JP2014145933A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus that performs appropriate one of a number of adjustments according to the state of the image forming apparatus regardless of a difference in skills and learning levels among service persons to achieve effective maintenance.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus includes: a plurality of operation units that are operated during the execution of a job; a plurality of detection units that are provided respectively to the operation units for detecting the state of the operation units; a storage unit that stores a plurality of types of state values indicating the state of the operation units; a determination unit that selects an adjustment to be executed from a plurality of types of adjustments as a selected adjustment; and an operation display unit that displays, when there are a plurality of selected adjustments, an operation screen for each or the plurality of selected adjustments in order. The operation unit corresponding to the selected adjustment instructed to be executed performs adjustment operation.

Description

  The present invention relates to maintenance and adjustment of an image forming apparatus.

  If an abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus being used, the user contacts the service center. Then, a service person who performs maintenance of the image forming apparatus from the service center goes to the place where the image forming apparatus is installed, and checks and repairs the state of the image forming apparatus. In order to confirm the state of the image forming apparatus and diagnose the cause, information stored in the image forming apparatus (such as a log of various sensor values in the image forming apparatus) may be output. An example of such an image forming apparatus is described in Patent Document 1.

  Specifically, Patent Document 1 discloses a determination unit that determines an abnormality of an image forming apparatus, a storage unit that stores information indicating the status of the image forming apparatus, and a plurality of outputs for outputting the stored information to the outside. Means for displaying information related to each of the plurality of output means, and a selection means for selecting an output means designated by the user based on the displayed information, and the storage using the selected output means An image forming apparatus that outputs the recorded information to the outside is described. With this configuration, even in an offline state not connected to a communication line, information indicating the state of the image forming apparatus is output in accordance with the user or the environment of the image forming apparatus (Patent Document 1: Claim). 1, paragraph [0009] etc.).

JP 2009-225318 A

  In order to maintain an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, a copier, a printer, and a FAX apparatus in a good state, the image forming apparatus needs to be regularly maintained. If maintenance is not performed, problems such as the image quality of the printed matter gradually decreasing and errors such as paper jams frequently occur.

  Special knowledge is required for maintenance of the image forming apparatus. Therefore, in general, maintenance is performed by a service person belonging to a company (for example, a manufacturer's affiliated company) that performs maintenance work on the image forming apparatus.

  The service person determines the state of the image forming apparatus. Then, the service person selects an adjustment (maintenance item) that is mounted in advance in the image forming apparatus and can improve the state and operation of each unit of the image forming apparatus, performs settings related to the adjustment, and executes the adjustment after the setting. By performing one or more types of adjustments, calibration and correction of the operation of the constituent members and circuits of the image forming apparatus are performed. Thereby, the service person maintains and recovers the state of the image forming apparatus.

  By the way, with the recent enhancement of functions of image forming apparatuses, there are many adjustments (types of maintenance items that can be executed) that can be selected, set, and executed. For example, in a large-sized image forming apparatus or an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, the types of adjustments prepared in advance may reach several hundreds (for example, about 100 to 300). In this way, many kinds of adjustments are prepared, and various adjustments can be made according to the situation.

  However, because there are many types of adjustments, one or more adjustments (maintenance items) that are effective in accurately grasping the state of the image forming apparatus and solving problems from multiple types can be accurately obtained. There is a problem that it is difficult to select.

  For example, it is assumed that a problem occurs in the image forming apparatus. And even if one or more adjustments that are useful for solving the problem are prepared among hundreds of adjustments (maintenance items), the service person may not be able to think of selecting those adjustments. is there. This will result in ineffective maintenance.

  Knowledge of the image forming apparatus and experience of maintenance vary depending on service personnel. Some servicemen have long working experience and knowledge of various models, while others have a relatively low level of knowledge and experience, although they have reached a certain level. In particular, a service person with relatively little knowledge and experience may not be able to use even if many adjustments are prepared.

  As described above, it is difficult to accurately select appropriate and necessary adjustments during the maintenance in order to recover the state and solve the problem. For this reason, there is a possibility that appropriate adjustment is executed and results in which effective maintenance cannot be performed.

  Here, according to the technique described in Patent Document 1, there is a merit that it is possible to select a means for outputting the stored information of the image forming apparatus to the outside. However, even if information indicating the state of the image forming apparatus can be obtained, appropriate analysis cannot always be performed. In addition, there is no change in the difficulty in appropriately selecting an adjustment for improving in advance a part where a problem has occurred or a part that is likely to occur. Therefore, the technique described in Patent Document 1 cannot solve the above problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and allows an appropriate adjustment to be performed from among a large number in accordance with the state of the image forming apparatus, regardless of the difference in skill level and skill level of the service person. Realize effective maintenance.

  In order to solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus includes a plurality of operation units that operate during job execution, a plurality of detection units that are provided for the operation unit and detect the state of the operation unit, and the detection unit A plurality of types of state values indicating the state of the operation unit based on the output of the storage unit, and a plurality of types of adjustments by comparing each state value with a predetermined allowable range according to each state value. A determination unit that selects the adjustment to be executed as a selected adjustment; an operation screen for the selected adjustment; and an input for setting the selected adjustment and an instruction to execute the selected adjustment. An operation display unit that sequentially displays the operation screen of the selected adjustment when there is the selected adjustment, and the operation unit corresponding to the selected adjustment for which the execution instruction has been made performs an adjustment operation. It was decided.

  According to the present invention, image formation in which appropriate adjustment is automatically selected from a large number of adjustments (maintenance items) in accordance with the state of the image forming apparatus, regardless of the level of skill and skill level of the service person. An apparatus can be provided. An image forming apparatus that can perform effective maintenance can be provided.

1 is a front model cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral. 2 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an image forming unit. FIG. It is a top view which shows an example of an operation panel. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a multifunction machine. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a sensor for detecting the state of each unit of the multifunction peripheral. FIG. It is a block diagram for demonstrating control with respect to each operation | movement part in the case of adjustment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen for adjustment of forced toner replenishment. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen for adjusting a fixing control temperature. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the operation screen of adjustment of the charging potential of a photoconductor drum. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the operation screen of adjustment of the transfer bias applied to various transfer rollers. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a toner image density calibration (density adjustment) operation screen. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating density calibration. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of automatic adjustment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the data for judging a defect phenomenon. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the data which defined the adjustment (maintenance item) which should be performed with respect to a defect phenomenon. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display order of the operation screen of the adjustment selected automatically. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the priority data of adjustment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a display of the operation screen of the adjustment (selected adjustment) selected automatically.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In this description, the multifunction peripheral 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Outline of image forming apparatus)
First, an outline of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a front model cross-sectional view showing an example of the multifunction peripheral 100. FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the image forming unit 40.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an operation panel 1 for performing various settings related to the multifunction device 100 is provided in front of the multifunction device 100 (corresponding to an operation display unit, details will be described later). As shown in FIG. 1, the multifunction peripheral 100 of the present embodiment is provided with an image reading unit 2a and a document conveying unit 2b at the top, and inside a paper feeding unit 3a, a conveying unit 3b, an image forming unit 4, An intermediate transfer unit 5 and a fixing unit 6 are provided.

  The document transport unit 2b includes a document tray 21 on which documents are placed. Then, the document transport unit 2b automatically and continuously transports the documents from the document tray 21 one by one to the reading position (feed reading contact glass 22). 1 is attached to the image reading unit 2a so as to be openable and closable in the vertical direction. The contact glass of the image reading unit 2a (the feed reading contact glass 22 and the placement reading) is mounted on the image reading unit 2a. It functions as a cover for pressing the contact glass 23) from above.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 1, the image reading unit 2a is provided with a feed reading contact glass 22 and a placement reading contact glass 23 on which an original is placed when reading a document such as a book one by one. The In the image reading unit 2a, a lamp, a mirror, a lens, an image sensor, and the like (not shown) are arranged. The image sensor reads the original based on the reflected light of the original passing through the feed reading contact glass 22 or the original placed on the placement reading contact glass 23. The image sensor converts the reflected light into an analog electrical signal corresponding to the image density. The image reading unit 2a digitizes the electrical signal to generate image data of the document. Note that the image reading unit 2a of the present embodiment can read color or black and white.

  Each paper feed unit 3a accommodates a plurality of sheets of various sizes (for example, copy sheets, recycled sheets, thick sheets, OHP sheets, etc.) and various sizes (for example, A-type and B-type sheets such as A4 and B4). In the example shown in FIG. 1, the paper feed unit 3 a is provided in three stages and includes paper feed rollers 31 that are driven to rotate.

  The transport unit 3b transports the paper supplied from the paper feed unit 3a to the discharge tray 31 in the apparatus. Then, a guide plate for guiding the paper, a pair of transport rollers 32 that are rotationally driven during paper transport (a total of three from 32a, 32b, and 32c from the top in FIG. 2) are transported to the transport unit 3b. There are provided a registration roller pair 33 for waiting the sheet to be printed in front of the image forming unit 4 and feeding the sheet in accordance with the transfer timing of the formed toner image, a discharge roller pair 34 for discharging the sheet to the discharge tray 31, and the like.

  The image forming unit 4 includes a plurality of image forming units 40 (40 Bk for black, 40 Y for yellow, 40 C for cyan, and 40 M for magenta) and an exposure unit 41. Here, the image forming units 40Bk to 40M will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Each of the image forming units 40Bk to 40M has basically the same configuration except that the color of the toner image to be formed is different. Therefore, in the following description, the symbols Bk, Y, C, and M in each image forming unit 40 are omitted unless specifically described.

  Each photosensitive drum 42 carries a toner image on its peripheral surface, has a photosensitive layer on its outer peripheral surface, and is driven to rotate at a predetermined process speed by a driving device (not shown). Each charging unit 43 charges the photosensitive drum 42 at a constant potential. The exposure unit 41 below the image forming unit 4 converts the input color-separated image signal into an optical signal, and outputs a laser beam (illustrated by a broken line) that is the converted optical signal. The photosensitive drum 42 is scanned and exposed to form an electrostatic latent image.

  Each developing unit 44 stores toner of a corresponding color. In the multifunction device 100, toner containers (not shown) for the respective colors are provided. Each developing unit 44 is replenished with toner from a toner container that contains toner of the corresponding color. Each developing unit 44 is provided with a developing roller 44a for carrying toner.

  Then, toner is supplied from the developing roller 44 a of each developing unit 44 to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 42. As a result, the electrostatic latent image is developed with toner, and a toner image is formed on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 42. Each cleaning unit 45 includes a blade and a polishing roller in contact with the surface of each photoconductor drum 42. Each cleaning unit 45 performs cleaning by scraping residual toner and fixed matter from the surface of each photosensitive drum 42.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the intermediate transfer portion 5 will be described. The intermediate transfer unit 5 receives the primary transfer of the toner image from each image forming unit 40 and performs the secondary transfer onto the sheet. The intermediate transfer unit 5 includes primary transfer rollers 51Bk to 51M, an intermediate transfer belt 52, a driving roller 53, a plurality of driven rollers 54 (54a to 54c), a secondary transfer roller 55, a belt cleaning unit 56, and the like. The photosensitive drums 42 corresponding to the primary transfer rollers 51Bk to 51M sandwich the endless intermediate transfer belt 52. A transfer voltage is applied to each of the primary transfer rollers 51 </ b> Bk to 51 </ b> M, and the toner image is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 52.

  The intermediate transfer belt 52 is stretched around a driving roller 53 or the like, and rotates around the driving roller 53 connected to a driving mechanism (not shown) such as a motor. Further, the driving roller 53 and the secondary transfer roller 55 sandwich the intermediate transfer belt 52. The toner images (black, yellow, cyan, and magenta colors) formed by the image forming units 40 are sequentially superimposed and transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 52 without any deviation, and then a predetermined voltage is applied 2. The image is transferred to the sheet by the next transfer roller 55.

  The fixing unit 6 fixes the transferred toner image on the paper. The fixing unit 6 mainly includes a heating roller 61 incorporating a fixing heater 60 as a heating element, and a pressure roller 62 in pressure contact therewith. When the paper passes through the nip between the heating roller 61 and the pressure roller 62, the toner is melted and heated and fixed on the paper. The sheet discharged from the fixing unit 6 is sent toward the discharge tray 31.

(Operation panel 1)
Next, an example of the operation panel 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of the operation panel 1.

  The operation panel 1 has a display unit 11 for displaying various images and screens such as menus and keys for giving settings and operation instructions of the multifunction device 100, status messages of the multifunction device 100, and the like. The user can input various settings related to the multifunction device 100 by pressing the display position of the key or button displayed on the display unit 11.

  Further, the display unit 11 includes a touch panel unit 12 in order to detect a position and coordinates where the user presses the display unit 11. The detected coordinates using the touch panel unit 12 are compared with the positions and coordinates of various keys and buttons shown on the display unit 11, and the key selected by the user is specified. In addition, as the touch panel part 12, those of each system such as a resistive film system, a surface acoustic wave system, an infrared system, a capacitance system, etc. can be adopted and there is no particular limitation.

  The operation panel 1 is provided with the following hardware keys (buttons). For example, a numeric keypad 13 for inputting numbers, a start key 14 for instructing start of job processing such as copying after various settings, and the like are provided. The touch panel unit 12 and various hard keys are provided and function as an input unit for setting each function, selecting a mode, and the like.

(Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus)
Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the multifunction peripheral 100.

  First, a control unit 7 (corresponding to a determination unit) is provided in the multifunction peripheral 100. The control unit 7 controls the operation of the multifunction peripheral 100, and includes, for example, a CPU 71, an image processing unit 72, and the like. The control unit 7 is divided into a plurality of types for each function, such as a main control unit that performs overall control and image processing, and an engine control unit that controls ON / OFF of a motor that rotates image forming and various rotating bodies. May be provided.

  The CPU 71 is a central processing unit. The CPU 71 is stored in the storage unit 70 and controls each unit of the multi-function device 100 based on programs and data to be developed. A plurality of CPUs 71 may be provided. The image processing unit 72 performs various types of image processing on image data to be printed and image data transmitted to the external computer 200 or the counterpart FAX apparatus 300.

  The storage unit 70 includes a combination of a plurality of storage devices such as a ROM 73 (Read Only Memory), a RAM 74 (Random Access Memory), and an HDD 75 (Hard Disk Drive). For example, the ROM 73 is a flash ROM. The storage unit 70 can store various programs and data for controlling the multifunction peripheral 100, various data such as setting data and image data. The storage unit 70 can also store maintenance (adjustment) data and programs for the multifunction peripheral 100.

  Then, the control unit 7 includes the operation panel 1, the image reading unit 2a, the document conveying unit 2b, the paper feeding unit 3a, the conveying unit 3b, the image forming unit 4, the intermediate transfer unit 5, the fixing unit 6, and the like, buses and signal lines. Etc., and controls the operation of the multifunction peripheral 100 by controlling each unit and each device.

  Further, the control unit 7 is connected to a communication unit 76 including various connectors, sockets, a communication control chip, and the like. The communication unit 76 connects the MFP 100 and the computer 200 such as a personal computer or a server, or the FAX machine 300 of the other party so as to communicate with each other via a network or a public line. For example, data including image data can be transmitted to an external computer 200 or a partner FAX apparatus 300 (which may be an Internet FAX) (scanner function, FAX function). Also, printing can be performed based on image data from the external computer 200 or the counterpart FAX apparatus 300 (printer function, FAX function). As described above, the multifunction peripheral 100 has a plurality of functions among a copy function, a printer function, a scan function, and a FAX function.

(Maintenance mode)
Next, transition to the maintenance mode of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

  In order to maintain the multifunction peripheral 100, a maintenance mode for executing adjustments (maintenance items) prepared in advance is provided. The service person performs input for instructing the shift to the maintenance mode. In other words, the operation panel 1 receives an input for shifting to a maintenance mode, which is a mode for performing maintenance of the image forming apparatus. When there is a transition instruction, the control unit 7 shifts the mode of the multifunction peripheral 100 to the maintenance mode.

  If a job is started during adjustment, maintenance will be hindered. Therefore, in the maintenance mode, the multifunction peripheral 100 does not execute a job based on the copy function, the printer function, the scan function, and the FAX function unless necessary for adjustment.

  Specifically, the display unit 11 of the operation panel 1 displays a screen for entering (shifting to) the maintenance mode. Then, the service person uses the numeric keypad 13 or the like on the displayed screen to input a password for entering (transferring to) the maintenance mode. The control unit 7 compares the legitimate password stored in the storage unit 70 with the input password, and if the input password is correct, sets the mode of the multifunction peripheral 100 to the maintenance mode. By inputting to the operation panel 1 to cancel the maintenance mode, the control unit 7 cancels the maintenance mode and returns to a state (normal mode) in which various jobs are executed.

(Various sensors for detecting the status)
Next, a sensor for detecting the state of each part of the multifunction peripheral 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a sensor for detecting the state of each unit of the multifunction peripheral 100.

  Each part of the multifunction peripheral 100 operates to execute the job. For example, during printing, in addition to the control unit 7, the sheet feeding unit 3 a, the conveyance unit 3 b, the image forming unit 4 (each photosensitive drum 42, each charging unit 43, each developing unit 44, each unit in the image forming unit 4) The cleaning unit 45), the intermediate transfer unit 5, the fixing unit 6 and the like operate and function as operation units. In reading a document, the image reading unit 2a and the document transport unit 2b function as operation units. When performing communication, the communication unit 76 also functions as an operation unit. In addition, other parts constituting the multi-function device 100 also function as operation units.

  In the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment, a plurality of sensors for detecting the states of the various operation units are provided. Therefore, an example of a sensor provided in the multifunction device 100 will be described below.

  A toner sensor S1 for detecting the amount of toner in the developing unit 44 is provided in each developing unit 44 (see FIG. 2). The toner sensor S1 for each color may be an optical sensor, a hall sensor, or the like, and the output changes according to the amount of toner in the developing unit 44. The output of each toner sensor S1 is input to the control unit 7, and the control unit 7 periodically recognizes the output value of each color toner sensor S1. The control unit 7 obtains the toner amount in the developing unit 44 based on the output value of the toner sensor S1. Further, the control unit 7 accumulates the output value of the toner sensor S1 of each color and the obtained toner amount in the storage unit 70 as a state value indicating the state of the toner in each developing unit 44.

  Further, a fixing temperature sensor S2 for detecting the temperature of the heating roller 61 (fixing unit 6) is provided in the fixing unit 6 (see FIG. 1). The fixing temperature sensor S2 includes a thermistor and the like. The output of the fixing temperature sensor S2 changes according to the temperature of the heating roller 61. The output of the fixing temperature sensor S2 is input to the control unit 7, and the control unit 7 periodically recognizes the output value of the fixing temperature sensor S2, and obtains the temperature of the heating roller 61 based on the output value of the fixing temperature sensor S2. Further, the control unit 7 accumulates the output value of the fixing temperature sensor S2 and the obtained temperature of the heating roller 61 in the storage unit 70 as a state value indicating the state of the fixing unit 6 (heating roller 61).

  Each image forming unit 40 is provided with a drum sensor S3 for detecting the charged potential of the photosensitive drum 42 (see FIG. 2). The output of the drum sensor S3 for each color changes according to the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42. The output of the drum sensor S3 for each color is input to the control unit 7. The control unit 7 periodically recognizes the output value of the drum sensor S3 for each color, and obtains the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42 based on the output value of the drum sensor S3. Further, the control unit 7 accumulates the output value of the drum sensor S3 and the obtained charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42 of each color in the storage unit 70 as a state value indicating the state of the photosensitive drum 42 (image forming unit 4).

  A plurality of sensors for detecting the arrival and passage of the paper are provided along the paper transport path. For example, the registration sensor S4 for detecting the arrival and passage of the sheet to the registration roller pair 33, the fixing sheet sensor S5 for detecting the arrival and passage of the sheet to the fixing unit 6, and the end of the transport unit 3b. A discharge sensor S6 and the like for detecting paper discharge to the discharge tray 31 by detecting arrival and passage of the paper are provided (see FIG. 1). Paper sensors such as the registration sensor S4, the fixing paper sensor S5, and the discharge sensor S6 include an optical sensor. The output of each paper sensor changes depending on whether the presence of the paper is detected or not. The output of each paper sensor is input to the control unit 7, and the control unit 7 periodically recognizes the output value of each paper sensor. The control unit 7 recognizes whether or not a jam has occurred based on the output value of each paper sensor. For example, the control unit 7 recognizes that a jam has occurred when the arrival of a sheet cannot be detected in a time zone in which the arrival of the paper should be detected, or when the passage of the paper cannot be detected in a time zone in which the passage of the paper should be detected. Further, the control unit 7 accumulates the number of occurrences of jamming at each place and the output change time of each paper sensor in the storage unit 70 as state values.

  Further, a density sensor S7 for detecting the density of the toner image generated and transferred facing the intermediate transfer belt 52 is provided. The density sensor S7 is provided between the black image forming unit 40Bk and the secondary transfer roller 55 (see FIG. 1). For example, the density sensor S7 includes a reflective optical sensor. The output of the density sensor S7 changes according to the density (density) of the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 52. The output of the density sensor S7 is input to the control unit 7, and the control unit 7 periodically recognizes the output value of the density sensor S7. Then, the control unit 7 obtains the density of the formed toner image based on the output value of the density sensor S7. In addition, the control unit 7 accumulates the output value of the density sensor S7 and the obtained temperature of each color toner image in the storage unit 70 as a state value indicating the state of the image forming unit 4 and the intermediate transfer unit 5.

  Each toner sensor S1, fixing temperature sensor S2, each drum sensor S3, registration sensor S4, fixing sheet sensor S5, discharge sensor S6, density sensor S7, and the like function as a detection unit for detecting the state of the operation unit.

(Adjustment in maintenance mode)
Next, an example of adjustment that can be executed by the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining control of each operation unit during adjustment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen for adjustment of forced toner replenishment. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen for adjusting the fixing control temperature. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen for adjusting the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an operation screen for adjusting a transfer bias applied to various transfer rollers. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a toner image density calibration (density adjustment) operation screen. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the density calibration.

  In the multifunction peripheral 100 of the present embodiment, many (for example, about 200) types of adjustments are prepared. Programs and data for executing each adjustment are stored in the storage unit 70. Then, the control unit 7 reads the program and data related to the adjustment instructed to be executed into the storage unit 70, operates the operation unit corresponding to the adjustment instructed to be executed, and performs operations and processes related to the adjustment.

  Hereinafter, an example of adjustment that can be performed by the multifunction peripheral 100 will be described. Since there are a large number of adjustments that can be performed in the multifunction device 100, some of the adjustments that can be performed will be described below, and the others will be omitted.

[Forced toner supply adjustment]
Each developing unit 44 is provided with a toner sensor S1. The control unit 7 replenishes the toner from the toner container to the developing unit 44 that has been detected that the toner is low by the toner sensor S1. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, a replenishing unit 46 as a mechanism for feeding toner from the toner container to the developing unit 44 is provided for each developing unit 44. The replenishing unit 46 replenishes the developing unit 44 with toner by rotating a conveying member (for example, a screw) that sends toner. However, even if the control unit 7 detects that a certain amount of toner is present in the developing unit 44 due to various factors such as noise, the toner in the developing unit 44 may actually be low. is there.

  When the toner in the developing unit 44 is reduced, the density of the printed matter may be reduced. Therefore, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment can perform adjustment for forcibly supplying toner from the toner container. Thereby, the density of the printed matter can be recovered.

  FIG. 7 shows an operation screen (forced replenishment operation screen 81) relating to toner forced replenishment adjustment. For example, on the forced replenishment operation screen 81, the color of toner for performing the forced replenishment adjustment can be set. Then, the operation panel 1 accepts a touch on the display position of the execution key K1 on the forced supply operation screen 81 as an execution instruction for forced supply adjustment. When the execution instruction of the forced supply adjustment is made, the control unit 7 operates the supply unit 46 of the set color for a predetermined supply time to forcibly supply the developing unit 44 with toner.

  Note that a reference key K2 is provided on the toner forced replenishment operation screen 81. When the display position of the reference key K2 is touched, the control unit 7 displays a history of output values of the toner sensors S1 and a history of values indicating the toner amount of the developing units 44 on the operation panel 1 as status value history. Let The service person can determine the forced toner supply adjustment by referring to the state value.

[Fixing control temperature adjustment]
As shown in FIG. 6, the fixing unit 6 is provided with a fixing heater 60 for heating the fixing unit 6 (heating roller 61). The control unit 7 recognizes the temperature of the heating roller 61 based on the fixing temperature sensor S2 at the time of printing or the like, and performs ON / OFF (energization / cutoff) of the fixing heater 60 so that the temperature of the heating roller 61 is suitable for fixing. Keep at temperature (fixing control temperature). However, due to various factors such as a change in the output characteristics of the fixing heater 60 and a change in the characteristics of the fixing temperature sensor S2, the control unit 7 tries to maintain the heating roller 61 with the fixing temperature control. Insufficient heating or excessive heating of the toner image may occur.

  When fixing failure occurs, the image quality of the printed material is degraded. In addition, the occurrence frequency of paper jamming may increase due to the adhesiveness of the toner. Accordingly, the fixing control temperature can be adjusted in the multifunction peripheral 100 of the present embodiment. As a result, the image quality of the printed matter can be recovered and the fixing defect can be resolved.

  FIG. 8 shows an operation screen (fixing temperature operation screen 82) for adjusting the fixing control temperature. For example, on the fixing temperature operation screen 82, the fixing control temperature can be set using the numeric keypad 13 or the like. Then, the operation panel 1 accepts a touch on the display position of the execution key K3 on the fixing temperature operation screen 82 as an instruction to execute the fixing control temperature adjustment. When an instruction to execute the fixing control temperature adjustment is issued, the control unit 7 thereafter controls energization to the fixing heater 60 when printing is necessary, and the fixing unit 6 (at the newly set fixing control temperature). The temperature of the heating roller 61) is maintained.

  In the fixing temperature operation screen 82, a reference key K4 is provided. When the display position of the reference key K4 is touched, the control unit 7 displays a history of state values such as a history of output values of the fixing temperature sensor S2 and a history of temperatures of the fixing unit 6 (heating roller 61) at each time point. Is displayed on the operation panel 1. The service person can determine an appropriate fixing control temperature with reference to the state value.

[Adjustment of Photosensitive Drum 42]
As shown in FIG. 6, the image forming unit 4 is provided with a charging unit 43 that charges the photosensitive drum 42. The controller 7 can recognize the charging potential of each photosensitive drum 42 based on the drum sensor S3. However, due to various factors such as a change with time of the photoconductive drum 42 (for example, a change in the resistance value of the photoconductive drum 42 due to adhesion of dirt) and a change in the output characteristics of the developing unit 44, the actual charged potential of the photoconductive drum 42. May deviate from the ideal potential.

  If the actual charged potential of the photosensitive drum 42 deviates from an ideal potential, the density of the printed matter may not be as intended. Therefore, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment can make adjustments related to the photosensitive drum 42. As a result, the image quality of the printed material and the performance of the photosensitive drum 42 can be recovered.

  FIG. 9 shows an operation screen (charging operation screen 83) for adjusting the charging potential of the photosensitive drum. For example, on the potential operation screen, the output intensity (output level) of each charging unit 43 that charges each photosensitive drum 42 can be set using the numeric keypad 13 or the like. For example, as the strength increases, the output of the charging unit 43 (voltage with respect to the photosensitive drum 42) increases. Each charging unit 43 changes the output stepwise according to the set strength. The operation panel 1 receives a touch on the display position of the execution key K5 on the charging operation screen 83 as an instruction to execute adjustment of the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42. When an instruction to adjust the charging potential is issued, the control unit 7 controls each charging unit 43 to charge each photosensitive drum 42 with a newly set intensity (level).

  In the charging operation screen 83, a reference key K6 is provided. When the display position of the reference key K6 is touched, the control unit 7 displays the history of output values of each drum sensor S3 and the charging potential of each photosensitive drum 42 at each time point on the operation panel 1 as the history of state values. Let The service person can determine an appropriate level of the charging potential of each photosensitive drum 42 by referring to the state value.

[Adjustment of transfer bias]
As shown in FIG. 6, a transfer power supply unit 57 that applies a voltage for transferring a toner image to each of the primary transfer rollers 51 </ b> Bk to 51 </ b> M and the secondary transfer roller 55 is provided. The transfer power supply unit 57 includes a booster circuit and the like, generates a voltage to be applied to various transfer rollers when the toner image is transferred, and applies the generated voltage (bias) to the various transfer rollers. However, the transfer efficiency (the ratio of the formed toner image transferred to the paper) may be reduced due to various factors such as aging of each transfer roller and intermediate transfer belt 52 such as dirt and wear.

  When the transfer efficiency decreases, the density of the printed material may decrease. Therefore, in the MFP 100 according to this embodiment, the voltage applied to each of the primary transfer rollers 51Bk to 51M and the secondary transfer roller 55 can be adjusted when the toner image is transferred. As a result, the image quality of the printed material can be recovered.

  FIG. 10 shows an operation screen (transfer bias operation screen 84) for adjusting the transfer bias applied to the various transfer rollers. For example, on the transfer bias operation screen 84, voltages to be applied to the primary transfer rollers 51Bk to 51M (four of Bk to M) and the secondary transfer roller 55 can be set. Then, the operation panel 1 receives a touch on the display position of the execution key K7 on the transfer bias operation screen 84 as an execution instruction for adjusting the transfer bias applied to the various transfer rollers. When a transfer bias adjustment execution instruction is issued, the control unit 7 controls each transfer power supply unit 57 to apply a newly set voltage (transfer bias) to various transfer rollers.

[Toner image density calibration]
Next, density calibration, which is a type of adjustment, will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the multifunction peripheral 100 of the present embodiment is provided with a density sensor S <b> 7 for detecting the density of the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 52. By using this density sensor S7, the density of the actually formed toner image can be detected.

  Here, due to factors such as humidity, temperature, roughness of the surface of the photosensitive drum 42, and deterioration of the toner in the developing unit 44, the density (ideal density) of the toner image to be formed is actually formed. There may be a large deviation from the density of the toner image. In order to adjust and correct such deviation, density calibration is performed.

  FIG. 11 shows a density calibration operation screen (calibration operation screen 85). The operation panel 1 accepts a touch on the display position of the execution key K8 on the calibration operation screen 85 as a density calibration execution instruction. When an instruction to execute density calibration is given, the control unit 7 automatically operates the image forming unit 4 and the intermediate transfer unit 5.

  In the density calibration, for example, the control unit 7 forms a calibration image j1 as shown in FIG. 12 on the image forming unit 4 and transfers it to the intermediate transfer belt 52. The controller 7 forms a calibration image j1 for each color (black, yellow, cyan, magenta). FIG. 12 shows an example in which a black calibration image j1Bk and a yellow calibration image j1Y are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 52. The formed calibration image j1 may be collected by the belt cleaning unit 56 or printed on paper.

  One calibration image j1 is the same color, but is a combination of a plurality of patch images each having a different density. The calibration image j1 is formed at a position passing through the detection area of the density sensor S7. The density sensor S7 is a reflection type optical sensor that irradiates the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 52 with light, receives the reflected light, and outputs a voltage (current) corresponding to the amount (level) of the reflected light. The output of the density sensor S7 differs depending on the patch (toner image density) because the light absorption rate and diffusion rate differ depending on the color and distribution rate of the toner.

  The control unit 7 obtains the density of each patch based on the output of the density sensor S7. The storage unit 70 stores, for each patch included in the calibration image j1 for each color, the ideal output value of the density sensor S7 when each patch is read and the ideal density of each patch. . The storage unit 70 also stores, as state values, output values of the density sensor S7 when each color patch is actually read, and values indicating the actual toner image density of each patch based on the output of the density sensor S7. To do. Then, the control unit 7 compares the output value of the density sensor S7 actually obtained by reading the patch with an ideal output value, or the density of each patch obtained based on the output value and the patch to be formed. By comparing the ideal density, it is recognized whether it is lighter or darker than the ideal density.

  Here, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment includes a developing power supply unit 46 that generates an AC voltage or a DC voltage to be applied to the developing roller 44 a and applies the generated voltage to the developing roller 44 a. Provided. Each development power supply unit 46 includes a booster circuit and the like. In addition, each developing power supply unit 46 can change the generated AC voltage.

  Then, for the color whose patch density is generally light, the control unit 7 determines the peak-to-peak voltage of the AC voltage applied to the developing roller 44a of the light color developing unit 44 according to the difference from the ideal density. The part 46 is enlarged. Further, for the color whose patch density is generally dark, the control unit 7 sets the peak-to-peak voltage of the AC voltage applied to the developing roller 44a of the light-color developing unit 44 according to the difference from the ideal density. The part 46 is made small. Thereby, the density of the toner image is adjusted to an ideal density.

  In the above description of density calibration, an example in which the voltage (bias) applied to the developing roller 44a is adjusted has been described. However, during the density calibration, the output of the charging unit 43 and the voltage applied to each transfer roller may be adjusted simultaneously.

[Counting the number of jams]
As shown in FIG. 5, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment is provided with sensors for detecting a sheet conveyance state, such as a registration sensor S4, a fixing sheet sensor S5, and a discharge sensor S6. The control unit 7 can detect the occurrence of a paper jam and the position where the jam has occurred by using a plurality of sensors provided along the conveyance unit 3b.

  Therefore, in the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment, when a jam occurs, the control unit 7 stores data such as the cumulative number of times that the jam has occurred, the time at which the jam has occurred, and the location where the jam has occurred as jam occurrence history data. Let Then, by operating the operation panel 1 in the maintenance mode, the serviceman can display the jam occurrence history data on the display unit 11. By checking the occurrence history (occurrence status) of the jam, the service person can obtain information useful for adjustment and repair, such as which part of the jam is likely to occur and whether the occurrence frequency of the jam is abnormal. it can.

(Automatic adjustment selection)
Next, automatic adjustment selection will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an automatic adjustment flow. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of data for determining a defective phenomenon. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of data defining adjustments (maintenance items) to be executed for the defective phenomenon.

  As described above, a large number of adjustments (maintenance items) are mounted on the multifunction peripheral 100 of the present embodiment. In other words, a program or data for performing adjustment is stored in the storage unit 70, and the control unit 7 reads out the program or data corresponding to the adjustment instructed to be executed, and a portion instructed to be executed based on the program or data (Operation part) is operated and adjustment is performed.

  The adjustment includes not only the above-described printing but also the adjustment related to image reading (scanner) such as the image reading unit 2a and the document conveying unit 2b. There are also adjustments related to communication of the multifunction peripheral 100. As described above, the adjustment described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 12 is part of the printing among 100 to several hundred adjustments.

  As described above, it is very time-consuming to perform all adjustments (maintenance items) prepared without omission. It is necessary to select an adjustment to be appropriately performed according to the state of the multifunction peripheral 100 from a large number of adjustments prepared so that effective maintenance can be performed within a limited time. However, it is difficult to select an adjustment that should be appropriately performed in accordance with the state of the multifunction device 100 without omission. Therefore, the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment selects an adjustment to be automatically performed. Hereinafter, the flow of the selection process for the adjustment to be automatically performed will be described.

  First, the start of FIG. 13 is when the maintenance mode is entered. Note that the start of FIG. 13 may be performed when an execution instruction for automatic adjustment selection is given by an input to the operation panel 1 after entering the maintenance mode.

  First, the control unit 7 reads out a program or software for selecting an automatic adjustment stored in the storage unit 70 from the storage unit 70 and starts it (step # 11).

  Next, the control unit 7 compares the predetermined allowable range according to the type of the state value with each state value of each sensor stored in the storage unit 70, and confirms the state value that is not within the allowable range. (Step # 12). Note that the allowable range determined in advance according to the type of the state value is stored in the storage unit 70. Specifically, the control unit 7 determines whether or not the state value based on the output of each sensor from the previous maintenance to the current maintenance (from the end of the previous maintenance mode to the start of the current maintenance mode) is within an allowable range. Check. Here, when the same type of state value is accumulated in the plurality of storage units 70 (when it is left as a history), the average value of the same type of state value is compared with the allowable range, and whether it is within the allowable range. If there is any state value that is not within the allowable range, it may be determined that the type of state value is not within the allowable range.

  Based on the data stored in the storage unit 70, the control unit 7 determines a failure phenomenon based on the type of state value not within the allowable range (step # 13). Here, as shown in FIG. 14, data defining a defective phenomenon is stored in the storage unit 70 for the types of state values not within the allowable range. Specifically, the storage unit 70 stores data defining a defective phenomenon occurring in the image forming apparatus according to a state value that is not within a predetermined allowable range according to the type of the state value.

  For example, for each of black, yellow, cyan, and magenta, the state value tolerance range of each sensor, such as the tolerance range of the density sensor S7 when a toner image having a specific density is formed, is not within the tolerance range. The defective phenomenon is defined in the storage unit 70.

  Subsequently, based on the data stored in the storage unit 70, the control unit 7 selects an adjustment to be executed according to the determined failure phenomenon (step # 14 → end). As shown in FIG. 15, the storage unit 70 stores data indicating adjustments to be performed for the defective phenomenon.

  For example, when it is determined that there is a defective printing phenomenon, the control unit 7 performs density calibration, adjustment of transfer bias, adjustment of the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42, toner adjustment, and the like. It is determined that the forced replenishment adjustment is to be executed. Further, for example, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the transition of the state value of the fixing temperature sensor S2 and there is a defect phenomenon of the fixing failure, the control unit 7 refers to the history of the state value of the fixing temperature sensor S2, or the fixing control temperature. It is determined that the adjustment should be performed such as adjustment or reference of the number of jams. In addition to the above, the adjustment to be performed for the failure phenomenon and the failure phenomenon can be arbitrarily defined.

  As described above, the storage unit 70 includes data defining a failure phenomenon occurring in the MFP 100 according to a tolerance value or a state value that is not within a predetermined tolerance range according to the type of state value, and a failure phenomenon. The determination data D1 including data indicating the adjustment to be performed is stored. Then, the control unit 7 determines a failure phenomenon occurring in the multi-function device 100 based on each state value stored in the storage unit 70 and the determination data D1, and adjusts based on the determined failure phenomenon and the determination data D1. Select the adjustment (selected adjustment) to be selected as to be executed

(Display of the operation screen for automatically selected adjustment)
Next, display of automatically selected adjustment (selected adjustment) will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the display order of the automatically selected adjustment operation screen. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of an example of adjustment priority data D2. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the display flow of the operation screen for automatically selected adjustment (selected adjustment).

  First, referring to FIG. 16, it is determined that the printing is thin based on the output of the density sensor S7 (state values relating to the density sensor S7, the image forming unit 4, and the intermediate transfer unit 5), and density calibration, transfer bias adjustment, and photosensitivity are performed. An example in which the adjustment of the charging potential of the body drum 42 and the forced toner supply adjustment are automatically selected as the selected adjustment will be described.

  First, the control unit 7 displays an operation screen for selected adjustment on the operation panel 1. At this time, the control unit 7 receives an input for setting the selected adjustment and an instruction to execute the selected adjustment. Further, when there are a plurality of selection adjustments, the control unit 7 causes the operation panel 1 to display an operation screen for the selection adjustment in order. When the execution instruction for the selected adjustment is given, the control unit 7 controls the image forming unit 4, the intermediate transfer unit 5, the developing unit 44 (developing power source unit 46), the transfer power source unit 57, the charging units 43, and the replenishing units 46. Etc. are operated as an operation unit to perform adjustment.

  Here, the operation panel 1 accepts an instruction to execute the selected adjustment for each of the plurality of selected adjustments. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, when the selected adjustment operation screens are displayed in order, the control unit 7 switches the operation screens for each selected adjustment in turn in the wizard format (interactive format). It is displayed on the operation panel 1. When there are a plurality of failure phenomena, the control unit 7 causes the operation panel 1 to display an adjustment operation screen for improving all the failure phenomena in order. For example, when it is determined that a defective fixing phenomenon other than thin printing has occurred, the control unit 7 displays an operation screen such as fixing control temperature adjustment in addition to the operation screen shown in FIG.

  When displaying the operation screens for the selected adjustment in order, the control unit 7 determines the display order based on the priority of each adjustment. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the storage unit 70 stores priority data D2 that is data in which priority is determined for each adjustment. In the priority data D2, the priority of each adjustment is determined. Each adjustment is assigned a value that indicates its priority. For example, when there are 200 types of adjustments, each adjustment is assigned a value of 1 to 200 as a priority. Alternatively, the priority level may be further reduced (for example, about 3 to 10 levels). Then, the control unit 7 causes the operation panel 1 to display the operation screen for the selected adjustment in order from the selected adjustment with the highest priority based on the priority data D2.

  Here, the priority data D2 is set so that the priority increases as the number of operation units or sensors that affect the adjustment is increased. For example, density calibration operates the entire image forming unit 4 and the intermediate transfer unit 5. On the other hand, forcible replenishment of toner only operates the replenishing unit 46, and adjustment of the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42 operates the photosensitive drum 42 and the charging unit 43 in the image forming unit 4. Therefore, it can be said that the density calibration has a greater influence than the forced toner supply and the adjustment of the charged potential of the photosensitive drum 42. Thus, the priority can be determined in consideration of the influence of adjustment.

  Next, an example of the flow of adjustment based on the automatically selected adjustment (selected adjustment) will be described with reference to FIG.

  The start of FIG. 18 is the time when the control unit 7 automatically selects the necessary adjustment (selected adjustment) based on the state value of each sensor (the flowchart of FIG. 13).

  When the control unit 7 automatically selects the adjustment, it determines the order (display order) in which the operation screen for the selected adjustment is displayed based on the priority data D2 (step # 21). Subsequently, the control unit 7 causes the operation panel 1 to display the operation screen for the selected adjustment in the first order on the operation panel 1 (step # 22).

  After the setting by the service person, the selected adjustment instructed to be executed on the operation screen is executed (step # 23). At this time, based on the adjustment program and data stored in the storage unit 70, the control unit 7 actually performs the selected adjustment for which execution is instructed (corresponding to the selected adjustment for which execution has been instructed). Operating part).

  Then, the control unit 7 recognizes the state value of each related detection unit based on the output of the related detection unit, which is a sensor related to the operation unit operated by the executed selection adjustment (step # 24). For example, when density calibration is performed, state values based on outputs from the density sensor S7 and each drum sensor S3 related to the image forming unit 4 and the intermediate transfer unit 5 are confirmed and recognized.

  Subsequently, the control unit 7 confirms whether or not a state value newly deviated from the allowable range is generated by executing the adjustment (selected adjustment) (step # 25). When a state value out of the allowable range occurs (Yes in step # 25), the control unit 7 adjusts one or more adjustments (based on the state value out of the allowable range) to improve the state value out of the allowable range. The adjustment corresponding to the determined defective phenomenon is automatically selected (step # 26). Based on the priority data D2, the control unit 7 determines the display order of the adjustment operation screen for the already selected adjustment (selected adjustment) and the adjustment newly selected as the selected adjustment (step # 27). . Thus, when the order is reached, an adjustment operation screen for improving the operation unit corresponding to the state value out of the allowable range is displayed on the operation panel 1.

  For example, when density calibration is performed to adjust the voltage applied to the developing roller 44a, the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 42 near the developing roller 44a may be affected. Therefore, the control unit 7 recognizes the state value based on the output of the drum sensor S3 related to the operation unit (such as the image forming unit 4) operated by executing the density calibration, and the charged potential of the photosensitive drum 42 is within the allowable range. If it is recognized that it has deviated, the adjustment of the charging potential of the photosensitive drum 42 is newly selected.

  After step # 27 or when there is no state value newly deviating from the allowable range (No in step # 25), the control unit 7 executes the selected adjustment to determine a state value based on the output of the related detection unit in advance. It is confirmed whether or not there is any within the specified allowable range (step # 28). In other words, the control unit 7 confirms whether or not the state value that is out of the allowable range is within the allowable range due to the influence of the adjustment performed previously.

  When the state value based on the output of the related detection unit falls within a predetermined allowable range due to execution of the selected adjustment (step # 28), the control unit 7 performs an adjustment for improving the state value within the allowable range. The selected adjustment is removed (step # 29). In other words, the control unit 7 cancels the selected adjustment without displaying the operation screen of the adjustment which is no longer necessary on the operation panel 1 because the state value returns to an appropriate range. As a result, the operation display unit does not display the operation screen for the selected adjustment for adjusting the state value within the allowable range.

  For example, when there is an abnormality in the state value of the density sensor S7 (when the density of the detected toner image and the density of the ideal toner image exceed the allowable range), the control unit 7 performs density calibration and transfer bias. The adjustment is automatically selected as the selected adjustment. When density calibration is executed and the voltage applied to the developing roller 44a is adjusted, the control unit 7 approaches the density of the formed toner image, and the state value of the density sensor S7 is within an allowable range. When the controller 7 recognizes that it has become, the control panel 7 causes the operation panel 1 to stop displaying the operation screen for the unexecuted transfer bias adjustment in the order after the density calibration.

  When there is no state value within the predetermined allowable range even after the adjustment (No in step # 28), or after step # 29, the control unit 7 determines whether or not all the selected adjustments have been completed. Is confirmed (step # 210). If all have been completed (Yes in step # 210), this flow ends (END).

  On the other hand, if it has not been completed (No in Step # 210), the control unit 7 causes the operation panel 1 for the next selected adjustment to be displayed on the operation panel 1 (Step # 211). Then, the flow returns to step # 23. Thus, each time one selected adjustment is executed, the control unit 7 determines the state value of each related detection unit based on the output of the related detection unit that is a detection unit related to the operation unit that is operated by the execution of the selected adjustment. And select the adjustment that is newly required or unnecessary.

  As described above, according to the configuration of the present exemplary embodiment, the image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 100) includes a plurality of operation units (the paper feeding unit 3a, the conveyance unit 3b, the image forming unit 4, the intermediate unit) that operate during job execution. (Each photoconductor drum 42, each charging unit 43, each developing unit 44, each cleaning unit 45, etc.) in the transfer unit 5 and the image forming unit 4) and the operation unit are provided to detect the state of the operation unit. A plurality of detection units (each toner sensor S1, fixing temperature sensor S2, each drum sensor S3, registration sensor S4, fixing sheet sensor S5, discharge sensor S6, density sensor S7, etc.) and the operation unit based on the output of the detection unit The storage unit 70 that stores a plurality of types of state values indicating the state, and a plurality of adjustment ranges that are determined in advance according to each state value are compared with each state value, and an adjustment to be performed from among a plurality of types of adjustments. Select as selected adjustment Displays a judgment unit (control unit 7) and an operation screen for selected adjustment, accepts an input for setting the selected adjustment, and an instruction to execute the selected adjustment. When there are a plurality of selected adjustments, the selected items are selected in order. An operation display unit (operation panel 1) that displays an adjustment operation screen, and an operation unit corresponding to the selected adjustment for which an execution instruction has been issued performs an adjustment operation.

  As a result, detection units (each toner sensor S1, fixing temperature sensor S2, each drum sensor S3, registration sensor S4, fixing sheet sensor S5, discharge sensor S6, density sensor S7, etc.) included in the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100). Based on the output, the necessary adjustment is automatically selected as the selected adjustment. Therefore, the necessary adjustment (which can solve the problem or prevent the occurrence of the problem) can be executed without omission regardless of the skill level and skill level of the service person. In other words, necessary adjustments (maintenance items) are selected so that timing is not missed and no leakage occurs, and all necessary adjustments can be executed, and effective maintenance above a certain level is guaranteed. In addition, since a plurality of adjustment operation screens are displayed in order, the service person may perform each adjustment while setting the adjustments in the order. Accordingly, it is only necessary to perform maintenance work (execution of each adjustment) along the flow of the service person, and the service person can smoothly perform the maintenance work easily and easily.

  In addition, one adjustment (maintenance item) may affect various parts. If the adjustment is executed, the state of the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) is sufficiently improved, and another adjustment (selected) Adjustment) may not be necessary. Therefore, the operation display unit (operation panel 1) receives an instruction to execute the selected adjustment for each selected adjustment, and the determination unit (control unit 7) executes one selected adjustment. Each time an operation unit (sheet feeding unit 3a, transport unit 3b, image forming unit 4, intermediate transfer unit 5, each photosensitive drum 42 in each image forming unit 4 and each charging unit 43) is operated. And detection units (each toner sensor S1, fixing temperature sensor S2, each drum sensor S3, registration sensor S4, fixing sheet sensor S5, discharge sensor S6, density sensor S7, etc.) related to each developing unit 44, each cleaning unit 45, etc. ) Based on the output of the related detection unit, and when the state value based on the output of the related detection unit falls within a predetermined allowable range by executing the selected adjustment, Size Parts are out of the selected adjustment, it was decided to remove the adjustments to improve the state value becomes the allowable range of the selected adjustment. As a result, if one adjustment is executed and the state of the image forming apparatus is improved, it is possible to prevent the selected adjustment that is no longer necessary. Therefore, the maintenance work can be completed quickly.

  In addition, a certain operation unit (paper feeding unit 3a, conveyance unit 3b, image forming unit 4, intermediate transfer unit 5, each photosensitive drum 42 in each image forming unit 4, each charging unit 43, each developing unit 44, each cleaning unit, etc. 45, etc.) may affect the other parts, and may adversely affect other parts (for example, adjusting the voltage applied to the developing roller 44a may cause a minute gap in the developing roller 44a). In some cases, the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 42 opposed to the space may be affected. When a state value out of the allowable range is generated by execution of the selected adjustment, the determination unit (control unit 7) newly selects an adjustment for improving the state value out of the allowable range as the selected adjustment, The operation display unit (operation panel 1) displays a newly selected operation screen for selected adjustment. Thereby, even if an influence is caused by execution of a certain adjustment, another adjustment operation screen for eliminating or mitigating the influence can be automatically displayed. Therefore, the maintenance work can be completed with all the problems solved and improved.

  Further, the storage unit 70 stores priority data D2 which is data in which priority is set for each adjustment, and the operation display unit (operation panel 1) is based on the priority data D2 in order from the selected adjustment with the highest priority. The operation screen for the selected adjustment is displayed, and the priority data D2 is an operation unit (feed unit 3a, transport unit 3b, image forming unit 4, intermediate transfer unit 5, image forming unit which affects when the adjustment is executed) 4, each photosensitive drum 42, each charging unit 43, each developing unit 44, each cleaning unit 45, etc.) and detection unit (each toner sensor S 1, fixing temperature sensor S 2, each drum sensor S 3, registration sensor S 4, fixing paper) It is assumed that the priority is set to increase as the number of adjustments increases (sensor S5, discharge sensor S6, density sensor S7, etc.). Thereby, it can be made to perform from the selection adjustment with a large influence degree. Therefore, by performing the adjustment having a large influence degree, if the state value falls within the allowable range at various portions, the maintenance work can be quickly completed. Also, if adjustments with a large influence are executed in the subsequent order, other parts may be adversely affected, and it may be necessary to make adjustments again for those parts that are adversely affected. However, since the order is determined so as to be executed from the adjustment having a large influence, it is possible to make it difficult to make the adjustment again.

  Further, the storage unit 70 stores data defining a failure phenomenon occurring in the image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 100) according to a state value that is not within a predetermined allowable range according to the type of state value, and a failure phenomenon. Judgment data D1 including data indicating adjustments to be performed is stored, and the determination unit (control unit 7) is generated in the image forming apparatus based on the state value stored in the storage unit 70 and the determination data D1. The defective phenomenon is determined, and the selected adjustment is selected based on the determined defective phenomenon and the determination data D1. Thereby, the selected adjustment can be determined simply and quickly.

  In addition, when displaying the operation screen for the selected adjustment in order, the operation display unit (operation panel 1) switches the display for each selected adjustment in order in an interactive manner and displays the operation screen. As a result, the selected adjustment can be easily executed in order. Therefore, the maintenance work can be simplified.

  The operation display unit (operation panel 1) receives an input for shifting to a maintenance mode, which is a mode for performing maintenance of the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100), and an input for instructing the shift to the maintenance mode is input to the operation display unit. After the determination, the determination unit (control unit 7) selects the selected adjustment, and the operation display unit sequentially displays the operation screen for the selected adjustment. As a result, selection of the selected adjustment and display of the operation screen for the selected adjustment in a predetermined order are performed at the same time as the transition to the maintenance mode. Can be directed.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention can be used for an image forming apparatus capable of performing adjustment for maintenance.

100 MFP (image forming apparatus) 1 Operation panel (operation display unit)
3a Paper feed unit (operation unit) 3b Transport unit (operation unit)
4 Image forming unit (operation unit) 41 Exposure unit (operation unit)
42 Photosensitive drum (operation unit) 43 Charging unit (operation unit)
44 Development unit (operation unit) 45 Cleaning unit (operation unit)
5 Intermediate transfer unit (operation unit) 7 Control unit (determination unit)
70 Storage unit 81 Forced replenishment operation screen (operation screen)
82 Fixing temperature operation screen (operation screen) 83 Charging operation screen (operation screen)
84 Transfer bias operation screen (operation screen)
85 Calibration operation screen (operation screen)
D1 Judgment data D2 Priority data S1 Toner sensor (detection unit) S2 Fixing temperature sensor (detection unit)
S3 Drum sensor (detection unit) S4 Registration sensor (detection unit)
S5 Fixing paper sensor (detection unit) S6 Ejection sensor (detection unit)
S7 Concentration sensor (detection unit)

Claims (7)

A plurality of operation units that operate during job execution;
A plurality of detection units provided for the operation unit for detecting the state of the operation unit;
A storage unit that stores a plurality of types of state values indicating the state of the operation unit based on the output of the detection unit, and a plurality of types that compare a predetermined allowable range according to each of the state values with each of the state values A determination unit that selects, as a selected adjustment, the adjustment to be performed from among the adjustments;
The operation screen for the selected adjustment is displayed, and an input for setting the selected adjustment and an execution instruction for the selected adjustment are received. When there are a plurality of the selected adjustments, the operations for the selected adjustment are sequentially performed. An operation display unit for displaying a screen,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit corresponding to the selected adjustment for which an execution instruction has been issued performs an adjustment operation. The operation display unit receives an instruction to execute the selected adjustment for each of the selected adjustments, for each of the selected adjustments.
Each time one of the selected adjustments is executed, the determination unit determines whether each of the related detection units is based on the output of the related detection unit that is the detection unit related to the operation unit that has been operated by the execution of the selected adjustment. Recognizing the state value;
When the state value based on the output of the related detection unit falls within a predetermined allowable range due to the execution of the selected adjustment, the determination unit determines that the state in the selected adjustment is within the allowable range. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment for improving the value is excluded from the selected adjustment. When the execution of the selected adjustment causes the state value out of the allowable range,
The determination unit newly selects an adjustment for improving the state value out of the allowable range as the selected adjustment,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the operation display unit displays the newly selected operation screen of the selected adjustment. The storage unit stores priority data, which is data defining a priority for each of the adjustments,
The operation display unit displays the operation screen of the selected adjustment in order from the selected adjustment having the higher priority based on the priority data,
4. The priority data is set so that the priority becomes larger as the adjustment has a larger number of the operation units and the detection units that influence when the adjustment is executed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. The storage unit executes data for the defect phenomenon and data defining a defect phenomenon occurring in the image forming apparatus according to the state value not within a predetermined allowable range according to the type of the state value. Storing judgment data including data indicating the adjustment to be performed;
The determination unit determines the defect phenomenon occurring in the image forming apparatus based on the state value stored in the storage unit and the determination data, and the selected unit is determined based on the determined defect phenomenon and the determination data. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an adjustment is selected. When displaying the operation screen of the selected adjustment in order,
6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation display unit displays the operation screen in an interactive manner in order by switching for each of the selected adjustments. The operation display unit receives an input to shift to a maintenance mode, which is a mode for performing maintenance of the image forming apparatus,
After an input for instructing the transition to the maintenance mode is made on the operation display unit,
The determination unit selects the selected adjustment,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation display unit sequentially displays the operation screens for the selected adjustment.