JP2004155522A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce a feeding paper sheet remaining in a machine when the machine stops due to erroneous paper sheet size setting and to increase productivity of an image when paper sheet size setting is normal. <P>SOLUTION: This image forming apparatus is provided with an image forming mechanism, a paper feeding cassette, a conveyance means for transferring the feeding paper sheet to an image forming means and discharging paper sheet completing image formation, a paper sheet sensor detecting the presence or absence of the paper sheet in a conveyance passage at a predetermined position, size setting means 121, 123, 131 for setting size information of the paper sheet in the paper feeding cassette, and a paper sheet trouble detection means for detecting abnormality in paper sheet conveyance based on the detection of presence or absence of the paper sheet by the paper sheet sensor and the set size information. The image forming apparatus is provided with a paper feeding control means 131 which detects change of the size information, generates change information (PSDF=O), feeds the paper sheet at a short period feeding (continuous paper feeding) mode when there is no change information (PSDF=1), and feeds the paper sheet at a long period (one paper sheet feeding) mode longer than the short period feeding mode. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copying machine, and a facsimile, and more particularly, to an image forming apparatus that detects a sheet conveyance error based on sheet size information set by a user.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A technique for detecting a paper jam at the time of paper feeding in an image forming apparatus is already known.
For example, in order to improve copy productivity, the next paper feed timing is measured based on the paper size set in advance by the user, and in the paper feed method, the trailing edge of the previous recording paper is detected by the paper jam detection means. There is a mode of continuous sheet feeding in which the next sheet feeding is started before the edge missing is detected. In the jam detection, generally, a theoretical paper position missing timing is calculated from a set paper size, and a time corresponding to a predetermined time, for example, a time corresponding to 20 mm before to 20 mm after the timing, is calculated based on the timing. To monitor. If the trailing edge of the paper does not fall out during this period, it is determined that a jam has occurred, and the machine is stopped. In the case of such a jam detection, a paper size setting error is detected as a jam and the machine stops, so the operator has to process the jammed paper. As a cause of the detected jam, a mistake in setting the recording paper size occupies a large proportion.
[0003]
That is, when the operator sets the size information of the paper loaded therein for each paper feed stage by dial operation or keyboard input, the size of the paper actually loaded and the paper size information set by dial or keyboard input are used. May not match (setting mistake).
[0004]
In the single-sheet feeding mode in which the feeding of the next sheet is started after the trailing edge of the sheet on which recording has been completed has passed the sheet ejection sensor position, there is only one sheet or less in the machine, so jamming may occur. If it happens, it is relatively easy to take it out and restart it. However, in the continuous paper feed mode, since there are a plurality of recording papers in the apparatus, not only is it troublesome to repair, but also paper leakage is likely to occur, and even if a restart input is made due to oversight of the residual paper, it does not start. However, even after restarting, troubles such as sending out a new sheet and stopping the jam and requiring time and effort again tend to occur. Therefore, in the case of a paper size setting error due to the carelessness of the user, it is desired to avoid paper remaining in the machine due to machine stoppage and to reduce the amount of paper remaining in the machine.
[0005]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 6-271142 discloses an image forming apparatus that measures the length of a sheet to be fed and avoids stopping a jam even when a sheet of a nonstandard size is fed. I have.
[0006]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-2261 discloses a method of measuring a paper length using a paper sensor on a transport path, comparing the measured length with a plurality of thresholds determined based on a set paper size, and determining whether a paper jam has occurred. An image forming apparatus is disclosed which detects a sheet size abnormality and discharges the sheet outside the apparatus without stopping due to a jam when the sheet length is different from the set sheet size.
[0007]
[Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-117431 discloses a method of detecting the width of a manual feed paper, obtaining the length of a fixed size corresponding to the width, measuring the actual length using a paper sensor on a transport path, and measuring the actual length. An image forming apparatus is proposed in which the exposure time is shortened and the image formation is continued even if the vertical length is shorter than the standard size vertical length.
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, since the sheet length is measured for each sheet, the next sheet feeding cannot be started until the trailing edge of the sheet passes through the sheet sensor used for vertical length measurement. is there.
[0009]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to reduce the amount of paper remaining in a machine when the machine is stopped due to a paper size setting error and to increase the productivity of image formation when the paper size setting is normal.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
(1) Image forming means (110, 111, 102, 120, 106) for forming an image on a sheet; sheet feeding means (103, 104) for sending a sheet; Transport means (105, 106, 107) for transporting the paper to which the image forming means has completed image formation; paper sensors (112 to 116) for detecting the presence or absence of paper in a transport path of the transport means at a predetermined position; Size setting means (121, 123, 131) for setting the size information (APSa to APSg) of the paper to be sent out by the paper feeding means; and detection of paper presence of the paper sensor and the size information set by the size setting means. And a sheet trouble detecting means (131) for detecting an abnormality in sheet conveyance.
Means (131) for detecting a change in the size information (APSa to APSg) and generating change information (PSDF = 0) representing the change; and when the change information does not exist (PSDF = 1), the transfer means Feeds the paper in the short cycle feed (continuous paper feed) mode in which the next paper feed is started before discharging the image formation finished paper of the previous paper feed, and when there is the change information (PSDF = 0), An image forming apparatus (100), comprising: paper feed control means (131) for feeding paper in a long cycle (single sheet feed) mode having a longer cycle than the short cycle feed mode.
[0011]
In addition, in order to facilitate understanding, reference numerals or equivalents of corresponding elements or corresponding items of the embodiment shown in the drawings and described later are shown for reference in parentheses. The same applies to the following.
[0012]
When the user operates the size setting means (121, 123, 131), the size information changes.
At this time, there is a possibility that a paper size setting error may occur. At this time, the means (131) generates change information (PSDF = 0). As a result, the sheet feeding control unit (131) feeds the sheet in the long cycle (single sheet feeding) mode having a longer cycle than the short cycle feeding mode. 131), when the sheet conveyance abnormality is detected, the number of remaining sheets in the apparatus is determined by the case where the sheet is fed in the short cycle feeding (continuous sheet feeding) mode in order to increase the productivity of image formation. And the time and effort for removing the remaining paper is reduced. If there is no change in the paper size setting, the possibility of detecting a paper conveyance error due to a paper size setting error is low. In this case, the paper is fed in the short-cycle feeding (continuous paper feed) mode in order to increase the productivity of the image formation, so that the productivity of the image formation is high.
[0013]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
(1a) When there is the change information (PSDF = 0), the sheet feeding control unit (131) starts the next sheet feeding after the conveying unit discharges the image forming end sheet of the previous sheet feeding; The image forming apparatus (100) according to the above (1). In this case, since the long-period mode is single-sheet feeding in the machine, even if an abnormality in sheet conveyance is detected and the machine is stopped immediately, the number of remaining sheets in the machine becomes one sheet or less, so the trouble of removing the remaining sheet is reduced. Less is needed.
[0014]
(1b) The image forming apparatus according to the above (1) or (1a), wherein the size information includes information indicating that a cassette containing paper is not mounted.
[0015]
In an embodiment which will be described later, the size setting dial 119 mounted on the cassettes 103 and 104 and the setting angle of the setting dial 119 of the inserted cassette fixed to the printer base frame side (each fixed size is designated). Angle response switch 121 (four microswitches) for generating paper size data (4 bits) corresponding to the position of the paper, and a process controller for reading the paper size data and writing the data in the paper size registers PS103 and PS104 (memory). 131 is used.
[0016]
In this embodiment, no cassette is mounted, and therefore, the angle response switch 121 does not detect the setting dial 119, and the paper size data (4 bits: 0000) at that time is no-mount information indicating no cassette. In this embodiment, when a cassette is mounted, the paper size data (paper size information) changes from the no-cassette data (0000) to the paper size data (any one of the four bits is 1). In this case, there is a possibility that the actual size of the paper has changed between the removal and attachment of the cassette, and a possibility that the setting dial has been operated. That is, there is a high possibility that the size of the actually existing sheet is different from the previous one, or the setting position of the setting dial 119 is different from the previous one. Then, there is a possibility that the size of the actually existing sheet does not match the sheet indicated by the setting dial (setting error).
[0017]
In the present embodiment, even when the cassette is changed from not mounted to mounted, the means (131) generates change information (PSDF = 0) indicating that the size information has changed in response thereto. Therefore, since the paper feed control means (131) feeds the paper in the long cycle mode, even if there is a paper size setting error during the detachment / attachment of the cassette and the machine is stopped due to a paper transport error, the machine is stopped. In addition, the trouble of eliminating the remaining paper can be reduced.
[0018]
(2) When there is the change information (PSDF = 0) and the paper trouble detecting means (131) does not detect the abnormality and the transport means (105, 106, 107) discharges the image formation completed paper. The image forming apparatus (100) according to any one of (1) to (1b), wherein the change information generating unit (131) deletes the change information (PSDF = 0) (to PSDF = 1).
[0019]
Even if the paper size setting is changed, if the feeding of one sheet is normal, the change information (PSDF = 0) is deleted (PSDF = 1). Is required, the paper feed control means (131) feeds the paper in a short cycle feeding (continuous paper feed) mode in order to increase the productivity of image formation, so that the productivity of image formation is high. Since it is already checked in the first sheet feeding that there is no possibility of a paper size setting error, there is no possibility that a transport error due to the paper size setting error will occur in this short cycle feeding.
[0020]
(3) The change information generating means (131) generates the change information (PSDF = 0) even immediately after an operating voltage is applied to the device (100); The image forming apparatus (100) according to the above.
[0021]
When the power supply to the apparatus (100) is stopped by shutting off the main power supply or stopping the power supply for standby for energy saving, the apparatus (100) recognizes the detachment / attachment of the cassettes 103 and 104 and the operation of the setting dial 119. Can not. When the power supply to the apparatus (100) is resumed, even if the paper size information is the same as that immediately before the previous power supply was stopped, the paper in the cassette may be replaced with another size during the power supply stop. , That is, there is a possibility that there is a paper size setting error.
[0022]
In this embodiment, even when the power of the device changes from off to on, the means (131) generates change information (PSDF = 0) indicating that the size information has changed in response thereto. Therefore, since the paper feeding control means (131) feeds the paper in the long cycle mode, if there is a paper size setting error while the power is turned off, the paper conveyance becomes abnormal after the power is turned on, and the machine is stopped. However, the trouble of eliminating the remaining paper is reduced.
[0023]
(4) Further, when the change information (PSDF = 0) is present, the paper trouble detecting means (131) generates a notification prompting a size check when the paper trouble detecting means (131) detects the abnormality (131, 20); The image forming apparatus (100) according to any one of the above (1) to (3). According to this, it is expected that the user can promptly check the paper size and repair a paper size setting error.
[0024]
(5) Further, when the change information (PSDF = 0) is present and the paper trouble detecting means (131) detects the abnormality, the notification prompting the user to confirm the size information when the conveying means discharges the image formation completed paper. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3), further comprising: a unit that generates a jam notification when the paper is not discharged.
[0025]
This allows the user to estimate with relatively high accuracy whether the sheet conveyance abnormality is due to a sheet size setting error or a paper jam, and to take appropriate measures. Since the paper is fed in the long-period mode, even if the machine is stopped due to a conveyance error, the trouble of eliminating the paper feeding in the machine can be reduced.
[0026]
(6) The image forming apparatus (100) according to any one of the above (1) to (5);
A printer controller (630) for receiving print information provided by a computer (PC) and converting the print information into image data;
Image data processing means (IPP) for converting the image data converted by the printer controller (630) into image data used for image formation by the image forming apparatus (100);
(100 + 630 + IPP).
[0027]
This is an aspect of a printer that prints out a computer document. Also in this case, the operation and effect described in any of the above (1) to (5) can be obtained similarly.
[0028]
(7) A document scanner (100) for reading a document image, wherein the image data processing means (IPP) forms image data generated by the document scanner (100) by the image forming apparatus (100). The image forming apparatus described in (6) above (100 + 630 + IPP + 10).
[0029]
This is a multifunction image forming apparatus having both functions of a printer for printing out a document of a computer and a copying machine for copying a document image. Also in this case, the operation and effect described in any of the above (1) to (5) can be obtained similarly.
[0030]
(8) The paper presence / absence detection means that refers to the presence / absence of a conveyance error due to a paper size setting error is only the one (112) closest to the paper feeder. That is, the control of the sheet feeding control means (131) is simplified by performing the detecting means for detecting the size setting error only with the detecting means (112) closest to the sheet feeding device, and the stability of the size setting error determination display is improved. Is high.
[0031]
Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.
[0032]
【Example】
FIG. 1 shows the appearance of a multifunction full-color digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The full-color copying machine generally includes an automatic document feeder (ADF) 30, an operation board 20, a color scanner 10, a color printer 100, and a paper feed bank 35. A finisher 34 with a tray on which a stapler and an imaged sheet can be stacked, a double-sided drive unit 33, and a large-capacity paper feed tray 36 are mounted on the printer 100.
[0033]
The LAN (Local Area Network) to which the personal computer PC is connected is connected to the system controller 630 (FIG. 4) in the machine. The printed paper of the color printer 100 is discharged onto the paper discharge tray 108 or the finisher 34.
[0034]
FIG. 2 shows a mechanism of the color printer 100. The color printer 100 of this embodiment is a laser printer. In the laser printer 100, four sets of toner image forming units for forming images of each color of magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (black: K) are arranged in a moving direction of the transfer paper. (From the lower right in the figure to the upper left y), they are arranged in this order. That is, it is a four-drum type full-color image forming apparatus.
[0035]
These magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K) toner image forming units include photoconductor units 110M, 110C, 110Y having photoconductor drums 111M, 111C, 111Y, and 111K, respectively. 110K and developing units 120M, 120C, 120Y and 120K. The arrangement of the toner image forming units is such that the rotation axes of the photosensitive drums 111M, 111C, 111Y and 111K in each photosensitive unit are parallel to the horizontal x-axis (main scanning direction), and the transfer paper It is set so as to be arranged at a predetermined pitch in the moving direction y (sub-scanning direction).
[0036]
In addition to the toner image forming unit, the laser printer 100 carries an optical writing unit 102 by laser scanning, paper feed cassettes 103 and 104, a pair of registration rollers 105, and a transfer paper. The image forming apparatus includes a transfer belt unit 106 having a transfer conveyance belt 160 that conveys the paper so as to pass through the transfer position, a fixing unit 107 of a belt fixing type, a paper discharge tray 108, a double-sided drive (surface reversal) unit 33, and the like. The laser printer 100 also includes a manual tray, a toner supply container, a waste toner bottle, and the like (not shown).
[0037]
The optical writing unit 102 includes a light source, a polygon mirror, an f-θ lens, a reflection mirror, and the like, and scatters a laser beam in the x direction on the surface of each of the photosensitive drums 111M, 111C, 111Y, and 111K based on image data. Irradiate while scanning. A dashed line in FIG. 2 indicates a transfer path of the transfer paper. The transfer paper fed from the paper feed cassettes 103 and 104 is conveyed by conveyance rollers while being guided by a conveyance guide (not shown), and is sent to the registration roller pair 105. The transfer paper sent to the transfer / conveyance belt 160 at a predetermined timing by the registration roller pair 105 is carried by the transfer / conveyance belt 160 and conveyed so as to pass through the transfer position of each toner image forming unit.
[0038]
The toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 111M, 111C, 111Y, and 111K of the respective toner image forming units are transferred to transfer paper carried and conveyed by the transfer / conveyance belt 160, and a superimposition of color toner images, that is, a color image is formed. The formed transfer paper is sent to the fixing unit 107. That is, the transfer is a direct transfer system in which a toner image is directly transferred onto a transfer sheet. When passing through the fixing unit 107, the toner image is fixed on the transfer paper. The transfer paper on which the toner image has been fixed is discharged or fed to the discharge tray 108, the finisher 36, or the double-sided drive unit 33.
[0039]
The outline of the yellow Y toner image forming unit will be described below. Other toner image forming units have the same configuration as that of yellow Y. The yellow Y toner image forming unit includes the photoconductor unit 110Y and the developing unit 120Y as described above. The photoconductor unit 110Y includes, in addition to the photoconductor drum 111Y, a brush roller that applies a lubricant to the surface of the photoconductor drum, a swingable blade that cleans the surface of the photoconductor drum, and a static elimination lamp that irradiates light to the surface of the photoconductor drum. And a non-contact type charging roller for uniformly charging the surface of the photosensitive drum.
[0040]
In the photoconductor unit 110Y, a laser beam modulated based on print data and deflected by a polygon mirror on the surface of the photoconductor drum 111Y uniformly charged by a charging roller to which an AC voltage is applied by an optical writing unit 102. When L is irradiated while being scanned, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 111Y. The electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor drum 11IY is developed by the developing unit 20Y to be a yellow Y toner image. At the transfer position where the transfer paper on the transfer conveyance belt 160 passes, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 11IY is transferred to the transfer paper. After the toner image is transferred, the surface of the photoreceptor drum 111Y is coated with a predetermined amount of lubricant by a brush roller, is cleaned by a blade, and is discharged by light emitted from a discharge lamp. It is provided for the formation of an electrostatic latent image.
[0041]
The developing unit 120Y contains a two-component developer containing a magnetic carrier and a negatively charged toner. The developing case 120Y includes a developing roller disposed so as to be partially exposed from the opening on the photosensitive drum side, a conveying screw, a doctor blade, a toner density sensor, a powder pump, and the like. The developer contained in the developing case is frictionally charged by being agitated and transported by the transport screw. Then, a part of the developer is carried on the surface of the developing roller. The doctor blade uniformly regulates the layer thickness of the developer on the surface of the developing roller, and the toner in the developer on the surface of the developing roller is transferred to the photosensitive drum, thereby forming a toner image corresponding to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum. Appears on drum 111Y. The toner density of the developer in the developing case is detected by a toner density sensor. When the density is insufficient, the powder pump is driven to supply toner.
[0042]
The transfer conveyance belt 160 of the transfer belt unit 106 is connected to four grounded stretching rollers so as to pass through respective transfer positions in contact with and facing the photosensitive drums 111M, 111C, 111Y and 111K of each toner image forming unit. It is hung around. One of the stretching rollers is 109. Of these tension rollers, an electrostatic attraction roller to which a predetermined voltage is applied is disposed so as to face an entrance roller on the upstream side in the transfer sheet moving direction indicated by a two-dot chain line arrow. The transfer paper that has passed between these two rollers is electrostatically attracted onto the transfer / conveying belt 160. The exit roller on the downstream side in the transfer paper moving direction is a drive roller that frictionally drives the transfer conveyance belt, and is connected to a drive source (not shown). In addition, a bias roller to which a predetermined cleaning voltage is applied from a power supply is arranged so as to come into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the transfer conveyance belt 160. The bias roller removes foreign matters such as toner adhered to the transfer / conveying belt 160.
[0043]
Further, a transfer bias applying member is provided so as to be in contact with the back surface of the transfer conveyance belt 160 forming a contact opposing portion that opposes the photoconductor drums 111M, 111C, 111Y and 111K. These transfer bias applying members are fixed brushes made of Mylar, and a transfer bias is applied from each transfer bias power supply. By the transfer bias applied by the transfer bias applying member, transfer charges are applied to the transfer / conveyance belt 160, and a transfer electric field having a predetermined intensity is formed between the transfer / conveyance belt 160 and the surface of the photosensitive drum at each transfer position. .
[0044]
The sheet on which the toner images of the respective colors formed on the photosensitive drums 111M, 111C, 111Y, and 111K are transferred by the transfer and transfer belt 160 is sent to the fixing device 107, where the toner image is heated and pressed to form a sheet. Is heat-fixed.
After the heat fixing, the sheet is sent to the finisher 34 from a discharge port 34ot to the finisher 34 on the upper portion of the left side plate. Alternatively, the paper is discharged to a paper discharge tray 108 on the upper surface of the printer body.
[0045]
Paper sensors 112, 113, 114, and 115, which are reflection-type optical sensors, are disposed in front of the registration rollers 105 and in the gap between the arrangements of the color image forming units. And a touch-type paper sensor 116 which is a combination of a micro switch and a micro switch. Paper sensors 113 to 115 for detecting a sheet on which toner is transferred are arranged at positions for detecting a margin portion of the sheet on which no toner is transferred.
[0046]
FIG. 3 shows the cassette 103 in an enlarged manner. The sheet bundle 117 rides on the middle plate, and when mounted on the printer main body, the middle plate is pushed up and the leading end of the sheet in the sheet passing direction is pressed by the separation claw 118 on the side of the cassette. When a sheet is fed in the sheet passing direction by the feeding roller, only the top sheet is separated and fed from the sheet bundle below it by the separation claw 118. After setting the sheet bundle 117 in the cassette, the user sets the size by turning the sheet size setting dial 119 to a position corresponding to the set sheet size.
[0047]
On the back surface of the paper size setting dial 119, a groove and a hole for selectively receiving the action pin 122 of the angle response switch 121 provided in the printer main body are opened. The angle response switch 121 has four built-in microswitches, and switches each microswitch on with each of the four action pins 122. By inserting the cassette 103 into the printer 100 in the cassette insertion direction, one or several working pins 122 correspond to the rotation angle (each size designation position) of the paper size setting dial 119 and the back of the paper size setting dial 119. Press to retreat and switch the corresponding microswitch from off to on. As a result, the angle response switch 121 generates 4-bit paper size data. When the cassette 103 is out of the mounting position of the printer 100, all the pins 122 of the angle response switch 121 protrude, all the four micro switches are off, and the 4-bit paper size data is a numerical value 0. "0000", which means that there is no cassette.
[0048]
According to the setting position of the paper size setting dial 119, when the paper size data is set to the “postcard horizontal” position, the paper size data becomes “0001” representing the numerical value 1, and when the paper size data is set to the “A5 horizontal” position, the paper size data becomes “0010” representing the numerical value 2 When set to the “B5 horizontal” position, the paper size data becomes “0011” representing the numerical value 3, and when set to the “A4 vertical” position, the paper size data becomes “0100” representing the numerical value 4, and so on. When set at a position representing a standard size, data representing the standard size is obtained.
[0049]
Although the cassette 104 is larger than the cassette 103, the paper feed mechanism and the paper size setting mechanism are the same as those of the cassette 103, and the printer main body indicates the set size of a paper size setting dial (not shown) of the cassette 104. An angle response switch 123 (FIG. 5) for generating paper size data is provided.
[0050]
FIG. 1 is referred to again. The finisher 34 has a stacker tray, that is, a stacking and lowering tray 34hs and a sort tray group 34st, and a stacker discharging mode for discharging paper (printed paper and transferred paper) to the stacking and lowering tray 34hs, and a paper discharging mode to the sort tray group 34st. It has a sorter discharge mode.
[0051]
The paper fed from the printer 100 to the finisher 34 is conveyed in the upper left direction, passes through an inverted U-shaped conveyance path, switches the conveyance direction downward, and then discharges the paper in the stacker according to the set mode. In the mode, the sheet is discharged from the discharge port to the loading and lowering tray 34hs. In the sorter discharge mode, the sheet currently discharged in the sorter tray group 34st is discharged to the assigned sorter tray.
[0052]
When the sorter paper discharge mode is designated, the paper discharge controller in the finisher drives the sort tray group 34st placed at the lowermost stacking retract position to the use position shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. Increase the interval. In the sorter discharge mode, one copy (or one copy) of the set number of copies or prints is performed. When the sorter discharge mode is set for the set sort, each transfer sheet on which the same original (image) is printed is sorted into the sort tray group 34st. Sorted and stored in each tray. When the sorter discharge mode is set for page sorting, each tray is assigned to each page (image), and each transfer sheet on which the same page is printed is stacked on one sort tray.
[0053]
FIG. 4 shows a system configuration of the copying machine shown in FIG. 1 for image reading, image processing, image storage and image formation. A reading unit 11 of the color document scanner 10 that optically reads a document scans a document with a lamp and forms a document image on a CCD of an SBU (sensor board unit). The original image, that is, reflected light of irradiation of the original is photoelectrically converted by a CCD to generate R, G, B image signals, converted into RGB image data on the SBU, subjected to shading correction, and output I / F (interface) 12. And sends it to an image data processor IPP (Image Processing Processor; hereinafter simply referred to as IPP) via an image data bus.
[0054]
The IPP performs separation generation (determination of whether an image is a character area or a photograph area: image area separation), background removal, scanner gamma conversion, filter, color correction, scaling, image processing, printer gamma conversion, and gradation processing. IPP is a programmable arithmetic processing unit that performs image processing. The image data transferred from the scanner 10 to the IPP is corrected for signal deterioration (signal deterioration of the scanner system) due to quantization into an optical system and a digital signal by the IPP, and is written into the frame memory 601.
[0055]
The system controller 630 has functions of a plurality of applications such as a scanner application, a facsimile application, a printer application, and a copy application, and controls the entire system. The operation panel control device 631 is a device that decodes an input on the operation board 20 and displays the settings of the present system and the state contents thereof. The image data bus / control command bus is a bus through which image data and control commands are transferred in a time-division manner.
[0056]
The CPU 605 of the system controller 630 controls the system controller 630. The control program of the system controller 630 is written in the ROM 604. The RAM 603 is a working memory used by the CPU 605. The NVRAM 602 is a non-volatile memory, and stores information of the entire system such as a sub-scanning magnification adjustment value and a main-scanning magnification adjustment value.
[0057]
The external device communication control 606 controls communication with an external device (for example, a copier, an image scanner, a personal computer, a server, a printer, and a facsimile of the same type) that requests image reading, image storage, or image printing. It controls the physical I / F for connection. When the external device communication control 606 connected to the network receives the data from the network, it sends only the contents of the communication data to the system I / F 607 from an electrical signal. The system I / F 607 logically converts the received data according to a prescribed protocol and sends the data to the CPU 605. The CPU 605 performs processing by determining the logically converted received data. Further, when the CPU 605 transmits data to the network, the transmission data is transmitted to the system I / F 607 and the external device communication control 606 in the reverse order of the reception, and transmitted as an electric signal on the network.
[0058]
A system I / F 607 controls transfer of document reading data, facsimile reception data, document data of a personal computer or a server (printing instruction; drawing information), which is processed in the system by a command of the CPU 605, and document data of a personal computer PC. Print information) to print image data (image data) and transfer it. The work memory 600 is a work memory for image development (conversion from document data to image data) used in the printer. The frame memory 601 is a work memory for temporarily storing image data of a read image or a write image that is printed immediately while power is being supplied.
[0059]
The HDDC 650 is a hard disk capable of storing image data of a read image or a write image, that is, image data and document data even when power supply is stopped, and its controller. The image data and the document data are coded or dot images. The FIFO buffer memory 609 performs data transfer rate conversion when writing an input image to the frame memory 601. That is, the data is temporarily stored to absorb the difference between the data sending / receiving timings of the transfer source and the transfer destination, the difference in the data amount of the transfer unit, the transfer speed difference, and the like, and the data is received at the transfer timing and speed of the transfer source. Data is sent out at the transfer timing and speed of the transfer destination. Similarly, the FIFO buffer memory 608 performs speed conversion when transferring the image data of the frame memory 601 as an output image.
[0060]
The memory controller 610 controls input and output of images between the frame memory 601 and the HDDC 650 and the bus. Further, in accordance with the command received by the input device 614 of the operation board 301, the image stored in the HDDC is edited and processed using the frame memory 601. The memory controller 610 reads image information from the HDD of the HDDC 650 to the work memory 600 or the frame memory 601, and changes the print direction of the image on the transfer paper, rotates the image, and edits the combination of the image mainly by an image data address change operation. And density conversion by addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of set values for image data, image trimming and synthesis by AND operation and OR operation of image data, and writing of the image information processed in this way to the HDD. Image processing and editing can be performed.
[0061]
The memory controller 610 further converts the document data (rendering information) received by the external device communication control 606 and written into the work memory 600 under the control of the CPU 605 according to the CPU 605's control of developing the document data into dot image data. The image data is converted into CMYK image data used by the printer 100 and developed in the frame memory 601. An expansion processing program for this is installed in the HDD.
[0062]
The CPU 617 controls input / output of the operation board 20. That is, it controls input reading and display output of the operation board 20. The control program for the operation board 20 is written in the ROM 616. The RAM 618 is a working memory used by the CPU 617. An input device 614 operates the input keys and the input panel of the operation board 20 to allow the user to input system settings. The display device 615 is provided on the operation board 20 and displays the setting contents and status of the system to the user, and includes a display lamp and a display panel. The basic magnification adjustment values for the main scan and the sub-scan are measured by a magnification measurement based on a sample image in a system adjustment process, and set by the operation panel control device 611. Further, the user or a maintenance person checks whether or not the image lacking and the margin are generated from the printed image, and the magnification adjustment value for suppressing them is set on the operation board. 20.
[0063]
The process controller 131 of the color printer 100 stores a ROM in which a copier control program is recorded, a RAM in which data used by the control program is stored, and an adjustment value and jam data even after the power is turned off. A backup power supply (battery) for RAM, a CPU for reading a control program from the ROM and executing an instruction, a reset signal for outputting a reset signal for a certain period to the CPU when the power is turned on, and operating the CPU from the beginning of the control program, copying A plurality of timers and the like for generating each control timing of the machine are provided.
[0064]
The process controller 131 receives various inputs from various sensors, SWs, thermistors, and the like for determining the state of the copying machine, various motors for driving the copying machine, various SLs (solenoids), and various CLs (CLs). There is an input / output interface (input / output electric circuit) for generating output signals to a clutch, a heater, a lamp, and the like. This is shown in FIG. Angle response switches 121 and 123 and paper sensors 112 to 116 are connected to an input interface of the process controller 131.
[0065]
The process controller 131 (CPU) performs image forming control, that is, process control, according to an image forming command of the system controller 630 in accordance with an input from the operation board 20 or an input from a PC.
[0066]
6 to 8 show an outline of control mainly related to feeding / discharge setting and jam detection in the image forming control of the process controller 131. First, referring to FIG. 6, when the power of the printer 100 is turned on, the controller 131 clears the output port, initializes the internal RAM, and the like (step 1). Hereinafter, the word “step” is omitted in parentheses, and step No. Write only numbers.
[0067]
Next, the state of each part of the apparatus is read to detect abnormality (2), and initialization of jam detection is performed (3). In the initial setting of the jam detection, 0 (change information) indicating unconfirmed is written into the paper size confirmation registers PSDF103 and PSDF104 addressed to the cassettes 103 and 104, respectively (4), and written into the paper size registers PS103 and PS104 addressed to the cassettes 103 and 104. The paper size data of the angle response switches 121 and 123 are written (5).
[0068]
Writing of 0 (change information) indicating unconfirmed to the paper size confirmation registers PSDF103 and PSDF104 is performed by clearing the register data (register clear).
[0069]
If there is an abnormality in the apparatus, an abnormality display is set (6-8). When the abnormality is eliminated and the process exits the preparation loop, the abnormality display is reset (9).
[0070]
Next, the copy processing conditions in the standard mode are displayed on the operation board 20 (10), and when the fixing temperature becomes equal to or higher than the set value, copy ready is displayed on the operation board 20 (11). Thereafter, the paper size data of the angle response switches 121 and 123 are read (12, 18), the input of the operation board 20 and the print command of the PC are read (24).
[0071]
When the paper size data is read (12) by the angle response switch 121, if the paper size data is "0000" meaning that there is no cassette, a warning is displayed on the operation board 20 indicating that there is no cassette 103. (13-14), the paper size data of the angle response switch 121 is written in the paper size register PS103 addressed to the cassette 103 (16), and the paper size confirmation register PSDF103 is cleared to make the data 0 (change information) ( 17). If the paper size data indicates the paper size (any one of the four bits is 1), it is checked whether the data matches the data of the paper size register PS103 (whether the paper size has not been changed), and the paper size data does not match. In this case, since the set paper size is changed, the paper size data of the angle response switch 121 is written in the paper size register PS103 addressed to the cassette 103 (15-16), and the paper size confirmation register PSDF103 is cleared to clear the data. Is set to 0 (change information) (17).
[0072]
Next, referring also to FIG. 7, when the paper size data is read by the angle responsive switch 123 (18), the processing (13 to 17) immediately after the paper size data is read by the angle responsive switch 123 (12). ) Are performed (19 to 23).
[0073]
By the processing described above, the data of the paper size confirmation registers PSDF103 and PSDF103 are changed immediately after the power is turned on to the printer (3), when the corresponding cassette is detached and attached, and the paper size data is changed. Sometimes it is 0 (change information).
[0074]
When there is a copy condition input and a print condition input, the corresponding process control information is set or changed (24 to 26). When there is a start input which is an image formation start instruction, the process controller 131 activates a start cycle when the end cycle is not being executed (27, 28), and when the start cycle ends, the sequence control of copy processing or print processing is performed. Start.
[0075]
Next, reference is made to FIG. In both the copy processing and the print processing, the process controller 131 first specifies a cassette (for example, 103) that stores sheets of the size corresponding to the sheet size specification (use sheet size) in the image forming conditions. Then, it is set as a paper feed cassette, and by referring to the data of the paper size confirmation register PSDF (103) applied to the cassette (103), when it is 0 (change information), the cassette (103) ) Is set as one sheet feeding sequence (30-32), and sheet feeding from the cassette (103) is started (33).
[0076]
When the data of the paper size confirmation register PSDF (103) is 1 (no change), the paper feeding from the cassette (103) is performed before the image forming end paper of the previous paper feeding corresponding to the used paper size is discharged. Next, the continuous paper feed sequence for the set number of images to be formed is set (30-31), and the paper feed from the cassette (103) is started (33). When the set number of image formation is one, it is determined to be one sheet feeding sequence.
[0077]
Then, jam detection is started (34). At the start of the jam detection, the first count register PrLk (k = 1) addressed to the sheet to be fed immediately is set in the internal RAM of the process controller 131, and an interrupt in response to a timing pulse for measuring the sheet conveyance distance in the apparatus is performed. The process “jam detection” PJD (FIG. 9) is permitted. Also, a set of reference value registers RDR112 to RDR116 is defined in the internal RAM for each of the paper sensors 112 to 116, and the first to fourth for jam determination for each sensor and paper size are stored in each register. The reference values Rjt1 to Rjab2 are read from the reference value table (FIG. 11) on the internal ROM of the process controller 131 and written.
[0078]
Here, the reference values Rjt1 to Rjab2 will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 10, the paper sent from the paper source A (for example, the cassette 103 or 104) is conveyed by the image forming mechanism shown in FIG. 2 and sequentially passes immediately below the paper sensors 112 to 116. The paper transport distance from the paper source A to each of the sensors 112 to 116 is set to LA1 to LA5, the length of the transport paper in the transport direction is set to APSa, and these values are generated by one pulse each time the transport paper moves for a predetermined short distance. When the conveyance is normal, each sensor outputs the count value (
The data PrLk of the count register PrLk detects a sheet from LA1 to LA5 to “LA1 + APSa” to “LA5 + APSa”, and does not detect a sheet outside the range (FIG. 10).
[0079]
However, in actuality, the detection timing may be shifted. For example, a shift in the range of −20 mm to +20 mm does not cause any particular mechanical trouble in image transfer and paper discharge. Therefore, the lower limit (R1t1) of the allowable error range (± dLA1) of the paper detection start point (LA1) of the sensor (for example, 112) is set as the first reference value Rjt1 (j is the sensor number), and the upper limit (R1t2) is set as the first reference value. 2, the lower limit (R1ab1) of the allowable error range (± dLA1) of the paper detection end point (LA1 + APSa) is set as a third reference value Rjab1, and the upper limit (R1ab2) is set as a fourth reference value Rjab2. The first to fourth reference value groups are written in the reference value table of the ROM using the combination of each supply source and each paper size as an address.
[0080]
FIG. 11 shows the data divisions of the reference value table, and two of the first to fourth reference value groups (of a certain paper size APSa addressed to the sensors 112 and 113) are shown in FIG. For example, if the sensor 112 detects a sheet when the count value PrLk of the count register PrLk is less than the first reference value R1t1 addressed to the sensor 112, there is an abnormality in which there is remaining paper (stagnant paper / jam) there (this abnormality). Is expressed as retention abnormality AB1). If the sensor 112 does not detect a sheet when the count value PrLk is equal to or larger than the second reference value R1t2 and equal to or smaller than the third reference value R1ab1 addressed to the sensor 112, there is no sheet conveyance or the sheet is short (standard size indicated by the sheet size data). (This is referred to as no transfer or short abnormal AB2). Further, when the sensor 112 detects a sheet when the count value PrLk exceeds the fourth reference value R1ab2 addressed to the sensor 112, whether there is any remaining sheet (retained sheet / jam) or a long sheet (typically represented by the sheet size data). (It is longer than the size) (this abnormality is expressed as a retention abnormality or a long-length abnormality AB3).
[0081]
If the paper size data generated by the angle response switches 121/123 of the cassettes 103/104 indicates a paper size different from the size of the paper in the cassette, if the size of the paper in the cassette is larger. Is a jam detection with the above-described long abnormal AB3. If the size of the paper in the cassette is smaller, a jam is detected with the short abnormal AB2 described above.
[0082]
FIG. 8 is referred to again. As described above in "Jam detection start" (34), one set of reference value registers RDR112 to RDR116 is determined on the internal RAM for each of the paper sensors 112 to 116, and the paper size and the paper size in the image forming condition at that time are determined. Then, the first to fourth reference value groups addressed to the respective sensors, which are associated with the cassette storing the cassette (the cassette designated for the current paper feeding: the supply source), are read from the reference value table of the internal ROM. After writing to each of the reference value registers RDR112 to RDR116, the process controller 131 starts jam detection (interrupt processing: FIG. 9). This content will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0083]
Next, when one image-formed sheet is ejected from the fixing unit 107 without detecting a jam, the process controller 131 sends a sheet size confirmation register PSDF addressed to the cassette (for example, 103) that fed the sheet. When the data of (103) is 0 (change information), the paper size data generated by the angle response switch (121) is regarded as the same as the size of the paper stored in the cassette (103) (the same as the same). Is completed), the data of the paper size confirmation register PSDF (PSDF103) is updated to 1 (no change) (43). If the set number of images is two or more, the second and subsequent sheets are fed before the next sheet of image forming end paper corresponding to the used sheet size is discharged. The continuous feeding sequence for (the set number of image formation-1) of the short-period feeding to be started is set, and the feeding from the corresponding cassette (103) is started (44 to 46-33).
[0084]
When any of the sensors 112 to 116 detects a sheet conveyance abnormality (AB1, AB2 or AB3), the next sheet feeding is stopped there (35, 36), and the data of the sheet size confirmation register PSDF (PSDF103) becomes 0 (change). Information), and when this abnormality detection is the abnormality AB2 or AB3 at the position of the sensor 112 at the most upstream position, the paper size data generated by the angle response switch (121) is stored in the corresponding cassette (103). Since there is a possibility that the sheet size does not match the sheet size, the count value PrLk of the count register PrLk becomes equal to or larger than a second reference value for the sheet sensor 116 that detects discharge from the fixing device at the most downstream position. Detects the sheet, and the sensor 116 detects the sheet when the count value PrLk becomes equal to or larger than the fourth reference value. The missing time, and a notification display for warning that the operation board 20 is a paper size check main (37, 38, 39), to stop the image forming mechanism including the conveying mechanism (40). When the count value PrLk exceeds the fourth reference value addressed to the paper sensor 116 without detecting the paper by the paper sensor 116, an in-machine paper jam is displayed on the operation board 20 (41-42), and the transport mechanism and the like are started. The image mechanism is stopped (40).
[0085]
When the data of the paper size confirmation register PSDF (PSDF103) is 1 (no change), even if the data is 0 (change information), if the abnormality detection is not at the position of the most upstream sensor 112, or the abnormality detection Even when the sensor 112 is located at the most upstream position, when the abnormality AB1 (retention abnormality) is detected, it is considered that the abnormality detection is not due to a paper size setting error. In-machine paper jam is displayed at 20 (37-42), and the image forming mechanism including the transport mechanism is stopped (40).
[0086]
In the copy / print processing (29) shown in FIG. 8, when the feeding of one sheet of paper is further started, the count register PrLk (k = 2,. In the same manner as the count register PrLk (k = 1) set on the internal RAM, the timing pulse count-up (transfer distance count: Position tracking). The count register PrLk (e.g., k = 1) from which the allocated sheet has passed the sensor 116 at the downstream end, that is, the count register PrLk whose count value PrLk has exceeded the fourth reference value, is erased (deleted: registered) from the internal RAM. Cleared).
[0087]
Please refer to FIG. When the timing interrupt is permitted in the above-mentioned "Jam detection start" (34), when a timing pulse is generated, the process controller 131 proceeds to "Jam detection" PJD shown in FIG. When the process proceeds to the “jam detection” PJD, the process controller 131 sets all the data of the count register PrLk (k = 1 to i; paper No. in the paper feeder) defined (registered) in the internal RAM. Is incremented by one (one count up) (48). Then, of all the count registers PrLk, No. k (the one addressed to the paper fed last) is identified (50), and the paper sensor No. j (j = 1: sensor 112) is specified (51).
[0088]
Next, when the count data PrLk of the specified count register PrLk is less than the first reference value Rjt1 addressed to the specified sensor j, if the sensor j detects a sheet, the jam detection register addressed to the sensor j is determined. Then, information AB1 indicating a stagnation abnormality is written, and since it is a sheet conveyance abnormality, the process exits the interruption process and proceeds to step 36 of the main routine shown in FIG. 8 (52 to 54).
[0089]
If the count data PrLk is equal to or greater than the second reference value Rjt2 and equal to or less than the third reference value Rjab1, if the sensor j does not detect the sheet, the jam detection register addressed to the sensor j stores information AB2 indicating no transfer or short-range abnormality. Then, the processing exits from the interrupt processing and proceeds to step 36 of the main routine shown in FIG. 8 (55 to 57).
[0090]
When the count value PrLk exceeds the fourth reference value Rjab2, if the sensor j is detecting a sheet, the information AB3 indicating a stagnant abnormality or a long-length abnormality is written in a jam detection register addressed to the sensor j, and interrupt processing is performed there. And goes to the main routine step 36 shown in FIG. 8 (58-60).
[0091]
If none of the above-mentioned sheet conveyance abnormalities is detected, the next No. is determined based on the count data PrLk of the same count register PrLk. (J = 2: sensor 113) The sheet conveyance abnormality is similarly detected (61-62-52 to 59). Similarly, if no sheet conveyance abnormality is detected, the sensor is changed to j (62), and the sheet conveyance abnormality is detected. When this operation is performed up to the last sensor j = 5 (sensor 116), the count register PrLk is switched to the one assigned to the immediately preceding sheet, that is, the jam detection target is set to the sheet of the latest sheet. Switching to the immediately preceding sheet (64), similarly to the above, detecting a sheet conveyance abnormality referring to the sheet detection of the sensors j = 1 to 5, and if no abnormality is detected, another one is obtained. The sheet conveyance abnormality is detected by referring to the count data of the count register PrLk (if any) assigned to the sheet that has just started feeding and the sheet detection signal of the sensors 112 to 116.
[0092]
When the detection of the sheet conveyance abnormality referring to the count data of all the count registers PrLk (k = 1,...) Existing on the internal RAM of the process controller 131 is completed, the processing exits from the “jam detection” PJD of FIG. Return to the routine (FIG. 8) (63-return).
[0093]
In the above embodiment, the size information indicating the size of the paper prepared in the cassette is generated by the paper size setting dial 119 and the angle response switch 121. The key-in input may be such that the user inputs the size of the paper stored in each cassette and registers the size in the NVRAM which is a nonvolatile memory of the operation board 20.
[0094]
Further, in the above embodiment, when there is change information (PSDF = 0), a long-period image forming sequence in which one sheet is fed is set. The continuous paper feeding may be performed such that the next paper feeding is started before the paper of the previous paper feeding that is longer than the short cycle is discharged out of the apparatus. In any case, when there is change information, in order to reduce the residual paper in the machine when the machine is stopped due to a paper size error, the continuous paper feeding is performed in a longer cycle than the short cycle continuous paper feeding.
[0095]
【The invention's effect】
The change information (PSDF = 0) is generated in a device state where there is a possibility of a paper size setting error, and the image formation when there is the change information (PSDF = 0) is performed in the short cycle feeding mode in which the image forming productivity is high. Paper is fed in the long cycle (single sheet feeding) mode, so that when the paper trouble detection means (131) detects an abnormality in the paper conveyance due to a paper size setting error, the remaining paper in the machine is removed. The number is smaller than in the case where sheets are fed in a short period feeding (continuous sheet feeding) mode in order to increase the productivity of image formation, and the trouble of removing the remaining sheets is reduced. When there is no possibility of a paper size setting error, the paper is fed in the short cycle feeding (continuous paper feed) mode in order to increase the productivity of the image formation, so that the productivity of the image formation is high.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing the appearance of a copying machine having a composite function according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an enlarged vertical sectional view schematically showing an image forming mechanism of the printer 100 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view showing an outline of the cassette 103 shown in FIG.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an outline of an image processing system of the copying machine shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a part of connection between a sensor and an actuator of the image forming unit 135 shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a part of an outline of control of a process controller, mainly a feed / discharge setting and a jam detection, of the process controller 131 shown in FIG. 4;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing another part of the outline of the control of the process controller 131 shown in FIG.
8 is a flowchart showing the rest of the outline of the control of the process controller 131 shown in FIG. 4 relating to process control, mainly, feed / discharge setting and jam detection.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a determination logic of jam detection of the process controller 131 shown in FIG. 4;
10 is a time chart showing a paper presence determination period of sensors 112 to 116 of the printer 100 shown in FIG.
FIG. 11 shows a first reference value and a second reference value that define a paper presence determination period as sensor Nos. 4 shows a table representing the contents of a reference value table defined for a paper supply source and a paper size.
[Explanation of symbols]
10: Color document scanner 20: Operation board
30: Automatic document feeder 34: Finisher
34hs: loading and lowering tray 34ud: lifting platform
34st: Sort tray group 100: Color printer
PC: PC PBX: Exchanger
LAN: Communication network PN: Communication line
102: Optical writing unit 103, 104: Paper cassette
105: registration roller pair 106: transfer belt unit
107: Fixing unit 108: Output tray
110M, 110C, 110Y, 110K: Photoconductor unit
111M, 111C, 111Y, 111K: photosensitive drum
120M, 120C, 120Y, 120K: developing unit
121: Angle response switch 122: Working pin
160: transfer conveyance belt ACP: image data processing device
CDIC: Image data interface control
IMAC: Image memory access control
IPP: Image data processor

Claims (7)

Image forming means for forming an image on a sheet; sheet feeding means for sending a sheet; conveying means for transferring the sheet sent by the sheet feeding means to the image forming means and discharging the sheet after the image forming means has formed an image; A paper sensor for detecting, at a predetermined position, the presence or absence of a paper in a transfer path of the transport means; a size setting means for setting size information of the paper sent by the paper supply means; and a paper presence detection and size setting means for the paper sensor A paper trouble detecting means for detecting an abnormality in paper conveyance based on the size information set by the image forming apparatus;
Means for detecting a change in the size information and generating change information representing the change; and when the change information does not exist, a next sheet feeding is performed before the conveying means discharges the image forming end sheet of the previous sheet feeding. Paper feed control means for feeding paper in a short cycle feed mode to be started, and feeding the paper in a long cycle mode having a longer cycle than the short cycle feed mode when there is the change information; An image forming apparatus comprising: 2. The change information generation unit erases the change information when the conveyance unit discharges the image formation completed sheet without the sheet trouble detection unit detecting the abnormality when there is the change information. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the change information generating unit generates the change information even immediately after an operating voltage is applied to the apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a unit that, when the change information is present, informs the user to confirm a size when the sheet trouble detecting unit detects the abnormality. Further, when the change information is present and the paper trouble detecting means detects the abnormality, a notification prompting confirmation of size information is generated when the conveying means discharges the image formation completed paper, and a jam notification is generated when the paper is not discharged. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: An image forming apparatus according to claim 1;
A printer controller that receives print information provided by the computer and converts the print information into image image data;
Image data processing means for converting the image data converted by the printer controller into image data used for image formation by the image forming apparatus;
An image forming apparatus comprising: 7. The image according to claim 6, further comprising a document scanner for reading a document image, wherein the image data processing means converts image data generated by the document scanner into image data used for image formation by the image forming apparatus. Forming equipment.

Images