JP2008170839A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of confirming an image at an appropriate timing, in switchably using a plurality of paper feed trays. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus 100 includes: the plurality of paper feed trays for feeding sheets of paper; an image forming part 50 for forming an image; and a control part 11 for controlling the image forming part 50 to form the image on the sheet and perform a real output based on a job and a sampling output for image-confirmation. When the paper feed tray 53 is switched in the process of one job, the control part 11 controls the image forming part 50 to perform the sampling output, and also, controls a switching part 2d to switch a paper discharge destination from a stacking stage 2b to a sub tray Tb, to discharge the sheet as the sampling output to the sub tray Tb, thereafter, to switch the paper discharge destination from the sub tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b, and to continue the given job. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming apparatus that forms a test pattern image and executes sample output is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Such sample output is effective, for example, when the image forming apparatus has a large-capacity stacker device for stacking sheets on which images have been formed.
Specifically, the removal of the paper stacked inside the stacker device is performed by opening the door on the side surface of the stacker device main body, and the door must be closed during image formation. For this reason, during image formation, it is not possible to visually check the image formed on the sheet by taking out the sheet from the stacker device.
Therefore, the sample output paper is discharged to a paper discharge tray provided outside the stacker device so that the image formed on the paper can be visually confirmed even during image formation. An apparatus has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).
JP-A-8-197779 JP 2005-153374 A

  By the way, there are image forming apparatuses such as an automatic tray switching (ATS) function that automatically switches a paper feed tray when a sheet runs out during print output, and an inter sheet function that inserts an insertion sheet in the middle of a bundle of sheets. Depending on the function, the paper feed tray for feeding paper may be switched during execution of one job. In this case, depending on the paper feed tray, there may be a problem that an image is bent on the paper or the corner of the paper is bent due to the trouble of filling the paper into the paper feed tray. There is sex. However, even if such a problem occurs during the execution of one job, it is impossible to find and improve the problem when sheets on which images have been formed are stacked on the stacker device.

  In the image forming apparatuses disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, sample output is executed only at a specified cycle or when the temperature inside the apparatus rises to a predetermined temperature. Cannot be confirmed, and even if the above problem occurs, it cannot be improved.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of confirming an image at an appropriate timing when a plurality of paper feed trays are switched and used.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 1
Multiple paper trays for feeding paper,
An image forming unit for forming an image;
A control unit that causes the image forming unit to form an image on the sheet and to execute a production output based on a job and a sample output for image confirmation;
A first paper discharge tray for discharging the actual output paper executed by the image forming unit;
A second discharge tray for discharging the sample output paper executed by the image forming unit;
A switching unit for switching the paper discharge destination between the first paper discharge tray and the second paper discharge tray;
With
The control unit causes the image forming unit to execute sample output when the paper feed tray is switched during execution of one job, and causes the switching unit to output a paper discharge destination from the first paper discharge tray. By switching to the second paper discharge tray, the sample output paper is discharged to the second paper discharge tray, and then the paper discharge destination is transferred from the second paper discharge tray to the first paper by the switching unit. It is characterized in that the execution of the one job is continued by switching to the paper discharge tray.

The invention described in claim 2
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The first discharge tray has a structure in which an image formed on a sheet discharged to the first discharge tray cannot be visually confirmed.
The second paper discharge tray has a structure in which an image formed on a paper sheet discharged to the second paper discharge tray can be visually confirmed.

The invention described in claim 3
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
An operation unit for setting a cycle in which the image forming unit executes sample output during execution of one job;
The control unit causes the image forming unit to execute sample output at the first switching of the paper feed tray during execution of one job, and causes the switching unit to set a paper discharge destination to the first paper discharge destination. The tray is switched to the second paper discharge tray to discharge the sample output paper to the second paper discharge tray, and then the switching unit is configured to change the paper discharge destination from the second paper discharge tray to the second paper discharge tray. By switching to the first paper discharge tray, the execution of the one job is continued, the sample forming is executed by the image forming unit at a cycle set by the operation unit, and the paper discharge is performed by the switching unit. The paper output is switched from the first paper output tray to the second paper output tray, the sample output paper is output to the second paper output tray, and then the paper output destination is set to the switching unit. Second paper discharge tray Let me switch to et the first tray, characterized by continuing the execution of the one job.

The invention according to claim 4
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
The plurality of paper feed trays include a first paper feed tray for feeding normal paper and a second paper feed tray for feeding insertion paper,
The operation unit includes a cycle in which the image forming unit forms an image on the normal paper and executes sample output during execution of one job, and a cycle in which an image is formed on the insertion paper and sample output is executed. And can be individually set.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, since the sample output is executed when the paper feed tray is switched, it is possible to confirm an image at an appropriate timing when switching and using a plurality of paper feed trays. .

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of the first aspect of the invention, and it is formed on the actual output paper discharged to the first paper discharge tray. Since the image cannot be visually confirmed, and the image formed on the sample output paper discharged to the second paper discharge tray can be visually confirmed, the present invention becomes more effective.

According to the invention described in claim 3, it is needless to say that the same effect as that of the invention described in claim 1 or 2 can be obtained. When the paper feed tray is switched for the first time, sample output is executed, and thereafter Since sample output is executed at a set cycle, sample output can be executed efficiently.
In addition, by executing sample output when the paper feed tray is switched for the first time, it is possible to quickly check the image, and by executing sample output at a set cycle, whether or not the paper feed tray is switched. Regardless of the image can be confirmed.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is obvious that the same effect as the third aspect of the invention can be obtained, the period of forming the image on the normal paper and executing the sample output, and the insertion paper. Since the period for forming an image and executing sample output can be individually set, it is possible to confirm both the image formed on the normal paper and the image formed on the insertion paper in a timely manner.

  Hereinafter, the best mode of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated example.

<Configuration of image forming apparatus>
First, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

For example, the image forming apparatus 100 has a function of forming an image on a sheet and executing a production output and a sample output.
Here, the production output is output based on a job, for example.
The sample output is, for example, an output based on a job or an output based on data of a preset test pattern (for example, a straight line evaluation pattern), and is executed, for example, to confirm an image of actual output. .
In the image forming apparatus 100, for example, when the sample output mode is ON, production output and sample output are executed, and when the sample output mode is OFF, only production output is executed. Yes.

The image forming apparatus 100 also inserts an insertion sheet in the middle of a bundle of sheets, for example, an automatic tray switching (ATS) function that automatically switches the paper feed tray 53 when a sheet runs out during printing output. Inter sheet function.
Here, the insertion sheet is a sheet whose type and color are different from the normal sheet constituting the sheet bundle, for example.

  Specifically, the image forming apparatus 100 includes, for example, a main body 1 provided with an operation display unit 20, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) unit 40, and the like as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. And a stacker device 2 and a large capacity tray unit 3 that are optionally connected to the main body 1, an overall control unit 10, a scanner unit 30, an image forming unit 50, a controller unit 60, and the like. .

  The overall control unit 10 includes, for example, a control unit 11, a nonvolatile memory 12, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) control IC 13, a compression / decompression IC 14, a reading processing unit 15, a writing processing unit 16, and an image memory 17. And an HDD 18 and a controller IC 19.

  The nonvolatile memory 12 includes a semiconductor memory that can read and write data, and stores various setting data related to the image forming apparatus 100, for example.

  The DRAM control IC 13 causes the compression / decompression IC 14 to compress, for example, a job file input from the read processing unit 15 or a job file input from the controller unit 60 in accordance with a control signal input from the control unit 11. It is temporarily stored in the compression memory 17a.

Also, the DRAM control IC 13 expands, for example, a job file stored in the compression memory 17a to the compression / decompression IC 14 according to a control signal input from the control unit 11, and temporarily stores it in the page memory 17b.
Then, when a print output is instructed from the control unit 11, the DRAM control IC 13 reads out an uncompressed job file from the page memory 17 b in units of pages and outputs it to the write processing unit 16, for example.

  The DRAM control IC 13 outputs control data input from the controller unit 60 to the control unit 11 via, for example, a PCI bus.

  The compression / decompression IC 14 is an IC that performs job file compression processing and decompression processing in accordance with, for example, a control signal input from the DRAM control IC 13.

  For example, the reading processing unit 15 converts an analog image signal read by the scanner unit 30 into digital image data, acquires the paper size of the document, the paper direction at the time of reading, and various settings as header information, and A job file including the image data and the header information is generated and output to the DRAM control IC 13.

  For example, the write processing unit 16 generates a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal based on the job file input from the compression / decompression IC 14 and outputs the PWM signal to the image forming unit 50.

The image memory 17 is constituted by a DRAM, and temporarily stores image data read by the scanner unit 30, for example.
The image memory 17 includes, for example, a compression memory 17a and a page memory 17b.

  For example, the compression memory 17a temporarily stores the job file compressed by the compression / decompression IC 14 in accordance with a control signal input from the DRAM control IC 13.

  For example, the page memory 17b temporarily stores an uncompressed job file to be printed before printing.

  The HDD 18 is a storage device for storing and storing job files read and generated by the scanner unit 30 and job files received from the external device 200 via the controller unit 60, for example.

  The controller IC 19 is an IC that controls reading and writing of data to and from the HDD 18, for example.

  The operation display unit 20 includes, for example, an operation display control unit 21, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 22, an operation unit 23, and the like.

  For example, the operation display control unit 21 performs display control of the LCD 22 in accordance with a control signal input from the control unit 11 and outputs an operation signal input from the operation unit 23 to the control unit 11.

  The LCD 22 displays, for example, various setting screens, image status displays, operation statuses of functions, and the like on the screen in accordance with display signals input from the operation display control unit 21.

  The operation unit 23 includes, for example, an operation key and a touch panel formed integrally with the LCD 22. For example, the operation unit 23 controls operation display of an operation signal in accordance with a user's operation key pressing operation or touch panel pressing operation. To the unit 21.

Specifically, the operation unit 23 is operated, for example, when the user sets a cycle in which the image forming unit 50 executes sample output during execution of one job.
Here, the user operates the operation unit 23, for example, during the execution of one job, the image forming unit 50 forms an image on normal paper and executes sample output, and an image on the insertion paper. The cycle of forming and executing sample output can be individually set.

Specifically, for example, on the “sample output mode setting screen” displayed on the LCD 22, the cycle for executing the sample output can be set.
In the “sample output mode setting screen”, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, a “mode” selection field R11, a “cycle” selection field R12, a “insert paper tray period setting” selection field R21, and a “period” “Selection column R22”, “Sample output image” selection column R3, and the like are displayed.

In the “mode” selection field R11, for example, either “none” or “by cycle setting” can be selected.
“None” is selected, for example, when the sample output mode is turned off, and “by cycle setting” is selected, for example, when the sample output mode is turned on.

  In the “cycle” selection column R12, for example, when “by cycle setting” is selected in the “mode” selection column R11, for example, any one of “1 page” to “9999 page” can be selected. ing.

In the “insert paper tray cycle setting” selection field R21, for example, “Yes” or “No” can be selected.
“Yes” is selected, for example, when a period for forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output and a period for forming an image on inserted paper and executing sample output are individually set. “No” is selected, for example, when the period for forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output and the period for forming an image on inserted paper and executing sample output are not individually set.

  In the “cycle” selection column R22, for example, when “Yes” is selected in the “insert paper tray cycle setting” selection column R21, any one of “1 page” to “9999 pages” can be selected. It is like that.

In the “sample output image” selection field R3, for example, either “normal image” or “test pattern” can be selected.
The “normal image” is selected, for example, when executing sample output based on a job, and the “test pattern” is selected, for example, when executing sample output based on data of a preset test pattern.

  For example, in the “sample output mode setting screen” shown in FIG. 3, since “Yes” is selected in the “insert paper tray cycle setting” selection field R21, an image is formed on normal paper and sample output is executed. And a cycle for forming an image on an insertion sheet and executing sample output can be individually set. “500” is selected in the “cycle” selection field R12, and “cycle” is selected. Since “20 pages” is selected in the selection column R22, it is set to execute sample output on regular paper every 500 pages and to execute sample output on inserted paper every 20 pages.

  Further, in the “sample output mode setting screen”, when “NO” is selected in the “insert paper tray cycle setting” selection field R21, a cycle for forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output; The cycle for forming an image on the insertion sheet and executing the sample output cannot be individually set, and the “cycle” selection field R22 cannot be selected. In this case, for example, when “500 pages” is selected in the “cycle” selection field R12, the sample output is set to be executed every 500 pages.

  The scanner unit 30 includes, for example, a scanner control unit 31 and a scanner 32.

  The scanner control unit 31 drives and controls a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or the like of the scanner 32 according to a control signal input from the control unit 11, for example.

  The scanner 32 includes, for example, a light source for illuminating a document, a scanning mirror, a CCD, and the like, and the reflected light of the light scanned from the light source to the document is transmitted through the lens through the scanning mirror to be CCD. The image of the original is imaged and photoelectrically converted to read an image of the document, and an analog image signal of the image is output to the reading processing unit 15.

  For example, the ADF unit 40 automatically feeds documents placed on the document tray Ta one by one onto the platen glass of the scanner unit 30 in accordance with a control signal input from the control unit 11.

For example, the image forming unit 50 forms an image on a sheet and executes a production output and a sample output.
Specifically, the image forming unit 50 includes, for example, a printer control unit 51, a printing unit 52, a plurality of paper feed trays 53 for feeding paper, and a conveyance path (paper) for conveying transfer paper (paper). For example, it is configured to include a paper feed roller for transporting the paper along a path indicated by a thick line in FIG.

  The print unit 52 includes, for example, an LD (Laser Diode) 52a, a photosensitive drum 52b, a charger 52c, a developing unit 52d, a transfer unit 52e, a fixing unit 52f, a conveyance path switching plate 54a, and a reversing unit. 54b and the like.

  For example, the printer control unit 51 controls the operation of each unit in the image forming unit 50 in accordance with a control signal input from the control unit 11 and forms an image on a sheet based on the PWM signal input from the writing processing unit 16. To do.

  Specifically, for example, the printer control unit 51 feeds a sheet to one of the plurality of sheet feeding trays 53 and conveys the sheet along the conveyance path. Then, the surface of the photosensitive drum 52b is charged by the charger 52c, and the surface of the photosensitive drum 52b is irradiated with laser light by the LD 52a based on the PWM signal input from the writing processing unit 16 to form an electrostatic latent image. Then, the toner is attached to the region including the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 52b by the developing device 52d.

  Next, toner is transferred to a sheet fed from any of the plurality of sheet feeding trays 53 by the transfer unit 52e to form an image, fixed by the fixing device 52f, and then discharged to the stacker device 2. When performing double-sided printing, the paper on which one side is printed is conveyed to the reversing unit 54b via the conveyance path switching plate 54a or the reversing path, and the reversing unit 54b reverses the front and back, and re-applies to the photosensitive drum 52b. After being conveyed, an image is formed and fixed on the reverse surface, and then discharged to the stacker device 2.

Among the plurality of paper feed trays 53, for example, two paper feed trays 53, 53a and 53b, are provided in the main body 1, and the three paper feed trays 53c to 53e are large capacity tray units. 3 is provided.
Of the plurality of paper feed trays 53, for example, one or a plurality of paper feed trays 53 filled with normal paper serve as the first paper feed tray for feeding the normal paper, for example, filled with insertion paper. In addition, one or a plurality of paper feed trays 53 different from the first paper feed tray serve as the second paper feed tray for feeding the inserted paper.

  The controller unit 60 includes, for example, a controller control unit 61, a DRAM control IC 62, an image memory 63, a LANIF (Local Area Network InterFace) 63, and the like.

  For example, the controller control unit 61 comprehensively controls the operation of each unit of the controller unit 60, and the data input from the external device 200 via the LANIF 64 is processed in a data format according to the operation state of the image forming apparatus 100. The data is converted into a file and output to the DRAM control IC 62.

  The DRAM control IC 62 controls, for example, reading / writing of image data to / from the image memory 63 and data transfer with the DRAM control IC 13 of the overall control unit 10.

  The image memory 63 is composed of, for example, a DRAM and temporarily stores input image data.

  The LANIF 64 is a communication interface for connecting to a LAN, such as a NIC (Network Interface Card) or a modem, and receives data from the external device 200 and outputs it to the DRAM control IC 62.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the stacker device 2 includes a stacker control unit 2a, a stacking stage 2b, a door sensor 2c, a switching unit 2d, a sub-tray Tb, and a sheet stacking stage 2b. A paper discharge roller for transporting to the sub-tray Tb and the like are provided.

  The stacker control unit 2a is a functional unit that comprehensively controls each functional unit constituting the stacker device 2, for example, and conveys a sheet along a conveyance path according to a control signal input from the control unit 11, for example. The paper is discharged onto the stacking stage 2b and the sub-tray Tb.

The stacking stage 2b is stored in the stacker device 2, for example, and is, for example, a sheet discharge tray on which the actual output sheets executed by the image forming unit 50 are discharged as the first sheet discharge tray.
Here, the paper discharged to the stacking stage 2b is stored inside the stacker device 2, and the entire surface of the image formed on the paper cannot be visually confirmed during image formation. It is like that. Note that “not visually confirmed” may include a state in which a part of the image can be visually confirmed but difficult to confirm.

Specifically, the stacking stage 2b can be moved up and down according to a control signal input from the stacker control unit 2a, for example, and can stack a large amount (for example, about 10,000 sheets) of paper.
The stacking stage 2b is positioned at the top when the sheets are not stacked so that, for example, the upper end of the stacked sheets can be maintained at a constant height regardless of the stacking amount. It descends and rises again when the loaded paper is removed.

For example, the door sensor 2c detects whether a door (not shown) provided on the side surface of the main body of the stacker device 2 is closed, and outputs the detection signal to the stacker control unit 2a.
Here, in the stacker device 2, for example, by opening a door provided on the side surface of the main body of the stacker device 2, the paper discharged to the stacking stage 2 b is taken out. Is used with this door closed.

  For example, the switching unit 2d switches the paper discharge destination between the stacking stage 2b and the sub-tray Tb in accordance with a control signal input from the stacker control unit 2a.

The sub-tray Tb is provided on the upper surface of the stacker device 2, for example, and is, for example, a discharge tray on which the sample output sheet executed by the image forming unit 50 is discharged as the second discharge tray.
Here, the paper discharged to the sub-tray Tb is exposed to the outside of the stacker device 2 so that the image formed on the paper can be visually confirmed even during image formation. It has become.

  The control unit 11 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11a, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 11b, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 11c, and the like.

  The CPU 11a is a functional unit that comprehensively controls each functional unit constituting the image forming apparatus 100. For example, a system program or an application program stored in the ROM 11b according to an operation signal input from the operation display unit 20 The various processing programs are read out and expanded in the RAM 11c to perform processing according to the programs.

  The ROM 11b stores, for example, system programs and application programs.

  The RAM 11c is a memory area that temporarily stores, for example, various programs executed by the CPU 11a and data related to the execution of these programs.

  For example, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 50 to form an image on a sheet and execute a production output based on a job and a sample output for image confirmation.

For example, the control unit 11 causes the image forming unit 50 to execute sample output at a predetermined timing during execution of one job, and also inputs a control signal to the stacker control unit 2a to input paper to the switching unit 2d. The paper discharge destination is switched from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray Tb, and the sample output paper is discharged to the sub-tray Tb. Thereafter, a control signal is input to the stacker control unit 2a, and the paper discharge destination to the switching unit 2d. Is switched from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b, and the execution of the one job is continued.
Specifically, the predetermined timing is, for example, the first switching of the paper feed tray 53 during execution of one job and the cycle set by the operation unit 23.

  Here, when the cycle of forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output and the cycle of forming an image on inserted paper and executing sample output are not individually set, the control unit 11 In other words, when a cycle for forming an image on a sheet (normal sheet and insert sheet) and executing sample output is set, the image is changed at the first switching of the sheet feed tray 53 during execution of one job. The forming unit 50 causes the sample output to be executed, and causes the image forming unit 50 to execute the sample output at a cycle set by the operation of the operation unit 23 by the user.

  More specifically, for example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 5, the input image in one job is an image of pages 1 to 16, and the image of the seventh page is set to be formed on the insertion sheet, and the sample output For example, when 10 pages are set as the cycle, 1 copy is set as the number of copies, and single-sided printing is set as the print mode, the control unit 11, for example, displays the seventh page as shown in the lower part of FIG. 5. When an image is formed on an insertion sheet (a sheet indicated by hatching in FIG. 5) by the intersheet function, and the sheet feeding tray 53 is switched to form an image of the seventh page on the insertion sheet, the sheet feeding tray 53 is the first switching, and the time when the output of the image of the 10th page is executed corresponds to the cycle (every 10 pages) in which the image is formed on the paper and the sample output is executed. The images of the 7th and 10th pages are formed on the paper and sample output is executed. The paper output as a sample is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and the images of the 1st to 16th pages are formed on the paper to perform the actual production. The output is executed, and the actually output paper is discharged to the stacking stage 2b.

  For example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 6, the input image in one job is an image of 1 to 16 pages, and the images of the 7th, 9th, and 11th pages are set to be formed on the insertion sheet, and the sample output For example, when 10 pages are set as the cycle, 1 copy is set as the number of copies, and single-sided printing is set as the print mode, the control unit 11 can set 7, 9 and 7 as shown in the lower part of FIG. When the image of the 11th page is formed on the insertion sheet (the sheet indicated by hatching in FIG. 6) by the inter sheet function, and the paper feed tray 53 is switched to form the image of the seventh page on the insertion sheet. Is the first switching of the paper feed tray 53, and when the image output of the 10th page is executed, the cycle of forming the image on the paper and executing the sample output (every 10 pages) In order to cope with this, the images of the 7th and 10th pages are formed on the paper, the sample output is executed, the paper on which the sample is output is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and the images of the 1st to 16th pages are placed on the paper. The actual output is executed and the output paper is discharged onto the stacking stage 2b.

  Further, for example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 7, the input image in one job is an image of 1 to 16 pages, every 10 pages is set as the cycle of sample output, 1 copy is set as the number of copies, and the print When single-sided printing is set as the mode and the ATS function is executed on the 7th page, the control unit 11 switches the images on the 7th to 16th pages with the ATS function, for example, as shown in the lower part of FIG. The sheet is formed on the sheet fed from the sheet feeding tray 53 (the sheet indicated by hatching in FIG. 7), and when the sheet feeding tray is switched by the ATS function to form the seventh page image. This is the first switching of the paper tray 53. When the output of the image of the 10th page is executed, the cycle of forming the image on the paper and executing the sample output (every 10 pages) In order to cope with this, the images of the 7th and 10th pages are formed on the paper, the sample output is executed, the paper output as the sample is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and the images of the 1st to 16th pages are also printed on the paper The actual output is executed, and the actual output paper is discharged to the stacking stage 2b.

  On the other hand, when the cycle of forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output and the cycle of forming an image on inserted paper and executing sample output are individually set, the control unit 11 When the paper feed tray 53 is switched for the first time during execution of the job, the image forming unit 50 executes sample output and forms an image on normal paper set by the operation of the operation unit 23 by the user. The image forming unit 50 is caused to execute sample output at a cycle for executing output, and the image forming unit 50 is caused to execute sample output at a cycle for forming an image on an insertion sheet and executing sample output.

  More specifically, for example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 8, the input image in one job is an image of pages 1 to 16, and the images of pages 7, 9, and 11 are set to be formed on the insertion sheet. If the sample output cycle is set to 10 pages for regular paper, 3 pages for insert paper, 1 copy is set, and single-sided printing is set as the print mode, the control unit 11 As shown in the lower part of FIG. 8, the images of the seventh, ninth and eleventh pages are formed on the insertion paper (the paper indicated by hatching in FIG. 8) by the intersheet function, and the image of the seventh page is inserted. The time when the paper feed tray 53 is switched to form on the paper is the first change of the paper feed tray 53, and when the image output of the eleventh page is executed, an image is formed on the insertion paper and is supported. This corresponds to the cycle of executing pull output (every 3 pages), and the time of executing the output of the 13th page image corresponds to the cycle of forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output (every 10 pages). Therefore, the images of the seventh, eleventh and thirteenth pages are formed on the paper, sample output is executed, the paper on which the sample is output is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and the images of the first to sixteenth pages are placed on the paper The actual output is executed and the output paper is discharged onto the stacking stage 2b.

  Here, which of the plurality of paper feed trays 53 is filled with the normal paper and which is filled with the insertion paper is set in advance by the operation of the operation unit 23 by the user, for example. 11 is configured to discriminate between a paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper and a paper feed tray 53 filled with insertion paper.

<Image formation processing when sample output mode is ON>
Processing related to image formation by the image forming apparatus 100 when the sample output mode is ON will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  First, when one job is started (step S11), the control unit 11 forms an image on normal paper and executes sample output, and a cycle that forms an image on insert paper and executes sample output. Are determined individually (step S12).

  If it is determined in step S12 that they are not individually set (step S12; No), that is, if it is determined that a cycle for forming an image on a sheet and executing sample output is set, the control unit 11 “1” is set in the “L (number of fed sheets)” storage area in the RAM 11c (step S13).

  Next, the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50 to feed the paper to the paper feed tray 53 (step S14), and determines whether the paper feed tray 53 has been switched at this time (step S14). Step S15).

  If it is determined in step S15 that the paper feed tray 53 has not been switched (step S15; No), the control unit 11 displays the numerical value set in the “L” storage area in the RAM 11c on the preset paper. Is determined to correspond to the cycle of executing sample output (step S16).

  If it is determined in step S16 that the numerical value set in the “L” storage area in the RAM 11c corresponds to a cycle in which an image is formed on a preset sheet and sample output is executed (step S16; Yes), control is performed. The unit 11 proceeds to the process of step S22.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S16 that the numerical value set in the “L” storage area in the RAM 11c does not correspond to a cycle for forming an image on a preset sheet and executing sample output (step S16; No) ), The control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50 to form an image on the fed paper and execute the actual output (step S17), and the actual output paper is loaded on the stacking stage. The paper is discharged to 2b (step S18).

  Next, the control unit 11 sets “L + 1” in the “L” storage area in the RAM 11c (step S19), and determines whether or not the one job has ended (step S20).

  If it is determined in step S20 that the one job has not been completed (step S20; No), the control unit 11 repeats the processes in and after step S14.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S20 that the one job has been completed (step S20; Yes), the control unit 11 ends the process.

  If it is determined in step S15 that the paper feed tray 53 has been switched (step S15; Yes), the control unit 11 determines whether the switching is the first switching (step S21).

  If it is determined in step S20 that it is not the first switching (step S20; No), the control unit 11 proceeds to the process of step S16.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S20 that the switching is the first (step S20; Yes), the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50 to form an image on the fed paper. Sample output is executed (step S22), a control signal is input to the stacker device 2, and the switching unit 2d switches the paper discharge destination from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray Tb (step S23), and the sample is output. The discharged paper is discharged to the sub-tray Tb (step S24).

  Next, the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50, feeds paper to the paper feed tray 53 (step S25), and inputs a control signal to the stacker device 2 to the switching unit 2d. The paper discharge destination is switched from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b (step S26), and the process proceeds to step S17.

  If it is determined in step S12 that the setting is individually made (step S12; Yes), the control unit 11 stores the “M (number of sheets of normal paper)” storage area and “N (inserted sheet) in the RAM 11c. “1” is set in each of the “sheet feeding number)” storage areas (step S27).

  Next, the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50 to feed the paper to the paper feed tray 53 (step S28), and determines whether the paper feed tray 53 has been switched at this time (step S28). Step S29).

  If it is determined in step S29 that the paper feed tray 53 has not been switched (step S29; No), the controller 11 feeds the paper fed in step S28 from the paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper. It is determined whether or not the paper has been printed (step S30).

  If it is determined in step S30 that the paper fed in step S28 is a paper fed from the paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper (step S30; Yes), the control unit 11 stores the data in the RAM 11c. It is determined whether or not the numerical value set in the “M” storage area corresponds to a cycle in which an image is formed on normal paper and sample output is executed in advance (step S31).

  If it is determined in step S31 that the numerical value set in the “M” storage area in the RAM 11c corresponds to a cycle in which an image is formed on normal paper and sample output is executed (step S31; Yes), control is performed. The unit 11 proceeds to the process of step S38.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S31 that the numerical value set in the “M” storage area in the RAM 11c does not correspond to a cycle for forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output (step S31; No) ), The control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50, forms an image on the fed normal paper, and executes the actual output (step S32), and loads the actual output normal paper on the stacking stage. The paper is discharged to 2b (step S33).

  Next, the control unit 11 sets “M + 1” in the “M” storage area in the RAM 11c (step S34), and determines whether or not the one job has ended (step S35).

  If it is determined in step S35 that the one job has not been completed (step S35; No), the control unit 11 repeats the processes in and after step S28.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S35 that the one job has been completed (step S35; Yes), the control unit 11 ends the process.

  If it is determined in step S29 that the paper feed tray 53 has been switched (step S29; Yes), the control unit 11 determines whether the switching is the first switching (step S36).

  If it is determined in step S36 that it is not the first switching (step S36; No), the control unit 11 proceeds to the process of step S30.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S36 that it is the first switching (step S36; Yes), the controller 11 feeds the paper fed in step S28 from the paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper. It is determined whether or not the sheet has been printed (step S37).

  If it is determined in step S37 that the paper fed in step S28 is a paper fed from the paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper (step S37; Yes), the control unit 11 performs image formation. A control signal is input to the unit 50, an image is formed on the fed normal paper, sample output is executed (step S38), a control signal is input to the stacker device 2, and a paper discharge is input to the switching unit 2d. The paper tip is switched from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray Tb (step S39), and the normal paper of the sample output is discharged to the sub-tray Tb (step S40).

  Next, the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50, feeds paper to the paper feed tray 53 (step S41), and inputs a control signal to the stacker device 2 to the switching unit 2d. The paper discharge destination is switched from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b (step S42), and the process proceeds to step S32.

  If it is determined in step S30 that the paper fed in step S28 is not paper fed from the paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper (step S30; No), that is, the inserted paper is filled. If the control unit 11 determines that the sheet is fed from the fed sheet tray 53, the control unit 11 forms an image on the preset insertion sheet by using the numerical value set in the “N” storage area in the RAM 11c. It is determined whether or not it corresponds to a cycle for executing sample output (step S43).

  If it is determined in step S43 that the numerical value set in the “N” storage area in the RAM 11c corresponds to a cycle in which an image is formed on a preset insertion sheet and sample output is executed (step S43; Yes), control is performed. The unit 11 proceeds to the process of step S47.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S43 that the numerical value set in the “N” storage area in the RAM 11c does not correspond to a cycle for forming an image on a preset insertion sheet and executing sample output (step S43; No) The control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50 to form an image on the inserted insertion sheet and execute the actual output (step S44), and the insertion sheet of the actual output is loaded on the stacking stage. The paper is discharged to 2b (step S45).

  Next, the control unit 11 sets “N + 1” in the “N” storage area in the RAM 11c (step S46), and proceeds to the process of step S35.

  If it is determined in step S37 that the paper fed in step S28 is not a paper fed from the paper feed tray 53 filled with normal paper (step S37; No), that is, the inserted paper is filled. If it is determined that the sheet is fed from the fed sheet tray 53, the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50 to form an image on the inserted insertion sheet and output a sample output. (Step S47), a control signal is input to the stacker device 2, and the switching unit 2d switches the paper discharge destination from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray Tb (step S48), and inserts the sample output insertion paper. Paper is discharged onto the sub-tray Tb (step S49).

  Next, the control unit 11 inputs a control signal to the image forming unit 50, feeds paper to the paper feed tray 53 (step S50), and inputs a control signal to the stacker device 2 to the switching unit 2d. The paper discharge destination is switched from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b (step S51), and the process proceeds to step S44.

According to the image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention described above, a plurality of paper feed trays 53 for feeding paper, the image forming unit 50 for forming an image, and the image forming unit 50 are configured to transfer an image on the paper. The control unit 11 that executes the actual output based on the job and the sample output for confirming the image, the stacking stage 2b for discharging the actual output paper executed by the image forming unit 50, and the image formation The control unit 11 includes a sub-tray Tb for discharging the sample output paper executed by the unit 50 and a switching unit 2d for switching the paper discharge destination between the stacking stage 2b and the sub-tray Tb. When the paper feed tray 53 is switched during the execution of the job, the image forming unit 50 executes sample output, and the switching unit 2d sets the paper discharge destination from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray T. , The sample output paper is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and then the switching unit 2d is made to switch the paper discharge destination from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b, and the execution of the one job is continued. .
That is, since the sample output is executed when the paper feed tray 53 is switched, the image can be confirmed at an appropriate timing when the plurality of paper feed trays 53 are switched and used.

  Further, the stacking stage 2b has a structure in which an image formed on the actual output paper discharged to the stacking stage 2b cannot be visually confirmed, and the sub-tray Tb is a sample output paper discharged to the sub-tray Tb. Since the image formed above can be visually confirmed, the present invention becomes more effective.

The image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention further includes an operation unit 23 for the user to set a cycle in which the image forming unit 50 executes sample output during execution of one job. When the paper feed tray 53 is switched for the first time during execution of the job, the image forming unit 50 executes sample output, and the switching unit 2d switches the paper discharge destination from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray Tb. The sample output paper is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and then the switching unit 2b is switched to the paper discharge destination from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b, and the execution of the one job is continued, and the operation unit 23 In addition, the image forming unit 50 executes sample output at a cycle set by the above operation, and the switching unit 2d sets the paper discharge destination from the stacking stage 2b to the sub-tray T. , The sample output paper is discharged to the sub-tray Tb, and then the switching unit 2d is made to switch the paper discharge destination from the sub-tray Tb to the stacking stage 2b, and the execution of the one job is continued. be able to.
That is, sample output is executed when the paper feed tray 53 is switched for the first time, and thereafter, sample output is executed at a set cycle, so that sample output can be executed efficiently.
Further, by executing sample output when the paper feed tray 53 is switched for the first time, it is possible to quickly confirm an image, and by executing sample output at a set cycle, the paper feed tray 53 is switched to. The image can be confirmed regardless of the presence or absence.

The plurality of paper feed trays 53 include a first paper feed tray for feeding normal paper and a second paper feed tray for feeding insertion paper, and the image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention. The operation of the operation unit 23 by the user causes the image forming unit 50 to form an image on normal paper and execute sample output during execution of one job, and to form a sample on insert paper and output the sample. And a cycle for executing the operation can be individually set.
In other words, since the cycle of forming an image on normal paper and executing sample output and the cycle of forming an image on insert paper and executing sample output can be individually set, the image formed on normal paper is also The image formed on the insertion sheet can also be confirmed in a timely manner.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist thereof.

  Sample output is executed when the paper feed tray 53 is switched for the first time, and sample output is executed at a set cycle. However, sample output is executed every time the paper feed tray 53 is switched. Also good.

  The cycle for forming an image on regular paper and executing sample output and the cycle for forming an image on inserted paper and executing sample output can be set separately. In some cases, the insertion sheets are filled into different paper feed trays 53 for each type, and the inter-sheet function is configured so that the insertion sheets can be inserted by distinguishing the types of insertion sheets, and for each type of insertion sheet, It may be possible to set a cycle for forming an image on an insertion sheet and executing sample output.

It is a figure which shows the external appearance and cross section of the image forming apparatus of this invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It is a figure which shows the "sample output mode setting screen" displayed on LCD. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a stacker device provided in the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a first diagram for explaining how to execute sample output by the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining a method of executing sample output by the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a third diagram for explaining a method of executing sample output by the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a fourth diagram for explaining a method of executing sample output by the image forming apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a first flowchart for explaining processing related to image formation by the image forming apparatus when a sample output mode is ON. FIG. FIG. 10 is a second flowchart for explaining processing related to image formation by the image forming apparatus when the sample output mode is ON. FIG. 10 is a third flowchart for explaining processing related to image formation by the image forming apparatus when the sample output mode is ON.

Explanation of symbols

2b Loading stage (first output tray)
2d switching unit 11 control unit 23 operation unit 50 image forming unit 53 paper feed tray (first paper feed tray, second paper feed tray)
100 Image forming apparatus Tb Sub-tray (second discharge tray)

Claims (4)

Multiple paper trays for feeding paper,
An image forming unit for forming an image;
A control unit that causes the image forming unit to form an image on the sheet and to execute a production output based on a job and a sample output for image confirmation;
A first paper discharge tray for discharging the actual output paper executed by the image forming unit;
A second discharge tray for discharging the sample output paper executed by the image forming unit;
A switching unit for switching the paper discharge destination between the first paper discharge tray and the second paper discharge tray;
With
The control unit causes the image forming unit to execute sample output when the paper feed tray is switched during execution of one job, and causes the switching unit to output a paper discharge destination from the first paper discharge tray. By switching to the second paper discharge tray, the sample output paper is discharged to the second paper discharge tray, and then the paper discharge destination is transferred from the second paper discharge tray to the first paper by the switching unit. An image forming apparatus that switches to a paper discharge tray and continues execution of the one job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The first discharge tray has a structure in which an image formed on a sheet discharged to the first discharge tray cannot be visually confirmed.
2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second discharge tray has a structure in which an image formed on a sheet discharged to the second discharge tray can be visually confirmed. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
An operation unit for setting a cycle in which the image forming unit executes sample output during execution of one job;
The control unit causes the image forming unit to execute sample output at the first switching of the paper feed tray during execution of one job, and causes the switching unit to set a paper discharge destination to the first paper discharge destination. The tray is switched to the second paper discharge tray to discharge the sample output paper to the second paper discharge tray, and then the switching unit is configured to change the paper discharge destination from the second paper discharge tray to the second paper discharge tray. By switching to the first paper discharge tray, the execution of the one job is continued, the sample forming is executed by the image forming unit at a cycle set by the operation unit, and the paper discharge is performed by the switching unit. The paper output is switched from the first paper output tray to the second paper output tray, the sample output paper is output to the second paper output tray, and then the paper output destination is set to the switching unit. Second paper discharge tray Let me switch to et the first tray, the image forming apparatus characterized by continuing the execution of the one job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
The plurality of paper feed trays include a first paper feed tray for feeding normal paper and a second paper feed tray for feeding insertion paper,
The operation unit includes a cycle in which the image forming unit forms an image on the normal paper and executes sample output during execution of one job, and a cycle in which an image is formed on the insertion paper and sample output is executed. And an image forming apparatus that can be individually set.

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