JP2017015914A - Image forming apparatus and fixing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suppress a deterioration in quality of an image on a recording material to be output even when a fixing part is replaced before an image forming apparatus is used.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 100 comprises: an image forming part 309; a fixing part 150 that is removably attached to a main body of the image forming apparatus 100; jam detection parts 153 and 155 that detect paper jam in the fixing part 150; an execution part 301 that executes cleaning processing on a rotating body 151 accompanying removal of paper jam; a recording part 301 that records information dealing with whether the cleaning processing has been executed in a recording part 154 of the fixing part 150; and a notification part 180. When the information acquired from the storage part 154 of the fixing part 150 attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 indicates that the cleaning processing has not been executed, the execution part 301 executes the cleaning processing before the notification part 180 makes a notification.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrophotographic image forming apparatus and a fixing device used in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus.

  An electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes a fixing device (fixing unit) that fixes an unfixed toner image formed on a recording material to the recording material. In order to obtain a higher quality product, a method is known in which a fixing device having a different purpose of use is used in accordance with the size and type of the recording material to be fixed. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-133620 proposes a method for detecting identification information of a fixing device and notifying a user when a fixing device that is not appropriate for the determined print job specification is recognized.

  On the other hand, when a jam occurs in the fixing device, unfixed toner may adhere to the fixing member (rotating body) of the fixing device. Therefore, the fixing member is cleaned after the jam processing is performed to remove the recording material jammed in the fixing device by the user.

JP 2011-56945 A

  However, when a system in which a plurality of fixing devices are replaced is used, there is a possibility that the fixing device is replaced with another fixing device before the cleaning after the jam processing is executed. As described above, when the fixing device removed without performing cleaning is mounted on the image forming apparatus again, printing is started without performing cleaning. As a result, there is a possibility that the recording material which is an output product is soiled by unfixed toner adhering to the fixing member.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to suppress deterioration in image quality even when the fixing unit is replaced and used.

In order to achieve the above object, the first invention provides:
An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material,
An image forming unit for forming an unfixed toner image on a recording material;
A fixing unit detachably attached to a main body of the image forming apparatus, wherein when the unfixed toner image formed by the image forming unit is fixed on the recording material, the surface is in contact with the surface on which the unfixed toner image is formed A fixing unit including a rotating body;
A jam detection unit for detecting a jam at the fixing unit;
An execution unit that executes a cleaning process of the rotating body associated with the removal of the jam detected by the jam detection unit;
A storage unit that is provided in the fixing unit and stores information;
A recording unit for recording in the storage unit information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been executed by the execution unit;
A notification unit for notifying an operator that the image forming apparatus is in a state of being able to perform image formation on a recording material;
Have
If the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process has not been performed, the execution unit may perform the notification before the notification unit performs notification. A cleaning process is executed.

The second invention is
An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material,
An image forming unit for forming an unfixed toner image on a recording material;
A fixing unit detachably attached to a main body of the image forming apparatus, wherein when the unfixed toner image formed by the image forming unit is fixed on the recording material, the surface is in contact with the surface on which the unfixed toner image is formed A fixing unit including a rotating body;
A jam detection unit for detecting a jam at the fixing unit;
An execution unit that executes a cleaning process of the rotating body associated with the removal of the jam detected by the jam detection unit;
A storage unit that is provided in the fixing unit and stores information;
A recording unit for recording in the storage unit information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been executed by the execution unit;
Have
The execution unit starts the fixing process in the fixing unit when the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process is not executed. The cleaning process is executed until the process is completed.

The third invention is
An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material,
An image forming unit for forming an unfixed toner image on a recording material;
A plurality of fixing units corresponding to types of recording materials on which an unfixed toner image can be formed in the image forming unit, wherein the recording material is fixed when the unfixed toner image formed by the image forming unit is fixed on the recording material. Any one of a plurality of fixing units including a rotating member that contacts a surface on which the unfixed toner image is formed, a cleaning unit that cleans the rotating member, and a storage unit that stores information is mounted. A mounting part;
A jam detection unit for detecting a jam at the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit;
An execution unit that causes the cleaning unit to perform a cleaning process of the rotating body of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit when the jam detected by the jam detection unit is resolved;
A recording unit that records information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been performed by the execution unit in a storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit;
A notification unit for notifying an operator that the image forming apparatus is in a state of being able to perform image formation on a recording material;
Have
When the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit indicates that the cleaning process is not performed, the execution unit performs the cleaning process before the notification unit performs notification. It is characterized by being executed.

The fourth invention is:
A fixing device detachably attached to an image forming apparatus,
A rotating body in contact with the surface of the recording material on which the unfixed toner image is formed when fixing the unfixed toner image formed on the recording material to the recording material;
A cleaning unit for cleaning the rotating body;
A storage unit capable of storing information corresponding to whether or not a cleaning process has been executed by the cleaning unit in response to the removal of a jam in the fixing device;
It is characterized by having.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress deterioration in image quality even when the fixing unit is replaced and used.

1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of a control system. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a fixing unit. 6 is a flowchart from when the power switch is turned on until the standby mode is set. It is a flowchart from the state in which the front door is open to the standby mode. It is a flowchart of a starting sequence. 5 is a flowchart regarding processing when a jam occurs in a fixing unit. (A) is a figure which shows an example of the information which the memory | storage of the fixing device in which cleaning processing is not performed is held, (b) is an example of the information which the memory of the fixing device in which cleaning processing has been performed is held. FIG. It is a flowchart of start-up sequence 2. 6 is a flowchart 2 regarding processing when a jam occurs in the fixing unit. 3 is a flowchart 2 from when the power switch is turned on until the standby mode is set. It is the flowchart 2 until it becomes standby mode from the state in which the front door is open.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the components described in this embodiment are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to only those described in the embodiment.

[Example 1]
(1. Overall configuration of image forming apparatus)
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus.

  Here, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

  The image forming apparatus 100 conveys the recording material 102 stored in the recording material storage unit 103 to the image forming unit 309 (FIG. 2), and forms a toner image on the recording material 102. Details of the image forming unit 309 will be described later.

  Thereafter, the image forming apparatus 100 conveys the recording material 102 on which the toner image is formed by the image forming unit 309 to the fixing unit (first fixing device 150, second fixing device 170), and applies heat and pressure. The toner image on the recording material 102 is fixed on the recording material 102. Details of the fixing unit will be described later.

  In the case of single-sided printing, the image forming apparatus 100 discharges the recording material 102 on which image formation has been completed through the image forming unit 309 and the fixing unit to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 by the flapper 132 guiding the recording material 102 to the discharge path 139. .

  On the other hand, in the case of duplex printing, the image forming apparatus 100 inverts the recording material 102 that has been printed on one side and conveys the recording material 102 to the image forming unit 309 again. Specifically, the fixed recording material 102 is guided by the flapper 132 to the conveyance path 134 and conveyed to the reversing unit 136. When the reverse sensor 135 detects the trailing edge of the recording material 102, the flapper 133 switches the conveyance direction of the recording material 102 to the conveyance path 137. The image forming apparatus 100 conveys the reversed recording material 102 again to the image forming unit 309 and the fixing unit via the conveyance path 137.

  The recording material 102 on which the image formation on both sides is completed is guided to the discharge path 139 by the flapper 132 and discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100.

  Here, the flapper 132 is a switching member that switches whether the recording material 102 that has passed through the image forming unit 309 and the fixing unit is transported to the transport path 134 or discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100.

  The recording material 102 is an image on which an image is formed by the image forming apparatus 100. Examples of the recording material 102 include paper and an OHP sheet.

  The operation unit 180 that functions as a notification unit or a selection unit includes a display screen and a selection key. The operation unit 180 displays the state of the image forming apparatus 100 on the display screen, and receives an operation instruction from the operator using a selection key.

  The power switch 101 is a start switch that starts the image forming apparatus 100.

  The front door 140 serving as an opening / closing unit is an image forming apparatus for mounting the fixing device (first fixing device 150, second fixing device 170) on the mounting unit (first mounting unit 141, second mounting unit 142). 100 is a door provided in the opening of the main body.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an open / close sensor (optical sensor) 305 (FIG. 2) as a sensor for detecting that the front door 140 is in a closed state. The open / close sensor 305 and the CPU 301 (FIG. 2) function as an open / close detection unit. The front door 140 has a protrusion (not shown), and is inserted into a receiving portion (not shown) of the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 when the front door 140 is closed. The CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 has been closed based on a signal output from the opening / closing sensor 305 when the protrusion is inserted into the receiving portion. On the other hand, when the signal from the open / close sensor 305 is not output, the CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 is open. The CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 is opened based on a signal output from the opening / closing sensor 305 when the front door 140 is opened. On the other hand, when the signal from the opening / closing sensor 305 is not output, the CPU 301 May be configured to detect that the front door 140 is closed.

(2. Configuration of control system)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control system.

  The image forming apparatus 100 (FIG. 1) includes a CPU 301, a RAM 302, a ROM 303, and the like for controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus 100.

  The CPU 301 functioning as a control unit performs basic control of the image forming apparatus 100 by executing a control program stored in the ROM 303. The operation of the flowchart described later is executed by the CPU 301 based on a control program stored in the ROM 303. The CPU 301 uses the RAM 302 as a work area for executing control program processing.

  The CPU 301 is electrically connected to each mechanism to be controlled in addition to the RAM 302 and the ROM 303.

  The external I / F unit 304 is a communication circuit for communicating with an external device connected via a network (for example, a LAN or a WAN). Examples of the external device include a PC and other image forming apparatuses.

  The CPU 301 is connected to the open / close sensor 305 and detects whether or not the front door 140 is in a closed state.

  The sensor group 306 is a sensor on the conveyance path including the sensors 153, 155, 173, and 175 shown in FIG. 1, and is a sensor for the CPU 301 to detect the presence / absence and passage of a recording material.

  The CPU 301 is connected to the operation unit 180. The CPU 301 accepts switching of display contents on the display screen and an operation instruction from the operator through the selection key of the operation unit 180. Further, the CPU 301 displays information such as the operation status of the image forming apparatus 100 and the operation mode set by input from the selection key on the display screen of the operation unit 180.

  The CPU 301 is connected to the timer 307. Timer 307 measures time. As will be described later, it is used for jam detection and cleaning time measurement.

  The CPU 301 is connected to the main body memory 312. The main body memory 312 is a rewritable nonvolatile memory and may be integrated with the RAM 302.

  The CPU 301 is connected to the transport unit 308 and controls the transport of the recording material 102. The conveyance unit 308 is a supply unit that supplies the recording material 102 from the recording material storage unit 103 to the conveyance path, each flapper (flappers 131, 132, and 133 shown in FIG. 1) on the conveyance path, and the like.

  The CPU 301 is connected to an image forming unit 309, which will be described later, and controls the image forming unit 309.

  The fixing device memory 310 is a memory 154 included in the first fixing device 150 attached to the image forming apparatus 100 and a memory 174 included in the second fixing device 170 attached to the image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 301 is connected to the memories 154 and 174 included in the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, and performs writing and reading to the memories 154 and 174.

  The CPU 301 is connected to a mechanism group X included in the first fixing device 150 attached to the image forming apparatus 100, and temperature adjustment control (hereinafter also referred to as temperature control) of the first fixing device 150. And cleaning control. The mechanism group X shows a temperature sensor 320, a heater 321, a contact / separation mechanism 322, a motor 323, a solenoid 324, and a web attachment / detachment mechanism 325.

  Here, the temperature sensor 320 is a plurality of temperature sensors included in the first fixing device 150, and includes a thermistor 162 (FIG. 3) and a thermistor (not shown) of the pressure belt 152.

  Here, the heater 321 is a plurality of heaters included in the first fixing device 150, and includes a halogen heater 161 (FIG. 3) and a halogen heater (not shown) inside the heating roller 163.

  The CPU 301 is connected to the mechanism group X of the second fixing device 170 mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, and performs temperature adjustment control (hereinafter also referred to as temperature control) and cleaning of the second fixing device 170. Take control. Since the mechanism group X of the second fixing device 170 is the same as the mechanism group X of the first fixing device 150, the description thereof is omitted by giving the same reference numerals. (In the description of the mechanism group X described above, the first fixing device 150 can be replaced with the second fixing device 170, the pressure belt 152 can be replaced with the pressure roller 172, and the heating roller 163 can be replaced with the pressure roller 172. Just do it.)

  In this embodiment, the CPU 301 controls each mechanism. However, for example, a plurality of CPU circuit units that control the operation of each mechanism and a main CPU circuit unit that is connected to the plurality of CPU circuit units and controls the whole may be configured.

(3. Image forming unit)
The image forming apparatus 100 includes stations 120, 121, 122, and 123 as an image forming unit 309 (FIG. 2), an intermediate transfer belt 115 as an intermediate transfer member, and a transfer roller 116 as a transfer unit (FIG. 1). ).

  Stations 120, 121, 122, and 123 form yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 115, respectively.

  The configuration of the station 120 will be described. A photosensitive drum 110 as an image carrier rotates counterclockwise in FIG. A primary charger 111 as a charging unit charges the photosensitive drum 110 to a uniform surface potential. The laser unit 112 as an exposure unit has a light source 113 that outputs laser light, and forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 110 according to the document image. A developing device 114 as a developing unit develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 110 with toner to form a toner image. Since the configuration of the stations 121, 122, and 123 is the same as that of the station 120, description thereof is omitted.

  The toner images formed by the stations 120, 121, 122, and 123 are transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 115. The transfer roller 116 transfers the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 115 to the recording material 102 conveyed from the recording material storage unit 103.

(4. Fixing part)
(4.1. Tandem fixing)
The first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 as fixing units fix the toner image transferred to the recording material 102 to the recording material 102 by applying heat and pressure to the recording material 102 (FIG. 1).

  The second fixing device 170 is arranged downstream of the first fixing device 150 with respect to the conveyance direction of the recording material 102. The second fixing device 170 gives gloss to the toner image on the recording material 102 fixed by the first fixing device 150, or has a large basis weight that requires a large amount of heat for fixing processing (for example, thick paper) The first fixing device 150 alone is used for the purpose of compensating for the heat quantity that is insufficient.

  On the other hand, when fixing is possible only with the first fixing device 150, the second fixing device 170 does not have to be used. Therefore, the recording material 102 does not pass through the second fixing device 170 for the purpose of reducing energy consumption. It is conveyed on the conveyance path 130. For example, there is a case where the recording material 102 is plain paper or thin paper and the setting for adding a lot of gloss is not made. Whether the recording material 102 is conveyed to the second fixing device 170 (tandem fixing route) or the recording material 102 is conveyed by bypassing the second fixing device 170 (bypass route) is controlled by the CPU 301 switching the flapper 131. To do.

(4.2. Configuration of fixing unit)
The first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 are detachably provided on a first mounting portion 141 and a second mounting portion 142 (mounting portion) provided in the image forming apparatus 100, respectively. The first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 can be replaced with a fixing device having the following configuration.

  The first fixing device 150 is provided with a memory 154 as a storage unit. The second fixing device 170 is provided with a memory 174 as a storage unit. Details will be described later.

  Further, as jam detection units, the first fixing device 150 is provided with sensors 153 and 155, and the second fixing device 170 is provided with sensors 173 and 175. Details will be described later.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the fixing unit. The detailed configuration of the first fixing device 150 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The first fixing device 150 includes a fixing roller 151 (fixing member) and a pressure belt 152 (pressure member), which form a nip portion for fixing the toner image on the recording material 102. .

  The fixing roller 151 is a hollow roller, and a halogen heater 161 is incorporated therein as a heating source. The thermistor 162 as a temperature detection unit is a sensor that measures the temperature of the fixing roller 151. The CPU 301 controls ON / OFF of the halogen heater 161 based on the temperature information detected by the thermistor 162. This is for maintaining and adjusting the temperature of the fixing roller 151 at a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature includes an error.

  The pressure belt 152 is an endless belt supported by three rollers. A pressure pad 164 that presses the pressure belt 152 toward the fixing roller 151 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the pressure belt 152. The heating roller 163, which is one of the three rollers, is a hollow roller and incorporates a halogen heater (not shown) as a heating source therein to heat the pressure belt. Similarly to the fixing roller 151, the CPU 301 controls the halogen heater (not shown) of the heating roller 163 based on temperature information detected by a thermistor (not shown) as a sensor for measuring the temperature of the pressure belt 152. As a result, the temperature of the pressure belt 152 is maintained and adjusted to a predetermined temperature.

  The fixing roller 151 is rotationally driven by a motor 323 (FIG. 2) as a drive source, and conveys the recording material 102 in the direction of arrow A in FIG. The pressure belt 152 is configured to rotate following the fixing roller 151.

  Further, the first fixing device 150 moves the pressure belt 152 so that the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 are in contact with each other to form a contact state and a separation state in which the nip portion is formed. It has a mechanism 322 (FIG. 2). In this embodiment, the contact / separation mechanism 322 moves the pressure belt 152, but the fixing roller 151 may be moved, or both the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 may be moved. Good.

  On the other hand, the second fixing device 170 has a pressure roller 172 instead of a pressure belt as a pressure member, and the fixing roller 171 (fixing member) and the pressure roller 172 (pressure member) are toner on the recording material 102. A nip portion for fixing the image is formed (FIG. 1). The pressure roller 172 is a hollow roller and incorporates a halogen heater (not shown) as a heating source. The pressure roller 172 includes a thermistor (not shown) as a temperature sensor. As the CPU 301 controls a thermistor (not shown) and a halogen heater (not shown), the temperature of the pressure roller 172 is maintained and adjusted to a predetermined temperature.

  Since the other configuration of the second fixing device 170 is the same as that of the first fixing device 150, description thereof is omitted.

In the following description, the first fixing device 150 will be described, but the same applies to the second fixing device 170 unless otherwise specified. (In this case, the configuration related to the first fixing device 150 may be replaced with the configuration related to the second fixing device 170).
In this embodiment, the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 have different configurations on the pressure side, but may have the same configuration. That is, the configuration of the pressure side of both the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 may be a pressure belt, or the pressure side of both the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170. The configuration may be a pressure roller. Further, the configuration on the pressure side of the first fixing device 150 may be a pressure roller, and the configuration on the pressure side of the second fixing device 170 may be a pressure belt.

(4.3. Configuration of web cleaner)
Next, a web cleaner for cleaning the fixing member will be described using the first fixing device 150 as an example. The same applies to the second fixing device 170, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  This web cleaner has a take-up roller 157, a pressure roller 158, a supply roller 159, a web 160, and a collection roller 156, and functions as a cleaning unit that cleans the fixing roller 151.

  A collection roller 156 (for example, a SUS roller) serving as a collection rotator rotates following the fixing roller 151 and collects toner adhering to the surface of the fixing roller 151.

  The web 160 is a cleaning web made of a nonwoven fabric. The supply roller 159 that stacks the unused web 160 follows the take-up roller 157 to supply the web 160. The pressure roller 158 is rotatably provided and presses the web 160 against the collection roller 156 with a predetermined nip width. Further, the web attaching / detaching mechanism 325 (FIG. 2) moves the pressing roller 158 to take a contact state (attached state) in which the web 160 contacts the collection roller 156 and a separated state (detached state) in which the web 160 is separated. To get.

  The take-up roller 157 has a solenoid 324 (FIG. 2) as a drive source, intermittently winds up the web 160 supplied from the supply roller 159, and causes the collection roller 156 to rub the web. Control is performed by the CPU 301. For example, the web 160 having a length of 0.1 mm is wound twice per second. Thereby, the web 160 removes the toner collected by the collecting roller 156 from the fixing roller 151. The web 160 is not directly rubbed and scratched on the surface of the fixing roller 151 through the collecting roller that rotates following the fixing roller 151. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in gloss of the fixing object due to the surface roughness of the fixing roller 151.

  Although the recovery rotator is used in this embodiment, the fixing roller 151 can be cleaned even if the web 160 directly rubs the surface of the fixing roller 151 without using the recovery rotator.

(5. Response when a jam occurs)
Next, a response when a jam occurs in the image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

  The jam at the fixing unit refers to a state in which the recording material 102 stays in the first fixing device 150 and / or the second fixing device 170 due to the occurrence of a jam in the image forming apparatus 100. .

  For example, in addition to the case where a jam occurs in the first fixing device 150, the conveyance of the recording material 102 is delayed due to the jam occurring in a place other than the first fixing device 150 in the image forming apparatus 100, and the first constant This is a case where the recording material 102 stays in the dressing device 150. Further, for example, during the fixing process by the first fixing device 150, the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 is stopped by opening the door (for example, the front door 140) provided in the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 by the operator. This is a case where the recording material 102 stays in one fixing device 150. The same applies to the second fixing device 170.

  Hereinafter, the first fixing device 150 will be described in detail as an example.

  The same applies to the second fixing device 170, and thus the description thereof is omitted. In this case, in the following description, the configuration related to the first fixing device 150 may be replaced with the configuration related to the second fixing device 170 and read.

  When the CPU 301 detects the occurrence of a jam in the image forming apparatus 100 based on a signal from a sensor group 306 (including sensors 153 and 155) in the image forming apparatus 100, the CPU 301 stops image formation of the image forming apparatus 100. . At this time, if the recording material 102 stays in the first fixing device 150, a jam occurs in the fixing unit. In other words, even when the jam occurs at a location other than the first fixing device 150, the jam occurs at the fixing portion. Thereafter, the CPU 301 displays the staying location of the recording material 102 on the operation unit 180 to prompt the operator to remove (jam processing) the staying recording material 102. Hereinafter, a jam at the fixing unit in the first fixing device 150 may be referred to as a jam at the first fixing device 150 (or a jam at the fixing device).

  Here, the sensors 153 and 155 as jam detecting units are sensors for detecting the presence or absence of the recording material 102 in the first fixing device 150. For example, an optical sensor is used. The CPU 301 receives signals from the sensors 153 and 155 and detects that the recording material 102 is staying in the first fixing device 150 (jamming at the fixing unit). For example, when the downstream sensor 153 does not detect the passage of the recording material 102 even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the sensor 155 on the upstream side in the conveyance direction of the recording material 102 detects the passage of the recording material 102, the CPU 301 detects the sensor 155. , 153, it is determined that the recording material 102 remains. Here, the timer 307 measures the predetermined time.

  If the recording material 102 stays in the first fixing device 150, the operator opens the front door 140, pulls the first fixing device 150 out of the image forming apparatus 100, and stays there. Remove. When the operator removes the remaining recording material 102, the operator moves the first fixing device 150 in the direction opposite to that when the recording material 102 is pulled out, sets the first fixing device 150 inside the image forming apparatus 100, and closes the front door 140.

  The CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 is closed based on a signal from the open / close sensor 305. When the CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 is closed, the CPU 301 accesses the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150. From this, it is confirmed whether or not the first fixing device 150 is attached. If the CPU 301 cannot access the memory 154, the CPU 301 determines that the first fixing device 150 is not attached. Note that the method of determining (confirming) whether or not the first fixing device 150 is attached is not limited to this. For example, the conductive state or non-conductive state between the image forming apparatus 100 and the first fixing device 150 is used. It is good also as a structure which determines (confirms) by detecting.

  Next, the CPU 301 confirms the presence or absence of the recording material 102 staying in the first fixing device 150 based on signals from the sensors 153 and 155. At this time, if the recording material 102 does not stay in the first fixing device 150, the CPU 301 determines that the jam processing has been completed.

  As described above, when a jam occurs in the first fixing device 150 (jamming in the fixing unit), that is, when the recording material 102 stays in the first fixing device 150, the staying recording material 102 is not fixed. There is a possibility that the toner adheres and the fixing roller 151 becomes dirty. Specifically, when the recording material 102 stays around the fixing roller 151, or when the recording material 102 rubs against the fixing roller 151 when the operator removes the staying recording material 102, etc. There is a fear.

  Therefore, after confirming the completion of the jam processing of the first fixing device 150, the CPU 301 executes a cleaning process for the first fixing device 150 described later.

(6. Cleaning process to remove jam)
The fixing unit cleaning process executed by the CPU 301 as the execution unit when the jam in the fixing unit is eliminated will be described by taking the first fixing device 150 as an example.

  The same applies to the second fixing device 170, and thus the description thereof is omitted. In this case, in the following description, the configuration related to the first fixing device 150 may be replaced with the configuration related to the second fixing device 170 and read.

  First, before starting the cleaning process, the fixing roller 151 is heated to about 165 ° C. while the rotation of the fixing roller 151 is stopped. That is, the CPU 301 controls energization to the halogen heater 161 based on temperature information detected by the thermistor 162. At this time, the pressure belt 152 is separated from the fixing roller 151 in a state where the rotation is stopped. That is, the CPU 301 controls the operation of the contact / separation mechanism 322 so that the pressure belt 152 is kept away from the fixing roller 151. At this time, the target temperature of the fixing roller 151 (about 165 ° C. in this example) is a temperature at which the toner does not harden, and is set in advance (stored in the ROM 303). Note that this temperature may be appropriately set according to the configuration of the apparatus and the toner to be used.

  When the fixing roller 151 is heated to about 165 ° C., the cleaning process is started. The CPU 301 operates the motor 323 when the temperature detected by the thermistor 162 reaches about 165 ° C. Then, the fixing roller 151 starts to rotate, and the collection roller 156 is driven to rotate. As a result, the collection roller 156 collects the toner on the fixing roller 151. Further, the CPU 301 operates the solenoid 324 to execute the above-described intermittent winding by the winding roller 157 for 100 seconds. For example, the web 160 having a length of 0.1 mm is wound up at a rate of twice per second. At this time, the CPU 301 controls the web attachment / detachment mechanism 325 so as to maintain the state where the web 160 is in contact with the collection roller 156. As a result, the web 160 removes the toner collected from the fixing roller 151 by the collection roller 156. Here, the time is measured by a timer 307 built in the image forming apparatus 100. Further, at this time, the CPU 301 controls energization to the halogen heater 161 based on temperature information detected by the thermistor 162 so that the temperature of the fixing roller 151 is maintained at about 165 ° C. In order to prevent toner transfer from the fixing roller 151 to the pressure belt 152, the CPU 301 controls the operation of the contact / separation mechanism 322 so that the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 are kept apart.

  Here, the winding time (100 seconds in this embodiment) of the web 160 is measured by a timer 307 built in the image forming apparatus 100.

  A web 160 winding time (100 seconds in this embodiment) suitable for removing the toner on the fixing roller 151 is preset (stored in the ROM 303). Note that this time is not limited to the above example, and may be set as appropriate according to the configuration of the apparatus.

(7. Warm-up process)
When the fixing unit cleaning process is completed, the CPU 301 causes the fixing unit to execute a warm-up process for starting the fixing process. This warm-up process is executed when the power switch 101 of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned ON, even when the above-described cleaning process is not executed.

  Hereinafter, the first fixing device 150 will be described as an example.

  The same applies to the second fixing device 170, and thus the description thereof is omitted. In this case, in the following description, the configuration related to the first fixing device 150 may be replaced with the configuration related to the second fixing device 170 and read.

  First, the CPU 301 controls the halogen heater 161 to heat the fixing roller 151 until it reaches about 165 ° C. with the completion of the cleaning process described above. At this time, the rotation of the fixing roller 151 is stopped. That is, the CPU 301 does not operate the motor 323. Further, the CPU 301 does not operate the heater inside the heating roller 163. Further, the CPU 301 controls the operation of the contact / separation mechanism 322 so that the pressure belt 152 is kept in contact with the fixing roller 151. The purpose of this is to heat the pressure pad 164 using the heat of the fixing roller 151.

  When the fixing roller 151 is heated to about 165 ° C., the CPU 301 controls the heater inside the heating roller 163 while rotating the fixing roller 151 to raise the pressure belt 152 to about 100 ° C. That is, the CPU 301 operates the heaters inside the motor 323 and the heating roller 163 when the temperature detected by the thermistor 162 reaches about 165 ° C. At this time, the CPU 301 controls the operation of the contact / separation mechanism 322 so that the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 are in contact with each other, and the pressure belt 152 is driven to rotate. At this time, in order to remove a slight amount of toner adhering to the fixing roller 151 during printing or the like, for example, the web 160 is brought into contact with the collection roller 156, and intermittent winding is performed by the winding roller 157. May be.

  When the pressure belt 152 is heated to about 100 ° C., the CPU 301 controls the contact / separation mechanism 322 to separate the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152. The CPU 301 heats the fixing roller 151 to about 170 ° C. by controlling energization to the halogen heater 161 based on temperature information detected by the thermistor 162. At this time, the CPU 301 controls energization to the halogen heater 161 based on temperature information detected by a thermistor that detects the temperature of the pressure belt 152 so that the pressure belt 152 maintains about 100 ° C. When the type of the recording material 102 to be printed after warm-up has been designated by an input from the operator to the operation unit 180 or the like (when a print job is reserved), the target temperature of the fixing roller 151 is set. The temperature may be a temperature necessary for fixing the recording material 102 to be printed.

  Note that target temperatures (about 165 ° C., about 100 ° C., and about 170 ° C. in this example) of the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 in the warm-up process are preset (stored in the ROM 303). What is necessary is just to set this temperature suitably according to the structure of an apparatus.

  When the warm-up process of the first fixing device 150 is completed, the image forming apparatus 100 is ready to start image formation. At this time, in order to make the image forming apparatus 100 ready to start image formation, startup processing of other parts such as the image forming unit 309 is also performed in parallel, but the warm-up of the first fixing device 150 is performed. By the time the process is complete. If the warm-up process of the first fixing device 150 is long, it takes about 7 minutes. The warm-up process in the second fixing unit 170 is the same, and the warm-up process is completed in approximately the same time as the first fixing unit 150.

(8. Resume job)
As described above, as the warm-up process of the first fixing device 150 is completed and the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation, the CPU 301 has been interrupted due to the occurrence of a jam. Resume printing. The CPU 301 displays a message such as “Printing in progress” on the operation unit (notification unit) 180.

  Note that if the warm-up process of the first fixing device 150 is completed, but the startup processing of the parts other than the first fixing device 150 such as the image forming unit 309 is not completed, the CPU 301 performs the first processing. Printing is resumed after waiting for the preparation of parts other than the one fixing device 150 to be completed.

  The same applies to the second fixing device 170.

(9. Standby mode)
The standby mode refers to a period in which the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation and is waiting for a print command (print job) from an operator. When there is no job to be resumed after the warm-up process described above, or after the end of printing, the mode is shifted to the standby mode.

  As the image forming apparatus 100 becomes ready to start image formation, the CPU 301 displays a message such as “Can print” on the operation unit (notification unit) 180.

  In the present embodiment, when the standby mode is set, temperature control (for example, the fixing roller 151 and the second fixing device 151) is performed so that printing can be started immediately after receiving a print job. The temperature control of the pressure belt 152 is continued.

  If a print reservation is entered during the warm-up process, the reserved print job is immediately started without shifting to the standby mode. That is, in this case, when the warm-up process of the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 is completed and the image forming apparatus 100 is ready to start image formation, the image forming apparatus 100 is shifted to the standby mode. Start a reserved print job immediately.

  If the warm-up processing of the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 is completed, but the startup processing of other parts such as the image forming unit 309 is not completed, the CPU 301 performs other processing. It waits for the preparation of the part to be completed, and then shifts to the standby mode.

(10. Fixing device replacement system)
A fixing device replacement system will be described.

  The image forming apparatus 100 can print on a plurality of types and sizes of recording materials 102. In the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment, in order to obtain a higher quality product, the purpose of use varies depending on the type of the recording material 102 to be fixed among the image-forming recording materials 102 and the preference of the operator. The fixing device can be replaced and used.

  For example, when an envelope is used as the recording material 102, a fixing device dedicated to the envelope is used. Since the envelope is bound in a bag shape, wrinkles are likely to occur due to the pressure applied during the fixing process. Therefore, it is desirable to use an envelope-dedicated fixing device in which the pressure between the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 (hereinafter also referred to as nip pressure) is adjusted according to the envelope.

Another example is a fixing device dedicated to the width size. When the recording material 102 having the same width continuously passes through the nip portion, the end of the recording material 102 in the width direction (referred to as an edge) causes a flaw (edge damage) on the surface of the fixing roller 151. . If edge cracks of a level that cannot be ignored are formed on the fixing roller 151 in this way, there is a possibility that image gloss unevenness occurs due to the edge scratches when fixing to the recording material 102 wider than this. In order to prevent this, a fixing device having the same configuration may be used for each width size of the recording material 102. (Here, the width refers to a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the recording material 102 (longitudinal direction of the fixing roller 151).)
Although the first fixing device 150 has been described as an example, the same applies to the second fixing device 170.

  As described above, with the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present exemplary embodiment, the operator can use the fixing device according to the type and preference of the recording material 102 that the operator wants to print.

  When replacing the fixing device, the operator opens the front door 140 and takes out the fixing device already attached to the image forming apparatus 100. Then, the operator attaches a fixing device different from the taken-out fixing device to the image forming apparatus 100 and closes the front door 140. In this embodiment, the fixing devices that can be replaced as described above are both the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170.

(11. Fixer memory)
In this embodiment, since a fixing device replacement system is employed, the first fixing device 150 is provided with a memory 154 as a storage unit, and the second fixing device 170 is provided with a memory 174 as a storage unit. Provided. The memories 154 and 174 are rewritable nonvolatile memories (storage units) represented by EEPROM, flash memory and the like. Further, not only the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 but also a fixing device prepared outside the image forming apparatus 100 as a fixing device for replacement. Similarly, a memory is provided.

  Here, the reason why the memory is provided in the fixing device group including the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 is to solve the following problems. In other words, when the fixing device is once taken out without performing the cleaning process that should be performed in accordance with the removal of the jam at the fixing unit, and the taken-out fixing device is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 again. This is to solve the problem that occurs in the system. Hereinafter, the first fixing device 150 will be described as an example, but the same applies to the second fixing device 170, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

  Specifically, the following situations are assumed. The replacement target is the case of the first fixing device 150.

  For example, when the fixing device A that is not dedicated to the envelope is installed as the first fixing device 150, a print job (for example, image formation on plain paper) that takes one hour or more to complete printing is started. However, it is assumed that a jam in the fixing device A (a jam in the fixing unit) occurs at an initial stage such as 15 minutes after the start of the print job. The operator who notices the occurrence of the jam performs the jam processing according to the display on the operation unit 180. However, when it is necessary to print the envelope immediately, it is assumed that the print job in the fixing device A is interrupted and the envelope printing is started. In this case, the operator takes out the fixing device A without performing the cleaning process at the jam processing timing in order to switch to the fixing device B dedicated to the envelope.

  Conventionally, the CPU stores a fact that a jam has occurred in the fixing unit in a memory provided in the main body of the image forming apparatus, thereby executing a cleaning process after the jam process. Therefore, if the fixing device A is replaced with the fixing device B at the timing of the jam processing, the CPU executes the cleaning process only for the fixing device B after the replacement. That is, the CPU determines that the cleaning process that should be performed in accordance with the removal of the jam at the fixing unit is finished.

  When the recording material other than the envelope (for example, plain paper) is to be printed at a later date, the operator mounts the fixing device A again. The fixing roller of the fixing device A that has been taken out without being subjected to the cleaning process is still dirty with toner. If printing is performed in this state, the image quality is greatly reduced.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the memory 154 is provided in the first fixing device 150. As a result, it is possible to store information as to whether or not the cleaning process that is performed in response to the removal of the jam at the fixing unit has been executed. Then, the memory 154 holds information indicating whether or not the cleaning process performed in response to the jamming in the fixing unit has been executed.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, jam history information “with history” or “without history” is held. Specifically, when a jam occurs in the first fixing device 150, the CPU 301 records a jam history in the memory 154 (“with history”). When the cleaning process performed in response to the removal of the jam at the fixing unit is executed, the CPU 301 clears the jam history in the memory 154 (“no history”). “History” indicates that the cleaning process has not been executed, and “No history” indicates that the cleaning process has been executed.

  As the first fixing device 150 is remounted by the operator, the CPU 301 acquires information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been executed from the memory 154. When the information acquired from the memory 154 indicates that the cleaning process has not been executed, the CPU 301 causes the cleaning process to be performed in accordance with the jam removal in the fixing unit.

  Note that as information held by the memory 154, in a state where the history of jam (with data) is cleared, the CPU 301 stores information with no history (no data (data is cleared)). Judge that it is.

  Note that the method of writing (recording) information to the memory 154 is not limited to this, and the information is written to the memory 154 so that there is data when the cleaning process is not executed and there is no data when the cleaning process is executed. It may be. Further, information corresponding to “cleaning process not executed (data present)” and “cleaning process executed (data present)” may be stored.

  The memory 154 may store information other than the jam history. For example, information indicating the use and type of the first fixing device 150 such as an envelope or an A4 size may be stored.

(12. Control flow)
The above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. These flowcharts are performed when the CPU 301 functioning as an execution unit (recording unit) controls the operation of various mechanisms of the image forming apparatus 100 based on a control program stored in the ROM 303. The first fixing device 150 will be described as an example, but the same applies to the second fixing device 170.

(12.1. Sequence when the power is turned on and when the front door is closed)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart from when the power switch is turned on until the standby mode is entered.

  When the power switch 101 is turned on by the operator, the CPU 301 is activated. The CPU 301 determines whether the first fixing device 150 is attached to the image forming apparatus 100 (S101). When the first fixing device 150 is attached, the CPU 301 can access the memory 154. If the first fixing device 150 is not attached, the process returns to S101. If the first fixing device 150 is attached to the image forming apparatus 100, the process proceeds to S102.

  The CPU 301 causes the first fixing device 150 to perform the startup sequence shown in FIG. 6 (S102). Details will be described later.

  When the start-up of the first fixing device 150 is completed, the CPU 301 displays a message such as “Can print” on the operation unit 180 to inform the operator that the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation (S103). And it shifts to standby mode.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart from the state in which the front door is open to the standby mode.

  The open / close state of the front door 140 is detected by the CPU 301 based on a signal from the open / close sensor 305 of the front door 140. When the front door 140 is open, the CPU 301 waits for the front door 140 to be closed (S201). Further, when the front door 140 is open, the CPU 301 may display a message prompting the operation unit 180 to close the front door 140. When the CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 is closed (S201), the process proceeds to S202. S202 to S204 are the same as S101 to S103 in FIG. After S204, the process shifts to the standby mode.

(12.2. Startup sequence)
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the startup sequence. The flowchart of FIG. 6 shows details of the startup sequence in S102, S203, and S410, which will be described later.

  First, the CPU 301 reads data stored in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 attached to the image forming apparatus 100 (S301).

  When the jam history is held in the memory 154, the process proceeds to S303 (S302).

  The CPU 301 controls the cleaning unit and the like to execute the cleaning process described above (S303).

  When the cleaning process is completed, the CPU 301 clears the jam history held in the memory 154 (S304).

  In S302, when the jam history is not held in the memory 154, the process proceeds to S305 without executing the cleaning process. This is because when the jam history is not held in the memory 154, the cleaning process has already been executed. By not performing the cleaning process when the cleaning process is unnecessary, the above-described cleaning process time (100 seconds) is the time from when the power switch 101 is turned on until the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation. ) Can be shortened.

  The CPU 301 controls the first fixing device 150 to execute the above-described warm-up process (S305).

  The clearing of the jam history held in the memory 154 in S304 is not limited to the timing described above. For example, the jam history held in the memory 154 when the warm-up process (S305) is completed may be cleared.

  The clearing of the jam history held in the memory 154 in S304 is cleared when the CPU 301 detects the opening of the front door 140 based on a signal from the open / close sensor 305 in a state where the cleaning process has been executed. You may make it do. Further, the clearing of the jam history held in the memory 154 in S304 may be cleared when the power switch 101 is turned off in a state where the cleaning process has been executed. This is because the replacement of the first fixing device 150 involves opening the front door 140.

(12.3. Sequence at the time of jam occurrence)
FIG. 7 is a flowchart regarding processing when a jam occurs in the fixing unit. Specifically, a flowchart when executing a print job of the image forming apparatus 100 is shown.

  In the standby mode in which the image forming apparatus 100 can print, a print job is received from an external PC or the like via the operation unit 180 or the external I / F unit 304. Then, the CPU 301 starts the image forming operation by the image forming apparatus 100 by controlling each mechanism of the image forming apparatus 100 such as the stations 120 to 123, the first fixing device 150, and the second fixing device 170, that is, printing. The job is started (S401). At this time, the image forming apparatus 100 displays a selection screen for selecting the type of the recording material 102 to be printed on the display screen of the operation unit 180 or an external PC, and the type of the recording material 102 to be printed from the operator. Also accepts instructions.

  When the print job is completed, the CPU 301 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the standby mode (S402).

  When the CPU 301 detects a jam in the image forming apparatus 100 in a stage where the print job is not completed (S402) (S403), the CPU 301 stops the image forming operation by the image forming apparatus 100, that is, interrupts the print job ( S404). Here, the CPU 301 detects a jam in the image forming apparatus 100 based on a signal from the sensor group 306.

  When the jam in the image forming apparatus 100 is not detected, the CPU 301 continues the print job until the print job is finished (S402, S403).

  If the location where the recording material 102 stays due to the jam is other than the first fixing device 150 (second fixing device 170), the CPU 301 proceeds to S406 (S405). Based on the signal of the sensor group 306, the process waits until the recording material 102 staying in the jam is removed (S406). Based on the signal from the sensor group 306, the CPU 301 executes the above-described warm-up process when the staying recording material 102 due to the jam is removed (S407).

  On the other hand, if the location where the recording material 102 stays due to the jam is the first fixing device 150 (second fixing device 170) (jamming at the fixing unit), the CPU 301 proceeds to S408 (S405). ). The CPU 301 records a jam history in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 (S408).

  The recording of the jam history in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 by the CPU 301 may be executed when the front door 140 is opened. Even when the front door 140 is opened, the first fixing device 150 is energized unless it is removed from the main body of the image forming apparatus 100, and the CPU 301 can record a jam history in the memory 154.

  As described above, the first fixing device 150 may be replaced by the operator along with the jam processing. Therefore, when a jam in the first fixing device 150 is detected, a jam history is recorded in the memory 154 until the first fixing device 150 is removed by the operator for jam processing.

  The CPU 301 stands by until the recording material 102 staying in the first fixing device 150 is removed based on the signals of the sensors 153 and 155 (S409). When the CPU 301 detects that the recording material 102 staying in the first fixing device 150 has been removed, the CPU 301 proceeds to the startup sequence S410 (S409). At this time, the CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 is closed based on a signal from the open / close sensor 305, and the recording material 102 in the first fixing device 150 is detected as the front door 140 is closed. Check for presence.

  The startup sequence S410 corresponds to the flow shown in FIG. In the start-up sequence S410, as described above, the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 is read (S301). Here, the reason for reading the jam history information is that the first fixing device 150 may be replaced at the timing when the front door 140 is opened for jam processing.

  When the startup sequence S410 or the warm-up process S407 of the first fixing device 150 is completed, the CPU 301 resumes the image forming operation by the image forming apparatus 100, that is, resumes the interrupted print job (S411).

  Further, the CPU 301 notifies the operator that the image forming apparatus 100 can execute printing by displaying “printing in progress” or the like on the operation unit 180 (S412).

  Thereafter, the process returns to S402, and the CPU 301 continues the print job until the print job is completed (S402, S403).

  As described above, the replacement of the first fixing device 150 by the operator involves opening and closing the front door 140 of the image forming apparatus 100. That is, when the front door 140 of the image forming apparatus 100 is opened by the operator, the first fixing device 150 may be replaced. Further, the first fixing device 150 may be replaced while the power switch 101 is off. For this reason, whenever the power switch 101 of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on or the front door 140 is closed, information is read from the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 and jammed in the memory 154. Get history information. As a result, the cleaning process is executed even when the first fixing device 150 that has not been subjected to the cleaning process associated with the removal of the jam is attached to the image forming apparatus 100. Deterioration in image quality can be suppressed.

  In the above description, the first fixing device 150 has been described as an example, but the same applies to the second fixing device 170.

[Example 2]
In the first exemplary embodiment, information on whether or not the cleaning process performed in response to the jam removal in the fixing unit is performed is held in the memory of the fixing unit. Based on the information, the CPU 301 controls whether or not to execute the cleaning process for the fixing device after the replacement.

  In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the cleaning process performed in response to the removal of the jam at the fixing unit is interrupted. Since other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Hereinafter, the first fixing device 150 will be described as an example. The same applies to the second fixing device 170.

  For example, when the operator opens the front door 140 during the execution of the cleaning process, the CPU 301 interrupts the cleaning process. The CPU 301 detects that the front door 140 has been opened based on a signal from the open / close sensor 305.

  In the first embodiment, the jam history in the memory 154 is cleared after the cleaning process is completed. Therefore, when the operator opens the front door 140 and takes out the first fixing device 150 during the cleaning process, the jam history in the memory 154 is not cleared. When the first fixing device 150 is attached again by the operator, the cleaning process is executed by the CPU 301 from the beginning.

  However, for example, when the cleaning process is performed for 80 seconds out of 100 seconds at the time of the interruption, the toner contamination of the fixing roller 151 starts immediately after the jam occurs in the fixing unit. Is expected to be much less. Nevertheless, if the cleaning process is executed for 100 seconds from the beginning after remounting, the waiting time of the operator is increased.

  Therefore, when the first fixing device 150 in which the cleaning process is interrupted is attached, a short cleaning process shorter than the cleaning process of the first embodiment is executed.

  Specifically, with respect to the cleaning process (100 seconds in this embodiment) that is performed in response to the jam removal at the fixing unit, three types of cleaning history of “executed”, “process interrupted”, or “no history” are displayed. Information is held in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150. When the information acquired from the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 is “no history” (the data of the cleaning history is cleared), the CPU 301 determines that the cleaning process has not been executed, and the above-described cleaning process (100 Second). On the other hand, when the information acquired from the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 is “processing interruption”, the CPU 301 performs a short cleaning process (50 in this embodiment) that is shorter than the above-described cleaning process (100 seconds). Second). Further, when the information acquired from the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 is “executed”, the CPU 301 does not execute the cleaning process or the short cleaning process.

(13. Control flow 2)
This will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. These flowcharts are performed when the CPU 301 functioning as an execution unit (recording unit) controls the operation of various mechanisms of the image forming apparatus 100 based on a control program stored in the ROM 303. The first fixing device 150 will be described as an example, but the same applies to the second fixing device 170.

(13.1. Startup sequence 2)
In the second embodiment, the startup sequence flow is different from that of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the startup sequence 2. The flowchart of FIG. 9 shows details of the startup sequence of S610 of FIG. 10, S702 of FIG. 11, and S803 of FIG.

  First, the CPU 301 reads the cleaning history data stored in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 attached to the first attachment unit 141 (S501).

  When the cleaning history in the memory 154 is “executed”, the CPU 301 proceeds to S509, and when the cleaning history is other than “executed”, the CPU 301 proceeds to S503 (S502).

  If the cleaning history of the memory 154 is other than “executed” and is not “processing interrupted” (that is, if it has not been executed), the CPU 301 proceeds to S504 (S503) and controls the cleaning unit to perform the above-described cleaning. The process is executed (S504).

  When the cleaning history in the memory 154 is other than “executed” and “processing is interrupted”, the CPU 301 proceeds to S505 (S503) and controls the cleaning unit to execute the short cleaning process described above (S505). .

  If the cleaning process or the short cleaning process is interrupted during execution, the CPU 301 proceeds to S507 (S506) and records a cleaning history indicating “processing interrupted” in the memory 154 (S507). Even when the front door 140 is opened, the image forming apparatus 100 and the first fixing device 150 are energized, and the CPU 301 can store the cleaning history of “processing interruption” in the memory 154. . Here, the startup sequence to the first fixing device 150 is interrupted.

  If the cleaning process or the short cleaning process is not interrupted (completed), the CPU 301 proceeds to S508 (S506), and stores the “executed” cleaning history in the memory 154 (S508). Thereafter, the CPU 301 controls the first fixing device 150 to execute the above-described warm-up process (S509).

  By not performing the cleaning process when the cleaning process is unnecessary, the time from when the power switch 101 is turned on until the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation is equal to 100 seconds of the above-described cleaning process. It can be shortened.

  When the cleaning process may be short, a short cleaning process that is shorter than the cleaning process is executed. As a result, the time (50 seconds) from when the power switch 101 is turned on until the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation can be shortened.

  It should be noted that the execution time of the short cleaning process is not set to a fixed time as described above, but may be controlled according to the cleaning time executed until the cleaning process is interrupted. In this case, the timer 307 measures the cleaning time executed until the cleaning process is interrupted. The CPU 301 records information corresponding to the cleaning time (or execution time of the short cleaning process) executed until the cleaning process is interrupted in the memory 154 together with the cleaning history (S507). In addition, the CPU 301 reads information corresponding to the cleaning time together with the cleaning history from the memory 154 (S501), and executes a short cleaning process over a time determined based on the cleaning time (S505).

  At this time, the execution time of the short cleaning process does not necessarily need to be a difference between the time when the cleaning process is not interrupted and the cleaning time executed until the cleaning process is interrupted. For example, if the cleaning process for 100 seconds is interrupted in less than 50 seconds, the short cleaning process for 80 seconds is executed, and if the cleaning process is interrupted for 50 seconds or more and less than 100 seconds, the short cleaning process for 30 seconds is executed. Good.

  If the cleaning process is interrupted after being executed for a predetermined time or less, the CPU 301 may keep the cleaning history cleared in S507 in order to restart the cleaning process from the beginning.

  In addition, when the first fixing device 150 in which the cleaning process is interrupted is mounted again, whether or not to perform the short cleaning process may be determined by an operator setting. That is, in such a case, from among options including a mode in which the cleaning process is executed from the beginning as in the first embodiment and a mode in which the short cleaning process is executed as in the second embodiment in such a case, The operator may be able to select. The operation unit 180 as a selection unit displays a selection screen that can select these modes, and allows the operator to set in advance. When the preset mode is the former mode, when the cleaning process is interrupted without being executed, the CPU 301 keeps the cleaning history cleared in S507 in order to restart the cleaning process from the beginning.

(13.2. Sequence at the time of jam occurrence)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart 2 regarding processing when a jam occurs in the fixing unit. Specifically, it is a flowchart when the image forming apparatus 100 executes a print job.

  Since S601 to S607 are the same as S401 to S407 in FIG.

  In step S <b> 608, the CPU 301 clears the cleaning history of the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150. As a result, the cleaning history becomes “no history”, and becomes information indicating that the above-described cleaning processing has not been executed.

  Since S609 is the same as S409 in FIG.

  In step S610, the CPU 301 executes the startup sequence 2 shown in FIG.

  Since S611 to S612 are the same as S411 to S412 of FIG.

(13.3. Sequence when the power is turned on and when the front door is closed)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart 2 from when the power switch is turned on until the standby mode is set. S701 and S703 are the same as S101 and S103 in FIG. 4, respectively. In S702, the CPU 301 executes the startup sequence 2 of FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart 2 from the state in which the front door is open to the standby mode. S801, S802, and S804 are the same as S201, S202, and S204 in FIG. 5, respectively. In S802, the CPU 301 executes the startup sequence 2 of FIG.

[Modification 1]
In operation of the replacement system, the operator replaces and uses the fixing device according to the type and preference of the recording material 102 that he / she wants to print. At this time, if the operator does not use a fixing device that matches the recording material 102 to be printed, there is a possibility that a merit at the time of adopting the replacement system that a higher quality product can be obtained may not be obtained. Therefore, in this modification, the image forming apparatus 100 informs the operator whether or not the recording material 102 that the operator wants to print matches the use of the fixing device.

  Hereinafter, a method for associating the use of the fixing device with the type of the recording material 102 to be printed will be described in a form supplementing the above-described FIGS. 6 and 7 (Example 1). Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted. The first fixing device 150 will be described as an example, but the same applies to the second fixing device 170.

  In the memory 154, as identification information indicating the use of the first fixing device 150, for example, identification information indicating the type and use of the fixing device such as “for envelope” is stored in advance. On the other hand, the main body memory 312 stores in advance information (limitation information) indicating the type of the recording material 102 that limits the fixing process in association with the identification information.

  In S301 of FIG. 6, the CPU 301 reads the data stored in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 attached to the image forming apparatus 100 and identifies the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150. Read information. Based on this identification information and the type of recording material 102 that limits the fixing process stored in the main body memory 312, the CPU 301 determines the type of recording material 102 that should limit the fixing process to the first fixing device 150. To grasp.

  In S401 of FIG. 7, the CPU 301 performs the fixing process in the first fixing device 150 on the selection screen for allowing the operator to select the type of the recording material 102 used for printing when receiving a print job from the operator. The type of the recording material 102 to be restricted is not selectable.

  As a result, printing by the first fixing device 150 that does not correspond to the recording material 102 that the operator wants to print can be restricted, and a higher quality product can be obtained.

  Information corresponding to the type of the recording material 102 that restricts the fixing process may be stored in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 instead of the main body memory 312. In this case, the CPU 301 reads information corresponding to the type of the recording material 102 that restricts the fixing process from the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 in conjunction with the reading of the data from the memory 154 in S301 (S301). Based on the type of the recording material 102 that restricts the fixing process, the CPU 301 grasps the type of the recording material 102 that should restrict the fixing process to the first fixing device 150.

  Moreover, although this modification was demonstrated in the form supplemented to Example 1, you may apply to Example 2. FIG. Since the same applies to the second embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

[Modification 2]
In the above description, the CPU 301 stores, in the memory 154 of the first fixing device 150 and the memory 174 of the second fixing device 170, information indicating whether or not the cleaning process that has been performed in response to the removal of the jam at the fixing unit has been executed. It was set as the structure hold | maintained. The same information may be backed up not only in the memories 154 and 174 but also in the main body memory 312 in parallel with the writing of information into the memories 154 and 174 by the CPU 301.

[Modification 3]
In the above description, the CPU 301 is assumed to execute the warm-up process without executing the cleaning process when the cleaning process performed in response to the removal of the jam at the fixing unit has been executed. Such exception processing may be executed. In other words, in this example, even when such exceptional processing is executed, “when the cleaning processing performed in response to the jam removal at the fixing unit has been executed, the cleaning processing is not executed. This means that the warm-up process is executed.

  Specifically, the CPU 301 may be configured to execute the cleaning process in exceptional cases, even if the cleaning process that is performed in response to the removal of the jam in the fixing unit has been executed.

  For example, for the purpose of removing the toner stains of the fixing roller 151 accumulated after a plurality of fixing processes, the CPU 301 has executed the cleaning process at a rate of once every 100 times the startup sequence is accumulated. Even in this case, the cleaning process is executed. In this case, the CPU 301 records the number of times the startup sequence is accumulated in the first fixing device 150 in the memory 154, and executes exception processing based on the recorded number of accumulated executions.

  For example, if the CPU 301 fails to read information from the memory 154 for some reason, the CPU 301 executes a cleaning process. This is to prevent the image quality of the output recording material 102 from deteriorating when the information that failed to be read is information indicating that the cleaning process has not been executed.

  However, if the cleaning process is executed even when the cleaning process has been executed, the time from when the power switch 101 is turned on until the image forming apparatus 100 can start image formation cannot be shortened. For this reason, the present modification is exceptionally executed, and a configuration in which the cleaning process is not executed when the cleaning process has been executed as described above is more preferable.

  Although the first fixing device 150 has been described as an example, the same applies to the second fixing device 170.

[Modification 4]
In the above description, the operation unit 180 includes a display screen and a selection key. However, the operation screen of the operator may be received using the display screen as a touch panel and the screen of the touch panel as a selection unit.

[Modification 5]
Further, the recovery rotator may be a hollow roller (external heating member) provided with a heater in order to heat the fixing rollers 151 and 171 from the outside of the fixing rollers 151 and 171.

  In the above description, the cleaning unit is provided on the fixing roller 151 side. However, the cleaning unit is provided on the pressure belt 152 (functioning as a rotating body), and the toner on the surface of the fixing roller 151 is transferred to the pressure belt 152. It is good also as a structure cleaned from. In this case, in the cleaning process, the fixing roller 151 and the pressure belt 152 are brought into contact with each other in order to transfer the toner on the surface of the fixing roller 151 to the pressure belt 152. Similarly to the above-described example, it is desirable to first heat the pressure belt 152 to such an extent that the toner does not harden before starting the cleaning process, and then execute the cleaning process. The same applies to the second fixing device 170.

  Further, in the above description, the web cleaner (156 to 160) is used to perform the cleaning process that is executed when the jamming is eliminated in the fixing unit (first fixing device 150, second fixing device 170). However, the configuration for performing the cleaning process is not limited to this. For example, a cleaning process may be performed by rotating a sponge-like roller following the fixing rollers 151 and 171.

[Modification 6]
In the above description, the cleaning process that is executed in response to the jam removal in the fixing unit (the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170) is performed using the web cleaner (156 to 160). The following configuration is also possible.

  The cleaning process is performed using the recording material 102.

  According to this method, even when a cleaning mechanism such as the above-described web cleaner is not provided, it is possible to remove toner stains on the fixing roller 151 and the fixing roller 171 due to the occurrence of a jam in the fixing unit. Specifically, when performing the cleaning process, a predetermined number of recording materials 102 are forcibly passed through the fixing unit (first fixing device 150 and second fixing device 170) to remove toner stains. It is said to be transferred to. Thereafter, the recording material 102 to which the toner has been transferred is discharged out of the image forming apparatus 100.

  In this case, when the information stored in the memory 154 indicates that the cleaning process has not been executed, the CPU 301 controls the transport unit 308 to transfer the predetermined number of recording materials 102 to the first fixing device 150 (second It is continuously conveyed to the fixing device 170) and discharged outside the apparatus. The same applies to the second fixing device 170. The number of recording materials 102 to be conveyed may be appropriately set in advance, and is 10 in this modification.

[Modification 7]
Further, the image forming apparatus 100 including the first fixing device 150 and the second fixing device 170 has been described above as an example (tandem fixing). However, the image forming apparatus 100 may include only the first fixing device 150.

[Modification 8]
In the above description, the image forming apparatus 100 is described as an example of a color image forming apparatus having image forming units (stations 120 to 123) for forming yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images. It may be a forming device. For example, a monochrome image forming apparatus that forms a black toner image.

[Modification 9]
In the above description, the image forming apparatus 100 is configured to have the intermediate transfer belt 115 as an intermediate transfer member (intermediate transfer method), but may be configured as follows (direct transfer method).

  In this case, the image forming unit 309 includes an image forming unit (stations 120 to 123) and a transfer conveyance belt that functions as a transfer unit. The image forming units (stations 120 to 123) are provided so as to contact the transfer conveyance belt. The image forming apparatus 100 conveys the recording material 102 from the recording material storage unit 103 to the transfer conveyance belt. The transfer conveyance belt is a belt that conveys the recording material 102 while electrostatically adsorbing to the recording material 102, and includes a transfer roller at a position facing the image forming unit via the transfer conveyance belt (inner belt side). . The transfer roller transfers the toner image formed on the image carrier to the recording material 102 conveyed by the transfer conveyance belt. As a result, a toner image (unfixed) is formed on the recording material 102.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming apparatus 102 Recording material 141 1st mounting part 142 2nd mounting part 150 1st fixing device 151 Fixing roller 153 Sensor 154 Memory 155 Sensor 156 Recovery roller 157 Winding roller 158 Pressing roller 159 Supplying roller 160 Web 170 Second Fixing device 171 Fixing roller 173 Sensor 174 Memory 175 Sensor 180 Notifying unit 301 CPU
309 Image forming unit

Claims (23)

An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material,
An image forming unit for forming an unfixed toner image on a recording material;
A fixing unit detachably attached to a main body of the image forming apparatus, wherein when the unfixed toner image formed by the image forming unit is fixed on the recording material, the surface is in contact with the surface on which the unfixed toner image is formed A fixing unit including a rotating body;
A jam detection unit for detecting a jam at the fixing unit;
An execution unit that executes a cleaning process of the rotating body associated with the removal of the jam detected by the jam detection unit;
A storage unit that is provided in the fixing unit and stores information;
A recording unit for recording in the storage unit information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been executed by the execution unit;
A notification unit for notifying an operator that the image forming apparatus is in a state of being able to perform image formation on a recording material;
Have
If the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process has not been performed, the execution unit may perform the notification before the notification unit performs notification. An image forming apparatus that performs a cleaning process.   When the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process has been performed, the execution unit does not execute the cleaning process, and the notification unit The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus performs notification when the image forming apparatus is ready to perform image formation on a recording material.   3. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the cleaning process is interrupted, the recording unit records information indicating that the cleaning process is not being performed in the storage unit. 4. Image forming apparatus. A cleaning unit for cleaning the rotating body;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the execution unit causes the cleaning unit to execute the cleaning process.   When the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process has been interrupted, the execution unit may perform the notification before the notification unit performs notification. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a cleaning process for cleaning the rotating body is shorter than a cleaning process. A selection unit that allows the execution unit to select one mode from a plurality of modes including a first mode and a second mode;
In the first mode, when the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process is interrupted, the notification unit performs a notification before performing the notification. A mode for executing the cleaning process,
In the second mode, when the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process is interrupted, the notification unit performs a notification before performing the notification. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is a mode in which a cleaning process is executed in which the time required for cleaning the rotating body is shorter than the cleaning process. A cleaning unit for cleaning the rotating body;
The said execution part makes the said cleaning part perform the said cleaning process and the cleaning process in which the time which cleans the said rotary body is shorter than the said cleaning process, It is any one of Claim 5 or 6 characterized by the above-mentioned. Image forming apparatus.   The recording unit records information indicating that the cleaning process is not being performed in the storage unit in response to the jam detection unit detecting a jam in the fixing unit. 8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 7.   The recording unit stores information indicating that the cleaning process has been performed after the cleaning process by the execution unit is performed and before the image forming apparatus starts image formation on a recording material. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image forming apparatus records the information in a storage unit.   9. The recording unit according to claim 8, wherein the recording unit records information indicating that the cleaning process has been executed in the storage unit in response to the execution of the cleaning process by the execution unit. Image forming apparatus. An opening / closing portion for opening / closing an opening for taking out the fixing portion from the main body of the image forming apparatus;
The recording unit stores in the storage unit information indicating that the cleaning process has not been executed in response to the opening / closing unit being opened for the first time after the jam detection unit detects a jam in the fixing unit. The cleaning process is performed in response to the opening / closing section being opened after the recording process is performed and the jamming section has not detected a jam at the fixing section. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein information indicating that has been executed is recorded in the storage unit. An opening / closing part for opening / closing an opening for taking out the fixing part from the main body of the image forming apparatus;
An open / close detection unit for detecting that the open / close unit is closed;
Have
The execution unit acquires information from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus when the opening / closing detection unit detects that the opening / closing unit is closed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11. A power switch for activating the image forming apparatus;
13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the execution unit acquires information from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to a main body of the image forming apparatus when the power switch is turned on. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The execution unit causes the fixing unit to perform a warm-up process for allowing the fixing unit to start a fixing process before the notification unit performs notification regardless of information acquired from the storage unit.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the cleaning unit cleans the rotating body during the warm-up process. The fixing unit includes a heating unit that heats the rotating body, and a temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the rotating body,
When the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process has not been performed, the execution unit sets the rotating body to a predetermined value by the heating unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning process is started when the temperature detecting unit detects that the temperature has been reached. Another rotating body that is provided in the fixing section and forms a nip portion for the fixing process together with the rotating body;
The cleaning unit includes a recovery rotator that collects toner from the rotator while being rotated by the rotator, a web that contacts the surface of the recovery rotator and removes toner from the recovery rotator, 15. A roller having the web wound thereon and a take-up roller for winding the web, wherein the cleaning is performed by intermittently rotating the take-up roller. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.   The cleaning unit includes a web for removing toner from the rotating body while being rotated by the rotating body, a roller around which the web is wound, and a winding roller for winding the web, The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the cleaning is performed by intermittently rotating the take-up roller. An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material,
An image forming unit for forming an unfixed toner image on a recording material;
A fixing unit detachably attached to a main body of the image forming apparatus, wherein when the unfixed toner image formed by the image forming unit is fixed on the recording material, the surface is in contact with the surface on which the unfixed toner image is formed A fixing unit including a rotating body;
A jam detection unit for detecting a jam at the fixing unit;
An execution unit that executes a cleaning process of the rotating body associated with the removal of the jam detected by the jam detection unit;
A storage unit that is provided in the fixing unit and stores information;
A recording unit for recording in the storage unit information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been executed by the execution unit;
Have
The execution unit starts the fixing process in the fixing unit when the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus indicates that the cleaning process is not executed. An image forming apparatus, wherein the cleaning process is executed before the process. A cleaning unit for cleaning the rotating body;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the execution unit causes the cleaning unit to execute the cleaning process. An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material,
An image forming unit for forming an unfixed toner image on a recording material;
A plurality of fixing units corresponding to types of recording materials on which an unfixed toner image can be formed in the image forming unit, wherein the recording material is fixed when the unfixed toner image formed by the image forming unit is fixed on the recording material. Any one of a plurality of fixing units including a rotating member that contacts a surface on which the unfixed toner image is formed, a cleaning unit that cleans the rotating member, and a storage unit that stores information is mounted. A mounting part;
A jam detection unit for detecting a jam at the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit;
An execution unit that causes the cleaning unit to perform a cleaning process of the rotating body of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit when the jam detected by the jam detection unit is resolved;
A recording unit that records information corresponding to whether or not the cleaning process has been performed by the execution unit in a storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit;
A notification unit for notifying an operator that the image forming apparatus is in a state of being able to perform image formation on a recording material;
Have
When the information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit indicates that the cleaning process is not performed, the execution unit performs the cleaning process before the notification unit performs notification. An image forming apparatus that is executed. A selection unit that allows an operator to select the type of recording material on which image formation is to be performed,
The storage unit stores restriction information corresponding to a type of recording material for which fixing processing by the fixing unit is restricted,
The selection unit restricts selection of the type of recording material for which fixing processing by the fixing unit is limited, according to the restriction information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus. A selection unit that allows the operator to select the type of recording material on which image formation is to be performed;
The storage unit stores identification information for identifying the type of the fixing unit,
The selection unit restricts types of recording materials that can be selected according to the identification information acquired from the storage unit of the fixing unit mounted on the mounting unit. Image forming apparatus. A fixing device detachably attached to an image forming apparatus,
A rotating body in contact with the surface of the recording material on which the unfixed toner image is formed when fixing the unfixed toner image formed on the recording material to the recording material;
A cleaning unit for cleaning the rotating body;
A storage unit capable of storing information corresponding to whether or not a cleaning process has been executed by the cleaning unit in response to the removal of a jam in the fixing device;
A fixing device.

Images