JP7400498B2 - Image forming device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus with replaceable parts.

There are image forming devices such as multifunction devices, printers, and facsimile machines. Image forming apparatuses include parts that wear out and are consumed as they are used. For example, rollers that transport paper gradually wear out. In order to continue using the product comfortably, parts that have been fully used up (nearly reaching the end of their lifespan) may be replaced. An example of a technique related to parts replacement during maintenance of an image forming apparatus is described in Patent Document 1.

Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes an operation panel that displays information, a scanner mechanism section that reads an image, an image processing section that performs image processing on image data input by the scanner mechanism section, and an image processing section that performs image processing on image data input by the scanner mechanism section. The scanner mechanism includes a print mechanism unit that prints an image based on When performing maintenance to replace a unit including any one of the unit, image processing unit, print mechanism unit, and engine control unit, or parts within the unit, the unit enters maintenance mode, stops power supply to the unit, and becomes de-energized. , an image processing device is described that displays the contents of a service manual related to a unit and parts within the unit while maintaining power supply to an operation panel. With this configuration, it is possible to perform maintenance work including replacing parts while referring to the contents of the service manual on the display (see Patent Document 1: Claim 1, [0005]).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-034636

As in the technique described in Patent Document 1, in an image forming apparatus, parts may be replaced in order to restore and maintain functionality. Extensive knowledge of image forming apparatuses is required to replace parts without problems. Therefore, as described in Patent Document 1, parts may be replaced only by a person (service person) dispatched from a maintenance service provider company.

On the other hand, not all image forming apparatuses are subject to maintenance contracts. Even if you have a maintenance contract, you may want to reduce the number of calls for service personnel due to dispatch costs. There are users who want to replace parts themselves. In this case, the user purchases commercially available parts by himself.

Users are usually not accustomed to replacement work. When an inexperienced user performs replacement work using tools, unnecessary members may be removed. Additionally, attempting to remove the component in an incorrect manner may result in damage to the component (for example, a portion of the cover may crack). Additionally, when replacing parts, there is a risk of touching live parts. There is a problem in that it is difficult for the user to replace the parts himself without making mistakes in the procedure, and the replacement work is not easy.

In the device described in Patent Document 1, only a service person has the authority to replace the unit (Patent Document 1: Paragraph [0024]). Part replacement by general users is not considered. Therefore, it is difficult to solve the above problem with the technique described in Patent Document 1.

In view of the problems of the prior art described above, the present invention enables general users to easily replace parts by reducing mistakes in procedures when replacing parts.

In order to solve the above problem, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a printing section, a replacement cover, an operation panel, a cover locking device, and a control section. The printing section performs printing. The replacement cover is opened when replacing the replaceable part and closed after replacement. The operation panel receives an input of an identification code attached to the replaceable part. The cover lock device locks the replacement cover from opening. The control unit recognizes a replacement target, which is the replaceable part, corresponding to the identification code input to the operation panel. When the replacement target is recognized, the control unit causes the cover locking device to unlock the replacement cover, which is opened when replacing the replacement target.

According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce procedural errors made by general users when replacing parts. It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus whose parts can be easily replaced.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of a cover lock device concerning an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of power supply to each board according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of parts replacement in the multifunction device according to the embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of an identification code entry screen concerning an embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of a guidance screen concerning an embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below using FIGS. 1 to 7. In the following description, a multifunction peripheral 100 will be used as an example of an image forming apparatus. However, the configuration, arrangement, and other elements described in this embodiment do not limit the scope of the invention and are merely illustrative examples.

(Multifunction machine 100)
Next, an example of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described based on FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction device 100 according to an embodiment.

The multifunction device 100 includes a control section 1, a storage section 2, an operation panel 3, a document transport section 4a, an image reading section 4b, an engine control section 5, and a printing section 6. The control unit 1 is a board (main control board). The control unit 1 controls the operation of the multifunction device 100. The control section 1 includes a main control circuit 10, an image processing circuit 11, and a communication circuit 12. For example, the main control circuit 10 is a CPU. Based on the programs and data stored in the storage unit 2, the main control circuit 10 performs calculations and processes to control the operations of each part of the multifunction device 100.

For example, the communication circuit 12 includes a connector, a communication control circuit (communication IC), and a communication memory. Communication circuit 12 communicates with computer 200. The communication circuit 12 performs communication-related processing. The communication memory stores communication software. For example, the computer 200 is a PC or a server. The communication circuit 12 receives print data transmitted from the computer 200. The print data includes print setting data and data describing print contents in a page description language.

For example, the image processing circuit 11 is an ASIC (integrated circuit designed for image processing). The image processing circuit 11 generates image data (raster data) based on data written in a page description language included in the print data. The image processing circuit 11 performs image processing on the generated image data to generate output image data. The image processing circuit 11 performs image processing according to the print settings (setting data) on the computer 200 .

The storage unit 2 includes a ROM 21, a RAM 22, and a storage 23. The storage 23 is an HDD or an SSD. The storage unit 2 is a combination of nonvolatile and volatile storage devices.

The multifunction device 100 includes an operation panel 3. The operation panel 3 includes a display panel 31, a touch panel 32, and hard keys 33. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display messages, setting screens, and software keys. Further, based on the output of the touch panel 32, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated software key. Based on the signal output by the hard key 33, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated hard key 33.

The multifunction device 100 includes a document transport section 4a and an image reading section 4b. The document transport unit 4a is sometimes referred to as an automatic document feeder (ADF, document transport device). The document transport section 4a is provided above the image reading section 4b. For example, the combination of the document transport section 4a and the image reading section 4b is arranged above the multifunction device 100 (see FIG. 2).

For example, the document transport section 4a includes a document tray, a paper feed roller, and a plurality of document transport roller pairs. The user sets the original to be read on the original tray. The document transport section 4a feeds and transports the documents in the document tray one by one. A contact glass for feeding and reading is located in the middle of the document conveyance path. The reading position for feeding reading is above the contact glass for feeding reading.

The image reading section 4b includes a reading unit within the housing. The reading unit includes a lamp, a lens, and an image sensor (line sensor). Further, the image reading section 4b includes a document table (transparent plate) and a contact glass for feeding and reading on the upper surface. The image reading section 4b reads a document on a document table or a document passing through a contact glass for feeding and reading. The image reading unit 4b generates image data of the read document.

The document transport section 4a includes a document transport control section 41 (see FIG. 4). The original transport control unit 41 is a board (original transport control board). Circuits such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM are provided on the board. The document conveyance control section 41 controls document conveyance in the document conveyance section 4a. For example, the document conveyance control section 41 controls the rotation of a motor provided in the document conveyance section 4a.

The image reading section 4b includes a reading control section 42 (see FIG. 4). The reading control unit 42 is a board (reading control board). Circuits such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM are provided on the board. The reading control unit 42 controls reading of the original. For example, the reading control unit 42 controls turning on and off of a lamp, the operation of an image sensor, and generates document image data.

The multifunction device 100 includes an engine control section 5 and a printing section 6. The engine control unit 5 is a board (engine control board). The engine control section 5 includes an engine control circuit and an engine memory. For example, the engine control circuit is a CPU. Engine memory includes RAM and ROM. For example, the engine control section 5 controls the rotation of a motor included in the printing section 6. The engine control section 5 controls paper conveyance and toner image formation.

The printing section 6 includes a paper feeding section 6a, a paper transport section 6b, an image forming section 6c, and a fixing section 6d. Based on instructions from the control section 1, the engine control section 5 controls the operations of the paper feeding section 6a, the paper transport section 6b, the image forming section 6c, and the fixing section 6d.

For example, the paper feed section 6a includes a paper cassette, a paper feed roller, and a paper feed motor (not shown). A stack of paper is loaded into the paper cassette. The paper feed motor rotates the paper feed roller. During a print job, the engine control unit 5 rotates a paper feed roller (paper feed motor). The rotating paper feed roller feeds out the paper set in the paper cassette one by one. The paper is sent out to the paper transport section 6b.

For example, the paper transport section 6b includes a pair of transport rollers for transporting the paper, a transport guide, and a transport motor (not shown). The conveyance motor rotates a pair of conveyance rollers. Thereby, the transport roller pair transports the paper.

For example, the image forming section 6c includes a photosensitive drum, an exposure device, a charging device, a developing device, and a transfer roller. A charging device, a developing device, and a transfer roller are provided around the photosensitive drum. The surface (periphery) of the photosensitive drum is a photosensitive layer. During printing, the engine control section 5 rotates a main motor (not shown) that rotates the photoreceptor drum. The charging device charges the surface of the photoreceptor drum. The exposure device includes a polygon mirror and a polygon motor. The polygon motor rotates the polygon mirror. The exposure device includes a semiconductor laser device (laser diode). Based on the output image data, the engine control section 5 turns on and off the semiconductor laser device. Laser light is reflected by a polygon mirror. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the output image data is formed on the circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum.

The developing device contains toner therein. The developing device includes a developing roller that carries toner on its circumferential surface. The electrostatic latent image on the circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum is developed by the toner carried by the developing roller. During printing, the transfer roller rotates and transfers the toner image from the photoreceptor drum to the paper.

The fixing section 6d includes a fixing rotating body and a heater. As a rotating body for fixing, the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred passes through a fixing section 6d. During this passage, the paper is heated and pressurized, and the toner image is fixed on the paper. The paper that has passed through the fixing section 6d is ejected to the ejection tray.

(Replacement cover 7)
Next, an example of the replacement cover 7 according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

The multifunction device 100 is provided with replaceable parts (replaceable parts). Replaceable parts will be sold. Users can purchase replaceable parts. A replaceable component in the multifunction device 100 is a control board including a control circuit. For example, the engine control unit 5 (engine control board) corresponds to a replaceable part.

The user purchases the multifunction device 100 and the engine control unit 5 (engine control board), which is sold separately. For example, when a user wants to enhance the printing function of the multifunction device 100, the user purchases an engine control board that has a faster processing speed (printing speed) than the engine control board installed in the multifunction device 100. That is, the user purchases an engine control board for upgrading. Replace (replace) the purchased engine control board with the installed engine control board. This allows the printing speed (number of sheets printed per minute) to be increased. For example, assume that the number of pages printed per minute of the multifunction device 100 before replacement is 45 pages. By replacing the engine control board, the printing speed of the multifunction device 100 can be increased to 60 pages per minute. In this way, the capabilities of the multifunction peripheral 100 can be upgraded after the fact by replacing the board with a purchased upgrade board.

Note that control boards other than the engine control unit 5 may also be replaceable. For example, other types of control boards such as the document conveyance control section 41 (document conveyance control board) and the reading control section 42 (reading control board) may be used as replaceable parts. In the following, an example will be described in which the document conveyance control section 41 (document conveyance control board) and the reading control section 42 (reading control board) are also replaceable parts. For example, by upgrading the document conveyance control board, it is possible to increase the number of documents conveyed per unit time. Furthermore, by upgrading the reading control board, the time required to read one document can be shortened.

For board replacement (board upgrade), the multifunction device 100 includes a replacement cover 7. FIG. 2 is a diagram of the multifunction device 100 viewed from the left rear side. Replacement cover 7 for engine control section 5 (engine control board), replacement cover 7 for document transport control section 41 (document transport control board), and replacement cover 7 for reading control section 42 (reading control board) An example of this is illustrated in FIG. Note that the control boards may be arranged together so that only one replacement cover 7 is required.

Each replacement cover 7 can be slid and removed. The white arrow in FIG. 2 indicates the sliding direction (opening direction) of the replacement cover 7 when it is opened (removed). When replacing the control board, the user opens (removes) the replacement cover 7. This leaves the control board exposed and accessible. In the example of FIG. 2, when opening the replacement cover 7 for the engine control unit 5, the user slides the replacement cover 7 toward the back of the multifunction device 100.

When the replacement of the control board is completed, the user closes (attachs) the replacement cover 7. This makes it possible to avoid touching the control board. The black arrow in FIG. 3 indicates the sliding direction (closing direction) of the replacement cover 7 when closing (attaching). When closing (attaching) the replacement cover 7, the user slides the replacement cover 7 toward the front of the multifunction device 100.

Note that the multifunctional device 100 may be provided with a guide rail for sliding the replacement cover 7 (not shown). The guide rails are provided at the upper and lower side portions of the opening created by opening the replacement cover 7. The upper end of the replacement cover 7 is inserted into a guide rail provided at the upper end side of the opening. The lower end of the replacement cover 7 is inserted into a guide rail provided at the lower end of the opening. Further, a stopper (not shown) is provided so that when the cover 7 is closed, the replacement cover 7 does not go too far to the back and stops at an appropriate position.

(Cover lock device 8)
Next, an example of the cover lock device 8 according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the cover lock device 8 according to the embodiment.

The multifunction device 100 includes a cover lock device 8 . The cover lock device 8 is a device that locks the replacement cover 7 so that it does not open. The cover lock device 8 can also be unlocked. A cover lock device 8 is provided for each replacement cover 7. The cover lock device 8 is a device that unlocks when energized. As shown in FIG. 3, for example, the control unit 1 (main control board) controls energization of the solenoid 80 (ON/OFF of the solenoid 80). The cover lock device 8 locks the replacement cover 7 from opening even if power is not supplied to the multifunction device 100 (image forming apparatus).

For example, cover lock device 8 includes a solenoid 80 . FIG. 3 is a diagram of the replacement cover 7 viewed from the back side (inside the multifunction device 100). A protrusion 70 is provided on the back surface of the replacement cover 7. The protrusion 70 protrudes perpendicularly to the back surface of the replacement cover 7. When the replacement cover 7 is completely closed, the protrusion 70 is located closer to the direction in which the replacement cover 7 is closed (opposite to the opening direction) than the movable iron core 81 of the solenoid 80 .

When not energized, the movable iron core 81 of the solenoid 80 protrudes. The upper diagram in FIG. 3 shows a state in which the movable iron core 81 is hanging down and protruding. If the movable iron core 81 protrudes, the protrusion 70 will hit the movable iron core 81 even if you try to open the replacement cover 7 (even if you try to slide it). The replacement cover 7 cannot be opened. The protrusion 70 can also be considered a part of the cover locking device 8. When energized, the movable iron core 81 is attracted to the coil of the solenoid 80. In the example of FIG. 3, the movable iron core 81 moves upward. When the movable iron core 81 is retracted, the protrusion 70 does not hit the movable iron core 81. In this state, the replacement cover 7 can be opened.

An emergency release portion 7a may be provided for each replacement cover 7. The emergency release section 7a is a section for opening the replacement cover 7 even when power is not supplied to the image forming apparatus. For example, the emergency release portion 7a is a release hole provided in the replacement cover 7. For example, the release hole is provided at a position shifted from a position facing the movable iron core 81 of the solenoid 80 in the direction in which the replacement cover 7 is opened when the replacement cover 7 is completely closed. For example, a release tool is inserted into the release hole from the outside of the multifunction device 100. For example, the release tool includes an insertion portion into the release hole. The insertion part is rod-shaped and bent. For example, the bending angle is 90 degrees. The size of the hole should be large enough to allow the insertion part to be inserted (for example, about 1 to several mm). Insert the insertion part and rotate the release tool. Slide the replacement cover 7 while lifting the movable iron core 81 of the solenoid 80 at the insertion part. Thereby, the replacement cover 7 can be opened even if there is no power or the power is not turned on.

(Power supply to each board)
Next, an example of power supply to each board according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of power supply to each board according to the embodiment.

Multifunction device 100 includes a power supply section 9 . The power supply section 9 is a circuit that generates a voltage (voltage of a preset magnitude) necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 100. The power supply section 9 includes, for example, a power supply control circuit 90, a primary power supply section 91, and a secondary power supply section 92.

For example, the primary power supply section 91 is a switching power supply circuit including a transformer. For example, the primary power supply section 91 generates a DC voltage for driving a motor. For example, the secondary power supply section 92 includes a plurality of power conversion circuits. For example, the power conversion circuit is a DCDC converter. Each power conversion circuit of the secondary power supply unit 92 steps down the voltage generated by the primary power supply unit 91 to generate a DC voltage of a preset magnitude. The power supply control circuit 90 is a circuit that controls ON/OFF operation of the switching power supply circuit and the power conversion circuit included in the primary power supply section 91 and the secondary power supply section 92. Further, the power supply control circuit 90 controls the supply of the voltage generated by the power supply unit 9 to the supply destination and the supply stop.

The multifunction device 100 includes a connector 93 into which each control board is inserted. FIG. 4 shows the first connector 93a into which the control unit 1 (main control board) of the multifunction device 100 is inserted, the second connector 93b into which the engine control unit 5 (engine control board) is inserted, and the document transport control unit 41 (document transport control board). An example including a third connector 93c into which a board) is inserted, and a fourth connector 93d into which a reading control unit 42 (reading control board) is inserted is shown. The control board can be replaced by simply connecting and disconnecting it to the connector 93. Therefore, the same number of connectors 93 as the number of boards inside the machine may be provided inside the multifunction machine 100.

The control section 1 (main control board) receives power supply from the power supply section 9 via the first connector 93a. The power supply section 9 inputs a plurality of voltages of different magnitudes necessary for the operation of the control section 1 to the first connector 93a. A first supply control switch 94a is provided between the power supply section 9 and the first connector 93a. For example, the first supply control switch 94a is a transistor. Based on instructions from the control unit 1, the power supply control circuit 90 turns the first supply control switch 94a ON/OFF. The first supply control switch 94a can control (switch) supply and stop of power supply to the control unit 1.

The engine control section 5 (engine control board) receives power supply from the power supply section 9 via the second connector 93b. The power supply unit 9 inputs one or more types of voltage necessary for the operation of the engine control unit 5 to the second connector 93b. A second supply control switch 94b is provided between the power supply section 9 and the second connector 93b. For example, the second supply control switch 94b is also a transistor. Based on instructions from the control unit 1, the power supply control circuit 90 turns the second supply control switch 94b ON/OFF. The second supply control switch 94b can control (switch) supply and stop of power supply to the engine control unit 5. Only the engine control unit 5 can stop power supply.

The document conveyance control section 41 (document conveyance control board) receives power supply from the power supply section 9 via the third connector 93c. The power supply unit 9 inputs one or more types of voltage necessary for the operation of the document conveyance control unit 41 to the third connector 93c. A third supply control switch 94c is provided between the power supply section 9 and the third connector 93c. For example, the third supply control switch 94c is also a transistor. Based on instructions from the control unit 1, the power supply control circuit 90 turns the third supply control switch 94c ON/OFF. The third supply control switch 94c can control (switch) supply and stop of power supply to the document conveyance control section 41. Only the document conveyance control section 41 can stop the power supply.

The reading control section 42 (reading control board) receives power supply from the power supply section 9 via the fourth connector 93d. The power supply unit 9 inputs one or more types of voltage necessary for the operation of the reading control unit 42 to the fourth connector 93d. A fourth supply control switch 94d is provided between the power supply section 9 and the fourth connector 93d. For example, the fourth supply control switch 94d is also a transistor. Based on instructions from the control unit 1, the power supply control circuit 90 turns ON/OFF the fourth supply control switch 94d. The fourth supply control switch 94d can control (switch) the supply and stop of supply of power to the reading control unit 42. Only the reading control unit 42 can stop power supply.

Note that each connector 93 also includes terminals other than the power supply terminal. By connecting terminals other than the power supply, signals and data can be exchanged between each board.

(Flow of parts replacement)
An example of the flow of parts replacement in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described using FIGS. 5 to 7. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of parts replacement in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the identification code C1 input screen 34 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the guide screen 35 according to the embodiment.

In the following description, an example will be described in which the engine control unit 5 (engine control board) is replaced. Replacement of the document conveyance control section 41 (document conveyance control board) and the reading control section 42 (reading control board) can be similarly explained.

Users who wish to replace parts themselves purchase replaceable parts in advance. Note that the person who replaces the parts is not limited to the user, and may be a service person. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a replacement start button (not shown). The replacement start button is a button for starting parts replacement. When the user wants to start replacing parts, the user touches this button. The operation panel 3 accepts the operation of the replacement start button as an instruction to start parts replacement. The start in FIG. 5 is when the operation panel 3 receives an instruction to start parts replacement.

When the exchange start button is operated, the control unit 1 displays the identification code C1 input screen 34 on the display panel 31 (step #1). FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the identification code C1 input screen 34. The identification code C1 input screen 34 displays a code display field L1 and a software keyboard KB. The software keyboard KB is an image for inputting the identification code C1. The user touches the software keyboard KB and inputs the identification code C1. The control unit 1 displays the input identification code C1 in the code display field L1.

The identification code C1 is a symbol indicating the type of replaceable part. In the multifunction device 100, a multi-digit number is used as the identification code C1. The identification code C1 (multi-digit number) assigned is different for each type of replaceable part. For example, different identification codes C1 are assigned to engine control boards having different printing speeds (number of sheets printed per unit time). In the multifunction device 100, a four-digit number is used as a symbol indicating the type of replaceable part.

Note that the identification code C1 may include a symbol other than the symbol indicating the type of replaceable part. For example, the identification code C1 may include a serial number. Further, the identification code C1 may include a number indicating the number of sheets processed per unit time.

Identification code C1 is attached to replaceable parts. There are no particular restrictions on how to attach it. The identification code C1 may be engraved or painted on the board, or a sticker on which the identification code C1 is printed may be attached to the board. The replacement person can check the identification code C1 to be input by looking at the replaceable parts.

The control unit 1 recognizes the input identification code C1 (step #2). Based on the recognized identification code C1, the control unit 1 recognizes the replaceable part (replacement target) to be replaced (step #3). For example, the HDD of the storage unit 2 stores the exchange target recognition data in a non-volatile manner (see FIG. 1). The replacement target recognition data is data that defines the identification code C1 of each replaceable part in the multifunction peripheral 100 and the type of replaceable part corresponding to the identification code C1. The control unit 1 can recognize the exchange target by referring to the exchange target recognition data. For example, when the identification code C1 of the engine control board is input, the control unit 1 recognizes that the replacement target is the engine control board.

When the replacement target is recognized, the control unit 1 causes the cover lock device 8 to unlock the replacement cover 7 (step #4). The control unit 1 unlocks the replacement cover 7 that needs to be opened when replacing the recognized replacement target. For example, in the case of replacing the engine control board, the control unit 1 energizes the solenoid 80 corresponding to the replacement cover 7 that is opened when replacing the engine control board.

The control unit 1 stops power supply to the replacement target (step #5). For example, when replacing the engine control board, the control unit 1 turns off the second supply control switch 94b. As a result, the electrical connection between the power supply unit 9 and the engine control board is released.

Further, the control unit 1 causes the operation panel 3 (display panel 31) to display a guide screen 35 for replacing the replacement target (step #6). The guidance screen 35 is a screen that informs the exchanger of the procedure of the exchange work and points to be noted in the exchange work.

FIG. 6 shows an example of the guide screen 35 displayed when replacing the engine control board. FIG. 6 is a guide screen 35 that conveys the exchange procedure in text. The guidance screen 35 may display either a still image or a moving image, or both, to guide the procedure.

Further, the guide screen 35 is provided with an exchange completion button B1. When the exchange work is completed, the exchanger operates the exchange completion button B1. The operation panel 3 accepts the completion of replacement of the replacement target. Based on the output of the operation panel 3, the control unit 1 recognizes that the replacement target has been replaced.

Here, the multifunction device 100 includes an opening/closing detection sensor 71 (see FIG. 1). The opening/closing detection sensor 71 is a sensor that detects whether the replacement cover 7 is opened or closed. In other words, the opening/closing detection sensor 71 is a sensor that detects whether the replacement cover 7 is completely closed. The opening/closing detection sensor 71 is provided for each replacement cover 7.

The opening/closing detection sensor 71 includes, for example, an actuator. The position of the actuator changes depending on whether the replacement cover 7 is completely closed or not. For example, the actuator contacts the end of the replacement cover 7 on the closing direction side. The output level of the opening/closing detection sensor 71 changes depending on the position of the actuator. Based on the output of the opening/closing detection sensor 71, the control unit 1 can recognize whether or not the replacement cover 7 is completely closed.

The control unit 1 checks whether the operation panel 3 has accepted the completion of replacement of the replacement target (step #7). Specifically, the control unit 1 checks whether the replacement completion button B1 has been operated. The control unit 1 continues displaying and checking the guidance screen 35 until the confirmation is made (No in step #7→Proceed to step #6).

From the viewpoint of safety and failure prevention, the replacement cover 7 should be completely closed after replacement is completed. Therefore, when receiving the completion of replacement of the replacement target (Yes in step #7), the control unit 1 checks whether the replacement cover 7 is completely closed (step #8). Based on the output of the opening/closing detection sensor 71, the control unit 1 recognizes whether or not the opening/closing detection sensor 71 is completely closed.

When the replacement cover 7 is not completely closed (No in step #8), the control unit 1 displays a warning message on the display panel 31 (step #9). For example, the control unit 1 displays a text as a warning message informing that the replacement cover 7 should be completely closed. Then, the control unit 1 executes step #8. The warning message continues to be displayed until the replacement cover 7 is completely closed.

When the replacement cover 7 is completely closed (No in step #8), the control unit 1 causes the cover lock device 8 to lock the closed replacement cover 7 (step #10). In other words, the control unit 1 stops supplying current to all solenoids 80. Then, the control unit 1 automatically resets (restarts) the multifunction device 100 (step #11→end).

At step #11, the control section 1 issues a reset instruction to the power supply control circuit 90 of the power supply section 9. When receiving the reset instruction, for example, the power supply control circuit 90 temporarily stops the primary power supply section 91 and the secondary power supply section 92. Due to this stop, the power supply to each part of the multifunction device 100 is stopped. The operation of all boards and circuits stops. Thereafter, the power supply control circuit 90 restarts the operation of the primary power supply section 91 and the secondary power supply section 92. By restarting the operation, power supply to each part of the control unit 1 is restarted. All boards and circuits will be restarted, including the replaced engine control board. After the board is replaced, the multifunction device 100 is quickly returned to a usable state.

In this way, the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) according to the embodiment includes the printing section 6, the replacement cover 7, the operation panel 3, the cover lock device 8, and the control section 1. The printing section 6 performs printing. The replacement cover 7 is opened when replacing a replaceable part, and is closed after replacement. The operation panel 3 receives an input of an identification code C1 attached to a replaceable part. The cover lock device 8 locks the replacement cover 7 so that it does not open. The control unit 1 recognizes the replacement target, which is a replaceable part corresponding to the identification code C1 input to the operation panel 3. When the replacement target is recognized, the control unit 1 causes the cover lock device 8 to unlock the replacement cover 7 that is opened when replacing the replacement target.

Based on the input identification code C1, the image forming apparatus can recognize the part to be replaced (replacement target). The cover that needs to be opened when replacing the part (replacement target) corresponding to the identification code C1 is automatically unlocked. No more opening unrelated covers. Mistakes in parts replacement procedures can be reduced. The user does not have to do any extra work. Also, you won't damage parts like the cover if you do it incorrectly. Parts replacement becomes easy.

The cover lock device 8 locks the replacement cover 7 even when power is not supplied to the image forming apparatus, except during the period from when the control unit 1 recognizes the replacement target until the replacement cover 7 is closed. Lock it so that it does not open. The replacement cover 7 can be kept in a locked state except when replacing parts. The replacement cover 7 cannot be opened unless necessary. Mischief caused by opening the replacement cover 7 or trouble caused by leaving the replacement cover 7 open can be prevented.

It includes an emergency release part 7a for opening the replacement cover 7. If it is unavoidable, the replacement cover 7 can be opened.

The image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 100) includes a power supply unit 9 that supplies power to replaceable parts. When the replacement target is recognized, the control unit 1 causes the power supply unit 9 to stop supplying power to the replacement target. Power to the replacement target can be automatically stopped. The object to be replaced can be de-energized before the user touches it for replacement. It can prevent electric shock when touching the item to be replaced.

The object to be replaced is the control board including the main control circuit 10.
It includes a connector 93 into which a control board of the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) is inserted. The control board receives power supply via connector 93. The power supply section 9 stops the power supply to the control board by stopping the power supply to the connector 93. The control board can be easily replaced by simply connecting and disconnecting it to the connector 93. The control board can be easily upgraded to improve functionality. Power supply to the entire control board to be replaced can be immediately stopped.

The image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) includes an opening/closing detection sensor 71 that detects opening/closing of the replacement cover 7. During the period from when the operation panel 3 receives the completion of the replacement work to be replaced until the replacement cover 7 is closed, the control unit 1 causes the operation panel 3 to display a warning message informing that the replacement cover 7 is open. . It is possible to prevent the replacement cover 7 from being left open.

When the replacement target is recognized, the control unit 1 causes the operation panel 3 to display a guide screen 35 for replacing the replacement target. You can check on the guide screen 35 whether the replacement procedure is correct. During replacement, parts can be replaced while checking the replacement procedure by looking at the operation panel 3.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

For example, the present invention can also be applied to replacing the control unit 1 (main control board). For example, the image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 100) also includes a connector 93 (93a) into which the control unit 1 (main control board) is inserted. The control unit 1 receives power supply via the connector 93 (93a). When recognizing that the replacement target is the control unit 1 (main control board), the control unit 1 causes the cover lock device 8 to release the lock of the replacement cover 7 that is opened when replacing the main control board. When recognizing that the replacement target is the control unit 1 (main control board), the control unit 1 causes the power supply unit to stop supplying power to itself (main control board). The control unit 1 stops power supply to the connector 93 (93a) for the control unit 1.

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

100 Multifunction device (image forming device) 1 Control unit 3 Operation panel 35 Guide screen 41 Original transport control unit (original transport control board)
42 Reading control section (reading control board) 5 Engine control section (engine control board)
6 Printing section 7 Replacement cover 7a Emergency release section 71 Opening/closing detection sensor 8 Cover locking device 9 Power supply section 93 Connector C1 Identification code

Claims (5)

A printing department that performs printing,
a replacement cover that is opened when replacing the replaceable part and closed after replacement;
an operation panel that accepts input of an identification code attached to the replaceable part;
a cover lock device that locks the replacement cover from opening;
a power supply section that supplies power to the replaceable parts;
Recognizing a replacement target, which is the replaceable part, corresponding to the identification code input to the operation panel;
a control unit that, when recognizing the replacement target, causes the cover lock device to unlock the replacement cover that is opened when replacing the replacement target , and causes the power supply unit to stop supplying power to the replacement target ; including;
The replacement target is a control board including a control circuit,
including a connector into which the control board is inserted;
The control board receives power supply via the connector,
The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the power supply unit stops supplying power to the control board by stopping supplying power to the connector . The cover lock device locks the replacement cover, even if power is not supplied to the image forming apparatus, except during a period from when the control unit recognizes the replacement target until the replacement cover is closed after being opened. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cover is locked to prevent it from opening. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an emergency release section for opening the replacement cover. including an opening/closing detection sensor that detects opening/closing of the replacement cover,
During a period from when the operation panel receives the completion of the replacement work of the replacement target until the replacement cover is closed, the control unit displays a warning message on the operation panel informing that the replacement cover is open. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that: When recognizing the exchange target,
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit causes the operation panel to display a guidance screen for replacement work of the replacement target.

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