JP6511835B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming system, and image forming control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and an image forming control method. In particular, the present invention relates to an image formation control technique capable of obtaining an output result having a uniform finish without requiring a complicated adjustment operation when image formation is re-executed.

  2. Description of the Related Art There is an image forming system in which a reading device (output object reading device) is connected to a subsequent stage of an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, and the image on the sheet on which the image is formed is read by the reading device. Similarly, there is an image forming apparatus in which a reading unit (output object reading unit) is disposed downstream of an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, and the reading unit reads an image on the sheet on which the image is formed. It is also possible to use a reading device independent of the image forming apparatus and the image forming system.

In such an image forming apparatus or image forming system, it is possible to adjust the image forming position and the image quality by referring to the reading result after the image formation.
By the way, in the commercial printing field, it is desirable that the finished state of printed matter be the same across all printed matter. For example, even when the printed matter printed one week ago is re-printed, it is desirable that the same finish as the printed matter one week ago is obtained.

However, the electrophotographic image forming apparatus has a characteristic that the image forming result is likely to fluctuate depending on the environment and the use condition of the apparatus.
In order to suppress such fluctuation characteristics, the image forming apparatus has a reference value of density, and performs a correction operation for adjusting the density to the reference value when a predetermined condition is achieved to suppress fluctuation. There is.

However, there is a problem that the reference value has a certain allowable range, and that the correction occurs between the correction and the correction while the density change occurs to some extent.
Therefore, when the user reprints, if the density is different compared to the printed matter previously printed, the user is required to manually repeat the correction process to adjust the density, and the work efficiency is poor. there were.

In addition, since the finished state is slightly different depending on the type of paper to be used, in the case of a print job using a plurality of types of paper, it is necessary for the user to adjust the type of paper to be used.
For example, in job A, image formation is performed by adjusting in accordance with sheet a to be used, and in job B in the next case, image formation is performed by adjusting in accordance with sheet b to be used. After that, when the image formation of job A is to be performed again, it is necessary to adjust the image according to the sheet a to be used in job A to perform image formation.

Further, for example, when performing image formation using two types of paper a and paper b in job A, it is necessary to perform image formation by adjusting to each of the paper a and the paper b. As described above, there is a problem that the work efficiency is deteriorated due to the need for adjustment.
Various related proposals have been made in the following patent documents as this type of technology.

JP, 2013-25637, A JP, 2005-303701, A

  According to the above Patent Document 1, based on the image data saved on the printing apparatus side, at the time of reprinting of the print job, it is effectively prevented that the printed matter having different color reproducibility compared with the time of the first printing is output. The purpose is to Therefore, the calibration data (calibration data at the time of first printing) applied at the time of the first printing based on the image data is stored in association with the image data for reprinting, based on the saved image data for reprinting. It is possible to set to apply calibration data at the time of first printing in reprinting.

  Although this patent document 1 aims to match the previous printing and the output result at the time of reprinting, it does not focus on the problem that the user's work efficiency is poor, and it is not considered to improve the problem. . Therefore, in the embodiment of Patent Document 1, the calibrasion is not automatically performed by the apparatus but is manually performed by the user.

Further, in the above Patent Document 2, when forming an image on a sheet by the image forming apparatus, calibration is suitably and easily performed on target sheets different in color and density other than the standard sheet assumed by the manufacturer. It has been proposed to make that possible.
However, this patent document 2 only discloses the association between the sheet and the correction value, and neither discloses nor suggests the idea of making the output result in reprinting consistent. That is, when adjustment different from the standard is made in the previous printing, there is a problem that the previous printing state can not be reproduced in the next printing.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and an image forming apparatus capable of obtaining an output result having a uniform finish equivalent to that of the previous image formation without requiring a troublesome adjustment operation when performing image formation again. An object of the present invention is to realize an image forming system and an image forming control method.

That is, the present invention which solves the above-mentioned subject is as follows.
(1) The image forming apparatus to which an aspect of the present invention is reflected is connectable to an output object reading unit for reading an image formed on a sheet, and the image forming unit forms the image on the sheet; The image forming apparatus includes a control unit that controls image formation by a forming unit and reading by the output object reading unit, and the control unit is configured to perform image formation for a certain job by the image forming unit. A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet, the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the type of sheet used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern are The image forming unit controls to store in association with the job, and when the image is formed again using the same type of sheet for the job, the density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit. And the image reading unit reads the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit, and the image reading result of the density correction pattern and the past reading result stored are equal. The forming unit is adjusted, and the adjusted image forming unit is controlled to form an image for the job.

  Further, in the image forming system in which one aspect of the present invention is reflected, an image forming unit that forms the image on the sheet, and a downstream side of the image forming unit in the conveyance direction of the sheet are formed on the sheet. An image forming system comprising: an output object reading unit for reading a printed image; and a control unit for controlling image formation by the image forming unit and reading by the output object reading unit, the control unit being When forming an image for a job, the image forming unit forms a density correction pattern on the sheet, and the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit and used for image formation. It is controlled to store the type of sheet and the reading result of the density correction pattern in association with the job, and an image is generated using the same type of sheet again for the job. When forming the image, the image forming unit forms a density correction pattern on the sheet, the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the reading result of the density correction pattern and storage are stored. The image forming unit is adjusted so that it is equal to the reading result of the past, and the adjusted image forming unit is controlled to form an image of the job.

  Further, according to an image forming control method in which one aspect of the present invention is reflected, an image forming unit that forms the image on the sheet, an output object reading unit that reads an image formed on the sheet, and the image forming unit A control unit for controlling image formation and reading by the output object reading unit, and an image formation control method for controlling image formation by the image forming unit, wherein the image forming unit places an image on the sheet when forming an image for a certain job. The density correction pattern is formed, the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the type of sheet used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern are associated with the job. Control to store the image, and when forming an image using the same type of paper again for the job, the image And the image reading unit reads the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit, and the image reading result of the density correction pattern and the past reading result stored are equal. The forming unit is adjusted, and the adjusted image forming unit is controlled to form an image for the job.

In (1) above, wherein, when the image forming for jobs using a plurality of types of paper, to form the density correction pattern to a plurality of types of the upper sheet by the image forming section, a plurality of types of the The density correction pattern formed on a sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the plurality of types of sheets used for image formation are associated with the reading result of the density correction pattern and stored in association with the job. The image forming unit forms a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of sheets when forming an image for the job using a plurality of types of sheets, and is formed on the plurality of types of sheets. The density correction pattern is read by the output object reading unit, and the reading result of the density correction pattern for a plurality of types of sheets and the density correction pattern are stored. By the image forming unit adjusts and past the read results for the plurality of types of the sheet was such that equal, controls to by the image forming section which is adjusted to the image forming for the job.

( 2 ) In the above ( 1 ), when the image forming unit forms an image for the job after reading the density correction pattern, the control unit waits for the start of the image formation after the formation of the density correction pattern. The order of forming the density correction patterns on a plurality of types of the paper is determined so as to minimize the time.

( 3 ) In the above (1) or ( 2 ), the control unit is configured to form an image of the job again using a sheet different from the sheet when the reading result of the density correction pattern is stored. The control is performed so that the formation of the density correction pattern and the reading by the output object reading unit are not performed.

( 4 ) In the above (1) to ( 3 ), the control unit forms the density correction pattern on the paper by the image forming unit at the time of the first image formation for a certain job, and the control unit is formed on the paper The density correction pattern is read by the output object reading unit, and control is performed such that the type of sheet used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern are stored in association with the job. Then, when forming an image using the same type of paper again after the first image formation for the job, the image forming unit forms a density correction pattern on the paper, and the image is formed on the paper. The image forming unit is adjusted by reading the density correction pattern by the output object reading unit, and adjusting the image forming unit so that the reading result of the density correction pattern and the past reading result stored are equal. Control to form an image for the job.

( 5 ) In the above (1) to ( 4 ), the control unit can perform control to interrupt image formation for a certain job and resume image formation for the interrupted job, and can perform image formation for a certain job. Before interruption, the image forming unit forms a density correction pattern on the sheet, the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the type of sheet used for image formation And the read result of the density correction pattern are controlled to be stored in association with the job, and when resuming image formation using the same type of paper again for the interrupted job, the image forming unit A density correction pattern is formed on the upper side, the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the density correction pattern is formed. The image forming unit is controlled so as to equalize the reading result of the image forming apparatus with the past reading result stored.

( 6 ) In the above (1) to ( 5 ), the output material reading unit is provided on the downstream side of the image forming unit in the conveyance direction of the sheet, and the output material reading unit The formed density correction pattern is read, and the read result is notified to the control unit.

  (1) In an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and an image formation control method in which one aspect of the present invention is reflected, a density correction pattern is formed on a sheet when forming an image for a certain job. The density correction pattern is read by the output object reading unit, and control is performed such that the type of sheet used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern are stored in association with the job.

  Then, when forming an image using the same type of sheet for the same job again, a density correction pattern is formed on the sheet, and the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit. The image forming unit is adjusted so that the reading result and the previous reading result stored are equal, and the adjusted image forming unit is controlled to form an image of the job.

  As described above, when the image formation is re-executed using the same sheet, the image forming unit is set so that the reading result of the density correction pattern at the re-execution and the stored reading result become equal. Since the adjustment is performed, it is possible to obtain an output result having a uniform finish equivalent to that of the previous image formation without requiring a complicated adjustment operation when performing the image formation again.

In (1) above, when the image forming for jobs using a plurality of types of paper, to form the density correction pattern on a plurality of types of paper, output material a plurality of types of density correction pattern formed on the sheet The reading unit reads the plurality of types of sheets used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern, and stores the sheet in association with the job.

  Then, when forming an image again for the same job using a plurality of types of sheets, the density correction patterns are formed on the plurality of types of sheets, and the density correction patterns formed on the plurality of types of sheets are output by the output reading unit The image forming unit is adjusted so that the reading result of the density correction pattern on the plural types of paper and the reading result on the plural types of stored paper become equal, and the image forming unit forms an image for the job adjusted Control to do so.

  As described above, when performing image formation for a job using multiple types of paper, when re-executing image formation using the same multiple types of paper, the result of reading the density correction pattern at the time of re-execution; Since the image forming unit is adjusted with each of a plurality of types of paper so that the past reading result stored is equal, when performing image formation again, troublesome adjustment work is not necessary. It is possible to obtain an output result that is uniform and uniform as in the previous image formation.

( 2 ) In the above ( 1 ), when the image forming unit forms an image for the job after reading the density correction pattern, the waiting time until the start of the image formation after the formation of the density correction pattern is minimized. The order of forming density correction patterns on a plurality of types of paper is determined.

  For example, the order of forming the density correction patterns so that the fixing temperatures of the last plural sheets forming the density correction pattern for adjustment coincide with the fixing temperature of the first sheet starting image formation after adjustment Since the switching of the fixing temperature does not occur between the completion of the density correction pattern formation and the start of the image formation, the waiting time is minimized. Similarly, with regard to other parameters, the density of the last sheet of the plurality of types forming the density correction pattern for adjustment matches the setting of the first sheet for starting image formation after adjustment. By determining the order in which the correction patterns are formed, switching of the setting does not occur between the end of the density correction pattern formation and the start of the image formation, and the waiting time is minimized. For this reason, when performing image formation again, it becomes possible to obtain an output result with a uniform finish equivalent to that of the previous image formation with the shortest waiting time, without requiring complicated adjustment operations.

( 3 ) In the above (1) or ( 2 ), when the same job is used to form an image again by using a sheet different from the sheet when the reading result of the density correction pattern is stored, formation of the density correction pattern; Control is performed so that reading by the output object reading unit is not performed.
As described above, when the image formation is re-executed using the same sheet, the image forming unit is configured so that the reading result of the density correction pattern at the re-execution and the stored reading result become equal. To obtain an output result that is equivalent to the previous image formation and has a uniform finish. On the other hand, when image formation is re-executed using a different sheet of paper, the adjustment under the same conditions can not be performed even if the density correction pattern is used. No adjustment is made to make the reading result equal. That is, the adjustment is not performed in an inappropriate state. This makes it possible to carry out appropriate adjustments when re-executing the image formation.

( 4 ) In the above (1) to ( 3 ), the density correction pattern is formed on the sheet at the time of the first image formation for a certain job, and the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit The type of paper used for forming and the reading result of the density correction pattern are stored in association with the job. Then, when forming an image using the same type of paper again after the first image formation for the same job, the density correction pattern is formed on the paper, and the density correction pattern formed on the paper is output as an output reading unit The image forming unit is adjusted so that the reading result of the density correction pattern and the previous reading result stored are equal, and the adjusted image forming unit forms an image of a job.

  As described above, when the image formation is re-executed using the same sheet, the image is read so that the reading result of the density correction pattern at the time of re-execution after the first time and the first-time reading result stored are equal. Since the forming section is adjusted, when re-execution of image formation after the first time, it is possible to obtain an output result of uniform finish equivalent to the first time image formation without the need for troublesome adjustment work. become.

( 5 ) In the above (1) to ( 4 ), it is possible to interrupt the image formation of a certain job and to restart the image formation of the interrupted job, and before interrupting the image formation of a certain job, A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet, the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read by the output object reading unit, and the type of sheet used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern are stored in association with the job. Control is performed, and when image formation is resumed again using the same type of sheet for the same interrupted job, a density correction pattern is formed on the sheet, and the density correction pattern formed on the sheet is read out Control to adjust the image forming unit so that the reading result of the density correction pattern and the previous reading result stored are equal. I will control.

  As described above, when image formation is resumed after being interrupted using the same sheet, the image forming unit is configured so that the reading result of the density correction pattern at the time of restarting and the reading result before the interruption stored become equal. In the case of resuming interrupted image formation, it is possible to obtain an output result of uniform finish equivalent to the image formation before interruption, without requiring troublesome adjustment work. Become.

( 6 ) In the above (1) to ( 5 ), the output object reading unit is provided downstream of the image forming unit in the sheet conveyance direction, and the output object reading unit is a density correction pattern formed on the sheet in the image forming unit. Read and notify the control unit of the read result. As described above, when the image forming apparatus or the image forming system includes the output object reading unit, when the image formation is re-executed using the same sheet, the reading result of the density correction pattern at the re-execution, and Since the image forming unit is adjusted so that it is equal to the stored past reading result, when performing image formation again, it is equivalent to the previous image formation without the need for troublesome adjustment operations. It is possible to obtain an output result of uniform finish.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of embodiment of this invention. It is an explanatory view showing operation of an embodiment of the present invention. It is an explanatory view showing operation of an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, when image formation is re-executed in an image forming apparatus or an image forming system, an output result of uniform finish equivalent to that of previous image formation without the need for troublesome adjustment work. The embodiments that make it possible to obtain are described in detail.
[Configuration of image forming apparatus]
Here, a configuration example of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described in detail based on FIGS. 1 and 2. The image forming apparatus 100 incorporating the output object reading unit will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

  1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 101, a communication unit 102, an operation display unit 103, a storage unit 104, a paper feeding unit 105, a conveyance unit 107, and a document reading unit 110. And a read signal processing unit 120, an image data storage unit 130, an image processing unit 140, an image forming unit 150, a fixing unit 160, and an output object reading unit 190.

  Here, the control unit 101 controls each unit in the image forming apparatus 100. The communication unit 102 communicates with other connected devices. The operation display unit 103 receives an operation input by the user and displays the status of the image forming apparatus 100. The storage unit 104 stores various settings. The sheet feeding unit 105 feeds sheets stored in a sheet feeding tray. The conveyance unit 107 conveys a sheet in the apparatus. The document reading unit 110 reads an image of a document by an imaging device. The read signal processing unit 120 processes the read signal obtained by the imaging device. The image data storage unit 130 stores various data such as job data before RIP and image data after RIP. The image processing unit 140 executes various types of image processing necessary for image formation. The image forming unit 150 forms an image on a sheet based on an image forming command and image data. The fixing unit 160 stabilizes the image formed by the toner formed on the sheet by heat and pressure. The output object reading unit 190 reads an image (output object) on which an image is formed on a sheet by using an imaging element.

  Further, the output object reading unit 190 uses a line sensor as an imaging device, and has a function of reading a sheet being conveyed in a state where an image is formed. The output material reading unit 190 is disposed downstream of the fixing unit 160 in the sheet conveyance direction, and reads an image of the sheet to be output during conveyance.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the image forming unit 150 includes an image carrier on which a toner image is formed, a charging unit for charging the image carrier at a predetermined potential, and image data on the charged image carrier. An exposure unit for forming an electrostatic latent image by performing exposure according to the above, a developing unit for developing the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image, and an intermediate transfer member on which the toner images on the image carrier of each color are synthesized And a transfer unit for transferring the toner image on the intermediate transfer member to a sheet. Here, although the image forming unit 150 for forming a color image is shown, it may be an image forming unit of only one color.

[Image Forming Apparatus, Configuration of Image Forming System]
Here, a configuration example of the image forming system 1 will be described in detail based on FIGS. 3 and 4. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, an image forming system 1 including the sheet feeding device 50, the image forming apparatus 100 and the post-processing apparatus 200 will be described.

  Here, the image forming apparatus 100 is similar to that shown in FIG. 1B and does not have the output material reading unit. In FIGS. 1-2 and 3-4, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and redundant description will be omitted. A paper feeding device 50 is disposed upstream of the image forming apparatus 100 in the sheet conveyance direction. A post-processing device 200 is disposed downstream of the image forming apparatus 100 in the sheet conveyance direction.

  The sheet feeding device 50 includes a communication unit 52, a sheet feeding control unit 51, and a sheet feeding unit 55. The sheet feeding control unit 51 performs various controls related to sheet feeding. The communication unit 52 communicates with the image forming apparatus 100. The paper feed unit 55 is configured of a large capacity paper feed unit, and feeds paper to the image forming apparatus 100.

  The post-processing device 200 includes a communication unit 202, a post-processing control unit 201, a post-processing unit 220, and an output item reading unit 290. Here, the post-processing unit 220 executes various post-processing on the sheet on which the image is formed. The post-processing control unit 201 performs various controls regarding post-processing. A communication unit 202 communicates with the image forming apparatus 100. The post-processing unit 220 executes various post-processing such as booklet creation using the sheet on which the image is formed. The output object reading unit 290 reads an image (output object) formed on a sheet of paper in the image forming apparatus 100 using an imaging element. The output object reading unit 290 uses a line sensor as an imaging element, and has a function of reading a sheet being conveyed in a state where an image is formed. The output material reading unit 290 is disposed in the post-processing apparatus 200 on the downstream side of the sheet conveyance direction of the image forming apparatus 100, and reads an image of a sheet to be output during conveyance. It is also possible to arrange the output object reading unit 290 as an independent device separate from the post-processing device 200. In addition, the post-processing apparatus 200 can be configured with a plurality of post-processing apparatuses.

The storage unit 104 and the image data storage unit 130 can also be disposed outside the image forming apparatus 100 via communication.
[Image forming apparatus, operation example of image forming system]
Hereinafter, the basic operation part of the operation example of the image forming apparatus 100 or the image forming system 1 will be described with reference to flowcharts in FIG. Here, the operation will be described by using the image forming apparatus 100 incorporating the output object reading unit 190 as a specific example. The operation of the image forming apparatus 100 or the image forming system 1 is an image forming control method. Further, the image formation control method is realized by the control unit 101 executing an image formation control program.

[Operation (1)]
First, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 5, an operation will be described in which the type of sheet used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern are stored in association with the job at the time of the first image formation.

The control unit 101 receives a job execution instruction from the external device or the operation display unit 103 via the communication unit 102 (step S101 in FIG. 5).
The control unit 101 confirms whether this job execution instruction is for a storage job (step S102 in FIG. 5). Here, the storage job is a job in which job data is stored in the image data storage unit 130, and means a job in which image formation can be re-executed later as well as image formation this time.

In addition, the control unit 101 confirms whether this job execution instruction is the first image formation for the storage job (YES in step S102 in FIG. 5, S103).
If the job execution instruction is for a job other than a storage job such as a copy job (NO in step S102 in FIG. 5), the control unit 101 determines that the job is not a target job of this embodiment. The job is executed (step S109 in FIG. 5), and the history of the executed job is stored in the image data storage unit 130 (step S110 in FIG. 5).

On the other hand, when the job execution instruction is for a stored job but not for the first job (NO in step S103 in FIG. 5), the control unit 101 performs processing other than the first processing described later (FIG. 5). Step S111 in Fig. 6) is executed.
If the job execution instruction is for a stored job (YES in step S102 in FIG. 5) and it is the first execution (YES in step S103 in FIG. 5), the control unit 101 performs the main job. It is determined that the job is a target of the embodiment, and the following processing is further executed.

  The control unit 101 reads out the data of the density correction pattern stored in the storage unit 104 or the image data storage unit 130, and forms an image of the density correction pattern on a sheet (step S104 in FIG. 5). As this density correction pattern, various known patterns in which a plurality of patches with different densities are arranged can be used. The density correction pattern may be attached to job data. Further, the sheet on which the density correction pattern is formed here is the sheet designated in the image formation of the job.

  The control unit 101 causes the output object reading unit 190 to read the density correction pattern formed on the sheet as described above (step S105 in FIG. 5). The reading result of the density correction pattern read by the output object reading unit 190 is processed by the reading signal processing unit 120 and converted into reading result information of a predetermined format.

  Then, the control unit 101 stores the above reading result information and the sheet information indicating the type of sheet used to form the density correction pattern in the image data storage unit 130 in a state associated with the job (see FIG. Step S106 in 5). Note that setting the reading result information and the sheet information indicating the type of sheet used to form the density correction pattern in a state associated with the job is not limited to storing the information integrally, and various types of information may be used. Including linking with a tag of.

Further, the control unit 101 confirms whether or not to use another type of paper in the job instructed to be executed (step S107 in FIG. 5).
If it is specified that another type of sheet is to be used in the job instructed to be executed (YES in step S107 in FIG. 5), the control unit 101 forms an image of the density correction pattern on another sheet (see FIG. In step S104 in step 5, reading the density correction pattern (step S105 in FIG. 5), and storing the reading result of the density correction pattern and the sheet information in association with the job (step S106 in FIG. 5) Control.

  If no instruction to use another type of paper is specified in the job instructed to be executed (NO in step S107 in FIG. 5), or the result of image formation, reading, and reading of density correction patterns for all other sheets When the storage of the sheet information is completed (YES in step S108 in FIG. 5), the control unit 101 executes the job according to the normal procedure (step S109 in FIG. 5), and stores the history of the executed job. The image data is stored in the unit 104 or the image data storage unit 130 (step S110 in FIG. 5).

In the above process, the density correction pattern is not formed and the density adjustment is not performed using the result read by the output object reading unit 190, but the job together with the sheet information is used as the reference data when the job is executed again. It is characterized in that it is stored in association with.
Therefore, in the above process, the job is executed (step S109 in FIG. 5) after acquisition of reference data (formation, reading and storage of density correction pattern (steps S104 to S108 in FIG. 5)). This order may be reversed.

  Also, in the above processing, acquisition of reference data (formation, reading and storage of density correction patterns (steps S104 to S108 in FIG. 5)) is performed at the time of image formation of the first copy at the time of first job execution. Instead of this, it may be executed before and after the second copy at the time of the first job execution or before and after the final copy execution.

Furthermore, in the above processing, acquisition of reference data (formation, reading, and storage of density correction patterns (steps S104 to S108 in FIG. 5)) is performed many times during image formation of a plurality of copies at the time of first job execution. Alternatively, the reading results of density correction patterns may be averaged.
[Operation (2)]
Here, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 6, in the second and subsequent image formation for a job for which image formation has already been performed, the reading result of the density correction pattern and the reading result of the past (first) saved are equal. An operation of adjusting the image forming unit 150 to be as described above will be described.

The control unit 101 receives an instruction to re-execute a job from an external device via the communication unit 102 or the operation display unit 103 (step S201 in FIG. 6).
The control unit 101 stores in the storage unit 104 or the image data storage unit 130 whether the job execution instruction is image formation for the storage job or the second or later for the storage job. The execution history of the current job is read out and confirmed (steps S202 and S203 in FIG. 6).

  If the job execution instruction is for a job other than a storage job such as a copy job (NO in step S 202 in FIG. 6), the control unit 101 determines that the job is not a target job of this embodiment. The job is executed (step S212 in FIG. 6), and the history of the executed job is stored in the image data storage unit 130 (step S213 in FIG. 6).

On the other hand, when the instruction to execute the job is the first one for the storage job (NO in step S203 in FIG. 6), the control unit 101 performs the above-described first process (step S214 in FIG. 6: see FIG. 5). To do).
If the job execution instruction is for a stored job (YES in step S202 in FIG. 6) and is other than the first execution (YES in step S203 in FIG. 6), the control unit 101 It is determined that the job is a target of the present embodiment, and the following processing is further executed.

  The control unit 101 collates the sheet type of the sheet used for image formation of the job to be executed from now and the sheet type of the sheet used for image formation of the job executed for the first time (step S204 in FIG. 6). . The sheet type of the sheet used in the first-executed job is stored in association with the job (see FIG. 5).

  Here, if there is a change between the sheet type of the sheet used for image formation of the job to be executed from now and the sheet type of the sheet used for image formation of the job executed for the first time (step in FIG. 6) Since the process of the present embodiment to be described later can not be executed, the control unit 101 executes the job (step S212 in FIG. 6), and saves the history of the executed job in the image data storage unit 130 (S205). Step S213 in FIG.

  On the other hand, when there is no change in the sheet type of the sheet used for image formation of the job to be executed from now and the sheet type of the sheet used for image formation of the job executed for the first time (step S205 in FIG. 6) (YES in step S206), the control unit 101 confirms whether to use a plurality of types of sheets in the job (step S206 in FIG. 6).

  When multiple types of paper are used in the job (YES in step S206 in FIG. 6), the control unit 101 minimizes the waiting time until the start of normal image formation after formation of the density correction pattern. The order of forming the density correction patterns on a plurality of types of sheets is determined (step S207 in FIG. 6).

For example, it is assumed that the fixing temperatures of a plurality of last sheets forming the density correction pattern for adjustment do not match the fixing temperature of the first sheet of normal image formation.
7, a density correction pattern is formed on a sheet of paper type A, a density correction pattern is formed on a sheet of paper type B, a normal image is formed on a sheet of paper type A, and a normal image is formed on a sheet of paper type B. Form Here, it is assumed that the fixing temperature is 185 ° C. for the paper of the paper type A, and the fixing temperature is 190 ° C. for the paper of the paper type B.

  In this case, a density correction pattern is formed with paper of paper type A, setting switching (fixing temperature: 185 ° C. → 190 ° C.), density switching pattern is formed with paper of paper type B, setting switching (fixing temperature: 190 ° C. → 185) C., processing is performed in the order of normal image formation with paper type A, setting switching (fixing temperature: 185 ° C. → 190 ° C.), and normal image formation with paper type B. In the fixing unit 160, the heat capacity is increased for stable fixing processing, and it takes some time to change the fixing temperature. In this case, a total of three fixing temperature changes (setting switching) are required.

On the other hand, it is assumed that the fixing temperatures of the last plural sheets forming the density correction pattern for adjustment coincide with the fixing temperature of the first sheet of normal image formation.
In FIG. 8, a density correction pattern is formed on a sheet of paper type B, a density correction pattern is formed on a sheet of paper type A, a normal image is formed on a sheet of paper type A, and a normal image is formed on a sheet of paper type B. Form Here, it is assumed that the fixing temperature is 185 ° C. for the paper of the paper type A, and the fixing temperature is 190 ° C. for the paper of the paper type B.

  In this case, a density correction pattern is formed with paper type B, setting switched (fixing temperature: 190 ° C. → 185 ° C.), a density correction pattern is formed with paper type A, and normal image formation with paper type A, Processing is carried out in the order of setting switching (fixing temperature: 185 ° C. → 190 ° C.) and normal image formation with a sheet of paper type B. In this case, a total of two fixing temperature changes (setting switching) are required.

  That is, the order in which the density correction patterns are formed such that the fixing temperatures of the plurality of last sheets forming the density correction pattern for adjustment coincide with the fixing temperature of the first sheet on which the image formation after adjustment is started. By determining (step S207 in FIG. 6), switching of the fixing temperature does not occur between the completion of the density correction pattern formation and the start of the image formation, and therefore the waiting time is minimized.

  Similarly, with regard to other parameters such as charging voltage and developing bias and transfer potential other than fixing temperature, settings for the last sheet of plural types of paper for forming density correction patterns for adjustment are for adjustment after image formation. By determining the order of forming the density correction pattern so as to coincide with the setting of the first sheet to be started, the setting switching does not occur between the end of the density correction pattern formation and the start of the image formation. It becomes the minimum.

  Further, with regard to these parameters, the density of the last sheet of the plurality of types forming the density correction pattern for adjustment is close to the setting of the first sheet for starting the image formation after adjustment. By determining the order in which the correction patterns are formed, the switching of settings is minimized between the end of density correction pattern formation and the start of image formation, and the waiting time is minimized.

In the case where there are a plurality of cases where the number of times of setting switching can be reduced to the same number, it is desirable to determine the formation order of density correction patterns so that the waiting time can be further reduced.
As described above, when multiple types of sheets are used and the order of forming the density correction pattern is determined (YES in step S206 in FIG. 6, S207) or when multiple types of sheets are not used (NO in step S206 in FIG. 6), the control unit 101 reads out the data of the density correction pattern stored in the storage unit 104 or the image data storage unit 130 in a predetermined order, and prints the image of the density correction pattern on a sheet The formation is performed (step S208 in FIG. 6).

  The predetermined order of forming the density correction patterns is the density correction pattern of the order determined in step S207, or one type of density correction pattern when there is only one type of paper. The density correction pattern is the same as that used at the time of the first job execution, and a plurality of patches with different densities are arranged.

  The control unit 101 causes the output object reading unit 190 to read the density correction pattern in which the image is formed on the sheet as described above (step S209 in FIG. 6). The reading result of the density correction pattern read by the output object reading unit 190 is processed by the reading signal processing unit 120 and converted into reading result information of a predetermined format.

  Then, the control unit 101 adjusts the image forming unit 150 so that the above reading result of the density correction pattern and the reading result of the past (first) density correction pattern stored are equal (see FIG. 6). Step S210). Then, when using a plurality of types of sheets, the control unit 101 controls the density correction pattern formation, the density correction pattern reading, and the adjustment based on the reading result to be repeatedly performed on all the sheets (FIG. 6). Steps S211 and S208 to S210). By the adjustment of the image forming unit 150 using the reading result of such density correction pattern, the image forming unit 150 is adjusted to the same state as the first job execution time.

  That is, in order to adjust to the same state as the first job execution independently of the standard state of the machine, even if the first job execution time is different from the machine standard state, the same state as the first job execution time It becomes possible to reproduce. Further, even if the image forming apparatus 100 is adjusted to another state between the first job execution and the current job execution, it is possible to adjust to the same state as the first job execution.

  As described above, when image formation, reading, and adjustment of density correction patterns have been completed for all sheets used in job execution (YES in step S211 in FIG. 6), the control unit 101 executes the job according to the normal procedure. (Step S212 in FIG. 6), and the history of the executed job is stored in the storage unit 104 or the image data storage unit 130 (step S213 in FIG. 6).

[Operation (3)]
In the above description of the operation, the reading result of the density correction pattern is stored in association with the job together with the sheet information at the time of the first job execution, and the reading result of the density correction pattern is equal to the first when the same job is re-executed. Although the image forming unit is adjusted, it is not limited thereto.

  For example, when a job for creating 1000 copies of a booklet is being executed, the work of the first day is finished when 600 copies are created, and the power of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned off, and the next day (second day There is a function to continue the next day, such as making the remaining 400 copies). In such a next-day continuation function, when 600 copies on the first day are created, the reading result of the density correction pattern is stored in association with the job data as in the above-described [operation (1)]. Then, when the remaining 400 copies are created on the second day, the image forming unit 150 is adjusted so that the reading result of the density correction pattern becomes equal to the first as in the above-described [Operation (2)].

  By adjustment of the image forming unit 150 using such a density correction pattern reading result, the image forming unit 150 on the second day is adjusted to the same state as the job execution on the first day. In addition, it is not limited to the next day of a calendar as a continuation function of this next day, It can utilize also when the work of the day is interrupted, or when putting a holiday. In addition, it is possible to similarly apply to the case of executing a job divided into three or more days using the continuation function on the next day.

[Operation (4)]
Although the data of the job to be executed is stored in the image data storage unit 130 in the above description of the operation, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, as the storage job, the job data may be stored in a storage device other than the image data storage unit 130, for example, a storage device outside the image forming apparatus 100 or a storage device connected to an external PC. In this case, the control unit 101 only needs to recognize that it is the first execution or the second or later execution of the same job by referring to the file name of the job, the generation date, the identification code, and the like.

[Effect Obtained by Embodiment]
As described above, when the image formation is re-executed using the same sheet, the image forming unit 150 is set so that the reading result of the density correction pattern at the re-execution and the saved reading result become equal. Since the adjustment is performed, it is possible to obtain an output result having a uniform finish equivalent to that of the previous image formation without requiring a complicated adjustment operation when performing the image formation again.

  Also, as described above, when performing image formation for a job using multiple types of paper, when re-executing image formation using the same multiple types of paper, the result of reading the density correction pattern at the time of re-execution Since the image forming unit 150 is adjusted with each of a plurality of types of paper so that the past read results stored are equal to each other, troublesome adjustment work is required when image formation is to be performed again. Without it, it becomes possible to obtain an output result that is equivalent and uniform to the previous image formation.

  In addition, as described above, when the image forming unit forms an image for the job after reading the density correction pattern, a plurality of types of waiting time until the start of the image formation after the formation of the density correction pattern is minimized. By determining the order in which the density correction patterns are formed on a sheet of paper, when performing image formation again, an output result of uniform finish equivalent to the previous image formation without the need for troublesome adjustment operations. Can be obtained with the shortest possible waiting time.

  Further, as described above, when an image is formed again for the same job using a sheet different from the sheet when storing the reading result of the density correction pattern, formation of the density correction pattern, reading by the output material reading unit By controlling so as not to perform the adjustment, it is possible to perform the appropriate adjustment when performing the image formation again by not performing the adjustment in an inappropriate state.

  In addition, as described above, when image formation is re-executed using the same sheet, the reading result of the density correction pattern at the time of re-execution after the first time and the first-time reading result stored are equal. Since the image forming unit is adjusted, when re-executing the image formation after the first time, it is necessary to obtain an output result of uniform finish equivalent to the image formation of the first time without the need for troublesome adjustment work. Becomes possible.

  In addition, as described above, when image formation is resumed after being interrupted using the same sheet using the continuation function of the next day, the reading result of the density correction pattern at the time of resumption and the reading result before the interruption stored and Since the image forming unit is adjusted so that the same becomes equal, when restarting the interrupted image formation, an output result of uniform finish equivalent to the image formation before interruption without requiring troublesome adjustment work It will be possible to get things after resuming things.

  Further, in the above case, in the image forming apparatus 100 and the image forming system 1, the output object reading units 190 and 290 are provided downstream of the image forming unit 150 in the sheet conveyance direction, and image formation is re-executed using the same sheet. By adjusting the image forming unit so that the reading result of the density correction pattern at the re-execution and the stored reading result become equal when performing, it is not necessary to perform troublesome adjustment work. It is possible to obtain an output result that is equivalent to the previous image formation and uniform.

100 image forming apparatus 102 communication unit 103 operation display unit 104 storage unit 105 sheet feeding unit 107 transport unit 110 document reading unit 120 reading signal processing unit 130 image data storage unit 140 image processing unit 150 image forming unit 160 fixing unit 190 output object reading Department

Claims (8)

An output reading unit for reading an image formed on a sheet is connectable,
An image forming unit that forms the image on the sheet;
A control unit that controls image formation by the image forming unit and reading by the output object reading unit;
An image forming apparatus comprising:
The control unit
When forming an image for a job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to store the type of paper used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern in association with the job;
When forming an image using the same type of paper again for the job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
The controls to adjust the image forming unit so that the density correction pattern past the reading result read results to be conserved in equal,
When forming an image for a job that uses multiple types of paper,
Forming a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on a plurality of types of the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to associate a plurality of types of sheets used for image formation with the reading result of the density correction pattern and to store the sheet in association with the job;
When performing image formation again for the job using multiple types of paper,
Forming a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on a plurality of types of the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling the image forming unit so that reading results of the density correction pattern for a plurality of types of the sheet are equal to past reading results for the plurality of types of stored sheets;
An image forming apparatus characterized by When the image forming unit forms an image for the job after reading the density correction pattern , the control unit sets a plurality of waiting times until the start of the image formation after the formation of the density correction pattern. Determine the order in which density correction patterns are formed on the type of paper;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The control unit is configured to form the density correction pattern when reading an image of the job again using a sheet different from the sheet when storing the reading result of the density correction pattern, reading the output product Control not to read by the department,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The control unit
At the time of the first image formation for a certain job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to store the type of paper used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern in association with the job;
Regarding the job, when forming an image using the same type of paper again after the first image formation,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling the image forming unit so that the reading result of the density correction pattern and the past reading result stored are equal ;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The control unit
It is possible to interrupt the image formation for a certain job and to restart the image formation of the interrupted job,
Before interrupting image formation for a job
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to store the type of paper used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern in association with the job;
When resuming image formation using the same type of paper again for the interrupted job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling the image forming unit so that the reading result of the density correction pattern and the past reading result stored are equal;
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, The output object reading unit is provided on the downstream side of the image forming unit in the conveyance direction of the sheet.
The output object reading unit reads the density correction pattern formed on the sheet in the image forming unit, and notifies the control unit of a reading result.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein An image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet;
An output object reading unit disposed downstream of the image forming unit in the conveyance direction of the sheet to read an image formed on the sheet;
A control unit that controls image formation by the image forming unit and reading by the output object reading unit;
An image forming system comprising
The control unit
When forming an image for a job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to store the type of paper used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern in association with the job;
When forming an image using the same type of paper again for the job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling the image forming unit so that the reading result of the density correction pattern and the past reading result stored are equal;
When forming an image for a job that uses multiple types of paper,
Forming a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on a plurality of types of the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to associate a plurality of types of sheets used for image formation with the reading result of the density correction pattern and to store the sheet in association with the job;
When performing image formation again for the job using multiple types of paper,
Forming a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on a plurality of types of the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling the image forming unit so that reading results of the density correction pattern for a plurality of types of the sheet are equal to past reading results for the plurality of types of stored sheets;
Images formed system that is characterized in that. An image forming section for forming the images on the paper, before SL output object reading section for reading an image formed on the sheet, the control for controlling the reading by the image forming and the output object reading unit according to prior Symbol image forming unit An image formation control method for controlling image formation by
When forming an image for a job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to store the type of paper used for image formation and the reading result of the density correction pattern in association with the job;
When forming an image using the same type of paper again for the job,
A density correction pattern is formed on the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on the sheet by the output object reading unit;
The controls to adjust the image forming unit so that the density correction pattern past the reading result read results to be conserved in equal,
When forming an image for a job that uses multiple types of paper,
Forming a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on a plurality of types of the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling to associate a plurality of types of sheets used for image formation with the reading result of the density correction pattern and to store the sheet in association with the job;
When performing image formation again for the job using multiple types of paper,
Forming a density correction pattern on a plurality of types of the sheet by the image forming unit;
Reading the density correction pattern formed on a plurality of types of the sheet by the output object reading unit;
Controlling the image forming unit so that reading results of the density correction pattern for a plurality of types of the sheet are equal to past reading results for the plurality of types of stored sheets;
An image formation control method characterized by;

Images