JP7431023B2 - Image forming device, image quality adjustment program, and image quality adjustment method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image quality adjustment program, and an image quality adjustment method, and in particular, for example, an image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium and an image quality adjusting section that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section; This invention relates to an image quality adjustment program and an image quality adjustment method.

An example of a conventional image forming apparatus is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The printing device of Patent Document 1 includes a printing unit that prints print data on a recording medium, an adjusting unit that adjusts print density to maintain print quality in the printing unit, and an arbitrary timing for executing print density adjustment by the adjusting unit. and a setting means that can be set. Further, Patent Document 1 states that when the number of printed sheets exceeds a set number of sheets for which density adjustment (image quality adjustment) processing is to be performed while printing of the same job is being performed, printing of the same job is terminated. A technique has been disclosed in which the density adjustment process is executed after the process is completed.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-305327

Image forming apparatuses installed in environments used by an unspecified number of users, such as convenience stores and libraries, perform repeated small-volume print jobs (for example, copy jobs) for services such as public print and various certificate prints. Although there are many usage patterns (repeatedly repeating one sheet at a time), the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 cannot appropriately cope with such usage patterns. In the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, image quality adjustment is performed when the same print job is completed, so the user should continue copying work (after executing a certain print job, try to execute another print job). Even if you think so, image quality adjustment will start between print jobs, causing the user to have to wait.

Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide a novel image forming apparatus, image quality adjustment program, and image quality adjustment method.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus, an image quality adjustment program, and an image quality adjustment method that can perform image quality adjustment at appropriate timing and reduce stress on the user.

A first invention is an image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium and an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section, the apparatus satisfying predetermined implementation conditions for performing the image quality adjustment. implementation condition determination means for determining whether or not the implementation condition determination means is in effect; image quality adjustment management means for managing the implementation of image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means; The continuous use estimating means includes a continued use estimating means for estimating, a charging device for settling the charge in cash according to the image formation by the image forming unit, and a deposit information detecting means for detecting whether or not the money has been deposited in the charging device . When the payment information detection means detects that the payment information has been paid to the billing device, it is estimated that the image forming section will continue to be used, and the image quality adjustment management means determines that the implementation condition is satisfied by the implementation condition determination means. Even in such a case, the image forming apparatus postpones implementation of the image quality adjustment when the continuous use estimating means estimates that the image forming unit will continue to be used.

According to the first invention, when it is estimated that the image forming unit will continue to be used, the execution of the image quality adjustment is postponed even when the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are met, so the image quality adjustment makes the user wait. The occurrence of such situations can be reduced. That is, image quality adjustment can be performed at appropriate timing, reducing stress on the user.

A second invention is an image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium and an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section, the apparatus satisfying predetermined implementation conditions for performing the image quality adjustment. implementation condition determination means for determining whether or not the implementation condition determination means is in effect; image quality adjustment management means for managing the implementation of image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means; continued use estimating means, an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges according to image formation by the image forming unit, and payment information that detects whether electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected. The continued use estimating means estimates that the use of the image forming unit will be continued when the payment information detecting means detects that electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected. The image quality adjustment management means postpones the implementation of the image quality adjustment when the continued use estimation means estimates that the image forming section will continue to be used even if the implementation condition determination means determines that the implementation conditions are met. This is an image forming apparatus.

A third invention is dependent on the first or second invention, and includes job determination means for determining whether a specific print job is selected, and the image quality adjustment management means selects a specific print job by the job determination means. is selected, the implementation conditions are changed to increase the frequency of image quality adjustment, and the implementation conditions are changed to increase the frequency of image quality adjustment. Image quality adjustment is performed when the determining means determines that the changed implementation conditions are satisfied.

According to the third invention, image quality adjustment is performed preferentially in a specific print job such as photo printing. Therefore, image quality adjustment can be performed at more appropriate timing, and stress on the user can be more appropriately reduced.

A fourth invention is dependent on any one of the first to third inventions, and the image quality adjustment management means estimates that the use of the image forming unit will not be continued by the continued use estimation means when the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed. image quality adjustment is performed when the image is displayed and a certain period of time has elapsed.

According to the fourth invention, when it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will not be continued and a certain period of time has elapsed, the postponed image quality adjustment is performed, so when the user using the image forming apparatus changes. We can also respond appropriately to such matters.

A fifth invention includes an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section, and a billing device that settles the charge in cash according to the image formation by the image forming section. An image quality adjustment program executed by an image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus processor having an execution condition determination step for determining whether or not a predetermined execution condition for performing image quality adjustment is satisfied, and a determination result in the execution condition determination step. an image quality adjustment management step for managing the implementation of image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means, a continued use estimation step for estimating whether the use of the image forming unit will continue, and detecting whether or not money is being paid to the billing device based on the image quality adjustment means. In the continued use estimation step, when the payment information detection step detects that the payment has been made to the billing device, it is estimated that the image forming unit will continue to be used, and the image quality adjustment management is performed. In the step, even if it is determined that the implementation conditions are met in the implementation condition determination step, if it is estimated that the image forming unit will continue to be used in the continued use estimation step, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed. It is a program.
A sixth invention provides an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment unit that adjusts the image quality of the image forming unit, and an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges according to the image formation by the image forming unit. An image quality adjustment program executed by an image forming apparatus comprising: an implementation condition determination step for determining whether or not a predetermined implementation condition for performing image quality adjustment is satisfied in a processor of the image forming apparatus; an image quality adjustment management step for managing the implementation of image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result in , a continued use estimation step for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming section will continue, and an electronic money payment device using the electronic money payment device. A payment information detection step for detecting whether electronic money payment is selected is executed, and in the continued usage estimation step, the payment information detection step detects that electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected. In this case, it is estimated that the image forming unit will continue to be used, and in the image quality adjustment management step, even if it is determined that the implementation condition is satisfied in the implementation condition determination step, the image forming unit will continue to be used in the continued usage estimation step. This is an image quality adjustment program that postpones the implementation of image quality adjustment when it is estimated that the image quality adjustment will occur.

A seventh invention includes an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section, and a billing device that settles the charge in cash according to the image formation by the image forming section. An image quality adjustment method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: (a) an implementation condition determination step of determining whether or not a predetermined implementation condition for performing image quality adjustment is satisfied; (b) based on the determination result in the implementation condition determination step; an image quality adjustment management step for managing the implementation of image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means; (c) a continued use estimation step for estimating whether the use of the image forming unit will continue; and (d) whether or not money is being paid to the billing device. In the continued use estimation step, when the deposit information detection step detects that the payment has been made to the billing device, it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued, and the image quality adjustment is performed. In the management step, even if it is determined that the implementation conditions are met in the implementation condition determination step, if it is estimated that the image forming unit will continue to be used in the continued use estimation step, image quality adjustment is postponed or image quality adjustment is performed. This is an adjustment method.
An eighth invention provides an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment unit that adjusts the image quality of the image forming unit, and an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges according to the image formation by the image forming unit. An image quality adjustment method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: (a) an implementation condition determination step for determining whether or not a predetermined implementation condition for performing image quality adjustment is satisfied; (b) a determination result in the implementation condition determination step; (c) a continued use estimation step for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming section will continue; and (d) an electronic money payment device. In the continued use estimation step, the payment information detection step detects that the electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected . In the image quality adjustment management step, even if it is determined that the implementation conditions are met in the implementation condition determination step, the use of the image formation unit is estimated to continue in the continued use estimation step. This is an image quality adjustment method that postpones the implementation of image quality adjustment when it is estimated that it will continue.

According to this invention, when it is estimated that the image forming section will continue to be used, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed even when the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are met, so that the situation where the user is forced to wait due to the image quality adjustment is avoided. The occurrence can be reduced. That is, image quality adjustment can be performed at appropriate timing, reducing stress on the user.

The above objects, other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of the embodiments given below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the RAM shown in FIG. 2. FIG. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing an example of image quality adjustment processing of the CPU shown in FIG. 2. FIG. FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing an example of an image quality adjustment process of a CPU included in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of image quality adjustment processing of a CPU included in an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing an example of image quality adjustment processing of a CPU included in an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing an example of image quality adjustment processing of a CPU included in an image forming apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[First example]
Referring to FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 10, which is an embodiment of the present invention, is an apparatus that forms a multicolor or monochrome image on a predetermined sheet (recording medium). As will be described in detail later, the image forming apparatus 10 includes an image quality adjustment unit that adjusts the image quality (process control) of the image forming section 20 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Further, the image forming apparatus 10 of the first embodiment includes a billing device 16 and is installed in an environment used by an unspecified number of users, such as a convenience store and a library. The user pays a fee depending on the service provided by the image forming apparatus 10.

First, the basic configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 will be briefly described. In this embodiment, the front-rear direction (depth direction) of the image forming apparatus 10 and its constituent members is defined with the surface facing the user's standing position, that is, the surface on which the operation panel 28 is provided, as the front (front). The left-right direction (horizontal direction) of the image forming apparatus 10 and its constituent members is defined based on the state in which the image forming apparatus 10 is viewed from the user.

As shown in FIG. 1, in the first embodiment, an image forming apparatus 10 is a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having a printer function, a facsimile function, a copying function, a scanner function, and the like. The image forming apparatus 10 includes an apparatus main body 12 including an image forming section 20 , an image reading device 14 provided above the apparatus main body 12 , and a billing device 16 provided on the left side of the apparatus main body 12 .

The apparatus main body 12 includes a control section including a CPU 50 and a RAM 52, which will be described later, and an image forming section 20. The control unit transmits control signals to each part of the image forming apparatus 10 in response to input operations on the operation panel 28, etc., and causes the image forming apparatus 10 to perform various operations.

The image forming section 20 includes an exposure unit, a developing device, a photoreceptor drum, a charger, an intermediate transfer belt, a transfer roller, a fixing unit, and the like. The image forming section 20 forms an image using an electrophotographic method on a sheet of paper conveyed by a paper feeding mechanism from a paper feed cassette 22 or the like disposed below the image forming section 20, and transfers the image-formed sheet to a paper ejection tray 24. Discharge. That is, the image forming section 20 forms an electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum according to image data using a charger, an exposure unit, etc., and develops the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum with toner using a developing device. Visualize. Further, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum is transferred onto paper by an intermediate transfer belt, a transfer roller, etc., and the toner image transferred to the paper is thermally fixed by a fixing unit. As image data for forming an image on paper, image data read by the image reading device 14 or image data transmitted from an external computer is used.

The image reading device 14 includes a casing that has a document mounting table made of a transparent material on its upper surface. A light source, a plurality of mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, and the like are provided within this housing. The image reading device 14 exposes the surface of the document to light using a light source, and guides the light reflected from the surface of the document to an imaging lens using a plurality of mirrors. Then, the reflected light is imaged by the imaging lens on the light receiving element of the line sensor. The line sensor detects the brightness and chromaticity of the reflected light focused on the light receiving element, and generates image data based on the image of the surface of the document. As the line sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) is used.

Further, a document holding cover 26 is attached to the upper surface of the image reading device 14 via a hinge or the like disposed on the back side so as to be openable and closable. Further, on the front side of the image reading device 14, an operation panel 28 is provided, which includes a display with a touch panel, operation buttons, etc., for receiving input operations such as print instructions from the user.

Furthermore, a human detection sensor 30 is provided on the front surface of the housing of the device main body 12. The person detection sensor 30 is a sensor for determining whether a person is present in a predetermined range in front of the image forming apparatus 10. As the human detection sensor 30, a pyroelectric sensor (infrared sensor), an optical distance measuring sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like is used. A semicircular portion in front of the image forming apparatus 10 whose radius is a predetermined distance (for example, 3 to 5 m) shorter than the maximum distance that can be detected by the human detection sensor 30 is set as a detection area, and the detection area is set as a detection area. Based on the results, people within the detection area are detected.

The billing device 16 is a device that settles charges in cash for various services including printing services (print jobs) such as copying and printing provided by the image forming apparatus 10, that is, it receives payments in cash. That is, the billing device 16 is an example of a billing device that settles the bill in cash according to the image formation by the image forming section 20. The billing device 16 of this embodiment includes a money processing section 32, a short-range communication section 34, and the like, and is connected to the device main body 12 so as to be communicable by wire or wirelessly.

The money processing section 32 includes a money input section 32a and a coin return port 32b, and is provided above the billing device 16. The money insertion section 32a includes a coin insertion slot, a bill insertion slot, a change return lever, and the like. The coins and banknotes inserted from the coin input unit 32a are classified by type and stored in a predetermined money storage unit (not shown), and the type and number of coins stored in the money storage unit and the type and number of banknotes are classified. The input amount is calculated according to the number of sheets. When copying, printing, etc. are executed in the image forming apparatus 10, a charge corresponding to the content of the service is subtracted from the input amount, and the remaining amount (remaining amount) is calculated by subtracting the fee from the input amount. Further, when the change return lever is operated, coins or banknotes are returned depending on the remaining amount.

Further, the billing device 16 is capable of electronic money settlement using the short-range communication section 34 instead of or in addition to the cash settlement in the money processing section 32. In other words, the billing device 16 is also an example of an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges in accordance with image formation by the image forming section.

The short-range communication unit 34 performs wireless contactless data communication with a communication target in accordance with a communication standard such as ISO/IEC18092 (so-called NFC (Near Field Communication)), for example. The communicable distance of the short-range communication unit 34 is approximately several centimeters to several meters. For example, the short-range communication unit 34 transmits contactless data wirelessly between electronic money media such as IC cards and mobile terminals (feature phones, smartphones, tablet PCs, etc.) in accordance with communication standards such as Felica (registered trademark). communicate.

When making an electronic money payment, the user selects payment using electronic money and holds the electronic money medium over the short-range communication unit 34. Then, the short-range communication unit 34 reads the electronic money data held by the electronic money medium. At this time, the electronic money balance included in the electronic money data is read. Then, a fee corresponding to the content of the service etc. to be provided is subtracted from the electronic money balance, and when the payment is completed, the service etc. are provided.

Furthermore, the billing device 16 includes a paper strip printer 36 such as a thermal printer that issues paper strips with images printed on them, such as receipts or coupons, and a dye sublimation printer or inkjet printer that prints images on photo paper. A photo printer 38, etc., is provided as appropriate.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. However, some components not directly related to the present invention are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a control section including a CPU 50, a RAM 52, an HDD 54, and the like. The image reading device 14 , image forming section 20 , operation panel 28 , human detection sensor 30 , communication circuit 58 , and billing device 16 are connected to the CPU 50 via a bus 56 .

The CPU 50 manages overall control of the image forming apparatus 10 according to a program stored in the HDD 54. Further, the CPU 50 executes the image quality adjustment process of this embodiment, and functions as an implementation condition determination means, an image quality adjustment management means, a continued use estimation means, a payment information detection means, and the like.

The RAM 52 is used as a working area and a buffer area for the CPU 50. The HDD 54 is a main storage device of the image forming apparatus 10, and appropriately stores control programs for the CPU 50 to control the operations of each part of the image forming apparatus 10, display image data for various screens, and the like. However, other nonvolatile memories such as SSD, flash memory, and EEPROM may be used in place of or in conjunction with the HDD. Note that the image reading device 14 and the image forming section 20 are as described above, and therefore, repeated description will be omitted.

The operation panel 28 includes a display with a touch panel, operation buttons, and the like. The display is a general-purpose monitor such as an LCD, and is connected to the CPU 50 via a display control circuit (not shown). The display control circuit includes a GPU, VRAM, and the like. Under instructions from the CPU 50, the GPU uses the image generation data stored in the RAM 52 to generate display image data in the VRAM for displaying various screens on the display, and outputs the generated display image data to the display. . The touch panel detects a touch operation within the effective touch range and outputs touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch operation to the CPU 50. The operation buttons are hardware keys and include various keys or buttons such as a home button, a power save key, and a power button.

The human detection sensor 30 is a human sensor using an infrared sensor, and the CPU 50 detects the presence or absence of a person in a predetermined range around the image forming apparatus 10 based on the output of the human detection sensor 30.

The communication circuit 58 is a communication circuit (communication section) for connecting to a network such as the Internet. This communication circuit 58 is a wired communication circuit or a wireless communication circuit, and communicates with an external computer such as a server and a mobile terminal via a network according to instructions from the CPU 50.

The billing device 16 includes a money processing section 32, a short-range communication section 34, and the like, and is a device that settles charges according to image formation by the image forming section 20 in cash or electronic money. The charging device 16 holds deposit information (balance information) indicating the balance of cash deposited by the user, and notifies the CPU 50 of the deposit information in response to a request from the CPU 50.

In such an image forming apparatus 10, the state of image formation (image quality) by the image forming unit 20 may change due to changes in the environmental conditions around the apparatus or deterioration of the photoreceptor drum or developer. , image quality adjustment (process control) is performed to prevent or suppress the change in image quality. This image quality adjustment is performed when predetermined implementation conditions are met, such as every predetermined number of sheets, every predetermined time, and every time the power is turned on.

When performing image quality adjustment, for example, a reference toner image (toner patch) for density correction is formed on the intermediate transfer belt, and image density data of the toner patch is detected by a density sensor. Then, based on the detected image density data, control is performed to change (adjust) various image forming conditions such as charging potential, exposure amount, and development potential so that a desired image density is obtained.

If the image quality adjustment is simply executed when the implementation conditions are met, the user may be forced to wait, so in order to improve user convenience, the timing of image quality adjustment is an issue. Become. For example, assume that a five-page original is placed one by one on the original table and copies are made one copy at a time. In convenience stores and the like, it is very common for an unspecified number of users to continue to use the service in this way. At this time, for example, when the fourth copy print reaches a predetermined number of copies (for example, 500 copies from the previous copy), which is a condition for performing image quality adjustment, the image quality adjustment is performed. The user is forced to wait for the copying process for the remaining copy, which causes stress. This cannot be handled by conventional techniques that delay image quality adjustment until the same print job is completed.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the use of the image forming unit 20 by the user, that is, print jobs such as copy jobs and print jobs in which images are formed on paper using the image forming unit 20, are continued based on predetermined detection information. Estimate (judge) whether or not. That is, it is estimated whether or not the image forming section 20 will continue to be used, regardless of whether or not the same print job is in progress. If it is estimated that the image forming unit 20 will continue to be used, even if the image quality adjustment implementation conditions are met, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is temporarily postponed, thereby changing the timing of the image quality adjustment. We are trying to optimize it and reduce the stress on users.

Detection information for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming unit 20 is to be continued includes payment information to the billing device 16, person detection information by the person detection sensor 30, and electronic information in the billing device 16 (electronic money settlement device). Money selection information, data communication information by the communication circuit 58, information input to the operation panel 28, etc. are used. Only one piece of detection information may be used, or a plurality of pieces of detection information may be used in combination.

In this first embodiment, it is estimated whether or not the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued based on information on payment to the billing device 16, and it is determined whether image quality adjustment should be performed based on the estimation result. That is, if there is money (remaining money) deposited into the billing device 16, it is assumed that the image forming unit 20 will continue to be used, and even if the conditions for performing the image quality adjustment are met, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed. On the other hand, if there is no money deposited into the billing device 16 (lose it), it is estimated that the use of the image forming section 20 will not continue, and this is used as a trigger to carry out the postponed image quality adjustment.

However, in this first embodiment, even if it is estimated that the use of the image forming section 20 will not be continued, the image quality adjustment is not performed immediately, but is postponed after a predetermined period of time (for example, 5 minutes) has elapsed. Perform image quality adjustments. This is appropriate when the user using the image forming apparatus 10 changes, that is, when the payment to the billing device 16 is cleared or when the human detection sensor 30 temporarily does not detect a human. This is to accommodate. Moreover, this is to cope with a case where the deposit (remaining money) to the charging device 16 runs out midway and the user makes an additional deposit.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map 100 of the RAM 52 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. RAM 52 includes a program storage area 102 and a data storage area 104. The program storage area 102 stores an image reading program 102a, a printing program 102b, an image adjustment execution program 102c, a payment information detection program 102d, a usage state estimation program 102e, an image adjustment condition change program 102f, and the like.

The image reading program 102a is a program for controlling the operation of the image reading device 14, reading (scanning) an image of a document placed on a document mounting table, and outputting image data corresponding to the read image. be. The printing program 102b is a program for controlling the operation of the image forming unit 20 and printing an image on paper corresponding to image data read by the image reading device 14 or image data transmitted from an external computer.

The image quality adjustment implementation program 102c is a program for controlling the operation of the image forming section 20 and adjusting the image quality. That is, the image quality adjustment implementation program 102c is a program for forming toner patches on the intermediate transfer belt and changing image forming conditions based on image density data of the toner patches.

The deposit information detection program 102d is a program for detecting deposit information for the billing device 16, that is, detecting whether or not the deposit has been deposited in the billing device 16.

The usage state estimation program 102e is a program for estimating whether or not the user will continue to use the image forming unit 20 based on predetermined detection information. This first embodiment is a program for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued based on the deposit information for the charging device 16 detected using the deposit information detection program 102d.

The image quality adjustment condition change program 102f is a program for temporarily postponing the implementation of the image quality adjustment even if the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are satisfied based on the estimation result by the usage state estimation program 102e.

Although not shown, the program storage area 102 also stores other programs for the CPU 50 to execute various functions, such as a communication program and a person detection program.

On the other hand, in the data storage area 104 of the RAM 52, print data 104a, image quality adjustment implementation condition data 104b, usage state estimation data 104c, image quality adjustment implementation regulation flag 104d, etc. are stored.

The print data 104a is image data read by the image reading device 14 or image data received from an external device.

The image quality adjustment implementation condition data 104b is data regarding predetermined conditions under which image quality adjustment should be performed, and is, for example, data such as the number of prints since the previous image quality adjustment.

The usage status estimation data 104c is data regarding predetermined detection information for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming unit 20 will be continued, and is, for example, data regarding information on payment to the billing device 16.

The image quality adjustment implementation restriction flag 104d is a flag indicating whether or not implementation of image quality adjustment is restricted. For example, the image quality adjustment implementation regulation flag 104d is composed of a 1-bit register. When the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d is on, the execution of image quality adjustment is regulated (prohibited), and when the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d is off, the execution of image quality adjustment is prohibited on the condition that predetermined implementation conditions are met. Allowed.

Although not shown, the data storage area 104 stores other data necessary for executing the overall control process of the image forming apparatus 10, as well as timers (counters) and registers necessary for executing the overall control process. may be set up.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the image quality adjustment process of the CPU 50 shown in FIG. The CPU 50 starts this image quality adjustment process, for example, when the image forming apparatus 10 returns from a sleep state and enters a standby state in which each function can be executed. Note that this flowchart will be described on the premise that the copy job is executed by cash payment (cash payment).

As shown in FIG. 4, upon starting this image quality adjustment process, the CPU 50 determines in step S1 whether a copy job (an example of a print job) has been accepted, that is, whether a copy job has been selected by the user. . For example, the CPU 50 determines that a copy job has been selected when a document is set on the document table and a selection key provided on the operation panel 28 for accepting a copy job is pressed. At this time, based on the user's input operation, printing conditions such as the type of document, paper size, and number of copies, as well as the copying fee and payment method calculated based on the printing conditions are set. In addition, if a confirmation key is selected to check the finished copy on the preview screen before the copy start key described later is selected, a halftone processed output image corresponding to the printing conditions of the scanned original data will be displayed. is generated, and a preview screen of the print image is displayed on the display of the operation panel 28.

If "NO" in step S1, that is, if no copy job has been accepted, the process advances to step S3. In step S3, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If "NO" in step S3, the process returns to step S1, and if "YES" in step S3, the process directly proceeds to step S17. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S1, that is, if a copy job has been accepted, the process advances to step S5.

In step S5, it is determined whether the payment has been made to the charging device 16. That is, the CPU 50 obtains deposit information indicating the balance of cash that the user has inserted into the billing device 16 from the billing device 16, and estimates whether or not the use of the image forming unit 20 will be continued based on this deposit information. do. Note that in order to execute the copy job by the image forming unit 20, it is necessary that the copy fee has been deposited in the billing device 16 in advance (there is a balance). It is also determined in step S5 whether there is a balance.

If "NO" in step S5, that is, if it is estimated that the money has not been deposited in the billing device 16 and the use of the image forming section 20 will not be continued, the process advances to step S3. As described above, if "NO" in step S3, the process returns to step S1, and if "YES" in step S3, the process directly proceeds to step S17. That is, if the user selects a copy job but stops it midway, or if the money is not transferred to the billing device 16, the CPU 50 waits for a predetermined period of time (for example, 5 minutes) to elapse in step S3, and then cancels the copy job. , the process advances to step S17.

On the other hand, if "YES" in step S5, that is, if it is estimated that the fee has been charged to the charging device 16 and the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued, the process advances to step S7. However, in order for the answer to be "YES" in step S5, it is also necessary that there is a balance greater than the fee required for the selected copy job.

In step S7, the restriction on implementation of image quality adjustment is turned on. That is, the CPU 50 turns on the image quality adjustment implementation regulation flag 104d, and postpones the implementation of the image quality adjustment even if the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are met (that is, sends a control signal for implementing the image quality adjustment to the image forming unit 20, etc.). do not send). However, if the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d is already on, it remains on. Further, the CPU 50 can press (operate) a copy start key provided on the operation panel 28 to cause the image forming unit 20 to perform printing.

In the next step S9, printing is executed. That is, the CPU 50 transmits a control signal to the image forming section 20 and executes the printing process on the condition that the copy start key is pressed by the user.

In the following step S11, a copying fee is collected. That is, the CPU 50 sends a control signal to the money processing unit 32 of the billing device 16, subtracts the billing (copying fee) according to the executed copy job from the input amount, and calculates the remaining amount after deducting the copying fee from the inputted amount. Calculate.

In the following step S13, it is determined whether there is any remaining money in the charging device 16, that is, whether the money has been deposited. If "YES" in step S13, that is, if it is estimated that the charge has been made to the charging device 16 and the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued, the process returns to step S1. However, before this step S13, the user is asked whether or not to continue using the service, and if the user selects the end key to finish using the service, a message prompting the user to operate the change return lever is displayed. It is preferable to display it on the display of the panel 28. On the other hand, if "NO" in step S13, that is, if it is estimated that there is no remaining money in the billing device 16 and the use of the image forming section 20 will not be continued, the process advances to step S15.

In step S15, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If "NO" in step S15, the process returns to step S13, and if "YES" in step S15, the process proceeds to step S17. That is, the CPU 50 proceeds to step S17 when the state in which it is estimated that the use of the image forming section 20 will not continue continues for a predetermined period of time (for example, 5 minutes).

In step S17, the restriction on implementation of image quality adjustment is turned off. That is, the CPU 50 turns off the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d, and makes the image quality adjustment possible. However, if the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d is already off, it remains off.

In the following step S19, it is determined whether the conditions for performing image quality adjustment are satisfied. For example, the CPU 50 determines whether a predetermined number of prints has been reached since the previous image quality adjustment. If "NO" in step S19, that is, if the conditions for performing image quality adjustment are not satisfied, this image quality adjustment process is ended and the process returns to the standby state. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S19, that is, if the conditions for performing image quality adjustment are satisfied, the process advances to step S21.

In step S21, image quality adjustment is performed. That is, the CPU 50 transmits a control signal to the image forming section 20 and the like, and performs control to change various image forming conditions based on the image density data of the toner patch. When the process of step S21 is finished, this image quality adjustment process is finished and the process returns to the standby state.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is estimated whether or not the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued based on the payment information to the charging device 16, and the use of the image forming section 20 is continued. If it is estimated that the image quality adjustment is performed, the execution of the image quality adjustment is postponed even when the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are satisfied, so that it is possible to reduce the occurrence of a situation in which the user is forced to wait for the image quality adjustment. That is, image quality adjustment can be performed at appropriate timing, reducing stress on the user.

Further, according to the first embodiment, it is estimated that the image forming unit 20 will not be used continuously, and the postponed image quality adjustment is performed after a predetermined period of time has elapsed in this state. It is also possible to appropriately respond to cases where the number of users changes.

[Second example]
Next, referring to FIG. 5, an image forming apparatus 10, which is a second embodiment of the present invention, will be described. This second embodiment differs from the above-described first embodiment in that human detection information from the human detection sensor 30 is used as detection information for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued. Since the other parts are the same, explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment described above will be omitted or simplified.

In the second embodiment, it is estimated whether the image forming unit 20 will continue to be used based on the person detection information from the person detection sensor 30, and it is determined whether or not image quality adjustment should be performed based on the estimation result. That is, if a person is detected by the person detection sensor 30, it is estimated that the image forming unit 20 will continue to be used, and even if the conditions for performing the image quality adjustment are met, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed. On the other hand, if no person is detected by the person detection sensor 30, it is estimated that the image forming unit 20 will not continue to be used, and this is used as a trigger to perform the postponed image quality adjustment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the image quality adjustment process of the CPU 50 in the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, when the CPU 50 starts this image quality adjustment process, it determines in step S31 whether or not a person is detected. That is, the CPU 50 determines whether a person is present in a predetermined range in front of the image forming apparatus 10 based on the detection result by the person detection sensor 30.

If "NO" in step S31, that is, if no person is detected, the image quality adjustment process is ended and the process returns to the standby state. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S31, that is, if it is estimated that a person exists in a predetermined range in front of the image forming apparatus 10 and the use of the image forming section 20 will continue, the process advances to step S33. . In step S33, the restriction on implementation of image quality adjustment is turned on. That is, the CPU 50 turns on the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d and postpones the execution of the image quality adjustment even if the execution conditions are met.

The subsequent steps S35 to S45 are the same as steps S1 to S13 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. Since it is the same as that, the explanation will be omitted.

In step S47, it is determined whether a person is detected. If "YES" in step S47, that is, if it is estimated that a person has been detected and the use of the image forming section 20 will continue, the process returns to step S35. On the other hand, if "NO" in step S47, that is, if it is estimated that no person is detected and the use of the image forming section 20 will not continue, the process advances to step S49.

The subsequent steps S49 to S55 are the same as the steps S15 to S21 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4, so a description thereof will be omitted. When the processes of steps S49 to S55 are completed, the image quality adjustment process is completed and the process returns to the standby state.

In this second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, if it is estimated that the image forming section 20 will be used continuously, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed even if the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are met. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of situations in which the user is forced to wait due to image quality adjustment. That is, image quality adjustment can be performed at appropriate timing, reducing stress on the user.

[Third example]
Next, referring to FIG. 6, an image forming apparatus 10 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, the electronic money selection information in the electronic money payment device (charging device 16) is used as the detection information for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming unit 20 is continued. This is different from the example. Since the other parts are the same, explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment described above will be omitted or simplified.

In this third embodiment, it is estimated whether or not the use of the image forming unit 20 will be continued based on the electronic money selection information in the electronic money payment device, and it is determined whether or not to perform image quality adjustment based on the estimation result. . That is, if the user has selected electronic money payment, it is assumed that the image forming unit 20 will continue to be used, and even if the conditions for performing image quality adjustment are met, the implementation of image quality adjustment is postponed. On the other hand, if the user cancels the selection of payment using electronic money, it is assumed that the image forming unit 20 will not be continued to be used, and this is used as a trigger to perform the postponed image quality adjustment.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing an example of the image quality adjustment process of the CPU 50 in the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, upon starting this image quality adjustment process, the CPU 50 determines in step S61 whether a copy job (an example of a print job) has been accepted, that is, whether a copy job has been selected by the user. . At this time, based on the user's input operation, printing conditions such as the type of document, paper size, and number of copies, as well as the copying fee and payment method calculated based on the printing conditions are set.

If "NO" in step S61, that is, if no copy job has been accepted, the process advances to step S63. In step S63, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If "NO" in step S63, the process returns to step S61, and if "YES" in step S63, the process directly proceeds to step S77. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S61, that is, if a copy job has been accepted, the process advances to step S65.

In step S65, it is determined whether electronic money payment is selected. For example, the CPU 50 determines that electronic money payment has been selected when the user presses a selection key provided on the operation panel 28 for selecting electronic money payment.

If "NO" in step S65, that is, if cash payment is selected instead of electronic money payment, the process moves to step S5 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4, and the same processing as in the first embodiment is performed. Execute. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S65, that is, if electronic money payment is selected and it is estimated that the use of the image forming section 20 will be continued, the process advances to step S67.

In step S67, the image quality adjustment implementation restriction is turned on. That is, the CPU 50 turns on the image quality adjustment execution regulation flag 104d and postpones the execution of the image quality adjustment even if the execution conditions are met.

In the next step S69, the fee is settled, and in the following step S71, printing is executed. That is, on the condition that the copy start key is pressed by the user, the CPU 50 subtracts the charge (copy fee) according to the executed copy job from the electronic money balance of the electronic money data read from the electronic money medium ( S69). Then, after the electronic money payment is completed, a control signal is transmitted to the image forming section 20 to execute the printing process (S71).

In the following step S73, it is determined whether to end the electronic money payment, that is, whether the selection of electronic money payment has been canceled. For example, when the user presses an end key for ending the use of a service provided on the operation panel 28 or an electronic money payment end key for ending electronic money payment, the CPU 50 selects the electronic money payment. It is determined that it has been cancelled.

If "NO" in step S73, that is, if it is assumed that electronic money payment has been selected and use of the image forming section 20 will continue, the process returns to step S61. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S73, that is, if it is estimated that the selection of electronic money payment is canceled and the use of the image forming section 20 is not continued, the process advances to step S75.

The subsequent steps S75 to S81 are the same as the steps S15 to S21 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4, so a description thereof will be omitted. When the processing in steps S75 to S81 is completed, the image quality adjustment processing is completed and the process returns to the standby state.

In this third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, if it is estimated that the image forming section 20 will continue to be used, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed even if the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are met. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of situations in which the user is forced to wait due to image quality adjustment. That is, image quality adjustment can be performed at appropriate timing, reducing stress on the user.

[Fourth example]
Next, referring to FIG. 7, an image forming apparatus 10 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. This fourth embodiment differs from the above-described first embodiment in that data communication information from the communication circuit 58 is used as detection information for estimating whether or not use of the image forming section 20 will be continued. Since the other parts are the same, explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment described above will be omitted or simplified.

For example, assume that ten files are sequentially downloaded one copy at a time from a mobile terminal and printed out. At this time, for example, when the fourth file is printed out and a predetermined number of sheets, which is a condition for performing image quality adjustment, is reached, image quality adjustment is performed in the above-mentioned conventional technique. The user is forced to wait for the remaining printing work, which causes stress.

Therefore, in this fourth embodiment, it is estimated whether or not the image forming section 20 will continue to be used based on the data communication information from the communication circuit 58, and it is determined whether or not to perform image quality adjustment based on the estimation result. . That is, when data communication is in progress with an external device using the communication circuit 58, it is assumed that the image forming unit 20 will continue to be used, and even if the conditions for performing image quality adjustment are met, the implementation of image quality adjustment is postponed. do. On the other hand, when the data communication with the external device using the communication circuit 58 is terminated, it is estimated that the image forming section 20 will not continue to be used, and this is used as a trigger to carry out the postponed image quality adjustment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the image quality adjustment process of the CPU 50 in the fourth embodiment. Note that this embodiment will be described on the assumption that a plurality of files are sequentially downloaded from a mobile terminal owned by a user and printed out (a print job is executed).

As shown in FIG. 7, upon starting this image quality adjustment process, the CPU 50 determines in step S91 whether a print job (an example of a print job) has been accepted, that is, whether a print job has been selected by the user. . For example, the CPU 50 determines that a print job has been selected when a selection key provided on the operation panel 28 for accepting a print job is pressed.

If "NO" in step S91, that is, if no print job has been accepted, the process advances to step S93. In step S93, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If "NO" in step S93, the process returns to step S91, and if "YES" in step S93, the process directly proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S91, that is, if a print job has been accepted, the process advances to step S95.

In step S95, it is determined whether data communication is in progress. If "NO" in step S95, that is, if data communication has not been started, the process waits until data communication is started. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S95, that is, if data communication is in progress and it is estimated that use of the image forming section 20 will continue, the process advances to step S97.

In step S97, the image quality adjustment implementation restriction is turned on. The subsequent steps S99 to S103 are the same as steps S5 to S9 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. Since it is the same as that, the explanation will be omitted.

In the following step S105, it is determined whether data communication is in progress. If "YES" in step S105, that is, if data communication is in progress, the process returns to step S99. On the other hand, if "NO" in step S105, that is, if it is estimated that the data communication has ended and the use of the image forming section 20 will not continue, the process advances to step S107. In step S107, the restriction on image quality adjustment is turned off.

In the following step S109, it is determined whether or not to end the print job. For example, the CPU 50 determines to end the print job when the user presses an end key provided on the operation panel 28 to end the use of a service. If “NO” in step S109, the process returns to step S91; if “YES” in step S109, the process proceeds to step S111. Since it is the same as the process in S21, the explanation will be omitted. When these processes of S111 and S113 are completed, this image quality adjustment process is completed and the process returns to the standby state.

In this fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when it is estimated that the image forming section 20 will continue to be used, the implementation of the image quality adjustment is postponed even if the conditions for implementing the image quality adjustment are met. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of situations in which the user is forced to wait due to image quality adjustment. That is, image quality adjustment can be performed at appropriate timing, reducing stress on the user.

[Fifth example]
Next, referring to FIG. 8, an image forming apparatus 10 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that when a specific print job is selected, image quality adjustment is performed even if it is estimated that the image forming section 20 will continue to be used. different from. Since the other parts are the same, explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment described above will be omitted or simplified.

For example, high image quality is required for print jobs (printing services) such as photo printing and residence card printing. If image quality adjustment is postponed as in each of the above-described embodiments in a specific print job for which priority should be given to image quality, there is a risk that the printing will not meet the image quality desired by the user. Printed matter with lower image quality than expected causes stress to the user and may lead to reprinting. When printing a resident's card or the like, there is a possibility that the printer cannot function as a certificate, which may have a significant impact on the user.

Therefore, in this fifth embodiment, when a specific print job in which image quality is given priority is selected, the implementation conditions are changed to increase the frequency of image quality adjustment, and the use of the image forming section 20 is changed. Even if it is estimated that the print job will continue, the image quality of the specific print job is maintained by performing image quality adjustment when it is determined that the changed implementation conditions are met.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the image quality adjustment process of the CPU 50 in the fifth embodiment. Note that the processing in steps S121 to S127 and S139 to S151 is the same as the processing in steps S1 to S21 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4, so a description thereof will be omitted.

When the CPU 50 turns on the image quality adjustment implementation restriction in S127, in the next step S129, the CPU 50 determines whether or not a specific printing service is selected, that is, specific printing such as photo printing and resident card printing where image quality is given priority. Determine whether a job is selected. If "NO" in step S129, that is, if a specific print service is not selected, the process advances to step S139. On the other hand, if "YES" in step S129, that is, if a specific print job is selected, the process advances to step S131.

In step S131, the restriction on implementation of image quality adjustment is turned off. In addition, the execution conditions are changed to increase the frequency of image quality adjustment. For example, the CPU 50 increases the frequency of performing image quality adjustment by changing the execution condition of image quality adjustment to immediate execution, or changing it to execution when 10 sheets have been printed since the previous execution.

In the next step S133, it is determined whether the image quality adjustment implementation conditions changed in step S131 are satisfied. If "YES" in step S133, image quality adjustment is performed in step S135, and then the process advances to step S137. On the other hand, if "NO" in step S133, the process directly advances to step S137. In step S137, the image quality adjustment implementation restriction is turned on, and the changed image quality adjustment implementation conditions are returned to the original conditions.

According to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of a situation in which the user is forced to wait by adjusting the image quality, and since the image quality adjustment is performed preferentially in a specific print job, the image quality is also maintained. Therefore, image quality adjustment can be performed at more appropriate timing, and stress on the user can be more appropriately reduced.

Note that the specific configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 mentioned in this specification is merely an example, and can be changed as appropriate according to the specifications of the actual product. For example, the image forming apparatus does not necessarily have to be a multifunction device, but may be a copying machine, a facsimile, a printer, etc., or a multifunction device that is a combination of at least two of these.

Furthermore, if the information on deposit into the billing device 16 or the electronic money selection information in the electronic money payment device is not used as the detection information for estimating whether or not the use of the image forming section 20 is to be continued, the image forming device 10 does not necessarily need to include the billing device 16 or the electronic money settlement device. Note that the billing device 16 and the electronic money settlement device are not limited to those connected to the device main body 12 as external devices, but may be configured integrally with the device main body 12.

Further, although the image forming apparatus 10 is most effective when installed in an environment used by an unspecified number of users, such as a convenience store or library, it is not recommended to install it in an environment used by a specific user, such as an office. You can also do it.

Note that the specific numerical values listed above are merely examples, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the needs of the product specifications, etc.

10...Image forming device 12...Device body 14...Image reading device 16...Charging device (electronic money payment device)
28...Operation panel 30...Person detection sensor 50...CPU
52...RAM
54...HDD
58...Communication circuit (communication section)

Claims (8)

An image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium and an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section,
implementation condition determining means for determining whether a predetermined implementation condition for performing the image quality adjustment is satisfied;
image quality adjustment management means for managing implementation of the image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result of the implementation condition determination means;
continued use estimating means for estimating whether use of the image forming section will continue;
comprising: a billing device that settles a bill in cash in accordance with image formation by the image forming unit; and a deposit information detection means that detects whether or not the bill is deposited in the billing device;
The continued use estimating means estimates that use of the image forming section will be continued when the deposited information detecting means detects that a deposit has been made to the charging device,
The image quality adjustment management means adjusts the image quality when it is estimated by the continued use estimating means that the image forming section will be continued to be used even if the implementation condition determining means determines that the implementation condition is satisfied. An image forming apparatus that postpones adjustment. An image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium and an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section,
implementation condition determining means for determining whether a predetermined implementation condition for performing the image quality adjustment is satisfied;
image quality adjustment management means for managing implementation of the image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result of the implementation condition determination means;
continued use estimating means for estimating whether use of the image forming section will continue;
comprising: an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges according to image formation by the image forming unit; and payment information detection means that detects whether electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected;
The continued use estimation means estimates that use of the image forming unit will be continued when the payment information detection means detects that electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected;
The image quality adjustment management means adjusts the image quality when it is estimated by the continued use estimating means that the image forming section will be continued to be used even if the implementation condition determining means determines that the implementation condition is satisfied. An image forming apparatus that postpones adjustment. comprising job determination means for determining whether a specific print job is selected;
When the job determining means determines that the specific print job is selected, the image quality adjustment management means changes the implementation conditions to increase the frequency of performing the image quality adjustment, and adjusts the continuous use estimation. 2. The image quality adjustment is performed when the implementation condition determining means determines that the changed implementation condition is satisfied even when the image forming unit is estimated to continue to be used by the image forming unit. 2. The image forming apparatus according to 2. When the image quality adjustment is postponed, the image quality adjustment management means performs the image quality adjustment when the continued use estimating means estimates that the image forming unit will not be used continuously and a certain period of time has elapsed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. An image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section, and a billing device that settles the charge in cash according to the image formation by the image forming section. An image quality adjustment program to be executed,
a processor of the image forming apparatus;
an implementation condition determination step of determining whether a predetermined implementation condition for performing the image quality adjustment is satisfied;
an image quality adjustment management step for managing implementation of the image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result in the implementation condition determination step;
executing a continued use estimating step of estimating whether the use of the image forming unit will be continued; and a deposit information detecting step of detecting whether or not money has been deposited in the billing device;
In the continued use estimating step, when it is detected by the paid-in information detecting step that money has been paid to the charging device, it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued;
In the image quality adjustment management step, even if it is determined that the implementation condition is satisfied in the implementation condition determination step, when it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued in the continued use estimation step, the image quality adjustment step is performed. Image quality adjustment program that postpones adjustment. An image comprising an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment unit that adjusts the image quality of the image forming unit, and an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges according to the image formation by the image forming unit. An image quality adjustment program executed by a forming device,
a processor of the image forming apparatus;
an implementation condition determination step of determining whether a predetermined implementation condition for performing the image quality adjustment is satisfied;
an image quality adjustment management step for managing implementation of the image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result in the implementation condition determination step;
executing a continued use estimation step of estimating whether the use of the image forming unit will be continued; and a payment information detection step of detecting whether electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected;
In the continued use estimation step, when it is detected by the payment information detection step that electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected, it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued;
In the image quality adjustment management step, even if it is determined that the implementation condition is satisfied in the implementation condition determination step, when it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued in the continued use estimation step, the image quality adjustment step is performed. Image quality adjustment program that postpones adjustment. An image forming apparatus comprising an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjusting means that adjusts the image quality of the image forming section, and a billing device that settles charges in cash according to the image formation by the image forming section. An image quality adjustment method,
(a) an implementation condition determination step of determining whether or not a predetermined implementation condition for performing the image quality adjustment is satisfied;
(b) an image quality adjustment management step for managing implementation of the image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result in the implementation condition determination step;
(c) a continued use estimation step of estimating whether the use of the image forming unit will be continued; and (d) a payment information detection step of detecting whether or not the payment has been made to the billing device.
In the continued use estimating step, when it is detected by the paid-in information detecting step that money has been paid to the charging device, it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued;
In the image quality adjustment management step, even if it is determined that the implementation condition is satisfied in the implementation condition determination step, when it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued in the continued use estimation step, the image quality adjustment step is performed. An image quality adjustment method that postpones adjustment. An image comprising an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, an image quality adjustment unit that adjusts the image quality of the image forming unit, and an electronic money payment device that uses electronic money to settle charges according to the image formation by the image forming unit. A method for adjusting image quality of a forming device, the method comprising:
(a) an implementation condition determination step of determining whether or not a predetermined implementation condition for performing the image quality adjustment is satisfied;
(b) an image quality adjustment management step for managing implementation of the image quality adjustment by the image quality adjustment means based on the determination result in the implementation condition determination step;
(c) a continued use estimation step of estimating whether the use of the image forming unit will be continued; and (d) payment information detection that detects whether electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected. including steps,
In the continued use estimation step, when it is detected by the payment information detection step that electronic money payment using the electronic money payment device is selected, it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued;
In the image quality adjustment management step, even if it is determined that the implementation condition is satisfied in the implementation condition determination step, when it is estimated that the use of the image forming unit will be continued in the continued use estimation step, the image quality adjustment step is performed. An image quality adjustment method that postpones adjustment.

Images