JP2006243948A - Imaging system, imaging device, method for controlling imaging device, control program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a user to make efficient use of an imaging device. <P>SOLUTION: The imaging system comprises a plurality of information processors 2 and an image forming device 1 connected to one another via a network 5. The imaging device 1 has a reservation information storage means for storing, in association, reservation order information about imaging and user ID information for identifying users who made reservations. When an imaging process by a certain user is determined to have ended, the user ID information of the next user who made a reservation is obtained according to the reservation order information stored in the reservation information storage means. According to the user ID information, information processor ID information is obtained from the user information storage means that stores in association the user ID information for identifying users and the information processor ID information for identifying the information processor used by the user. The information processor 2 identified by the information processor ID information is informed that functions related to imaging by the imaging device 1 have become usable. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system, an image forming apparatus, a control method in the image forming apparatus, a control program, and a recording medium.

  In offices and the like, there are cases where a large amount of copies are made to create conference materials or copy books. In recent years, the copy speed has been improved year by year due to the improvement of the performance of a copy machine or the like. For example, it may take a long time to copy a large amount of material in color. In such a case, the user must wait in front of the copier for a long time from the start to the end of copying.

  Once the original is scanned, the copying is automatically performed by the copier. Therefore, the user may return to his / her desk until the copying is completed and perform other work using the information processing terminal. There is a problem that the user cannot determine whether or not the copying has been completed if the user leaves the front. In order to solve such a problem, there is a method of providing sound generation means in the copy machine and notifying the user that the copy has been completed, but there is a distance between the copy machine and the user's own seat. In some cases, there is still a problem that the user cannot determine whether or not the copying is finished. Even if an error such as a paper jam occurs during copying, if the user is away from the front of the copier, the error will not be noticed and the copy will be completed. Even if it returns to the front of the machine, there is a problem that the copying is not finished and the user feels bothered.

In order to solve the user's annoyance caused by not knowing when this copy is completed, the time required for image output of a copy image output job based on the image information read from the document placed on the document table is read. An image forming apparatus that can be calculated based on the number of originals set and the set image output conditions has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).
JP-A-11-198491

  However, the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 calculates the required time for image output of a copy image output job based on the number of read originals and the set image output conditions. There was a problem that the expected time was calculated and lacked certainty. For example, when an error occurs during image output, and it takes time to resolve the error, the actual image output time is longer than the image output time calculated by the image forming apparatus. There was a problem that slowed down. In such a case, the image output time calculated by the image forming apparatus is predicted to predict that printing by the previous printer is finished, and the printer actually performs the next printing, etc. In the past, there has been a problem that the previous printer has not yet finished printing, and that it must wait until the previous printer finishes printing in front of the image forming apparatus.

  In addition, when a certain user A makes a large amount of copies and occupies a copy machine, another user B may want to use the copy machine for copying. In such a case, in order to secure the order, the user B had to wait for the order in front of the copy machine until a large number of copies of the user A were completed.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it enables a user to efficiently use an image forming apparatus.

  Accordingly, in order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention provides an image forming system in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses and an image forming apparatus are connected via a network, and the image forming apparatus performs image forming. When it is determined that the processing related to image formation by a certain user has been completed, the reservation information storage unit stores the order information of the reservation and the user identification information for identifying the user who made the reservation in association with each other. From the reservation order information stored in the reservation information storage means, user identification information of users reserved in the next order is acquired, and user identification information for identifying a user based on the user identification information; Information processing device identification information is acquired from user information storage means for storing information processing device identification information for identifying an information processing device used by the user in association with each other, and the information processing device The information processing apparatus identified by a different information, and notifies the effect that the functions relating to image formation of the image processing device becomes available.

  According to the present invention, there is provided an image forming system in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses and an image forming apparatus are connected via a network, wherein the image forming apparatus includes reservation order information related to image formation; Reservation information storage means for storing user identification information for identifying the user who made the reservation in association with each other, and storing in the reservation information storage means when it is determined that the processing related to image formation by a certain user has been completed. The user identification information of the user reserved in the next order is acquired from the reserved reservation order information, and the user identification information for identifying the user based on the user identification information and the information processing used by the user Information processing apparatus identification information is acquired from user information storage means for storing information processing apparatus identification information for identifying the apparatus in association with each other, and information processing identified by the information processing apparatus identification information is performed. The apparatus, functions of the image forming of the image processing apparatus by notifying that becomes available, it is possible to enable efficient use of the image forming apparatus by the user.

  The information processing apparatus corresponds to, for example, a client PC 2 described later. The image forming apparatus corresponds to, for example, a multifunction machine 1 described later. The reservation information storage means corresponds to, for example, a memory 14 described later or a reservation order management table 22 stored in the memory 14.

  Further, as means for solving the above problems, an image forming apparatus, a control method in the image forming apparatus, a control program, and a recording medium may be used.

  According to the present invention, the user can efficiently use the image forming apparatus.

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

  FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of an example of an image forming system. As shown in FIG. 1, in the image forming system, a plurality of client PCs (Personal Computers) 2, a multifunction device 1, a printer 4, and a host PC 3 are connected via a network 5.

  Note that a multifunction peripheral is a device that integrates functions such as a printer, scanner, FAX, and copy. In the following, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, a case where the user performs copying using the multifunction device 1 will be described as an example. Further, the multifunction device 1 and the client PC 2 may communicate with each other via the host PC 3, or the multifunction device 1 and the client PC 2 may directly communicate with each other. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, the description will be made assuming that the multi-function device 1 and the client PC 2 perform direct communication unless otherwise specified. The client is not limited to a PC, and may be a PDA (Personal Digital Assistance), a mobile phone, or the like. However, in the following, for simplification of description, a description will be given using a PC (client PC 2) as an example of a client.

  FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of an example of a multifunction machine. As shown in FIG. 2, the multifunction device 1 includes an operation unit 11, a drive unit 12, a recording medium 13, a memory 14, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 15, an interface unit 16, a scanner unit 17, and the like. The image processing unit 18 and the writing unit 19 are included.

  The operation unit 14 is used when the user inputs various operation information (or operation data) to the image forming apparatus 1 and displays various information (or data) to the user. The interface unit 16 is an interface for connecting the multifunction device 1 to the network 5 or the like. The program of the multifunction device 1 is provided to the multifunction device 1 by a recording medium 13 such as a CD-ROM, or is downloaded through the network 5. The recording medium 13 is set in the drive unit 12, and the program is installed from the recording medium 13 to the memory 14 or the like via the drive unit 12.

  The memory 14 stores a program and data used for processing the program, such as a user information storage table 21 and / or a reservation order management table 22 described later. The CPU 11 executes, for example, processing as shown in a flowchart described later according to the program.

  The scanner unit 17 is a reading unit that reads an image. The image processing unit 18 is a processing unit that performs image processing. For example, the image processing unit 18 performs image processing on an image read by the scanner unit 17. The writing unit 19 is a writing unit that writes an image. For example, the writing unit 19 writes an image received from the image processing unit 18 or the like on a recording sheet (or forms an image).

  By configuring the memory 14 as a non-volatile memory, even if the power of the multifunction device 1 is suddenly turned off due to an error or an unexpected accident, a user information storage table 21 and / or a later-described user information storage table 21 and / or The reservation order management table 22 and the like are held, and processing related to reservation such as copying can be continuously executed even after the multifunction device 1 is restarted. Note that the client PC 2 also has a CPU, like a general PC, and the CPU executes processing according to a program while using a memory or the like as appropriate.

  An example of the user information storage table 21 is shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the user information storage table. As shown in FIG. 3, the user information storage table 21 associates a user name, a user ID, a password, a user's PC name, and PC specifying information for specifying the user's PC (client PC 2). Hold (or remember). Note that the PC identification information includes an IP address, a domain name, a host name, a mail address, and the like. When one user has a plurality of PCs (client PCs 2), for example, a plurality of IP addresses may be stored in the PC identification information. When a plurality of IP addresses and the like are stored in this way, the multi function device 1 transmits a message and the like described later to each IP address.

  In some cases, a plurality of users are using one client PC 2. In such a case, the multifunction device 1 needs to specify a user who has logged in to the client PC 2. That is, the multi-function device 1 makes an inquiry about the login user to the client PC 2 directly or via the host PC 3, specifies (or confirms) the user who has logged in the client PC 2, and transmits a message to be described later. May be. However, in the following, for the sake of simplification of description, the description will be made assuming that one user uses one client PC 2 unless otherwise specified.

  Further, the user information recording table 21 may be managed collectively by the host PC 3 or the like. For example, when there are a plurality of multifunction devices or the like in the same network, the user information recording table 21 is managed collectively by the host PC 3 or the like, so that the user information recording table 21 is managed by each multifunction device. Can be reduced. However, for the sake of simplification of description, the user information storage table 21 will be described below as being held in the memory 14 or the like by the multi-function device 1.

  The user uses the operation unit 11 of the multi-function device 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5 to store data as shown in FIG. Keep it.

  An example of the reservation order management table 22 is shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 1) illustrating the reservation order management table. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the reservation order management table 22 stores (or stores) a number representing a reservation order and a user ID in association with each other. As described above, the reservation order management table 22 is held in the memory 14 of the multifunction machine 1 or the like.

  An authorized user can change the reservation order (or a number representing the reservation order) using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5. When there is a reservation from the user, as will be described later, the multifunction device 1 queues the user ID and the like in the reservation order management table 22, and when the copying of the user is completed, the user ID of the user is read from the reservation order management table 22. Etc., and reassign a new number to give the right to print to the next user.

  An example of the reservation process in the multifunction machine 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the reservation process.

  In step S10, the multifunction device 1 receives a copy reservation request including a user ID, a password, and the like from the client PC 2 or the like via the network 5, for example. Progressing to step S11 following step S10, the multi-function device 1 performs user authentication based on the user ID and password included in the reservation request.

  When the user is authenticated, the process proceeds to step S12 following step S11, and the multifunction device 1 refers to the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID included in the reservation request. Proceeding to step S13 following step S12, the multi-function device 1 stores in the user information storage table 21 user information corresponding to the user ID included in the reservation request (for example, the PC name and the PC specifying information here). It is determined whether or not there is. When determining that the user information storage table 21 has user information corresponding to the user ID included in the reservation request (YES in step S13), the multi-function device 1 proceeds to step S14, and the user information storage table 21 stores the reservation request in the user information storage table 21. If it is determined that there is no user information corresponding to the user ID included in (NO in step S13), the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S <b> 14, the multifunction device 1 adds the user ID and number to the end of the reservation order management table 22, for example. On the other hand, in step S15, a user information registration request is transmitted to the client PC 2 or the like of the user who made the copy reservation request.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 5, the multifunction device 1 can accept and register a reservation. The reservation information managed in the reservation order management table 22 is displayed on the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or can be referred to from the client PC 2 or the like via the network 5 so that the user or reservation An error occurs in the multifunction device 1 when the user is not present at the multifunction device 1, or the user or the reservation person can be contacted when negotiating the rights related to the printing order, which is convenient in operation.

  An example of copy processing in the order of reservation in the multifunction machine 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of copy processing in the order of reservation.

  In step S20, for example, when the multifunction device 1 determines that the copy process (previous copy process) of a certain user has been completed, the process proceeds to step S21, and the next reservation person exists with reference to the reservation order management table 22. It is determined whether or not. If the multifunction device 1 determines that there is a next reservation person (YES in step S21), it proceeds to step S22. If it determines that there is no next reservation person (NO in step S21), it ends the copy processing in the order of reservation. To do.

  In step S <b> 22, the multi function device 1 acquires the user ID of the next reservation person from the reservation order management table 22. Progressing to step S23 following step S22, the multi-function device 1 acquires the PC specifying information from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID acquired in step S22.

  Proceeding to step S24 following step S23, the multi-function device 1 transmits, for example, a message to the effect that the copy order has been obtained in step S23 to the client PC 2 specified by the PC specifying information.

  Progressing to step S25 following step S24, the multifunction peripheral 1 logs in via the network 5 by the reservation person using the operation unit 11 or the client PC 2 within a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes). It is determined whether or not. If multifunction device 1 determines that the reservation person has logged in within a predetermined time (YES in step S25), it proceeds to step S26, and determines that the reservation person has not logged in within a predetermined time ( In step S25, NO), the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S <b> 26, the multi-function device 1 performs user authentication with reference to the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID, password, and the like input by the user when logging in. When the user is authenticated, the process proceeds to step S27, and the multifunction device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 based on the user ID, proceeds to step S28, and determines whether or not it is the next reservation person.

  When the multifunction device 1 determines that the user ID input by the user when logging in and the user ID of the next reservation person stored in the reservation order management table 22 are the same, the multifunction machine 1 is the next reservation person. (YES in step S28), the process proceeds to step S30, and the user ID input by the user when logging in is not the same as the user ID of the next reservation person stored in the reservation order management table 22. If determined, it is determined that the person is not the next reservation person (NO in step S28), and the process proceeds to step S29.

  In step S29, a message indicating that the multifunction device 1 cannot be used is displayed on the operation unit 11, for example, and the process returns to step S21. In step S29, the MFP 1 acquires the PC specifying information from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID input by the user, and cannot be used for the client PC 2 of the user. The message may be transmitted.

  On the other hand, in step S30, the multifunction device 1 performs a copy operation in response to a request from the user. If it is determined that the copying operation has been completed, the multifunction device 1 proceeds to step S31, and acquires PC specifying information from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID of the logged-in user.

  Proceeding to step S32 following step S31, the multi function device 1 transmits a message to the effect that the copying operation has been completed to the client PC 2 specified by the PC specifying information acquired in step S31.

  In step S33, the multifunction device 1 deletes the reservation information of the user who has completed the copy operation or has not logged in within the time from the reservation order management table 22, and returns to step S21.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 6, the multifunction device 1 enables the user to use the multifunction device 1 efficiently. That is, by performing the processing as shown in FIG. 6, the multi-function device 1 eliminates wasted time such as waiting for copying between users, and allows the user to perform user operations and image forming operations such as copying. An image forming environment that can be efficiently performed is provided.

  In the embodiment described above, reservation processing such as copying and copying processing in the order of reservation have been described. However, in the following embodiment, when a reservation such as copying is made, the user may turn off the power. Indicates the processing when requested.

  The means for the user to notify the multifunction device 1 that the power is turned off or on may be a power switch provided in the main body of the multifunction device 1 or provided in the operation unit 11 of the multifunction device 1 ( Alternatively, it may be a power button or the like displayed.

  An example of the power-off process in the multifunction machine 1 is shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating the power-off process.

  In step S <b> 40, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the user has requested to turn off the power by pressing a power switch or the like, for example. If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has been requested to turn off the power by the user (YES in step S40), it proceeds to step S41, and determines that it has not been requested to turn off the power from the user (step S40). NO), the process of step S40 is repeated.

  In step S41, the multi function device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 and determines whether reservation information exists, that is, whether there is a reservation person. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is a reservation person (YES in step S42), it proceeds to step S43, and if it determines that there is no reservation person (NO in step S42), it proceeds to step S44.

  In step S43, the multi function device 1 displays that the power supply cannot be turned off, for example, on the operation unit 11 or the like, and returns to step S40. On the other hand, in step S44, the multifunction device 1 turns off the power and ends the process.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 7, the multi-function device 1 can prevent the power of the multi-function device 1 from being turned off in a situation where there is a reservation person.

  Hereinafter, another example of the power-off process will be described in the third embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating the power-off process.

  In step S50, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the user has requested to turn off the power by pressing a power switch or the like, for example. If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has been requested to turn off the power by the user (YES in step S50), it proceeds to step S51, and determines that it has not been requested to turn off the power from the user (step S50). NO), the process of step S50 is repeated.

  In step S51, the multi function device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 and determines whether reservation information exists, that is, whether there is a reservation person. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is a reservation person (YES in step S52), it proceeds to step S53, and if it determines that there is no reservation person (NO in step S52), it proceeds to step S58.

  In step S53, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not to send a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person. For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, It is determined that a message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (YES in step S53), and the process proceeds to step S54. If 0 is set in the flag, it is determined that a message is not transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (NO in step S53). ), And proceeds to step S57. An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S <b> 54, the multifunction device 1 acquires, for example, user IDs of all the reservation persons from the reservation order management table 22. Progressing to step S55 following step S54, the multi-function device 1 acquires PC specifying information corresponding to each user ID from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID acquired in step S54.

  Proceeding to step S56 following step S55, the multi-function device 1 transmits, for example, a message indicating that a power-off is requested by a certain user to the client PC 2 specified by the PC specifying information acquired in step S55, and step S58. Proceed to

  On the other hand, in step S57, the multi function device 1 displays that the power supply cannot be turned off, for example, on the operation unit 11 or the like, and returns to step S50. In step S58, the multifunction machine 1 turns off the power and ends the process.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 8, the multi-function device 1 sends a message to the reservation person that the power-off is requested by a user according to the setting, and then turns off the power. Can do.

  Hereinafter, another example of the power-off process will be described in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart (part 3) illustrating the power-off process.

  In step S <b> 60, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the user has requested to turn off the power by pressing a power switch or the like, for example. If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has been requested to turn off the power by the user (YES in step S60), it proceeds to step S61, and determines that it has not been requested to turn off the power from the user (step S60). NO), the process of step S60 is repeated.

  In step S61, the multi function device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 and determines whether reservation information exists, that is, whether there is a reservation person. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is a reservation person (YES in step S62), it proceeds to step S63, and if it determines that there is no reservation person (NO in step S62), it proceeds to step S72.

  In step S63, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not to send a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person. For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, It is determined that a message is to be transmitted to the client PC 2 (YES in step S63), and the process proceeds to step S64. If the flag is set to 0, it is determined that no message is transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (NO in step S63). ), And proceeds to step S71. An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S <b> 64, the multi-function device 1 acquires, for example, user IDs of all reservation persons from the reservation order management table 22. Proceeding to step S65 following step S64, the multi-function device 1 acquires PC specifying information corresponding to each user ID from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID acquired in step S64.

  Progressing to step S66 following step S65, the multi-function device 1 notifies the reservation person of a message that the power-off is requested by a certain user, or the power-off is requested by a certain user, for example. It is determined whether or not to confirm whether or not to turn off.

  For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a confirmation message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, the reservation person It is determined that the confirmation message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (confirmed in step S66), and the process proceeds to step S68. If 0 is set in the flag, it is determined that the notification message is transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (step S66). At step S67). An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S67, for example, the multifunction device 1 transmits a notification message to the effect that the power-off is requested by a certain user to the client PC 2 specified by the PC specifying information acquired in step S65, and the process proceeds to step S72.

  On the other hand, in step S68, the multifunction device 1 is identified by the PC identification information acquired in step S65, for example, a confirmation message as to whether or not the power may be turned off although a power-off is requested by a certain user. Send to client PC2.

  Proceeding to step S69 following step S68, the multi-function device 1 determines whether or not a response message corresponding to the confirmation message has been received from all the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the confirmation message in step S68.

  If the multi-function device 1 determines that it has received a response message corresponding to the confirmation message from all the destination client PCs 2 that transmitted the confirmation message in step S68 (YES in step S69), it proceeds to step S70 and confirms in step S68. If it is determined that the response message corresponding to the confirmation message has not been received from all the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the message (NO in step S69), the processing in step S69 is repeated.

  In step S <b> 70, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not the power can be turned off. For example, if the multifunction device 1 determines that all the received response messages include information indicating that the power can be turned off, which indicates that the power may be turned off, the multifunction device 1 determines that the power may be turned off (Step S1). If YES in S70, the process proceeds to step S72, and if it is determined that even one of the received response messages includes information on whether or not the power is turned off, indicating that the power should not be turned off, the power is turned off. It is determined that it is not allowed (NO in step S70), and the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, the multifunction device 1 displays that the power supply cannot be turned off, for example, on the operation unit 11 or the like, and returns to step S60. On the other hand, in step S72, the multifunction device 1 turns off the power and ends the process.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 9, the multi function device 1 transmits a notification message to the reservation person that a power-off is requested by a user according to the setting, and then turns off the power. Depending on the setting, a power-off request was made by a user, but a confirmation message confirming whether or not the power can be turned off is sent to the reservation person, and in response to a response message from the reservation person The power can be turned off or not turned off.

  An example of the confirmation process in the client PC 2 is shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the confirmation process.

  In step S <b> 80, the client PC 2 determines whether a confirmation message has been received from the multifunction device 1. If client PC 2 determines that a confirmation message has been received from multifunction device 1 (YES in step S80), the process proceeds to step S81. If it is determined that no confirmation message has been received (NO in step S80), processing in step S80 is performed. repeat.

  In step S81, the client PC 2 displays on the display or the like of the client PC 2 that the confirmation message has been received. For example, the client PC 2 receives a confirmation message, asks whether the power can be turned off, and displays a screen on which the user can select “OK” or “NG” on the display of the client PC 2. indicate.

  Progressing to step S82 following step S81, the client PC 2 determines whether or not the power may be turned off. For example, if the client PC 2 determines that the user has selected “OK” on the screen displayed in step S81, the client PC 2 determines that the power may be turned off (YES in step S82), proceeds to step S83, and displays in step S81. If it is determined that the user has selected “NG” on the screen, it is determined that the power should not be turned off (NO in step S82), and the process proceeds to step S84.

  In step S83, the client PC 2 creates a response message including information indicating that the power can be turned off, and proceeds to step S85. On the other hand, in step S84, the client PC 2 creates a response message including information on whether or not the power is off, and proceeds to step S85.

  In step S85, the client PC 2 transmits a response message to the multifunction device 1 that has transmitted the confirmation message.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 10, the client PC 2 allows the user to select whether or not to permit power off.

  Hereinafter, another example of the power-off process will be described in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart (part 4) illustrating the power-off process.

  In step S <b> 90, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the user has requested to turn off the power by pressing a power switch or the like, for example. If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has been requested to turn off the power by the user (YES in step S90), it proceeds to step S91, and determines that it has not been requested to turn off the power from the user (step S90). NO), the process of step S90 is repeated.

  In step S91, the multi function device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 and determines whether reservation information exists, that is, whether there is a reservation person. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is a reservation person (YES in step S92), it proceeds to step S93, and if it determines that there is no reservation person (NO in step S92), it proceeds to step S103.

  In step S93, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not to transmit a message to the client PC2 of the reservation person. For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, It is determined that a message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (YES in step S93), and the process proceeds to step S94. If 0 is set in the flag, it is determined that the message is not transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (NO in step S93). ), The process proceeds to step S102. An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S <b> 94, the multi-function device 1 acquires, for example, user IDs of all the reservation persons from the reservation order management table 22. Proceeding to step S95 following step S94, the multi-function device 1 acquires the PC specifying information corresponding to each user ID from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID acquired in step S94.

  Progressing to step S96 following step S95, the multifunction device 1 notifies the reservation person of a message that a power-off is requested by a certain user, for example, or the power-off is requested by a certain user, for example. It is determined whether or not to confirm whether or not to turn off.

  For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a confirmation message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, the reservation person It is determined that a confirmation message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (confirmed in step S96), and the process proceeds to step S98. If 0 is set in the flag, it is determined that a notification message is transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (step S96). At step S97). An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S97, the multifunction device 1 transmits, for example, a notification message indicating that a power-off is requested by a certain user to the client PC 2 specified by the PC specification information acquired in step S95, and the process proceeds to step S103.

  On the other hand, in step S98, the MFP 1 is identified by the PC identification information acquired in step S95, for example, a confirmation message as to whether or not the power supply may be turned off although a power-off is requested by a certain user. Send to client PC2.

  Proceeding to step S99 following step S98, the multi-function device 1 determines whether or not a response message corresponding to the confirmation message has been received from all the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the confirmation message in step S98.

  If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has received a response message corresponding to the confirmation message from all the destination client PCs 2 that transmitted the confirmation message in step S98 (YES in step S99), it proceeds to step S101 and confirms in step S98. If it is determined that the response message corresponding to the confirmation message has not been received from all the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the message (NO in step S99), the process proceeds to step S100.

  In step S100, the multifunction device 1 refers to, for example, a response waiting time set in the memory 14 or the like, and determines whether or not the time has elapsed. If multifunction device 1 determines that a predetermined response waiting time has elapsed (YES in step S100), it proceeds to step S102 and determines that the predetermined response waiting time has not elapsed (step S100). NO) returns to step S99.

  On the other hand, in step S101, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not the power may be turned off. For example, if the multifunction device 1 determines that all the received response messages include information indicating that the power can be turned off, which indicates that the power may be turned off, the multifunction device 1 determines that the power may be turned off (Step S1). (YES in S101), the process proceeds to step S103, and if it is determined that even one of the received response messages includes power-off information indicating that the power should not be turned off, the power is turned off. It is determined that it is not allowed (NO in step S101), and the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, the multifunction device 1 displays that the power supply cannot be turned off, for example, on the operation unit 11 or the like, and returns to step S90. On the other hand, in step S103, the multifunction device 1 turns off the power and ends the process.

  By executing the process as shown in FIG. 11, for example, the power of the destination client PC 2 that has transmitted the confirmation message is turned off, or it has been away from its own seat for a certain period of time such as a meeting or a business trip, If the reservation person does not recognize that the confirmation message has been received and the multifunction device 1 cannot receive a response message from the client PC 2, the power of the multifunction device 1 can be prevented from being turned off.

  Hereinafter, another example of the power-off process will be described in the sixth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart (part 5) illustrating the power-off process.

  In step S <b> 110, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the user has requested to turn off the power by pressing a power switch or the like, for example. If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has been requested to turn off the power by the user (YES in step S110), it proceeds to step S111, and determines that it has not been requested to turn off the power from the user (step S110). NO), the process of step S110 is repeated.

  In step S111, the multi function device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 and determines whether reservation information exists, that is, whether there is a reservation person. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is a reservation person (YES in step S112), it proceeds to step S113, and if it determines that there is no reservation person (NO in step S112), it proceeds to step S123.

  In step S113, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not to send a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person. For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, It is determined that a message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (YES in step S113), and the process proceeds to step S114. If the flag is set to 0, it is determined that the message is not transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (NO in step S113). ), The process proceeds to step S122. An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S <b> 114, the multifunction device 1 acquires, for example, user IDs of all the reservation persons from the reservation order management table 22. Progressing to step S115 following step S114, the multi-function device 1 acquires PC specifying information corresponding to each user ID from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID acquired in step S114.

  Progressing to step S116 following step S115, the multi function device 1 notifies the reservation person of a message that the power-off is requested by a certain user, or the power-off is requested by a certain user, for example. It is determined whether or not to confirm whether or not to turn off.

  For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a confirmation message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, the reservation person It is determined that a confirmation message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (confirmed in step S116), and the process proceeds to step S118. If 0 is set in the flag, it is determined that a notification message is transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (step S116). At step S117). An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S117, for example, the multifunction device 1 transmits a notification message to the effect that a power-off is requested by a certain user to the client PC 2 specified by the PC specifying information acquired in step S115, and the process proceeds to step S123.

  On the other hand, in step S118, the MFP 1 is identified by the PC identification information acquired in step S115, for example, a confirmation message as to whether or not the power may be turned off although a power-off is requested by a certain user. Send to client PC2.

  Proceeding to step S119 following step S118, the multi-function device 1 determines whether or not a response message corresponding to the confirmation message has been received from all of the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the confirmation message in step S118.

  If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has received a response message corresponding to the confirmation message from all the destination client PCs 2 that transmitted the confirmation message in step S118 (YES in step S119), it proceeds to step S121 and confirms in step S118. If it is determined that the response message corresponding to the confirmation message has not been received from all the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the message (NO in step S119), the process proceeds to step S120.

  In step S120, the multifunction device 1 refers to a response waiting time set in the memory 14 or the like, for example, and determines whether or not the time has elapsed. If multifunction device 1 determines that a predetermined response waiting time has elapsed (YES in step S120), it proceeds to step S123 and determines that the predetermined response waiting time has not elapsed (step S120). NO), the process returns to step S119.

  On the other hand, in step S121, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the power may be turned off. For example, if the multifunction device 1 determines that all the received response messages include information indicating that the power can be turned off, which indicates that the power may be turned off, the multifunction device 1 determines that the power may be turned off (Step S1). If YES in S121), the process proceeds to step S123, and if it is determined that even one of the received response messages includes power-off information indicating that the power should not be turned off, the power is turned off. It is determined that it is not allowed (NO in step S121), and the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the multifunction device 1 displays that the power supply cannot be turned off, for example, on the operation unit 11 or the like, and returns to step S110. On the other hand, in step S123, the multifunction device 1 turns off the power and ends the process.

  By executing the processing as shown in FIG. 12, for example, the power of the destination client PC 2 that has transmitted the confirmation message is turned off, or it has been away from your seat for a certain period of time such as a meeting or business trip, When the reservation person does not recognize that the confirmation message has been received and the multifunction device 1 cannot receive the response message from the client PC 2, the power of the multifunction device 1 can be turned off.

  Hereinafter, another example of the power-off process will be described in the seventh embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart (No. 6) showing the power-off process.

  In step S <b> 130, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not the user has requested to turn off the power by pressing a power switch or the like, for example. If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has been requested to turn off the power by the user (YES in step S130), it proceeds to step S131, and determines that it has not been requested to turn off the power from the user (step S130). NO), the process of step S130 is repeated.

  In step S131, the multifunction device 1 determines whether or not an error has occurred in the multifunction device 1 that requires, for example, power off / on for recovery. If the multifunction device 1 determines that an error has occurred in the multifunction device 1 that needs to be turned off and on for recovery (YES in step S131), the multifunction device 1 proceeds to step S143, and the multifunction device 1 performs recovery, for example. If it is determined that an error that requires turning the power off and on has not occurred (NO in step S131), the process proceeds to step S132.

  In step S133, the multi function device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 and determines whether reservation information exists, that is, whether there is a reservation person. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is a reservation person (YES in step S133), it proceeds to step S134, and if it determines that there is no reservation person (NO in step S133), it proceeds to step S143.

  In step S134, the multifunction device 1 determines whether to send a message to the client PC2 of the reservation person. For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, It is determined that a message is to be transmitted to the client PC 2 (YES in step S134), and the process proceeds to step S135. If the flag is set to 0, it is determined that a message is not transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (NO in step S134). ), The process proceeds to step S142. An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S135, the multi-function device 1 acquires, for example, user IDs of all the reservation persons from the reservation order management table 22. Progressing to step S136 following step S135, the multi-function device 1 acquires PC specifying information corresponding to each user ID from the user information storage table 21 based on the user ID acquired in step S135.

  Progressing to step S137 following step S136, the multifunction device 1 notifies the reservation person of a message that the power-off is requested by a certain user, or the power-off is requested by a certain user, for example. It is determined whether or not to confirm whether or not to turn off.

  For example, the multifunction device 1 refers to a flag or the like for identifying whether or not to transmit a confirmation message to the client PC 2 of the reservation person set in the memory 14 or the like, and if 1 is set in the flag, the reservation person It is determined that the confirmation message is transmitted to the client PC 2 (confirmed in step S137), and the process proceeds to step S139. If the flag is set to 0, it is determined that the notification message is transmitted to the client PC 2 of the reservation person (step S137). At step S138). An authorized user can set a value of 0 or 1 to the flag using the operation unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 or the client PC 2 via the network 5.

  In step S138, for example, the multifunction device 1 transmits a notification message to the effect that a power-off request has been made by a certain user to the client PC 2 identified by the PC identification information acquired in step S136, and the process proceeds to step S143.

  On the other hand, in step S139, for example, the multifunction device 1 is requested to turn off the power by a certain user, but a confirmation message as to whether the power may be turned off is specified by the PC specifying information acquired in step S136. Send to client PC2.

  Proceeding to step S140 following step S139, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not a response message corresponding to the confirmation message has been received from all the client PCs 2 to which the confirmation message has been transmitted in step S139.

  If the multifunction device 1 determines that it has received a response message corresponding to the confirmation message from all the destination client PCs 2 that transmitted the confirmation message in step S139 (YES in step S140), it proceeds to step S141 and confirms in step S139. If it is determined that the response message corresponding to the confirmation message has not been received from all the destination client PCs 2 that have transmitted the message (NO in step S140), the processing in step S140 is repeated.

  In step S141, the multi function device 1 determines whether or not the power may be turned off. For example, if the multifunction device 1 determines that all the received response messages include information indicating that the power can be turned off, which indicates that the power may be turned off, the multifunction device 1 determines that the power may be turned off (Step S1). (YES in S141), the process proceeds to step S143, and if it is determined that even one of the received response messages includes power-off information indicating that the power should not be turned off, the power is turned off. It is determined that it is not allowed (NO in step S141), and the process proceeds to step S142.

  In step S142, the multifunction device 1 displays that the power cannot be turned off, for example, on the operation unit 11 or the like, and returns to step S130. On the other hand, in step S143, the multifunction device 1 turns off the power and ends the process.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 13, when the multifunction device 1 is requested to turn off the power by the user, an error has occurred in the multifunction device 1, and for example, power on / off is required for recovery. If it is determined that the multi-function device 1 can be turned off even if a reservation person exists.

  Hereinafter, an example of the reservation information deletion process after a predetermined time has elapsed will be described in Example 8. FIG. 14 is a diagram (part 2) of the reservation order management table. As shown in FIG. 14, the reservation order management table 22 stores (or stores) a number representing a reservation order, a user ID, and reservation reception time information in association with each other.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing reservation information deletion processing after a predetermined time has elapsed. In step S150, the multifunction device 1 refers to the reservation order management table 22 as shown in FIG. 14, for example, compares the current time with reservation reception time information, and receives a reservation for a predetermined time (for example, 1 hour) It is determined whether there is reservation information that has passed. If multifunction device 1 determines that there is reservation information after a lapse of a predetermined time after accepting the reservation (YES in step S150), it proceeds to step S151, and if there is no reservation information after the lapse of the predetermined time after accepting the reservation. If determined (NO in step S150), the process of step S150 is repeated.

  In step S151, the multifunction peripheral 1 deletes the reservation information determined to have passed the predetermined time in step S150 from the reservation order management table 22, and returns to step S150.

  By performing the processing as shown in FIG. 15, the multi-function device 1 can delete the reservation information for which a predetermined time has elapsed from the reservation order management table 22.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the user can efficiently use the image forming apparatus.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.・ Change is possible.

1 is a system configuration diagram of an example of an image forming system. 2 is a control block diagram of an example of a multifunction peripheral. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a user information storage table. It is a figure (the 1) which shows a reservation order management table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a reservation process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the copy process of a reservation order. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows a power-off process. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows a power-off process. It is a flowchart (the 3) which shows a power-off process. It is a flowchart which shows a confirmation process. It is a flowchart (the 4) which shows a power-off process. It is a flowchart (the 5) which shows a power-off process. It is a flowchart (the 6) which shows a power-off process. It is a figure (the 2) which shows a reservation order management table. It is a flowchart which shows the reservation information deletion process after predetermined time progress.

Explanation of symbols

1 MFP 2 Client PC
3 Host PC
4 Printer 5 Network 11 Operation Unit 12 Drive Unit 13 Recording Medium 14 Memory 15 CPU
16 Interface unit 17 Scanner unit 18 Image processing unit 19 Writing unit 21 User information storage table 22 Reservation order management table

Claims (14)

An image forming system in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses and an image forming apparatus are connected via a network,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Reservation information storage means for storing the order information of reservation related to image formation and user identification information for identifying the user who made the reservation in association with each other;
If it is determined that the processing related to image formation by a certain user has been completed, the user identification information of the user reserved in the next order is acquired from the reservation order information stored in the reservation information storage means, and the user Based on the identification information, the user information storage means that stores the user identification information for identifying the user and the information processing apparatus identification information for identifying the information processing apparatus used by the user in association with each other. An image forming system characterized by notifying an information processing device acquired and identified by the information processing device identification information that a function related to image formation of the image processing device is available.   When the image forming apparatus receives a request from the user to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus refers to the reservation information storage unit to determine whether or not a reservation for image formation has been made, and image formation 2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein if it is determined that a reservation related to the image formation is made, the power is not turned off, and if it is determined that a reservation related to image formation is not made, the power is turned off.   When the image forming apparatus receives a request from the user to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus refers to the reservation information storage unit to determine whether or not a reservation for image formation has been made, and image formation If it is determined that the reservation is made, the user information of the user making the reservation is acquired from the reservation information storage means without turning off the power, and the user information is obtained based on the user identification information. Information processing apparatus identification information stored in association with the user identification information is acquired from the storage means, and the image forming apparatus is turned off for the information processing apparatus identified by the information processing apparatus identification information. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system notifies that it is about to be performed. When the information processing apparatus receives a notification from the image forming apparatus that the power is about to be turned off, the information processing apparatus notifies the user that the notification has been received, and the power is left as it is in response to a request from the user. Transmitting a response including off / non-permitted identification information for identifying whether or not the image may be turned off to the image forming apparatus;
When the image forming apparatus receives a response including the off enable / disable identification information from the information processing apparatus that has performed the notification, the image forming apparatus may turn off the power based on the off enable / disable identification information. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein:   When the image forming apparatus receives a request from the user to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus, the power is turned off for the information processing apparatuses of all users who have made reservations when the request is received. 5. The image according to claim 4, wherein a notification that the power is about to be sent is issued, and the power is turned off upon receiving a response indicating that the power can be turned off as it is from all the information processing apparatuses that have made the notification. Forming system.   The image forming apparatus does not turn off the power if there is no response corresponding to the notification from the information processing apparatus that is the notification destination that has notified that the power is about to be turned off. The image forming system according to any one of 3 to 5.   The image forming apparatus turns off the power if there is no response corresponding to the notification within a predetermined time from the information processing apparatus that has notified that the power is about to be turned off. The image forming system according to claim 3, wherein the image forming system is an image forming system.   When the image forming apparatus receives a request from the user to turn off the power of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus determines whether an error relating to the image forming function has occurred, and the error has occurred. 8. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply is turned off even if a reservation for image formation is made. The image forming apparatus further includes a non-volatile recording unit,
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the reservation information storage unit is mounted on the nonvolatile recording unit. The reservation information storage means stores the order information of reservations related to image formation, user identification information for identifying a user who made the reservation, and time information for receiving the reservation in association with each other,
2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus compares the current time with the time information, and deletes reservation information that has passed a predetermined time from the reservation information storage unit. The image forming system according to claim 9. An image forming apparatus connected to a plurality of information processing apparatuses via a network,
Reservation information storage means for storing the order information of reservations related to image formation and user identification information for identifying the user who made the reservation in association with each other;
If it is determined that the processing related to image formation by a certain user has been completed, the user identification information of the user reserved in the next order is acquired from the reservation order information stored in the reservation information storage means, and the user Based on the identification information, the user identification information for identifying the user and the information processing apparatus identification information for identifying the information processing apparatus used by the user are stored in association with the information processing apparatus identification information. An image forming apparatus characterized in that it acquires and notifies an information processing apparatus identified by the information processing apparatus identification information that a function related to image formation of the image processing apparatus is available. A control method in an image forming apparatus connected to a plurality of information processing apparatuses via a network,
When it is determined that the processing related to image formation by a certain user has been completed, reservation information storage means for storing the order information of reservation related to image formation and user identification information for identifying the user who made the reservation in association with each other. User identification information of users reserved in the next order is acquired from the stored reservation order information, and user identification information for identifying the user based on the user identification information and information used by the user Information processing device identification information is obtained from user information storage means for storing information processing device identification information for identifying a processing device in association with each other, and the information processing device identified by the information processing device identification information A control method for notifying that a function related to image formation of an image processing apparatus is available.   A control program causing a computer of an image forming apparatus to execute the control method according to claim 12.   A computer-readable recording medium on which the control program according to claim 13 is recorded.

Images