of the registration roller 70 is conveyed to the secondary transfer device 4.

  On the other hand, when the count by the process of the timer count unit 228 has not ended (step SA-11: No), the processing procedure returns to step SA-10, and the count by the timer count unit 228 is continued.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment calculates the value of the paper interval PS on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, and based on the calculated value of the paper interval PS, the image interval IS. Creation is requested to the image formation control unit 300, and the value of the image interval IS requested from the paper conveyance control unit 200 or the value of the image interval IS necessary for image formation control is selected on the image formation control unit 300 side. Then, when the image interval IS of the selected value is created and the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted, information indicating the time for moving place is notified to the paper conveyance control unit 200, and the paper conveyance control unit 200 side The time until the resist is restarted is calculated based on the information indicating the travel time, and the time until the calculated resist is restarted is counted. When the counting is completed, the resist is restarted, and the transfer paper is moved to the secondary transfer position. And transport.

  Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment, on the paper transport control unit 200 side, the paper interval calculation unit 222 calculates the value of the paper interval PS, and based on the calculated value of the paper interval PS. The image interval request unit 224 requests the image forming control unit 300 to create the image interval IS, and the image forming control unit 300 side has an image interval that exceeds the value of the paper interval PS, or at least the value of the paper interval PS. Since the image interval IS having the same value as the image interval is created by the image interval creating unit 322, the paper interval PS and the image interval IS can be easily adjusted, and the delay of the transfer paper Pa with respect to the toner image Im to the secondary transfer position Can be prevented.

  Further, on the image forming control unit 300 side, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted to the paper conveyance control unit 200, information indicating the time for moving is notified by the notification unit 326, and the paper conveyance control is performed. In the unit 200, based on the information indicating the travel time, the driving time calculation unit 226 calculates the time until the registration is restarted, and the timer counting unit 228 counts the calculated time until the registration is restarted. Since the registration roller 70 is re-driven by the registration driving unit 230, the paper conveyance control unit 200 can grasp the time required for the moving place with reference to a highly accurate time, and easily achieve an accurate timing for resuming the registration. be able to.

  Note that when the second and subsequent print requests are repeated at an early timing, the transfer paper Pa on the next page can be made to follow the transfer paper Pa on the previous page even with the conventional method. It is possible to request permission for image formation immediately after the first, but if there is an interval between print requests, the conventional method can only request image formation after the previous transfer paper Pa has been re-registered. (See FIG. 6).

  This is because the conventional method does not require the paper interval PS as the image interval IS (since it does not require the image interval IS in accordance with the paper interval PS). The image forming request can only be made in the same way as the eye control, but the corresponding toner image moves without stopping to the secondary transfer position after the writing is started, and the transfer paper Pa corresponding to the printing request is transferred to the registration roller 70. Unless it is premised on not stopping before reaching the position, it is not possible to determine a position in time for the secondary transfer referred to in the first sheet.

  Therefore, if the transfer paper Pa of the next page of the previous page stops before reaching the registration 70 in conjunction with the registration stop of the transfer paper Pa of the previous page, the transfer paper Pa is in time for its own image. In order to avoid such a case, it is a condition that the registration restart is performed for the transfer paper Pa of the previous page before the transfer request for the transfer paper Pa of the second sheet is made. Become.

  However, according to the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment, even when the registration for the transfer paper Pa of the previous page has not been resumed, image formation permission is granted for the print request of each page. It can be requested immediately (see FIG. 6).

(Second Embodiment)
Next, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the description of the second embodiment, the description overlapping the description of the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment described above may be omitted.

  In the paper conveyance control unit 200 according to the first embodiment, the value of the paper interval PS is calculated using a plurality of detection sensors, and the creation of the image interval IS based on the calculated value of the paper interval PS is performed. Requested to 300. On the other hand, the paper conveyance control unit 200 according to the second embodiment predicts the minimum value of the paper interval PS and creates the image interval IS based on the predicted minimum value of the paper interval PS. The image forming apparatus 100 differs from the image forming apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in that it is requested to 300.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the paper conveyance control unit 200 according to the second embodiment. The paper conveyance control unit 200 according to the second embodiment is configured to further include a minimum value prediction unit 232 as shown in FIG.

  If the conveyance of the second transfer paper Pa2 continuously conveyed to the first transfer paper Pa1 is continued while the first transfer paper Pa1 is temporarily stopped at the nip portion of the registration roller 70, the first transfer paper Pa1 is continued. It is possible to compress the paper interval PS1 between the transfer paper Pa1 and the second transfer paper Pa2. If the paper interval PS1 can be further compressed, the processing up to the secondary transfer can be made faster. Therefore, it is desirable to predict a paper interval Pa1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the first transfer paper Pa1 that can be further compressed so that the second transfer paper Pa2 does not overlap the first transfer paper Pa1. This prediction is possible if the time until the first transfer paper Pa1 temporarily stopped at the nip portion of the registration roller 70 is re-conveyed can be grasped.

  Therefore, the minimum value predicting unit 232 takes time until the registration roller 70 is re-driven in order to convey the first transfer paper Pa1 in the direction of the secondary transfer device 4, taking PS1 shown in FIG. 3 as an example. When counted by the timer count unit 228, the minimum value of PS1 is predicted based on the time until the re-driving. The same applies to the case where the minimum value of the paper interval PS2 and the minimum value of the paper interval PS3 shown in FIG.

  Note that information indicating the time until re-registration driving for re-conveying the first transfer paper Pa1 is notified from the image formation control unit 300 to the paper conveyance control unit 200, and the notification is the first toner. Notified when the writing operation of the tip Im1T of the image Im1 is started. Therefore, when the time until the resist re-driving for re-conveying the first transfer paper Pa1 is not counted by the timer count unit 228, the writing operation of the first toner image Im1 is not started. The value predicting unit 232 does not predict the minimum value of the paper interval PS1.

  With the above configuration, an image interval creation process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment. Here, a case where the image interval IS1 shown in FIG. 3 is created will be described.

  First, on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is asserted, the processing of the notification unit 326 causes the paper conveyance control unit 300 to move the first toner image Im1. Information indicating the time is notified (step SB-1).

  Next, on the paper transport control unit 200 side, the registration time is re-driven based on the information indicating the travel time required time notified from the image forming control unit 300 in step SB-1 by the processing of the drive time calculation unit 226. The time until this is calculated (step SB-2).

  Next, when the time until the registration roller 70 is re-driven for re-conveying the first transfer paper Pa1 is counted by the timer count unit 228 based on the time calculated in step SB-2 (step SB-2). SB-3: Yes), the minimum value predicting unit 232 predicts the minimum value of the paper interval PS1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the second transfer paper Pa2 based on the time until the re-driving. (Step SB-4).

  Next, by the processing of the image interval request unit 224, the image forming control unit 300 is requested to create the image interval IS based on the minimum value of the paper interval PS1 predicted in step SB-4 (step SB-5). ).

  Next, on the image forming control unit 300 side, an image interval IS1 having a value according to a request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 is generated by the processing of the image interval generating unit 322 (step SB-6).

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment predicts the minimum value of the paper interval PS when the time until registration driving is counted on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, and performs prediction. The image formation control unit 200 is requested to create the image interval IS based on the minimum paper interval PS, and the image interval IS having the value according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 300 is requested on the image formation control unit 200 side. Create

  Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 100 of the second embodiment, the timer count unit 228 counts the time until the registration roller 70 is redriven for the retransfer of the first transfer paper Pa1. In this case, the minimum value of the paper interval PS1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the second transfer paper Pa2 transported continuously to the first transfer paper Pa1 is determined based on the time until re-driving, Since the image interval IS1 is generated by the image interval request unit 224, which is predicted by the minimum value prediction unit 232 and based on the predicted paper interval PS1, the image interval based on the minimum paper interval is generated. Thus, productivity can be improved.

(Third embodiment)
Next, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the description of the third embodiment, the description overlapping the description of the image forming apparatus 100 of the first to second embodiments described above may be omitted.

  In the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment, when the writing operation of the leading edge of the toner image Im is started from the image forming control unit 300 side to the paper conveyance control unit 200, the toner image Im is applied. Reported information indicating the time required for moving. In contrast, in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment, when the writing operation of the toner image Im is completed from the image forming control unit 300 side to the paper transport control unit 200, the toner image It differs from the image forming apparatus 100 of the second embodiment in that information indicating the time required for moving places is notified.

  The notification unit 326 notifies the paper conveyance control unit 200 of information indicating the time required for moving when the irradiation of the laser beam B1 for the end of the toner image Im is completed by the control of the writing unit 324. Specifically, when the toner image writing operation is completed, a signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, and the notification unit 326 negates the signal output from the writing unit 1. When this occurs, the information is notified to the paper conveyance control unit 200.

  The minimum value predicting unit 232 receives information indicating the moving time from the image forming control unit 300, and the time until the registration roller 70 is redriven to re-transport the transfer paper Pa corresponding to the toner image Im. Is counted by the timer count unit 228, the minimum value of the paper interval PS is predicted.

  The paper interval PS predicted by the minimum value predicting unit 232 is predicted when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, and is predicted when the writing operation of the toner image Im is completed. The value of the paper interval PS indicating a more compressed state can be predicted, and as a result, productivity can be further increased.

  With the above configuration, an image interval creation process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment. Here, a case where the image interval IS1 shown in FIG. 3 is created will be described.

  First, on the image forming control unit 300 side, the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, and at the same time, the processing time of the first toner image Im1 for the paper transport control unit 200 is processed by the notification unit 326. Is notified (step SC-1).

  Next, when the paper conveyance control unit 200 receives the information notified from the image formation control unit 300 in step SC-1, the time until the registration roller 70 is redriven for retransfer of the transfer paper Pa1 is received. When it is counted by the timer count unit 228 (step SC-2: Yes), the minimum value predicting unit 232 performs processing to minimize the minimum value of the paper interval Pa1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the second transfer paper Pa2. Is predicted (step SC-3).

  On the other hand, when the time until the registration roller 70 is re-driven because the transfer paper Pa1 is re-conveyed is not counted by the timer count unit 228 (step SC-2: No), the transfer paper Pa1 and the transfer paper Pa2 Is calculated (step SC-4).

  Next, the image forming control unit 300 is requested to request an image based on the paper interval PS predicted in step SC-3 or the paper interval PS calculated in step SC-4 (step SC-5).

  Next, on the image formation control unit 300 side, the image interval creation unit 322 creates an image interval IS having a value according to a request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 (step SC-6).

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated on the image forming control unit 300 side, the first control is performed with respect to the paper conveyance control unit 200. Information indicating the time required for moving the toner image Im1 is notified, and when the information is notified on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, the time until the registration roller is redriven for re-conveying the transfer paper Pa Is counted, the value of the paper interval PS is predicted, the creation of the image interval IS based on the predicted value of the paper interval PS is requested to the image forming control unit 300, and the image forming control unit 300 side Then, the image interval IS according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 is created.

  Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 100 of the third embodiment, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, the image forming control unit 300 side performs the first operation on the paper transport control unit 200. When the information indicating the moving time of the toner image Im1 is notified, and the paper conveyance control unit 200 is notified of the information from the image formation control unit 300, the registration is performed for re-conveying the first transfer paper Pa1. When the time until the roller 70 is driven again is counted, the paper interval PS1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the second transfer paper Pa2 is predicted based on the counted time. Thus, the value of the paper interval PS indicating a more compressed state can be predicted, and as a result, the productivity can be further improved.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the description of the fourth embodiment, the description overlapping the description of the image forming apparatus 100 of the first to third embodiments described above may be omitted.

  In the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, the image forming control unit 300 transmits information indicating the moving site time to the paper transport control unit 200. reported. On the other hand, in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment, after the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, an image having a value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading end of the next toner image is started. After creating the interval IS and creating the image interval IS, the image forming control unit 300 notifies the paper conveyance control unit 200 of information indicating the required movement time, in the third embodiment. Different from the image forming apparatus 100.

  When the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, the image interval creating unit 322 sets the value of the image interval IS necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading end of the next toner image Im in the storage unit 310. . Thereby, on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, the value of the paper interval PS indicating a further compressed state can be predicted, and as a result, the productivity can be further improved.

  The notification unit 326 sends the image interval IS to the paper conveyance control unit 200 at least at the same time after the image interval creation unit 322 has created the image interval IS having a value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading edge of the toner image Im. Information indicating the travel time required for the first toner image is notified.

  With the above configuration, an image interval creation process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment. Here, a case where the image interval IS1 shown in FIG. 3 is created will be described.

  First, on the image forming control unit 300 side, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, it is necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2 by the processing of the image interval creating unit 322. An image interval IS is created (step SC-11).

  Next, when the creation of the necessary image interval IS is completed in step SC-11, the processing of the notification unit 326 notifies information indicating the travel time for the first toner image.

  Note that the processing from step SC-2 to step SC-6 is the same as the processing from step SC-2 to step SC-6 of the image interval creation processing of the third embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted. To do.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fourth embodiment, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated on the image forming control unit 300 side, the leading edge Im2T of the second toner image Im2 is written. After creating the image interval IS necessary for starting the work and creating the image interval IS, the paper conveyance control unit 200 is provided with information indicating the travel time required for the first toner image Im1. When the information is notified on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, when the time until the registration roller is re-driven for re-conveying the transfer paper Pa is counted, the value of the paper interval PS is set. The image forming control unit 300 is requested to create an image interval IS based on the predicted and predicted paper interval PS value, and the image forming control unit 300 side requests an image interval related to the request from the paper transport control unit 200. Create an IS.

  Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment, when the signal output from the writing unit 1 is negated, the image forming control unit 300 side performs the writing operation of the tip Im2T of the second toner image Im2. After creating the image interval IS necessary for starting, after creating the image interval IS, the paper conveyance control unit 200 is notified of information indicating the time required for moving the first toner image Im1. When the information is notified, the paper conveyance control unit 200 side counts the time until the registration roller 70 is re-driven for re-conveying the first transfer paper Pa1. Since the paper interval PS1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the second transfer paper Pa2 is predicted based on the determined time, the value of the paper interval PS indicating the further compressed state can be predicted, As a result, productivity increases Can be increased.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the description of the fifth embodiment, the description overlapping the description of the image forming apparatus 100 of the first to fourth embodiments described above may be omitted.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment, the paper conveyance control unit 200 calculates the value of the paper interval PS a plurality of times, and each time the value of the paper interval PS is calculated, the image forming control unit 300 It is characterized in that it requires creation of an image interval based on the calculated paper interval value.

  The paper interval calculation unit 222 calculates the value of the paper interval PS a plurality of times. The paper interval IS here is not the plurality of paper intervals IS but the same paper interval IS. The paper interval calculation unit 222 calculates the value of the paper interval PS a plurality of times, and each time the calculation is performed, the image formation control unit 300 is requested to create an image interval IS based on the calculated value of the paper interval PS. If it is possible, it is possible to create an image interval IS reflecting the latest value of the paper interval PS, which is advantageous in terms of performance.

  The image interval request unit 224 requests the image forming control unit 300 to create an image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval PS every time the value of the paper interval PS is calculated by the paper interval calculation unit 222. .

  The image interval creating unit 322 creates an image interval IS having a value according to the request when the value of the image interval IS according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 exceeds the value of the already created image interval.

  With the above configuration, an image interval creation process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment. Here, a case where the image intervals IS1 to IS3 shown in FIG. 3 are created will be described.

  First, the paper conveyance control unit 200 side performs the processing of the paper interval calculation unit 222 to determine the value of the paper interval PS1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the transfer paper Pa2 that is continuously conveyed to the first transfer paper Pa1. Is calculated (step SD-1).

  Next, by the processing of the image interval request unit 224, the image formation control unit 300 is requested to create an image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval PS1 calculated in step SD-1 (step SD-2). .

  On the image forming control unit 300 side, when the value of the image interval IS according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 exceeds the value of the already generated image interval IS (step SD-3: Yes), image interval generation By the processing of the unit 322, an image interval IS1 having a value according to the request is created (step SD-4).

  On the other hand, when the value of the image interval IS according to the request from the paper conveyance control unit 200 is equal to or less than the value of the already created image interval IS (step SD-3: No), the process ends.

  When the value of the paper interval PS1 is recalculated on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side (step SD-5: Yes), the processes of steps SD-1 to SD-4 are repeated. On the other hand, when the paper conveyance control unit 200 does not recalculate the value of the paper interval PS1 (step SD-5: No), the process ends.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment calculates the value of the paper interval PS a plurality of times on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, and each time the value of the paper interval PS is calculated, The image control unit 300 is requested to create an image interval IS based on the calculated paper interval PS value, and the image interval control unit 300 side has already generated the image interval IS whose value is the image interval IS. If the IS value is exceeded, an image interval IS is created.

  Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment, every time the paper conveyance control unit 200 calculates the value of the paper interval PS by the paper interval calculation unit 222 and calculates the value of the paper interval PS. The image interval control unit 300 requests the image interval request unit 224 to create an image interval IS based on the calculated paper interval PS, and the image formation control unit 300 side requests the image interval IS related to the request. Since the image interval IS is generated by the image interval generation unit 324 when the value of the image exceeds the value of the already generated image interval IS, the image interval IS reflecting the latest paper interval PS value can be generated. .

(Sixth embodiment)
Next, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that in the description of the sixth embodiment, a description overlapping the description of the image forming apparatus 100 of the first to fifth embodiments described above may be omitted.

  The image interval request unit 224 of the fifth embodiment is based on the value of the paper interval PS in all cases where the paper interval calculation unit 222 calculates the value of the paper interval PS to the image forming control unit 300. Requested creation of image interval. On the other hand, the image interval request unit 224 according to the sixth embodiment only when the value of the paper interval IS calculated by the paper interval calculation unit 222 exceeds the value of the image interval IS related to the previous request. The image forming control unit 300 is different from the image interval requesting unit 224 according to the fifth embodiment in that the image forming control unit 300 is requested to create an image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval IS.

  The image interval request unit 224 determines that the paper interval PS is calculated only when the value of the paper interval PS calculated by the paper interval calculation unit 222 exceeds the value of the image interval IS according to the previous request to the image forming control unit 300. Requests creation of an image interval IS based on the value. This is to prevent the image forming control unit 300 from requesting the image forming unit 300 to request an image interval IS shorter than the image interval IS of the previous request, and to prevent the request from being reflected on the image forming control unit 300 side. .

  An image interval IS creation process performed by the image forming apparatus 100 of the sixth embodiment in the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval IS creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the sixth embodiment. Here, a case where the image interval IS1 shown in FIG. 3 is created will be described. In addition, it is assumed that the value of the paper interval PS1 has already been calculated once on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side.

  First, the paper conveyance control unit 200 side performs the processing of the paper interval calculation unit 222 to determine the value of the paper interval PS1 between the first transfer paper Pa1 and the transfer paper Pa2 that is continuously conveyed to the first transfer paper Pa1. Is calculated again (step SD-1).

  When the value of the paper interval PS1 calculated in step SD-1 exceeds the value of the image interval IS related to the previous request to the image formation control unit 300 (step SD-11: Yes), the processing of the image interval request unit 224 Thus, the creation of the image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval PS1 calculated in step SD-1 is requested (step SD-2).

  On the other hand, when the value of the paper interval PS1 calculated in step SD-1 is equal to or less than the value of the image interval IS related to the previous request to the image forming control unit 300 (step SD-11: No), the processing procedure is step. Moved to SD-5.

  Note that the processing of step SD-3 to step SD-5 is the same as step SD-3 to step SD-5 of the image interval creation processing performed in the image forming apparatus 100 of the fifth embodiment (FIG. 12), and the description thereof is omitted.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the sixth embodiment calculates the value of the paper interval PS a plurality of times on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, and the calculated PS value is the image formation control unit 300. When the value of the image interval IS related to the previous request is exceeded, the image formation control unit 300 is requested to create the image interval IS based on the value of the paper interval PS, and the image formation control unit 300 side The image interval IS is created when the value of the image interval IS according to the request exceeds the value of the already created image interval IS.

  Accordingly, in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the sixth embodiment, the paper interval PS value is calculated a plurality of times by the paper interval calculation unit 222 on the paper conveyance control unit 200 side, and the calculated PS value is the image formation control. The image interval request unit 224 requests the image formation control unit 300 to create an image interval IS based on the calculated paper interval PS value when the value of the image interval IS related to the previous request to the unit 300 is exceeded. The image interval control unit 300 generates the image interval IS by the image interval generation unit 324 when the value of the image interval IS related to the request exceeds the value of the already generated image interval IS. The image formation control unit 300 is requested to request a short image interval IS with respect to the image interval IS, and the request cannot be reflected on the image formation control unit 300 side. Can prevent the delay .

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a color image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a paper conveyance control unit 200 and an image formation control unit 300. FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a sheet interval PS of a transfer sheet Pa and an image interval IS of a toner image Im. It is a figure which shows the way from the position irradiated initially to a secondary transfer position. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an image interval creation process and a resist re-drive process according to the first embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the problem of the conventional system. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a paper conveyance control unit 200 and an image formation control unit 300. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the fifth embodiment. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of image interval creation processing performed by the image forming apparatus 100 according to the sixth embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming device 1 Writing unit 2 Toner image forming part 21 Photoconductor drum 22 Charging device 23 Developing device 24 Primary transfer device 25 Cleaning device 26 Electric discharge device 3 Intermediate transfer belt 4 Secondary transfer device 5 Fixing device 51 Heating roller 52 Pressure Rollers 61 to 64 Paper feed trays 65 to 68 Paper feed device 69 Vertical transport unit 70 Registration roller 110 Image forming unit 120 Paper transport unit 200 Paper transport control unit 210 Storage unit 220 Transfer paper feed unit 222 Paper interval calculation unit 224 Image interval Request unit 226 Drive time calculation unit 228 Timer count unit 230 Registration drive unit 300 Image formation control unit 310 Storage unit 320 Image interval request unit 322 Image interval creation unit 324 Write unit 326 Notification unit

Claims (13)

Toner formed on the image carrier by controlling the conveyance of the transfer medium on the conveyance path, controlling the paper conveyance control unit for controlling the stopping and driving of the registration rollers, and writing the toner image on the image carrier. An image forming control unit that primarily transfers the image to the intermediate transfer belt, and the paper conveyance control unit controls stop and driving of the registration roller, thereby allowing the leading end position of the transfer medium on the conveyance path and the image forming unit to be controlled. A color image forming apparatus that performs secondary transfer with a leading edge position of a toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt by an image control unit,
The paper transport control unit
A medium interval calculating means for calculating a value of a transfer medium interval between the first transfer medium transported on the transport path and the second transfer medium transported continuously to the first transfer medium; And
The image forming control unit
A first toner image that is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculating means, and a primary transfer that is continuously transferred to the first toner image. Having a writing control means for starting a writing operation at a tip of the second toner image when an image interval with the second toner image is created;
A color image forming apparatus. In the paper conveyance control unit,
The image forming control unit further includes an image interval requesting unit that requests creation of an image interval based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculating unit,
In the image formation control unit,
The image interval value requested from the image interval requesting means is compared with the image interval value necessary for starting the writing operation of the leading edge of the second toner image by the writing control means, and the necessary When the required image interval value exceeds the requested image interval value, the required image interval value is selected, and the required image interval value is equal to or less than the requested image interval value. Further comprising image interval selection means for selecting an image interval value according to the request,
The writing control means starts writing the leading edge of the second toner image when the image interval of the value selected by the image interval selecting means is created;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 1. In the image formation control unit,
After the writing control unit starts writing the leading edge of the first toner image with respect to the paper conveyance control unit, the leading edge of the first toner image passes through the intermediate transfer belt. A notification means for notifying information indicating a required time until the next transfer position is reached;
In the paper conveyance control unit,
Based on the information indicating the required time notified from the notification means, a time until the registration roller is driven to transport the first transfer medium toward the secondary transfer position is calculated. Driving time calculating means for
A registration driving unit that drives the registration roller when a time until the registration roller calculated by the driving time calculation unit elapses;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the color image forming apparatus is a color image forming apparatus. In the image formation control unit,
The notifying unit notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time when the writing control unit starts writing of the leading edge of the first toner image;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 3. In the paper conveyance control unit,
Timer count means for counting time until the registration roller calculated by the drive time calculation means is driven;
Only when the count is started by the timer count means, and based on the time counted by the timer count means, further comprises a minimum value prediction means for predicting the minimum value of the transfer medium interval,
The image interval requesting means replaces the request for creating the image interval based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculation means, and the minimum of the transfer medium interval predicted by the minimum value prediction means. Requesting the creation of image intervals based on values,
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the color image forming apparatus is a color image forming apparatus. In the image formation control unit,
The notifying unit notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time when the writing control unit ends the writing operation at the end of the first toner image.
In the paper conveyance control unit,
The minimum value predicting unit predicts the minimum value of the transfer medium interval when the count is started by the timer counting unit when the information is notified from the notification unit;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 5. In the image formation control unit,
The notifying unit notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time when the writing control unit ends the writing operation at the end of the first toner image.
In the paper conveyance control unit,
The medium interval calculation means calculates a value of the transfer medium interval when the count is not started by the timer count means when the information is notified from the notification means,
The image interval requesting unit requests creation of an image interval based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculating unit;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 5. In the image formation control unit,
The writing control means starts the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image when the image interval having a value necessary for starting the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image is created.
The notifying means notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time after the necessary image interval is created,
In the paper conveyance control unit,
The minimum value predicting unit predicts the minimum value of the transfer medium interval when the count is started by the timer counting unit when the information is notified from the notification unit;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 5. In the image formation control unit,
The writing control means starts the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image when the image interval having a value necessary for starting the writing operation at the leading edge of the second toner image is created.
The notifying means notifies the paper conveyance control unit of information indicating the required time after the necessary image interval is created,
In the paper conveyance control unit,
The medium interval calculation means calculates a value of the transfer medium interval when the count is not started by the timer count means when the information is notified from the notification means,
The image interval requesting unit requests creation of an image interval based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculating unit;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 5. In the paper conveyance control unit,
The medium interval calculation means calculates the value of the transfer medium interval a plurality of times,
The image interval requesting unit requests creation of an image interval based on the value of the transferred medium interval each time the value of the transferred medium interval is calculated by the medium interval calculating unit,
In the image formation control unit,
When the image interval value required for the request from the image interval requesting unit exceeds the value of the image interval already created, the writing control unit determines the image interval based on the image interval value related to the request. Starting writing of the leading edge of the second toner image upon creation;
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 2. In the paper conveyance control unit,
The image interval request unit is configured to generate an image based on the transfer medium interval value only when the transfer medium interval value calculated by the medium interval calculation unit exceeds the image interval value according to the previous request. Requesting the creation of an interval,
The color image forming apparatus according to claim 10. The front end of the transfer medium on the transfer path is controlled by controlling the transfer of the transfer medium on the transfer path, transferring the toner image formed on the image carrier to the intermediate transfer belt, and controlling the driving of the registration roller. In an image forming program for secondary transfer of the position and the tip position of the toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt,
A medium interval calculating step of calculating a value of a transfer medium interval between a first transfer medium transported along the transport path and a second transfer medium transported continuously to the first transfer medium;
A first toner image that is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt based on the value of the transfer medium interval calculated by the medium interval calculating step, and the primary toner image that is primary transferred continuously to the first toner image. Causing the computer to execute a writing control step of starting a writing operation of the leading edge of the second toner image when an image interval with the second toner image is created;
An image forming program.   A recording medium storing the image forming program according to claim 12 in a computer-readable manner.

Images