JP2009234040A - Image forming apparatus and image forming system using this - Google Patents

Abstract

An image forming system capable of managing a recording medium satisfactorily, and an image forming apparatus and a server applied to the image forming system are provided.
When a code image formed on a paper P can be read, an image forming operation for the paper P is controlled based on a product ID obtained by reading the code image. When the code image cannot be read, the image forming operation for the paper P is performed based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image corresponding to the code image whose reading history is stored in the code reading history storage unit 24. To control. Accordingly, even when the code image cannot be read, the control for permitting the image forming operation for the paper P can be performed based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image. Management can be performed well.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on a long recording medium and an image forming system using the same.

  Conventional photographs have been prepared by a silver salt processing method using a processing solution such as a developing solution from the viewpoint of high image quality and durability. However, in the case of silver salt treatment, the waste liquid of the treatment liquid has been an environmental problem. Therefore, there has been a demand for a printing system that performs dry processing that does not require development processing, such as an inkjet printer. However, compared to conventional silver salt-treated prints, the dry method has problems in terms of image quality and print processing speed, that is, higher image quality and faster print processing have been desired.

  As an inkjet printer, a long paper is rolled and loaded inside the inkjet printer device. When printing, the paper is fed out, an image is printed in the printing area, and the paper is cut in the non-printing area. 2. Description of the Related Art An ink jet printer configured to discharge used paper out of the apparatus is known. In the case of such an ink jet printer, in order to achieve high image quality, it is necessary to increase the area gradation, and therefore it is necessary to use a large amount of ink. In this case, it is also important to control ink ejection to the paper. This ink ejection control needs to be appropriately changed according to the type of paper. In consideration of speeding up printing, it is necessary to quickly dry a large amount of ink, and it is necessary to devise a paper ink receiving layer.

  As described above, in order to achieve high image quality and high-speed printing processing, it is important to control the printer and use a dedicated (special) paper corresponding to the printer. If you use unsupported paper, you will not be able to control the ink and you will not be able to obtain the desired color, or the ink will not be absorbed (or dried), resulting in poor print quality, It is also conceivable that the transport system, paper cutting means, etc. will not function as set.

  Therefore, since it is desirable to use the type of paper used by the printer manufacturer, it is necessary to manage the paper used in the printer. With conventional silver halide photographic printing paper, once it is put in a magazine in a dark box, it is almost impossible to replace the paper in the magazine during consumption. In the case of an ink jet printer, paper can be used in a bright room and can be easily replaced. At that time, it is necessary to manage the type of the paper set in the printer, but there are cases where it is difficult to discriminate just by looking at the surface, such as a difference in surface quality. Therefore, it is necessary to provide identification means for each paper. Although it is conceivable to provide identification means such as an IC tag on the paper (see Patent Document 1), it is not preferable because a reading device needs to be provided separately, which increases costs. Further, as in the case of Patent Document 1, it is also conceivable to give an identification code to the leading edge of the paper.

  Further, the image recording apparatus of Patent Document 1 can record the remaining usage amount of an image recording medium (paper). Specifically, the remaining amount data is recorded on the image recording medium so as to correspond to the remaining amount of the image recording medium when not used or at the end of image recording. Then, the remaining amount data recorded on the image recording medium is read, and it is determined whether or not to start image recording based on the read remaining amount data and the image data by the image recording means. At the end of image recording, the remaining amount of the image recording medium is calculated, and the calculated remaining amount data of the image recording medium is recorded in the vicinity of the upstream side of the image area of the image recording medium. Then, the image recording medium is cut so as to leave a data area in which the remaining amount data is recorded. It is described that the remaining amount data is printed as a barcode on the image recording medium.

JP 2003-211796 A (FIGS. 4 and 5)

  However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, when the image recording is completed, the remaining amount of paper is calculated, and the calculated remaining amount data of the paper is recorded near the upstream side of the image area of the paper. This is a configuration in which it is not possible to determine whether or not the paper is an operation guarantee target.

  Therefore, it is conceivable to manage the paper based on the identification information obtained by printing a barcode image representing identification information unique to the paper and reading the barcode image. However, even with such a method, there is a possibility that the barcode image printed on the paper becomes dirty and the barcode image cannot be read. There is a problem that it becomes impossible to manage well.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an image forming system capable of favorably managing a recording medium (paper), and an image forming apparatus and server applied thereto. There is.

  An image forming apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on a long recording medium, and includes identification information unique to the recording medium formed on the recording medium. A code image representing a product ID; an image reading means capable of reading a spare image associated with the product ID; a code reading history storage means for storing a reading history of the code image by the image reading means; When a code image is read, an image forming operation for the recording medium is controlled based on the product ID obtained from the code image. When the code image cannot be read, the reading history is stored. When the spare image corresponding to the code image is read, the product ID obtained from the spare image Based characterized by comprising an image forming control means for controlling the image forming operation for the recording medium.

  According to such a configuration, when the code image formed on the recording medium can be read, the image forming operation on the recording medium is controlled based on the product ID obtained by reading the code image. be able to. On the other hand, if the code image cannot be read because the code image becomes dirty, the recording medium is based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image corresponding to the code image in which the reading history is stored. The image forming operation can be controlled.

  That is, if the code image cannot be read, the spare image formed together with the code image on the recording medium is read, and if the spare image corresponds to a code image with a history that has already been read, The image forming operation on the recording medium can be controlled based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image. As described above, even when the code image cannot be read, it is possible to perform control such as permitting an image forming operation on the recording medium based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image. The management of the recording medium can be performed satisfactorily.

  In particular, when a spare image is read, the image forming operation on the recording medium is not always controlled based on the product ID obtained from the spare image. The image forming operation can be controlled only when it corresponds to a certain code image. As a result, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use such as causing a spare image to be read by another image forming apparatus, and thus management of the recording medium can be performed better.

  An image forming system according to a second aspect of the present invention is an image forming system using an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on a long recording medium, and the recording medium has an identification unique to the recording medium. A code image representing a product ID consisting of information and a spare image associated with the product ID are formed, and the image forming apparatus includes an image reading unit capable of reading the code image and the spare image; Code reading history storage means for storing a reading history of the code image by the image reading means, and an image forming operation on the recording medium based on the product ID obtained from the code image when the code image is read Corresponding to the code image in which the reading history is stored when the code image cannot be read. When reading the serial spare images is characterized in that an image forming control means for controlling the image forming operation for the recording medium based on the product ID obtained from the spare images.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to provide an image forming system having the same effects as the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention.

  The image forming system according to a third aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the code image is printed and an adhesive sheet on which the spare image is printed is attached to the recording medium.

  According to such a configuration, since the code image is printed on the recording medium, it is possible to prevent the code image from being easily replaced with another recording medium, and thus it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the code image. . Further, when the code image cannot be read due to the code image becoming dirty, it is only necessary to attach and read the adhesive sheet on which the spare image is printed on the recording medium. .

  Examples of the recording medium include plain paper, matte paper, glossy paper, and photographic paper (sometimes referred to as RC glossy paper).

  The code image and the spare image are composed of, for example, a one-dimensional code such as a barcode, or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code. The image reading unit functions as a code image reading unit for reading a code image and a spare image reading unit for reading a spare image. As the code image reading means and the spare image reading means, in the case of a one-dimensional code, for example, a reflective optical sensor, a one-dimensional CCD camera, etc. are exemplified. Moreover, in the case of a two-dimensional code, a line sensor, an area sensor, etc. are illustrated. These code image reading means and spare image reading means may be the same or separate, but the same case is preferable from the viewpoint of cost and apparatus compactness.

  Examples of the image forming apparatus include an ink jet printer, a thermal transfer printer, and a sublimation printer. In the following description, an inkjet printer will be described as an example.

  In the present invention, the “order” is an order unit when a photographic print is created. “One order” refers to a group of image data related to a print order for one or more films, one or more recording media, and one or more image data folders. The concept of one order can be set as appropriate by the operator and the orderer. The same applies hereinafter.

  An example of an embodiment of an image forming apparatus A according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a main configuration of the image forming apparatus A. Image forming apparatus A is connected to server B via a network. Server B is connected to another image forming apparatus C via a network. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the print head 30. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the paper P. As shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the collation table.

(Image forming device)
The main functions of the image forming apparatus A will be described. The ink jet printing mechanism A1 includes a print head 30 that is an ink jet image forming unit, and stores paper P (corresponding to a recording medium) inside the apparatus. One or more papers P may be stored. The paper P is formed in a long shape, and the paper P is fed out by a transport mechanism from a roll original formed by winding the paper P into a roll, and the image forming position side on the downstream side in the transport direction It is conveyed to. This is called a loading operation. The ink jet printing mechanism A1 is controlled by the control function unit A2. The control function unit A2 includes hardware such as a CPU, a memory, and a bus, and program software describing various control procedures. The control function unit A2 can be configured by a combination of a dedicated circuit, firmware, and the like.

  In the above loading operation, when the leading end of the paper P is conveyed to the image forming position, the leading end of the paper P is detected by a sensor (not shown). After detecting the leading edge, the paper P is transported to the vicinity of the exit of the paper holding unit 32, stopped, and the reflection type optical sensor 33 provided on the print head 30 is moved in the main scanning direction (the head scanning direction in FIG. 2B). The width of the paper P is detected by moving it. As a result, the leading edge and width of the paper P are detected, and the paper P is rewound to the print start position by the transport mechanism.

  The paper holding unit 32 has a plurality of holes on the surface thereof, and has a function of holding the paper P by sucking the paper P from the hole.

  The print head 30 may have a configuration in which a head unit in which a large number of ink ejection nozzles are provided on the bottom surface (the surface facing the paper holding unit 32) is arranged in two stages in the sub-scanning direction. The configuration may be one or three or more. For example, the head unit is composed of seven nozzle arrays, and in each nozzle array, the ink discharge nozzles are arranged in a row in the sub-scanning direction. Thereby, each head unit can form a color image by itself.

(Image formation processing)
The paper P is held by the paper holding means 32 at the print start position. However, a predetermined range (tmm in FIG. 3) from the front end of the paper P may cause the paper P to slightly float due to curling, and the ink landing accuracy is near the front end by the suction air of the paper holding means 32. This range is not provided for image formation as a non-printing area because it is disturbed. In the present invention, a code image M1, a spare image M2, and the like which will be described later are printed or sealed on this portion. When forming an image, the image is formed except for the non-printing area. First, the paper P is intermittently conveyed in the sub-scanning direction with a constant unit conveyance amount. At each stop of the intermittent conveyance, the print head 30 performs one scan in the main scanning direction (one-way operation or one-time operation) along the guide rail 31. During this scanning, ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of each color, It adheres to the surface of the paper P. By repeating this intermittent conveyance, main scanning operation, and ink ejection operation, an image is formed in the print area of the paper P.

  Image data for image formation is stored in the data storage unit 26, and the data is read from the data storage unit 26 in conjunction with the operation of the image forming process. The control unit 20 discharges ink from each ink discharge nozzle, Discharge coordinates are calculated. The ink discharge nozzle is controlled based on the discharge amount and discharge coordinates. Examples of the ink ejection method include a general piezo method in which ink is ejected from an ink ejection nozzle communicating with the pressure chamber by changing the volume of the pressure chamber filled with ink by a piezo element.

  The image-formed paper P is conveyed to the cutting means 40. The cutting means 40 is a rotary blade, and cuts the paper P by moving in the paper width direction. First, the non-printing area and the printing area within a predetermined range (t) are cut from the leading end of the paper P. As a result, the image formed in the non-printing area is discharged. Next, the paper P is cut into a predetermined size by the cutting means 40. For example, if it is L size, and the width of the paper P is 127 mm, it is cut every 89 mm in the transport direction.

  Next, the paper P cut to a predetermined size is printed with information such as an identification number, a frame number, and a date on the back side of the paper P by the back printing means 50. This back printing process is an arbitrary process. Next, the image forming surface of the paper P is dried by the drying means 60 on the conveyance downstream side. After drying, the paper P is discharged to the discharge tray 70.

(Control configuration)
In the present embodiment, the code image M1 and the spare image M2 attached to a predetermined range from the front end portion of the paper P are read by the reflective optical sensor 33 in the return path when the paper width is detected during the loading operation. Since the code image M1 and the spare image M2 are printed as a barcode image (hereinafter simply referred to as “barcode”) or are formed with a seal, they can be detected by the reflective optical sensor 33. The reflection type optical sensor 33 is a reading unit that executes the width detection of the paper P and also functions as an image reading unit that reads the code image M1 and the spare image M2. That is, it functions as a code image reading unit when reading the code image M1, and functions as a spare image reading unit when reading the spare image M2. Note that the leading end of the paper P may be detected using the reflective optical sensor 33. However, the code image reading unit and the spare image reading unit are not limited to those configured by the same reading unit (reflection type optical sensor 33), and may be configured by separate reading units.

  The code image M1 is information in which information including a product ID including identification information unique to the paper P is represented by a code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code. Therefore, the information including the product ID can be detected by reading the code image M1 with the reflective optical sensor 33 and analyzing the code with the control unit 20. The spare image M2 is composed of an image associated with the product ID, and is preferably represented by a code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, like the code image M1. The information represented by the spare image M2 may include the product ID, or may include other identification information associated with the product ID.

  In the present embodiment, the reading history of the code image M <b> 1 by the reflective optical sensor 33 is stored in the code reading history storage unit 24. The code reading history storage unit 24 stores information indicating whether or not the code image M1 has been read by the image forming apparatus A in association with the product ID included in the code image M1. It is a history storage means.

  The control unit 20 of the image forming apparatus A is an image forming control unit that controls an image forming operation on the paper P, that is, an operation of each part of the ink jet print mechanism A1 such as the print head 30. When the code image M1 is read by the reflective optical sensor 33, the control unit 20 controls the image forming operation for the paper P based on the product ID obtained from the code image M1, and reads the code image M1. If the spare image M2 corresponding to the code image M1 for which the reading history is stored in the code reading history storage unit 24 is read, the paper P with respect to the paper P is obtained based on the product ID obtained from the spare image M2. Control the image forming operation. That is, the control unit 20 permits the image forming operation on the paper P only when the product ID obtained from the code image M1 or the product ID obtained from the spare image M2 satisfies a predetermined condition. .

  The collation unit 22 (corresponding to the collation unit) collates the product ID obtained from the code image M1 or the product ID obtained from the spare image M2 with the collation table stored in the collation table storage unit 21. The collation unit 22 searches the collation table as shown in FIG. 4 using the product ID as a key, and first determines whether the data is usable or not from the hit data. If the availability data is “1” (meaning used), it is determined that the paper P set in the image forming apparatus A cannot be used, and the control unit 20 performs an image forming operation on the paper P in principle. Not performed. If the availability data is “0” (meaning unused), it is determined that the paper P can be used as it is, the control unit 20 performs an image forming operation on the paper P, and then the update unit 23 uses it. The availability data is changed from “0” to “1”. This changed information is transmitted to the server B, and the server management information of the server B is updated. In addition, the control unit 20 calculates the length of the paper P used for image formation, subtracts the calculated usage amount (for example, 10M) from the initial value (for example, 100M) of the paper P, and stores the remaining amount information (for example, for example). 90M). Based on the calculated remaining amount information, the update unit 23 updates the remaining amount information in the collation table. As another embodiment, even if the data indicating whether or not the data can be used is “1”, it has remaining amount information indicating the printable length of the paper, and if it is not 0 M, image formation is executed. it can. Alternatively, the required length for image formation can be calculated from the number of printed sheets, and image formation can be executed when the calculated length is smaller than the remaining amount information. When image formation cannot be executed, notification processing for displaying the fact on the display means 12 is performed.

  When the image formation of one order is completed, the paper P is in a state of being cut by the cutting means 40. If there is no processing order subsequently, the paper P is removed from the image forming position in order to prevent the paper P from deteriorating. Rewind to the upstream loading standby position G. This operation is called unloading.

  At the time of this unloading, printing by the ink ejection nozzles of the print head 30 is executed in order to form a barcode within a predetermined range (t) from the leading end of the paper P. In the case of such printing, it is preferable to execute using all the ink discharge nozzles. The barcode formed at this time is obtained by coding information such as a product ID obtained from the code image M1 or the spare image M2 read by the reflective optical sensor 33 at the time of loading. It may be the same as or different from the spare image M2. When the print head 30 reads the code image M1 from the loaded paper P, the print head 30 forms a barcode on the paper P based on the information obtained from the code image M1, while reading the spare image M2. In this case, a barcode based on the information obtained from the spare image M2 is formed on the paper P.

  The information represented by the barcode may include updated remaining amount information and identification information (device ID) of the image forming apparatus A. Accordingly, even the paper that cannot be used on the collation table can be configured to be used by referring to the remaining amount information in the image forming apparatus A. The use may be determined based on the presence or absence of remaining amount information. The information in the collation table is updated by the function of the update unit 23 (corresponding to the update unit).

  Also, as a barcode forming method, the printed portion of the paper on which the image has been finally formed is cut and conveyed to a downstream drying process, and then the paper P on which no image has been formed is rewound to the image forming position and the bar is formed. There is a way to form a code. As another embodiment, a method of forming a barcode continuously after the last image formation of the order and cutting the barcode so as to leave the barcode can be exemplified. However, the image formed on the paper P by the print head 30 is not limited to a barcode, and may be another one-dimensional code, or may be another code such as a two-dimensional code instead of a one-dimensional code. Good. Moreover, the image is not limited to a code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, and may be an image represented in another form.

  The input means 11 can be composed of a keyboard, a touch panel, a mouse, and the like, and is used for various inputs for operating the image forming apparatus A, image data editing, correction, print condition setting, order information input, and the like. The display unit 12 can be configured by a liquid crystal monitor or the like, and can display various operation screens of the image forming apparatus A, various screens such as image data editing, correction, and print condition setting.

(Operation flow)
The operation of the image forming apparatus A in the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. The paper P is set in the image forming apparatus A, and the leading end of the paper P is pulled out to the loading standby position G. As shown in FIG. 3, a code image M1 and a spare image M2 are printed or affixed to the leading end portion of the paper P. In this example, the code image M1 is printed on the paper P, and a sticker (adhesive sheet) on which the spare image M2 is printed is attached to the paper P as necessary. More specifically, the code image M1 is pre-printed on the paper P. When the code image M1 cannot be read by the reflective optical sensor 33, a seal on which the spare image M2 is printed is printed on the paper P. The spare image M2 of the seal is read by the reflection type optical sensor 33. In FIG. 3, the range (t) from the leading edge is managed as a non-printing area, and the code image M1 and the spare image M2 may be attached. A loading process is performed at the timing when the paper P is set or when the printing process is started (S1). The paper P at the loading standby position G is transported to the downstream image forming position by the rollers of the transport mechanism. In the vicinity of the print head 30, the leading edge of the paper P is detected, and then the width is detected by the reflective optical sensor 33. Processing for leading edge positioning and width positioning, for example, if paper distortion and meandering are detected in the width direction, the paper P is fed and unwound in a stepwise manner by the transport mechanism to be appropriate. it can. For example, when the code image (barcode) M1 is read at the time of paper setting, these operations can be omitted and the barcode reading process (S2) can be executed. Further, the barcode can be read simultaneously with the width detection, and in this case, the upstream end, the barcode, and the downstream end in the head movement direction are sequentially read in the main scanning one-way path or one-way path, By the analysis of the control unit 20, end detection and bar code detection are performed.

  The code image (barcode) M1 is read by the reflective sensor 33 (S2). The read code image M1 is analyzed. In this barcode reading process, when a reading error is detected, error detection / correction is performed using a check code (for example, parity, CRC, etc.). In the case of a reading error, the paper P is slightly fed or returned, and the reflective optical sensor 33 is scanned and read again. Also, the paper tip is often curled. An interval (gap) between the reflective optical sensor 33 and the paper P is set so that a reading error due to the curl can be avoided.

  If the code image M1 can be read (YES in S3), the product ID obtained by analysis is compared with the product ID in the verification table (S4). FIG. 4 is an example of a collation table. In FIG. 4, the papers with the identification numbers “1” and “2” have both useability data “1” and are registered as used. Since the other data is “null”, it can be understood that the data is used in another image forming apparatus. Also, the identification numbers “1590” and “3570” have both useability data “1” and are registered as used. However, since other data is registered, the image forming apparatus A uses that data. It can be seen that the code image M1 has been read and the collation table has been updated. The remaining amount information data of the identification numbers “1590” and “3570” are “100M” and “45M”, respectively. The identification numbers “50123” and “80456” have both availability data “0” and are registered as unused.

  As a result of the collation in step S4, if the obtained product ID does not exist in the collation table or is “1” that cannot be used, a notification to that effect is sent to the display means 12 (S10). For example, the obtained product ID paper may be already registered in the collation table as used. In addition, a barcode of a product ID that has not been manufactured may be attached. In such a case, since the paper P cannot be used for image formation, it is necessary to switch the paper P (exchange process: S11). As another embodiment, even if the result is unusable, the processing mode can be switched so that it can be used as it is.

  In addition to the collation table update process, the control unit 20 creates a log file indicating the paper usage history. The log file is composed of data such as use date / time, product ID (registered ID or non-registered ID), use amount, width, and device ID. This log file is uploaded to the server B and is also managed as a log file in the server B. This log file is provided as a cause determination material in the event of a trouble in the image forming apparatus. For example, it can be determined that a failure has occurred due to the use of paper not attached with the code image M1.

  On the other hand, if the data indicating whether or not the obtained product ID is usable is “0” (meaning that it is not used) as a result of collation, the corresponding usable data in the collation table is used from “0” to “1”. (S5). Also, as the remaining amount information, the remaining amount number is updated from the initial value of 100M according to the usage record. Further, as another embodiment, it can be configured such that the availability data remains “0” and the availability data is updated to “1” when the remaining amount information becomes “0”. The update data of the collation table can be configured to be uploaded to the server B separately from the log file described above.

  Next, all frame images of the order are formed on the paper P (S6). That is, when the use permission data based on the product ID obtained from the code image M1 is “0” (meaning that it is not used), the control unit 20 permits the image forming operation on the paper P. . When all the orders stored in the data storage unit 26 of the image forming apparatus A are completed, an unloading operation is performed automatically or by an operator's instruction input at a predetermined timing (S7). Before unloading, a bar code is formed within a predetermined range (t) from the leading end of the paper P (S8). The bar code here represents information including the product ID obtained from the code image M1, and the information preferably includes updated remaining amount information. Furthermore, it is preferable that the information includes a device ID.

  When unloading is completed (S9), the paper leading edge is placed at the loading standby position G. Then, at the next loading (S1), the bar code formed in step S8 is read (S2). The data indicating whether or not the data can be used based on the product ID obtained from the barcode read in this way is “1” (meaning used) because the paper P has been used once. By checking the remaining amount information, for example, it is determined that the remaining amount information can be used until the remaining amount information becomes zero, and image forming processing is permitted. The paper P may be taken out from the image forming apparatus A in a roll state after being unloaded. Then, it may be set in the image forming apparatus A again. Other image forming apparatuses have the same configuration as that of the present embodiment.

  On the other hand, when the code image M1 cannot be read (NO in S3), a notification to that effect is given to the user (S101). The notification may be, for example, by display on the display unit 12 or may be by other means such as voice. The user who has confirmed this notification performs an operation for pasting the sticker on which the spare image M2 is printed on the paper P and causing the spare image M2 to be read.

  When the spare image M2 can be read (YES in S102), it is confirmed whether the reading history of the code image M1 corresponding to the spare image M2 is stored in the code reading history storage unit 24 ( If stored, the product ID obtained by analysis is compared with the product ID in the verification table (S104).

  When the reading history of the code image M1 corresponding to the read spare image M2 is stored in the code reading history storage unit 24, the code image M1 is once read by the image forming apparatus A and the paper P is already used. Therefore, the use permission data based on the obtained product ID is “1” (meaning used), but it can be used until, for example, the remaining amount information becomes zero by checking the remaining amount information. To be judged. Therefore, when the reading history of the code image M1 corresponding to the read spare image M2 is not stored in the code reading history storage unit 24 (in this case, the availability data is “0”), or the obtained product ID Is not present in the collation table, a notification to that effect is sent to the display means 12 (S110), and the paper P is switched (exchange process: S111). Note that the code reading history storage unit 24 is not limited to the configuration provided separately from the collation table as described above, and the availability data in the collation table is “1” (means used), and When the code image M1 corresponding to the product ID for which the remaining amount information is stored has been read by the image forming apparatus A (there is a reading history), the collation table stores the code reading history. A configuration that also serves as a means may be used.

  As a result of the collation, when it is determined that the paper P can be used, that is, when the data indicating whether or not the obtained product ID is usable is “1” (means used) and the remaining amount information is not zero. The collation table is updated (S105), the image forming operation for the paper P is permitted, and all frame images of the order are formed on the paper P (S106). In the update of the collation table in step S105, the remaining amount information is updated according to the usage record. The update data of the collation table can be configured to be uploaded to the server B separately from the log file described above.

  When all the orders stored in the data storage unit 26 of the image forming apparatus A are completed, an unloading operation is performed automatically or by an operator's instruction input at a predetermined timing (S107). Before unloading, a barcode is formed within a predetermined range (t) from the leading end of the paper P (S108). The bar code here represents information including the product ID obtained from the spare image M2, and the information preferably includes updated remaining amount information. Furthermore, it is preferable that the information includes a device ID.

  When unloading is completed (S109), the paper leading edge is placed at the loading standby position G. Then, at the next loading (S1), the barcode formed in step S108 is read (S2). The data indicating whether or not the data can be used based on the product ID obtained from the barcode read in this way is “1” (meaning used) because the paper P has been used once. By checking the remaining amount information, for example, it is determined that the remaining amount information can be used until the remaining amount information becomes zero, and image forming processing is permitted. Note that if the information represented by the barcode includes a device ID including identification information unique to the image forming apparatus A, image formation is performed only by the matching image forming apparatus by comparing the device IDs. By permitting the operation, it is possible to prevent the paper P from being used in an image forming apparatus other than the image forming apparatus once used.

  In the present embodiment, when the code image M1 formed on the paper P can be read, the image forming operation for the paper P is controlled based on the product ID obtained by reading the code image M1. Can do. On the other hand, when the code image M1 cannot be read because the code image M1 becomes dirty, the spare image M2 corresponding to the code image M1 stored in the code reading history storage unit 24 is read. The image forming operation for the paper P can be controlled based on the product ID obtained by the above.

  That is, when the code image M1 cannot be read, the spare image M2 formed on the paper P together with the code image M1 is read, and the spare image M2 corresponds to the code image M1 having a history of being read. If so, the image forming operation for the paper P can be controlled based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image M2. As described above, even when the code image M1 cannot be read, it is possible to perform control for permitting the image forming operation for the paper P based on the product ID obtained by reading the spare image M2. The paper P can be managed satisfactorily.

  In particular, when the spare image M2 is read, the image forming operation for the paper P is not always controlled based on the product ID obtained from the spare image M2, and the spare image M2 is already read. The image forming operation can be controlled only when the code image M1 has a history. As a result, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use such as causing the spare image M2 to be read by another image forming apparatus, so that the paper P can be managed better.

  Further, in the present embodiment, since the code image M1 is printed on the paper P, it is possible to prevent the code image M1 from being easily replaced with another paper P, so that unauthorized use of the code image M1 is prevented. Can do. If the code image M1 cannot be read because the code image M1 becomes dirty, the adhesive sheet (seal) on which the spare image M2 is printed may be attached to the paper P and read. Easy to work.

(Automatic update of collation table)
The data of the collation table is stored in advance in the image forming apparatus A. This can be configured to install the data making up the verification table from the recording media. In addition, the collation table can be periodically updated by acquisition via a network download. Since the product ID of the paper P is unique, the product ID is set in accordance with the production of the paper P. In addition, when the paper P is used, it is necessary to manage it as used. Therefore, regarding the paper that has been used, it is necessary to update the data with the availability as “1” as shown in FIG. Further, when the paper is taken out from the image forming apparatus A in a roll state, the remaining amount information needs to be updated in order to refer to the remaining amount information so that it can be used again. In addition, since there are other image forming apparatuses, it is not possible to manage all the papers only by updating the collation table of one image forming apparatus.

  Therefore, server management information is stored in the server management information storage unit 2 of the server B, and all the paper management information (various information such as availability data, product ID, remaining amount information, etc. stored in the collation table) Is managed centrally. The server management information is a set of management information for all the papers, and is configured to include the data contents of the collation table of each image forming apparatus. In addition, the server management information is added in accordance with the manufacture of the paper. By setting the expected number of paper consumptions in advance, the total number of product IDs is determined and the number of encoding digits is set. The product ID may be a combination of consecutive numbers or English characters, but a discontinuous or random combination is desirable from the viewpoint of uniqueness, prevention of forgery ID, and the like. In addition, the number of recording media that will be required in the future is set in advance, the product ID is set accordingly, and the pre-manufactured data is set to “1” as used / unusable data, manufactured and sold. In doing so, it is preferable to manage it as unused “0”. Thereby, flooding of counterfeit ID can be suppressed.

  Further, the server B collects log file or collation table data indicating the paper usage history of each of the image forming apparatuses A and C via the network, or collects recording media on which these are recorded, and server management information Is updated by the function of the control unit 1. Then, the updated latest management information data is distributed as a pattern file to each of the image forming apparatuses A and C, and the collation table of the image forming apparatus is updated based on the distributed data. . The pattern file is created by the pattern file creation unit 3. Note that the log file includes usage histories of all the papers in each image forming apparatus, and the paper includes genuine papers whose quality is ensured and papers to which no code image M1 is attached.

  For example, when the server B is updated periodically or after the server management information is updated (after the update, a predetermined period after the update, etc.), the server B uses the update data of the server management information as a pattern file to each of the image forming apparatuses A and C. The data transmission / reception unit 4 is used for transmission. Each of the image forming apparatuses A and C receives the pattern file by the data transmission / reception unit 25. And the update part 23 updates the data content of a collation table based on a pattern file. The pattern file is preferably binary data in consideration of the communication load. For example, a data structure in which usable data that can be expressed by 1 bit is arranged in the order of the product ID is preferable. The usability data is composed of 1 bit as “0” if it is not used and as “1” if it is already used. Further, by including date information or data ID for identifying data in the pattern file, the data can be identified, and the collation table can be updated accurately. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a pattern file. FIG. 7 shows an example in which date / time information is included as header information of the pattern file. In addition to this, a data ID may be included. Moreover, it is not necessary to include date information and data ID. The pattern file is composed of “0” or “1” data indicating whether it is unused or used in the order of arrangement of all product IDs.

  In addition, each image forming apparatus A, C has a regular time or date and time set in each, or when each collation table has been updated (after update, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the update, before the apparatus shuts down. The data transmission / reception unit 25 transmits all data in the log file or the collation table or only updated data to the server B. The server B receives the data by the data transmitting / receiving unit 4. Then, the control unit 1 updates the server management information based on this data.

(Another embodiment)
In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus A has been described with the inkjet print mechanism unit A1 and the control function unit A2 as one apparatus configuration, but the control function unit A2 may be configured with an information processing apparatus having a different configuration. it can.

  Further, although the printing method of the image forming apparatus A has been described as an ink jet method, the present invention is not particularly limited thereto, and is not limited to the method using a serial scanning type print head as in the embodiment, and has the same size as the paper width. The present invention can also be applied to an inkjet method using a line scanning print head, a thermal transfer printer, and a sublimation printer. Various printers have a configuration in which a paper code image M1 and a spare image M2 are read and stored, a barcode is printed on the leading edge of the paper at the timing of completion of image formation, and the printed barcode is read. Further, it is preferable that the paper width detection sensor and the sensor for reading the code image M1 and the spare image M2 are the same.

(Photo print system)
In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus A may be configured independently, but functions as a component apparatus that constructs a photo print system connected to various printers and the like via a network. For example, the image forming apparatus A is connected to a plurality of terminals, various printers, a recording medium reading device, an online print order server for photographic print order, and the like via a network such as a LAN. Examples of the terminal include an image processing device for an operator, a reception terminal for an orderer installed in a store, a network reception terminal, and the like. The number of installed image processing apparatuses, reception terminals, and network reception terminals is not limited to one each, and a plurality of units can be installed as necessary. In addition, a film scanner for reading image data from a developed negative film may be arranged directly in the image processing apparatus, or may be connected to the image forming apparatus A or connected to the LAN.

  The reception terminal is installed at a store, for example, and can receive image data stored in a recording medium of a digital camera or other recording media. The reception terminal is mainly operated by a customer, and can insert a recording medium brought by the customer to select image data to be created as a photo print or set the number of prints. . In addition, it has a function of transmitting order information including image data relating to photo print processing to the image forming apparatus or various printers.

  The net reception terminal has a function of receiving an online print order via the Internet. In addition to the function of reading image data from the recording medium, the recording medium reader has a function of writing data such as image data and order information transmitted from the image processing apparatus to the recording medium.

  The image processing apparatus includes an order information storage unit that stores order information including information such as image data and order data related to a photo print order, and an order management unit that manages and controls the order information.

  The print condition setting unit is a function that performs pre-judge processing on image data of order information, displays a predetermined number of frame images on a monitor, and sets print conditions for each frame image. For example, arbitrary order information stored in the order information storage unit is selected, a predetermined number of frame images are displayed on the monitor, and the number of prints, print size, image correction data, etc. are displayed for the displayed frame images. Set the print conditions.

  The pre-judgment process determines whether or not a photographic print having an appropriate image quality is created before creating a photographic print based on the image data. The pre-judge process has a function for the operator to make a determination on the image data. And such functionality is provided primarily by software. The pre-judge process is not necessarily performed, and the print process can be performed without the pre-judge process.

  The print condition setting unit provides, for example, a function of inputting correction data for correcting color and density, and input of such correction data is set as necessary. Examples of other correction data settings include special correction settings such as red-eye correction and backlight correction.

  The number of prints is set to 1 by default for image data acquired from a film scanner, but can be changed by an operator's input operation.

  The print image data creating means performs image processing on the corresponding image data based on the print condition correction data set by the print condition setting unit, the print size, etc., and creates print image data. The print image data creating means is exemplified by a configuration realized by a cooperative action of a computer program and hardware resources such as a CPU and a memory, and a configuration of an image processing board configured by a dedicated circuit. The image processing board includes, for example, an input memory, an image processing circuit unit, and a development memory, and predetermined image processing is performed in the image processing circuit unit. Specifically, color / density correction based on correction data, such as pre-judge processing, and data expansion / contraction processing according to a set print size. The image data for printing created here is transmitted to the image forming apparatus A side or various printers by the transmission / reception unit.

The figure for demonstrating the function structure of an image forming apparatus. Diagram for explaining the print head Schematic diagram of the paper configuration The figure shown about an example of a collation table A flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus A in the present embodiment. A flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus A in the present embodiment. Diagram for explaining pattern file

Explanation of symbols

A Image forming apparatus A1 Inkjet printing mechanism part A2 Control function part B Server C Image forming apparatus P Paper 11 Input means 12 Display means 20 Control part 21 Collation table storage part 22 Collation part 23 Update part 24 Code reading history storage part 25 Data transmission / reception Unit 26 data storage unit 30 print head 33 reflective optical sensor

Claims (3)

An image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on a long recording medium,
A code image representing a product ID composed of identification information unique to the recording medium, formed on the recording medium, and an image reading means capable of reading a spare image associated with the product ID;
Code reading history storage means for storing a reading history of the code image by the image reading means;
When the code image is read, an image forming operation for the recording medium is controlled based on the product ID obtained from the code image, and the read history is stored when the code image cannot be read. Image forming control means for controlling an image forming operation on the recording medium based on the product ID obtained from the spare image when the spare image corresponding to the code image is read. An image forming apparatus. An image forming system using an image forming apparatus capable of forming an image on a long recording medium,
The recording medium is formed with a code image representing a product ID composed of identification information unique to the recording medium, and a spare image associated with the product ID,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Image reading means capable of reading the code image and the spare image;
Code reading history storage means for storing a reading history of the code image by the image reading means;
When the code image is read, an image forming operation for the recording medium is controlled based on the product ID obtained from the code image, and the read history is stored when the code image cannot be read. Image forming control means for controlling an image forming operation on the recording medium based on the product ID obtained from the spare image when the spare image corresponding to the code image is read. A featured image forming system.   The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein the code image is printed on the recording medium, and an adhesive sheet on which the spare image is printed is attached.

Images