JPH09249338A - Image forming device and method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the size of an image forming device without providing a special mechanism on a recording paper cassette to detect the size of recording paper. SOLUTION: A facsimile device has an optical register sensor 109, and the register sensor 109 is shielded up to a position (tip detection position) where a tip position of recording paper which is conveyed reaches an actuator of the register sensor 109. Furthermore, when a rear end of recording paper comes to a position (rear end detection position) where it passes over the actuator of the register sensor 109, the register sensor 109 is shielded again due to self-weigh of the actuator. When printing data is transferred into a recording part and the printing operation is started, the time up to the time when the rear end of recording paper passes the actuator of the register sensor 109 is measured to compare the measured time with a set value. As a result of the comparison, when a difference between them is within a specified scope, it is judged that recording paper is the same paper as that stored, and when the difference is beyond the specified scope, it is judged that the size of recording paper does not agree with that of recording paper stored. If the rear end of recording paper is not detected even when a predetermined period of time elapses, it is judged that an error such as jamming occurs.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Generally, various printers such as thermal printers, ink jet printers, laser beam printers, and facsimile machines have a cassette for setting recording paper.

In such a printer, a detector for detecting the presence or absence of the recording paper set in the cassette and the size of the recording paper is provided, and the operation of the printer is controlled according to the output signal from the detector. Was there.

As a mechanism for detecting the size of the recording paper,
Conventionally, the one described in JP-A-1-87431 is known. Further, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 1-87431, an actuator is provided on the cassette side to detect the size of the recording paper, and a micro switch is provided on the apparatus main body side.

Further, as control for performing registration correction and jam detection after recording paper is fed to the apparatus main body side by the cassette, the one described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 60-56580 is known. .

[0006]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, in order to control the feeding and conveyance of the recording paper, a sensor for detecting the size of the recording paper, a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of the recording paper, and a recording paper are used. Since at least three sensors, such as a sensor for correcting the resist and detecting a jam, are required at the time of transportation, the number of parts is increased and the apparatus is increased in size and cost is increased. In particular, a special mechanism had to be provided in the recording paper cassette in order to detect the size of the recording paper.

On the other hand, if a special mechanism for detecting the size of the recording paper is not provided, when the user sets the recording paper of the wrong size, the recording paper is printed on the recording paper which is not supposed by the user. Alternatively, if the size of the recording paper is long, there is a problem that a jam is erroneously determined. In particular, in a facsimile machine, if the image is recorded on a recording sheet that the user does not expect, an image may be missing in the case of a short recording sheet, or a page on a communication page in the case of a long recording sheet. And the page on the record changes. In the case of facsimile reception, it is impossible to redo the reception, so the problem was large.

Therefore, the first invention of the present application is to provide an image forming apparatus which can be downsized and reduced in cost without providing a special mechanism for a recording paper cassette for detecting the size of the recording paper. The purpose of.

A second object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of judging whether or not the recording paper set by the user is proper and preventing recording on the recording paper of an incorrect size.
The purpose of.

Further, it is a third object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus capable of determining whether a recording paper of an improper size has been set or recording paper jam and preventing malfunction.
The purpose of.

A fourth object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of preventing the waste of the recording paper such that the recording paper is fed / discharged only to detect the size of the recording paper set. .

A fifth object is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of improving the usability of the user by notifying the user when the size of the recording paper is inappropriate.

Further, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of improving the usability of the user by preventing the trouble of re-sending the print data sent from the user when the size of the set recording paper is inappropriate. Is the sixth purpose.

In the second and third inventions of the present application, in the first invention, the size of the recording paper set is determined to be incorrect, and the size of the recording paper is not incorrect. In such a case, a first object is to provide an image forming apparatus that can reduce the troublesome operation performed by the user to restore the apparatus to a normal state and improve the usability of the user.

A second aspect of the present invention is, in the first aspect, in a state in which it is determined that the size of the set recording sheet is not appropriate and a recording operation is not performed or a memory proxy reception is performed. A second object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of reducing the troublesome operation performed by the user to restart the recording operation when the size of the recording paper is no longer appropriate and improving the usability of the user. To do.

Further, according to the second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the user can promptly confirm that the size of the recording paper is not incorrect while the set recording paper is determined to be incorrect. A third object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus which can notify the user and improve the usability for the user.

In the fourth invention of the present application, in order to detect the attachment / detachment of the recording paper cassette, a special mechanism is not provided in the recording paper cassette, and a sensor for detecting the presence / absence of the paper in the cassette is used to realize a small size. A first object of the present invention is to provide a high-cost and low-cost image forming apparatus.

Further, a fourth object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of preventing erroneous detection of attachment / detachment of a recording paper cassette due to temporary rattling or the like.

[0019]

In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention is provided with an accommodating means for accommodating a plurality of recording papers, and print data is recorded on the recording papers. In the image forming apparatus for performing the recording operation, the recording paper detection means for detecting the presence or absence of the recording paper in the storage means, the storage means for storing the size of the input recording paper, and the length of the recording paper are detected. Recording paper length detecting means, comparing means for comparing the size of the recording paper stored in the storing means with the length of the recording paper detected by the recording paper length detecting means, and based on the comparison result. Based on the comparison result, the size determination means for determining whether or not the size of the recording paper stored in the storage means is appropriate,
A jam determining unit that determines whether or not a recording paper jam has occurred is provided.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect, the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during the recording operation on the recording paper. Characterize.

The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
In the image forming apparatus according to the above, the recording operation is stopped when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred. It is characterized in that it is provided with a stopping means.

The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 3.
In the image forming apparatus according to the above, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred, the print data It is characterized in that it performs memory proxy reception.

An image forming apparatus according to a fifth aspect is the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect.
In the image forming apparatus according to the above, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred, a warning to that effect is issued. It is characterized in that it is provided with a warning means.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus, comprising an accommodating means for accommodating a plurality of recording papers, wherein the recording papers of the accommodating means are used for recording print data on the recording papers. Recording paper detection means for detecting the presence or absence, storage means for storing the size of the input recording paper, recording paper length detection means for detecting the length of the recording paper, and the storage means stored in the storage means. Comparison means for comparing the size of the recording paper with the length of the recording paper detected by the recording paper length detection means, and based on the comparison result, the size of the recording paper stored in the storage means is appropriate. It is characterized by comprising a size determination means for determining whether or not there is.

The image forming apparatus according to claim 7 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 6.
In the image forming apparatus according to the above, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not proper, the image forming apparatus includes a warning unit that issues a warning to change the size of the recording sheet stored in the storage unit. It is characterized by

The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 6.
When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, a release unit is provided for canceling the determination by inputting a change in the size of the recording paper. Characterize.

In the image forming apparatus according to a ninth aspect, in the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during the recording operation on the recording paper. Characterize.

An image forming apparatus according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, wherein when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate,
When the recording operation is stopped by the stopping means, the stopping operation is stopped and the recording operation is restarted by inputting a change in the size of the recording paper. It is characterized by

An image forming apparatus according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, wherein when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate,
It is characterized by further comprising a proxy receiving means for receiving the print data in the memory, and performing a recording operation of the print data subjected to the memory proxy reception by inputting a change in the size of the recording paper.

An image forming apparatus according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate.
A warning means for warning that is provided, and when the warning is given by the warning means, the warning is canceled by inputting a change in the size of the recording paper.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the sixth aspect, the attachment / detachment detecting means for detecting attachment / detachment of the accommodating means and the size determining means determine that the size of the recording paper is not proper. In this case, the attachment / detachment detection means detects the attachment of the storage means, and the release means releases the determination.

In the image forming apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect, in the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect, the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during the recording operation on the recording paper. Characterize.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect, when the size determining means determines that the size of the recording paper is not proper, a stop means for stopping the recording operation is provided. When the recording operation is stopped by the stopping means, the stop is released and the recording operation is restarted when the mounting of the storage means is detected.

According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not proper in the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect, the image forming apparatus receives the print data on behalf of the memory. It is characterized in that a proxy reception unit is provided, and a recording operation of the print data that has been subjected to the memory proxy reception is performed by detecting the mounting of the storage unit.

An image forming apparatus according to a seventeenth aspect is provided with a warning means for giving a warning to that effect when the size determining means determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate in the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect. When the warning is given by the warning means, the warning is canceled when the mounting of the storage means is detected.

In the image forming apparatus according to the eighteenth aspect, in the image forming apparatus according to the thirteenth aspect, the attachment / detachment detecting means detects the attachment / detachment of the accommodating means by using a recording sheet detecting means for detecting the presence / absence of the recording sheet. It is characterized by doing.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the eighteenth aspect, when the attachment / detachment detecting means changes from the state of no recording paper to the state of recording paper for a predetermined time or more. The mounting of the storage means is detected.

An image forming apparatus according to a twentieth aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus which comprises a detachable storage means for storing a plurality of recording sheets, and which performs a recording operation of print data on the recording sheets. A recording paper detection unit for detecting the presence or absence of recording paper is provided, and the recording paper detection unit can record on the recording paper when the state with the recording paper changed from the state without the recording paper continues for a predetermined time or more. It is characterized by determining that

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the image forming method for recording the print data on the recording paper housed in the housing means, the presence or absence of the recording paper in the housing means is detected and the inputted The size of the recording paper is stored, the length of the recording paper is detected, the stored size of the recording paper is compared with the detected length of the recording paper, and based on the comparison result, It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not the size of the recording paper stored in the storage means is appropriate, and whether or not a recording paper jam has occurred is determined based on the comparison result.

[0040]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of the image forming apparatus and method of the present invention will be described. The image forming apparatus in this embodiment is applied to a facsimile machine. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the facsimile apparatus according to the embodiment.

In the figure, reference numeral 101 is a control unit composed of a CPU. An operation display unit 102 displays the state of the entire apparatus and inputs a recording paper size (letter, legal, A4, etc.). A recording paper size storage unit 103 stores data such as the recording paper size input from the operation display unit 102.

Reference numeral 104 denotes a scanner for reading an image of a document,
An image data storage unit 105 stores image data read by the scanner 104, received image data, and print data. Reference numeral 106 is a printer for recording an image read by the scanner 104 or an image in the image data storage unit 105, 107 is a removable recording paper cassette for storing a plurality of recording papers, and 108 is a recording paper in the recording paper cassette 107. A recording paper presence / absence sensor for detecting presence / absence.

Reference numeral 109 denotes a registration sensor for feeding the recording paper in the recording paper cassette 107 and then removing the registration of the recording paper to guide the recording paper to the recording unit. Used for measuring.

Reference numeral 110 denotes a communication control unit which has a built-in modem or the like and transmits an image read by the scanner 104 via a communication line 111 to a partner facsimile machine as a facsimile signal or an image transmitted from the partner facsimile machine. To receive. In the present embodiment, the communication control unit 1
10 shows the case where the modem is built in, but RS23
You may make it communicate with a personal computer via interfaces, such as 2C and IEEEP1284.

Reference numeral 112 denotes the control unit 101 and the operation display unit 10.
2, a bus for exchanging data commands and the like between the recording paper size storage unit 103, the scanner 104, the image data storage unit 105, the printer 106, and the communication control unit 110. The signal line 113 notifies the control unit 101 of the output signal detected by the recording paper presence sensor 108, and the signal line 114 notifies the control unit 101 of the output signal detected by the registration sensor 109.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing the structure of the facsimile apparatus. In the figure, reference numeral 201 denotes an actuator that detects the presence or absence of recording paper, and detects the absence of recording paper by blocking the optical path of the optical recording paper presence sensor 108 when there is no paper.

Reference numeral 202 is a separation roller for separating the recording papers stacked on the actuator 201 one by one. The recording sheet separated by the separation roller 202 is conveyed to the conveyance roller 203. The registration sensor 109 corrects the registration of the recording sheet conveyed to the conveying roller 203. Reference numeral 204 is a laser beam for forming a recorded image, and 205 is a scanner unit for scanning the laser beam 204.

Reference numeral 206 denotes a toner cartridge in which the photosensitive drum 207 and toner are integrated, and forms an image scanned on the recording paper by the laser beam 204. A transfer roller 208 includes an intermediate guide 209 and a fixing entrance guide 2
The recording paper is guided to the fixing film unit 212 via 10. Heat of fixing film unit 212 and pressure roller 21
By the pressure of 1, the toner is fixed on the recording paper and is discharged.

Upon paper ejection, a face-down paper ejection direction 218 for ejecting the recorded surface downward and a face-up paper ejection direction 217 for ejecting the recorded surface upward can be selected.

Reference numeral 213 is a face-up roller for discharging paper to the paper discharge portion in the face-up paper discharge direction 217, and 214 is a flapper. The flapper 214 switches the conveyance path of the recording paper depending on whether it is the face-down paper ejection direction 218 or the face-up paper ejection direction 217. Reference numeral 215 denotes a face-down guide that guides the recording paper in the conveyance path in the face-down paper discharge direction 218.
Reference numeral 216 is a face-down roller that discharges paper to the paper discharge unit in the face-down paper discharge direction 218.

The recording paper cassette 107 can be pulled out in the direction opposite to the direction in which the recording paper is fed. 3 and 4 show the recording paper presence sensor 108 and the registration sensor 1.
It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the circumference | surroundings of 09. FIG. 3 shows a state in which recording sheets are stacked in the recording sheet cassette 107. At this time, the protrusion of the actuator 201 does not shield the recording paper presence / absence detection sensor 108.

In the optical registration sensor 301, the leading edge position of the recording paper is the actuator 109 of the registration sensor 301.
Is blocked up to the position (front end detection position).

On the other hand, when the trailing edge of the recording paper reaches the position where the registration sensor 301 passes the actuator 109 (rear edge detection position), the registration sensor 301 is shielded again by the weight of the actuator 109. This registration sensor 30
The registration correction, the length of the recording paper, and the recording paper jam are determined by the on / off operation 1 described above.

FIG. 4 shows a state where there is no recording paper in the recording paper cassette. At this time, the projection of the actuator 201 shields the recording paper presence sensor 108, and the absence of recording paper is detected.

The shape of the actuator 201 is such that the recording paper cassette 107 can be smoothly pulled out and inserted. When the recording paper cassette 107 is pulled out and inserted, the actuator 201 temporarily turns into a state with recording paper or without it.

The operation of the facsimile apparatus having the above configuration will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a main task processing procedure executed by the control unit 101. First, reception task processing is executed to receive print data and the like (step S501). Subsequently, the print control task process is executed to record the print data (step S
502).

Further, the printer status monitoring task process is executed to determine whether or not the printer 106 is in a recordable state (step S503). Furthermore, LCD display task processing is executed to display the time, printer status, etc. on the LCD (step S504).

Then, the recording paper size setting task process is executed to set the recording paper size on the operation display unit 102 (step S505).

Each of the above task processes is executed periodically (for example, 10 msec) in time division together with other task processes. Next, each task process will be described.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the receiving task processing procedure. This task is executed about every 10 msec. First, it is monitored whether there is an incoming call request from the communication line 111 (step S601). When there is an incoming call request, it is determined whether or not reception is possible, that is, whether or not there is free space in the memory (step S602). When there is no incoming call request or when the incoming call cannot be received, step S6
It returns to the process of 01.

If it can be received, the data is received (step S603), and the received print data or image data (hereinafter, simply referred to as print data) is stored in the image data storage unit 1.
05 (step S604).

It is determined whether the reception of all print data and the storage processing of the memory have been completed (step S60).
5) If it is finished, this task is finished. on the other hand,
If all the receptions have not been completed, the process returns to step S602 (step S602).

Since this reception task operates independently of the recording control task (step S502), it is possible to perform memory reception even if there is an abnormality in the recording section.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the recording control task processing procedure. This task is executed about every 10 msec if it is not already executed. First, the control unit 101
Determines whether or not there is data to be recorded in the image data storage unit 105 (step S701). If there is no data to be recorded, this task processing ends.

If there is data to be recorded, it is judged whether or not the printer status is normal (step S70).
2). For information on whether the printer status is normal,
It is monitored by the printer status monitoring task (step S503) described above. If the printer status is not normal, this task processing ends.

On the other hand, if the printer status is normal,
Recording paper size of the recording paper cassette 107 stored in the recording paper size storage unit 103 (letter, legal, A4)
Is read (step S703). The printer 106 is activated (step S704) and print processing is performed (step S705).

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the print processing procedure. First, it waits until the leading edge of the recording paper is detected (step S801). That is, the leading edge of the recording paper is detected by pushing the actuator 109 of the registration sensor 301 to release the blocked state of the optical registration sensor 301.

When the leading edge of the recording paper is detected, step S
The time required to convey one page of recording paper is set based on the recording paper size read in 702, and the time until the trailing edge of the recording paper is detected is measured (step S80).
2). For example, 10.91 seconds for letter paper, 11.60 seconds for A4 paper, and 13.89 seconds for legal paper.
Set the seconds.

The print data is transferred to the recording unit and printing is started (step S803). It is determined whether or not the trailing edge of the recording paper has been detected (step S804), that is, when the registration sensor 301 is in the shielded state again by passing through the actuator 109 of the registration sensor 301, the timer measurement ends, and the measured value is returned. Compare with the set value (step S
805). Since this processing is performed when there is print information, the recording paper is not fed or ejected only to know the recording paper size.

As a result of the comparison, if the difference is within the specified range in consideration of the error, it is determined that the recording paper is the same as the stored one (step S807), and the process is ended. On the other hand, when the size does not fall within the specified range, it is determined that the recording paper sizes do not match (step S806), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if the trailing edge of the recording paper is not detected even after the elapse of a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds required to convey the longest settable recording paper) (step S808), a jam or the like occurs. It is determined that the error has occurred (step S809), it is determined that the recording is defective, and the subsequent processing is not performed, and the process ends with the print information held.

It is determined whether or not the print processing in step S705 in FIG. 7 is normal (step S706).
When the recording is normally performed, the print data of the page is released from the image data storage unit 105 (step S70).
7) The processing of this task ends.

On the other hand, if the recording was not performed normally,
It is determined whether or not the recording paper size determination is inconsistent (step S708). If the recording paper size determination is inconsistent, the recording paper size inconsistency flag is set to ON (step S709), and the subsequent recording is performed. This task processing is terminated while the print information is retained without performing the above. On the other hand, when the determinations of the recording paper sizes are not inconsistent, the jam flag is turned on (step S710), and this task processing ends.

When the recording paper sizes do not match or there is a jam, the subsequent printing process is not performed, but there is data to be printed. If the cause is resolved when the task is executed next time, the recording operation is immediately executed.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the printer status monitoring task. This process is about 10 mse
Start every c and execute monitoring. First, the recording paper presence / absence sensor 10 determines whether or not the recording paper is in the recording paper cassette 107.
It monitors by 8 (step S901). When there is a recording sheet, it is determined whether or not the processing of the monitoring task is executed for the first time after the power is turned on (step S902), and when it is executed for the first time, the recording sheet flag is turned on (step S90).
5).

On the other hand, if it is not the first execution, it is determined whether or not the recording paper flag is already ON (step S9).
03). That is, although the recording sheet is present at present, it is monitored whether the recording sheet was present or not when the previous monitoring was performed. For example, when there was no recording paper at the time of previous monitoring, but when there is recording paper now, it means that the recording paper cassette 107 has been changed from being pulled out to being inserted. to decide. Therefore, it is determined that the recording paper has been replaced with a recording paper of an appropriate size, and the recording paper size mismatch flag is turned off (step S912).

On the other hand, when the recording paper is present in the previous time and the recording paper is present in the present time, it is judged that the recording paper cassette 107 has not been pulled out, and the recording paper of the same size remains as it is. The recording paper flag is newly turned on without rewriting the size mismatch flag (step S90).
5).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S901 that there is no recording sheet at present, the recording sheet flag is turned off (step S912), the printable timer is set to the specified time (3 seconds in the present embodiment), and the start is started. (Step S913).

Here, when the recording paper cassette 107 is inserted, the actuator 201 is lifted by the recording paper cassette 107, and the recording paper is temporarily present. However, when the recording paper cassette 107 is not completely inserted yet, the recording paper presence sensor 108 indicates that the recording paper exists, and the recording paper is not fed even if the recording paper feeding operation is immediately started. The same thing occurs when the recording paper cassette 107 without recording paper is pulled out. For this reason, a timer is provided so as not to erroneously judge the drawer of the recording paper cassette 107 to be in the presence of the recording paper in consideration of the timing when the recording paper is completely inserted. The timer is started, and it is determined that the printer 106 is not in the normal state (step S914), and this task processing is ended.

When the recording paper flag is turned on in step S905, it is next determined whether or not the registered content of the recording paper has been changed (step S906). This process
When this task was processed last time, the recording paper size storage unit 103
It is determined whether there is no change between the content read out from the recording paper size storage unit 103 and the content read out from the recording paper size storage unit 103 when the present task is processed.

When the registered content of the recording paper size is changed, the recording paper size mismatch flag is turned off (step S907). That is, it is determined that the cause of the discrepancy of the recording paper size is eliminated by re-registering the recording paper size.

On the other hand, when the size of the recording paper is not changed,
The cause of the recording paper size inconsistency has not been resolved, so the recording paper size inconsistency flag is not rewritten.

Next, the recording paper size mismatch flag is set to OF.
It is determined whether or not it is F (step S908). If the recording paper size mismatch flag is not OFF, it means that printing should not be performed. Therefore, the print enable timer is started, and it is determined that the printer 106 is not in a normal state. (Step S914), this task ends.

When the recording paper size mismatch flag is OFF, it is determined whether or not there is another factor that cannot record (for example, recording paper jam) (step S909). If there is an unrecordable factor, steps S913 and S91.
4 is executed.

On the other hand, when there is no unrecordable factor, the printer 106 is determined to be normal after waiting for 3 seconds from the above-described printable timer (step S910),
End this task.

Since the printer status monitoring task and the recording control task are periodically activated, the printing operation is stopped when the status of the printer 106 changes, so that the operation corresponding to the change can be executed immediately.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the LCD display task. LCD display task is about 10m
It is executed every sec. It is determined whether or not the jam flag is ON (step S1001), and the jam flag is set to O.
If it is N, a recording paper jam is displayed on the LCD of the operation display unit 102 (step S1006), and this task processing is ended. The operator can determine that a recording paper jam has occurred.

When the jam flag is not ON, it is judged whether or not the recording paper size mismatch flag is ON (step S1002). When the recording paper size mismatch flag is ON, the content "the set recording paper size is different from the recording paper size in the cassette" is displayed (step S1005).

As a result, whether the operator should set the size of the recording paper in the cassette again or deal with it, or change the set recording paper size to deal with it, and adjust it according to the situation at that time. Can be judged. By displaying in this way, it is possible to select a measure that is convenient for the operator.

If the recording paper size mismatch flag is not ON, it is judged whether or not there is another error state (for example, no paper) (step S1003), and the error content (for example, "no paper") is displayed. Yes (step S1007).

On the other hand, if there is no other error, the clock is displayed (step S1004). Since this task process is activated about every 10 msec, the operator can be immediately notified when the state of the device changes.

In addition to the above display, simply "check the set recording paper size" or "check the recording paper size in the cassette."
May be displayed. Further, the estimated recording paper size may be determined from the time measured from the detection of the recording paper front end to the detection of the recording paper rear end, and the set recording paper size may be displayed at the same time.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case of displaying on the LCD is shown, but it may be configured to notify by voice or alarm.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the recording paper size setting task. It is determined whether or not a recording paper size setting is instructed from the operation display unit 102 (step S1101). If not instructed, the process ends.

On the other hand, if instructed, the operator is allowed to select a desired one from the letter, legal, or A4 size recording sheets that can be loaded in the recording sheet cassette 107 (step S1102). When the operator selects, the information is stored in the recording paper size storage unit 103 (step S
1103) The process ends.

Since this processing is started every about 10 msec, it can be immediately dealt with when the operator changes the recording paper size.

[0097]

According to the image forming apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, when the recording operation of the print data is performed on the recording paper stored in the storing means, the recording paper detecting means detects the recording paper of the storing means. The presence or absence is detected, the size of the recording paper input by the storage means is stored, the length of the recording paper is detected by the recording paper length detecting means, and the recording paper is stored in the storage means by the comparing means. And the length of the recording paper detected by the recording paper length detecting means, and based on the comparison result, the size of the recording paper stored in the storing means by the size determining means is appropriate. In order to detect the size of the recording paper in the storage means for storing the recording paper, it is determined whether or not the recording paper jam has occurred by the jam determination means based on the comparison result. Special of Without providing a structure can be detected by the apparatus main body side, while implementing downsizing and cost reduction of the apparatus. Further, it is possible to prevent the operator from recording on a recording paper of a size not intended. Further, recording paper jam can be detected.

According to the image forming apparatus of the second aspect, since the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during the recording operation on the recording paper, it is housed in the housing means. It is possible to prevent wasteful use such as feeding and ejecting paper only to detect the size of the recording paper.

According to the image forming apparatus of the third aspect, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred. If judged,
Since a stop means for stopping the recording operation is provided, a special mechanism is provided for the storing means to determine whether the recording paper actually stored is the same as the one input by the operator or whether a recording paper jam has occurred. It is possible to make a judgment without providing any, and it is possible to prevent a malfunction due to a wrong judgment.

According to the image forming apparatus of the fourth aspect, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred. If judged,
Since the proxy data reception of the print data is performed, it is possible to solve the problem that the print data sent by the operator is resent, and the usability for the operator can be improved.

According to the image forming apparatus of the fifth aspect, when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not proper, or the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred. If judged,
Since the warning means for warning that effect is provided, if the size of the recording paper is inappropriate, the operator can be notified of that fact and the operator's understanding can be promoted.

According to the image forming apparatus of the sixth aspect, when the recording operation of the print data is performed on the recording paper housed in the housing means, the presence or absence of the recording paper in the housing means is detected by the recording paper detecting means, The size of the recording paper input by the storage means is stored, the length of the recording paper is detected by the recording paper length detection means, and the size of the recording paper stored in the storage means by the comparison means; The length of the recording paper detected by the recording paper length detecting means is compared, and based on the comparison result, the size determining means determines whether or not the size of the recording paper stored in the storing means is proper. Therefore, the device main body can detect the size of the recording paper without providing a special mechanism for detecting the size of the recording paper in the storage means for storing the recording paper, and the size and cost of the device can be reduced.
Further, it is possible to prevent the operator from recording on a recording paper of a size not intended.

According to the image forming apparatus of the seventh aspect, when the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, the size of the recording sheet stored in the storage unit is changed. Since the warning means for urging a warning is provided, when the size of the recording paper is inappropriate, the operator can be prompted to take a subsequent action.

According to the image forming apparatus of the eighth aspect, when the size judgment unit judges that the size of the recording paper is not proper, the judgment is made by inputting the change of the recording paper size. Equipped with a release means for releasing the size of the recording paper, the operator returns to the normal state by simply inputting the change of the recording paper size stored in the storage means. You don't have to do troublesome operations such as inputting.

Further, in order to restart the recording operation, it is not necessary to provide a special mechanism in the storing means, and it is possible to provide a small-sized and low-cost device which is convenient for the operator.

According to the image forming apparatus of the ninth aspect, since the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during the recording operation on the recording paper, it is housed in the housing means. It is possible to prevent wasteful use such as feeding and ejecting paper only to detect the size of the recording paper.

According to the image forming apparatus of the tenth aspect,
When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the recording unit includes a stop unit that stops the recording operation. When the recording operation is stopped by the stop unit, Since the stop is released and the recording operation is restarted due to the input of the change,
It is possible to determine whether the recording sheet actually stored is the same as the one input by the operator without providing a special mechanism in the storing means, and it is possible to prevent a malfunction due to a wrong determination. Further, the recording operation can be easily restarted.

According to the image forming apparatus of claim 11,
When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the memory substitute includes a proxy receiving unit that receives the print data in the memory as a proxy, and the change in the size of the recording paper is input. Since the print data that was received is recorded, it is not necessary to provide a special mechanism in the storage means to record the print data that was received by proxy, and the troublesome operation of the operator is unnecessary. A compact and low-cost device that is easy to use can be provided.

According to the image forming apparatus of claim 12,
If the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, a warning unit is provided to warn that. If the warning unit issues a warning, a change in the size of the recording paper is input. Since the warning is released by the fact that it is performed, it is possible to promptly notify that the size of the recording paper is no longer in an inappropriate state without providing a special mechanism in the storing means, and the operator is small and easy to use. A low-cost device can be provided.

According to the image forming apparatus of the thirteenth aspect,
If the attachment / detachment detecting means for detecting attachment / detachment of the accommodating means and the size determining means determine that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the determination is made by the attachment / detachment detecting means detecting the attachment of the accommodating means. Since it is equipped with a releasing means for releasing the recording sheet cassette, the operator can replace the recording sheet of the storing means with a recording sheet of an appropriate size and set it, and the device returns to the normal state, so that the recording sheet cassette can be replaced with a special one. It is possible to provide a small-sized and low-cost device that is easy for the operator to use and does not have to perform a troublesome operation for returning the device to a normal state without a mechanism.

According to the image forming apparatus of the fourteenth aspect,
Since the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during the recording operation on the recording paper, the paper feeding / discharging is performed only to detect the size of the recording paper stored in the storing means. It is possible to prevent such useless use.

According to the image forming apparatus of the fifteenth aspect,
When the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the recording unit includes a stopping unit that stops the recording operation. When the recording operation is stopped by the stopping unit, the storage unit is not attached. Since the stop is released and the recording operation is restarted by being detected, it is not necessary to perform a troublesome operation for restarting the recording operation even if the storing means does not have a special mechanism, which is convenient for the operator. A good small-sized and low-cost device can be provided.

According to the image forming apparatus of the sixteenth aspect,
When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the memory substitute reception unit includes a substitute reception unit that performs the memory substitute reception of the print data, and the memory substitute reception is performed by detecting attachment of the storage unit. Since the print data recording operation performed is performed, the troublesome operation for recording the intercepted print data can be performed by recording the intercepted print data even if the recording paper cassette does not have a special mechanism. It is possible to provide a small-sized and low-cost device that is easy to use for the operator.

According to the image forming apparatus of claim 17,
When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, a warning unit is provided to warn that, and when the warning unit warns, the mounting of the storage unit is detected. Since the warning is released, it is possible to promptly notify that the recording paper size is no longer in an inappropriate state even if the recording paper cassette does not have a special mechanism, and a compact and low-cost device that is easy for the operator to use is provided. Can be provided.

According to the image forming apparatus of the eighteenth aspect,
Since the attachment / detachment detection means detects the attachment / detachment of the storage means by using the recording paper detection means for detecting the presence / absence of the recording paper, the size and cost of the device can be further reduced.

According to the image forming apparatus of claim 19,
Since the attachment / detachment detection means detects the mounting of the storage means when the state of the recording paper changed from the state of no recording paper continues for a predetermined time or longer, the mounting of the storage means can be reliably detected.

According to the image forming apparatus of claim 20,
An image forming apparatus that includes a detachable storage unit that stores a plurality of recording sheets and that records print data on the recording sheets, and includes a recording sheet detection unit that detects the presence or absence of the recording sheets in the storage unit. The recording paper detection means determines that the recording paper can be recorded when the state with the recording paper, which has changed from the state without the recording paper, continues for a predetermined time or longer, so a special mechanism for the storage means is provided. It is possible to detect the attachment / detachment of the storage means without providing the device, and to provide a small-sized and low-cost device.
In addition, it is possible to provide a high quality device that does not erroneously detect the attachment / detachment of the storage means due to a temporary fluctuation of the sensor.

According to the image forming method of claim 21,
In an image forming method for recording print data on a recording sheet stored in a storing means, the presence or absence of the recording sheet in the storing means is detected, and the size of the input recording sheet is stored.
The length of the recording paper is detected, the stored size of the recording paper is compared with the detected length of the recording paper, and stored in the storage means based on the comparison result. It is determined whether or not the size of the recording paper is appropriate, and based on the comparison result, whether or not a recording paper jam has occurred is determined. Can be detected on the apparatus main body side without providing a special mechanism for detecting the, and the apparatus can be downsized and reduced in cost. Further, it is possible to prevent the operator from recording on a recording paper of a size not intended.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a facsimile device.

FIG. 3 is a recording sheet presence sensor 108 and a registration sensor 10.
It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the circumference of 9.

FIG. 4 is a recording paper presence sensor 108 and a registration sensor 10.
It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the circumference of 9.

5 is a flowchart showing a main task processing procedure executed by the control unit 101. FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a reception task processing procedure.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a recording control task processing procedure.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a print processing procedure.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a printer status monitoring task.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of an LCD display task.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a recording paper size setting task.

[Explanation of symbols]

 101 Control Unit 102 Operation Display Unit 103 Recording Paper Size Storage Unit 105 Image Data Storage Unit 106 Printer 107 Recording Paper Cassette 108 Recording Paper Presence Sensor 109 Registration Sensor 201 Actuator

Claims (21)

[Claims] 1. An image forming apparatus comprising a storage means for storing a plurality of recording papers and performing a recording operation of print data on the recording papers, a recording paper detecting means for detecting the presence or absence of the recording papers in the storage means. Storage means for storing the size of the input recording paper, recording paper length detection means for detecting the length of the recording paper, and size of the recording paper stored in the storage means,
Comparing means for comparing the length of the recording paper detected by the recording paper length detecting means, and based on the comparison result, it is determined whether or not the size of the recording paper stored in the storing means is proper. An image forming apparatus, comprising: a size determining unit that determines whether or not a recording paper jam has occurred, based on the comparison result. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during a recording operation on the recording paper. 3. The recording operation is stopped when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising stop means. 4. The print data memory when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein proxy image reception is performed. 5. When the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate, or when the jam determining unit determines that the recording sheet jam has occurred, a warning to that effect is issued. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a warning unit. 6. An image forming apparatus comprising a storage means for storing a plurality of recording papers and performing a recording operation of print data on the recording papers, a recording paper detection means for detecting the presence or absence of the recording papers in the storage means. Storage means for storing the size of the input recording paper, recording paper length detection means for detecting the length of the recording paper, and size of the recording paper stored in the storage means,
Comparing means for comparing the length of the recording paper detected by the recording paper length detecting means, and based on the comparison result, it is determined whether or not the size of the recording paper stored in the storing means is proper. An image forming apparatus, comprising: 7. A warning unit is provided for issuing a warning to change the size of the recording sheet stored in the storage unit when the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not appropriate. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein 8. When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the release unit is provided for canceling the determination due to the input of the change in the size of the recording paper. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the recording paper length detecting means detects the length of the recording paper during a recording operation on the recording paper. 10. When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not proper, the recording unit includes a stop unit that stops the recording operation, and when the stop unit stops the recording operation,
9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the stop is released and the recording operation is restarted when a change in the size of the recording paper is input. 11. When the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording sheet is not proper, the proxy unit includes a proxy receiving unit that receives the print data in memory, and a change in the size of the recording sheet is input. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a recording operation of the print data that has been subjected to the memory proxy reception is thereby performed. 12. When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not proper, a warning unit is provided to warn that, and when the warning unit gives a warning, 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the warning is canceled when a size change is input. 13. An attachment / detachment detection means for detecting attachment / detachment of the storage means, and when the size determination means determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the attachment / detachment detection means detects attachment of the storage means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising a releasing unit that releases the determination. 14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the recording paper length detection unit detects the length of the recording paper during a recording operation on the recording paper. 15. When the size determination unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not appropriate, the recording unit includes a stop unit that stops the recording operation, and when the recording unit is stopped by the stop unit,
14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the stop is released and the recording operation is restarted when the mounting of the storage unit is detected. 16. When the size determining unit determines that the size of the recording paper is not proper, the system includes a proxy receiving unit that receives the print data in a memory, and the mounting of the storing unit is detected. 14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein a recording operation of the print data that has been performed by the memory proxy reception is performed. 17. When the size determining means determines that the size of the recording paper is not proper, a warning means is provided to warn that fact, and when the warning means warns, the storage means is not attached. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the warning is canceled when the warning is detected. 18. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the attachment / detachment detection means detects the attachment / detachment of the storage means by using a recording paper detection means for detecting the presence / absence of the recording paper. 19. The attachment / detachment detection means detects attachment of the storage means when the state with recording paper changed from the state without recording paper continues for a predetermined time or longer. The image forming apparatus described. 20. An image forming apparatus, comprising: a detachable storage means for storing a plurality of recording papers, for recording print data on the recording papers; The recording paper detecting means is characterized in that the recording paper detecting means determines that the recording paper can be recorded when the state with the recording paper changed from the state without the recording paper continues for a predetermined time or more. Image forming apparatus. 21. An image forming method for recording print data on a recording paper stored in a storage means, detecting the presence or absence of the recording paper in the storage means, and storing the size of the input recording paper, The length of the recording paper is detected, the stored size of the recording paper is compared with the detected length of the recording paper, and the paper is stored in the storage means based on the comparison result. An image forming method, comprising: determining whether or not the size of a recording sheet is appropriate, and determining whether or not a recording sheet jam has occurred based on the comparison result.