JP2005335346A - Image forming device and monitoring method of replacement of consumable supplies of image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device and a monitoring method of replacement of consumable supplies of the image forming device which can suppress cost, ensure electrical quality, and monitor whether a consumable supply is replaced by an appropriate consumable supply. <P>SOLUTION: A NV-RAM 44 stores serial numbers including key codes representing a plurality of classification groups of a plurality of grouped consumable supplies and key codes imparted to used consumable supplies which have been replaced in the past. In accordance with a serial number input through operation of a panel 47, the key codes stored in the NV-RAM 44, and the serial numbers corresponding to used consumable supplies which have been replaced in the past, an ASIC 41 permits an image formation processing operation when an input serial number is determined to be a serial number unique to the new consumable supply and include one of the plurality of key codes. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that uses one or more replaceable consumables, and a consumable replacement monitoring method for the image forming apparatus.

  As is well known, the image forming apparatus can be replaced with a photoconductor unit having a photoconductor on which an electrostatic latent image is formed and a developing unit for supplying a developer (toner) to the photoconductor to form a toner image. It has one or more consumables.

  Since the life of a photoconductor unit is defined by the number of printed sheets, when the count value counted corresponding to the photoconductor unit in use reaches a predetermined number of prints, the photoconductor unit in use is a new one. Replaced with photoconductor unit.

  On the other hand, since the developing unit includes a detecting unit that detects the remaining amount of the filled toner, the result of detection by the detecting unit in the developing unit in use indicates, for example, a threshold value indicating the amount of printable toner. In this case, the developing unit in use is replaced with a new developing unit.

  In this case, it is preferable to use consumables such as the photosensitive unit and the developing unit that are recommended (or certified) by the manufacturer that manufactured the image forming apparatus.

  Therefore, it is necessary to monitor whether an approved consumable (for example, a photosensitive unit or a developing unit) is attached to the apparatus main body before the image forming processing operation. As a method for realizing this, a monitoring method disclosed in (Patent Document 1) is known.

  In this monitoring method, first, a recognition number is stored in a ROM (read only memory), and an identification number programmed in advance is stored in an on-board memory provided in the developing cartridge.

Next, when the developing cartridge is mounted on the duplicating apparatus, the identification number stored in the on-board memory of the developing cartridge is compared with the identification number stored in the ROM, and as a result of the comparison, the identification number If there is no identification number that matches, the printer operation is suppressed (prohibited). On the other hand, if there is a recognition number that matches the identification number, the printer operation is permitted. This prevents the use of cartridges that are not certified.
JP-A-2-296259

  However, in the monitoring method disclosed in the above (Patent Document 1), it is necessary to mount a memory on a replaceable cartridge, which causes a large cost burden such as a memory and an electrical connection member. There is a possibility that a device to which a memory and a cartridge are mounted due to static electricity at the target connection portion may break down. In addition, in the apparatus, there is a problem that the quality of electrical connection due to adhesion of volatile components from oil or the like to the electrical connection portion is not guaranteed.

Therefore, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus and a consumables replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus that can reduce costs, ensure electrical quality, and monitor whether the consumables are replaced with appropriate consumables. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to solve this problem, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that requires replacement of one or more consumables, and indicates information indicating a plurality of classification groups in which a plurality of consumables are grouped. First storage means for storing in advance, and second storage means for storing unique identification information including information indicating a classification group that is unique to the consumable product and is assigned to a used consumable product that has been exchanged in the past. The acquisition means for acquiring the unique identification information given to the new consumable item replaced in place of the consumable item to be replaced, and the storage contents of the first storage means and the second storage means And the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means is the only information for the new consumable item and includes information indicating one classification group among the plurality of classification groups. Is obtained by a configuration in which a control means for controlling so as to allow the image forming process operation.

  In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the control means determines whether or not the unique identification information stored in the second storage means matches the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means. When the first determination means and the first determination means determine that there is no matching unique identification information, a plurality of classification groups stored in the first storage means are selected. A second determination for determining whether or not there is information that matches the information indicating the classification group to which the new consumable item included in the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition unit belongs And the second determination means determine that there is information indicating a matching classification group, the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means is changed to the second identification information. Stores in the storage unit, and a processing means for controlling so as to allow the image forming process operation.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the control means indicates a classification group that is matched by the first determination means when it is determined that matching unique identification information exists, or by the second determination means. If it is determined that no information exists, control is performed to prohibit the image forming processing operation.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the unique identification information including information indicating the classification group is partly or entirely encrypted, and the control means is a unique partly or entirely encrypted part. The identification information is decrypted, and predetermined processing is performed based on the decrypted unique identification information.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the unique identification information including information indicating the classification group is encrypted with the information indicating the classification group, and the control means indicates the encrypted classification group. Information is decoded according to a predetermined calculation method to calculate information indicating the original classification group, and predetermined processing is performed based on unique identification information including information indicating the original classification group obtained by the calculation I do.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, an operation panel as input means is further provided, and the acquisition means acquires the unique identification information input by operating the operation panel.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the computer is connected to a computer via a communication line and communicates with the computer connected to a local or network, and the acquisition means is received via the communication line. The unique identification information from the computer is acquired.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the unique identification information is expressed by a barcode, and the acquisition means acquires the unique identification information by reading the barcode.

  In order to solve this problem, a consumable item replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus according to the present invention is a consumable item replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus that requires replacement of one or more consumable items. A first storage step for storing in advance information indicating a plurality of classification groups in which consumables are grouped, and information indicating a unique classification group assigned to the used consumables exchanged in the past and to which the consumables belong A second storage step for storing the unique identification information including the input, an input step for inputting the unique identification information given to the new consumable item replaced in place of the consumable item to be replaced, and the first step Based on the stored contents stored in the storage step and the second storage step, the unique identification information input in the input step is the only information for the new consumable item. And when determining that contains information indicating one classification group of the plurality of classification groups is obtained by a configuration in which a control step of controlling so as to allow the image forming process operation.

  In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the control step determines whether or not the unique identification information stored in the second storage step matches the unique identification information acquired in the acquisition step. When it is determined that there is no unique identification information that matches in the first determination step and the first determination step, the plurality of classification groups stored in the first storage step are determined. Second determination for determining whether or not there is information that matches the information indicating the classification group to which the new consumable item included in the unique identification information acquired in the acquisition step belongs. If it is determined that there is information indicating a matching classification group in the step and the second determination step, the information is acquired in the acquisition step. Controls to store processed unique identification information by said second storing step is performed with, and a processing step of controlling so as to allow the image forming process operation.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the control step indicates a classification group that matches when the unique identification information is determined to be present by the first determination step or by the second determination step. If it is determined that the information does not exist, it further includes a step of controlling to prohibit the image forming processing operation.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the control step controls to prohibit the image forming processing operation when it is determined that the matching unique identification information exists in the first determination step. It further includes a step of notifying that the unique identification information input in the input step is an error.

  In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the control step controls to prohibit the image forming processing operation when it is determined by the second determination step that information indicating a matching classification group does not exist. The method further includes a step of notifying that the replaced new consumable is an incorrect consumable type.

  According to the present invention, only when the authorized proper consumable is exchanged for the consumable to be replaced and the unique identification information given to the proper consumable is acquired, the image forming processing operation is permitted. As a result, it is not necessary to provide a memory for consumables as in the prior art, which can reduce costs, ensure electrical quality, and monitor whether the appropriate consumables have been replaced. Effects can be obtained.

  Further, according to the present invention, when an unqualified inappropriate consumable is exchanged for a consumable to be replaced, and the unique identification information given to the inappropriate consumable is acquired, an image forming process is performed. Since the operation is prohibited, it is not necessary to provide a memory for the consumables as in the past, so that the cost can be suppressed and the electrical quality is guaranteed, and whether the consumables are replaced with the proper consumables is monitored. An effective effect is obtained.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, since part or all of the unique identification information including information indicating the classification group is encrypted, the unique identification information is not illegally used and the cost can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to obtain an effective effect of ensuring electric quality and monitoring whether or not the consumable has been replaced.

  Further, according to the present invention, based on the unique identification information input by operating the operation panel and the storage contents of the first storage means and the second storage means, the consumable to be replaced can be substituted. Since it is determined whether the new consumables that have been replaced are certified proper consumables, it is possible to input the unique identification information by operating the operation panel. There is no need to provide a memory, so that the cost can be reduced, the electrical quality is ensured, and it is possible to monitor whether the consumable has been replaced with an appropriate consumable.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the consumable to be replaced is determined based on the unique identification information transmitted from a computer connected to the local or network and the storage contents of the first storage means and the second storage means. Instead of determining whether a new consumable that has been replaced and replaced is an authorized and proper consumable, operating a local or network computer to enter unique identification information It is possible to eliminate the need for a memory for consumables as in the past, which can reduce costs, ensure electrical quality, and monitor whether the consumables have been replaced with appropriate consumables. Effects can be obtained.

  Further, according to the present invention, the unique identification information expressed by the barcode is read by the image reading device, and based on the read unique identification information and the stored contents of the first storage means and the second storage means. Therefore, it is easy to input accurate unique identification information because it is determined whether or not a new consumable that has been replaced in place of the consumable to be replaced is an authorized and proper consumable. It is not necessary to provide a memory for consumables as in the past, and it is possible to reduce costs, ensure electrical quality, and monitor whether the consumables have been replaced with appropriate consumables. Is obtained.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the unique identification information matches the unique identification information given to the consumables exchanged in the past, the image forming processing operation is prohibited and an error is notified. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of unapproved inappropriate consumables, and even if the authorized proper consumables are replaced, the proper identification An effective effect of preventing the consumable from becoming unusable can be obtained.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, information that indicates the classification group included in the unique identification information given to the new consumable item does not exist in the information indicating the plurality of classification groups stored in advance. In this case, the image forming processing operation is prohibited, and the fact that it is an incorrect consumable product type can be notified, so that unauthorized use of unapproved inappropriate consumables can be prevented, Even if the authorized proper consumable item is replaced, it is possible to prevent the proper consumable item from becoming unusable due to an input error of the unique identification information.

  The invention described in claim 1 of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that requires replacement of one or more consumables, and stores in advance information indicating a plurality of classification groups in which a plurality of consumables are grouped. A first storage means, a second storage means for storing unique identification information including information indicating a classification group to which a consumable item that is unique and assigned to a used consumable item that has been exchanged in the past, Acquired by the acquisition means based on the acquisition means for acquiring the unique identification information given to the new consumable item replaced in place of the consumable item, and the first storage means and the second storage means The image forming processing operation is permitted when it is determined that the identified unique identification information is the only information for the new consumable item and includes information indicating one classification group among a plurality of classification groups. As much as possible An image forming apparatus having a control means for performing image formation only when an authorized proper consumable is exchanged for a consumable to be replaced, and unique identification information given to the proper consumable is acquired. Since the processing operation is permitted, it is not necessary to provide a memory for the consumables as in the conventional case, the cost can be reduced, the electrical quality is guaranteed, and whether the consumables are replaced with proper consumables is monitored. It has the effect of being able to.

  The invention according to claim 2 of the present invention is the invention according to claim 1, wherein the control means includes the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means in the unique identification information stored by the second storage means. When the first determination means determines that there is no matching unique identification information by the first determination means, the first storage means stores it. Whether there is information that matches the information indicating the classification group to which the new consumable item included in the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means exists among the information indicating the plurality of classification groups If the second determination unit determines that the information indicating the matching classification group exists by the second determination unit, the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition unit is stored in the second storage. And an image forming apparatus that includes a processing unit that controls the image forming processing operation to be permitted. The authorized proper consumable is replaced with a consumable to be replaced, and the proper Only when the unique identification information given to the consumables is acquired, the image forming processing operation is controlled to be permitted. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a memory for the consumables as in the conventional case, and the cost can be reduced. In addition, the electric quality can be ensured, and it can be monitored whether or not the consumable has been replaced.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect of the present invention, the control means determines that the unique identification information that coincides exists by the first determination means, or the second determination means When it is determined by the determination means that there is no information indicating a matching classification group, the image forming apparatus is controlled to prohibit the image forming processing operation, and an unqualified inappropriate consumable item is subject to replacement. If the unique identification information assigned to the inappropriate consumable is acquired, the image forming processing operation is prohibited. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a memory for the consumable as before. There is no problem, the cost can be suppressed, the electrical quality is ensured, and it can be monitored whether or not the consumable has been replaced.

  The invention according to claim 4 of the present invention is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a part or all of the unique identification information including information indicating the classification group is encrypted. In addition, the control means is an image forming apparatus that decrypts part or all of the encrypted unique identification information and performs a predetermined process based on the decrypted unique identification information. Part or all of the unique identification information including the ID is encrypted, so that the unique identification information is not illegally used, the cost can be suppressed, the electrical quality is guaranteed, and the proper It has the effect that it can be monitored whether or not it has been replaced with a consumable.

The invention according to claim 5 of the present invention is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the unique identification information including information indicating a classification group is obtained by encrypting information indicating the classification group. The control means decrypts the information indicating the encrypted classification group according to a predetermined calculation method, calculates the information indicating the original classification group, and obtains the element obtained by the calculation. This is an image forming apparatus that performs predetermined processing based on unique identification information including information indicating a classification group, and a part or all of the unique identification information including information indicating a classification group is encrypted. , It is possible to control costs without unauthorized use of unique identification information, to ensure electrical quality, and to monitor whether the product has been replaced with an appropriate consumable A.

  The invention according to claim 6 of the present invention further comprises an operation panel as input means in the invention according to claim 1, and the acquisition means acquires the unique identification information input by operating the operation panel. The image forming apparatus is replaced with a consumable to be replaced based on the unique identification information input by operating the operation panel and the storage contents of the first storage means and the second storage means. Since it is determined whether or not a new consumable is an authorized proper consumable, the operation panel can be operated to enter unique identification information, and memory can be stored in the consumable as in the past. There is no need to provide it, and the cost can be suppressed, the electrical quality is ensured, and it can be monitored whether the consumable has been replaced.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the computer is connected to a computer via a communication line and communicates with a computer connected to a local or network. An image forming apparatus for acquiring unique identification information from a computer received via a communication line, the unique identification information transmitted from a computer connected to a local or network, a first storage unit, and a second storage device Based on the stored contents of the storage means, it is determined whether or not the new consumable that has been replaced in place of the consumable to be replaced is a certified proper consumable. It is possible to input unique identification information by operating a computer in the network, and there is no need to provide a memory for consumables as in the past. Has the effect that it is possible to monitor whether guarantees electrical quality it is possible to suppress the cost, and is replaced with a proper consumables.

  The invention according to claim 8 of the present invention is the image according to claim 1, wherein the unique identification information is expressed by a barcode, and the acquisition means acquires the unique identification information by reading the barcode. An image forming apparatus which is a reading apparatus, and the unique identification information expressed by a barcode is read by the image reading apparatus, and the read unique identification information and the stored contents of the first storage unit and the second storage unit Based on this, it is determined whether or not the new consumable that has been replaced in place of the consumable to be replaced is an authorized and proper consumable. It is easy, there is no need to provide memory for consumables as in the past, cost can be suppressed, electrical quality is guaranteed, and it can be monitored whether the consumables have been replaced with proper consumables. It has the effect of.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a consumable replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus that requires replacement of one or more consumables, wherein a plurality of classification groups each including a plurality of consumables are grouped. A first storage step for storing information to be stored in advance; and a second storage for storing unique identification information including information indicating a classification group that is unique to the consumable product and is assigned to a used consumable product that has been exchanged in the past. Stored in the step, the input step for inputting the unique identification information given to the new consumable item replaced in place of the consumable item to be replaced, and the first storage step and the second storage step, respectively. Based on the stored contents, the unique identification information input in the input step is the only information for the new consumable, and indicates one classification group among the plurality of classification groups. And a consumable item replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus including a control step for controlling the image forming processing operation to permit the image forming processing operation when it is determined that the information is included. Since the image forming processing operation is permitted only when the unique identification information given to the appropriate consumable item is acquired and replaced, it is not necessary to provide a memory for the consumable item as in the past. Costs can be suppressed, electrical quality is ensured, and whether or not a proper consumable has been replaced can be monitored.

  The invention described in claim 10 of the present invention is the invention described in claim 9, wherein the control step includes the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition step in the unique identification information stored by the second storage step. If it is determined by the first determination step that there is no unique identification information that matches, the first storage step stores the first determination step. Whether there is information that matches the information indicating the classification group to which the new consumable item included in the unique identification information acquired in the acquisition step exists among the information indicating the plurality of classification groups that have been set If it is determined that there is information indicating a matching classification group in the second determination step and the second determination step, the information is acquired in the acquisition step. A method for monitoring the replacement of consumables for an image forming apparatus, including controlling the unique identification information to be stored in the second storing step and controlling the image forming processing operation to be permitted. The image forming processing operation is permitted only when the appropriate consumable item is replaced with the consumable item to be replaced and the unique identification information given to the proper consumable item is acquired. Thus, there is no need to provide a memory for the consumables, so that the cost can be suppressed, the electrical quality is ensured, and it is possible to monitor whether the consumables have been replaced with proper consumables.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to the tenth aspect, when the control step determines that there is matching unique identification information in the first determination step, or the second step When the determination step determines that there is no information indicating a matching classification group, the method is a consumable replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus, further including a step of controlling to prohibit the image forming processing operation. Inappropriate consumables are replaced with consumables to be replaced, and when the unique identification information given to the inappropriate consumables is acquired, image forming processing operation is prohibited. There is no need to provide a memory for consumables as in the conventional case, cost can be suppressed, electrical quality is guaranteed, and it is monitored whether the consumable has been replaced with an appropriate consumable. It has the effect of kill.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to the tenth or eleventh aspect, when the control step determines that the unique identification information that coincides in the first determination step exists, the image is displayed. A method for monitoring the replacement of the image forming apparatus and further including a step of notifying that the unique identification information input in the input step is an error, and controlling the formation processing operation to be prohibited. If it matches the unique identification information given to the replaced consumable, the image forming processing operation is prohibited and an error is reported, so an inappropriate, unqualified consumable Can be prevented from being used illegally, and the proper consumables cannot be used due to incorrect input of the unique identification information, even though the proper authorized consumables have been replaced. An effect that it is possible to prevent the the ability.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to the tenth or eleventh aspect, when the control step determines that there is no information indicating a matching classification group in the second determination step. And a method for monitoring replacement of consumables in the image forming apparatus, further comprising a step of notifying that the image forming processing operation is prohibited and notifying that the replaced new consumable is the wrong consumable type. If the information indicating the classification group included in the unique identification information assigned to the consumable does not exist in the information indicating a plurality of classification groups stored in advance, the image forming processing operation is prohibited. In addition, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of improper consumables that have not been certified, and to notify that the product is the wrong consumable type. And despite the exchange proper consumable, an effect that it is possible to prevent the proper consumable is unusable by typo unique identification information.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to the drawings. Here, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In addition, since description here is the best form by which this invention is implemented, this invention is not limited to the said form.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a process cartridge in a state where a developing unit is mounted on a photosensitive unit, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the connection between the image forming apparatus and the computer, FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the encryption of the key code, and FIG. 6 is a process of the consumable item replacement processing operation. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the consumable item replacement processing operation.

  In FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 1 includes a paper feed cassette 2 that feeds paper at the bottom. The sheet feeding cassette 2 includes a sheet pressing plate 4 pressed by a pressing spring 3, a sheet feeding roller 5, and a friction separating member 6. The sheet pressing plate 4 presses the sheet against the sheet feeding roller 5, The uppermost sheet is separated between the sheet feeding roller 5 and the friction separating member 6 by the rotation of the sheet feeding roller 5, and the sheet is supplied at a predetermined timing.

  In FIG. 1, a pair of registration rollers 7 and a pinch roller 8 are pivotally supported on the downstream side in the sheet conveying direction by the rotation of the sheet feeding roller 5 rotating in the direction of arrow A. The rollers feed the paper supplied from the paper feed cassette 2 to a transfer position formed by the photosensitive drum 9 and the transfer roller 10 at a predetermined timing.

  The photosensitive drum 9 is made of a positively chargeable material, for example, an organic photoreceptor whose main component is a positively chargeable polycarbonate. Specifically, the photosensitive drum 9 has a predetermined thickness (for example, about 20 μm) in which a photoconductive resin is dispersed in polycarbonate on the outer periphery of a cylindrical sleeve made of aluminum, for example. It is composed of a hollow drum formed with a photoconductive layer, and is pivotally supported rotatably with the cylindrical sleeve grounded. Further, the photosensitive drum 9 is rotationally driven in the direction of arrow B in FIG.

  The charger 11 is composed of, for example, a positively-charged scorotron charger that generates corona discharge from a charging wire made of tungsten or the like.

  The laser scanner unit 12 includes a laser generator, a polygon mirror that is driven to rotate, a lens, and a reflection mirror to generate laser light for forming an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 9.

  A case 14 serving as a developing device housing is provided with a toner storage portion for storing toner as a positively chargeable non-magnetic one-component developer having electrical insulation. In addition, an agitator 15 is rotatably provided in the case 14, and a supply roller 16 and a developing roller 17 as a developer carrier are rotatably supported.

  Further, a layer thickness regulating blade 18 as a developer layer thickness regulating member having a thin plate-like elasticity for thinning the toner on the developing roller 17 is attached so as to contact the surface of the developing roller 17. . As a result, the toner is regulated to a predetermined layer thickness and used for development.

  Here, the developing roller 17 as a developer carrying member has a cylindrical base material formed of conductive urethane rubber containing conductive carbon fine particles on a cored bar formed of stainless steel or the like. The structure is provided, and a urethane resin coat layer is formed on the substrate. The developing roller 17 does not necessarily need to be made of a conductive urethane rubber, and may be made of a conductive silicone rubber.

  The transfer roller 10 is rotatably supported, and is made of a foamed elastic body having conductivity, such as silicone rubber or urethane rubber. In addition, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 9 is surely transferred onto the sheet by the voltage applied to the transfer roller 10.

  The fixing unit 19 is provided further downstream in the sheet conveyance direction from the registration roller 7 and the pinch roller 8 to the pressure contact portion between the photosensitive drum 9 and the transfer roller 10, and includes a heat roller 20 and a pressure roller 21. The toner image transferred onto the paper is pressed while being heated by the heat roller 20 and the pressure roller 21 to be fixed on the paper.

  A pair of transport rollers 22 and a paper discharge roller 23 for transporting paper are provided on the downstream side of the fixing unit 19 in the transport direction, and a paper discharge tray 24 is provided on the downstream side of the paper discharge rollers 23. ing.

  By the way, in the image forming apparatus 1, among the components described above, the agitator 15, the supply roller 16, the developing roller 17 and the layer thickness regulating blade 18 constitute a developing unit 13 a as shown in FIG. The photosensitive drum 9 forms a photosensitive unit 13b as shown in FIG. The developing unit 13a sends a signal indicating that the remaining amount of toner has decreased when the amount (remaining amount) of the charged toner has decreased to a predetermined amount.

  The developing unit 13a is detachably attached to the photosensitive unit 13b. The developing unit 13a is attached to the photosensitive unit 13b in the direction of arrow A in FIG. Such a process cartridge 13 is obtained. The process cartridge 13 is detachably attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 1.

  A mounting portion (not shown) in the apparatus main body where the process cartridge 13 is mounted detects whether or not the process cartridge 13, that is, the developing unit 13a and the photosensitive unit 13b are mounted.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, serial numbers labels 31 and 32 on which production serial numbers including encrypted key codes, so-called serial numbers are printed, are affixed to the developing unit 13a and the photosensitive unit 13b.

  Here, in this embodiment, the developing unit 13a and the photosensitive unit 13b correspond to consumables that need to be replaced with new units depending on the number of times of use.

  Next, the image forming process of the image forming apparatus 1 as described above will be described.

  First, when the surface of the photosensitive drum 9 is uniformly charged by the charger 11 and irradiated with laser light modulated according to image information from the laser scanner unit 12, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 9. It is formed. This electrostatic latent image is visualized with toner by the process cartridge 13, and the visible image formed on the photosensitive drum 9 is conveyed to the transfer position by the rotation of the photosensitive drum 9.

  At this transfer position, paper is supplied via the paper feed roller 5, registration roller 7 and pinch roller 8, so that the visible image formed on the photosensitive drum 9 is transferred by the transfer roller 10. The image is transferred to the paper by the bias. The toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 9 after the transfer is collected by the developing roller 17 in the developing unit 13a. This is a so-called cleaning simultaneous development system.

  The sheet on which the visible image is transferred in this manner is conveyed to the fixing unit 19 and is nipped and conveyed by the heat roller 20 and the pressure roller 21 of the fixing unit 19 so that the visible image on the sheet is pressurized. And heated and fixed on the paper. The paper is then discharged to a paper discharge tray 24 at the top of the image forming apparatus 1 by a pair of transport rollers 22 and paper discharge rollers 23. This completes the image forming operation.

  The use environment of the image forming apparatus that performs such image forming processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 shows the connection between the image forming apparatus and the computer, and shows the actual use environment of the image forming apparatus including the control device 40 for controlling the entire apparatus.

  The image forming apparatus 1 includes a control device 40, a USB controller 45, a Mac & Phy controller 46, a panel 47, a parallel interface (hereinafter referred to as a parallel I / F) 48, a USB interface (hereinafter referred to as a USB I / F) 49, and a network interface (hereinafter referred to as a network interface). Network I / F) 50.

  The control device 40 includes an ASIC (specific application IC) 41 in which a CPU (central processing unit) is incorporated, a RAM (temporary write / read memory) 42 that is temporarily stored mainly as a page memory during image development, control software, and the like. ROM (read only memory) 43 and NV-RAM 44 for storing counter values corresponding to the consumables.

  The NV-RAM (first storage means, second storage means) 44 stores key codes (details will be described later) corresponding to a plurality of consumables used in the image forming apparatus 1 in advance. And a serial number as unique identification information input by the user.

  In the NV-RAM 44, the time from when the ASIC 41 in the control device 40 receives a signal indicating that the remaining amount of toner from the developing unit 13a is low to the time when the remaining amount of printable toner (threshold) is reached. A pixel count value (limit value) is stored.

  Further, the NV-RAM 44 stores in advance data indicating the number of printed sheets corresponding to the photosensitive unit 13b whose life is defined by the number of printed sheets.

  The image forming apparatus 1 confirms the state of the image forming apparatus, sets the print density, the number of copies, and the like through a panel 47 as a user interface, and further includes a serial including an encrypted key code (which will be described later). A number can be entered.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a personal computer) 51 via a communication line, and is connected to the personal computer 51 via a parallel I / F 48 and a parallel cable 48A as a communication line. In addition to being connected, it is connected to the personal computer 51 via the USB I / F 49.

A USB controller 45 that performs USB communication control is provided between the USB I / F 49 and the ASIC 41, and the USB controller 45 and the ASIC 41 are connected by a PCI bus.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a personal computer 52 via a network I / F 50 and a network 53 as a communication line. A Mac & Phy controller 46 that performs network communication control is provided between the network I / F 50 and the ASIC 41. The Mac & Phy controller 46 and the ASIC 41 are connected by a PCI bus.

  In the image forming apparatus 1 having such a configuration, when the developing unit 13a is in a state where it reaches the end of its life, when the developing unit 13a sends a signal indicating that the remaining amount of toner is low to the control device 40, The ASIC 41 displays on the panel 47 that the amount of remaining toner is low based on a signal that the amount of remaining toner is low.

  When the image forming apparatus 1 and the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52 are connected via a communication line, the control device 40 that has received a signal indicating that the remaining amount of toner from the developing unit 13a has decreased. Then, the ASIC 41 requests the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52 to display that the remaining amount of toner is low.

  A display request to the effect that the toner remaining amount is low is input to the personal computer 51 via the parallel I / F 48 and the parallel cable 48A, or the personal computer 52 via the Mac & Phy controller 46, the network I / F 50 and the network 53. Is input.

  In this way, the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52 that has received the display request that the remaining amount of toner is low displays the fact that the remaining amount of toner is low on the display means such as a display, so that the user can replace it. It is urged to prepare the developing unit 13a.

  In the control device 40, the ASIC 41 starts pixel counting in proportion to the printing rate for printing after receiving a signal indicating that the remaining amount of toner is low, and stores the cumulative pixel count in the NV-RAM 44. Remember.

  In the control device 40, if the ASIC 41 reaches the limit value when the pixel count value, which is the total of the pixel counts started after receiving the signal indicating that the toner remaining amount is low, the development is performed. It is determined that the life of the unit 13a has ended, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 is stopped, the fact that the life of the developing unit 13a has ended with respect to the panel 47 and the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52, and a new developing unit Send and display a message that it should be exchanged.

  On the other hand, when the photosensitive unit 13b reaches the end of its life, in the image forming apparatus 1, the ASIC 41 stores the total number of printed sheets in the NV-RAM 44 and the value NV- The value indicating the prescribed number stored in the RAM 44 is compared.

  If the ASIC 41 determines that the number of printed sheets has reached the specified number of sheets, the ASIC 41 determines that the life of the photosensitive unit 13b has expired, and the image forming apparatus 1 similarly to the case of the developing unit 13a described above. Is stopped, and a message to the effect that the life of the photosensitive unit 13b is completed and to be replaced with a new photosensitive unit is sent to and displayed on the panel 47 and the personal computer 51 or 52.

  By the way, a detection signal indicating whether or not the process cartridge 13, that is, the developing unit 13a and the photosensitive unit 13b is mounted is sent to the control device 40 from a mounting portion (not shown) in the apparatus main body. Therefore, the control device 40 can determine whether or not the process cartridge 13 (the developing unit 13a and the photosensitive unit 13b) is mounted based on the detection signal.

  In this embodiment, the ASIC 41 implements the functions of the acquisition unit, the first determination unit, the second determination unit, and the processing unit described above by executing the processing procedure of the consumable item monitoring processing operation described later. It is like that.

  Next, the serial number including the encrypted key code described in the serial number sticker attached to each consumable such as the developing unit 13a and the photosensitive unit 13b will be described.

  The key code is information indicating a plurality of classification groups in which a plurality of consumables are grouped, and can be expressed by, for example, 16 kinds of numerical values from 0 to 15. In particular, the number of key codes is not limited to 16, but may be set as needed.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the key code “0” is affixed to the image forming apparatus 1 and the consumables among 16 types of 0 to 15. At this time, “0” is stored in the NV-RAM 44 of the image forming apparatus 1 as the key code of the allowed consumable item.

  The serial number of the consumable item is unique identification information including the key code (information indicating the classification group) as described above. The serial number may include the above-described key code “0” as it is in a specific digit, but in this embodiment, encryption is performed so that the key code is not easily guessed. ing.

  Next, an example of encrypting the serial number is shown in FIG. Here, as a precondition, there are 16 key code types, and the serial number is encrypted so that the key code “0” is calculated from the 16 types of key codes.

  In this example, a value obtained by dividing the addition value of the serial number portion and the adjustment numerical value by 16 is “0”. The adjustment numerical value is calculated by dividing the absolute value of the difference between “the sum of“ key code ”and“ 16 ”” and “16 residue values of the serial number” by 16.

  Next, consumables monitoring processing by the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 6, after the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on or after the print job is finished (step S1), the ASIC 41 reads the counter value corresponding to each consumable from the NV-RAM 44 (step S2), and NV -The use allowable value corresponding to each consumable stored in the RAM 44 is read, and the counter value is compared with the use allowable value (step S3).

  In step S3, if the counter value is less than the allowable use value and no other error has occurred, the ASIC 41 waits to prepare for the image forming processing operation (step S4). Exceeds the allowable usage value, it is determined that the life of the consumable has expired, and the messages “End of consumable life” and “Replacement of consumable” are displayed to the panel 47 and the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52. Are transmitted and displayed, and the image forming processing operation is stopped (step S5).

  Based on the messages “End of consumable life” and “Replacement of consumables” displayed in this way, the user replaces the consumable with the corresponding life and replaces a new consumable. . In addition, the user who has exchanged for a new consumable supplies the serial number assigned to the consumable by operating the panel 47, for example. This serial number is input from the panel 47 to the ASIC 41.

  Alternatively, the user can input the serial number by operating input means such as a keyboard of the personal computer 51. In this case, the serial number is input to the ASIC 41 via the USB cable 49A, the USB I / F 49, and the USB controller 45.

  Note that a detection signal indicating whether or not a consumable item is attached is sent to the control device 40 from the corresponding detachable portion of the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 1, so that a new consumable item is When it is mounted on the apparatus main body, a detection signal indicating that a consumable is mounted is sent to the control apparatus 40.

  In the control device 40, the ASIC 41 determines whether or not a new consumable item has been installed in place of the consumable item to be replaced, based on the detection signal from the mounting unit (not shown) in the apparatus main body ( Step S6).

  If the ASIC 41 determines in step S6 that it has not been replaced with a new consumable item, the ASIC 41 continues to stop the image forming processing operation (step S7), and determines that it has been replaced with a new consumable item. In this case, a message “consumable serial number input” is transmitted to the panel 47 and the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52 for display (step S8).

  Next, the ASIC 41 determines whether or not the serial number assigned to the new replaced consumable has been input (step S9). If it is determined that the serial number has not been input, the serial number is The image forming processing operation is kept stopped until it is input (step S10). On the other hand, if it is determined that the serial number has been input, the serial number stored in the NV-RAM 44 (consumed used in the past). The serial number of the product is read (step S11).

  The ASIC 41 compares the read serial number with the input serial number, determines whether there is a serial number that matches the input serial number (step S12), and is the same as the input serial number If the serial number is determined to exist, a message “inappropriate serial number” is sent to the panel 47 and the personal computer 51 or 52 for display (step S13) and used in the past. Until the serial number that has not been entered is input, the image forming processing operation is stopped.

  When the ASIC 41 determines that there is no serial number that matches the serial number input in step S12, as shown in FIG. 7, the ASIC 41 decodes the input serial number and calculates a key code, that is, a serial number portion. A value (key code) obtained by dividing the addition value of the adjustment value by 16 is calculated (step S14), and the key code stored in the NV-RAM 44 and allowed by the image forming apparatus 1 is read (step S15). Then, it is determined whether or not the read key code is identical to the calculated key code (step S16).

If the ASIC 41 determines in step S16 that there is no key code that matches the calculated key code in the read key code, a message “consumable model inappropriate” is displayed on the panel 47, Then, it is transmitted to the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52 for display (step S17), and the stopped state of the image forming processing operation is continued. As a result, even if the serial number is unique, it is determined that the replaced new consumable is a consumable that has not been recommended (or certified), and the consumable that has not been recommended (or certified) is illegal. Use can be prevented.

  On the other hand, the ASIC 41, which has determined that the key code that matches the calculated key code exists in the read key code in step S16, writes the input serial number in the NV-RAM 44 (step S18). Thereafter, it is determined that the replaced consumable item is a genuine new one, the counter value corresponding to the consumable item is cleared (step S19), and further, a standby is performed to prepare for the image forming processing operation (step S20).

  In the above-described embodiment, the serial number sticker is affixed to the consumables, and the serial number is input by operating the panel 47 and the personal computer 51 or the personal computer 52. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Without doing so, the following may be used.

  In other words, the serial number sticker expressed by the barcode corresponding to the serial number is affixed to the consumables, and if a new consumable is replaced with the consumable to be replaced, it is attached to the device body. A serial number sticker, that is, a bar code previously attached to a new consumable is read by an image reading device.

  Then, after a new consumable is actually mounted on the apparatus main body, the read barcode information is sent from the image reading apparatus to the control apparatus 40.

  Thus, it is possible to prevent a user from entering a serial number and to easily input a serial number.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the serial number (unique identification information) indicated on the serial number sticker attached to the new consumable item replaced in place of the consumable item to be replaced Is formed only when the serial number is not the serial number corresponding to the consumables exchanged in the past and includes one of 16 types of key codes classified in advance. Since the processing operation is permitted, unauthorized use of consumables other than the authorized proper consumables can be prevented.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not an appropriate consumable item has been replaced by attaching a serial number sticker cheaper than that of a memory to the consumable item and inputting the serial number. As a result, the cost can be reduced, the electrical quality can be ensured, and it can be monitored whether the consumable has been replaced.

  In particular, regarding the guarantee of electrical quality, there is no risk of failure of the image forming device or consumables due to static electricity because no electrical components such as memory are used for the consumables in order to monitor whether they are proper consumables. Can be avoided, and the occurrence of problems in the long-term connection of the electrical contact portions can be avoided.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, since a part of the serial number, that is, the key code is encrypted, unauthorized use of consumables of different types can be prevented.

The present invention makes it possible to determine whether a consumable item is a genuine or new consumable item without mounting an electric component such as a memory, etc., which suppresses an increase in cost and is a risk of failure due to static electricity or the like. And the effect of eliminating the risk of poor contact with time in the electrical connection portion, and can be applied to an image forming apparatus having a replaceable consumable, such as a printer, a copier, or a multifunction peripheral. .

1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a process cartridge in a state where the developing unit is mounted on the photosensitive unit. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a process cartridge in a state where a developing unit is mounted on a photosensitive unit. Diagram showing connection between image forming apparatus and computer Diagram explaining key code encryption Flow chart showing processing procedure of consumables replacement processing operation Flow chart showing processing procedure of consumables replacement processing operation

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 2 Paper feed cassette 3 Press spring 4 Paper press plate 5 Paper feed roller 6 Friction separation member 7 Registration roller 8 Pinch roller 9 Photosensitive drum 10 Transfer roller 11 Charger 12 Laser scanner unit 13 Process cartridge 13a Developing unit 13b Photosensitive Unit 14 Case 15 Agitator 16 Supply roller 17 Developing roller 18 Layer thickness regulating blade 19 Fixing unit 20 Heat roller 21 Pressure roller 22 Transport roller 23 Paper discharge roller 24 Paper output tray 31, 32 Serial number label 40 Controller 41 ASIC
42 RAM
43 ROM
44 NV-RAM
45 USB controller 46 Mac & Phy controller 47 Panel 48 Parallel I / F
48A parallel cable 49 USB I / F
49A USB cable 50 Network I / F
51,52 Personal computer 53 Network

Claims (13)

An image forming apparatus that requires replacement of one or more consumables,
First storage means for previously storing information indicating a plurality of classification groups in which a plurality of consumables are grouped;
Second storage means for storing unique identification information including information indicating a classification group to which the consumables belong and which are unique to the used consumables exchanged in the past;
An acquisition means for acquiring the unique identification information given to a new consumable replaced in place of the consumable to be replaced;
Based on the storage contents of the first storage means and the second storage means, the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means is the only information for the new consumable item, and the plurality of classification groups Control means for controlling to permit the image forming processing operation when it is determined that the information indicating one of the classification groups is included;
An image forming apparatus comprising: The control means includes
First determination means for determining whether or not the unique identification information stored by the second storage means is identical to the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means; If it is determined by the determining means that no matching unique identification information exists, it is acquired by the acquiring means in the information indicating a plurality of classification groups stored by the first storing means. Second determination means for determining whether or not there is a match with information indicating a classification group to which a new consumable item included in the unique identification information belongs;
When it is determined by the second determination means that there is information indicating a matching classification group, the unique identification information acquired by the acquisition means is stored in the second storage means and image formation is performed. Processing means for controlling to allow processing operations;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The control means includes
When it is determined by the first determination means that matching unique identification information exists, or when it is determined by the second determination means that information indicating a matching classification group does not exist, 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image forming processing is controlled to be prohibited. The unique identification information including information indicating the classification group is partly or entirely encrypted,
4. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit decrypts the part or all of the encrypted unique identification information and performs a predetermined process based on the decrypted unique identification information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The unique identification information including information indicating the classification group is encrypted with information indicating the classification group,
The control means decodes the information indicating the encrypted classification group according to a predetermined calculation method, calculates information indicating the original classification group, and obtains the original classification obtained by the calculation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein predetermined processing is performed based on unique identification information including information indicating a group. In addition to an operation panel as an input means,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the unique identification information input by operating the operation panel. It is connected to a computer via a communication line and communicates with the computer connected to a local or network,
The acquisition means includes
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unique identification information received from the computer via the communication line is acquired. The unique identification information is represented by a barcode,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit is an image reading apparatus that acquires the unique identification information by reading the barcode. A method for monitoring the replacement of consumables in an image forming apparatus that requires replacement of one or more consumables,
A first storage step for storing in advance information indicating a plurality of classification groups in which a plurality of consumables are grouped;
A second storage step of storing unique identification information including information indicating a classification group to which the consumable item is assigned and which is unique to the used consumable item replaced in the past;
An input step for inputting the unique identification information given to a new consumable item replaced in place of the consumable item to be replaced;
Based on the storage contents stored in each of the first storage step and the second storage step, the unique identification information input in the input step is unique information for the new consumable item, and the plurality A control step for controlling to permit the image forming processing operation when it is determined that the information includes one of the classification groups.
A consumables replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: The control step includes
A first determination step of determining whether or not there exists a unique identification information stored in the second storage step that matches the unique identification information acquired in the acquisition step;
If it is determined by the first determination step that matching unique identification information does not exist, information indicating a plurality of classification groups stored by the first storage step is included in the acquisition step. A second determination step of determining whether or not there is a match with information indicating a classification group to which a new consumable item included in the acquired unique identification information belongs;
When it is determined in the second determination step that information indicating a matching classification group exists, the storage processing by the second storage step is performed on the unique identification information acquired in the acquisition step. And a processing step for controlling the image forming processing operation to be permitted,
10. The consumable item replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: The control step includes
When it is determined by the first determination step that matching unique identification information exists, or when it is determined by the second determination step that information indicating a matching classification group does not exist, The consumables replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a step of controlling to prohibit the image forming processing operation. The control step includes
If it is determined in the first determination step that matching unique identification information exists, control is performed to prohibit the image forming processing operation, and the unique identification information input in the input step is an error. 12. The consumable item replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a step of notifying the effect. The control step includes
If it is determined by the second determination step that there is no information indicating a matching classification group, control is performed to prohibit the image forming processing operation, and the replaced new consumable is an incorrect consumable. 12. The consumables replacement monitoring method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a step of notifying that the type is the model.

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