JP5691149B2 - Image forming apparatus and control structure - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a control structure.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-151867 describes an image forming apparatus in which an image forming subsystem having different performance and a sheet conveying subsystem having different specifications are detachable, and an image corresponding to specific information of the mounted image forming subsystem and the sheet conveying subsystem. Techniques for determining the operating specifications of the forming apparatus are described.
Patent Document 2 describes an image recording apparatus in which an image forming unit is detachably coupled to a basic unit to which a paper feed cassette is detachable, and the image forming unit is operated by a control unit of the basic unit.

JP 2007-102187 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-118271

  The present invention relates to an operation specification of an image forming apparatus, and an object thereof is to enable selection of an operation specification based on power consumption of the image forming apparatus.

The invention according to claim 1 is an image forming apparatus having a functional element that performs an image forming operation including a fixing device, and presents an operation specification that can be set according to the amount of power used in association with the amount of power reduction. Presenting means, receiving means for accepting a selection related to the operation specification presented by the presenting means, performing image formation by controlling the functional elements according to the operation specification accepted by the accepting means , and recognizing A lower limit electric energy required at least except for an electric energy supplied to the fixing device to operate each structure according to an assembling structure, and a lower limit value for each paper type of the electric energy supplied to the fixing device. The amount of power that can be reduced by calculating the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device for each paper type to be used, based on the acquired power supply capacity, the lower limit power amount, and the lower limit value for each paper type Determine the range of And, a control means for storing the operation specifications for each paper type as the operation specification table within range of the electric energy, wherein the presenting means, choose to configure the operating specification for the user to reduce the power consumption In this case, the operation specification table created and stored by the control means is presented to the user when each functional element is assembled to the image forming apparatus based on the selected paper type. Forming device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus includes an image forming structure having a functional element that performs an image forming operation, and a structure that is assembled to the image forming structure and performs an operation related to the image forming operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming structure and the structure are assembled with a power supply structure to be supplied with electric power .

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming structure for performing an image forming operation , an operation related to an image forming operation including a fixing device in the image forming structure, and various structures for performing an operation related to the image forming operation. A frame to which the body is assembled, the image forming structure assembled to the frame, power supply means for supplying electric power to the structure, and the image forming structure and the structure from the power supply means. A specifying means for specifying an operation specification that can be set in a state where the amount of supplied power is reduced in association with a power reduction amount, and causing the operation specification specified by the specifying means to be presented in association with a power reduction amount. recognizes selection for the operation specifications presented, and a control means for controlling the operation of the image forming structure and the structure in accordance with recognized the operation specifications, the control means recognizes A lower limit electric power required at least except for an electric power supplied to the fixing device in order to operate each structure according to the assembled structure, and a lower limit for each paper type of an electric power supplied to the fixing device. Can be reduced by calculating the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device for each paper type used based on the power supply capacity, the lower limit power amount, and the lower limit value for each paper type. This is selected when the user selects to set the operation specifications that determine the amount range, store the operation specifications for each paper type within the power amount range as an operation specification table, and reduce the power consumption. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control structure for causing a user to present the operation specification table created and stored when each functional element is assembled to the image forming apparatus based on the sheet type.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the defining means recognizes the image forming structure assembled in the frame and the type and content of the structure, and recognizes the recognized image forming structure and the structure. 4. The control structure according to claim 3, wherein a range of the power reduction amount is calculated in accordance with the power specification, and the operation specifications that can be set within the calculated power reduction amount range are defined.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the operation specification of the image forming apparatus can be selected based on the power consumption of the image forming apparatus.
According to the invention of claim 2, regarding the operation specifications of the image forming apparatus assembled in the power supply structure, it is possible to select the operation specifications based on the power consumption of the image forming apparatus.

According to the invention of claim 3 , regarding the operation specifications of the image forming apparatus, it is possible to select the operation specifications based on the power consumption of the image forming apparatus.
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to present an image forming structure assembled to the frame of the control structure, and an operation specification corresponding to the type and configuration contents of the structure.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming apparatus to which the exemplary embodiment is applied. (A), (b) is a figure for demonstrating the state by which the image forming unit was assembled | attached to the power supply unit and this power supply unit. It is a figure for demonstrating the discharge tray structure formed in the exterior top surface of an image forming unit. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an assembly structure of an image forming apparatus that is not provided with a reading unit and is used, for example, as a printer specification. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an assembly structure of an image forming apparatus that includes a reading unit and is used, for example, as a copying machine or a facsimile specification. It is a figure explaining the connection of a power supply unit and each structure. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an “operation specification table”. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an “operation specification table”. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an “operation specification table”. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the setting process of the operation specification which the main control part of a power supply unit performs. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the setting process of the operation specification which the main control part of a power supply unit performs.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
<Overall Description of Image Forming Apparatus>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 to which the exemplary embodiment is applied. An image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 has an image forming unit 10 as an example of an image forming structure having functional elements for image formation, supplies power to each structure, and has a control function related to each structure. And a power supply unit 30 as an example of a power supply structure and a control structure. In addition, a sheet supply unit 40 as an example of a recording material conveyance structure that conveys a sheet as a recording material toward the image forming unit 10, and a discharge recording material conveyance structure that conveys and discharges the sheet after image formation. A discharge unit 50 as an example is provided. Furthermore, a reading unit 60 as an example of an image reading structure for reading a document is provided. In addition, an operation unit 70 is provided as an example of a user operation structure that has a so-called control panel and receives a user operation input. Furthermore, an expansion paper supply unit 80 is provided as an example of an expansion supply structure that is provided in the paper supply unit 40 so as to be expanded and supplies and conveys the paper. The image forming unit 10, the power supply unit 30, the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, the reading unit 60, the operation unit 70, and the additional paper supply unit 80, which are examples of these structures, are each an external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1. At least a part of. In the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, as shown in FIG. 2, which will be described later, the power supply unit 30 is assembled in a state in which the power supply unit 30 is in contact with the bottom surface of the image forming unit 10 and the back surface of FIG.

  The image forming apparatus 1 configured by these units (structures) functions as a so-called tandem type digital color printer, digital color copying machine, facsimile, or the like using, for example, an electrophotographic system. The image forming unit 10 includes, as functional elements for forming the image, an image carrier, an exposure unit, a charging unit, a developing unit, a transfer unit that transfers an image to a sheet, and a fixing unit that fixes the transferred image on the sheet. ing.

<Description of image forming unit>
The image forming unit 10 forms part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 when incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1. The external appearance that is the subject of the independent transaction as a single unit constitutes a part of the external appearance of the incorporated image forming apparatus 1 as it is.
The image forming unit 10 includes, for example, a plurality of image forming units that are provided for each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) and perform image formation. 20 (20Y, 20M, 20C, 20K), for example, an image processing unit 11 that performs predetermined image processing on image data received from the power supply unit 30, and an operation control unit 12 that controls the operation of the image forming unit 10. Yes. In addition, a laser exposure unit 13 is provided as an example of an exposure unit that performs an exposure process based on image data for each color for a plurality of image forming units 20. Each image forming unit 20 includes a photosensitive drum 21 as an image holding member, a charging roll 22 as an example of a charging unit, a developing unit 23 as an example of a developing unit, and a drum cleaner 24. The charging roll 22 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 with a predetermined potential. The developing device 23 holds, for example, a two-component developer composed of each color toner and a magnetic carrier in each of the image forming units 20, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 is an example of a color material. Develop with each color toner. For example, the drum cleaner 24 brings a plate-like member into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to remove toner, paper dust, and the like attached on the photosensitive drum 21.

  Further, the image forming unit 10 is provided with a laser exposure unit 13 as an example of an exposure unit that exposes the photosensitive drum 21 disposed in each image forming unit 20. The laser exposure unit 13 acquires image data for each color from the image processing unit 11, and scans and exposes the photosensitive drums 21 of the image forming units 20 with laser light whose lighting is controlled based on the acquired image data. . Further, a paper transport belt 14 that moves while in contact with the photosensitive drum 21 of each image forming unit 20 to transport the paper is disposed. The paper transport belt 14 is formed of a film-like endless belt that electrostatically attracts paper. A transfer roll 15 as an example of a transfer unit is disposed at a position inside the paper transport belt 14 and facing each photosensitive drum 21. The transfer roll 15 forms a transfer electric field between the transfer drum 15 and the photosensitive drum 21, and sequentially transfers each color toner image formed by each image forming unit 20 onto a sheet. Further, a fixing device 16 as an example of a fixing unit that performs a fixing process by heat and pressure on an unfixed toner image on the paper is provided on the downstream side of the paper transport belt 14 in the paper transport direction.

  The image forming unit 10 having these functional elements is configured to be replaceable as a single image forming unit 10. In any image forming unit 20, for example, when the toner supplied to the developing device 23 is consumed and an image cannot be formed, the image forming unit 10 is pulled out and removed, for example, a new image forming unit 10. Are assembled as they are, the image forming unit 10 is replaced.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, four image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) are provided. There is also a form in which five image forming units 20 are provided in addition to the image forming unit 20 for printing a special color such as a color. In addition, in order to enhance the function of black (K), there is a form in which two black (K) engines are provided and five image forming units 20 are configured as a whole. Furthermore, it may be a form corresponding to a single color instead of multiple colors. In such a case, the number of image forming units 20 may be a single unit (for example, only the image forming unit 20K). There is also a form in which the image forming unit 10 constituting these is prepared as an exchange unit. Further, the image forming unit 10 may have a configuration in which the image processing unit 11 and the operation control unit 12 are not provided or only one of the image processing unit 11 and the operation control unit 12 is provided. .
Note that, regardless of the form of the image forming unit 10 incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1 as an image forming structure, the power supply unit 30 operates corresponding to the incorporated image forming unit 10. As a result, the power supply unit 30 is commonly used for any form of the image forming unit 10.

<Description of power supply unit>
The power supply unit 30 serves as a functional unit that realizes its main function with respect to each structure (the image forming unit 10, the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, the reading unit 60, the operation unit 70, and the additional paper supply unit 80). A power supply unit as an example of power supply means for supplying power is provided (see FIG. 6 at a later stage). The external configuration of the power supply unit 30 is shown in detail in FIG. In the power supply unit 30, the power supply unit receives, for example, AC 100 V from the commercial power supply, generates power of a predetermined voltage, and supplies power to the drive system and operation system of each structure (each unit). For this purpose, for example, a low voltage supply unit that generates low voltage power (for example, 24 V) for rotational driving of the photosensitive drum 21 or the like, or a high voltage supply unit that generates high voltage power (several KV) (see FIG. 6 in the subsequent stage). See). Electric power is supplied to each structure via a connector (see FIG. 2) as an example of connection means. The wiring means is configured such that, for example, each structure is assembled to the power supply unit 30 so that each structure and the power supply unit 30 are electrically connected.

  Further, the power supply unit 30 includes a main control unit (see FIG. 6 in the subsequent stage) as an example of a control unit that controls the operation of the entire image forming apparatus 1 and the power supplied to each structure. The main control unit also performs editing and accumulation of image data acquired from, for example, a personal computer (PC) (not shown) or the reading unit 60, and image processing for image data transferred to the image forming unit 10. As described above, when the image processing unit 11 and the operation control unit 12 are not provided in the image forming unit 10, these functions restricted (excluded) by the image forming unit 10 are provided in the power supply unit 30. It will be.

  Further, the power supply unit 30 includes a drive source such as a drive motor that drives each mechanism member of the image forming unit 10. That is, the image forming unit 10 is not provided with various drive sources. Then, when the image forming unit 10 is assembled to the power supply unit 30, the drive source of the power supply unit 30 and each mechanism member of the image forming unit 10 are mechanically coupled. For example, it is connected to the drive source of the power supply unit 30 by using a coupling which is a joint using a mechanism such as a ball joint in accordance with each photosensitive drum 21 or a mechanism member around each photosensitive drum 21. Further, according to the driving positions of the paper transport belt 14 and various transport rolls for paper transport, the mechanisms are connected individually or together with a drive source of the power supply unit 30 using a coupling. In this manner, since the image forming unit 10 is not provided with, for example, a drive source, the number of constituent parts of the replaceable image forming unit 10 is reduced.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the power supply unit 30 forms a part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1. The power supply unit 30 serves as a reference structure for assembling the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, and the reading unit 60. Further, a reference structure for assembling the image forming unit 10 can be used. As will be described later, the operation unit 70 shown in FIG. 1 is attached to the reading unit 60. However, for example, when the reading unit 60 is not provided, the operation unit 70 is attached to the power supply unit 30 (see FIG. 4 in the subsequent stage). . A further configuration example of the power supply unit 30 will be described in detail later in the description of FIG.

<Description of paper supply unit>
The paper supply unit 40 conveys the paper toward the image forming unit 10. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the sheet contacts the outer bottom surface of the power supply unit 30 and conveys the sheet from one side of the image forming unit 10 toward the image forming unit 10. The paper supply unit 40 is provided with various rolls and the like for the paper supply, the paper feeding, and the conveyance. The paper supply unit 40 forms part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 when incorporated as the image forming apparatus 1, and at least one side surface of the image forming unit 10 as shown in FIG. The image forming unit 10 is disposed so as to cover one side surface of the image forming unit 10. However, if only a necessary mechanism portion is configured, the entire surface of this one side surface is not covered, and it is possible to make contact with only a part such as a height up to about the center portion. The paper supply unit 40 is provided with a paper storage unit 41 for storing paper as a recording material, and a transport path 42 for transporting the paper fed from the paper storage unit 41 toward the image forming unit 10. Yes. When the image forming unit 10 is incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1, the paper discharge port of the paper supply unit 40 continuing from the conveyance path 42 is aligned with the paper reception port of the image forming unit 10, and a path for conveyance. Are concatenated.

<Description of discharge unit>
The discharge unit 50 receives the sheet on which the image is formed by the image forming unit 10 and conveys the sheet toward the discharge port 55. The discharge unit 50 forms a part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 when incorporated as the image forming apparatus 1 and, as shown in FIG. 1, the other of the image forming unit 10 (on the side of the paper supply unit 40). Is disposed so as to cover the other side surface of the image forming unit 10. That is, the image forming unit 10 has a housing structure that extends upward from below on the other side surface. The discharge unit 50 includes a conveyance path 51 that conveys a sheet on which an image is formed by the image forming unit 10, and a plurality of sets of conveyance rolls 52 that are provided in the conveyance path 51 and convey the sheet. In addition, a discharge port 55 for discharging a sheet on which an image is printed by the image forming unit 10 and a discharge roll 53 for discharging the sheet from the discharge port 55 are provided. In the present embodiment, the upper portion (top surface) of the housing structure of the image forming unit 10 is a discharge tray on which discharged sheets are stacked.

<Description of reading unit>
The reading unit 60 functions as an image reading device that reads an image existing on a document such as a sheet material. The reading unit 60 forms a part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 when incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1. In the system configuration in which the reading unit 60 is added, the operation unit 70 is attached to a part of the reading unit 60. The reading unit 60 may include a configuration including a document conveying device that conveys a sheet-shaped document. In addition, a scan structure that scans the reading section, lamp, mirror, etc. by placing a thick document such as a book on a flat glass (platen glass), or does not have this scan structure, only the sheet document moving type It is also possible to adopt a configuration as a reading device. For example, the reading unit 60 is supported and fixed to the power supply unit 30 via a support member 61, and is also supported by the discharge unit 50. Then, the space of the discharge tray portion provided on the top surface of the image forming unit 10 is maintained, and the user (user) is placed in a position where the operability is not hindered. Further, when the image forming unit 10 is exchanged, the user (user) is arranged at a position where the user can work with the top surface of the image forming unit 10.

<Description of operation unit>
The operation unit 70 forms part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 when incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1. In the case of an apparatus configuration in which the reading unit 60 is incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1, the reading unit 60 is attached to or embedded in the reading unit 60. In the case of an apparatus configuration in which the reading unit 60 is not incorporated, for example, the reading unit 60 is incorporated in the power supply unit 30.

<Explanation of additional paper supply unit>
The extension paper supply unit 80 forms a part of the external appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 when incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the outer appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 is in contact with the bottom surface of the paper supply unit 40 and the side surface of the image forming apparatus 1 following the bottom surface of the image forming apparatus 1. The additional paper supply unit 80 is provided with a paper storage portion 81 for storing paper as a recording material, and a transport path 82 for transporting the paper fed from the paper storage portion 81 toward the paper supply unit 40. It has been. Further, the additional paper supply unit 80 is provided with various rolls and the like for this paper supply, paper feeding and conveyance. The paper supply unit 40 is provided with a paper receiving port for receiving the paper supplied from the additional paper supply unit 80 and a slit-like transport path for transporting the paper. The sheet fed from the sheet storage unit 81 is supplied toward the image forming unit 10 via the conveyance path 82, the slit-shaped conveyance path of the sheet supply unit 40, and the conveyance path 42.

<Description of configuration common to each structure>
In addition, each structure (the image forming unit 10, the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, the reading unit 60, the operation unit 70, and the additional paper supply unit 80) is connected to the power supply unit 30 for power and electrical signal transmission paths. The connection means which forms is provided. Furthermore, each structure includes a storage unit that stores various types of information (for example, information on the type of structure, settings and configuration of the structure, etc.) related to each structure. When each structure is incorporated in the power supply unit 30, each structure and the power supply unit 30 are electrically connected by the connecting means, and the electric power from the power supply unit 30 and the transmission of electric signals between them are transmitted. It becomes possible. Thereby, the storage means provided in each structure is connected to the main control unit provided in the power supply unit 30. Thereby, the main control unit acquires various information about each structure from the storage means of each structure, and sets operation parameters when controlling the operation of each structure. Further, the main control unit adjusts the amount of power supplied to each structure.
Note that the storage means is constituted by a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory, for example.

<External configuration of each structure and description of assembly example>
Next, the assembly configuration of each structure will be described.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are views for explaining the power supply unit 30 and a state in which the image forming unit 10 is assembled to the power supply unit 30. FIG. 2A shows the appearance of the power supply unit 30, and FIG. 2B shows the state where the image forming unit 10 is assembled to the power supply unit 30. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the power supply unit 30 includes, as a frame, an inner vertical surface 30a, an inner bottom surface 30b, a top surface 30c, one side surface (right side surface) 30d, the other side surface (left side surface) 30e, and an outer bottom surface. 30 f, one surface (front surface) 30 g, and the other surface (rear surface) 30 h, and the housing structure includes a connection mechanism with each structure to be connected. More specifically, a drive transmission mechanism 31 that transmits a driving force toward the image forming unit 10 on the inner vertical surface 30 a of the power supply unit 30 and a connection unit that forms a transmission path of electric power and electric signals between the image forming unit 10. And a connector 37 as an example. Further, the inner bottom surface 30b has a latch structure 33 that mechanically couples the image forming unit 10 to be mounted, and one surface (front surface) 30g has a latch button 34 as a latch release mechanism that releases the latch structure 33. have. The inner bottom surface 30b is provided with a sliding movement structure mechanism 38 such as a rail mechanism for incorporating the image forming unit 10 into the image forming apparatus 1 while sliding (sliding) the image forming unit 10.

  The top surface 30 c of the power supply unit 30 has a connection portion 35 that transmits electric power and electric signals to and from the reading unit 60 or the operation unit 70. In FIG. 2A, the operation unit 70 is incorporated in the connection portion 35. Further, a connector 36 is provided on one side (right side) 30d of the power supply unit 30 to transmit power and electric signals to and from the paper supply unit 40, and power to the discharge unit 50 is provided on the other side (left side) 30e. A connector 39 for transmitting electrical signals is also provided.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the image forming unit 10 is coupled to the power supply unit 30 and attached to the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming unit 10 is provided on the bottom surface with a moving mechanism 19 that is provided corresponding to the sliding movement structure mechanism 38 of the power supply unit 30 and that is a rail mechanism that allows the image forming unit 10 to slide (slide). . Further, the image forming unit 10 has a latch recess 25 which is provided corresponding to the latch structure 33 of the power supply unit 30 and slides (slides). The latch recess 25 performs positioning and fixing using the latch structure 33 of the image forming unit 10.

  Further, the image forming unit 10 is provided on one side surface (one side surface) of the housing so as to face the paper discharge port of the paper supply unit 40 and correspond to the position of the paper discharge port. A paper receiving port 17 is provided. In addition, the image forming unit 10 is provided on the other side surface (other side surface) of the casing so as to face the paper receiving port of the discharging unit 50 and correspond to the position of the paper receiving port, and the sheet is fed toward the discharging unit 50. A paper discharge port 18 for discharging is provided. Further, when the image forming unit 10 slides (slides) in the assembling direction (arrow S direction) and is assembled to the power supply unit 30, the power supply unit 30 is connected to the power supply unit 30 on the side facing the inner vertical surface 30a (the back side). A transmission mechanism 26 coupled to the drive transmission mechanism 31 of the unit 30 and a connector 27 as an example of a connection means coupled to the connector 37 of the power supply unit 30 are provided.

  FIG. 3 is a view for explaining a discharge tray structure formed on the exterior top surface of the image forming unit 10. A rib 28 is provided on the exterior top surface of the image forming unit 10 in the same direction as the discharge direction of the paper discharged from the discharge port 55 of the discharge unit 50 described in FIG. Further, a handle 29 as an example of a lifting portion is provided at the center of the exterior top surface or at a position where the inclination of the image forming unit 10 does not interfere with the assembly work when the image forming unit 10 is lifted (for example, at the center of gravity). Is formed. The handle 29 is formed, for example, as a recess in the exterior top surface so as not to hinder the conveyance of the discharged paper. The handle 29 uses a curved surface shape of the exterior top surface, and a hook portion 29a for hooking a user's (user) finger is formed. Note that the handle 29 may be configured so that it can be stowed out, protrudes from the housing when the image forming unit 10 is inserted / removed, and stores the protruding portion when the paper is discharged.

<Printer specification assembly structure>
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1 that is not provided with the reading unit 60 and is used, for example, as a printer specification. As shown in FIG. 4, the power supply unit 30, the paper supply unit 40, and the discharge unit 50 are assembled. In this state, the image forming unit 10 is not assembled. Then, in a state where the power supply unit 30, the paper supply unit 40, and the discharge unit 50 are assembled, the image forming unit 10 is slid and moved (slid) in the assembling direction (arrow S direction) in the figure. 10 can be assembled to the image forming apparatus 1.

The assembly of the paper supply unit 40 will be described.
The inner vertical surface 40a (see FIG. 4) of the paper supply unit 40 is in contact with one side surface (right side surface) 30d of the power supply unit 30 shown in FIG. 2A, and the outer bottom surface 30f of the power supply unit 30 (FIG. 2). The sheet supply unit 40 is assembled to the power supply unit 30 in a state where the inner bottom surface (not shown) of the sheet supply unit 40 is in contact with (see (a)). For example, a screw or a latch mechanism (not shown) can be used to fix both. When the paper supply unit 40 is assembled, the connector 45 (see FIG. 4) of the paper supply unit 40 is connected to the connector 36 (see FIG. 2A) of the power supply unit 30, and the power supply unit 30 connects to the paper supply unit 40. On the other hand, it is possible to supply electric power and transmit electric signals between them. In the example of the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 4, the sheet supply unit 40 is one side of the image forming apparatus 1, a part of the front surface (the direction in which the image forming unit 10 is assembled), and the opposite surface to the front surface. A part of the back surface, a part of the top surface, and a bottom surface of the device are formed.

The assembly of the discharge unit 50 will be described.
The discharge unit 50 is in a state where the inner vertical surface 50a (see FIG. 4) of the discharge unit 50 is in contact with a part of the other side surface (left side surface) 30e and the top surface 30c of the power supply unit 30 shown in FIG. The power supply unit 30 is assembled. For example, a screw or a latch mechanism (not shown) can be used for fixing. Further, when the discharge unit 50 is assembled, the connector 56 (see FIG. 4) of the discharge unit 50 is connected to the connector 39 (see FIG. 2A) of the power supply unit 30, and the power supply unit 30 is connected to the discharge unit 50. It is possible to supply electric power and transmit electric signals between them. In the example of the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 4, the discharge unit 50 is the other side surface of the image forming apparatus 1, a part of the front surface (the direction in which the image forming unit 10 is assembled), and the back surface opposite to the front surface. And a part of the upper surface of the apparatus are formed.

  In the mode in which the reading unit 60 is not assembled as shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 70 is used by being inserted into the connection portion 35 of the power supply unit 30. In the aspect in which the reading unit 60 described in FIG. 5 is assembled, the operation unit 70 is removed from the power supply unit 30, and the support member 61 that is a part of the reading unit 60 is inserted into the connection portion 35. Transmission of electric power and electric signals to the reading unit 60 is performed.

  In a state where the power supply unit 30, the paper supply unit 40, and the discharge unit 50 are assembled as described above, the image forming unit 10 is assembled in a space formed by these structures (see FIG. 4). The image forming unit 10 is lifted by a handle 29 (see FIG. 3) and guided by the sliding movement structure mechanism 38 (see FIG. 2) of the power supply unit 30 so that the user (user) moves the front surface 10a of the image forming unit 10 over. By pushing, it is inserted into this space. When the assembly position is reached by insertion, as shown in FIG. 2, the latch structure 33 of the power supply unit 30 is fitted into the latch recess 25 of the image forming unit 10, and the image forming unit 10 is fixed by the latching operation.

  By assembling the image forming unit 10, the back surface 10 b of the image forming unit 10 shown in FIG. 4 comes into contact with and is fixed to the inner vertical surface 30 a of the power supply unit 30. Thereby, a connector 27 as an example of a connecting means provided on the back surface 10 b and forming a transmission path of electric power and electric signals with the power supply unit 30 is connected to the connector 37 of the power supply unit 30. Further, the one side surface 10 c is fixed in contact with the inner vertical surface 40 a of the paper supply unit 40. Further, the other side surface 10 d of the image forming unit 10 and a part of the top surface 10 e are in contact with the inner vertical surface 50 a of the discharge unit 50, and the bottom surface 10 f is in contact with and fixed to the inner bottom surface 30 b of the power supply unit 30. As described above, when the image forming unit 10 is assembled, in the example of FIG. 4, the image forming unit 10 is in contact in the five-plane direction, that is, in at least the three-plane direction. As shown in FIG. 2B, the fixed state is not stable in the two-surface direction, whereas in the form of FIG. 4, the stable fixed state in at least the three-surface direction is maintained.

When the image forming unit 10 is assembled, the paper receiving port 17 of the image forming unit 10 faces the paper discharging port 44 of the paper supply unit 40. Further, the paper discharge port 18 of the image forming unit 10 faces the paper receiving port 54 of the discharge unit 50. In this way, a paper conveyance path from the paper supply unit 40 to the image forming unit 10 and from the image forming unit 10 to the discharge unit 50 is formed.
The front surface 10 a of the image forming unit 10 forms a front surface portion that is a part of the appearance of the image forming apparatus 1.

  When the image forming unit 10 incorporated in the image forming apparatus 1 is taken out, the latch button 34 is pressed to release the latch structure 33 from the latch recess 25 of the image forming unit 10. The image forming unit 10 can be taken out by pulling out the image forming unit 10 in the direction opposite to the arrow S direction with the latch structure 33 released.

<Assembly structure of the specification with scanner>
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an assembling structure of the image forming apparatus 1 provided with the reading unit 60 and used, for example, as a copying machine or a facsimile specification. In the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 5, similarly to the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 4, the paper supply unit 40 and the discharge unit 50 are assembled to the power supply unit 30, and the power supply unit 30 and the discharge unit 50 are combined. A reading unit 60 is assembled on the top. At this time, the operation unit 70 is removed from the connection portion 35 of the power supply unit 30 shown in FIG. 4, and a part of the support member 61 is attached to the connection portion 35. In addition to the function as a structure that supports the reading unit 60, the support portion 61 enables power supply from the power supply unit 30 and transmission of electrical signals to the power supply unit 30. The operation unit 70 is provided in a part of the reading unit 60.

  The assembly of the image forming unit 10 is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 4, but the image forming unit 10 can be assembled in a state where the reading unit 60 is further assembled with respect to the printer specifications of FIG. is there. That is, the image forming unit 10 can be assembled to the image forming apparatus 1 in a state where the power supply unit 30, the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, and the reading unit 60 are assembled. Also in this aspect, the assembled image forming unit 10 is brought into contact in at least three directions by the power supply unit 30, the paper supply unit 40, and the discharge unit 50, which are structural bodies, and a stable state is maintained. Assembly is realized.

<Explanation regarding transmission of electric power and electric signal between power supply unit and each structure>
Next, transmission of electric power and electric signals (control signals) between the power supply unit 30 and each structure will be described.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the connection between the power supply unit 30 and each structure. In the present embodiment, when each structure (the image forming unit 10, the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, the reading unit 60, the operation unit 70, and the additional paper supply unit 80) is assembled, Connection means forming a transmission path for electric power and electric signals (control signals) are coupled to each other. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, between the power supply unit 30 and the image forming unit 10, the connector 37 on the power supply unit 30 side and the connector 27 on the image forming unit 10 side are coupled to each other, and power (solid line in the figure). And a transmission path for the control signal (broken line in the figure) is formed. Further, between the power supply unit 30 and the paper supply unit 40, the connector 36 on the power supply unit 30 side and the connector 45 on the paper supply unit 40 side are coupled to form a transmission path for power and control signals. In addition, between the power supply unit 30 and the discharge unit 50, the connector 39 on the power supply unit 30 side and the connector 56 on the discharge unit 50 side are coupled to form a transmission path for power and control signals. In addition, the same applies between the power supply unit 30 and the reading unit 60, between the power supply unit 30 and the operation unit 70, and between the power supply unit 30 and the additional paper supply unit 80.

Thereby, the main control unit 300 of the power supply unit 30 is an example of a control unit, and controls the operation of each structure. In addition, various types of information (for example, “unit ID” in the subsequent stage) regarding each structure is acquired from the storage means (ROM) of each structure. Further, image processing (information processing) is performed on image data acquired from a personal computer (PC) or the reading unit 60. Further, power is supplied to each structure from the power supply unit 350 of the power supply unit 30 under the control of the main control unit 300.
As shown in FIG. 6, the main control unit 300 is used in a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when performing operation control and information processing, a RAM 302 that is used as a work memory of the CPU 301, a program that is executed by the CPU 301, and the like. ROM 303 that stores data such as set values and tables that can be rewritten, and a non-volatile memory (NVM) 304 that is rewritable and that can retain data even when power supply is interrupted, such as a flash memory backed up by a battery. .
The CPU 301 of the main control unit 300 reads various programs such as an operating system and application software from an external storage unit (not shown) provided in the power supply unit 30 into the RAM 302, and supplies power to each structure from the power supply unit 350. Control, various processes for realizing the function of each structure, or operation control and information processing for each structure are executed.

  In addition, as another provision form regarding various programs such as the operating system and application software, there is a form in which the program is provided in a state stored in the ROM 303 in advance and loaded into the RAM 302. Further, when a rewritable ROM 303 such as an EEPROM is provided, only the program is installed in the ROM 303 and loaded into the RAM 302 after the CPU 301 of the main control unit 300 is set. Further, there is a form in which a program is transmitted to the main control unit 300 via a network such as the Internet, installed in the ROM 303 of the main control unit 300, and loaded into the RAM 302. Furthermore, there is a form in which the RAM 302 is loaded from an external recording medium such as a DVD-ROM or a flash memory.

<Explanation on motion control for structure>
Next, operation control for each structure performed by the main control unit 300 provided in the power supply unit 30 will be described.
The image forming capability (printing capability) required by the user with respect to the image forming apparatus 1 varies depending on the purpose for which the user requires printed matter, the user's request for image quality, and the like. For example, it is assumed that a user who needs a printed material immediately needs the maximum image forming capability (for example, image forming processing at the maximum process speed) of the image forming apparatus 1. In such a case, even if the image quality is slightly lowered, there are cases where it is desired to give priority to the time until finishing, or where it is desired to finish printed matter with high image quality in a short time. On the other hand, for example, a user who does not need a printed material immediately and may take time to finish does not need the maximum image forming capability of the image forming apparatus 1. You can also assume that you want to prioritize. In that case, the image quality may be slightly lowered or the image quality may not be lowered.
Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the user can select an operation specification with reduced power consumption in the image forming apparatus 1. That is, in the present embodiment, an operation specification that can be set according to the power reduction amount is presented to the user, and the user's selection regarding the operation specification is accepted. The image forming apparatus 1 is configured to set operation specifications corresponding to the power reduction amount selected by the user.

  By the way, in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the structure to be assembled to the power supply unit 30 is arbitrarily selected except for the image forming unit 10, the paper supply unit 40, and the discharge unit 50. In addition, the image forming unit 10, the paper supply unit 40, and the discharge unit 50 can be selected in different configurations. As a result, the type and structure of the structure assembled to the power supply unit 30, the content (function) of the operation executed in the image forming apparatus 1, and the like, and the power supply unit 350 for each structure. The amount of power that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1 varies depending on the power supply capability of the image forming apparatus 1.

Therefore, the main control unit 300 of the power supply unit 30 acquires identification information (hereinafter, “unit ID”) assigned to each structure from the storage means (ROM) of each structure assembled to the power supply unit 30. (See FIG. 6 above). As a result, the main control unit 300 recognizes the type and configuration content of each structural body assembled to the power supply unit 30 (the assembled structure of the image forming apparatus 1). The unit ID assigned to each structure is, for example, that the image forming unit 10 has four image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K and one that has one image forming unit 20K. A separate unit ID is assigned to each.
The main control unit 300 is specified by the unit ID and the unit ID of each structure (the image forming unit 10, the paper supply unit 40, the discharge unit 50, the reading unit 60, the operation unit 70, and the additional paper supply unit 80). For example, the NVM 304 stores in advance a table (hereinafter, “unit information table”) in which the type and configuration content of the structure to be uniquely associated are associated with each other. Thereby, the main control unit 300, based on the unit ID acquired from each structure and the unit information table, the type and configuration content of each structure assembled to the power supply unit 30 (assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1). Recognize

Further, the main control unit 300 recognizes the function (operation content) of the image forming apparatus 1 set by the assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1. For example, with respect to the image forming apparatus 1 (see FIG. 4) used as a printer specification that does not include the reading unit 60, a print function related to an image forming command (hereinafter “print job”) is provided as a function of the image forming apparatus 1. recognize. On the other hand, regarding the image forming apparatus 1 (see FIG. 5) used as a copier specification provided with the reading unit 60, the image forming apparatus 1 has a print function relating to a print job and a reading unit 60 to read from an original. A copy function relating to the read image.
Then, the main control unit 300 eliminates the amount of power supplied to the fixing device 16 (fixing unit) of the image forming unit 10 for each function of the image forming apparatus 1 to operate the image forming apparatus 1 at least. Calculate the required electric energy (lower limit electric energy).

Subsequently, the main control unit 300 calculates a range of electric energy that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 of the image forming unit 10.
The component that mainly consumes power in the image forming apparatus 1 is a fixing device 16 (fixing unit) of the image forming unit 10 that becomes a heat generation source when fixing toner on paper. In such a fixing device 16, a fixing temperature is generally set so that sufficient fixing performance can be obtained. However, the fixing device 16 does not mean that the toner cannot be fixed on the paper at all unless it is set to a fixing temperature at which sufficient fixing performance can be obtained (hereinafter referred to as “high fixing temperature”). However, there is a temperature range in which a temporary fixing performance can be obtained. Therefore, if the fixing device 16 allows a fixing temperature lower than the lower limit of the temperature range in which a temporary fixing performance can be obtained (hereinafter referred to as “low fixing temperature”), “high” is set according to the fixing performance requested by the user. By arbitrarily setting the fixing temperature within the range from “fixing temperature” to “low fixing temperature”, the power consumption in the image forming apparatus 1 can be reduced.
In this case, even if the fixing temperature is the same, the fixing performance varies depending on the type of paper used (for example, the basis weight). Accordingly, the “high fixing temperature” and the “low fixing temperature” differ depending on the type of paper used. For this reason, the range of the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 differs depending on the paper type. Therefore, the range of the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 for each paper type scheduled to be used in the image forming apparatus 1. Is calculated.

Specifically, the main control unit 300 determines the minimum electric energy (lower limit electric energy) required to operate each structure according to the assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1 recognized based on the unit ID. calculate. For example, the minimum amount of electric power required to execute the functions of the image forming apparatus 1 such as electric power for rotating the photosensitive drum 21 and the like, driving electric power to a driving motor for driving each mechanism member, and the like. Calculated as the lower limit power amount.
Further, the main control unit 300 calculates the lower limit value of the amount of power that needs to be supplied to the fixing device 16 from the “low fixing temperature” for each paper type set as the fixing temperature of the fixing device 16 for each paper type. . That is, when the fixing temperature is set lower than the “low fixing temperature”, fixing performance within an allowable range cannot be obtained. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a lower limit value based on the “low fixing temperature” for the amount of power supplied to the fixing device 16. The “low fixability temperature” for each paper type is stored in advance in, for example, the NVM 304, and the main controller 300 reads the “low fixability temperature” for each paper type from the NVM 304. "Fixability temperature" is acquired.

The main control unit 300 uses the power supply capability of the power supply unit 350, the lower limit power amount required to operate each structure, and the lower limit value of the supplied power amount that needs to be supplied to the fixing device 16. Thus, the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 is calculated for each type of paper used.
That is, “the power supply capability of the power supply unit 350−the lower limit power amount necessary for operating each structure” is “the amount of power that can be supplied from the power supply unit 350 to the fixing device 16”. Then, with respect to the calculated “amount of power that can be supplied from the power supply unit 350 to the fixing device 16”, the “lower limit value for each paper type regarding the amount of power that needs to be supplied to the fixing device 16” is set. The range of the amount of power that can be allocated to can be determined. As a result, an upper limit value and a lower limit value of the electric energy that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 are determined. As a result, the range of power amount (power reduction amount) that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1 can be determined according to the range of power amount that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 from the upper limit value to the lower limit value.
For example, when the upper limit value of the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 is supplied to the fixing device 16, the power reduction amount is zero. When the lower limit value of the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16 is supplied to the fixing device 16, the power reduction amount is maximum (power reduction amount = upper limit value−lower limit value). Therefore, the range of the power reduction amount in the image forming apparatus 1 is defined by 0 to “upper limit value−lower limit value”.

Subsequently, the main control unit 300 defines an operation specification that can be set according to the power reduction amount within the range of the power amount that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1.
If the amount of power supplied to the fixing device 16 is reduced and the fixing temperature is lowered, the power consumption in the image forming apparatus 1 is reduced, but the fixing performance is lowered as described above. However, there is a correlation between the process speed and the fixing temperature regarding the fixing performance. In other words, the amount of heat per unit area supplied from the fixing device 16 to the sheet increases by decreasing the process speed, and decreases by increasing the process speed. Therefore, when the fixing temperature set in the fixing device 16 is constant, fixing performance is improved by setting the process speed low. In view of this, in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, an operation specification corresponding to the power reduction amount is defined using such a correlation between the process speed and the fixing temperature.

For example, when the fixing temperature is set low to reduce power, the process speed is set low correspondingly. Thereby, an operation specification for reducing the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 is set while maintaining the fixing performance to some extent. However, in that case, since the process speed is set low, it is necessary to accept the decrease in productivity in the printed matter.
A setting for lowering the fixing temperature while maintaining the process speed is also added as an option. Thereby, an operation specification for reducing the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 while maintaining productivity is set. In this case, however, the fixing performance is deteriorated, so that it is necessary to accept the deterioration of the quality of printed matter (image quality).

As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment, with respect to the same power reduction amount, the fixing performance is maintained, but the operation specifications that the productivity is lowered, and the productivity is maintained, but the fixing performance is lowered. Define both operating specifications.
In the NVM 304 of the main control unit 300, the fixing performance is maintained for each power reduction amount within the range of the power amount (power reduction amount) that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1, but the productivity is reduced. The operation specifications and the operation specifications that maintain the productivity but decrease the fixing performance are stored as an “operation specification table” for each paper type.
As a result, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when the user desires to reduce the power consumption, the operation specification giving priority to either the productivity or the fixing performance is changed to the power consumption. The user makes a selection based on the reduction amount.

  Specifically, when the user selects a paper type from the operation unit 70, the main control unit 300 reduces the power consumption and the operation specifications (process speed and fixing temperature) for the paper type selected by the user. The “operation specification table” that represents the relationship is read from the NVM 304. Then, the read “operation specification table” is displayed on the operation unit 70. Further, the user is instructed to select an operation specification via the operation unit 70. Thereby, when the user selects an operation specification via the operation unit 70, the main control unit 300 performs control so that each structure assembled to the power supply unit 30 operates according to the operation specification selected by the user. To do.

  Here, the main control unit 300 also functions as a defining unit that defines the operation specification in association with the power reduction amount. Further, the main control unit 300 and the operation unit 70 function as a presentation unit that presents the operation specifications to the user (user) in association with the power reduction amount. In addition, the operation unit 70 functions as a reception unit that receives a user's selection regarding the operation specifications.

  7 to 9 are diagrams showing an example of the “operation specification table” stored in the NVM 304. 7 to 9 show an “operation specification table” regarding the print function of the image forming apparatus 1, in which the assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1 is a printer specification image forming apparatus 1 (see FIG. 4 above). Suppose there is. Note that when the image forming apparatus 1 has an assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1 (see FIG. 5) of the copying machine specification and has a print function and a copy function as functions of the image forming apparatus 1, “ The “operation specification table” and the “operation specification table” relating to the copying function are stored in the NVM 304.

First, FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an “operation specification table” regarding the sheet A (for example, basis weight 82 g / m ² ) that is a sheet type used as a standard sheet in the image forming apparatus 1.
As shown in FIG. 7, in the paper A, the “high fixing temperature” at which sufficient fixing performance is obtained is 175 ° C. (hatched portion), and “low” which is the lower limit of the temperature range in which temporary fixing performance can be obtained. The “fixing temperature” is 150 ° C. (hatched portion). As a result, the amount of power that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1 is calculated to be 5 to 30 W, for example, based on the above “amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16”.

Therefore, in the “operation specification table” of FIG. 7, the power reduction amount is set in 5 W steps in the range of 5 to 30 W, and the fixing performance is given priority (“high”) for each power reduction amount (right column). ) And temperature ("low") where productivity is a priority and process speed (productivity (ppm)) in combination. For example, when the power reduction amount is 10 W, an operation specification combining a process speed of 40 mm / s and a fixing temperature of 170 ° C. and an operation specification combining a process speed of 35 mm / s and a fixing temperature of 170 ° C. are defined. The combination of the process speed of 40 mm / s and the fixing temperature of 170 ° C. is an operation specification that gives priority to productivity and lowers the fixing performance. The combination of the process speed of 35 mm / s and the fixing temperature of 170 ° C. is an operation specification that gives priority to fixing performance and lowers productivity.
Further, for example, at a process speed of 40 mm / s, 175 ° C. is specified as the temperature where the fixing performance is prioritized, and 170 ° C. is specified as the temperature where the power reduction amount is prioritized. As a result, selection is made to give priority to either fixing performance or power reduction.

The “operation specification table” shown in FIG. 7 is presented to the user by the operation unit 70 when the user selects a paper type (here, “paper A”) from the operation unit 70. Accordingly, when the user selects any one of the combination of the process speed and the fixing temperature as the operation specification from the operation unit 70, the main control unit 300 uses the combination of the process speed and the fixing temperature selected by the user as the power supply unit. Each structure assembled to 30 is operated.
In this case, a liquid crystal touch panel is arranged on the operation unit 70 and an “operation specification table” is displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel. Then, the operation specification may be selected by pressing the area where the user has the desired operation specification displayed from the “operation specification table” displayed on the liquid crystal touch panel.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an “operation specification table” regarding the paper B (for example, basis weight 70 g / m ² ) as a thin paper that is a paper type used in the image forming apparatus 1.
As shown in FIG. 8, in the paper B, the “high fixing temperature” at which sufficient fixing performance is obtained is 170 ° C. (hatched portion), and “low” is the lower limit of the temperature range in which temporary fixing performance can be obtained. The “fixing temperature” is 145 ° C. (hatched portion). As a result, the amount of power that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1 is calculated to be 10 to 35 W, for example, from the above-described “amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device 16”.
Therefore, in the “operation specification table” in FIG. 8, the power reduction amount is set for the paper B in 5 W steps in the range of 10 to 35 W, and the fixing performance is given priority for each power reduction amount (right column). (“High”) and temperature (“Low”) where productivity is prioritized, and process specifications (Productivity (ppm)) are combined.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an “operation specification table” regarding the paper C (for example, basis weight 105 g / m ² ) as a thick paper that is a paper type used in the image forming apparatus 1.
As shown in FIG. 9, in the paper C, the “high fixing temperature” at which sufficient fixing performance is obtained is 180 ° C. (hatched portion), and “low” is the lower limit of the temperature range in which temporary fixing performance can be obtained. The “fixing temperature” is 155 ° C. (hatched portion). As a result, the amount of power that can be reduced by the image forming apparatus 1 is calculated to be, for example, 0 to 25 W from the “power amount that can be allocated to the fixing device 16”.
Therefore, in the “operation specification table” of FIG. 9, the power reduction amount is set for the paper C in 5 W steps in the range of 0 to 25 W, and the fixing performance is given priority for each power reduction amount (right column). (“High”) and temperature (“Low”) where productivity is prioritized, and process specifications (Productivity (ppm)) are combined.

By the way, in the present embodiment, the “operation specification table” stored in the NVM 304 is determined by the main control unit 300 according to the assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1 configured by each structure assembled to the power supply unit 30. The configuration to be created was shown. In this case, for example, the main control unit 300 creates an “operation specification table” at the time when each structure is assembled to the power supply unit 30 and stores it in the NVM 304.
In addition to such a configuration, for example, a combination of structures to be assembled to the power supply unit 30 is assumed in advance, and an “operation specification table” for each sheet type regarding all assembly structures in the image forming apparatus 1 is created. Find in advance. Then, an “operation specification table” for each sheet type relating to all the assembling structures obtained in advance may be stored in the NVM 304 in advance.

<Explanation on operation specification setting processing by main control unit>
Next, FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are flowcharts showing the contents of the operation specification setting process executed by the main control unit 300 of the power supply unit 30.
First, as shown in FIG. 10A, when a main switch (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on (step 101), the main control unit 300 of the power supply unit 30 is connected to each power supply unit 30. The unit ID of each structure is obtained from the structure storage means (ROM) (step 102). Then, the main control unit 300 determines the type and configuration content of each structure (assembled structure of the image forming apparatus 1) assembled to the power supply unit 30 based on the unit ID and the unit information table acquired from each structure. Recognize (step 103). As a result, the main control unit 300 performs a creation process related to the “operation specification table” (step 104).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 300 waits for the designation of the function of the image forming apparatus 1 used by the user to be input from the operation unit 70 (No in step 105). When a designation of a function (for example, a print function or a copy function) of the image forming apparatus 1 is accepted (Yes in step 105), the process waits for a designation of paper type to be input from the operation unit 70 (step). No in 106). When the specification of the paper type is accepted (Yes in step 106), the main control unit 300 operates a display for instructing selection of whether or not to set operation specifications for reducing power consumption in the image forming apparatus 1. This is performed by the unit 70 (step 107).

When the user selects not to set the operation specification for reducing the power consumption (No in Step 108), the main control unit 300 sets the operation specification predetermined in the image forming apparatus 1 (Step 109). ).
On the other hand, when the user has selected to set an operation specification that reduces power consumption (Yes in step 108), the process proceeds to FIG. 10B, and the main control unit 300 has the assembly structure of the image forming apparatus 1. From the designated function of the image forming apparatus 1 and the selected paper type, the “operation specification table” corresponding to these is read from the NVM 304 (step 110). Then, the read “operation specification table” is displayed on the operation unit 70 (step 111). Then, the user is instructed to select desired operation specifications (step 112).
Thereby, the main control unit 300 waits for the user to select an operation specification from the “operation specification table” (No in step 113). When the user selects an operation specification from the “operation specification table” (Yes in step 113), the main control unit 300 sets the operation specification (process speed and fixing temperature) selected by the user in the image forming apparatus 1 ( Step 114).

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, the user selects the operation specification setting for reducing the power consumption in the image forming apparatus 1, thereby using the power consumption reduction amount as a determination criterion. An operation specification giving priority to either productivity or fixing performance can be selected.

As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, each structure (image forming unit 10, paper supply unit 40, discharge unit 50, reading unit) that forms a part of the appearance of the image forming apparatus 1. 60, an operation unit 70, and an additional paper supply unit 80) are assembled to the power supply unit 30. The power supply unit 30 is configured to accept selection of an operation specification that prioritizes either productivity or fixing performance and that reduces power consumption. Thereby, an image forming process is performed with an operation specification corresponding to the reduction amount of power consumption desired by the user.
Of course, the power supply unit 30 may be incorporated in the image forming unit 10 to function as a power supply unit, or each unit is completely separated, for example, the image forming unit 10 is integrated with the paper supply unit 40. There is no need to make it possible.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image forming apparatus, 10 ... Image forming unit, 30 ... Power supply unit, 40 ... Paper supply unit, 50 ... Ejection unit, 60 ... Reading unit, 70 ... Operation unit, 80 ... Additional paper supply unit, 300 ... Main control part 350 ... Power supply unit

Claims (4)

An image forming apparatus having a functional element for performing an image forming operation including a fixing device ,
Presenting means for presenting operation specifications that can be set according to the amount of power used in association with the amount of power reduction;
Accepting means for accepting selection related to the operation specifications presented by the presenting means;
Image forming is performed by controlling the functional elements in accordance with the operation specifications received by the receiving means, and at least the amount of power supplied to the fixing device to operate each structure according to the recognized assembly structure. Acquire the lower limit electric energy required for the limit and the lower limit value for each paper type of the electric energy supplied to the fixing device, and based on the power supply capacity, the lower limit electric energy, and the lower limit value for each paper type. Calculate the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device for each paper type to be used, determine the range of power amount that can be reduced, and use the operation specifications for each paper type as the operation specification table within the power amount range. Control means for storing ,
When the user selects to set an operation specification that reduces power consumption, the presenting means is configured to control the control means when each functional element is assembled in the image forming apparatus based on the selected paper type. image forming apparatus characterized by presenting to the user the operation specification table that is created stored at. The image forming apparatus includes an image forming structure having a functional element that performs an image forming operation, and a structure that is assembled to the image forming structure and performs an operation related to the image forming operation.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming structure and the structure are assembled with a power supply structure to be supplied with electric power. A frame in which an image forming structure that performs an image forming operation , an operation related to an image forming operation including a fixing device in the image forming structure, and various structures that perform an operation related to an image forming operation are assembled;
Power supply means for supplying power to the image forming structure and the structure assembled to the frame;
Defining means for defining an operation specification that can be set in a state where the amount of power supplied from the power supply means to the image forming structure and the structure is reduced;
The operation specification defined by the defining means is presented in association with a power reduction amount, the selection relating to the presented operation specification is recognized, and the image forming structure and the structure of the structure are recognized according to the recognized operation specification. Control means for controlling the operation,
The control means is a sheet having a minimum electric energy required for operating each structure according to the recognized assembling structure except for an electric energy supplied to the fixing device and an electric energy supplied to the fixing device. Obtains the lower limit value for each type and calculates the amount of power that can be allocated to the fixing device for each paper type used based on the power supply capacity, the lower limit power amount, and the lower limit value for each paper type. The range of power that can be reduced is determined, the operation specifications for each paper type are stored as an operation specification table within the range of power, and the user chooses to set the operation specifications that reduce power consumption A control structure for causing the user to present the operation specification table created and stored when each functional element is assembled to the image forming apparatus based on the selected paper type.   The defining means recognizes the image forming structure assembled to the frame body and the type and configuration content of the structure, and the range of the power reduction amount according to the recognized image forming structure and the structure. 4. The control structure according to claim 3, wherein the operation specifications that can be set within the range of the calculated power reduction amount are defined.

Images