JP2005349694A - Image forming apparatus, image forming system, image forming method, program and storing medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing environment with a high security capable of distributing a confidential document without any anxiety only by transmitting one data to an image forming apparatus even when the confidential document is distributed to a plurality of users. <P>SOLUTION: One or a plurality of password information can be set to one printing job inputted into an MFP104 or MFP105, and effective utilizing number of times can be set to the respective password information. A CPU of a core part of the MFP104 or MFP105 is characterized by a constitution controlling so that executing the printing job is permitted within the effective utilizing number of times corresponding to the password information even when the password information inputted when the printing job is executed is collated with the above described password information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention stores a print job to which password information input from an external device via a predetermined communication medium is added, and based on a collation result between the input password information and the password information added to the print job. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, an image forming method, a program, and a storage medium capable of controlling permission / prohibition of execution of the print job.

  Conventionally, after storing image data for scanning or printing once using a memory box (also referred to as a mail box or a confidential box) in the image forming apparatus (or MFP), the input password, password, etc. There is a so-called secure print method for printing according to the password information.

For example, in Patent Document 1, a password is set according to an input password in a control unit of a copying apparatus that includes a large-capacity hard disk and has a plurality of personal boxes in which the password can be set. It describes that it is controlled whether or not to print image data stored in a personal box.
JP-A-11-146115

  In general secure printing such as the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the sender sends image data to a memory box or the like in the MFP, and at the same time, the sender or the MFP receives password information such as a password or password. To pass. The receiving side is a mechanism in which a confidential document can be exchanged without inputting information to a third party by inputting the password or password.

  However, it is difficult to pass this password, password, etc. to multiple users if the data is deleted once it is used to increase security. Conversely, the password, password, etc. are disclosed to multiple users. If the same PIN number or password can be used over and over again, it would be difficult to handle such as loss of security.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to set a print job and a setting added to the print job on the information processing apparatus side according to the input print setting. One or a plurality of password information as information and one or a plurality of use frequency limit information corresponding to each of the password information are generated and transmitted to the image forming apparatus, and the information processing apparatus on the image forming apparatus side A print job transmitted from the printer and setting information added to the print job, the input print job and the setting information of the print job are stored in a storage unit, and password information input from an operation unit or the like It is determined whether or not the password information of the print job stored in the storage means is collated, and execution of the print job corresponds to the password information input from the second input step. It is determined whether or not it is within the limit set by the usage limit information, and if it is determined that the password information is not collated, printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited, When it is determined that the password information is collated, and when it is determined that the number of times of use is within the limit of the number of times of use, the password is controlled by permitting the print execution of the print job stored in the storage unit. You can prepare multiple passwords and passwords, and set the number of uses for each PIN and password to increase security, and you can distribute to multiple users with just one data transmission. An image forming apparatus, an image forming system, an image forming method, a program, and a storage medium are provided.

  The present invention provides a first input means for inputting a print job, one or a plurality of password information which is setting information of the print job, and one or a plurality of use frequency limit information respectively corresponding to the respective password information; A storage unit that stores a print job input by the first input unit, setting information of the print job, and a password input unit that inputs password information when instructing execution of printing of the print job stored in the storage unit; A first determination unit that determines whether or not the password information input from the second input unit and the password information of the print job stored in the storage unit are collated; Second determination means for determining whether or not execution of the print job is within a limit determined by use frequency limit information corresponding to password information input from the second input means; and the first Judgment of If it is determined that the password information is not verified by the stage, the print execution of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited, and if the password information is determined to be verified by the first determination unit, And a control unit that performs control so as to permit printing execution of the print job stored in the storage unit when the second determination unit determines that the usage count is within the limit. .

  According to the present invention, on the information processing apparatus side, according to the input print setting, the print job, one or a plurality of password information that is setting information added to the print job, and each of the password information, respectively. One or a plurality of use frequency limit information is generated and transmitted to the image forming apparatus, and the print job transmitted from the information processing apparatus and setting information added to the print job are input on the image forming apparatus side The input print job and the setting information of the print job are stored in a storage unit, and the password information input from the operation unit or the like and any one of the password information of the print job stored in the storage unit are stored in the storage unit. It is determined whether or not to collate, and whether or not the execution of the print job is within the limit determined by the use frequency limit information corresponding to the password information input from the second input step. If it is determined that the password information is not to be verified, printing of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited, and if the password information is determined to be verified, the number of uses is within the limit. If it is determined that there is a password, control is performed to allow printing execution of the print job stored in the storage means. Therefore, a plurality of password information such as a password and a password are prepared. By providing the number of times of use for each, there is an effect that security can be improved and distribution to a plurality of users with a single piece of data can be performed with peace of mind.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment]
[System overview]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a configuration of an image forming system showing a first embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a network. Connected to the network 101 are a server computer 102 for managing jobs and client computers 103a, 103b, and 103c. Although not shown in FIG. 1, many other client computers are connected. Hereinafter, the client computer is represented as 103.

  Furthermore, MFPs (Multi Function Peripherals) 104 and 105, a scanner 106, and a printer 107 are connected to the network 101. The color MFP 104 is an MFP capable of scanning or printing in full color, and the monochrome MFP 105 (105a, 105b, 105c, 105d) is an MFP that performs scanning or printing in monochrome. Although not shown in FIG. 1, other devices such as an MFP other than the above, a scanner, a printer, and a FAX are connected to the network 101.

  Here, on the client computer 103, application software that executes so-called DTP (Desk Top Publishing) is operated to create / edit various documents / graphics. The client computer 103 performs printout by converting the created document / figure into a page description language (Page Description Language) and sending it to the MFPs 104 and 105 via the network 101.

  Each of the MFPs 104 and 105 has a communication means capable of exchanging information with the server computer 102 via the network 101. Information and status of the MFPs 104 and 105 are sequentially transferred to the server computer 102 or the client computer 103 side via the information. It is a mechanism to inform. Further, the server computer 102 (or client computer 103) has utility software that operates in response to the information, and the MFPs 104 and 105 are managed by the server computer 102 (or client computer 103).

  The image forming system according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of printing apparatuses such as MFPs 104 and 105, and includes a server computer 102, a client computer 103, a scanner 106, a scanner apparatus of each MFP, MFPs 104 and 105, and the like. Have multiple information processing devices that can create and generate job data that can be handled by multiple printing devices, and print job data sent from multiple information processing devices to one of the multiple printing devices. The apparatus is also configured to be selectively printable. Note that the printing apparatus of the present system such as the MFP 104 or 105 includes a storage device (also simply referred to as a memory) that can store a plurality of job data (also referred to as a plurality of series of image data) such as a hard disk device. Job data from an information processing apparatus capable of generating and transmitting job data, such as the server computer 102, client computer 103, and each scanner apparatus, is stored and held in the memory, and when it is time to print, , (If a personal identification number is set, depending on the personal identification number and the number of effective times for each personal identification number), it can be read out and printed out by the printer unit of its own apparatus. Each printer is configured to be able to simultaneously process a plurality of jobs using a memory such as a hard disk of its own device. For example, while reading out and printing out certain job data from the hard disk of its own device, job data transmitted from an information processing device such as a computer or a scanner can be received sequentially, and those jobs are sequentially transferred to the hard disk. Subsequent data stored in bitmap format and stored in the hard disk in parallel with the previous job print operation when the print operation for the previously printed job data is completed The job data can be sequentially read out from the hard disk and printed out.

  As described above, each printing apparatus of the present system can process a plurality of jobs in parallel, and can sequentially store a plurality of jobs as print-waiting jobs in a memory such as a hard disk. A plurality of jobs can be held in the memory until the effective number is reached.

  As described above, when the printing apparatus does not include a memory such as a hard disk capable of storing data of a plurality of jobs, and even when such a memory is included, the server apparatus includes a hard disk or the like. Similarly, a plurality of jobs may be sequentially processed in parallel using a large-capacity memory.

  The present embodiment will be described mainly using an MFP having a plurality of functions including a copy function and a printer function as an example of a printing apparatus, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. For example, a printing apparatus having only a print function capable of printing job data transmitted from a computer, a printing apparatus having only a copy function capable of printing job data transmitted from a scanner apparatus, etc. It may be a functional device (single function peripheral: SFP).

[Configuration of MFPs 104 and 105]
Next, the configuration of the MFPs 104 and 105 will be described with reference to FIGS. However, the difference between the MFP 104 and the MFP 105 is a difference between full color and monochrome.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a data flow of the entire MFPs 104 and 105 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, MFPs 104 and 105 include a scanner unit 201 that performs image reading and image processing of the read image data, a FAX unit 203 that transmits and receives images using a telephone line typified by a facsimile, and the like. There is a NIC (Network Interface Card) unit 204 for exchanging image data and device information using a network, and a dedicated I / F unit 205 for exchanging information with other devices and media. Data from these units 201 to 205 is once collected in the core unit 206, and image data output from the core unit 206 is sent to a printer unit 208 that performs image formation. The recording medium printed out by the printer unit 208 is sent to the finisher unit 209, where sorting processing and finishing processing of the recording medium are performed.

  Here, the core unit 206 performs bus traffic control, and path switching is performed as in the following (A) to (I) according to the usage (function) of the MFP. In addition, it is generally known that compressed data such as JPEG, JBIG, and ZIP is used when the data passes through the network. After the data enters the MFP, the data is decompressed (decompressed) in this core unit. .

  The path for each function of the MFP is shown below.

(A) Copy function: scanner unit 201-> core unit 206-> printer unit 208
(B) Network scanner function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → NIC unit 204
(C) Network printer function: NIC unit 204 → core unit 206 → printer unit 208
(D) Facsimile transmission function: scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → FAX unit 203
(E) Facsimile reception function: FAX unit 203 → core unit 206 → printer unit 208
(F) Box reception function 1: NIC unit 204 → core unit 206 → memory unit 210
(G) Box reception function 2: scanner unit 201 → core unit 206 → memory unit 210
(H) Box transmission function 1: memory unit 210 → core unit 206 → NIC unit 204
(I) Box transmission function 2: Memory unit 210 → core unit 206 → printer unit 208
Here, box reception / box transmission means data input and storage, and output of stored data using a memory unit 210 having a memory capable of storing a plurality of job data such as a hard disk device. In this function, the memory is divided for each job or each user, data is temporarily stored, and data is transmitted and received by combining a user ID and a password. An operation unit 211 has a display unit with a touch panel as shown in FIG. 5 described later, and can input various operations. The configuration of the core unit 206 is shown in FIG.

[Configuration of Core Unit 206]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a data flow configuration of the core unit 206 illustrated in FIG.

  The core unit 206 realizes the components 501 to 506 shown in FIG. 3 by loading a program stored in a ROM (not shown) or the like onto a RAM 508 shown in FIG. Although the overall control is performed, the components 501 to 506 shown in FIG. 3 may be realized by hardware.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the input to the core unit 206 includes the input from the scanner unit 201, the FAX unit 203, the NIC unit 204, and the I / F unit 205 shown in FIG. Input to the device control unit 501.

  The input device control unit 501 communicates with each device to grasp the device status and information. Reference numeral 502 denotes an input job control unit. The input job control unit 502 has three functions: input job routing for determining a job route, input job split for determining whether to divide and RIP, and input job scheduling for determining job processing order and priority. .

  In general, data input from the NIC unit 204 is composed of page description language PDL (Page Description Language) data and JCL (Job Control Language) data, which are developed in a RIP (Raster Image Processor) unit 503. .

  In FIG. 3, there are a plurality of RIP units 503. Although RIP 503a, RIP 503b, and 503c are described, they can be further increased as necessary, but are collectively referred to as RIP section 503 here. The RIP unit 503 performs RIP processing on the PDLs of various jobs, and creates bitmaps with appropriate sizes and resolutions. Regarding RIP processing, rasterization processing in various formats such as PostScript (registered trademark of Adobe Corporation in the United States), PCL, TIFF, JPEG, PDF, and the like is possible.

  An image compression / decompression / data conversion unit 504 compresses the bitmap image created by the RIP unit 503, decompresses (decompresses) the input data after compression, and performs format conversion. These are the input device, the output device, or the part that converts to the optimum image type that matches the memory storage.

  Reference numeral 505 denotes an output job control unit, which has three functions: output job routing that determines the output route of a job, output job split that determines whether or not to divide and print, and output job scheduling that determines the processing order and priority of output jobs There is.

  The output device control unit 506 communicates with the MFPs 104 and 105 to manage the status monitoring and the apparatus status so that appropriate printing can be performed at all times.

  The RAM 508 and the memory unit 210 are storage devices used for temporary storage, image expansion, image compression / decompression, data conversion, and the like, and according to need, bitmaps, objects, pages, jobs, or the like. It plays the role of temporarily storing and saving the attribute information.

[Configuration of Printer Unit 208]
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the configuration of the printer unit 208 illustrated in FIG. 2, and particularly corresponds to the monochrome MFP 105.

  In FIG. 4, reference numeral 713 denotes a polygon mirror which receives laser light emitted from a semiconductor laser. The laser beam scans and exposes the photosensitive drum 717 through mirrors 714, 715, and 716.

  Reference numeral 730 denotes a developing device that supplies toner, and forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 717 in accordance with the laser beam, and the toner image is transferred to a sheet to obtain an output image.

  A sheet fed from one of the sheet cassettes 734 and 735 and the manual feed tray 736 is adsorbed onto the transfer belt 738 via a registration roller 737 and conveyed. The toner is developed on the photosensitive drum 717 in advance in synchronization with the sheet feeding timing, and the toner is transferred to the sheet as the sheet is conveyed.

  The sheet to which the toner has been transferred is separated, and the toner is fixed to the sheet by the fixing device 740. The sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 740 is once guided downward by the flapper 750, and after the trailing edge of the sheet has passed through the flapper 750, the sheet is switched back and discharged. As a result, the sheets are discharged face down, and the correct page order is obtained when printing is performed in order from the first page.

  The printer unit 208 is described as an example of the laser beam method, but the electrophotographic method (for example, LED method) other than the laser beam method, the liquid crystal shutter method, the ink jet method, the thermal transfer method, the sublimation method, and the like are also used. The present invention can also be applied to a printing method.

[MFP operation screen]
FIG. 5 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of the operation unit 211 of the MFP shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 5, reference numeral 900 denotes an LCD display unit. The LCD display unit 900 has a touch panel on the surface, and can be operated by keys in accordance with the operation display on the screen that sequentially appears in a touch panel format.

  The display in the LCD display unit 900 has a tab structure, a copy tab (Copy) 901 for performing a copy operation, a transmission tab (Send) 902 for performing a transmission operation of scanned data, and primary storage of data input to the MFP. A box tab (MailBox) 903, an expansion tab (Options) 904 for setting the expansion mode of the MFPs 104 and 105, a system monitor tab 905 for displaying the status of the MFPs 104 and 105, and the like are controlled by display control from the core unit 206. Is displayed.

  911 is a setting display section for displaying a setting status, 912 is a magnification setting button, 913 is a paper size setting button, 914 is a density setting button, 915 is a post-processing setting button, 916 is a duplex setting button, 917 is an image mode setting button, Various setting item buttons, such as an interrupt setting button 918 and other function setting buttons 919, appear on the LCD by display control from the core unit 206, and detailed settings can be made in a hierarchical structure as necessary. .

  Reference numeral 930 denotes a key input unit, 931 is a start key, 932 is a stop key, 933 is a reset key, 934 is a numeric keypad for setting a number of settings, and a clear key thereof, and 936 is a counter for storing the number of output sheets. A check key, 937 is a guide key for guidance and help, and 938 is an extended function key for setting a system for each user.

[Client computer]
Next, the configuration of the server computer 102 and the client computer 103 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server computer 102 and the client computer 103 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 6, reference numeral 401 denotes a CPU, which is executed by loading a program stored in the ROM 403 or a program stored in the HD 411 into the RAM 402 to control each device connected to the system bus 404 and control the entire apparatus. It is something to control.

  Further, font data and the like are stored in the font ROM of the ROM 403, and various data are stored in the data ROM of the ROM 403. A RAM 402 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 401.

  A keyboard controller (KBC) 405 controls input from a keyboard (KB) 409 or a pointing device (not shown) such as a mouse. A video card (VC) 406 controls display on a monitor (display unit) 410 such as an LCD.

  The hard disk (HD) 411 stores various programs executed by the CPU 401 (including OS, various application programs, printer drivers such as the MFPs 104 and 105 and the printer 107, and the scanner driver of the scanner 106). A memory controller (MC) 407 controls access to the hard disk (HD) 411.

  A network interface card (NIC) 408 controls communication with the network 101.

  Note that the server computer 102 does not necessarily include the KB 409, the monitor 410, and the like shown in FIG.

[Printer Driver]
7 to 10 are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of a printer driver screen displayed on the monitor 410 of the apparatus in the client computer 103 as an example of the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. In addition, in this embodiment including this operation screen, various operation screens for remotely operating each printing apparatus existing in the present system displayed on a computer display device (for example, the monitor 410 in FIG. 4) are as follows. Display control is performed by a control unit (for example, the CPU 401 in FIG. 4) included in the computer, and various instructions can be received and input by the user via various operation screens displayed on the display unit 410. Then, the control unit of the information processing apparatus performs other operations such as a self-apparatus and a printing apparatus capable of data communication with the self-apparatus according to an instruction input by the user via the operation screen of the information processing apparatus. The device is controlled to be executable.

  The printer driver is a GUI for instructing a print operation (a GUI displayed when a property display instruction for “printer” is issued on a print setting GUI displayed when a print instruction is issued from an application or the like) By instructing the user, the user can instruct the desired setting parameter, and can transmit the desired image image to a transmission destination such as a printer via a predetermined communication medium such as a network. .

  FIG. 7 corresponds to a printer driver window that is controlled to be displayed on the display unit 410 of the information processing apparatus such as the server computer 102 or the client computer 103 by the control unit (CPU 401) of the information processing apparatus. When printing job data with a user's desired printer via this screen, various printing conditions can be set via an operation unit such as a keyboard or a mouse. For example, in the setting items in this printer driver window, 1111 indicates a target output destination, 1112 indicates a selection column of a transmission destination (printer) to be selected, and 1113 indicates a status display indicating the status of the printer. . In the present embodiment, the MFPs 104 and 105 shown in FIG. 1 are selected, and can be selected by the user using the KB 409 of the client computer 103 or a mouse (not shown).

  Reference numeral 1115 denotes a page setting column for selecting an output page from the job. The user can determine which page of the image image created by the application software running on the client computer 103 is to be output via the setting item. Enable decision setting.

  Further, reference numeral 1116 denotes a copy setting column for specifying the number of copies. The setting item can be set by moving the cursor to this position and clicking the illustrated arrow (scroll bar arrow) or manually setting the number of copies. An increase / decrease in the number of output copies of job data to be printed by the printing apparatus designated by the user via 1112 can be set by the user via the item 1116.

  Reference numeral 1114 denotes a property key for performing detailed settings related to the destination device (printer) selected in the destination selection column 1112. When this key is designated (clicked) by the user, FIG. 8, the property setting screen shown in FIG. 9, FIG. 10, etc. is controlled to be displayed on the monitor 410.

  When all the desired settings are completed by the user and a print start instruction is input by the user by pressing (clicking) the OK key 1101, the control unit of the client computer 103 receives the request and the client computer 103 receives the print start instruction. The job data to be printed in the memory 103 is stored in the printing apparatus designated by the user via the setting item 1112 based on the printing conditions set by the user via various user interface screens including the UI shown in FIG. , Control to print. When canceling, the cancel key 1102 cancels printing.

  8 to 10 correspond to the property setting screen which is a display screen (GUI) when the property key 1114 shown in FIG. 7 is clicked, and the same components in FIGS. 8 to 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals. It is.

  On these property setting screens, for example, a tab such as a paper tab 1121, a graphics tab 1122, a device option tab 1123, a PDL tab 1124, and a secure print tab 1125 are provided, and these are clicked (indicated by a pointing device or the like not shown). By doing so, different setting contents can be set.

  In FIG. 8, a paper tab 1121 is taken as an example. In this paper tab 1121, settings such as paper size, imposition layout, and paper orientation can be made. When the device option tab 1123 is selected, it is possible to make finer adjustments related to the image processing for changing the setting information unique to the device, for example, finishing settings such as stapling, and parameters such as color by the printer. Become.

  In FIG. 9, a device option tab 1123 is given as an example. In the device option tab 1123, printer functions such as a duplex printing function, a sort function, and a stapler function can be set. For setting, the function 1131 and its set value 1132 are selected and set to desired values, respectively. Reference numeral 1133 denotes a default key for returning each setting value to an initial value.

  Although not shown, the graphics tab 1122 can select the resolution and halftone settings, and the PDL tab 1124 can select the output format of PDL.

  In FIG. 10, a secure print tab 1125 is given as an example. In this secure print tab 1125, a plurality of secure prints can be set. In 1151, the first secure print can be set, and in 1152, the second secure print can be set. Note that the number of secure prints is not limited to two (first secure print, second secure print), but three or more can be set, and scrolling is displayed by a scroll bar in the case of three or more.

  In addition, in each secure print setting 1161, it is possible to set each use print count 1162 (default is “1”), and also to set each code number 1163. There are two types of password settings: one that is automatically issued from the MFP 104 or MFP 105 (Auto) and one that can be set by the job sender (By myself), which can be selected and set by the sender. is there.

  When the secure print 1161 is set and a print start instruction is input by the user at the client computer 103 (for example, when the OK key 1101 on the screen in FIG. 7 is pressed), the setting item 1161 is set. By referring to the setting status, the control unit (in this example, the CPU in the core unit 201 of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, the CPU of the server device, or the control unit of the device) may be sent from the client computer 103. It is determined that the job data to be sent is highly important data (also referred to as secure document job data). On the other hand, an instruction for secure printing is set by the user in the secure print setting item column 1161. No state (for example, the setting item 1161 is unchecked and When the print start instruction is input by the user at the client computer 103 (for example, when the OK key 1101 on the screen of FIG. 7 is pressed), the secure print setting item 1161 is displayed. By referring to the setting status, the control unit (in this example, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, which may be the CPU of the server device or the control unit of the device) can be read from the client computer 103. It is determined that the job data to be printed is not highly important data (secure document job data), and the operations described later can be selectively executed. In the present embodiment, the secure document job data is referred to as first type job data, and the job data that is not highly important data is referred to as second type job data.

  The property settings shown in FIGS. 8 to 10 may be set as initial settings for each registered printer (printer object). That is, when a user designates a printer (printer object) in which a predetermined secure print mode (including each password setting and each print count setting) is set as a security setting and issues a print instruction, the user intentionally secures the security setting. Even if the print mode is not set, the job is in the secure print mode.

  As described above, various printing conditions can be set when printing user-desired data on a printing apparatus designated by the user via a plurality of setting screens.

  Further, reference numeral 1141 denotes an OK key. When this key is pressed (instructed) with a pointing device or the like (not shown), the CPU 401 validates the property setting on the property setting screen and displays the screen (printer driver window) shown in FIG. Return to.

  Reference numeral 1142 denotes a cancel key. When this key is pressed (instructed), the CPU 401 invalidates the property setting on the property setting screen and returns to the screen (printer driver window) shown in FIG.

  Further, reference numeral 1143 denotes an application key. When this key is pressed (instructed), the CPU 401 validates the property setting while keeping the property setting screen.

  Normally, the printer driver can input device-specific setting values appearing in the device option tab 1123. For device-specific setting values, a PPD (PostScript (registered trademark) Printer Description) file is generally prepared. The printer driver must be set up.

  The PPD file describes the setting items for controlling the printer and its initial value, whether or not combinations of settings are possible, and is provided as a unique file for each printer. The PPD and driver must be linked and prepared in advance in the computer.

  Although not shown in FIG. 10, it may be configured such that a printer's notification destination (one or more) may be set for each secure job (that is, for each password). Accordingly, the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 that has received the job can notify the printer's notification destination of the personal identification number for each personal identification number.

[PIN code table]
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a personal identification number table in the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 illustrated in FIG.

  The core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 includes setting of the secure print in the print job sent by the secure print of the printer driver of the client computer 103, the number of prints used, and a personal identification number (in the case of AUTO, the MFP 104 or the MFP 105). The table data is generated based on the setting such as “Issued by”, and is sequentially added to the personal identification number table 1200.

  The personal identification number table 1200 is stored in the memory unit 210 or RAM 508 of the MFP 104 or 105 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, each table data in the personal identification number table 1200 is arranged for each job, and includes a user name 1201, a job ID 1202, a job number 1203, a personal identification number 1204, and a valid count 1205.

  The user name 1201 indicates from which client the job is sent. The job ID 1202 is a number given for each job. The job number 1203 is a number given for each secure print set in the printer driver, and can have a plurality of job numbers for one job ID.

  Further, one security code 1204 can be assigned to each job number. When the above-mentioned printer driver setting is set to AUTO, the security code automatically generated by the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 itself, on the other hand, by the sender. If specified, the personal identification number set by the sender is registered in the personal identification number table as it is.

  The effective number 1205 is a number set by the number of prints used set by the printer driver, or a value determined by an upper limit value provided in the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, etc., for one job number. It is the number of times given uniquely.

  Although not shown in the personal identification number table in FIG. 11, a print job of the secure print received by the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 is notified to a printer (not even one or more) for each secure job (that is, for each personal identification number). In this case, the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 may be set and stored in the personal identification number table 1200 as table data.

[Print Sequence of this Embodiment]
Hereinafter, the print sequence of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the first control processing procedure of the present invention, and corresponds to the print sequence in the first embodiment of the present invention. Note that the processing of this flowchart is realized by the CPU 401 in the client computer 103 shown in FIG. 4 loading and executing a program stored in the HD 411 on the RAM 402. Further, S1301 to S1303 in the figure indicate operations performed by the sender user (client A), step S1304 indicates processing by the client computer 103 operated by the sender user (client A), and the CPU 401 shown in FIG. This is realized by loading the program stored in the RAM 402 onto the RAM 402 and executing it. Steps S1341 and S1342 indicate operations (actions) performed by the recipient user (client B). Further, steps S1321 to S1331 indicate steps in the MFP 104 or 105, and are realized by the CPU 401 in the core unit 206 shown in FIG. 2 loading and executing a program stored in the ROM or the like on the RAM 508.

  First, when the sender user (client A) prints a normal document (a document that is not a secure document) (No in S1301), the normal print and setting are performed on the printer driver setting screen shown in FIGS. (S1302), the printer driver executed by the CPU 401 of the client computer 103 (hereinafter simply referred to as the printer driver) is instructed (clicked) on the OK key 1101 shown in FIG. When an input of a print instruction is detected, print job data based on print data and printer driver settings is generated and controlled in step S1304, and the print job data is described as a designated output destination printing apparatus (hereinafter referred to as MFP 104 or MFP 105). Control to send to (data transmission) ).

  On the other hand, when printing the important document (secure document) (Yes in S1301), the sender user (client A) sets secure print (1 or 1) on the printer driver setting screen shown in FIGS. And the number of effective times (N1, N2,...) For each secure print setting are set (S1303), and the OK key 1101 shown in FIG. The driver detects the input of this print instruction, and in step S1304, generates and controls secure print job data based on the print data and printer driver settings (including secure print settings and print effective frequency settings), and executes the secure print job. Control is performed so that data is transmitted to the designated output destination printing apparatus (data transmission).

  When the MFP 104 or MFP 105 receives the job data (S1321), the CPU of the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 controls to store the job data in the work area in the RAM 508.

  In step S1322, the CPU of the core unit 206 determines whether or not the job data is print job data of a secure document in accordance with the secure job setting of the job data received in step S1321.

  When the CPU of the core unit 206 determines in step S1322 that the job data received in step S1321 is not a secure document (a normal job) (when it is determined that the job data is a second type of job data). Then, execution control of the print processing of the job is performed (S1330), control is performed to delete the job data as necessary (S1331), and the processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the CPU of the core unit 206 determines in step S1322 that the job data received in step S1321 is a secure document (when it is determined that the job data is the first type of job data), the core unit. In step S1323, the CPU 206 controls the issuance of the job ID of the job data, and controls the job data and the job ID to be associated with each other and stored in the memory box (the memory unit 210 illustrated in FIG. 2). .

  Further, in step S1324, the CPU of the core unit 206, based on the secure job setting of the job data of the job stored in the box, the table data of the personal identification number table 1200 shown in FIG. Data) is generated and controlled to be added to the personal identification number table 1200. At this time, records (table data) are additionally controlled in the personal identification number table 1200 by the number of each secure job setting in the job data. Further, the sender user (client A) of the job data is set in the user name 1201 of each added table data, the job ID of the job issued in step S1323 is set in the job ID 1202, and each job number is set. A job number for each secure job setting in the job data is set in 1203, and each valid count 1205 is each valid print count (N1, N2,... In each secure job setting in the job data. ) To set each.

  Further, when a password is set in each secure job setting of the job data, the CPU of the core unit 206 sets the password to the password 1204 in the password table 1200, and the job data When the personal identification number setting in each secure job setting is set to “Auto”, the personal identification number is issued and controlled, and the issued personal identification number is set in the personal identification number 1204 in the personal identification number table 1200. To control.

  The CPU of the core unit 206 performs control so that the job once stored in the box is held as it is until the valid count 1205 of all the job numbers of the corresponding job ID becomes “0”. Here, the CPU of the core unit 206, when the printer's notification destination for each password is set for the job, the password (user name, job ID, password, (Including data such as the number of valid times) may be configured to be notified to the set printer's notification destination, or only when the CPU of the core unit 206 has issued a personal identification number The issued personal identification number (including data such as a user name, a job ID, a personal identification number, and the number of valid times) may be notified to the client computer 103.

  Then, the CPU of the core unit 206 controls to accept a secure document print instruction in which a document is selected by job ID, a password is entered, and a print instruction is given.

  Next, in step S1341, the recipient user (client B), based on the job ID and password sent from the client computer 103, MFP 104, or MFP 105 of the sender (client A) by means such as E-mail. The secure document print instruction is issued from the operation unit 211 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 (job ID selection, password input).

  When the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 detects the secure document printing instruction (job ID selection, password input) from the operation unit 211, the input password is selected and input in step S1325. Judgment control is performed as to whether or not it matches the personal identification number of any of the job numbers corresponding to the assigned job ID.

  If the CPU in the core unit 206 determines in step S1325 that the input personal identification number does not match the personal identification number of any job number corresponding to the selected input job ID, it corresponds to the job ID. Control is performed to prohibit print execution of the print job to be performed, and control is performed again to accept secure document print instructions (job ID selection, password input).

  On the other hand, if the CPU in the core unit 206 determines in step S1325 that the input personal identification number matches the personal identification number of any job number corresponding to the selected and input job ID, the job ID In step S1326, control is performed so that the print job corresponding to the job ID is read from the box and executed. At this time, if the valid number corresponding to the input personal identification number is already equal to or less than “0”, the CPU in the core unit 206 controls to prohibit printing.

  In step S1342, the recipient user (client B) can obtain the print output of the job sent by the sender (client A).

  Next, in step S1327, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 performs control so as to decrement the valid number 1205 in the password number table corresponding to the job number whose password is matched in step S1325, and in step S1328. Proceed to

  Next, in step S1328, the CPU in the core unit 206 determines whether or not all the valid counts 1205 corresponding to the job ID decremented in step S1327 are equal to or less than “0”, and corresponds to the job ID. If it is determined that any one of the effective counts 1205 is not “0” or less (“1” or more), the process directly returns to step S1325 to again issue a secure document print instruction (job ID selection, password input). Control to accept.

  On the other hand, if the CPU in the core unit 206 determines in step S1328 that all the valid counts 1205 corresponding to the job ID are “0” or less, the job corresponding to the job ID is determined in step S1329. The data is erased from the box, and the table data corresponding to the job ID is controlled to be deleted from the personal identification number table 1200, and the process ends. As described above, when printing is performed for the valid number of times corresponding to the job number prepared in the personal identification number table, the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 completely deletes the corresponding job data from the box.

  As described above, a plurality of password information such as password numbers and passwords are prepared, and each password information is provided with a number of effective usages, thereby improving security and providing a single number to a plurality of users. It becomes possible to distribute with confidence only by data.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 12, since a plurality of different recipients (client B) are controlled to be accessible in random order, the job execution order based on the job number is not particularly defined, and the job number corresponding to the input personal identification number Although the configuration for controlling the execution of these jobs has been described, the configuration may be such that the job numbers are controlled so that they can be executed sequentially from the smallest number. That is, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 performs control so as to compare only the input password with the password of the job number having the smallest number among the job numbers of the selected job ID. Control may be made so that the next job number cannot be printed unless the previous job number is printed after the effective number of times. As described above, the print execution control is performed by sequentially advancing the job number, and this is an effective method in the case where a plurality of passwords are passed one by one in a higher security scene.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the configuration in which a print instruction is issued from the client computer 103 to the printing apparatus such as the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 using the printer driver has been described. However, in the present embodiment, the client computer 103 is executed by another print instruction method. Alternatively, a print instruction may be issued to a printing apparatus such as an MFP. The embodiment will be described below.

[Web Submission]
Examples of a method for issuing a print instruction from the client computer 103 to a printing apparatus such as the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 include a submission tool (or called a downloader or submitter), a method of dragging and dropping to a hot folder, and the like.

  The submission tool is a tool for sending a job to a server device, a printing device such as the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, and the web submission using the http protocol will be described here.

  Web submission is a method of specifying a file such as PDF from the client side and transferring the file directly to the RIP side via the web. Using the web UI, a printer setting item called a job ticket (in the above-mentioned PPD) This is a tool for instructing setting items (which are almost equivalent to settings) and throwing them together with the data file.

  On the other hand, a hot folder drags and drops a file to a shared folder prepared in advance. However, sequential job ticket settings (print condition settings for specifying print jobs to be printed under what print conditions) ) And is set in advance by the user, and is a very convenient usage when a complicated setting instruction is given and a large number of files are input with the same job ticket.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that a web server (WebServer unit) 1411 is prepared in the MFP 104 or 105 shown in FIG. 1 as shown in FIG.

  The web server 1411 is a web server program represented by IIS (Internet Information Server) of Microsoft (registered trademark), and a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) address from a client computer via a web browser by a user using the http protocol. Is input, a service screen (web page) is provided to the web browser.

  Hereinafter, with reference to a flowchart of FIG. 13, a process for submitting a job from the client computer 103 to the MFP 104 or 105 using the web submission tool will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second control processing procedure according to the present invention, and corresponds to processing for submitting a job from the client computer 103 to the MFP 104 or 105 using the web submission tool. In the figure, S1401 to S1407 indicate steps on the client computer 103 side operated by the sender user (client A), and the CPU 401 shown in FIG. 4 loads the program stored in the HD 411 onto the RAM 402 and executes it. Is realized. Steps S1341 and S1342 indicate operations (actions) performed by the recipient user (client B). Further, S1413, S1414, S1322 to S1331 in the figure indicate steps on the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side, and the CPU 401 in the core unit 206 shown in FIG. 2 loads the program stored in the ROM or the like onto the RAM 508 and executes it. Is realized. In addition, the same step number is attached | subjected to the step same as FIG. 12, The description is abbreviate | omitted.

  First, when there is a web browser activation operation from the user on the client computer 103 side, the CPU 401 controls to activate the web browser (S1401). When a URL of the web server unit 1411 on the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side is designated (input) by the user (designated MFP is designated by this operation), a web browser executed by the CPU 401 (hereinafter simply referred to as a web browser) is Then, control is performed to send an http message to the MFP corresponding to the URL (S1402).

  Then, the web server unit 1411 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 that has received the http message from the client computer 103 controls to return the web submission tool to the client computer 103 as an http response.

  Then, the web browser of the client computer 103 that has received the web submission tool returned from the web server unit 1411 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 executes the web submission tool on the web browser (that is, the web submission tool is The web submission tool screen is opened (executed by the CPU 401) (display control is performed in the display area of the web browser on the monitor 410) (S1403). The web submission tool screen is, for example, a screen as shown in FIG.

  14 to 16 are schematic diagrams showing examples of the web submission tool screen displayed on the web browser of the client computer 103 shown in FIG. 1, and the display is controlled on the monitor 410 by the CPU 401 of the client computer 103. The

  As shown in FIG. 14, first, a job throwing destination is selected with a device selection key (Select Device) 1531, and a job to be thrown is designated with a reference key (Browse) 1511. The file to be specified may be a file on the client computer 103 or a file on the network 101.

  Next, a job ticket is selected. Save key, save as, save key, delete key (Save, Save As ..., Delete) 1513 saves or deletes the job ticket used, and previously used it in the job ticket selection column 1512 The CPU 401 controls the job ticket so that it can be called up and reused.

  Reference numerals 1532 to 1537 denote job ticket classifications. In response to this selection, the CPU 401 changes the job ticket display 1521 portion as shown in FIGS. 15 (a) to 15 (d) and FIG. It is controlled by.

  When 1532 is clicked (instructed), the web submission tool displays the display 1521 of FIG. 14, and the general settings such as the number of copies and the paper size can be set. When 1533 is clicked, the web submission tool displays a job setting display 1522 as shown in FIG. 15A, and is controlled by the CPU 401 so that the job priority order and the like can be set. For example, when the job security level (Job Security Level) in FIG. 15A is set high (High), it is treated as a specific job, and otherwise it is treated as a normal job.

  When 1534 is clicked (instructed), the web submission tool displays a job setting display 1523 as shown in FIG. 15B, and when 1535 is clicked (instructed), the web submission tool is displayed in FIG. When a job setting display 1524 such as (c) is displayed and 1536 is clicked (instructed), the web submission tool displays a job setting display 1525 as shown in FIG. 15D, and 1537 is clicked (instructed). ), The web submission tool is controlled by the CPU 401 to display a job setting item field 1600 as shown in FIG.

  In the secure print job setting item field 1600 of FIG. 16, secure print settings similar to the items set on the secure print tab of the printer driver shown in the first embodiment can be performed.

  Also, by specifying (clicking) on the additional key 1605, a plurality of secure prints can be set. The first secure print setting, the second secure print setting, the third secure print setting,...・ It can be set as such. Note that the number of secure prints is not limited to three (first secure print to third secure print), and four or more settings are possible. If the screen cannot be displayed on 1600, scroll using the scroll bar. It is controlled by the CPU 401 so that it can be displayed.

  In addition, in each secure print setting, it is possible to set each use print count 1604 (default is “1”), and also set each PIN number 1602 and 1603. In this way, the CPU 401 controls. There are two types of password settings: one that is automatically issued from the MFP 104 or MFP 105 (Auto), and one that allows the job sender to set an arbitrary password (By myself). It is controlled by the CPU 401 so that it can be performed. Note that the personal identification number and the number of prints used are sent to the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 as a part of the job ticket. On the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side, based on this secure print setting, control is performed so as to manage the secure job by adding table data to the personal identification number table 1200 shown in FIG.

  Reference numeral 1606 denotes a delete key, which is controlled by the CPU 401 so that one of the secure print settings can be designated and the secure print settings can be deleted by designating (clicking) this key.

  Reference numeral 1607 denotes a reset key, which is controlled by the CPU 401 so that the secure print setting can be set to an initial state by designating (clicking) this key.

  Further, when secure print is set and a print start instruction is input by the user at the client computer 103 (for example, when the print key 1510 on the screen of FIGS. 14 and 16 is pressed), the secure print is set here. The set personal identification number and the number of prints used are sent to the MFP side (here, the hot holder unit 1412) as a part of the job ticket by the printer driver.

  On the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side, by referring to the setting status of each setting item in the setting item column 1600, the control unit of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 (in this example, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105, The CPU of the server device or the control unit of the device may determine that the job data to be printed transmitted from the client computer 103 is highly important data (also referred to as secure document job data). When a print start instruction is input by the user at the client computer 103 in a state where the secure print instruction item 1600 has not been set by the user as an instruction for secure printing (for example, FIG. 14 and FIG. 16). When the print key 1510 on the screen is pressed In this case, by referring to the setting status in the secure print setting item field 1600, the control unit (in this example, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105, the CPU of the server device, and the control of the device) The job data to be printed transmitted from the client computer 103 is not highly important data (secure document job data), and each of the operations described below is selectively performed. Make it executable. The secure document job data is referred to as first type job data, and job data that is not highly important data is referred to as second type job data.

  As described above, even when a print job is submitted using the web submission tool, various data can be used to print user-desired data on a printing device designated by the user via a plurality of setting screens. Printing conditions (including secure print settings) can be set.

  Although not shown in FIG. 16, it may be configured such that a printer's notification destination (one or more) may be set for each secure job (that is, for each password). Accordingly, the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 that has received the job can notify the printer's notification destination of the personal identification number for each personal identification number.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG.

  The web submission tool performs file designation and job ticket setting (secure print setting) until the print key (Print) 1510 is clicked (instructed) on the web submission tool screen shown in FIGS. , The number of valid times (including setting of N1, N2,..., Setting of personal identification number) is received (S1404 to S1406), file designation and job ticket setting are performed, and the print key (Print ) If it is determined that 1510 has been clicked, in step S1407, the web submission tool controls to send the job to the hot folder unit 1412 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105.

  On the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side, the transmitted job is sent to the hot folder unit 1412, and the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 always polls whether there is a job in the hot folder unit 1412. (S1413), and control is performed to determine whether or not there is a job in the hot folder unit 1412 (S1414).

  In step S1414, if the CPU in the core unit 206 determines that there is a job in the hot folder unit 1412, the process proceeds to step S1322.

  The processing in steps S1322 to S1331 by the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 and the operations (operations) in steps S1341 and S1342 by the recipient user (client B) are the same as those in the flowchart in FIG.

  As explained above, even in an environment where a job is output from a computer to a printer by using a job throwing tool from a web browser, a plurality of password information such as a password and password are prepared. By providing effective use times for each, it is possible to improve security and to distribute to a plurality of users with just one data.

[Third Embodiment]
In the first and second embodiments, the configuration has been described in which job data of a job for which the effective number of all secure prints set for the job is “0” is deleted from the box of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105. Regarding erasure, even if it is not necessarily erased, it is stored in the MFP 104 or MFP 105 or other storage means in a form that cannot be printed by an unspecified user, and in response to a re-output request of the sender user (client A), It may be configured such that new printing can be performed under the setting of a new password number and the number of prints used.

  Hereinafter, the print sequence of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the third control processing procedure of the present invention, and corresponds to the print sequence in the first embodiment of the present invention. Note that the processing of this flowchart is realized by the CPU 401 in the client computer 103 shown in FIG. 4 loading and executing a program stored in the HD 411 on the RAM 402. Further, S1301 to S1303 in the figure indicate operations performed by the sender user (client A), and steps S1304 and S1704 to S1709 indicate processing by the client computer 103 operated by the sender user (client A). The CPU 401 shown is realized by loading a program stored in the HD 411 onto the RAM 402 and executing it. Steps S1341 and S1342 indicate operations (actions) performed by the recipient user (client B). Further, steps S1321 to S1333, S1732, and S1733 indicate steps in the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, and are realized by the CPU 401 in the core unit 206 shown in FIG. 2 loading and executing a program stored in the ROM or the like on the RAM 508. Is done. The same steps as those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same step numbers, and description of those steps is omitted.

  In step S1325, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 determines the password of any job number corresponding to the job ID in which the password input from the operation unit 211 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 by the client B is selected and input. If it is determined that they do not match, the number of erroneous inputs stored for each job ID in the memory unit 210 or RAM 508 is counted up in step S1732, and it is determined whether or not the number of erroneous inputs is equal to or greater than a predetermined number. To do.

  If the CPU in the core unit 206 determines in step S1732 that the number of erroneous inputs is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the process directly returns to step S1325 to accept a secure document print instruction (job ID selection, password input) again. Can be controlled.

  Note that the CPU in the core unit 206 may control the number of erroneous inputs stored in the memory unit 210 or the RAM 508 for each job ID so as to store the cumulative number of erroneous inputs, or may continue to include errors. A configuration may be adopted in which the number of times of input is stored and control is performed so as to be initialized to “0” when a correct password is input.

  On the other hand, if the CPU in the core unit 206 determines in step S1732 that the number of erroneous inputs is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to step S1327, and the CPU in the core unit 206 determines that the erroneous input is predetermined in step S1732. Control is performed to decrement each valid count 1205 in the personal identification number table corresponding to the job ID of the personal identification number determined to be greater than or equal to the number of times, and the flow proceeds to step S1328.

  Next, in step S1328, if the CPU in the core unit 206 determines that all the valid counts 1205 corresponding to the job ID decremented in step S1327 are equal to or less than “0”, in step S1733, the job Data for inquiring whether or not the job data corresponding to the ID is deleted is transmitted to the client computer 103 that is the job transmission source. When communication with the client computer 103 is impossible (when the power is turned off, when the user is logged off from the network, etc.), control is performed so that retransmission is performed after a predetermined time.

  When the CPU 401 of the client computer 103 receives data for inquiring whether or not to delete job data, the CPU 401 controls the monitor 410 to display a user interface (UI) for inquiring the user about whether or not to delete job data. To do.

  When the sender user (client A) deletes the data (Yes in S1705), the sender user (client A) inputs that the data is deleted from the above-described UI. Then, the CPU 401 of the client computer 103 detects this instruction input, and controls to transmit a command for deleting the job data to the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 in step S1709.

  When the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 receives a command to delete job data, in step S1329, the job data is deleted from the box, and the table ID of the job ID corresponding to the deleted job is stored in the personal identification number table 1200. Control to delete from the process, and the process ends.

  On the other hand, when the sender user (client A) does not delete the data (No in S1705), the sender user (client A) inputs that the data is not deleted from the UI described above. Then, the CPU 401 of the client computer 103 detects this instruction input, and controls the monitor 410 to display on the monitor 410 a UI for allowing the user to input one of the passwords set for secure printing last time. To do.

  Then, the sender user (client A) inputs the personal identification number (any personal identification number set in the previous secure print) via the UI (S1706), and the secure print is performed on the same setting screen as shown in FIG. Are set (1 or more) and the number of effective times (N1, N2,...) For each secure print setting (S1707), the CPU 401 of the client computer 103 receives the input in step S1706 in step S1708. Secure print job data is generated and controlled from the security code and the secure print setting (including a plurality of passwords and the print effective number setting for each password) set in step S1707, and the secure print job data is transferred to the MFP 104 or Control to transmit to MFP 105 (data transmission). In step S1707, the notification destination of the printer (recipient) may be controlled to be settable.

  When the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 receives secure print job data corresponding to the new secure job setting, the CPU of the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 in step S1324 secures the secure job of the newly received secure print job data. Based on the setting, control is performed so as to correct the code number, the effective number, etc. of the table data of the corresponding job ID in the code number table 1200 shown in FIG. When the personal identification number is set to Auto, the CPU of the core unit 206 generates a personal identification number.

  Here, the CPU of the core unit 206, when the printer's notification destination for each password is set for the job, the password (user name, job ID, password, (Including data such as the number of valid times) may be configured to be notified to the set printer's notification destination, or only when the CPU of the core unit 206 has issued a personal identification number The issued personal identification number (including data such as a user name, a job ID, a personal identification number, and the number of valid times) may be notified to the client computer 103.

  It should be noted that the CPU in the core unit 206 determines that the previous password entered by the sender added to the newly received secure print job data is the same as the password set in the previous secure print. It is determined whether or not they match, and when it is determined that they do not match, the processing is terminated as it is, and control is performed so that the personal identification number table is not corrected.

  As described above, for example, without deleting the job data, the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 performs a recall to the box in response to a secure print request from the sender (client A) or a request for resetting the effective count. Settings are made to enable secure printing for a new recipient (client C).

  As a result, when a large job is handled, time spent for job transmission / reception, uploading, and downloading can be reduced.

  Also, in each embodiment, a case has been described in which a personal identification number is set for each secure job setting. However, instead of a personal identification number and a password, a secret key and a public key are used, and the number of effective usage is set to a small number for public disclosure. The key may be notified to the user, and the printout may be supported with a limited number of times.

  Alternatively, since it is assumed that the recipient (client C) intentionally tries to print important information for which the personal identification number is not known, as shown in step S1732, the CPU of the core unit 206 makes an erroneous input. The number of times may be checked, and if the erroneous input exceeds a predetermined number, control may be performed so that the password of the job corresponding to the job ID is invalidated.

  Further, the notification for inquiring whether or not to delete the job data shown in step S1733 may be performed by e-mail.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which a printer driver is used to transmit a job to the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 is shown as an example. However, a job is thrown using the submission tool described in the second embodiment. You may comprise so that this embodiment may be applied to the structure to perform.

  As described above, the job sender is inquired about whether or not the job data whose effective use count has been used is erased, and based on a reply from the sender (deletion / reuse with a new password), By controlling the job data deletion / reuse based on a new password, it is possible to print a new job again under the settings of a new password and the number of prints used without lowering the security level. It is possible to reduce the time spent for transmission / reception, uploading and downloading of jobs when handling.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the first to third embodiments, a case has been described in which a plurality of passwords and the number of effective uses for each password are set for a print job of one document. However, it is also conceivable to change the image according to the password. .

  Hereinafter, an example thereof will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a print output with a watermark.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 18, an image with a watermark (watermark) written “Sample-A” is output to one client, and an image with a watermark written “Confidential” is output to another client. Is output.

  Or, if you set an individual password and each person's name for each client, and print each person's name transparently or put it in the header footer, whoever depends on the output image Alternatively, it is possible to determine at a glance what level of client the image is issued, and the user who receives the personal identification number is liable to himself / herself, thus preventing unnecessary data from being leaked.

  Therefore, in order to realize this, in the present embodiment, additional print information (such as a header footer comment or reference image) for each secure print setting using a printer driver or web submission tool as shown in FIG. It may be configured to provide a setting item for inputting.

  On the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side, the set additional print information is managed using a personal identification number table as shown in FIG. 20, and the additional print information such as a watermark is referred to. In addition, a step for performing print processing is provided.

  Hereinafter, a watermark will be described as representative of additional print information.

  FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a secure print setting screen according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  Within each secure print setting 1161, a watermark setting 1164 can be performed.

  FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a personal identification number table in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 20, each table data in the personal identification number table 1900 is arranged for each job, and the user name 1901, job ID 1202, job number 1203, personal identification number 1204, effective number 1205, print additional information 1901, respectively. Consists of

  The print additional information 1901 is, for example, a watermark set by the printer driver, and is uniquely given to one job number.

  Then, when a job ID is selected and a password is input, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or MFP 105 controls to print by adding a watermark corresponding to the password.

  Hereinafter, the print sequence of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth control processing procedure according to the present invention, which corresponds to a print sequence with a watermark corresponding to a personal identification number. In the figure, S1301, S1302, and S2003 indicate operations performed by the sender user (client A), and step S1304 indicates processing by the client computer 103 operated by the sender user (client A), and the CPU 401 shown in FIG. Is realized by loading a program stored in the HD 411 onto the RAM 402 and executing it. Steps S1341 and S2042 indicate operations (actions) performed by the recipient user (client B). Further, steps S1321 to S1323, S1325, S1327 to S1331, and S2032 to S2034 indicate steps in the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, and the CPU 401 in the core unit 206 shown in FIG. 2 loads a program stored in the ROM or the like onto the RAM 508. It is realized by executing. The same steps as those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same step numbers, and description of these steps is omitted.

  First, when printing the important document (secure document) (Yes in S1301), the sender user (client A) performs secure printing on the setting screen shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 and the setting screen for secure printing (not shown). (1 or more), the number of valid times (N1, N2,...) For each secure print setting, and a watermark for each secure print setting (S2003), and the OK key 1101 shown in FIG. The printer driver detects the input of this print instruction, and in step S1304, print data and printer driver settings (secure print settings, print effective frequency settings (N1, N2) ,...), And secure print job data is generated and controlled. Controls to transmit the bets job data to the printing apparatus specified destination (data transmission).

  Then, the CPU in the core unit 206 on the MFP 104 or MFP 105 side, based on the secure job setting of the job data of the job received from the client computer 103 and saved in the box in step S2034, the personal identification number table 1900 shown in FIG. Table data (data for one record in the personal identification number table) is generated and controlled so as to be added to the personal identification number table 1900. At this time, records (table data) are additionally controlled in the personal identification number table 1900 by the number of each secure job setting in the job data. Further, the sender user (client A) of the job data is set in the user name 1201 of each added table data, the job ID of the job issued in step S1323 is set in the job ID 1202, and each job number is set. A job number for each secure job setting in the job data is set in 1203, and each effective number of prints in each secure job setting in the job data (N1, N2,... .) Are set, and the watermark 1901 is controlled to set each watermark in each secure job setting of the job data.

  Next, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 determines whether the secure document print instruction (job ID selection, password input) from the operation unit 211 corresponds to the job ID selected and input. If it is determined that the password matches the personal identification number, control is performed to permit print execution of the print job corresponding to the job ID. In step S2032, the watermark corresponding to the personal identification number is referenced, and step S2033 is performed. Then, control is performed so that the print job corresponding to the job ID is read from the box and the above-mentioned watermarked print is executed.

  In step S2042, the recipient user (client B) can obtain a print output with a watermark of the job sent by the sender (client A).

  As described above, a plurality of password information such as password numbers and passwords are prepared, and each password information is provided with a watermark so that only one piece of data is attached to a plurality of users. Can be distributed.

  The watermark described above may be used as other additional print information (a header footer comment or reference image).

  Further, the additional print information and the information indicating the type of the additional print information may be set on the sender side. The information indicating the additional form of the additional print information (additional form information) includes, for example, print additional information including a watermark (W), a header (H), a footer (F), a comment (C), and a reference image (B ) As additional form information, “W” / “H” / “F” / “C” / “B” are set for each print additional information.

  The MFP 104 or the MFP 105 manages the additional form information together with the print additional information 1901 in the personal identification number table.

  Then, the CPU in the core unit 206 of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 is referred to in accordance with the personal identification number, in a form corresponding to the additional form information (any form of a watermark, header, footer, comment, or reference image). Then, control is performed so that additional print information is added for printing.

  With the above configuration, a plurality of password information such as password numbers and passwords are prepared, and additional print information and additional form information can be set for each password information. It is possible to distribute a document in which different additional print information is attached in different forms only by data.

  In the present embodiment, the configuration in which both the additional print information such as the watermark and the effective use count are set for each personal identification number of the print job is shown. However, only the additional print information such as the watermark is set. You may comprise so that it may perform with respect to each PIN of a print job.

  As described above, security information is improved by preparing a plurality of password information such as password numbers and passwords, and by enabling setting of the number of times of effective use and additional print information for each password information, and A print result in which different print additional information is added to a plurality of users can be safely distributed with only one data.

  In the present embodiment, a configuration in which a printer driver is used to transmit a job to the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 is shown as an example. However, a job submission using the web submission tool described in the second embodiment is used. You may comprise so that this embodiment may be applied to the structure which performs.

  In each of the above embodiments, the description has been given of the configuration in which the input of the print job is performed from the information processing apparatus such as the client computer 103. However, the image information to be read by the scanner unit 201 of the MFP 104 or 105 is read by the scanner. Setting of print job for printing (including setting of one or a plurality of password information, setting of effective use number corresponding to each password information, setting of additional print information such as watermark corresponding to each password information, etc. ) May be performed from the operation unit 211.

  Also, a setting of a print job for reading an original from the scanner 106 and printing image information to be read by the scanner (setting of one or a plurality of password information, setting of the number of effective usage corresponding to each password information, (Including setting of additional print information such as a watermark corresponding to the personal identification information) from an operation unit (not shown) of the scanner 106, and the MFP 106 or the MFP 105 of the setting information added to the print job and the print job from the scanner 106 May be configured to transmit.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, one or a plurality of password information can be set for one print job input to the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, and different effective usage times can be set for each password information. Although the configuration has been described, it is possible to set different expiration dates for the respective pieces of personal identification information, and the CPU of the core unit of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 determines whether the personal identification information and the personal identification information input at the time of execution of the print job are the same. Even in the case of collation, a configuration may be adopted in which execution of the print job is permitted only within the expiration date corresponding to the password.

  In addition, since different charging unit prices can be set for each password information, the CPU of the core unit of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 matches the password information input when the print job is executed with the password information. A configuration may be adopted in which charging is performed at a charging unit price corresponding to the personal identification number.

  Further, the CPU of the core unit of the MFP 104 or the MFP 105 stores, in the memory unit 210, a history of which print job has been executed with what password, based on the password information input when the print job is executed. It may be configured to be able to determine who has executed what print at what time.

  In each of the above embodiments, the print job and the setting information (including the password table) of the print job are stored and managed in the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, and according to the input password information, the number of effective uses, and the like. Although the configuration for controlling the execution of the print job has been described, the print job and the setting information (including the password table) of the print job are stored and managed on the server computer 102, and the MFP 104 or When the password information is input from the operation unit 211 of the MFP 105, the CPU of the core unit 206 transmits the password information to the server computer 102, and within the server computer 102, the password number is verified and the number of uses is limited. It is determined whether or not there is a print job, and print permission / prohibition is controlled. It may be configured to execute a print job transmitted from over data 102 to the MFP104 or MFP 105 in MFP104 or MFP 105.

  Further, in each of the embodiments described above, the configuration in which the execution of the print job stored in the box is permitted within the effective use count has been described. However, the printing of various information stored in the box, copying to another storage device, Transmission by e-mail or the like may be permitted within the effective usage count.

  Also, the sender user (client A) sets in the job setting whether to permit printing of various information stored in the box, copying to another storage device, sending by e-mail, etc. You may comprise.

  In addition, a configuration in which any or all of the above embodiments and modifications are combined is also included in the present invention.

  Furthermore, the table configurations and the contents thereof shown in FIGS. 11 and 19 are not limited to this, and it is needless to say that the table configurations and contents are configured according to the use and purpose.

  As described above, each embodiment has been described. However, the present invention can take an embodiment as a system, apparatus, method, program, storage medium, or the like, and specifically includes a plurality of devices. The present invention may be applied to a system including a single device.

  Accordingly, one or a plurality of password information can be set for one print job input to the MFP 104 or the MFP 105, and the effective use count can be set for each password information. The CPU of the core unit permits the execution of the print job only within the effective use count corresponding to the personal identification number even when the personal identification information input at the time of execution of the print job is collated with the personal identification information. By controlling in this way, even when a confidential document is distributed to a plurality of users, it is possible to provide a highly secure printing environment that can distribute a confidential document with peace of mind by simply transmitting one piece of data to the image forming apparatus. The effect that it can do is produced.

  The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by each device constituting the image forming system to which the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention can be applied will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 22 illustrates a memory map of a storage medium (recording medium) that stores various data processing programs that can be read by each device constituting the image forming system to which the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention can be applied. FIG.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIGS. 12, 13, 17, and 21 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a browser on a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a storage medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or apparatus. In this case, by reading the storage medium storing the program represented by the software for achieving the present invention into the system or apparatus, the system or apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

1 is a conceptual diagram of a configuration of an image forming system showing a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a data flow of the entire MFP illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a block diagram explaining the data flow structure of the core part shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a configuration of a printer unit illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating an example of a configuration of an operation unit of the MFP illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the server computer shown in FIG. 1, and a client computer. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printer driver screen displayed on a monitor of the apparatus in a client computer as an example of the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printer driver screen displayed on a monitor of the apparatus in a client computer as an example of the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printer driver screen displayed on a monitor of the apparatus in a client computer as an example of the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a printer driver screen displayed on a monitor of the apparatus in a client computer as an example of the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an MFP shown in FIG. 1 or a personal identification number table in the MFP. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st control processing procedure of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 2nd control processing procedure of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the web submission tool screen displayed on the web browser of the client computer shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the web submission tool screen displayed on the web browser of the client computer shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the web submission tool screen displayed on the web browser of the client computer shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 3rd control processing procedure of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the print output with a watermark. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the secure print setting screen in 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the PIN code table in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 4th control processing procedure of this invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium (recording medium) which stores the various data processing program which can be read by each apparatus which comprises the image forming system which can apply the information processing apparatus and image forming apparatus which concern on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

101 Network 103 Client computer 104 Color MFP
105 monochrome MFP
201 Scanner unit 206 Core unit 208 Printer unit 401 CPU
402 RAM
403 ROM
410 monitor

Claims (22)

A first input means for inputting a print job, one or a plurality of password information which is setting information of the print job, and one or a plurality of use frequency limit information corresponding to each of the password information;
Storage means for storing a print job input by the first input means and setting information of the print job;
A second input means for inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means;
First determination means for determining whether or not the password information input from the second input means and any of the password information of the print job stored in the storage means are collated;
Second determination means for determining whether or not the execution of the print job is within a limit determined by use frequency limit information corresponding to password information input from the second input means;
If it is determined by the first determination means that the personal identification information is not collated, printing of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited and the personal identification information is determined to be collated by the first determination means. A control unit that controls to permit printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit when it is determined by the second determination unit that the number of uses is within the limit.
An image forming apparatus comprising: First input means for inputting a print job, one or a plurality of password information that is setting information of the print job, and one or a plurality of additional print information corresponding to each of the password information;
Storage means for storing a print job input by the first input means and setting information of the print job;
A second input means for inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means;
First determination means for determining whether or not the password information input from the second input means and any of the password information of the print job stored in the storage means are collated;
If it is determined by the first determination means that the personal identification information is not collated, printing of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited and the personal identification information is determined to be collated by the first determination means. Control means for controlling the additional print information added to the personal identification information to be additionally printed and printing the print job stored in the storage means;
An image forming apparatus comprising: The setting information of the print job input by the first input means can input one or a plurality of expiration date information respectively corresponding to the one or a plurality of password information,
Third determination means is provided for determining whether or not the execution of the print job is within a time limit determined by use time limit information corresponding to the password information input from the second input means;
Even if it is determined that the password information is collated by the first determination unit, the control unit prints that is stored in the storage unit when it is determined by the third determination unit that it is not within the expiration date. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is controlled to prohibit printing of a job. The setting information of the print job input by the first input means can input one or more billing unit price information respectively corresponding to the one or more password information,
When the first determination unit determines that the password information is to be collated, the control unit adds the password information to the password information according to execution of printing of the print job stored in the storage unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein charging processing based on charging unit price information is performed.   The first determination unit is set for the password information input from the second input unit and the image information stored in the storage unit only when the print job is a predetermined print job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not the password information is collated.   6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first input unit inputs the print job from a reading unit that reads image information from a document, and inputs setting information of the print job from an operation unit. The image forming apparatus described.   The first input unit inputs a print job transmitted from an information processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium as the print job and setting information of the print job. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first input unit inputs a print job generated using a printer driver of the information processing apparatus and setting information of the print job.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first input unit inputs a print job generated and thrown using a job throwing tool of the information processing apparatus and setting information of the print job. .   The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the job throwing tool throws a job using a web browser.   The control means is the storage means when it is determined by the first determination means that the personal identification information is collated, and when the second determination means determines that the use frequency limit has been exceeded. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is controlled to delete a print job stored in the image forming apparatus.   Even if the control means determines that the personal identification information is collated by the first determination means and the second determination means determines that the usage count limit has been exceeded, When new setting information is set for the print job stored in the storage unit from the first input unit, erasure of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited and control is performed again. The image forming apparatus according to claim 11.   The password information as the setting information of the print job input by the first input means and the password information input from the second input means are a combination of the same password information and a pair of different password information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus includes the image forming apparatus.   The control means controls to invalidate the personal identification information when the number of times that the personal identification information is determined not to be collated by the first determination unit exceeds a predetermined number. Item 14. The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 13. In an image forming system in which an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus can communicate via a predetermined communication medium,
The information processing apparatus includes:
Depending on the input print settings, one or a plurality of password information, which is setting information added to the print job, and one or a plurality of use frequency limit information corresponding to each password information are generated. And a print job generation / transmission means capable of being transmitted to the image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus includes:
First input means for inputting a print job transmitted from the information processing apparatus and setting information added to the print job;
Storage means for storing a print job input by the first input means and setting information of the print job;
A second input means for inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means;
First determination means for determining whether or not the password information input from the second input means and any of the password information of the print job stored in the storage means are collated;
Second determination means for determining whether or not the execution of the print job is within a limit determined by use frequency limit information corresponding to password information input from the second input means;
If it is determined by the first determination means that the personal identification information is not collated, printing of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited and the personal identification information is determined to be collated by the first determination means. A control unit that controls to permit printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit when it is determined by the second determination unit that the number of uses is within the limit.
An image forming system comprising: In an image forming system in which an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus can communicate via a predetermined communication medium,
The information processing apparatus includes:
According to the input print settings, one or a plurality of password information which is setting information added to the print job and the print job, and one or a plurality of additional print information respectively corresponding to the password information are generated. And a print job generation / transmission means capable of being transmitted to the image forming apparatus.
The image forming apparatus includes:
First input means for inputting a print job transmitted from the information processing apparatus and setting information added to the print job;
Storage means for storing a print job input by the first input means and setting information of the print job;
A second input means for inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means;
First determination means for determining whether or not the password information input from the second input means and any of the password information of the print job stored in the storage means are collated;
If it is determined by the first determination means that the personal identification information is not collated, printing of the print job stored in the storage unit is prohibited and the personal identification information is determined to be collated by the first determination means. Control means for controlling the additional print information added to the personal identification information to be additionally printed and printing the print job stored in the storage means;
An image forming system comprising: A first input step of inputting a print job, one or a plurality of password information which is setting information of the print job, and one or a plurality of use frequency limit information respectively corresponding to each password information;
A storage step of storing in the storage means the print job input in the first input step and the setting information of the print job;
A second input step of inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit;
A first determination step of determining whether or not the personal identification information input from the second input step and the personal identification information of the print job stored in the storage unit are collated;
A second determination step for determining whether or not the execution of the print job is within a limit determined by use frequency limit information corresponding to the password information input from the second input step;
A prohibiting step for prohibiting printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means when it is determined in the first determining step that the password information is not verified;
If it is determined in the first determination step that the personal identification information is collated, if the second determination unit determines that the number of uses is within the limit, the print job stored in the storage unit is stored. An authorization step to allow printing execution;
An image forming method comprising: A first input step of inputting a print job, one or a plurality of password information as setting information of the print job, and one or a plurality of additional print information respectively corresponding to the password information;
A storage step of storing in the storage means the print job input in the first input step and the setting information of the print job;
A second input step of inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit;
A first determination step of determining whether or not the personal identification information input from the second input step and the personal identification information of the print job stored in the storage unit are collated;
A prohibiting step for prohibiting printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means when it is determined in the first determining step that the password information is not verified;
If it is determined in the first determination step that the password information is collated, the additional print information added to the password information is additionally printed, and the print job stored in the storage unit is printed. Additional printing steps to be performed;
An image forming method comprising: In an image forming method in an image forming system in which an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus can communicate via a predetermined communication medium,
The information processing apparatus, in accordance with an input print setting, print job, one or more password information that is setting information added to the print job, and one or more passwords corresponding to the password information. A print job transmission step of generating use frequency limit information and transmitting the information to the image forming apparatus;
The image forming apparatus includes a first input step of inputting a print job transmitted from the information processing apparatus and setting information added to the print job;
A storage step of storing in the storage means the print job input in the first input step and the setting information of the print job;
A second input step of inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit;
A first determination step of determining whether or not the personal identification information input from the second input step and the personal identification information of the print job stored in the storage unit are collated;
A second determination step for determining whether or not the execution of the print job is within a limit determined by use frequency limit information corresponding to the password information input from the second input step;
A prohibiting step for prohibiting printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means when it is determined in the first determining step that the password information is not verified;
If it is determined in the first determination step that the personal identification information is collated, if the second determination unit determines that the number of uses is within the limit, the print job stored in the storage unit is stored. An authorization step to allow printing execution;
An image forming method comprising: In an image forming method in an image forming system in which an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus can communicate via a predetermined communication medium,
The information processing apparatus, in accordance with an input print setting, print job, one or more password information that is setting information added to the print job, and one or more passwords corresponding to each password information. A print job transmission step of generating additional print information and transmitting the additional print information to the image forming apparatus;
The image forming apparatus includes a first input step of inputting a print job transmitted from the information processing apparatus and setting information added to the print job;
A storage step of storing in the storage means the print job input in the first input step and the setting information of the print job;
A second input step of inputting personal identification information when instructing printing execution of a print job stored in the storage unit;
A first determination step of determining whether or not the personal identification information input from the second input step and the personal identification information of the print job stored in the storage unit are collated;
A prohibiting step of prohibiting printing execution of a print job stored in the storage means when it is determined in the first determining step that the password information is not verified;
An additional printing step of performing printing of the print job stored in the storage unit by additionally printing the additional printing information added to the personal identification information;
An image forming method comprising:   A program for executing the image forming method according to any one of claims 17 to 20.   A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for executing the image forming method according to any one of claims 17 to 20.

Images