JP2010175860A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of preventing printed matters from being left in a paper ejection part in such an incomplete state that they are not arranged in job units because of inadequate take-out or return. <P>SOLUTION: If only a part of recording paper (printed matter) ejected to a paper ejection tray after performing a printing job is taken out (step S115; No), the image forming apparatus gives a warning by warning processing (step S117). For example, when a user different from a user who requests the printing job takes out a part of the recording paper of the job by mistake, the warning urges the user to return the recording paper taken out by mistake to the paper ejection tray, whereby the recording paper is prevented from being left in the paper ejection part in such an incomplete state that the recording paper is not arranged in job units. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording paper and discharges the recording paper to a paper discharge unit, and particularly detects improper removal and return of the recording paper discharged to the paper discharge unit. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus for informing.

  In an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording sheet in response to an instruction for printing by printing or copying, a technique for detecting and notifying a mistake in taking a recording sheet (printed matter) discharged to a discharge tray is known. For example, in Patent Document 1, when it is detected that the recording paper discharged from the paper discharge tray by the image forming apparatus executing printing instructed by the user's terminal device has been returned after another user has mistakenly taken it out. A technique for notifying a terminal device user who has instructed printing and notifying a user of the terminal device that a recording paper error has occurred is disclosed.

JP 2008-109345 A

  There are actually various cases of improper removal and return of recording paper in the paper discharge tray. For example, in an image forming job (print job / copy job) for printing a plurality of sheets and an image forming apparatus including a plurality of paper discharge trays, the following three cases are given.

(1) When only a part of a plurality of recording papers printed in an image forming job is taken out (when the recording paper is not taken out in units of jobs).
(2) When only some of the pages (number of sheets) are returned after accidentally taking out the recording paper of another person's image forming job (when recording paper is not returned in units of jobs / recording paper is returned in units of jobs) If you do not return to).
(3) When the recording paper is once taken out from the discharge tray of the discharge destination and returned to a different discharge tray.

  In such a case, the user who performs the action may be warned so that the recording paper is taken out and returned in units of jobs, or the recording paper may be returned to the original paper discharge tray. desirable.

  In addition, since the technique of Patent Document 1 does not consider detecting the removal or return of recording paper in units of jobs or detecting the movement of recording paper between discharge trays, (1) The case of (3) cannot be dealt with.

  An object of the present invention is to solve the above-described problem, and an image forming apparatus capable of preventing a printed matter from remaining in a paper discharge unit in an incomplete state where the printed matter is not aligned in units of jobs due to inappropriate removal or return. It is intended to provide. It is another object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus capable of preventing a printed material once taken out from a paper discharge unit as a discharge destination from being returned to a different paper discharge unit.

  The gist of the present invention for achieving the object lies in the inventions of the following items.

[1] An image forming unit that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording sheet with an RFID tag;
A paper discharge unit for discharging the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit;
A storage unit for storing tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed and job identification information of the image forming job in association with each other;
A reading unit that reads tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet present in the paper discharge unit;
A warning section for warning the user;
When the tag identification information read by the reading unit is reduced, the reading unit reads the tag identification information stored in the storage unit in association with the same job identification information as the reduced tag identification information. It is determined that the recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job of the job identification information is partially taken out and is in an abnormal state in which the paper discharge unit does not align with the job unit. A control unit that gives a warning by the warning unit,
An image forming apparatus comprising:

  In the above invention, a warning is issued when the recording paper that forms an image relating to the image forming job and is discharged to the paper discharge unit is partly taken out and becomes abnormal state that does not align with the job unit in the paper discharge unit. . For example, in a warning such as when a user different from the job requesting user accidentally removes a part of the recording paper for the job, the user can be prompted to return the erroneously removed recording paper to the paper discharge unit. . When such an inappropriate take-out occurs, it is possible to prevent the printed matter from remaining on the paper discharge unit in an unsatisfactory state that does not align with the job unit.

[2] An image forming unit that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording sheet with an RFID tag;
A paper discharge unit for discharging the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit;
A storage unit for storing tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed and job identification information of the image forming job in association with each other;
A reading unit that reads tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet present in the paper discharge unit;
A warning section for warning the user;
When the tag identification information read by the reading unit increases, the reading unit reads the tag identification information stored in the storage unit in association with the same job identification information as the increased tag identification information. The recording paper on which the image related to the image forming job of the job identification information is once taken out and returned, and is in an abnormal state in which the paper discharge unit does not align with the job unit. A control unit that issues a warning by the warning unit when it is determined;
An image forming apparatus comprising:

  In the above invention, a warning is issued when an abnormal state that does not align with the job unit is returned to the paper discharge unit after the recording paper that has formed an image relating to the image forming job and is discharged to the paper discharge unit is once removed. . For example, in a warning such as when a user other than the job requesting user accidentally picks up the recording paper for the job and returns a part of the recording paper, the user is prompted to return the remaining recording paper to the paper discharge unit. it can. When such an inappropriate return occurs, it is possible to prevent the printed matter from remaining in the paper discharge unit in an incomplete state in which the prints are not arranged in units of jobs.

[3] An image forming unit that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording sheet with an RFID tag;
A plurality of paper discharge units selected as a discharge destination of the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit;
A storage unit for storing tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed and discharge unit information indicating a discharge unit of a discharge destination of the recording sheet in association with each other; ,
A reading unit that reads tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet existing in the paper discharge unit for each of the plurality of paper discharge units;
A warning section for warning the user;
The tag identification information read by the reading unit is compared with the tag identification information stored in the storage unit, and the recording paper discharged to the discharge unit of the discharge destination is once taken out to a different discharge unit. When it is determined that the abnormal state has been returned, the control unit that gives a warning by the warning unit,
An image forming apparatus comprising:

  In the above invention, a warning is given when a recording sheet on which an image relating to an image forming job has been formed and discharged to a discharge destination discharge section is once taken out and returned to a different discharge section. For example, in a warning such as when a user different from the job requesting user accidentally takes out the recording paper of the job and returns it to a different paper discharge unit, the user is prompted to return the recording paper to the original paper discharge unit. be able to. As a result, it is possible to prevent the printed matter from being returned to a different paper discharge unit.

[4] A communication unit that communicates with a terminal device of a user who requests the image forming job,
The control unit, when a predetermined time elapses without eliminating the abnormal state that has occurred on the recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job requested by the user has been resolved, The image forming apparatus according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the abnormal state is notified to the terminal device through the communication unit.

  In the above invention, when a predetermined time elapses without the abnormal state occurring in the recording paper in the paper discharge unit, the occurrence notification of the abnormal state is sent to the terminal device of the user who requested the image forming job corresponding to the recording paper. I do. For example, in the inventions [1] and [2], this notification may be a content such that a part of the recording sheet of the requested job has been taken away by another user. In the invention of [3], the content may be such that the recording paper of the requested job is taken out from the discharge destination discharge section by another user and returned to a different discharge section. .

  By making such a notification, the job requesting user can be informed that an abnormality has occurred in the recording paper (printed material) before visiting the acquisition of the recording paper. As a result, the requesting user who visits the acquisition without knowing the abnormality needs to search for his / her own recording paper, so that the useless labor can be saved.

  Also, by not giving notification when the abnormal condition is resolved within a predetermined time, excluding unnecessary notifications such as when you noticed that the recording paper was mistakenly removed and returned it properly. Can do.

[5] An acquisition unit that acquires user identification information from a user;
An informing unit for informing the user;
With
The control unit associates and stores user identification information of a user who has requested an image forming job and history information indicating that the abnormal state has occurred on a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed. ,
When the user identification information is acquired by the acquisition unit and the history information is stored in association with the user identification information, the notification unit performs notification [1] to [4] ] The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.

  In the above invention, when user identification information is obtained from a user who has visited the image forming apparatus, the user is identified, and the recording paper of the image forming job requested by the user has a history indicating the occurrence of an abnormal state. Notification. As a result, it is possible to notify the requesting user of the job relating to the recording sheet in which the abnormal state has occurred, to the fact that the recording sheet has an abnormality or that an abnormality has occurred.

[6] An acquisition unit that acquires user identification information from the user is provided.
The control unit identifies the user based on the user identification information acquired by the acquisition unit, and sets the abnormal state on the recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job requested by the user is formed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the occurrence notification is not performed when it is generated.

  In the above invention, when user identification information is acquired from a user who visits the image forming apparatus, the user is identified, and the user has caused an abnormal state on the recording paper of the image forming job requested by the user. Do not send notifications.

  For example, when taking out a large amount of recording paper by your requested job or recording paper by your multiple requested jobs from the paper output section, take out the recording paper in multiple batches in non-job units. There is. When removing your own recording paper from multiple paper ejection units, place the recording paper from the lower paper ejection unit on the recording paper of the upper paper ejection unit, and collect it from the upper paper ejection unit. Sometimes it takes out.

  In this way, the abnormal state generated by the requesting user himself / herself on his / her recording paper is not notified because there is a possibility that he / she is aware. By not performing such a low necessity notification, it is possible to avoid discomfort for the user.

  According to the invention described in [1], by issuing a warning when a part of the printed material is taken out from the paper discharge unit, the printed material remains in the paper discharge unit in an incomplete state that does not align with the job unit. Can be prevented.

  According to the invention described in [2], a warning is issued when the printed material is once taken out from the paper discharge unit and a part of the printed material is returned, so that the printed material is discharged in a half-finished state that does not align with the job unit. It can be prevented from remaining in the part.

  According to the invention described in [3], a warning is issued when the printed material discharged to the paper discharge unit at the discharge destination is once taken out and returned to a different paper discharge unit, so that the printed material is transferred to a different paper discharge unit. It is possible to prevent the state from being returned.

1 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of a mechanism system of a multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of a paper discharge tray included in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the multifunctional device which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the history database which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an image forming operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a main routine of a recording paper take-out operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the warning process 1 in the main routine of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the warning process 2 in the main routine of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the return process in the main routine of FIG. It is a figure which shows the state by which the information in the case of not notifying with respect to the user who requested the print job was stored in the history database according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a mechanism system of a multi function peripheral (MFP) 10 as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The MFP 10 scans a document optically to acquire image data, stores the image data or transmits the image data to an external terminal, reads the document, and based on the image data obtained by the reading. A copy function that prints and outputs a duplicate image of a document on recording paper, a printer function that prints and outputs an image obtained by rasterizing print data received from an external terminal, and an external device via an e-mail server An e-mail function for sending e-mail to the terminal is provided.

  The image forming job executed when the multifunction peripheral 10 is requested (instructed) by the user includes a copy job executed using the copy function and a print job (print job) executed using the printer function. In the case of a copy job, the user operates the multifunction device 10 to request execution, and in the case of a print job, the user operates the terminal to request execution from the multifunction device 10.

  The multifunction machine 10 also has a function of identifying the removal and return of the printed recording paper for each recording paper and managing the history, and identifying the user who has taken out and returned the recording paper. These use non-contact (short-range wireless communication) individual identification technology (RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) technology) to identify recording paper with an RFID tag, or an ID (IDentification) card incorporating an RFID tag. This is done by identifying the user in possession.

  A recording sheet with an RFID tag stores a unique tag ID (tag identification information) in the RFID tag, and is identified by the tag ID. The ID card is distributed (lent) to each user for identification purposes, and a unique user ID (user identification information) is stored in the RFID tag in the card. A user who has an ID card is identified by the user ID.

  The multifunction machine 10 automatically feeds and conveys the operation display unit 16 and the original (original M) set on the original paper feed tray 17a one by one, passes the reading position S, and discharges it to the original paper output tray 17b. Image data is acquired by optically reading the document transport device 17 and the automatically transported document at the reading position S, or image data is acquired by optically reading the document placed on the platen glass 18a. And a printer unit 30 as an image forming unit that forms and discharges an image based on input image data (an image relating to an image forming job) on recording paper (recording paper P). Yes.

  The printer unit 30 includes a plurality of (in this example, three stages) paper feed units 31 (paper feed devices), a transport device 32, a photosensitive drum 33, a charging device 34, a laser unit 35, and a developing device 36. , A transfer device 37, a separation device 38, a cleaning device 39, a fixing device 40, a plurality of (in this example, two stages) paper discharge trays 41 (41 a, 41 b), and the like. It is configured as a laser printer or the like that is supplied and transported by the transport device 32, forms an image on the recording paper P by an electrophotographic process by the operation of the photosensitive drum 33 to the fixing device 40, and discharges it to the paper discharge tray 41. Here, in order to identify the removal and return of the recording paper discharged to the paper discharge tray 41 for each recording paper and manage the history, the recording paper with the RFID tag is used. Hereinafter, the recording paper with the RFID tag may be abbreviated as “RFID recording paper”.

  The paper discharge tray 41 (41a, 41b) is provided with a plurality of detection sensors 42 (42a, 42b) for detecting recording paper (RFID recording paper) that passes by being removed from the tray or returned to the tray. It has been. ID information (radio communication) with the RFID tag is stored in the RFID tag at a discharge port (near the discharge tray 41) for discharging the recording paper from the printer unit 30 to the discharge tray 41 (in the vicinity of the discharge tray 41). RFID sensors 43 (43a, 43b) for obtaining tag ID / user ID) are provided.

  FIG. 2 is a view (plan view) of the paper discharge tray 41 showing the positions of the detection sensor 42 and the RFID sensor 43 as viewed from above.

  The paper discharge tray 41 is rectangular in plan view and is larger than the recording paper P. The detection sensor 42 includes a general-purpose photoelectric sensor such as a transmission type or a reflection type that detects an object (recording paper) using a change in the intensity of light. RFID recording paper) P is disposed at a predetermined interval in a position where it does not hang over P, in this case, in the vicinity of the periphery of the paper discharge tray 41. The detection sensors 42 may be arranged in a line (line shape) in addition to being arranged in a dot shape at a plurality of locations as in this example.

  The RFID sensor 43 functions as a reading unit that reads the tag ID of the RFID tag attached to the recording paper P present in the paper discharge tray 41 and the ID card in the ID card possessed by the user who approaches the paper discharge tray 41. It functions as an acquisition unit that reads and acquires the user ID of the RFID tag.

  An RFID tag is an electronic tag with an information storage function (data storage function) and a communication function (wireless communication function), and an IC (Integrated) that performs storage and transmission control of an antenna and information (data) for communication. Circuit) chip is built-in. When an RFID tag receives electromagnetic waves with an antenna, power is supplied to the IC chip, the IC chip operates, and stored information is transmitted from the antenna.

  The RFID sensor 43 includes an antenna for communicating with an RFID tag and a communication control unit. The communication control unit radiates electromagnetic waves from the antenna to supply power to the RFID tag, and information transmitted from the RFID tag is transmitted by the antenna. It is supposed to receive. The directivity of the RFID sensor 43 and the communicable distance with the RFID tag may be fixed or changeable. The reading range (detection range) of the RFID tag by the RFID sensor 43 is determined by the conditions of the directivity and the communicable distance.

  In the present embodiment, the reading range R of the RFID tag is a range including the planar size (maximum size) of the paper discharge tray 41, and the RFID sensor 43 is used for all the RFID recording papers existing on the paper discharge tray 41. The tag ID can be read. Further, the user ID of the ID card possessed by the user approaching the paper discharge tray 41 can be read.

  The paper discharge tray 41 (41a, 41b) has a function of shielding (shielding) electromagnetic waves by being formed of an electromagnetic wave shielding material or by being coated with an electromagnetic wave shield. Accordingly, the RFID sensor 43a provided in the vicinity of the upper discharge tray 41a (first discharge tray) shown in FIG. 1 and the RFID provided in the vicinity of the lower discharge tray 41b (second discharge tray) shown in FIG. The tag ID of the RFID recording paper can be read for each tray without electromagnetic interference with the sensor 43b.

  FIG. 3 shows the configuration of the control system of the multifunction machine 10. The multi-function device 10 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 11 as a control unit, a read only memory (ROM) 12, a random access memory (RAM) 13, an input / output buffer 14, and a hard disk drive (HDD). ) 15, an operation display unit 16, an automatic document feeder (ADF) 17, a scanner unit 18, a printer unit 30, a user authentication unit 19, a database management unit 20, and a notification unit 21. The timer unit 22, the network I / F (Interface) unit 23, the detection sensors 42 (42 a, 42 b), and the RFID sensors 43 (43 a, 43 b) are connected via the bus 24.

  The CPU 11 controls the operation of the multifunction machine 10 based on a program stored in the ROM 12. The RAM 13 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 11 executes a program, and is also used for an image memory for temporarily storing image data.

  The input / output buffer 14 serves as a buffer function for temporarily storing input data and output data in order to compensate for differences in processing speed and transfer speed when data is exchanged between the units in the multifunction machine 10. . The hard disk device 15 stores various kinds of saved data and the like, and also saves copy (copy printing) of originals and image data in printing instructed from an external terminal.

  The operation display unit 16 has a function of displaying various screens such as an operation screen, a setting screen, a warning screen, a notification screen (message screen), and a function of receiving various operations from the user. Here, it is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) that bears the display function, a touch panel that is formed on the surface of the liquid crystal display and detects the pressed coordinate position, a numeric keypad, a start button, and various operation switches. The

  The user authentication unit 19 has a function of acquiring authentication data (authentication information) for performing user authentication. As user authentication, for example, authentication data stored in an ID card held by the user is read with a contact type or non-contact type card reader or the like, and collated with pre-registered authentication information for personal authentication. Card authentication technology to be performed, biometric information such as a user's fingerprint or finger vein is read as authentication data with a biometric authentication unit, etc., and collated with pre-registered authentication information, and personal authentication is performed. Various general authentication techniques such as a password authentication technique for inputting a password as data from the operation display unit 16 and collating with authentication information registered in advance to perform personal authentication can be used alone or in combination.

  The database management unit 20 functions to store the user database 50 and the history database 60 and perform management such as storing, updating, and erasing information (data) for these databases. The user database 50 stores information on users who are permitted to use the multifunction machine 10. For example, for each user, a user ID, authentication information, setting information, and an e-mail address of a terminal (user terminal) used by the user are stored in association with each other. The history database 60 stores various types of information for storing the history of taking out and returning the RFID recording paper discharged to the paper discharge tray 41.

  The notification unit 21 functions to perform warning, notification, and notification to the user. Warning is performed by generating an alarm (warning sound) or turning on a warning light. For this purpose, the notification unit 21 may be configured to include a warning light including an alarm generator (alarm generator) and a light emitter (lamp). The notification is performed by voice output or display of a message. In order to perform audio output, the notification unit 21 may include an audio output device such as a speaker. Notification by display is performed by the notification unit 21 displaying a message screen on the operation display unit 16 or the like. Notification is performed by sending an e-mail describing the message to the user's terminal. This notification is performed by the notification unit 21 creating a message mail addressed to the user terminal and transmitting it through the network I / F unit 23.

  The message mail is automatically transmitted when an event subject to notification (inappropriate take-out or return of recording paper in the paper discharge tray) occurs and a predetermined time elapses without being resolved. The predetermined time may be a fixed time (for example, 5 minutes) or may be configured so that the user can set an arbitrary time. Further, the user can set whether or not to receive a notification by message mail when an event to be notified is resolved within a predetermined time. Such setting information is stored in the user database 50 in the database management unit 20.

  The timer unit 22 functions to count the set time. Here, it is used to count the time (predetermined time) for automatically transmitting the message mail.

  The network I / F unit 23 connects to a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet and performs a function of communicating with an external terminal or an e-mail server on the network. For example, it is used when image data read by the scanner unit 18 is transmitted to an external terminal, when print data (print job) is received from an external terminal, or when an e-mail (message mail) is transmitted to an external terminal. Is done.

  FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the history database 60.

  In the history database 60, the tag ID of the RFID recording paper read by the RFID sensor 43 (43a, 43b) and the job ID issued by the CPU 11 when receiving an execution request for an image forming job (print job / copy job) are stored. Are recorded in association with each other. Further, the user ID of the user who requested the image forming job (denoted as “requesting user” in the figure) and the user who took out the RFID recording paper from the paper discharge tray 41 (41a, 41b) (denoted as “removing user” in the figure). ), The discharge destination information indicating the discharge tray 41 that is the discharge destination of the RFID recording paper, and the discharge tray 41 on which the RFID recording paper detected by reading the tag ID by the RFID sensor 43 exists. The detection information shown, the take-out history information showing the history of taking out the RFID recording paper from the paper discharge tray 41, and the comprehensive judgment information showing the result of determining whether the CPU 11 gives a warning or the like by the notification unit 21 are associated with each other. Recorded.

  In the case of a print job (print job), the user ID of the requesting user is the user ID added to the print job received from the user terminal. In the case of a copy job, this is the user ID of the user who was authenticated by user authentication immediately before accepting the execution request. The user ID of the user who has taken out the RFID recording paper is the user ID acquired by the RFID sensor 43 from the user ID card near the paper discharge tray 41 when the removal of the RFID recording paper is detected. These user IDs are indicated by a user name such as “user A” for convenience in the figure.

  In the discharge destination information, “tray 1” indicates the first discharge tray (upper discharge tray 41a), and “tray 2” indicates the second discharge tray (lower discharge tray 41b). The detection information indicates that the “tray 1” has been detected by the RFID sensor 43a corresponding to the first paper discharge tray, that is, the RFID recording paper is present on the first paper discharge tray. , “Tray 2” indicates that the RFID recording sheet is detected by the RFID sensor 43b corresponding to the second discharge tray, that is, the RFID recording sheet exists on the second discharge tray. “None” indicates that the RFID recording paper is not detected by the RFID sensors 43a and 43b, that is, the RFID recording paper is not present on any of the first and second paper discharge trays. This detection information is updated when the printed RFID recording paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray 41, when it is taken out from the paper discharge tray 41, and when it is returned to the paper discharge tray 41. .

  In the extraction history information, “present” indicates that the RFID recording paper has been removed (with removal history), and “−” indicates that the RFID recording paper has not been removed (no removal history). The comprehensive determination information indicates that “OK” is a pass determination, “NG” indicates a fail determination, and “−” indicates an undetermined. When the comprehensive determination information is “NG”, a warning or the like is performed.

  The history database 60 stores the information for each RFID recording sheet on which the above printing has been performed in association with the job ID, so that a history of taking out and returning the RFID recording sheet discharged to the discharge tray 41 can be stored in the job. It is designed to be managed in units.

  Specifically, it manages the history of taking out and returning RFID recording paper in units of jobs, the history of the discharge destination (extraction source) and return destination of RFID recording paper, and the judgment result of whether or not to perform warning or the like It is supposed to be. Also, taking out and returning a job unit may not be completed by only one action. For example, a case where a large amount of recording paper is taken out twice or more, or a case where recording paper distributed and taken out by a plurality of users is returned. It is also possible to manage the history of fetching and returning jobs in units of jobs completed by such multiple actions.

  Each information stored in the history database 60 is automatically deleted in units of a job when a predetermined time (for example, 5 to 30 minutes) elapses after the image forming job is executed. You may comprise so that a user can set this predetermined time.

  Next, the operation of the multifunction machine 10 will be described.

  The multifunction machine 10 according to the present embodiment detects an improper removal or return of the recording paper (RFID recording paper) that forms an image relating to the image forming job and is discharged to the paper discharge tray 41, and issues a warning or the like. . Such improper removal and return is generally caused when recording sheets of a plurality of jobs are discharged and stacked on the discharge tray or when the recording sheets are discharged to a plurality of discharge trays. This is likely to happen.

  In the former case, for example, when a user searches for and removes a plurality of recording sheets in his / her job from a stack of paper on the paper discharge tray, he / she forgets to remove a part of it or mistakenly finds that It may happen that the recording paper is taken out. In addition, when a user notices that a plurality of recording papers of another person have been taken out and returns the recording paper, only a part of the recording paper may be erroneously returned.

  Also, when the amount of paper bundles is large or when you request multiple jobs, it is difficult to find them on the paper output tray, so once you have taken out the paper bundle (all the recording paper) and searched for it from the paper bundle In some cases, only the recording paper is removed and the remaining recording paper is returned to the original paper discharge tray. At that time, it may happen that a part of the plurality of recording papers is forgotten and returned, or the recording paper of another person is accidentally removed and returned. In addition, it is possible to accidentally take away the recording paper of another person without noticing that the recording paper of another person's job is intermingled between the recording papers of a plurality of jobs requested by the user.

  In the latter case (when the recording paper is discharged to a plurality of paper discharge trays), other than the recording paper of another person taken out by mistake or all of the recording papers taken out intentionally When returning to the paper discharge tray, it may happen that it is returned to a paper discharge tray different from the take-out source. For example, there is a case where a recording sheet taken out from the lower discharge tray is erroneously returned to the upper discharge tray.

  When the multifunction device 10 detects an abnormal state due to the inappropriate removal or return, the multifunction device 10 issues an alarm to notify the user who has caused the abnormal state (performs an inappropriate act) and takes appropriate action. Act to prompt. Details of the abnormal state are as follows: (1) A state in which only a part of the recording paper on which an image relating to an image forming job is taken out (taken out in non-job units) is not aligned in the paper discharge tray 41 in job units; 2) The recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job is formed is once taken out and then returned (returned in non-job units), and is not aligned in the job unit on the paper discharge tray 41. (3) The image forming job The recording paper on which the image is formed is once taken out from the discharge destination discharge tray 41 (one of the discharge trays 41a and 41b), and is different from the other discharge tray 41 (the other of the discharge trays 41a and 41b). ).

  Further, the recording paper once taken out from the paper discharge tray 41 and returned may be different from the state when it is discharged to the paper discharge tray 41 (initial state before taking out). For example, the page order, front / back, top / bottom orientation, etc. of the recording paper may be incorrect. In some cases, a part of the image is mixed between recording sheets of other image forming jobs. Therefore, even when another user or the like once removes the paper from the paper discharge tray 41 and returns it appropriately, the multifunction device 10 electronically notifies the user who requested the image forming job corresponding to the recording paper. Notification is made by e-mail (message mail) (attention required notice), or notification is given by display or voice when the recording paper is acquired by the user (attention notice required).

  First, an outline of the operation will be described using the history database 60 of FIG. Here, a print job requested from the user terminal is taken as an example. In this figure, even-numbered jobs are shown with a gray background for easy viewing.

  User A's print job 1 is a state in which three recording sheets (RFID recording sheets) of tags 1 to 3 are discharged to the first discharge tray (discharge destination “tray 1”) and are not taken out ( Extraction user “−” / detection “tray 1” / extraction history “−” / general determination “−”).

  In the next print job 2 of user B, two recording sheets of tags 4 and 5 are discharged to the first paper discharge tray and are taken out in units of jobs by user B himself (removal user “user B” / detection “No” / Retrieve History “Yes”). In this case, the pass judgment is performed on the recording paper of the print job 2 in units of jobs (overall judgment “OK”). Similarly, the three recording papers of the tags 6 to 8 discharged to the second paper discharge tray by the print job 3 of the user C are also taken out in units of jobs by the user C itself, so that a pass determination is performed (removal user). “User C” / detection “none” / removal history “present” / overall determination “OK”).

  In the next print job 4 of user A, for example, when user B removes his / her own recording paper from print job 2 from the first paper discharge tray, one of the three recording papers of print job 4 ( This is a case where the tag 9) has been taken out. In this case, since it has not been taken out in units of jobs, a failure judgment is made for the recording paper of the print job 4 in units of jobs (overall judgment “NG”), and an alarm is generated.

  Similarly, the print job 5 of the next user D is, for example, one of the two recording papers of the print job 5 when the user C takes out his / her own recording paper by the print job 3 from the second discharge tray. In this case, the sheet (tag 12) has been taken out. Also in this case, since it is not taken out in units of jobs, a failure determination is made (overall determination “NG”), and an alarm is generated.

  In the next print job 6 of the user E, the user F erroneously takes out four sheets (tags 14 to 17) out of the five recording sheets discharged to the first discharge tray. At the time of occurrence, a failure determination is made for the recording paper of the print job 5 for each job (overall determination “NG”), and an alarm is generated. Furthermore, only one of the four sheets (tag 14) that has been taken out is returned to the original first discharge tray, and the recording paper of print job 6 has not returned to the job unit (five sheets). Again, an alarm is generated (or the alarm continues). In this case, the remaining three sheets (tags 15 to 17) that have not been returned may have been taken away by the user F.

  In the next print jobs 7 and 8, when the user D takes out his / her two recording sheets (tags 19 and 20) discharged to the second paper discharge tray in the print job 7, the print job 8 by the user C is displayed. This is a case where one sheet of recording paper (tag 21) has been taken out together but returned to the first paper discharge tray. In this case, the recording paper of the print job 8 is taken out in units of jobs, but the return destination is not the original paper discharge tray, so a failure determination is made (overall determination “NG”), and an alarm is generated.

  In the next print job 9, the user H erroneously takes out three recording sheets (tags 22 to 24) of the user G discharged to the second discharge tray, and one of them (tag 22) is the first. This is the case when it is returned to the paper discharge tray. In this case, the recording paper of the print job 9 is taken out in units of jobs. However, since the return destination is not the original paper discharge tray and is not returned in units of jobs, a failure judgment is made (general judgment “NG” )), Generate alarms, etc. The above is the outline of the operation.

  FIG. 5 shows the flow of the printing operation by the multifunction machine 10. Here, the operation when a print job requested from the user terminal is executed will be described as an example.

  When the user operates the terminal to request (instruct) the MFP 10 to perform printing (instruction), the user terminal generates a print job including image data (print data), a user ID, and the like and transmits the print job to the MFP 10.

  In the MFP 10 (Start), when a print job is received from the user terminal (Step S101), the CPU 11 executes printing based on the image data included in the print job (Step S102). Specifically, the printer unit 30 is controlled to form an image based on the image data on the RFID recording paper, and the RFID recording paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray 41. If the number of print jobs is one print job, one RFID recording sheet on which an image has been formed is discharged onto the discharge tray 41. If the number of print jobs is a plurality of print jobs, a plurality of RFID recording sheets on which images are formed are discharged to the discharge tray 41.

  The CPU 11 reads and acquires the tag ID by the RFID sensor 43 in accordance with the discharge timing of the RFID recording paper (step S103). Specifically, when discharging to the paper discharge tray 41a, the RFID sensor 43a is operated to read the tag ID, and when discharging to the paper discharge tray 41b, the RFID sensor 43b is operated to read the tag ID. The tag ID of the discharged RFID recording paper may be read by another RFID sensor disposed near the fixing device 40, for example.

  The CPU 11 stores the acquired tag ID in the history database 60 (see FIG. 4), the job ID issued to the job by the CPU 11, the user ID added to the job, and the discharge destination of the RFID recording paper. The discharge destination information (“tray 1” or “tray 2”) indicated and the detection information (“tray 1” or “tray 2”) indicating the discharge tray from which the RFID recording paper is detected are stored in association with each other ( Step S104), this operation is finished (End). When this operation ends (when the print job is completed), the history database 60 stores information other than the take-out user information, the take-out history information, and the comprehensive determination information, as exemplified by job 1 in FIG. Further, the discharge destination information and the detection information coincide with each other.

  FIG. 6 shows the flow of the recording paper acquisition operation in the multifunction machine 10. Here, a description will be given of a flow until an RFID recording sheet in one print job is acquired by a requesting user of the print job. Also, before the acquisition by the job requesting user, (1) taking out the recording paper in non-job units, (2) returning the recording paper in non-job units, and (3) different from the take-out source. When the recording paper is returned to the paper discharge tray by another user or the like, an alarm is generated, or a notice / notice of caution is given to the job requesting user.

  In the MFP 10 (Start), the CPU 11 monitors whether or not the user ID is acquired from the RFID tag of the ID card possessed by the user by the RFID sensor 43 (step S111; No to step S111 loop). . This monitoring is to monitor whether or not the user has approached the paper discharge tray 41.

  When the acquisition is performed by the RFID sensor 43 (step S111; Yes (user approach detection)), the detection of the recording paper passing through the paper discharge tray 41 by the detection sensor 42 (detection of removal or return) is monitored. (Step S112; No to Step S111; Yes to Step S112 Loop). If the user ID cannot be acquired without detecting the passage of the recording paper, that is, if the user approaches the paper discharge tray 41 but leaves without taking out or returning the recording paper, Returning to step S111, the user's approach to the paper discharge tray 41 is monitored again.

  When the passage of the recording paper is detected (step S112; Yes), the CPU 11 reads the RFID sensor 43 (RFID sensors 43a and 43b) corresponding to the detected paper discharge tray 41 (paper discharge trays 41a and 41b). From the change in the tag ID (step S113), it is determined whether the RFID recording paper has been taken out or returned (step S114).

  The CPU 11 compares the acquired tag ID with the tag ID of the history database 60. If there is a decreased tag ID with respect to the history database 60, the CPU 11 determines that the RFID recording paper of that tag ID has been taken out (step S114; (Take out), the process proceeds to step S115. The tag IDs that decrease are those that existed in the paper discharge tray 41 before that, that is, only the tag IDs whose detection information is “tray 1” or “tray 2”. If there is an increased tag ID among the tag IDs of the detection information “none” in the history database 60, it is determined that the RFID recording paper of the tag ID has been returned (step S114; return), and the process proceeds to step S122. To do.

  In step S115, the CPU 11 refers to the history database 60, and if not all tag IDs of the same job as the reduced tag ID have been acquired, the CPU 11 determines that the RFID recording paper of the job has been taken out in units of jobs ( Step S115; Yes), the history database 60 is updated (Step S119), and the process proceeds to Step S120. In the update of the history database 60 (see FIG. 4), the CPU 11 updates the detection information of the decreased tag ID to “No”, updates the extraction history information to “Yes”, and acquires the extraction user information by the RFID sensor 43. Update to the current user ID.

  When even one tag ID of the same job as the reduced tag ID is acquired, the RFID recording paper of that tag ID remains in the paper discharge tray 41. The CPU 11 determines that the RFID recording paper of the job has not been taken out in units of jobs (step S115; No), and updates the history database 60 (step S116). Here, the detection information of the decreased tag ID is updated to “none”, the extraction history detection information is updated to “present”, and the extraction user information is updated to the user ID being acquired by the RFID sensor 43. Further, the comprehensive determination information of all tag IDs of the jobs determined not to be taken out in units of jobs is updated to “NG”, and warning processing 1 is performed in a subroutine (step S117).

  FIG. 7 shows the flow of the warning process 1. In the warning process 1, the CPU 11 generates an alarm through the notification unit 21 (step S131), starts counting the time by the timer unit 22, and discharges the paper discharge tray before the predetermined time elapses. It is monitored at 41 whether or not the passage of the recording paper is detected (Step S132; No to Step S133; No to Step S132 loop).

  For example, a user who hears an alarm and realizes that he / she has forgotten to take his / her recording paper is likely to take out the remaining recording paper. If the user has noticed that another person has taken out the recording paper after hearing the alarm, the user is likely to return the recording paper.

  When the CPU 11 detects the passage of the recording paper in the paper discharge tray 41 (step S132; Yes), the CPU 11 performs steps S134 and S135 similar to steps S113 and S114 in FIG. 6 to determine whether to remove / return the RFID recording paper. To do.

  When it is determined that the RFID recording paper has been taken out due to the decrease in the acquisition tag ID (step S135; taking out), the CPU 11 performs step S136 similar to step S115 in FIG. It is determined whether the removal of the remaining RFID recording paper of the job has been completed. If it is determined that the job unit has been taken out (step S136; Yes), the CPU 11 stops the alarm by the notification unit 21 (step S140), and updates the history database 60 similar to step S119 in FIG. 6 (step S141). ).

  If it is determined that the job unit extraction has not been completed (step S136; No), the CPU 11 updates the history database 60 in the same manner as step S116 in FIG. 6 (step S139), and returns to step S132.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the RFID recording paper has been returned due to the increase of the acquired tag ID (step S135; return), the CPU 11 refers to the history database 60 and detects the return destination of the RFID recording paper (the increased tag ID). If it does not match the discharge destination, it is determined that it has been returned to the original discharge tray 41 (step S137; Yes). If it does not match, it has not been returned to the original discharge tray 41. Judgment is made (step S137; No).

  If it is determined that the return is NG, the history database 60 is updated (step S139), and the process returns to step S132. Here, the detected tag ID detection information is updated to “tray 1” or “tray 2” as the return destination of the RFID recording paper. If it is determined that the return is OK, the CPU 11 determines whether the returned RFID recording paper and the RFID recording paper of the same job remaining in the paper discharge tray 41 have returned to the job unit (step S138). .

  If the CPU 11 refers to the history database 60 and has not acquired one of all tag IDs of the same job as the increased tag ID, the unacquired RFID recording paper has not been returned. It is determined that the RFID recording paper of the job has not returned to the job unit (step S138; No). Also in this case, the history database 60 is updated similarly to the return NG (step S139), and the process returns to step S132.

  If all tag IDs of the same job as the increased tag ID have been acquired, the CPU 11 determines that the RFID recording paper of the job has returned to the job unit (step S138; Yes), stops the alarm. (Step S140), the history database 60 is updated similarly to the above-mentioned return NG and return OK (step S141).

  Subsequently, the CPU 11 checks the user database 50 for the notification setting of the user who has requested the job that has been taken out in units of jobs or the job that has been restored in units of jobs (step S142). If the notification is not set (step S142; No), the process returns to the main routine. When the notification is set, the CPU 11 acquires the user's email address from the user database 50 and inputs it to the notification unit 21 and returns the message mail only when returning to the job unit by returning the RFID recording paper. Creation and transmission are instructed (step S143 / notice of caution), and the process returns to the main routine (Return).

  The notification unit 21 returns a predetermined message, for example, a recording sheet of a requested print job, once taken out from the paper discharge tray 41 of the multifunction machine 10 and returns to the job unit, but the page order may be incorrect. Create a message e-mail with the e-mail address entered in the address field, and a message e-mail that contains the message in the text field. Note that the name (file name) of a file included in the print job may be added to the message mail.

  On the other hand, if a predetermined time has passed without detecting the passage of the recording paper in the paper discharge tray 41, or if the passage of the recording paper has been detected but the pickup is completed or returned to the job unit by job unit If the predetermined time has passed (step S133; Yes), the alarm is stopped (step S144). Then, the CPU 11 acquires the e-mail address of the requesting user of the job from the user database 50 and inputs it to the notification unit 21 and instructs the creation and transmission of the message mail (step S145 / recording paper removal notification). Return to the routine (Return).

  The notification unit 21 enters a predetermined message, for example, a message indicating that a part of the recording paper of the requested print job may have been removed from the paper discharge tray 41 of the multifunction machine 10 in the text column. Create and send a message mail with the email address inserted in the address field. A file name or the like may be added to this message mail.

  Returning from the warning process 1 in FIG. 7 to the main routine in FIG. 6, the CPU 11 returns to step S111 if extraction in units of jobs has not been completed in the warning process 1 (step S118; No). In this case, a predetermined time has elapsed since the alarm is generated, and when the user ID is acquired at this time, the operation after step S112 is performed again for the user. If the user ID has not been acquired, the user has already moved away from the multifunction machine 10 and the approach of the user will be monitored again.

  When the extraction in units of jobs has been completed (step S118; Yes), the CPU 11 refers to the history database 60, and the extraction user who has performed the extraction and the recording paper (RFID recording paper) extracted in units of jobs. In step S120, it is determined whether or not the requesting users of the jobs corresponding to () match.

  If they match (step S120; Yes), the requesting user himself has taken out the recording paper in units of jobs. In this case, the process proceeds to step S124. If they do not match (step S120; No), it means that another user has taken out the recording paper in units of jobs. In this case, the comprehensive determination information is updated to “NG” in the transition from step S119 (in the transition from step S118, the comprehensive determination information is already set to “NG” in step S116), and the warning process 2 is performed in a subroutine. (Step S121).

  FIG. 8 shows the flow of the warning process 2. The warning process 2 is basically the same operation as the warning process 1 except that only the return of RFID recording paper in units of jobs is monitored.

  Explaining the difference, the CPU 11 performs steps S151 to S154 similar to steps S131 to S134 in FIG. 7, and RFID recording sheets taken out by other users are collectively loaded on the original discharge tray 41 in units of jobs. It is returned or divided into a plurality of times and returned to the job unit (step S155), and operates so as to monitor until a predetermined time elapses after the alarm is generated. Steps S156 to S162 after step S155 are the same operations as corresponding steps S139 to S145 of the warning process 1.

  Note that the notification (message) to the job requesting user in step S162 is a notification that all the recording sheets of the print job have been taken away when no recording sheets taken out in units of jobs are returned. If some of the recording sheets are returned, a notification that some of the recording sheets of the print job have been taken away may be used.

  When the warning process 2 in FIG. 8 returns to the main routine in FIG. 6, the process returns to step S111. If the user ID has been acquired at this time, the operations after step S112 are performed again for the user. If the user ID has not been acquired, the user has already moved away from the multifunction machine 10 and the approach of the user will be monitored again.

  If a part of the recording paper in a job unit is taken out via the warning processing 1 in step S117 or the warning processing 2 in step S121, the recording paper may be returned later. is there. For example, a user who notices that he / she has taken away the recording paper of someone else after returning to his / her seat, visits the multifunction machine 10 with the recording paper, and returns it to the paper discharge tray 41. It is.

  In such a case, it is returned in step S114 (increase in the acquired tag ID), and the CPU 11 updates the history database 60 (step S122) and performs return processing in a subroutine (step S123). In updating the history database 60, the CPU 11 updates the detected tag ID detection information to “tray 1” or “tray 2” that is the return destination of the RFID recording paper.

  FIG. 9 shows the flow of return processing. In the return process, the CPU 11 performs step S171 similar to step S137 in the warning process 1 of FIG. 7 to determine whether the return destination is appropriate. If it is determined to be appropriate (step S171; Yes), the same step S172 as the step S155 in the warning process 2 of FIG. 8 is performed, and the job unit by batch return in units of jobs or return in multiple times Determine return to.

  If they are arranged in units of jobs (step S172; Yes), the CPU 11 acquires the e-mail address of the requesting user of the print job arranged in units of jobs from the user database 50 and inputs it to the notification unit 21 and also sends a message mail. Creation and transmission are instructed (step S173 / recording paper return completion notification), and the process returns to the main routine (Return).

  For example, the notification unit 21 writes a message in the body field that indicates that the previously notified recording paper that has been taken away is returned and has been arranged in units of jobs, and the input e-mail address is stored in the destination field. Create and send the message mail inserted in.

  When it is determined in step S171 that the return destination is not appropriate (step S171; No), or when it is not arranged in units of jobs in step S172 (step S172; No), the CPU 11 constantly generates an alarm by the notification unit 21. Only time (several seconds) is performed (step S174). Due to this alarm, there is a possibility that an RFID recording paper whose return destination is not appropriate will be taken out, or that RFID recording paper that has not been returned in units of jobs may be taken out again.

  Here, when the CPU 11 detects removal of the RFID recording paper returned this time, that is, a decrease in the tag ID (step S175; Yes), the detection information of the tag ID in the history database 60 is “None”. Update to (step S176) and return to the main routine (Return). When removal of the RFID recording paper is not detected (step S175; No), the process returns to the main routine as it is (Return).

  When returning from the return process of FIG. 9 to the main routine of FIG. 6, the process returns to step S111. Here, when the RFID recording paper once taken out by an inappropriate return destination is returned, or when the remaining RFID recording paper is returned when it is not returned to the job unit, in step S114 The process proceeds to the return side, and steps S122 and S123 are repeated.

  The process proceeds to step S124 in a state where the user who has requested the print job has taken out the recording paper in units of jobs. The CPU 11 checks the history database 60 for the history of taking out the RFID recording paper (tag ID / job ID) taken out by the requesting user. When there is no takeout history (step S124; No), the CPU 11 sets the takeout user of the job in the history database 60 to the user ID of the requesting user as illustrated in jobs 2 and 3 in FIG. “No”, the extraction history is updated to “present”, and the comprehensive determination information is updated to “OK” (step S126), and this operation is terminated (End). Further, when there is an extraction history by the requesting user via the warning process 1 in step S117 (step S124; No), the same information update is performed (step S126), and this operation is ended (End).

  If there is an extraction history by another user (step S124; Yes), the CPU 11 needs to be careful about the RFID recording paper extracted by the requesting user in units of jobs (for example, the page order may be incorrect). Notification is made through the notification unit 21 (operation display unit 16) (step S125), the same information update is performed (step S126), and this operation is ended (End).

  Further, the notification to the job requesting user in step S143 in the warning process 1 in FIG. 7 may not be performed if the job requesting user himself / herself has caused the above-described abnormal state to be resolved within a predetermined time. Good.

  In the history database 60 of FIG. 10, jobs 10 to 15 that are not notified are shown in comparison with jobs 4 to 6, 8, and 9 that are notified of FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, as described above, (1) the recording paper is taken out in non-job units, (2) the recording paper is returned in non-job units, and (3) the paper is loaded into a paper discharge tray different from the take-out source. When the recording paper is returned by the user who requested the job, the comprehensive determination information is “SAFE”. If these abnormal states are resolved within a predetermined time, the CPU 11 performs a step in the warning process 1. In S143, the message mail is not transmitted to the terminal of the requesting user.

  As described above, in the multifunction machine 10 according to the present embodiment, a warning is issued when the printed material is not taken out from the paper discharge tray 41 in units of jobs or returned in units of jobs, so that the printed materials are processed in units of jobs. It is possible to prevent the paper from being left on the paper discharge tray 41 in a half-finished state. For example, when a user different from the job requesting user performs such inappropriate take-out or return, a warning can prompt the user to return the printed matter to the job unit. As a result, it is possible to prevent the job requesting user from acquiring the printed matter in units of jobs.

  Further, a warning is issued when the printed material is once taken out from the discharge tray 41 and returned to a different discharge tray 41, so that the printed material remains returned to the discharge tray 41 different from the discharge destination. It can prevent becoming a state. For example, when a user different from the job requesting user performs such an action, the user can be prompted to return the printed matter to the original paper discharge tray 41 by a warning. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user who requested the job from searching for the printed material up to the paper discharge tray 41 other than the discharge destination, or the printed material being lost or discarded and cannot be acquired.

  In addition, when the above-described abnormal state that has occurred in the printed matter in the paper discharge tray 41 has not been resolved and the predetermined time has elapsed, the multifunction device 10 generates an abnormal state in the terminal of the user who has requested a job corresponding to the printed matter. To be notified. This makes it possible to inform the job requesting user that an abnormality has occurred in the printed matter before visiting the acquisition of the printed matter, and the requesting user who has visited the acquisition without knowing the abnormality must search for his / her own printed matter. It is possible to avoid the wasteful effort of being lost. In addition, if the abnormal condition is resolved within the specified time, notification is not performed (when notification is not required), for example, when the user immediately notices that the printed matter has been accidentally removed and returns it properly. Notifications can be excluded.

  Further, when the requested user himself / herself picks up the printed material, if the printed material has an extraction history by another user, a notification to that effect is given. As a result, even if something is generated in the printed matter, the requesting user can recognize (convince) that it is caused by the removal of another user.

  Also, if the requesting user himself / herself has caused the above abnormal condition in his / her printed matter, there is a high possibility that he / she is aware of this (intentionally), so the requesting user ’s terminal is notified. Do not do this (see FIG. 10). By not performing such a low-necessity notification, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling uncomfortable (disgusting).

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to that shown in the embodiment, and there are changes and additions within the scope of the present invention. Are also included in the present invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the print job (print job) requested by the user from the terminal has been described as an example, but the type of job is not limited to this. A copy job or the like designated by the user via the operation display unit 16 may be targeted. In a copy job, a user is identified by user authentication, and the user ID of the user is stored in the history database 60 in association with a tag ID or the like, similar to a print job.

  Further, the removal and return of the RFID recording paper discharged to the paper discharge tray 41 is detected by the detection sensor 42 and the RFID sensor 43, but can be detected only by the RFID sensor 43. For example, the CPU 11 can constantly monitor the change (increase / decrease) in the tag ID acquired by the RFID sensor 43 described in the embodiment.

  The RFID sensor 43 has a function as a reading unit that reads the tag ID of the RFID recording paper and a function as an acquisition unit that acquires the user ID from the user ID card. May be provided separately to function as a reading unit.

  The present invention is not limited to the multi-function device described in the embodiment, but can be applied to other image forming apparatuses such as a printer and a copying machine.

10 ... MFP (MFP)
11 ... CPU
12 ... ROM
13 ... RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 14 ... Input / output buffer 15 ... Hard disk device 16 ... Operation display part 17 ... Automatic document feeder 17a ... Document feeding tray 17b ... Document discharge tray 18 ... Scanner part 18a ... Platen glass 19 ... User authentication part 20 ... Database management part DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21 ... Notification part 22 ... Timer part 23 ... Network I / F part 24 ... Bus 30 ... Printer part 31 ... Paper feed unit 32 ... Conveyance device 33 ... Photoconductor drum 34 ... Charging device 35 ... Laser unit 36 ... Developing device 37 ... Transfer device 38 ... Separation device 39 ... Cleaning device 40 ... Fixing device 41 (41a, 41b) ... Paper discharge tray 42 (42a, 42b) ... Detection sensor 43 (43a, 43b) ... RFID sensor 50 ... User database 60 ... History database M ... manuscript P ... recording paper (RFID recording paper)
R: Reading range S: Reading position

Claims (6)

An image forming unit that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording sheet with an RFID tag;
A paper discharge unit for discharging the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit;
A storage unit for storing tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed and job identification information of the image forming job in association with each other;
A reading unit that reads tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet present in the paper discharge unit;
A warning section for warning the user;
When the tag identification information read by the reading unit is reduced, the reading unit reads the tag identification information stored in the storage unit in association with the same job identification information as the reduced tag identification information. It is determined that the recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job of the job identification information is partially taken out and is in an abnormal state in which the paper discharge unit does not align with the job unit. A control unit that gives a warning by the warning unit,
An image forming apparatus comprising: An image forming unit that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording sheet with an RFID tag;
A paper discharge unit for discharging the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit;
A storage unit for storing tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed and job identification information of the image forming job in association with each other;
A reading unit that reads tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet present in the paper discharge unit;
A warning section for warning the user;
When the tag identification information read by the reading unit increases, the reading unit reads the tag identification information stored in the storage unit in association with the same job identification information as the increased tag identification information. The recording paper on which the image related to the image forming job of the job identification information is once taken out and returned, and is in an abnormal state in which the paper discharge unit does not align with the job unit. A control unit that issues a warning by the warning unit when it is determined;
An image forming apparatus comprising: An image forming unit that forms an image relating to an image forming job on a recording sheet with an RFID tag;
A plurality of paper discharge units selected as a discharge destination of the recording paper on which an image is formed by the image forming unit;
A storage unit for storing tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed and discharge unit information indicating a discharge unit of a discharge destination of the recording sheet in association with each other; ,
A reading unit that reads tag identification information of an RFID tag attached to a recording sheet existing in the paper discharge unit for each of the plurality of paper discharge units;
A warning section for warning the user;
The tag identification information read by the reading unit is compared with the tag identification information stored in the storage unit, and the recording paper discharged to the discharge unit of the discharge destination is once taken out to a different discharge unit. When it is determined that the abnormal state has been returned, the control unit that gives a warning by the warning unit,
An image forming apparatus comprising: A communication unit that communicates with a terminal device of a user who requests the image forming job;
The control unit, when a predetermined time elapses without eliminating the abnormal state that has occurred on the recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job requested by the user has been resolved, The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the abnormal state is notified to the terminal device through the communication unit. An acquisition unit for acquiring user identification information from a user;
An informing unit for informing the user;
With
The control unit associates and stores user identification information of a user who has requested an image forming job and history information indicating that the abnormal state has occurred on a recording sheet on which an image related to the image forming job is formed. ,
5. When the user identification information is acquired by the acquisition unit, if the history information is stored in association with the user identification information, notification is performed by the notification unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. An acquisition unit for acquiring user identification information from a user;
The control unit identifies the user based on the user identification information acquired by the acquisition unit, and sets the abnormal state on the recording paper on which an image related to the image forming job requested by the user is formed. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the occurrence notification is not performed when the occurrence is generated.