JP5963650B2 - Image forming apparatus and image forming method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming method for forming an image on a recording medium by transferring a transfer material on the transfer medium.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a color thermal printer that uses a belt-like color transfer ribbon in which ink layer rows in which a plurality of ink layers corresponding to one page of a transfer paper are formed in a predetermined order are continuously arranged. Have been described. In this printer, only when a transfer sheet having a size about half the length of each ink layer is detected, it is determined whether or not each headed ink layer is used for the second time. Only when it is determined that it is used for the second time, the mark detection unit moves the color transfer ribbon until the intermediate position cueing timing mark attached to the intermediate position of each ink layer is detected.

  Patent Document 2 describes a thermal transfer recording apparatus that performs transfer recording on a recording sheet using an ink sheet corresponding to an A4 size recording sheet and including a dye portion of each color. This thermal transfer recording apparatus includes a counter that counts the number of recording sheets up to the present in the A5 size recording mode. When continuous recording is performed on an A5 size recording sheet, if the counter value is an odd number, In the same manner as described above, transfer recording for each color is performed. If the counter value is an even number, the rewinding motor is driven to perform transfer recording for each color while rewinding the ink sheet.

  Patent Document 3 describes a thermal printer that prints an image by transferring a donor material from a donor patch of a donor ribbon to a recording medium. In this printer, data indicating whether or not a partially used donor patch is available for printing is stored in an electronic memory, and whether or not the partially used donor patch is used for printing is determined based on the data. If the donor patch can be used for the second printing, the donor ribbon is moved to the position where the partially used donor patch and the print head are aligned at the end of the first printing.

  Patent Document 4 describes a printer that can be used by selectively loading one of ribbons capable of L size or 2L size photo printing. When printing a plurality of L sizes using a 2L printer, this printer determines whether there is waiting data in the buffer built in the main controller. If there is waiting data in the buffer, L size printing is performed. The data and the waiting data stored in the buffer are combined and developed in the frame memory, and the contents developed in the frame memory are printed.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 03-000282 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 06-143720 US Pat. No. 6,502,408 Japanese Patent No. 4178921

  In a conventional image forming apparatus using a belt-shaped transfer medium in which a plurality of first size areas including a plurality of transfer materials to be transferred onto a recording medium are repeatedly arranged in a predetermined order in a conveyance direction, When image formation of the second size that is less than half of the size of the transfer material is performed, unused transfer material contained in each region of the used transfer medium is replaced with new image formation of the second size. Information indicating whether or not it can be reused is stored in the electronic memory. For this reason, in order to reuse the unused transfer material contained in each area of the used transfer medium, such an electronic memory is required.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus in which an unused transfer material contained in each area of a used transfer medium can be reused without providing an electronic memory for storing the use status of the transfer medium. Objective. It is another object of the present invention to suppress waste that may occur in a transfer medium with a simplified structure as compared with the case where the configuration of the present invention is not provided.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention transports a belt-shaped transfer medium in which a plurality of first-size areas including a plurality of transfer materials to be transferred to a recording medium are repeatedly arranged in a predetermined order in a transport direction. A transfer unit, an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium by transferring the transfer material of the transfer medium for each region, and a detection that detects the transfer material conveyed to the image forming position where the image is formed And an unused transfer material included in each area used for the previous image formation of the second size, which is less than half of the first size, for the new image formation of the second size. The determination unit that determines whether or not it can be used from the transfer material detected by the detection unit, and when the determination unit determines that it can be reused, the leading position of the reusable transfer medium portion is the image formation position Transfer media in the reverse direction of the conveyance direction until it comes to It controls the transport unit to transport, and having a control unit which controls the image forming section and the conveyance section so as to perform a new image formed using the transfer material unused.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, at least three regions including at least three transfer materials are repeatedly arranged on the transfer medium, and the first transfer is performed at the time of image formation by the image forming unit among the plurality of transfer materials. It is preferable that the determination unit determines that it can be reused when the detection unit detects a transfer material for determination other than the transfer material and other than the transfer material that is transferred last.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit performs detection after the image forming unit forms the second size of the previous image using each unused area of the entire surface. It is preferable to control the conveyance unit so that the conveyance unit conveys the transfer medium in the direction opposite to the conveyance direction until the determination transfer material region comes to a position.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit receives the second image data of the second size within a predetermined time after receiving the first image data of the second size from the host computer. When received, the first image data and the second image data are allocated in the same region of the transfer material, and the image forming unit is controlled to perform image formation of the first image data and the second image data. It is preferable to do.

  In addition, the image forming method according to the present invention is configured to transfer a band-shaped transfer medium in which a plurality of first-size areas including a plurality of transfer materials are repeatedly arranged in a conveyance order in a predetermined order for each area. An image forming method for forming an image on a recording medium by transferring the transfer material onto a recording medium, the step of detecting the transfer material conveyed to an image forming position where the image is formed, Whether or not the unused transfer material contained in each area used for the previous image formation of the second size, which is less than half the size of the image, can be reused for the new image formation of the second size. Transfer from the detected transfer material, and when it is determined that the transfer material can be reused, transfer is performed in the direction opposite to the conveyance direction until the top position of the reusable transfer medium portion reaches the image forming position. Media transport process and unused transfer Characterized in that it and a step of performing a new image formed using the fee.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to determine whether or not an unused transfer material included in each region of a used transfer medium can be reused without providing an electronic memory for storing the use status of the transfer medium. . Further, according to the present invention, waste that may occur in the transfer medium can be suppressed with a simplified structure as compared with the case where the configuration of the present invention is not provided.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a printer. It is the figure which expanded the periphery of the head 3 of FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the movement of the ink ribbon 4 in the first operation example of the printer 1. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a first operation example of the printer 1. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification of a 1st operation example. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a drawer portion 11 of the printer 1. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating attachment to the printer 1 of ribbon roller 4A, 4B. It is a figure for demonstrating the misjudgment which may occur when determining whether there exists a half unused panel by the color of the panel in sensor position Ps depending on whether it is overcoat or yellow. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an operation example of a conventional printer. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a second operation example of the printer. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a second operation example of the printer 1.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus and an image forming method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but extends to the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of the printer 1. In FIG. 1, only components necessary for explanation are shown in the components included in the printer 1, and other components are omitted.

  In a printer that performs multicolor printing such as color printing, printing is performed in four colors including three primary colors (yellow, magenta, cyan) or black. As such a multicolor printer, there is a printer that prints different colors on the same sheet by repeating printing a plurality of times while reciprocating a roll-shaped recording sheet. The printer 1 (an example of an image forming apparatus) reciprocates a roll-shaped recording sheet (an example of a recording medium) with respect to a head, thereby repeating image formation a plurality of times on the recording sheet, for example, on the same sheet surface. It is a printer that forms images of different colors.

  The printer 1 holds a roll-shaped recording paper 10 in a roll paper holder 2 and forms an image on the recording surface of the recording paper 10 unwound from the roll paper holder 2. In order to hold the roll-shaped recording paper 10 on the roll paper holder 2, for example, the central axis of the roll-shaped recording paper 10 is rotatably supported by the roll paper holder 2. Thereby, the recording paper 10 can be rotatably accommodated in the roll paper holder 2.

  The image formation is performed by recording ink at a predetermined position by the head 3 while bringing the ink ribbon 4 (an example of a transfer medium) into contact with the recording surface of the recording paper 10. At that time, the ink ribbon 4 and the recording paper 10 are moved in an overlapped manner and passed between the head 3 and the platen roller 9. The head 3 is configured to be movable with respect to the platen roller 9, and is pressed against and contacts the platen roller 9 during image formation. The printer 1 forms an image by causing a heating element constituting the head 3 to generate heat in a predetermined pattern and transferring the image from the ink ribbon 4 onto the recording paper 10.

  In order to form a color image, yellow, magenta, and cyan ink portions (an example of a transfer material) corresponding to the color to be imaged are sequentially prepared on the ink ribbon 4 along the winding direction of the ink ribbon 4. The operation of passing the ink portion through the head 3 while winding the ink ribbon 4 is repeated for each color. The ink ribbon 4 is supplied from the supply-side ribbon roller 4A and is taken up by the winding-up ribbon roller 4B. Hereinafter, these rollers are also simply referred to as “ribbon rollers 4A and 4B”. The ink ribbon 4 is guided by a ribbon guide roller 15 between the supply side ribbon roller 4 </ b> A and the head 3, and a ribbon guide portion 16 (see FIG. 2A) configured integrally with the head 3.

  In the image formation of each color, the recording paper 10 is once fed through the position of the head 3 to form an image, and then reversed by reversing the direction. The head 3 forms an image in the process of rewinding the recording paper 10. When forming an image, the printer 1 reciprocates the recording paper 10 in order to form an image of each color on the same image forming area of the recording paper 10. The reciprocation of the recording paper 10 is performed by a grip roller 17 and a pinch roller 18 provided in the conveyance path of the recording paper 10. These rollers repeat the unwinding and rewinding of the recording paper 10 while changing the rotation direction of the roll paper holder 2 in accordance with the conveying direction of the recording paper 10. When image formation is not performed, the pinch roller 18 is separated from the grip roller 17 and the recording paper 10 is released. On the other hand, at the time of image formation, the grip roller 17 and the pinch roller 18 convey the recording paper 10 therebetween. In this way, the recording paper 10 is reciprocated with respect to the head 3, and image formation is repeated a plurality of times on the same image forming area of the recording paper 10.

  The ink ribbon 4 includes an overcoat layer (an example of a transfer material) in addition to the yellow, magenta, and cyan ink portions, and the overcoat layer is formed on the surface of the recording paper 10 on which all color images have been formed. The surface can be protected by covering.

  The recording paper 10 on which image formation has been completed passes through the head 3 portion, then passes through the discharge path 13, and is discharged from the discharge port 6 provided in the housing 7 of the printer 1 to the outside of the printer.

  Further, the printer 1 includes a recording paper cutting unit 5 on the discharge path 13 and at a position immediately before the discharge port 6. The recording paper cutting unit 5 cuts the recording paper 10 that has passed through the discharge path 13 and sent to the outside from the discharge port 6 at a position before the discharge port 6. Thereby, the cut recording paper 10 can be taken out from the discharge port 6. In addition, the recording paper cutting unit 5 can cut the recording paper 10 short by cutting the recording paper 10 at a plurality of positions before the recording paper 10 protrudes from the discharge port 6.

  The printer 1 further includes a control unit 30, a data memory 31, a recording paper drive unit 32, a head drive unit 33, an ink ribbon drive unit 34, a cutting control unit 35, and a communication interface 36.

  The control unit 30 controls the overall operation of the printer 1. The control unit 30 includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and executes first to third operation examples to be described later by loading a program stored in advance in the ROM into the RAM and executing the program. The data memory 31 is a storage area for accumulating image data received from the host computer via the communication interface 36.

  The recording paper drive unit 32 drives the recording paper 10 with the gripping roller 17 and the pinch roller 18 sandwiching the recording paper 10. The recording paper drive unit 32 feeds the recording paper 10 by rotationally driving the grip roller 17 and the roll paper holder 2. The recording paper drive unit 32 can rewind the fed recording paper 10 by reversing the driving direction and rotationally driving the grip roller 17 and the roll paper holder 2. The printer 1 forms an image on the recording paper 10 when the sent recording paper 10 is rewound.

  The head drive unit 33 drives the head 3 based on the image data, and forms an image on the recording paper 10. The head 3 can use a mechanism corresponding to various image forming methods such as a sublimation type printer and a thermal melting type printer. The printer 1 includes a head 3, a platen roller 9, and a head driving unit 33 as an example of an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium.

  Further, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 drives the supply side ribbon roller 4 </ b> A and the winding side ribbon roller 4 </ b> B, and moves the ink ribbon 4 relative to the head 3 in synchronization with the drive of the head 3. The ink ribbon drive unit 34 also includes a rewinding mechanism for the ink ribbon 4, and can drive the ink ribbon 4 in a rewinding direction that is opposite to the winding direction (conveying direction). In the printer 1, ribbon rollers 4 </ b> A and 4 </ b> B and an ink ribbon drive unit 34 are provided as an example of a transport unit that transports a belt-shaped transfer medium.

  The cutting control unit 35 cuts the rear end of the recording portion of the recording paper 10 and cuts the recording paper 10 one by one when the recording paper 10 is discharged to the outside through the discharge path 13 through the discharge path 13. The cutting unit 5 is controlled.

  The communication interface 36 transmits / receives data to / from the host computer via a communication cable. The timer 37 is used for measuring the elapsed time in second and third operation examples described later.

  2A and 2B are enlarged views of the periphery of the head 3 in FIG. The printer 1 is provided with a sensor for detecting the boundary of each ink application region of the ink ribbon 4 to which yellow, magenta, cyan, and overcoat are sequentially applied. This sensor detects the boundary between regions such as ink, and controls the amount of ink ribbon transport according to the detection result, thereby positioning the ink ribbon with the head. In the following, sensors for detecting such ink and overcoat regions and their boundaries are referred to as “panels” and “ribbon sensors”, respectively.

  In the printer 1, a ribbon sensor is disposed at a position upstream of the head 3 in the transport direction of the ink ribbon 4 and at a position where the transport path of the ink ribbon 4 and the transport path of the recording paper 10 overlap. The ribbon sensor may be arranged on the downstream side in the transport direction of the ink ribbon 4 with respect to the head 3. For the ink ribbon 4, the direction from the supply-side ribbon roller 4A to the winding-up ribbon roller 4B is from upstream to downstream. This is opposite to the direction in which the recording paper 10 is discharged through the head 3 and the platen roller 9 through the discharge path 13.

  In first and third operation examples of the printer 1 to be described later, a transmissive color sensor is used as a ribbon sensor. In a second operation example of the printer 1 to be described later, either a transmissive color sensor or a transmissive infrared sensor may be used as the ribbon sensor. When the transmission type sensor is used, a light emitting side ribbon sensor and a light receiving side ribbon sensor are provided at a position indicated by 8A in the ribbon guide portion 16 and a position indicated by 8B across the conveyance path of the ink ribbon 4 respectively. It is done. Hereinafter, these sensors are simply referred to as “ribbon sensors 8A and 8B” or “ribbon sensor 8”. The ribbon sensor 8 is an example of a detection unit that detects a transfer material conveyed to a head position where image formation is performed. The light emitting side ribbon sensor 8A and the light receiving side ribbon sensor 8B may be arranged at positions opposite to each other.

  As described above, in the printer 1, one element constituting the transmissive sensor is disposed integrally with the main body of the head 3 or the thermal head assembly including the head 3. In the printer 1, the ribbon sensor 8 is disposed so that the optical axis directions of the ribbon sensors 8 </ b> A and 8 </ b> B coincide with the moving direction when the head 3 contacts and separates from the platen roller 9. That is, the ribbon sensor 8 can be used both during image formation (when the head 3 is in contact with the platen roller 9) and when it is not (when the head 3 is separated from the platen roller). The moving direction of the head 3 and the optical axis direction of the ribbon sensor 8 are matched so that the optical axes of the ribbon sensor 8 at both head positions do not shift. In FIG. 2A, the positions of the head 3 and the ribbon sensors 8A and 8B during image formation are indicated by solid lines, and the positions of the head 3 and the ribbon sensors 8A and 8B when no image is formed are indicated by broken lines. Overlaid on one figure.

  FIG. 2A shows the positional relationship between the ribbon sensor 8 and the recording paper 10 when image formation starts for one color. First, the recording paper 10 is sent out in the direction of arrow A in accordance with the length of the area where the image is formed, and the end 10E of the recording paper 10 comes to the left in the drawing. For example, when the image formation for yellow starts, at this time, the head 3 forms an image (image formation position) (hereinafter referred to as the head position Ph) at the top of the yellow panel and the recording paper 10. Is aligned with the head of the area where the image is formed. Then, while the ink ribbon 4 and the recording paper 10 are overlapped and conveyed together in the direction of arrow B, an image of yellow is formed on the recording paper 10 by the head 3.

  Although not shown, one or both of the ribbon rollers 4 </ b> A and 4 </ b> B includes an encoder that detects the amount of ink ribbon 4 transferred. The ink ribbon drive unit 34 determines the yellow color at the head position Ph of the head 3 based on the number of pulses of the encoder, the winding diameter of one or both of the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B, the detection result of the ribbon sensor 8, and the like. The amount of feed required to position the head of is calculated. Then, the head of yellow is sent to the head position Ph by the ink ribbon drive unit 34 to position the ink ribbon 4.

  FIG. 2B shows the positional relationship between the ribbon sensor 8 and the recording paper 10 when image formation for one color (for example, yellow) is completed. In the printer 1, the panel pitch of the ink ribbon 4 and the recording paper 10 are arranged so that the boundary between the panel on the ink ribbon 4 and the recording paper 10 do not overlap before the image formation for one color is completed. The relationship with the length of the image forming area is determined. As a result, when the image formation for one color is completed, the end 10E of the recording paper 10 approaches the head position Ph, and on the right side in the figure from the position of the ribbon sensors 8A and 8B (hereinafter referred to as the sensor position Ps). The recording paper 10 has passed the ribbon sensors 8A and 8B. For this reason, there is no recording paper 10 blocking between the ribbon sensors 8A and 8B, and the ribbon sensors 8A and 8B can detect the boundary of the panel for the next magenta.

  When the yellow image formation is completed, the recording paper 10 is sent again in the direction of arrow A, and the state is the same as in FIG. Then, the head of the next magenta panel and the head of the image forming area on the recording paper 10 are aligned with the head position Ph, and magenta image formation is performed. In this manner, the recording paper 10 is image-formed with respect to yellow, magenta, cyan and overcoat while moving back and forth in the drawing. Thereafter, the recording paper 10 is fed in the direction of arrow A, cut by the recording paper cutting unit 5 at the trailing edge of the image, and discharged.

  The length at which an image can be formed on the recording paper 10 depends on the length of each color of the ink ribbon 4. For example, when the printer 1 forms an image corresponding to a photograph of the L plate or the 2L plate, the ink ribbon 4 having a length corresponding to the size of the L plate or the 2L plate is, for example, the length of the image in the transport direction. Move to form an image. The printer 1 can also form an image shorter than the length corresponding to the ink ribbon 4. For example, when a 2L version ink ribbon is attached, the printer 1 can form an L version image in addition to the 2L version.

  As described above, the printer 1 can print an image having a size smaller than the size of the panel of the ink ribbon 4. In the following, for example, by using an ink ribbon 4 having a size of each panel of 6 × 8 inches (152 × 203 mm), the size is 6 × 4 inches (152 × 101 mm) which is 6 × 8 inches or half thereof. A case of printing the image will be described. However, the size is not limited to these, and the following first to third operation examples can be applied to a set of two sizes whose areas differ by a factor of two or more. For example, the pair of two sizes may be A5 size (148 × 210 mm) and A6 size (105 × 148 mm), 2L size (127 × 178 mm), L size (89 × 127 mm), and the like. In the following, the size of 6 × 8 inches is referred to as “6 × 8 size”, and the size of 6 × 4 inches is referred to as “6 × 4 size”. The 6 × 8 size is an example of the first size, and the 6 × 4 size is an example of the second size that is half or less of the first size.

  Hereinafter, a first operation example of the printer 1 will be described. With a conventional printer, when printing an image of a size that is less than half the size of each color panel, it is held in the printer's electronic memory that there is a half-used panel, and the data that is held is printed next. Depending on the image size to be used, it is determined whether or not to reuse the half unused panel for printing. Then, when the next image can be printed by reusing the half unused panel, the ink ribbon is rewound by the ribbon rewinding mechanism, and printing is performed using the half unused panel. As described above, in the conventional printer, in order to reuse the half-used panel, it is necessary to provide the printer or the host computer with an electronic memory for storing the use status of the ink ribbon.

  Therefore, in the first operation example of the printer 1, instead of storing the use status of the ink ribbon 4 in the electronic memory, information indicating whether or not there is a half-used panel is displayed based on the stop position of the ink ribbon 4. Represent. Specifically, in the first operation example, a transmissive color sensor is used as the ribbon sensor 8, and the ribbon sensor 8 detects the color of the panel at the sensor position Ps when the ink ribbon 4 is stopped. Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not there is a half-used panel in the ink ribbon 4 from the detected panel color at the sensor position Ps. If the ribbon sensor 8 detects yellow when the ink ribbon 4 is stopped, the control unit 30 determines that there is no half-used panel, and the ribbon sensor 8 has a color other than yellow (for example, cyan or magenta). Is detected, it is determined that there is a half unused panel. In the following description, the determination color indicating that there is a half unused panel is assumed to be cyan.

  Further, the control unit 30 prints the next image if there is a half unused panel on the ink ribbon 4 based on the detection result of the ribbon sensor 8 and the size of the next printed image received from the host computer. It is determined whether or not it can be used. The control unit 30 is an example of a determination unit that determines whether or not an unused transfer material included in each region used for previous image formation can be reused for new image formation.

  When the next image data is received and the control unit 30 determines that the half-unused panel can be reused, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 determines the top position of the unused area in the half-unused yellow panel. Until the ink reaches the head position Ph, the ink ribbon 4 is rewound by the rewound mechanism. Then, the head 3 prints the next image on the recording paper 10 using the half unused panel area. On the other hand, when the control unit 30 determines that the half-unused panel cannot be reused, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 aligns the head of the new yellow panel with the head position Ph. Then, using the new panel, the head 3 prints the next image on the recording paper 10.

  3A to 3G are diagrams for explaining the movement of the ink ribbon 4 in the first operation example of the printer 1. FIG. 3A shows the 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4. The region 40 is a panel that has been used entirely, and the region 41 is a panel that has not been used. Region 40 includes a panel of yellow Y0, magenta M0, cyan C0 and overcoat OP0, and region 41 includes a panel of yellow Y1, magenta M1, cyan C1 and overcoat OP1. It is assumed that the yellow, magenta, cyan, and overcoat panels are also repeatedly arranged in this order in a range (not shown) on the left side of the region 40 and the right side of the region 41. FIG. 3A shows a state before the start of printing in which the panel up to the area 40 is used entirely and the area 41 is used. The head portion of yellow Y1 is located at the head position Ph, and yellow Y1 is located also at the sensor position Ps.

  FIG. 3B shows a state after a 6 × 4 size image has been printed using half of the panel in the region 41. The ink ribbon 4 is wound up on the upper ribbon roller 4B by the ink ribbon drive unit 34 during printing, and is conveyed in the direction of arrow C (conveying direction, winding direction). The area 41 that was an unused panel on the entire surface before printing is used as a half unused panel by using the first half along the conveyance direction of the 6 × 8 size panel. Although not shown in the drawing, the latter half portion along the panel conveyance direction may be used at this time.

  FIG. 3C shows a state in which the ink ribbon 4 is rewound until cyan C1 comes to the sensor position Ps in order to indicate that the region 41 is a half-unused panel. When the ink ribbon 4 is rewound, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 conveys the ink ribbon 4 toward the supply-side ribbon roller 4A in the direction of arrow D (rewinding direction) in the direction opposite to that during printing. As described above, when a panel area in which a 6 × 4 size image can be printed again after a 6 × 4 size image is printed remains, a predetermined color panel for determination (first In the operation example, the ink ribbon 4 is rewound until cyan) comes to the sensor position Ps.

  If the half-unused panel can be reused and the next image can be printed, the ink ribbon 4 is rewound until the top position of the unused area in the half-unused yellow panel reaches the head position Ph. Start printing. Specifically, the control unit 30 first determines whether or not the next image has a size that fits in a half area of the panel (here, 6 × 4 size). When the next image fits in the half area of the panel, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the ribbon sensor 8 has detected cyan. When cyan is detected, the next image can be printed in a half unused area. In this case, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 positions the head position Ph of the unused area that is intermediate between yellow Y1 at the head position Ph based on the number of pulses of the encoder, the winding diameter of the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B, and the like. Calculate the required feed amount. Then, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 rewinds the ink ribbon 4 in the direction of the arrow D according to the feed amount.

  FIG. 3D shows the start position of the unused area that is the middle of yellow Y1 when the next image can be printed in the half unused area 41 (that is, when the next image is 6 × 4 size). Shows a state in which the ink ribbon 4 has been rewound in the direction of arrow D until is at the head position Ph. Thereafter, the ink ribbon 4 is conveyed in the direction of arrow C, and the next 6 × 4 size image is printed. FIG. 3E shows a state in which a half unused area 41 is used for printing and the head position of the next yellow Y2 has reached the head position Ph.

  On the other hand, if it is not possible to print the next image by reusing the half-used panel, the ink ribbon 4 is conveyed and printed until the head position Ph of the next yellow Y2 reaches the head position Ph. Specifically, this is the case where the next image is a size that does not fit in the unused area (here, 6 × 8 size), or when the ribbon sensor 8 does not detect cyan even if it fits in the size ( That is, there is no half unused area itself).

  In FIG. 3F, for example, when the next image is 6 × 8 size and the next image cannot be printed in the half unused area 41, the head position Ph of the next yellow Y2 reaches the head position Ph. The state where the ink ribbon 4 is conveyed in the direction of arrow C is shown. Thereafter, the ink ribbon 4 is further conveyed in the direction of arrow C, and the next 6 × 8 size image is printed. FIG. 3G shows a state in which the panel in the region 42 is used for printing and the head position of the next yellow Y3 has reached the head position Ph.

  FIGS. 4A and 4B are flowcharts illustrating a first operation example of the printer 1. The flow shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B is executed by the CPU in the control unit 30 in accordance with a program stored in advance in the ROM in the control unit 30. Assume that a 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4 is set in the printer 1.

  FIG. 4A shows a main routine of the first operation example. First, the printer 1 receives a print instruction and image data to be printed from the host computer (S11). Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the image data is 6 × 4 size (S12). For example, when the image data is not 6 × 4 size such as 6 × 8 size (No in S12), the head 3 prints the image on the recording paper 10 using the entire surface of the 6 × 8 size panel (No. S13). If the image data is larger than the 6 × 8 panel, error processing is performed (not shown).

  At the time of printing, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 positions the top of yellow Y (use start position) at the head position Ph of the head 3. The recording paper drive unit 32 sends out the recording paper 10 in accordance with the size of the image forming area for forming an image on the recording paper 10. The head driving unit 33 moves the head 3 and presses it against the platen roller 9. Then, an image is formed by the head 3 for one color (initially yellow Y) while rewinding the recording sheet sent out by the recording sheet driving unit 32. At this time, the ink ribbon 4 is also moved together. The rewinding of the recording paper 10, the winding of the ink ribbon 4, and the image formation by the head 3 are performed in synchronization. When the image formation for yellow Y is completed, the head drive unit 33 moves the head 3 away from the platen roller 9. Next, with respect to magenta M, the top of the panel (use start position) is positioned at the head position Ph, and the recording paper 10 is again sent out by a predetermined length. In this way, color images of each color of yellow Y, magenta M, and cyan C are formed on the same image forming area of the recording paper 10, and a protective layer is formed by covering the overcoat layer. After printing, the head position of the next yellow is aligned with the head position Ph, and the ink ribbon 4 is stopped. Such a series of image forming processes is the same when image formation of either 6 × 8 size or 6 × 4 size is performed.

  If the image data is 6 × 4 size (Yes in S12), the 6 × 4 size printing is performed according to the flow of FIG. 4B described later (S14). After the printing is completed, the recording paper drive unit 32 sends out the recording paper 10, and the recording paper cutting unit 5 cuts the recording paper 10 and discharges it from the discharge port 6 (S15). Thus, the printer 1 ends the operation.

  FIG. 4B shows a subroutine for 6 × 4 size printing. First, the ribbon sensor 8 detects the color of the panel at the sensor position Ps (S21). Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the ribbon sensor 8 has detected cyan (S22). When cyan is detected (Yes in S22), since there is a half-used panel, the ink ribbon drive unit 34 causes the head position Ph of the unused area in the half-used yellow panel to come to the head position Ph. The ink ribbon 4 is rewound up to (S23). Subsequently, a 6 × 4 size image is printed on the recording paper 10 by the above-described image forming process using a half unused panel (S24). As a result, the entire surface of the 6 × 8 size panel is consumed, so that the ink ribbon drive unit 34 conveys and stops the ink ribbon 4 until the next yellow leading position reaches the head position Ph (S25). This completes the 6 × 4 size printing in the first operation example.

  On the other hand, when cyan is not detected by the ribbon sensor 8, the control unit 30 determines that there is no half-used panel (No in S22), and the ink ribbon driving unit 34 determines the next yellow head position. The ink ribbon 4 is conveyed until reaches the head position Ph (S26). However, if the leading position of yellow is already at the head position Ph, it is left as it is. Subsequently, a 6 × 4 size image is printed on the recording paper 10 by the above-described image forming process using the first half portion along the conveyance direction of the 6 × 8 size panel (S27). As a result, the used panel becomes half unused, so that the ink ribbon drive unit 34 rewinds and stops the ink ribbon 4 until the cyan panel comes to the sensor position Ps. (S28). This completes the 6 × 4 size printing in the first operation example.

  FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are diagrams for describing a modification of the first operation example. An overcoat can also be used as a color for determining that there is a half unused panel. Such a case will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B as a modification of the first operation example.

  FIG. 5A shows the ink ribbon 4 with no half-used panel. The region 40 is a panel that has been used entirely, and the region 41 is a panel that has not been used. At the end of printing, the ink ribbon 4 stops with the head portion of yellow Y1 positioned at the head position Ph and yellow Y1 positioned at the sensor position Ps. At this time, the ribbon sensor 8 detects yellow Y. On the other hand, FIG. 5B shows the ink ribbon 4 after printing is performed using the first half of the new panel. At the end of printing, the ink ribbon 4 stops with the intermediate portion of the overcoat OP1 positioned at the head position Ph and the overcoat OP1 positioned also at the sensor position Ps. At this time, the ribbon sensor 8 detects the overcoat OP. Therefore, it is also possible to determine the use status of the ink ribbon 4 depending on whether the panel at the sensor position Ps is overcoat OP or yellow Y.

  However, it is preferable to determine whether or not there is a half-used panel depending on whether the color of the panel at the sensor position Ps is cyan (or magenta) or yellow rather than whether it is overcoat or yellow. This is because when the user opens the cover of the printer 1 and once removes the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B and sets it again, the ink ribbon 4 is often rewound a little. Therefore, in order to explain this operation, the mechanism around the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B of the printer 1 will be briefly described.

  FIGS. 6A and 6B are schematic cross-sectional views showing the drawer portion 11 of the printer 1. The printer 1 includes a housing 7 that covers the outer periphery of the printer 1, and a drawer portion 11 that is housed in the housing 7 so as to be freely inserted and removed. 6A shows a state in which the drawer portion 11 is pulled out from the housing 7, and FIG. 6B shows a state in which the drawer portion 11 is stored in the housing 7. The drawer 11 is pulled out from the housing 7 by pulling an open lever (not shown) provided on the front surface 12 of the printer 1. The drawer portion 11 includes a roll paper holder 2, a discharge port 6 for the recording paper 10, a platen roller 9, ribbon rollers 4A and 4B, and the like. On the other hand, the housing 7 includes the head 3, the control unit 30, and the like.

  FIG. 7 is a view for explaining attachment of the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B to the printer 1. FIG. 7 shows the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B, the ribbon cassette 20 to which the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B are attached, and the drawer 11 viewed from the rear left side opposite to the front surface 12. The ribbon rollers 4 </ b> A and 4 </ b> B are rotatably held by the ribbon cassette 20 by placing the respective roller shafts 14 </ b> A and 14 </ b> B in recesses provided at the four corners of the ribbon cassette 20. The drawer portion 11 is provided with guide portions 21 and 22. The ribbon cassette 20 is fixed to the drawer portion 11 by inserting both side wall portions of the ribbon cassette 20 into the grooves formed in the guide portions 21 and 22.

  When replacing the ink ribbon 4, the user pulls out the drawer 11 from the housing 7, removes the ribbon cassette 20, and replaces the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B with another one. At this time, in order to eliminate the deflection of the ink ribbon 4, the user often rotates the roller shafts 14A and 14B to slightly rewind the ink ribbon 4. In such a case, even if there is a yellow panel at the sensor position Ps at the end of printing, an overcoated panel may be located at the sensor position Ps after the ribbon rollers 4A and 4B are replaced. For this reason, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, when determining whether there is a half-used panel depending on whether the color of the panel at the sensor position Ps is overcoat or yellow. As described below, there is a possibility that an erroneous determination occurs after the user opens and closes the drawer portion 11.

  FIGS. 8A to 8D illustrate misjudgment that may occur when it is determined whether there is a half-used panel depending on whether the color of the panel at the sensor position Ps is overcoat or yellow. FIG. FIG. 8A shows the ink ribbon 4 with no half-used panel. The region 40 is a panel that has been used entirely, and the region 41 is a panel that has not been used. At this time, there is a yellow panel Y1 at the sensor position Ps. FIG. 8B shows the ink ribbon 4 when the user pulls out the drawer portion 11 in the state shown in FIG. 8A, slightly unwinds the ink ribbon 4 in the direction of arrow D, and closes the drawer portion 11. Indicates. When the ink ribbon 4 is rewound, the overcoated panel OP0 comes to the sensor position Ps.

  When printing of the next image is instructed in the state of FIG. 8B, the ribbon sensor 8 detects overcoat, so the control unit 30 erroneously determines that there is a half-used panel. FIG. 8C shows a state in which this erroneous determination occurs when the next image printing is instructed, and the ink ribbon 4 is rewound until the middle portion of yellow Y0 comes to the head position Ph. When the next image is printed in the state of FIG. 8C, the used panel area 40 is reused. FIG. 8D shows a state in which the area 40 has been reused and the next image has been printed. The latter half of each panel in the region 40 along the direction of arrow C has already been used to print the image “B”, but these portions are reused to print the next image “C”.

  If the user does not open and close the drawer 11, the stop position of the ink ribbon 4 does not change from the stop position at the end of printing, so half is unused depending on whether the panel color at the sensor position Ps is overcoat or yellow. It can be determined whether or not there is a panel. However, in actuality, the stop position of the ink ribbon 4 may change as described above. Therefore, it is preferable to use cyan or magenta that is a certain distance away from the head position of yellow as the determination color. . In other words, it is preferable that cyan or magenta other than yellow transferred first and other than the overcoat transferred last in image formation be used as a determination color.

  If the panel is a 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4, unless the user deliberately wraps, from the state where the yellow panel was originally at the sensor position Ps to the state where the cyan or magenta panel was at the sensor position Ps. It is considered that the ink ribbon 4 does not move. For this reason, if cyan or magenta is used as the determination color, the possibility of the erroneous determination described above is reduced. Therefore, it is preferable to determine whether or not there is a half-used panel depending on whether the color of the panel at the sensor position Ps is cyan (or magenta) or yellow rather than whether it is overcoat or yellow.

  As described above, in the first operation example, can unused portions included in each panel used for the previous image formation of 6 × 4 size be reused for new image formation of 6 × 4 size? Is determined from the color of the panel detected by the ribbon sensor 8 at the sensor position Ps, and if it is determined that it can be reused, the head position of the unused area in the half unused yellow panel is the head position. The ink ribbon drive unit 34 transports the ink ribbon 4 in the rewind direction until the position Ph is reached, and the head 3 forms a new image using an unused panel area. As described above, in the first operation example, whether or not there is a half-used panel is represented by the stop position of the ink ribbon 4, so that the printer 1 does not have an electronic memory for storing the use status of the ink ribbon. Half-unused panels can be reused. Accordingly, the printer 1 has a simplified structure as compared with the case where the above-described configuration is not provided, and can suppress waste that may occur in the panel.

  Next, a second operation example of the printer 1 will be described. A conventional printer has a function of using a 6 × 8 size ribbon to print two 6 × 4 sizes by one printing, and cutting and discharging at 6 × 4 size at the time of discharge. FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B are diagrams for explaining such an operation example of a conventional printer.

  FIG. 9A shows an example in which two 6 × 4 size images are allocated to a 6 × 8 size panel and two-sided printing is performed with the conventional printer 60. In this example, the user transmits to the printer 60 an instruction to print two images of 6 × 4 size images A and B via the host computer 50. The host computer 50 combines two pieces of image data of 6 × 4 size into one piece of image data, converts the image data to 6 × 8 size, and transmits the result to the printer 60. On the other hand, a 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4 is set in the printer 60. The printer 60 receives the combined image data, makes it one piece of image data, and prints it at once using the entire surface of a 6 × 8 panel. The printer 60 cuts the two-side printed image into two images A and B and discharges them.

  FIG. 9B shows an example in which a 6 × 8 size panel is used with a conventional printer 60 and two 6 × 4 size images are printed without performing two-sided printing. In this example, the user transmits an instruction to print image A and image B to the printer 60 via the host computer 50. The host computer 50 transmits two pieces of image data of 6 × 4 size to the printer 60 separately. On the other hand, the printer 60 sequentially receives the image data, uses the first half of the 6 × 8 size panel, and first prints and discharges the image A. Subsequently, the printer 60 uses the new panel to print and discharge the image B.

  In the printer 60, in order to reduce waste of the ink ribbon 4 when printing a plurality of images, the user checks the panel size of the ink ribbon 4 of the printer 60 every time the user inputs a print instruction to the host computer 50. If the 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4 larger than the 6 × 4 size of the image to be printed is set, it is necessary to select two-sided printing. When 2-sided printing is possible, if 6-by-4 printing is instructed without selecting 2-sided printing, each 6-by-8 image is printed one by one using half of each 6-by-8 panel. This wastes. For example, when printing 10 sheets of 6 × 4 size images, if 2-sided printing is selected, the consumption of each panel of 6 × 8 size is 5 sheets, but simply printing 6 × 4 size is instructed. As a result, the consumption of each panel increases to 10.

  Therefore, in the second operation example of the printer 1, the printer 1 receives 6 × 4 size image data that is less than half of the 6 × 8 size of the panel from the host computer 50 through the communication interface 36, and then the next image data. Is received for a predetermined time period such as 5 seconds. When the next image data of the same 6 × 4 size sent from the host computer 50 is received within the fixed time, the 6 × 8 size panel is combined with the previously received image data. The entire surface is used and 6 × 4 size two-sided printing is performed. On the other hand, after receiving the image data from the host computer 50, if the next image data of the same 6 × 4 size is not received within a certain time, the printer 1 stores the previous image data of the 6 × 4 size. Start printing. In the case of the second operation example, as the ribbon sensor 8, either a transmissive color sensor or a transmissive infrared sensor may be used.

  FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a second operation example of the printer 1. FIG. 10A shows an example in which the printer 1 performs two-sided printing by allocating two 6 × 4 size images to a 6 × 8 size panel. In this example, the user transmits an instruction to print image A and image B to the printer 1 via the host computer 50. In the printer 1, the user does not need to give an instruction to print on two sides. The host computer 50 transmits two pieces of image data of 6 × 4 size to the printer 1 separately. On the other hand, the printer 1 receives the image data of the image A and stores it in the data memory 31. Then, using the timer 37, the printer 1 waits for a predetermined time from the time of reception until the next image B image data is received. In the example of FIG. 10A, the printer 1 subsequently receives the image data of the image B and stores it in the data memory 31. Then, the printer 1 prints two pieces of 6 × 4 size image data at a time using the entire surface of the 6 × 8 size panel. Then, the printer 1 cuts the two-side printed image into two sheets of an image A and an image B and discharges them.

  FIG. 10B shows an example in which the printer 1 uses a 6 × 8 size panel and prints one 6 × 4 size image. In this example, the user transmits an instruction to print the image A to the printer 1 via the host computer 50. The host computer 50 transmits image data of 6 × 4 size image A to the printer 1. On the other hand, the printer 1 receives the image data of the image A and stores it in the data memory 31. The printer 1 then uses the timer 37 to wait for a predetermined time from the time of reception until the next image data is sent. However, in the example of FIG. 10B, since only one image is instructed to be printed, the next image data is not sent even after waiting for a fixed time. For this reason, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the printer 1 uses the first half of the 6 × 8 size panel along the conveyance direction to print and discharge the image A. Although not shown in the drawing, the latter half portion along the panel conveyance direction may be used at this time.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a second operation example of the printer 1. The flow shown in FIG. 11 is executed by the CPU in the control unit 30 according to a program stored in advance in the ROM in the control unit 30. Assume that a 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4 is set in the printer 1.

  First, the printer 1 receives a print instruction and image data to be printed from the host computer 50 (S31). The printer 1 holds the image data in the data memory 31. Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the image data is 6 × 4 size (S32). For example, when the image data is not 6 × 4 size, such as 6 × 8 size (No in S32), the head 3 prints the image on the recording paper 10 using the entire surface of the new 6 × 8 size panel. (S33). Since the image forming process is similar to that already described, detailed description thereof is omitted. If the image data is larger than the 6 × 8 panel, error processing is performed (not shown).

  When the image data is 6 × 4 size (Yes in S32), measurement by the timer 37 is started after receiving the image data (S34). Then, the printer 1 waits until the measurement time of the timer 37 reaches a certain time (for example, 5 seconds) (S35, S36). If the printer 1 does not receive the next (that is, the second) image data even after a predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in S35), the 6 × 4 size image stored in the data memory 31 is transferred to the head 3 Is printed on the recording paper 10 (S37).

  When the next image data is received before the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in S36), the control unit 30 determines whether or not the image data is 6 × 4 size (S38). For example, when the second image data is not 6 × 4 size, such as 6 × 8 size (No in S38), the first half of the 6 × 8 size panel is used and is first held in the data memory 31. The head 3 prints the first 6 × 4 size image on the recording paper 10 (S39). Then, the first image is cut and discharged by the recording paper cutting unit 5 (S40). Subsequently, the head 3 prints a second 6 × 8 size image on the new recording paper 10 using a new panel (S41).

  On the other hand, if the second image data is also 6 × 4 size (Yes in S38), it is combined with the first 6 × 4 size image data held in the data memory 31 to be 6 × 8 size. The head 3 performs two-sided printing of 6 × 4 size on the recording paper 10 (S42). Next, the recording paper cutting unit 5 cuts the two-side printed image into two 6 × 4 sizes (S43). Finally, the image obtained in S33, S37, S41 or S43 is discharged (S44). Thus, the printer 1 ends the operation.

  As described above, in the second operation example, after receiving the first image data of 6 × 4 size from the host computer 50, the second image of 6 × 4 size is received within a predetermined time. When the data is received, the first and second image data are allocated in the same panel of the ink ribbon 4 and the images of the first and second image data are formed on the recording paper 10. As a result, when printing an image whose image size is less than half of the panel size, two sets of panels of yellow, magenta, cyan, and overcoat are used, even if the user does not instruct the two-sided printing. Images can be printed. For example, when the 6 × 8 size ink ribbon 4 is set in the printer 1 and the user instructs printing of the 6 × 4 size, when the image data is continuously transmitted, 6 is automatically selected. X4 size two-sided printing can be performed. Therefore, the printer 1 can suppress waste that may occur in the panel by an operation that is easier for the user than when the printer 1 is not provided.

  Next, a third operation example of the printer 1 will be described. The third operation example is a combination of the first operation example and the second operation example. Specifically, in the second operation example, after receiving 6 × 4 size image data from the host computer 50, if the next image data of the same 6 × 4 size is not received within a predetermined time, the previous 6 × 4 When printing a 4-size image, it is determined from the detection result of the ribbon sensor 8 whether or not there is a half-used panel. If it is determined that the half unused panel can be reused, the ink ribbon 4 is rewound until the head position Ph of the unused area in the half unused yellow panel reaches the head position Ph. The previous 6 × 4 size image is printed using the used panel area. That is, when printing a 6 × 4 size image in S37 and S39 of the second operation example shown in FIG. 11, the first operation example shown in FIG. 4B is applied. In the third operation example, a transmissive color sensor is used as the ribbon sensor 8.

  In the first operation example, when a number of 6 × 4 size images are printed, the operation of rewinding and printing the ink ribbon 4 is repeated each time a half-used panel is generated. On the other hand, in the third operation example, every time two pieces of image data of 6 × 4 size are received within a predetermined time, those two images are printed without rewinding the ink ribbon 4. Therefore, in the third operation example, when many 6 × 4 images are printed, the ink ribbon 4 can be efficiently consumed while improving the printing speed. In the second operation example, if 6 × 4 size image data is received from the host computer 50 and the next image data of the same 6 × 4 size is not received within a predetermined time, the previous 6 × 4 size image data is received. The image is printed using a new panel. On the other hand, in the third operation example, even in this case, if there is a half unused panel, the ink ribbon 4 is rewound, and the unused area in the half unused panel is used. A x4 size image is printed. Accordingly, in the third operation example, the ink ribbon 4 can be consumed more efficiently than in the second operation example.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Printer 2 Roll paper holder 3 Head 4 Ink ribbon 4A Supply side ribbon roller 4B Upper side ribbon roller 8A Ribbon sensor 8B Ribbon sensor 9 Platen roller 10 Recording paper 15 Ribbon guide roller 16 Ribbon guide part 17 Grip roller 18 Pinch roller 30 Control part 50 Host computer Ph Head position Ps Sensor position

Claims (4)

A transport unit that transports a belt-shaped transfer medium in which at least three regions of a first size including at least three transfer materials to be transferred to the recording medium are repeatedly arranged in a transport direction in a predetermined order;
An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium by transferring the transfer material of the transfer medium for each region;
A detection unit for detecting the transfer material conveyed to an image forming position where the image formation is performed;
The unused transfer material contained in each of the regions used for the previous image formation of the second size that is less than half of the first size is reused for the new image formation of the second size. A determination unit that determines whether the transfer material detected by the detection unit can be used;
When the determination unit determines that the reuse is possible, the transfer medium is transported in the direction opposite to the transport direction until the leading position of the reusable transfer medium portion reaches the image forming position. And a control unit that controls the image forming unit and the transport unit so as to perform the new image formation using the unused transfer material .
The determination unit is configured to detect a transfer material for determination other than the transfer material transferred first and the transfer material transferred last in the image formation by the image forming unit among the at least three transfer materials. An image forming apparatus that determines that the image can be reused when detected . The control unit performs the determination at a position where the detection unit performs detection after the image forming unit performs the second image formation using the regions that are not used on the entire surface. wherein the conveying unit to the area of use transfer material comes to control the transport unit to transport the transfer medium in the opposite direction of the conveying direction, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1. When the control unit receives the second image data of the second size within a predetermined time after receiving the first image data of the second size from the host computer, The first image data and the second image data are allocated in the same region of the transfer material, and the image forming unit is controlled to form an image of the first image data and the second image data. characterized by, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. Recording the transfer material per the area while conveying the first amount of at least three regions are repeated in the transport direction in a predetermined order arranged strip-shaped transfer medium comprising at least three transfer material An image forming method for forming an image on a recording medium by transferring to a medium,
Detecting the transfer material conveyed to an image forming position where the image formation is performed;
The unused transfer material contained in each of the regions used for the previous image formation of the second size that is less than half of the first size is reused for the new image formation of the second size. Determining whether it can be used or not from the detected transfer material;
A step of transporting the transfer medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction until a leading position of the portion of the transfer medium that can be reused reaches the image forming position when it is determined that the reuse is possible;
Performing the new image formation using the unused transfer material ,
In the determining step, when a transfer material for determination other than the transfer material that is transferred first and other than the transfer material that is transferred last is detected among the at least three transfer materials, An image forming method, wherein it is determined that the image can be reused .

Images