JP2012133021A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device capable of appropriately setting a delay of a printing sheet by detecting deterioration of a conveyance roller even when there exists variation in speed due to a type difference among printing sheets, a machine difference and a tray difference.SOLUTION: An image forming device 100 disposed on a conveyance path R of a printing sheet comprises: detecting means for detecting an actual printing sheet arrival time t; storage means 24 in which an actual sheet arrival time T for each type of a sheet has been stored in advance; calculating means 27 for calculating a setting time T' for determining deterioration from the actual sheet arrival time T for the each type of the sheet having been stored in the storage means 24; comparing and determining means 23 for comparing and determining the actual printing sheet arrival time t and the setting time T' for determining the deterioration; and deterioration determining means 28 for determining the deterioration by the number of times (n), in which t and T' satisfy an expression of t≥T', having exceeded a preset number of determination times (m) by performing comparison and determination by the comparing and determining means 23 for a predetermined number of times (N) and by counting the number of times (n), in which t and T' satisfy the expression of t≥T'.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that includes a printer, a facsimile machine, a copier, a scanner, and a complex machine thereof, and further includes peripheral devices such as a large-capacity paper feeding device and a paper post-processing device. The present invention relates to a quality judgment control technique (including paper feeding by a paper feeding unit).

  In general, in an image forming apparatus, an actual print paper arrival time t detected by a timing sensor serving as a detection unit installed in a transport path of print paper such as plain paper or a resin sheet is set in advance for machine control. Compared with the set time T, the conveyance quality is judged. If the conveyance is defective, the machine stop control is performed and the printing paper stop position and the like are displayed on the display unit.

  FIG. 12 is a timing chart of the conventional sheet conveyance control, and FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the conventional sheet conveyance control. Here, T is a preset time, TK is a set time from the start to the arrival of the paper feed sensor, TM is a set time from the start to the arrival of the intermediate feed sensor, TR is a set time from the start to the arrival of the registration sensor, and Tr is The set time from the start to the start of registration roller rotation, TH denotes the set time from the start to the delivery sensor arrival. Further, t represents the actual required time (measured value) corresponding to T.

  In FIG. 13, the paper feed sensor detects the required time tK (the required time to the paper feed sensor; the same applies hereinafter) (step S1), and if tK <TK (Y in step S2), the printing paper is within the set time TK. Advances to the next step S3. If tK <TK is not satisfied (N in step S2), it is determined that paper is not fed (conveyance failure; jam) (step S4), and the machine is stopped.

  Similarly, the intermediate feed sensor detects the required time tM (step S3) and determines tM <TM (step S5). In the same manner as described above, if the actual conveyance time tM is within the predetermined time TM, the process proceeds to step S6, and if not, no paper is fed (step S7). In step S6, the registration sensor detects the required time tR and determines tR <TR (step S8). If the actual transport time tR is within the predetermined time TR, the process proceeds to step S9, and if not, no paper is fed (step S10). Similarly, in step S9, the actual transport time tH is detected by the front discharge sensor, and tH <TH is determined (step S11). If the actual transport time tH is within the predetermined time TH, the process proceeds to the next step, otherwise, no paper is fed (step S12).

  In addition, the conveyance performance is also deteriorated due to the deterioration of the conveyance unit (feed roller unit, intermediate feed roller unit, registration roller unit, etc.) with time. For example, the deterioration with time will be described by taking a sheet feeding roller unit as an example.

  The feed roller unit is composed of a feed roller and an electromagnetic clutch that turns on and off the rotation from the drive mechanism in response to a feed start / stop signal. However, the outer diameter of the feed roller decreases due to wear. As a result, the conveyance speed of the printing paper tends to be delayed, and the switching time due to the decrease in the frictional resistance value of the clutch transmission sliding surface of the electromagnetic clutch tends to be extended (delayed). Together, these two phenomena cause deterioration of the paper feed roller unit over time. In the case of a system that directly drives a conveyance roller such as a stepping motor instead of an electromagnetic clutch, the cause of the conveyance delay (deterioration of the unit) is mostly caused by wear of the sheet feeding roller.

  Due to this deterioration with time, the conveyance time (required time) tK of the printing paper in the paper supply roller unit increases (slows) with time, causing deterioration in the conveyance performance. When the preset time TK exceeds a preset time, it is determined that the sheet is not fed (jam) and the machine is stopped.

  As described above, conventionally, since the deterioration of the conveyance performance is detected only when the printing paper is in a conveyance failure (non-feed in FIG. 13), the machine stops suddenly, which hinders the user's work. There is a problem of coming. In addition, the transfer unit replacement call to the service area is sudden and may not be dealt with immediately.

  In order to solve such a problem, in Patent Document 1, the actual print paper arrival time t is compared with a preset time T set for machine control to determine the conveyance quality. In the image forming apparatus that performs control and displays the printing paper stop position and the like on the display unit, the deterioration determination setting time T ′ that is reduced by the minute time ΔT with respect to the setting time T, and the actual printing paper arrival time t And a comparison determination means for comparing the number of times, and the comparison determination is performed a predetermined number of times (N) to count the number of times (n) where t> T ′, and the number of times (n) is a predetermined number of determinations (m). An image forming apparatus has been proposed that includes control means for displaying warning information on a display unit when it exceeds the limit, or transmitting it to a remote diagnosis system using a telephone line or the like.

  In the conventional configuration, the user can freely determine the set time T ′ for deterioration determination, but in practice it is not easy to appropriately set the set time T ′ for deterioration determination. This is because the deterioration determination setting time T ′ must be set for each paper type. The change in the conveyance speed due to the deterioration of the paper feed roller is not uniform, but depends on the surface properties and rigidity of the printing paper. Therefore, there are paper types in which the conveyance speed is remarkably slow even with the same deterioration level, and there are paper types that hardly change. If the set time T ′ for deterioration determination is set to a constant value without taking this into consideration, the paper type that is greatly affected will be replaced at a stage much earlier than the unit limit. For a paper type that receives only a little, it becomes difficult to detect because it reaches a failure at a time shorter than the set time T ′ for deterioration determination.

  When there is a curve between the passages for measuring the passage time, for example, it is understood that the passage route is slightly different because the degree of wrapping around the transport roller differs between thin and thick printing paper. Yes. Since the degree of winding differs depending not only on the thickness but also on the surface condition and rigidity of the printing paper, the passage route differs depending on these differences. This difference in the passage route naturally affects the passage time. Depending on the printing paper, the passage time may be the same as when the paper feed roller deteriorates. In such a case, an erroneous warning is issued. .

  An object of the present invention is to use an image forming apparatus capable of detecting deterioration of a conveyance roller and appropriately setting a delay of a printing paper even when there is a speed variation due to a printing paper type difference, machine difference, or tray difference. An image forming management system is provided.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is provided in a printing paper conveyance path, and includes a detection unit that detects an actual printing paper arrival time t, and a storage unit that stores an actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance. In addition, the calculation means for calculating the deterioration determination setting time T ′ from the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the storage means is compared with the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′. The comparison determination means and the comparison determination by the comparison determination means are performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is preset. It is characterized by comprising a deterioration determination means for determining deterioration by exceeding the number of determinations (m).

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is provided in a printing paper conveyance path, and includes a detection unit that detects an actual printing paper arrival time t, and a storage unit that stores an actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance. A deterioration determination setting time calculating means for calculating the deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from the arrival time when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high, the actual printing paper arrival time t, and the deterioration determination setting time T. The comparison determination means for comparing and determining, and the comparison determination by the comparison determination means are performed for a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times where n ≧ T ′ (n ) Exceeds a preset number of determinations (m), and is provided with a deterioration determination means for determining deterioration.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the deterioration determination set time T ′ is set by adding a minute time ΔT from the average value of the actual printing paper arrival time t from the start of operation of the apparatus to a predetermined number of sheets. Yes. For this reason, the deterioration determination setting time T ′ can be calculated by simple calculation, which leads to cost reduction.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that the detection unit also serves as a paper jam detection sensor. For this reason, it is not necessary to add a new sensor, which leads to cost reduction.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is characterized by having paper type setting means for designating paper type information used in the apparatus. For this reason, the paper type can be set manually by the user.

  In an image forming management system including an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus is disposed in a printing paper conveyance path, and Detection means for detecting the printing paper arrival time t, storage means for storing the real paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance, and at least the real paper arrival time T and the actual printing paper arrival time t stored in the storage means Information transmission means for transmitting the information to the management apparatus, the management apparatus receiving information transmitted from the image forming apparatus, and information storage means for storing the information received by the information reception means And the calculation means for calculating the deterioration determination setting time T ′ from the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the information storage means, and the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ are compared. Judge Comparison determination means and comparison determination by the comparison determination means are performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set in advance It is characterized by comprising a deterioration determining means for determining deterioration when the number of times (m) is exceeded.

  In an image forming management system including an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus is disposed in a printing paper conveyance path, and Detection means for detecting the printing paper arrival time t, storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance, and setting for deterioration determination from the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the storage means A calculating unit that calculates a time T ′; and an information transmitting unit that transmits at least information on the actual paper arrival time T and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ stored in the storage unit to the management device. The information receiving means for receiving the information transmitted from the image forming apparatus, the information storage means for storing the information received by the information receiving means, and the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ are compared and determined. Compare to The comparison determination by the determination means and the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of determinations where t ≧ T ′ (n) is a predetermined number of determinations. It is characterized by comprising a deterioration determination means for determining deterioration when exceeding (m).

In an image forming management system including an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus is disposed in a printing paper conveyance path, and Detection means for detecting the printing paper arrival time t, storage means for storing the real paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance, and at least the real paper arrival time T and the real printing paper arrival time t stored in the storage means An information transmitting means for transmitting information to the management apparatus; and a jam occurrence notification means for notifying the management apparatus of information indicating that a jam has occurred together with the paper type information. An information receiving means for receiving information transmitted from the image forming apparatus, an information storage means for storing information received by the information receiving means, and a jam receiving notice notified from the image forming apparatus side Generation notification receiving means, deterioration determination setting time calculation means for calculating deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from arrival time when jam occurrence frequency becomes high, actual printing paper arrival time t and deterioration Comparison determination means for comparing and determining the set time for determination T ′, and comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed for a predetermined number of times (N), and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and t ≧ T ′ It is characterized by comprising a deterioration determination means for determining deterioration when the number of times (n) exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m).
In an image forming management system including an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus is disposed in a printing paper conveyance path, and Detection means for detecting the printing paper arrival time t, storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance, and setting for deterioration determination for each paper type from the arrival time when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high Deterioration determination setting time calculation means for calculating time T ′, information transmission means for transmitting at least the actual paper arrival time T and deterioration determination setting time T ′ stored in the storage means to the management apparatus, and the management apparatus Compares the information receiving means for receiving the information transmitted from the image forming apparatus, the information storing means for storing the information received by the information receiving means, and the actual printing paper arrival time t and the degradation determination setting time T ′. Judge Comparison determination means and comparison determination by the comparison determination means are performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set in advance It is characterized by comprising a deterioration determining means for determining deterioration when the number of times (m) is exceeded.

  In the image formation management system according to the present invention, the deterioration determination set time T ′ is set by adding a minute time ΔT from the average value of the actual printing paper arrival time t from the start of operation of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined number of sheets. It is characterized by.

  The image formation management system according to the present invention is characterized in that the detection means also serves as a paper jam detection sensor.

  The image formation management system according to the present invention is characterized by having paper type setting means for designating a paper type to be used in the image forming apparatus.

  According to the present invention, when the degradation determination setting time T ′ is calculated by the calculation means, the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the storage means is used, and the actual print paper arrival time t by the comparison determination means. And the deterioration determination setting time T ′ are performed a predetermined number of times (N), and when the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m), the deterioration determination means Therefore, since the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type is used for the deterioration judgment determination as compared with the conventional configuration, the deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type can be calculated. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, the machine difference, and the tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the transport roller and set the printing paper delay appropriately.

  According to the present invention, when the deterioration determination setting time T ′ is calculated by the deterioration determination setting time calculation means, the arrival time t for each paper type when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high is used. When the comparison determination between the arrival time t and the degradation determination setting time T ′ is performed a predetermined number of times (N), and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m), Since the deterioration is determined by the deterioration determining means, the actual paper arrival time T at which the jam occurrence frequency for each paper type is higher than that in the conventional configuration is used for the deterioration detection determination. Can be grasped without suffering from the adverse effects of variations in arrival time depending on the paper type. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, the machine difference, and the tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the transport roller and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper.

  According to the present invention, when the image forming apparatus and the management apparatus are communicably connected via a network, not only the image forming apparatus side but also the management apparatus side for each paper type stored in the storage unit. Comparison means for calculating the deterioration determination setting time T ′ from the actual paper arrival time T, comparison determination means for comparing and comparing the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′, and comparison determination by the comparison determination means Is performed for a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the deterioration is caused by the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m). By adopting a configuration including at least one of the deterioration determination means for determining, the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type is used for deterioration judgment determination as compared with the conventional configuration, and therefore the deterioration determination setting time T for each paper type. 'Can be calculated. For this reason, even if there is a speed variation due to the type difference, machine difference, and tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the conveyance roller and appropriately set the printing paper delay, and resources are required. Statistical processing can be performed by the management apparatus side or by both the image forming apparatus and the management apparatus.

  According to the present invention, when the image forming apparatus and the management apparatus are communicably connected via a network, the jam occurrence frequency is increased not on the image forming apparatus side but also on the management apparatus side. A deterioration determination setting time calculating unit that calculates a deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from the arrival time; a comparison determination unit that compares and determines the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′; The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m). By providing at least one deterioration determining means for determining deterioration due to exceeding, the actual paper arrival time T at which the jam occurrence frequency for each paper type is higher than that in the conventional structure is used for the deterioration detection determination. Because of poor transport That device state of deterioration of advance transport unit in front of the stop, can be grasped without receiving an adverse effect of variations in arrival time due to paper type. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, machine difference, or tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the conveyance roller and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper and to perform statistical processing that requires resources. Can be shared by the management apparatus side or both the image forming apparatus and the management apparatus, and the degradation determination set time T ′ can be calculated more accurately using all the information connected to the network.

1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a sheet conveyance system of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a relationship between a configuration of an image formation management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention and a control system. FIG. 6 is a timing chart of sheet conveyance control of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. 3 is a flowchart of sheet conveyance control of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. 6 is a diagram illustrating a first display example of an operation panel included in the image forming apparatus. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second display example of an operation panel included in the image forming apparatus. FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a relationship between a configuration of an image formation management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention and a control system. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image formation management system which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and the relationship of a control system. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image formation management system which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention, and the relationship of a control system. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image formation management system which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention, and the relationship of a control system. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image formation management system which concerns on the 6th Embodiment of this invention, and the relationship of a control system. It is a timing chart of conventional paper conveyance control. It is a flowchart of conventional paper conveyance control.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a paper transport system of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present invention. In a transport path R extending from the paper feed tray 1 serving as the paper feed unit to the paper discharge unit, the paper feed roller 3, the intermediate feed roller 5, the registration roller 8, the transfer / separation unit are sequentially arranged from the upstream side in the transport direction of the printing paper 2. 10, a fixing unit 11, a front discharge roller 13, and a rear discharge roller 15 are provided. In the paper transport path R, a paper feed sensor 4, an intermediate feed sensor 6, a registration sensor 7, and a front paper discharge sensor 12 for detecting an actual print paper arrival time (hereinafter referred to as “arrival time”) t of the print paper P. Various detection means such as a rear paper discharge sensor 14 are arranged in the vicinity of each roller and roller. A known image forming unit 9 including a photoconductor serving as an image carrier, a charging unit, and a developing unit is disposed at a portion facing the transfer / separation unit 10 across the sheet conveyance path R.

  Next, the sheet conveying operation of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. When the paper feed roller 3 rotates in response to the paper feed start signal, only one print sheet 2 stored in the paper feed tray 1 is separated and conveyed toward the intermediate feed roller 5. When the leading edge of the printing paper 2 passes, the paper feed sensor 4 detects this and turns from OFF to ON, and issues a signal (0 → 1).

  The arrival time t of the printing paper 2 that has passed through the intermediate feed roller 5 is detected by the intermediate feed sensor 6 and the registration sensor 7. The image forming apparatus 100 stops the intermediate feed roller 5 when the registration sensor 7 detects the leading edge of the sheet. Normally, the stop timing is usually set to a timing at which the leading edge of the printing paper 2 slightly contacts the stopped registration roller 8 and stops.

The registered printing paper 2 is conveyed again by the registration roller 8 which has started to rotate in response to the registration roller rotation start signal, and is guided to the front paper discharge roller 13 through the processes of the transfer / separation unit 10 and the fixing unit 11. . At this time, the arrival time t of the printing paper 2 is detected by the front discharge sensor 12, then reaches the rear discharge roller 15, and the arrival time t is detected by the rear discharge sensor 14. Control for determining whether paper conveyance is good or bad based on the relationship between the arrival time t detected by each sensor and the set time T, which is the actual paper arrival time, is as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
(First embodiment)
In this embodiment, new processing steps A, B, and C are added based on conventional control as shown in a flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the relationship between the configuration and control system of the image forming management system 200 including the image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention and the remote diagnosis system 270 serving as a management apparatus. This control system includes a control unit 21 serving as a command unit, a timing sensor 22, a comparison / determination unit 23, a storage unit 24 including a memory, and a display unit 25 having a switch function and a display function such as a touch panel. ing. A remote diagnosis system 270 is connected to the control unit 21 through the network 26. Examples of the network 26 include the Internet, a telephone line, a LAN, and a WAN.

  Here, the control unit 21 is responsible for overall control, and is composed of a known computer. The timing sensor 22 is a general term for the sensors 4, 6, 7, 12, and 14 shown in FIG. The comparison determination means 23 compares and determines a deterioration determination setting time T ′, which will be described later, and an arrival time t. That is, the timing sensor 22 also serves as a paper jam detection sensor. The storage unit 24 stores the passage timing (arrival time) t of the printing paper P detected by the timing sensor 22 as a data log. This storage is performed automatically for each set number of sheets or manually at any time (manufacturing, installation, use of a predetermined number of sheets, maintenance, etc.). In the present embodiment, the storage unit 24 stores in advance a set time T (actual paper arrival time) for each paper type.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 21 performs the comparison determination by the calculation unit 27 for calculating the deterioration determination setting time T ′ from the set time T for each paper type stored in the storage unit 24 and the comparison determination unit 23 a predetermined number of times ( N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the deterioration determination for determining deterioration when the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m) Means 28 are provided.

  In the image formation management system 200 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 21, the timing sensor 22, the comparison determination unit 23, the storage unit 24, the display unit 25, the calculation unit 27, and the deterioration determination unit 28 are provided on the image forming apparatus 100 side. The form is Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an information transmission unit 29 that transmits various types of information to the remote diagnosis system 270 via the network 26. In addition, the remote diagnosis system 270 includes an information receiving unit 271 that receives information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100 and an information storage unit 274 that stores information received by the information receiving unit.

  In the image formation management system 200 according to the present embodiment, the self-diagnosis information can be appropriately retrieved (during maintenance or by remote diagnosis using the network 26). The display means 25 displays the state before the conveyance failure as warning information. This warning information is also transmitted to the remote diagnosis system 270.

  FIG. 3 is a timing chart of paper conveyance control in this embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a flowchart of paper conveyance control in this embodiment.

  In this embodiment, a deterioration determination time T ′ obtained by subtracting the minute paper time ΔT from the average paper passage time T in the initial state of the image forming apparatus 100 is newly set. For example, T′K becomes T′K = TK−ΔTK with respect to the preset time TK. Others are the same. The minute time ΔT can be set according to the determined deterioration tendency of the unit or component. If it is set to be slightly larger, deterioration from the early stage is detected, and if it is set to be slightly smaller, quality information immediately before the unit and parts are down can be obtained.

  Here, the average paper passage time T is an average value for each paper type of the arrival time t in the image forming apparatus 100 in an initial state immediately after arrival. For this, an average value may be obtained for each paper type from the arrival time t accumulated from the start of operation of the apparatus to a predetermined number of sheets. In order to calculate the average value for each paper type, the image forming apparatus 100 needs to recognize the paper type. For this purpose, the paper type information setting means for specifying the paper type to be placed in the tray 1 arranged in the paper feeding unit on the operation panel (display means 25 in FIG. 2) provided in the image forming apparatus 100 and setting the paper type information. 20 or by detecting means such as a sensor disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-28544 or Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 04-345447, and automatically detecting the paper type, You may make it set. In this case, the detection means becomes the paper type information setting means.

  The contents of the flowchart of FIG. 4 will be described below. The contents shown in steps S1 to S12 are the same as those in the flowchart of the conventional example shown in FIG. In this embodiment, in order to obtain unit deterioration information, deterioration determination / warning flows are provided at three locations (A, B, C) corresponding to the paper feed roller unit, the intermediate feed roller unit, and the registration roller unit. . Since the configuration and operation of each unit are the same, a description will be given by taking a sheet feeding roller unit as an example. This determination is performed by the comparison determination means 23.

  The leading edge arrival time tK information of the printing paper 2 detected and measured by the paper feed sensor 4 is simultaneously input to the newly set deterioration determination / warning flow A together with the jam determination flow which is the conventional flow.

  The contents of the deterioration determination / warning flow A will be described. In step A-1 in FIG. 4, the tip arrival times tK and T′K are compared and determined a predetermined number N (times). That is, tK and T′K are measured N times, and each is compared and determined. Then, the number n (times) at which tK ≧ T′K is established is counted. In step A-2, if n> m where t ≧ T ′ does not exceed the predetermined number of determinations (m), the process proceeds to step A-3, where the counter is reset, and this is repeated. If n> m, the process proceeds to step A-4 to display a warning as an output.

How to display this warning
(1) Display on the operation panel 31 (display unit 25 in FIG. 2) of the image forming apparatus (so that the user can understand).

  (2) A service person in the service area uses the self-diagnosis function to display on the operation panel at the time of visit (so that the user does not know).

  (3) Displayed on the monitor on the remote diagnosis system 270 side by the remote diagnosis system 270 using the network 26 or the like.

  Etc., can be selected as appropriate. With this warning information, the service area can easily and accurately grasp the quality state of the image forming apparatus 100.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a first display example of the operation panel 31, and FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a second display example of the operation panel 31. In the example of FIG. 5, the screen of the operation panel (corresponding to the display means 25 of FIG. A marking unit 32 is provided after the replacement unit name, together with information on the cumulative number and date. In this case, the registration roller unit is marked with a black circle, and it can be seen at a glance that the registration roller 8 is a unit that requires a lifetime.

  In the example of FIG. 6, a time-dependent deterioration graph, a unit name, and a life expectancy number are displayed instead of marking. TK is a preset time from the start of paper feeding until the leading edge of the printing paper 2 reaches the paper feed sensor 4, and tK is the actual measurement time. In this embodiment, TK is set in the storage unit 24 for each paper type. The tK measurement data is automatically recorded when the preset number is reached. For example, every 50K or every 100K.

  Here, when a graph is displayed to search for quality information, as shown in FIG. 6, an N-tK (number of sheets-conveying time) graph 33 shows an actual measurement point x for every 100K sheets and an actual measurement curve (which is connected to it). A prediction curve (broken line) obtained by extending it is displayed along with a solid line. The intersection Mx (K sheets) between the prediction curve (broken line) and the preset time TK is the predicted life number of this replacement unit. If the cumulative number at the time of retrieval is No, the remaining life number Nx is Nx = Mx−No. Is required.

  This calculation is automatically performed by a program incorporated in advance, and the number of remaining lifes is displayed on the operation panel 31 so that it can be recognized at a glance. Note that the CRT screen of the remote diagnosis system 270 may be used instead of the operation panel 31 in FIGS.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the calculation unit 27 calculates the deterioration determination setting time T ′, the actual sheet arrival time T for each sheet type stored in the storage unit 24 is used, and the comparison determination unit 23 determines. The comparison determination between the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ is performed a predetermined number of times (N), and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m). In this case, since the deterioration determination unit 28 determines deterioration, the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type is used for deterioration detection determination as compared with the conventional configuration. Therefore, the deterioration determination setting time T ′ corresponding to each paper type is set. Can be calculated. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, the machine difference, and the tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the transport roller and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper.
(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 7 shows an image formation management system 200A according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, a deterioration determination setting time calculation unit 27A is provided that calculates the deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from the arrival time when the jam occurrence frequency on the image forming apparatus 100 side becomes high. However, this is a different part from the first embodiment. Other configurations have the same configurations and functions as those of the first embodiment and perform the same control. That is, in this embodiment, the arrival time at which a conveyance failure frequently occurs for each paper type is newly set as the deterioration determination time T ′. The deterioration determination time T ′ is an arrival time immediately before the conveyance failure occurs. The deterioration determination time T ′ may be an average value of several arrival times t just before. In order to calculate the degradation determination time T ′ for each paper type, the image forming apparatus 100 needs to recognize the paper type. Therefore, also in this embodiment, the paper type information for setting the paper type information by designating the paper type to be placed in the tray 1 arranged in the paper feeding unit on the operation panel (display unit 25 in FIG. 7) provided in the image forming apparatus 100. Setting means 20 is provided. As the paper type information setting means, a detection means such as a sensor disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-20004 or Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 04-345447 is used to automatically detect the paper type, and to detect the detected paper type information. It may be set on the image forming apparatus 100 side.

  In this embodiment, the comparison determination means 23 compares and determines the deterioration determination setting time T ′ calculated by the deterioration determination setting time calculation means 27A and the arrival time t. Further, the deterioration determination unit 28 performs the comparison determination by the comparison determination unit 23 for a predetermined number (N), counts the number (n) of t ≧ T ′, and the number (n) of t ≧ T ′ Deterioration is determined by exceeding a predetermined number of determinations (m). The control flow has the same contents as in FIG.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, when the deterioration determination setting time T ′ is calculated by the deterioration determination setting time calculation unit 27A, the arrival time t for each paper type when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high is used. A comparison determination between the arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ by the comparison determination means 23 is performed a predetermined number of times (N), and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m). If it exceeds, the deterioration determination means 28 determines the deterioration, so the actual paper arrival time T at which the jam occurrence frequency for each paper type is higher than that in the conventional configuration is used for the deterioration detection determination. Prior to this, the deterioration state of the transport unit can be grasped in advance without suffering from the adverse effects of variations in arrival time due to the paper type. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, the machine difference, and the tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the transport roller and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper.

In the above embodiment, the degradation determination set time T ′ is calculated and the degradation determination set time T ′ is compared with the arrival time t on the image forming apparatus 100 side. 270 may be performed.
(Third embodiment)
An image formation management system 200B shown in FIG. 8 includes a calculation unit 276, a comparison determination unit 273, and a remote diagnosis system 270 having the same functions as the calculation unit, the comparison determination unit, and the deterioration determination unit used in the first embodiment. Deterioration determination means 275 is provided.

  In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a timing sensor 22, a storage unit 24, and a display unit 25, and an arrival time t and a setting for each paper type stored in the storage unit 24 via the information transmission unit 29. Each time T (actual paper arrival time) is transmitted to the remote diagnosis system 270.

  The remote diagnosis system 270 includes an information receiving unit 271 that receives information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100, a management control unit 272, an information storage unit 274 that stores information received by the information receiving unit 271, and a storage unit. A calculation unit 276 that calculates the deterioration determination setting time T ′ from the stored actual paper arrival time T for each paper type, a comparison determination unit 273 that compares and determines the arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′, The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m). Deterioration determining means 275 is provided for determining deterioration due to exceeding. The management control unit 272 has the same control function as the control unit 21 of the image forming apparatus 100, and is configured to execute the contents of the flowchart shown in FIG.

As described above, when the remote diagnosis system 270 includes the comparison determination unit 273, the deterioration determination unit 275, and the calculation unit 276, the information storage unit 274 is used when the calculation unit 276 calculates the deterioration determination setting time T ′. Using the actual paper arrival time T stored for each paper type, the comparison determination unit 273 performs the comparison determination between the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ for a predetermined number of times (N), t When the number (n) of ≧ T ′ exceeds a predetermined number of determinations (m), the deterioration determination unit 275 determines deterioration, so that the actual sheet arrival time T for each sheet type is deteriorated as compared with the conventional configuration. Since it is used for the judgment, it is possible to calculate the degradation determination setting time T ′ corresponding to each paper type. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, machine difference, or tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the conveyance roller and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper and to perform statistical processing that requires resources. Can be performed by the remote diagnosis system 270.
(Fourth embodiment)
In the image formation management system 200C illustrated in FIG. 9, the remote diagnosis system 270 includes a comparison determination unit 273 and a deterioration determination unit 275 having the same functions as the comparison determination unit and the deterioration determination unit used in the first embodiment. Yes. That is, the calculation means 27 that is a calculation function for the third embodiment is left on the image forming apparatus 100 side, and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ calculated on the image forming apparatus 100 side is used as the arrival time t and the storage means 24. Is received by the information receiving means 271 together with the set time T for each paper type stored in, and the arrival time t and the set time T ′ for deterioration determination are compared and determined by the comparison determining means 273 based on the received information. The determination unit 275 performs the comparison determination by the comparison determination unit 273 for a predetermined number (N), counts the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′, and sets the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′. Deterioration is determined by exceeding the number of determinations (m). Also in this embodiment, the management control unit 272 has the same control function as the control unit 21 of the image forming apparatus 100 and is configured to execute the contents of the flowchart shown in FIG.

As described above, even if both the image forming apparatus 100 and the remote diagnosis system 270 are provided with a control function, even if there is a speed variation due to a difference in the types of printing paper P, machine differences, and tray differences, the conveyance roller It is possible to detect the deterioration of the printing paper and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper, reduce the control burden on the image forming apparatus 100 and the remote diagnosis system 270, and use all information connected to the network. Thus, the deterioration determination set time T ′ can be calculated more accurately.
(Fifth embodiment)
In the image formation management system 200D shown in FIG. 10, the remote diagnosis system 270 has a degradation determination setting having the same functions as the degradation determination setting time calculation unit, the comparison determination unit, and the degradation determination unit used in the second embodiment. A time calculation unit 276A, a comparison determination unit 273, and a deterioration determination unit 275 are provided.

  In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a timing sensor 22, a storage unit 24, and a display unit 25, and information indicating that a jam has occurred via the information transmission unit 29A, paper type information, and arrival time. t and the set time T (actual paper arrival time) for each paper type stored in the storage unit 24 are transmitted to the remote diagnosis system 270, respectively. For this reason, the information transmission unit 29A also functions as a jam occurrence notification unit.

  In this example, the information transmission unit 271A and the jam occurrence notification unit are the same. However, separate configurations may be used.

  The remote diagnosis system 270 includes an information receiving unit 271A that receives various types of information including jam information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100, a management control unit 272, and an information storage unit 274 that stores information received by the information receiving unit 271. A deterioration determination setting time calculation means 276A for calculating the deterioration determination setting time T ′ from the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the storage means, an arrival time t, and a deterioration determination setting time T ′. The comparison determination means 273 for comparing and determining and the comparison determination by the comparison determination means are performed for a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times where n ≧ T ′ (n) Is provided with deterioration determining means 275 for determining deterioration when the number of determinations exceeds a predetermined number of determinations (m). The management control unit 272 has the same control function as the control unit 21 of the image forming apparatus 100, and is configured to execute the contents of the flowchart shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the information receiving unit 271A also functions as a jam occurrence notification receiving unit that receives a jam occurrence notification. Here, the information receiving unit 271A and the jam occurrence notification receiving unit are the same, but they may be configured separately.

As described above, when the remote diagnosis system 270 includes the comparison determination unit 273, the deterioration determination unit 275, and the deterioration determination setting time calculation unit 276A, the deterioration determination setting time calculation unit 276A calculates the deterioration determination setting time T ′. In the calculation, the arrival time t for each paper type when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high is used, and the comparison determination between the arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ by the comparison determination unit 273 is performed a predetermined number of times (N). When the number (n) of t ≧ T ′ exceeds a predetermined number of determinations (m), the deterioration determination unit 275 determines the deterioration, so that a jam occurs for each paper type compared to the conventional configuration. Since the actual paper arrival time T, which has increased in frequency, is used for the deterioration judgment determination, the deterioration state of the transport unit is grasped in advance without adversely affecting the arrival time variation due to the paper type before the apparatus is stopped due to a transport failure. thing It can be. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, machine difference, or tray difference of the printing paper P, it is possible to detect the deterioration of the conveyance roller and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper and to perform statistical processing that requires resources. Can be performed by the remote diagnosis system 270.
(Sixth embodiment)
In the image formation management system 200E shown in FIG. 11, the remote diagnosis system 270 includes a comparison determination unit 273 and a deterioration determination unit 275 having the same functions as the comparison determination unit and the deterioration determination unit used in the second embodiment. Yes. In other words, the degradation determination setting time calculation means 27A serving as a calculation function for the fifth embodiment is left on the image forming apparatus 100 side, and the degradation determination setting time T ′ calculated on the image forming apparatus 100 side is used as the arrival time. t and the set time T for each paper type stored in the storage unit 24 and received by the information receiving unit 271A (jam occurrence notification receiving unit), and based on the received information, the arrival time t and the deterioration determination set time T ′ Are compared by the comparison determination means 273, and the deterioration determination means 275 performs the comparison determination by the comparison determination means 273 for a predetermined number of times (N), and counts the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′, and t ≧ The deterioration is determined when the number (n) of T ′ exceeds the predetermined number of determinations (m). Also in this embodiment, the management control unit 272 has the same control function as the control unit 21 of the image forming apparatus 100 and is configured to execute the contents of the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As described above, even if both the image forming apparatus 100 and the remote diagnosis system 270 are provided with a control function, even if there is a speed variation due to a difference in the types of printing paper P, machine differences, and tray differences, the conveyance roller It is possible to detect the deterioration of the printing paper and appropriately set the delay of the printing paper, to reduce the control burden on the image forming apparatus 100 and the remote diagnosis system 270, and to obtain all the information connected to the network 26. By using this, the degradation determination set time T ′ can be calculated more accurately.

  In each of the above embodiments, the deterioration determination setting time T ′ is set as an addition of the minute time ΔT from the average value of the arrival times t from the start of operation of the apparatus to the predetermined number of sheets. The time T ′ can be calculated, leading to cost reduction.

  In each of the above embodiments, since the timing sensor 22 also serves as a paper jam detection sensor, it is not necessary to add a new sensor, leading to cost reduction.

  In each of the above embodiments, since the paper type setting means 20 for specifying the paper type used in the image forming apparatus 100 is provided, the paper type can be set by the user's manual input and corresponds to the paper type used by the user. The degradation determination set time T ′ can be calculated. For this reason, even when there is a speed variation due to the type difference, the machine difference, and the tray difference of the printing paper P, the delay of the printing paper can be appropriately set by detecting the deterioration of the transport roller.

  Needless to say, the contents of the above-described embodiments can be applied not only to the image forming apparatus but also to peripheral devices of the image forming apparatus such as a large capacity sheet feeding tray, an ADF, a sheet post-processing apparatus, and an extension tray.

2 Printing paper 4, 6, 7, 12, 14 Detection means 20 Paper type setting means 23 Comparison determination means 24 Storage means 26 Network 27 Calculation means 27A, 276A Deterioration determination setting time calculation means 28 Deterioration determination means 29 Information transmission means 29A Jam occurrence notification means 200 (A to E) Image formation management system 270 Management device 271 Information reception means 271A Jam occurrence notification reception means 273 Comparison determination means 274 Information storage means 275 Degradation determination means 276 Calculation means R Conveyance path t Actual printing paper arrival Time T Actual paper arrival time for each paper type T 'Deterioration judgment setting time

JP 2000-307786 A

Claims (12)

A detecting means which is disposed in the transport path of the printing paper and detects the actual printing paper arrival time t;
Storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance;
Calculating means for calculating a deterioration determination setting time T ′ from an actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the storage means;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′;
The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m) An image forming apparatus comprising: a deterioration determining unit that determines deterioration due to exceeding. A detecting means which is disposed in the transport path of the printing paper and detects the actual printing paper arrival time t;
Storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance;
Deterioration determination setting time calculation means for calculating deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from the arrival time when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′;
The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m) An image forming apparatus comprising: a deterioration determining unit that determines deterioration due to exceeding.   2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a value obtained by adding a minute time ΔT from an average value of the actual printing paper arrival time t from the start of operation of the apparatus to a predetermined number of sheets is set as the deterioration determination setting time T ′. .   4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit also serves as a paper jam detection sensor.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising paper type setting means for designating paper type information used in the apparatus. In an image forming management system comprising an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A detecting means which is disposed in the printing paper conveyance path and detects the actual printing paper arrival time t;
Storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance;
At least information transmitting means for transmitting information on the actual paper arrival time T and the actual printing paper arrival time t stored in the storage means to the management device;
The management device
Information receiving means for receiving information transmitted from the image forming apparatus;
Information storage means for storing information received by the information receiving means;
Calculating means for calculating a set time T ′ for deterioration determination from an actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the information storage means;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′;
The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m) An image forming management system comprising deterioration determining means for determining deterioration when exceeding. In an image forming management system comprising an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A detecting means which is disposed in the printing paper conveyance path and detects the actual printing paper arrival time t;
Storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance;
Calculating means for calculating a deterioration determination setting time T ′ from an actual paper arrival time T for each paper type stored in the storage means;
At least information transmission means for transmitting information on the actual paper arrival time T and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ stored in the storage means to the management device;
The management device
Information receiving means for receiving information transmitted from the image forming apparatus;
Information storage means for storing information received by the information receiving means;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′;
The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m) An image forming management system comprising deterioration determining means for determining deterioration when exceeding. In an image forming management system comprising an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A detecting means which is disposed in the printing paper conveyance path and detects the actual printing paper arrival time t;
Storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance;
Information transmitting means for transmitting at least information on the actual paper arrival time T and the actual print paper arrival time t stored in the storage means to the management device;
Jam occurrence notification means for notifying the management device of information indicating that a jam has occurred, together with the paper type information,
The management device
Information receiving means for receiving information transmitted from the image forming apparatus;
Information storage means for storing information received by the information receiving means;
A jam occurrence notification receiving means for receiving a jam occurrence notification notified from the image forming apparatus side;
Deterioration determination setting time calculation means for calculating deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from the arrival time when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′;
The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m) An image forming management system comprising deterioration determining means for determining deterioration when exceeding. In an image forming management system comprising an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus via a network,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A detecting means which is disposed in the printing paper conveyance path and detects the actual printing paper arrival time t;
Storage means for storing the actual paper arrival time T for each paper type in advance;
Deterioration determination setting time calculation means for calculating deterioration determination setting time T ′ for each paper type from the arrival time when the jam occurrence frequency becomes high;
Information transmitting means for transmitting at least the actual paper arrival time T and the deterioration determination setting time T ′ stored in the storage means to the management device;
The management device
Information receiving means for receiving information transmitted from the image forming apparatus;
Information storage means for storing information received by the information receiving means;
A comparison determination unit for comparing and determining the actual printing paper arrival time t and the deterioration determination setting time T ′;
The comparison determination by the comparison determination means is performed a predetermined number of times (N), the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is counted, and the number of times (n) where t ≧ T ′ is set as a predetermined number of determinations (m) An image forming management system comprising deterioration determining means for determining deterioration when exceeding.   8. The deterioration determination set time T ′ is set by adding a minute time ΔT from an average value of actual printing paper arrival times t from the start of operation of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined number of sheets. Image formation management system.   11. The image forming management system according to claim 7, wherein the detection unit also serves as a paper jam detection sensor.   12. The image forming management system according to claim 7, further comprising a paper type setting unit for designating a paper type to be used in the image forming apparatus.

Images