JP7512868B2 - Image forming device - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus.

To manage consumables for an image forming device, data relating to the consumables is written to a storage unit such as a non-volatile memory attached to the consumables. For example, in the image forming device described in Patent Document 1, in order to prevent abnormal heating of the fixing unit, data on an abnormality in the fixing unit is written to a non-volatile memory, and when the power is turned on, the non-volatile memory is checked. If the data on an abnormality in the fixing unit is written to the non-volatile memory, control is performed so that no electricity is applied to the fixing heater.

JP 2003-98893 A

However, in conventional technology, for example, when non-volatile memory is implemented in a replaceable consumable item and lifespan management or implementation check is performed, wear or dirt on the contact between the non-volatile memory and the image forming device may cause problems in accessing the non-volatile memory.

If an image forming device stops operating due to an error in accessing non-volatile memory, the user will not be able to use the image forming device even though printing operations are actually possible without any problems.

Therefore, one or more aspects of the present disclosure aim to make it possible to operate an image forming device even if access to a memory unit attached to a consumable is not possible, as long as it is determined that there is no problem with the consumable.

An image forming apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an image formation execution unit that forms an image on a medium using a removable consumable, a cover for attaching and detaching the consumable, a consumable storage unit that is attached to the consumable and stores consumable management information, which is information for managing the consumable, a read/write unit that accesses the consumable storage unit and reads and writes the consumable management information, and a control unit that, when the read/write unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and a predetermined condition is satisfied, causes the image formation execution unit to form an image, and when the read/write unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and the predetermined condition is not satisfied, does not cause the image formation execution unit to form an image , wherein the predetermined condition is that the cover has not been opened or closed since the read/write unit was last able to access the consumable storage unit .

According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, even if the memory unit attached to the consumable cannot be accessed, if it is determined that there is no problem with the consumable, the image forming device can be operated.

1 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a control system in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment; 1A and 1B are block diagrams showing an example of a hardware configuration. 4 is a first flowchart showing a process during printing of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. 11 is a second flowchart showing the process during printing of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. 11 is a flowchart showing a process performed when a cover is detached in order to attach or detach a consumable item in the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of an image forming apparatus according to a second or third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a control system in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. 11 is a first flowchart showing a process during printing of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. 13 is a second flowchart showing the process during printing of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing a process performed when a cover is detached in order to attach or detach a consumable item in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a control system in an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment. 13 is a first flowchart showing a process during printing of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. 13 is a second flowchart showing the process during printing of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing a process when a consumable item is attached or detached in the third embodiment.

Embodiment 1.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.
The image forming apparatus 100 includes a paper feed cassette 101, a hopping roller 102, registration rollers 103 and 104, ID (Image Drum) units 110K, 110Y, 110M and 110C as image forming units, LED (Light Emitting Diode) heads 105K, 105Y, 105M and 105C, a conveyor belt 106, a belt drive roller 107, transfer rollers 108K, 108Y, 108M and 108C, a fixing unit 130, and discharge rollers 140 and 141.
The above configuration constitutes an image formation execution unit (printing unit) which will be described later.
Here, the image forming apparatus 100 is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus.

The image forming device 100 also includes a belt tag 109, a top cover 142, a fuser cover 143, a front cover 144, and interlock switches 145, 146, and 147.

The paper feed cassette 101 is a medium storage unit that stores paper PA as a medium to be printed.
The hopping roller 102 picks up one sheet of paper PA from the paper feed cassette 101 .

The registration rollers 103 and 104 regulate the skew of the sheet of paper PA and send it out onto the conveyor belt 106 at a predetermined timing.
The conveyor belt 106 conveys the sheet of paper PA.

On the path along which the conveyor belt 106 conveys a sheet of paper PA, ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C are arranged in this order.
The ID unit 110K forms a black image using black toner, which is a developer. The ID unit 110Y forms a yellow image using yellow toner. The ID unit 110M forms a magenta image using magenta toner. The ID unit 110C forms a cyan image using cyan toner.

In the following, the capital letter K at the end of the symbol indicates black, the capital letter Y indicates yellow, the capital letter M indicates magenta, and the capital letter C indicates cyan. In the following explanation, these capital letters will be omitted unless there is a need to distinguish between colors.

Since ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C are configured similarly except for the toner colors they use, we will use ID unit 110C for the explanation here.

The ID unit 110C is an electronic LED printing mechanism (electronic LED image forming mechanism) that includes a photoconductor drum 111C, a charging roller 112C, a developing roller 113C, a cleaning blade 114C, and a toner cartridge 115C.

The photoconductor drum 111C is an image carrier that carries an image.
The charging roller 112C is a charging unit that uniformly charges the photoconductor drum 111C. The uniformly charged photoconductor drum 111C is exposed to light by the LED unit 105C, whereby an electrostatic image is formed.

The developing roller 113C is a developing unit that forms a toner image, which is a developer image, by supplying toner stored in a toner cartridge 115C to the photoconductor drum 111C on which the electrostatic image has been formed. The toner image formed by the developing roller 113C is transferred to a sheet of paper PA by a transfer roller 108C.

The cleaning blade 114C is a cleaning portion that removes dirt such as toner remaining on the photoconductor drum 111C after transfer.
The toner cartridge 115C is a developer storage section (toner storage section) that stores toner.

The ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C are provided with toner cartridges 115K, 115Y, 115M, and 115C, respectively.
Further, toner cartridges 115K, 115Y, 115M and 115C are provided with TC (Toner Cartridge) tags 116K, 116Y, 116M and 116C for managing the toner cartridges 115K, 115Y, 115M and 115C, respectively.

The TC tag 116 stores, as consumables management information for managing the corresponding toner cartridge 115, a TCID (IDentifier), which is toner cartridge identification information for identifying the individual corresponding toner cartridge 115, and toner cartridge life information indicating the life of the corresponding toner cartridge 115. The toner cartridge life information indicates a counter value that can indicate the number of pages printed (number of pages formed with images) since the corresponding toner cartridge 115 began to be used.

The ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C are provided with ID tags 117K, 117Y, 117M, and 117C, respectively.
The ID tag 117 stores, as consumables management information for managing the corresponding ID unit 110, an IDID, which is ID unit identification information (image forming unit identification information) for identifying the individual corresponding ID unit 110, and ID unit life information indicating the life of the corresponding ID unit 110. The ID unit life information indicates a counter value capable of indicating the number of printed sheets since the corresponding ID unit 110 started to be used.

LED units 105K, 105Y, 105M, and 105C are provided corresponding to the ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C, respectively.
The LED head 105 is an exposure unit that forms an electrostatic latent image on the corresponding photoconductor drum 111 .

Transfer rollers 108K, 108Y, 108M, and 108C are provided below the photoconductor drums 111K, 111Y, 111M, and 111C of the ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C, respectively, with the conveyor belt 106 sandwiched between them.

The transfer roller 108 is a transfer unit that transfers the toner image formed on the corresponding photosensitive drum 111 onto a sheet of paper PA transported by the transport belt 106.

Here, the conveyor belt 106 is provided with a belt tag 109 .
The belt tag 109 stores, as consumables management information for managing the conveyor belt 106, a conveyor belt ID, which is conveyor belt identification information for identifying the individual conveyor belt 106, and conveyor belt life information, which indicates the life of the conveyor belt 106. The conveyor belt life information indicates a counter value capable of indicating the number of printed sheets since the conveyor belt 106 started to be used.

A sheet of paper PA onto which a toner image has been transferred by each of ID units 110K, 110Y, 110M, and 110C is sent to the fixing unit 130 by the conveyor belt 106.

The fixing device 130 is a fixing section that fixes the toner image transferred onto one sheet of paper PA onto that sheet of paper PA.
The fixing device 130 includes a fixing roller 131, a backup roller 132, and a fixing device tag 133 serving as a fixing section tag.

The fixing roller 131 includes a heating unit such as a sheet heater for heating the fixing roller 131. The fixing roller 131 is heated to a temperature at which fixing is possible by power input to the heating unit.
The backup roller 132 presses the sheet of paper PA toward the fixing roller 131 .
In this manner, the fixing device 130 melts the toner and fixes it onto the sheet of paper PA.

The fuser tag 133 stores, as consumables management information for managing the fuser 130, a fuser ID (fuser ID), which is fuser identification information (fuser section identification information) for identifying an individual fuser 130, and fuser life information (fuser section life information) indicating the life of the fuser 130. The fuser life information indicates a counter value that can indicate the number of pages printed since use of the fuser 130 began.

The discharge rollers 140 and 141 transport the paper PA with the toner fixed thereon and discharge it outside the image forming device 100.

The top cover 142 is a cover that is opened and closed to replace the ID unit 110, the toner cartridge 115, or the conveyor belt 106, which are consumables.

The interlock switch 145 is a top cover opening/closing detector for detecting whether the top cover 142 is opened or closed. The interlock switch 145 can detect whether the top cover 142 is opened or closed by operating its lever in response to the opening or closing of the top cover 142.

The fixing unit cover 143 is a cover (fixing section cover) that is opened and closed to replace the fixing unit 130, which is a consumable item.

The interlock switch 146 is a fuser cover open/close detector (fuser cover open/close detector) for detecting whether the fuser cover 143 is open or closed. The interlock switch 146 can detect whether the fuser cover 143 is open or closed by operating its lever in response to the opening or closing of the fuser cover 143.

The front cover 144 is a cover that is opened and closed to eliminate paper jams that occur when paper PA becomes stuck inside the image forming device 100.

The interlock switch 147 is a front cover opening/closing detector for detecting whether the front cover 144 is opened or closed. The interlock switch 147 can detect whether the front cover 144 is opened or closed by operating its lever in response to the opening or closing of the front cover 144.

When the top cover 142, the fuser cover 143, or the front cover 144 is opened, the drive system power supply (24 V) (not shown) is cut off. This stops the output of the high-voltage power supply applied to the photoconductor drum 111 and the transfer roller 108, as well as the rotation of the ID motor (not shown) that drives the ID unit 110, ensuring the safety of the user.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a control system in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the main part of the control system in the image forming apparatus 100 is composed of a control unit 160 and a storage unit 170 .

Although not shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 also includes a tag read/write unit (hereinafter, referred to as a tag R/W unit) 151 and a display unit 152 .
2 further shows the image forming execution unit 153 described with reference to FIG.
The interlock switches 145 and 146 constitute an open/close detection unit 154 .

The tag R/W unit 151 is a reading/writing unit that accesses the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, and the fuser tag 133, reads out the information stored therein, and writes information thereto.
Here, the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fixing unit tag 133 is attached to the corresponding consumable item, and functions as a consumable item storage unit that stores consumable item management information, which is information for managing the consumable item.

The display unit 152 displays various screen images.
The image forming unit 153 forms an image on a medium using a removable consumable item.
For example, the image forming execution unit 153 transports a sheet of paper PA, forms a toner image, transfers the toner image to the sheet of paper PA, fixes the toner image to the sheet of paper PA, and discharges the sheet of paper PA.

The open/close detection unit 154 detects whether the top cover 142 or the fixing unit cover 143 is open or closed.
The top cover 142 or the fixing unit cover 143 functions as a cover that is opened and closed to attach and detach consumables.

The control unit 160 controls the processing in the image forming apparatus 100 .
For example, the control unit 160 controls the tag R/W unit 151 to determine whether or not it is possible to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133. Then, the control unit 160 controls the tag R/W unit 151 to store in the storage unit 170 the availability of access to the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133 as access history information.

In addition, the control unit 160 receives a notification from the open/close detection unit 154 that the top cover 142 or the fuser cover 143 has been opened or closed, and stores the opening and closing of the top cover 142 or the fuser cover 143 in the memory unit 170 as opening and closing history information.

The control unit 160 causes the display unit 152 to display various screen images.
In addition, the control unit 160 controls the formation of images in the image formation execution unit 153 .

Here, when the tag R/W unit 151 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, and a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 160 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image. On the other hand, when the tag R/W unit 151 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, and a predetermined condition is not satisfied, the control unit 160 does not cause the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image.

For example, even if the control unit 160 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, if it is estimated that the corresponding consumable can be used, the control unit 160 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image. Then, the control unit 160 temporarily stores in the memory unit 170 the number of sheets on which images have been formed (the number of sheets printed).

The predetermined condition may be any condition that allows for determining that a usable consumable item is attached.
In embodiment 1, the predetermined condition is that the corresponding cover has not been opened or closed after the tag R/W unit 151 was last able to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133.
The control unit 160 may refer to the access history information and the opening/closing history information stored in the storage unit 170 to determine whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied.

The storage unit 170 stores information necessary for processing in the image forming apparatus 100 .
The storage unit 170 includes an access history storage unit 171 , a temporary storage unit 172 , and an opening/closing history storage unit 173 .

The access history storage unit 171 stores access history information indicating the history of whether the tag R/W unit 151 has been able to access the TC tag 116 , the ID tag 117 , the belt tag 109 , or the fuser tag 133 .
Even if the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133 cannot be accessed, the temporary storage unit 172 temporarily stores a counter value that can indicate the number of image formations (number of prints) performed when an image is formed. The number of image formations can be rephrased as the number of times an image is formed on a medium. Then, when the tag R/W unit 151 is able to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133 again, the control unit 160 can use the counter value to update the information (consumables management information) stored in the corresponding tag.
The opening/closing history storage unit 173 stores opening/closing history information indicating the history of whether the top cover 142 or the fixing unit cover 143 has been opened or closed.

3A, a part or the whole of the control unit 160 described above can be configured by a memory 10 and a processor 11 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes a program stored in the memory 10. Such a program may be provided through a network, or may be provided by being recorded on a recording medium. That is, such a program may be provided as, for example, a program product.
In this case, the storage unit 170 may be realized by the memory 10 , or may be realized by a memory separate from the memory 10 .

In addition, a part or the whole of the control unit 160 can be configured with a processing circuit 12 such as a single circuit, a composite circuit, a processor operated by a program, a parallel processor operated by a program, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), as shown in FIG. 3B.
In this case, the storage unit 170 can be realized by a memory.
As described above, the control unit 160 can be realized by a processing circuit network.

The tag R/W unit 151 can be configured as a wireless communication device that wirelessly communicates with the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, or a contact communication device that comes into contact with the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133 to communicate.

4 and 5 are flow charts showing the process during printing (image formation) of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.
The control unit 160 judges whether or not a print instruction (image formation instruction) has been received from the user (S10). For example, when a communication unit (not shown) receives print data (image formation data) from the user, the control unit 160 judges that a print instruction has been received from the user. When a print instruction has been received (Yes in S10), the process proceeds to step S11.

In step S11, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to access each of the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, and the fuser tag 133. Hereinafter, each of the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, and the fuser tag 133 will also be referred to simply as a consumable tag.

Next, the control unit 160 determines whether access to all consumable tags has been successful (S12). If access to all consumable tags has been successful (Yes in S12), the process proceeds to step S13, and if there are consumable tags that cannot be accessed (No in S12), the process proceeds to step S19 in FIG. 5.

In step S13, the control unit 160 stores, for each of all consumable tags in the access history information stored in the access history storage unit 171, information capable of indicating the time of access, consumable identification information for identifying the consumable to which the consumable tag is attached, identification information for identifying the consumable tag, and information indicating that the access was successful. The information capable of indicating the time of access may be a date and time, or a count value capable of indicating the number of pages printed since the image forming device 100 was used. In addition, the consumable identification information may be anything that identifies which consumable it is, such as the position where the consumable is attached.

Next, the control unit 160 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to execute printing (S14).

Next, the control unit 160 refers to the access history information to determine whether or not there is a consumable tag attached to the consumable whose previous access resulted in an access error (S15). If there is a consumable tag attached to the consumable whose previous access resulted in an access error (Yes in S15), the process proceeds to step S16, and if there is no consumable tag attached to the consumable whose previous access resulted in an access error (No in S15), the process proceeds to step S18.

In step S16, the control unit 160 determines whether the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the consumable item whose previous access caused an access error matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable item before the access error occurred. The identification information of the consumable tag is TC tag identification information, ID tag identification information, belt tag identification information, or fuser tag identification information. If the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the consumable item whose previous access caused an access error matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable item before the access error occurred (Yes in S16), the process proceeds to step S17, and if the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the consumable item whose previous access caused an access error does not match the identification information of the corresponding consumable tag before the access error occurred (No in S16), the process proceeds to step S18.

In step S17, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to write the counter value stored in the temporary storage unit 172 to the target consumable tag. Here, the counter value stored in the temporary storage unit 172 is added to the counter value indicated by the life information stored in the consumable tag. The target consumable tag is a consumable tag attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error, and whose identification information matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable item before the access error occurred. The control unit 160 also erases the counter value used for the addition from the temporary storage unit 172. Then, the process proceeds to step S18.

In step S18, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to write counter values indicating the number of printed sheets in the printing performed in step S14 to all consumable tags. Here, the counter value in step S14 is added to the counter value indicated by the life information stored in the consumable tag.

On the other hand, if there is a consumable tag that cannot be accessed in step S12 (No in S12), the process proceeds to step S19 in FIG.
5, for the consumable tag that was successfully accessed in step S12, the control unit 160 stores, in the access history information stored in the access history storage unit 171, information that can indicate the time of access, consumable identification information for identifying the consumable tag to which the accessed consumable tag is attached, identification information for identifying the consumable tag, and information indicating that the access was successful. On the other hand, for the consumable tag that was unsuccessfully accessed in step S12, the control unit 160 stores, in the access history information stored in the access history storage unit 171, information that can indicate the time of access attempt, consumable identification information for identifying the consumable tag to which the accessed consumable tag is attached, and information indicating that the access failed (access error). The information that can indicate the time of access attempt may be a date and time, or a count value that can indicate the number of printed sheets since the image forming apparatus 100 was used.

Next, the control unit 160 refers to the access history information to determine whether or not access to the consumable tag attached to the consumable for which the current access error occurred has been successful in the past (S20). If access to the consumable tag attached to the consumable for which the current access error occurred has been successful in the past (Yes in S20), the process proceeds to step S21, and if access to the consumable tag attached to the consumable for which the current access error occurred has also failed in the past (No in S20), the process proceeds to step S28.

In step S21, the control unit 160 refers to the opening/closing history information stored in the opening/closing history storage unit 173 to determine whether the cover that is opened and closed to attach or detach the consumable that has caused the current access error has been opened and closed since the last time the consumable tag attached to that consumable was successfully accessed. If such a cover has been opened and closed (Yes in S21), the process proceeds to step S28; if such a cover has not been opened and closed (No in S21), the process proceeds to step S22.

In step S22, the control unit 160 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to execute printing.

Next, the control unit 160 refers to the access history information to determine whether or not any of the consumable tags successfully accessed this time are attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error (S23). If any consumable tag is attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error (Yes in S23), the process proceeds to step S24, and if no consumable tag is attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error (No in S23), the process proceeds to step S26.

In step S24, the control unit 160 determines whether the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the consumable tag that was successfully accessed this time and whose previous access resulted in an access error matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable before the access error occurred. If such identification information matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable before the access error occurred (Yes in S24), the process proceeds to step S25, and if such identification information does not match the identification information of the corresponding consumable tag before the access error occurred (No in S24), the process proceeds to step S26.

In step S25, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to write the counter value stored in the temporary storage unit 172 to the target consumable tag. Here, the counter value stored in the temporary storage unit 172 is added to the counter value indicated by the life information stored in the consumable tag. The target consumable tag is a consumable tag that is attached to a consumable that caused an access error in the previous access among the consumable tags that have been successfully accessed this time, and whose identification information matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable before the access error occurred. The control unit 160 also erases the counter value used for the addition from the temporary storage unit 172. Then, the process proceeds to step S26.

In step S26, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to write a counter value indicating the number of printed sheets in the printing performed in step S22 to all consumable tags that were successfully accessed this time. Here, the counter value in step S22 is added to the counter value indicated by the life information stored in the consumable tag.

Then, the control unit 160 stores the counter value in step S22 in the temporary storage unit 172 together with the consumable identification information, which is identification information for identifying the consumable that could not be accessed this time (S27).

In step S28, the control unit 160 causes the display unit 152 to display a warning screen image showing the warning information.
For example, in step S20, if access to the consumable tag attached to the consumable for which an access error has occurred this time has also failed in the past, or in step S21, if the corresponding cover is open, the control unit 160 displays warning information to the effect that "the consumable is not set correctly."
On the other hand, after the process of step S27, the control unit 160 displays warning information to the effect that "remove consumables" or "clean tag contacts."

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the process when the cover is removed in order to install or remove a consumable item.
First, the control unit 160 determines whether or not a cover for attaching and detaching consumables has been opened or closed (S30) based on a notification from the open/close detection unit 154. If such a cover has been opened or closed (Yes in S30), the process proceeds to step S31.

In step S31, the control unit 160 stores information indicating that the cover has been opened and closed in the opening and closing history information stored in the opening and closing history storage unit 173. Specifically, the control unit 160 stores information indicating the time when the cover was opened and cover identification information for identifying the opened cover in the opening and closing history information. The control unit 160 also stores information indicating the time when the cover was closed and cover identification information for identifying the closed cover in the opening and closing history information.

Next, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to determine whether or not it is possible to access the consumable tag corresponding to the opened or closed cover, in other words, the consumable tag attached to the consumable that can be replaced by opening and closing the cover (S32). If it is not possible to access the corresponding consumable tag (No in S32), the process proceeds to step S33, and if it is possible to access the corresponding consumable tag (Yes in S32), the process proceeds to step S35.

In step S33, the control unit 160 stores information about the failed access in the access history information. Specifically, the control unit 160 stores information indicating the time of the access attempt, consumable identification information for identifying the consumable to which the consumable tag for which access was attempted is attached, and information indicating that the access attempt was unsuccessful in the access history information.

Then, the control unit 160 causes the display unit 152 to display a warning screen image showing warning information. For example, the control unit 160 causes the display unit 152 to display warning information stating that "consumables are not set correctly."

On the other hand, in step S35, the control unit 160 stores information about successful access in the access history information. Specifically, the control unit 160 stores information indicating the time point at which the access was successful, identification information of the consumable tag that was successfully accessed, and information indicating that the access was successful in the access history information.

Next, the control unit 160 refers to the access history information to determine whether or not any of the consumable tags successfully accessed this time are attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error (S36). If any consumable tag is attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error (Yes in S36), the process proceeds to step S37, and if no consumable tag is attached to a consumable item whose previous access resulted in an access error (No in S36), the process proceeds to step S39.

In step S37, the control unit 160 determines whether the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the consumable tag that was successfully accessed this time and whose previous access resulted in an access error matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable before the access error occurred. If such identification information matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable before the access error occurred (Yes in S37), the process proceeds to step S38, and if such identification information does not match the identification information of the corresponding consumable tag before the access error occurred (No in S37), the process proceeds to step S39.

In step S38, the control unit 160 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to write the counter value stored in the temporary storage unit 172 to the target consumable tag. Here, the counter value stored in the temporary storage unit 172 is added to the counter value indicated by the life information stored in the consumable tag. The target consumable tag is a consumable tag that is attached to a consumable that caused an access error in the previous access among the consumable tags that have been successfully accessed this time, and whose identification information matches the identification information of the consumable tag attached to the corresponding consumable before the access error occurred. The control unit 160 also erases the counter value used for the addition from the temporary storage unit 172. Then, the process proceeds to step S39.

In step S39, the control unit 160 performs the initial process for the consumable item corresponding to the cover that was opened or closed.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, even if the consumable tag cannot be accessed, if it can be assumed that a usable consumable is attached, it is determined that there is no problem with image formation by the image forming device 100, and image formation is performed. This makes it possible to prevent image formation from becoming impossible when there is no problem with image formation.

In addition, if communication with the consumable tag is restored by removing or attaching the consumable or by cleaning the contacts, the counter value for the image formation performed when the access error occurred is written to the consumable tag, allowing the lifespan of the consumable to be managed accurately.

Embodiment 2.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of an image forming apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment.
The image forming apparatus 200 includes a paper feed cassette 101, a hopping roller 102, registration rollers 103 and 104, an ID unit 110 as an image forming unit, an LED head 105, a conveyor belt 106, a belt drive roller 107, a transfer roller 108, a fixing unit 130, and discharge rollers 140 and 141.
The image forming execution unit 153 is configured as described above.

The image forming device 200 also includes a belt tag 109, a top cover 142, a fuser cover 143, a front cover 144, interlock switches 145, 146, 147, TC detection switches 280K, 280Y, 280M, 280C, ID detection switches 281K, 281Y, 281M, 281C, a fuser detection switch 282, and a belt detection switch 283.

The main parts of the image forming device 200 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 7 are configured similarly to the main parts of the image forming device 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, except that it is provided with TC detection switches 280K, 280Y, 280M, 280C, ID detection switches 281K, 281Y, 281M, 281C, fuser detection switch 282, and belt detection switch 283.

The TC detection switch 280 is a switch for detecting the installation and removal of the toner cartridge 115. For example, the TC detection switch 280 can detect the installation and removal of the toner cartridge 115 by operating its lever in response to the installation and removal of the toner cartridge 115.

The ID detection switch 281 is an image forming unit detection switch for detecting the attachment or detachment of the ID unit 110. For example, the ID detection switch 281 can detect the attachment or detachment of the ID unit 110 by operating its lever in response to the attachment or detachment of the ID unit 110.

The fuser detection switch 282 is a fuser section detection switch for detecting the attachment or detachment of the fuser 130. The fuser detection switch 282 can detect the attachment or detachment of the fuser 130, for example, by operating its lever in response to the attachment or detachment of the fuser 130.

The belt detection switch 283 is a switch for detecting the attachment/detachment of the conveyor belt 106. The belt detection switch 283 can detect the attachment/detachment of the conveyor belt 106, for example, by operating its lever in response to the attachment/detachment of the conveyor belt 106.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a control system in an image forming apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 8, the main part of the control system in the image forming apparatus 200 is composed of a control unit 260 and a storage unit 270 .

In the image forming apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment, the TC detection switch 280 , the ID detection switch 281 , the fixing unit detection switch 282 , and the belt detection switch 283 form an attachment/detachment detection unit 255 .
The attachment/detachment detection unit 255 detects attachment/detachment of the toner cartridge 115, the ID unit 110, the fixing unit 130, or the conveyor belt 106.

The control unit 260 controls the processing in the image forming apparatus 200 .
For example, the control unit 260 controls the tag R/W unit 151 to determine whether or not it is possible to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133. Then, the control unit 260 controls the tag R/W unit 151 to store in the storage unit 270 the availability of access to the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133 as access history information.

The control unit 260 receives a notification from the attachment/detachment detection unit 255 that the attachment/detachment of the toner cartridge 115, the ID unit 110, the fixing unit 130, or the conveyor belt 106 has been detected, and stores the attachment/detachment of the toner cartridge 115, the ID unit 110, the fixing unit 130, or the conveyor belt 106 in the memory unit 270 as attachment/detachment history information.

Furthermore, the control unit 260 receives notification from the open/close detection unit 154 that the top cover 142 or the fuser cover 143 has been opened or closed, and stores the opening and closing of the top cover 142 or the fuser cover 143 in the memory unit 270 as opening and closing history information.

The control unit 260 causes the display unit 152 to display various screen images.
In addition, the control unit 260 controls the formation of images in the image formation execution unit 153 .

Here, when the tag R/W unit 151 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, and a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 260 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image. On the other hand, when the tag R/W unit 151 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, and a predetermined condition is not satisfied, the control unit 260 does not cause the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image.

For example, even if the control unit 260 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, if the control unit 260 can estimate that the corresponding consumable is attached by referring to the attachment/detachment history information, it causes the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image. Then, the control unit 260 temporarily stores in the memory unit 270 a count value that can indicate the number of images formed (number of printed sheets) on which images have been formed in such a case.

In embodiment 2, the predetermined condition is that the corresponding consumable has not been attached or detached between the time the corresponding cover is opened and the time it is closed after the tag R/W unit 151 was last able to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133.
In this case, the control unit 260 may refer to the access history information, the opening/closing history information, and the attachment/detachment history information stored in the storage unit 270 to determine whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied.

The storage unit 270 stores information necessary for processing in the image forming apparatus 200 .
The storage unit 270 includes an access history storage unit 171 , a temporary storage unit 172 , an opening/closing history storage unit 173 , and an attachment/detachment history storage unit 274 .
The access history storage unit 171, temporary storage unit 172, and opening/closing history storage unit 173 of the storage unit 270 in the second embodiment are similar to the access history storage unit 171, temporary storage unit 172, and opening/closing history storage unit 173 of the storage unit 170 in the first embodiment.
The attachment/detachment history storage unit 274 stores attachment/detachment history information indicating the attachment/detachment history of the consumables.

9 and 10 are flow charts showing the process during printing of the image forming apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment.
In addition, in the processes included in the flowcharts shown in Figures 9 and 10, processes similar to those included in the flowcharts shown in Figures 4 and 5 are given the same reference numerals as those shown in Figures 4 and 5, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The processing from steps S10 to S18 included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 is similar to the processing from steps S10 to S18 included in the flowchart shown in FIG.
However, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 9, if there is a consumable tag for which access has failed in step S12 (No in S12), the process proceeds to step S19 in FIG.

The processing from steps S19 to S21 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the processing from steps S19 to S21 in the flowchart shown in FIG.
However, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, if the corresponding cover is opened or closed in step S21 (Yes in S21), the process proceeds to step S40.

In step S40, the control unit 260 refers to the attachment/detachment history information stored in the attachment/detachment history storage unit 274 to determine whether or not a consumable that can be attached or detached by opening the cover determined to have been opened or closed in step S21 was attached or detached while the cover was open. If such a consumable was attached or detached (Yes in S40), the process proceeds to step S28, and if such a consumable was not attached or detached (No in S40), the process proceeds to step S22.

The processing from steps S22 to S28 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the processing from steps S22 to S28 in the flowchart shown in FIG.
It should be noted that in step S28, if the corresponding consumable item has been removed in step S40 (Yes in S40), the control unit 260 displays warning information indicating that the "consumable item is not set correctly."

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the process when the cover is removed in order to install or remove a consumable item.
In addition, in the processes included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, processes similar to those included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 are given the same reference numerals as those shown in FIG. 6, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The processes in steps S30 and S31 included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 are similar to the processes in steps S30 and S31 included in the flowchart shown in FIG.
However, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, after step S31, the process proceeds to step S50.

In step S50, the control unit 260 determines, based on a notification from the attachment/detachment detection unit 255, whether or not a consumable was attached or detached while the cover determined to have been opened or closed in step S30 was open. If a consumable was attached or detached (Yes in S50), the process proceeds to step S51. If a consumable was not attached or detached (No in S50), the process proceeds to step S32.

In step S51, the control unit 260 stores information indicating that the consumable has been attached or detached in the attachment/detachment history information stored in the attachment/detachment history storage unit 274. Specifically, when a consumable is removed, the control unit 260 stores information indicating the time when the consumable was removed and consumable identification information for identifying the removed consumable in the attachment/detachment history information. When a consumable is attached, the control unit 260 stores information indicating the time when the consumable was attached and consumable identification information for identifying the attached consumable in the attachment/detachment history information. Then, the process proceeds to step S32.

The processing in steps S32 to S39 included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 is similar to the processing in steps S32 to S39 included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, even if the consumable tag cannot be accessed and the cover is opened and closed, if the consumable has not been attached or detached, it can be assumed that a usable consumable is attached, and it is determined that there is no problem with image formation in the image forming device 200, and image formation is performed. This makes it possible to prevent image formation from becoming impossible when there is no problem with image formation.

In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 260 determines whether the consumables have been attached or detached when it is determined that the cover has been opened or closed, but the second embodiment is not limited to such an example. For example, the control unit 260 may determine whether the consumables have been attached or detached without determining whether the cover has been opened or closed. That is, the predetermined condition for performing printing may be that the corresponding consumables have not been attached or detached after the tag R/W unit 151 was last able to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133. In this case, the control unit 260 may determine whether the predetermined condition has been satisfied by referring to the access history information and the attachment/detachment history information.
In this case, the process of step S21 is omitted in Fig. 10, and the processes of steps S30 and S31 are omitted in Fig. 11. The storage unit 270 does not need to include the opening/closing history storage unit 173. In this case, when the toner cartridge 115, the ID unit 110, the conveyor belt 106, or the fuser 130 can be accessed without opening the top cover 142 or the fuser cover 143, the top cover 142, the fuser cover 143, or the interlock switches 145, 146 (opening/closing detection unit 154) may be omitted.

Embodiment 3.
As shown in FIG. 7, the image forming apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment includes a paper feed cassette 101, a hopping roller 102, registration rollers 103 and 104, an ID unit 110 as an image forming unit, an LED head 105, a conveying belt 106, a belt drive roller 107, a transfer roller 108, a fixing unit 130, and discharge rollers 140 and 141.
The image forming execution unit 153 is configured as described above.

Image forming apparatus 300 also includes belt tag 109, top cover 142, fuser cover 143, front cover 144, interlock switches 145, 146, 147, TC detection switches 280K, 280Y, 280M, 280C, ID detection switches 281K, 281Y, 281M, 281C, fuser detection switch 282, and belt detection switch 283.
The main parts of an image forming apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment shown in FIG. 7 are configured similarly to the main parts of the image forming apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a control system in an image forming apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 12, the main part of the control system in the image forming apparatus 300 is composed of a control unit 360 and a storage unit 370 .

In the image forming apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, the attachment/detachment detection unit 255 is configured by the TC detection switch 280, the ID detection switch 281, the fixing unit detection switch 282, and the belt detection switch 283.
However, in the third embodiment, the open/close detection unit 154 shown in the first and second embodiments is not necessary.

The control unit 360 controls the processing in the image forming apparatus 300 .
For example, the control unit 360 controls the tag R/W unit 151 to determine whether or not it is possible to access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133. Then, the control unit 360 controls the tag R/W unit 151 to store in the storage unit 370 the availability of access to the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133 as access history information.

The control unit 360 receives notification from the attachment/detachment detection unit 255 that attachment/detachment of the toner cartridge 115, the ID unit 110, the fixing unit 130, or the conveyor belt 106 has been detected, and stores the attachment/detachment of the toner cartridge 115, the ID unit 110, the fixing unit 130, or the conveyor belt 106 in the memory unit 370 as attachment/detachment history information.

The control unit 360 causes the display unit 152 to display various screen images.
In addition, the control unit 360 controls the formation of images in the image formation execution unit 153 .

Here, when the tag R/W unit 151 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, and a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 360 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image. On the other hand, when the tag R/W unit 151 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, and a predetermined condition is not satisfied, the control unit 360 does not cause the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image.

In the third embodiment, the predetermined condition is that the corresponding consumable is attached. The control unit 360 may determine whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied based on the detection result of the attachment/detachment detection unit 255.
In this case, the attachment/detachment detection unit 255 may perform detection only when the tag R/W unit 151 is unable to access the TC tag 116 , the ID tag 117 , the belt tag 109 or the fuser tag 133 .

For example, even if the control unit 360 cannot access the TC tag 116, the ID tag 117, the belt tag 109, or the fuser tag 133, if a consumable item is attached, the control unit 360 causes the image formation execution unit 153 to form an image. Then, the control unit 360 temporarily stores in the memory unit 370 a count value that can indicate the number of image formation sheets (number of prints) on which images have been formed in such a case.

The storage unit 370 stores information necessary for processing in the image forming apparatus 300 .
The storage unit 370 includes an access history storage unit 171 and a temporary storage unit 172 .
The access history storage unit 171 and the temporary storage unit 172 of the storage unit 370 in the third embodiment are similar to the access history storage unit 171 and the temporary storage unit 172 of the storage unit 170 in the first embodiment.

13 and 14 are flow charts showing the process during printing of the image forming apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment.
In addition, among the processes included in the flowcharts shown in Figures 13 and 14, processes similar to those included in the flowcharts shown in Figures 4 and 5 are given the same reference numerals as those shown in Figures 4 and 5, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The processing from steps S10 to S18 included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 13 is similar to the processing from steps S10 to S18 included in the flowchart shown in FIG.
However, in the flow chart shown in FIG. 13, if there is a consumable tag that cannot be accessed in step S12 (No in S12), the process proceeds to step S19 in FIG.

The process of step S19 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 is similar to the process of step S19 in the flowchart shown in FIG.
However, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 14, after step S19, the process proceeds to step S60.

In step S60, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the consumable item that caused the current access error is attached based on the detection result by the attachment/detachment detection unit 255. If such a consumable item is attached (Yes in S60), the process proceeds to step S22, and if such a consumable item is not attached (No in S60), the process proceeds to step S28.

The processing from steps S22 to S28 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 is similar to the processing from steps S22 to S28 in the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S28, if the corresponding consumable is not installed in step S60 (No in S60), the control unit 360 displays warning information indicating that the "consumable is not set correctly."

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the process when a consumable item is attached or detached.
In addition, in the process included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 15, the process similar to the process included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is given the same reference numerals as those shown in FIG. 6, and the description thereof will be omitted.

First, the control unit 360 determines whether or not a consumable has been attached or detached based on a notification from the attachment/detachment detection unit 255. If a consumable has been attached or detached (Yes in S70), the process proceeds to step S71.

In step S71, the control unit 360 instructs the tag R/W unit 151 to determine whether or not it is possible to access the consumable tag attached to the detached consumable. If it is not possible to access the corresponding consumable tag (No in S71), the process proceeds to step S33, and if it is possible to access the corresponding consumable tag (Yes in S71), the process proceeds to step S35.

The processing in steps S33 to S39 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 is similar to the processing in steps S33 to S39 included in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6.

As described above, according to the third embodiment, even if the consumable tag cannot be accessed, if the corresponding consumable is attached, it is determined that there is no problem with image formation by the image forming device 300, and image formation is performed. This makes it possible to prevent image formation from becoming impossible when there is no problem with image formation.

In the above-described second or third embodiment, a dedicated switch is provided as the attachment/detachment detection unit 255, but the second or third embodiment is not limited to such an example. For example, a sensor capable of detecting some physical quantity when a consumable is attached may be used as the attachment/detachment detection unit 255. For example, whether a consumable has been attached or detached may be detected based on whether a sensor that detects temperature, a sensor that detects the remaining amount or amount used, a sensor that can detect the current or voltage passing through the consumable, etc., is in a state indicating a disconnection.

100, 200, 300 Image forming apparatus, 101 Paper feed cassette, 102 Hopping roller, 103 Registration roller, 104 Registration roller, 110 ID unit, 105 LED head, 106 Conveyor belt, 107 Belt drive roller, 108 Transfer roller, 109 Belt tag, 130 Fuser, 140 Discharge roller, 141 Discharge roller, 142 Top cover, 143 Fuser cover, 144 Front cover, 145 Interlock switch, 146 Interlock switch, 147 Interlock switch, 151 Tag R/W unit, 152 Display unit, 153 Image forming execution unit, 154 Open/close detection unit, 255 Attachment/detachment detection unit, 160, 260, 360 Control unit, 170, 270, 370: storage unit, 171: access history storage unit, 172: temporary storage unit, 173: opening/closing history storage unit, 274: attachment/detachment history storage unit.

Claims (7)

an image forming unit that forms an image on a medium using a removable consumable;
A cover for attaching and detaching the consumables;
a consumable storage unit attached to the consumable and configured to store consumable management information for managing the consumable;
a read/write unit that accesses the consumable storage unit to read and write the consumable management information;
a control unit that, when the reading/writing unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and a predetermined condition is satisfied, causes the image formation execution unit to form an image, and, when the reading/writing unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and the predetermined condition is not satisfied, does not cause the image formation execution unit to form an image ,
The predetermined condition is that the cover has not been opened or closed since the read/write unit was last able to access the consumables storage unit.
An image forming apparatus comprising: an opening/closing detection unit that detects opening/closing of the cover;
an access history storage unit that stores access history information indicating a history of whether the read/write unit was able to access the consumable storage unit;
An opening/closing history storage unit that stores opening/closing history information indicating a history of opening and closing of the cover,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied by referring to the access history information and the opening/closing history information. an image forming unit that forms an image on a medium using a removable consumable;
A cover for attaching and detaching the consumables;
a consumable storage unit attached to the consumable and configured to store consumable management information for managing the consumable;
a read/write unit that accesses the consumable storage unit to read and write the consumable management information;
a control unit that, when the reading/writing unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and a predetermined condition is satisfied, causes the image formation execution unit to form an image, and, when the reading/writing unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and the predetermined condition is not satisfied, does not cause the image formation execution unit to form an image ,
The predetermined condition is that the consumable has not been removed from the cover between the time the cover is opened and the time the cover is closed after the read/write unit was last able to access the consumable storage unit.
An image forming apparatus comprising: an opening/closing detection unit that detects opening/closing of the cover;
A mounting/removal detection unit that detects mounting/removal of the consumables;
an access history storage unit that stores access history information indicating a history of whether the read/write unit was able to access the consumable storage unit;
an opening/closing history storage unit that stores opening/closing history information indicating a history of opening and closing of the cover;
and a mounting/removal history storage unit that stores mounting/removal history information indicating a history of mounting and removing the consumables.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied by referring to the access history information, the opening/closing history information, and the attachment/detachment history information. an image forming unit that forms an image on a medium using a removable consumable;
a consumable storage unit attached to the consumable and configured to store consumable management information for managing the consumable;
a read/write unit that accesses the consumable storage unit to read and write the consumable management information;
a control unit that, when the reading/writing unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and a predetermined condition is satisfied, causes the image formation execution unit to form an image, and, when the reading/writing unit cannot access the consumable storage unit and the predetermined condition is not satisfied, does not cause the image formation execution unit to form an image ,
The predetermined condition is that the consumable has not been removed after the read/write unit was last able to access the consumable storage unit.
An image forming apparatus comprising: A mounting/removal detection unit that detects mounting/removal of the consumables;
an access history storage unit that stores access history information indicating a history of whether the read/write unit was able to access the consumable storage unit;
and a mounting/removal history storage unit that stores mounting/removal history information indicating a history of mounting and removing the consumables.
The image forming apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the control unit determines whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied by referring to the access history information and the attachment/detachment history information. a temporary storage unit that stores a counter value indicating the number of times that the image forming unit has formed an image on a medium when the read/write unit cannot access the consumable storage unit but the predetermined condition is satisfied,
7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit updates the consumables management information using the counter value when the reading/writing unit is able to access the consumables again.

Images