JP5856997B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus including a job execution unit that executes a job such as printing.

  Conventionally, an image forming apparatus having a plurality of functions such as a scan function, a print function, and a copy function is known. In a scan function job, a document is read to generate print data. In a print function job, printing is performed on paper based on print data transmitted from an external device. In a copy function job, printing is performed on paper based on print data obtained by reading a document.

  Examples of the job execution unit provided in such an image forming apparatus include a conveyance unit for conveying a sheet and an image formation unit for forming an image. The job execution unit is driven by the driving force transmitted from the motor, and executes the job. For this reason, at the time of job execution, the rotation sound of the motor and the drive sound of the job execution unit are emitted from within the image forming apparatus, and the user may feel uncomfortable.

  Therefore, conventionally, there are two jobs: a normal mode in which a job is executed at a predetermined processing speed, and a silent mode in which a job is executed at a lower processing speed than in the normal mode to improve the quietness during job execution. An image forming apparatus equipped with an execution mode has been proposed (see, for example, paragraph 0049 of Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-96624 A

  When the job execution mode is changed, the conventional image forming apparatus executes all jobs in the job execution mode after the setting change, regardless of which of the plurality of functions is used. However, some users may want to execute a job in the silent mode when using a predetermined function among a plurality of types of functions, and execute the job in a normal mode when using a function other than the predetermined function. In such a case, if the job execution mode is changed to the silent mode when the predetermined function is used, the job execution mode must be returned to the normal mode when a function other than the predetermined function is used. As a result, the number of user operations (operations for changing the setting of the job execution mode) increases, and user convenience is deteriorated.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that an image forming apparatus equipped with two job execution modes, a normal mode and a silent mode, is operated by a user operation (for changing the job execution mode setting). An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of improving user convenience by reducing operations.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention executes a job at a normal mode in which a job is executed at a predetermined normal processing speed, and at a silent processing speed lower than the normal processing speed. An image forming apparatus equipped with two job execution modes, ie, a silent mode that increases the quietness during execution, and executes a job of a plurality of functions, and in the normal mode, the processing speed is set as a normal processing speed. Then, a job execution unit that sets the processing speed as the silent processing speed, a mode setting unit that sets whether the job is executed in the normal mode or the silent mode, and an operation unit that accepts a job execution mode setting operation And comprising. The operation unit accepts a function unit setting operation for setting the job execution mode in function units, and the mode setting unit accepts the function unit setting operation accepted by the operation unit when the operation unit accepts the function unit setting operation. Based on the above, the job execution mode is set for each functional unit, and the job execution unit executes the job in the job execution mode set by the mode setting unit.

  In the configuration of the present invention, the job execution mode of a plurality of types of functions can be set and changed for each function. That is, it is possible to change the setting of only the job execution mode of a predetermined function among a plurality of types of functions and to keep the job execution mode of a function other than the predetermined function with the previous setting. Thus, for example, when the job execution mode of a plurality of types of functions is all set to the normal mode and the job is to be executed in the silent mode only when a predetermined function is used among the plurality of types of functions (functions other than the predetermined function). If you want to execute a job in the normal mode when using, you need to change the setting of the job execution mode when using functions other than the predetermined function by changing only the job execution mode of the predetermined function. Disappear. As a result, the number of user operations (operations for changing the job execution mode setting) is reduced, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  According to the present invention, the user's operation (operation for changing the job execution mode setting) is reduced, and the convenience for the user is improved.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view of an operation panel (operation unit) provided in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a screen image displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting a job execution mode setting change for each function) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. The figure of the modification of the mode setting key displayed on the screen shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting a job execution mode setting change in units of functions) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting a job execution mode setting change in units of functions) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a screen image displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. Flowchart for explaining the flow when setting the job execution mode for each function in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting job execution mode setting change) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting job execution mode setting change) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram of a screen (a screen for accepting whether or not to allow the job execution mode setting change) to be displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting a job execution mode setting change for each execution target job) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting a job execution mode setting change for each execution target job) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting a job execution mode setting change for each execution target job) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. 1 is a flowchart for explaining a flow when setting a job execution mode for each execution target job in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting power mode settings) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram of a screen (screen for accepting user authentication) displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment will be described by taking as an example a multifunction peripheral having a plurality of functions such as a scan function, a print function, and a copy function.

(Overall configuration of image forming apparatus)
As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a document conveying unit 101, an image reading unit 102, and an engine unit 103 (a paper feeding unit 104, a paper conveying unit 105, an image forming unit 106, and a fixing unit 107).

  The document conveyance unit 101 and the image reading unit 102 are job execution units for realizing a scan function. The engine unit 103 is a job execution unit for realizing a print function. The copy function is a composite function realized by a combination of a scan function and a print function. In the following description, the document conveyance unit 101, the image reading unit 102, and the engine unit 103 may be collectively referred to as a job execution unit 108.

  The document transport unit 101 supplies the document D set on the paper feed tray 11 to the document transport path 10, transports it to the transport reading position, and discharges it to the discharge tray 12. The document transport unit 101 includes a paper feed roller 13 for supplying the document D to the document transport path 10 and a plurality of transport roller pairs 14 for transporting the document D along the document transport path 10. Yes.

  The image reading unit 102 reads the document D conveyed on the conveyance reading contact glass 20a (conveyance reading position) or the document D placed on the placement reading contact glass 20b, and the image data of the document D is read. Is generated. The image reading unit 102 is provided with a reading mechanism including a lamp 21, a mirror 22, a lens 23, a line sensor 24, and the like.

  The lamp 21 and the mirror 22 are held by a holding member 25 installed so as to be movable in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction (direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 1). The holding member 25 is connected to one end of the wire 26. The other end of the wire 26 is connected to a winding drum 27 that winds the wire 26 by rotating. Note that a plurality of wires 26 are connected to the holding member 25, and the plurality of wires 26 are wound around. However, in FIG. 1, only one wire 26 is shown for convenience.

  Thereby, the holding member 25 moves in the sub-scanning direction by rotating the winding drum 27. Then, the reading of the document D conveyed on the contact glass 20a is performed in a state where the holding member 25 is moved below the contact glass 20a. Reading of the document D placed on the contact glass 20b is performed while moving the holding member 25 in the sub-scanning direction below the contact glass 20b.

  The paper feed unit 104 includes a paper feed cassette 41 that stores paper P, and supplies the paper P stored in the paper feed cassette 41 to the paper transport path 50. The paper feed unit 104 is provided with a paper feed roller 42 for supplying the paper P to the paper transport path 50. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a plurality of stages of paper feed units 104 that are stacked in the vertical direction. However, only one paper feed unit 104 may be attached to the image forming apparatus 100.

  The paper transport unit 105 transports the paper P supplied to the paper transport path 50 in the order of the transfer nip and the fixing nip, and discharges the paper P to the discharge tray 51. The paper transport unit 105 is provided with a plurality of transport roller pairs 52 for transporting the paper P along the paper transport path 50. One conveyance roller pair 52 among the plurality of conveyance roller pairs 52 is a registration roller pair 53. The registration roller pair 53 waits for the paper P in front of the transfer nip, and sends it to the transfer nip in time.

  The image forming unit 106 forms a toner image based on image data (for example, image data obtained by reading by the image reading unit 102), and transfers the toner image onto the paper P. The image forming unit 106 includes a photosensitive drum 61, a charging device 62, an exposure device 63, a developing device 64, a transfer roller 65, and a cleaning device 66.

  At the time of image formation, the photosensitive drum 61 rotates and the charging device 62 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 to a predetermined potential. The exposure device 63 includes a light emitting element (not shown) that emits light for exposure, and scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 while turning on and off the light emitting element based on image data. . As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. The developing device 64 supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 and develops it.

  The transfer roller 65 is in pressure contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 and forms a transfer nip with the photosensitive drum 61. In this state, the registration roller pair 53 measures the timing and causes the paper P to enter the transfer nip. At this time, a transfer voltage is applied to the transfer roller 65. As a result, the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 is transferred onto the paper P. When the transfer of the toner image onto the paper P is completed, the cleaning device 66 removes the toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

  The fixing unit 107 fixes the toner image transferred onto the paper P by heating and pressing. The fixing unit 107 includes a heating roller 71 and a pressure roller 72. The heating roller 71 has a built-in heat source. The pressure roller 72 is in pressure contact with the fixing roller 71 and forms a fixing nip with the heating roller 71. The paper P on which the toner image is transferred is heated and pressurized by passing through the fixing nip. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper P. The printed paper P is sent to the discharge tray 51 by the transport roller pair 52.

  In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an operation panel 109 as shown in FIG. The operation panel 109 includes a liquid crystal display unit 91. The liquid crystal display unit 91 is a display unit with a touch panel in which a touch panel unit 92 is disposed on the display surface. The liquid crystal display unit 91 displays software keys and messages for accepting various settings. Furthermore, the operation panel 109 is also provided with hard keys such as a numeric keypad 93, a start key 94, and a status confirmation key 95.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a fan 100F. The fan 100F circulates air in the image forming apparatus 100 during job execution and cools the image forming apparatus 100.

  (Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus)

  As shown in FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a main control unit 110 that performs overall control of the image forming apparatus 100. The main control unit 110 includes a CPU 111, a storage unit 112, an image processing unit 113, and the like. The storage unit 112 includes a ROM, a RAM, an HDD, and the like. For example, a program and data necessary for job execution are stored in the ROM, and the program and data are expanded in the RAM. The image processing unit 113 includes an ASIC dedicated to image processing, and performs various image processing (enlargement / reduction, density conversion, data format conversion, etc.) on the image data.

  Main controller 110 is connected to engine controller 120. The engine control unit 120 receives an instruction from the main control unit 110 and controls the printing operation of the engine unit 103 (the paper feeding unit 104, the paper transport unit 105, the image forming unit 106, and the fixing unit 107). For example, the engine control unit 120 controls driving of the motor M1 for rotating various rotating bodies of the engine unit 103, and appropriately rotates the various rotating bodies of the engine unit 103.

  The motor M1 is a paper conveying motor, an image forming motor, a fixing motor, or the like. The paper transport motor is a motor for rotating various rotating bodies (such as the transport roller pair 52) used for paper transport installed in the paper feeding unit 104 and the paper transport unit 105. The image forming motor is a motor for rotating various rotating bodies (such as the photosensitive drum 61) used for image formation installed in the image forming unit 106. The fixing motor is a motor for rotating various rotating bodies (such as the heating roller 71) used for fixing installed in the fixing unit 107.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the document conveyance control unit 130. The document conveyance control unit 130 receives an instruction from the main control unit 110 and controls the document conveyance operation of the document conveyance unit 101. For example, the document conveyance control unit 130 controls driving of the motor M2 for rotating the paper feed roller 13 and the conveyance roller pair 14, and appropriately rotates the paper supply roller 13 and the conveyance roller pair 14.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the image reading control unit 140. The image reading control unit 140 receives an instruction from the main control unit 110 and controls the image reading operation of the image reading unit 102. For example, the image reading control unit 140 controls the driving of the motor M3 for rotating the winding drum 27 and appropriately rotates the winding drum 27 (moves the holding member 25 appropriately in the sub-scanning direction).

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the panel control unit 150. Panel control unit 150 receives an instruction from main control unit 110 and controls the display operation of operation panel 109. Furthermore, the panel control unit 150 also detects an operation performed on the operation panel 109. That is, when the soft key displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 91 is touched, the panel control unit 150 detects the touch position based on the output of the touch panel unit 92 (detects the touched soft key). Furthermore, when a hard key (such as ten key 93, start key 94, and status confirmation key 95) is pressed, panel control unit 150 detects the pressed hard key. When the panel control unit 150 detects an operation performed on the operation panel 109, the panel control unit 150 transmits a detection result to the main control unit 110. Thereby, the main control unit 110 recognizes an operation performed on the operation panel 109.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the communication control unit 160. For example, the communication control unit 160 is connected to the external computer 200 via a network so that communication is possible. Thus, printing can be performed based on the image data transmitted from the computer 200, and image data obtained by reading the document D can be transmitted to the computer 200. Further, a modem or the like may be built in the communication control unit 160. In this case, it is possible to perform fax communication with an external facsimile 300 via a network such as a telephone line.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the power supply unit 170. The power supply unit 170 is connected to a commercial power supply and generates a voltage necessary for operating the image forming apparatus 100. The power supply unit 170 includes a job execution unit 108, an operation panel 109, and control units (main control unit 110, engine control unit 120, document conveyance control unit 130, image reading control unit 140, panel control unit 150, and communication control unit. 160) is used to supply power. Hereinafter, each unit that operates by receiving power supply from the power supply unit 170 may be collectively referred to as a power-supplied supply unit 180.

  Here, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a normal power mode and a power saving mode (sleep mode) as power modes related to power supply to the power supplied unit 180. The normal power mode is a mode in which normal power supply is performed to the power supply unit 180. The power saving mode is a mode in which power supply to the power supplied unit 180 is limited as compared with the normal power mode.

  The power supply unit 170 supplies power to all parts of the power supplied unit 180 in the normal power mode. On the other hand, when the power supply unit 170 shifts from the normal power mode to the power saving mode, the power supply unit 170 supplies power only to a part of the power receiving supply unit 180 and stops supplying power to the other parts.

  When the transition condition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, the main control unit 110 shifts from the normal power mode to the power saving mode. For example, the main control unit 110 counts the unused time that has passed without the image forming apparatus 100 being used, and the transition condition is satisfied when the unused time of the image forming apparatus 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold time. As a result, the normal mode is shifted to the power saving mode. Alternatively, even when the operation panel 109 receives an instruction to shift from the normal power mode to the power saving mode, the main control unit 110 shifts from the normal power mode to the power saving mode, assuming that the transfer condition is satisfied.

  When the power supply unit 170 receives a return signal indicating that the return condition from the power saving mode to the normal power mode is satisfied from the return condition detection unit, the power supply unit 170 restarts the power supply to all parts of the power supplied unit 180. (Return from power saving mode to normal power mode) In addition, since the power supply unit 170 receives the return signal from the return condition detection unit, power supply to the return condition detection unit continues even in the power saving mode.

  An operation panel 109 is an example of a part corresponding to the return condition detection unit. For example, when the operation panel 109 receives an operation in the power saving mode, the operation panel 109 transmits a return signal to the power supply unit 170. The communication control unit 160 also functions as a return condition detection unit. When the communication control unit 160 receives data from the computer 200 or the facsimile 300 in the power saving mode, the communication control unit 160 transmits a return signal to the power supply unit 170.

  Further, although not shown, a sensor for detecting opening and closing of the apparatus cover attached to the image forming apparatus 100, a sensor for detecting that the document conveying unit 101 is opened and closed with respect to the image reading unit 102, and a document D A sensor for detecting that the document is set on the document set tray 11 and a sensor for detecting attachment / detachment of the paper feed cassette 41 also function as a return condition detection unit. That is, when the power supply unit 170 is in the power saving mode, the apparatus cover and the document transport unit 101 are opened and closed, the document D is set on the document set tray 11, and the paper feed cassette 41 is attached and detached. Return from power saving mode to normal mode.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the fan 100F and controls driving of the fan 100F. For example, the main control unit 110 drives the fan 100F during job execution. The main control unit 110 stops driving the fan 100F after a predetermined time has elapsed after the job ends. Note that the fan 100F is also the power supply unit 180.

  (Overview of job execution mode (normal mode and silent mode))

  The image forming apparatus 100 includes a normal mode for executing a job at a predetermined normal processing speed, and a silent mode for improving the quietness during job execution by executing the job at a silent processing speed slower than the normal processing speed. Two job execution modes are installed. That is, the job execution unit 108 executes the job at the normal processing speed in the normal mode, and executes the job at the silent processing speed in the silent mode.

  In the scan function, when the job execution mode is set to the normal mode, the transport speed of the document D by the document transport unit 101 becomes a predetermined normal speed. On the other hand, when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, the conveyance speed of the document D is slower than that in the normal mode. That is, when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, the document conveyance control unit 130 makes the rotation speed of the motor M2 slower than that in the normal mode. For example, the conveyance speed of the document D can be switched between three levels. Then, the document conveyance control unit 130 sets the rotation speed of the motor M2 to the highest speed among the three stages in the normal mode, and sets the rotation speed of the motor M2 to the lowest speed among the three stages in the silent mode.

  In the print function, when the job execution mode is set to the normal mode, the conveyance speed of the paper P by the engine unit 103 becomes a predetermined normal speed. On the other hand, when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, the conveyance speed of the paper P becomes slower than that in the normal mode. That is, when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, the engine control unit 120 makes the rotation speed of the motor M1 slower than that in the normal mode. For example, the engine control unit 120 sets the rotation speed of the motor M1 in the silent mode to 50% of the rotation speed of the motor M1 in the normal mode.

  In the copy function combining the print function and the scan function, when the job execution mode is set to the normal mode, the conveyance speed of the document D and the paper P becomes the normal speed. On the other hand, when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, the conveyance speed of the original D and the paper P is slower than that in the normal mode.

  As described above, in the silent mode, the rotational speeds of the motors M1 and M2 are slow, so that the rotational sounds of the motors M1 and M2 are lower than those in the normal mode, and the driving force of the motors M1 and M2 is transmitted and driven. The drive sound of each drive unit is also lower than in the normal mode. Further, when the conveyance speed of the paper P is slowed down, a sliding sound generated by rubbing between the paper P and the paper conveyance path 50 is reduced. When the conveyance speed of the original D is slow, the original D and the original conveyance path 10 are rubbed. This reduces the sliding noise generated. Therefore, in the silent mode, the sound level emitted from the image forming apparatus 100 is lower than in the normal mode. In other words, the silence is increased.

  The main control unit 110 sets which job execution mode is executed in the normal mode or the silent mode. That is, the main control unit 110 corresponds to the “mode setting unit” of the present invention.

  For example, the storage unit 112 stores either the normal mode or the silent mode as the default mode. The main control unit 110 sets the default mode stored in the storage unit 112 as the job execution mode when the image forming apparatus 100 is activated. Note that the time when the image forming apparatus 100 is started includes not only when the main power supply to the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on but also when the image forming apparatus 100 is returned from the power saving mode to the normal power mode.

(Job execution mode setting for each function)
The operation panel 109 displays a function screen FS as shown in FIG. 4 on the liquid crystal display unit 91 for each of a plurality of types of functions. FIG. 4 shows a function screen FS of the copy function as an example.

  In the function screen FS, a setting item key IK indicating a setting item whose setting value can be changed in the corresponding function is displayed. For example, setting item keys IK for setting items such as paper selection, reduction / enlargement, density, duplex / division, and page aggregation are displayed on the function screen FS of the copy function. The setting item key IK describes the current setting value of the corresponding setting item. When the setting item key IK is touched, the operation panel 109 displays a screen (not shown) for changing the setting value of the setting item corresponding to the touched setting item key IK on the liquid crystal display unit 91. Display. Accordingly, the user can recognize the current set value and can change the setting value.

  In addition, a job execution mode key JK is also displayed in the function screen FS. When the job execution mode key JK is touched, the operation panel 109 causes the liquid crystal display 91 to display a job execution mode setting screen JS (see FIG. 5) for changing the job execution mode. The job execution mode setting screen JS is a screen for accepting a function unit setting operation for setting job execution modes of a plurality of types of functions in units of functions. That is, the operation panel 109 corresponds to the “operation unit” of the present invention, and accepts a function unit setting operation.

  In the job execution mode setting screen JS, there are a plurality of display areas DA respectively corresponding to a plurality of types of functions as shown in FIG. Text indicating the corresponding function is displayed in the plurality of display areas DA. For example, the text “scan” is displayed in the display area DA corresponding to the scan function, the text “copy” is displayed in the display area DA corresponding to the copy function, and the display area DA corresponding to the print function is displayed. The text “Print” is displayed.

  In the plurality of display areas DA, a mode setting key MK1 having a normal mode key NK1 and a silent mode key SK1 is displayed one by one. That is, the operation panel 109 displays the mode setting key MK1 for each of a plurality of types of functions. The mode setting key MK1 displayed in the scan function display area DA is a key for accepting a change in setting of the job execution mode of the scan function, and the mode setting key MK1 displayed in the copy function display area DA is a copy. The function setting key MK1 displayed in the print function display area DA is a key for receiving a change in the job execution mode of the print function. The normal mode key NK1 is a key for changing the job execution mode to the normal mode, and the silent mode key SK1 is a key for changing the job execution mode to the silent mode.

  When mode setting key MK1 is touched, operation panel 109 accepts the touch operation as a function unit setting operation. Then, when the operation panel 109 accepts a function unit setting operation, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of a plurality of functions for each function based on the function unit setting operation accepted by the operation panel 109.

  Specifically, the main control unit 110, when a function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1, if the normal mode key NK1 is an operation target, the mode in which the function unit setting operation is performed. The job execution mode of the predetermined function corresponding to the setting key MK1 is changed to the normal mode. On the other hand, when the function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1, the main control unit 110 performs the function unit setting operation if the silent mode key SK1 is an operation target. The job execution mode of the predetermined function corresponding to MK1 is changed to the silent mode. At this time, the main control unit 110 does not change the setting of the job execution mode for functions other than the predetermined function and keeps the previous setting.

  For example, it is assumed that a function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1 corresponding to the scan function. In this case, if the normal mode key NK1 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the scan function to the normal mode (sets the document D conveyance speed to the normal speed). On the other hand, if the silent mode key SK1 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the scan function to the silent mode (sets the document D conveyance speed to a speed slower than the normal speed). To do). Then, the main control unit 110 keeps the previous settings for the job execution modes of the copy function and the print function without changing the settings.

  Further, it is assumed that a function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1 corresponding to the print function. In this case, if the normal mode key NK1 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the print function to the normal mode (sets the paper P transport speed to the normal speed). On the other hand, if the silent mode key SK1 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the print function to the silent mode (sets the conveyance speed of the paper P to a speed slower than the normal speed). To do). Then, the main control unit 110 does not change the settings for the job execution modes of the scan function and the copy function and keeps the previous settings.

  Further, it is assumed that a function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1 corresponding to the copy function. In this case, if the normal mode key NK1 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the copy function to the normal mode (sets the conveyance speed of the document D and the paper P to the normal speed). ). On the other hand, if the silent mode key SK1 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the copy function to the silent mode (the conveyance speed of the document D and the paper P is slower than the normal speed). Set to speed). Then, the main control unit 110 keeps the previous settings for the job execution modes of the scan function and the print function without changing the settings.

  With the mode setting key MK1 for the copy function shown in FIG. 5, when the function unit setting operation is performed on the normal mode key NK1, both the conveyance speeds of the original D and the paper P when the copy function job is executed are the normal speed. When the function unit setting operation is performed with respect to the silent mode key SK1, both the document D and the sheet P conveyance speed when executing the copy function job are set to be slower than the normal speed. That is, it is not possible to set the conveyance speeds of the original D and the paper P at the time of executing the copy function job separately. Therefore, for a composite function realized by two or more functions such as a copy function, a function unit setting operation may be accepted for each of two or more functions constituting the composite function.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the operation panel 109 displays two mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the scan function and the print function in the copy function display area DA. The operation panel 109 accepts a function unit setting operation for each of the two functions of the scan function and the print function.

  Assume that a function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1 corresponding to the scan function using the copy function mode setting key MK1 shown in FIG. In this case, if the normal mode key NK1 is the operation target, the main control unit 110 sets the conveyance speed of the document D when executing the job of the copy function to be the normal speed, while the silent mode key SK1 is operated. If it is the target, the conveyance speed of the original D at the time of executing the copy function job is set to be slower than the normal speed. At this time, the main control unit 110 does not change the setting of the conveyance speed of the paper P when executing the job of the copy function, and keeps the previous setting.

  Further, it is assumed that a function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1 corresponding to the print function in the copy function mode setting key MK1 shown in FIG. In this case, if the normal mode key NK1 is the operation target, the main control unit 110 sets the conveyance speed of the paper P at the time of executing the copy function job to be the normal speed, while the silent mode key SK1 is operated. If it is the target, the conveyance speed of the paper P when the copy function job is executed is set to be slower than the normal speed. At this time, the main control unit 110 does not change the setting for the conveyance speed of the document D when executing the job of the copy function, and keeps the previous setting.

  When the operation panel 109 displays the job execution mode setting screen JS, the operation panel 109 indicates visually whether the job execution mode set for each of the plurality of functions is the normal mode or the silent mode. For example, when the job execution mode of the predetermined function is set to the normal mode, the operation panel 109 sets the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 among the mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the predetermined function as the first display mode. The display mode of the silent mode key SK1 is a second display mode different from the first display mode. On the other hand, when the job execution mode of the predetermined function is set to the silent mode, the operation panel 109 sets the display mode of the silent mode key SK1 among the mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the predetermined function as the first display mode. At the same time, the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 is the second display mode.

  For example, the first display form is a display form in which the display color is a chromatic color, and the second display form is a display form in which the display color is an achromatic color, for example. 5 and 6, for convenience, among the normal mode key NK1 and the silent mode key SK1, the keys displayed in the first display form in which the display color is chromatic are shaded, and the first display form and The second display form is distinguished. Note that the display colors when displaying in the first display form and the second display form are both chromatic colors (or achromatic colors), and the density is different between when displaying in the first display form and when displaying in the second display form. May be different.

  Further, the operation panel 109 displays the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 when the normal mode key NK1 is displayed in the first display mode and the display mode of the silent mode key SK1 when the silent mode key SK1 is displayed in the first display mode. Are different from each other (for example, display colors or shades are different from each other). For example, when displaying the normal mode key NK1 in the first display form, the operation panel 109 sets the display color of the normal mode key NK1 to red, and when displaying the silent mode key SK1 in the first display form, the silent mode key SK1. Is displayed in blue (in FIGS. 5 and 6, the difference in display color is expressed by the shaded direction).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the apparatus execution image AI of the image forming apparatus 100 is displayed together with the mode setting key MK1 in the job execution mode setting screen JS. When the operation panel 109 displays the device image AI, the display form of the device portion for realizing the function set to the normal mode among the plurality of types of functions is set as the third display mode, and the silence among the plurality of types of functions is displayed. The display form of the device part for realizing the function set in the mode is a fourth display form different from the third display form. For example, the operation panel 109 makes the display colors or shades of the device portion displayed in the third display mode and the device portion displayed in the fourth display mode different from each other.

  Regarding the mode setting key MK1, if the job execution mode of the corresponding function is the normal mode, the display color of the normal mode key NK1 is red. If the job execution mode of the corresponding function is the silent mode, the silent mode key SK1. Is displayed in blue. Therefore, also for the device image AI, in accordance with the display mode of the mode setting key MK1, the display color of the device portion for realizing the function set in the normal mode is red, and the function set in the silent mode is realized. For this reason, it is preferable that the display color of the device portion is blue.

  By the way, for example, when the scan function is set to the normal mode and the copy function (combined function combining the scan function and the print function) is also set to the normal mode, the display form of all device parts of the device image AI May be the third display mode. However, when the scan function is set to the normal mode, the copy function may be set to the silent mode. In this case, it cannot be expressed by only one device image AI that the scan function is set to the normal mode and the copy function is set to the silent mode.

  Therefore, when any one of the plurality of display areas DA corresponding to the plurality of types of functions is touched, the device image is such that the job execution mode of the function corresponding to the touched display area DA can be visually identified. The AI display may be switched. For example, it is assumed that the display area DA of the scan function is touched and the job execution mode of the scan function at that time is the normal mode. In this case, the operation panel 109 displays the device image AI in which the display color of the device portion for realizing the scan function is red (third display form). The state at this time is the state shown in FIG.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, it is assumed that a function unit setting operation is performed on the scan function mode setting key MK1, and the job execution mode of the scan function is changed to the silent mode. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, the operation panel 109 displays a device image AI in which the display color of the device portion for realizing the scan function is blue (fourth display form).

  Thereafter, it is assumed that the display area DA of the print function is touched from the state shown in FIG. The job execution mode of the print function at this time is a silent mode. Therefore, the operation panel 109 displays a device image AI in which the display color of the device portion for realizing the print function is blue (fourth display form), as shown in FIG.

  Although not shown, when the display area DA of the copy function is touched on the operation panel 109, the display color of the device portion for realizing the copy function is set to the display color indicating the current job execution mode of the copy function. When the device image AI is displayed and the print function display area DA is touched, the device image in which the display color of the device part for realizing the print function is the display color indicating the job execution mode of the current print function is displayed. Display AI.

  Alternatively, although not shown, a device image AI in which the display color of the device part for realizing the scan function is the display color indicating the job execution mode of the current scan function, and the display color of the device part for realizing the copy function Is the display color indicating the job execution mode of the current copy function, and the display color of the device portion for realizing the print function is the display color indicating the job execution mode of the current print function. Three of the device images AI may be displayed simultaneously.

  The operation panel 109 also accepts an operation for touching the display area of the device image AI as a function unit setting operation. For example, when the functional unit setting operation is performed on the display area of the device portion for realizing any one of the plural types of functions, the operation panel 109 is displayed in the display area where the functional unit setting operation is performed. A job execution mode of a function realized by the positioned device part is accepted as a setting change target. Then, the main control unit 110 changes the setting of the job execution mode of the function realized in the device portion located in the display area where the function unit setting operation has been performed. For example, if the functional unit setting operation is performed on the display area of the device for realizing the scan function when the job execution mode of the scan function is set to the normal mode, the job execution mode of the scan function is set to the silent mode. The setting is changed to. And the display color of the apparatus part for implement | achieving a scanning function is changed from red (3rd display form) to blue (4th display form).

  The operation panel 109 displays an icon MI1 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 9) that visually identifies whether the job execution mode of the plurality of functions is the normal mode or the silent mode. For example, operation panel 109 displays icon MI1 in the display area of job execution mode key JK.

  The icon MI1 changes the display according to whether the job execution mode is set to the normal mode or the silent mode (sound level emitted during job execution). When the job execution mode is set to the normal mode, as shown in FIG. 4, the icon MI1 indicating that the sound level is high is displayed, and when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode. As shown in FIG. 9, an icon MI1 indicating that the sound level is low is displayed.

  In addition, when the job execution mode of one of a plurality of functions is changed, the operation panel 109 changes the sound level generated during job execution by changing the job execution mode setting. Sound information SI1 indicating whether to do is displayed. For example, the operation panel 109 displays text indicating a change in sound level in decibels in the job execution mode setting screen JS, as shown in FIGS.

  Next, a flow when setting job execution modes of a plurality of types of functions in units of functions will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Assume that the operation panel 109 displays the job execution mode setting screen JS at the start of the flowchart of FIG. In this state, when the panel control unit 150 detects that a function unit setting operation has been performed on the operation panel 109, the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S <b> 1, the main control unit 110 identifies a predetermined function that is a target of the function unit setting operation among a plurality of types based on the detection result received from the panel control unit 150.

  In step S2, the main control unit 110 changes the setting of the job execution mode for a predetermined function. At this time, the main control unit 110 does not change the setting of the job execution mode for functions other than the predetermined function and keeps the previous setting.

  In step S3, the main control unit 110 instructs the panel control unit 150 to change the display of the job execution mode setting screen JS. Specifically, when the job execution mode of the predetermined function is set to the normal mode, the panel control unit 150 sets the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 among the mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the predetermined function as the first display mode. (For example, the display color is red) and the display mode of the silent mode key SK1 is the second display mode (for example, the display color is gray). On the other hand, when the job execution mode of the predetermined function is set to the silent mode, the panel control unit 150 sets the display mode of the silent mode key SK1 among the mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the predetermined function as the first display mode. (For example, the display color is blue) and the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 is the second display mode (for example, the display color is gray).

  Further, when the job execution mode of the predetermined function is set to the normal mode, the panel control unit 150 sets the display form of the device portion for realizing the predetermined function in the device image AI as the third display form (for example, Display color is red). On the other hand, when the job execution mode of the predetermined function is set to the silent mode, the operation panel 150 sets the display form of the device portion for realizing the predetermined function in the device image AI as the fourth display form (for example, Display color is blue).

  In step S4, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not the operation panel 109 has received the function unit setting operation again. As a result, if the operation panel 109 accepts a function unit setting operation, the process proceeds to step S1. On the other hand, if the operation panel 109 has not accepted the function unit setting operation, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not the operation panel 109 has received an end operation for closing the job execution mode setting screen JS. Note that the operation panel 109 accepts, for example, an operation of touching the key CK “close” (see FIGS. 5 and 7) displayed in the job execution mode setting screen JS as an end operation. As a result, if the operation panel 109 accepts an end operation, the flowchart of FIG. 10 ends. On the other hand, if the operation panel 109 has not received the end operation, the process proceeds to step S4.

  By the way, when a plurality of stages of paper feed units 104 are installed in the image forming apparatus 100, the function of using the paper feed unit 104 (copy function and print function) is the unit of the paper feed unit 104 (unit of the paper feed cassette 41). A cassette unit setting operation for setting the job execution mode may be accepted. For example, when the display area corresponding to the sheet feeding unit 104 of the device image AI is touched, the operation panel 109 accepts the touch operation as a cassette unit setting operation.

  When the cassette unit setting operation is performed on the display area corresponding to the upper sheet feeding unit 104, the main control unit 110 changes the setting of the job execution mode of the function that uses the upper sheet feeding unit 104, The job execution mode of the function that uses the lower sheet feeding unit 104 is not changed, but is kept as it was before. In addition, when the cassette unit setting operation is performed on the display area corresponding to the lower sheet feeding unit 104, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the function that uses the lower sheet feeding unit 104. The job execution mode of the function that uses the upper sheet feeding unit 104 is not changed, and is kept as it was before.

  Note that a screen for accepting a function unit setting operation for setting a job execution mode of a plurality of types of functions in units of functions is not limited to the job execution mode setting screen JK shown in FIGS.

  For example, the operation panel 109 displays a menu screen MS1 as shown in FIG. Subsequently, when the menu column C1 labeled “silent mode” in the menu screen MS1 is touched, the operation panel 109 displays a menu screen MS2 as shown in FIG. On the menu screen MS2, a menu column C11 labeled "OFF", a menu column C12 labeled "only scan function", a menu column C13 labeled "only print function", and "both" The menu column C14 is displayed. When the menu column C12 or C13 is touched among the menu columns C11 to C14 in the menu screen MS2, the operation panel 109 accepts the touch operation as a function unit setting operation.

  When the function unit setting operation is performed on the menu column C12, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the scan function to the silent mode. Further, when a function unit setting operation is performed on the menu column C13, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the print function to the silent mode. In the menu screen MS2, the scan function includes a scan function that forms a copy function that is a composite function, and the print function includes a print function that forms a copy function that is a composite function.

  In addition, operation panel 109 accepts a batch conversion operation for batch converting all job execution modes of a plurality of functions into the same job execution mode on menu screen MS2. Specifically, when the menu column C11 or C14 is touched among the menu columns C11 to C14 in the menu screen MS2, the operation panel 109 receives the touch operation as a batch conversion operation. When the batch conversion operation is performed on the menu column C11, the main control unit 110 sets all job execution modes of a plurality of functions to the normal mode, and when the batch conversion operation is performed on the menu column C14, Set the job execution mode for multiple functions to silent mode.

  The operation panel 109 displays a menu screen MS3 as shown in FIG. 13 when the menu column C2 labeled “change in units of jobs” in the menu screen MS1 shown in FIG. 11 is touched. On the menu screen MS3, a menu column C21 labeled “permit” and a menu column C22 labeled “not permitted” are displayed.

  When the menu column C21 is touched, the job execution mode of the execution target job can be changed for each execution target job. When the menu column C22 is touched, the job execution mode of the execution target job is set for each execution target job. Cannot be changed. Note that the job execution mode setting change of the execution target job in units of execution target jobs will be described in detail later.

  For example, the user authentication function may be installed in the image forming apparatus 100, and only the administrator who manages the image forming apparatus 100 may be authorized to operate on the screens shown in FIGS. The user authentication function will be described in detail later.

(Setting the job execution mode of the execution target job for each execution target job)
The operation panel 109 accepts a job unit setting operation for setting a job execution mode of an execution target job (at least one of an executing job and a waiting job) for each execution target job. The job unit setting operation is accepted by the operation panel 109 during at least one of a job execution period in which the execution target job is being executed and a job standby period in which the execution target job is in a standby state.

  First, a case where the execution target job is a print job (including a copy job print process) will be described.

  When the job to be executed is a print job, the operation panel 109 shows that when the status confirmation key 95 (see FIG. 2) is pressed during at least one of the job execution period and the job waiting period, as shown in FIG. The job execution status screen SS1 is displayed. In the job execution status screen SS1, job information (for example, file format and data name) of the execution target job is displayed. In this job execution status screen SS1, the display color of the job information of the job being executed is reversed (outlined) in order to distinguish whether the job to be executed is an active job or a standby job. FIG. 14 shows, as an example, a job execution status screen SS1 when the execution target job is a job being executed.

  A mode setting key MK2 having a normal mode key NK2 and a silent mode key SK2 is also displayed in the job execution status screen SS1. The mode setting key MK2 is a key for accepting a job execution mode setting change of the execution target job corresponding to the job information displayed in the job execution status screen SS1. The normal mode key NK2 is a key for changing the job execution mode to the normal mode, and the silent mode key SK2 is a key for changing the job execution mode to the silent mode.

  When mode setting key MK2 is touched, operation panel 109 accepts the touch operation as a job unit setting operation. Then, when the operation panel 109 receives a function unit setting operation, the main control unit 110 changes the setting of the job execution mode of the execution target job for each execution target job based on the job unit setting operation received by the operation panel 109. .

  Specifically, when the job unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK2, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the execution target job to the normal if the normal mode key NK2 is an operation target. Change the setting to mode. On the other hand, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the execution target job to the silent mode if the silent mode key SK2 is an operation target when a job unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK2. Change settings.

  At this time, if the execution target job is an ongoing job, the main control unit 110 temporarily stops the execution target job after all the paper P being conveyed is discharged. Then, after changing the setting of the job execution mode of the execution target job, the main control unit 110 restarts the execution target job at a processing speed according to the job execution mode after the setting change. In addition, if the execution target job is a standby job, the main control unit 110 changes the job execution mode of the execution target job and then starts the execution target job at a processing speed according to the job execution mode after the setting change. Let

  Up to this point, the case where there is one execution target job has been described. However, the number of execution target jobs is not necessarily one, and there may be a plurality of execution target jobs. For example, another execution target job may be kept waiting while a predetermined execution target job is being executed. In such a case, if only one mode setting key MK2 is displayed in the job execution status screen SS1, the job execution mode of a plurality of execution target jobs cannot be changed for each execution target job. Therefore, the operation panel 109 displays a plurality of mode setting keys MK2 respectively corresponding to a plurality of execution target jobs, as shown in FIG. For example, the operation panel 109 displays the mode setting key MK2 one by one in a plurality of notation fields in which job information of a plurality of execution target jobs is indicated.

  Then, when the job unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK2, the main control unit 110, if the normal mode key NK2 is an operation target, the mode setting key MK2 on which the job unit setting operation has been performed. The job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job corresponding to is changed to the normal mode. On the other hand, when the job unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK2, if the silent mode key SK2 is an operation target, the main control unit 110 performs the mode setting key on which the job unit setting operation has been performed. The job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job corresponding to MK2 is changed to the silent mode. At this time, the main control unit 110 does not change the setting of the job execution mode of the execution target job other than the predetermined execution target job and keeps the previous setting.

  Next, a case where the execution target job is a scan job (including a copy job scan process) will be described.

  When the execution target job is a scan job, the operation panel 109 displays a job execution status screen SS2 as shown in FIG. 16 during the job execution period. In the job execution status screen SS2, for example, a message indicating that a scan job is being executed is displayed. The operation panel 109 also displays a mode setting key MK2 in the job execution status screen SS2, and accepts an operation for touching the mode setting key MK2 as a job unit setting operation. Then, when the operation panel 109 receives a function unit setting operation, the main control unit 110 changes the setting of the job execution mode of the execution target job for each execution target job based on the job unit setting operation received by the operation panel 109. .

  By the way, when the operation panel 109 displays the job execution status screens SS1 and SS2, the operation panel 109 visibly shows whether the job execution mode of the execution target job is the normal mode or the silent mode. For example, when the job execution mode of the execution target job is the normal mode, the operation panel 109 sets the display mode of the normal mode key NK2 among the mode setting keys MK2 to the first display mode (for example, the display color is chromatic) In addition, the display mode of the silent mode key SK2 is set to a second display mode different from the first display mode (for example, the display color is achromatic). On the other hand, when the job execution mode of the execution target job is the silent mode, the operation panel 109 sets the display mode of the silent mode key SK2 among the mode setting keys MK2 to the first display mode and the normal mode key NK2. The display form is the second display form. In FIG. 14 to FIG. 16, for convenience, among the normal mode key NK2 and the silent mode key SK2, the keys displayed in the first display form are shaded to distinguish the first display form from the second display form. .

  Further, the operation panel 109 displays the display mode of the normal mode key NK2 when the normal mode key NK2 is displayed in the first display mode and the display mode of the silent mode key SK2 when the silent mode key SK2 is displayed in the first display mode. Are different from each other (for example, display colors or shades are different from each other).

  For the mode setting key MK1 shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, if the job execution mode of the corresponding function is the normal mode, the display color of the normal mode key NK1 is red, and the job execution mode of the corresponding function is silent. In the mode, the display color of the silent mode key SK1 is blue. Accordingly, for the mode setting key MK2, in accordance with the display form of the mode setting key MK1, if the job execution mode of the execution target job is the normal mode, the display color of the normal mode key NK2 is red and the job execution of the execution target job is executed. If the mode is the silent mode, the display color of the silent mode key SK2 is preferably blue.

  The operation panel 109 also displays an icon MI2 (see FIGS. 14 to 16) that visually identifies whether the job execution mode set by the main control unit 110 is the normal mode or the silent mode. . For example, operation panel 109 displays icon MI2 in the display area of mode setting key MK2.

  The operation panel 109 also displays sound information SI2 indicating how much the sound level generated during job execution changes as the job execution mode is changed. For example, as shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the operation panel 109 displays text indicating a change in sound level in decibels in the job execution status screen SS1 (SS2).

  Next, a flow when setting the job execution mode of the execution target job for each execution target job will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Assume that the operation panel 109 displays the job execution status screen SS1 (SS2) at the start of the flowchart of FIG. In this state, when the panel control unit 150 detects that a job unit setting operation has been performed on the operation panel 109, the flowchart of FIG. 17 starts.

  In step S <b> 11, the main control unit 110 identifies the predetermined execution target job that is the target of the job unit setting operation based on the detection result received from the panel control unit 150.

  In step S12, the main control unit 110 changes the setting of the job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job. At this time, if the predetermined execution target job is an ongoing job, the main control unit 110 temporarily stops the predetermined execution target job, changes the job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job, The predetermined execution target job is resumed at a processing speed corresponding to the job execution mode. If there are multiple execution target jobs including the predetermined execution target job, only the job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job is changed, and the job execution mode of the execution target job other than the predetermined execution target job is set. Keep the previous setting without changing it.

  In step S13, the main control unit 110 instructs the panel control unit 150 to change the display of the job execution status screen SS1 (SS2). Specifically, when the job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job is set to the normal mode, the panel control unit 150 changes the display mode of the normal mode key NK2 among the mode setting keys MK2 corresponding to the predetermined execution target job. In addition to the first display mode, the display mode of the silent mode key SK2 is the second display mode. On the other hand, when the job execution mode of the predetermined execution target job is set to the silent mode, the panel control unit 150 sets the first display mode of the silent mode key SK2 among the mode setting keys MK2 corresponding to the predetermined execution target job. In addition to the display mode, the display mode of the normal mode key NK2 is the second display mode.

  In step S14, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not the operation panel 109 has accepted the job unit setting operation again. As a result, if the operation panel 109 accepts a job unit setting operation, the process proceeds to step S11. On the other hand, if the operation panel 109 does not accept the job unit setting operation, the process proceeds to step S15.

  When the process proceeds to step S15, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not the execution of all execution target jobs has been completed. As a result, if the execution of all execution target jobs has been completed, the flowchart of FIG. 17 ends. On the other hand, if the execution of all the execution target jobs is not completed, the process proceeds to step S14.

  Incidentally, the job execution mode of the execution target job may be set and changed according to the job amount of the execution target job. In this case, the main control unit 110 calculates a job amount based on the job data of the execution target job, and determines whether or not the job amount of the execution target job exceeds a predetermined threshold. If the job amount of the execution target job exceeds the threshold, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the execution target job to the normal mode. On the other hand, if the job amount of the execution target job does not exceed the threshold, The job execution mode of the execution target job is set to the silent mode.

  For example, when executing a print job (including print processing of a copy job), the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the print job to the normal mode if the job amount of the print job exceeds a threshold value. If the job amount of the print job does not exceed the threshold, the print job execution mode is set to the silent mode. Alternatively, when executing the print job, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the print job to the normal mode and sets the job amount of the standby job to the threshold value if the job amount of the standby job exceeds the threshold value. If not, the job execution mode of the print job is set to the silent mode. The main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the print job being executed to the normal mode when the job amount of the standby job exceeds the threshold value during execution of the print job, and is waiting during execution of the print job. If the job amount of the job is equal to or less than the threshold value, the job execution mode of the print job being executed is set to the silent mode.

  In addition, for example, the main control unit 110 counts the number of read sheets (corresponding to the job amount) during execution of a scan job (including a copy job scan process). If the job execution mode of the scan job being executed is set to the silent mode when the number of read sheets exceeds a predetermined threshold, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the scan job being executed. Change the setting to normal mode.

  (Setting the job execution mode linked to the power mode (default mode))

  The operation panel 109 accepts a power mode setting operation for setting whether to prohibit the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode. When accepting the power mode setting operation, the operation panel 109 displays a power mode setting screen ES as shown in FIG. 18, for example. The operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is prohibited when the “Yes” key K1 is touched. If the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is prohibited, the main control unit 110 does not shift from the normal power mode to the power saving mode. On the other hand, when the “No” key K2 is touched, operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is permitted. If the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is permitted, the main control unit 110 starts from the normal power mode when the condition for shifting from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. Shift to power saving mode.

  In this configuration, the default job execution mode (default mode) stored in the storage unit 112 may be linked to the power mode. Specifically, the storage unit 112 stores the normal mode as the default mode when the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is prohibited. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus 100 is started after the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is restricted, the job execution mode is set to the normal mode which is the default mode. In this case, the image forming apparatus 100 is activated when the main power is turned on again after the main power of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned off because the mode does not shift from the normal power mode to the power saving mode. .

  On the other hand, the storage unit 112 stores the silent mode as the default mode when the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is permitted. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus 100 is started after the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is accepted, the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, which is the default mode. The image forming apparatus 100 in this case is activated when the main power of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned off and then turned on again or when the power saving mode is restored to the normal power mode. It is.

(Job execution mode linked to job execution frequency (default mode) setting)
The main control unit 110 compares the job execution frequency in the normal mode with the job execution frequency in the silent mode within a predetermined period. The predetermined period is not particularly limited. For example, the predetermined period may be a period from when the main power is turned on to the image forming apparatus 100 until it is disconnected, or may be one day to several tens of days.

  In this configuration, the default job execution mode (default mode) stored in the storage unit 112 may be linked to the job execution frequency. Specifically, the storage unit 112 stores the normal mode as a default mode if the job execution frequency in the normal mode within a predetermined period is higher than the job execution frequency in the silent mode. Accordingly, when the job execution frequency in the normal mode within the predetermined period is higher than the job execution frequency in the silent mode, the job execution mode is the default when the image forming apparatus 100 is started after the end of the predetermined period. The normal mode that is the mode is set.

  On the other hand, if the job execution frequency in the silent mode within the predetermined period is higher than the job execution frequency in the normal mode, the storage unit 112 stores the silent mode as the default mode. Accordingly, when the job execution frequency in the silent mode within the predetermined period is higher than the job execution frequency in the normal mode, the job execution mode is the default when the image forming apparatus 100 is started after the end of the predetermined period. The silent mode that is the mode is set.

(Setting the job execution mode linked to user authentication (default mode))
The image forming apparatus 100 is equipped with a user authentication function (login function). In such an image forming apparatus 100, authentication information for performing user authentication is registered in advance and stored in the storage unit 112.

  A user who receives authentication first inputs his / her identification information (for example, a user name and a password). The operation panel 109 accepts input of identification information from the user. When the operation panel 109 receives input of identification information from the user, the operation panel 109 displays an identification information input screen IS as shown in FIG. Then, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not to authenticate the user who has input the identification information, based on the identification information and the authentication information input by the user. For example, if the identification information input by the user matches the authentication information, the main control unit 110 authenticates the user who has input the identification information (login to the image forming apparatus 100 is permitted).

  Here, the storage unit 112 stores one of the normal mode and the silent mode in association with the authentication information as a default mode. Note that the user can determine which of the normal mode and the silent mode is associated with the authentication information as the default mode when registering the authentication information. When the main control unit 110 authenticates the user who has input the identification information, the main control unit 110 sets the default mode corresponding to the authentication information that is the basis of the authentication as the job execution mode.

  When the user authentication function is installed in the image forming apparatus 100, only an administrator who manages the image forming apparatus 100 is authorized to change the job execution mode, and a general user other than the administrator can change the job execution mode setting. May be disabled. Alternatively, the general user may be given only the authority to change the job execution mode of multiple types of functions in units of functions, or only the authority to change the job execution mode of the execution target job in units of execution targets You may give to.

(Fan drive control based on job execution mode)
The main control unit 110 also varies the drive time of the fan 100F (time to continue driving after the job ends) when the job execution mode is set to the normal mode and when the job execution mode is set to the silent mode. Specifically, when the job execution mode is the quiet mode, the fan 100F shortens the time for which the fan 100F continues to be driven after the end of the job, compared to when the job execution mode is the normal mode.

  The image forming apparatus 100 according to the present exemplary embodiment executes a job having a plurality of types of functions, a job execution unit 108 that sets the processing speed to a normal processing speed in the normal mode, and sets the processing speed to the silent processing speed in the silent mode. A main control unit 110 (mode setting unit) for setting which job execution mode of the mode and silent mode is to be executed, and an operation panel 109 (operation unit) for accepting a job execution mode setting operation. . The operation panel 109 receives a function unit setting operation for setting the job execution mode in units of functions. When the operation panel 109 accepts a function unit setting operation, the main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode for each function based on the function unit setting operation accepted by the operation panel 109. The job execution unit 108 executes a job in the job execution mode set by the main control unit 110.

  In the configuration of the present embodiment, the job execution mode for a plurality of types of functions can be set and changed for each function. That is, it is possible to change the setting of only the job execution mode of a predetermined function among a plurality of types of functions and to keep the job execution mode of a function other than the predetermined function with the previous setting. Thus, for example, when the job execution mode of a plurality of types of functions is all set to the normal mode and the job is to be executed in the silent mode only when a predetermined function is used among the plurality of types of functions (functions other than the predetermined function). If you want to execute a job in the normal mode when using, you need to change the setting of the job execution mode when using functions other than the predetermined function by changing only the job execution mode of the predetermined function. Disappear. As a result, the number of user operations (operations for changing the job execution mode setting) is reduced, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 accepts a function unit setting operation for each of the two functions of the scan function and the print function that constitute the copy function for the copy function (composite function). With this configuration, when using the copy function, the job execution mode can be made different between the scan process and the print process.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 includes the liquid crystal display unit 91 (display unit) with a touch panel, and changes the setting to the normal mode key NK1 for changing the setting to the normal mode and the silent mode. A mode setting key MK1 having a silent mode key SK1 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 91 for each of a plurality of functions, and an operation of touching the mode setting key MK1 is accepted as a function unit setting operation. Then, when the function unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK1, if the normal mode key NK1 is the operation target, the main control unit 110 performs the mode setting key MK1 on which the function unit setting operation has been performed. If the job execution mode of the function corresponding to the function mode is set to the normal mode and the silent mode key SK1 is an operation target, the job execution mode of the function corresponding to the mode setting key MK1 for which the function unit setting operation has been performed is set. Set to silent mode. If comprised in this way, functional unit setting operation can be made into simple operation (operation which only touches mode setting key MK1). Further, since the mode setting key MK1 is displayed for each of a plurality of types of functions, it is easy to understand which mode setting key MK1 should be subjected to the function unit setting operation.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 has 2 corresponding to the two functions of the scan function and the print function that constitute the copy function in the display area of the mode setting key MK1 corresponding to the copy function. One mode setting key MK1 is displayed. With this configuration, the function unit setting operation can be easily performed for each of the two functions of the scan function and the print function that form the copy function.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 sets the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 among the mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the function set to the normal mode as the first display mode, While the display mode of the silent mode key SK1 is the second display mode different from the first display mode, the mode of the silent mode key SK1 among the mode setting keys MK1 corresponding to the function set to the silent mode is the first. In addition to the display mode, the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 is the second display mode. Further, the operation panel 109 displays the display mode of the normal mode key NK1 when the normal mode key NK1 is displayed in the first display mode and the display mode of the silent mode key SK1 when the silent mode key SK1 is displayed in the first display mode. Make them different from each other. With this configuration, it is possible to grasp the current job execution mode of the function corresponding to the mode setting key MK1 only by looking at the mode setting key MK1.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 displays the device image AI of the image forming apparatus 100 on the liquid crystal display unit 91. Then, when displaying the device image AI on the liquid crystal display unit 91, the operation panel 109 sets the display form of the device portion for realizing the function set to the normal mode to the third display form, while switching to the silent mode. The display form of the device portion for realizing the set function is a fourth display form different from the third display form. If comprised in this way, the function set to normal mode and the function set to silent mode can be grasped | ascertained only by seeing apparatus image AI.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 accepts an operation of touching the display area of the device image AI as a function unit setting operation. Then, when the functional unit setting operation is performed on the display area of the device image AI, the main control unit 110 executes the job of the function realized in the device portion located in the display area where the functional unit setting operation is performed. Change the mode setting. With this configuration, it is only necessary to touch the device portion corresponding to the function whose job execution mode is to be changed in the device image AI, so that the function unit setting operation is intuitive and easy to understand.

  In this embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 accepts a batch conversion operation for batch conversion of job execution modes of a plurality of types of functions to the same job execution mode. When the operation panel 109 receives a batch conversion operation, the main control unit 110 converts all job execution modes of a plurality of types of functions into the same job execution mode based on the batch conversion operation received by the operation panel 109. . With this configuration, in addition to being able to set job execution modes for multiple types of functions in units of functions, it is also possible to batch-convert job execution modes for multiple types of functions to the same job execution mode. Convenience is improved.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the job execution unit 108 includes the image forming unit 106 that forms an image and prints it on the paper P, and the paper feeding unit 104 that supplies the paper P to the image forming unit 106. The operation panel 109 is an operation for changing the job execution mode setting for each sheet feeding unit 104 for the function of using the sheet feeding unit 104 when the sheet feeding unit 104 is mounted in the image forming apparatus 100 in a plurality of stages. Accept. According to this configuration, when the paper feeding unit 104 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 in a plurality of stages, the job execution mode can be set and changed for each paper feeding unit 104.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 is configured to set the job execution mode of the execution target job that is at least one of the executing job and the standby job in units of execution target jobs. The setting operation is accepted during at least one of a job execution period in which the execution target job is being executed and a job standby period in which the execution target job is in a standby state. When the operation panel 109 receives a job unit setting operation, the main control unit 110 sets a job execution mode for each execution target job based on the job unit setting operation received by the operation panel 109. The job execution unit 108 executes the execution target job in the job execution mode set by the main control unit 110. According to this configuration, the job execution mode of the execution target job can be set and changed for each execution target job during at least one of the job execution period and the job waiting period. In other words, during execution of the execution target job, it is possible to change the setting of the job execution mode of the execution target job being executed, and to change the setting of the job execution mode of the execution target job that is waiting while the execution target job is waiting You can also In addition, since the job execution mode of the execution target job can be changed for each execution target job, when multiple execution target jobs are waiting, the specific execution target job is selected from the multiple execution target jobs. Only the job execution mode can be changed, and the job execution modes of the remaining execution target jobs can be retained with the previous settings. Furthermore, when another execution target job is waiting while the execution target job is running, only the job execution mode of the execution target job that is being executed is changed, or the job execution mode of the execution target job that is waiting is changed. You can also change only the settings. This improves user convenience.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 is set to the normal mode key NK2 for changing the setting to the normal mode and the silent mode during at least one of the job execution period and the job waiting period. A mode setting key MK2 having a silent mode key SK2 for changing is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 91, and an operation of touching the mode setting key MK2 is accepted as a job unit setting operation. The main control unit 110 sets the job execution mode of the execution target job to the normal mode if the normal mode key NK2 is an operation target when the job unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key MK2. On the other hand, if the silent mode key SK2 is an operation target, the job execution mode of the execution target job is set to the silent mode. According to this configuration, the job unit setting operation can be a simple operation (an operation by simply touching the mode setting key MK2).

  Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, when there are a plurality of execution target jobs, the operation panel 109 displays a plurality of mode setting keys MK2 corresponding to the plurality of execution target jobs, thereby displaying the job unit. Accept setting operations in units of execution target jobs. With this configuration, even when there are a plurality of execution target jobs, the job execution modes of the plurality of execution target jobs can be set and changed for each execution target job.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 displays the job execution status screen SS1 (SS2) indicating the execution status of the job to be executed in at least one of the job execution period and the job waiting period. The mode setting key MK2 is displayed in the job execution status screen SS1 (SS2). With this configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the job execution mode should be changed while checking the execution status of the execution target job.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 sets the display mode of the normal mode key NK2 among the mode setting keys MK2 corresponding to the execution target job set to the normal mode as the first display mode. At the same time, the display mode of the silent mode key SK2 is changed to the second display mode different from the first display mode, while the silent mode key SK2 is displayed among the mode setting keys MK2 corresponding to the execution target job set to the silent mode. The form is the first display form, and the display form of the normal mode key NK2 is the second display form. Further, the operation panel 109 displays the display mode of the normal mode key NK2 when the normal mode key NK2 is displayed in the first display mode and the display mode of the silent mode key SK2 when the silent mode key SK2 is displayed in the first display mode. Make them different from each other. With this configuration, the current job execution mode of the execution target job corresponding to the mode setting key MK2 can be grasped only by looking at the mode setting key MK2.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the main control unit 110 calculates the job amount of the execution target job, determines whether the job amount exceeds a predetermined threshold, and determines whether the job amount is a threshold. Is exceeded, the job execution mode of the execution target job is set to the normal mode, while if the job amount does not exceed the threshold, the job execution mode of the execution target job is set to the silent mode. With this configuration, even if the job execution mode is set to the silent mode, if the job amount is large, the setting is automatically changed to the normal mode, so that the job can be ended quickly. . Conversely, even if the job execution mode is set to the normal mode, when the job amount is small (when it is expected that the time until the end of the job is short), the setting is automatically changed to the silent mode.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the storage unit 112 that stores one of the normal mode and the silent mode as the default mode, and the normal power mode, the normal power supply is performed to the power supply unit 180. In the power saving mode, the power supply unit 170 includes a power supply unit 170 that restricts power supply to the power-supplied supply unit 180 more than in the normal power mode. The main control unit 110 sets the default mode stored in the storage unit 112 as the job execution mode when the image forming apparatus 100 is activated. In addition, the operation panel 109 receives an operation for setting whether to prohibit the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode.

  In this configuration, when the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is prohibited, the normal mode is stored in the storage unit 112 as the default mode, while the normal power mode is changed to the power saving mode. When the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition is permitted, the silent mode may be stored in the storage unit 112 as the default mode. Here, since the user who prohibits the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode frequently uses the image forming apparatus 100, the user often wants to end the job quickly. Therefore, when the operation panel 109 accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is prohibited, if the normal mode is stored in the storage unit 112 as the default mode, user convenience is improved.

  Further, in the configuration in which the job execution mode set when the image forming apparatus 100 is activated is the default mode stored in the storage unit 112, the job execution frequency in the normal mode within a predetermined period is the silent mode. If the job execution frequency is higher than the job execution frequency in the normal mode, the normal mode is stored in the storage unit 112 as the default mode. You may memorize | store in the memory | storage part 112 as default mode. As a result, the job execution mode set when the image forming apparatus 100 is activated becomes the job execution mode corresponding to the usage status of the image forming apparatus 100, and the convenience for the user is improved.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the storage unit 112 stores authentication information registered in advance for user authentication, and uses either the normal mode or the silent mode as the default mode for the authentication information. Is stored in association with. The main control unit 110 determines whether to authenticate the user who has input the identification information based on the identification information and the authentication information. When the main control unit 110 authenticates the user who has input the identification information, the main control unit 110 sets the default mode corresponding to the authentication information that is the basis of the authentication as the job execution mode. With this configuration, when the user is authenticated when using the image forming apparatus 100, the job execution mode set at the time of authentication is the job execution mode registered in advance by the authenticated user, so that convenience for the user is improved. To do.

  Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 displays the icon MI1 and the icon MI1 that can visually identify whether the job execution mode set by the main control unit 110 is the normal mode or the silent mode. MI2 is displayed. With this configuration, it becomes easy to identify whether the job execution mode set by the main control unit 110 is the normal mode or the silent mode.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the operation panel 109 displays the sound information SI1 and SI2 indicating how much the sound level generated during job execution changes as the job execution mode is changed. To do. This improves user convenience.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the fan 100F that is driven during job execution is provided. When the job execution mode is the silent mode, the fan 100F has a shorter time to continue driving after the end of the job than when the job execution mode set by the main control unit 110 is the normal mode. To do. If comprised in this way, the silence in the silent mode will further increase.

  It should be thought that embodiment disclosed this time is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the description of the above-described embodiment but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes meanings equivalent to the scope of claims for patent and all modifications within the scope.

91 Display unit 100 Image forming apparatus 100F Fan 104 Paper feed unit 106 Image forming unit 108 Job execution unit 109 Operation panel (operation unit)
110 Main control unit (mode setting unit)
112 Storage Unit 170 Power Supply Unit 180 Powered Supply Unit AI Device Image MI1 Icon MK1 Mode Setting Key NK1 Normal Mode Key SI1 Sound Information SK1 Silent Mode Key

Claims (15)

Two job executions: a normal mode in which a job is executed at a predetermined normal processing speed, and a silent mode that increases the quietness during job execution by executing the job at a silent processing speed slower than the normal processing speed. An image forming apparatus equipped with a mode,
A job execution unit that executes a job of a plurality of types of functions, sets the processing speed to the normal processing speed in the normal mode, and sets the processing speed to the silent processing speed in the silent mode
A mode setting unit for setting which job execution mode of the normal mode and the silent mode to execute a job;
An operation unit for accepting an operation for setting the job execution mode;
A storage unit for storing one of the normal mode and the silent mode as a default mode;
It is a part that supplies power to the power-supplied supply unit including the job execution unit and the mode setting unit. In the normal power mode, normal power supply is performed to the power-supplied supply unit. A power supply unit that limits power supply to the power-supplied supply unit as compared to the normal power mode ,
The operation unit accepts an operation for setting whether or not to prohibit the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode, and a function unit setting operation for setting the job execution mode in the function unit Accept
The storage unit stores the normal mode as the default mode when the operation unit accepts that the transition from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is prohibited. When the operation unit accepts that the transition to the mode is permitted, the silent mode is stored as the default mode,
The mode setting unit sets the default mode stored in the storage unit as the job execution mode when the image forming apparatus is activated, and when the operation unit receives the functional unit setting operation, the operation unit Based on the received functional unit setting operation, the job execution mode is set in the functional unit,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the job execution unit executes a job in the job execution mode set by the mode setting unit.   When there is a composite function realized by a combination of two or more functions among the plurality of types of functions, the operation unit has the function unit for each of two or more functions constituting the composite function. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a setting operation is received. The operation unit includes a display unit with a touch panel, and includes a normal mode key for changing the setting to the normal mode and a mode setting key having a silent mode key for changing the setting to the silent mode for each of the plurality of types of functions. Display on the display unit, and accept an operation of touching the mode setting key as the functional unit setting operation,
When the functional unit setting operation is performed on the mode setting key, the mode setting unit performs the functional unit setting operation if the normal mode key is an operation target. While the job execution mode of the function corresponding to the function is set to the normal mode, and the silent mode key is an operation target, the function corresponding to the mode setting key on which the function unit setting operation is performed The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the job execution mode is set to the silent mode.   When there is a composite function realized by a combination of two or more functions among the plurality of types of functions, the operation unit displays the composite function in a display area of the mode setting key corresponding to the composite function. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein two or more mode setting keys respectively corresponding to the two or more functions to be formed are displayed.   Of the mode setting keys corresponding to the function set to the normal mode, the operation unit sets the display mode of the normal mode key as a first display mode and the display mode of the silent mode key as the first mode. While the second display form is different from the one display form, among the mode setting keys corresponding to the function set to the silent mode, the display form of the silent mode key is the first display form, 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the display mode of the normal mode key is the second display mode.   The operation unit displays the normal mode key when the normal mode key is displayed in the first display form, and the display mode of the silent mode key when the silent mode key is displayed in the first display form. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the image forming apparatuses are made different from each other.   The operation unit includes a display unit with a touch panel, and displays the device image of the image forming apparatus on the display unit, and the function set to the normal mode when displaying the device image on the display unit. The display form of the device part for realizing the third display form is the third display form, while the display form of the device part for realizing the function set in the silent mode is a fourth display different from the third display form. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is in a form. The operation unit accepts an operation of touching a display area of the device image as the functional unit setting operation,
The mode setting unit, when the function unit setting operation is performed on the display area of the device image, The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the job execution mode is changed. The operation unit accepts a batch conversion operation for batch-converting all the job execution modes of the plurality of functions into the same job execution mode;
When the operation unit receives the batch conversion operation, the mode setting unit sets all the job execution modes of the plurality of functions to the same job execution mode based on the batch conversion operation received by the operation unit. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein batch conversion is performed. The job execution unit includes an image forming unit that forms an image and prints it on a sheet, and a paper feeding unit that supplies the sheet to the image forming unit,
The operation unit accepts an operation for setting the job execution mode in units of the sheet feeding unit for the function using the sheet feeding unit when the sheet feeding unit is mounted in a plurality of stages in the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus. A storage unit for storing one of the normal mode and the silent mode as a default mode;
The mode setting unit sets the default mode stored in the storage unit as the job execution mode when the image forming apparatus is activated.
The storage unit stores the normal mode as the default mode if the job execution frequency in the normal mode is higher than the job execution frequency in the silent mode within a predetermined period. if the job execution frequency in said silent mode at the inner is higher than the job execution frequency in the normal mode, in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that storing the silent mode as the default mode The image forming apparatus described. A storage unit that stores pre-registered authentication information for performing user authentication and stores one of the normal mode and the silent mode as a default mode in association with the authentication information,
Wherein the mode setting unit determines whether to authenticate the user who enters the identification information based on said authentication information and identification information, when authenticating the user who inputs the identification information, a certification group the image forming apparatus according to the default mode corresponding to the authentication information to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that to set as the job execution mode. The operation unit includes a display unit, and displays an icon on the display unit to visually identify whether the job execution mode set by the mode setting unit is the normal mode or the silent mode. the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that to. The operation unit includes a display unit, and causes the display unit to display sound information indicating how much a sound level generated during job execution changes as the job execution mode is changed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13 . With a fan that drives during job execution,
When the job execution mode is the silent mode, the fan continues to drive after completion of the job more than when the job execution mode set by the mode setting unit is the normal mode. the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the shortening.