JP6777049B2 - Image forming device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that authenticates a user and prevents another person from taking away printed matter.

The printed matter is discharged to the discharge tray of the image forming apparatus. The user goes to the image forming apparatus to pick up his printed matter. The image forming apparatus may be shared by a plurality of people. You may accidentally take away someone else's printed matter. Moreover, the possibility that a malicious person intentionally takes away the printed matter is not zero. In particular, it is necessary to prevent the removal of confidential documents. Patent Document 1 describes an example of a technique for preventing another person from acquiring printed matter.

In Patent Document 1, an image is formed on a recording medium according to print data, a printed matter is output, an image obtained by capturing the movement of a person existing within a predetermined range of an image forming apparatus is analyzed, and the movement of the person is specified. , An image forming apparatus that gives a predetermined warning when an operation of obtaining an output printed matter is detected by performing a notification according to the analysis result and the person who performed the operation is not the user who instructed the printing of the printed matter. Is described. This configuration is intended to prevent third-party acquisition of printed matter and notification of printed matter (see Patent Document 1: Claim 1, Claim 4, paragraph [0009]).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-215732

The image forming apparatus may print a document to be kept confidential (confidential document). It is necessary to ensure that the printer of the confidential document obtains the printed confidential document. In addition, there is a problem that the removal of confidential documents should be surely prevented.

In addition, the result of the print job (printed matter) is discharged to the discharge tray of the image forming apparatus. Printed matter from multiple print jobs by multiple people may be stacked in one discharge tray (mixed printed matter). When multiple printed matter is mixed in the discharge tray, the user sorts the paper on the discharge tray. Then, the user takes out his / her printed matter. However, due to a selection error, another person's printed matter may be taken away.

The image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 analyzes the motion of a nearby person. However, Patent Document 1 does not describe the printing of confidential documents. Further, the technique described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that it cannot be taken away when the discharge tray is in a mixed loading state.

The present invention confirms the presence or absence of printed matter in the discharge tray, prevents a third party from acquiring the confidential document, and prevents another person from taking away the printed matter.

The image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a data input unit, a printing unit, an acquisition unit, a detection unit, a notification unit, and a control unit. Printing data is input to the data input unit. The printing unit prints based on the printing data. The printing unit discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray. The acquisition unit acquires authentication information for authenticating the user. The detection unit determines that the first action of reaching for the discharge tray has been performed, the second action of releasing the hand from the discharge tray has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray. It is a part to do. The notification unit performs notification. The control unit authenticates the user based on the authentication information. When the normal print data is input to the data input unit, the control unit causes the print unit to start a normal print job, which is a print job based on the normal print data. When the secret printing data is input to the data input unit, the control unit does not immediately start the secret printing job, which is a printing job based on the secret printing data, in the printing unit. When the authenticated person who is the authenticated user is the user who input the secret printing data, the control unit confirms whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray based on the output of the detection unit. To do. When the control unit has printed matter in the discharge tray, the control unit recognizes that all the printed matter in the discharge tray has been moved from the discharge tray based on the output of the detection unit, and then performs the secret printing job. Let the print department start.

According to the present invention, the printed matter in the discharge tray can be moved before printing of the confidential document can be started. It is possible to prevent a third party from acquiring the confidential document. In addition, it is possible to prevent another person from taking away the printed matter.

It is a figure which shows an example of the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the transmission of the print data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the process at the time of executing a secret print job which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the extraction management list which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the process flow at the time of taking out a normal printed matter from the discharge tray which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the process flow at the time of taking out a normal printed matter from the discharge tray which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the cumulative number-of-times data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the flow of the volume setting of the take-out warning in the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the process in the print job in the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. This is an example of the aftertreatment device according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12. In the following description, the multifunction device 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element such as the configuration and arrangement described in the present embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an explanatory example.

(Multifunction device 100)
First, the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. 1 and 2 are diagrams showing an example of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

The multifunction device 100 includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, an image reading unit 3, an operation panel 4, a printing unit 5, an authentication camera 6 (corresponding to an acquisition unit), a detection unit 7, a weight sensor 8, and a communication unit 9 (data input). (Equivalent to part) is included. The detection unit includes a detection camera 70.

The control unit 1 controls each unit of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 1 includes a CPU 11 and an image processing unit 12. The CPU 11 performs calculations and controls. The image processing unit 12 performs image processing on the image data. The storage unit 2 includes a non-volatile storage device and a volatile storage device. The storage unit 2 includes a ROM 21 and a storage 22 (HDD or SSD) as a non-volatile storage device. The storage unit 2 includes a RAM 23 as a volatile storage device. The storage unit 2 stores control programs and data.

At the time of a job of reading a document (copy job, scan save job, scan transmission job), the control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 3 to read the document. The image reading unit 3 generates image data of the original.

The control unit 1 is communicably connected to the operation panel 4. The operation panel 4 includes a display panel 41 (corresponding to the notification unit), a touch panel 42, a hard key 43, a speaker 44 (corresponding to the notification unit), and an indicator light 45 (corresponding to the notification unit). The control unit 1 controls the display of the display panel 41. The control unit 1 displays an operation image for setting on the display panel 41. The operation image is, for example, a soft key or a button. The control unit 1 recognizes the operated operation image based on the output of the touch panel 42. Further, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated hard key 43. The operation panel 4 accepts user operations (operation images and operations on the hard key 43). The speaker 44 emits sound. The control unit 1 inputs an audio signal to the speaker 44. The speaker 44 emits a voice based on the input voice signal. The indicator light 45 is a light source for notifying the state of the multifunction device 100. The indicator light 45 is, for example, an LED.

The printing unit 5 prints on the paper while transporting the paper. The printing unit 5 prints based on the printing data and discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray 50. The printing unit 5 includes a paper feeding unit 5a, a paper conveying unit 5b, an image forming unit 5c, a fixing unit 5d, and a discharge tray 50.

The control unit 1 controls the operation of the printing unit 5. The control unit 1 controls the operations of the paper feed unit 5a, the paper transport unit 5b, the image forming unit 5c, and the fixing unit 5d. The paper feed unit 5a accommodates paper. At the time of a print job, the control unit 1 causes the paper feed unit 5a to supply paper. The control unit 1 causes the paper transport unit 5b to transport the paper. The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to form a toner image based on the image data. The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to transfer the formed toner image to the transport paper. The control unit 1 causes the fixing unit 5d to heat and pressurize the paper on which the toner image is transferred. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper. The control unit 1 conveys the fixed (printed) paper to the discharge tray 50 to the paper transport unit 5b. The printed matter is output to the discharge tray 50.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the multifunction device 100 has two cameras. The authentication camera 6 acquires authentication information for authenticating the user. The authentication camera 6 photographs the front direction from the back side of the multifunction device 100. The authentication camera 6 captures a user approaching the image forming apparatus. On the other hand, the detection camera 70 photographs the discharge tray 50. In FIG. 2, the discharge tray 50 is invisible. The detection camera 70 photographs the discharge tray 50 from above. The detection camera 70 photographs the discharge tray 50 in order to determine whether the first operation has been performed, the second operation has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray 50. The first operation is an operation of reaching for the discharge tray 50. The second operation is an operation of releasing the hand from the discharge tray 50. The weight sensor 8 is a sensor for measuring the total weight of the stack of paper in the ejection tray 50. The control unit 1 recognizes the weight of the paper bundle based on the output of the weight sensor 8.

The communication unit 9 communicates with a computer 200 such as a PC or a server. The communication unit 9 communicates with the computer 200 via the network. The communication unit 9 includes a circuit (hardware) necessary for communication and software 206. The communication unit 9 receives print data from the computer 200. The control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to perform printing based on the printing data.

(User authentication)
Next, an example of user authentication in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

The authentication camera 6 includes a first lens 61, a first image sensor 62, and a first camera module 63. The first lens 61 guides the incident light to the first image sensor 62. The first image sensor 62 includes a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in a plane. Each light receiving element of the first image sensor 62 outputs an analog signal (image signal) according to the amount of light received. Each light receiving element of the first image sensor 62 outputs an analog signal (image signal) at a fixed cycle. The first camera module 63 generates first imaging data (image data) based on the image signal output by the first image sensor 62. The first camera module 63 generates the first imaging data at regular intervals.

The control unit 1 authenticates the user based on the image data (corresponding to the first imaging data and the authentication information) taken by the authentication camera 6. The control unit 1 determines who is the user standing in front of the multifunction device 100. The storage unit 2 stores the user information D1 for user authentication. The user information D1 includes face image data D2 of a person who can use the multifunction device 100. When there are a plurality of persons who can use the user information D1, the user information D1 includes a plurality of face image data D2. The image data obtained by the image taken by the authentication camera 6 may be used as the face image data D2.

The user information D1 includes data (registered user data D3) registered regarding a person who is authorized to use the multifunction device 100. The registered user data D3 includes information such as a user name, password, address, and department to which the user belongs. The user can input the information to be included in the registered user data D3 into the operation panel 4. The registered user data D3 of each user is associated with the corresponding face image data D2.

When performing face recognition, the control unit 1 performs face detection processing on the first imaging data. By the face detection process, the control unit 1 determines the face region in the first imaging data. When the face region cannot be detected, the control unit 1 determines that no person is reflected in the first imaging data. When the face region can be detected, the control unit 1 performs a feature point detection process of the face region. The control unit 1 determines the positions of facial feature points such as eyes, nose, and mouth. The control unit 1 normalizes the position and size of the face region using the obtained feature point positions, and generates the first collation data D4. In addition, the control unit 1 performs face detection processing and feature point detection processing on each face image data D2 in advance. Then, the control unit 1 normalizes the position and size of the face region for each face image data D2, and generates the second collation data D5.

The control unit 1 compares the first collation data D4 with the respective second collation data D5. The control unit 1 compares the positions of the feature points and the positional relationship of each feature point. Then, the control unit 1 calculates the degree of agreement. The more the face of the first collation data D4 and the face of the second collation data D5 are not similar, the smaller the calculated degree of matching becomes.

When there is no second collation data D5 whose degree of coincidence exceeds a predetermined reference value, the control unit 1 determines that the imaged person does not have the authority to use the multifunction device 100. In this case, the user is not authenticated. On the other hand, when there is the second collation data D5 whose matching degree exceeds the reference value, the control unit 1 determines that the person being imaged has the authority to use the multifunction device 100. In this case, the control unit 1 authenticates the user corresponding to the second collation data D5 having the highest degree of agreement. As a result, the control unit 1 determines who is the user standing in front of the multifunction device 100.

An example of authenticating the user by face authentication using the authentication camera 6 has been described. However, the user may be authenticated based on the password entered in the operation panel 4. In this case, the user inputs the assigned password using the operation panel 4 (touch panel 42). The control unit 1 confirms whether or not the password stored in the storage unit 2 and the entered password match. When they match, the control unit 1 authenticates with the user corresponding to the matched password. The control unit 1 determines that the multifunction device 100 has the authority to use the multifunction device 100. If they do not match, the control unit 1 does not authenticate the user. The control unit 1 determines that the multifunction device 100 is not authorized to be used.

In addition, the user may be authenticated by reading the information registered in the card or the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device is, for example, a smartphone. In this case, the multifunction device 100 is provided with a reader that reads information. The reader reads information from the card or mobile communication device, for example, by wireless communication. The control unit 1 confirms whether or not the information in the storage unit 2 and the read information match. When they match, the control unit 1 authenticates the user with the user corresponding to the matched information. The control unit 1 determines that the multifunction device 100 has the authority to use the multifunction device 100. If they do not match, the control unit 1 does not authenticate the user. The control unit 1 determines that the multifunction device 100 is not authorized to be used.

When the user cannot authenticate, the control unit 1 keeps the operation panel 4 in the logout state. In the logout state, the operation panel 4 does not accept various settings. On the other hand, when the user can be authenticated, the control unit 1 sets the operation panel 4 in the logged-in state. When logged in, the operation panel 4 accepts various settings of the user. Once logged in, the control unit 1 keeps the operation panel 4 logged in until the log-out condition is satisfied. The log-out condition can be, for example, that a certain period of time has elapsed since there was no operation on the operation panel 4.

(Judgment based on the output of the detector 7)
Next, an example of determination based on the output of the detection unit 7 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The detection unit 7 of the multifunction device 100 includes a detection camera 70. The detection camera 70 includes a second lens 71, a second image sensor 72, and a second camera module 73. The second lens 71 guides the incident light to the second image sensor 72. The second image sensor 72 includes a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in a plane. Each light receiving element of the second image sensor 72 outputs an analog signal (image signal) according to the amount of light received. Each light receiving element of the second image sensor 72 outputs an analog signal (image signal) at a fixed cycle. The second camera module 73 generates second imaging data (image data) based on the image signal output by the second image sensor 72. The second camera module 73 generates the second imaging data at regular intervals.

The second imaging data (output of the detection unit 7) is input to the control unit 1. The control unit 1 determines whether or not the printed matter is in the discharge tray 50 based on the second imaging data. Further, the control unit 1 detects an operation on the discharge tray 50 based on the second imaging data. Each time the second imaging data is generated, the control unit 1 detects whether or not the printing unit 5 is on the ejection tray 50 and the operation on the ejection tray 50.

The storage unit 2 stores the detection data D6. For example, in the detection data D6, the color of the discharge tray 50 and the range of pixel values to be handled (tray color range) are defined. The control unit 1 recognizes a pixel having a pixel value within the tray color range in the second imaging data. The control unit 1 obtains the contour of the recognized pixel. The control unit 1 recognizes the region having the largest area among the regions surrounded by the contour as the discharge tray 50 region.

Then, the control unit 1 recognizes the number of pixels (pixels indicating paper) that do not belong to the tray color range among the pixels in the ejection tray 50 area. When the number of pixels indicating the paper is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 1 may determine that there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50. When the number of pixels indicating the paper is less than a predetermined value, the control unit 1 determines that there is no printed matter in the ejection tray 50. Alternatively, the control unit 1 may obtain the outline of the pixel indicating the paper among the pixels in the ejection tray 50 area. When the number of pixels in the area surrounded by the contour is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 1 may determine that there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50. When the number of pixels in the area surrounded by the contour is less than a predetermined value, the control unit 1 may determine that there is no printed matter in the discharge tray 50. The color of the paper is often white. The color of the ejection tray 50 is sufficiently different from white so that the presence or absence of paper can be determined.

Further, the control unit 1 determines that the hand has been extended toward the discharge tray 50 (the first operation has been performed) based on the second imaging data. Further, the control unit 1 determines that the hand has been released from the discharge tray 50 (the second operation has been performed) based on the second imaging data. In the detection data D6, a range of pixel values (skin color range) to be handled is defined as the skin color. The control unit 1 recognizes a pixel having a pixel value in the skin color range in the second imaging data. The control unit 1 obtains the contour of the recognized pixel. The control unit 1 recognizes the region having the largest area among the regions surrounded by the contour as the hand region.

When the hand area having a certain number of pixels or more overlaps with the area determined to be the discharge tray 50 area, the control unit 1 determines that the first operation has been performed. After determining that the first operation has been performed, when the hand area overlapping the area determined to be the discharge tray 50 area becomes less than a certain number of pixels, the control unit 1 determines that the second operation has been performed.

It should be noted that it may be possible to detect whether or not the printed matter is in the discharge tray 50 without using the detection camera 70. For example, the discharge tray 50 may be provided with a sensor in contact with the paper. In this case, the control unit 1 recognizes whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50 based on the output of the sensor in contact with the paper.

Further, the operation on the discharge tray 50 may be detected without using the detection camera 70. For example, a sensor whose output changes depending on the presence or absence of a hand above the discharge tray 50 and at a position where it touches the printed matter can be used. For example, a pyroelectric sensor (infrared sensor) or an ultrasonic sensor can be used. In this case, based on the output of the sensor, the control unit 1 determines that the first operation has been performed and that the second operation has been performed.

(Notification unit)
Next, the notification unit of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. As a notification unit, the multifunction device 100 includes a display panel 41, a speaker 44, and an indicator light 45. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41, the speaker 44, and the indicator light 45 to give a notification as needed. Hereinafter, an example in which the control unit 1 causes each of the display panel 41, the speaker 44, and the indicator light 45 to perform notification will be described. In addition, only a part of the display panel 41, the speaker 44, and the indicator light 45 may be used for notification.

The control unit 1 displays a message or a warning on the display panel 41. The display panel 41 provides notification by display. The control unit 1 causes the speaker 44 to pronounce a message or a warning. The speaker 44 gives a sound notification. The control unit 1 turns on, off, or blinks the indicator light 45 at the time of notification.

(Transmission of print data)
Next, transmission of printing data according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of transmission of print data according to the embodiment.

The communication unit 9 of the multifunction device 100 receives print data from the computer 200. The control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to print based on the printing data. The computer 200 includes, for example, a processing unit 201, an HDD 202, a display 203, an input device 204, and a communication interface 205.

The processing unit 201 is a board on which a CPU, ROM, RAM, and other circuits are mounted. The processing unit 201 controls the operation of the computer 200. HDD 202 stores software 206 and driver software 207. The driver software 207 is software 206 necessary for causing the multifunction device 100 to perform a job based on print data. The processing unit 201 causes the display 203 to display a screen and an image. The input device 204 is, for example, a keyboard or a mouse. The communication interface 205 is communicably connected to the communication unit 9 of the multifunction device 100.

When the print command is executed by the running software 206, the processing unit 201 activates the driver software 207. The processing unit 201 generates print data based on the driver software 207. The processing unit 201 includes page data described in the page description language (PDL) and data related to print settings in the print data. The processing unit 201 causes the communication interface 205 to transmit the print data generated for the communication unit 9.

The control unit 1 stores the print data received by the communication unit 9 in the storage unit 2 (storage 22). The control unit 1 generates print image data (raster data, bitmap data) based on the data described in PDL. The control unit 1 performs image processing necessary for print image data based on the print settings. The control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to print based on the image data for printing after the image processing.

Here, the multifunction device 100 can perform a secret printing job. Secret printing jobs are sometimes referred to as private printing. When performing a secret print job, the user sets the secret print job with the driver software 207. For example, the user enters the password required for printing. When the setting in the driver software 207 is completed, the computer 200 generates the secret printing data. The secret print data includes data described in PDL, data related to print settings, and a set password.

When the secret printing data is received, the control unit 1 does not immediately start the secret printing data. The secret print data and the address of the computer 200 that has transmitted the secret print data are stored in the storage unit 2 (storage 22). When the person to be authenticated and the sender of the secret printing data match and an appropriate password is entered in the operation panel 4, the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to start printing based on the secret printing data. When the registered address of the authenticated person and the address of the computer 200 that has transmitted the secret printing data match, the control unit 1 determines that the authenticated person and the sender of the secret printing data match. Unless there is a sender of secret printing data at the installation location of the multifunction device 100, the control unit 1 does not start printing. Make sure that the sender of the secret printing data receives the printed matter immediately after printing based on the secret printing data.

When the secret print job is not set by the driver software 207, the processing unit 201 generates normal print data. When the normal print data is received, the control unit 1 stores the normal print data in the storage unit 2. Then, the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to start printing based on the normal printing data without inputting the password. Normal print data is executed immediately.

(Processing when executing a secret print job)
Next, an example of processing at the time of executing the secret print job according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of processing at the time of executing the secret print job according to the embodiment.

Before starting the secret print job, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not all the execution start conditions of the secret print job are satisfied. First, the first execution start condition is that the control unit 1 authenticates the user in front of the multifunction device 100 based on the first imaging data. The second condition is that the control unit 1 matches the authenticated person (logged-in user) and the sender of the secret printing data. The third condition is that the person to be authenticated has entered the password corresponding to the secret printing data into the operation panel 4.

At the start of FIG. 5, the control unit 1 confirms that all the execution start conditions of the secret print job are satisfied. Then, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50 based on the output (second imaging data) of the detection unit 7 (step # 11).

When there is no printed matter in the discharge tray 50 (No in step # 11), the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to start the secret printing job (step # 12). The control unit 1 causes the printed matter to perform paper feeding, paper transport, toner image formation, transfer, fixing, and ejection. Subsequently, the control unit 1 stores the secret print executor data D7 indicating the person to be authenticated at the start of the secret print job in the storage unit 2 (see step # 13, FIG. 3). Specifically, the secret print executor data D7 includes the execution start time (time) of the secret print job, the name of the authenticated person, the face image data D2 of the authenticated person, and the registered address of the authenticated person. This makes it possible to identify the person who executed the secret print job at a later date when a problem occurs. This flow ends with the printing of the last page (end).

When there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50 (Yes in step # 11), the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the first message (step # 14). The first message is a message notifying that all the printed matter remaining in the discharge tray 50 needs to be moved. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the first message. The control unit 1 causes the speaker 44 to reproduce the first message. As a result, the user knows that the printed matter should be moved from the discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 notifies the first message until it can be determined that all the printed matter has been moved from the discharge tray 50. When the control unit 1 can determine that there is no printed matter in the discharge tray 50, it determines that all the printed matter has been moved.

When the printed matter is moved by the user, the control unit 1 recognizes the first operation and the second operation based on the second imaging data. Then, the control unit 1 stores the movement confirmation data D8 in the storage unit 2 (see step # 15, FIG. 3). The movement confirmation data D8 is data that summarizes the first imaging data. The first imaging data obtained from the time when it is determined that the first operation has been performed until the shooting period elapses are summarized in chronological order. Here, the first imaging data is periodically generated. Therefore, the movement confirmation data D8 is a moving image of the operation of the person to be authenticated taken by the authentication camera 6. The shooting period is predetermined. The shooting period is defined as a period during which the operation of taking out the printed matter and placing the printed matter in another place can be photographed. The shooting period is, for example, a dozen seconds to a few tens of seconds.

Along with the first imaging data, the control unit 1 separately stores the second imaging data in the storage unit 2 as movement confirmation data D8. The movement confirmation data D8 also includes the second imaging data obtained during the period from the first operation to the elapse of the photographing period. The second imaging data is also summarized in chronological order. The second imaging data is periodically generated. Therefore, the movement confirmation data D8 also includes a moving image of the state of the discharge tray 50. Note that the control unit 1 may store only one of the first imaging data and the second imaging data in the storage unit 2 as movement confirmation data D8.

The user removes all printed matter from the discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 recognizes the movement of all printed matter from the ejection tray 50 based on the second imaging data (step # 16). When removed, the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to start the secret printing job (step # 17). The control unit 1 causes the printed matter to perform paper feeding, paper transport, toner image formation, transfer, fixing, and ejection. Then, the control unit 1 stores the secret print executor data D7 indicating the person to be authenticated at the start of the secret print job in the storage unit 2 (see step # 18, FIG. 3).

Subsequently, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the second message after the start of the secret printing job (step # 19). The second message is a message informing that the printed matter should be returned to the discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 notifies the second message until the secret print job is completed. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the second message. The control unit 1 causes the speaker 44 to reproduce the second message. Further, the control unit 1 may turn on and off the indicator lamp 45.

The control unit 1 recognizes that the print job is completed when the time required for the specifications from the paper feed to the discharge has elapsed after the paper feed of the last page of the print job. Further, an ejection sensor may be provided at the ejection port of the printed paper. Based on the output of the ejection sensor, the control unit 1 may recognize that the print job is completed when the printed paper of the last page is ejected.

The operation panel 4 accepts a setting of how many pages before the last page of the secret print job the second message is to be notified. By default, the time when the second message is notified is the time when the last page is fed. The control unit 1 may start the notification of the second message at the same time as the start of feeding the first page of the secret print job.

When notifying the second message, the control unit 1 causes the notifying unit to notify the moving location of the printed matter. For example, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to reproduce the movement confirmation data D8. The control unit 1 displays a moving image of the printed matter on the display panel 41. The cost area of the display panel 41 may be divided into two. In this case, the control unit 1 may reproduce the first imaging data in one display area in chronological order and the second imaging data in the other display area in chronological order. As a result, two moving images are played on the display panel 41.

After the secret print job is completed, the control unit 1 determines whether or not the printed matter has been returned to the discharge tray 50 based on the output of the detection unit 7 (step # 110). Specifically, the control unit 1 determines, based on the second imaging data, whether or not the paper is in the discharge tray 50 within the predetermined return time. The return time is set as appropriate. The return time is the time required to return the moved printed matter to the discharge tray 50. For example, the return time is set within the range of several seconds to several tens of seconds.

When the printed matter is returned within the return time (Yes in step # 110), this flow ends (end). When the printed matter is not returned within the return time (No in step # 110), the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the take-away warning (step # 111). Then, this flow ends (end).

The take-away warning is a message warning the possibility of taking away another person's printed matter. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display a take-away warning. The control unit 1 causes the speaker 44 to play the warning. The control unit 1 reproduces a message such as "There is a possibility that another person's printed matter has been taken away." Further, the control unit 1 turns on and off the indicator light 45 for the take-out warning. The control unit 1 continues to display and reproduce the take-away warning for a predetermined warning time. When notifying the take-away warning, the control unit 1 may have the communication unit 9 transmit that the take-away warning has been notified to the computer 200 of the administrator of the multifunction device 100. The take-out warning can be displayed, voiced, or transmitted (the same applies hereinafter). This makes it possible to notify the user and those around the image forming apparatus of the possibility of taking away the printed matter of another person.

(Normal printed matter removal)
Next, taking out the normal printed matter from the discharge tray 50 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the retrieval management list L1 according to the embodiment. 7 and 8 are views showing an example of a processing flow at the time of taking out a normal printed matter from the discharge tray 50 according to the embodiment.

The control unit 1 starts a normal print job based on the received normal print data. As a result, the printed matter of a plurality of normal print jobs may be accumulated in the discharge tray 50. Printed matter of a plurality of normal print jobs may be mixedly loaded on the discharge tray 50. In addition, the person to be authenticated surely acquires the printed matter of the secret print job. Therefore, the printed matter accumulated in the discharge tray 50 is only the printed matter of the normal printing job. The user who comes to pick up the printed matter takes out his / her own printed matter from the mixed discharge tray 50. At this time, the printed matter of another person may be taken out by mistake. When the printed matter of a plurality of normal print jobs is mixedly loaded, the control unit 1 performs a process for preventing the printed matter of another person from being taken away.

Here, the control unit 1 stores in the storage unit 2 a take-out management list L1 that manages whether or not the printed matter is taken out from the discharge tray 50 for each normal print job (see FIG. 3). FIG. 6 shows an example of the retrieval management list L1. Print jobs that have been completed but have not been picked up by the user are placed on the take-out management list L1. The printing user, the job name of the normal print job, the number of pages printed, the paper size, and the execution date and time of the normal print job are defined in the fetch management list L1. The control unit 1 takes out the newly completed normal print job and adds it to the management list L1. Further, the control unit 1 takes out a normal print job that can be regarded as having come to pick up the printed matter and excludes it from the management list L1 (details will be described later).

The start of FIG. 7 is when the printed matter of the normal print job of a plurality of users is accumulated in the discharge tray 50. When the normal print job of a plurality of users is executed without the first operation, the control unit 1 recognizes that the printed matter of the plurality of users is mixedly loaded.

First, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the user can be authenticated based on the authentication information (first imaging data) (step # 21). When the user cannot be authenticated (No in step # 21), the control unit 1 determines whether or not the first operation has been performed (whether the hand has been extended) (step # 22). In other words, check if an unrelated person has reached for the discharge tray 50.

When it is determined that the first operation has not been performed (No in step # 22), the flow returns to step # 21. When it is determined that the first operation has been performed (Yes in step # 22), the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the take-away warning (step # 23). The control unit 1 continues to display and reproduce the take-away warning for a predetermined warning time. Since there is a possibility of malicious removal, the control unit 1 may maximize the volume of the speaker 44. Then, this flow ends (end).

On the other hand, when the user can be authenticated (Yes in step # 21), the control unit 1 determines whether or not the first operation has been performed based on the second imaging data (step # 24). When it cannot be determined that the first operation has been performed (No in step # 24), the flow returns to step # 21. When it is determined that the first operation has been performed (Yes in step # 24), the control unit 1 starts measurement (step # 25). Specifically, the control unit 1 starts measuring the take-out time (step # 25). The take-out time is the time from the determination that the first operation has been performed to the determination that the second operation has been performed. Further, the control unit 1 weighs the first weight based on the output of the weight sensor 8. The first weight is the weight of the bundle of paper at the time when it is determined that the first operation has been performed.

The control unit 1 continues to determine whether or not the second operation has been performed based on the second imaging data (step # 26, step # 26 No → step # 26). When it is determined that the second operation has been performed (Yes in step # 26), the control unit 1 confirms the measurement (step # 27). Specifically, the control unit 1 ends the measurement of the take-out time when it is determined that the second operation has been performed. Further, the control unit 1 weighs the second weight based on the output of the weight sensor 8. The second weight is the weight of the paper bundle of the discharge tray 50 at the time when it is determined that the second operation has been performed. That is, the control unit 1 determines the take-out time and the second weight. Based on the second imaging data, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not all the printed matter has been taken out from the discharge tray 50 (step # 28).

When all the printed matter is taken out (Yes in step # 28), the control unit 1 calculates the waiting time (step # 29). The waiting time is the time from when it is determined that all the printed matter has been taken out until the take-out warning is started. Specifically, the control unit 1 determines the remaining number of normal printed matter remaining in the discharge tray 50 based on the take-out management list L1. The control unit 1 obtains the total number of pages of each job in the retrieval management list L1 as the remaining number of sheets. Then, the control unit 1 increases the waiting time as the number of remaining sheets increases. This is because the more paper in the discharge tray 50, the more time and effort it takes to sort the printed matter. For example, the control unit 1 calculates the waiting time by multiplying the waiting time per sheet by the remaining number of sheets. The waiting time for each sheet is predetermined.

When the waiting time elapses after determining that all the printed matter has been moved, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of a take-out warning (step # 210). It is notified that the printed matter of the discharge tray 50 is not only the printed matter of the person to be authenticated. Subsequently, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the printed matter has been returned to the discharge tray 50 based on the second imaging data (step # 211). In other words, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the paper is in the discharge tray 50.

When it cannot be determined that the printed matter has been returned to the discharge tray 50 (No in step # 211), the flow returns to step # 210. When it can be determined that the printed matter has been returned to the discharge tray 50 (Yes in step # 211), the control unit 1 stops the take-out warning at the notification unit (step # 212). Then, the control unit 1 updates the retrieval management list L1 (step # 213). Specifically, the control unit 1 deletes the normal print job of the authenticated person from the retrieval management list L1. Then, this flow ends (end).

When the printed matter remains (No in step # 28), the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is the most recently completed normal print job (step # 214). During the most recent normal print job (Yes in step # 214), the printed matter of the person to be certified is at the top of the stack of paper in the eject tray 50. When taking printed matter, the person to be authenticated takes his / her own printed matter from above. It is considered that it will take some time to take out one's printed matter.

Therefore, at the time of the latest normal print job (Yes in step # 214), the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the take-out time is equal to or longer than the reference time (step # 215). The reference time is set in advance. The reference time is the time considered to be the minimum required for sorting and taking out printed matter. The reference time can be, for example, any time in the range of several seconds to ten and several seconds.

When the selection of printed matter is completed in a short time, there is a high possibility that another person's printed matter will be taken away. Therefore, when the take-out time is less than the reference time (No in step # 215), the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the take-out warning (step # 216). The control unit 1 continues to display and reproduce the take-away warning for a predetermined warning time. Then, the control unit 1 updates the retrieval management list L1 (deletion of the normal print job of the authenticated person, step # 217). Then, this flow ends (end). On the other hand, when sorting out one's own printed matter over time, there is a high possibility that another person's printed matter has not been taken away. Therefore, when the take-out time is equal to or longer than the reference time (Yes in step # 215), the process proceeds to step # 217 without notifying the warning.

When it is not the most recent normal print job (Yes in step # 214), the control unit 1 obtains an estimated reduction amount (step # 218). The estimated reduction amount is an estimated value of the weight of the printed matter of the normal printing job of the person to be authenticated among the papers in the discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 obtains the total number of printed matter of the person to be authenticated based on the take-out management list L1. The control unit 1 multiplies the weight per sheet of paper by the total number of sheets to obtain the estimated reduction amount. The weight per sheet of paper is predetermined for each paper size.

Based on the first weight and the second weight, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the weight of the paper bundle of the discharge tray 50 is too small (step # 219). Specifically, the control unit 1 sets an allowable value in which the second weight is smaller than the first weight and the absolute value of the difference between the value obtained by subtracting the second weight from the first weight and the estimated reduction amount is predetermined. When it exceeds, it is judged that the amount has decreased too much. The permissible value can be the weight of one to several sheets of paper. When the value is less than the permissible value, the control unit 1 determines that the value is not excessively reduced.

When the weight of the stack of paper is too low, it is likely that you have taken away someone else's printed matter. Therefore, when it is determined that the amount has decreased too much (Yes in step # 219), the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the take-away warning (step # 220). The control unit 1 continues to display and reproduce the take-away warning for a predetermined warning time. Then, the control unit 1 updates the retrieval management list L1 (deletion of the normal print job of the authenticated person, step # 221). Then, this flow ends (end). On the other hand, when it cannot be determined that the weight of the bundle of paper is too low, it is highly possible that the printed matter of another person has not been taken away. Therefore, when it is determined that the decrease is not excessive (No in step # 219), the process proceeds to step # 221 without notifying the warning.

(Volume setting for take-out warning)
Next, an example of setting the volume of the take-out warning in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the cumulative number of times data D9 according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of setting the volume of the take-out warning in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

The control unit 1 non-volatilely stores the cumulative number of times data D9 in the storage unit 2 (see FIG. 3). As shown in FIG. 9, the cumulative number data D9 includes the cumulative number of executions of the normal print job and the secret print job for each user, and the cumulative number of take-away warning notifications (hereinafter referred to as the cumulative number of warnings). Each time a normal print job or a secret print job is executed, the control unit 1 updates the cumulative number of executions of the corresponding user. Further, each time the take-out warning is given, the control unit 1 updates the value of the cumulative number of warnings of the corresponding user. When updating the cumulative number of executions or the cumulative number of warnings, the control unit 1 adds 1 to the corresponding number of times.

The start of FIG. 10 is a time point before the start of the notification of the take-away warning. The control unit 1 refers to the cumulative number of times data D9 (step # 31). The control unit 1 reads out the cumulative number of executions of the authenticated person and the cumulative number of warnings (step # 32). The control unit 1 obtains the warning frequency of the authenticated person based on the cumulative number of executions read and the cumulative number of warnings (step # 33). Specifically, the control unit 1 divides the cumulative number of warnings by the cumulative number of executions to obtain the warning frequency (ratio).

The control unit 1 sets the volume of the speaker 44 at the time of the take-away warning notification to be louder as the warning frequency is higher (step # 34 → end). As a result, the control unit 1 increases the volume of the speaker 44 at the time of warning notification as the warning frequency increases. For example, the range of values that the warning frequency can take is evenly divided according to the number of volume steps. For example, the range of values that the warning frequency can take is 0% to 100%. When the number of volume steps is 5, the range of values that the warning frequency can take is divided in 20% increments. The case where the volume level is higher and the volume level is higher will be described.

For example, when the warning frequency is 0% or more and less than 20%, the control unit 1 sets the volume level to 1. When the warning frequency is 20% or more and less than 40%, the control unit 1 sets the volume level to 2. When the warning frequency is 40% or more and less than 60%, the control unit 1 sets the volume level to 3. When the warning frequency is 60% or more and less than 80%, the control unit 1 sets the volume level to 4. When the warning frequency is 80% or more, the control unit 1 sets the volume level to 5. As a result, it is possible to more strongly inform the user who is frequently notified of the take-away warning of the possibility of the take-away.

(Processing during print job)
Next, an example of processing during a print job on the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of processing during a print job on the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

The start of FIG. 11 is when it is determined that the first operation has been performed during the execution of the print job transmitted by the authenticated person. The print job in this description may be either a normal print job or a secret print job. The control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of a warning that the discharge tray 50 should not be released (step # 41). As a result, the control unit 1 prompts the person to be authenticated to acquire all the pages of the print job. The control unit 1 continues to notify the warning that the hand is not released until the print job is completed. When it is determined that the second operation has been performed before the print job is completed, the control unit 1 may raise the volume of the speaker 44.

When the print job is completed, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of a message to be confirmed whether or not it has been forgotten (step # 42 → end). As a result, the control unit 1 ensures that it is prevented from being forgotten to be removed. The control unit 1 continues to display and reproduce the message for a predetermined message time.

(When there are multiple discharge destinations)
Next, an example of processing when there are a plurality of discharge trays 50 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is an example of the aftertreatment device 5e according to the embodiment.

The aftertreatment device 5e may be attached to the multifunction device 100. The aftertreatment device 5e shown in FIG. 12 is attached to the left side surface of the multifunction device 100. The aftertreatment device 5e includes a carry-in inlet 5f. The printed paper that has passed through the fixing portion 5d is sent into the aftertreatment device 5e from the carry-in entrance 5f. The control unit 1 controls the operation of the post-processing device 5e.

The aftertreatment device 5e is provided with a plurality of discharge trays 50. As shown in FIG. 3, the aftertreatment device 5e is provided with an upper discharge tray 50a, a first discharge tray 50b, and a second discharge tray 50c. The upper discharge tray 50a is provided on the upper surface of the aftertreatment device 5e. The first discharge tray 50b is provided above the second discharge tray 50c. The second discharge tray 50c is provided below the first discharge tray 50b. A plurality of pairs of rollers 5g for transporting paper are provided in the aftertreatment device 5e. Each roller pair 5g rotates by receiving a driving force of a motor provided in the aftertreatment device 5e. The control unit 1 rotates each roller pair 5 g. The control unit 1 conveys the paper inside the aftertreatment device 5e.

The discharge destination (discharge tray 50 to be used) can be set by operating the operation panel 4. The discharge destination can also be set by the computer 200. A first sorting guide 5h and a second sorting guide 5i are provided for sorting the paper ejection destinations. Motors (not shown) are provided for the first sorting guide 5h and the second sorting guide 5i, respectively. Each sorting guide rotates individually. The control unit 1 rotates the first sorting guide 5h and the second sorting guide 5i according to the setting of the discharge destination. When the output is set to the first discharge tray 50b, the control unit 1 sets the transport direction toward the first discharge tray 50b (arrow A in FIG. 3). When the output is set to the upper discharge tray 50a, the control unit 1 sets the transport direction toward the upper discharge tray 50a (direction B in FIG. 3). When the output is set to the second discharge tray 50c, the control unit 1 sets the transport direction toward the second discharge tray 50c (direction C in FIG. 3).

When a plurality of discharge trays 50 are provided, a detection unit 7 is provided for each discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 determines whether or not there is printed matter on each discharge tray 50 based on the output of each detection unit 7. Further, the control unit 1 determines which discharge tray 50 the first operation is performed on, based on the output of each detection unit 7. Further, the control unit 1 determines which discharge tray 50 was used for the second operation based on the output of each detection unit 7. Further, the control unit 1 determines which discharge tray 50 of the printed matter is moved based on the output of each detection unit 7. Further, the control unit 1 stores the take-out management list L1 in the storage unit 2 for each discharge tray 50.

When the user is authenticated, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the discharge tray 50 from which the printed matter of the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is discharged. When the printed matter of the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is discharged to the plurality of discharge trays 50, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the plurality of discharge trays 50 from which the printed matter is discharged. When the discharge tray 50 from which the printed matter of the normal print job of the certified person is discharged is in the mixed loading state, the above-mentioned processes shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 are executed.

In this way, the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) according to the embodiment includes a data input unit, a printed matter, an acquisition unit, a detection unit 7, a notification unit, and a control unit 1. Printing data is input to the data input unit. The printing unit 5 prints based on the printing data. The printing unit 5 discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray 50. The acquisition unit acquires authentication information for authenticating the user. The detection unit 7 determines that the first action of reaching for the discharge tray 50 has been performed, the second action of releasing the hand from the discharge tray 50 has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray 50. It is a part to do. The notification unit makes a notification. The control unit 1 authenticates the user based on the authentication information. When the normal print data is input to the data input unit, the control unit 1 causes the print unit 5 to start a normal print job, which is a print job based on the normal print data. When the secret printing data is input to the data input unit, the control unit 1 does not immediately start the secret printing job, which is a printing job based on the secret printing data, in the printing unit 5. When the authenticated person who is the authenticated user is the user who input the secret printing data, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50 based on the output of the detection unit 7. .. When there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 recognizes that all the printed matter in the discharge tray 50 has been moved from the discharge tray 50 based on the output of the detection unit 7, and then based on the secret printing data. The printing unit 5 is started to start a secret printing job which is a printing job.

When the person to be authenticated (executor of the secret printing job) who has input the secret printing data moves all the printed matter remaining in the discharge tray 50, the printing of the confidential document can be started. Therefore, immediately after printing the confidential document, the executor of the confidential print job can be made to acquire only the confidential document. You can prevent the leakage of secrets. It is possible to prevent a third party from obtaining the confidentiality document. Further, since all the printed matter in the discharge tray 50 is moved once, it is not possible to accidentally take away the printed matter of another person when taking out the confidential document.

When there is printed matter in the discharge tray 50 before the start of the secret print job, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the first message. The first message is a message notifying that all the printed matter remaining in the discharge tray 50 needs to be moved. This makes it possible to notify that printing of the confidential document will not start unless the discharge tray 50 is emptied.

After the start of the secret print job, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of a second message notifying that the printed matter should be returned to the discharge tray 50. As a result, the executor of the secret print job can be notified that the printed matter of another person should be returned to the discharge tray 50. It is possible to prevent the moved printed matter from being left unattended.

When the notification unit is notified of the second message, the control unit 1 notifies the notification unit of the location where the printed matter is moved, whereby the executor of the secret print job can be notified of the location where the printed matter is moved. You can tell the printer of the confidential document where to go.

The image forming apparatus includes a storage unit 2 for storing data. The control unit 1 stores the secret print executor data D7 that records the authenticated person at the start of the secret print job in the storage unit 2. In the event of a problem, the person who received the confidential document can be identified when printing the confidential document.

After the secret print job is completed, the control unit 1 determines whether or not the printed matter has been returned to the discharge tray 50 based on the output of the detection unit 7. When the printed matter is not returned to the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 causes the notification unit to notify the take-away warning of the possibility of taking away the printed matter of another person. As a result, a warning can be issued if the printed matter is not returned to the discharge tray 50. You can tell the performer of the secret print job that the printed matter should be returned. In addition, it is possible to inform people around the image forming apparatus of the possibility of taking away the printed matter.

When the printed matter of a plurality of normal print jobs is mixedly loaded on the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 authenticates a person who approaches the image forming apparatus based on the authentication information. When it is determined that the first operation and the second operation have been performed, the control unit 1 determines whether or not all the printed matter of the normal print job has been taken out from the discharge tray 50 after the second operation. When it is determined that the printed matter of all the normal print jobs has been taken out from the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 causes the notification unit to notify the take-out warning to warn the possibility of taking away the printed matter of another person. As a result, it is possible to notify that the printed matter other than the certified user is included in the paper bundle on the ejection tray 50. If you take away all the printed matter, you can be notified that someone else's printed matter will be taken away. It is possible to prevent the printed matter of another person from being accidentally taken away.

When all the printed matter of the normal print job is taken out from the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 determines whether or not the printed matter of the normal print job has been returned to the discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 causes the notification unit to continue to notify the take-out warning until it can be determined that the printed matter of the normal print job has been returned to the discharge tray 50. As a result, the warning can be continuously issued until the printed matter of another person taken out from the discharge tray 50 is returned.

Some people take out all the printed matter from the discharge tray 50 in order to take out their own printed matter. Some users find it annoying to be notified of a take-away warning once all printed matter has been taken out. Therefore, when the printed matter of all the normal print jobs is taken out from the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 notifies the take-out warning until a predetermined waiting time elapses after the printed matter is taken out from the discharge tray 50. Do not notify. The control unit 1 causes the notification unit to notify the take-away warning after the waiting time has elapsed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the take-out warning from being issued immediately after all the printed matter is taken out from the discharge tray 50. Does not make the user feel annoyed.

The larger the number of sheets of paper in the ejection tray 50, the longer it tends to take to take out the printed matter from the bundle of printed matter. Therefore, the control unit 1 determines the remaining number of printed matter, which is the number of printed matter of the normal printing job in the discharge tray 50. The control unit 1 increases the waiting time as the number of remaining sheets increases. As a result, the waiting time can be changed according to the number of sheets of paper on the ejection tray 50. When the number of sheets remaining in the discharge tray 50 is large and it takes time to sort (sort), the waiting time can be lengthened.

When the printed matter of a plurality of normal print jobs is mixedly loaded on the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 measures the take-out time from the first operation to the second operation. After the second operation, the control unit 1 has not taken out all the printed matter of the normal print job from the discharge tray 50, and if the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is the latest normal print job, the take-out time is in advance. When the time is less than the specified reference time, the notification unit is notified of the take-away warning. Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not to issue a take-out warning based on the time for putting the hand in and out of the discharge tray 50. If the take-out time is short, it can be considered that the user has properly taken out the paper from the bundle of printed matter. It is possible to notify the user who has appropriately taken out the paper from the bundle of printed matter with a take-away warning. As a result, it is possible to prevent another person from taking away the printed matter.

The image forming apparatus includes a weight sensor 8 for measuring the total weight of the paper loaded on the discharge tray 50. When the printed matter of a plurality of normal print jobs is mixedly loaded on the discharge tray 50, the control unit 1 determines the weight during the first operation and the weight after the second operation based on the output of the weight sensor 8. Recognize the second weight, which is the weight. After the second operation, when all the printed matter of the normal print job is not taken out from the discharge tray 50 and the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is not the latest normal print job, the control unit 1 is authenticated. The estimated reduction amount is determined based on the number of prints of the normal print job of the person. When the second weight is smaller than the first weight and the absolute value of the difference between the value obtained by subtracting the second weight from the first weight and the estimated reduction amount exceeds a predetermined allowable value, the control unit 1 performs. Notify the notification unit of the take-out warning. As a result, it is possible to determine whether or not to issue a take-out warning based on the weight of the paper before and after the user's hand is taken in and out. If the weight is reduced more than expected, a take-away warning can be issued. As a result, it is possible to prevent another person from taking away the printed matter.

Further, based on the output of the detection unit 7, when the authenticated person recognizes that the hand is inserted into the discharge tray 50 during the execution of the normal print job, the control unit 1 warns that the hand is not released from the discharge tray 50. Is notified to the notification unit. As a result, the user can be surely obtained the printed matter of the page to be printed.

It is preferable to strongly alert users who have been repeatedly warned. Therefore,
The control unit 1 stores in the storage unit 2 the cumulative number of times the normal print job and the secret print job are executed for each user and the cumulative number data D9 indicating the cumulative number of notifications of the take-away warning. The control unit 1 obtains the warning frequency of the authenticated person based on the cumulative number of times data D9. The control unit 1 increases the volume of the speaker 44 when the take-away warning is notified as the warning frequency increases. As a result, the volume of the take-out warning can be increased as the user frequently notifies the take-out warning. It is possible to prevent accidentally taking away another person's printed matter.

The scope of the present invention is not limited to the description of the embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention.

The present invention can be used in an image forming apparatus.

100 Multifunction device (image forming device) 1 Control unit 2 Storage unit 41 Display panel (Notification unit)
44 Speaker (Notification unit) 45 Indicator light (Notification unit)
5 Printing unit 50 Discharge tray 6 Authentication camera (acquisition unit) 7 Detection unit 70 Detection camera (detection unit) 8 Weight sensor 9 Communication unit (data input unit) D7 Secret print executor data D9 Cumulative number of times data

Claims (13)

The data input section where print data is input and
A printing unit that prints based on the printing data and discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray.
An acquisition unit that acquires authentication information for authenticating users,
A detector for determining whether the first action of reaching for the discharge tray has been performed, the second action of releasing the hand from the discharge tray has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray. When,
The notification unit that performs notification and
Authenticate the user based on the authentication information
When the normal print data is input to the data input unit, the print unit is started to start a normal print job which is a print job based on the normal print data.
When the secret printing data is input to the data input unit, the secret printing job, which is a printing job based on the secret printing data, is not immediately started in the printing unit.
When the authenticated user who is the authenticated user is the user who has input the secret printing data, it is confirmed based on the output of the detection unit whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray.
When there is printed matter in the discharge tray, the printing unit starts the secret printing job after recognizing that all the printed matter in the discharge tray has been moved from the discharge tray based on the output of the detection unit. and a control unit, only including,
The control unit is an image forming apparatus that notifies the notification unit of a message notifying that the printed matter should be returned to the discharge tray after the start of the secret printing job . When the there is a printed material in the discharge tray before starting the secret print job, the control unit, that is broadcast a message indicating that the movement is necessary for all the prints remaining in the discharge tray to the notification unit The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. When for notifying a message that should be returned prints to the discharge tray to said notification unit, wherein the control unit, the image formation according to claim 1, characterized in that for informing the mobile location of the printed matter to the notification unit apparatus. Includes a storage unit for storing data
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the control unit stores the secret print executor data for recording the authenticated person at the start of the secret print job in the storage unit. Image forming device. The data input section where print data is input and
A printing unit that prints based on the printing data and discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray.
An acquisition unit that acquires authentication information for authenticating users,
A detector for determining whether the first action of reaching for the discharge tray has been performed, the second action of releasing the hand from the discharge tray has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray. When,
The notification unit that performs notification and
Authenticate the user based on the authentication information
When the normal print data is input to the data input unit, the print unit is started to start a normal print job which is a print job based on the normal print data.
When the secret printing data is input to the data input unit, the secret printing job, which is a printing job based on the secret printing data, is not immediately started in the printing unit.
When the authenticated user who is the authenticated user is the user who has input the secret printing data, it is confirmed based on the output of the detection unit whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray.
When there is printed matter in the discharge tray, the printing unit starts the secret printing job after recognizing that all the printed matter in the discharge tray has been moved from the discharge tray based on the output of the detection unit. Including the control unit
After the secret print job is completed
The control unit
Based on the output of the detection unit, it is determined whether or not the printed matter has been returned to the discharge tray.
When the printed material is not returned to the discharge tray, images forming device you characterized thereby notifying the warning carried away to warn of potential taking away the printed material of others to the notification portion. The data input section where print data is input and
A printing unit that prints based on the printing data and discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray.
An acquisition unit that acquires authentication information for authenticating users,
A detector for determining whether the first action of reaching for the discharge tray has been performed, the second action of releasing the hand from the discharge tray has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray. When,
The notification unit that performs notification and
Authenticate the user based on the authentication information
When the normal print data is input to the data input unit, the print unit is started to start a normal print job which is a print job based on the normal print data.
When the secret printing data is input to the data input unit, the secret printing job, which is a printing job based on the secret printing data, is not immediately started in the printing unit.
When the authenticated user who is the authenticated user is the user who has input the secret printing data, it is confirmed based on the output of the detection unit whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray.
When there is printed matter in the discharge tray, the printing unit starts the secret printing job after recognizing that all the printed matter in the discharge tray has been moved from the discharge tray based on the output of the detection unit. Including the control unit
When a plurality of printed matter of the normal print job is mixedly loaded in the discharge tray.
The control unit
Based on the authentication information, a person who approaches the image forming apparatus is authenticated.
When it is determined that the first operation and the second operation have been performed, it is determined whether or not all the printed matter of the normal print job has been taken out from the discharge tray after the second operation.
When the printed matter of all of the normal print job is determined to have been taken out from the discharge tray, characterized by causing the notification unit a notification alert carried away to warn of potential taking away the printed matter of others images forming device. When all the printed matter of the normal printing job is taken out from the ejection tray
The control unit determines whether or not the printed matter of the normal print job has been returned to the discharge tray.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the notification of the take-out warning is continued to the notification unit until it can be determined that the printed matter of the normal printing job has been returned to the discharge tray. When all the printed matter of the normal printing job is taken out from the ejection tray
The control unit does not notify the notification unit of the take-out warning until a predetermined waiting time elapses from the removal of the printed matter from the discharge tray, and after the waiting time elapses, the take-away warning is given. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6 or 7 , wherein the notification unit is used to perform the notification. The control unit
The remaining number of printed matter, which is the number of printed matter of the normal print job in the discharge tray, is determined.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the waiting time becomes longer as the number of remaining sheets increases. When a plurality of printed matter of the normal print job is mixedly loaded in the discharge tray.
The control unit
Measure the take-out time from the first operation to the second operation,
If all the printed matter of the normal print job has not been taken out from the discharge tray after the second operation and the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is the most recent normal print job, the take-out time The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 9 , wherein the take-out warning is notified to the notification unit when the time is less than a predetermined reference time. Includes a weight sensor for weighing the total weight of the paper loaded in the discharge tray.
When a plurality of printed matter of the normal print job is mixedly loaded in the discharge tray.
The control unit
Based on the output of the weight sensor, the first weight, which is the weight during the first operation, and the second weight, which is the weight after the second operation , are recognized.
After the second operation, when all the printed matter of the normal print job has not been taken out from the discharge tray and the normal print job of the person to be authenticated is not the most recent normal print job, the subject The estimated reduction amount is determined based on the number of prints of the normal print job of the certifier.
When the second weight is smaller than the first weight, and the absolute value of the difference between the value obtained by subtracting the second weight from the first weight and the estimated reduction amount exceeds a predetermined allowable value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the take-out warning is notified to the notification unit. The data input section where print data is input and
A printing unit that prints based on the printing data and discharges the printed matter to the discharge tray.
An acquisition unit that acquires authentication information for authenticating users,
A detector for determining whether the first action of reaching for the discharge tray has been performed, the second action of releasing the hand from the discharge tray has been performed, and whether or not there is printed matter on the discharge tray. When,
The notification unit that performs notification and
Authenticate the user based on the authentication information
When the normal print data is input to the data input unit, the print unit is started to start a normal print job which is a print job based on the normal print data.
When the secret printing data is input to the data input unit, the secret printing job, which is a printing job based on the secret printing data, is not immediately started in the printing unit.
When the authenticated user who is the authenticated user is the user who has input the secret printing data, it is confirmed based on the output of the detection unit whether or not there is printed matter in the discharge tray.
When there is printed matter in the discharge tray, the printing unit starts the secret printing job after recognizing that all the printed matter in the discharge tray has been moved from the discharge tray based on the output of the detection unit. Including the control unit
When the person to be authenticated recognizes the insertion of a hand into the discharge tray during the execution of the normal print job based on the output of the detection unit.
Wherein the control unit images forming device characterized thereby notifying a warning to keep the hand from the discharge tray to the notification unit. Includes a storage unit for storing data
The notification unit includes a speaker.
The control unit
The storage unit stores the cumulative number of times the normal print job and the secret print job are executed for each user and the cumulative number data indicating the cumulative number of notifications of the take-out warning.
The fifth to eleventh claims, wherein the warning frequency of the person to be authenticated is obtained based on the cumulative number of times data, and the larger the warning frequency is, the louder the volume of the speaker is when the take-out warning is notified. The image forming apparatus according to any one item.