JP2010167577A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To contribute the environmental preservation of the earth, practically, to provide an instrument using guidance for decreasing the amount of emission of CO<SB>2</SB>to a user of an image forming apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus, which is equipped with a plurality of kinds of paper sheets of different qualities of materials and forms an image with a developer on the paper sheet of a designated kind, includes: an inputting means 112, PC1, by which the user selects one kind of a paper sheet among a plurality of the kinds for forming the image; an informing means 112, PC1, which recommends to select another kind of a paper sheet when an influence value CO<SB>2</SB>to the environment of the earth in the case of consuming the selected kind of the paper sheet for image formation is larger than that in the case of consuming another kind of the paper sheet among a plurality of the kinds of the paper sheets for the image formation; and a designation means 111 which, when the user selects another kind of a paper sheet by the inputting means in accordance with recommendation by the informing means, designates it for forming the image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus having a CO ₂ emission reduction guidance function. The present invention provides, for example, an electrophotographic printer, a copying machine, and the like that form an electrostatic latent image on a photosensitive member and develop it into a toner image and transfer it directly or indirectly to a sheet via an intermediate transfer member. In addition to the image forming function, the present invention can be implemented in a multifunction device having a communication function for exchanging document information with an external terminal (for example, a personal computer PC, a server, a portable communication device, or another multifunction device) by electronic communication.

  As the functions of image forming apparatuses such as copying machines, multifunction machines, printers, and facsimile machines become higher, technology for enabling users to use the equipment correctly and efficiently becomes more important. Yes. Many inventions for these are also found in the prior art. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an electronic device, a program, and a memory that support the correction of a user's erroneous input by executing an optimum guidance output to correct the erroneous input when an input error occurs during a user operation in the electronic device. The medium is described. The inventions described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 are similar in structure and purpose, although there are some differences, and point out logical / functional mistakes during operation and notify the correct operation method. It relates to the guidance function.

  However, in 1997, the so-called “Kyoto Protocol”, which set specific numerical targets for greenhouse gas emissions from developed countries at the Global Warming Prevention Conference, was agreed and entered into force in 2005. It has become indispensable for not only local governments but also businesses and individuals to voluntarily make and implement greenhouse gas emission reduction plans, and to grasp and evaluate the results.

  For example, Patent Document 4 describes a process for a user to start using a product for the purpose of calculating an environmental load value related to manufacture of an OA device such as a personal computer PC, a printer, a copier, or a facsimile, individually or as an aggregate (system). An environmental load value calculation support method and apparatus for constructing a database storing environmental load values for each process of manufacturing, sales, and transportation and calculating the environmental load value of manufacturing and sales using the database are presented.

By the way, in the case of an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet, the estimated CO ₂ emission amount varies depending on the user's device usage mode. Therefore, the device usage guidance for reducing CO ₂ emission in the user's device usage. Is desired.

An object of the present invention is to contribute to global environmental conservation. More specifically, an object of the present invention is to provide equipment use guidance for reducing a global environmental impact value, for example, CO ₂ emissions, to an image forming apparatus user. To do.

(1) An image forming apparatus equipped with a plurality of types of paper of different materials and forming a developer image on a specified type of paper,
An input means (112) for a user to select one of the plurality of types of paper for image formation;
The global environmental impact value (CO ₂ ) when the selected type of paper is imaged and consumed is greater than the global environmental impact value when the other types of paper among the multiple types are imaged and consumed Notification means (111, 112) for soliciting the selection of the other type of paper (302 in FIG. 5); and
An image forming apparatus (MF1) comprising means (112, 111) for designating image forming when the user selects the other type of paper by the input means in response to the solicitation of the notification means.

  In addition, in order to make an understanding easy, the code | symbol or corresponding matter of the corresponding | compatible element of the Example shown in drawing and mentioned later in parentheses was added as reference for reference. The same applies to the following.

The user can perform image formation with a low global environmental impact value (CO ₂ ) by selecting the paper type according to the solicitation of the notification means (111, 112).

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a LAN system to which a multifunction printer MF1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of an internal configuration of a multifunction printer MF1. FIG. It is a flowchart showing the outline of the operation display control and CO ₂ emission calculating process performed by the system controller 111 shown in FIG. Is displayed on the front panel operation display unit 112 shown in FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an initial setting screen and actual display screen for CO ₂ emissions calculated. In response to the user print instruction is a plan view showing a screen that displays the CO ₂ emission calculation value corresponding to the guidance and print result to reduce CO ₂ emissions. It is a flowchart which shows the function outline | summary of the application software (multifunction machine use software) which uses MF1 of personal computer PC1 shown in FIG. Description of the operation display control and CO ₂ emission amount calculation process by the system control 111 of the second embodiment of the present invention is a flow chart showing. In the second embodiment, a screen displaying the calculated value of CO ₂ emission corresponding to the printing result and the integrated value of the calculated CO ₂ emission of one multifunction printer MF1 displayed on the front panel operation display unit 112 is shown. It is a top view.

(2) The image forming apparatus (MF1) includes a single-sided recording function and a double-sided recording function, and an input unit (112) for allowing the user to select one of the single-sided recording function and the double-sided recording function for image formation;
The notification means (111, 112) solicits the selection of the double-sided recording function when the single-sided recording function is selected (301 in FIG. 5);
The image forming apparatus according to (1), further comprising means (112, 111) for designating image forming when the user selects a double-sided recording function by the input means in response to the solicitation;

  The user can perform image formation with a low global environmental impact value by selecting double-sided recording in accordance with solicitation of notification means (301 in FIG. 5).

  (3) The informing means (111, 112) performs a plurality of selection solicitations step by step including a selection solicitation for the other type of paper and a selection solicitation for the double-sided recording function (FIG. 5); Image forming apparatus.

  According to this, the contents of solicitation notifications provided for reducing the global environmental impact value are not displayed all at once, but in stages. For example, a screen of a selection format is prepared for each user. The user responds to the proposal content from the image forming apparatus. This has the effect of making effective use of the in-device resources for realizing the basic functions of the image forming apparatus and making it easy to understand the contents of the solicitation display, which is practical without increasing the cost.

  (4) The notification means (111, 112) notifies the global environmental influence value of the paper when an image is formed on the designated type of paper (304 in FIG. 5); the above (1) to (3) The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.

  The user can recognize the influence value on the global environment by forming an image on the paper and consuming the paper.

  (5) The notifying means (111, 112) integrates the global environmental influence value when an image is formed on the designated type of paper, and notifies the integrated value (304 in FIG. 8); (4) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (4).

  The user can recognize the global environmental impact value accumulated by repeated use of the image forming apparatus.

(6) The image forming apparatus stores a conversion coefficient for converting the amount of power consumed in the image formation into a global environmental impact value, a memory means (114) for storing a global environmental impact value generated by consumption of the various papers, and Measuring means (102) for measuring the amount of power consumed in image formation;
The notification means (111, 112) converts the electric energy measured by the measurement means into a global environmental impact value (CO ₂ ) using a conversion coefficient of the memory means, and designates the global environmental impact value and image formation. The global environmental impact value when an image is formed on the designated type of paper is obtained using the global environmental impact value generated by consumption of the paper of the memory means addressed to the designated paper type. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (5) above;

  (7) The image forming apparatus (MF1) has an image forming function of a monochrome print mode and a color print mode; the memory means stores power consumption addressed to each image form function; (203 in FIG. 4); The image forming apparatus according to (6) above. According to this, the user can confirm the effect on the global environment using familiar units (electric power).

  (8) The notifying means (111, 112) uses the global environment influence value when the selected type of paper is formed and consumed, the power consumption of the memory means for the print mode selected by the user, and the conversion The image forming apparatus according to (7), wherein calculation is performed based on a coefficient.

  According to this, the predicted global environmental impact value for the selection solicitation according to the above (1) is easily calculated, and the global environmental impact value is calculated using the actually used power measured value according to the above (6). Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to finally calculate a relatively accurate global environmental impact value.

  (9) The memory means also stores a target value of the global environmental impact value per unit period; the notifying means (111, 112) is used when an image is formed on the specified type of paper during the unit period. 5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (6) to (8), wherein the global environmental influence value is integrated and the integrated value is notified together with the target value (304 in FIG. 5);

  A target value for preventing global environmental degradation is set in advance in the image forming apparatus, and the global environmental impact value generated along with the target value is notified every time the image forming apparatus is used. Can be evaluated for validity. Not only some managers are conscious of reducing the global environmental impact value to prevent global environmental degradation, but all users of the image forming apparatus have a plan for reduction and grasp the results. There is also an effect that can be evaluated.

  (10) The notifying means (111, 112) further notifies a difference value of the integrated value with respect to the target value (304 in FIG. 5); the image forming apparatus according to (9) above.

  The user can easily evaluate whether the global environmental influence value generated by using the image forming apparatus is appropriate by paying attention to the difference value.

(11) The paper type includes recycled paper having different used paper mixing ratios;
The global environmental impact value when the paper is imaged and consumed is the greenhouse gas emission value at the time of manufacturing and incineration of the paper, and the greenhouse gas emission value generated by the consumption of electric power required for image formation, (201, 202 in FIG. 4); The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (10) above.

  According to this, when the paper of each tray used in the image forming apparatus is recycled paper, the greenhouse gas emission value corresponding to the used paper mixture ratio and the whiteness as necessary is stored in the image forming apparatus. By storing in the apparatus, it is possible to calculate the greenhouse gas emissions in various paper usage modes relatively accurately. Further, since the greenhouse gas emission amount is notified, there is an effect that the user can more accurately recognize the relationship between the paper information on the tray and the greenhouse gas emission amount.

  (12) The image forming apparatus (MF1) is further installed with an application program that uses the image forming apparatus, and has an input terminal (112) function and an external terminal (PC1) having a display function for notification Communication means (109, 110) for communicating with the communication terminal; the notification means (111, 112) notifies the external terminal (PC1) of the solicitation notification; any one of (1) to (5) above Image forming apparatus.

  According to this, the image forming apparatus (MF1) is used by an external terminal (PC1) such as a personal computer (personal computer) in which a printer driver or the like is present, which displays a guidance equivalent to the operation panel of the image forming apparatus (MF1). In addition, solicitation for reducing the global environmental impact value can be notified.

  (13) The image forming apparatus (MF1) further communicates with an external terminal (PC1) having the function of the input means and the display function for notification, in which an application program that uses the image forming apparatus is installed. Communication means (109, 110) for performing the notification; the notification means (111, 112) notifies the external terminal (PC1) of the solicitation notification and the global environmental impact value when an image is formed on the designated type of paper. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (6) to (11) above.

  According to this, the image forming apparatus (MF1) is used on an external terminal (PC1) such as a personal computer with a printer driver or the like that displays a guidance equivalent to the operation panel of the image forming apparatus (MF1), and the earth Solicitation for reducing the environmental impact value can be notified, and further, the global environmental impact value due to the use of the image forming apparatus can be notified.

  (14) The image forming apparatus (MF1) further includes memory control means (111) for updating data stored in the memory means (114) to data given by the external terminal (PC1); The image forming apparatus described.

  According to this, the data of the memory means (114) can be easily adapted to the enhancement or change of the function of the image forming apparatus (MF1), or the upgrade of the data to be stored in the memory means (114). Can be updated. Data in each memory means of a plurality of image forming apparatuses (MF1 to MF3) can be managed in an integrated manner.

  (15) The image forming apparatus (MF1) has a user authentication function; the notification means (111, 112) affects the global environment when an image is formed on the type of paper designated for each authentication ID. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (6) to (14) above, wherein the values are accumulated, stored in the memory means (114), and notified (305 in FIG. 8);

  (16) The image forming apparatus (MF1) has a user authentication function; the notifying means (111, 112) actually prints the global environmental influence value according to the printing conditions initially specified by the user for each authentication ID. The difference value with the global environmental impact value calculated by performing the above is accumulated, stored in the memory means, and notified (305 in FIG. 8); the image according to any one of (6) to (14) above Forming equipment.

  (17) In response to a request from the external terminal (PC1), the memory control means (111) transmits an integrated value of the difference values for each authentication ID of the memory means (114) to the external terminal (PC). The image forming apparatus according to (16).

  (18) The image forming apparatus (MF1) has a user authentication function; the notifying means (111, 112) is an integrated value of the global environmental influence value according to the printing conditions initially specified by the user for each authentication ID, that is, The predicted integrated value and the integrated value of the global environmental impact value calculated by actual printing, that is, the actual integrated value is stored in the memory means (114) and notified (305 in FIG. 8); (6) to (14) above The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.

  (19) The notifying means (111, 112) notifies a ratio of the actual integrated value to the predicted integrated value (305 in FIG. 8); the image forming apparatus according to (18) above.

  (20) The memory control means (111) transmits the ratio for each authentication ID of the memory means (114) to the external terminal (PC1) in response to a request from the external terminal (PC1) (FIG. 205 of 8); The image forming apparatus according to (19) above.

  As described above, since all the users of the image forming apparatus (MF1) can recognize the global environmental impact value naturally, reduction of the global environmental impact value can be expected.

  Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a network to which a multifunction printer MF1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is connected. The multifunction printer MF1 is connected to a LAN (Local Area Network). Personal computers PC1 to PC3, which are user terminals, and other multifunction printers MF2 and MF3 are also connected to the LAN. The functions of the multifunction printers MF2 and MF3 are the same as or similar to those of MF1. Since the LAN is connected to the Internet via a router, the LAN-connected devices PC1 to PC3 and MF1 to MF3 can not only communicate with each other and exchange control information and document information, but also via the Internet. Thus, control information and document information can be exchanged by communicating with other devices and servers outside the LAN network.

  Application software (programs) and printer drivers that use the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 are installed in the personal computers PC1 to PC3, and the personal computers PC1 to PC3 are connected to the front panel operation display unit 112 of the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 ( As the same input / output means as in FIG. 2), the image processing functions such as image reading, image storage, printing, copying and facsimile of the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 can be used.

  Each of the devices PC1 to PC3, MF1 to MF3 has an IP address, and the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 are also sites (servers) having URLs, and are complex functions when accessed via a network (LAN or the Internet). Returns the top page (homepage), which is a menu screen for remotely using. For example, when the PC1 accesses the MF1, the MF1 transmits a top page to the PC1, and the PC1 displays the top page on a display (user display) connected thereto. In the top page, in addition to the menu items, there is a block for inputting a user (PC1 user) ID and password, and when the user inputs the ID and password registered in MF1 and operates the Enter key of the keyboard, Alternatively, when the login button on the top page is clicked, the PC 1 transmits information representing the operation to the MF 1. In response to this, the MF 1 transmits display control information for enabling selection of the menu item on the top page to the PC 1, thereby activating the menu item on the top page (accepting input).

  In this way, in the system shown in FIG. 1, for example, MF1 presents (transmits) display information to PC1, PC1 displays the display information on the user display, and PC1 transmits user input to the display screen to MF1, In response, MF1 determines the next task. For example, information for changing the display screen is transmitted to the PC 1. That is, the MF 1 changes the display of the user display and determines a task according to the user input on the display screen.

FIG. 2 shows an outline of the configuration of the multifunction printer MF1 shown in FIG. For ease of explanation, FIG. 2 shows a simplified overview of the configuration required to implement the present invention. This multi-function printer MF1 limits the physical quantity related to the emission of greenhouse gas, which is a global environmental impact value, a typical example is CO ₂ , to the amount of power used and the amount of paper used, and reduces the greenhouse gas to be reduced. CO ₂ has a guidance function for reducing it.

  First, reference numeral 101 denotes an AC power source that is input to the multifunction printer MF1, and energy, that is, power input from the AC power source is measured by the power consumption / power consumption measuring unit 102 and digitized. The power supply unit 103 converts the AC power into a DC output and an AC output necessary for all devices and electric circuits of the multifunction printer MF1.

  The engine control unit 106 controls a basic process of image formation that is an original function of the multifunction printer MF1. The engine control input unit 105, which is an input unit for sensors and the like used in the multifunction printer MF1, and the engine control output unit 107, which is an output unit for motors, solenoids, etc., used for transporting printing paper, etc. Control all of the elements. The memory 104 stores a program used for engine control, its progress, and initial setting values. The digital amount digitized by the power consumption / power consumption measuring unit 102, that is, power consumption data, is input to the engine control unit 106 and stored in the memory 104 as necessary.

  The system control 111 controls the entire system including image processing and front panel operation control of the multifunction printer MF1. This is analysis of image data read by the image input unit 108 such as a scanner, transmission / reception commands and data from the external interface 109 which is a general-purpose interface such as USB, or various transmission / reception commands and data obtained through the network interface 110 such as LAN. In addition, image data development processing necessary for final image formation is performed. At the same time, the front panel operation display unit 112 serving as a man / machine interface with the user is also controlled.

  The front panel operation display unit 112 includes a general display area necessary for operating / displaying the main functions of the multifunction printer MF1, a key input unit, and a global warming prevention guidance display area.

The storage device 114 is directly read / written by the system control 111. The storage device 114 includes a control program unit 114a that stores programs used for system control, a RAM 114b that temporarily stores data being processed, and an HDD that stores and holds data even when the power supply unit 103 is OFF. (Hard Disk Drive) 114c and nonvolatile memory 114d. These HDD and non-volatile memory include CO ₂ emission basic unit setting values, each tray paper specification setting value, power consumption in each printing mode and electricity charge setting value per power consumption, CO ₂ emission target per unit period Value, each use mode change instruction set value, a user permission flag, and the like are stored.

The video interface 115 performs communication such as transmission / reception of data / commands between the engine control unit 106 and the image processing / operation panel / system control 111. The oscillator / timer 113 is used for time management such as an oscillator for generating a clock necessary for synchronization of control of all the multifunction printers MF1 and a specific numerical target for CO ₂ emission reduction.

FIG. 3 shows processing of solicitation notification, that is, guidance mainly for CO ₂ emission reduction in the control of printing or copying by the system control 111. Note that an image is formed on a sheet in both printing and copying, and therefore in this document, the expression “printing” includes “copying”. In addition, the “print” may be expressed as “print”, “image formation”, or “image formation”.

When the operating voltage is applied to the system control 111, the system control 111 is activated, and first performs an initial setting to set each unit of the printer MF1 to a standby state (ready), and then the operation display unit 112 or PC1 (or PC2 or PC3). Wait for user input from (S101). Among initial settings by user input from the operation display unit 112 or the PC 1, there is a guidance initial setting for soliciting notification, that is, guidance for reducing CO ₂ emissions. When the user designates the guidance initial setting from the operation display unit 112 or the PC 1, the system control 111 displays a guidance initial setting menu on the display panel or the user display of the operation display unit 112 or the PC 1, and setting items on the menu. Are individually specified, the system control 111 reads the setting screen or result screen data of the item from the storage device 114 and displays it on the display panel 112 or the user display.

FIG. 4 shows a display example of the setting screen and the result screen. A display example 201 in FIG. 4 is a display example of the CO ₂ emission basic unit initial setting. In the present embodiment, the current set values of the CO ₂ emission amount per unit power amount and the CO ₂ emission amount coefficient per sheet manufacturing unit weight of each tray (here, ton “t”) are shown. The first value A is a value used as a coefficient when converting the predicted power amount required for printing per sheet or the actually measured power amount into the CO ₂ emission amount. This initial set value is calculated based on values obtained from the Ministry of the Environment or a power company that supplies power to the printer MF1. In general, the value varies depending on what type of power generation system (thermal power, hydropower, nuclear power, etc.) the power company in each region uses, but the standard value is determined by guidelines such as the Ministry of the Environment. Is also decided. Which value is adopted differs depending on the installation form of the printer MF1 and the scale for managing the CO ₂ emission amount, but a policy is determined in advance and a unified value is adopted for each printer.

The following values B and C are values used as a CO ₂ emission amount conversion coefficient per unit weight when manufacturing the paper supplied to each tray. This is a value calculated based on information from the manufacturer of each paper. These employ a unified value for each printer as a unique value determined by a combination of a paper manufacturer and its type.

A display example 202 in FIG. 4 is an initial setting screen regarding each tray of the multifunction printer MF1 and paper specifications used there. Here, when the paper type (whether it is plain paper or recycled paper) and it is recycled paper, it is a screen that displays the ratio of used paper and whiteness. These parameters are used for calculating CO ₂ emissions during paper manufacture and incineration. In addition, when this content is displayed in the global warming prevention guidance area on the operation panel 112 or the PC display at the time of printing, the user can easily compare the actual used paper with the set value, so that the specifications of the recycled paper can be obtained. This also has the effect of giving the user awareness of reducing CO ₂ emissions associated therewith. D to I indicate each set value.

A display example 203 in FIG. 4 is an example of an initial setting screen of power consumption and electric charge per power consumption in each printing function mode mounted on the main function of the printer MF1. The print function mode varies depending on the printer function and the like, but the printer MF1 has a monochrome copy output mode, a full color copy output mode, and an energy saving monochrome copy output mode. The display values J, K, and L are values used for predicting the power consumption per sheet of paper printing in advance in order to display the guidance displayed in the global warming prevention guidance area. The system control 111 uses these values and the other initial setting values set as described above to perform CO in the use mode (paper type, number of copies, duplex / single-sided, monochrome / color, etc.) set by the user. ₂ Calculate the amount of emissions, and determine better use mode setting value candidates from the standpoint of preventing global warming.

  The set values M and N are electricity charges per unit power amount according to the contract contents with the electric power company that supplies power to the printer MF1, and depending on the contract form, it is necessary to set them for each time zone.

The display example 204 in FIG. 4 shows that the operator or the individual who uses the image forming apparatus voluntarily drafts and implements a greenhouse gas emission reduction plan, and grasps and evaluates the results, while being aware of the Kyoto Protocol. and CO ₂ emission amount value which is provided to allow a display screen example showing a current value and the difference. First, a target value Z per target unit period (month in this example) is set, and each value of the measurement start dates R to V is set and fixed, so that the CO ₂ emission amount associated with the use of the image forming apparatus from that point in time is set. Current value P and its difference value Q (P and Q are values calculated and displayed each time printing is performed by the printer MF1). As a result, not only the administrator but also each individual user can grasp the result of the greenhouse gas emission reduction plan at an arbitrary point in time and can evaluate at that point.

  Values to be displayed in each display example described above are written in each table set in the nonvolatile memory 114d in association with each display screen.

Please refer to FIG. 3 again. When the user inputs printing conditions from the operation display unit 112 or the PC 1 for printing and sets a copy document in the printer MF1 in the case of copying and inputs a start instruction (S102), the system control 111 receives input. The power consumption per printed sheet for the printing conditions is calculated using each table value set in the nonvolatile memory 114d. (S103). Next, the CO ₂ emission amount corresponding to the power consumption amount is similarly calculated using the table value (S104). Similarly, the CO ₂ emission amount with respect to the paper consumption is also calculated (S105). In this way, each set value for the user's use mode (printing condition) and the value calculated by the system control 111 are stored in the RAM 114b (S106).

Next, the system control 111 searches for the possibility of setting in another use mode since the total image output information amount is equivalent to the printing condition input by the user (S107). If there is a possibility, the same processing as described above is repeated in which all these setting contents (printing conditions), power consumption and CO ₂ emission at that time are calculated, and the results are stored in the RAM 114b (S103 to S107). .

After storing all the possibilities and the results in the RAM 114b, the system control 111 compares the calculation results of the CO ₂ emission amounts in all the use modes on the RAM 114b (S108). Here, if it is determined that the first input by the user among the potential candidates for any use mode is the minimum CO ₂ emission amount, the process proceeds to S114, and the final confirmation before the execution of the process is performed. If not, another candidate is displayed in the guidance display area of the operation display unit 112 or the display of the PC 1 (S110), and a determination result as to whether or not the user permits the content of the candidate is awaited ( S111).

  If the user permits the use mode candidate to be used, the permission flag for this content is turned ON and stored in the RAM 114b (S112). If not permitted, the flag remains OFF. Next, the system control 111 determines whether there is another candidate from the contents of the candidate result stored in the previous stage (S113), and if there is, performs the same processing (S110 to S113).

  As a result, a final confirmation screen is displayed in which the finally selected usage mode is revealed from the processing results including the permission flags for all candidates (S114). In this state, the system control 111 enters a standby state as to whether or not the user permits execution of printing with the final content (S115). If the user does not agree with this use mode and presses the NO button, the process returns to the initial stage S102 of internal processing and waits until the user's use mode is set again.

  When the user permits the execution of printing of the final confirmation content and presses the YES button, the system control 111 executes all functions for this mode and uses the measuring unit 102 to calculate the total power consumption at that time. And actually measured (S116).

Finally, the system control 111 displays the calculation result of the CO ₂ emission amount with respect to the power consumption amount and the paper consumption amount of the print job and the target value and the difference value with respect to the target value on the guidance screen, so that the user's requested job All internal processing for is terminated.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a display screen of the global warming prevention guidance displayed in the guidance display area of the operation display unit 112 of the printer MF1 or the display of the personal computer CP1 when there is a user input. First, the display example 301 in FIG. 5 shows that immediately after the user selects single-sided printing on Tray 1 (which contains plain paper A4 size and is registered in advance as an initial setting value) and presses the execution button. It is an example of a screen displayed on the global warming prevention guidance area. In this case, the system control 111 has an effect of reducing Y1 g-CO ₂ (Y1 is a value calculated by the system control 111) per job when the user setting is changed to perform duplex printing. This is an example in which advice, that is, solicitation that it is better to change the use mode is displayed, that is, informed. Here, the user presses the YES button displayed on the screen to agree to this content, or presses the NO button when not agreeing. An example of the next screen when YES is pressed is shown in display example 302 in FIG.

When the display example 302 is changed from the tray 1 (plain paper A4 size) designated by the user to the tray 3 (recycled paper A4 size is entered and registered in advance as an initial setting value), this print job is displayed. This is an example of displaying advice that it is better to change the use mode because there is an effect of reducing Y2 g-CO ₂ (Y2 is a value calculated by the system control 111) per sheet. Here, when the user agrees to this (when the YES button is pressed), a display example 303 shown in FIG.

In the display example 303, the above-described steps S102 to S113 allow the user to determine whether the system control 111 is equivalent to the initial user use mode setting and the amount of all image output information is set, and the possibility of setting in another use mode is determined. This is a display screen example of a final result that is given by the system control 111 as an optimal setting value from the standpoint of global warming prevention based on a user's response result to the guidance of a setting change request. Here, the CO ₂ reduction value per print job for the final use mode determination content and the user's initial use mode setting value is displayed. In this example, the initial setting is a reduction in Y3 g-CO ₂ (Y3 is a value calculated by the system control 111) per job in the final setting.

After confirming the final use mode and its effect, the user presses the YES button on the screen when executing actual printing, and presses the NO button when starting again from the beginning. If the answer is YES, the system control 111 starts printing, executes all print jobs, and measures the total power consumption associated therewith. Then, the total power consumption is converted into the CO ₂ emission amount using the conversion coefficient A in the table on the nonvolatile memory 114d and displayed as the final result. An example of a screen when this print job is completed is shown in a display example 304 in FIG.

In this display example 304, the CO ₂ reduction effect of all jobs is Y4 g-CO ₂ (Y4 is a value calculated by the system control 111), and the total CO ₂ emission amount used for the current job as a whole is Y g-CO. ₂ (Y is a value calculated by the system control 111), and the remaining CO ₂ usage target value Z kg-CO ₂ per month (Z is a value set in advance by the user: see display example 204). This is CO ₂ (W is a value calculated by the system control 111). In this way, not only the administrator but also each individual user can grasp the result of the greenhouse gas emission reduction plan at the end of the print job, and can evaluate at that time.

  1 are installed with application software (programs) and printer drivers that use the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3. The personal computers PC1 to PC3 operate the front panel of the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3. As input / output means similar to the display unit 112 (FIG. 2), the image processing functions such as image reading, image storage, printing, copying, and facsimile of the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 can be used. The application software further has a management function for the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3.

FIG. 6 shows an outline of functions of printer application software using the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 of the personal computers PC1 to PC3. The menu (selection item) of the application includes “MF use” MFU, “CO ₂ reduction guidance” CTR, and “MF management” MFM. “Use MF” MFU is mainly used for image reading, storage, printing, copying, facsimile transmission / reception, etc., except for the part related to “CO ₂ reduction guidance” in the function of the operation display unit 112 of the MFU printer MF1. is a partial equivalent function of performing input and output on the implementation of image processing functions, "CO ₂ reduction guidance" CTR is in the function of the operation display unit 112, the initial setting and actual output "CO ₂ reduction guidance" ( This is the same function as the part that performs input and output related to the implementation of performance display and performance printing. “MF management” MFM is a function that is not included in the function of the operation display unit 112, and assigns departments and / or users who have authority to use each of the printers MF1 to MF3, restricts their use functions and usage, This is a function of totaling the usage records of the printers MF1 to MF3.

  For example, when the PC1 user clicks (selects) “Use MF” MFU in the application menu and designates the printer MF1, the operation panel screen similar to the panel of the operation display unit 112 of the printer MF1 is displayed on the display of the PC1. Then, the PC1 user can input and output to the printer MF1 in the same manner as when using the operation display unit 112 by clicking a button displayed on the operation panel screen by a keyboard operation and / or a mouse operation. . That is, on the PC 1, it is possible to instruct the printer MF1 to perform image processing such as image reading, storage, printing, copying, facsimile transmission / reception. In response to this instruction, the system control 111 of the printer MF1 makes an input / output response to the PC 1 in the same manner as to the operation display unit 112.

When the PC1 user selects “CO ₂ reduction guidance” CTR in the application menu, the application displays the guidance menu on the display. The menu includes “update guidance setting value” and “output actual value”. When “update guidance setting value” is clicked, “update coefficient table on PC” PCC displays the coefficient table on PC. An update input screen is displayed on the display. The user updates the coefficient or the like referred to in the “CO ₂ reduction guidance” to the latest value by inputting to the screen. That is, the coefficient table on the PC is updated. In order to update the table on the printers MF1 to MF3 with the updated coefficient, etc., the toolbar “Update Printer Table” on the display is clicked. The application then proceeds to “Update the coefficient table of each MF” MFC, where the user designates each printer and updates the table data related to the “CO ₂ reduction guidance” of the printer on the PC. Update the data in the table. That is, the table file on the printer is updated.

  As described above, in the system shown in FIG. 1, the multifunction printers MF1 to MF3 are accessed from the personal computers PC1 to PC3, and the printer is used and managed in the same manner as when the operation display unit 112 of the printer is used. be able to.

FIG. 7 shows a solicitation notification, that is, a guidance process for reducing CO ₂ emission mainly in the printing control by the system control 111 of the multifunction printer MF1 of the second embodiment of the present invention. The multifunction printer MF1 of the second embodiment limits users by collating user IDs, and the user must attach an ID card to the card reader of the multifunction printer MF1 when trying to use it. . Alternatively, the user ID must be input to the PC 1 and transmitted to the multifunction printer MF1. The system control 111 of the printer MF1 accepts the user's printing condition input when the card reader reads an appropriate user ID (for which use permission is registered) or when an appropriate user ID is transmitted from the PC 1 (S102a, 102b). Then, guidance control and print control for CO ₂ reduction are executed in the same manner as in the first embodiment (S103 to S116).

However, when the system control 111 of the second embodiment calculates the CO ₂ amount c for the current print job, the actual product integrated value Σc is updated to a value obtained by adding the calculated value to the actual integrated value up to now, The virtual CO ₂ amount b when printing is performed under the printing conditions initially input by the user is calculated and added to the virtual integrated value up to the present to update the virtual integrated value Σb. Further, a reduction value (reduction integrated value) “Σb−Σc” and a reduction ratio “Σc / Σb” are calculated, and these values are displayed together with the user ID as in the display example 305 in FIG. The update memory 114d is updated and stored for the user ID (S117a, S118).

  The printer application installed in the personal computers PC1 to PC3 of the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment, but in the “MF actual value output” MFO (FIG. 6), the printer is designated. The actual value transfer is instructed to the printer, and the actual value is displayed on the display of the PC as in the display example 205 in FIG. “Evaluation” and “Countermeasure” on the display screens of the display examples 305 and 205 in FIG. 8 are information stored in the output information table of the printer application in association with each value of the reduction ratio. The one corresponding to the reduction ratio is read from the table and displayed on the display screen. The hardware and other functions of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

MF1 to MF3: Multifunction printer PC1 to PC3: Personal computer

JP 2006-343842 A JP-A-4-348414 JP-A-6-59846 JP 2004-13308 A

Claims (20)

An image forming apparatus equipped with a plurality of types of paper having different materials and forming a developer image on a specified type of paper,
An input means for the user to select one of the plurality of types of paper for image formation;
If the global environmental impact value when the selected type of paper is imaged and consumed is greater than the global environmental impact value when the other types of paper among the plurality of types are imaged and consumed Informing means for soliciting selection of different types of paper; and
An image forming apparatus comprising: means for designating image forming when the user selects the other type of paper by the input unit in response to the solicitation of the notification unit. The image forming apparatus includes a single-sided recording function and a double-sided recording function, and an input unit that allows a user to select one of the single-sided recording function and the double-sided recording function for image formation;
The notification means solicits the selection of the double-sided recording function when the single-sided recording function is selected;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for designating image forming when a user selects a duplex recording function by the input means in response to the solicitation.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the notifying unit performs a plurality of selection solicitations including a selection solicitation for the other type of paper and a selection solicitation for the double-sided recording function in a stepwise manner.   4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the image is formed on the designated type of paper, the notification unit notifies the global environment influence value of the paper. 5.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit integrates the global environmental influence value when an image is formed on a designated type of paper, and notifies the integrated value; The image forming apparatus includes a conversion coefficient for converting an amount of power consumed in the image formation into a global environment influence value, a memory means for storing a global environment influence value generated by consumption of the various sheets, and power consumed in image formation. Measuring means for measuring quantity;
The informing means converts the electric energy measured by the measuring means into a global environmental impact value using a conversion coefficient of the memory means, and is addressed to the global environmental impact value and a paper type designated for image formation. 6. The global environmental impact value when an image is formed on the specified type of paper using the global environmental impact value generated by consumption of the paper in the memory means; The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.   The image forming apparatus has an image forming function in a monochrome print mode and a color print mode; the memory means stores power consumption addressed to each image form function; and the notification means notifies power consumption in each mode. An image forming apparatus according to claim 6;   The notifying unit calculates a global environment influence value when the selected type of paper is formed and consumed based on the power consumption addressed to the print mode selected by the user and the conversion coefficient in the memory unit. An image forming apparatus according to claim 7;   The memory means also stores a target value of the global environmental impact value per unit period; the informing means displays the global environmental impact value when an image is formed on the specified type of paper during the unit period. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the integrated value is reported together with the target value.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the notifying unit further notifies a difference value of the integrated value with respect to the target value. The paper type includes recycled paper having different used paper mixing ratios;
The global environmental impact value when the paper is imaged and consumed is the greenhouse gas emission value at the time of manufacturing and incineration of the paper, and the greenhouse gas emission value generated by the consumption of electric power required for image formation, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus further includes a communication unit that communicates with an external terminal having an input program function and a display function for notification, in which an application program that uses the image forming apparatus is installed; The notification of the solicitation is notified to the external terminal; The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   The image forming apparatus further includes a communication unit that communicates with an external terminal having an input program function and a display function for notification, in which an application program that uses the image forming apparatus is installed; The information forming apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the external terminal is notified of the solicitation and the global environment influence value when an image is formed on the designated type of paper; .   The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a memory control unit that updates data stored in the memory unit to data provided by the external terminal.   The image forming apparatus has a user authentication function; the notifying unit accumulates the global environmental influence value when the image is formed on the type of paper designated for each authentication ID, and stores it in the memory unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image forming apparatus is stored and notified.   The image forming apparatus has a user authentication function; for each authentication ID, the notification unit calculates a global environment influence value according to a printing condition initially specified by a user and a global environment influence value calculated by actually performing printing. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the difference values are accumulated and stored in the memory unit and notified.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the memory control unit transmits an integrated value of a difference value for each authentication ID of the memory unit to the external terminal in response to a request from the external terminal.   The image forming apparatus has a user authentication function; the notifying unit actually prints, for each authentication ID, an integrated value of the global environment influence value, that is, a predicted integrated value based on a printing condition initially specified by the user. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the integrated value of the global environmental impact value calculated as described above, that is, the actual integrated value is stored in the memory means and notified.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the notifying unit notifies a ratio of an actual integrated value to the predicted integrated value.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the memory control unit transmits the ratio for each authentication ID of the memory unit to the external terminal in response to a request from the external terminal.

Images