JP2006164029A - Print control system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem that a conventional image processing system cannot solve unstart of processing for insufficient print functions, such as specification of resolution and that of color processing. <P>SOLUTION: When a certain specific error situation occurs in transmitting a job, and in an environment which enables the alternative operation, whether the alternative operation is carried out or not and alternative operation can be set for every individual by personalized control. When the control is performed, it is restricted only to a transmitted job by default setting. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an external apparatus such as a host computer that can be connected to a communication line and a network LAN, and an image processing system such as an image processing apparatus that performs image processing based on data input from the external apparatus.

  Conventionally, there has been provided an image processing system for outputting image data sent from a host computer from a printer.

  In the above system, there is no method for checking the amount of resources such as printer paper and staples from the host computer, and if there is any, it can only be confirmed that there is no paper or staples. When print processing is set to use an amount exceeding the remaining amount of printer resources, there is a problem that the print processing is interrupted due to insufficient printer resources during the print processing.

  In addition, there is a problem that the printing process cannot be started or interrupted due to a lack of printing function, not a lack of resources.

  Also, there is a problem that processing is interrupted for errors that occur during the actual printing process.

In order to solve the above problem of resource shortage, when an output process is instructed to the printer, the set print process can be executed based on the amount information and function information of the predetermined resource acquired from the printer. A warning that prompts the user to replenish the predetermined resource if it is determined whether or not the predetermined resource of the amount or function is present in the printer, and it is determined that the printer does not have an amount of the predetermined resource and function capable of executing the set print processing. By displaying a message indicating the message, and then displaying other output formats that can be executed with the amount of paper and staples in the printer, the printer will run out of resources such as paper and staples during the printing process. Can prevent the processing from being interrupted in advance, and can efficiently specify alternative print processing in other output formats. Image processing system is present that. (JP 2000-315143)
JP 2000-315143 A

  However, the above-described image processing system cannot solve the unstarted processing for printing function shortages such as resolution designation and color processing designation.

  Also, it is impossible to solve a print interruption such as a jam or a memory shortage that occurs in the middle of execution after the printing process is started.

  In addition, an alternative operation is performed when resolving a print interruption, but the alternative operation is specified by interactive processing. However, this method has a problem in that it cannot be specified at runtime because of the interactive processing. is there.

  In addition, the specification method for performing the substitution process automatically is uniform, and is not efficient. In some cases, the print result was not intended by the user.

  In addition, although the necessary print operation settings have been made, there is a case where the print result does not reflect the user's intention due to the alternative process.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems and problems, and is set based on “processable function information” acquired from the printer when an output process is instructed to the printer. It is determined whether or not the printer has a function capable of executing print processing. If it is determined that the printer does not have a function capable of executing the set print processing, the alternative function is used because there is no predetermined function. By displaying a warning message prompting you and then displaying another output format that can be executed by another function that exists in the printer, it is possible in advance that the process will be interrupted due to a lack of function during the printing process. It is possible to provide an excellent operating environment in which alternative print processing using other output formats can be efficiently specified.

  Also, when the output process is instructed to the printer and the specified resource information or function information is satisfied and the print execution process is actually performed, an error such as a jam or insufficient memory occurs during the execution, and the subsequent print When it becomes impossible to perform processing, it is determined based on the “processable function information” already acquired from the printer whether or not the printer has an alternative function capable of continuing print processing. If an alternative function is possible, a warning message prompting whether to use the alternative function is displayed, and then another output format that can be executed by the alternative function present in the printer is displayed. It is possible to prevent processing from being interrupted due to an error, and to efficiently specify alternative print processing using other output formats. It provides an excellent operating environment that.

  In addition, when an output process is instructed to the printer and the user designates an alternative process at the time of execution, an automatic alternative print process is performed by setting an alternative process corresponding to the generated item for each user in advance. Is realized.

  In addition, by setting automatic alternative print settings by personalization control for each user, it is possible to provide a more efficient and superior printing environment.

  In addition, if there are essential print operation items set by the user, the subsequent print processing can be continued by disabling the substitution processing or by further inquiring the user, and more efficient. Provide a good and excellent printing environment.

  In order to achieve the above object, a print control system of the present invention is a data processing apparatus capable of data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, Instruction means for instructing the printer apparatus, setting means for setting a print processing function type for any one of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means, and any of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means A function type acquisition unit that acquires predetermined function type information from the status acquisition unit, status acquisition unit that acquires status information from any one of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction unit, and a printer device predetermined by the function acquisition unit. Based on the function type information and the status information acquired by the status acquisition means, the setting means A determination unit that determines whether or not the printer device has a predetermined function type that can execute the set print processing type, and the predetermined function type that can execute the set print processing function type by the determination unit is the printer device. A control unit that controls a printing operation related to the printer device based on an execution instruction for a print processing function type set by the setting unit, a unit that generates an output format by the control unit, A warning means for displaying a warning message prompting whether or not to use an alternative function type when the determination means determines that the printer device does not have a predetermined function type capable of executing the set print processing function type; and a warning by the warning means After the message is displayed, a predetermined machine of the printer device acquired by the function acquisition means An alternative output format display means for displaying another output format different from the output format set by the setting means, which can be executed with a predetermined function type in the printer device, based on the type information, and the alternative output format display Selection means for selecting another output format displayed by the means, and control means for controlling a printing operation relating to the printer device based on an execution instruction for a print processing function type set in the alternative output format selected by the selection means And means for generating an output format by the control means.

  The print control system of the present invention is a data processing apparatus capable of data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and an instruction for instructing any one of the printer devices. Means for setting a print processing function type for any one of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means, and obtaining predetermined function type information from any of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means Function type acquisition means, status acquisition means for acquiring status information from any one of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means, predetermined function type information of the printer apparatus acquired by the function acquisition means, and status acquisition Print processing set by the setting means based on the status information acquired by the means. A determination unit that determines whether or not the printer device has a predetermined function type that can execute a type, and the determination unit determines that the printer device has a predetermined function type that can execute a set print processing function type. A control unit that controls a printing operation related to the printer device based on an execution instruction for the print processing function type set by the setting unit, a unit that generates an output format by the control unit, and a generated output format. Means for sending to the printer device, means for detecting the error type that occurred during printing on the printer device, means for displaying the detected error type, and a warning prompting whether to continue the printing process using the alternative function type Warning means for displaying a message, and after the warning message is displayed by the warning means, the function acquisition means An alternative output format display for displaying another output format different from the output format set by the setting means, which can be executed with the predetermined function type in the printer device, based on the obtained predetermined function type information of the printer device And a selection means for selecting another output format displayed by the alternative output format display means, and the printer device based on an execution instruction for a print processing function type set in the alternative output format selected by the selection means Control means for controlling the printing operation relating to the control means, and means for generating an output format by the control means.

  In the print control system of the present invention, the alternative main power display format display means and the alternative output format selection means automatically determine the alternative output format according to a preset value without depending on the user's selection instruction. And means for continuing processing by the determining means.

  The printing control system according to the present invention includes a control unit that enables the determination unit to automatically determine the correspondence for each user by storing the correspondence between the user and the alternative function in advance.

  In the printing control system of the present invention, the determination means is configured such that, when making a determination, all the operation settings are default values in the output format generated by the printing operation control means.

  The print control system of the present invention is a printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and receives an inquiry about the function type of the printer device transmitted from the data processing device. Means for responding to the inquiry, an apparatus function reply means for collecting a list of functions supported by the printer apparatus and converting the list into a reply format, and means for receiving an inquiry about printer status information transmitted from the data processing apparatus In response to the inquiry, the printer status information is collected and converted into a reply format, status reply means, means for receiving the output format (job) transmitted from the data processing apparatus, and the received job. And means for performing print processing according to the specified print processing settings. That.

  The print control system of the present invention is a printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and receives an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device. Means for performing print processing in accordance with the print processing settings specified for the received job, and when an error occurs during the print processing, the print processing cannot be continued if the job is transmitted. It comprises means for actively notifying the data processing device, and including an error factor that has occurred in the notification content.

  The print control system of the present invention is a printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and receives an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device. Means for performing print processing in accordance with the print processing setting specified for the received job, and the data processing for transmitting an error indicating that an error has occurred during print processing and the print processing cannot be continued. When the notification is actively sent to the apparatus, it receives a command transmitted by the data processing apparatus and performs subsequent processing.

  The print control system of the present invention is a printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and receives an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device. Means for performing print processing in accordance with the print processing setting specified for the received job, and if an error occurs during the print processing, the error processing is performed without notifying the data processing apparatus. In addition, it is configured to perform substitution processing with contents set in the printer device in advance.

  The print control system of the present invention is a printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and receives an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device. Means, a means for performing print processing in accordance with the print processing setting designated in the received job, and an error occurs during the print processing, and when the substitute processing is performed according to the error contents, When the alternative process is determined, the alternative process is switched according to the contents set for each user who has transmitted the job in advance.

  The print control system of the present invention is a printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, and receives an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device. Means, a means for performing print processing in accordance with the print processing setting designated in the received job, and an error occurs during the print processing, and when the substitute processing is performed according to the error contents, In the case where the alternative processing is determined, the alternative processing is performed when the operation settings are all default values in the output format generated in the data processing device.

  As described above, according to the present invention, when output processing by a printer is instructed, alternative print processing can be efficiently performed even when an unexpected error occurs during execution. By personalizing, there is an effect that an excellent operation environment can be freely constructed.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system including an image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The image processing system according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of host computers 110/111/112 connected to a network and interfaces (local I / F 121-1 or network I / F) from the host computers 110/111/112. 121-2) a controller (image processing apparatus) 120 that performs predetermined image processing on the image data transmitted through 12-12), and a copier or the like that is connected to the controller 120 and prints out a color / grayscale digital image, for example. And a printer (image forming apparatus) 130.

  The controller 120 has an external interface 121 connected to the host computer 110 via an interface 121 (121-1, 121-2), and this external interface is connected to the CPU bus 123. The CPU bus has a CPU 124 for controlling the operation of the entire apparatus, a ROM 125 for storing a control program (including a flow described later), and a RAM 126 (126-1, 126-2) used as a work area for work. A FIFO controller 129 is connected to an HDD controller 127 that controls an internal hard disk (HDD) 128 in which font data, temporary storage data, print image data, and the like are stored. Here, the RAM includes a frame memory 126-1 for storing raster image data and a PDL buffer 126-2 for holding PDL image data. Instead of storing the raster image data in the frame memory 126-1, it is also possible to store it in the built-in HDD 128. The plurality of image data stored in the built-in HDD 128 can be printed out in the order corresponding to the editing mode designated by the operation unit 132 of the printer.

  According to the controller 120, PDL (Page Description Language) image data sent from the host computer 110 via the local interface 121-1 and the network interface 121-2 is temporarily transmitted via the CPU bus 123. It is held in the PDL buffer 126-2. The CPU 124 develops the PDL image data stored in the PDL buffer 126-2 into raster image data using the font data stored in the ROM 125 or the built-in HDD 128, and writes the raster image data in the frame memory 126-1.

  From this controller 120, raster image data is sent as a formation signal 141 to the printer 130 via the CPU bus 123 and the FIFO 129, and image formation is performed based on the signal 141. Further, the controller 120 and the printer 130 can perform various communications via the interface 142.

  The printer 130 includes an image forming unit 131, an operation unit 132, and a control unit 133. The image forming unit 131 has a function of outputting image data sent from the host computer 110 to a recording medium in color or gray scale at an image processing apparatus resolution of 400 dpi or the like. The control unit 133 controls the printer 130. The print function is executed in accordance with the contents of communication with the operation unit 132 and the image processing apparatus 120. The operation unit 132 is used to instruct various settings of the printer and various operations.

  The controller 120 can communicate with devices on the network via the network interface 121-2, and not only exchanges print data but also communication for device control, communication of device status and management information. Etc. are performed.

  For example, communication of consumable information such as the remaining amount of toner, the remaining amount of paper for each cassette, and the remaining amount of staples, and the remaining amount of staples. Also, communication of printer status information (open door, paper jam, etc.) and communication of various optional devices (paper discharge processing device (sorter), Z-folder, paper deck) are installed. Communication for setting device setting values is also performed.

  Next, the operation on the host computer (PC) side will be described.

  A plurality of PCs are connected on the network, and communicate with the image processing apparatus 120 via the network interface 121-2 under the control of a network OS operating on these PCs. Hereinafter, the case where the host computer PC2 communicates with the image processing apparatus 120 and performs print control processing will be described.

  The PC 2 is a general host computer capable of generating a print file to the image processing apparatus 120, transmitting the generated print file to the network, receiving it from the network, and displaying and processing the file.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a client configuration showing the present invention. A predetermined peripheral device (including a printer, a scanner, a modem, a composite image processing apparatus, etc.) is locally connected via a communication medium (not shown) such as a LAN. It is assumed that it is configured to be able to communicate with the other data processing apparatus that has been made using a predetermined protocol.

  In the figure, reference numeral 201 denotes a system bus, and each unit described below is connected to the system bus 201. Reference numeral 202 denotes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). A program memory (referred to as PMEM) 203 selects / reads a program for this processing from the hard disk 210 as appropriate, and is executed by the CPU 202. Data input from the keyboard 212 is stored as code information in the PMEM 203 which is also a text memory.

  A communication control unit 204 controls input / output data at the communication port 205. A signal output from the communication port 205 is transmitted to the communication port of another device 207 on the network via the communication line 206. Exchange with a printer or an image reading apparatus (scanner) shared on the network is performed via the communication control unit 204. Although the present embodiment describes a network such as a LAN, it goes without saying that the present invention is applicable even if the communication port and communication line connected to the communication control unit 204 are general public lines.

  An external storage device control unit 208 controls access to a data file disk, for example, a flexible disk (referred to as FD) 209 or a hard disk (referred to as HD) 210.

  Reference numeral 211 denotes an input control unit to which input devices such as a keyboard 212 and a mouse 213 are connected. The operator operates the keyboard 212 to give a system operation command or the like.

  Reference numeral 216 denotes a CRT device (CRT). A pointing device (referred to as a PD) is used to instruct processing of image information on the CRT 216, and a mouse 213 is used in this embodiment. As a result, the cursor on the CRT 16 is arbitrarily moved in the X and Y directions, a command icon on the command menu is selected and processing is instructed, as well as an editing target instruction and drawing position instruction.

  Reference numeral 214 denotes a video image memory (referred to as VRAM), in which drawing data (bitmap data) to be displayed on the CRT 216 is developed, is appropriately read out via the display output control unit 215, and the contents are displayed on the CRT 216.

  Reference numeral 217 denotes a printer control unit which controls data output to the connected printer 218.

  An image reading device control unit 220 performs image reading control of the connected image reading device 221. The external device control unit 219 controls the operation of the external device via the printer control unit 217 or the image reading device control unit 220.

  Note that the image reading server device according to the present invention requires the components of the image reading device control unit 220 and the image reading device 221, but in the client side device, as described above, the communication control unit 204, And the same shared component on the server side via the communication port 205 can be used.

  Further, in the configuration of FIG. 2, even if the image reading device and the image reading device are physically separate components, the image reading device has the same function as one component including the image reading device.

  Note that the program stored in the ROM in this embodiment may be stored in a storage medium such as the hard disk (HD) 210 and the flexible disk (FD) 209 directly connected to the apparatus. Furthermore, it may be stored on another device connected via a network. The program of the present invention can be supplied to a system or apparatus via a storage medium such as a hard disk (HD) 210 or a flexible disk (FD) 209 or a network.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a network connection configuration displayed on the CRT 216 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 301 denotes a main window, on which a menu, a toolbar, icons representing PCs and peripheral devices, and icons 311 to 316 of various functions performed by operating the PC and peripheral devices are displayed on the toolbar.

  For example, the icon 311 is an icon for executing a copy function for reading image data from a selected scanner and outputting the image data to a selected printer. An icon 312 is an icon for executing the FAX function. An icon 313 is an icon for executing the image data reading function. An icon 314 is an icon for executing a function of reading image data and performing OCR processing. An icon 315 is an icon for executing a function of displaying PC information. Icons 316 are icons for executing functions for displaying personal tray data. Reference numeral 320 denotes a system display window.

  In the system display window 320, reference numerals 321 to 329 are icons indicating PCs and peripheral devices that are shared on the network. These icons are updated and displayed according to the device type such as PC, printer, scanner, FAX modem, or status such as “processing in progress” or “error occurred”.

  Reference numeral 321 is a root icon, 322 is a domain in which the own device is logged on, and 323 is an icon representing the own device. Since its own device is a special device, it is displayed separately from other PCs.

  In addition, although the icons 331 and 332 are shared on the network but are not installed with the driver, the display shape of the icons is displayed in gray.

  The icon 324 indicates that the scanner is currently scanning, and the icon 325 displays a numerical value indicating that three jobs are spooled in the printer, for example, “filled square”.

  An icon 351 indicates that the driver is installed, but cannot be used for some reason. In this way, the connection status and status of all PCs and peripheral devices on the network can be checked graphically on this screen. In this example, not all icons are displayed for the convenience of the screen, but the connection state of all PCs and peripheral devices can be confirmed using the scroll bar SB arranged on the side of the screen.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the combination determination data structure stored in the data processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2, and is stored on the hard disk 210, for example.

  In the figure, 401 and 402 are header parts, the header part 401 is the number of registered combination functions, and the header part 402 is a comment.

  Reference numerals 411 to 414 each represent data of one function, 411 is first device data, and 412 is second device data. In the above example, the scanner is the first device data, and the printer is the second device data. This combination is also effective in reverse. The function data 413 indicates the function to be executed (here, the copy function), and the data 414 is a comment. In the present embodiment, the data part is configured to be able to store the number N of registered functions, and the data parts 4n1 to 4n4 correspond to the Nth.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a copy function setting screen displayed on the CRT 216 shown in FIG. 2. When the scanner icon shown in FIG. 3 is dragged and dropped onto the printer icon, the combination function is shown. When it is determined to be valid, it is displayed on the CRT 216.

  In the figure, reference numerals 501 and 502 denote magnification setting buttons (buttons), which can be designated by pressing the button 501 at the normal magnification output and by pressing the button 502 at the reduction / enlargement output.

  Buttons 503 and 504 function as input / output paper setting buttons, respectively. A dialog for setting the paper size, paper orientation, and the like is displayed in conjunction with an instruction to press the buttons 503 and 504, and the paper size and paper size are displayed. The direction can be set. Reference numeral 505 denotes a button which functions as a button for setting the color mode of the input image, and is configured to be able to set color / monochrome / grayscale.

  A setting content confirmation display unit 506 is a setting content based on the function determined by the combination of icons. In this example, since it is a copy function, an equal magnification of “100%”, input portrait paper “A4”, portrait output This corresponds to the case where the sheet “A4”, color copy, or the like is displayed.

  Reference numeral 507 denotes a numeric keypad for setting the number of output copies. Reference numeral 508 denotes a layout adjustment setting button (button). When an instruction to press the button 508 is given, a dialog for performing sheet output position setting, 2-in-1 output setting, and the like is displayed, and each of the necessary settings can be executed.

  Reference numeral 509 denotes a slider, which is configured to be able to set a desired density by an operation instruction of the mouse 213 for density setting. Reference numeral 510 denotes a slider, which is configured to be able to set a desired quality for image quality setting by an operation instruction of the mouse 213.

  Reference numeral 511 denotes a preview area, which displays an input size, an output size, and an output possible area. Reference numeral 512 denotes a button for changing the input / output device. With this button 512, a dialog for setting an input / output device different from the input / output device by icon setting is displayed, and the user can select the input / output device intended by the user. . Reference numeral 513 denotes a button. When an instruction to press the button 513 is given, the current copy function setting is reset to a standard copy function setting determined in advance. Reference numeral 514 is a stop button, and 515 is a copy execution button.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of an error message displayed on the CRT 216 shown in FIG. 2, and the icons combined by the user's mouse operation on the display screen shown in FIG. 3 are not valid combinations. Displayed when the CPU 202 makes a determination based on the stored determination information. In the figure, reference numeral 601 denotes an error message dialog, which is displayed when the combination is not valid.

  In this embodiment, an error message is displayed by determining whether the combination is valid based on the time when the drag and drop operation is performed. However, when the drag operation is performed, the combination can be determined and the drop operation can be performed. You may control so that it may be lost.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the first data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the combination function processing procedure accompanying the system configuration display processing. In addition, S701-S78 show each step.

  First, in step S701, connection information of all the shared PCs and peripheral devices shown in FIG. 1 on the network and usage status and status information of those devices are acquired. These pieces of information are stored on the PMEM 203 shown in FIG. In step S702, the driver information of the device installed in the own device is checked (acquired). In step S703, a screen for simultaneously displaying the system configuration and the system state shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the CRT 216 based on the acquired information.

  In step S704, it is determined whether the instruction is valid when an instruction to execute each function is issued. As an operation method, for example, there is a method of dragging and dropping a scanner icon 324 to a printer icon 334 by a mouse operation on the screen shown in FIG. In this case, the copy function is executed.

  If it is determined that the combination is not valid, the process proceeds to step S705, and an error message is displayed on the CRT 216 as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S704 that the combination is an effective combination, the process proceeds to step S706, and a corresponding function window is displayed. In the above example, the copy function setting screen shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the CRT 216.

  Next, in step S707, it is determined whether or not copying is to be executed. If there is an instruction to stop copying by pressing the button 514 on the virtual operation panel shown in FIG. 5, the process ends.

  If it is determined that there is a copy execution instruction using the button 515, the process advances to step S708 to execute copy according to the setting, and the process ends.

  In the above embodiment, when each PC on the network obtains device driver information from the network device by communication with the network device when the power is turned on, the connection information and the operating state of each device are obtained with a unified icon for each device. However, the devices connected to the network are not limited to printers and scanners as shown in the above embodiment, and printer functions and scanner functions, or these functions and the like. The present invention can be applied even when a multi-function device including a function with other functions (including a facsimile function, a database function, etc.) is also connected.

  In the above embodiment, each PC on the network acquires network device driver information from the network device by communicating with the network device when the power is turned on, and the connection information and operation status and function of each device are displayed with icons. In addition, the case of displaying graphically with different icons has been described. If the combination is not valid depending on the function, an error message is displayed.

  As an example of the function, an error message can also be displayed depending on the resolution, color printing parameters (number of colors, gradation), and the like.

  Further, it is possible to display an error message not only by the function but also by the remaining amount of consumables.

  In the above embodiment, each PC on the network acquires network device driver information from the network device by communicating with the network device when the power is turned on, and the connection information and operation status and function of each device are displayed with icons. In addition, the case of displaying graphically with different icons has been described. In other words, this is an explanation of the setting at the stage before actual printing.

  Here, a case where control is performed due to an error or the like that occurs during printing will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of an alternative printing control procedure when an error occurs in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  First, in step S801, the job is transmitted to the printer apparatus (for example, the job set in FIG. 7). After that, it waits for completion of the print processing of the job. If an error occurs during printing (S803), the status code is received and the content is displayed on the PC screen (S804).

  If the printing process can be continued according to the error content, the alternative process is selected (S806), and an alternative process command is created and transmitted to the printer (S807).

  If it is determined that the substitution process cannot be continued, a message indicating that the substitution process cannot be continued is displayed (S808), and whether or not to cancel the job in which an error has occurred is input (S809). When canceling, cancel processing is performed (S810).

  Regarding the previous error occurrence, error type 1 (jam, output tray overflow, cover open, etc.) of the image processing system is assumed.

  Further, regarding error occurrence, error type 2 (toner LOW, drum replacement life, waste toner overflow, etc.) of the image processing system is assumed.

  Furthermore, for error occurrence, PDL error types (memory shortage, overrun, etc.) are assumed.

  Further, regarding the occurrence of an error, it is assumed that there is no paper.

  As for the alternative processing operation for the error type 1, it is assumed that the print processing of the error-occurring job is interrupted and switched to the store job.

  As for the alternative processing operation for the error type 2, it is assumed that the print processing of the error-occurring job is interrupted and switched to the store job. Alternatively, it is assumed that forced printing is performed as it is.

As for the above alternative processing operation for the PDL error type, it is assumed that the print quality is lowered and forced printing is performed. (Resolution reduction, gradation reduction, color reduction, etc.)
As for the alternative processing operation for the error type without paper, it is assumed that the printing process is interrupted and an error occurrence notification is made by e-mail notification or event notification.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a parameter changing procedure in alternative print control when an error occurs in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  Here, a control method for performing alternative printing when an error occurs will be described.

  First, the print parameter of the job in which the error has occurred is referred (S901). In all the parameters, the alternative print control is performed only when the designation is a “default” setting (operates with the default setting in the printer). If even one of the plurality of designated parameters is designated as a non-default value, the designation is mandatory and substitution control is not performed (S908).

  If all the print parameters are the default settings, each of the parameters is checked, and a selection process for substituting for the parameters is selected and a new print parameter is set (S905).

  When the specification for all parameters is completed, a substitute job is newly generated with the specified parameters.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a personalized parameter changing procedure in the alternative print control when an error occurs in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  In the previous embodiment, the parameter selection input designation by the GUI is assumed when the parameter is changed. Here, a case where this input is performed by personalization control will be described. As in the previous example, the alternative printing is performed when all parameter designations are “default”. When changing the parameters, a database given to each user is referred to (S1004). There are stored parameter values that may be substituted for each user, for each parameter, and for each parameter and error code associated with each other. A new substitute job is generated based on the substitute value.

It is a figure explaining the system configuration | structure of the network apparatus containing the data processing apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a block diagram explaining the client structure which shows 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the 1st network connection structure displayed on CRT shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the combination determination data structure memorize | stored in the data processor shown by FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a copy function setting screen displayed on the CRT shown in FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows an example of the error message displayed on CRT shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st data processing procedure in the data processor which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the alternative printing control procedure at the time of the error generation in the data processor which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the parameter change procedure in the alternative printing control at the time of the error generation in the data processor which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the personalized parameter change procedure in the alternative printing control at the time of the occurrence of an error in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

110 Host computer 1
111 Host computer 2
112 Host computer n
115 Network LAN
120 Controller 121-1 Local Interface 121-2 Network Interface 122 External Interface 123 Internal Bus 124 CPU
125 ROM
126 RAM
126-1 Frame memory 126-2 PDL buffer 127 HDD controller 128 Built-in hard disk (HDD)
129 FIFO
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 130 Printer 131 Image formation part 132 Operation part 133 Control part 141 Image interface 142 Operation part interface

Claims (11)

A data processing device capable of data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Instruction means for instructing any one of the printer devices;
Setting means for setting a print processing function type for any one of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means;
Function type acquisition means for acquiring predetermined function type information from any one of the printer devices instructed by the instruction means;
Status acquisition means for acquiring status information from any of the printer devices instructed by the instruction means;
Based on the predetermined function type information of the printer device acquired by the function acquisition unit and the status information acquired by the status acquisition unit, the predetermined function type capable of executing the print processing type set by the setting unit is the printer device. Determining means for determining whether or not
When the determination unit determines that the printer device has a predetermined function type capable of executing the set print processing function type, the printer device relates to the printer device based on an execution instruction for the print processing function type set by the setting unit. Control means for controlling the printing operation; means for generating an output format by the control means;
Warning means for displaying a warning message prompting whether or not to use an alternative function type when the determination means determines that the printer device does not have a predetermined function type capable of executing the set print processing function type;
After the warning message is displayed by the warning unit, the output format set by the setting unit, which can be executed with the predetermined function type in the printer device, based on the predetermined function type information of the printer device acquired by the function acquisition unit; Is an alternative output format display means for displaying different output formats;
A selection unit that selects another output format displayed by the alternative output format display unit, and a print operation related to the printer device based on an execution instruction for a print processing function type set in the alternative output format selected by the selection unit Control means for controlling, means for generating an output format by the control means,
A data processing apparatus. A data processing device capable of data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Instruction means for instructing any one of the printer devices;
Setting means for setting a print processing function type for any one of the printer apparatuses instructed by the instruction means;
Function type acquisition means for acquiring predetermined function type information from any one of the printer devices instructed by the instruction means;
Status acquisition means for acquiring status information from any of the printer devices instructed by the instruction means;
Based on the predetermined function type information of the printer device acquired by the function acquisition unit and the status information acquired by the status acquisition unit, the predetermined function type capable of executing the print processing type set by the setting unit is the printer device. Determining means for determining whether or not
When the determination unit determines that the printer device has a predetermined function type capable of executing the set print processing function type, the printer device relates to the printer device based on an execution instruction for the print processing function type set by the setting unit. Control means for controlling the printing operation; means for generating an output format by the control means;
Means for transmitting the generated output format to the printer device;
Means for detecting the type of error that occurred during printing on the printer device;
Means for displaying the detected error type;
A warning means for displaying a warning message asking whether to continue the printing process using the alternative function type;
After the warning message is displayed by the warning unit, the output format set by the setting unit, which can be executed with the predetermined function type in the printer device, based on the predetermined function type information of the printer device acquired by the function acquisition unit; Is an alternative output format display means for displaying different output formats;
A selection unit that selects another output format displayed by the alternative output format display unit, and a print operation related to the printer device based on an execution instruction for a print processing function type set in the alternative output format selected by the selection unit Control means for controlling, means for generating an output format by the control means,
A data processing apparatus. In the alternative main power display format display means and the alternative output format selection means, a means for automatically determining an alternative output format according to a value set in advance without depending on a user's selection instruction;
Means for continuing processing by the determining means;
A data processing apparatus. In the determination means, by storing the correspondence between the user and the alternative function in advance, the control means that enables automatic determination for each user,
A data processing apparatus. In the determination means, when making the determination, in the output format generated by the print operation control means, the operation settings are all default values;
A data processing apparatus. A printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Means for receiving a printer function type query transmitted from the data processing device;
In response to the inquiry, a list of functions supported by the printer apparatus is collected and converted into a reply format;
Means for receiving an inquiry about printer status information transmitted from the data processing device;
In response to the inquiry, status reply means that summarizes the printer apparatus status information and converts it into a reply format;
Means for receiving an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device;
Means for performing print processing in accordance with print processing settings designated for the received job;
A printer apparatus characterized by the above. A printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Means for receiving an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device;
Means for performing print processing in accordance with print processing settings designated for the received job;
Means for actively notifying the data processing apparatus that has transmitted the job that the printing process cannot be continued if an error occurs during the printing process;
Including an error factor that has occurred in the notification content;
A printer apparatus characterized by the above. A printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Means for receiving an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device;
Means for performing print processing in accordance with print processing settings designated for the received job;
When an error occurs during the printing process and when the data processing apparatus that has sent the job is actively notified that the printing process cannot be continued, the instruction sent by the data processing apparatus is received and the subsequent The processing of
A printer apparatus characterized by the above. A printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Means for receiving an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device;
Means for performing print processing in accordance with print processing settings designated for the received job;
If an error occurs in the middle of the printing process, a substitute process is performed with the contents set in advance in the printer device according to the error content without notifying the data processing device.
A printer apparatus characterized by the above. A printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Means for receiving an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device;
Means for performing print processing in accordance with print processing settings designated for the received job;
When an error occurs during the printing process and the alternative process is determined when performing the alternative process according to the error content,
Switch the alternative process with the contents set for each user who sent the job in advance,
A printer apparatus characterized by the above. A printer device capable of data communication with a plurality of data processing devices connected on a predetermined communication medium,
Means for receiving an output format (job) transmitted from the data processing device;
Means for performing print processing in accordance with print processing settings designated for the received job;
When an error occurs during the printing process and the alternative process is determined when performing the alternative process according to the error content,
In the output format generated by the data processing device, if the operation settings are all default values, the alternative processing is performed.
A printer apparatus characterized by the above.

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