JP2010271913A - Print processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce loads on a storage server and to improve convenience by shortening a time required from print instruction operation by a user in the printer until printed matter is actually output without increasing costs considerably in the printing system of a storage printing method. <P>SOLUTION: A client PC 2 creates print data related to one print job by a plurality of kinds of printer languages selected in advance as a preferential printer language for each user, the print data are transmitted to a storage server 4. When the storage server receives a plurality of print data from a client PC, it stores the print data and, when the server receives a print data transfer request transmitted by a management server 5 in response to the user's print instruction operation by a multifunction peripheral 1, selects print data by a printer language adapted to a multifunction peripheral of an output destination from among the print data stored by its own device, and transmits the print data to the multifunction peripheral. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  According to the present invention, print data created by an information processing apparatus is temporarily stored in a storage server so that printing can be performed by a desired printing apparatus on a network. The present invention relates to a print processing system that acquires print data and performs printing.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, network printing systems in which an information processing apparatus (PC) operated by a user and a printing apparatus (such as a multifunction machine) in an office are connected via a network and the printing apparatus is shared by a plurality of users have become widespread. In particular, print data generated by the information processing apparatus is temporarily stored in a storage server (print server), and the printing apparatus acquires print data from the storage server and performs printing in response to a user operation on the printing apparatus. In the storage printing type print processing system configured as described above, the user can print on any printing apparatus on the network, and convenience can be improved.

  However, it is common that various types of printing apparatuses are mixed on the network, but the printer language that can be interpreted by the printing apparatus may differ depending on the type of the printing apparatus. If the print data created in (1) is in a printer language that is not compatible with the output destination printing apparatus, there arises a problem that printing cannot be performed on the printing apparatus, and the convenience of the system is impaired. This problem can be solved by introducing all printer drivers prepared for each printing apparatus into the information processing apparatus, but such work is very troublesome for the user and the administrator.

  Therefore, there is a demand for a system that can perform printing on any printing apparatus without introducing a printer driver prepared for each printing apparatus into the information processing apparatus. In response to such a request, the information processing apparatus creates print data in a versatile intermediate language that can be converted into print data in any printer language without depending on a specific printing apparatus, and stores it in the storage server. A technology in which the sending and storage server converts print data in an intermediate language into print data in a printer language suitable for an output destination printing apparatus and sends it to the printing apparatus in response to a user's print instruction operation on the printing apparatus. Is known (see Patent Document 1).

  Also, although it is not a storage printing type print processing system, the information processing apparatus creates print data in a printer language suitable for each printing apparatus in the system, sends it to the printing apparatus, and adapts itself to the printing apparatus. A technique for performing printing by selecting print data in a printer language is known (see Patent Document 2), and it is conceivable to apply this technique to a print processing system using a storage printing method.

JP 2007-179197 A JP-A-2005-71240

  However, in the conventional technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, data conversion processing for converting print data in an intermediate language into print data in a printer language suitable for an output destination printing apparatus is a heavy load on the storage server. There's a problem. In particular, the storage server bears an important function of relaying data between the information processing device and the printing device. Giving this storage server a large load causes a reduction in the processing efficiency of the entire system, The effect cannot be ignored. In addition, since the data conversion process is started in response to the user's print instruction operation on the printing apparatus, it takes time until the printed matter is actually output from the print instruction operation by the user on the printing apparatus. There is an inconvenience of waiting for a long time in front of the device.

  On the other hand, when the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2 is applied to a print processing system using a storage printing method, data conversion processing is not required in the storage server, so the load on the storage server is reduced. Since a function for selecting print data in a printer language suitable for the self apparatus from among a plurality of print data received from the processing apparatus is necessary, and it is necessary to newly introduce a printing apparatus having such a function, the cost There is a problem of incurring a significant increase.

  The present invention has been devised to solve such problems of the prior art, and the main object of the present invention is to store a storage server in a storage printing system without causing a significant increase in cost. A print processing system configured to reduce the load on the printing apparatus and reduce the time required from the printing instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus to the actual output of the printed matter, thereby improving convenience. There is.

  The print processing system of the present invention includes an information processing apparatus that creates print data related to a print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, a storage server that stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus, and the storage server In the print processing system, comprising: a management server that manages a print data storage state in the printer; and a plurality of printing apparatuses that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in response to a user's print instruction operation The apparatus creates print data related to one print job in a plurality of types of printer languages preselected as a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and transmits the print data to the storage server. When the storage server receives a plurality of print data from the information processing apparatus, the storage server receives the print data. And when receiving a print data transfer request transmitted from the management server in response to a user's print instruction operation on the printing apparatus, the print destination of the output destination is selected from the print data stored in the own apparatus. A configuration is adopted in which print data in a printer language suitable for the apparatus is selected and the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus.

  The print processing system of the present invention includes an information processing apparatus that creates print data related to a print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, a storage server that stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus, In a print processing system comprising: a management server that manages a storage state of print data in a storage server; and a plurality of printing apparatuses that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in response to a user's print instruction operation, The information processing apparatus creates print data relating to one print job by using a printer language preselected as a preferred printer language for each user or each information processing apparatus and an intermediate language independent of the printing apparatus, The print data is transmitted to the storage server, and the storage server When each print data in the language is received, the print data is accumulated. After that, when a print data transfer request transmitted from the management server in response to a print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus is received, If the stored print data is in a printer language that is compatible with the output printer, the print data is sent to the printer, while the print data stored in the printer is compatible with the output printer. When the printer language is not used, the print data in the intermediate language stored in the own device is converted into the print data in the printer language suitable for the output destination print device, and the print data is transmitted to the print device. To do.

  The print processing system of the present invention includes an information processing apparatus that creates print data related to a print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, a storage server that stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus, In a print processing system comprising: a management server that manages a storage state of print data in a storage server; and a plurality of printing apparatuses that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in response to a user's print instruction operation, The information processing device creates print data in an intermediate language independent of the printing device, transmits the print data to the storage server, and the storage server receives the print data in the intermediate language from the information processing device. The print data in the intermediate language is pre-selected as a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus. When the print data transfer request transmitted from the management server in response to a print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus is received after being converted into print data in the printer language and stored together with the print data in the intermediate language, If the print data stored in the device is in a printer language suitable for the output destination printing device, the print data is transmitted to the printing device, while the print data stored in the device is the output destination When the printer language is not compatible with the printing apparatus, the print data in the intermediate language stored in the self apparatus is converted into the print data in the printer language compatible with the output destination printing apparatus, and the print data is converted into the printing apparatus. It is set as the structure transmitted to.

  According to the present invention, it is not necessary to perform data conversion processing in the storage server, or the frequency thereof can be reduced, so that the load on the storage server can be reduced. Furthermore, after the user performs a print instruction operation on the printing apparatus, it is not necessary to perform data conversion processing on the storage server, or the frequency thereof can be reduced. Convenience can be improved by shortening the time required for output.

1 is a system configuration diagram showing a print processing system according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a processing procedure in a print processing system according to the present invention. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an overview of processing in a print processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of each device in a print processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure from print data generation to bibliographic information registration in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of the print data reception in the storage server in the print processing system which concerns on 1st Embodiment by this invention. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram illustrating a processing procedure from a print instruction to a print end in the multifunction peripheral in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure for canceling printing in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The conceptual diagram which shows the outline | summary of the process in the printing processing system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment by this invention. The flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of the print data reception in the storage server in the print processing system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment by this invention. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure from a print instruction to a print end in a multifunction peripheral in a print processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Schematic diagram showing an overview of processing in a print processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure from print data generation to bibliographic information registration in a print processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Schematic diagram showing an overview of processing in a print processing system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure of data deletion performed after document printing in a printing processing system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a printing stop processing procedure in a printing processing system according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Schematic diagram showing an overview of processing in a print processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in a printing processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a printing stop processing procedure in a printing processing system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; Schematic diagram showing an overview of processing in a print processing system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in a printing processing system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a printing stop processing procedure in a printing processing system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; The system block diagram which shows the modification of the printing processing system to which this invention is applied

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus for creating print data relating to a print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, and storing print data acquired from the information processing apparatus. Printing having a storage server, a management server for managing the storage status of print data in the storage server, and a plurality of printing devices that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in response to a user's print instruction operation In the processing system, the information processing apparatus creates print data related to one print job by using a plurality of types of printer languages preselected as a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and prints them. When the data is transmitted to the storage server and the storage server receives a plurality of print data from the information processing apparatus, the data is transmitted to the storage server. When the print data transfer request transmitted from the management server in response to a user's print instruction operation on the printing apparatus is received, the print data stored in the self apparatus is A configuration is adopted in which print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination printing apparatus is selected and the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus.

  According to this, since the print data related to one print job is created in a plurality of types of printer languages and sent to the storage server in the information processing apparatus, no data conversion processing is required in the storage server, so the load on the storage server is reduced. Can be reduced. After the user performs a print instruction operation on the printing apparatus, the storage server performs a process of selecting print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination printing apparatus from the print data stored in the own apparatus. Since it does not take much time for the processing, it is possible to shorten the time required from the printing instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus to the actual output of the printed matter and to improve the convenience.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus that creates print data relating to a print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, and stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus. Printing having a storage server, a management server for managing the storage status of print data in the storage server, and a plurality of printing devices that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in response to a user's print instruction operation In the processing system, the information processing apparatus is configured to output print data relating to one print job by a printer language preselected as a priority printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus and an intermediate language independent of the printing apparatus, respectively. And the print data is transmitted to the storage server, and the storage server prints the information from the information processing apparatus. When each print data in the language and intermediate language is received, the print data is accumulated, and then a print data transfer request transmitted from the management server in response to a print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus is received. If the print data stored in the device is in a printer language suitable for the output printer, the print data is sent to the printer, while the print data stored in the device is printed If the printer language does not conform to the device, the print data in the intermediate language stored in the device is converted into the print data in the printer language suitable for the output destination printing device, and the print data is transmitted to the printing device. The configuration is as follows.

  According to this, when the printer language adopted when creating the print data in the information processing apparatus is a printer language suitable for the output destination printing apparatus, data conversion processing in the storage server is not necessary. The load on the storage server can be reduced. In this case, after the user performs a print instruction operation on the printing apparatus, the storage server may perform a process of selecting print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination printing apparatus. Since it is not necessary, it is possible to shorten the time required from the printing instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus to the actual output of the printed matter, thereby improving the convenience. Even if the printer language used when creating print data in the information processing device is a printer language that is not compatible with the output destination printing device, printing in the required printer language by converting data from the print data in the intermediate language Since data can be created, it is possible to avoid problems that cannot be printed by the printing apparatus.

  In this case, the printer language is a page description language (for example, PCL (Printer Control Language), PS (PostScript), GDI (Graphics Device Interface), etc.) that can be interpreted by the printing apparatus, and depends on the printing apparatus. The intermediate language is a kind of page description language, and has a characteristic that can be converted into any printer language without depending on a particular printing apparatus (for example, EMF (Enhanced Metafile)).

  According to a third invention for solving the above-mentioned problems, in the first and second inventions, the management server holds information on a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and In response to an inquiry from the apparatus, information regarding the priority printer language is transmitted to the information processing apparatus.

  According to this, the priority printer language for each user or information processing apparatus can be collectively managed by the management server.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus for creating print data relating to a print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, and storing print data acquired from the information processing apparatus. Printing having a storage server, a management server for managing the storage status of print data in the storage server, and a plurality of printing devices that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in response to a user's print instruction operation In the processing system, the information processing apparatus creates print data in an intermediate language independent of the printing apparatus, and transmits the print data to the storage server. The storage server transmits the print data in the intermediate language from the information processing apparatus. When the print data is received, the print data in the intermediate language is preliminarily designated as a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus. Converted into print data in the selected printer language, stored together with the print data in the intermediate language, and then received a print data transfer request sent from the management server in response to a print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus Then, if the print data stored in the self device is in a printer language suitable for the output destination print device, the print data is transmitted to the print device, while the print data stored in the self device is output. If the printer language is not compatible with the previous printing apparatus, the print data in the intermediate language stored in the self apparatus is converted into the print data in the printer language compatible with the output destination printing apparatus. A transmission is made to the printing apparatus.

  According to this, since the print data in the printer language is created by the data conversion process in the storage server before the user performs a print instruction operation on the printing device, the printer language adopted here is compatible with the output destination printing device. If the printer language matches the printer language, it is not necessary to perform data conversion processing after the user performs a print instruction operation on the printing apparatus, and before the printed matter is actually output from the print instruction operation by the user on the printing apparatus. Convenience can be improved by shortening the time required. In addition, even if the printer language used when performing data conversion processing in the storage server is a printer language that is not compatible with the output destination printing device, print data in the required printer language can be converted by converting data from the intermediate language print data. Therefore, it is possible to avoid problems that cannot be printed by the printing apparatus.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems, in the fourth aspect, the management server holds information on a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and makes an inquiry from the storage server. Accordingly, the information regarding the priority printer language is transmitted to the storage server.

  According to this, the priority printer language for each user or information processing apparatus can be collectively managed by the management server.

  A sixth invention made to solve the above-mentioned problems is that, in the first to fifth inventions, the required number of printer languages is a priority printer based on the use history of the printing device for each user or the information processing device. It is assumed that the language is selected.

  According to this, an appropriate printer language can be selected. Therefore, as in the first aspect of the invention, when only print data in a plurality of types of printer languages is transmitted from the information processing apparatus to the storage server, there is no print data in a printer language that matches the output destination printing apparatus. For this reason, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of a problem that printing cannot be performed by the printing apparatus as much as possible. Further, as in the case of the second invention, when print data in a printer language and an intermediate language is transmitted, a data conversion process is performed. The required frequency can be reduced as much as possible, and when only print data in an intermediate language is transmitted as in the fourth aspect of the invention, data conversion processing is performed after a user print instruction operation in the printing apparatus. Can be reduced as much as possible.

  In this case, the priority printer language selection process may be performed by the management server. In general, the use history of the printing apparatus for each user or information processing apparatus is collectively managed by the management server, and it is easy to perform the priority printer language selection process by this management server. It is also possible to perform the priority printer language selection process by the information processing apparatus.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems, in the sixth aspect, when one type of printer language is used as the priority printer language, the user or the information processing apparatus performs the previous printing at the time of the previous printing. A printer language suitable for the printing apparatus used is selected.

  An eighth invention made to solve the above-described problems is that, in the sixth invention, when a plurality of types of printer languages are used as the preferred printer language, the number of times of use is high for each user or each information processing apparatus. A required number of printer languages are selected in order from the printer language suitable for the printing apparatus.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention for solving the above-described problems, in the first and second aspects, when the management server receives a print end or print stop notification from the printing apparatus, After confirming that all the print data has been stored in the storage server, the print server deletes a print data deletion request related to the corresponding print job, and the storage server receives the print data from the management server. When the deletion request is received, all print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the self apparatus is deleted.

  As in the first and second inventions, when a plurality of print data relating to one print job is created and stored in the storage server by the information processing apparatus, the plurality of print data are all stored in the storage server. If print data is deleted before printing, that is, printing end or print stop occurs, the print data already stored in the storage server is printed on the storage server in response to print end or print stop. Although it is deleted by a data deletion request, unsent print data is stored in the storage server as it is received when printing ends or is canceled. This wastes the capacity.

  On the other hand, when configured as in the ninth aspect, even if printing ends or is canceled before all of the plurality of print data related to one print job is stored in the storage server, the print data is not stored. The print data deletion request for the storage server is postponed until all of the print data is stored in the storage server until the print server deletes the print data. Since the data is deleted together, it is possible to avoid the print data relating to unnecessary print jobs from remaining in the storage server, thereby making it possible to effectively use the capacity of the storage server.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the information processing apparatus according to the ninth aspect, wherein identification information of a print job commonly given to a plurality of print data related to one print job is the information processing apparatus. Based on the issued print job identification information, the management server determines whether or not all print data related to the print job has been stored in the storage server.

  According to this, it is possible to reliably determine that a plurality of print data relating to one print job are all stored in the storage server.

  In an eleventh aspect of the invention to solve the above-mentioned problems, in the first and second aspects, when the management server receives a print end or print stop notification from the printing apparatus, The print data deletion request is transmitted to the storage server, and when the storage server receives the print data deletion request from the management server, the print data related to the corresponding print job is stored in the self apparatus. When all the data is deleted and then the print data is received from the information processing apparatus, it is determined whether or not the print data relates to a print job having a deletion request. The print data is not accumulated.

  According to this, if the print end or print stop occurs before all the print data related to one print job is stored in the storage server, the print job stored in the storage server is deleted and the remaining print data Since the storage in the storage server is rejected, it is possible to prevent print data relating to unnecessary print jobs from remaining in the storage server, thereby making it possible to effectively use the capacity of the storage server.

  A twelfth invention made to solve the above-mentioned problems is the information processing apparatus according to the eleventh invention, wherein identification information of a print job commonly given to a plurality of print data related to one print job is the information processing apparatus. Based on the issued print job identification information, the storage server determines whether the print data received from the information processing apparatus relates to a print job for which a deletion request has been issued.

  According to this, it is possible to reliably determine whether or not the print data received by the storage server is related to a print job having a deletion request.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention for solving the above-described problems, in the first and second aspects, when the management server receives a print end or print stop notification from the printing apparatus, The print data deletion request is transmitted to the storage server, and when the storage server receives the print data deletion request from the management server, the print data related to the corresponding print job is stored in the self apparatus. Deletes all, transmits a print data creation stop request for the corresponding print job to the information processing apparatus, and when the information processing apparatus receives the print data creation stop request from the management server, the corresponding print job The configuration is such that the creation of print data related to is stopped.

  According to this, if the print end or print stop occurs before all the print data related to one print job is stored in the storage server, the print job stored in the storage server is deleted and the remaining print data Since the creation in the information processing apparatus is canceled, it is possible to avoid that print data relating to an unnecessary print job remains in the storage server, thereby effectively utilizing the capacity of the storage server.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the information processing apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect of the invention, wherein the print job identification information given to a plurality of pieces of print data relating to one print job is the information processing apparatus. Based on the print job identification information issued, the information processing apparatus determines a print job whose print data creation should be stopped.

  According to this, it is possible to reliably determine the print job for which the creation of print data should be stopped in the information processing apparatus.

  A fifteenth aspect of the present invention, which has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, has a configuration in which in the first to fourteenth aspects of the present invention, there is provided a management storage server that serves both as the management server and the storage server.

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

  FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing a print processing system to which the present invention is applied. This print processing system is for sharing a multifunction peripheral (printing apparatus) 1 among a plurality of users in an office. The multifunction peripheral 1, a user client PC (information processing apparatus) 2, and a client PC 3 for an administrator. The storage server 4, the management server 5, the authentication server 6, and the AD (Active Directory) server 7 are connected via a network (LAN).

  In this print processing system, the print data created by the user client PC 2 is temporarily stored in the storage server 4, and then the MFP 1 receives the print data from the storage server 4 in response to a user operation on the MFP 1. Acquiring and printing is performed, and the storage state of print data in the storage server 4 is managed by the management server 5. Further, the user authentication in the authentication server 6 allows only authorized users who are permitted to use the printing, and the management server 5 manages the use of the multifunction device 1 for each user.

  The storage server 4 is assigned to each user client PC 2 for each predetermined number, and print data created by the user client PC 2 is distributed and stored in a plurality of storage servers 4. The storage server 4 is recognized by the client PC 2 as a virtual printer, and when printing is instructed by the user client PC 2, print data is sent to the storage server 4 associated in advance and stored.

  FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a processing procedure in the print processing system according to the present invention. First, when a user instructs printing in the user client PC 2, print data is sent from the client PC 2 to the storage server 4, and then whether or not the user who is the transmission source of the print data is an authorized user permitted to print. When the user authentication is performed by the authentication server 6 and the user authentication is successful, the print data is stored in the storage server 4 and the bibliographic information in the print data is transferred from the storage server 4 to the management server 5. Is done.

  Print output of the print data stored in the storage server 4 can be performed in any multifunction device 1, and the user moves to the required multifunction device 1 and inserts an IC card into the card reader 15 of the multifunction device 1. In this case, user authentication for verifying whether or not the user is an authorized user permitted to use the multifunction device 1 is performed in the authentication server 6. If the user authentication here is successful, the user is related. When the management server 5 is searched for a document and the user selects a required document from the found documents and instructs printing, the MFP 1 sends a print request to the management server 5. A print data transfer request is made to the storage server 4, and in response to this, print data is transferred from the storage server 4 to the multifunction device 1, and the multifunction device 1 prints the document.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of processing in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Here, the client PC 2 generates print data in which bibliographic information is added to the actual print data and sends it to the storage server 4, and the storage server 4 stores the print data acquired from the client PC 2 in its own device and prints the print data. Bibliographic information is extracted from the data and transferred to the management server 5. The management server 5 manages the storage status of print data in the storage server 4 based on the bibliographic information acquired from the storage server 4.

  The client PC 2 has a printer driver (print data creation means) 21. When a document is instructed to be printed on a required application program, an output instruction is issued from the application program to the printer driver 21. The printer driver 21 generates print data.

  The actual print data in the print data indicates the specific contents of the document, and is a printer language (for example, PCL (Printer Control Language), PS (PostScript), GDI (Graphics Device Interface), etc. that can be interpreted by the multifunction device 1. ) And the document is printed by the multi-function device 1 based on this. The bibliographic information in the print data is used for print data management as described above, is described in a print command language (for example, PJL (Printer Job Language)), and includes a user ID, account ID, document name, and print. Information on date / time, number of copies, number of pages, print data version, and IP address of the client PC 2 is described.

  The storage server 4 includes a document file storage unit (print data storage unit) 41, a document information database 42, and a bibliographic information extraction unit 431. The document file storage unit 41 stores print data as a file. In the document information database 42, document information for each document (print job) is registered. The bibliographic information extraction unit 431 is written in the command language for printing, is incorporated in the print data, decodes the bibliographic information, and extracts bibliographic information.

  The management server 5 has a bibliographic information database (bibliographic information storage means) 51. In this bibliographic information database, bibliographic information for each document (print job) is registered. The management server 5 issues a document ID (print job identification information) corresponding to the bibliographic information, and adds the document ID and the identification information (for example, IP address) of the storage server 4 to the bibliographic information acquired from the storage server 4. Managed.

  Bibliographic information with a document ID is transmitted from the management server 5 to the storage server 4. In the document information database 42 of the storage server 4, the print data file stored in the document file storage unit 41 is issued by the management server 5. Managed in association with the document ID.

  In particular, here, the client PC 2 creates print data related to one print job in a plurality of types of printer languages selected in advance as priority printer languages for each user, and transmits the print data to the storage server 4. When the storage server 4 receives a plurality of print data from the client PC 2, the storage server 4 accumulates the print data, and then transmits the print data transmitted from the management server 5 in response to a user's print instruction operation on the multifunction device 1. When the transfer request is received, the print data in the printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction device 1 is selected from the print data stored in the own apparatus, and the print data is transmitted to the multifunction device 1. Yes.

  In the print data, information that the start flag and the end flag are turned on or off is described as bibliographic information, and the start flag is turned on for the first print data related to one print job, and the last print In the data, the end flag is turned on. In the print data, a transmission ID is described as bibliographic information. This transmission ID is commonly given to the print data related to the same print job, and the print ID received from the client PC 2 identifies which print job the print ID relates to. Can do.

  When the storage server 4 determines that the print data received from the client PC 2 is the first print data related to one print job based on the start flag, the storage server 4 requests the management server 5 to register bibliographic information, In response to this, the management server 5 issues a document ID, and the storage server 4 stores print data in association with the document ID and transmission ID acquired from the management server 5. If the print data received from the client PC 2 is determined not to be the first print data related to one print job by the start flag, the print data related to the print data is identified based on the transmission ID of the print data. The print data is stored in association with the document ID related to the print job.

  The management server 5 holds information regarding the priority printer language for each user, and transmits information regarding the priority printer language to the client PC 2 in response to an inquiry from the client PC 2. Information regarding the priority printer language is held in the user management unit 52. The user management unit 52 accumulates and manages user identification information, client PC 2 identification information, MFP 1 identification information, and the like regarding printing executed in the past (predetermined period).

  In addition, the management server 5 has a priority printer language selection unit 531. Here, the required number of printer languages is selected as the priority printer language based on the usage history of the MFP 1 for each user stored in the user management unit 52. Is done. In particular, a required number of printer languages are selected in this order from the printer language suitable for the multifunction device 1 that is frequently used for each user. The user management unit 52 counts and manages the number of uses for each MFP 1 for each user, and the priority printer language selection unit 531 responds to the number of uses in order from the printer language suitable for the MFP 1 that is used for each user. Priorities are assigned to the printer languages, and a required number of printer languages are selected as the priority printer languages in order from the highest priority. The number of printer languages selected as the priority printer language may be set in advance in consideration of the capacity of the storage server 4 or the like, but may be set as appropriate by a user or an administrator.

  Prior to creating print data, the printer driver 21 of the client PC 2 inquires the management server 5 via the storage server 4 about the preferred printer language with user information (such as a user ID). The management server 5 transmits information about the priority printer language for each user managed by the user management unit 52 to the client PC 2 via the storage server 4, and the client PC 2 relates to the priority printer language acquired from the management server 5. Print data in a plurality of printer languages is created based on the information.

  Although the preferred printer language is selected in advance for each user, it is also possible to select the preferred printer language for each client PC 2. The same applies to the following examples.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of each apparatus in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The multifunction device 1 includes a printing unit 11, a control panel 12, a request / response unit (SOAP service) 13, a print data receiving unit (PORT 9100 service) 14, and a card reader 15. The printing unit 11 forms an image of a document on recording paper by an electrophotographic process based on print data. The control panel 12 is provided with a touch panel display in which keys for performing an input operation by the user are arranged, and a required screen is displayed to allow the user to perform a selection operation. The request / response unit 13 processes requests and responses with the management server 5 and the authentication server 6 as counterparts. The print data receiving unit 14 receives print data from the storage server 4.

  In addition to the printer driver 21, the client PC 2 includes a print data transmission unit (PORT Monitor) 22, a request / response unit (SOAP service) 23, a notification reception unit (TRAP service) 24, and a display control unit (notification). Display application) 25 and a monitor 26. The print data transmission unit 22 transmits print data to the storage server 4. The request / response unit 23 processes a request and a response with the storage server 4 as a partner. The notification receiving unit 24 receives a storage completion notification and an error notification from the storage server 4. The display control unit 25 performs processing for displaying the received storage completion notification or error notification screen on the monitor 26.

  The storage server 4 includes a request / response unit (SOAP service) 44, a print data transmission / reception unit, in addition to the control unit 43 constituting the document file storage unit 41, the document information database 42, the bibliographic information extraction unit 431, and the like. (PORT 9100 service) 45, notification transmission unit (TRAP service) 46, and storage server setting database 47. The request / response unit 44 processes requests and responses with the management server 5 and the authentication server 6 as counterparts. The print data transmission / reception unit 45 receives print data from the client PC 2 and transmits print data to the multi function device 1. The notification transmission unit 46 transmits a storage completion notification and an error notification to the client PC 2. The storage server setting database 47 stores setting information and operation log information of the storage server 4.

  The management server 5 includes a request / response unit (SOAP service) 54, a management application 55, a control unit 53 that constitutes the bibliographic information database 51, the user management unit 52, the priority printer language selection unit 531, and the like. And a management server setting database 56. The request / response unit 54 processes requests and responses for the storage server 4 and the multifunction device 1 as counterparts. The management application 55 causes the administrator to perform management / setting related to processing performed in the management server 5. The management server setting database 56 stores setting information and operation log information of the management server 5.

  The authentication server 6 includes a request / response unit (SOAP service) 61, a setting GUI (graphical user interface) 62, a user information database 63, and an authentication server setting database 64. The request / response unit 61 processes requests and responses for the storage server 4 and the multifunction device 1 as counterparts. The setting GUI 62 causes the administrator to set the authentication server 6. The user information database 63 stores information required for user authentication. The authentication server setting database 64 stores setting information of the authentication server 6.

  FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure from print data generation to bibliographic information registration in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. First, when a client PC 2 instructs printing of a document with a required application, a priority printer language query with user information (such as a user ID) is transmitted to the management server 5 via the storage server 4. In response, an answer in the priority printer language is transmitted from the management server 5 to the client PC 2 via the storage server 4.

  When the client PC 2 receives the response of the priority printer language from the storage server 4, print data in a plurality of printer languages designated as the priority printer language there are created in order from the printer language with the highest priority. It is sequentially transmitted to the storage server 4 together with a print (storage) instruction.

  When the storage server 4 receives print data from the client PC 2, it decodes the command language for printing in the print data, extracts bibliographic information, and attaches user information (such as a user ID and account ID) in the bibliographic information. A user authentication request is transmitted to the authentication server 6. Upon receiving the user authentication request from the storage server 4, the authentication server 6 performs user authentication based on the user information acquired here, and a user authentication response with authentication result information indicating success or failure of user authentication is stored. It is transmitted to the server 4.

  The storage server 4 receives the user authentication response from the authentication server 6 and stores the print data acquired from the client PC 2 in the document file storage unit 41 when the user authentication is successful. Then, a bibliographic information registration request with bibliographic information is transmitted to the management server 5. When the management server 5 receives the bibliographic information registration request from the storage server 4, it registers the bibliographic information acquired thereby in the bibliographic information database 51, issues a document ID, and issues a bibliographic information registration response with the document ID attached. Is transmitted to the storage server 4. Upon receiving the bibliographic information registration response from the management server 5, the storage server 4 associates the acquired document ID with the print data and registers it in the document information database 42.

  The above processing is the case of the first print data related to one print job. In the case of the second and subsequent print data, the bibliographic information registration is not performed in the management server 5, and the storage server 4 When the print data is received, the document ID issued by the management server 5 is associated with the print data and registered in the document information database 42. This process is repeated until the accumulation of all the print data related to one print job is completed. When the accumulation of all the print data is completed, the accumulation of the print data from the accumulation server 4 to the client PC 2 is normally performed. A storage completion notification indicating the end is transmitted.

  When the client PC 2 receives the storage completion notification from the storage server 4, based on the storage completion notification, a message screen indicating that the print data storage has been completed normally is displayed on the monitor 26, and the print data storage completion is completed. The user can confirm.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when print data is received by the storage server in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. When the storage server 4 receives print data from the client PC 2 (ST101), after bibliographic information extraction (ST102) and user authentication by the authentication server 6 (ST103), if the start flag is on (Yes in ST104). , Storage of print data (ST105), registration of bibliographic information by the management server 5 (ST106), and association of document ID and print data (ST107) are performed. If the end flag is not on (No in ST108), the next print data reception standby state is entered.

  When the next print data is received (ST101), if the print data having the transmission ID that matches the transmission ID of the print data is in the accumulated data (Yes in ST109), the document is based on the transmission ID. The ID is associated with the received print data (ST110), and the received print data is saved (ST111). If the end flag is on, the process proceeds to a storage completion notification, and if the end flag is not on (ST108). No), the printer is ready to receive the next print data.

  On the other hand, if the print data having the transmission ID that matches the transmission ID of the received print data is not stored (No in ST109), the print data is not saved and an error occurs. At this time, an error notification is transmitted from the storage server 4 to the client PC 2, and on the client PC 2, a message screen indicating that printing cannot be received is displayed on the monitor 26 based on the error notification from the storage server 4. The user can confirm that printing is impossible.

  If the next print data cannot be received even after a predetermined waiting time in the next print data reception standby state, an error occurs, and an error notification is transmitted to the client PC 2 as described above. Is done.

  FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram illustrating a processing procedure from a print instruction to a print end in the multifunction peripheral in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the multifunction device 1, when the user selects the printer function on the main screen displayed on the control panel 12, an authentication waiting screen is displayed. When the user holds the IC card over the card reader 15, the information stored in the IC card is stored. Authentication information (such as a user ID) is read, and a user authentication request with the authentication information is transmitted to the authentication server 6.

  When the authentication server 6 receives the user authentication request from the multifunction device 1, user authentication is performed based on the authentication information acquired here, and a user authentication response with authentication result information indicating success or failure of the user authentication is received. 1 is transmitted. In the multifunction device 1, when a user authentication response is received from the authentication server 6 and the user authentication is successful, a document list information request with user information (such as a user ID) acquired from the IC card is sent to the management server 5. Sent to.

  When the management server 5 receives the document list information request from the multifunction device 1, the bibliographic information of the document related to the corresponding user on the bibliographic information database 51 is obtained based on the user information (such as user ID) acquired here. A document list information response to which bibliographic information about all the documents found here is added is sent to the multifunction device 1.

  When the multifunction device 1 receives the document list information response from the management server 5, a document list screen is displayed on the control panel 12 based on the bibliographic information acquired here. When the user selects a required document on this document list screen and operates the print button, a deletion confirmation screen is displayed. This deletion confirmation screen inquires whether or not to delete the print data of the corresponding document after printing is completed. When the user selects deletion on this deletion confirmation screen, the document identification information (document ID, etc.) ) And a document print request with deletion instruction information are transmitted to the management server 5. At this time, information on the printer language suitable for the apparatus is also sent.

  When the management server 5 receives a document print request from the multi-function device 1, the management server 5 accumulates print data relating to a specified document on the bibliographic information database 51 based on the document identification information (document ID, etc.) acquired here. When the server 4 is searched and the corresponding storage server 4 is found, a document print response is transmitted to the multifunction device 1, and the multifunction device 1 displays a print acceptance screen indicating acceptance of printing. In addition, a print data transfer request with document identification information (such as a document ID) and output destination multifunction device 1 identification information (such as an IP address) is transmitted to the storage server 4. At this time, information about the printer language acquired from the output destination multifunction peripheral 1 is also sent at the same time.

  Upon receiving the print data transfer request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 receives the print data stored in the document file storage unit 41 based on the document identification information (document ID, etc.) and the printer language acquired here. When the search is performed and the corresponding print data is found, the print data is transmitted to the multifunction device 1 based on the identification information (IP address or the like) of the output destination multifunction device 1 acquired from the management server 5, and the composite data is transmitted. The machine 1 prints the document.

  FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. When the multifunction device 1 prints a document as shown in FIG. 7, a print completion notification is transmitted to the management server 5.

  When the management server 5 receives the print completion notification from the multifunction device 1, it determines whether or not the document is set to be deleted after printing. If the setting is to delete, the document identification information ( A print data deletion request with a document ID or the like is transmitted to the storage server 4.

  Here, the management server 5 holds deletion instruction information for each document regarding whether or not to delete the print data after printing, and this deletion instruction information is specified by the user in the multifunction device 1 as described above. In this case, the user designates and inputs it to the management server 5 together with the document print request on the deletion confirmation screen that inquires the user whether or not the print data after printing can be deleted.

  The client PC 2 allows the user to input whether or not to delete the print data after printing by setting the printer driver 21 or displaying an inquiry screen for the user, and the deletion instruction information obtained thereby is printed along with the bibliographic information. Then, the deletion instruction information is transferred from the storage server 4 together with the bibliographic information to the management server 5 so that the management server 5 can acquire the deletion instruction information by the user.

  Further, regarding the deletion of print data after printing, the administrator can set the management server 5 in advance. In this case, if the user's selection regarding the deletion of print data after printing or the user's selection regarding the deletion of print data after printing is permitted without the user's selection regarding the deletion of print data after printing. Let the administrator set the effective storage period of the print data.

  When the storage server 4 receives the print data deletion request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 applies the corresponding print data stored in the document file storage unit 41 based on the document identification information (document ID, etc.) acquired here. A process for searching print data of a document to be performed is performed, and the print data found by this process is deleted, and a process for deleting bibliographic information related to the corresponding document registered in the document information database 42 is performed. Then, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the management server 5.

  When receiving the print data deletion response from the storage server 4, the management server 5 performs processing for deleting the bibliographic information related to the corresponding document registered in the bibliographic information database 51.

  FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure for canceling printing in the print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the multi-function device 1, as described above, when the user performs the user authentication by holding the IC card over the card reader 15, a document list screen for displaying a list of documents related to the user is displayed on the control panel. When the user selects a required document on this document list screen and operates the delete button, a delete confirmation screen is displayed. When the user selects delete on this delete confirmation screen, the document identification information (document ID, etc.) is displayed. ) Is sent to the management server 5.

  When the management server 5 receives the print data deletion request from the multifunction device 1, the management server 5 accumulates print data relating to the designated document on the bibliographic information database 51 based on the document identification information (document ID or the like) acquired here. When the storage server 4 is searched and the corresponding storage server 4 is found, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the multifunction device 1, and the multifunction device 1 includes a message that the document deletion is accepted. The delete acceptance screen is displayed. In addition, a print data deletion request with document identification information (document ID or the like) is transmitted to the storage server 4.

  Upon receiving the print data deletion request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 searches for the print data stored in the document file storage unit 41 based on the document identification information (document ID, etc.) acquired here. When the corresponding print data is found, a process for deleting the print data is performed, and a process for deleting the bibliographic information regarding the corresponding document registered in the document information database 42 is performed. Then, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the management server 5.

  When receiving the print data deletion response from the storage server 4, the management server 5 performs processing for deleting the bibliographic information related to the corresponding document registered in the bibliographic information database 51.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the print data related to one print job is created in the plurality of types of printer languages in the client PC 2 and sent to the storage server 4. Since data conversion processing becomes unnecessary, the load on the storage server 4 can be reduced. After the user performs a print instruction operation on the multifunction device 1, the storage server 4 selects print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction device 1 from the print data stored in the own device. Therefore, the process does not take much time, so that it is possible to shorten the time required from the print instruction operation by the user in the multi-function device 1 until the actual printed matter is output and to improve the convenience.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of processing in the print processing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Here, the client PC 2 creates print data related to one print job by using a printer language pre-selected as a preferred printer language for each user and an intermediate language that does not depend on the multifunction device 1, and the print data. Is stored in the storage server 4, and when the storage server 4 acquires the print data in the printer language and the intermediate language from the client PC 2, the storage server 4 stores the print data, and then responds to a print instruction operation by the user in the multifunction machine 1 When the print data transfer request sent from the management server 5 is received, if the print data stored in the self-device is in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction device 1, the print data is sent to the multifunction device 1. On the other hand, if the print data stored in the device is in a printer language that is not compatible with the output destination multifunction device 1, Print data by accumulated intermediate language is converted into print data by the printer language conforming to the MFP 1 of the output destination, and to send the print data to the MFP 1.

  In the priority printer language selection unit 531 of the management server 5, the required number of printer languages is prioritized based on the usage history of the multifunction device 1 for each user stored in the user management unit 52, as in the first embodiment. Selected as the printer language. In particular, here, when one type of printer language is used as the priority printer language, a printer language suitable for the MFP 1 used at the time of the previous printing is selected for each user, while a plurality of types of printers are selected as the priority printer language. When languages are used, the required number of printer languages is selected in order from the printer language suitable for the multifunction device 1 that is frequently used for each user.

  The storage server 4 has a print data conversion unit (print data conversion means) 432, which performs a process of converting print data in an intermediate language into print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction device 1. Is called. The intermediate language is a kind of page description language, and has a characteristic that can be converted into any printer language without depending on the specific multifunction device 1 (for example, EMF (Enhanced Metafile)).

  Note that the schematic configuration of each device in the print processing system according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment (FIG. 4). In particular, in the storage server 4, the print data conversion unit 432 controls the apparatus. The unit 43 is configured.

  The processing procedure from print data generation to bibliographic information registration in the print processing system according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 5). The PC 2 is different in that it is transmitted. In particular, the print data in the intermediate language is transmitted last among the print data related to one print job.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when print data is received by the storage server in the print processing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Here, in the storage server 4, when print data having the same transmission ID as that of the received print data is not already stored, it is determined as the first print data related to one print job. Further, when the print data in the intermediate language transmitted from the client PC 2 is received lastly, the storage server 4 determines that all of the plurality of print data related to the print job have been received.

  First, the storage server 4 receives print data from the client PC 2 (ST201), and after bibliographic information extraction (ST202) and user authentication by the authentication server 6 (ST203), transmission that matches the transmission ID of the received print data. If the print data having the ID is not stored (No in ST204), the print data is stored (ST205), the bibliographic information is registered by the management server 5 (ST206), and the document ID is associated with the print data (ST206). When each process of ST207) is performed and the received print data is in an intermediate language, the process proceeds to a storage completion notification. If the received print data is not in an intermediate language (No in ST208), the next print data It becomes a reception standby state.

  When the next print data is received (ST201), if the print data having the transmission ID that matches the transmission ID of the print data is in the stored data (Yes in ST204), the document is based on the transmission ID. The ID is associated with the received print data (ST209), the received print data is saved (ST210), and if the received print data is in an intermediate language, the process proceeds to a storage completion notification, and the received print data is If not in the intermediate language (No in ST208), the next print data reception standby state is set.

  If the next print data cannot be received even after a predetermined waiting time in the next print data reception standby state, an error occurs and an error notification is transmitted to the client PC 2.

  FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating a processing procedure from a print instruction to a print end in the multifunction peripheral in the print processing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the processing in each apparatus proceeds in substantially the same procedure as in the first embodiment (FIG. 7). In particular, the storage server 4 transfers print data from the management server 5 here. When the request is received, the print data stored in the document file storage unit 41 is searched based on the document identification information (document ID, etc.) and the printer language acquired here, and the print data in the designated printer language is obtained. If not, the print data in the intermediate language is converted into the print data in the designated printer language, and the print data is transmitted to the multi function device 1.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, when the printer language adopted when creating the print data in the client PC 2 is a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction peripheral 1, Since the data conversion process in the storage server 4 becomes unnecessary, the load on the storage server 4 can be reduced. In this case, after the user performs a print instruction operation on the multifunction device 1, the storage server 4 may perform processing for selecting print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction device 1. Since it does not require much time, the time required from the printing instruction operation by the user in the multifunction device 1 until the printed matter is actually output can be shortened and the convenience can be improved. Further, even when the printer language used when creating the print data in the client PC 2 is a printer language that is not compatible with the output destination multifunction device 1, printing in the required printer language is performed by data conversion from the print data in the intermediate language. Since data can be created, it is possible to avoid problems that cannot be printed by the multifunction device 1.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of processing in the print processing system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Here, when the client PC 2 creates print data in an intermediate language that does not depend on the multifunction device 1 and sends the print data to the storage server 4, the storage server 4 acquires the print data in the intermediate language from the client PC 2. The print data in the intermediate language is converted into print data in the printer language preselected as the priority printer language for each user, stored together with the print data in the intermediate language, and then the print instruction operation by the user in the multifunction device 1 When the print data transfer request sent from the management server 5 is received according to the print data, if the print data stored in the self-device is in a printer language suitable for the multi-function device 1 of the output destination, the print data is sent to the multi-function device 1. On the other hand, the print data stored in the device itself is in a printer language that does not match the output destination multifunction device 1 Expediently, it converted into print data by the printer language adapted to print data by the intermediate language stored in the own device to the multifunction device 1 of the destination, and to transmit the print data to the MFP 1.

  The management server 5 holds information regarding the priority printer language for each user, and transmits information regarding the priority printer language to the storage server 4 in response to an inquiry from the storage server 4. Similar to the second embodiment, the priority printer language for each user is selected by the priority printer language selection unit 531, and when one type of printer language is used as the priority printer language, it is used for the previous printing for each user. On the other hand, when a plurality of types of printer languages are used as the priority printer language, the required number of printer languages suitable for the multi-function device 1 that are frequently used for each user is sequentially selected. The printer language is selected.

  FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure from print data generation to bibliographic information registration in the print processing system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Here, as a difference from the first embodiment (FIG. 5), only print data in an intermediate language is transmitted from the client PC 2 to the storage server 4. The inquiry about the priority printer language is made from the storage server 4 to the management server 5 after the print data in the intermediate language is stored in the storage server 4, and the response of the priority printer language is sent from the management server 5 accordingly. Is transmitted to the storage server 4, and the storage server 4 performs a process of converting the print data in the printer language designated by the answer of the priority printer language received from the management server 5.

  Note that the processing procedure from the printing instruction to the end of printing in the multifunction device 1 in the printing processing system according to the third embodiment is the same as that in the second embodiment (FIG. 12).

  As described above, according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the print data in the printer language is created by the data conversion process in the storage server 4 before the user performs a print instruction operation on the multifunction device 1. If the printer language adopted here matches the printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction device 1, it is not necessary to perform data conversion processing after the user performs a print instruction operation on the multifunction device 1, and the multifunction device. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the time required from the printing instruction operation by the user in 1 to the actual output of the printed matter and to improve the convenience. Further, even when the printer language used when the data conversion processing is performed in the storage server 4 is a printer language that is not compatible with the output destination multifunction device 1, the data is converted from the print data in the intermediate language according to the required printer language Since print data can be created, it is possible to avoid problems that cannot be printed by the multifunction device 1.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of processing in the print processing system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Here, as in the first embodiment, in the client PC 2, print data relating to one print job is created in a plurality of types of printer languages, and the print data is sent to the storage server 4. However, particularly here, the management server 5 combines a print completion notification (print end notification) due to the end of printing in the multifunction device 1 or a print data deletion request (print stop notification) due to a print stop operation in the multifunction device 1. When receiving from the machine 1, after confirming that all the print data related to the corresponding print job has been stored in the storage server 4, a request to delete the print data related to the corresponding print job is transmitted to the storage server 4. When the storage server 4 receives the print data deletion request from the management server 5, it stores all the print data related to the corresponding print job already stored in its own device. So that dividing.

  The client PC 2 issues a common ID (print job identification information) that is commonly assigned to a plurality of print data related to one print job, and the management server 5 determines that the corresponding print job is based on the common ID. It is determined whether or not all the print data related to is stored in the storage server 4. The common ID issued by the client PC 2 is transmitted to the management server 5 through the storage server 4 together with other bibliographic information, registered in the bibliographic information database 51 of the management server 5, and the number of receptions of the same common ID, By comparing the number of print data created for each printer language in the client PC 2, it can be confirmed that all print data related to one print job has been accumulated in the accumulation server 4.

  In the management server 5, when a print completion notification or print data deletion request is received from the multifunction device 1, the deletion reception unit 532 performs processing for registering that there is a deletion request for the corresponding print job in the bibliographic information database 51. Then, the deletion request unit 533 refers to the bibliographic information database 51 to determine whether or not all the print data related to the corresponding print job is stored in the storage server 4. When it is confirmed that all the print data has been stored in the storage server 4, a request for deleting the print data relating to the corresponding print job is sent to the storage server 4.

  Note that the schematic configuration of each device in the print processing system according to the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment (FIG. 4), but in the management server 5 in particular, the deletion reception unit 532 and the deletion The request unit 533 is configured by the control unit 53.

  FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in the print processing system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the first print data relating to one print job is in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction peripheral 1, and the print job is finished using this print data, and the second and subsequent print data This shows a case where is no longer necessary.

  When the multifunction device 1 prints a document, a print completion notification is transmitted from the multifunction device 1 to the management server 5. When the management server 5 receives the print completion notification from the multifunction device 1, the corresponding printing is performed. All jobs related to the corresponding print job are received based on the common ID transmitted from the storage server 4 to the management server 5 in response to receipt of the second print data from the storage server 4 when the storage server 4 receives the second and subsequent print data. When it is confirmed that the print data is stored in the storage server 4, a print data deletion request with print job identification information (such as a document ID) is transmitted to the storage server 4. When the storage server 4 receives the print data deletion request from the management server 5, all the print data related to the corresponding print job is deleted together.

  FIG. 17 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure for canceling printing in the print processing system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Here, a case where the storage server 4 receives the first print data related to one print job and the bibliographic information is registered in the management server 5 and then the user instructs the deletion of the document in the multifunction machine 1. Show.

  When the user instructs deletion of a document in the multifunction device 1, a print data deletion request with document identification information (such as a document ID) is transmitted to the management server 5, and the management server 5 prints from the multifunction device 1. When a data deletion request is received, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the multi-function device 1, and a deletion reception for the corresponding print job is performed, and in response to the second and subsequent print data being received by the storage server 4. Based on the common ID transmitted from the storage server 4 to the management server 5, when it is confirmed that all the print data related to the corresponding print job has been stored in the storage server 4, the print job identification information (document ID) Etc.) is transmitted to the storage server 4. When the storage server 4 receives the print data deletion request from the management server 5, all the print data related to the corresponding print job is deleted together.

  When the first print data is not print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination MFP 1 or when the second and subsequent print data are received and stored before a print data deletion request is made 16 is different from the example shown in FIG. 16, and when the second and subsequent print data are received and stored before the user instructs deletion of the document, the timing shown in FIG. However, if a part of a plurality of print jobs related to one print job has been stored in the storage server 4 and the remaining print jobs are not stored, the same procedure as described above is performed. When all the print data related to the corresponding print job is accumulated in the accumulation server 4, the print data are deleted together.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, even if the printing end or the printing stop occurs before all the plurality of print data related to one print job are accumulated in the accumulation server 4, The print data deletion request to the storage server 4 is postponed until all the print data is stored in the storage server 4. When all the print data is stored in the storage server 4, the print data deletion request to the storage server 4 is made. Thus, since the print data of the storage server 4 is collectively deleted, it is possible to avoid the print data relating to unnecessary print jobs from remaining in the storage server 4, thereby effectively utilizing the capacity of the storage server 4. Can do.

(Fifth embodiment)
FIG. 18 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of processing in the print processing system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Here, as in the first embodiment, in the client PC 2, print data relating to one print job is created in a plurality of types of printer languages, and the print data is sent to the storage server 4. However, particularly here, the management server 5 combines a print completion notification (print end notification) due to the end of printing in the multifunction device 1 or a print data deletion request (print stop notification) due to a print stop operation in the multifunction device 1. When receiving the print data deletion request for the corresponding print job, the storage server 4 receives the print data deletion request from the management server 5 and receives the print data deletion request for the corresponding print job. When all the data stored in the device is deleted and then print data is received from the client PC 2, the print data is deleted. It determines whether or not according to the print job that is requested, as long as for the print job with a delete request, is not carried out the accumulation of the print data.

  As in the fourth embodiment, the client PC 2 issues a common ID (print job identification information) that is commonly assigned to a plurality of print data related to one print job, and based on this common ID, The storage server 4 determines whether the print data received from the client PC 2 relates to a print job for which a deletion request has been made.

  In the storage server 4, the storage determination unit 433 determines whether or not the received print data is print data with a deletion request. This determination process is performed by comparing the common ID added to the received print data with the common ID corresponding to the print job requested to be deleted. At this time, the deletion request unit 533 of the management server 5 refers to the bibliographic information database 51 to acquire a common ID corresponding to the print job for which a print completion notification or print data deletion request has been issued from the multifunction device 1. By adding the common ID to the print data deletion request and transmitting it to the storage server 4, the storage determination unit 433 of the storage server 4 acquires the common ID corresponding to the print job for which the deletion request is made.

  Further, if the document ID and the common ID are registered in the document information database 42 of the storage server 4 in association with each other, the print data deletion request with the document ID added is transmitted from the management server 5, so that the storage of the storage server 4 is stored. The determination unit 433 can acquire a common ID corresponding to a print job for which a deletion request is made from the document ID with reference to the document information database 42.

  The schematic configuration of each device in the print processing system according to the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment (FIG. 4), but particularly in the accumulation server 4, the accumulation determination unit 433 controls the apparatus. The unit 43 is configured.

  FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in the printing processing system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the first print data relating to one print job is in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction peripheral 1, and the print job is finished using this print data, and the second and subsequent print data This shows a case where is no longer necessary.

  When the multifunction device 1 prints a document, a print completion notification is transmitted from the multifunction device 1 to the management server 5. When the management server 5 receives the print completion notification from the multifunction device 1, the print job notification is sent. A print data deletion request with identification information (such as a common ID) is transmitted to the storage server 4.

  When receiving the print data deletion request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the own apparatus. When the storage refusal setting for setting the common ID to be rejected for the storage of print data is performed in the storage determination unit 432 of the storage server 4 and the second and subsequent print data relating to the corresponding print job is received, the print When it is determined that the storage should be rejected from the common ID added to the data, the received print data is deleted, and when the deletion and storage rejection of all the print data related to the corresponding print job is completed, the management server 5 is notified. A print data deletion response is sent.

  FIG. 20 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure for canceling printing in the print processing system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Here, a case where the storage server 4 receives the first print data related to one print job and the bibliographic information is registered in the management server 5 and then the user instructs the deletion of the document in the multifunction machine 1. Show.

  When the user instructs deletion of a document in the multifunction device 1, a print data deletion request with document identification information (such as a document ID) is transmitted to the management server 5, and the management server 5 prints from the multifunction device 1. When a data deletion request is received, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the multi function device 1 and a print data deletion request with document identification information (document ID, etc.) is transmitted to the storage server 4.

  When receiving the print data deletion request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the own apparatus. When the storage refusal setting for setting the common ID to be rejected for the storage of print data is performed in the storage determination unit 432 of the storage server 4 and the second and subsequent print data relating to the corresponding print job is received, the print When it is determined that the storage should be rejected from the common ID added to the data, the received print data is deleted, and when the deletion and storage rejection of all the print data related to the corresponding print job is completed, the management server 5 is notified. A print data deletion response is sent.

  When the first print data is not print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination MFP 1 or when the second and subsequent print data are received and stored before a print data deletion request is made If the second and subsequent print data are received and stored before the user instructs to delete the document, the timing is different from that shown in FIG. However, if a part of a plurality of print data related to one print job has already been stored in the storage server 4 and the remaining print data has not been stored, the same procedure as described above is performed. All print data relating to the corresponding print job is deleted or refused to be stored.

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, if the print end or the print stop occurs before all of the plurality of print data related to one print job is stored in the storage server 4, the storage server 4 is deleted, and the remaining print data is rejected to be stored in the storage server 4, so that it is possible to prevent print data relating to unnecessary print jobs from remaining in the storage server 4. Thus, the capacity of the storage server 4 can be effectively utilized.

(Sixth embodiment)
FIG. 21 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of processing in the print processing system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Here, as in the first embodiment, in the client PC 2, print data relating to one print job is created in a plurality of types of printer languages, and the print data is sent to the storage server 4. However, particularly here, the management server 5 combines a print completion notification (print end notification) due to the end of printing in the multifunction device 1 or a print data deletion request (print stop notification) due to a print stop operation in the multifunction device 1. When receiving the print data deletion request for the corresponding print job, the storage server 4 receives the print data deletion request from the management server 5 and receives the print data deletion request for the corresponding print job. Deletes all data stored in the device itself and sends a print data creation stop request for the corresponding print job to the client PC. Send, client PC2 receives the create request to stop the print data from the management server 5, and so as to stop creating of the printing data relating to the corresponding print job to.

  As in the fourth and fifth embodiments, the client PC 2 issues a common ID (print job identification information) commonly given to a plurality of print data related to one print job. Based on this, the client PC 2 determines a print job whose print data creation should be stopped.

  In the storage server 4, a print data creation stop request unit 434 transmits a print data creation stop request related to the corresponding print job. The print data creation stop request unit 434 adds a common ID to the print data creation stop request and transmits it to the client PC 2, so that the client PC 2 can specify a print job whose print data creation should be stopped. At this time, the deletion request unit 533 of the management server 5 refers to the bibliographic information database 51 to acquire a common ID corresponding to the print job for which a print completion notification or print data deletion request has been issued from the multifunction device 1. By adding the common ID to the print data deletion request and transmitting it to the storage server 4, the print data creation stop request unit 434 of the storage server 4 acquires the common ID corresponding to the print job for which there is a deletion request.

  Also, if the document ID and the common ID are registered in the document information database 42 of the storage server 4 in association with each other, the print data deletion request with the document ID added is transmitted from the management server 5, so that the print of the storage server 4 is performed. The data creation cancellation request unit 434 can obtain a common ID corresponding to a print job for which a deletion request has been made from the document ID with reference to the document information database 42.

  The schematic configuration of each device in the print processing system according to the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment (FIG. 4). In particular, the storage server 4 has a print data creation stop request unit. 434 is configured by the control unit 43.

  FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram showing a data deletion processing procedure performed after document printing in the print processing system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the first print data relating to one print job is in a printer language suitable for the output destination multifunction peripheral 1, and the print job is finished using this print data, and the second and subsequent print data This shows a case where is no longer necessary.

  When the multifunction device 1 prints a document, a print completion notification is transmitted from the multifunction device 1 to the management server 5. When the management server 5 receives the print completion notification from the multifunction device 1, the print job notification is sent. A print data deletion request with identification information (such as a common ID) is transmitted to the storage server 4.

  When receiving the print data deletion request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the own apparatus. Then, a print data creation stop request with print job identification information (such as a common ID) is transmitted to the client PC 2. Upon receiving the print data creation stop request from the storage server 4, the client PC 2 stops the creation and transmission of the print data relating to the corresponding print job, and transmits a print data creation stop response to the storage server 4 to store the print data. When the server 4 receives the print data creation stop response from the client PC 2, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the management server 5.

  FIG. 23 is a sequence diagram showing a printing stop processing procedure in the printing processing system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Here, a case where the storage server 4 receives the first print data related to one print job and the bibliographic information is registered in the management server 5 and then the user instructs the deletion of the document in the multifunction machine 1. Show.

  When the user instructs deletion of a document in the multifunction device 1, a print data deletion request with document identification information (such as a document ID) is transmitted to the management server 5, and the management server 5 prints from the multifunction device 1. When a data deletion request is received, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the multi function device 1 and a print data deletion request with document identification information (document ID, etc.) is transmitted to the storage server 4.

  When receiving the print data deletion request from the management server 5, the storage server 4 deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the own apparatus. Then, a print data creation stop request with print job identification information (such as a common ID) is transmitted to the client PC 2. Upon receiving the print data creation stop request from the storage server 4, the client PC 2 stops the creation and transmission of the print data relating to the corresponding print job, and transmits a print data creation stop response to the storage server 4 to store the print data. When the server 4 receives the print data creation stop response from the client PC 2, a print data deletion response is transmitted to the management server 5.

  When the first print data is not print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination MFP 1 or when the second and subsequent print data are received and stored before a print data deletion request is made Is different from the example shown in FIG. 22, and when the second and subsequent print data are received and stored before the user instructs to delete the document, the timing shown in FIG. However, if a part of a plurality of print data related to one print job has already been stored in the storage server 4 and the remaining print data has not been stored, the same procedure as described above is performed. All print data relating to the corresponding print job is deleted or cancelled.

  As described above, according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, if the print end or the print stop occurs before all of the plurality of print data related to one print job is stored in the storage server 4, the storage server 4 is deleted, and the creation of the remaining print data on the client PC 2 is cancelled. Therefore, it is possible to prevent print data relating to unnecessary print jobs from remaining in the storage server 4. The capacity of the storage server 4 can be used effectively.

  In each of the fourth to sixth embodiments, similarly to the first embodiment, the client PC 2 creates print data related to one print job using a plurality of types of printer languages, and generates the print data. Although the description has been made on the assumption that the system is configured to send to the storage server 4, the configurations shown in the fourth to sixth embodiments are not related to what language the print data is described in. Similarly to the second embodiment, the print data relating to one print job is created in the printer language and the intermediate language, and the print data is also sent to the storage server 4. The same can be applied.

  FIG. 24 is a system configuration diagram showing a modification of the print processing system to which the present invention is applied. The print processing system includes a management storage server 8, which has a function corresponding to the management server unit 9 having the function corresponding to the management server 5 and the storage server 4. The storage server unit 10 is provided, and the management server 5 and the storage server 4 are combined.

  In the above example, the storage server 4 is connected to the network as an independent device. However, a configuration using a storage device (such as a hard disk) built in the multifunction machine 1 is also possible. The authentication server 6 can also be configured to be provided in the multifunction device 1.

  The print processing system according to the present invention reduces the load on the storage server without causing a significant increase in cost in the print system of the storage printing method, and the printed matter is actually received from the print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus. Print data created by the information processing device is stored in the storage server so that it can be printed on a desired printing device on the network. The printing apparatus is useful as a print processing system that temporarily accumulates data and prints the printing apparatus by acquiring print data from an accumulation server in response to a user operation.

1 Multifunction machine (printing device)
2 Client PC (information processing device)
4 storage server 5 management server 8 management storage server 9 management server unit 10 storage server unit 21 printer driver 41 document file storage unit 42 document information database 43 control unit 51 bibliographic information database 52 user management unit 53 control unit 431 bibliographic information extraction unit 432 Print data conversion unit 433 Accumulation determination unit 434 Print data creation stop request unit 531 Priority printer language selection unit 532 Deletion reception unit 533 Deletion request unit

Claims (15)

An information processing apparatus that creates print data related to the print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, a storage server that stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus, and a print data storage status in the storage server In a print processing system having a management server to manage, and a plurality of printing apparatuses that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in accordance with a user's print instruction operation,
The information processing apparatus creates print data relating to one print job by a plurality of types of printer languages selected in advance as a priority printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and stores the print data. To the server,
When the storage server receives a plurality of print data from the information processing apparatus, the storage server accumulates the print data, and then print data transmitted from the management server in response to a user's print instruction operation on the printing apparatus When the transfer request is received, print data in a printer language suitable for the output destination printing apparatus is selected from the printing data stored in the self apparatus, and the printing data is transmitted to the printing apparatus. A print processing system. An information processing apparatus that creates print data related to the print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, a storage server that stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus, and a print data storage status in the storage server In a print processing system having a management server to manage, and a plurality of printing apparatuses that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in accordance with a user's print instruction operation,
The information processing apparatus creates print data related to one print job by a printer language preselected as a preferred printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus and an intermediate language independent of the printing apparatus, Send those print data to the storage server,
When the storage server receives the print data in the printer language and the intermediate language from the information processing apparatus, the storage server stores the print data, and then, from the management server according to the print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus. When the print data transfer request to be transmitted is received, if the print data stored in the self apparatus is in a printer language suitable for the output destination print apparatus, the print data is transmitted to the print apparatus. If the print data stored in the printer is in a printer language that does not match the output printer, the print data in the intermediate language stored in the printer is converted to print data in the printer language that is compatible with the output printer. And transmitting the print data to the printing apparatus.   The management server stores information related to a priority printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and transmits information related to the priority printer language to the information processing apparatus in response to an inquiry from the information processing apparatus. The print processing system according to claim 1 or 2. An information processing apparatus that creates print data related to the print job in response to a user's print instruction operation, a storage server that stores print data acquired from the information processing apparatus, and a print data storage status in the storage server In a print processing system having a management server to manage, and a plurality of printing apparatuses that perform printing by acquiring print data from the storage server in accordance with a user's print instruction operation,
The information processing apparatus creates print data in an intermediate language independent of the printing apparatus, transmits the print data to the storage server,
When the storage server receives the print data in the intermediate language from the information processing apparatus, the storage server converts the print data in the intermediate language into print data in a printer language preselected as a priority printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus. When the print data transfer request transmitted from the management server in response to a print instruction operation by the user in the printing apparatus is received after that, the print data stored in the self-apparatus is stored. If the printer language conforms to the output destination printing apparatus, the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus, while the print data stored in the self apparatus does not conform to the output destination printing apparatus. In the case of the above, the print data in the intermediate language stored in the self-apparatus is adapted to the printing apparatus as the output destination. Print processing system printer converts the print data by language, and transmits the print data to the printing apparatus.   The management server holds information on a priority printer language for each user or the information processing apparatus, and transmits information on the priority printer language to the storage server in response to an inquiry from the storage server. The print processing system according to claim 4.   6. The printing process according to claim 1, wherein a required number of printer languages is selected as a priority printer language based on a usage history of the printing apparatus for each user or the information processing apparatus. system.   7. When one type of printer language is used as the priority printer language, a printer language suitable for the printing device used at the time of previous printing is selected for each user or the information processing device. The print processing system described in 1.   When a plurality of types of printer languages are used as the priority printer language, a required number of printer languages are selected in order from a printer language suitable for the printing apparatus that is frequently used for each user or the information processing apparatus. The print processing system according to claim 6. When the management server receives a print end or print stop notification from the printing apparatus, the management server confirms that all print data related to the print job has been stored in the storage server, and then sends the print job to the print job. A print data deletion request is sent to the storage server,
3. The storage server according to claim 1, wherein when receiving a print data deletion request from the management server, the storage server deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the self apparatus. The print processing system described.   Print job identification information commonly given to a plurality of print data relating to one print job is issued by the information processing apparatus, and based on the print job identification information, the management server applies the corresponding print job. The print processing system according to claim 9, wherein it is determined whether or not all the print data related to is stored in the storage server. When the management server receives a print end or print stop notification from the printing apparatus, the management server transmits a print data deletion request for the corresponding print job to the storage server,
When the storage server receives a print data deletion request from the management server, the storage server deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the self-device, and then print data from the information processing device. Is received, it is determined whether or not the print data relates to a print job having a deletion request, and if the print data relates to a print job having a deletion request, the print data is not accumulated. The print processing system according to claim 1 or 2.   Print information that is commonly assigned to a plurality of print data relating to one print job is issued by the information processing apparatus, and based on the print job identification information, the storage server uses the information processing apparatus. 12. The print processing system according to claim 11, wherein the print processing system determines whether or not the print data received from the file is related to a print job having a deletion request. When the management server receives a print end or print stop notification from the printing apparatus, the management server transmits a print data deletion request for the corresponding print job to the storage server,
When the storage server receives a print data deletion request from the management server, the storage server deletes all the print data related to the corresponding print job stored in the self-apparatus and the print data related to the corresponding print job. Sending a creation stop request to the information processing apparatus;
3. The print processing according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus, when receiving a print data creation stop request from the management server, stops the creation of print data relating to the corresponding print job. system.   Print information that is commonly assigned to a plurality of print data relating to one print job is issued by the information processing apparatus. Based on the print job identification information, the information processing apparatus The print processing system according to claim 13, wherein a print job whose creation is to be canceled is determined.   The print processing system according to claim 1, further comprising a management storage server that serves both as the management server and the storage server.

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