JP5935596B2 - Image forming apparatus and abnormality detection program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an abnormality detection program for preventing unauthorized use of printed matter.

  In an office environment in recent years, an image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) is generally connected to a network and shared by a plurality of users.

  In an environment where an image forming apparatus is used in place of a plurality of users, a technology for allocating different paper discharge trays for each user and discharging the printed materials so that the printed materials printed by a plurality of users can be efficiently separated. Are known. The user can obtain only the printed matter printed by himself / herself by simply taking out the printed matter from the paper discharge tray assigned to him / her, without separating it from the printed matter printed by others. In connection with this, there is also known a technique for prompting the user to correctly return the original output tray to the original output tray if the user accidentally removes another person's printed material from the output tray assigned to the other person (for example, (See Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-068581 A

  However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when a user accidentally takes out another person's printed matter, it can be urged to return it correctly to the original paper discharge tray, but the user intentionally steals the other person's printed matter. I can't prevent it. For example, if a user removes another person's printed matter from another person's paper discharge tray, browses or copies it, and then correctly returns it to the original paper discharge tray, the user can easily view it without any obstacles or make unauthorized copying such as unauthorized copying. Can be used. This can be a problem when printing printed matter including confidential information.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and in an environment where a plurality of users share and use an image forming apparatus, an image that allows a user to determine that another user has illegally used a printed matter. It is an object to provide a forming apparatus and an abnormality detection program.

  The above object of the present invention is achieved by the following means.

  (1) A discharge unit that discharges a printed material printed based on a print job or a document that has been read by an automatic document feeder, and a detection that is attached to the discharge unit and detects the printed material or the document in the discharge unit A measurement unit that measures a time from when the printed matter or the document is taken out from the discharge unit to the return to the discharge unit based on detection by the detection unit, and a time measured by the measurement unit. An image forming apparatus comprising: a determination unit that determines an abnormality as compared with a reference time.

  (2) The image forming apparatus according to (1), further including a warning unit that issues a warning when the determination unit determines that there is an abnormality.

  (3) The image forming apparatus according to (1) or (2), further including a log recording unit that records the occurrence of an abnormality as a log when the determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred.

  (4) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the detection unit is also used to detect remaining paper.

  (5) In the determination unit, the detection by the detection unit is based on discharge of a new printed matter printed based on a new print job or discharge of a new document newly read by the automatic document feeder. If it is determined that there is a new printed matter or a new original, it is not judged abnormal, but if it is not a new printed matter or a new original, it is judged abnormal (1) The image forming apparatus according to any one of to (4).

  (6) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the detection unit is attached to a lower portion of the discharge unit, and detects the printed matter or the document on the upper side.

  (7) The detection unit according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the detection unit is attached to an upper portion of the discharge unit, and detects that an end portion of the printed matter or the document passes below. Image forming apparatus.

  (8) The detection unit according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein two detection units are attached along the direction in which the user takes out the printed matter or the document from the discharge unit in the discharge unit. Image forming apparatus.

  (9) The image forming apparatus according to (8), wherein the detection unit is attached to the discharge unit one by one at a portion where the printed matter or the original is discharged and stacked and a portion where the print is not stacked.

(10) at the discharge portion for discharging the document reading is performed by the printed printed and automatic document feeder based on the print job, a detection step of detecting the printed matter or the document, based on the detection by the detection step The measurement step for measuring the time from when the printed matter or the original is taken out from the discharge unit to the return to the discharge unit, and comparing the time measured by the measurement step with a reference time to determine an abnormality. An abnormality detection program for causing a computer to execute a determination step.

  (11) The abnormality detection program according to (10), further including a warning step for issuing a warning when it is determined that the determination step is abnormal.

  (12) The abnormality detection program according to (10) or (11), further including a log recording step of recording the occurrence of an abnormality as a log when the determination step determines an abnormality.

  (13) In the determination step, the detection in the detection step is based on discharge of a new printed matter printed based on a new print job or discharge of a new document newly read by the automatic document feeder. If it is determined that there is a new printed matter or a new original, it is not judged abnormal, but if it is not a new printed matter or a new original, it is judged abnormal (10) The abnormality detection program as described in any one of-(12).

  According to the present invention, based on the detection by the detection unit of the image forming apparatus, the time from when the printed matter or the document is taken out from the discharge unit to the return to the discharge unit is measured, and the measured time is compared with the reference time. Can be judged. Based on the result of the abnormality determination, by performing abnormality warning, log recording, taking a peripheral image at the time of abnormality determination, etc., it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the printed matter or the original by the user.

1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an MFP according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the MFP illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a schematic configuration of an MFP having one detection unit at a lower portion of a discharge unit. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. 3. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a schematic configuration of an MFP having two detection units at a lower portion of a discharge unit. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. 5. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a schematic configuration of an MFP having two detection units at the top of a discharge unit. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a schematic configuration of an MFP having two detection units at the top of a discharge unit. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. 9.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. In addition, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for convenience of explanation, and may be different from the actual ratios.

<First Embodiment>
A configuration of the MFP 100 according to the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an MFP according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the MFP shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the MFP 100 includes a control unit 110, an operation panel unit 120, a paper feeding unit 130, a printing unit 140, an image reading unit 150, a discharge unit 160, and a detection unit 170. The control unit 110, the operation panel unit 120, the paper feeding unit 130, the printing unit 140, the image reading unit 150, and the detection unit 170 are connected to each other via a bus 180 for exchanging signals.

  The control unit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 113, a hard disk 114, and a network interface 115.

  The CPU 111 performs control of each unit and various arithmetic processes according to a program. The ROM 112 stores various programs and various data. The RAM 113 temporarily stores programs and data as a work area. Hard disk 114 stores various programs and various data for controlling basic operations of MFP 100. The ROM 112 and the hard disk 114 store a program for executing the abnormality detection process according to the present invention.

  The network interface 115 is an interface for communicating with other devices via a network, and standards such as IPv4, IPv6, Ethernet (registered trademark), token ring, FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface) are used.

  The operation panel unit 120 includes elements such as a touch panel, a numeric keypad, a start button, and a stop button, and is used for displaying various information and inputting various instructions.

  The paper feeding unit 130 accommodates paper on which an image is formed. The paper feed unit 130 has a plurality of paper feed trays, and sends out the stored paper to the printing unit 140 one by one. Each of the plurality of paper feed trays stores sheets of different sizes or different directions.

  The printing unit 140 forms (prints) an image on a sheet using a known image forming process such as an electrophotographic process in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 110 based on a print job. The printing unit 140 discharges the paper on which image formation (printing) has been completed to the discharge unit 160 (in-body discharge unit Da).

  The image reading unit 150 includes an automatic document feeder (ADF: Auto Document Feeder) and a document reading device, and a document conveyed by the ADF is scanned by the document reading device. The document that has been scanned is discharged to the discharge unit 160 (ADF document discharge unit Db).

  The discharge unit 160 includes an in-body discharge unit Da that discharges printed matter printed based on a print job, and an ADF document discharge unit Db that discharges a document scanned by the image reading unit 150.

  The detection unit 170 detects the presence of a printed material. A detailed aspect of the detection unit 170 will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of an MFP having one detection unit below the discharge unit.

  In the first embodiment, the MFP 100 includes a detection unit 170 below the discharge unit 160. The detection unit 170 is a sensor that detects the presence of the printed material P1. In the present embodiment, the detection unit 170 is, for example, a reflection type optical sensor. As shown as sensor Sa1 in FIG. 3, the detection unit 170 is attached to the in-cylinder sheet discharge unit Da from which the printed material P1 printed based on the print job is discharged. The sensor Sa1 is attached to the lower part of the place where the discharged printed matter P1 is stacked, and indicates “ON” when the printed matter P1 exists above, and “OFF” when the printed matter P1 does not exist above. Is shown. When the sensor Sa1 receives a confirmation instruction from the control unit 110, the sensor Sa1 responds to the control unit 110 with either “ON” or “OFF” indicated by the sensor Sa1.

  MFP 100 may include components other than the above-described components, or may not include some of the above-described components.

  In the MFP 100 of the present embodiment configured as described above, it is detected as an abnormality that the printed matter P1 has been returned to the discharge unit 160 after a predetermined time has elapsed since it was taken out from the discharge unit 160.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. The algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 is stored as a program in the ROM 112 or the hard disk 114 of the MFP 100 and is executed by the CPU 111.

  The operation of MFP 100 will be described below with reference to FIG.

  Prior to the execution of the abnormality detection process, the MFP 100 performs printing based on a print job in accordance with a user instruction, and the printed material P1 is stacked on the discharge unit 160. Since the printed material P1 is loaded on the discharge unit 160, the sensor Sa1 indicates “ON”.

  First, in MFP 100, setting of an initial value for predetermined time T is accepted (step S101). The predetermined time T is used in this abnormality detection process to determine whether the mistaken printed matter P1 has been returned to the discharge unit 160 or whether the intentionally taken out printed matter P1 has been returned after being used. It is a parameter.

  Setting of the initial value of the predetermined time T is executed, for example, when an administrator of the MFP inputs to the operation panel unit 120 of the MFP. Here, the predetermined time T is an estimated value of the time until the printed matter P1 taken out by the user is confirmed, determined not to be his own, and returned to the discharge unit 160, for example, about 10 to 20 seconds. is there. The initial value of the predetermined time T once set is stored in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114, and is continuously used in the next abnormality detection process unless changed by an administrator or the like.

  Subsequently, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sa1 and determines whether or not it is “OFF” (step S102). As described above, in the initial state, the sensor Sa1 is “ON”. When the sensor Sa1 remains “ON” from the initial state (step S102: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the output of the sensor Sa1 until the sensor Sa1 is switched to “OFF”. When the sensor Sa1 is switched from “ON” to “OFF” (step S102: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the printed matter P1 has been taken out from the discharge unit 160. As a measurement unit, the CPU 111 starts timer measurement of elapsed time from the time when the printed matter P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160 (step S103).

  Next, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sa1 again, and determines whether it is “OFF” (step S104). As described above, since the printed matter P1 has been taken out in step S102, the sensor Sa1 is “OFF” when the processing in step S102 ends. If the sensor Sa1 remains “OFF” even when the process of step S104 is started (step S104: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the output of the sensor Sa1 until the sensor Sa1 is “ON”.

  When the sensor Sa1 is switched from “OFF” to “ON” (step S104: YES), that is, when the sensor Sa1 detects the input of the printed material P1, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S105. As a measurement unit, the CPU 111 confirms the elapsed time from the time when the elapsed time timer measurement is started in step S103 to the time when the sensor Sa1 detects the insertion of the printed material P1, and records it in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114. The CPU 111 compares the elapsed time recorded above with a predetermined time T set as an initial value, and determines whether or not the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T (step S105).

  When the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T (step S105: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the sensor Sa1 has detected that the user has mistakenly picked up the printed matter P1 and returned it within the predetermined time T. Judge that there is no. In this case, the CPU 111 resets the timer that measures the elapsed time (step S108), ends the abnormality detection process, and returns to the process of step S102.

  When the elapsed time is not within the predetermined time T (step S105: NO), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S106.

  The CPU 111 determines whether or not a new printed matter P1 based on a new print job has been output (step S106). Here, the CPU 111 checks the execution status and log of various functions of the MFP.

  When there is a new printed matter P1 output (step S106: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the detection by the sensor Sa1 is due to the new printed matter P1 output and that there is no abnormality. CPU111 resets the timer which measures elapsed time (step S108), complete | finishes an abnormality detection process, and returns to the process of step S102.

  When there is no output of the new printed matter P1 (step S106: NO), the CPU 111 determines that the detection by the sensor Sa1 is not due to the user's mistake or the output of the new printed matter P1, and thus is abnormal.

  When it is determined as abnormal, the CPU 111 displays a message or an image on the operation panel unit 120 or issues a voice message or an alarm sound from the operation panel unit 120 in order to notify the user that the abnormality has been detected. To give a warning (step S107). Further, the CPU 111 may record that the abnormality is detected in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114 as a log. Further, when detecting an abnormality, CPU 111 may capture a surrounding image with a camera provided in MFP 100. CPU111 resets the timer which measures elapsed time (step S108), and returns to the process of step S102.

  As described above, according to the MFP 100 of the first embodiment, based on the detection by the detection unit 170, the time from when the printed matter P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160 until it is returned to the discharge unit 160 is measured. An abnormality is determined by comparing the measured time with a predetermined time T. When the printed material P1 is returned within the predetermined time T, the MFP 100 simply assumes that the wrong printed material P1 is returned and does not determine that there is an abnormality. Therefore, an unnecessary abnormality warning for the user can be avoided. On the other hand, when the printed matter P1 is returned after the predetermined time T has elapsed, the MFP 100 can determine that the printed matter P1 has been returned after being intentionally taken out and used, and can determine that there is an abnormality. By outputting abnormality warnings, log records, peripheral captured images at the time of abnormality determination, etc. based on the abnormality determination result, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use in which the printed material P1 is seen by the user or illegally copied. be able to.

  When the MFP 100 determines that there is an abnormality, the MFP 100 warns the user by displaying a message or an image on the operation panel unit 120 or issuing a warning sound or a voice message from the operation panel unit 120. Accordingly, not only the corresponding user but also other users can understand the warning, and unauthorized use of the printed matter P1 can be suppressed.

  When the MFP 100 determines that an abnormality has occurred, the MFP 100 records the occurrence of the abnormality in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114 as a log. As a result, the administrator or the like can grasp the state of occurrence of the abnormality, and can take measures such as strengthening monitoring or implementing warnings as necessary. Therefore, unauthorized use of the printed material P1 can be suppressed.

  The detection unit 170 can use a reflection-type optical sensor that is also used to detect paper remaining. Therefore, MFP 100 that already includes such a sensor can execute this abnormality detection process simply by adding a program without attaching a new sensor.

  Even when the detection unit 170 detects that the sensor is “ON”, the MFP 100 determines whether the detection is a discharge of a new printed material P1 based on the print job. Therefore, when the detection unit 170 detects normal discharge of the printed matter P1, no abnormality warning or the like is performed.

  When MFP 100 determines that there is an abnormality, MFP 100 captures a surrounding image with a camera provided in MFP 100. As a result, it is possible to identify the user who was near the MFP when the abnormality occurred. By notifying photographing at the time of abnormality determination, unauthorized use of the printed matter P1 can be suppressed.

  Since one detection unit 170 is provided below the discharge unit 160, an abnormality such as unauthorized use of the printed matter P1 can be detected with a simple configuration.

  In the above description, the detection unit 170 is described as the sensor Sa1 of the in-body discharge unit Da, but may be a sensor Sb1 attached to the ADF document discharge unit Db shown in FIG. In this case, the object to be detected is replaced with the original C1 read by the image reading unit 150 from the printed matter P1 printed based on the print job. Further, the discharge unit 160 is replaced with the ADF document discharge unit Db from the in-body discharge unit Da. Further, in step S106, the CPU 111 checks whether or not the new document C1 newly read by the image reading unit 150 is discharged, instead of checking whether or not the new printed matter P1 is output based on the new print job. To determine if there is an abnormality.

  In this case, MFP 100 determines an abnormality by identifying a scene that is assumed that document C1 read by image reading unit 150 and discharged to ADF document discharge unit Db is intentionally taken out and used and then returned. This can prevent unauthorized use of the document C1.

Second Embodiment
FIG. 5 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of an MFP having two detection units below the discharge unit.

  In the following, description of portions overlapping with those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and description will be made focusing on portions different from those of the first embodiment.

  The configuration of MFP 100a and MFP 100b shown in FIG. 5 is different from the configuration of MFP 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 only in the configuration of detection unit 170, and the other configurations are the same.

  As illustrated in FIG. 5, the MFP 100 a and the MFP 100 b include a sensor Sa <b> 1 and a sensor Sa <b> 2 as a detection unit 170 below the discharge unit 160 (in-body discharge unit Da).

  The sensor Sa1 is attached to the lower part of the place where the discharged printed matter P1 is stacked, as in the first embodiment.

  The sensor Sa2 may be attached to the lower part of the place where the printed material P1 is stacked like the MFP 100a, or may be attached to the lower part of the place where the printed material P1 is not stacked like the MFP 100b.

  In both the MFP 100a and the MFP 100b, the sensor Sa1 and the sensor Sa2 are attached along the direction in which the user takes out the normal printed matter P1. The operations of the sensors Sa1 and Sa2 are the same as those of the sensor Sa1 in the first embodiment. When the printed material P1 exists above, “ON” is indicated, and when the printed material P1 does not exist above. Indicates “OFF”.

  In the MFP 100a and MFP 100b of the present embodiment configured as described above, it is detected as an abnormality that the printed matter P1 has been returned to the discharge unit 160 after a predetermined time has elapsed after being taken out from the discharge unit 160.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. The algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is stored as a program in ROM 112 or hard disk 114 of MFP 100a and MFP 100b, and is executed by CPU 111.

  Hereinafter, operations of the MFP 100a and the MFP 100b according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the operation of MFP 100a will be mainly described, and only the portion of MFP 100b that differs in operation from MFP 100a will be described.

  Similar to the first embodiment, prior to the execution of the abnormality detection process, the MFP 100a performs printing based on a print job in accordance with a user instruction, and the printed material P1 is stacked on the discharge unit 160. Since the printed matter P1 is loaded on the discharge unit 160, and both the sensor Sa1 and the sensor Sa2 have the printed matter P1 above, both indicate "ON". On the other hand, in the MFP 100b, the sensor Sa1 indicates “ON” because the printed material P1 exists above, and the sensor Sa2 indicates “OFF” because the printed material P1 does not exist above.

  First, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, the MFP 100a receives an initial value setting for a predetermined time T (step S201). The method for setting and using the predetermined time T is the same as step S101 in the first embodiment.

  Subsequently, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sa1 and determines whether or not it is “OFF” (step S202). As described above, in the initial state, the sensor Sa1 is “ON”. When the sensor Sa1 remains “ON” from the initial state (step S202: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the output of the sensor Sa1 until the sensor Sa1 is switched to “OFF”. When the sensor Sa1 is switched from “ON” to “OFF” (step S202: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the printed matter P1 has been taken out from the discharge unit 160 halfway, and proceeds to the processing of step S203.

  Next, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sa2 and determines whether or not it is “OFF” (step S203).

  In the MFP 100a, the sensor Sa2 is “ON” in the initial state. If the sensor Sa2 remains “ON” from the initial state (step S203: NO), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S204. Next, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sa1 again, and determines whether it is “ON” (step S204). As described above, the sensor Sa1 is “OFF” when the process of step S202 is completed. When the sensor Sa1 is switched from “OFF” to “ON” (step S204: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the printed matter P1 taken out partway is returned to the discharge unit 160, and returns to the process of step S202. When the sensor Sa1 remains “OFF” (step S204: NO), the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S203. When the sensor Sa <b> 2 is switched from “ON” to “OFF” (step S <b> 203: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the printed material P <b> 1 has been completely removed from the discharge unit 160.

  On the other hand, in the MFP 100b, the sensor Sa2 is “OFF” in the initial state. In step S203, when the sensor Sa2 is switched from “OFF” in the initial state to “ON” once and then switched to “OFF” again, it is determined as “step S203: YES”, otherwise “step S203: It is determined as “NO”. In the subsequent processing, the processing of MFP 100b is the same as the processing of MFP 100a.

  When it is determined in step S203 that the printed material P1 has been completely removed from the discharge unit 160, the CPU 111 starts measuring a timer of an elapsed time from when the printed material P1 is extracted from the discharge unit 160 as a measurement unit ( Step S205).

  Subsequently, the CPU 111 checks the outputs of the sensor Sa1 and the sensor Sa2, and determines which of them is “ON” (step S206). When both the sensor Sa1 and the sensor Sa2 remain “OFF” (step S206: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the outputs of the sensors Sa1 and Sa2 until either the sensor Sa1 or the sensor Sa2 is switched to “ON”. To do. When either the sensor Sa1 or the sensor Sa2 is switched to “ON” and the input of the printed material P1 is detected (step S206: YES), that is, when the sensor Sa1 detects the input of the printed material P1, the CPU 111 performs step S207. Proceed to the process.

  The CPU 111 determines whether the sensor Sa2 or the sensor Sa1 is first switched to “ON” in step S206 (step S207).

  In step S206, when the sensor Sa1 is first switched to “ON” (step S207: NO), that is, when the sensor Sa1 detects the input of the printed matter P1, the CPU 111 detects a new detection by the sensor Sa1. It is determined that there is no abnormality as a result of the output of the printed matter P1. In this case, the CPU 111 resets the timer for measuring the elapsed time (step S210), ends the abnormality detection process, and returns to the process of step S202.

  In step S206, when the sensor Sa2 is first switched to “ON” (step S207: YES), that is, when the sensor Sa2 detects the input of the printed material P1, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S208.

  As a measurement unit, the CPU 111 confirms the elapsed time from the time when the elapsed time timer measurement is started in step S205 to the time when the process of step S207 ends, and records it in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114. The CPU 111 compares the elapsed time recorded above with a predetermined time T set as an initial value, and determines whether or not the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T (step S208).

  When the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T (step S208: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the sensor Sa2 has detected that the user has mistakenly returned the printed material P1 and returned it within the predetermined time T. Judge that there is no. In this case, the CPU 111 resets the timer for measuring the elapsed time (step S210), ends the abnormality detection process, and returns to the process of step S202.

  If the elapsed time is not within the predetermined time T (step S208: NO), the CPU 111 determines that the detection by the sensor Sa2 is not an error due to a user's mistake or an output of a new printed matter P1, and thus is abnormal.

  If it is determined as abnormal, the CPU 111 performs a warning process similar to step S107 in the first embodiment (step S209). CPU111 resets the timer which measures elapsed time (step S210), and returns to the process of step S202.

  According to the MFP 100d of the second embodiment, in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. According to the MFP 100a and MFP 100b of the second embodiment, the printed matter P1 is detected by the two detection units 170 provided below the discharge unit. Therefore, the state of the printed matter P1 can be detected more finely than the case where there is one detection unit 170, and accurate abnormality detection can be performed.

  The MFP 100a and the MFP 100b can determine whether a new printed material P1 has been printed or the taken-out printed material P1 has been returned according to the order in which the two detection units 170 detect the printed material P1. Therefore, there is no need to check the execution states and logs of various functions of MFP 100a and MFP 100b in order to determine whether a new printed matter P1 has been printed.

  In the above description, the detection unit 170 has been described as the sensor Sa1 and the sensor Sa2 of the in-body discharge unit Da, but may be the sensor Sb1 and the sensor Sb2 attached to the ADF document discharge unit Db illustrated in FIG. In this case, the object to be detected is replaced from the printed material P1 printed based on the print job with the document C1 read using the ADF. Further, the discharge unit 160 is replaced with the ADF document discharge unit Db from the in-body discharge unit Da.

  In this case, the MFP 100a and the MFP 100b can more accurately determine an abnormality in the document C1 extracted from the ADF document discharge unit Db, and can effectively prevent unauthorized use of the document C1.

<Third Embodiment>
FIG. 7 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of an MFP having two detection units above the discharge unit.

  In the following, description of portions overlapping with the first and second embodiments will be omitted, and description will be made focusing on portions different from the first and second embodiments.

  The configuration of MFP 100c shown in FIG. 7 is different from the configuration of MFP 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 only in the configuration of detection unit 170, and the other configurations are the same.

  As illustrated in FIG. 7, the MFP 100 c includes, as the detection unit 170, a sensor Sc <b> 1 and a sensor Sc <b> 2 above the discharge unit 160 (in-body discharge unit Da).

  The sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 are sensors that detect an end (edge) of the printed matter P1, and in the present embodiment, are, for example, reflective optical sensors.

  The sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 are attached to the upper part of the place where the discharged printed matter P1 is stacked along the direction in which the user normally takes out the printed matter P1. The sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 detect the end of the printed matter P1 below the sensor Sc1, and indicate “ON” at the moment when the end of the printed matter P1 passes, and indicate “OFF” otherwise. That is, the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 detect the movement operation of the printed material P1.

  The sensors Sc1 and Sc2 detect the end of the printed matter P1, and in the state where a plurality of printed matter P1 is stacked on the discharge unit 160, a part of the printed matter P1 is taken out or the taken out printed matter P1 is taken. Even when is returned, the printed matter P1 can be detected.

  When receiving a confirmation instruction from the control unit 110, the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 respectively transmit “ON” or “OFF” signals indicated by the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 to the control unit 110.

  In the MFP 100c of the present embodiment configured as described above, it is detected as an abnormality that the printed matter P1 has been returned to the discharge unit 160 after a predetermined time has elapsed after being taken out from the discharge unit 160.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. The algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is stored as a program in the ROM 112 or the hard disk 114 of the MFP 100 c and executed by the CPU 111.

  The operation of the MFP 100c according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

  Similar to the first and second embodiments, prior to the execution of the abnormality detection process, the MFP 100c performs printing based on a print job according to a user instruction, and the printed matter P1 is stacked on the discharge unit 160. In this initial state, the printed matter P1 is loaded on the discharge unit 160, and the end of the printed matter P1 does not pass below the sensors Sc1 and Sc2. Therefore, both the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 indicate “OFF”.

  First, as in the first and second embodiments, the MFP 100c accepts the setting of the initial value for the predetermined time T (step S301). The method for setting and using the predetermined time T is the same as step S101 in the first embodiment.

  Subsequently, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sc1 and determines whether it is “ON” (step S302). As described above, the sensor Sc1 is “OFF” in the initial state. When the sensor Sc1 remains “OFF” from the initial state (step S302: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the output of the sensor Sc1 until the sensor Sc1 is switched from “OFF” to “ON”. When the sensor Sc1 is switched from “OFF” to “ON” and the movement operation of the printed material P1 is detected (step S302: YES), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S303. The sensor Sc1 returns to “OFF” after the end of the printed matter P1 passes.

  Next, the CPU 111 determines whether or not a new printed matter P1 based on a new print job has been output (step S303). Here, the CPU 111 checks the execution status and log of various functions of the MFP.

  When a new printed matter P1 is output (step S303: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the detection by the sensor Sc1 is due to the output of the new printed matter P1 and that there is no abnormality. In this case, the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S302.

  When there is no output of the new printed matter P1 (step S303: NO), the CPU 111 detects that the sensor Sc1 is not caused by the output of the new printed matter P1, and the printed matter P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160 halfway. Judging by the reason. In this case, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S304.

  Next, the CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sc2, and determines whether or not the output is "ON" (step S304).

  In MFP 100c, sensor Sc2 is “OFF” in the initial state. When the sensor Sc2 remains unchanged from the initial state and remains “OFF” (step S304: NO), the CPU 111 proceeds to step S305.

  The CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Sc1 again and determines whether it is “ON” (step S305). Here, the sensor Sc1 temporarily indicates “ON” due to the passage of the end of the printed matter P1 in step S302, and returns to “OFF” after the end of the printed matter P1 has passed. When the sensor Sc1 is switched from “OFF” to “ON” again (step S305: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the printed matter P1 taken out partway has been returned to its original state, and returns to the process of step S302. When the sensor Sc1 remains “OFF” (step S305: NO), the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S304.

  When the sensor Sc2 is switched from “OFF” to “ON” (step S304: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the printed matter P1 has been completely removed from the discharge unit 160, and proceeds to the process of step S306.

  As a measurement unit, the CPU 111 starts timer measurement of elapsed time from the time when the printed matter P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160 (step S306).

  Subsequently, the CPU 111 confirms the outputs of the sensors Sc1 and Sc2 and determines whether any of them is “ON” (step S307). When both the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 remain “OFF” (step S307: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the outputs of the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 until either the sensor Sc1 or the sensor Sc2 is switched to “ON”. To do. When either the sensor Sc1 or the sensor Sc2 is switched to “ON” and the movement operation of the printed material P1 is detected (step S307: YES), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S308.

  The CPU 111 determines whether the sensor Sc2 or the sensor Sc1 is first switched to “ON” in step S307 (step S308).

  In step S307, when the sensor Sc1 is first switched to “ON” (step S308: NO), that is, when the sensor Sc1 detects the movement operation of the printed matter P1, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S309. . Here, the detection by the sensor Sc1 is determined to be caused by the output of a new printed matter P1 or the removal of another printed matter P1 originally in the discharge unit 160.

  The CPU 111 confirms the outputs of the sensors Sc1 and Sc2 again, and determines which of them is “ON” (step S309). When both the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 remain “OFF” (step S309: NO), the CPU 111 monitors the outputs of the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 until either the sensor Sc1 or the sensor Sc2 is switched to “ON”. To do. When either the sensor Sc1 or the sensor Sc2 is switched to “ON” and the movement operation of the printed material P1 is detected (step S309: YES), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S310.

  The CPU 111 determines whether the sensor Sc2 or the sensor Sc1 is first switched to “ON” in step S309 (step S310).

  When the sensor Sc1 has been switched to “ON” first (step S310: NO), that is, when the sensor Sc1 detects the movement of the printed material P1, the CPU 111 detects another printed material P1 that has been picked up halfway. Is determined to have been restored. In this case, the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S307.

  If the sensor Sc2 has been switched to “ON” first (step S310: YES), that is, if the sensor Sc2 detects the movement operation of the printed matter P1, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S311.

  The CPU 111 determines whether or not a new printed matter P1 based on a new print job has been output (step S311). Here, the CPU 111 checks the execution status and log of various functions of the MFP.

  When there is a new printed matter P1 output (step S311: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the detection by the sensor Sc2 is caused by the new printed matter P1 output. In this case, the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S307 and continues the abnormality detection process.

  When there is no output of a new printed matter P1 (step S311: NO), the CPU 111 is caused by the fact that another printed matter P1 that has been detected halfway by the sensor Sc2 is completely removed from the discharge unit 160. to decide. In this case, the CPU 111 proceeds to step S312, resets the timer for measuring the elapsed time, and returns to the process of step S306. The CPU 111 starts timer measurement of elapsed time from the time when another printed matter P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160, and starts a new abnormality detection process after step S307.

  In step S307, when the sensor Sc2 is first switched to “ON” (step S308: YES), that is, when the sensor Sc2 detects the movement operation of the printed matter P1, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S313. . Here, it is determined that the detection by the sensor Sc2 is due to the return of the printed matter P1 taken out in step S304 to the discharge unit 160.

  As a measurement unit, the CPU 111 checks the elapsed time from the time when the elapsed time timer measurement is started in step S306 to the time when the process of step S308 ends, and records it in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114 (step S313). Further, the CPU 111 compares the elapsed time recorded above with a predetermined time T set as an initial value, and determines whether or not the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T.

  When the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T (step S313: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the sensor Sc2 has detected the moving operation due to the user making a mistake with the printed matter P1 and returning it within the predetermined time T. Judge that is not. In this case, the CPU 111 resets the timer that measures the elapsed time (step S315), ends the abnormality detection process, and returns to the process of step S302.

  If the elapsed time is not within the predetermined time T (step S313: NO), the CPU 111 does not detect the sensor Sc2 due to a user's mistake or output a new printed matter P1 or take out another printed matter P1. Judge as abnormal.

  If it is determined as abnormal, the CPU 111 performs a warning process similar to step S107 of the first embodiment (step S314). CPU111 resets the timer which measures elapsed time (step S315), and returns to the process of step S302.

  The MFP 100d according to the third embodiment has the following effects in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment. As described above, according to the MFP 100 c of the third embodiment, the movement operation of the printed material P <b> 1 is detected by the two detection units 170 provided on the upper portion of the discharge unit. Therefore, even when a part of the printed material P1 stacked on the discharge unit 160 is taken out and returned, it can be detected as an abnormality, and unauthorized use of a part of the printed material P1 can be suppressed.

  In the above description, the detection unit 170 has been described as the sensor Sc1 and the sensor Sc2 of the in-body discharge unit Da, but may be the sensor Sd1 and the sensor Sd2 attached to the ADF document discharge unit Db shown in FIG. In this case, the object to be detected is replaced from the printed material P1 printed based on the print job with the document C1 read using the ADF. Further, the discharge unit 160 is replaced with the ADF document discharge unit Db from the in-body discharge unit Da. Further, in step S303 and step S311, the CPU 111 confirms whether or not a new document C1 newly read by the image reading unit 150 is discharged, instead of confirming whether or not a new printed matter P1 is output based on a new print job. Check whether there is any abnormality.

  In this case, the MFP 100c can detect an abnormality even when a part of the document C1 read by the image reading unit 150 and loaded on the ADF document discharge unit Db is returned and returned, and a part of the document C1 is illegal. Use can be suppressed.

<Fourth embodiment>
FIG. 9 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of an MFP having two detection units at the top of the discharge unit.

  In the following, description of portions overlapping with the first to third embodiments will be omitted, and description will be made focusing on portions different from the first to third embodiments.

  The configuration of MFP 100d shown in FIG. 9 is different from the configuration of MFP 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 only in the configuration of detection unit 170, and the other configurations are the same.

  As illustrated in FIG. 9, the MFP 100 d includes, as the detection unit 170, a sensor Se <b> 1 and a sensor Se <b> 2 above the discharge unit 160 (in-body discharge unit Da).

  The sensor Se1 and the sensor Se2 are sensors that detect an end (edge) of the printed matter P1, and in the present embodiment, are, for example, reflective optical sensors.

  Similarly to the sensor Sc1 of the third embodiment, the sensor Se1 is attached to the upper part of the place where the discharged printed matter P1 is stacked, and the sensor Se2 is attached to the upper part of the place where the discharged printed matter P1 is not stacked.

  The sensor Se1 and the sensor Se2 are attached along the direction in which the user normally takes out the printed matter P1. The operations of the sensors Se1 and Se2 are the same as those of the sensors Sc1 and Sc2 in the third embodiment.

  In the MFP 100d of the present embodiment configured as described above, it is detected as an abnormality that the printed matter P1 has been returned to the discharge unit 160 after a predetermined time has elapsed after being taken out from the discharge unit 160.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of abnormality detection processing executed by the MFP of FIG. The algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is stored as a program in the ROM 112 or the hard disk 114 of the MFP 100 d and executed by the CPU 111.

  The operation of the MFP 100d according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

  First, in MFP 100d, settings of initial values for predetermined time T1 and predetermined time T2 are accepted (step S401). The predetermined time T2 is the same as the predetermined time T in the first to third embodiments. The predetermined time T1 is used to determine whether in the present abnormality detection process, the trailing end of the printed material P1 being picked up is detected, or whether it is detected that the printed material P1 that has been intentionally picked up is returned after being used. Is the parameter used for Here, the predetermined time T1 is an estimated value of the time taken from when the user starts taking out the printed matter P1 from the discharge unit 160 until it is completely taken out, for example, about 1 to 3 seconds. The setting method of the predetermined time T1 and the predetermined time T2 is the same as the setting method of the predetermined time T in step S101 of the first embodiment.

  Subsequently, the processing of step S402 to step S406 is the same as the processing of step S301 to step S306 of the third embodiment in which the sensors Sc1 and Sc2 are replaced with the sensors Se1 and Se2, respectively. Is omitted.

  The CPU 111 confirms the outputs of the sensors Sc1 and Sc2 and determines whether any of them is “ON” (step S407). When either the sensor Se1 or the sensor Se2 is switched to “ON” and the movement operation of the printed material P1 is detected (step S407: YES), the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S408.

  The CPU 111 determines whether the sensor Se2 or the sensor Se1 is first switched to “ON” in step S407 (step S408).

  If it is the sensor Se1 that has been switched to “ON” first in step S407 (step S408: NO), that is, if the sensor Se1 detects the movement operation of the printed matter P1, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S409. . Here, the detection by the sensor Se <b> 1 is determined to be due to the output of a new printed material P <b> 1 based on a new print job or the removal of another printed material P <b> 1 originally in the discharge unit 160.

  The CPU 111 confirms the output of the sensor Se2 again, and determines whether it is “ON” (step S409).

  If the sensor Se2 does not become “ON” within a certain time (step S409: NO), the CPU 111 detects that the detection by the sensor Se1 in step S407 is based on the output of a new printed matter P1 or another printed matter P1 that has been taken out halfway. Judged to be due to the return. In this case, the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S407 and continues the abnormality detection process.

  When the sensor Se2 is turned “ON” within a certain time (step S409: YES), the CPU 111 completely takes out another printed matter P1 that has been detected halfway by the sensor Se1 in step S407 from the discharge unit 160. Judging from the fact that In this case, the CPU 111 proceeds to step S410, resets the timer for measuring the elapsed time, and returns to the process of step S406. The CPU 111 starts timer measurement of elapsed time from the time when another printed matter P1 is completely removed from the discharge unit 160, and starts a new abnormality detection process after step S407.

  Next, when it is the sensor Se2 that has been switched to “ON” first in step S407 (step S408: YES), that is, when the sensor Se2 detects the movement operation of the printed matter P1, the CPU 111 executes step S411. Proceed to processing. Here, the detection by the sensor Se2 is determined to be caused by whether the printed matter P1 taken out in step S404 is returned to the discharge unit 160 or the trailing edge of the printed matter P1 being taken out is detected. .

  As a measurement unit, the CPU 111 checks the elapsed time from the time when the elapsed time timer measurement is started in step S406 to the time when the process of step S408 ends, and records it in the RAM 113 or the hard disk 114 (step S411). The CPU 111 compares the elapsed time recorded above with a predetermined time T1 set as an initial value, and determines whether or not the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T1.

  When the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T1 (step S411: YES), the CPU 111 is not abnormal as the sensor Se2 has detected the moving operation due to the detection of the trailing edge of the printed material P1 being taken out. Judge. In this case, the CPU 111 returns to the process of step S407 and continues the abnormality detection process.

  When the elapsed time is not within the predetermined time T1 (step S411: NO), the CPU 111 determines that the printed matter P1 extracted by the sensor Se2 is returned to the discharge unit 160. In this case, the CPU 111 proceeds to the process of step S412.

  The CPU 111 compares the elapsed time recorded in step S411 with the predetermined time T2 set as the initial value, and determines whether or not the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T2 (step S412).

  If the elapsed time is within the predetermined time T2 (step S412: YES), the CPU 111 determines that the sensor Se2 has detected the moving operation due to the user making a mistake in the printed matter P1 and returning it within the predetermined time T2. Judge that is not. In this case, the CPU 111 resets the timer that measures the elapsed time (step S414), ends the abnormality detection process, and returns to the process of step S402.

  If the elapsed time is not within the predetermined time T2 (step S412: NO), the CPU 111 detects that the sensor Se2 has made a mistake in the user or the rear end of the printed material P1 being taken out, the output of a new printed material P1, or another printed material P1. Since it is not due to removal, it is judged as abnormal.

  If it is determined as abnormal, the CPU 111 performs a warning process similar to step S107 of the first embodiment (step S413). CPU111 resets the timer which measures elapsed time (step S414), and returns to the process of step S402.

  According to the MFP 100d of the fourth embodiment, in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. According to the MFP 100d of the fourth embodiment, the printed matter P1 is detected by the two detection units 170 provided at the upper portion of the discharge unit 160 and the portion where the printed matter P1 is discharged and stacked and the portion where the printed matter P1 is not stacked. To do. After the printed material P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160, if the detection unit 170 of the stacked portion detects the printed material P1 and the detection unit 170 of the non-stacked portion does not detect the printed material P1, a new printed material P1 has been printed. It can be determined that the printed matter P1 taken out partway has been returned. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether a new printed matter P1 has been printed or the printed matter P1 that has been printed halfway has been returned without checking the execution states and logs of the various functions of the MFP 100d.

  Further, the MFP 100d measures the time from when the printed material P1 is taken out from the discharge unit 160 until the detection unit 170 of the portion where the printed material P1 is not stacked detects the printed material P1, and compares the measured time with a predetermined time T1. . As a result, it can be determined whether the trailing edge of the printed material P1 being picked up is detected or whether the picked-up printed material P1 has been returned.

  In the above description, the detection unit 170 has been described as the sensor Se1 and the sensor Se2 of the in-body discharge unit Da, but may be the sensor Sf1 and the sensor Sf2 attached to the ADF document discharge unit Db shown in FIG. In this case, the object to be detected is replaced from the printed material P1 printed based on the print job with the document C1 read using the ADF. Further, the discharge unit 160 is replaced with the ADF document discharge unit Db from the in-body discharge unit Da. In step S <b> 403, the CPU 111 confirms whether or not a new original C <b> 1 newly read by the image reading unit 150 is discharged, instead of confirming whether or not a new printed matter P <b> 1 is output based on a new print job. To determine if there is an abnormality.

  In this case, the MFP 100d is controlled not to determine that there is an abnormality when the trailing end is detected while the document C1 read by the image reading unit 150 and loaded on the ADF document discharge unit Db is being extracted. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress erroneously determining a normal case as abnormal.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the sensor Se2 is “ON” within a certain time in step S409 (step S409: YES), the CPU 111 resets the timer and returns to the process of step S406. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The process may return to step S407 without resetting the timer, and the abnormality detection process that has been performed may be continued. In this case, since the timer is not reset when another printed matter P1 is taken out after the printed matter P1 is first taken out, more strict abnormality detection processing can be performed.

  In the above-described embodiment, the two detection units 170 in the second to fourth embodiments are attached along the direction in which the user takes out the normal printed matter P1. In the above description, the direction is the same as the direction in which the printed material P1 is discharged. However, the direction is not limited to this. The direction in which the printed material P1 is discharged may be different from the direction in which the user normally takes out the printed material P1. Also in this case, the two detection units 170 are attached along the direction in which the user takes out the normal printed matter P1.

  The abnormality detection process according to the present invention can be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit for executing each of the above procedures, or by a CPU executing a program describing each of the above procedures. When the present invention is realized by the latter, the program for operating the abnormality detection process may be provided by a computer-readable recording medium such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk or a CD-ROM, or a network such as the Internet. May be provided online. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is usually transferred and stored in a ROM, a hard disk or the like. Further, this program may be provided as, for example, a single application software, or may be incorporated in the software of the apparatus as one function of the image forming apparatus.

100 MFP,
110 control unit,
111 CPU,
112 ROM,
113 RAM,
114 hard disk,
115 network interface,
120 operation panel section,
130 paper feeder,
140 printing section,
150 image reading unit,
160 discharge section,
170 detector,
180 buses.

Claims (13)

A discharge unit for discharging a printed matter printed based on a print job or a document read by an automatic document feeder;
A detection unit that is attached to the discharge unit and detects the printed matter or the document in the discharge unit;
Based on detection by the detection unit, a measurement unit that measures a time from when the printed matter or the document is taken out from the discharge unit to when it is returned to the discharge unit;
A determination unit that determines an abnormality by comparing the time measured by the measurement unit with a reference time;
An image forming apparatus.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a warning unit that issues a warning when the determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred.   3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a log recording unit configured to record the occurrence of an abnormality as a log when the determination unit determines that the abnormality is present.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is also used for detecting remaining paper.   The determination unit determines whether the detection by the detection unit is discharge of a new printed matter printed based on a new print job or discharge of a new document newly read by the automatic document feeder. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein a new printed matter or a new original is not judged to be abnormal, and a new printed matter or a new original is not judged to be abnormal. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is attached to a lower portion of the discharge unit and detects the printed matter or the document on the upper side.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is attached to an upper part of the discharge unit and detects that an end portion of the printed matter or the document passes below.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein two detection units are attached along the direction in which a user takes out the printed matter or the original from the discharge unit in the discharge unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the detection unit is attached to the discharge unit one by one at a portion where the printed matter or the original is discharged and stacked and a portion where the print is not stacked. A detection step of detecting the printed matter or the document in a discharge unit for discharging the printed matter printed based on the print job or the document read by the automatic document feeder;
Based on the detection by the detection step, a measuring step of the printed material or the document is to measure the time from when taken out from the discharge portion to be returned to the discharge unit,
A determination step of comparing the time measured in the measurement step with a reference time to determine an abnormality;
An anomaly detection program that runs a computer.   The abnormality detection program according to claim 10, further comprising a warning step for issuing a warning when it is determined that the determination step is abnormal.   The abnormality detection program according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a log recording step of recording an occurrence of an abnormality as a log when the determination step determines an abnormality.   The determination step determines whether the detection in the detection step is due to discharge of a new printed matter printed based on a new print job or discharge of a new document newly read by the automatic document feeder. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein it is determined that an abnormality is not detected when a new printed matter is discharged or a new original is discharged, and an abnormality is determined when a new printed matter or a new original is not discharged. The abnormality detection program according to any one of the above.

Images