JP2018118414A - Image formation apparatus, output method of suitability of operation and output program of suitability of operation - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image formation apparatus which can present a member to be operated for dealing with the current state of the image formation apparatus before the operation of the user.SOLUTION: An image formation apparatus 100 includes: a plurality of operation members which receive the operation of a user; a detection unit 152 which detects approach or contact of the user to each of the plurality of operation members; a specification unit 158 which specifies the proper operation member associated with the current state of the image formation apparatus 100 on the basis of operation information 124 associating the proper operation member allowing the operation by the user with each state of the image formation apparatus; a determination unit 160 which determines whether or not the operation member of the detection object is the proper operation member specified by the specification unit 158 on the basis of the fact that the detection unit 152 detects approach or contact of the user to any of the plurality of operation members; and an output unit 162 which outputs the suitability of the operation to the image formation apparatus 100 on the basis of the determination result by the determination unit 160.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus for determining whether or not an operation by a user is appropriate.

  Image forming apparatuses such as MFPs (Multi-Functional Peripherals) are widely used. In recent years, the configuration of an image forming apparatus has become complicated, and when an error or the like occurs in the image forming apparatus, it has become a problem that it is difficult to easily understand which member of the image forming apparatus should be operated. .

  As an example, a paper jam (so-called jam) may occur during printing. When a jam occurs, the user needs to remove the jammed paper from the image forming apparatus. At this time, the user cannot easily understand which member (for example, a cassette or a cover) of the image forming apparatus should be operated to clear the paper jam.

  Regarding a technique for solving such a problem, Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2015-098130 (Patent Document 1) states that “the operator can easily know where to start work when recovering a failure, An image forming apparatus is disclosed for preventing a situation such as breakage of jammed paper by informing a person in advance of the correct work order.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2015-098130

  The image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 presents a member to be operated to the user after the user opens a cover or a cassette. Even if the member to be operated is presented after the user's operation, the jammed paper is torn. In this case, it becomes more difficult to remove the paper from the image forming apparatus. Therefore, there is a demand for an image forming apparatus that can present a member to be operated to cope with the current state of the image forming apparatus before a user operation.

  The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object in one aspect is to present a member to be operated to cope with the current state of the image forming apparatus before a user operation. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus. An object in another aspect is to provide an output method capable of presenting a member to be operated to cope with the current state of the image forming apparatus before a user operation. An object in another aspect is to provide an output program that can present a member to be operated to cope with the current state of the image forming apparatus before a user operation.

  According to a certain aspect, the image forming apparatus allows a plurality of operation members for receiving a user operation, a detection unit for detecting the proximity or contact of the user to each of the plurality of operation members, and an operation by the user. An identification unit for identifying an appropriate operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus based on operation information in which an appropriate operation member is associated with each state of the image forming apparatus, and the detection In order to determine whether or not the operation member to be detected is the proper operation member specified by the specifying unit based on the fact that the unit detects the proximity or contact of the user to any of the plurality of operation members And an output unit for outputting appropriateness of operation with respect to the image forming apparatus based on a determination result by the determination unit.

  Preferably, the output unit outputs a warning when the determination unit determines that the operation member to be detected is not the proper operation member.

  Preferably, the output unit outputs a notification for prompting an operation on the proper operation member when the determination unit determines that the operation member to be detected is not the proper operation member.

  Preferably, when the determination unit determines that the operation member to be detected is the proper operation member, the output unit outputs a notification for prompting to continue the operation on the operation member to be detected. To do.

  Preferably, the specifying unit specifies an appropriate operation member associated with the changed state every time the state of the image forming apparatus changes.

  Preferably, each state of the image forming apparatus defined in the operation information is further associated with a prohibited operation member that is not allowed to be operated by the user. The specifying unit further specifies a prohibited operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus specifies an appropriate operation member specified by the specifying unit and an operation member that is not a prohibited operation member from the plurality of operation members, and prohibits detection of the proximity or the contact with the operation member. And a prohibition unit.

  Preferably, the operation member of the image forming apparatus is configured to be detachable from the image forming apparatus, and is openable and closable so as to face the cassette for storing the paper and the paper conveyance path. Cover. The state defined by the operation information includes a jammed state in which the sheet is stopped across the portion of the transport path facing the cover and the cassette. The proper operation member associated with the jam state includes the cover.

  Preferably, the operation member of the image forming apparatus includes first and second covers that are openable and closable so as to face a conveyance path of a sheet conveyed through the image forming apparatus. The state defined by the operation information includes a jammed state in which the paper is stopped straddling a portion facing the first cover in the transport path and a portion facing the second cover in the transport path. . The proper operation member associated with the jammed state includes the first cover or the second cover.

  Preferably, the operation member of the image forming apparatus includes a replaceable consumable part. The state defined in the operation information includes a consumption state indicating that the consumption component should be replaced. The proper operation member associated with the consumption state includes the consumption component.

  Preferably, the detection unit detects a capacitance of each of the plurality of operation members, and detects proximity or contact of a user to each of the plurality of operation members based on each capacitance.

  Preferably, the detection unit detects proximity or contact of the user to each of the plurality of operation members based on a capacitance between a conductor provided on each of the plurality of operation members and the user. To do. The plurality of conductors are covered with resin.

  Preferably, the size of the conductor provided on the operation member is larger as the operation member having higher detection sensitivity of the proximity or the contact by the detection unit among the plurality of operation members.

  Preferably, an operation member having a larger area among the plurality of operation members has a larger number of conductors provided on the operation member.

  Preferably, the detection unit uses, as the operation member that the user has approached or contacted, an operation member in which the detected capacitance exceeds the first threshold for a first time or more among the plurality of operation members. Detect.

  Preferably, the length of the first time is set for each operation member to be detected for the proximity or the contact.

  Preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes a determination unit for determining the first threshold value for each operation member to be detected. The determination unit adds a predetermined value to the first reference value with the capacitance detected for the first operation member of the plurality of operation members during the idle state of the image forming apparatus as a first reference value. The result is determined as the first threshold value for the first operating member, and the capacitance detected for the second operating member of the plurality of operating members during the idle state is used as the second reference value to determine the second threshold value. A result obtained by adding a predetermined value to the reference value is determined as the first threshold value for the second operating member.

  Preferably, the determination unit calculates an average value of the capacitance when the capacitance detected for the first operating member is lower than a second threshold for a second time or longer. When the state in which the electrostatic capacitance detected for the second operating member is lower than the second threshold continues for the second time or longer, the average value of the electrostatic capacitance is used as the reference value. Adopt as a reference value.

  According to another aspect, there is provided an output method for outputting whether or not an operation for the image forming apparatus is appropriate. The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of operation members for receiving user operations. The step of detecting the proximity or contact of the user with respect to each of the plurality of operation members and the image formation based on operation information in which appropriate operation members allowed to be operated by the user are associated with each state of the image forming apparatus. Based on the detection of the proximity or contact of the user to any one of the plurality of operation members in the step of identifying an appropriate operation member associated with the current state of the device and the step of detecting, the detection target Determining whether or not the operating member is the proper operating member specified in the specifying step; and outputting the propriety of the operation on the image forming apparatus based on the determination result in the determining step. Prepare.

  According to another aspect, an output program is provided for outputting whether or not an operation for the image forming apparatus is appropriate. The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of operation members for receiving user operations. The output program associates the image forming apparatus with a step of detecting the proximity or contact of the user to each of the plurality of operation members, and an appropriate operation member allowed to be operated by the user for each state of the image forming apparatus. Based on the operation information, the step of identifying the proper operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus and the step of detecting the proximity or contact of the user to any of the plurality of operation members Based on the detection, the step of determining whether or not the operation member to be detected is the proper operation member specified in the specifying step, and the image formation based on the determination result in the determining step And a step of outputting whether or not the device is suitable for operation.

  In one aspect, a member to be operated in order to cope with the current state of the image forming apparatus can be presented before a user operation.

  The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

It is a figure which shows an example of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the circuit structure of a sensor. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of the image forming apparatus according to embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of transition of the electrostatic capacitance detected by a sensor for every operation member. It is a figure which shows an example of transition of the electrostatic capacitance detected by a sensor. It is a figure which shows an example of transition of the electrostatic capacitance detected by a sensor. It is a figure which shows the jam of a paper. It is a figure which shows the image forming apparatus according to a modification. It is a figure which shows jam of a long paper. It is a figure which shows the jam of a paper. It is a figure which shows the jam of a paper. It is a flowchart showing the process for determining the appropriateness | suitability of operation with respect to an operation member. It is a flowchart showing the process of step S110 shown by FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment.

  Embodiments according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated. Each embodiment and each modified example described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[Image forming apparatus 100]
With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 100.

  1 and 2 show an image forming apparatus 100 as a color printer. Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus 100 as a color printer will be described, but the image forming apparatus 100 is not limited to a color printer. For example, the image forming apparatus 100 may be a monochrome printer, or a monochrome printer, a color printer, and a multifunction machine (so-called MFP) of a FAX.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a cassette 5, a scanner 20, a printer 50, and an operation panel 105.

  The cassette 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the image forming apparatus 100. The user can set a sheet to be printed with the cassette 5 opened. In each cassette 5, the same type of paper may be set, or different types of paper may be set.

  The cassette 5 is provided with an operation member 64 for receiving a user operation. The operation member 64 is a handle, for example, and accepts an opening / closing operation of the cassette 5. The operation member 64 is provided with a conductor 90 used to detect the proximity or contact of the user with the operation member 64.

  The image forming apparatus 100 is provided with a cover 6. An operation member 66 is provided on the cover 6. The operation member 66 is, for example, a lever, and accepts an opening / closing operation of the cover 6. The user can check the inside of the image forming apparatus 100 by operating the lever and opening the cover 6. The operation member 66 is provided with a conductor 90 used for detecting the proximity or contact of the user with the operation member 66.

  The scanner 20 includes a cover 21, a paper tray 22, a tray 23, and an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 24. One end of the cover 21 is fixed to the paper table 22, and the cover 21 is configured to be openable and closable with the one end as a fulcrum. The user of the image forming apparatus 100 can set the paper S on the paper base 22 by opening the cover 21. When the image forming apparatus 100 receives a scan instruction in a state where the paper S is set on the paper base 22, the image forming apparatus 100 starts scanning the paper S set on the paper base 22. In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 receives a scan instruction with the paper S set on the tray 23, the paper S is automatically read one by one by the ADF 24.

  The printer 50 includes an image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, 1K, a transfer belt 30, a primary transfer roller 31, a secondary transfer roller 33, a cassette 5, a driven roller 38, a driving roller 39, and a timing roller. 40, a cleaning device 42, a fixing device 47, and a control device 101.

  The image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are arranged in order along the transfer belt 30. The image forming unit 1Y receives toner from the toner bottle 15Y and forms a yellow (Y) toner image. The image forming unit 1M receives the supply of toner from the toner bottle 15M and forms a magenta (M) toner image. The image forming unit 1C receives toner from the toner bottle 15C and forms a cyan (C) toner image. The image forming unit 1K receives toner from the toner bottle 15K and forms a black (BK) toner image.

  The image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are arranged along the transfer belt 30 in the order of the rotation direction of the transfer belt 30, respectively. Each of the image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K includes a photosensitive member 10, a charging device 11, an exposure device 13, a developing device 14, and a cleaning device 17 that are configured to be rotatable.

  The charging device 11 includes a charging roller 12. The charging roller 12 is in contact with the photoconductor 10. The charging roller 12 uniformly charges the surface of the photoconductor 10 to a predetermined potential.

  The exposure device 13 irradiates the photoconductor 10 with laser light in accordance with a control signal from the control device 101, and exposes the surface of the photoconductor 10 according to the input image pattern. Thereby, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the input image is formed on the photoreceptor 10.

  The developing device 14 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoconductor 10 as a toner image. More specifically, the developing device 14 applies a developing bias to the developing roller 15 while rotating the developing roller 15, and causes the toner to adhere to the surface of the developing roller 15. The toner is transferred from the developing roller 15 to the photoconductor 10, and a toner image corresponding to the electrostatic latent image is developed on the surface of the photoconductor 10.

  The photoconductor 10 and the transfer belt 30 are in contact with each other at a portion where the primary transfer roller 31 is provided. By applying a transfer voltage having a polarity opposite to that of the toner image to the primary transfer roller 31, the toner image is transferred from the photoreceptor 10 to the transfer belt 30. A yellow (Y) toner image, a magenta (M) toner image, a cyan (C) toner image, and a black (BK) toner image are sequentially superimposed and transferred from the photoreceptor 10 to the transfer belt 30. As a result, a color toner image is formed on the transfer belt 30.

  The transfer belt 30 is stretched around a driven roller 38 and a driving roller 39. The drive roller 39 is connected to a motor (not shown). When the control device 101 controls the motor, the driving roller 39 rotates. The transfer belt 30 and the driven roller 38 rotate in conjunction with the driving roller 39. As a result, the toner image on the transfer belt 30 is sent to the secondary transfer roller 33.

  The cleaning device 17 collects toner remaining on the surface of the photoconductor 10 after the transfer of the toner image from the photoconductor 10 to the transfer belt 30.

  The sheet S is sent from one of the cassettes 5 to the secondary transfer roller 33 along the transport path 41 by the timing roller 40 one by one. The control device 101 controls the transfer voltage applied to the secondary transfer roller 33 in accordance with the timing at which the paper S is sent out.

  The secondary transfer roller 33 applies a transfer voltage having a polarity opposite to that of the toner image to the sheet S being conveyed. As a result, the toner image is attracted from the transfer belt 30 to the secondary transfer roller 33, and the toner image on the transfer belt 30 is transferred. The conveyance timing of the sheet S to the secondary transfer roller 33 is controlled by the timing roller 40 in accordance with the position of the toner image on the transfer belt 30. As a result, the toner image on the transfer belt 30 is transferred to an appropriate position on the paper S.

  The fixing device 47 pressurizes and heats the paper S passing through the fixing device 47. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper S. Thereafter, the sheet S is discharged to the tray 48.

  The cleaning device 42 collects toner remaining on the surface of the transfer belt 30 after the transfer of the toner image from the transfer belt 30 to the paper S. The collected toner is conveyed by a conveying screw (not shown) and stored in a waste toner container (not shown).

[Circuit configuration of sensor 65]
With reference to FIG. 3, a sensor 65 (see FIG. 1) for detecting proximity or contact with the operation member of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of the sensor 65.

  The sensor 65 includes conductors 90A to 90C, a conversion circuit 91, a counter 92, switches SW1 to SW3, and a low-pass filter LPF. As shown in FIG. 3, the switches SW1 to SW3 are connected in parallel. Conductors 90A to 90C are electrically connected to the switches SW1 to SW3, respectively. Hereinafter, one of the switches SW1 to SW3 is also referred to as a switch SW. Similarly, one of the conductors 90A to 90C is also referred to as a conductor 90 as a representative.

Switch SW alternately switches between a conductive state and a non-conductive state in accordance with a control signal (for example, a pulse signal) output from counter 92. The counter 92 controls the frequency of the control signal according to the setting value set by the control device 101. By the control signal, the conductive state and non-conductive state of the switch SW are alternately switched. As a result, charging and discharging of the conductor 90 are repeated, and an alternating current _IAC is output from the conductor 90. The alternating current I _AC is smoothed by the low-pass filter LPF and converted to the direct current I _DC . The direct current _IDC is output to the conversion circuit 91.

Conversion circuit 91 generates a pulse signal having a frequency corresponding to the magnitude of the DC current I _DC. Typically, the more direct current I _DC is large, the frequency of the pulse signal output from the conversion circuit 91 becomes high. The pulse signal is output to the counter 92. The counter 92 counts the number of pulses per predetermined time of the pulse signal output from the conversion circuit 91, and sequentially outputs the count value to the control device 101.

  The conductor 90 is, for example, an electrode plate, and is provided on a member (for example, the operation members 64 and 66 (see FIG. 1)) that receives an operation on the image forming apparatus 100. Preferably, each electrode plate is coated with a resin. This prevents each electrode plate from being directly touched by the user.

When the user approaches the conductor 90, the capacitance in the detection region between the user and the conductor 90 increases, and the current that is discharged from the conductor 90 when the switch SW is in a conductive state increases. As a result, the direct current _IDC increases, the frequency of the pulse signal output from the conversion circuit 91 increases, and the count value output from the counter 92 increases. Thus, the count value output from the counter 92 correlates with the magnitude of the capacitance in the detection area. At this time, the count value output from the counter 92 changes linearly with respect to the capacitance in the detection region. That is, the greater the count value output from the counter 92, the greater the capacitance in the detection area. In other words, the greater the count value output from the counter 92, the closer the user is to the conductor 90. The image forming apparatus 100 detects the proximity or contact of the user with the sensor 65 based on the count value.

  Typically, the control device 101 detects proximity or contact with each of the conductors 90 by sequentially switching detection times assigned to each of the conductors 90. More specifically, the control device 101 allocates a predetermined time to the conductor 90A, detects a count value obtained during that time as a capacitance between the conductor 90A and the user, and based on the capacitance. The proximity or contact with the operation member provided with the conductor 90A is detected. Next, the control device 101 allocates a predetermined time to the conductor 90B, detects the count value obtained during that time as a capacitance between the conductor 90B and the user, and based on the capacitance, the conductor Proximity or contact with the operation member provided with 90B is detected. The control device 101 repeats this process for all the conductors, thereby detecting the proximity or contact of all the operation members provided with the conductors 90.

  Preferably, the higher the proximity or contact detection sensitivity is, the larger the size of the conductor 90 provided on the operation member. That is, the size of the conductor 90 is determined in accordance with the proximity or contact detection sensitivity. As described above, the proximity or contact detection sensitivity changes according to the size of the conductor 90, so that the designer can arbitrarily adjust the proximity or contact detection sensitivity at the time of design.

  Moreover, the conductor 90 provided in the said operation member is arrange | positioned more, so that the operation member with a larger area is arranged. That is, the number of conductors 90 arranged is determined in accordance with the proximity or contact detection sensitivity. As described above, the proximity or contact detection sensitivity changes according to the number of the conductors 90 arranged, so that the designer can arbitrarily adjust the proximity or contact detection sensitivity at the time of design.

  Note that the number of the conductors 90 included in the sensor 65 is not necessarily three, and the sensor 65 may be composed of two or more conductors 90. The switch SW is provided according to the number of conductors. In addition, one conductor 90 may be provided for one sensor 65. In this case, the sensors 65 are provided by the number of portions to be detected for contact or proximity.

  Further, the magnitude of the capacitance in the detection area may be represented by a count value output from the counter 92, or may be represented by another index correlated with the capacitance.

  Furthermore, the circuit configuration of the sensor 65 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. The sensor 65 may employ other proximity sensors for detecting the proximity of the user, other touch sensors for detecting the user's contact, and the like.

  Furthermore, the method for detecting proximity or contact is not limited to the capacitance method, and other methods may be employed. As an example, an optical method may be employed.

[Functional Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus 100]
The function of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the transition of the capacitance detected by the above-described sensor 65 for each operation member.

  As illustrated in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a sensor 65, a control device 101, and a storage device 120 as main hardware configurations. The control device 101 includes a detection unit 152, a determination unit 154, a state acquisition unit 156, a specification unit 158, a determination unit 160, an output unit 162, and a prohibition unit 164 as functional configurations.

  The detection unit 152 detects the proximity or contact of the user to the operation member of the image forming apparatus 100 based on the capacitance detected by the sensor 65. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, “contact or proximity” is also collectively referred to as “contact”. That is, when the term “contact” is used, it can include not only the concept of contact but also the concept of proximity.

  With reference to FIG. 5, the detection method of the contact by the detection part 152 is demonstrated. Based on the fact that the capacitance detected for the conductor 90A (see FIG. 3) by the sensor 65 exceeds the threshold th1, the detection unit 152 contacts the first operation member provided with the conductor 90A. Is detected. Further, since the electrostatic capacitance detected for the conductor 90B (see FIG. 3) does not exceed the threshold th1, the detection unit 152 detects the user's contact with respect to the second operating member provided with the conductor 90B. do not do. In this manner, the detection unit 152 detects a user's contact with each operation member based on the capacitance detected for each operation member that is a contact detection target.

  The determination unit 154 determines the size of the threshold th1 that serves as a reference for contact detection. Details of the determination method of the threshold th1 by the determination unit 154 will be described later.

  Referring to FIG. 4 again, state acquisition unit 156 specifies the current state of image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection unit 152 detecting the user's contact with the operation member. Typically, the state acquisition unit 156 acquires an error occurring in the image forming apparatus 100 as the current state of the image forming apparatus 100. The error that may occur in the image forming apparatus 100 includes, for example, a paper jam (that is, a jammed state) that has occurred during printing, a consumption state that indicates that a consumption part such as a toner bottle should be replaced, and the like.

  The specifying unit 158 specifies an appropriate operation member to be operated in the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 with reference to the operation information 124. In the operation information 124, for example, an appropriate operation member that is allowed to be operated by the user and a prohibited operation member that is not allowed to be operated by the user are associated with each state of the image forming apparatus 100. The identifying unit 158 identifies a state that matches the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 from among the states defined in the operation information 124, and sets the appropriate operation member and the prohibited operation member associated with the identified state. Obtained from the operation information 124. The specifying unit 158 specifies an appropriate operation member and a prohibited operation member corresponding to the changed state every time the state of the image forming apparatus 100 changes. Since the state of the image forming apparatus 100 changes according to the user's operation, the proper operation member and the prohibited operation member are specified as the user's operation progresses.

  When the user's contact is detected for any of the detection target operation members, the determination unit 160 determines whether or not the operation member whose contact has been detected is a proper operation member. In addition, the determination unit 160 determines whether or not the operation member in which the contact is detected is a prohibited operation member. The determination result by the determination unit 160 is output to the output unit 162.

  The output unit 162 outputs suitability of the operation on the image forming apparatus 100 based on the determination result by the determination unit 160.

  In one aspect, when the determination unit 160 determines that the operation member to be contacted is not a proper operation member, the output unit 162 outputs a warning. Preferably, the warning is output when the operation member to be contacted is a prohibited operation member. The method for outputting the warning is arbitrary. As an example, the warning may be output as a message on the operation panel 105 of the image forming apparatus 100 or may be output by voice. By outputting such a warning, the user can grasp that the operation member that the user is trying to operate is not an appropriate operation member.

  In another aspect, when the determination unit 160 determines that the operation member to be contacted is not a proper operation member, the output unit 162 outputs a notification for prompting an operation on the proper operation member. Preferably, the notification is output when the operation member to be contacted is a prohibited operation member. The notification output method is arbitrary. As an example, the notification may be output as a message on the operation panel 105 of the image forming apparatus 100 or may be output by voice. Preferably, operation panel 105 displays an image representing image forming apparatus 100, and displays the proper operation member in a different manner in the image. Thereby, the user can visually understand the position of the proper operation member. Alternatively, each operation member may be provided with a light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), and the position of the proper operation member may be indicated by blinking of the light source.

  In another aspect, when the determination unit 160 determines that the operation member to be contacted is a proper operation member, the output unit 162 outputs a notification for prompting an operation on the proper operation member. That is, the output unit 162 outputs a notification so as to continue the operation on the operation member that the user is currently operating. The notification output method is arbitrary. As an example, the notification may be output as a message on the operation panel 105 of the image forming apparatus 100 or may be output by voice.

  The prohibition unit 164 identifies an operation member that is not a proper operation member and a prohibition operation member from among the operation members that are contact detection targets, and prohibits detection of contact with the operation member. That is, contact detection with respect to an operation member that does not cause a problem even if operated in the current state of the prohibiting unit 164 and the image forming apparatus 100 is prohibited. Thereby, the processing amount of the image forming apparatus 100 is reduced.

[Contact Detection by Detection Unit 152]
The contact detection by the detection unit 152 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the transition of the capacitance detected by the sensor 65 described above. FIG. 6 shows, as an example, a change in capacitance of the first operating member provided with the conductor 90.

  The detection unit 152 performs an operation in which the detected capacitance of the contact detection target operation member exceeds the threshold th1 (first threshold) for a predetermined reference time TA (first time) or longer. The member is detected as an operation member touched by the user.

  As an example, it is assumed that the detected capacitance exceeds the threshold th1 between times T1 and T2 (that is, time ΔT1). Since the time ΔT1 is longer than the reference time TA, the detection unit 152 detects a user's contact with the first operation member. Thereby, since the case where the user touches the operation member unintentionally and touches for a moment is not regarded as an operation, the user's operation on the operation member is detected more reliably.

  Preferably, the length of the reference time TA is set for each operation member to be touched. The length of the reference time TA may be determined in advance when the image forming apparatus 100 is designed, or may be arbitrarily set by the user. By appropriately setting the reference time TA for each operation member, the accuracy of contact detection with respect to each operation member is improved.

  Thereafter, it is assumed that the detected electrostatic capacitance exceeds the threshold th1 between times T3 and T4 (that is, time ΔT2). Since the time ΔT2 is shorter than the reference time TA, the detection unit 152 does not detect the user's contact with the first operation member.

  Thereafter, it is assumed that the user has moved near the first operating member between times T5 and T6. Along with this, the detected capacitance slightly increases but does not exceed the threshold th1. Therefore, the detection unit 152 does not detect contact with the first operation member.

[Determination Method of Threshold Th1 by Determination Unit 154]
As described above, the detection unit 152 detects contact with the operation member based on the fact that the capacitance detected by the sensor 65 exceeds the threshold th1. The capacitance detected by the sensor 65 is susceptible to environmental influences such as temperature and humidity. Therefore, the determination unit 154 (see FIG. 4) determines the threshold th1 according to the surrounding environment, and excludes the influence of environmental fluctuations.

  Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, a determination method of the threshold th1 by the determination unit 154 will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the transition of the capacitance detected by the sensor 65 described above. FIG. 7 shows, as an example, a change in capacitance of the first operation member provided with the conductor 90.

  The determination unit 154 uses the capacitance detected during idling when the user is not operating as a reference value, adds a predetermined value as an offset to the reference value, and determines the addition result as the threshold th1.

  More specifically, the determination unit 154 determines that the state in which the capacitance detected for the first operating member is below the threshold th2 (second threshold) continues for a reference time TB (second time) or longer. The average value of the capacitance is adopted as the reference value c1. In the example of FIG. 7, the capacitance falls below the threshold th2 between times T11 and T12 (that is, time ΔT11), but the time ΔT11 is shorter than the reference time TB, and thus is detected during the time ΔT11. The obtained capacitance is not used for calculation of the reference value c1. On the other hand, the capacitance falls below the threshold th2 between times T13 and T14 (that is, time ΔT12), and the time ΔT12 is longer than the reference time TB. The average value of the electrostatic capacitance detected at the time is calculated as the reference value c1. Thereafter, the determination unit 154 adds a predetermined value Δc as an offset to the calculated reference value c1, and calculates the addition result as the threshold th1.

  The threshold value th1 is determined for all operation members that are contact detection targets. That is, the determination unit 154 determines the threshold th1 for the first operation member and also determines the threshold th1 for other operation members (for example, the second operation member). More specifically, the determination unit 154 sets the capacitance detected for the second operation member during the idle state (for example, waiting state) of the image forming apparatus 100 as the reference value c2 (second reference value). . At this time, when the state in which the capacitance detected for the second operation member is lower than the threshold th2 continues for the reference time TB or longer, the determination unit 154 employs the average value of the capacitance as the reference value c2. To do. Thereafter, the determination unit 154 determines the result of adding the predetermined value Δc to the reference value c2 as the threshold th1 for the second operating member.

[Errors that may occur in the image forming apparatus 100]
In the image forming apparatus 100, various errors such as a jam state and an empty state of a toner bottle can occur. Hereinafter, errors that may occur in the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Paper jam)
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a jam of the sheet S1. As shown in FIG. 8, it is assumed that a jam of the sheet S1 occurs in the vicinity of the cassette 5. Hereinafter, a paper jam generated at the paper feed port of the cassette 5 is also referred to as “paper jam”. The paper feed jam is detected by, for example, a paper sensor (not shown) that includes the transport path 41 near the cassette 5 in the detection range. If the cassette 5 is opened when a paper jam has occurred, the paper S1 is torn by the cassette 5. As a result, it becomes difficult for the user to remove the sheet S1 from the image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 presents to the user that the cover 6 is opened and the sheet S1 is removed without opening the cassette 5.

  More specifically, the state of the image forming apparatus 100 stipulated in the operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) is that the sheet S1 is stopped across the portion of the transport path 41 facing the cover 6 and the cassette 5. Including the paper jam condition. The proper operation member associated with the paper jam condition includes the cover 6 disposed so as to face the conveyance path 41. Further, the prohibited operation member associated with the paper jam condition includes the cassette 5.

  When a paper jam occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 refers to the operation information 124 and identifies the cover 6 as an appropriate operation member and identifies the cassette 5 as a prohibited operation member. When the sheet forming jam is detected, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning not to open the cassette 5 and detects the cover 6 that is the proper operation member when detecting contact with the cassette 5 that is the prohibited operation member. Present to the user to open. On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 100 detects a paper jam, the image forming apparatus 100 prompts the user to continue the operation on the cover 6 when detecting contact with the cover 6 that is an appropriate operation member.

  The image forming apparatus 100 can present a correct operation to the user without providing a special mechanism such as an operation lock mechanism. Thereby, size reduction and cost reduction of the image forming apparatus 100 are realized.

(Long paper jam)
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus 100 according to a modification. Various devices can be connected to the image forming apparatus 100. As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, a relay unit 200, a Z-folding unit 300, and a finisher 400 can be connected to the image forming apparatus 100.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a jam of the long paper S2. Hereinafter, a paper jam caused by the long paper S2 is also referred to as “long paper jam”. For example, the long paper jam is detected by a paper sensor 35 including the conveyance path 41 in the detection range. As shown in FIG. 10, it is assumed that a long paper jam has occurred across the relay unit 200, the Z-folding unit 300, and the finisher 400. When a long paper jam has occurred, a large number of rollers are pulling each other across the long paper S2, so that it is difficult for the user to open the cover 6B by about 1 cm. In this case, if the cover 6B is forcibly pulled, the image forming apparatus 100 is damaged. In order to prevent this, the image forming apparatus 100 presents to the user that the cover 6A of the relay unit 200 is opened and the long paper S2 is removed without opening the cover 6B.

  More specifically, the state of the image forming apparatus 100 stipulated in the operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) includes the part facing the cover 6A (first cover) in the transport path 41 and the cover 6B in the transport path 41. The long paper jam state in which the long paper S2 stops over the portion facing the (second cover) is included. The proper operation member associated with the long paper jam state includes the cover 6A. The prohibition operation member associated with the long paper jam state includes the cover 6B. The covers 6A and 6B are provided with a conductor 90 for detecting the user's contact.

  When a long paper jam occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 refers to the operation information 124 and identifies the cover 6A as an appropriate operation member and identifies the cover 6B as a prohibited operation member. When the image forming apparatus 100 detects a long paper jam and detects contact with the cover 6B that is the prohibited operation member, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning not to open the cover 6B, and the cover 6A that is the proper operation member is attached. Present to the user to open. On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 100 detects a long paper jam and detects contact with the cover 6A, which is an appropriate operation member, the image forming apparatus 100 prompts the user to continue the operation on the cover 6A.

(Fixing jam)
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a jam of the sheet S3. As shown in FIG. 11, it is assumed that a jam of the sheet S3 occurs in the fixing device 47. Hereinafter, a paper jam occurring across the fixing device 47 is also referred to as “fixing jam”. The fixing jam is detected based on the detection result of the paper by the paper sensor 35, for example.

  When a fixing jam has occurred, the operation member to be operated varies depending on the position of the sheet S3 with respect to the fixing device 47. That is, when the length of the sheet S3 on the downstream side of the fixing device 47 is longer than the length of the sheet S3 on the upstream side of the fixing device 47, the user pulls out the sheet S3 from the downstream side to remove the sheet S3. It can be pulled out easily. In this case, when the user pulls out the sheet S3 from the upstream side, the sheet S3 is torn. Therefore, when the length of the sheet S3 on the downstream side of the fixing device 47 is longer than the length of the sheet S3 on the upstream side of the fixing device 47, the image forming apparatus 100 is not the upstream cover 6B but the downstream side. The user is presented to open the cover 6A and remove the sheet S3.

  On the other hand, when the length of the sheet S3 on the upstream side of the fixing device 47 is longer than the length of the sheet S3 on the downstream side of the fixing device 47, the user pulls out the sheet S3 from the upstream side, thereby the sheet S3. Can be pulled out easily. In this case, when the user pulls out the sheet S3 from the downstream side, the sheet S3 is torn. Therefore, when the length of the sheet S3 on the upstream side of the fixing device 47 is longer than the length of the sheet S3 on the downstream side of the fixing device 47, the image forming apparatus 100 does not use the downstream cover 6A but the upstream side. The user is presented to open the cover 6B and remove the sheet S3. The covers 6A and 6B are provided with a conductor 90 for detecting the user's contact.

  More specifically, the state of the image forming apparatus 100 defined in the operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) is that the length of the sheet S3 on the downstream side of the fixing device 47 is the length of the sheet S3 on the upstream side of the fixing device 47. And a upstream fixing jam in which the length of the sheet S3 on the upstream side of the fixing device 47 is longer than the length of the sheet S3 on the downstream side of the fixing device 47. The proper operation member associated with the downstream side fixing jam includes a cover 6 </ b> A provided on the downstream side of the fixing device 47. The prohibition operation member associated with the downstream side fixing jam includes a cover 6B provided on the upstream side of the cover 6A. The proper operation member associated with the upstream side fixing jam includes a cover 6B provided on the upstream side of the cover 6A. The prohibition operation member associated with the upstream side fixing jam includes a cover 6A provided on the downstream side of the cover 6B.

  When the downstream side fixing jam occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 refers to the operation information 124 and identifies the cover 6A as the proper operation member and identifies the cover 6B as the prohibited operation member. Thereafter, when the image forming apparatus 100 detects contact with the cover 6B that is the prohibited operation member, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning not to open the cover 6B and presents it to the user to open the cover 6A that is the proper operation member. .

  When an upstream side fixing jam occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 refers to the operation information 124 and identifies the cover 6B as an appropriate operation member and identifies the cover 6A as a prohibited operation member. Thereafter, when the image forming apparatus 100 detects contact with the cover 6A that is the prohibited operation member, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning not to open the cover 6A and presents it to the user to open the cover 6B that is the proper operation member. .

(Finisher jam)
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a jam of the sheet S4. As shown in FIG. 12, it is assumed that a jam of the sheet S4 occurs at the finisher 400. Hereinafter, a paper jam generated by the finisher 400 is also referred to as “finisher jam”.

  When the finisher jam occurs near the paper discharge roller 70, the user preferably takes out the paper S4 from the paper discharge port. However, if the jamming dial for moving the paper S4 is accidentally turned, the paper S4 returns to the finisher 400. Therefore, the dial is provided with a conductor 90 for detecting the user's contact, and the image forming apparatus 100 detects the user's contact with the dial. When a finisher jam has occurred, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning and prompts the user to pull out the paper S from the paper discharge port when the user's contact with the dial is detected.

(Toner Empty)
The user needs to replace the toner bottle when the toner bottle, which is a consumable part, becomes empty. When the user attempts to replace another toner bottle that is not empty, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning indicating that the other toner bottle is not a replacement target. When the user tries to replace an empty toner bottle, the image forming apparatus 100 prompts the user to continue the replacement operation.

  More specifically, the state of the image forming apparatus 100 defined in the operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) includes a consumption state indicating that the toner bottle should be replaced. The consumption state is defined for each color toner bottle. The proper operation member associated with the consumption state includes the toner bottle in the consumption state. Each toner bottle is provided with a conductor 90 for detecting a user's contact.

  When toner empty occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 refers to the operation information 124 and identifies an empty toner bottle as a proper operation member, and identifies other toner bottles that are not empty as prohibited operation members. Whether or not the toner bottle is empty is determined based on, for example, a detection result by an empty sensor (not shown) for detecting the empty of the toner bottle. When a certain toner bottle becomes empty, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning indicating that the other toner bottle is not a replacement target when it detects contact with another toner bottle that is not empty. An empty toner bottle as an operation member is presented to be replaced.

(Paper empty)
When the user runs out of paper in the cassette, the user needs to replenish the cassette with paper. At this time, if the user tries to replace another cassette, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning indicating that the cassette is not an operation target. When the user tries to operate an empty cassette, the image forming apparatus 100 prompts the user to continue the operation on the cassette.

  More specifically, the state of the image forming apparatus 100 defined in the operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) includes a consumption state indicating that the cassette should be replenished with paper. The proper operation member associated with the consumption state includes the cassette in the consumption state. Each cassette is provided with a conductor 90 for detecting a user's contact.

  When the sheet empty occurs, the image forming apparatus 100 refers to the operation information 124 and identifies an empty cassette as a proper operation member, and identifies other cassettes that are not empty as prohibited operation members. Whether or not the cassette is empty is determined based on, for example, a detection result by a paper sensor (not shown) for detecting paper. When the image forming apparatus 100 detects paper empty and detects contact with a non-empty cassette, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning indicating that the operation target is incorrect, and replaces the empty cassette that is an appropriate operation member. To present. On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 100 detects paper empty and detects contact with an empty cassette, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a message for prompting the user to continue the paper supply operation.

[Control Structure of Image Forming Apparatus 100]
The control structure of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process for determining whether or not the operation on the operation member is appropriate. The processing in FIG. 13 is realized by the control device 101 of the image forming apparatus 100 executing a program. In other aspects, some or all of the processing may be performed by circuit elements or other hardware.

  In step S110, the control apparatus 101 acquires the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 as the above-described state acquisition unit 156 (see FIG. 4). An acquisition flow of the state of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described later.

  In step S <b> 130, the control device 101 determines, as the above-described detection unit 152 (see FIG. 4), whether or not the user's contact with any of the operation members to be contact-detected has been detected. When it is determined that the user's contact with any of the operation members to be contact detected is detected (YES in step S130), control device 101 switches control to step S132. If not (NO in step S130), control device 101 returns control to step S110.

  In step S <b> 132, the control apparatus 101 refers to the operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) as the above-described specifying unit 158 (see FIG. 4), and the appropriate operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus 100. And the prohibited operation member is specified.

  In step S140, the control device 101 determines, as the above-described determination unit 160 (see FIG. 4), whether or not the operation member whose contact has been detected is a proper operation member. When control device 101 determines that the operation member whose contact has been detected is a proper operation member (YES in step S140), control device 101 switches control to step S142. If not (NO in step S140), control device 101 switches control to step S150.

  In step S142, the above-described output unit 162 (see FIG. 4) outputs a notification for prompting the user to continue the operation. The notification output method is arbitrary. As an example, the notification may be output as a message on the operation panel 105 of the image forming apparatus 100 or may be output by voice.

  In step S150, the control device 101 determines, as the above-described determination unit 160, whether or not the operation member whose contact has been detected is a prohibited operation member. When control device 101 determines that the operation member whose contact has been detected is a prohibited operation member (YES in step S150), control device 101 switches control to step S152. Otherwise (NO in step S150), control device 101 ends the process shown in FIG.

  In step S152, the control apparatus 101 outputs a warning as the output unit 162 described above. The method for outputting the warning is arbitrary. As an example, the warning may be output as a message on the operation panel 105 of the image forming apparatus 100 or may be output by voice.

  In step S154, the control device 101 outputs, as the output unit 162 described above, a notification for prompting an operation on the proper operation member. The notification output method is arbitrary. As an example, the notification may be output as a message on the operation panel 105 of the image forming apparatus 100 or may be output by voice. Preferably, operation panel 105 displays an image representing image forming apparatus 100, and displays the proper operation member in a different manner in the image. Thereby, the user can visually understand the position of the proper operation member. Alternatively, each operation member may be provided with a light source such as an LED, and the position of the proper operation member may be indicated by blinking of the light source.

[Current State Acquisition Processing of Image Forming Apparatus 100]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the process of step S110 shown in FIG.

  In step S112, the control apparatus 101 determines whether or not the above-described paper jam has been detected. When control device 101 determines that a paper feed jam has been detected (YES in step S112), it switches control to step S113. If not (NO in step S112), control device 101 switches control to step S114.

  In step S113, the control apparatus 101 sets the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 as a paper feed jam.

  In step S114, the control apparatus 101 determines whether or not the above-described long paper jam has been detected. When it is determined that a long paper jam has been detected (YES in step S114), control device 101 switches control to step S115. If not (NO in step S114), control device 101 switches control to step S116.

  In step S115, the control apparatus 101 sets the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 to a long paper jam.

  In step S116, the control device 101 determines whether or not the above-described fixing jam has been detected. If control device 101 determines that a fixing jam has been detected (YES in step S116), it switches control to step S117. If not (NO in step S116), control device 101 switches control to step S118.

  In step S117, the control apparatus 101 sets the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 as a fixing jam.

  In step S118, the control device 101 determines whether or not the above-described finisher jam has been detected. When it is determined that finisher jam has been detected (YES in step S118), control device 101 switches control to step S119. If not (NO in step S118), control device 101 switches control to step S120.

  In step S119, the control apparatus 101 sets the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 as a finisher jam.

  In step S120, the control device 101 determines whether or not the above-described toner empty is detected. When control device 101 determines that toner empty has been detected (YES in step S120), control device 101 switches control to step S121. If not (NO in step S120), control device 101 switches control to step S122.

  In step S121, the control apparatus 101 sets the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 as toner empty.

  In step S122, the control device 101 determines whether or not the above-described paper empty is detected. When control device 101 determines that a paper empty has been detected (YES in step S122), control device 101 switches control to step S123. If not (NO in step S122), control device 101 ends the process shown in FIG.

  In step S123, the control apparatus 101 sets the current state of the image forming apparatus 100 to paper empty.

[Hardware Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus 100]
An example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a main hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a control device 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, an operation panel 105, a timer 106, and the like. And storage device 120.

  The control device 101 is configured by at least one integrated circuit, for example. The integrated circuit includes, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

  The control device 101 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 by executing various programs such as the program 122 according to the present embodiment. The control device 101 reads the program 122 from the storage device 120 to the ROM 102 based on receiving the execution instruction of the program 122 according to the present embodiment. The RAM 103 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for executing the program 122.

  An antenna (not shown) or the like is connected to the communication interface 104. The image forming apparatus 100 exchanges data with an external communication device via an antenna. The external communication device includes, for example, a mobile communication terminal such as a smartphone, a server, and the like. The image forming apparatus 100 may be configured to download the program 122 from a server via an antenna.

  The operation panel 105 includes a display and a touch panel. The display and the touch panel are overlapped with each other, and operation panel 105 accepts input of setting values for setting in program 122 according to the present embodiment, for example. Further, the operation panel 105 displays a warning that an operation has been performed on the prohibited operation member, and a message or an image for prompting an operation on the proper operation member.

  The timer 106 is a device for measuring time. The control device 101 measures a time when the electrostatic capacity exceeds the threshold value th1 (see FIG. 5). Note that the timer 106 may be substituted for a time measurement function provided in the control device 101.

  The storage device 120 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or an external storage device. Storage device 120 stores program 122 according to the present embodiment, operation information 124 (see FIG. 4) described above, and the like. The storage location of the program 122 and the operation information 124 is not limited to the storage device 120, and at least a part of them is a storage area (for example, a cache) of the control device 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, an external device (for example, a server), or the like. May be stored.

  The program 122 may be provided by being incorporated in a part of an arbitrary program, not as a single program. In this case, the control process according to the present embodiment is realized in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even such a program that does not include some modules does not depart from the spirit of the program 122 according to the present embodiment. Furthermore, some or all of the functions provided by the program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the program 122.

[Summary]
As described above, image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment is based on operation information 124 that associates appropriate operation members that are allowed to be operated by the user for each state of image forming apparatus 100. The proper operation member associated with the current state is specified. The image forming apparatus 100 determines whether or not the operation member to be detected is a proper operation member based on detecting the user's contact with any of the operation members to be detected. When it is determined that the operation member to be detected is not a proper operation member, the image forming apparatus 100 outputs a warning and a notification for prompting an operation on the proper operation member. By indicating the proper operation member when the user's contact is detected, the image forming apparatus 100 can present the member to be operated to cope with the current state before the user's operation.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1C, 1K, 1M, 1Y Image forming unit, 5A to 5C cassette, 6, 6A, 6B, 21 cover, 10 photosensitive member, 11 charging device, 12 charging roller, 13 exposure device, 14 developing device, 15 developing roller, 15C , 15K, 15M, 15Y Toner bottle, 17, 42 Cleaning device, 20 Scanner, 22 Paper base, 23, 48 Tray, 30 Transfer belt, 31 Primary transfer roller, 33 Secondary transfer roller, 35 Paper sensor, 38 Driven roller, 39 Driving roller, 40 Timing roller, 41 Conveyance path, 47 Fixing device, 50 Printer, 64, 66 Operation member, 65 Sensor, 70 Paper discharge roller, 90, 90A to 90C Conductor, 91 Conversion circuit, 92 Counter, 100 Image Forming device, 101 control device, 1 02 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 communication interface, 105 operation panel, 106 timer, 120 storage device, 122 program, 124 operation information, 152 detection unit, 154 determination unit, 156 status acquisition unit, 158 identification unit, 160 determination unit, 162 Output unit, 164 prohibited unit, 200 relay unit, 300 Z folding unit, 400 finisher.

Claims (19)

An image forming apparatus,
A plurality of operation members for accepting user operations;
A detection unit for detecting proximity or contact of a user to each of the plurality of operation members;
Specification for specifying an appropriate operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus based on operation information in which an appropriate operation member allowed to be operated by the user is associated with each state of the image forming apparatus And
Based on the detection of the proximity or contact of the user to any one of the plurality of operation members, the detection unit determines whether or not the operation member to be detected is the proper operation member specified by the specifying unit. A determination unit for
An image forming apparatus comprising: an output unit configured to output suitability of an operation on the image forming apparatus based on a determination result by the determination unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs a warning when the determination unit determines that the operation member to be detected is not the proper operation member.   The output unit outputs a notification for prompting an operation on the proper operation member when the determination unit determines that the operation member to be detected is not the proper operation member. The image forming apparatus described.   The output unit outputs a notification for prompting the user to continue the operation on the operation member to be detected when the operation unit to be detected is determined to be the proper operation member by the determination unit. Item 4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 3.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the specifying unit specifies an appropriate operation member associated with the changed state every time the state of the image forming apparatus changes. Each state of the image forming apparatus defined in the operation information is further associated with a prohibited operation member that is not allowed to be operated by the user,
The specifying unit further specifies a prohibited operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus;
The image forming apparatus identifies an appropriate operation member specified by the specifying unit and an operation member that is not a prohibited operation member from the plurality of operation members, and prohibits the detection of the proximity or the contact with the operation member. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a prohibition unit for performing the operation. The operation member of the image forming apparatus is:
A cassette configured to be detachable from the image forming apparatus, and a cassette for storing paper;
An openable and closable cover disposed to face the paper conveyance path,
The state defined by the operation information includes a jammed state where a sheet is straddling over a portion facing the cover in the transport path and the cassette,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the proper operation member associated with the jammed state includes the cover. The operation member of the image forming apparatus includes first and second covers that are openable and closable arranged to face a conveyance path of a sheet conveyed through the image forming apparatus,
The state specified by the operation information includes a jammed state in which the sheet is stopped straddling a portion facing the first cover in the transport path and a portion facing the second cover in the transport path. ,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the proper operation member associated with the jammed state includes the first cover or the second cover. The operation member of the image forming apparatus includes a replaceable consumable part,
The state defined in the operation information includes a consumption state indicating that the consumption component should be replaced,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the proper operation member associated with the consumption state includes the consumption component.   The detection unit detects a capacitance of each of the plurality of operation members, and detects proximity or contact of a user to each of the plurality of operation members based on each capacitance. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. The detection unit detects proximity or contact of a user to each of the plurality of operation members based on a capacitance between a conductor provided on each of the plurality of operation members and the user,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of conductors are coated with a resin.   The image formation according to claim 11, wherein among the plurality of operation members, an operation member having higher detection sensitivity of the proximity or the contact by the detection unit has a larger size of the conductor provided in the operation member. apparatus.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein an operation member having a larger area among the plurality of operation members has a larger number of conductors provided on the operation member.   The detection unit detects, among the plurality of operation members, an operation member in which the detected capacitance exceeds a first threshold for a first time or more as an operation member that the user has approached or contacted, The image forming apparatus according to claim 10.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the length of the first time is set for each operation member to be detected as the proximity or the contact. The image forming apparatus further includes a determining unit for determining the first threshold value for each operation member to be detected,
The determination unit
The electrostatic capacity detected for the first operation member of the plurality of operation members during the idle state of the image forming apparatus is used as a first reference value, and a result obtained by adding a predetermined value to the first reference value is the first result. Determining the first threshold for the operating member;
The capacitance detected for the second operation member of the plurality of operation members during the idle state is set as a second reference value, and a result obtained by adding a predetermined value to the second reference value is obtained for the second operation member. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the image forming apparatus is determined as the first threshold value. The determination unit
When the state in which the capacitance detected for the first operating member is below the second threshold continues for a second time or longer, the average value of the capacitance is adopted as the first reference value,
When the state in which the capacitance detected for the second operation member is below the second threshold continues for the second time or longer, the average value of the capacitance is adopted as the second reference value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 16. An output method for outputting suitability of an operation on an image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of operation members for receiving user operations,
Detecting proximity or contact of a user to each of the plurality of operating members;
Identifying an appropriate operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus based on operation information associating an appropriate operation member allowed to be operated by a user for each state of the image forming apparatus;
Whether or not the operation member to be detected is the proper operation member specified in the specifying step based on detecting the proximity or contact of the user to any of the plurality of operation members in the detecting step A step of determining
An output method comprising: outputting whether or not the operation to the image forming apparatus is appropriate based on a determination result in the determining step. An output program for outputting the suitability of an operation for an image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of operation members for receiving user operations,
The output program is stored in the image forming apparatus.
Detecting proximity or contact of a user to each of the plurality of operating members;
Identifying an appropriate operation member associated with the current state of the image forming apparatus based on operation information associating an appropriate operation member allowed to be operated by a user for each state of the image forming apparatus;
Whether or not the operation member to be detected is the proper operation member specified in the specifying step based on detecting the proximity or contact of the user to any of the plurality of operation members in the detecting step A step of determining
An output program that executes a step of outputting suitability of the operation on the image forming apparatus based on a determination result in the determining step.

Images