JP2017177398A - Image processing system, image processing device used by image processing system, and control method and program thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing device capable of suppressing an increase in network traffic even in the case of acquiring print data in advance.SOLUTION: An output device (113) connected to a printer (211), connected to a scanner (210) and connected communicably to a storage device (111) through a network includes the printer (211), the scanner (210), an operation part (207) capable of displaying a selection screen (620) after authentication screens (600, 610), and CPUs (202, 505) for acquiring print data associated with an authenticated user from the storage device before the user authenticated on the authentication screens performs a printing instruction, and acquiring print data on the basis of selection of a print button (623).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that processes information about a print image. This image processing apparatus is used, for example, in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, a fax machine, and a multifunction machine having a plurality of these functions.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording material based on print data transmitted from a printer driver of an external information terminal has been used. Some of these image forming apparatuses have a copy function and a scan function in addition to a print function. The image forming apparatus is equipped with an image processing apparatus for realizing various processes such as reception, transmission, and management of image information. In recent years, an image processing apparatus that downloads print data stored in another image processing apparatus or server via a network is known.

  Patent Document 1 describes an image forming apparatus that downloads print data from another image forming apparatus in advance prior to a print instruction by a user. Specifically, when another user is using the image forming apparatus, the authenticated user can reserve the use of the image forming apparatus by performing user authentication. With this reservation, the image forming apparatus downloads print data related to the authenticated user from another image forming apparatus. With such a configuration, an effect of reducing the waiting time of the user during printing can be expected.

JP 2007-105937 A

  However, an authenticated user does not always give a print instruction to the image forming apparatus. There may be a case where the authenticated user gives another instruction such as copying or scanning to the image forming apparatus. At this time, if the print data downloaded along with the authentication is not used later, network traffic is unnecessarily generated. Therefore, it is desirable that the image processing apparatus can suppress an increase in network traffic by suppressing the occurrence of unnecessary network traffic while reducing the waiting time of the user during printing. Specifically, when the user enters a state of using the print function of the image forming apparatus, it is desirable that the image processing apparatus starts downloading print data before issuing a print instruction.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus that can suppress an increase in network traffic even when print data is acquired in advance.

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that is capable of communicating with a printing apparatus that performs printing based on print data and capable of communicating with a storage device that stores the print data via a network. User authentication is performed before displaying the first screen, the second screen in which a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying the first screen are arranged, and the second screen. A display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a third screen, and acquisition means for acquiring print data associated with the authenticated user from the storage device, Acquisition means for acquiring print data based on selection of an object for displaying the screen.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus capable of suppressing an increase in network traffic even when print data is acquired in advance.

It is a figure which shows an image processing system. It is a figure which shows the hardware constitutions of the image processing apparatuses 111, 112, and 113. It is a figure which shows the system software structure of the preservation | save apparatus 111. It is a figure which shows the system software structure of the bibliographic information management apparatus 112. 3 is a diagram illustrating a system software configuration of a print job output device 113. FIG. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a login screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. (B) is a diagram showing a password input screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 8C is a diagram showing a selection screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 4D is a diagram illustrating a login screen displayed on the terminal 102. FIG. 8E is a diagram illustrating a print instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 207 or the terminal 102. FIG. (F) is a diagram showing a copy instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 5G is a diagram illustrating a scan instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 207. It is a figure which shows an example of the bibliographic information which the bibliographic information management apparatus 112 manages. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of bibliographic information handled by the print job output device 113. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of bibliographic information handled by the print job output device 113. FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow of print job submission processing in the printing system. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system software processing flow of the print job output apparatus 113. It is a figure which shows an example of a bibliographic information filter process. It is a figure which shows an example of UI information. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration of a print job It is a figure which shows a login management screen. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a prior acquisition of a print job It is a figure which shows the flowchart of communication in a terminal and an output device.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be specifically described with reference to examples. In addition, embodiment of this invention is not limited to the structure as described in an Example. A part of the configuration may be replaced with an equivalent in a range where the effect of the invention can be obtained.

[Example]
In this embodiment, an image processing system (printing system) including a plurality of devices connected by a network is used as an example. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a network configuration of the embodiment. Hereinafter, it demonstrates in detail using figures.

(Image processing system)
As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing system of the present embodiment is connected to a PC 101, a mobile terminal 102, a print job storage device 111, a print job output device 113, and a bibliographic information management device 112 so that they can communicate with each other. LAN 105 is provided. Hereinafter, they are referred to as PC 101, terminal 02, storage device 111, output device 113, management device 112, and LAN 105.

  For example, the image processing system is used as follows. The user transmits a print job (print data, print information) from the PC 101 to the storage device 111. As a result, the storage device 111 stores the print job, and the management device 112 stores the bibliographic information (attribute information and attribute list information) regarding the print job. Next, the user logs in to the output device 113 from the terminal 102. As a result, the output device 113 acquires bibliographic information from the management device 112 and transmits it to the terminal 102. Next, the user operates the terminal 102 to select a print job to be used for printing. As a result, the output device 113 acquires the corresponding print data from the storage device 111. Then, the output device 113 executes printing using the acquired print data.

  The PC 101 is a job input unit that inputs a print job to the output device 113 or the storage device 111. An example of the PC 101 is a commercially available personal computer. The PC 101 can convert document data and image data into page description language (PDL) using a printer driver, and can transmit the converted data to the storage device 111 and the output device 113. The PC 101 can directly send document data and image data to the storage device 111 and the output device 113 using a dedicated application. When it is determined that a printed matter is to be output from the output device 113, the user inputs a print job to the output device. The user once submits a print job to the storage device 111 when the place to output the printed material is not determined. When it is determined that the output device 113 outputs the printed matter, the user operates the output device 113 to execute printing. At this time, the output device 113 requests the storage device 111 to transmit a print job. This is called pull printing.

  The terminal 102 is an operation terminal (operation unit) that can remotely operate the output device 113. An example of the terminal 102 is a mobile device (external information terminal) such as a smartphone having a screen. For example, the terminal 102 can operate the output device 113 by accessing a WEB service provided by the output device 113 using a browser application.

  The storage device 111 is a storage device (storage unit) that stores a print job. Examples of the storage device 111 include a server and a network printer. The storage device 111 is configured to be able to provide print data to various devices on the network.

  The management device 112 is a management device (management unit) that stores and manages bibliographic information. Examples of management devices include servers and network printers. The storage device 111 is configured to be able to provide bibliographic information to various devices on the network. The bibliographic information is a table (list, list) of print job summary information. The bibliographic information includes a print job storage date and time, a print job input user name, a print job name, a storage device address, a storage location, various flags, and the like.

  The management device 112 is a management device (management unit) that stores and manages bibliographic information. Examples of management devices include servers and image processing devices. The storage device 111 is configured to be able to provide bibliographic information to various devices on the network. The bibliographic information is a table (list, list) of print job summary information. Details of the bibliographic information will be described later.

  The output device 113 is an output unit that forms an image on a recording material (paper, sheet) and outputs it as a printed matter. The output device 113 performs processing for image formation based on a print job input from the storage device 111 or the PC 101. An example of the output device 113 is an image processing device used in an image forming apparatus such as a printer.

  The LAN 105 is a network line that connects various devices in a communicable manner. Examples of the LAN 105 include a local area network such as a wired LAN and a wireless LAN. A part of the communication network may be replaced with another communication method. For example, communication between the terminal 102 and the output device 113 may be performed by near field communication (NFC).

(Image processing device: hardware configuration)
Next, the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus will be described in detail. In this embodiment, the image processing apparatus having the same basic configuration is used in the storage device 111, the management device 112, and the output device 113.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus (111, 112, 113). As shown in FIG. 2, the image processing apparatuses (111, 112, and 113) are roughly provided with an operation unit 207 and a controller unit 201.

  The controller unit 201 is a control unit used for various controls of the image processing apparatus. An example of the controller unit 201 is a control circuit board (control circuit board group) having a plurality of functions.

  The controller unit 201 of this embodiment includes a CPU 202, a RAM 203, an operation unit I / F 206, a network I / F 208, a ROM 204, an HDD 205, and a device I / F 209.

  A CPU 202 is an arithmetic device (arithmetic unit) that controls the entire system of the image processing apparatus. An apparatus that can be used as the CPU 202 is not limited to a CPU (Central Processing Unit). An apparatus such as an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) or an MCU (Micro Control Unit) can be used as long as it can perform various control operations.

  A RAM 203 is a system work memory for the CPU 202 to operate, and is an image memory for temporarily storing image data. The RAM 203 also stores programs and data such as an operating system, system software, and application software.

  The ROM 204 stores a system boot program. A hard disk drive (HDD) 205 is a storage unit that can store an operating system, system software, application software, image data, setting data, and the like. Note that another storage medium such as an SSD may be used as long as data can be stored.

  An operation unit I / F 206 is an interface unit that exchanges signals with the operation unit 207. For example, the operation unit I / F 206 outputs screen information to be displayed on the operation unit 207 to the operation unit 207. Further, the operation unit I / F 206 receives input information input by the user using the operation unit 207.

  A network I / F 208 is a communication unit that is connected to a network (LAN) 105 and performs input / output (communication) of information with a PC or another image processing apparatus connected on the same LAN.

  A device I / F 209 is a connection unit that connects the scanner 210 as an image input device and the printer 211 as an image output device to the controller unit 201. The device I / F 209 issues a reading instruction to the scanner 210 and inputs image data.

  The device I / F 209 issues a print instruction to the printer 211 and outputs image data.

  Alternatively, image data is input to and output from the printer 211.

  The system bus 212 is a signal line (communication line) that connects the devices on the controller unit 201 so that they can communicate with each other. The system bus 212 allows the devices on the controller unit 201 to cooperate.

  An operation unit I / F 206 is an interface unit that exchanges signals with the operation unit 207. For example, the operation unit I / F 206 outputs screen information to be displayed on the operation unit 207 to the operation unit 207. Further, the operation unit I / F 206 receives input information input by the user using the operation unit 207.

  The controller unit 201 having the above-described configuration can provide various functions by executing processing based on a program. An example of the controller unit 201 is a control circuit board (control circuit board group) having a plurality of functions.

  The operation unit 207 is a user interface that can be operated by a user. The operation unit 207 is a touch panel, for example. The operation unit 207 of this embodiment includes a liquid crystal screen (display unit) for displaying information to the user, and a resistance film type or capacitance type sensor as a detection unit for detecting a touch operation by the user. For example, an object (icon, button) is displayed on the liquid crystal screen of the operation unit 207, and the sensor detects that the user has touched the vicinity of the object. At this time, the operation unit 207 recognizes that the user has performed a touch operation for selecting an object. The operation unit 207 can selectively display a plurality of screens by switching the screen according to a touch operation.

  The operation unit 207 may include an input device (input device) such as a keyboard and a physical button. The operation unit 207 may include an acquisition unit that can acquire authentication information. Examples of the acquisition unit include an IC card reader and a fingerprint authentication device.

  The printer 211 is an image forming engine (image forming unit) for forming an image on a recording material, and is a printing engine (printing unit) for performing printing.

  Examples of the printer 211 include an electrophotographic printer, an inkjet printer, and the like. The printer 211 executes image forming processing (printing processing) based on a print instruction from the device I / F 209. The image processing apparatus functions as an image forming apparatus when used in combination with the printer 211.

  The scanner 210 is an image reading unit (reading device) that reads an image as image data from a recording material (original) including the image. The scanner 210 executes a reading process based on a reading instruction from the device I / F 209. The image processing apparatus functions as an image reading apparatus when used in combination with the scanner 210.

(Image processing device: software configuration)
Next, the software configuration of the image processing apparatus will be described in detail. In the present embodiment, the storage device 111, the management device 112, and the output device 113 have different system software configurations.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a system software configuration of the storage device 111. The system software 300 is stored in any storage unit of the RAM 203, the ROM 204, and the HDD 205. The CPU 202 reads and executes the system software 300. Various functions are given to the controller unit 201 by the CPU 202 executing the program. Here, each step of the program executed by the CPU 202 is classified by function, and expressed as means for achieving the purpose.

  A print job storage unit 303 (storage unit) stores a print job received from the PC 101 via the network I / F 208 in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205. The bibliographic information transmission unit 307 (transmission unit) creates bibliographic information related to the print job received by the storage unit 303 and transmits the created bibliographic information to the management apparatus 112 via the network I / F 208. When receiving a print job acquisition request from the output device 113, the print job transmission unit 304 (transmission unit) transmits the print job to the output device 113 via the network I / F 208.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a system software configuration of the management apparatus 112. The system software 400 is stored in any storage unit of the RAM 203, the ROM 204, and the HDD 205. The CPU 202 reads and executes the system software 400.

  The bibliographic information management unit 406 (management unit) stores the bibliographic information received from the storage device 111 via the network I / F 208 in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205. Alternatively, when the management unit 406 receives a bibliographic information acquisition request from the output device 113, the management unit 406 transmits the bibliographic information to the output device 113 via the network I / F 208.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a system software configuration of the output device 113. The system software 500 is stored in any storage unit of the RAM 203, the ROM 204, and the HDD 205. The CPU 202 reads and executes the system software 300.

  The UI control unit 501 (control unit) receives information input by the user via the operation unit 207 via the operation unit I / F 206, and receives the information via the user authentication unit 502 (authentication unit) and the print job control unit 509 (control). Means). Alternatively, the UI control unit 501 receives the responses from the authentication unit 502 and the control unit 509 and outputs the information to the operation unit 207 via the operation unit I / F 206.

  The authentication unit 502 performs user authentication processing based on the authentication information received from the UI control unit 501.

  The acquisition unit 508 requests the management apparatus 112 to acquire bibliographic information, and stores the bibliographic information received from the management apparatus 112 in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205. A print job acquisition unit 505 (acquisition unit) issues a print job acquisition request to the storage device 111, receives the print job from the storage device 111, and stores the received print job in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205. Bibliographic information and print jobs stored in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205 are referred to by the CPU 202 executing the system software 500 at an arbitrary timing.

  The control unit 509 receives a job execution request from the UI control unit 501 and performs a print job print process using the printer 211 via the device I / F 209.

  In this embodiment, the storage device 111, the management device 112, and the output device 113 are described as separate devices. However, the present invention can be applied even if the storage device 111 and the management device 112 are the same device. . Further, the present invention can be applied even if the management device 112 and the output device 113 are the same device.

(data)
Next, data handled by the image processing apparatus will be described in detail.

  FIG. 14 shows the data structure of a print job. A print job used in this embodiment includes a job attribute 1401 and print data 1402. The job attribute 1401 is information for managing print data information (print job name, print job user name, etc.) and job settings (copy number designation, duplex printing designation, stapling designation, etc.). The print data 1402 is information such as bitmap data to be actually printed and rectangular vector data.

  7, 8, and 9 are diagrams showing examples of bibliographic information. The bibliographic information 700 of this embodiment includes a date 701, a user name 702, a print job name 703, a storage device address 704, a storage location 705, and a printed flag 706. A date and time 701 represents the date and time when the print job 1400 is stored in the storage device 111. The date 701 is generated by the CPU 202 (functioning as the storage unit 303). A user name 702 and a print job name 703 are information included in the job attribute 1401 of the print job 1400. The storage device address 704 is information that can uniquely identify the storage device 111 that stores the print job 1400. In this embodiment, the device IP address is used as the storage device address 704. A storage location 705 indicates a storage location of a print job stored in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205 of the storage device 111. The printed flag 706 is information indicating whether or not the print job 1400 stored in the storage device 111 has been printed in the past. The bibliographic information 700 of this embodiment manages information for a plurality of users. In the present embodiment, the CPU 202 functioning as the management unit 406, the bibliographic information acquisition unit 508 (acquisition unit), the control unit 509, and the like can extract arbitrary information included in the bibliographic information 700. The bibliographic information 800 is bibliographic information obtained by extracting a bibliography whose user name is “Kaneko” from the bibliographic information 700. The bibliographic information 900 is a processing information list obtained by extracting bibliographic records whose printed flag is “unprinted” from the bibliographic information 800. The CPU 202 extracts a specific bibliography. In addition, the CPU 202 can sort the bibliographic information in order of date and time, or can sort the print job name.

(control)
Next, control contents of the image forming system will be described. In the present embodiment, the CPU 202 that executes the system software 500 can specify a user authentication request source at the time of user authentication. The control content of the output device 113 can be changed in accordance with the user authentication request source.

  When a user logs in to the output device 113 via a UI (user interface) that can instruct only the print function, the CPU 202 that executes the system software 500 acquires bibliographic information from the management device 112. Then, the CPU 202 obtains in advance a print job related to the login user from the storage device 111. When such control is performed, download of a print job related to the user proceeds after the user logs in until the user determines the print job. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the waiting time between when the user logs in and when printing is started. Note that the UI that can instruct only the print function is a mobile UI used in the terminal 102, for example.

  On the other hand, when the user logs in to the output device 113 via a UI (user interface) that can instruct functions other than the print function in addition to the print function, the CPU 202 that executes the system software 500 executes the print job at this stage. Do not perform advance acquisition. After the user logs in to the output device 113, a print job is acquired in advance only after the user selects an object (icon, button) for using the print function. Note that the print job may be acquired after a print instruction is issued without performing the prior acquisition of the print job. However, it is preferable to acquire a print job at a stage where an icon for using the print function is selected because the waiting time can be reduced. Note that a UI (user interface) capable of instructing functions other than the print function in addition to the print function is a local UI used in the operation unit 207 of the output device 113, for example.

  With the configuration described above, this embodiment does not download a print job that is not used when the user logs in to the output device 113 in order to use a function other than the print function of the output device 113 (for example, a copy function). It will end. Therefore, generation of unnecessary network traffic can be suppressed. Hereinafter, each control will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(Print job management control)
A print job management control in the image forming system will be described. The image forming system according to the present exemplary embodiment manages print jobs by storing bibliographic information in the management device 112 and storing print jobs in the storage device 111. A flow of print job management will be described with reference to a flowchart.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining each process when the user inputs a print job 1400 to the storage device 111 using the PC 101. Upon receiving a print instruction from the user (S1001), the PC 101 inputs a print job 1400 to the storage device 111 (S1002). Upon receiving the print job 1400 from the PC 101, the CPU 202 of the storage device 111 (which functions as the storage unit 303) generates bibliographic information from the received date and time and the job attribute 1401 included in the print job 1400 (S1003). Next, the CPU 202 functioning as the storage unit 303 stores the received print job 1400 in the RAM 203 or the HDD 205 of the storage device 111 (S1004). Next, the CPU 202 functioning as the transmission unit 307 of the storage device 111 transmits the generated bibliographic information to the management device 112 (S1005). When receiving the bibliographic information from the storage device 111, the CPU 202 functioning as the management unit 406 adds the received bibliographic information to the bibliographic information 700 (S1006).

  According to the control flow described above, the image forming system of this embodiment manages print jobs.

(Operation control)
The output device 113 according to the present embodiment corresponds to the operation by the terminal 102 in addition to the operation by the operation unit 207. More specifically, the user can operate the output device 113 using a local UI screen provided by the UI control unit 501 to the operation unit 207. In addition, the user can operate the output device 113 using a mobile UI screen provided by the UI control unit 501 to the terminal 102. FIG. 6A shows a login screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a password input screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 6C shows a selection screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 6D is a diagram illustrating a login screen displayed on the terminal 102. FIG. 6E is a diagram showing an instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 207 or the terminal 102. FIG. 6F is a diagram showing a copy instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 207. FIG. 6G shows a scan instruction screen displayed on the operation unit 207.

  When the operation unit 207 is activated with the system software 500 activated, a login screen 600 (user selection screen) is displayed on the operation unit 207 as a local UI screen.

  The login screen 600 is an authentication screen for selecting a user for login. The login screen 600 displays selectable user icons 601, 602, and 603 based on user information registered in advance. The user information is information corresponding to the user name 902 included in the bibliographic information 900. The user can select his / her icon by operating the operation unit 207. When an icon is selected, an input screen 610 is displayed on the operation unit 207. The input screen 610 is an authentication screen for inputting a password.

  On the input screen 610, an input form 611 and a button 612 are arranged. When the user inputs the password in the input form 611 and selects the button 612, the authentication process is started. If the user is successfully authenticated, a selection screen 620 is displayed. Note that it may be configured to be able to authenticate only by selecting a user icon without inputting a password. That is, the authentication process is a process for associating the user (operating user) who uses the apparatus with the user name of the bibliographic information.

  The selection screen 620 is a screen for selecting a function that the output device 113 wants to execute. The selection screen 620 includes a copy button 621 for displaying a copy function instruction screen, a scan button 622 for displaying a scan function instruction screen, and a print button 623 for displaying a print function instruction screen. Is provided. The print function is a function that uses the printer 211 and does not use the scanner 210. The copy function is a function that uses the printer 211 and the scanner 210. The scan function uses the scanner 210 and does not use the printer 211. When the print button 623 is selected, an instruction screen 640 is displayed.

  The instruction screen 640 is a screen for issuing a print instruction. The instruction screen 640 is provided with a print job list 641 and a print execution button 642. The print job list 641 is list information that displays print jobs associated with the login user based on bibliographic information in a list format. The print execution button 642 is a button for causing the output device 113 to execute print processing. For example, after selecting a print job from the print job list 641, the user can press the print execution button 642 to prompt the output apparatus 113 to issue a print instruction. In this embodiment, the print job list 641 and the print execution button 642 are arranged. However, the print job list 641 and the print button may be arranged on different screens. For example, when a print job is selected from the print job list 641, the screen is switched, and a print execution button 642 may be displayed together with various setting items.

  When the copy button 621 is selected on the selection screen 620, a copy instruction screen 650 is displayed on the operation unit 207. The copy instruction screen 650 is provided with a setting button group 652 for performing various settings for the copy function, and a copy execution button 651 for causing the output device 113 to execute copy processing. When the scan button 622 is selected on the selection screen 620, a scan instruction screen 660 is displayed on the operation unit 207. The scan instruction screen 660 is provided with a setting button group 662 for performing various settings of the scan function and a scan execution button 661 for causing the output device 113 to execute a scan process.

  On the other hand, when a dedicated application in the terminal 102 is activated, a login screen 630 is displayed on the terminal 102 as a mobile UI screen. On the login screen, a selection form 631, a user name input form 632, a password input form 633, and a login button 634 are provided. When the output device 113 is selected in the selection form 631, the user name is input in the user name input form 632, the password is input in the password input form 633, and the login button 634 is selected, the authentication information is transmitted to the output device 113. The user name input to the user name input form 632 is stored in the output device 113 as information corresponding to the user name 702 of the bibliographic information. The password is stored in the output device 113 corresponding to the user name.

  The user name input in the user name input form 632 corresponds to the user name 902 included in the bibliographic information 900.

  When the user is normally authenticated, screen information is transmitted from the output device 113 by the UI control unit 501. An instruction screen 640 is displayed on the terminal 102 based on the screen information. Details of the instruction screen 640 are the same as those of the local UI.

  As described above, the mobile UI of this embodiment has a print instruction function and does not have a scan or copy instruction function. This is because the scan function and the copy function use the scanner 210 while the print function does not use the scanner 210. When using the scan function or the copy function, the user needs to approach the output device 113 in order to set a document on the scanner 210. Therefore, the operation unit 207 provided in the output device 113 may be used, and it can be said that there are few merits of performing remote operation using the terminal 102.

  Next, the relationship between the UI screen and various processes will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a control flow of the output device 113 when the UI screen is operated. Note that processing that has little relation to the characteristic part of this embodiment, such as redrawing processing of the operation unit 207, is described as other processing in S1123.

  When the system software 500 is activated, the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 maintains a command reception state (S1102). When the command is received, the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 interprets the received command (S1103).

  When the interpreted command is a login request with input of login information (S1104: YES), the CPU 202 functioning as the authentication unit 502 performs user authentication processing against the authentication information managed by the HDD 205 or the like (S1105). Note that examples of authentication information include a user name, a password, an IC card number, and the like. In this embodiment, a combination of a user name and a password is used as authentication information. At this time, in the case of the local UI, the login screen 600 or the input screen 610 is being displayed. In the case of a mobile UI, a login screen 630 is being displayed.

  If the user authentication is successful (S1105: YES), the CPU 202 determines the UI type of the user authentication request source from the UI information 1300 (S1107). FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of UI information. The UI information 1300 is information for specifying the UI used for the operation of the output device 113. The UI information 1300 includes a UI type 1301 and a UIID 1302. In this embodiment, the management ID 1311 and the management ID 1312 can be managed as the UI type 1301.

  When it is determined that the request is a user authentication request from the terminal 102 (S1108: YES), the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 508 acquires the bibliographic information 700 (advance acquisition) from the management device 112 (S1109). At this time, the instruction screen 640 is being displayed on the terminal 102. Then, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 505 acquires a print job from the storage device 111 (S1110). If it is determined that the request is a user authentication request from the operation unit 207 (S1107: NO), the CPU 202 does not acquire bibliographic information and a print job at this stage. At this time, the selection screen 620 is displayed on the operation unit 207.

  Thereafter, the CPU 202 executing the system software 500 performs other processing (S1123) and maintains the command standby state again (S1102).

  When the interpreted command is a print screen display request (S1104: No, S1111: Yes), the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 508 determines whether or not the bibliographic information 700 has been acquired (S1112). When the bibliographic information 700 has been acquired (S1112: YES), the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 advances the processing to S1115. At this time, an instruction screen 640 is displayed on the terminal 102 or the operation unit 207. When the bibliographic information 700 has not been acquired, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 508 acquires the bibliographic information 700 from the management device 112 (S1113). Then, the CPU 202 acquires a print job from the storage device 111 (S1114).

  When the interpreted command is a print instruction request (S1104: No, S1111: No, S1116: Yes), the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 determines whether the print job 1400 has been acquired (S1117). When it is determined that the print job 1400 has been acquired (S1117: YES), the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 executes print processing of the print job 1400 using the printer 211 (S1119). Then, the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 sets the printed flag 706 of the bibliographic information 700 to “printed” and updates the bibliographic information stored in the management device 112 (S1120). If the interpreted command is a system termination request (S1104: No, S1111: No, S1116: No, S1121: Yes), the CPU 202 terminates the execution process of the system software 500 (S1122).

(Control by UI)
Next, a control flow for changing the control content of the output device 113 based on the state of the UI that has issued an authentication request to the output device 113 will be described. As described above, in the present embodiment, the control content of the output device 113 differs depending on the authentication source UI. In the present embodiment, the control content of the output device 113 differs depending on the setting content of the authentication source UI.

  The setting of the authentication source UI is, for example, a setting relating to the display order of the screen. In the above description, an example is used in which the operation unit 207 displays the screen in the order of the login screen 600, the input screen 610, the selection screen 620, and the instruction screen 640, and issues a print instruction. However, the operation unit 207 according to the present exemplary embodiment can display the screens in another order and can issue a print instruction. Specifically, the operation unit 207 can display the screen in the order of the selection screen 620, the login screen 600, the input screen 610, and the instruction screen 640. That is, in the display order of this screen, the user can perform login processing after selecting a function to be executed by the output device 113. Such a display method is advantageous in that security can be set for each function. Such display procedure settings can be changed on the management screen 1500. As shown in FIG. 15, a setting button 1501 and a setting button 1502 are displayed on the management screen 1500. When the setting button 1501 is selected on the management screen 1500, the setting flag = 0 is stored in the RAM 203. The operation unit 207 displays the screen in the order of the login screen 600, the input screen 610, the selection screen 620, and the instruction screen 640.

  When the setting button 1502 is selected on the management screen 1500, the setting flag = 1 is stored in the RAM 203. Then, the operation unit 207 displays the screen in the order of the selection screen 620, the login screen 600, the input screen 610, and the instruction screen 640.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a login management screen displayed on the operation unit. When the screen is displayed in the order of the selection screen 620, the login screen 600, the input screen 610, and the instruction screen 640, a user is first selected on the selection screen 620 and a password is input on the login screen 600. When a user is selected and a password is entered, user authentication processing is performed. Then, with the success of authentication, the download of the print job is started. That is, the download of the print job is started based on the content input on the input screen. Therefore, the print job download start timing is different from the case where the setting button 1501 is selected on the management screen 1500. When the setting button 1501 is selected, the download of the print job is started based on the icon selected on the selection screen 620.

  That is, the output device 113 includes a plurality of modes including a mode in which a print job is downloaded along with successful authentication from the operation unit 207 and a mode in which a print job is not downloaded along with successful authentication from the operation unit 207. The mode can be executed.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart regarding the prior acquisition of a print job.

  When the system software 500 is activated, the CPU 202 functioning as the control unit 509 becomes ready to accept a login request (authentication request) (S1601). When the authentication request is from the mobile terminal 102 (S1602: YES), that is, when the mobile UI management ID 1312 is received in response to the login request, the CPU 202 acquires bibliographic information (S1607), and print job acquisition processing (S1608). ). When it is not an authentication request from the mobile terminal 102 (S1602: NO), that is, when the management ID 1311 for the local UI is received along with the authentication, the CPU 202 confirms the setting of the local UI (S1603). When “1” is stored as the setting value of the login setting of the local UI, the CPU 202 acquires bibliographic information upon successful authentication (S1607), and executes print job acquisition processing (S1608). The case where “1” is stored as the setting value of the login setting of the local UI means that the login screen 620 is displayed after function selection (selection of the print button 623) is performed.

  When the setting value of the login screen of the local UI is “0”, the CPU 202 does not acquire the bibliographic information at this stage (the stage where the authentication is successful) and does not execute the print job acquisition process.

  The case where the setting value of the login screen of the local UI is “0”, that is, the case where the login screen 600 is displayed as a screen (TOP screen) displayed when the operation unit 207 starts operation.

  Then, the CPU 202 displays a selection screen 620 on the operation unit 207. When the print button 623 is selected on the selection screen 620 (S1606: YES), the CPU 202 acquires bibliographic information (S1607) and executes a print job acquisition process (S1608). When a button (copy button 621, scan button 622) different from the print button 623 is selected on the selection screen 620 (S1606: YES), the CPU 202 does not acquire bibliographic information and a print job.

  When the print job acquisition process is started, the CPU 202 displays an instruction screen 640 on the operation unit 207 or the terminal 102, and waits in a print instruction acceptance state until a print instruction is issued (S1610: NO). When a print instruction is issued (S1610: YES), the CPU 202 confirms the instruction content (S1611). When the print instruction for the print job acquired by the advance acquisition is issued (S1612: YES), the CPU 202 causes the printer 211 to execute the print process (S1613). When a print instruction for a print job different from the print job acquired by the previous acquisition is issued (S1612: NO), the CPU 202 deletes the print job acquired in advance (S1614) and acquires the print job for which the print instruction has been issued. (1615). Then, the CPU 202 causes the printer 211 to execute print processing (S1613).

(Mobile login control)
Next, authentication from the terminal 102 will be described in detail. As described above, the output device 113 of this embodiment can perform authentication from the terminal 102 as well as from the operation unit 207. In this authentication, data exchange as shown in FIG. 17 is performed between the terminal 102 and the output device 113. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a control flow of the terminal 102 and the output device 113 associated with mobile login.

  A dedicated application for logging in to the image processing apparatus is installed in the terminal 102, and this mobile application can be executed (S1701).

  When the mobile application is executed (S1701), a login screen 630 (input screen) is displayed on the terminal 102. When the login button 634 is selected on the login screen 630 and the login process is executed, information is transmitted from the terminal 102 to the output device 113. Information transmitted at this time includes user ID, password, and UI management information. Thus, the CPU 202 of the output device 113 receives the information (S1707). The CPU 202 performs an authentication process based on the acquired information (S1708). When the authentication is successful (S1709: YES), the CPU 202 transmits an authentication OK flag and bibliographic information to the terminal 102. Then, a print job acquisition process is started (S1712). When the authentication fails (S1709: NO), the CPU 202 transmits an authentication NG flag to the terminal 102. And it waits so that the next transmitted information can be received (S1707). The terminal 102 that has received the authentication result (S1705) determines the authentication result (S1706). If the authentication NG flag is received as the authentication result (S1706: NO), the input screen is displayed again (S1702). If the authentication OK flag is received as the authentication result (S1706 YES), the process ends.

(Print job acquisition control)
In this embodiment, only the latest print job among the print jobs related to the user is downloaded. With such a configuration, an increase in network traffic is suppressed.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of print data acquisition processing (S1110 or S1114 in FIG. 11). When the output device 113 is acquiring bibliographic information, as shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 508 analyzes the bibliographic information and extracts the bibliographic information 800 of the login user (S1202). Next, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 508 extracts bibliographic information 900 indicating that the printed flag is unprinted from the bibliographic information 800 (S1203). Next, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 508 analyzes the date / time information 901 of the bibliographic information 900 indicating that the printed flag is not printed, and identifies the newest bibliographic information (S1204). In the example of the bibliographic information 900, it can be determined that the bibliographic information 912 is the newest bibliographic information. Next, the CPU 202 functioning as the obtaining unit 505 obtains the print job indicated by the bibliographic information as the newest from the storage device 111 (S1205). When the storage device 111 is not responding during sleep, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 505 transmits a signal for prompting the storage device 111 to return, and acquires a print job after waiting for the recovery. When the acquisition of the print job is completed, the CPU 202 functioning as the acquisition unit 505 ends the process (S1206).

  Note that the CPU 202 may acquire not only the newest print job but also the second and third new print jobs. In other words, the CPU 202 can acquire print jobs from a new one to a predetermined order, and can not acquire a print job after the predetermined order. Further, the CPU 202 may determine whether or not to acquire a print job based on the date and time. For example, the CPU 202 can acquire a print job after a predetermined time and can not acquire a print job before the predetermined time.

  Further, the CPU 202 may delete the print job when a predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, the acquired print job is not used for a predetermined period. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the compression of the data area in the storage medium such as the HDD.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when a print instruction is likely to be executed, the print job is acquired in advance, and when the print instruction is not likely to be executed, output is performed so that the print job is not acquired in advance. The device 113 can be controlled. Even when a print job is acquired in advance, only a specific job among the jobs related to the user can be downloaded.

  Specifically, the CPU 202 executing the system software 500 can specify a user authentication request source at the time of user authentication. The control content of the output device 113 can be changed in accordance with the user authentication request source. When the authentication requesting source is a specific UI (mobile UI in the present embodiment), bibliographic information and print job advance acquisition can be performed in conjunction with user authentication. When the user authentication request source is a UI different from a specific UI (local UI in this embodiment), bibliographic information and a print job can be acquired in advance in conjunction with a print screen display request. Further, when a print job is acquired in advance, only an unprinted print job can be downloaded. Furthermore, when a print job is acquired in advance, only the print job with the newest registered date and time can be downloaded.

  By controlling the output device 113 in this way, it is possible to suppress downloading of unnecessary print jobs while reducing the waiting time of the user during printing.

  That is, an increase in network traffic can be suppressed, and deterioration of the network environment such as a reduction in communication speed of other devices connected in the network can be suppressed. Further, since it is not necessary to download a print job that is not used, it is not necessary to press the storage area of the storage unit of the output device 113. Therefore, the increase in capacity of the storage unit is suppressed, and the manufacturing cost of the output device 113 can be reduced.

  By the way, the local UI may be able to change the display procedure of the login screen 600, the input screen 610, and the selection screen 620. For example, the screens may be displayed in the order of the selection screen 620, the login screen 600, the input screen 610, and the instruction screen 640. That is, the user performs a login process after selecting a function to be executed by the output device 113. With such a display method, security can be set for each function. Further, such switching of the display procedure is realized by selecting one of a setting button 1501 and a setting button 1502 on the management screen 1500 as shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a login management screen displayed on the operation unit. When the screens are displayed in the order of the selection screen 620, the login screen 600, the input screen 610, and the instruction screen 640, the download of the print job is started with the success of the authentication. That is, the output device 113 can execute a mode in which a print job is downloaded along with successful authentication from the operation unit 207 and a mode in which a print job is not downloaded along with successful authentication from the operation unit 207.

(Other examples)
The present invention is also realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) for realizing 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. The various storage media may be singular or plural. The computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the apparatus may be singular or plural.

Claims (20)

In an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus that performs printing based on print data and capable of communicating via a network with a storage device that stores the print data.
A first screen for giving a print instruction to the printing apparatus; a second screen in which a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying the first screen are arranged; and the second screen is displayed A display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a third screen for performing user authentication before
Acquisition means for acquiring print data associated with an authenticated user from the storage device, wherein the acquisition means acquires print data based on selection of an object for displaying the first screen; An image processing apparatus comprising:   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an authentication unit configured to authenticate a user based on authentication information acquired from the user during display of the third screen.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the display unit displays the second screen based on authentication information acquired during display of the third screen. An image processing device capable of communicating with a reading device that reads a document,
The display unit can display a fourth screen for issuing a reading instruction to the reading device;
4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of objects is an object for displaying the fourth screen. 5.   5. The acquisition unit according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires unprinted print data among print data associated with an authenticated user, and does not acquire printed print data. An image processing apparatus according to 1.   The acquisition unit acquires print data having a date and time stored in the storage device that is newer than a predetermined date and time among print data associated with the authenticated user, and the stored date and time is higher than the predetermined date and time. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein old print data is not acquired.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit deletes unprinted print data when a predetermined condition is satisfied.   8. The image according to claim 1, wherein when the storage device is in a sleep state, the acquisition unit acquires the print data after the storage device is restored. Processing equipment. An image that can communicate with a printing apparatus that performs printing based on print data, can communicate with a reading apparatus that reads a document, can communicate with an external information terminal, and can communicate via a network with a storage device that stores the print data In the processing device,
A first screen on which a plurality of selectable objects are arranged, including an object for displaying a screen for instructing printing on the printing apparatus and an object for displaying a screen for instructing reading on the reading apparatus; A display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a second screen for performing user authentication prior to displaying the first screen;
Transmitting means for transmitting information related to a screen to display the screen on the external information terminal to the external information terminal, without transmitting information related to the screen for instructing reading to the reading device to the external information terminal, Transmitting means for transmitting to the external information terminal information related to a screen for issuing a print instruction to the printing apparatus;
Authentication means for authenticating a user, wherein a first authentication process for performing authentication based on authentication information acquired from a user operating the display unit, and a second for performing authentication based on authentication information received from the external information terminal An authentication means capable of executing authentication processing;
Print data related to the authenticated user is not acquired from the storage device with the first authentication process, and print data associated with the authenticated user is acquired from the storage device with the second authentication process. An image processing apparatus.   The acquisition unit is associated with the authenticated user based on selection of an object for displaying a screen for performing a print instruction on the printing apparatus by the user authenticated by the first authentication process. The image processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the print data is acquired.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the display unit displays the first screen based on authentication information acquired during display of the second screen.   12. The acquisition unit according to claim 9, wherein the acquisition unit acquires unprinted print data among print data associated with an authenticated user, and does not acquire printed print data. An image processing apparatus according to 1.   The acquisition unit acquires print data having a date and time stored in a storage device that is newer than a predetermined date and time among print data associated with an authenticated user, and the stored date and time is older than the predetermined date and time The image processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein print data is not acquired. A storage unit for storing the print data acquired by the acquisition unit;
The said acquisition means deletes unprinted print data among the print data memorize | stored in the said memory | storage part, when predetermined conditions are satisfy | filled. Image processing device.   15. The image according to claim 9, wherein when the storage device is in a sleep state, the acquisition unit acquires print data after the storage device is restored. Processing equipment. A storage unit storing print data; and
A printing unit that performs printing based on the print data; and
A first screen for giving a print instruction to the printing unit; a second screen in which a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying the first screen are arranged; and the second screen is displayed. A display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a third screen for performing user authentication before
Acquiring means for acquiring print data associated with an authenticated user from the storage unit via a network, and acquiring print data based on selection of an object for displaying the first screen An image forming system. Can communicate with a printing apparatus that performs printing based on print data, can communicate with a reading apparatus that reads an original, can communicate with a storage device that stores print data via a network, and can print to the printing apparatus A first screen for giving an instruction, a second screen in which a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying the first screen are arranged, and before displaying the second screen A method for controlling an image processing apparatus including a display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a third screen for performing user authentication,
An authentication step for authenticating the user;
A step of acquiring print data associated with a user who has been authenticated before the print instruction is issued by the user who has been authenticated in the authentication step from a storage device via a network, wherein the first screen is displayed. And a step of acquiring print data based on selection of an object for the image processing apparatus. A first screen that is communicable with a printing apparatus that performs printing based on the print data, is communicable via a network to a storage device that stores the print data, and is configured to issue a print instruction to the printing apparatus; A second screen in which a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying the first screen are arranged, and a third for authenticating a user before displaying the second screen A computer having a display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a screen,
An authentication step for authenticating the user;
A step of acquiring print data associated with a user who has been authenticated before the print instruction is issued by the user who has been authenticated in the authentication step, wherein an object for displaying the first screen is selected And a step of acquiring print data based on the above. Communicates with a printing device that performs printing based on print data, communicates with a reading device that reads a document, communicates with an external information terminal, and communicates via a network with a storage device that stores print data And a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying a screen for instructing printing on the printing apparatus and an object for displaying a screen for instructing reading on the reading apparatus. An image comprising: a display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a first screen and a second screen for performing user authentication prior to displaying the first screen. A method for controlling a processing apparatus, comprising:
Transmitting information related to a screen to display the screen on the external information terminal to the external information terminal, without transmitting information related to the screen for instructing reading to the reading device to the external information terminal, Transmitting information related to a screen for issuing a print instruction to a printing apparatus to the external information terminal;
An authentication step for authenticating a user, wherein a first authentication process for performing authentication based on authentication information acquired from a user operating the display unit and a second for performing authentication based on authentication information received from the external information terminal Executing one authentication process from a plurality of authentication processes including the authentication process;
The step of acquiring from the storage device print data associated with the authenticated user associated with the second authentication process without acquiring the print data associated with the authenticated user associated with the first authentication processing from the storage device. And a control method for an image processing apparatus. Can communicate with a printing apparatus that performs printing based on print data, can communicate with a reading apparatus that reads a document, can communicate with an external information terminal, and can communicate via a network with a storage device that stores print data And a plurality of selectable objects including an object for displaying a screen for instructing printing on the printing apparatus and an object for displaying a screen for instructing reading on the reading apparatus. And a computer having a display unit capable of selectively displaying a plurality of screens including a second screen for performing user authentication before displaying the first screen,
Transmitting information related to a screen to display the screen on the external information terminal to the external information terminal, without transmitting information related to the screen for instructing reading to the reading device to the external information terminal, Transmitting information related to a screen for issuing a print instruction to a printing apparatus to the external information terminal;
An authentication step for authenticating a user, wherein a first authentication process for performing authentication based on authentication information acquired from a user operating the display unit and a second for performing authentication based on authentication information received from the external information terminal Executing one authentication process from a plurality of authentication processes including the authentication process;
The step of acquiring from the storage device print data associated with the authenticated user associated with the second authentication process without acquiring the print data associated with the authenticated user associated with the first authentication processing from the storage device. And a program characterized by being executed.

Images