Apparatus for forming images, method of managing loading of paper feed cassette in image forming apparatus, and copying machine

A method for managing loading of a paper feed cassette in an image forming apparatus, comprising steps of:

• forming an image;
• accommodating a paper on which the image is to be formed in a paper feed cassette;
• inputting an instruction for changing the size of the paper in conjunction with the paper feed cassette from an operation panel;
• loading/unloading the paper feed cassette on/from a cassette loading section;
• outputting from a sensor a signal indicative of loading/unloading of the paper feed cassette on/from the cassette loading section;
• and
• determining that the paper size change has been done appropriately by determining that the paper feed cassette accommodating the size of paper to be changed has been loaded within a first predetermined time period immediately before the instruction is inputted or within a second predetermined time period immediately after the instruction is inputted, and that an unloaded period of the cassette loading section is more than a third predetermined period.

An image forming apparatus comprising:

• an image forming unit for forming an image;
• a paper feed cassette for accommodating a paper on which the image is to be formed;
• an operation panel for inputting an instruction for changing the size of the paper in conjunction with the paper feed cassette;
• a cassette loading section configured to load/unload the paper feed cassette thereon/therefrom;
• a sensor outputting a signal indicative of loading/unloading of the respective paper feed cassette on/from the cassette loading section;
• and
• determination means for determining that the paper size change has been done appropriately by determining that the paper feed cassette accommodating the size of paper to be changed has been loaded within a first predetermined time period immediately before the instruction is inputted or within a second predetermined time period immediately after the instruction is inputted, and that an unloaded period of the cassette loading section is more than a third predetermined period.