JP2010134109A - Printer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printer which enables a manufacturer of the printer or the like to easily collect a large amount of data on environments and densities of test images when the test images are formed. <P>SOLUTION: A CPU 11 has a temperature sensor 19 detect the temperature inside an MFP 10 when a test patch is formed on an intermediate body, and a humidity sensor 20 detects the humidity inside the MFP 10 at that time. Furthermore, a density sensor 18 detects the density in a test patch formed on the intermediate transfer body. Then, the CPU 11 stores the temperature, humidity and the density in the test patch that are detected by each of sensors 18 to 20 in association with each other in a recording data region 115a of a radio IC tag 110. By collecting a cartridge 100 with the radio IC tag 110 attached thereto and collecting various data stored in the recording data region 115a, the manufacturers of the MFP 10 or toner can easily collects a large amount of data on temperatures, humidities and densities in test patches. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus.

The information processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 prints a test image (patch) at the time of calibration, and measures the measurement data 34 obtained by measuring the density of the printed patch and the density of the patch. The patch measurement information 33 indicating the environmental state is registered in the file 30 and stored in the storage device 26 of the printer 20. Therefore, calibration reflecting the measurement data 34 can be performed for printing performed under the same conditions as the environmental state indicated by the patch measurement information 33 stored in the storage device 26.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-213036 JP 2003-202713 A JP 2004-74071 A JP 2002-127563 A JP-A-9-146903

  In the information processing apparatus as described above, the patch measurement information 33 and the measurement data 34 can be acquired and stored in the storage device 26 of the printer 20 in various environmental conditions.

  By the way, the patch measurement information 33 and the measurement data 34 are useful data that can be used for development / improvement of information processing apparatuses and development / improvement of color materials. There is a desire to collect as many of these data as possible. However, although the above-described information processing apparatus can acquire the patch measurement information 33 and the measurement data 34 in various environmental conditions, these data are stored in the storage device 26 in the printer 20, so that the manufacturer of the information processing apparatus The color material developer cannot collect the acquired patch measurement information 33 and measurement data 34. Further, although the patch measurement information 33 and the measurement data 34 can be collected at the development stage by the development maker of the information processing apparatus or the development maker of the color material, there is a limit to the collection of data. For these reasons, there is a problem that it is difficult for the information processing apparatus developer and the color material developer to collect a large number of patch measurement information 33 and measurement data 34 at the development stage.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and is a technique that allows a developer or the like of a printing apparatus to easily collect a large number of environments and test image densities when forming a test image. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to achieve this object, an apparatus of the present invention is a printing apparatus that accommodates a color material and is detachably mounted with a cartridge having a storage device, and uses the color material accommodated in the cartridge. A printing unit that forms an image on a recording medium according to the supplied image data; a test image data supply unit that supplies test image data representing a test image to the printing unit; and the printing unit according to the test image data Environment information detecting means for detecting environment information relating to the environment when forming the test image on the forming medium, and density information detecting means for detecting density information indicating the density of the test image formed on the forming medium And control means for associating the environmental information and the density information with each other and storing them in the storage device of the cartridge.

  Note that the formation medium may be a different type of medium from the recording medium (for example, recording paper) or the same type of medium (for example, recording paper) as the recording medium (for example, recording paper).

  According to the above apparatus, the environmental information and the density information are associated with each other and stored in the storage device of the cartridge mounted on the printing apparatus. For this reason, for example, if used cartridges that are put into a collection box disposed in a store are collected from the collection box, environmental information and concentration information stored in the storage device of the used cartridge can be collected. As a result, a printer manufacturer or the like can easily collect a large number of test image forming environments and test image densities.

  In the above apparatus, the apparatus further includes a generation unit that generates usage related information related to the use of the color material accommodated in the cartridge, and the control unit further associates the environmental information and the density information with each other, and It is preferable to store usage related information in the storage device.

  According to the above apparatus, a printer manufacturer or the like can easily collect a large number of relations between the information related to the use of the color material, the environment when forming the test image, and the density of the test image. Can do.

  In the above apparatus, it is preferable that the use-related information indicates a cumulative number of the recording media used during a period in which the cartridge is mounted.

  In general, there is a certain relationship between the color material usage status and the accumulated recording medium used. Therefore, if the above-mentioned apparatus is adopted, the printer manufacturer or the like can grasp the usage status of the color material by collecting the number of accumulated recording media used, and as a result, the color material It is possible to grasp a large number of relations between the usage status of the test image, the environment when the test image is formed, and the density of the test image.

  In the above apparatus, the apparatus further includes generating means for generating use related information related to use of the color material accommodated in the cartridge, and the control means further uses the use related information to use the cartridge. Determination means for determining which one of the plurality of stages belongs to, and the control means stores the environmental information and the concentration information in the storage device for each stage determined by the determination means. It is preferable to make it.

  According to the above apparatus, a printer manufacturer or the like can grasp a large number of relationships between the environment in which a test image is formed and the density of the test image for each use stage of the cartridge.

  In the above apparatus, the control means includes storage determination means for determining whether or not the newly detected environmental state and the concentration information can be stored in the storage device, and the control means includes the Each time it is determined that the information cannot be additionally stored in the storage device, the environmental information and the concentration information are stored in a predetermined number in order of detection time from among a plurality of sets of the environmental information and the concentration information already stored in the storage device. It is preferable to delete the set of density information and store the newly detected environment information and the density information in the storage device.

  According to the above apparatus, it is possible to increase the chances of deleting the environmental information and the density information whose detection time is earlier. In other words, it is possible to reduce the opportunity to delete environmental information and density information whose detection time is later. Therefore, more environmental information and density information with a later detection time can be left in the recording apparatus than environmental information and density information with a earlier detection time. This is suitable when a printer manufacturer or the like wants to grasp more environmental information and density information later in the detection time.

  In the above apparatus, the control means further stores an average value of the environmental information and an average value of the density information when the set of the newly detected environmental information and the density information is stored in the storage device. Is calculated and stored in the storage device, and the control means further stores the set of the environmental information and the concentration information to be newly detected in the storage device when the set is stored in the storage device. The new environmental information and the density information are calculated using the two average values already stored and the number of sets of the environmental information and the density information which are the calculation targets of the two average values. It is preferable that a calculation unit that calculates an average value of the environmental information and an average value of the density information included in the information is included.

  According to the above apparatus, even when the environmental information and the density information are deleted, the average value of the environmental information in which the deleted environmental information and the new environmental information are included in the calculation target, and the deleted density information. In addition, an average value of density information in which new density information is included in the calculation target can be obtained.

  In the above-described apparatus, it is preferable that the control unit stores all sets of the environmental information and the density information detected after the use of the color material contained in the cartridge is started in the storage device.

  According to the above apparatus, a printer manufacturer or the like can easily collect a wide range of test image densities in various environments.

  In the above apparatus, the environmental information includes temperature information and humidity information, and the environmental information detection unit includes a temperature sensor that detects the temperature information indicating a temperature at which the printing unit forms the test image; Preferably, the printing unit includes a humidity sensor that detects the humidity information indicating the humidity at which the test image is formed.

  According to the above apparatus, a printer manufacturer or the like can easily collect the test image density and the temperature and humidity when forming the test image.

  The present invention can be realized in various modes such as a printing apparatus, a control apparatus for the printing apparatus, a control method, a computer program for controlling the printing apparatus, and a recording medium for recording the computer program.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1A is a diagram showing an outline of a data collection system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of a collection box 120 taken along line Ib-Ib.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, the data collection system 1 includes an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) 10, a cartridge 100 that is detachably attached to the MFP 10, a wireless IC tag 110 built in the cartridge 100, and a used device. A recovery box 120 that recovers the cartridge 100 and a server 150 that is communicably connected to a communication device 130 provided in the recovery box 120.

  The MFP 10 is a multi-function device that realizes a printing function, a scanner function, a telephone function, and the like. When the MFP 10 is set as a printing function, the toner functions as a transfer belt type laser printer that forms an image to be printed on printing paper using toner that is a color material accommodated in the cartridge 100.

  The cartridge 100 is a case in which a case 100a that stores cyan toner, a case 100b that stores magenta toner, a case 100c that stores yellow toner, and a case 100d that stores black toner are integrated. The wireless IC tag 110 capable of wireless communication with the communication device 130 is incorporated. The cartridge 100 is removed from the MFP 10 by the user when the stored toner of each color is exhausted (used), and is inserted into the collection box 120 installed in the store via the inlet 121, for example. Note that the arrow indicates the loading direction of the cartridge 100.

  The collection box 120 is a box that collects the used cartridge 100, and has a built-in communication device 130 that can communicate with the wireless IC tag 110 and the server 150 built in the inserted cartridge 100.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 1B, an antenna 134 a provided in the communication device 130 is incorporated above the insertion port 121. Accordingly, when the cartridge 100 is inserted into the insertion port 121, wireless communication is performed between the antenna 134a and the wireless IC tag 110, and various data stored in the wireless IC tag 110 are received by the communication device 130. Accordingly, the communication device 130 can collect various data stored in the wireless IC tag 110.

  Returning to the description of FIG. The server 150 is a storage device that stores various data received from the communication device 130 via the Internet 160, that is, various data collected by the communication device 130. For example, the server 150 is accommodated in the development manufacturer of the MFP 10 or the cartridge 100. It is installed at a toner developer. By analyzing various data stored in the server 150, the development manufacturer can use the various data for developing the MFP 10 and developing toner, for example.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the MFP 10, the wireless IC tag 110, the communication device 130, and the server 150 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing electrical configurations of the MFP 10, the wireless IC tag 110, the communication device 130, and the server 150.

  The MFP 10 includes a CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, wireless communication interface (hereinafter referred to as “wireless communication I / F”) 14, network interface (hereinafter referred to as “network I / F”) 15, image forming unit 16, intermediate transfer. The body driving unit 17, density sensor 18, temperature sensor 19, humidity sensor 20, fixing unit 21, paper discharge unit 22, clock 23, operation key 24, and input / output port 25 are mainly included. The CPU 11, ROM 12 and RAM 13 are connected to each other by a bus line (not shown). The CPU 11, the ROM 12 and the RAM 13 and the devices 14 to 24 are connected to each other via the input / output port 25.

  The CPU 11 is a microprocessor that executes various programs stored in the ROM 12. The ROM 12 executes various programs executed by the CPU 11 (for example, the programs shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 4 and 5) and the programs. This is a read-only memory that stores constants and tables to be referenced.

  The ROM 12 is provided with a serial number area 12a and a test patch area 12b. The serial number area 12a stores serial numbers individually assigned to the MFP 10 at the time of factory shipment. Further, in the test patch area 12b, when an instruction to correct the density of an image printed on the printing paper (hereinafter referred to as “calibration”) is issued by the user by operating the operation key 24, the intermediate transfer member is driven. A plurality of densities (for example, low density, medium density) formed from cyan, magenta, yellow and black (hereinafter referred to as “four colors”) on an intermediate transfer member (not shown) driven by the unit 17 Test patch data used to form a test patch of high density).

  The RAM 13 is a readable / writable memory having a work area for temporarily storing variables and the like when the CPU 11 executes various programs. The RAM 13 is provided with a total print number area 13a. The total number of print sheets area 13a stores the total number of print sheets that have been installed in the cartridge 100 and that have been used for printing performed by the MFP 10 up to the present. The total number of sheets is stored according to the color of each toner used for printing.

  The wireless communication I / F 14 is an interface for performing wireless communication with the wireless IC tag 110 built in the cartridge 100, and includes an antenna 14a that transmits and receives radio waves used for wireless communication.

  The network I / F 15 is an interface that performs communication by connecting to a LAN line (not shown) or the Internet 160, for example.

  The image forming unit 16 mainly includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, and a laser irradiation device (all not shown). In the image forming unit 16, a cylindrical photosensitive drum is charged by a charging device, and the photosensitive drum is rotated around an axis. Then, the laser output from the laser irradiation device is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum according to the image to be printed (the image to be printed supplied by the CPU 11). Thereafter, the toner of each color contained in the cartridge 100 is attached to the photosensitive drum, and a toner image corresponding to the image to be printed is formed on the photosensitive drum.

  The intermediate transfer member driving unit 17 mainly includes an intermediate transfer member and a motor (not shown) for driving the intermediate transfer member. The intermediate transfer member is an elastic belt and is in surface contact with the photosensitive drum. By driving the intermediate transfer member with a motor, the surface-contacted photosensitive drum rotates about the axis, and the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum is transferred to the intermediate transfer member. The toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer member is attached to the printing paper and forms an image to be printed.

  Here, when the test patch data stored in the test patch area 12b is supplied by the CPU 11, the image forming unit 16 applies toner images corresponding to a plurality of dark test patches of four colors to the photosensitive drum. Formed and transferred to an intermediate transfer member. Thereby, the image forming unit 16 forms each test patch on the intermediate transfer member. Then, the density of each test patch formed on the intermediate transfer member is measured by a density sensor 18 described later. Then, the CPU 11 stores the measured density of each test patch in a predetermined area of the RAM 12. Then, for each of the four colors, the CPU 11 calculates the measured density at each density stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 12 with a function stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 12, specifically, when an image is printed on printing paper. Is converted into the first value using a function capable of calculating the density assumed in the above. Thereafter, the CPU 11 uses, for each of the four colors, the first value and the target value that is a target when the image is printed on the printing paper, and the image data (C, M, Y, K) to be printed. A correction table for correcting the density of the four colors of the data) is created. Then, when printing the image to be printed on the printing paper, the CPU 11 corrects the density of the image data to be printed using each created correction table, and prints the image to be printed on the printing paper.

  As described above, the density sensor 18 is a sensor that measures the density of a plurality of darkness test patches having four colors formed on an intermediate transfer member (not shown). The temperature sensor 19 is a sensor that measures the temperature inside the MFP 10 when each of the above-described test patches is formed on the intermediate transfer body, and the humidity sensor 20 is when the above-described each test patch is formed on the intermediate transfer body. This is a sensor for measuring the humidity inside the MFP 10.

  The fixing unit 21 is a device for heating and pressurizing and fixing the toner attached to the printing paper, and the paper discharge unit 22 discharges the printing paper on which the attached toner is thermally fixed to the outside of the MFP 10. It is a device for.

  The clock 23 is a device that measures the current date and time, and the operation key 24 is an input device for inputting a desired command to the MFP 10.

  As described above, the wireless IC tag 110 is built in the cartridge 100, and the wireless IC tag 110 mainly includes the CPU 111, the ROM 112, the RAM 113, the wireless communication I / F 114, the flash memory 115, and the input / output port 116. . The CPU 111, the ROM 112, and the RAM 113 are connected to each other by a bus line (not shown). The CPU 111, the ROM 112, and the RAM 113, the wireless communication I / F 114, and the flash memory 115 are connected to each other via the input / output port 116. The wireless IC tag 110 includes a battery (not shown) that supplies power to the devices 111 to 116. Accordingly, even when the cartridge 100 is removed from the MFP 10, the wireless IC tag 110 can operate.

  The CPU 111 is a microprocessor that executes various programs stored in the ROM 112. The ROM 112 is a read-only memory that stores various programs executed by the CPU 111 and constants and tables that are referred to when the programs are executed. is there.

  The ROM 112 is provided with a serial number area 112a and a maximum printable sheet number area 112b. In the serial number area 112a, serial numbers individually assigned to the cartridge 100 at the time of factory shipment are stored. Further, in the maximum printable number area 112b, the maximum number of sheets (hereinafter referred to as “maximum printable number”) on which an image can be printed on printing paper using toner stored in the cartridge 100 is toner. Is stored according to the color. The maximum printable sheet number stored in the maximum printable sheet number area 112b indicates whether the use stage of the cartridge 100, specifically, the use stage of the cases 100a to 100d belongs to the previous period, the middle period, or the latter period. Used when the CPU 11 makes the determination.

  Specifically, the CPU 11 assigns the usage stage of the cases 100a to 100d to any one of the first period, the middle period, and the second period depending on how many print sheets have been used up to the present with respect to the maximum printable number of sheets. . For example, if the maximum printable number of cyan toners is 1500, the CPU 11 determines that the cumulative number of print sheets that have been used with cyan toner has been “0 (zero)” to “499”. In some cases, the use stage of the case 100a is determined to be the previous period, and the use stage of the case 100a is determined when the cumulative number of print sheets using cyan toner has been “500” to “999” so far. Is determined to be the middle period, and the use stage of the case 100a is determined to be the latter period when the cumulative number of print sheets using cyan toner to date is “1000” to “1500”.

  The RAM 113 is a readable / writable memory having a work area for temporarily storing variables and the like when the CPU 111 executes various programs. The RAM 113 is provided with a read flag 113a. The read flag 113a is set to OFF when the cartridge 100 is shipped from the factory, while various data stored in the flash memory 115 are received by the communication device 130, and the wireless IC tag 110 receives a reception completion signal from the communication device 130. Is set to on. When the read flag 113a is set to ON, each data stored in the flash memory 115 is not transmitted from the wireless tag IC 110 to the communication device 130 thereafter. Therefore, data stored in the flash memory 115 can be transmitted only once, and consumption of a battery provided in the wireless IC tag 110 can be suppressed.

  The wireless communication I / F 114 is an interface for performing wireless communication with the wireless communication I / F 14 of the MFP 10 and the communication device 130 of the collection box 120, and includes an antenna 114a that transmits and receives radio waves used for wireless communication.

  The flash memory 115 is a readable / writable nonvolatile memory that stores data. The flash memory 115 is provided with a recording data area 115 a for recording various data from the MFP 10 received via the wireless communication I / F 114. Various data stored in the recording data area 115a will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The communication device 130 mainly includes a CPU 131, a ROM 132, a RAM 133, a wireless communication I / F 134, a hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as “HDD”) 135, a network I / F 136, and an input / output port 136. The CPU 131, the ROM 132, and the RAM 133 are connected to each other by a bus line (not shown). The CPU 131, the ROM 132, and the RAM 133, the wireless communication I / F 134, the HDD 135, and the network I / F 136 are connected to each other via the input / output port 136.

  The CPU 131, the ROM 132, and the RAM 133 are well-known devices. The wireless communication I / F 134 is an interface for performing wireless communication with the wireless communication I / F 114 of the wireless IC tag 110, and includes an antenna 134a that transmits and receives radio waves used for wireless communication.

  The HDD 135 is provided with a recording data area 135 a for recording various data recorded in the recording data area 115 a of the wireless IC tag 110 via the wireless communication I / F 134. Note that the recording data recorded in the recording data area 135a is the same data as the recording data recorded in the recording data area 115a of the wireless IC tag 110.

  The network I / F 136 is an interface for communicating with the server 150 via the Internet 160.

  The server 150 mainly includes a CPU 151, ROM 152, RAM 153, network I / F 154, HDD 155, and input / output port 156. The CPU 151, the ROM 152, and the RAM 153 are connected to each other by a bus line (not shown). The CPU 151, ROM 152, and RAM 153, the network I / F 154, the HDD 155, and the input / output port 156 are connected to each other via the input / output port 156.

  The CPU 151, the ROM 152, and the RAM 153 are well-known devices. The network I / F 154 is an interface for communicating with the communication device 130 of the collection box 120 via the Internet 160. The HDD 155 is provided with a recording data area 155a for recording the recording data when the recording data recorded in the recording data area 135a of the communication apparatus 130 is received via the network I / F 154. Note that the recording data recorded in the recording data area 155a is the same as the recording data recorded in the recording data area 135a of the communication device 130, that is, the recording data stored in the recording data area 115a of the wireless IC tag 110. Is the same data.

  Next, recording data recorded in the recording data area 115a of the wireless IC tag 110 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the contents of the recording data recorded in the recording data area 115a.

  The recording data area 115a includes an MFP serial number recording area 115a1, a first-term measurement density average data recording area 115a2, a middle-term measurement density average data recording area 115a3, a second-term measurement density average data recording area 115a4, a first-term measurement data recording area 115a5, and a middle-term measurement. Seven recording areas, a data recording area 115a6 and a late measurement data recording area 115a7, are provided.

  The MFP serial number recording area 115a1 is an area for recording a serial number when the serial number of the MFP 10 stored in the serial number area 12a is received via the wireless communication I / F 114.

  Six recording areas 115a2 to 115a7 are provided for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, respectively, corresponding to cases 100a to 100d. Here, the data items stored in each of the previous measured density average data recording areas 115a2 are common for cyan, magenta, yellow and black. The same applies to the other recording areas 115a3 to 115a7. Therefore, with respect to the above-described six areas, explanations of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black are omitted, and the cyan storage areas 115a2 to 115a7 are explained as representatives.

  The previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is an area for recording various data acquired by the CPU 11 after calibration is performed when the use stage of the case 100a is the previous stage.

  The first measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is provided with a storage area, and various data acquired by the CPU 11 when calibration is performed is recorded in the storage area. This storage area is an area created by the CPU 11 when calibration is performed. In FIG. 3, a total of k storage areas from storage area 1 to storage area k are provided in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. The various data recorded in the storage area 1 is the oldest data (the data with the earliest date and time), and the various data recorded in the storage area k is the newest data (the data with the latest date and time). Is).

  The storage area will be described. Since the items of various data recorded in each storage area are common to each storage area, the storage area 1 will be described as a representative. The storage area 1 includes a measurement number indicating the total number of times of calibration, the date and time of calibration, and the total number of print sheets used for printing using cyan toner. The total number of printed sheets, the temperature and humidity inside the MFP 10 at the time of calibration, and the measured densities of the cyan test patches formed at the respective densities are recorded.

  Here, a count value of a counter (not shown) that counts the cumulative number of times of calibration is recorded in the measurement number. This counter may be provided in the RAM 13 as a software counter, or a mechanical counter may be provided in the MFP 10. In this case, every time calibration is performed, the CPU 11 acquires the count value of the software counter or the mechanical counter, and records the acquired count value in the measurement number.

  When the cartridge 100 is replaced, the CPU 11 resets the count value of the software counter or the mechanical counter to zero. This is realized by the following configuration. That is, when the cartridge 100 is mounted, the CPU 11 acquires the serial number of the cartridge 100 from the serial number area 112 a of the wireless IC tag 110 and stores the serial number in a predetermined area of the RAM 13. Then, when the cartridge 100 is removed and the cartridge 100 is mounted again, the CPU 11 acquires the serial number of the mounted cartridge 100 from the wireless IC tag 110. At this time, the CPU 11 compares the serial number stored in the predetermined area of the RAM 13 with the serial number acquired from the wireless IC tag 110 to determine whether the cartridge 100 has been replaced with another one or not. It can be determined whether it has just been removed. By this determination, the CPU 11 can reset the count value of the software counter or the mechanical counter to zero when the cartridge 100 is replaced.

  The medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6 is an area in which various data acquired by the CPU 11 after calibration is performed when the use stage of the case 100a is in the middle stage.

  The medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6 is provided with a total of m storage areas from storage area 1 to storage area m, similar to the previous-period measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. In addition, various data acquired by the CPU 11 is recorded.

  The items of various data recorded in each storage area provided in the medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6 are the same as the storage areas provided in the previous-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. Description is omitted. The measurement number recorded in the medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6 records the cumulative number of times of calibration as described above, so it was recorded in the previous-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. The continuation number of the measurement number is recorded.

  The late measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a7 is an area for recording various data acquired by the CPU 11 after being calibrated when the use stage of the case 100a is the late stage.

  In the latter measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a7, a total of n storage areas from the storage area 1 to the storage area n are provided in the same manner as the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. In addition, various data acquired by the CPU 11 is recorded.

  Since the items of various data recorded in each storage area provided in the later measurement data recording area 115a7 are the same as the respective storage areas provided in the previous measurement data recording area 115a5, description thereof will be omitted. The measurement number recorded in the late measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a7 records the cumulative number of times of calibration as described above, so it was recorded in the medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6. The continuation number of the measurement number is recorded.

  Here, the measurement numbers recorded in the respective measurement data recording areas (for cyan) 115a5 to 115a7 are not consecutive numbers, but are numbers given independently for the respective measurement data recording areas (for cyan) 115a5 to 115a7. But it ’s okay.

  The previous measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a2 is provided corresponding to the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. Further, the medium-term measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a3 corresponds to the medium-term measured data recording area (for cyan) 115a6, and the late-term measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a4 is the latter-stage measured data recording area. (For cyan) 115a7 is provided.

  The previous measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a2 is an area in which data is recorded when the CPU 11 processes various data stored in each storage area of the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. Specifically, the CPU 11 uses the measured density of the cyan test patch recorded in each storage area of the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 in the previous measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a2. The average value of the measured density (average measured density) and the total number of data used when calculating the average value are recorded in correspondence with the density of the test patch. Note that the total number of data recorded in the measured density average data recording area 115a2 in the previous period indicates the cumulative number of calibrations performed until the average value is calculated when the use stage of the case 100a is in the previous period. ing.

  The medium-term measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a3 is an area in which data is recorded when the CPU 11 processes various data stored in each storage area of the medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6. The average value recorded in the medium-term measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a3 is the average value calculated by the CPU 11 when the use stage of the case 100a is the middle stage (the use stage of the case 100a is the middle stage). (Average value only at the time) and is calculated by the same process as in the case of the measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a2 in the previous period. Note that the total number of data recorded in the medium-term measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a3 is the number of calibrations performed until the average value is calculated when the use stage of the case 100a is in the middle stage. The cumulative number is shown.

  The late measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a4 is an area in which data is recorded when the CPU 11 processes various data stored in each storage area of the late measured data recording area (for cyan) 115a7. The average value recorded in the late measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a4 is the average value calculated by the CPU 11 when the use stage of the case 100a is the late stage (the use stage of the case 100a is the late stage). (Average value only at the time) and is calculated by the same process as in the case of the measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a2 in the previous period. Note that the total number of data recorded in the late measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a4 is the number of calibrations performed up to the time of calculating the average value when the use stage of the case 100a is the late stage. The cumulative number is shown.

  Next, a main process executed by the CPU 11 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the main process. This main process is executed when the operation key 24 is operated by the user of the MFP 10 and the execution of calibration is instructed.

  In the main process, first, the CPU 11 controls the image forming unit 16 to form four-color test patches formed from a plurality of densities on an intermediate transfer member (not shown) (S1). Then, the CPU 11 uses the density sensor 18 to measure the density of each formed test patch (S2). Next, the CPU 11 acquires the value of the temperature sensor 19 and the value of the humidity sensor 20 (S3). By this process, the CPU 11 detects the temperature inside the MFP 10 and also detects the humidity inside the MFP 10.

  Thereafter, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the serial number of the MFP 10 is recorded in the MFP serial number recording area 115a1 of the wireless IC tag 110 (S4). If the CPU 11 determines that the serial number of the MFP 10 is not recorded in the MFP serial number recording area 115a1 (S4: No), the CPU 11 sets the serial number of the MFP 10 in preparation for recording the serial number of the MFP 10 in the MFP serial number recording area 115a1. The serial number is acquired from the serial number area 12a (S5), and the process proceeds to S6. On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that the serial number of the MFP 10 is recorded in the MFP serial number recording area 115a1 (S4: Yes), the process proceeds to S6.

  In the process of S6, the CPU 11 acquires the current date and time from the clock 23 (S6), and prepares to record the date and time of calibration in the recording data area 115a. Then, the CPU 11 obtains the total number of print sheets used for printing performed by the MFP 10 after the cartridge 100 is mounted for four colors from the total print number area 13a (S7), and the case 100a. Prepare to determine use stage of ~ 100d. Then, the CPU 11 proceeds to a recording process that is a process of recording various data acquired by the above-described process in the recording data area 115a (S8).

  Note that the total number of the four colors acquired in the process of S7 is determined as follows. For example, when only the black toner contained in the case 100d is used for printing on the printing paper, the CPU 11 counts only the total number of sheets (for black) stored in the total number of printed sheets area 13a. Up, and performs processing without counting up the other total number of sheets (for cyan, magenta, and yellow). By the process of the CPU 11, the total number of sheets for the four colors acquired in the process of S7 is determined.

  Next, a recording process executed by the CPU 11 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of the recording process. This recording process is executed for each of the cases 100a to 100d. However, in order to facilitate understanding of the invention, in FIG. 5, the recording process is performed for the case 100a containing cyan toner. The case where it is performed will be described as a representative.

  In the recording process, first, the CPU 11 obtains the cyan maximum printable number from the maximum printable number area 112b, and then performs the process of S7 based on the number obtained by dividing the maximum printable number by 3 (first threshold). It is determined whether or not the cyan total number obtained in (see FIG. 4) is small (S21). If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of sheets is smaller than the first threshold (S21: Yes), it determines that the use stage of the case 100a is the previous period and records various data acquired in the main process (see FIG. 4). The recording area is set to the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5, and the area for recording the average value and the total number of data is set to the previous measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a2 (S22).

  On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines in the process of S21 that the total number of cyan colors is equal to or greater than the first threshold (S21: No), the maximum number of cyan printable sheets is divided by 3, and the divided number It is determined whether the total number of cyan colors is smaller than the number obtained by adding 2 to (second threshold) (S23).

  If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of sheets is smaller than the second threshold (S23: Yes), it determines that the use stage of the case 100a is in the middle period and records various data acquired in the main process (see FIG. 4). The recording area is set to the medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6, and the area for recording the average value and the total number of data is set to the medium-term measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a3 (S24). On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that the total number of cyan colors is greater than or equal to the second threshold (S23: No), the CPU 11 determines that the use stage of the case 100a is in the later stage, and is acquired in the main process (see FIG. 4). The recording area for recording the various data is set in the late measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a7, and the area for recording the average value and the total number of data is set in the late measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a4. (S25).

  Next, the CPU 11 stores the average value stored in correspondence with the density of the test patch from one of the measured density average data recording areas 115a2, 115a3, and 115a4 set in any of the processes of S22, S24, and S25. And get the total number of data. Then, the CPU 11 multiplies the average value by the total number of data for each darkness of the test patch, adds the current measured density to the multiplied value, and adds the added value to the total number of data by 1. Process to divide. In this process, the CPU 11 sets each value calculated for each darkness of the test patch as a new average value for each darkness (S26).

  When the calibration is performed for the first time after the cartridge 100 is mounted on the MFP 10, the average value and the total number of data acquired from the measured density average data recording area are “0 (zero)”, respectively.

  Next, the CPU 11 adds 1 to the total number of data acquired in the process of S26, and sets the added value as a new total number of data (S27). Thereafter, the CPU 11 records the total number of data set in the process of S27 in advance in one of the measurement data recording areas 115a5, 115a6, and 115a7 set in any of the processes of S22, S24, or S25. It is determined whether or not the number of possible data is exceeded (S28). The recordable data number indicates the maximum recordable number in the storage area. The recordable data number includes the capacity of each of the measurement data recording areas 115a5, 115a6, and 115a7, and various data stored in the storage area. Based on the total data amount, the CPU 11 determines the measurement data recording areas 115a5, 115a6, and 115a7.

  If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of data set in the process of S27 exceeds the recordable data number (S28: Yes), the measurement data recording area set in any of the processes of S22, S24 or S25. Every other storage area 2, which is the second storage area recorded in, is deleted every other data in the storage area, and when the processing up to the last storage area is completed, the storage areas are packed together (S29). Thereafter, the CPU 11 proceeds to the process of S30. Details of the process of S29 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that the total number of data set in the process of S27 does not exceed the number of recordable data (S28: No), the measurement data set in any of the processes of S22, S24, or S25. A storage area is created at the end of the recording area, and various data are added (S34). The various data to be added include the measurement number, the measured density for each darkness of the cyan test patch acquired in S2 of the main process (FIG. 4), the temperature and humidity acquired in S3. , The date and time when the calibration acquired in the process of S6 was performed, and the total number of cyan total acquired in the process of S7. However, if the serial number of the MFP 10 is not recorded on the cartridge 100, the CPU 11 records the serial number of the MFP 10 acquired in the process of S34 and further in the process of S5 in the MFP serial number recording area 115a1.

  After the process of S30, the CPU 11 records the average value and the total number of data for each density set in the process of S26 in the measured density average data recording area set in any of the processes of S22, S24, or S25. (S31). The CPU 11 ends the recording process after the process of S31, and then ends the main process (see FIG. 4).

  As described above, the CPU 11 calculates the new average value for each darkness as the average value for each darkness recorded in the measured density average data recording area set in one of the processes of S22, S24, or S25. Set using the total number of data. Therefore, in the process of S29, every other data in the storage area recorded in the measurement data recording area set in any of the processes of S22, S24 or S25 is deleted from the second storage area every other one. However, the CPU 11 can set a new average value for each darkness using the average value for each darkness before deletion. Therefore, the new average value for each darkness can be an accurate value with little error.

  Further, the CPU 11 uses the maximum printable sheet number acquired from the maximum printable sheet number area 112b and the total number of sheets acquired in the process S7 of the main process (see FIG. 4) to determine the use stage of the cases 100a to 100d. It is judged whether it is the first term, the middle term or the second term. And according to the determination, CPU11 records the various data acquired by the main process in any one of each measurement data recording area 115a5-115a7. Therefore, the developer manufacturer of the MFP 10 and the developer developer of the toner can grasp a large number of relationships between the use stages of the cases 100a to 100d and various data.

  Next, the details of the process performed in S29 of the recording process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing the processing performed in S29 in time series. Here, in FIG. 6, the recording area set in the recording process (see FIG. 5) is the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 and the number of recordable data is “16”. When the recording area set in the recording process is the medium-term measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a6 or the latter-stage measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a7, the previous-term measurement data recording area (cyan) described in FIG. The same processing as that performed on 115a5 is performed in the recording processing in S29. In the other measurement data recording areas, the same processing as that of the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is performed.

  In the process of S29 of the recording process, the CPU 11 performs the process in the order of (b) → (c) → (d) in FIG. 6 from the state in FIG. 6 (a). In the state of FIG. 6A, the storage areas recorded in the first measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 are 16 in total, and the current number of storage areas and the number of recordable data are the same. Therefore, the CPU 11 cannot record newly acquired various data. Therefore, the CPU 11 performs processing for deleting various data in the storage area every other storage area 16 from the second storage area recorded in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. As a result of this processing, various data in the storage areas 2, 4... 16 are deleted, and the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is in the state shown in FIG. In this state, the storage area recorded in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is the storage area of storage areas 1, 3... 15 and storage areas 2, 4. The area is an empty area.

  Next, the CPU 11 performs a process of filling the storage areas 1, 3,. By this processing, the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is in the state shown in FIG. 6C, and an empty area is generated in the area after the storage area 15. Finally, as shown in FIG. 6 (d), the CPU 11 creates a new storage area 17 next to the storage area 15, that is, at the end of the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. The acquired various data is recorded in the storage area 17. If the CPU 11 acquires new various data again after recording the storage area 17, the CPU 11 creates a new storage area 18 (not shown) next to the storage area 17 and acquires the various data again. Is stored in the storage area 18. The CPU 11 repeats this, and when the number of storage areas and the number of recordable data match again, in S29 of the recording process, the processes shown in FIGS. 6B to 6D are performed again.

  In this way, every time the current number of storage areas and the number of recordable data match, the CPU 11 performs the second storage recorded in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 in the process of S29 of the recording process. The process of deleting various data in the storage area every other area is repeated. This increases the chances of deleting the storage area recorded at the previous date and time in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5. In other words, the opportunity to delete the storage area recorded at the later date and time in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 is reduced. Therefore, the storage area recorded at a later date and time than the storage area recorded at the previous date and time can be left with priority over the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5.

  Further, the CPU 11 deletes various data in the storage area every other one from the second storage area recorded in the previous measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 in the process of S29 of the recording process, and remains. After the storage areas are packed together, the newly acquired data is again recorded in order, so here again the storage areas recorded at a later date and time than the storage area recorded at the previous date and time are measured in the previous period. The data recording area (for cyan) 115a5 can be preferentially recorded.

  Here, in particular, the toner contained in the cartridge 100 is first used with small particles, and the toner with large particles is used as the remaining amount decreases. Therefore, even if the CPU 11 sets a constant printing density, the density printed on the printing paper tends to increase as the remaining amount of toner decreases. Since the correction table and the like are used to suppress this tendency, the development manufacturer of the MFP 10 and the developer of the toner who develop the correction table and the like develop more than various data recorded at the previous date and time. In particular, various data recorded at a later date and time are required. Further, various data recorded at a later date and time are more difficult to obtain than various data recorded at a previous date and time.

  Focusing on this, in the MFP 10 of the present embodiment, in each use stage of the cases 100a to 100d, the storage area recorded at the date and time later than the storage area recorded at the previous date and time is the previous measurement data recording area ( (For cyan) 115a5 can be preferentially recorded. As described above, in the MFP 10 according to the present embodiment, for each use stage of the cases 100a to 100d, the storage areas recorded at the later date and time are preferentially recorded in the measurement data recording areas 115a5 to 115a7, so that Various data that are particularly necessary for the development of a correction table or the like for suppressing such a tendency can be recorded with priority.

  Furthermore, as described above, as the remaining amount of toner stored in the cartridge 100 decreases, the toner used in one printing tends to vary, so the density printed on the printing paper tends to vary. It is in. The information that is important for suppressing this variation is various data recorded at a later date and time than various data recorded at an earlier date and time.

  Focusing on this, in the MFP 10 of the present embodiment, for each use stage of the cases 100a to 100d, the storage area recorded at a later date and time is preferentially recorded in the measurement data recording areas 115a5 to 115a7. Therefore, according to the MFP 10 of the present embodiment, various types of data that are particularly important for suppressing variation in density printed on the printing paper can be recorded with priority.

  As described above, in the MFP 10 of the present embodiment, the CPU 11 causes the temperature sensor 19 to detect the temperature inside the MFP 10 when the test patch is formed on the intermediate transfer member (not shown), and the humidity inside the MFP 10 at that time is detected. Let the humidity sensor 20 detect it. In addition, the density sensor 18 detects the density of the test patch formed on the intermediate transfer member. Then, the CPU 11 associates the temperature and humidity inside the MFP 10 detected by the sensors 18 to 20 and the measured density of each test patch, and stores them in the recording data area 115 a of the wireless IC tag 110. By collecting the cartridge 100 with the wireless IC tag 110 attached from the collection box 120 and collecting various data stored in the recording data area 115a, the development manufacturer of the MFP 10 and the developer of the toner can control the temperature inside the MFP 10. And a large number of measured concentrations of each test patch can be easily collected.

  Further, in the MFP 10 of the present embodiment, the total number of print sheets used for printing performed by the MFP 10 in addition to the measured density of each test patch is stored in the storage areas of the measurement data recording areas 115a5 to 115a7. Records corresponding to the color of the toner. Here, in a printing apparatus, in general, the total number of print sheets used for printing and the toner usage status (toner consumption) have a certain relationship represented by, for example, a proportional relationship. appear. Therefore, by collecting the total number of print sheets used, the developer manufacturer of MFP 10 and the developer manufacturer of toner can grasp the toner usage status. Accordingly, the developer manufacturer of the MFP 10 and the developer manufacturer of the toner can grasp a large number of relationships between the toner usage status and the measured density of each test patch.

  Next, recording data stored in the recording data area 115a by the data collection system 200 (not shown) of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the contents of various data recorded in the recording data area 115a by the data collection system 200 of the second embodiment. Note that the data collection system 200 of the second embodiment is different from the data collection system 1 of the first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. The other configuration and processing are the same as those of the data collection system 1 of the first embodiment except for skipping of processing.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the recording data area 115a of the data collection system of the second embodiment, the MFP serial number recording area 115a1, the whole-period measurement density average data recording area 115a8, and the all-period measurement data recording area 115a9 are included. A recording area is provided.

  The two areas of the all-period measurement density average data recording area 115a8 and the all-period measurement data recording area 115a9 are provided for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, respectively, corresponding to the cases 100a to 100d. . Here, the data items stored in the all-period measured density average data recording area 115a8 are common for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. The same applies to each whole-period measurement data recording area 115a9. Therefore, as a representative, the storage areas 115a8 and 115a9 for cyan will be described.

  The all-period measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a9 is acquired by the CPU 11 when calibration is performed during the entire period from the start of use of the case 100a to the end of use regardless of the use stage of the case 100a. This is an area for recording various data. That is, the whole-period measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a9 differs from the data collection system 1 of the first embodiment in that various data acquired by the CPU 11 when calibration is performed are stored in the use stage of the case 100a. This is an area to be recorded without being divided.

  The contents of various data (measurement number, date, date and time, total number of printed sheets, temperature, humidity and measured density) recorded in the storage areas 1 to z provided in the all-period measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a9 are as follows: The contents are the same as those of the measurement data recording areas 115a5 to 115a7 in FIG.

  The all-period measurement density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a8 is provided for the all-period measurement data recording area (for cyan) 115a9. The all-period measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a8 is an area in which data when the MFP 10 processes various data stored in each storage area of the all-period measured data recording area (for cyan) 115a9 is recorded. is there. Specifically, in the all-period measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a8, the CPU 11 calculates the measured density of the cyan test patch recorded in each storage area of the all-period measured data recording area 115a9. The average value of the measured density (average measured density) and the total number of data used when calculating the average value are recorded corresponding to the density of the test patch. Note that the total number of data recorded in the all-period measured density average data recording area (for cyan) 115a8 indicates the cumulative number of calibrations performed until the average value is calculated.

  Here, as described above, also in the data collection system 200 of the second embodiment, the CPU 11 executes main processing and recording processing (see FIGS. 4 and 5). However, in the data collection system 200 of the second embodiment, as described above, various data when calibration is performed is recorded in the recording data area 115a without being divided into use stages of the cases 100a to 100d. Skips the processes of S21 to S25 in the recording process of FIG. However, since the CPU 11 deletes the storage area by executing the processing after S26, particularly the processing of S29, the storage area recorded at the later date is prioritized over the storage area recorded at the previous date. It can be recorded in the whole-period measurement data recording area 115a9. Therefore, during the period (later period) during which the remaining amount of toner tends to decrease and the density printed on the printing paper tends to increase, that is, during the period when the remaining amount of toner decreases (later period) Various data can be preferentially recorded.

  As described above, in the data collection system 200 of the second embodiment, the storage area is deleted by performing the process of S29. However, when the recording data area 115a has a relatively large capacity, the recording data area 115a is stored in the wireless IC tag. If a plurality of devices can be mounted on the CPU 110, the CPU 11 may skip the processing of S28 and S29 in FIG. In this case, the CPU 11 does not delete all the various data acquired by the CPU 11 when calibration is performed during the entire period from the start of use of toner to the end of use. Can be recorded. Accordingly, the developer manufacturer of the MFP 10 and the developer manufacturer of the toner can collect a large number of various data easily.

  Although the present invention has been described based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various improvements and modifications can be easily made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Can be inferred.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the CPU 11 records the total number of printed sheets in each of the measurement data recording areas 115a to 115a7 and the full-period measurement data recording area 115a9. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, instead of the total number of printed sheets, the accumulated usage amount of toner and the remaining amount of toner may be recorded. In this case, it is only necessary to detect the cumulative usage amount of toner and the remaining amount of toner with the following configuration. That is, the case 100a to 100d accommodates a first window through which light is incident and a second window through which the light incident from the first window passes and the transmitted light is transmitted. A plurality of sets are provided in the direction in which the toner decreases. Then, the CPU 11 may make light incident on each first window and detect the cumulative amount of toner used and the remaining amount of toner based on the number of lights transmitted through the second window. According to this configuration, the developer manufacturer of the MFP 10 or the developer manufacturer of the toner does not directly relate the relationship between the toner usage state and the measured density of each test patch as in the case where the total number of printed sheets is recorded. Many can be grasped.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the CPU 11 calculates a new average value for each darkness in the process of S26 of the recording process (see FIG. 5). However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is not a thing. That is, in the process of S26, the CPU 11 calculates the average value of the temperature and the average value of the humidity using the temperature and the humidity recorded in the storage area in addition to the calculation of the new average value for each darkness. Also good. In this case, the CPU 11 calculates the average value of temperature and the average value of humidity calculated in the process of S26, and the measured density average data recording area set in any of the processes of S22, S24, or S25 in the process of S31. What is necessary is just to record to 115a2-115a4 or whole period measured density average data recording area 115a8.

  In the above case, the following content is added to the processing content of S26. That is, when calculating the average value of the temperature, the “average value” described in the process of S26 (see FIG. 5) is changed to “the average value of the recorded temperature” and described in the process of S26. The process of changing the “current measured concentration” to “current measured temperature” may be added to the process of S26. Also, when calculating the average value of humidity, the “average value” described in the process of S26 (see FIG. 5) is changed to “average value of recorded humidity” and described in the process of S26. What is necessary is just to add the process which changed "this measurement density | concentration" currently performed to "this measurement humidity" to the process of S26.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the image forming unit 16 forms the test patch on the intermediate transfer member. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the test patch is formed on the printing paper. Also good. In the case of this configuration, the density sensor 18 can measure the density of the test patch formed on the printing paper, so that the correction density when printing the image to be printed on the printing paper can be more accurately performed. Can do. In this case, the printing paper corresponds to the forming medium in the present invention.

  In the first and second embodiments described above, an intermediate transfer type laser printer is used for the printing function of the MFP 10, but instead, a direct transfer type laser printer may be used. . In this case, the test patch is formed on a conveyance belt that conveys the printing paper. In this case, the conveyance belt corresponds to the forming medium in the present invention.

  In the first and second embodiments described above, the printer used for the printing function of the MFP 10 is a laser printer, but is not limited to this. That is, the printer used for the printing function of the MFP 10 may be an ink jet printer instead of the laser printer.

  The MFP 10 in each embodiment corresponds to the printing apparatus in the present invention, and the CPU 11 and the test patch area 12b in each embodiment correspond to the test image data supply unit in the present invention. Further, the image forming unit 16 and the intermediate transfer body driving unit 17 of each embodiment correspond to the printing unit in the present invention, and the density sensor 18 of each embodiment corresponds to the density information detecting unit in the present invention.

  Further, the temperature sensor 19 and the humidity sensor 20 of each embodiment correspond to the environment information detection means in the present invention, and the processing of S7 in the main processing of each embodiment corresponds to the generation means in the present invention. Further, the processes of S21 and S23 in the recording process of each embodiment correspond to the determination unit in the present invention, and the process of S26 in the recording process of each embodiment corresponds to the calculation unit in the present invention. The process of S28 in the recording process of each embodiment corresponds to the storage determination unit of the present invention, and the recording process of each embodiment corresponds to the control unit of the present invention.

(A) is the figure which showed the outline of the data collection system in one Embodiment of this invention, (b) is sectional drawing of the collection | recovery box in the Ib-Ib line. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of an MFP, a cartridge, a communication device, and a server. It is the figure which showed typically the content of the recording data recorded on a recording data area. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of main processing executed by an MFP. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of recording processing executed by an MFP. It is the figure which showed typically the process performed by S29 in time series. It is the figure which showed typically the content of the various data recorded on a recording data area | region by the data collection system of 2nd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

10 MFP (an example of a printing device)
11 CPU (an example of part of test image data supply means)
12b Test patch area (an example of part of test image data supply means)
16 Image forming unit (an example of part of printing means)
17 Intermediate transfer member driving unit (an example of part of printing means)
18 Density sensor (an example of density information detection means)
19 Temperature sensor (an example of part of environmental information detection means)
20 Humidity sensor (an example of part of environmental information detection means)
100 cartridge S7 main processing (an example of generating means)
S21, S23 Recording process (an example of determination means)
S26 Recording process (an example of calculation means)
S28 Recording process (an example of storage determination means)
Recording process (an example of control means)

Claims (8)

A printing apparatus that accommodates a color material and is detachably mounted with a cartridge having a storage device,
Printing means for forming an image according to the supplied image data on a recording medium using the color material contained in the cartridge;
Test image data supply means for supplying test image data representing a test image to the printing means;
Environmental information detection means for detecting environmental information relating to the environment when the printing means forms the test image on a forming medium according to the test image data;
Density information detection means for detecting density information indicating the density of the test image formed on the forming medium;
A printing apparatus comprising: control means for storing the environmental information and the density information in association with each other in a storage device of the cartridge. Further comprising generating means for generating use-related information related to the use of the color material contained in the cartridge,
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit further stores the use-related information in the storage device in association with the environment information and the density information.   The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the use-related information indicates a cumulative number of the recording media used during a period in which the cartridge is mounted. Further comprising generating means for generating use-related information related to the use of the color material contained in the cartridge,
The control means further includes
Using the use-related information, comprising a determination means for determining which of a plurality of stages the use stage of the cartridge belongs to;
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stores the environmental information and the density information in the storage device at each stage determined by the determination unit. The control means includes
Storage judgment means for judging whether the newly detected environmental state and the concentration information can be added to the storage device and stored;
Whenever it is determined that the control means cannot be additionally stored in the storage device, the control means is arranged in predetermined order in the order of detection time from the plurality of sets of the environmental information and the concentration information already stored in the storage device. 5. The set of the environment information and the concentration information is deleted, and the newly detected environment information and the concentration information are stored in the storage device. Printing device. The control means further includes
An average value of the environmental information and an average value of the density information are calculated and stored in the storage device when the newly detected set of the environmental information and the concentration information is stored in the storage device. Yes,
The control means further includes
When storing the newly detected set of the environmental information and the concentration information in the storage device, the two average values already stored in the storage device and the two average values are calculated. And calculating the average value of the environmental information and the average value of the density information in which the new environmental information and the density information are included in the calculation target, using the number of sets of the environmental information and the density information. 6. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising means.   The control unit stores all sets of the environmental information and the density information detected after the use of the color material contained in the cartridge is started in the storage device. 5. The printing apparatus according to any one of 4. The environmental information includes temperature information and humidity information,
The environmental information detection means includes
A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature information indicating a temperature at which the printing unit forms the test image;
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a humidity sensor that detects the humidity information indicating humidity when the printing unit forms the test image.

Images