JP7275697B2 - Information processing system, information processing device, information processing method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program.

In recent years, a service form called IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) that provides a VM (Virtual Machine) instance via a network such as the Internet has become known. In addition, software is installed on VM instances provided as IaaS to provide some kind of cloud service (for example, services in which VM instances function as print servers, scan servers, copy servers, etc.). ing.

By the way, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200011, a printing method within the budget allocated to the print client is used to execute an efficient print output operation without waste, or the usage amount management function is used to supplement the budget. (paragraph [0045] of Patent Document 1, etc.).

Instead of the control to keep within a predetermined amount of money as in Patent Document 1 above, the user It is conceivable to reduce the cost on the side of the service provider and the cost on the service provider side. However, if the service provision time is fixed, there is a problem that even if the user wishes to use the service outside the service provision time, the user cannot use the service.

Therefore, an object of one embodiment of the present invention is to make it possible to use the service even outside the service hours.

To achieve the above object, an embodiment of the present invention provides an information processing system for providing user services to equipment in a first time period, wherein in a second time period different from the first time period, a profile storage unit that stores information on whether or not a function provided by the user service can be used in association with a user; a service management unit that provides the device with a function that the logged-in user can use during the second time period based on a result of referring to the profile storage unit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the service can be used even outside the service hours.

It is a figure showing an example of the whole extension management system composition concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure showing an example of hardware constitutions of a computer concerning one embodiment of the present invention. 1 illustrates an example hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a figure showing an example of functional composition of an extension management system concerning one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of profile data according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is a figure which shows an example (Example 1) of the extended log data based on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example (Example 2) of the extended log data based on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example (time zone) of profile data according to one embodiment of the present invention; It is a sequence diagram which shows an example (Example 1) of processing of the extension management system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a sequence diagram showing an example (Example 2) of processing of the extension management system according to one embodiment of the present invention. It is a sequence diagram showing an example (Example 3) of processing of the extension management system according to one embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "present embodiments") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, when software is installed on a VM instance to provide some kind of cloud service (hereinafter referred to as "user service"), a predetermined time (for example, the time during which the user service is provided (hereinafter , “service provision time”)) will be described. The service provision time may be a uniform time zone for all users, or for each predetermined user group (for example, a company or organization that uses the user service (hereinafter referred to as "company etc.")) It may be a fixed time slot.

Here, a VM instance is also simply referred to as "VM" or "virtual machine". Moreover, a virtual machine intended to function as a server (for example, a print server, a scan server, a copy server, etc.) is also called a "virtual server". Hereinafter, it is assumed that the VM instance functions as a server of some kind, and the term "virtual server" is used for explanation.

<Overall composition>
First, the overall configuration of an extension management system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an extension management system 1 according to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1, the extension management system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a service management system 10 comprising one or more computers, one or more devices (for example, devices 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, hereinafter collectively referred to as the device 20), and one or a plurality of administrator terminals 30 (for example, the administrator terminals 30a and 30b in FIG. 1, hereinafter also collectively referred to as the administrator terminal 30). included. Also, the service management system 10, the device 20, and the administrator terminal 30 are communicably connected via an arbitrary network.

The service management system 10 is a server (virtual server) necessary for the device 20 to use user services. The service management system 10 manages devices 20 that use user services, and performs processing for implementing user services in cooperation with the devices 20 .

In the present embodiment, the user service provided by the service management system 10 can provide a plurality of services (hereinafter also referred to as "functions"; for example, print function, scan function, copy function, etc.) to the device 20. and

The service management system 10 has a function of customizing the login screen of the device 20 and a function of transmitting setting information to the application software of the device 20 at a specified time and applying it. Therefore, the service management system 10 enables the login screen of the device 20 when the service provision time of the user service starts (that is, enables login), and disables the login screen of the device 20 when the service provision time ends (that is, enables login). The user service can be provided while preventing the use of the user service outside the service provision time.

In this embodiment, the service management system 10 can manage the user service so that it can be used during a predetermined time (for example, other than the service providing time). Therefore, the user can use the user service (that is, the device 20 ) will be available. In addition, the service management system 10 may perform control so that the cost is added to the usage outside the service providing hours.

The devices 20 are various electronic devices used to use user services. Examples of the device 20 include an image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral), an electronic blackboard, a videoconference, a projector, and the like.

Note that the device 20 performs processing for realizing a plurality of functions (for example, a print function, a scan function, a copy function, etc.) provided by the user service in cooperation with the service management system 10, and performs these functions. Any device may be used as long as it is a device whose availability can be controlled by the service management system 10 . The device 20 is, for example, a PJ (Projector: projector), an IWB (Interactive White Board: a whiteboard having an electronic blackboard function capable of mutual communication), an output device such as a digital signage, a HUD (Head Up Display) device, an industrial Machines, imaging devices, sound collectors, medical equipment, network appliances, automobiles (connected cars), notebook PCs (personal computers), mobile phones, smartphones, tablet devices, game consoles, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), digital cameras, wearables It may be a PC, a desktop PC, or the like.

The administrator terminal 30 is a terminal for making settings so that the user service can be used during a predetermined time (for example, outside the service providing time). The administrator terminal 30 is a computer such as a personal computer, tablet, or smart phone. For example, administrators of service providers that provide user services and administrators of companies that use user services can use the administrator terminal 30 to make various settings.

Note that the configuration of the extension management system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and other configurations may be used. The devices described in the examples are merely representative of one of several computing environments for implementing the embodiments disclosed herein. In some embodiments, service management system 10 includes multiple computing devices, such as server clusters. Multiple computing devices are configured to communicate with each other over any type of communication link, including a network, shared memory, etc., to perform the processes disclosed herein.

Further, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the service provider that provides the user service and the infrastructure provider that provides the virtual server are different providers. You can be an entrepreneur. Also, the contract (contract regarding the use of the virtual server) made with the infrastructure provider in constructing the virtual server may be made by a company or the like, or may be made by a service provider who provides user services.

<Specific examples of functions provided by user services>
Here, as a specific example of the function provided by the user service, there is a "print function" that causes the service management system 10 to function as a server that stores print jobs. In this case, for example, print jobs created by the device 20, which is a PC, are accumulated in the service management system 10. FIG. Then, the device 20, which is an MFP, acquires a print job from the service management system 10 and executes the print job, thereby performing printing. This provides the user of the device 20 with a print function.

Another specific example of the function provided by the user service is a "scan distribution function" that causes the service management system to function as a server that distributes scanned images to predetermined destinations. In this case, for example, a scanned image created by scanning a document by the device 20 which is an MFP is transmitted to the service management system 10 . Then, the service management system 10 distributes the scanned image to a predetermined destination. Thereby, a scan delivery service is provided to the user of the device 20 . In the scan delivery service, after the service management system 10 performs some processing (for example, OCR (Optical Character Recognition) processing) on the scanned image, data indicating the processing result is delivered to a predetermined destination. You can

Note that the multiple functions provided by the user service are not limited to the print function, scan function, and copy function, and may be any function that can be implemented by the service management system 10 and the device 20 working together.

<Hardware configuration>
Next, hardware configurations of the service management system 10 and the administrator terminal 30 according to this embodiment will be described.

The service management system 10 and the administrator terminal 30 according to this embodiment can be realized by using one or more computers 100 shown in FIG. 2, for example. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the computer 100. As shown in FIG.

Computer 100 shown in FIG. 2 has input device 101 , display device 102 , external I/F 103 , and communication I/F 104 . The computer 100 shown in FIG. 2 also has a ROM (Read Only Memory) 105 , a RAM (Random Access Memory) 106 , a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 107 and an auxiliary storage device 108 . Each of these pieces of hardware is connected by a bus 109 .

The input device 101 is, for example, a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, or the like, and is used by the user to input various operations. The display device 102 is, for example, a display or the like, and displays the results of processing by the computer 100 . The computer 100 that implements the service management system 10 and the administrator terminal 30 may not have at least one of the input device 101 and the display device 102 .

The external I/F 103 is an interface with an external device. The external device includes a recording medium 103a and the like. The computer 100 can perform reading, writing, etc. of the recording medium 103 a via the external I/F 103 . The recording medium 103a includes, for example, a USB memory, an SD memory card, a flexible disk, a CD, a DVD, and the like.

Communication I/F 104 is an interface for connecting computer 100 to a network. Computer 100 can communicate with other devices and the like via communication I/F 104 .

The ROM 105 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory that can retain programs and data even when power is turned off. The ROM 105 stores programs and data such as BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), OS (Operating System) settings, and network settings that are executed when the computer 100 is started. A RAM 106 is a volatile semiconductor memory that temporarily holds programs and data.

The CPU 107 is an arithmetic unit that implements the overall control and functions of the computer 100 by reading programs and data from the ROM 105, auxiliary storage device 108, etc. onto the RAM 106 and executing processing.

The auxiliary storage device 108 is, for example, an HDD, SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like, and is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs and data. The programs and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 108 include an OS that is basic software that controls the entire computer 100, an application program that provides various functions on the OS, and one or more programs that implement the present embodiment. . The auxiliary storage device 108 manages stored programs and data by means of a predetermined file system or DB (database).

The service management system 10 and the administrator terminal 30 according to this embodiment can realize various processes by the hardware configuration of the computer 300 shown in FIG.

Next, the hardware configuration of the device 20a according to this embodiment will be described. The device 20a according to the present embodiment can be realized by using the image forming apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 3, for example. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 200. As shown in FIG.

The image forming apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 3 has a controller 201 , an operation panel 202 , an external I/F 203 , a communication I/F 204 and an image processing engine 205 . The controller 201 also has a CPU 211 , a RAM 212 , a ROM 213 , an NVRAM 214 and an auxiliary storage device 215 .

The ROM 213 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off. A RAM 212 is a volatile semiconductor memory that temporarily holds programs and data. The NVRAM 214 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory that stores setting information, for example. Also, the auxiliary storage device 215 is, for example, an HDD, an SSD, or the like, and is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs and data.

The CPU 211 is an arithmetic unit that implements the overall control and functions of the image forming apparatus 200 by reading programs, data, setting information, and the like from the ROM 213, the NVRAM 214, the auxiliary storage device 215, and the like onto the RAM 212 and executing processing.

The operation panel 202 is an input/output device that includes an input unit for receiving input from a user and a display unit for displaying. An external I/F 203 is an interface with an external device. The external device includes a recording medium 203a and the like. The image forming apparatus 200 can perform reading and writing operations on the recording medium 203 a via the external I/F 203 .

Examples of the recording medium 203a include an IC card, USB memory, SD memory card, flexible disk, CD, and DVD.

A communication I/F 204 is an interface for connecting the image forming apparatus 200 to a network. The image forming apparatus 200 can communicate with other apparatuses and the like via the communication I/F 204 .

The image processing engine 205 is, for example, a plotter, a scanner, or the like, and is a device that performs various types of image processing such as print processing and scan processing.

The device 20a according to the present embodiment can implement various processes by the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 200 shown in FIG.

<Functional configuration>
Next, the functional configuration of the extension management system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the extension management system 1 according to this embodiment.

<<Service Management System 10>>
As shown in FIG. 4, the service management system 10 according to this embodiment has an extension setting section 11, a screen change request section 12, an authentication section 13, and a service management section . Each of these functional units is implemented by processing that one or more programs installed in the service management system 10 cause the CPU 107 to execute.

The service management system 10 according to this embodiment also has a profile storage unit 15 and an extension log storage unit 16 . The profile storage unit 15 and the extension log storage unit 16 can be implemented using the auxiliary storage device 108, for example. Note that the profile storage unit 15 and the extension log storage unit 16 may be implemented using a storage device or the like connected to the service management system 10 via a network.

Three examples of settings (hereinafter also referred to as extension settings) for enabling the user to use the user service during a predetermined time (for example, outside the service provision time) will be described below.

<Example 1>
In Example 1, extension is set in advance (that is, before the start of service outside hours). For example, an administrator of a company or the like uses the administrator terminal 30 to set an extension of a group of users managed by the administrator, such as users belonging to the company or the like and users belonging to a predetermined department of the company or the like. be able to.

Example 1 will be described below. The extension setting unit 11 receives an extension setting request from the administrator terminal 30 and sets the extension. Specifically, the extension setting unit 11 receives, from the administrator terminal 30, data indicating the date on which the user will use the user service and the time zone outside the service providing hours (hereinafter also referred to as extension date and extension time). . The extension setting unit 11 stores the data indicating the extension date and extension time received from the administrator terminal 30 in the extension log storage unit 16 . The extension setting unit 11 also receives, from the administrator terminal 30, data indicating whether or not each function provided by the user service can be used during the extension time, and data on users who use the function during the extension time. The extension setting unit 11 stores in the profile storage unit 15 the profile data received from the administrator terminal 30 and indicating whether or not each function associated with the user can be used during the extension time.

Data of a group to which the user belongs may be received from the administrator terminal 30 instead of the data of a specific user. In such a case, the service management system 10 stores in advance group data that associates groups and users, and by referring to such group data based on the received group data, during the extension time The service management system 10 may specify which user is using the function (that is, the service management system 10 identifies the group, the users belonging to the group, the extended days and extended hours of the group, The service management system 10 identifies the group to which the logged-in user belongs, and determines the functions that the group can use during the extended time. to decide).

The profile storage unit 15 stores information on whether or not each function (for example, each of the print function, the scan function, and the copy function) can be used during the extended time in association with the user. The profile data 500 stored in the profile storage unit 15 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 shows an example of profile data 500 stored in the profile storage unit 15. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, profile data 500 includes data on items such as "user", "function", and "department responsible for extension costs".

"User" is an identifier (eg, user ID) for specifying a user who uses the user service.

"Function 1 (Print)", "Function 2 (Scan)", and "Function 3 (Copy)" indicate whether or not the user can use each function during the extended time.

"Extension cost bearing department" is an identifier for specifying the department that bears the costs incurred by the extension. The service management system 10 can control the allocation of costs incurred by the extension to the extension cost bearing department.

Return to FIG. The extension log storage unit 16 stores information on extension dates and extension times. The extended log data 600 stored in the extended log storage unit 16 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 shows an example of extended log data 600 stored in the extended log storage unit 16. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the extension log data 600 includes data of items such as "user", "extension date", and "extension time".

"User" is an identifier (eg, user ID) for specifying a user who uses the user service.

“Extension date” is the date on which the user uses the user service outside the service provision time.

"Extension time" is a time period outside the service provision time period during which the user uses the user service. The extension time may be 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 120 minutes, or may be an extension start time and an extension end time such as 17:00 to 19:00.

Note that the profile data 500 in the profile storage unit 15 and the extension log data 600 in the extension log storage unit 16 are linked by a user ID or the like.

Return to FIG. The screen change request unit 12 transmits a request to change the login screen displayed on the device 20 (login screen change request). Specifically, the screen change request unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a login screen (a state in which login is possible) when the service provision time starts. Further, the screen change request unit 12 displays a locked login screen (a state in which login is not possible) when the service provision time ends (that is, when the service provision time is outside) and no extension setting is made. Make a request to the device 20 .

In the first embodiment, the screen change requesting unit 12 requests the device 20 to display the login screen (in which login is possible) when the extension time starts when the extension setting unit 11 has set the extension. do. When authentication by the authentication unit 13 succeeds, the screen change request unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a screen showing functions that can be used by the user identified by the user ID or the like acquired at the time of authentication. Further, the screen change requesting unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a locked login screen (a state in which login is not possible) when the extension time ends.

The authentication unit 13 receives a login request from the device 20 and performs authentication processing. Specifically, the authentication unit 13 refers to the extension log data 600 stored in the extension log storage unit 16, and based on the user ID and the like acquired from the device 20 and the current time, determines that the current time is the extension of the user. Determine whether the time is up or not. Authentication succeeds if the current time is within the extension time.

The service management unit 14 provides user services to users who have been successfully authenticated by the authentication unit 13 . Specifically, the service management unit 14 refers to the profile data 500 stored in the profile storage unit 15, and the user identified by the user ID or the like acquired at the time of authentication can use the service during the extension time. Judge the function. The service management unit 14 notifies the device 20 of functions that the user can use during the extension time based on the determination result. Therefore, only the buttons of the functions that the user can use during the extension time are displayed on the operation panel 202 of the device 20, and the device 20 executes the function corresponding to the button by accepting the input to the button from the user. (For example, in the example of FIG. 5, only the print button and the copy button are displayed (the scan button is not displayed)). Note that the control to display only the buttons of the functions that the user can use during the extended time is merely an example, and the functions that can be used may be restricted by other methods. For example, a button for a function is displayed on the operation panel 202 regardless of whether it can be used, and if the function can be used by the user during the extension time, the button operation is accepted. For example, the device 20 may perform control such as not accepting button operations.

<Example 2>
In the second embodiment, the extension is set during the non-service hours (that is, after the non-service hours start). For example, a user may use device 20 to set his own extensions.

A second embodiment will be described below. Mainly, points different from the first embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the extension setting unit 11 indicates whether or not each function provided by the user service can be used during the extended time from the administrator terminal 30 in advance (that is, before the start of the service outside time). It is assumed that the data and the data of the user who uses the function during the extension time are received and stored in the profile storage unit 15 .

The extension setting unit 11 receives an extension setting request from the device 20 and sets the extension. Specifically, the extension setting unit 11 receives data indicating an extension time (for example, length of time such as 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 120 minutes from the current time) from the device 20 . The extension setting unit 11 stores data indicating the extension time received from the device 20 in the extension log storage unit 16 . Further, the extension setting unit 11 receives from the device 20 data indicating the functions that the user actually uses among the functions that can be used during the extension time. The extension setting unit 11 stores, in the extension log storage unit 16, data indicating the actually used functions received from the device 20. FIG.

Since the profile storage unit 15 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

The extension log storage unit 16 stores information on extension time and functions actually used during the extension time. The extended log data 700 stored in the extended log storage unit 16 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 7 shows an example of extended log data 700 stored in the extended log storage unit 16. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, the extended log data 700 includes data on items such as "user", "extended time", and "extended function".

"User" is an identifier (eg, user ID) for specifying a user who uses the user service.

"Extension time" is a time period outside the service provision time period during which the user uses the user service. For example, the extended time is the length of time from the current time.

"Extension function" indicates the function that the user actually uses among the functions that the user can use during the extension time (that is, the functions that can be used during the extension time stored in the profile storage unit 15). .

Note that the profile data 500 in the profile storage unit 15 and the extension log data 700 in the extension log storage unit 16 are linked by a user ID or the like.

Return to FIG. The screen change request unit 12 transmits a request to change the login screen displayed on the device 20 (login screen change request). Specifically, the screen change request unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a login screen (a state in which login is possible) when the service provision time starts.

In the second embodiment, the screen change request unit 12 instructs the device 20 to display a locked login screen (a state in which login is not possible) including an extension button when the service provision time ends (that is, outside the service provision time). demand. When the extension button is pressed, the screen change requesting unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a login screen (a state in which login is possible). When authentication by the authentication unit 13 succeeds, the screen change request unit 12 requests a function that the user specified by the user ID or the like acquired at the time of authentication can use during the extended time (that is, the function stored in the profile storage unit 15). The device 20 is requested to display a screen for setting the function to be actually used and the extension time among the functions that can be used during the extension time.

The authentication unit 13 receives a login request from the device 20 and performs authentication processing.

The service management unit 14 provides the user service when the functions to be actually used and the extension time are set. Specifically, the service management unit 14 refers to the extension log data 700 stored in the extension log storage unit 16, and determines the functions actually used by the user identified by the user ID or the like acquired at the time of authentication. 20. Therefore, on the operation panel 202 of the device 20, only buttons of functions set to be actually used during the extension time are displayed.

Note that in the second embodiment, it is determined whether or not the user has already set the extension. Specifically, when the extension setting unit 11 receives an extension setting request from the device 20, the extension setting unit 11 refers to the extension log data 700 stored in the extension log storage unit 16, and selects the function to be extended. is not already extended. If it has already been extended, the screen change requesting unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a screen notifying that the function has already been extended.

<Example 3>
In Example 3, extension is set in advance (that is, before the start of service outside hours). For example, an administrator of a company or the like can use the administrator terminal 30 to set extensions for users managed by the administrator. Unlike Example 1, in Example 3, a time zone is set for each user.

Example 3 will be described below. Mainly, points different from the first embodiment will be described.

The extension setting unit 11 receives an extension setting request from the administrator terminal 30 and sets the extension. Specifically, the extension setting unit 11 receives data indicating the time zone set for each user from the administrator terminal 30 . The extension setting unit 11 stores the data indicating the time zone received from the administrator terminal 30 in the profile storage unit 15 . The extension setting unit 11 also receives data indicating availability of each function provided by the user service in each time zone from the administrator terminal 30 . The extension setting unit 11 stores data indicating availability of each function in each time zone received from the administrator terminal 30 in the profile storage unit 15 .

The profile storage unit 15 stores information on the time zone set for each user and information on availability of each function provided by the user service in each time zone. The profile data 800 stored in the profile storage unit 15 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 shows an example of profile data 800 stored in the profile storage unit 15. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, profile data 800 includes data on items such as "user", "time zone", and "department responsible for extension costs".

"User" is an identifier (eg, user ID) for specifying a user who uses the user service.

"Time zone" is a time zone set for each user. One or more time zones (eg, regions such as countries) are set. The service management system 10 can provide user services when the current time is within the service provision time of any time zone. For example, in the example of FIG. 8, user A can use the service during service hours in Japan (for example, 9:00 to 17:00 in Japan). Also, User B can use the service during the service hours in the United States (for example, 9:00 to 17:00 in the United States). Further, User C uses the service during service hours in Japan (for example, 9:00 to 17:00 in Japan) or within service hours in the United States (for example, 9:00 to 17:00 in the United States). be able to. That is, unlike user A and user B, user C is associated with information on different time zones such as Japan and the United States.

"Extension cost bearing department" is an identifier for specifying the department that bears the costs incurred by the extension. The service management system 10 can control the allocation of costs incurred by the extension to the extension cost bearing department.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, profile data 800 includes "function" data for each time zone.

"Function 1 (Print)", "Function 2 (Scan)", and "Function 3 (Copy)" indicate whether each function can be used in each time zone.

Return to FIG. The screen change request unit 12 transmits a request to change the screen displayed on the device 20 (screen change request). Specifically, the screen change requesting unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a login screen (login enabled state). When authentication by the authentication unit 13 succeeds, the screen change request unit 12 requests the device 20 to display a screen showing functions that can be used by the user identified by the user ID or the like acquired at the time of authentication.

The authentication unit 13 receives a login request from the device 20 and performs authentication processing. Specifically, the authentication unit 13 refers to the profile data 800 stored in the profile storage unit 15, and based on the user ID and the like acquired from the device 20 and the time zone, the current time is any of the users. Determine whether it is within the service provision time of the time zone. Authentication succeeds if the current time is within the service hours of any time zone.

The service management unit 14 provides user services to users who have been successfully authenticated by the authentication unit 13 . Specifically, the service management unit 14 refers to the profile data 800 stored in the profile storage unit 15, and determines the functions that can be used by the user identified by the user ID obtained at the time of authentication. . The service management unit 14 notifies the device 20 of functions that can be used by the user. Therefore, only buttons for functions that can be used by the user are displayed on the operation panel 202 of the device 20 .

In this embodiment, when multiple time zones are set, a function is provided that can be used in the time zone where the current time is within the service provision time. For example, in the example of FIG. 8, when user A logs in, the scan function and the copy function are provided if the current time is within service hours in Japan. Also, when user B logs in, the print function and the copy function are provided if the current time is within the service provision time in the United States. Also, when user C logs in, if the current time is only within service hours in Japan (that is, the current time is outside the service hours in the United States), the function that can be used in Japan (that is, the scan function and copy functions) are provided. Also, when user C logs in, if the current time is only within service hours in the United States (i.e., the current time is outside service hours in Japan), functions that can be used in the United States (i.e., the print function and copy functions) are provided. Also, when User C logs in, if the current time is within the service hours in Japan and the service hours in the United States, the functions that can be used in Japan (that is, the scan function and the copy function). Both features available in the United States (ie, print and copy features) are provided.

If the current time is not within the service provision time of any time zone, the screen change request unit 12 sets the function the user wants to use and the extension time without performing login authentication processing again. The device 20 may be requested to display a screen to do so.

<<Equipment 20>>
As shown in FIG. 4 , the device 20 according to this embodiment has an input reception section 21 , a display control section 22 , an extension request section 23 , a login section 24 and a function execution section 25 . Each of these functional units is implemented by processing that one or more programs installed in the device 20 cause the CPU 211 or the like to execute.

The input reception unit 21 receives input of various operations by the user (for example, an operation for setting extension, a login operation, a job execution operation, which is an example of the function of the device 20, and the like).

The display control unit 22 displays various screens (for example, a screen for setting extension, a login screen, a job list screen, etc.). In addition, the display control unit 22 changes the display content of the login screen according to a request from the service management system 10 (request to change the login screen).

The extension requesting unit 23 transmits an extension setting request to the service management system 10 when the input receiving unit 21 receives an operation input for setting extension.

The login unit 24 transmits a login request to the service management system 10 when the input reception unit 21 receives the input of the login operation.

When the input accepting portion 21 accepts an input of a function executing operation, the function executing portion 25 executes a function (for example, execution of a print job) related to the function executing operation. For example, when the received function execution operation corresponds to execution of a print job, the print job is executed, and the print target data included in the print job is printed on a print medium such as paper. Execution of a print job is an example of a function executed by the function execution unit 25, and other functions may be executed.

<<administrator terminal 30>>
As shown in FIG. 4 , the administrator terminal 30 according to this embodiment has an input reception unit 31 , a display control unit 32 and an extension request unit 33 . Each of these functional units is realized by processing that one or more programs installed in the administrator terminal 30 cause the CPU 107 to execute.

The input reception unit 31 receives input of various operations (for example, operation for setting extension, etc.) by the administrator.

The display control unit 32 displays various screens (for example, a screen for setting extension, etc.).

The extension requesting unit 33 transmits an extension setting request to the service management system 10 when the input receiving unit 31 receives an operation input for setting extension.

<Extension fee>
In <Example 1>, <Example 2>, and <Example 3>, the service management system 10 charges a different extension fee for each function (for example, print: XX yen, scan: △△ yen, copy : XX circle) can be controlled. In addition, the service management system 10 can charge an extension fee each time an extension is set (that is, each time), or charge a fee for a predetermined period of time (for example, one month). It is also possible to control so that the extension can be set up to the number of times. Furthermore, the service management system 10 can perform control so that the extension cannot be set when the extension has been set up to a predetermined number of times.

<Details of processing>
Next, the details of the processing of the extension management system 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram of <Embodiment 1> described above.

· At step 111 ( S111 ), the administrator terminal 30 transmits data indicating the extension date and extension time to the service management system 10 .
- At step 112 (S112), the administrator terminal 30 transmits to the service management system 10 data indicating whether or not each function can be used during the extended time.

Note that S111 and S112 may be performed simultaneously, or the order may be reversed.

In step 113 (S113), the service management system 10 stores the extension date and extension time received in S111 and S112 and availability of each function during the extension period in the profile storage unit 15 and the extension log storage unit 16. FIG.

<Service hours>
- At step 211 (S211), a login screen is displayed on the device 20 during the service provision time.
- At step 212 (S212), the device 20 requests the service management system 10 to log in.
- In step 213 (S213), if the authentication in S212 succeeds, the service management system 10 provides the device 20 with all functions. A screen as shown in FIG. 12 that allows selection of all functions is displayed on the device 20 .

<Outside service hours (with extension)>
- At step 311 (S311), if the extension is set, the login screen is displayed on the device 20 outside the service provision time. Note that a warning to the effect that an extension fee will be charged may be displayed on the login screen.
- At step 312 (S312), the device 20 requests the service management system 10 to log in.
- In step 313 (S313), if the authentication in S312 succeeds, the service management system 10 provides only the functions set in the profile data 500 to the device 20. A screen showing available functions as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the device 20 .

<Outside service hours (no extension)>
- In step 411 (S411), if the extension setting is not performed, a locked login screen (for example, a screen as shown in FIG. 14) is displayed on the device 20 outside the service provision time.

FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of <Embodiment 2> described above.

- At step 121 (S121), the administrator terminal 30 transmits to the service management system 10 data indicating whether or not each function can be used during the extended time.

At step 122 (S122), the service management system 10 stores in the profile storage unit 15 whether or not each function can be used during the extended time received at S121.

<Service hours>
Steps 211, 212, and 213 are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

<Outside service hours>
- In step 321 (S321), a locked login screen (a state in which login is not possible) including an extension button (for example, a screen as shown in FIG. 15) is displayed on the device 20 outside the service provision time.
- At step 322 (S322), the device 20 requests the service management system 10 to extend.
- At step 323 (S323), a login screen is displayed on the device 20. FIG.
- At step 324 (S324), the device 20 requests the service management system 10 to log in.
- In step 325 (S325), if the authentication in S324 succeeds, a screen for setting the extension time and functions (for example, a screen as shown in FIG. 16) is displayed on the device 20. FIG. The user selects a function that the user wishes to extend and use on a screen such as that shown in FIG. The extension time is fixed at 30 minutes, for example, but the extension time may be input by the user. In addition, display control may be performed so that functions for which an extension application has already been applied cannot be selected.
• At step 326 (S326), the device 20 sets the extension time and function in the service management system 10.
- At step 327 (S327), the service management system 10 provides the device 20 with only the functions set at S326. A screen showing available functions as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the device 20 .

FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram of <Embodiment 3> described above.

- At step 131 (S131), the administrator terminal 30 transmits data indicating the time zone of the user to the service management system 10. FIG.
- At step 132 (S132), the administrator terminal 30 transmits to the service management system 10 data indicating whether or not each function can be used during the extended time.

Note that S131 and S132 may be performed at the same time, or the order may be reversed.

At step 133 (S133), the service management system 10 stores in the profile storage unit 15 the time zone and whether or not each function can be used during the extended time received at S131 and S132.

- At step 231 (S231), a login screen is displayed on the device 20 during the service provision time.
- At step 232 (S232), the device 20 requests the service management system 10 to log in.
- In step 233 (S233), if the authentication in S212 succeeds, the service management system 10 provides only the functions set in the profile data 800 to the device 20. A screen showing available functions as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the device 20 .

Each function of the embodiments described above may be implemented by one or more processing circuits. Here, the "processing circuit" in this specification means a processor programmed by software to perform each function, such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, or a processor designed to perform each function described above. ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), DSPs (digital signal processors), FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays) and devices such as conventional circuit modules.

The invention is not limited to the specifically disclosed embodiments above, but various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope of the claims.

1 extension management system 10 service management system 20 device 30 administrator terminal 11 extension setting unit 12 screen change request unit 13 authentication unit 14 service management unit 15 profile storage unit 16 extension log storage unit 21 input reception unit 22 display control unit 23 extension request Section 24 Login Section 25 Function Execution Section 31 Input Reception Section 32 Display Control Section 33 Extension Request Section 500 Profile Data 600 Extension Log Data 700 Extension Log Data 800 Profile Data

JP-A-2003-162397

Claims (7)

An information processing system for providing a user service to a device during a first time period,
a profile storage unit that stores information on availability of the function provided by the user service in a second time slot different from the first time slot in association with the user;
When the function is provided to the user who logged into the device during the second time period, the logged-in user uses the function during the second time period based on the result of referring to the profile storage unit. and a service management unit that provides the device with a function capable of
When the service management unit receives, from the device during the second time period, information on a function to be actually used among the functions that can be used during the second time period, Providing only the functions that are actually used among the functions that can be used for the device to the device
Information processing system. In the second time period, the device is requested to display a lock screen that does not accept user login, including a button that transitions to a login screen that accepts user login, and the button that transitions to the login screen is pressed. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising a screen change requesting unit that requests said device to display said login screen when prompted. 3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein control is performed so as to charge an extension cost bearing department associated with the user who uses the user service for the cost incurred by the use during the second time period. An information processing system including a service management system that provides a user service in a first time period and a device for using the user service,
The service management system includes:
a profile storage unit that stores information on availability of the function provided by the user service in a second time slot different from the first time slot in association with the user;
When the function is provided to the user who logged into the device during the second time period, the logged-in user uses the function during the second time period based on the result of referring to the profile storage unit. a service management unit that provides the device with a function capable of
When the service management unit receives, from the device during the second time period, information on a function to be actually used among the functions that can be used during the second time period, Of the functions that can be used in the band, only the functions that are actually used are provided to the said equipment.
Said device comprises:
An information processing system comprising: a function execution unit that executes, in the second time period, a function that can be used in the second time period. A server device that provides a user service to a device in a first time period,
a profile storage unit that stores information on availability of the function provided by the user service in a second time slot different from the first time slot in association with the user;
When the function is provided to the user who logged into the device during the second time period, the logged-in user uses the function during the second time period based on the result of referring to the profile storage unit. and a service management unit that provides the device with a function capable of
When the service management unit receives, from the device during the second time period, information on a function to be actually used among the functions that can be used during the second time period, Providing only the functions that are actually used among the functions that can be used for the device to the device
Server equipment. A computer that provides user services to the device during a first time period,
a step of storing, in association with a user, information on whether or not a function provided by the user service can be used in a second time period different from the first time period;
When the function is provided to the user who logged into the device during the second time period, the logged-in user may use the function during the second time period based on the result of referring to the profile storage unit. providing the device with functionality that can
In the providing step, when information on a function to be actually used among the functions that can be used during the second time period is received from the device during the second time period, Providing only the functions that are actually used among the functions that can be used for the device to the device
Method. A computer that provides a user service to a device in a first time slot stores information on availability of functions provided by the user service in a second time slot that is different from the first time slot, in association with the user. profile storage,
When the function is provided to the user who logged into the device during the second time period, the logged-in user uses the function during the second time period based on the result of referring to the profile storage unit. function as a service management unit that provides the device with a function that can
When the service management unit receives, from the device during the second time period, information on a function to be actually used among the functions that can be used during the second time period, Providing only the functions that are actually used among the functions that can be used for the device to the device
program.

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