JP2007004598A - Management device and method of image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a management device and method for an image forming apparatus capable of setting an operating method that makes a reader read a non-contact type authenticating medium in accordance with the usage form of an image forming apparatus that can be used by making the reader read the non-contact type authenticating medium to obtain authentication of usage permission. <P>SOLUTION: The management device comprises a non-contact type IC card communication part 102 for detecting a non-contact type IC card 40 and reading identification information formed in the detected non-contact type IC card 40, a composite-machine connecting part 107 for transmitting the identification information of the non-contact type IC card 40 read by the non-contact type IC card communicating part 102 to a composite-machine 20, and a management device control part 106 for instructing the composite-machine 20 to release the usage permissible state of the composite-machine 20, and the composite-machine 20 authenticates the usage permission based on the identification information of the non-contact type IC card 40 transmitted by the composite-machine connecting part 107. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus management apparatus and method, and more particularly, to a non-contact type according to a usage form of an image forming apparatus that can be used by causing a reading apparatus to read a non-contact type authentication medium and obtaining use permission authentication. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus management apparatus and method capable of setting an operation method for reading an authentication medium by a reading apparatus.

  In recent years, with the development of network technology, devices such as printers, copiers, and multifunction devices are connected to a network and shared and used as one of network resources.

  In addition, problems such as an increase in the amount of printing due to an increase in electronic information sources and unauthorized use of printers are also becoming obvious, preventing mass printing for personal purposes of users, improving user cost awareness, Furthermore, the effective utilization of resources such as printers is an important issue.

  In response to such issues, the usage status of each user in an arbitrary period such as monthly or yearly is tabulated using a print log stored in a printer or the like by a management server or the like installed on the network. A method of managing the upper limit number of prints for each user or each device such as a printer has also been proposed.

  In addition, a management device is directly connected to or embedded in each device such as a printer, a copier, or a multifunction device, and a magnetic card on which information permitting the use of each device is recorded is distributed to the user. When using the device, insert a magnetic card into the management device and authenticate it, enabling use of the printer, etc., and managing the usage status for each user, managing the maximum number of prints for each user, etc. Has also been proposed.

  For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a copier management apparatus that accurately acquires and manages information related to the copy fee spent by each department regarding the use status of the copier.

  The management device shown in this proposal distributes a card in which information indicating each department is recorded in advance to each department, and when using a copying machine, insert the card into a card reader to read the department information and use it. The copying fee spent for each department is managed based on the counted values such as the paper size and the number of sheets.

In recent years, non-contact IC cards that are more secure and convenient than magnetic cards have become widespread as alternatives to magnetic cards used in ID cards, and management allows reading information recorded on non-contact IC cards. It is also desirable to provide a device.
JP 61-051162 A

  By the way, although there is an example in which a non-contact type IC card is incorporated and operated, for example, in a mobile phone terminal or the like, since the non-contact type IC card is operated in a state of being inserted into a management device like a conventional magnetic card. If so, the convenience of the non-contact type IC card cannot be fully exhibited.

  In addition, the non-contact type IC card allows the reader to read information recorded on the non-contact type IC card by simply holding the non-contact type IC card over the IC card detection unit of the reader. When operating with an IC card applied to the management device, for example, when operating with the contactless IC card held over the IC card detection unit of the management device, the contactless IC card is used as the IC card detection unit of the management device. When operating in a state where it can be used for a certain period of time after being held over, when holding a non-contact type IC card over the IC card detection unit of the management device, and operating in a state where it can be used until a termination operation is performed, etc. Various operation methods are assumed.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an operation method for causing a reading device to read a non-contact type authentication medium according to the usage form of the image forming apparatus that can be used by causing the reading device to read the non-contact type authentication medium and obtaining use permission authentication. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus management apparatus and method capable of setting the above.

  In order to achieve the above object, a first aspect of the present invention is directed to a detection unit that detects a non-contact type authentication medium in an image forming apparatus management apparatus that is connected to an image forming apparatus and manages the operation of the image forming apparatus. Reading means for reading the identification information formed on the non-contact type authentication medium detected by the detection means, and transmission for transmitting the identification information of the non-contact type authentication medium read by the reading means to the image forming apparatus And a use permission release instructing means for instructing the image forming apparatus to release the use permission state of the image forming apparatus on condition that the non-contact type authentication medium is no longer detected by the detecting means. It is characterized by doing.

  Further, the invention of claim 2 is the invention of claim 1, wherein the use permission cancellation instructing means is a counting means for counting an elapsed time after the non-contact type authentication medium is no longer detected by the detecting means; Setting means for setting a predetermined time; and determination means for determining whether the time counted by the counting means has reached the predetermined time set by the setting means; The image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the use permission state when it is determined that the time counted by the setting means has reached a predetermined time set by the setting means.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect of the invention, the counting unit resets the count value of the elapsed time at the start of the image forming process in the image forming apparatus, and the end at the end of the image forming process. The counting of elapsed time is restarted.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to third aspects of the present invention, the image forming apparatus further comprises a release instruction button for instructing the release of the usable state of the image forming apparatus, When the release instruction button is operated, the image forming apparatus is instructed to release the available state in preference to the available state release instruction.

  The invention of claim 5 further comprises detection means for detecting a use end notification from the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the availability release instructing means is the detection. When an end-of-use notification from the image forming apparatus is detected by the means, the image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the available state in preference to the instruction to cancel the available state.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the management method of an image forming apparatus that is connected to the image forming apparatus and manages the operation of the image forming apparatus, the non-contact type authentication medium is detected by the detecting means and detected by the detecting means. The identification information formed on the read non-contact type authentication medium is read by a reading unit, the identification information of the non-contact type authentication medium read by the reading unit is transmitted to the image forming apparatus by a transmission unit, and the detection is performed. Instructing the image forming apparatus to cancel the use permission state of the image forming apparatus by the use permission cancel instructing means on condition that the non-contact type authentication medium by the device is no longer detected. The use permission authentication is performed based on the identification information of the contactless authentication medium transmitted by the transmission means.

  The invention according to claim 7 is the invention according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined time is set by the setting means, and the use permission cancellation instructing means is not detected by the non-contact type authentication medium by the detecting means. The elapsed time is counted by the counting means, and it is determined by the determining means whether the time counted by the counting means has reached the predetermined time set by the setting means, and is counted by the counting means by the determining means. The image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the use permission state when it is determined that a predetermined time has reached a predetermined time set by the setting means.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the seventh aspect of the invention, the counting unit resets the count value of the elapsed time at the start of the image forming process in the image forming apparatus, and the end at the end of the image forming process. The counting of elapsed time is restarted.

  The invention according to claim 9 is the invention according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the availability release instructing means has priority over the instruction to release the availability state when a release instruction button is operated. The image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the usable state.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the sixth to ninth aspects, the availability cancellation instructing means can be used when the use end notification from the image forming apparatus is detected by the detecting means. The image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the usable state in preference to the state cancellation instruction.

  According to the management apparatus and method of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the image is only displayed while the non-contact type authentication medium permitted to use the image forming apparatus is present in the IC card detection area of the management apparatus as in the conventional magnetic card. Operation control that permits use of the forming apparatus can be performed.

  In addition, when the management apparatus reads the identification information formed on the non-contact type authentication medium and the use permission of the image forming apparatus is authenticated, the management apparatus does not move outside the detection area where the non-contact type authentication medium is detected. Since the image forming apparatus can be used until a predetermined time elapses even after the contact type authentication medium is separated, the accident of leaving the magnetic card inserted in the card reading apparatus like a conventional magnetic card can be reduced and the image forming apparatus can be reduced. Even if the user is absent, it is possible to prevent the image forming apparatus from being illegally used by anyone other than a person who has been permitted to use the image forming apparatus after a certain period of time.

  In addition, when the management apparatus reads the identification information formed on the non-contact type authentication medium and the use permission of the image forming apparatus is authenticated, the image is continuously displayed until the user performs the use end operation of the image forming apparatus. Since the forming apparatus can be used, it is convenient for the user.

  Further, the above three types of operation methods can be selected only by setting the time counted by the counting means, and the operation method that best matches the user's usage mode can be easily selected. .

  DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment of an image forming apparatus management apparatus and method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing an example of the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus according to the present invention.

  In this embodiment, the multifunction machine 20 which is one of the image forming apparatuses, the non-contact type IC card 40 which is one of the non-contact type authentication media on which the user identification information is recorded, and the non-contact type IC card. The identification information recorded in 40 is read and transmitted to the multifunction device 20, and the multifunction device 20 is controlled to make the operation state of the multifunction device 20 prohibited by the presence or absence of the non-contact type IC card 40. An example configured with the management apparatus 10 that transmits a command signal will be described and described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the management apparatus 10 according to the present invention is connected to the multifunction device 20 and includes a means for reading the identification information recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40 in a non-contact manner.

  When the user uses the multi-function device 20, the non-contact type IC card 40 carried by the user is placed over the card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 or placed and recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40. The identification information for which the multifunction device 20 is permitted to use the multifunction device 20 based on the identification information of the non-contact type IC card 40 read by the management device 10 by causing the management device 10 to read the identified information. If it is determined that the multifunction device 20 is used, the multifunction device 20 can be used.

  In addition, the management apparatus 10 includes maintenance means for performing maintenance work such as setting or changing setting information set in the management apparatus 10 in order to manage the multifunction machine 20. Then, the setting device 30 such as a notebook personal computer carried by the maintenance worker is connected to the management device 10 via an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable or the like, and the maintenance software installed in the setting device 30 is started. A maintenance mode for performing maintenance work is started by performing a predetermined operation.

  The non-contact type IC card 40 has user-specific information such as an employee number when used in a company, and a user number such as a student number when used in a school. Is recorded, and the setting device 30 causes the management device 10 to set how to read information in the non-contact type IC card 40.

  In addition, the management device 10 includes an LED (= Light Emitting Diode) 110 indicating a state in which the non-contact type IC card 40 can be read, and a state in which the multifunction device 20 is usable or the management device 10 is in a maintenance mode state. The display unit 101 having the LED 109 indicating that the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10 are operating is notified to the user and the maintenance worker by turning on the LED 109 and the LED 110.

  In addition, the management apparatus 10 includes a release button 104 for releasing the usable state of the multifunction device 20 or the maintenance mode state of the management device 10. By pressing the release button 104, the usable state and management of the multifunction device 20 are provided. The maintenance mode state of the device 10 is released, the multifunction device 20 is disabled, and the management device 10 that has been in the maintenance mode becomes a normal management mode for managing the multifunction device 20.

  In FIG. 1, the management device 10 is shown in a perspective view for convenience of explanation.

  Further, as a non-contact type authentication medium for identifying a user or a maintenance worker, in addition to the non-contact type IC card 40, biometric identification means such as a fingerprint of a user or a maintenance worker, a palm vein, an eye retina, etc. In this case, the non-contact type IC card 40 is replaced by replacing the non-contact type IC card communication unit 102 described later, which is a non-contact type authentication medium detection unit of the management apparatus 10, with a biometric identification unit. It is possible to provide a management device similar to the management device 10 used.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating functional configurations of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction machine 20 described above.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the management device 10 includes a display unit 101 having LEDs 109 and 110, a non-contact IC card communication unit 102, a timer unit 103, a release button 104, a setting device connection unit 105, and a management device. A control unit 106, a multifunction device connection unit 107, and a storage unit 108 are provided.

  The display unit 101 controls the lighting of the LEDs 109 and 110 based on a command signal from the management device control unit 106, and the management device 10 can read the non-contact type IC card 40 or the multifunction device 20 can be used. Notify the user or maintenance worker that the system is in the maintenance mode or the maintenance mode.

  The non-contact type IC card communication unit 102 is configured so that the non-contact type IC card 40 is placed over or placed in a detection area in a predetermined space including the surface of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management device 10. The identification information recorded on the IC card 40 is read, and the read identification information is transferred to the management apparatus control unit 106.

  The timer unit 103 measures time based on a command signal from the management device control unit 106 and notifies the management device control unit 106 of information such as whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the time measurement, Reset measurement time and control various time management.

  The release button 104 is a button for releasing the usable state of the multi-function device 20 or the maintenance mode state of the management apparatus 10 as described above, and when the button is pressed, a signal indicating that the button has been pressed is sent to the management apparatus. Notify the control unit 106.

  The setting device connection unit 105 is an external device connected to the management device 10 via a cable (for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable). In this embodiment, the setting device connection unit 105 performs Ethernet (registration) when performing maintenance work on the management device 10. Control of the exchange of data and control signals with the setting device 30 connected via a trademark (trademark) cable.

  The multi-function device connection unit 107 controls the exchange of data and control signals between the management device 10 and the multi-function device 20 based on the command signal of the management device control unit 106 and is a non-contact type IC card for the multi-function device 20. Each signal of the instruction information instructing to perform the control for setting the identification information read from 40 and the operation state of the multifunction device 20 to the use prohibition state is transmitted.

  The storage unit 108 is a storage device, software such as various setting information and various programs necessary for the management device 10 to manage the multifunction machine 20, time information necessary for the timer unit 103 to perform time management, etc. (for example, Set time, etc.) and various management information.

  The management device control unit 106 performs control based on the control of each unit and the operation information of the release button 104 and performs overall control of the management device 10 as a whole.

  On the other hand, the multifunction device 20 includes a management device connection unit 201, a multifunction device control unit 202, an image forming unit 203, an operation unit 204, and a display unit 205.

  The management device connection unit 201 controls transmission / reception of data and control signals between the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10 based on a command signal from the multifunction device control unit 202 of the multifunction device 20 and also combines the management device 10 with the composite device. Each signal of information such as the start and end of a print job on the machine 20 and the end operation of using the multifunction machine 20 is transmitted.

  The operation unit 204 notifies the multifunction device control unit 202 of a signal of information instructed by the user to the multifunction device 20 via an operation button or the like.

  The display unit 205 displays information such as the operating state of the multifunction device 20, the content that the user has instructed the multifunction device 20 to operate, and a message that prompts the user to perform the operation.

  The image forming unit 203 forms an image based on contents instructed by the user or instructions from a host device (not shown) connected to the multifunction machine 20 and outputs the image to a medium such as printing paper.

  The multifunction device control unit 202 controls each unit and performs overall control of the entire multifunction device 20.

  In the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction machine 20 configured as described above, examples of user operations when the user uses the copier 20 and examples of operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction machine 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  3 to 7, the operations of the management device 10 and the multifunction device 20 are controlled so that the operations of the management device 10 and the multifunction device 20 that operate according to the user's operations become clear. Will be shown in relation to each other.

  FIG. 3 shows a case where the non-contact type IC card 40 in which identification information permitted to use the multifunction device 20 is recorded is held over or placed on the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10. 6 is a flowchart of user operations when the machine 20 operates so as to be in a usable state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction machine 20.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the user holds the non-contact type IC card 40 carried by the user over the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 in order to use the multifunction machine 20 or places the non-contact type IC card 40 on the non-contact type IC card. Identification information (hereinafter referred to as “user code”) recorded on the contact IC card 40 is read by the management device 10 (step S301).

  The IC card detection unit 1021 of the management device 10 constantly monitors the presence or absence of a signal emitted from the non-contact type IC card 40 by transmitting a predetermined electromagnetic wave, and detects the non-contact type IC card 40 (in step S302). YES), the user code recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40 is read, the read user code is transferred to the management device control unit 106, and the management device control unit 106 sends the user code to the MFP connection unit 107. To the MFP 20 (step S303).

  The multifunction device 20 is in a use-prohibited state in a normal state (step S304), and the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 by the management apparatus 10 is permitted to use the multifunction device 20. If it is a person code, the multifunction device 20 is made available.

  Specifically, the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 by the management device 10 is sent to the multifunction device control unit 202 via the multifunction device connection unit 107 of the management device 10 and the management device connection unit 201 of the multifunction device 20. (YES in step S305), the multifunction device control unit 202 permits use of the multifunction device 20 held in the storage unit (not shown) of the multifunction device 20 and the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40. Whether or not the user code (hereinafter referred to as “permitted user code”) matches is determined (step S306).

  Note that the multifunction device 20 stores information on an authorized user code that permits the use of the multifunction device 20 in a storage unit (not shown).

  If the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 matches the authorized user code, the user code read by the multi-function controller control unit 202 from the non-contact type IC card 40 is used by the multi-function device 20. Is determined to be a user code that permits (YES in step S307), and the multi-function device 20 is enabled (step S308).

  In step S306, if the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 does not match the authorized user code, the multi-function controller control unit 202 combines the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40. It is determined that the user code is not permitted to use the machine 20 (NO in step S307), the use prohibited state is continued, and the non-contact IC card 40 is not a user card permitted to use the multifunction machine 20. A message to that effect is displayed on the display unit 205 of the multifunction device 20 to notify the user.

  In addition, the multifunction device control unit 202 transfers a use end notification to the management device 10 through the management device connection unit 201 (step S314).

  When the management device 10 receives the use end notification, the management device 10 indicates that the non-contact IC card 40 is readable and is not readable until the non-contact IC card 40 is released from the IC card detection unit 1021.

  The management device control unit 106 of the management device 10 constantly monitors whether or not the non-contact type IC card 40 is detected by the IC card detection unit 1021, and the user uses the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management device 10. The contactless IC card 40 that is held or placed is moved away from the IC card detection unit 1021 and moved out of the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 (step S309). When the contact IC card 40 cannot be detected (NO in step S310), the management device control unit 106 instructs the multifunction device 20 to control the operation state of the multifunction device 20 to be disabled. (Use prohibition signal) is transmitted (step S311).

  When the multifunction device control unit 202 of the multifunction device 20 receives the use prohibition signal transmitted from the management device 10 via the management device connection unit 201 (YES in step S312), the multifunction device control unit 202 performs control to place the multifunction device 20 in a use prohibited state. This is performed (step S313).

  As described above, in the MFP 20 and the management apparatus 10, the non-contact type IC card 40 in which the user code permitted to use the MFP 20 is recorded is held over the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10. Alternatively, operation control is performed so that the multifunction device 20 can be used only while it is placed.

  FIG. 4 shows that the multifunction device 20 is used after a certain time has elapsed since the contactless IC card 40 is moved out of the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 after the multifunction device 20 becomes usable. 5 is a flowchart of user operations when controlling to operate in a prohibited state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction machine 20.

  In FIG. 4, after the user causes the management device 10 to read the user code recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40 to make the multifunction device 20 usable, the non-contact type IC card 40 is managed. Each operation control (step S401 to step S409) until the IC card detection unit 1021 of the apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area is the same as each operation control of step S301 to step S309 shown in FIG. I will do it.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when the user holds or places the non-contact type IC card 40 on the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 (step S401), the management apparatus 10 detects the non-contact type IC. The user code recorded on the card 40 is read, and the read user code is transmitted to the multi-function device 20 (YES in step S402, step S403).

  The multifunction device 20 compares the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 by the management device 10 with the authorized user code stored in advance in the multifunction device 20 to determine whether or not they match ( If YES in step S405, step S406), if the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 does not match the permitted user code (NO in step S407), the multifunction device control unit 202 sets the use prohibited state. Continuing, the non-contact type IC card 40 is displayed on the display unit 205 of the multi-function device 20 to notify the user that the non-contact IC card 40 is not a user card permitted to use the multi-function device 20.

  In addition, the multifunction machine control unit 202 transfers a use end notification to the management apparatus 10 through the management apparatus connection unit 201 (step S416).

  When the management device 10 receives the use end notification, the management device 10 indicates that the non-contact IC card 40 is readable and is not readable until the non-contact IC card 40 is released from the IC card detection unit 1021.

  In step S406, if the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 matches the permitted user code (YES in step S407), the multi-function device 20 is put into a usable state (step S408).

  Thereafter, the non-contact type IC card 40 held over or placed on the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 and the IC card detection unit 1021 If the IC card detection unit 1021 cannot detect the non-contact type IC card 40 (NO in step S410), the timer unit 103 of the management apparatus 10 instructs the management apparatus control unit 106 to move the detection area outside the detection area (step S409). Is started, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as “set time”) preset in the storage unit 108 has been reached (step S411).

  When the timer unit 103 detects that the measurement time has reached the set time (YES in step S412), the timer unit 103 notifies the management device control unit 106 that the measurement time has reached the set time, and receives the notification. The control unit 106 transmits a use prohibition signal to the multi-function device 20 so as to control the operation state of the multi-function device 20 to be in a use-prohibited state (step S413).

  When the multifunction device control unit 202 of the multifunction device 20 receives the use prohibition signal transmitted from the management device 10 via the management device connection unit 201 (YES in step S414), the multifunction device control unit 202 performs control to place the multifunction device 20 in a use prohibited state. This is performed (step S415).

  In this way, the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10 use the multifunction device 20 after a certain time has elapsed since the user used the multifunction device 20 and the non-contact type IC card 40 was taken out of the detection area of the management device 10. Control the operation to be prohibited.

  FIG. 5 illustrates a user operation and management device when the multifunction device 20 operates to place the multifunction device 20 in a disabled state when the release button of the management device 10 is pressed after the multifunction device 20 becomes usable. 10 is a flowchart of each operation control of the MFP 10 and the multifunction device 20.

  In FIG. 5, after the user causes the management device 10 to read the user code recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40 to make the multifunction device 20 usable, the non-contact type IC card 40 is managed. Each operation control (steps S501 to S509) until the IC card detection unit 1021 of the apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area is the same as each operation control in steps S301 to S309 shown in FIG. I will do it.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when the user holds or places the non-contact type IC card 40 over the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 (step S501), the management apparatus 10 sets the non-contact type IC card. The user code recorded in 40 is read, and the read user code is transmitted to the multi-function device 20 (YES in step S502, step S503).

  The multifunction device 20 compares the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 by the management device 10 with the authorized user code stored in advance in the multifunction device 20 to determine whether or not they match ( If YES in step S505, step S506), and the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 does not match the authorized user code (NO in step S507), the multifunction device control unit 202 determines that the multifunction device 20 The use prohibition state is continued, and the non-contact type IC card 40 is displayed on the display unit 205 of the multi-function device 20 to notify the user that the non-contact IC card 40 is not a user card permitted to use the multi-function device 20.

  In addition, the multifunction machine control unit 202 transfers the use end notification to the management apparatus 10 through the management apparatus connection unit 201 (step S516).

  When the management device 10 receives the use end notification, the management device 10 indicates that the non-contact IC card 40 is readable and is not readable until the non-contact IC card 40 is released from the IC card detection unit 1021.

  In step S506, if the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 matches the authorized user code (YES in step S507), the multi-function device 20 is put into a usable state (step S508).

  Thereafter, the non-contact type IC card 40 held over or placed on the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 (step S509). Even if the IC card detection unit 1021 cannot detect the non-contact type IC card 40 (NO in step S510), the operation state so far is continued for both the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10, and the release button 104 of the management device 10 is displayed. Is pressed (YES in step S511 and step S512), the management apparatus control unit 106 transmits a use prohibition signal to the multifunction device 20 so as to control the operation state of the multifunction device 20 to be in a use prohibited state. (Step S513).

  When the multifunction device control unit 202 of the multifunction device 20 receives the use prohibition signal transmitted from the management device 10 via the management device connection unit 201 (YES in step S514), the multifunction device control unit 202 performs control to place the multifunction device 20 in a use prohibited state. This is performed (step S515).

  As described above, the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10 perform operation control for making the multifunction device 20 usable until the release button of the management device 10 is pressed after the multifunction device 20 becomes usable.

  FIG. 6 shows a certain period of time after the user uses the multi-function device 20 and moves the non-contact type IC card 40 out of the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 as shown in FIG. In the case where the multifunction device 20 is operated so as to be disabled after the elapse of time, the management device 10 does not reach a certain time after the non-contact type IC card 40 is separated from the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021. 5 is a flowchart of user operations, control operations of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction device 20 when the multifunction device 20 is operated to be in a use-prohibited state when a release button is pressed.

  In FIG. 6, after the user causes the management device 10 to read the user code recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40 to make the multifunction device 20 usable, the non-contact type IC card 40 is managed. Each operation control (step S601 to step S609) until the IC card detection unit 1021 of the apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area is the same as each operation control of step S301 to step S309 shown in FIG. I will do it.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when the user holds or places the non-contact type IC card 40 over the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 (step S601), the management apparatus 10 sets the non-contact type IC card. The user code recorded in 40 is read, and the read user code is transmitted to the multi-function device 20 (YES in step S602, step S603).

  The multifunction device 20 compares the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 by the management device 10 with the authorized user code stored in advance in the multifunction device 20 to determine whether or not they match ( If YES in step S605, step S606), and the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 does not match the authorized user code (NO in step S607), the multifunction device control unit 202 determines that the multifunction device 20 The use prohibition state is continued, and the non-contact type IC card 40 is displayed on the display unit 205 of the multi-function device 20 to notify the user that the non-contact IC card 40 is not a user card permitted to use the multi-function device 20.

  In addition, the multifunction device control unit 202 transfers the use end notification to the management device 10 through the management device connection unit 201 (step S618).

  When the management device 10 receives the use end notification, the management device 10 indicates that the non-contact IC card 40 is readable and is not readable until the non-contact IC card 40 is released from the IC card detection unit 1021.

  In step S606, when the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 matches the authorized user code (YES in step S607), the multifunction device 20 is set in a usable state (step S608).

  Thereafter, the non-contact type IC card 40 held over or placed on the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 and the IC card detection unit 1021 When the IC card detection unit 1021 cannot detect the non-contact type IC card 40 (NO in step S610), the timer unit 103 of the management apparatus 10 instructs the management apparatus control unit 106 to move the detection area outside the detection area (step S609). Based on the above, time measurement is started (step S611).

  When the release button 104 of the management apparatus 10 is pressed during time measurement by the timer unit 103 (step S612), the management apparatus control unit 106 detects that the release button 104 is pressed (YES in step S613). A use prohibition signal is transmitted to the multi-function device 20 so as to control the operation state of the multi-function device 20 to be in a use-prohibited state (step S615).

  In step S613, if the management apparatus control unit 106 does not detect that the release button 104 has been pressed (NO in step S613), it indicates that the measurement time has reached a predetermined time set in the storage unit 108 in advance. Is received from the timer unit 103 (YES in step S614), a use prohibition signal is transmitted to the multi-function device 20 so as to control the operation state of the multi-function device 20 to be in a use-prohibited state (step S615). ).

  When the multifunction device control unit 202 of the multifunction device 20 receives the use prohibition signal transmitted from the management device 10 via the management device connection unit 201 (YES in step S616), the multifunction device control unit 202 performs control to place the multifunction device 20 in a use prohibited state. This is performed (step S617).

  In this way, the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10 allow the user to use the multifunction device 20 after a certain period of time has elapsed since the contactless IC card 40 was moved out of the detection area of the management device 10 after the user used the multifunction device 20. When the cancel button of the management apparatus 10 is pressed even if the non-contact type IC card 40 operates so as to be in a use-prohibited state and has not reached a certain time after the contactless IC card 40 is separated from the detection area of the management apparatus 10, Operation control is performed so that 20 is disabled.

  FIG. 7 shows a predetermined time after the user uses the multi-function device 20 and moves the non-contact type IC card 40 out of the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 as shown in FIG. When the multifunction device 20 is operated so as to be disabled after the elapse of time, the timer unit 103 performs the complex during measurement for a fixed time after the non-contact type IC card 40 is separated from the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021. 5 is a flowchart of user operations when the print job is started on the machine 20, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction machine 20.

  In FIG. 7, after the user causes the management device 10 to read the user code recorded on the non-contact type IC card 40 to make the multifunction device 20 usable, the non-contact type IC card 40 is managed. Each operation control (step S701 to step S709) until the IC card detection unit 1021 of the apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area is the same as each operation control of step S301 to step S309 shown in FIG. I will do it.

  As shown in FIG. 7, when the user holds or places the non-contact type IC card 40 in the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management device 10 (step S701), the management device 10 sets the non-contact type IC card. The user code recorded in 40 is read, and the read user code is transmitted to the multi-function device 20 (YES in step S702, step S703).

  The multifunction device 20 compares the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 by the management device 10 with the authorized user code stored in advance in the multifunction device 20 to determine whether or not they match ( If YES in step S705, step S706), and the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 does not match the authorized user code (NO in step S707), the multifunction device control unit 202 determines that the multifunction device 20 The use prohibition state is continued, and the non-contact type IC card 40 is displayed on the display unit 205 of the multi-function device 20 to notify the user that the non-contact IC card 40 is not a user card permitted to use the multi-function device 20.

  In addition, the multifunction device control unit 202 transfers a use end notification to the management device 10 through the management device connection unit 201 (step S721).

  When the management device 10 receives the use end notification, the management device 10 indicates that the non-contact IC card 40 is readable and is not readable until the non-contact IC card 40 is released from the IC card detection unit 1021.

  In step S706, when the user code read from the non-contact type IC card 40 matches the permitted user code (YES in step S707), the multifunction device 20 is set in a usable state (step S708).

  Thereafter, the non-contact type IC card 40 held over or placed on the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 of the management apparatus 10 is separated from the detection area of the IC card detection unit 1021 (step S709). When the IC card detection unit 1021 can no longer detect the non-contact type IC card 40 (NO in step S710), the timer unit 103 of the management device 10 starts measuring time based on an instruction from the management device control unit 106 (step S710). S711).

  When a print job is started in the multi-function device 20 during the time measurement by the timer unit 103, a signal indicating that the print job has been started is transmitted from the multi-function device 20 to the management device 10, and the management device control unit of the management device 10 106, the timer unit 103 is instructed to stop and reset the time measurement based on the reception of the signal indicating that the print job has been started in the multifunction device 20, and the timer unit 103 stops and resets the time measurement ( Step S713).

  When the print job in the multifunction device 20 is completed, the multifunction device 20 transmits a signal indicating that the print job is completed to the management device 10 (step S714), and the management device controller 106 of the management device 10 A command signal is transmitted to the timer unit 103 to start time measurement based on the signal indicating that the print job transmitted from the machine 20 is completed, and the timer unit 103 determines the time of the time based on an instruction from the management device control unit 106. Measurement is started (step S715).

  When the user presses an end button (not shown) indicating the end of use of the multi-function device 20 by the operation unit 204 of the multi-function device 20 during the time measurement by the timer unit 103, the use of the multi-function device 20 is ended from the multi-function device 20 to the management apparatus 10. Is transmitted (step S716), and the management apparatus control unit 106 sets the operation state of the multifunction device 20 to the multifunction device 20 based on the use termination signal transmitted from the multifunction device 20. A use prohibition signal is transmitted so as to perform control (YES in step S717, step S718).

  Even if the management apparatus control unit 106 does not receive an end-of-use signal indicating the end of use of the multi-function device 20 from the multi-function device 20, the management time is set to a predetermined time set in advance in the storage unit 108 from the timer unit 103. By receiving the information indicating that the information has been reached, a use prohibition signal is transmitted to the multifunction device 20 so as to control the operation state of the multifunction device 20 to be in a use prohibited state.

  When the multifunction device control unit 202 of the multifunction device 20 receives the use prohibition signal transmitted from the management device 10 via the management device connection unit 201 (YES in step S719), the multifunction device control unit 202 performs control to place the multifunction device 20 in the use prohibited state. This is performed (step S720).

  As described above, the multifunction device 20 and the management device 10 can be used after the user uses the multifunction device 20 and before the non-contact type IC card 40 is released from the detection area of the management device 10 and before a predetermined time is reached. When the print job is started at 20, the time measurement is stopped and reset. After the print job is finished, the time measurement is started, and the operation control is performed so that the multifunction device 20 is disabled after a predetermined time has elapsed. .

  In addition, after the multifunction device 20 becomes ready for use, an operation indicating the end of use of the multifunction device 20 is performed before the contactless IC card 40 is released from the detection area of the management apparatus 10 and before a certain time has elapsed. In the case of failure, operation control is performed to put the multifunction device 20 in a use-prohibited state.

  In the above description, the case where the management apparatus 10 is connected to the multifunction machine 20 has been described as an example. However, the management apparatus 10 may be configured to be incorporated in the multifunction machine 10 in advance.

  As described above, according to the management apparatus and method of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the non-contact type IC card 40 permitted to use the image forming apparatus is detected by the management apparatus IC card as in the case of the conventional magnetic card. It is possible to perform operation control that permits the use of the image forming apparatus only while it exists in the area.

  Further, when the management apparatus reads the identification information formed on the non-contact type IC card 40 and the use permission of the image forming apparatus is authenticated, the management apparatus is outside the detection area where the non-contact type IC card 40 is detected. Even if the non-contact type IC card 40 is released, the image forming apparatus can be used until a predetermined time elapses, so that the accident of leaving the magnetic card inserted in the card reader like a conventional magnetic card can be reduced. Even when the user of the image forming apparatus is absent, it is possible to prevent the image forming apparatus from being illegally used by anyone other than the person who has been permitted to use the image forming apparatus after a certain period of time.

  Further, only by setting the time counted by the timer unit 103, the multifunction device 20 can be used only while the non-contact IC card 40 is held over or placed on the IC card detection unit 1021. Configuration, a usage configuration in which the multi-function device 20 is enabled for a set time after the non-contact IC card 40 is separated from the IC card detection unit 1021, and the non-contact IC card 40 in the IC card detection unit 1021. Three types of operation methods can be selected, in which the multifunction device 20 is in a specifiable state until the release instruction button is pressed after being held or placed.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus management apparatus and method according to the present invention. The block diagram which shows the functional structure of the management apparatus 10 Flow chart showing an example of user operation when the copying machine 20 is in a usable state or a prohibited state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction device 20 (Case 1) Flow chart showing an example of user operation when the copying machine 20 is in a usable state or a prohibited state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction device 20 (Case 2) Flow chart showing an example of user operation when the copying machine 20 is in a usable state or a prohibited state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction device 20 (Case 3) Flow chart showing an example of user operation when the copying machine 20 is in a usable state or a prohibited state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction device 20 (case 4) Flow chart showing an example of user operations when the copying machine 20 is in a usable state or a prohibited state, and each operation control of the management apparatus 10 and the multifunction device 20 (Case 5)

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Management apparatus 101 Display part 102 Non-contact type IC card communication part 103 Timer part 104 Release button 105 Setting apparatus connection part 106 Management apparatus control part 107 Multi-function apparatus connection part 108 Storage part 109 Information of a non-contact type IC card is read correctly LED indicating the status
110 LED indicating the non-contact type IC card readable state
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1021 Card detection part 20 Multifunction machine 201 Management apparatus connection part 202 Multifunction machine connection part 203 Image formation part 204 Operation part 205 Display part 30 Setting apparatus 40 Non-contact type IC card (non-contact type authentication medium)

Claims (10)

In the management device of the image forming apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus and managing the operation of the image forming apparatus,
Detection means for detecting a non-contact type authentication medium;
Reading means for reading identification information formed on the non-contact type authentication medium detected by the detection means;
Transmitting means for transmitting identification information of the non-contact type authentication medium read by the reading means to the image forming apparatus;
Use permission cancellation instructing means for instructing the image forming apparatus to cancel the use permission state of the image forming apparatus on condition that the noncontact authentication medium is no longer detected by the detecting means. An image forming apparatus management apparatus. The use permission cancellation instruction means includes
Counting means for counting an elapsed time after the non-contact type authentication medium is no longer detected by the detecting means;
Setting means for setting a predetermined time;
Determining means for determining whether the time counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined time set by the setting means;
Instructing the image forming apparatus to cancel the use permission state when it is determined that the time counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined time set by the setting unit. The management apparatus for an image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The counting means includes
3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the count value of the elapsed time is reset at the start of the image forming process in the image forming apparatus, and the count of the elapsed time is restarted at the end of the image forming process. Management device. A release instruction button for instructing release of the usable state of the image forming apparatus;
The availability cancellation instruction means includes:
4. When the release instruction button is operated, the image forming apparatus is instructed to release the available state in preference to the available state release instruction. A management apparatus for an image forming apparatus according to claim 1. Further comprising a detecting means for detecting a use end notification from the image forming apparatus,
The availability cancellation instruction means includes:
When the detection means detects a use end notification from the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the usable state in preference to the instruction to cancel the usable state. The management apparatus for an image forming apparatus according to claim 1. In an image forming apparatus management method connected to an image forming apparatus and managing the operation of the image forming apparatus,
A non-contact type authentication medium is detected by a detection means;
The identification information formed on the non-contact type authentication medium detected by the detection means is read by a reading means,
The identification information of the non-contact type authentication medium read by the reading unit is transmitted to the image forming apparatus by a transmission unit,
Instructing the image forming apparatus to cancel the use permission state of the image forming apparatus by the use permission release instructing means on condition that the non-contact type authentication medium is no longer detected by the detecting means,
The image forming apparatus performs authentication of permission of use based on identification information of the non-contact type authentication medium transmitted by the transmitting unit. Set a predetermined time with the setting means,
The use permission cancellation instruction means includes
The elapsed time after the non-contact type authentication medium by the detection unit is no longer detected is counted by the counting unit,
The determining means determines whether the time counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined time set by the setting means,
Instructing the image forming apparatus to cancel the use permission state when it is determined that the time counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined time set by the setting unit. The method of managing an image forming apparatus according to claim 6. The counting means includes
8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the count value of the elapsed time is reset at the start of the image forming process in the image forming apparatus, and the count of the elapsed time is restarted at the end of the image forming process. Management method. The availability cancellation instruction means includes:
9. The canceling of the available state is instructed to the image forming apparatus in preference to the instruction to cancel the available state when a cancel instruction button is operated. Image forming apparatus management method. The availability cancellation instruction means includes:
When the use end notification from the image forming apparatus is detected by a detecting unit, the image forming apparatus is instructed to cancel the usable state in preference to the instruction to cancel the usable state. Item 10. A method for managing an image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 6 to 9.

Images