JP2004098413A - Printer - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printer in which a secret can be secured even when printing cannot be sustained in a confidential mode. <P>SOLUTION: When a confidential print is reserved, printing of confidential image information is permitted (S91) if inputted user ID and password coincide with those of the reserved confidential print and then printing of the confidential image information is performed (S93). If an interruption instruction is received or an error is detected in the printer during print operation (YES at S94 or S95), print operation is interrupted (S97), the interrupted confidential print is suspended (S98) and permission of printing is released (S99). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printing apparatus having a so-called confidential printing function for printing confidential information such as documents or images of documents that are not desired to be viewed by others.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art A printing apparatus such as a printer or a multifunction peripheral having a printer function and a facsimile function receives print data transmitted from an image processing apparatus (for example, a personal computer in which image processing software is installed). The print data includes image information, print conditions (for example, paper size), and the like. The printing apparatus forms an image on a sheet using the image information according to the printing conditions of the received print data, and automatically discharges the sheet.
[0003]
When a plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected to a printing apparatus via, for example, a LAN, the image processing apparatuses and the printing apparatus are generally separated from each other. Therefore, until the user of the image processing apparatus that has transmitted the print data goes to pick up the discharged paper to the printing apparatus, anyone can easily confirm the printed information. In order to prevent such a state, a printing apparatus having a confidential printing mode has been conventionally proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).
[0004]
Such a printing apparatus determines that printing is to be performed in the confidential print mode when the print data includes authentication information (for example, a user ID and a password) or information indicating the confidential print mode. In this case, the printing apparatus does not print immediately upon receiving the print data, and performs a predetermined authentication such as authentication information included in the received print data or authentication information registered in the printing apparatus in advance. When the information is input, that is, when the authentication based on the input authentication information is accepted, printing using the image information included in the print data corresponding to the input authentication information is executed.
[0005]
In the case of using the printing apparatus as described above, the user transmits print data from the image processing apparatus to the printing apparatus, then moves to the vicinity of the printing apparatus, and inputs authentication information using, for example, an operation unit of the printing apparatus. Input a print start command to the printing apparatus. For this reason, the user can cause the printing apparatus to execute printing, and perform confidential printing for acquiring the ejected paper while preventing the printed information from being viewed by others.
[0006]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-5-143253
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-2002-149385
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, during the execution of confidential printing, if the user has to leave the printing device for business purposes, or if the printing device runs out of toner or paper, etc., and confidential printing cannot be continued, the user You need to pause confidential printing or cancel it completely. If the printing is suspended, the user or another user cannot execute the other printing on the printing apparatus, or the other user releases the suspension without permission and resumes the confidential printing, and the printed information is displayed. However, there is a problem that others may be seen by others. In addition, when the user completely cancels the confidential printing, the user has to send print data again from the image processing apparatus, and has to perform confidential printing again.
[0008]
Further, when the printing process cannot be continued due to the abnormality of the printing device, the printing device may transfer the print data to another printing device connected to the LAN in response to the transfer command of the user. In such a case, there has been a problem that the printing apparatus to which the print data has been transferred forms an image in a normal print mode (a print mode other than the confidential print mode) and discharges the paper.
In order to solve this problem, Patent Document 2 discloses a printing apparatus that transfers print data to another printing apparatus in a confidential printing mode. And if the printing device does not have a confidential printing mode, the information cannot be kept confidential.
[0009]
The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and executes confidential printing when authentication is permitted and confidential printing is permitted, and releases confidential printing permission when confidential printing is interrupted. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus that can prevent interrupted confidential printing from being restarted without permission.
Further, another object of the present invention is to prevent confidential printing from being resumed by another user without permission when confidential printing is interrupted after authentication has been permitted and confidential printing is once permitted. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing apparatus which does not need to restart the operation from the beginning.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The printing apparatus according to the first invention is an image information storage unit that stores confidential image information to be printed when authentication based on the authentication information is approved, a reception unit that receives the authentication information, and the authentication based on the received authentication information is approved. A confidential print permitting means for permitting printing of confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information of which the authentication stored in the image information storing means is approved. The means is characterized in that, when printing of the confidential image information is interrupted while printing of the confidential image information is permitted, the permission of the printing is released.
[0011]
In the printing apparatus of the first invention, for example, print data including image information and authentication information is received, and the received image information and authentication information are stored. In this case, the received image information is confidential image information and is stored in the image information storage unit.
Next, the accepting unit accepts the input of the authentication information, and if the accepted authentication information matches the stored authentication information, it is determined that the authentication based on the accepted authentication information has been approved, and The state shifts to a state in which printing of confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information is permitted (that is, confidential printing mode), and printing of confidential image information becomes possible.
[0012]
While printing of the confidential image information is permitted, a printing interruption command is input from the operation unit provided in the printing apparatus while the printing of the confidential image information is executed, or an abnormality such as running out of toner or paper is detected. In this case, the printing apparatus suspends printing of the confidential image information being printed, and the confidential print permission unit cancels confidential print permission (confidential print mode).
[0013]
In a printing apparatus according to a second aspect, the confidential print permission unit releases the image when the authentication based on the authentication information received by the reception unit is permitted in a state where the permission to print the confidential image information is released. It is characterized in that the printing of confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information for which the authentication stored in the information storage means has been approved is permitted again.
[0014]
In the printing apparatus according to the second aspect of the invention, when the confidential printing being performed is interrupted and the permission for printing the confidential print information is released, the receiving unit receives the authentication information again, and When the authentication information corresponding to the interrupted confidential printing matches, the printing apparatus determines that the authentication by the authentication unit has been approved, and the confidential print permission unit again permits the printing of the confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information. (Ie, re-enter the confidential print mode), and restart printing of confidential image information.
[0015]
According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus, the confidential image information is provided with information for specifying each of the confidential image information, and when the authentication based on the authentication information received by the receiving unit is approved, the confidential image information is stored in the image information storage unit. An output unit that outputs a list of information that specifies confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information for which authentication has been accepted is performed.
[0016]
In the printing apparatus of the third invention, for example, print data including confidential image information, information for specifying confidential image information, and authentication information is received and stored. As the information for specifying the confidential image information (hereinafter, referred to as identification information), a file name, data size, or creation date and time of the confidential image information is used.
The printing device outputs a list of the identification information to the output unit when the authentication based on the authentication information received by the reception unit is approved.
[0017]
When the identification information is output in a list, the identification information may be displayed in a list on a display unit provided in the printing apparatus.Printing is performed using the identification information as image information, and the sheet on which the identification information is printed is discharged. Is also good. Further, not only the received identification information but also the identification information generated by the printing apparatus (such as the reception date and time of the print data or information indicating whether confidential printing is being executed or suspended) may be used.
[0018]
A printing device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes a display unit provided as the output unit, wherein the receiving unit receives a selection of information listed and output on the display unit, and a confidential information corresponding to the selected information. Means for receiving processing for image information.
[0019]
In the printing apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the invention, when the authentication based on the authentication information received by the receiving unit is recognized, the identification information is output to the display unit as a list (list display). Next, selection of part or all of the identification information displayed in a list on the display means and a processing instruction for confidential image information corresponding to the selected identification information are received.
The confidential image information processing command is a confidential print execution command, a hold command, a suspend command, a forced termination command, a delete command, or a print execution or hold continuation command.
When one or a plurality of pieces of identification information are selected and, for example, a deletion instruction is received as a processing instruction, print data including confidential image information corresponding to all the selected identification information is deleted. When a confidential printing execution command is input, printing of each piece of confidential image information is permitted and executed.
[0020]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings showing the embodiments.
In the present embodiment, a network printer having a print server function and a printer function is exemplified as a printing apparatus, but a multifunction peripheral having a network printer function, a facsimile function, and the like may be used.
[0021]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a printing apparatus 1 according to the present invention.
The CPU 10 is a control center of the printing apparatus 1 and is connected to each unit of the apparatus such as the ROM 11 and the RAM 12 via a bus. The CPU 10 controls each unit of the apparatus according to a control program stored in the ROM 11, temporarily stores data generated thereby in the RAM 12, and executes various processes.
[0022]
The display unit 16 is controlled by the CPU 10 to display an operation state of the apparatus or an input instruction to the user. The operation unit 17 includes various function keys for the user to operate while looking at the display unit 16. And function as a receiving means. The data input from the operation unit 17 is temporarily stored in the RAM 12 by the CPU 10 and used for executing various processes.
The display unit 16 and the operation unit 17 are provided integrally to constitute an operation panel (see FIG. 2).
Note that the operation panel (the display unit 16 and the operation unit 17) may be configured using a touch panel.
[0023]
The image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 use nonvolatile storage means (for example, a hard disk), and the image memory 18 uses volatile storage means (for example, a DRAM). The image information storage unit 13 has a sufficiently large storage capacity and can store a plurality of pieces of image information.
The printer unit 19 includes an image forming unit 191 and a paper feeding unit 192. The image forming unit 191 includes a drum-shaped photoconductor, a transfer charger, and the like, and forms an image on a sheet using toner. The paper feeding unit 192 conveys the paper to the image forming unit 191 and discharges the paper on which the image is formed.
The printer unit 19 may be configured to form an image by another method (such as an ink jet method or a thermal transfer method) other than the electrophotographic method.
[0024]
The printing apparatus 1 is connected to the LAN 20 via the LAN interface 15, and is connected to the image processing apparatuses 2, 2,.
Each image processing apparatus 2 uses a personal computer in which known image processing software corresponding to the confidential print mode is installed. The image processing apparatus 2 transmits print data in a normal print mode (hereinafter, referred to as normal print data) or print data in a confidential print mode (hereinafter, referred to as confidential print data) via the LAN 20 in accordance with a user operation. To the printing device 1.
[0025]
In this case, the normal print data includes type information indicating that the print data itself is normal print data, normal image information, identification information, and printing conditions (number of prints, paper size, density, etc.). Also, the confidential print data includes type information indicating that the print data itself is confidential print data, confidential image information, identification information, printing conditions, and authentication information. In addition, a user ID that can be disclosed and a password that is password information are used as the authentication information. Further, a file name, a creation date, a data size (number of pages), and the like of image information are used as identification information. Note that the user ID may be included in the identification information.
In addition, the printing apparatus 1 includes an error detection unit (not shown) that detects an abnormality (out of toner, out of paper, paper jam, or the like) of each unit. When an error is detected during normal printing, the error is eliminated. When automatically resume normal printing.
[0026]
FIG. 2 is a front view of an operation panel provided in the printing apparatus 1.
The operation panel includes a display unit 16 on the left side and an operation unit 17 on the right side. The operation unit 17 includes ten keys 171 for the user to input numbers, symbols, and the like, and direction keys 172 for moving the cursor displayed on the display unit 16 to select an item. Also, an OK key 173 for starting execution of various processing instructions in accordance with the input numbers or symbols or the selected item, and a key for suspending the printing process during execution of confidential printing and suspending the confidential printing. A stop key 174 is provided. Furthermore, information on confidential printing in which confidential print data is stored in the identification information storage unit 14 and the image information storage unit 13, that is, information on reserved confidential printing or confidential printing being executed (for example, identification information. ) Is displayed on the display unit 16 in a list.
[0027]
When the confidential print data is reserved, the display unit 16 displays, for example, "There is a reservation for confidential print" and "Please input your user ID and password and press the OK key." A text box for inputting an ID and a password is displayed. The display unit 16 also displays "Press the list display key to see the confidential print list."
When only one type of confidential printing user ID is reserved, the user ID may be displayed in a text box in advance. Alternatively, the user ID corresponding to the confidential printing with the earliest reception date and time may be displayed in a text box. In the case described above, user convenience can be improved.
[0028]
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of identification information of confidential print data stored in the identification information storage unit 14.
The identification information storage unit 14 stores, for each confidential print data, the date and time at which each was received (reception date and time), identification information (file name and number of pages, etc.), authentication information, and image information storage unit storing image information. 13 (information storage position) and status information indicating whether confidential printing is being executed, held, or suspended and held.
The confidential print that has been suspended and held, that is, the confidential print data whose status information is “suspended / pending” stores not only the total number of pages but also the number of pages that have been printed in the page number column. . The confidential print data being executed, that is, the confidential print data whose status information is “executing” also stores the number of printed pages in the page number column. The number of pages increases by one each time printing of each page is completed.
[0029]
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the confidential print list displayed on the display unit 16. Hereinafter, a confidential print list of a user having the user ID “aaa” will be described as an example. The display unit 16 displays a list of identification information (file name, number of pages, etc.) and status information corresponding to a plurality of confidential prints reserved by the user in the printing apparatus 1 as one item. Also, an item "select all" is displayed.
In this case, among the data stored in the identification information storage unit 14, the CPU 10 does not display information that should not be disclosed (for example, a password) and information that has no merit for the user (for example, an information storage location).
[0030]
The CPU 10 also highlights the item currently selected by the cursor (ie, the currently selected confidential print). Further, when the directional key 172 of the operation unit 17 is operated, another confidential print is displayed in reverse according to the operated directional key 172, and the confidential print which has been displayed in reverse is displayed normally.
When the OK key 173 of the operation unit 17 is operated, the CPU 10 determines that the user has decided to select the confidential print (or all confidential print) that is currently displayed in reverse video, and a process as shown in FIG. Display the screen. When the function key (not shown) and the OK key 173 are simultaneously operated, the CPU 10 determines that the user selects the confidential print that is currently highlighted and selects another confidential print. Continue displaying the print list.
[0031]
FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of a processing screen related to confidential print data displayed on the display unit 16.
FIG. 5A shows a case in which only one confidential print that has been suspended and held (confidential print whose status information is “suspended / pending”) is selected from the confidential print list shown in FIG. FIG. 5B is a processing screen when a plurality or all confidential printings are selected.
[0032]
In the processing screen of FIG. 5A, the identification information and the state information of the selected confidential printing are displayed, and as the items of the processing content to be selected and executed, "all page printing (from where it was interrupted)" , "Print a part of pages", "delete", and "suspend / suspend". However, when the selected confidential printing is being executed, “print all pages” and “print some pages” are not displayed, but “interruption” is displayed instead.
In the processing screen of FIG. 5B, the items to be selected and executed for all the selected confidential printings are “all page printing”, “partial page printing”, “deletion”, “interruption”, and An item “pending or continuing execution” is displayed.
[0033]
On the processing screen as described above, the currently selected item is highlighted. Further, when the directional key 172 of the operation unit 17 is operated, other items are selected and highlighted in accordance with the operated directional key 172, and the unselected items are normally displayed.
Further, when the OK key 173 is operated, the CPU 10 determines that the user has decided to select the processing content currently highlighted.
[0034]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a print processing procedure of the printing apparatus 1.
The CPU 10 determines whether or not print data has been received via the LAN interface 15 (S11). If not (NO in S11), the CPU 10 waits until print data is received.
If print data has been received (YES in S11), the CPU 10 determines whether the printing is confidential printing (S12). In this case, by detecting the type information included in the received print data, the CPU 10 determines whether the received print data is confidential print data or normal print data, that is, whether or not the received print data is confidential print. .
[0035]
If the detected identification information includes type information indicating normal print data, the CPU 10 determines that the print is not confidential print but normal print (NO in S12). In this case, the CPU 10 shifts to the normal print mode, stores normal image information in the received print data (normal print data) in the image memory 18, stores identification information and printing conditions in the RAM 12, and stores the same. The printing of the normal image information is executed based on the printing conditions thus set (S13).
[0036]
If it is determined in S12 that the printing is the printing of the normal image information, the CPU 10 immediately gives an instruction to the printer unit 19 to start the preparation for printing. Specifically, for example, when the printer unit 19 is of the electrophotographic type as in the present embodiment, cleaning of the photoconductor of the image forming unit 191 and heating of the fixing device to a predetermined temperature are started. As a result, the time until the actual printing is started is reduced, and as a result, the overall printing time is also reduced.
[0037]
Next, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the printing of the normal image information has been completed (S14). If the printing has not been completed (NO in S14), the printing process is continued until the processing is completed. YES), the normal print data stored in the RAM 12 and the image memory 18 is erased, the normal print mode is released, the process proceeds to S11, and it is determined whether the print data has been received.
[0038]
If new normal print data is received during execution of normal print or confidential print, the CPU 10 stores the received normal print data in the RAM 12 and the image memory 18 and terminates the print being executed. Then, normal printing is executed in order of earliest reception date and time (spool). In this case, the received normal print data may be stored in the identification information storage unit 14 and the image information storage unit 13 and moved to the RAM 12 and the image memory 18 when executing the normal print.
[0039]
In S12, if the detected identification information has type information indicating that the data is confidential print data, the CPU 10 determines that the print is confidential print (YES in S12). In this case, the CPU 10 stores the confidential image information in the received print data (confidential print data) in the image information storage unit 13, stores the authentication information and the identification information in the information storage unit 14, and further stores the confidential image information. Is stored in the identification information storage unit 14 (S15), and the process proceeds to S11.
As described above, confidential print data corresponding to one confidential print is stored in the image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 (reservation of confidential print).
[0040]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a print processing procedure when the printing apparatus 1 stores confidential print data. The following processing is performed simultaneously with the processing of S11 to S15 shown in FIG. 6 when the confidential print data is stored in the image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 in S15 (confidential printing is reserved). This is a process that is performed in a typical manner. Even when the processing shown in FIG. 7 is being executed, the processing of S11 to S15 is performed every time print data is received.
[0041]
The CPU 10 determines whether or not there is confidential print data stored in the image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 (S21). To end.
If there is confidential print data in the image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 (YES in S21), the CPU 10 causes the display unit 16 to display that confidential print is reserved as shown in FIG. S22) In addition, the input of the user ID and the password is received by displaying the input instruction of the user ID and the password (S23).
[0042]
The CPU 10 determines whether or not the user ID and the password have been input (the OK key 173 has been operated after the input of the user ID and the password) (S31). If not (NO in S31), the process is performed. And returns to S31 to wait for the input of the user ID and the password.
When the user ID and the password are input (YES in S31), the CPU 10 refers to the identification information storage unit 14 and determines whether or not the user ID and the password match (the user ID that matches the input user ID and the password). And whether a password is stored) (S32).
[0043]
When the user ID and the password do not match (NO in S32), the CPU 10 notifies that the user ID and the password do not match (S33). In this case, the CPU 10 displays that fact on the display unit 16 or sounds a buzzer (not shown).
Next, the CPU 10 returns the process to S23, displays an input instruction of the user ID and the password on the display unit 16, and accepts the input of the user ID and the password.
[0044]
If the user ID and the password match (YES in S32), the CPU 10 determines that the authentication based on the input user ID and the password has been approved, and then refers to the identification information storage unit 14 and checks the matching user ID and the password. It is determined whether the number of confidential prints corresponding to the password is two or more (S34).
When a plurality of confidential print data corresponding to the matched user ID and password are stored in the identification information storage unit 14 (YES in S34), the CPU 10 calls and executes a subroutine (see FIG. 8) for performing a list display process. (S35).
[0045]
If there is only one confidential print (NO in S34), the CPU 10 displays a processing screen for the confidential print as shown in FIG. 5A on the display unit 16 (S36), and receives an input of the processing contents (S37). ). Next, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the processing content has been input (S38). In this case, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the item indicating the processing content has been selected and the OK key 173 has been operated.
If the processing content has not been input (NO in S38), CPU 10 waits until the processing content is input. When the processing content has been input (YES in S38), CPU 10 calls and executes a subroutine (see FIG. 9) for performing confidential printing processing (S39).
[0046]
If the execution of the list display processing or the confidential print processing is completed in S35 or S39, the CPU 10 shifts the processing to S21, and the confidential print data stored in the image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 is not yet available. It is determined whether or not there is.
[0047]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a list display processing procedure of the printing apparatus 1. This subroutine is called and executed in S35, and when the list display key 175 is operated, it is executed by interrupting another process.
First, the CPU 10 causes the display unit 16 to display a confidential print list as shown in FIG. 4 (S51). In this case, the confidential printing selection by the user is received (S52). After one confidential print is selected, a plurality of confidential prints is selected, or all confidential prints are selected, the CPU 10 operates the OK key 173 to determine the selection of confidential print. It is determined whether or not confidential printing is selected (S53), and if not determined (NO in S53), the process waits until confidential printing is selected and determined.
[0048]
When the selection of confidential printing is determined (YES in S53), the CPU 10 causes the display unit 16 to display a processing screen as shown in FIG. 5A or 5B for the selected confidential printing (S54). Next, the input of the processing content for the selected confidential printing is received (S55), and it is determined whether or not the item indicating the processing content is selected and the OK key 173 is operated to determine whether the processing content is input. Is determined (S56).
If the processing contents have not been input (NO in S56), the CPU 10 waits until the processing contents are input, and if the processing contents have been input (YES in S56), one of the confidential prints selected and determined in S53 is one. The confidential printing is specified (S57).
[0049]
Next, the CPU 10 calls and executes a subroutine for performing confidential printing processing (S58).
When the processing in S58 is completed, the CPU 10 determines whether there is any confidential printing that has not yet executed the processing content input in S56 (that is, unprocessed confidential printing) among the confidential printings selected and determined in S53. Is determined, and if there is (YES in S59), the process returns to S57.
[0050]
When the processing content input in S56 has been executed for all confidential printing selected and determined in S53 (NO in S59), CPU 10 determines whether or not to perform processing for another confidential printing. (S60). In this case, the CPU 10 causes the display unit 16 to display “Continue with confidential printing?” And to display the items “Continue” and “End”. If key 173 is operated, it is determined that a process for another confidential print is to be performed (YES in S60), and the process returns to S51. When “end” is selected and the OK key 173 is operated, the CPU 10 determines that the list display process is to be ended (NO in S60), and ends this subroutine.
[0051]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a confidential print processing procedure of the printing apparatus 1. This subroutine is called and executed in S39 to execute the processing content input in S38 for the confidential printing for which the input of the processing content has been received in S37, or executed in S56 for the confidential printing specified in S57. In order to execute the input processing content, it is called and executed in S58. In the following, a case where it is called and executed in S58 will be exemplified.
[0052]
The CPU 10 determines whether or not the processing content input in S56 is “delete” (S71), and if it is “delete” (YES in S71), the CPU 10 determines whether the confidential printing specified in S57. Is deleted from the image information storage unit 13 and the identification information storage unit 14 (S72), and the present subroutine ends.
When the designated confidential printing is being executed, the printing may be interrupted and the confidential print data stored in the RAM 12 and the image memory 18 may be deleted (forced termination). It may be configured that it is determined that an instruction selection error has occurred, and a selection instruction (processing screen) of a processing instruction is displayed on the display unit 16 again.
[0053]
If the processing content input in S56 is not “delete” (NO in S71), the CPU 10 determines whether the confidential printing specified in S57 is in execution of printing (S73). When not executing (NO in S73), the CPU 10 determines whether or not the processing content input in S56 is "print a part of pages" (S74), and "prints a part of pages". If not (NO in S74), it is determined whether or not it is "all page printing" (S75).
[0054]
If the processing content input in S56 is "print a part of pages" (YES in S74), the CPU 10 receives the confidential print range specified in S57 (S76). In this case, the user uses the operation unit 16 to input a range of pages desired to be printed.
The CPU 10 determines whether or not the print range has been input (S77). If the print range has not been input (NO in S77), the CPU 10 waits until the input is input.
[0055]
If the print range has been input in "Print a part of pages" (YES in S77), or if "All pages" (YES in S75), the CPU 10 executes a subroutine for performing confidential print execution processing. When the calling (S78) and the process of S78 are completed, the present subroutine is completed.
[0056]
If the confidential printing specified in S57 is in execution of printing (YES in S73), or is not “all page printing” (NO in S75), if the confidential printing is “held”, the hold is performed. If the status is "suspended / held", the suspension is continued in the interrupted state, and if the status is "executing", the confidential printing is continued (S79), and this subroutine ends.
If the processing content input in S56 is “interruption”, the interruption processing is preferentially executed in S97 of FIG. 10 described later.
[0057]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a confidential print execution processing procedure of the printing apparatus 1. This subroutine is called and executed in S78.
The CPU 10 permits confidential printing of the confidential image information corresponding to the user ID and the password whose authentication has been approved in S32 (S91). That is, printing of confidential image information corresponding to confidential printing specified in S57 is permitted. At this time, the CPU 10 immediately gives an instruction to the printer unit 19 to start the preparation for printing, as in the case where it is determined in S12 that the printing is the printing of the normal image information.
[0058]
Next, the CPU 10 refers to the information storage position corresponding to the user ID and the password in the identification information storage unit 14, reads the confidential image information from the image information storage unit 13 (S92), and stores the read confidential image information in the image memory 18. The printing conditions and the number of pages (the total number of pages and / or the number of pages for which printing has been completed. The number of pages for which printing has been completed are stored in S98 to be described later) are stored in the RAM 12, and based on the stored printing conditions. The confidential image information is printed (S93). In this case, if YES in S74 (“print a part of pages”), the CPU 10 executes printing of the confidential image information in the print range input in S77. If YES in S75 (“all page printing”) and the confidential printing is “pending”, the CPU 10 executes printing of confidential image information for all pages and “confined / pending” confidential printing. In the case of, the confidential image information of the page for which printing has not been completed is executed by referring to the number of pages for which printing has been completed.
[0059]
During the printing of the confidential print image information, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the stop key 174 has been operated, or “interruption” has been selected and determined in S56, and an interrupt command has been input (S94). ) And determine whether an error has been detected (S95).
If the interruption command has not been input (NO in S94) and no error has been detected (NO in S95), the CPU 10 determines whether the printing executed in S93 has ended (S96), and ends. If not (NO in S96), the process returns to S94. When the printing is completed (YES in S96), the CPU 10 deletes the confidential print data stored in the RAM 12, the image information storage unit 13, the identification information storage unit 14, and the image memory 18, and executes the processing in S99 (described later). Move to
[0060]
If printing of the confidential print image information is being executed, that is, if printing of the confidential print information is permitted, an interrupt command is input (YES in S94), or an error is detected (YES in S95). Then, the CPU 10 interrupts the printing being executed (S97) and deletes the confidential print data stored in the RAM 12 and the image memory 18. Next, the CPU 10 changes the status information of the interrupted confidential printing to “interrupted / pending” in the identification information storage unit 14 and stores the number of pages for which printing has been completed in the identification information storage unit 14. The suspended confidential printing is suspended (S98). Finally, the permission of the printing performed in S91 is released (S99), the continuation and restart of the confidential printing are prohibited, and the CPU 10 ends this subroutine.
[0061]
In the present embodiment, even if the printing permission is released in S99, if the user ID and the password match in S32 and the authentication is permitted, the printing is permitted again in S91. It is configured to do. That is, the interrupted confidential printing is restarted after authentication.
[0062]
The printing apparatus as described above can have a confidential printing mode in which execution of confidential printing is suspended and printing is permitted when the user inputs a user ID and password.
Also, if the execution of confidential printing cannot be continued due to the user's convenience or an abnormality in the device, etc., confidential printing can be interrupted, and when confidential printing is restarted, the user ID and password must be input. Printing can be freely suspended, executed, suspended, or resumed according to the situation, and the confidentiality of the printed contents can be maintained.
[0063]
Further, it is possible to prevent the printing of the interrupted confidential image information from being resumed without permission, prevent the confidential image information from being inadvertently transferred to another printing device, or illegally leaked. Printing other than the confidential printing is performed. Also, there is no need to perform confidential printing work from the beginning or transfer confidential image information to another printing apparatus.
[0064]
Further, since identification information can be displayed in a list after authentication, even when a plurality of print data is input from one user, the user can be notified of the identification information of the received print data, In addition, it is possible to prevent notification to other users.
[0065]
In addition, a processing instruction is received for a plurality of pieces of identification information, and the received processing instruction can be executed for all confidential printing corresponding to the selected identification information. It is possible to improve the execution efficiency of a series of processes as compared with the case of accepting.
Further, since the processing instruction for confidential printing is also selected, the user can easily input the processing instruction.
[0066]
In the present embodiment, a printing apparatus connected to a plurality of image processing apparatuses via a LAN has been described as an example. However, a printing apparatus including a plurality of interfaces, and an image processing apparatus connected to each interface, is provided. It may be a device. Further, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which print data is received from a scanner.
Further, in the present embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which image information, a user ID, and a password are received as print data (that is, authentication of stored image information), but the user ID and password are registered in the printing apparatus in advance. In addition, a configuration in which image information and a user ID are received as print data (that is, authentication for a printing apparatus) may be employed.
[0067]
Further, not only the suspended confidential printing is suspended but also the interrupted confidential printing may be deleted (forced termination).
Further, the confidential printing that has been suspended or interrupted may be forcibly deleted after a predetermined time has elapsed, or the time until deletion may be extended each time the continuation of the suspension is input.
[0068]
【The invention's effect】
According to the printing apparatus of the present invention, printing of confidential image information is permitted, and during execution of confidential printing, the user needs to move away from the printing apparatus or an abnormality occurs in the confidential printing. Is canceled, the permission to print the confidential image information is released. This can prevent the printing of the interrupted confidential image information from being restarted, and prevent the confidential image information from being carelessly transferred to another printing apparatus or illegally leaked. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the printed information from being seen by others, and to maintain the confidentiality of the information. Further, since printing other than the interrupted confidential printing can be executed, one or a plurality of users can perform printing efficiently.
[0069]
In addition, when the authentication based on the received authentication information is accepted, the printing apparatus permits the printing of the interrupted confidential image information again so that another user can resume the interrupted confidential printing without permission. Furthermore, since the user does not need to perform confidential printing work (for example, transmission of confidential image information from the image processing apparatus to the printing apparatus) again or transfer the confidential image information to another printing apparatus, It is possible to improve the convenience of the user while keeping the information confidential.
[0070]
In addition, since the printing device outputs the identification information in a list after the authentication, the user can specify the transmitted print data even when transmitting a plurality of print data to the printing device. User can be prevented from specifying the print data in the printing apparatus. For this reason, the printing apparatus can further improve the convenience of the user while keeping the information confidential.
[0071]
Further, the printing apparatus displays the identification information on the display unit, and receives the selection of part or all of the displayed identification information and the processing instruction of the confidential image information corresponding to the selected identification information, thereby enabling the user to perform the processing. Can select the required confidential printing without fail by selecting the identification information, and can input a processing command. For this reason, the printing apparatus can further improve the convenience for the user. Further, even if another user who is not authorized is selected to input confidential information and input a processing command, the printing apparatus does not accept the input. Therefore, the present invention has an excellent effect, for example, preventing confidential image information from being processed without permission.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view of an operation panel provided in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of identification information of confidential print data stored in an identification information storage unit included in a printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a confidential print list displayed on a display unit provided in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a processing screen related to confidential print data displayed on a display unit included in the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a print processing procedure of the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a print processing procedure when the printing apparatus according to the present invention stores confidential print data.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a list display processing procedure of the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a confidential print processing procedure of the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a confidential print execution processing procedure of the printing apparatus according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 CPU
11 ROM
12 RAM
13 Image information storage
16 Display
17 Operation unit
19 Printer section

Claims (4)

Image information storage means for storing confidential image information to be printed when authentication based on the authentication information is approved; reception means for receiving the authentication information; and storage of the image information when authentication based on the received authentication information is approved. A confidential print permitting means for permitting printing of confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information in which the authentication stored in the means is authorized,
The confidential print permission unit is configured to release the print permission when printing of the confidential image information is interrupted while printing of the confidential image information is permitted. Printing device. The confidential print permission unit is configured to release the permission for printing the confidential image information, and when the authentication based on the authentication information received by the reception unit is approved, the confidential image information stored in the image information storage unit is 2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein printing of the confidential image information corresponding to the authentication information for which the authentication has been approved is permitted again. Information for specifying each of the confidential image information is given,
When the authentication based on the authentication information accepted by the accepting unit is accepted, a list of information specifying confidential image information corresponding to the authenticated authentication information stored in the image information storage unit is output. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an output unit. Display means provided as the output means,
4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the receiving unit further includes: a unit configured to receive a selection of information output as a list on the display unit; and a unit configured to receive a process for confidential image information corresponding to the selected information. 5. Printing equipment.

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