JP2014238887A - Print processing apparatus, control method of print processing apparatus and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow print data containing a sheet type which is not present in a sheet information database of a printer to be printed by the printer.SOLUTION: A CPU 401 of a print processing apparatus 400 determines whether information on a sheet type designated by a printing job to be transmitted is registered in a sheet information database of the print processing apparatus 400 prior to transmission to a printer 100 (S104) and, if not registered, extracts information on a paper sheet similar to the information on the paper sheet designated by the printing job from the sheet information database of the print processing apparatus 400 (S105). Information depending on the printer 100 contained in the extracted information on the sheet type (printer depending information) is duplicated to the information on the sheet type designated by the printing job (S106), the information on the sheet type designated by the printing job to which the printer depending information has been duplicated is registered in a sheet information database of the printer 100 (S107), and the printing job is transmitted to the printer 100 (S115).

Description

  The present invention relates to a print processing apparatus, a control method for a print processing apparatus, and a program.

  In the POD (Print On Demand) market, various types of paper according to customer requirements are used as print media. Therefore, the current digital multifunction peripherals for the POD market use standard paper types that are commonly used, and user-defined paper types that allow users to make detailed settings such as paper basis weight / surface properties / shape. it can.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, regarding these available paper types, a first storage unit that stores paper types that are candidates for use in printing, and paper types that can actually be used in printing are stored. A second storage unit is provided. In addition, the printing apparatus includes notification means for notifying the user of the paper type stored in the first storage unit, and registration means for registering the paper type specified by the operation of the operation means by the user in the second storage unit. I have.

  On the other hand, in a digital multi-function peripheral for POD, POD can be connected by connecting to an image processing device capable of linkage with a workflow application that facilitates processing between each process from order receipt to delivery, printing accuracy, and high-speed image generation. Building the environment is the mainstream.

JP 2008-217562 A

  However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1 described above, there is no method for dealing with a wide variety of paper types in a form in which a high-performance print processing apparatus is connected to a digital multifunction peripheral. To do.

  In cooperation with the workflow application, the print processing apparatus includes a storage unit that stores information on a paper type that it supports. A workflow is formed by sharing this information among the processes, but the information in the storage unit that stores the paper type of the print processing apparatus and the information in the storage area that stores the paper type of the digital multifunction peripheral do not necessarily match. I don't mean. It is possible to specify on the workflow a paper type that exists only in the storage unit that stores the paper type of the print processing apparatus.

  However, when printing is actually performed by the digital multifunction peripheral, printing may not be executed because the designated paper type is a paper type that does not exist in the storage area for storing the paper type of the digital multifunction peripheral.

  In addition, the paper type included in the print instruction from the print processing apparatus exists in the storage area for storing the paper type of the digital multi-function peripheral. If it does not exist, the digital multifunction peripheral makes a paper request to the user.

  The print processing apparatus can perform image generation processing and print data transmission to a digital multifunction peripheral at high speed. For this reason, the digital multi-function peripheral often holds a plurality of print instructions from the print processing apparatus in addition to the print instruction currently being processed. In this case, the digital multi-function peripheral does not confirm the state of the paper feed source for the print instruction until the analysis of the print instruction is started. For this reason, the paper request to the user recognized in advance by the print processing apparatus is delayed. As a result, the downtime of the digital multi-function peripheral occurs while the user is replenishing paper to the paper supply source, reducing the overall productivity.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems. An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that allows a printing apparatus to print a print job including a paper type that does not exist in the paper information database of the printing apparatus.

  The present invention is a print processing apparatus that processes an input print job and transmits the processed print job to a printing apparatus, and includes a first sheet information database for registering sheet type information, and a print transmitted before being transmitted to the printing apparatus. First determination means for determining whether or not paper type information included in the job is registered in the first paper information database, and information on the paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted by the first determination means Is extracted from the first paper information database when the paper type information is similar to the paper type information specified in the print job to be transmitted. And paper type information specified by the print job to be transmitted, the information depending on the printing device included in the paper type information extracted by the extracting means Copying means for copying, and registration for registering in the second paper information database provided in the printing apparatus, information on the paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted, in which information dependent on the printing apparatus is copied by the copying means And a transmission means for transmitting a print job in which the information on the paper type registered in the second paper information database is designated to the printing apparatus.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to print print data including paper types that do not exist in the paper information database of the printing apparatus by the printing apparatus, and to construct a flexible printing system that can handle printing of various paper types. it can.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing system to which a printing processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a printing apparatus 100. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an MFP control unit 106. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a configuration of a 4D color MFP. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an initial screen in a standby mode displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107 of the MFP 100. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a common specification setting screen displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type management setting screen displayed on the LCD of the operation unit. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet type detail / edit screen displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the basic information of a paper. It is a figure which shows an example of printer dependence information. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type management setting screen of the print processing apparatus 400. FIG. 4 is a screen of a printer driver of the print processing apparatus 400. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type setting screen. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a new paper creation screen. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper information database that manages paper types included in the MFP processing unit 106 of the print processing apparatus 400 and the MFP 100. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing from print data reception to printing in the print processing apparatus 400; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state where printer-dependent information of basic paper is copied to user-set paper. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of registered paper type selection processing shown in S105 of FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating print job states of the print processing apparatus 400 and the MFP control unit 106. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an erasing process of paper type information registered in the paper information database of the resource management unit 112 of the print processing apparatus 400 and the MFP 100.

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

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a printing system to which a printing processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the printing system according to the present exemplary embodiment includes a host computer 300, a print processing apparatus 400, and a printing apparatus 100, which are connected via a cable 411 and a cable 412.

The host computer 300 functions as a supply source of print data (in this embodiment, it may be described as PDL data that can be interpreted by the print processing apparatus 400).
The print processing apparatus 400 processes a print job input from the host computer 300 and transmits it to the printing apparatus 100. Details will be described below.
The print processing apparatus 400 temporarily holds print data (PDL data) supplied from the host computer 300 via the cable 411 and the external interface 405 in the built-in hard disk (built-in HD) 404 via the HD controller 403. The PDL data held in the built-in HD 404 is temporarily held in the PDL buffer 407 via the CPU bus 413.

  The CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 analyzes the PDL data held in the PDL buffer 407, sequentially processes it in units of pages, and generates image data developed in the frame memory 408. The image data developed in the frame memory 408 is transferred to the printing apparatus 100 via the cable 412 and printed on a recording medium under the control of the CPU 401. Here, the cables 411 and 412 may be general-purpose cables such as a parallel cable, a SCSI cable, a serial cable, a network cable, or a dedicated cable.

  In addition, the CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 transmits image data to the printing apparatus 100 and also transmits print control information of the image data to the printing apparatus 100 via the cable 412. The printing apparatus 100 prints the received image data based on the print control information. The print control information is information for controlling the movement of the printing apparatus 100, and includes, for example, designation of a discharge tray for printed matter, designation of paper feed paper, and the like.

  The built-in HD 404 stores various parameter tables that are commonly handled, such as a font, a color profile, a gamma table, and a paper information database, in addition to the above-described print data storage. The print processing apparatus 400 can call these various parameter tables from the built-in HD 404 as necessary, and can update the various parameter tables by addition and correction.

The CPU 401 operates based on a control program stored in the ROM 402 and controls the functions of the print processing apparatus 400.
The built-in HD 404 has printed PDL data, an area for temporarily storing image data generated by expanding the PDL data, an area for storing font data, and the like, and is connected to the CPU bus 413 via the HD controller 403. Has been.

  The RAM 406 includes a PDL buffer 407 that is a buffer that temporarily stores PDL data received from the host computer 300, and a frame memory 408 that expands the PDL data and temporarily stores the expanded image data.

The printing apparatus 100 functions as a printer that outputs PDL data generated by the host computer 300, and also functions as a copying machine and a scanner that copy a document.
The print processing apparatus 400 acquires status information and the like of the printing apparatus 100 via the cable 412 and transmits it to the host computer 300, and controls the printing apparatus 100 based on the status information.

  By the way, it is also effective to configure the ROM 402 by, for example, a programmable memory (for example, EEPROM) so that a control program can be installed in the ROM 402 from the host computer 300 or the like. It is also effective to provide a recording medium composed of a memory medium such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk, CD-ROM, and its controller (driver), etc., and record the program on the recording medium in a computer-readable manner.

Hereinafter, the configuration of the printing apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG.
In this embodiment, the printing apparatus may be described as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral). The MFP includes a memory such as a hard disk capable of storing data of a plurality of jobs in its own apparatus, and has a copy function for printing scan data acquired from the scanner by a printer unit. The MFP also has a print function for printing PDL data output from an external device such as a computer. As described above, the MFP is an image forming apparatus having a plurality of functions. The MFP includes a full-color device and a monochrome device, and the full-color device often includes the configuration of the monochrome device in the basic part except for color processing and internal data. Therefore, in this application, full-color devices will be mainly described, and descriptions of monochrome devices will be added as needed.

  With regard to the configuration of this system, as described above, a single-function image forming apparatus having only a print function as well as a multi-function image forming apparatus (MFP) having a plurality of functions may be used. The single function type image forming apparatus is described as SFP (Single Function Peripheral). In addition, any type of image forming apparatus may be provided. In any case, any configuration capable of realizing the control of the present embodiment may be used.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the printing apparatus 100. Hereinafter, the printing apparatus 100 is referred to as an MFP 100.
In FIG. 2, an input image processing unit 101 reads an image such as a paper document and performs image processing on the read image data. The FAX unit 102 transmits and receives images using a telephone line typified by a facsimile. A NIC (Network Interface Card) unit 103 communicates image data and device information using a network.

  A dedicated interface unit (dedicated I / F unit) 104 exchanges information such as image data with an external device. A USB interface unit (USB I / F unit) 105 transmits / receives image data and the like to / from a USB device typified by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory (a kind of removable media).

The MFP control unit 106 plays a role of traffic control such as temporarily storing image data or determining a route according to the use of the MFP.
Next, the document management unit 111 includes a memory such as a hard disk capable of storing a plurality of image data. For example, an input image processing unit 101, a FAX unit 102, a NIC unit 103, a dedicated I / F unit 104, a USB I / F are mainly controlled by a control unit (such as a CPU of the MFP control unit 106) included in the image forming apparatus. The image data input via the unit 105 is stored in the document management unit 111. Further, the MFP control unit 106 reads out necessary image data from the document management unit 111, transfers it to an output unit such as the printer unit 113, and controls printing processing by the printer unit 113. Further, the MFP control unit 106 transfers the image data read from the document management unit 111 to an external device such as a computer or another image forming apparatus according to an instruction from the operator.

  The compression / decompression unit 110 compresses and stores the image data as necessary when storing the image data in the document management unit 111, while the original image data when reading the compressed and stored image data Stretch to. It is also known that compressed data such as JPEG, JBIG, ZIP is used when data passes through a network, and the compression / decompression unit 110 decompresses the data after the data enters the MFP.

  The resource management unit 112 stores various parameter tables that are handled in common, such as fonts, color profiles, gamma tables, and paper information databases, and can call them as necessary. Furthermore, the resource management unit 112 can store, modify, and update a new parameter table.

  When PDL data is input, the MFP control unit 106 performs RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing in the RIP unit 108, or performs image processing for printing in the output image processing unit 109 on an image to be printed. Control to do. Further, intermediate data and print ready data (bitmap data for printing and compressed data) are generated by the document management unit 111 under the control of the MFP control unit 106 as necessary. It can be stored again.

  The data processed for printing is sent to the printer unit 113 that performs image formation under the control of the MFP control unit 106. The sheet printed by the printer unit 113 is sent to the post-processing unit 114, where sheet sorting processing and sheet finishing processing are performed.

  Here, the MFP control unit 106 plays a role of smoothly flowing a job, and switches paths as follows according to how to use the MFP. However, although it is generally known that image data is stored as intermediate data as necessary, access other than the document management unit 111 serving as a start point and an end point is not described here. In addition, processing such as the compression / decompression unit 110 and post-processing unit 114 used as necessary or the MFP control unit 106 serving as the entire core is omitted, and is described so that an approximate flow can be understood.

Copy function: input image processing unit → output image processing unit → printer unit FAX transmission function: input image processing unit → FAX unit FAX reception function: FAX unit → output image processing unit → printer unit Network scan: input image processing unit → NIC unit Network printing: NIC unit → RIP unit → output image processing unit → printer unit Scan to external device: input image processing unit → dedicated I / F unit Printing from external device: dedicated I / F unit → output image processing unit → printer Scan to external memory: Input image processing unit → USB I / F unit Printing from external memory: USB I / F unit → RIP unit → Output image processing unit → Printer unit Box scan function: Input image processing unit → Output image Processing unit → Document management unit Box print function: Document management unit → Printer unit Box reception function: NIC unit → RIP unit → Output image Processing unit → Document management unit Box transmission function: Document management unit → NIC unit Preview function: Document management unit → operation unit In addition to the above, combinations with various functions such as an E-mail service and a Web server function are possible. I'll omit you here.

  Note that box scan, box print, box reception, or box transmission is a processing function of the MFP that involves writing and reading of data using the document management unit 111. The MFP control unit 106 divides the memory in the document management unit 111 for each job or for each user, temporarily stores data, and inputs / outputs data by combining the user ID and password.

  The operation unit 107 is for selecting and instructing the above-described various flows and functions. With the increase in the resolution of the display device of the operation unit 107, the image data in the document management unit 111 is previewed. If it is OK after confirmation, printing can also be performed. The operation unit 107 has a touch panel display including an LCD (liquid crystal display unit) and a transparent electrode attached thereon. The operation unit 107 displays various operation screens on the LCD according to the setting operation. In MFP 100, when a transparent electrode corresponding to a key displayed on the LCD is touched with a finger, this is detected and another operation screen is displayed in advance. LCD is an abbreviation for Liquid Crystal Display.

Next, the MFP control unit 106 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the MFP control unit 106.
As shown in FIG. 3, the MFP control unit 106 is roughly divided into four parts. That is, an input device management unit 201 that manages input devices, an input job control unit 202 that interprets input jobs, an output job control unit 203 that organizes job setting information, and an output device management unit 204 that assigns output devices. .

  The input device management unit 201 organizes input signals from each input unit of the MFP and determines a switching order. The input device management unit 201 includes an input device control unit 201a that controls input devices (such as 101 to 105 in FIG. 2). The input signal sent from the input device via each interface is data input from the outside of the MFP such as a scanned image signal scanned and PDL data from the network. Further, the input signal includes a signal processed inside the MFP such as reprinting of image data stored in the document management unit 111 and cooperation with the RIP unit 108 and the output image processing unit 109.

  The input job control unit 202 includes a protocol interpretation unit 202a and a job generation unit 202b. A series of operation requests sent from the input device control unit 201 are command signals called commands (protocols), and the protocol interpretation unit 202a interprets the outline of the operation requests and converts them into operation procedures that can be understood inside the MFP. To do. On the other hand, the job generation unit 202b generates various jobs such as a print job, a scan job, a PDL expansion job, and a fax reception job. The generated job is defined in each scenario such as what processing is performed inside the MFP and where the job is sent, and flows inside the MFP according to the scenario.

  The output job control unit 203 includes a job analysis unit 203a, a binder analysis unit 203b, a document analysis unit 203c, and a page analysis unit 203d, and stores job setting information (commonly called a job ticket) and image information. create.

  The job analysis unit 203a analyzes the details of setting information related to the entire job such as the name of the document to be printed, the number of copies to be printed, the designation of the output destination discharge tray, and the binder order of the job composed of a plurality of binders. The binder analysis unit 203b analyzes details of setting information related to the entire binder, such as the bookbinding method setting, the staple position, and the document order of the binder composed of a plurality of documents.

  The document analysis unit 203c analyzes details of setting information related to the entire document, such as the page order of a document composed of a plurality of pages, designation of double-sided printing, and addition of a cover or slip sheet. The page analysis unit 203d analyzes the details of the setting information regarding the entire setting page such as the image resolution and the image orientation (landscape / portrait) and calls the RIP unit 108 when PDL data is input. Rasterize processing is performed. In generating image information, page image information is generated by rasterization processing by the RIP unit 108. The page image information is compressed by the compression / decompression unit 110 and then stored in the document management unit 111 in association with the setting information.

  The output device management unit 204 includes a device allocation unit 204a and an output device control unit 204b. The image information stored in the document management unit 111 is decompressed by the compression / decompression unit 110 and read together with the associated setting information, and the setting information and the image information are sent to the output device management unit 204 as a pair. It is done.

  The device allocating unit 204a arbitrates device conflicts when a plurality of jobs are processed at the same time when allocating output devices based on the defined job scenarios. The output device control unit 204b schedules devices to be used (such as the printer unit 113 and the post-processing unit 114).

Next, the configuration of a 4D color MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) 4001 as an example of the printer unit 113 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a 4D color MFP.
As shown in FIG. 4, a 4D color MFP 4001 includes a scanner unit 4002, a laser exposure unit 4003, a photosensitive drum 4004, an image forming unit 4005, a fixing unit 4006, a paper feed / conveyance unit 4007, and a printer control that controls these units. Part 4008.

The scanner unit 4002 illuminates a document placed on a document table, optically reads a document image, converts the image into an electrical signal, and creates image data.
A laser exposure unit 4003 causes a light beam such as a laser beam modulated according to the image data to enter a rotating polygonal mirror (polygon mirror) that rotates at a constant angular velocity, and irradiates the photosensitive drum as reflected scanning light. Rotates the photosensitive drum 4004, charges it with a charger, and develops the latent image formed on the photosensitive drum by the laser exposure unit with toner. Then, the image forming unit 4005 transfers a toner image to a sheet, and a series of electrophotographic processes for collecting minute toner remaining on the photosensitive drum without being transferred at that time is performed by four developing units (developing stations). ). Four series of development units arranged in the order of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K) can produce magenta, yellow, and black after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of cyan station image formation. Image operations are executed sequentially. By this timing control, a full color toner image without color misregistration is transferred onto the sheet.

  The fixing unit 4006 includes a combination of a roller and a belt, and includes a heat source such as a halogen heater, and melts and fixes the toner on the sheet onto which the toner image has been transferred by the image forming unit using heat and pressure.

  The paper feed / conveyance unit 4007 has one or more sheet storages (a paper storage unit that stores paper and serves as a paper feed source) represented by a sheet cassette, a paper deck, and the like. A sheet feeding / conveying unit 4007 separates one sheet from a plurality of sheets stored in a sheet storage according to an instruction from the printer control unit 4008 and conveys the separated sheet to the image forming unit / fixing unit. A sheet feeding / conveying unit 4007 conveys a sheet, and a toner image of each color is transferred by the above-described developing station, so that a full-color toner image is finally formed on the sheet. Further, when forming an image on both sides of the sheet, the paper feed / conveyance unit controls the sheet that has passed through the fixing unit to pass through a conveyance path for conveying the sheet to the image forming unit again.

  The printer control unit 4008 communicates with the MFP control unit 106 that controls the entire MFP to control printing, while managing the states of the scanner, laser exposure, image forming, fixing, and paper feed / carrying units. Instruct the whole to operate smoothly in harmony.

  The sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 4006 passes through the image reading sensor unit on the conveyance path, and the image data printed by the image reading sensor unit is read. The read image data is used for the density measurement of the output image and the inspection for checking whether the output image is normal.

Hereinafter, screens displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107 of the MFP 100 are shown.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an initial screen in the standby mode displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107 of the MFP 100.
In FIG. 5, a copy tab 8001 is a tab key for transitioning to a copy operation operation screen. A transmission tab 8002 is a tab key for transitioning to an operation screen for instructing a transmission operation such as fax or E-mail transmission. A box tab 8003 is a tab key for transitioning to a screen for inputting / outputting a job to / from a box (storage area for storing the job). An option tab 8004 is a tab key for setting extended functions such as paper setting information and scanner settings. A system monitor key 8005 is a key for displaying the state and status of the MFP.

  A color selection setting key 8006 is a key for selecting color copy, monochrome copy, and automatic selection in advance. A magnification setting key 8007 is a key for transitioning to a screen for setting magnification such as equal magnification, enlargement, and reduction. A post-processing setting key 8008 is a key for transitioning to a screen for setting the presence / absence, number, position, etc. of staples and punches. A duplex setting key 8009 is a key for transitioning to a screen for selecting single-sided printing or double-sided printing.

  A paper size setting key 8010 is a key for transitioning to a screen for selecting a paper feed stage, paper size, and media type. An image mode setting key 8011 is a key for selecting an image mode suitable for a document image such as a character mode or a photo mode. A density setting key 8012 is a key for adjusting the output image to be darker or lighter.

  A status display unit 8013 is a display unit that performs simple status display such as a standby state, during warm-up, jam, and error. The magnification display unit 8014 displays the magnification set by the magnification setting key. A paper size display unit 8015 displays the paper size and mode set by the paper size setting key. A sheet number display unit 8016 displays the number of sheets designated by the numeric keypad, and displays what number is being printed during operation.

  An interrupt key 8017 is a key used when another job is interrupted during the copying operation. An application mode key 8018 is a key for changing to a screen for setting various image processing and layout such as page continuous shooting, cover / interleaf setting, reduced layout, and image movement.

  Reference numeral 8019 denotes a common specification setting key. When the common specification setting key 8019 is pressed (touch instruction), the LCD of the operation unit 107 shifts the display to a common specification setting screen as shown in FIG. Note that a hard key on the operation unit 107 may be provided instead of the common specification setting key 8019 (soft key) shown in FIG. Further, a plurality of screens may be passed before the common specification setting screen is displayed.

Next, a function for displaying the sheet type registered in MFP 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a common specification setting screen displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107.
When the paper type registration key 601 is selected (touch instruction) on the common specification setting screen of FIG. 6, the LCD of the operation unit 107 shifts the display to a paper type management setting screen as shown in FIG. Then, the LCD of the operation unit 107 displays a list of paper type information registered in the MFP 100 (paper information database in the resource management unit 112) on the paper type management setting screen (FIG. 7).

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type management setting screen displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107.
By selecting (touching) the copy button 702 on the paper type management setting screen of FIG. 7, the LCD of the operation unit 107 registers the paper type currently selected in the standard paper type list 700 with an alias. can do. By selecting (touching) the delete button 703, the LCD of the operation unit 107 deletes the registration of the paper type currently selected in the standard paper type list 700. When the detail / edit button 701 is selected (touch instruction), the LCD of the operation unit 107 shifts the display to a paper type detail / edit screen as shown in FIG. The details of the selected paper type. 8 is also displayed when the copy button 702 is selected (details will be described later).

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type details / editing screen displayed on the LCD of the operation unit 107.
In the paper type details / edit screen shown in FIG. 8, the paper type details include information including paper attribute information such as paper basis weight, surface properties, characteristics (shape), curl correction amount, and air flow adjustment of the paper handling fan. Is displayed. Each of these registration contents (setting contents) can be arbitrarily changed by the user by selecting a change button 801 located on the right side of FIG. The basis weight refers to the mass per unit area of the paper.

The paper type is composed of basic paper information shown in FIG. 9 and printer-dependent information shown in FIG.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of basic paper information.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of printer-dependent information.
As shown in FIG. 9, the basic information includes three elements: a feature (shape) 901, a surface property 902, and a basis weight 903.
As shown in FIG. 10, the printer-dependent information includes various adjustment values such as a curl correction amount and an air volume adjustment of a paper handling fan, and even if the paper has the same basic information, the printer-dependent information Adjustment values are different.

  Note that there are two types of paper type classifications: basic paper that each MFP supports as standard, and user-set paper that can be created by the user by duplicating information on already registered paper. As a method for creating the user setting paper, there are a method in which each item is edited after duplicating information on the basic paper, and a method in which each item is changed after duplicating information on other user setting paper.

Hereinafter, the creation of the user setting paper will be specifically described.
First, when the user selects a basic basic paper from the standard paper type list 700 in FIG. 7, selects the copy button 702, and inputs a paper name to be newly registered (for example, “custom-new-1”). A screen of 8 is displayed. The user can arbitrarily set detailed parameters of the paper such as the paper name, basis weight, surface property, and feature (shape) on the displayed screen of FIG. Here, a user setting sheet can be newly registered in the sheet information database in the resource management unit 112 by making a desired setting and selecting a close button 802. At this time, basic information (FIG. 9) and printer-dependent information (FIG. 10) are written on the registered user setting paper. The information in FIGS. 9 and 10 is information displayed on the operation unit 107 of the MFP and stored in the resource management unit 112 of the MFP.

  On the other hand, the print processing apparatus 400 also has a function of displaying, editing, duplicating, and erasing the paper type registered in the print processing apparatus 400 (paper information database in the built-in HD 404). In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, a function of importing and exporting in order to share a paper type with another print processing apparatus (not shown) is also provided.

  A function for displaying, erasing, duplicating, editing, and importing / exporting the paper type in order to share the paper type with other print processing devices will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type management setting screen of the print processing apparatus 400. Note that the print processing apparatus 400 has the function of an HTTP server, and when the HTTP server is accessed from the Web browser of the host computer 300, the screen of FIG. 11 is displayed on the Web browser. That is, the screen of FIG. 11 is displayed on the display unit (display) of the host computer 300.

  In FIG. 11, by selecting an erase button 1101, the paper type currently selected in the list 1100 is deleted from the print processing apparatus 400. By selecting the copy button 1102, the currently selected paper type is registered in the print processing apparatus 400 with another name. By selecting a paper editing button 1103, it is possible to edit paper attribute information such as basis weight, surface property, feature (shape), curl correction amount, and paper handling fan air volume adjustment of the currently selected paper. .

  By selecting the export 1105, all the paper types currently registered in the print processing apparatus 400 are archived. This archived paper type can be imported into another print processing apparatus. By selecting the import 1104, the paper type of another archived print processing apparatus can be added to the currently registered paper type.

Hereinafter, a method for setting a new paper type for a print job from a general printer driver of the print processing apparatus 400 will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.
FIG. 12 is a screen of the printer driver of the print processing apparatus 400. This screen is displayed on the display unit of the host computer 300 in which the printer driver of the print processing apparatus 400 is installed.

  First, “designate by paper type” 1201 is designated as a paper designation method by a pointing device of the host computer 300 or the like. Further, when the setting button 1202 is selected and instructed by a pointing device of the host computer 300 or the like, the paper type setting screen of FIG. 13 is displayed on the display unit of the host computer 300.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper type setting screen.
In the paper type setting screen shown in FIG. 13, not only the basic paper and user setting paper described above can be selected, but also a new paper creation screen as shown in FIG. It is displayed on the display unit of the computer 300.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a new paper creation screen.
The user can create a new paper type by inputting a name 1401, a surface property 1402, a feature (shape) 1403, and a basis weight 1404 and instructing an OK button 1405 on the screen of FIG. The created paper type information is stored in the external storage device (hard disk, solid state drive, etc.) of the host computer 300 as printer driver setting information.

When the host computer 300 is instructed to execute the job, the CPU of the host computer 300 adds the created paper type and transmits a print job from the printer driver to the print processing apparatus 400.
The print processing apparatus 400 registers the paper type information added to the print job in the paper information database in the built-in HD 404.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper information database that manages the paper types that the print processing apparatus 400 and the MFP control unit 106 of the MFP 100 have.
In FIG. 15, reference numeral 1501 denotes a paper information database (first paper information database) of the print processing apparatus 400, which is stored in the built-in HD 404 of the print processing apparatus 400. A sheet information database (second sheet information database) 1502 of the MFP control unit 106 is stored in the resource management unit 112 of the MFP 100.

  Both paper information databases (the paper information database 1501 of the print processing apparatus 400 and the paper information database 1502 of the MFP control unit 106) should basically have the same items. However, since the systems are different, not all items are necessarily included. It is not always the same.

  It is also desirable that both paper information databases 1501 and 1502 are synchronized. However, both the paper information databases 1501 and 1502 are not necessarily one as in the case where a new paper type is set for a print job on the printer driver that is going to send the print job to the print processing apparatus 400 described above. I'm not doing it. Further, there is a form that does not necessarily include the operation unit 107 in the MFP 100.

  However, in both the paper information databases 1501 and 1502, the printer-dependent information 1501a and 1502a are indispensable information for control when actually performing printing in the printer unit 113 of the MFP 100.

  For example, if an appropriate value is not set for the curl correction amount of the printer-dependent information, the paper is warped after the paper passes through the fixing unit of the MFP 100, and a paper jam occurs in the post-processing device (not shown). Will occur. When the post-processing device is not attached, the curl of the output paper is strong and the quality is not sufficient as a product. Similarly, when the air volume adjustment value of the paper handling fan in the printer-dependent information is not appropriate, double feeding of paper and paper jamming occur in the paper feeding device employing the air assist mechanism. In order to prevent such a problem from occurring, it is necessary to set the printer-dependent information to an appropriate value and transmit it to the printer unit 113.

  A processing method from when the print processing apparatus 400 receives a print job including a paper type that does not exist in the paper information database until printing is completed will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing from print data reception to printing in the print processing apparatus 400. Note that the processing of this flowchart is realized by the CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 executing a program recorded in the ROM 402 or the built-in HD 404 so as to be readable by a computer.

First, when the CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 receives print data from the host computer 300 connected to the network (S101), the process proceeds to S102.
In S <b> 102, the CPU 401 analyzes the print data received in S <b> 101 and generates print attribute information of a print job to be transmitted to the MFP 100. The print attribute information is information on post-processing options such as a paper source, paper type and size, color / monochrome, paper discharge destination, staple and punch. The CPU 401 sequentially performs analysis for generating image data from the first page.

Next, the CPU 401 expands the print data analyzed in S102 and generates image data for the print job.
Next, in S104, the CPU 401 registers in the paper information database 1501 (FIG. 15) held by the print processing apparatus 400 whether the paper type generated from the print job analyzed in S102 is new. It is determined whether it has been performed (first determination process).

If it is determined that the paper type generated from the print job is new (Yes in S104), the CPU 401 advances the process to S105.
In S <b> 105, the CPU 401 selects a paper type (similar paper type) that is similar in terms of basis weight, surface property, and the like from the registered paper types (S <b> 105). Details of the processing of S105 (registered paper type selection processing) will be described later with reference to FIG.

Further, the CPU 401 copies (copies) the printer-dependent information of the paper type selected in S105 to the printer-dependent information of the paper type generated as shown in FIG.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the printer-dependent information of the basic paper is copied to the user setting paper. As shown in FIG. 17, by copying the printer-dependent information of the basic paper onto the user-set paper, new paper type information including both basic information and printer-dependent information is prepared.

  Next, the CPU 401 instructs the MFP 100 to transmit the paper type information obtained by copying the printer-dependent information in S106 to the MFP 100 and register it in the paper information database 1502 of the MFP 100 (S107), and advances the process to S108. In MFP 100, the paper type information received from print processing apparatus 400 is registered in paper information database 1502 of MFP 100. As a result, the new paper type is registered in both paper information databases (the paper information database 1501 of the print processing apparatus 400 and the paper information database 1502 of the MFP control unit 106). In step S107, the CPU 401 also performs processing for registering the paper type information obtained by copying the printer-dependent information in step S106 in the paper information database 1501 of the print processing apparatus 400.

On the other hand, when it is determined in S104 that the generated paper type is existing (not new) (NO in S104), the CPU 401 advances S108.
In S <b> 108, the CPU 401 acquires the job status of the MFP 100 from the MFP 100 before transmitting the image data generated in S <b> 103 and the print attribute information generated in S <b> 102 to the MFP 100. Note that the job status of the MFP 100 corresponds to information on a print job that is being printed or is waiting to be printed by the MFP 100, for example, a print job status of the MFP control unit shown in FIG. Specifically, in S <b> 108, CPU 401 of print processing apparatus 400 transmits a job status acquisition request to MFP 100. Then, in response to a request from the print processing apparatus 400, the MFP 100 transmits (notifies) the job status of the MFP 100 (information of a print job that is being printed or is waiting to be printed by the MFP 100) to the print processing apparatus 400.

  Next, the CPU 401 uses the job status acquired in S108 to determine whether there is a print job that has been sent to the MFP 100 and is waiting to be printed, or a print job that is being printed (S109). That is, it is determined whether there is a print job waiting for printing in MFP 100 or whether MFP 100 is currently printing a print job.

  If the CPU 401 determines that there is a print job that has been transmitted to the MFP 100 and is waiting to be printed, or a print job that is being printed (Yes in S109), the CPU 401 advances the process to S110.

  In S110, the CPU 401 confirms the paper feed source information of the print job held by the MFP 100 using the job status of the MFP acquired in S108 (S110). Then, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a paper storage unit (for example, a paper feed cassette) that is a paper feed source of a print job to be transmitted is available (S111). In this determination, when there is a print job that is being printed or is waiting to be printed by the MFP 100 and the same paper storage unit of the MFP 100 designated as the paper feed source is the print job that is about to be sent to the MFP 100. It is determined that there is no usable paper source. On the other hand, if there is no print job that is being printed or is waiting to be printed by the MFP 100 and the print job to be transmitted to the MFP 100 is not the same as the paper storage unit of the MFP 100 designated as the paper source, use It is determined that there is a possible paper source. If there is a paper source that can be used, if there is paper in the paper storage unit of the MFP 100 that is the paper supply source of the print job to be transmitted, paper replacement is performed, and there is no paper in the paper storage unit It is possible to make a paper request.

  If the print processing apparatus 400 determines that the paper feed source of the print job to be transmitted is not usable (No in S111), the CPU 401 returns the process to S108. Then, control is performed so that the processing of S108 to S111 is repeated until the paper feed source of the print job to be transmitted becomes usable.

  If the print processing apparatus 400 determines that the paper feed source of the print job to be transmitted is available (Yes in S111), the CPU 401 advances the process to S112.

  If it is determined in S109 that there is no print job that has been sent to the MFP 100 and is waiting to be printed or a print job that is being printed (NO in S109), the CPU 401 advances the process to S112.

  That is, in the above-described S109 to S111, the CPU 401 is designated from the information acquired from the MFP 100 as a print job to be sent to the MFP 100 and a paper source from among print jobs that are being printed or are waiting to be printed by the MFP 100. It is determined whether or not the same sheet storage unit of the MFP 100 exists (second determination process). When it is determined that there is no print job that is being printed or is waiting to be printed by the MFP 100 that has the same paper storage unit as the paper source from the print job to be transmitted to the MFP 100. , The process proceeds to S112.

  In step S112, the CPU 401 makes a paper request to the user. Specifically, CPU 401 transmits to MFP 100 a message that prompts the user to set paper of the paper type specified in the print job in the paper storage unit specified in the paper feed information of the print job to be transmitted. , Tell me to display this. For example, “Set A4 size“ custom-new-5 ”in cassette 2. ”Or the like is transmitted to the MFP 100 to instruct to display it. Then, MFP 100 displays this message on the LCD of operation unit 107. Further, the message is transmitted to the host computer 300 which is the transmission source of the print job, and an instruction is given to display it. The host computer 300 may be configured to display the message on a display (display unit) of the host computer 300. Further, the message may be transmitted to both MFP 100 and host computer 300 and displayed on both display units.

  After making a paper request to the user in S112, in S113, the CPU 401 inquires the MFP 100 to determine whether or not the paper requested by the user has been set in the paper supply source (paper storage unit) (third determination). processing). For example, after the sheet request in S112, the CPU 401 checks whether the designated sheet storage unit is opened and closed and the MFP 100 detects that the sheet is stored in the sheet storage unit. When the MFP 100 detects that the paper storage unit is opened and closed and a paper is stored in the paper storage unit, the MFP 100 notifies the print processing apparatus 400 to that effect. Upon receiving this notification, the CPU 401 determines that the paper requested by the user has been set in the paper feed source.

The CPU 401 repeats the process of S113 until it determines that the paper requested by the user has been set in the paper supply source.
If it is determined that the paper requested by the user has been set in the paper supply source (Yes in S113), the CPU 401 advances the process to S114.
In step S <b> 114, the CPU 401 transmits (notifies) the MFP 100 with paper source information and paper type information in the print attribute information of the print job to be transmitted.
Then, the CPU 401 transmits the remaining print attribute information and image data of the print job to be transmitted to the MFP 100 (S115). The image data transmitted to MFP 100 is printed by MFP 100.

The processing flow until the print processing apparatus 400 receives print data from the host computer 300 and the MFP 100 prints is as described above.
Next, the registered paper type selection processing (processing for selecting registered paper types in the paper information database of the print processing apparatus 400) in S105 of FIG. 16 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. .

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the registered paper type selection process shown in S105 of FIG. Note that the processing of this flowchart is realized by the CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 executing a program recorded in the ROM 402 or the built-in HD 404 so as to be readable by a computer. Although the processing of this flowchart is executed based on software, a part of the processing may be performed by hardware.

  First, the CPU 401 determines whether the basis weight of the paper type determined to be new in S104 of FIG. 16 (hereinafter, new paper type) is within the allowable range of the MFP 100 (S201). The information indicating the allowable range of the MFP 100 may be obtained by requesting the MFP 100 at the timing of the above S201, or may be acquired in advance from the MFP 100 (or set by an administrator from the host computer 300). It may be stored in the built-in HD.

If it is determined that the basis weight of the new paper type is not within the allowable range of the MFP 100 (No in S201), the CPU 401 cancels the print job (S207).
On the other hand, if it is determined that the basis weight of the new paper type is within the allowable range of the MFP 100 (Yes in S201), the CPU 401 advances the process to S202.
In S202, the CPU 401 extracts all paper types in the basis weight range including the basis weight of the paper type generated in S103 of FIG. 16 from the paper types registered in the paper information database 1501. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the basis weight ranges of registered paper types are 52 to 63, 64 to 90, 91 to 105, 106 to 128, 129 to 150, 181-220, 221 to 256, 257 to 300 g. / M ² . For example, when the basis weight of a new paper type is “77 g / m ² ”, all paper types having a basis weight range of “64 to 90 g / m ² ” are extracted.

Next, the CPU 401 determines whether or not there is a paper type whose surface property matches the new paper type among the paper types extracted in S202 (S203).
If it is determined that there is no paper type having the same surface property as the new paper type in the paper types extracted in S202 (No in S203), the CPU 401 cancels the print job (S208). .

  On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a paper type that has the same surface property as the new paper type in the paper types extracted in S202 (Yes in S203), the CPU 401 selects all the paper types that have the same surface property. Extract (S204).

Next, the CPU 401 determines whether there is a paper type whose shape matches the new paper type among the paper types extracted in S204 (S205).
If it is determined that there is no paper type whose shape matches the new paper type extracted in S204 (No in S205), the CPU 401 cancels the print job (S209).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the paper type extracted in S204 has a paper type whose shape matches the new paper type (Yes in S205), the CPU 401 advances the process to S206.

  In S206, the CPU 401 determines one of the paper types determined to have the same shape in S205 as a paper type from which engine-dependent information is copied to the new paper type (S206), and FIG. Return the processing to the flowchart.

  Through the above processing, the registered paper type that matches the new paper type and the basis weight range, surface property, and shape can be determined as the paper type from which engine-dependent information is copied to the new paper type. it can. Therefore, it is possible to set appropriate engine-dependent information according to the basis weight range, surface property, and shape of the new paper type for the new paper type.

Hereinafter, a specific example of the registered paper type selection processing flow of FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9, 10, and 17. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 9, the basic information of the paper type is formed from the three elements of basis weight, surface property, and shape, and the paper type such as plain paper or thick paper is defined for each MFP according to each value and content. Has been.

As shown in FIG. 17, for example, “recycled paper 1” has a basis weight of “77” (64 to 90 g / m ^{2 in} FIG. 9), a surface property of “recycled paper”, and a shape (feature) of “normal”. Is defined.

As shown in FIG. 10, the printer-dependent information of the paper type defines mechanical control values necessary for each MFP to perform printing, such as a curl correction amount and a paper feed fan air amount.
As shown in FIG. 17, for example, “recycled paper 1” is defined such that the curl correction amount is “+1” and the paper feeding fan fan amount is “weak”.
As shown in FIG. 17, there are two types of paper types, “basic paper” that the MFP supports as standard and “user setting paper” that can be created by the user. The basic paper has the same information between the paper information database 1501 in the print processing apparatus 400 shown in FIG. 15 and the paper information database 1502 in the resource management unit 112 of the MFP.

A new paper type generated after analyzing the print data received from the host computer 300 is “custom-new-5” (basis weight: 85 g / m ² , surface property: recycled paper, shape (feature)) shown in FIG. : None (normal)).

In the example shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether the basis weight is in the range of 52 to 300 g / m ² (S201). Since the basis weight of the new paper type “custom-new-5” is 85 g / m ² , this condition is cleared (Yes in S201).

Then, “plain paper 1”, “recycled paper 1”, “second original drawing”, “bond paper”, and “three-hole paper” having the same basis weight (64 to 90 g / m ² ) are extracted (S202). ).
Next, attention is paid to the fact that the surface property of the new paper type “custom-new-5” is “recycled paper”. Among the basic papers that are narrowed down based on the basis weight, there are those whose surface property is “recycled paper” (Yes in S203). Only “recycled paper 1” whose surface property is “recycled paper” is extracted from the basic papers that are narrowed down based on the basis weight (S204). Since “recycled paper 1” has been narrowed down to one, at this point, “recycled paper 1” may be determined as a paper type for copying engine-dependent information in the engine-dependent information portion of the new paper type.

  Next, attention is paid to the fact that the characteristic (shape) of the new paper type “custom-new-5” is “normal”. The shape of “recycled paper 1” narrowed down based on the basis weight and surface property is “normal” (Yes in S205). Therefore, “recycled paper 1” is determined to be a basic paper from which engine-dependent information is copied to a new paper type “custom-new-5”. Then, as shown in FIG. 17, “custom-new-5” is determined as the user-set paper by copying the engine-dependent information of “recycled paper 1” to the engine-dependent information portion of “custom-new-5”. To do.

  For example, when the basis weight of the new paper type is “85 g / mxm”, the surface property is “fine paper”, and the shape (feature) is “none”, the surface property extraction stage is performed. “Plain paper 1” and “Three-hole paper” are extracted. Then, “plain paper 1” whose shape (feature) is “none” is finally extracted.

  That is, the information on the paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted is the information on the paper type specified in the print job and the information on the paper type included in the same range of the basis weight and the same surface property. And basic information is extracted as information on paper types similar to each other.

Next, a process in which the print processing apparatus 400 makes a paper request to the user via the MFP 100 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating print job states of the print processing apparatus 400 and the MFP control unit 106.
As illustrated in FIG. 19, the print processing apparatus 400 holds jobs 1 to 7, a job already transmitted to the MFP 100 (jobs 1 to 5), a job waiting for transmission (job 6), and a job waiting for RIP. (Job 7) exists.

On the other hand, the MFP control unit 106 of the MFP 100 is printing the job 1 received from the print processing apparatus 400 and holds jobs 2 to 5 waiting for printing.
In the above state, the print processing apparatus 400 can transmit the job 6 waiting to be transmitted. In this case, however, the MFP control unit 106 makes a paper request to the user when the printing is executed.

  If the paper request is made in consideration of the state of the MFP control unit 106 before the print processing apparatus 400 transmits a job to the MFP control unit 106, the user can exchange the paper while the MFP control unit 106 is printing. Therefore, the MFP control unit 106 does not stop the printing operation.

  In the print attribute information of job 6, attention is paid to paper information and paper feed information. Job 6 has A4 size “cusom-new-5” for paper information and “cassette 2” for paper feed information. On the other hand, the paper information of the job 2 waiting to be printed by the MFP control unit 106 is “Thick 1” of A3 size, and the paper feed information is “Cassette 2”. At this time, if a user requests paper replacement of the cassette 2 for the job 6, the print processing of the job 2 is not normally performed. Therefore, the print processing apparatus 400 waits for transmission of job 6 to the MFP controller until the MFP control unit 106 finishes printing job 1 and job 2.

  Since job 3, job 4, and job 5 held in the MFP control unit 106 have different paper information for paper 6 and paper feed information, the print processing apparatus 400 prompts the user to exchange paper for job 6 when printing of job 2 is completed. I can make a request. The print processing apparatus 400 transmits the job 6 to the MFP 100 after confirming that the user has actually set the paper necessary for the job 6 in the paper supply source (cassette 2).

  When the print processing apparatus 400 adds user setting sheets according to the flowchart of FIG. 16 described above, the capacity of the sheet information database 152 of the MFP 100 overflows and processing cannot continue. In other words, both the print processing apparatus 400 and the resource management unit 112 of the MFP have a limited capacity of the paper information database, but if the MFP 100 does not have an operation unit, it is necessary to delete the user setting paper from the print processing apparatus 400. This method is shown in FIG. Even in this case, the user setting sheet of the print processing apparatus 400 can be erased by the erasing function shown in FIG.

  Next, a method for erasing the paper type information registered in the paper information database of the print processing apparatus 400 and the resource management unit 112 of the MFP will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the erasing process of the paper type information registered in the paper information database of the print processing apparatus 400 and the resource management unit 112 of the MFP 100. Note that the processing of this flowchart is realized by the CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 executing a program recorded in the ROM 402 or the built-in HD 404 so as to be readable by a computer.

  First, the CPU 401 of the print processing apparatus 400 acquires the state of the MFP 100 (whether the MFP control unit 106 is performing print processing or is waiting for printing) from the MFP control unit 106 (S301).

  Next, the CPU 401 determines whether the MFP control unit 106 is performing printing processing based on the state acquired in S301 (S302). If the MFP control unit 106 is in the printing process (Yes in S302), the CPU 401 waits until the printing process is completed.

On the other hand, when the MFP control unit 106 determines that the printing process is not in progress (No in S302), the CPU 401 advances the process to S303.
In step S303, the CPU 401 determines whether there is a job waiting for printing in the MFP control unit 106 based on the state acquired in step S301. If it is determined that there is a job waiting for printing in the MFP control unit 106 (Yes in S303), the CPU 401 waits until there are no jobs waiting for printing.

On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no job waiting for printing in the MFP control unit 106 (No in S303), the CPU 401 advances the process to S304.
In step S <b> 304, the CPU 401 determines whether the print processing apparatus 400 is processing a print job. If it is determined that the print processing apparatus 400 is processing a print job (Yes in S304), the CPU 401 waits until the print job processing is completed.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the print processing apparatus 400 has not processed the print job (No in S304), the CPU 401 advances the process to S305.
In step S <b> 305, the CPU 401 determines whether a user setting sheet is registered in the sheet information database 152 of the resource management unit 112 of the MFP 100. If it is determined that the user setting paper is not registered in the paper information database 152 of the resource management unit 112 of the MFP 100 (No in S305), the CPU 401 ends the process as it is.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the user setting paper is registered in the paper information database 152 of the resource management unit 112 of the MFP 100 (Yes in S305), the CPU 401 advances the process to S306.

  In step S <b> 306, the CPU 401 deletes the user setting paper registered in the paper information database 152 of the resource management unit 112 of the MFP 100. At this time, the CPU 401 also deletes the user setting paper registered in the paper information database 151 of the print processing apparatus 400.

  That is, the CPU 401 acquires the state of the MFP 100 (S301), and determines whether there is a print job that is being printed on the MFP 100 or is waiting to be printed (S302 to S303; fourth determination process). Further, it is determined whether or not the print processing apparatus 400 is processing a print job (S304; fifth determination process). If it is determined that there is no print job that is being printed or is waiting to be printed by the MFP 100, and if it is determined that the print processing apparatus 400 is not processing the print job, it is registered in the paper information database of the MFP 100. The paper type information corresponding to the currently set user setting paper is deleted (S306).

Through the above processing, the user setting paper registered in the paper information database 152 of the MFP 100 can be deleted from the print processing apparatus 400.
In the above description, the printing apparatus 100 is described as an MFP. However, the printing apparatus 100 is not limited to the MFP, and may be an SFP.
As described above, according to this embodiment, print data including paper types that do not exist in the paper information database of the print processing apparatus and the paper information database of the printing apparatus can be printed by the printing apparatus. As a result, it is possible to construct a printing system that can handle printing on a wider variety of paper types.

  Further, the print processing device makes a paper request to the user based on the processing status of the printing device, so that the user can replenish the paper while the printing device is printing, without stopping the processing of the printing device. Printing can continue. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of downtime due to the replenishment of paper to the paper supply source (paper storage unit) by the user and improve the productivity of the printing apparatus.

It should be noted that the configuration and contents of the various data described above are not limited to this, and it goes without saying that the various data and configurations are configured according to the application and purpose.
Although one embodiment has been described above, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program, or storage medium. Specifically, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.
Moreover, all the structures which combined said each Example are also contained in this invention.

(Other examples)
The present invention can also be realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus via a network or various storage media, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus reads the program. It is a process to be executed.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device.
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not. That is, the present invention includes all the combinations of the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Printing apparatus 106 MFP control part 300 Host computer 400 Print processing apparatus 401 CPU

An object of the present invention, a paper type that does not exist in the paper information database is to be newly registered in the paper information database.

The present invention relates to storage means for storing sheet information including characteristic information indicating sheet characteristics and processing information indicating adjustment values necessary for executing printing, and information for specifying a sheet to be used for printing Receiving means for receiving a print job with specified characteristic information from an external device, generating means for generating new sheet information by adding processing information to the specified characteristic information in the print job, and the print job Printing means for executing printing based on the information, and the storage means stores the new sheet information generated by the generation means .

According to the present invention, a paper type that does not exist in the paper information database can be newly registered in the paper information database.

Claims (10)

A print processing device that processes an input print job and transmits the print job to a printing device,
A first paper information database for registering paper type information;
First determination means for determining whether or not paper type information included in a print job to be transmitted before transmission to the printing apparatus is registered in the first paper information database;
When it is determined by the first determination means that the paper type information specified in the print job to be transmitted is not registered in the first paper information database, the information on the paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted Extracting means for extracting paper type information similar to that from the first paper information database;
Copying means for copying information dependent on the printing device included in the paper type information extracted by the extracting means to the paper type information designated in the print job to be transmitted;
Registration means for registering, in a second paper information database provided in the printing apparatus, information on a paper type designated in the print job to be transmitted, in which information dependent on the printing apparatus is copied by the copying means;
Transmitting means for transmitting to the printing apparatus a print job in which information on a paper type registered in the second paper information database is designated;
A print processing apparatus. Obtaining means for obtaining information of a print job being printed or waiting to be printed by the printing device from the printing device;
Based on the information acquired by the acquisition unit, the print job to be transmitted and the print storage in the printing apparatus are the same as the print job to be transmitted and the paper storage unit of the printing apparatus designated as the paper source from the information acquired by the acquisition unit A second determination means for determining whether or not an object exists;
Among the print jobs that are being printed or are waiting to be printed by the printing apparatus by the second determination unit, the same print storage job as the paper storage unit of the printing apparatus designated as the paper supply source does not exist. A notification means for notifying the user of an instruction for requesting setting of the paper in the paper storage unit,
The print processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the print job to be transmitted to the printing apparatus after the notification by the notification unit. After the notification by the notification means, there is provided third determination means for determining whether or not a sheet is set in a sheet storage portion of the printing apparatus designated as a sheet supply source of the print job to be transmitted.
The transmission means determines that the print job is stored in the printing apparatus when it is determined by the third determination means that paper has been set in a paper storage unit of the printing apparatus designated as a paper supply source of the print job to be transmitted. The print processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising:   The paper type information stored in the first paper information database and the second paper information database includes basis weight information indicating the mass per unit area of the paper, surface property information indicating the surface state of the paper, paper 4. The print processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising basic information including shape information indicating a shape of the printer and printer-dependent information including a plurality of elements depending on the printing apparatus. 5. .   5. The print processing according to claim 4, wherein the extraction unit extracts, from the first paper information database, paper type information whose basic information is similar to the paper type information specified in the print job. apparatus.   The extraction means includes information on the paper type specified in the print job and information on the paper type in which at least the basis weight information is included in the same range and the surface property information is the same. The print processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the information is extracted from the first paper information database as paper type information whose basic information is similar to the paper type information specified in the job.   The first paper information database and the second paper information database are information on basic papers supported by the printing apparatus in advance and information on user-set papers that can be created by copying from the basic paper information by the user. The print processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print processing apparatus is registered. Fourth determination means for determining from the information acquired by the acquisition means whether there is a print job being printed or waiting for printing in the printing apparatus;
Fifth determination means for determining whether or not the print processing apparatus is processing a print job;
The fourth determination means determines that there is no print job being printed or waiting to be printed on the printing apparatus, and the fifth determination means determines that the print processing apparatus is not processing the print job. If so, erasing means for erasing information on the paper type corresponding to the user-set paper registered in the second paper information database;
The print processing apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising: A method of controlling a print processing apparatus that processes an input print job and transmits the processed print job to a printing apparatus,
A determination unit configured to determine whether information on a paper type specified in a print job to be transmitted before transmission to the printing apparatus is registered in a first paper information database provided in the print processing apparatus; Steps,
If it is determined by the determination step that the information on the paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted is not registered in the first paper information database, the paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted Extracting from the first paper information database paper type information similar to the above information;
A copying step in which copying means copies information dependent on the printing device included in the paper type information extracted in the extracting step to paper type information specified in the print job to be transmitted;
A registration step in which registration means registers information on a paper type specified in the print job to be transmitted, in which information dependent on the printing device is copied in the copying step, in a second paper information database included in the printing device; ,
A transmission step for transmitting to the printing apparatus a print job in which information on a paper type registered in the second paper information database is designated;
A control method for a print processing apparatus, comprising:   A program for causing a computer to function as means of the print processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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