JP2007052476A - Job management device, information processor, job management method, storage medium and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To confirm, when a peripheral equipment device on a network has function of double-sided printing or Nin 1 printing, whether such a function is usable effectively for a user or not. <P>SOLUTION: A JACA(Job Account Client Application) 1014 acquires a use condition for restricting job processing to predetermined peripheral equipment transmitted from a base server computer 1030, and determines whether job information set in a job to be executed matches the acquired use condition or not. When the JACA 1014 determines the matching, the job information is transmitted to the base server computer 1030. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a job management apparatus, an information processing apparatus, and the like that perform job account processing by communicating with an information processing apparatus that makes a job processing request to a predetermined peripheral device connected to the network in a network environment.

As a method for restricting printing when a user uses a peripheral device, for example, a printer (printing device), a scanner, a copier, or a multifunction device (MFP) integrating them, via a network, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2004-151867, in which use restriction is performed for each user for each number of printed sheets, each paper type, and each special printing function, is disclosed.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-161823

  However, in the above prior art, the method of dealing with the case where the use restriction is violated is only to display an error to the user, and refer to information later regarding which user has violated the use restriction. Was configured to not.

  In addition, there is a problem that information indicating the use status cannot be recorded without notifying the user that the use restriction has been violated.

  For this reason, the network administrator has information to determine whether or not the job processing that effectively saves resources is executed by the job that each user executes from the information processing device to the peripheral device. In addition, it has been impossible to collect and diagnose individual users' trends in job execution without making individual users aware of them.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and the object of the present invention is to record and grasp information of a user who performed unexpected printing on a peripheral device. Is to provide a mechanism.

  The job management apparatus of the present invention has the following characteristic configuration.

  A job management apparatus capable of communicating with an information processing apparatus capable of outputting a job to a predetermined peripheral device, setting means for setting a usage condition of the predetermined peripheral device for processing the job in the information processing apparatus, and the information The image processing apparatus includes an acquisition unit that acquires job information that matches the use condition transmitted from the processing device, and a registration unit that registers job information acquired by the acquisition unit in a database.

  The information processing apparatus of the present invention has the following characteristic configuration.

  An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job information to be output to a predetermined peripheral device, and obtains a use condition that restricts job processing for the predetermined peripheral device transmitted from the job management apparatus An acquisition unit, a determination unit that determines whether or not job information set in a job to be executed matches a usage condition acquired by the acquisition unit, and a job information that matches the usage condition by the determination unit. And transmitting means for transmitting the job information to the job management apparatus when it is determined that the job information is present.

  The job management method of the present invention has the following characteristic configuration.

  A job management method in a job management apparatus capable of communicating with an information processing apparatus capable of outputting a job to a predetermined peripheral device, wherein a setting step of setting a usage condition of the predetermined peripheral device for processing the job in the information processing apparatus And an acquisition step of acquiring job information that matches the usage conditions transmitted from the information processing apparatus, and a registration step of registering job information acquired by the acquisition step in a database.

  The job management method of the present invention has the following characteristic configuration.

  A job management method in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job information to be output to a predetermined peripheral device, wherein the job management method is used to limit job processing for the predetermined peripheral device transmitted from the job management apparatus. An acquisition step for acquiring conditions, a determination step for determining whether or not the job information set for the job to be executed matches the usage conditions acquired in the acquisition step, and the usage conditions determined by the determination step A transmission step of transmitting the job information to the job management apparatus when it is determined that the job information is to be performed.

  According to the present invention, when the peripheral device has a consumables saving function, it can be confirmed whether or not these functions are used effectively, and therefore, the reduction of consumables such as the number of sheets can be effectively promoted. Is possible.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Description of system configuration>
[First Embodiment]
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the relative arrangement of components, the display screen, and the like described in this embodiment are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to those unless otherwise specified.

<Job account system>
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a job account system to which an information processing apparatus and a job management apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. This system is an example constituted by a plurality of information processing and the like, a plurality of peripheral devices, and a base server computer having a job management function. Note that the information processing apparatus having the job management function is not limited to one as shown in the present embodiment, and the present invention can be applied to a system connected to a network of a plurality of apparatuses.

  Furthermore, this embodiment is an example in which the job management apparatus is configured as a function process of the client computers 1010 and 1020, and the information processing apparatus is configured as the base server computer 1030.

  In FIG. 1, reference numerals 1010 and 1020 denote client computers (CC) capable of executing various applications under a predetermined OS.

  The CCs 1010 and 1020 are configured to be able to communicate with a base server computer (SC) 1030 in which a predetermined OS is installed using a predetermined protocol.

  The base server computer (SC) 1030 sets usage conditions that can be selected by the user for the printer 1040, the MFP 1050, and the like in the CCs 1010 and 1020 according to the control procedure shown in FIG. The CCs 1010 and 1020 have a function of setting usage conditions acquired from the base SC 1030 according to a control procedure shown in FIG.

  Reference numeral 1070 denotes an integrated server computer. Reference numeral 1060 denotes a database, which stores job information (see FIG. 9) transmitted from the CCs 1010, 1020, etc. in the procedure shown in FIG.

  The user information registered in the database 1060 can be referred to by a predetermined administrator from one or a plurality of information processing apparatuses in the network. That is, the base server computer 1030 manages security so that the database 1060 can be accessed after authentication based on predetermined login information or the like.

  Reference numerals 1040 and 1080 denote printers. However, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the printer 1040 has a function for holding a print history (print history holding function) on the main body memory, and the printer 1080 does not have a print history holding function.

  Reference numeral 1050 denotes an MFP (Multi Function Pirnter) having a scanner device and a printer device, which has a printer function, a copy function, a scanner function, and a print history holding function.

  Each of the CCs 1010 and 1020, the base SC 1030, the printer 1040, the printer 1080, and the MFP 1050 can communicate with other apparatuses via a network using a predetermined protocol.

  In the CC 1010, the application 1011 calls a GDI (Graphics device Interface) 1012. In response to this, the GDI 1012 generates print data in response to an instruction from the application 1011, and transmits the print data to the spooler 1013.

  The job account client application (JACA) 1014 monitors (hooks) the application 1011 calling the GDI 1012 and stores job information related to the print data in a memory device such as a hard disk. The JACA 1014 has a function of determining whether the usage conditions acquired from the base SC 1030 are reflected in the settings for the job requested by the user, that is, whether the usage conditions are not recommended by the administrator. Yes.

  If the usage condition is met, for example, if the setting is made to promote consumption of consumables, not only that fact but also the job information is transmitted to the base SC 10030, and the database 1060 of the base SC 10030 Register with.

  Note that the usage condition is, for example, one-sided one-page output that facilitates consumption of consumables even though the printer 1040 and MFP 1050 have a duplex function and a Nin1 image output function. This is a condition for detecting that the user is using it.

  Here, the job information is the number of printed pages, the number of pages, the print size, the type of paper to be used, information on whether single-sided printing or double-sided printing, Nin1 print information (whether N page information is printed on one side of the paper) Information).

  The job information includes information about the user who issued the print request (user information), information about color printing (color information), information about the name of the document to be printed (document name), and the like.

  The spooler 1013 communicates with peripheral devices (printer 1040, MFP 1050, and printer 1080) via a network using a predetermined protocol, and transmits print data if the peripheral device is ready.

  If the CC 1020 functions as a print server, the print data generated by the GDI 1012 is transmitted from the GDI 1012 of the CC 1010 to the spooler 1023 of the CC 1020.

  The job account client application (JACA) 1014 transmits the job information accumulated periodically to the job account server application (JASA) 1031.

  In the CC 1020, the application 1021, the GDI 1022, and the spooler 1023 execute the same function processing as the application 1010, the GDI 1012, and the spooler 1013, respectively.

  A job account client application (JACA) 1024 periodically monitors the spooler 1023. If there is a print job spooled in the spooler 1023, the JACA 1024 acquires information about the print job using an API (Application Program Interface).

  Specifically, the number of discharged sheets, the number of pages, and the document name of the print job are acquired. JACA 1024 transmits the accumulated job information to JASA 1031 via the network.

  Note that if the predetermined OS installed in the CC 1020 has a function of transmitting the status change of the spooler 1023 to other applications, the JACA 1024 may not periodically monitor the spooler 1023.

  The OS may tell the JACA 1024 that the print job has been spooled by the spooler 1023.

  In the base SC 1030, the JASA 1031 includes a user information management module 1031a, a device information management module 1031b, a job information management module 1031c, and a status input / output module 1031d. Among these, the user information management module 1031a stores and manages user information in a storage device (not shown) in the base SC 1030.

  Also, the device information management module 1031b makes a predetermined inquiry as to whether peripheral devices (including the printer 1080, the printer 1040, the MFP 1050, etc.) connected to the network have a job history holding function. Then, from the response state, information on the device having the job history holding function and other device information are stored and managed in a storage unit (not shown in the figure) in the base SC 1030.

  The user information is information that identifies (identifies) the user who has used the peripheral device, including the computer login name and network login name (name that the user inputs to log in to the network system) of the user who uses the peripheral device. is there. The computer login name includes a name that the user inputs to log in to the computer.

  Also, the device information includes peripheral device printing speed, color information, network address, and the like.

  The job information management module 1031c receives the respective job information accumulated from JACA 1014 and JACA 1024, and also stores the job information in the storage device.

  Further, the job information management module 1031c requests history information from a peripheral device (for example, a printer 1140) having a function of retaining history information, and acquires the history information via the status input / output module 1031d. This process may be performed periodically according to a predetermined schedule.

  Further, when the storage capacity of the history information storage unit (not shown) included in each peripheral device is reduced, this is notified to the usage status input / output module 1031d, and at this time, this history information acquisition processing is performed. May be.

  The usage status input / output module 1031d acquires information indicating usage status including job history (job information) from a peripheral device having a job history holding function. Further, the usage status input / output module 1031d can also output the usage status report (report indicating how many users have executed how many jobs) to the printer or monitor of the peripheral device.

  The administrator can obtain the usage status of the peripheral device by causing the usage status input / output module 1031d to output the usage status. The usage status input / output module 1031d outputs various usage statuses based on the user information, device information, and print history information stored in the storage unit.

  The administrator designates the output format (output format) for the usage status input / output module.

  The output of the usage status is displayed on, for example, a display unit (not shown) of the base SC 1030. Further, output data related to the usage status output may be transmitted to the CC 1010 or CC 1020, and the usage status output may be displayed on a display unit (not shown) of the CCs 1010 and 1020.

  In the usage status output, the usage amount for each user (the number of sheets and the amount of toner used for output) and the usage time of peripheral devices are output.

  In addition, the usage status is output for each operation mode (function) of peripheral devices such as color printing and double-sided printing. In addition, the usage status is output for each used paper size and used paper type.

  Further, since the usage fee of the peripheral device is set in the device information, the usage amount is output for each peripheral device or for each user. In addition, the usage fee for each operation mode, the usage fee for each paper size, and the usage fee for each paper type are set, so which user, which paper, which operation mode, which peripheral device, which Just print it out and output how much it is spent.

  In addition, the administrator can set predetermined restriction information for use for each function, for each user, for each user department, and for each device used, via the user information management module 1031a and the device information management module 1031b. For example, the limit information that can be set includes items such as a usage fee, the number of pages, and the number of sheets, and is stored in a predetermined table format.

  The usage status entry / exit module 1031d monitors the set restriction (restriction information) and the print history information, and compares them. Then, it is determined whether or not usage exceeds the limit set for each user, and if it is determined that the usage has been exceeded, a message to that effect is output.

  When a requested job is processed, it is left to the network administrator to accept or reject the print request even if the limit set for the user is exceeded.

  This output may be a display output on the screen of the display unit included in the CC 1020, or may be a mail or other communication output for a user's registered mail address.

  Also, the job information management module 1031c monitors and collates the restrictions set for each user and the print history information. When it is determined that the use of a certain user exceeds the limit, the CC 1010 or the peripheral device itself is allowed to refuse the use of the user. Alternatively, the user may be urged that a limitation is generated by a warning on the display of the display unit of the CCs 1010 and 1020, mail, or other communication means.

  It should be noted that the set restriction can be accumulated in the base SC 1030 that obtains list information as described later, and the list information can be referred to by the network administrator to review the restriction information.

  In the job management system configured as described above, a job management apparatus that can communicate with an information processing apparatus that can output a job to a predetermined peripheral device includes a job account server application 1031. Then, according to a control procedure shown in FIG. 11 to be described later, a setting function for setting a usage condition of a predetermined peripheral device for processing the job to CCs 1010, 1020, etc. is executed. Also, an acquisition function for acquiring job information that matches the use conditions transmitted from the CCs 1010, 1020, etc. is executed. Furthermore, a registration function for registering job information acquired from the CCs 1010, 1020, etc. in the database 1060 is executed.

  The acquisition function acquires job information before executing a job for the predetermined peripheral device by CCs 1010, 1020, and the like.

  Here, the job information includes job issuer information, job setting information, job information, peripheral device information, and the like.

  Also, the settable use conditions mean conditions that can be set as a job processing mode that promotes the reduction of consumables.

  On the other hand, an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with the base SC 1030 that manages job information output to a predetermined peripheral device in the job management system has the following functions.

  An acquisition function for acquiring a use condition for limiting job processing for the predetermined peripheral device transmitted from the base SC 1030 is executed according to a control procedure shown in FIG.

  Further, a determination function for determining whether or not the job information set in the job to be executed matches the usage conditions acquired by the acquisition unit is executed according to the control procedure shown in FIG.

  Further, when it is determined that the job information matches the usage conditions, a transmission function for transmitting the job information to the base SC 1030 is executed according to a control procedure shown in FIG.

  Furthermore, a determination function is provided for determining whether or not the job can be executed when it is determined that the job information matches the usage conditions.

  If it is determined that the job information matches the usage conditions before determining whether the job can be executed, the job information is transmitted to the base SC 1030.

  Note that the transmitted job information includes job issuer information, job setting information, job information, peripheral device information, and the like.

<Computer control configuration>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the CCs 1010 and 1020 and the base SC 1030 illustrated in FIG.

  In FIG. 2, 201 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The CPU 201 performs the control of the entire computer device, arithmetic processing, etc. under a predetermined operating system.

  Reference numeral 202 denotes a ROM (read only memory), and the ROM 202 includes a storage area in which information on a system startup program, data information, font information, and the like are stored.

  Reference numeral 203 denotes a RAM (Random Access Memory) whose capacity can be expanded. The RAM 203 is a data storage area with no usage restrictions.

  Note that an operating system (OS), an application program, a device driver (printer driver), a communication control program, and the like installed on the hard disk, which will be described later, are loaded onto the RAM 203 and executed by the CPU 201 in a timely manner.

  A KBC (keyboard control unit) 204 receives input data from a keyboard attached to the computer, and transmits the input data to the CPU 201. Reference numeral 205 denotes a CRTC (display control unit) which performs display control on the display unit.

  Reference numeral 206 denotes an HD (hard disk device) that can store an OS, applications, data files, and the like. In addition, the HD 206 can be replaced with an external storage device such as an FD (flexible disk device) or an SRAM (nonvolatile storage memory).

  The HD 206 stores an OS, a printer driver, an application program, and necessary data, and these application program, printer driver, and data are loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary.

  For example, in the case of the HD in the base SC 1030, the above-described user information, device information, and print history information (job history database) are stored.

  A communication unit 207 controls network communication with peripheral devices, other CCs, base SCs, and the like using a predetermined protocol. The communication unit 207 enables the CCs 1010 and 1020 and the base SC 1030 to communicate with other computers and peripheral devices connected to the network.

  Reference numeral 208 denotes a system bus. Data exchanged between the above components is exchanged via the system bus 208.

<Memory map>
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map on the RAM 203 shown in FIG. This example corresponds to a state in which the job management program is loaded into the RAM 203 and can be executed by the CPU 201.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 301 denotes a basic I / O program. Reference numeral 302 denotes an operating system (OS) such as a window system. Reference numeral 303 denotes a job management program. 304 is related data.

  A work area 305 is used when the CPU 201 executes a program such as a job management program.

  The job management program and related data are stored in a flexible disk (FD) or CD-ROM, and are supplied from there to the computer.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a memory map in a state where the job management program and related data are stored in the FD or CD-ROM.

  4, the storage area 400 of the FD or CD-ROM includes volume information 401, directory information 402, a job management program execution file 403, and a job account related data file 404.

  Further, software (control program) in which a program code corresponding to the control procedure shown in the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8 and 10 to be described later is stored in the FD or CD-ROM.

  Then, the software is supplied to the computer from the FD or CD-ROM, and the computer device (CPU 201) reads out and executes the program code stored in the storage medium. Thereby, it is comprised so that the function of embodiment may be realized.

  Further, as a method of supplying the program and data shown in FIG. 4 to the computer, a method of storing the program and data in the CD-ROM 500 and supplying it to the computer main body 502 (via the CD-ROM drive 501) as shown in FIG. is there.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of inputting information stored in the storage medium such as the FD or the CD-ROM illustrated in FIG. 4 to the computer apparatus.

  In the example of the storage medium illustrated in FIG. 5, the storage area 400 is an example including volume information 401, directory information 402, a job management program execution file 403, and a job account related data file 404.

  In FIG. 5, in this case, the program code itself read from the CD-ROM 500 as the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. become.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, etc. are used in addition to a CD-ROM and a hard disk. Can do.

  In addition, the functions of the above-described embodiments are not only realized by executing the program code read by the computer. For example, an OS (operating system) running on a computer performs part or all of actual processing based on an instruction of a program code. Needless to say, the process includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

  Further, the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. After that, based on the instruction of the program code, the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing. Needless to say, the process includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

<Control configuration of peripheral devices>
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of peripheral devices that can be managed by the job management apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment.

  In FIG. 6, reference numeral 605 denotes a controller unit that controls the entire peripheral device, and includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, a RAM 603, an HD 604, and the like. The peripheral device includes an operation panel (not shown) (may also serve as a touch panel), and is configured to be able to set network information for the peripheral device, display the current status, and the like.

  In FIG. 6, the CPU 601 performs control of the controller unit and the entire peripheral device, arithmetic processing, and the like. A ROM 602 is a read-only memory and is a storage area for storing a system startup program and the like. A RAM 603 is a random access memory and is a data storage area. The HD 604 is a hard disk and can be replaced with other nonvolatile storage devices such as SRAM.

  Peripheral devices having a job history holding function, such as the printer 1040 and the MFP 1050, store information relating to the job history in the RAM 603 or the HD 604. Note that part of the RAM 603 may function as NVRAM.

  An operating system, a communication control program, and an engine control program are loaded into the RAM 603 and executed by the CPU 601.

  Reference numeral 606 denotes an engine unit of a peripheral device, which performs a printing operation and an image reading operation under the control of the controller unit 605. Specifically, the engine unit 606 includes a printer engine, a scanner engine, or both. The configuration of the engine unit 606 may be changed by an optional function or the like.

  For example, when a duplex unit is provided, a reversing feeding path is secured. Further, depending on the capacity of the developer, such as color / monochrome, there is a case where the printing process can be performed only for monochrome or monochrome / color.

  Further, depending on the configuration of the engine unit 606, the printing capability, for example, the printing processing speed, the resolution, and the like may be different, and the cost for the printing processing may be different, and the contents of the history to be accumulated and managed may be different. .

  Therefore, depending on the configuration of the engine unit 606, the contents of the history to be accumulated and managed may be different.

  Reference numeral 607 denotes a communication unit that controls network communication based on a predetermined protocol with the CCs 1010 and 1020 and the base SC 1030. With this communication unit 607, peripheral devices can communicate with the CCs 1010 and 1020 and the base SC 1030. Reference numeral 608 denotes a system bus. Data exchanged between the above components passes through this system bus 608.

  Further, the communication unit 607 is configured to be able to transfer the stored information stored in the HD 604 or the like to the requesting base SC 1030 when receiving a request for acquiring the stored information from the base SC 1030.

<Job management processing>
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the job information management module 1031c of the JASA 1031 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 7, a job information receiving unit 701 acquires job information from the JACA 1014, JACA 1024, and peripheral devices 1040 and 1050 having a job history holding function via a network. The job information management unit 702 registers the job information received by the job information receiving unit 701 in the job history database (JHDB) 703.

  Here, by referring to the data in JHDB 703, it is determined when and who executed what amount of jobs (number of pages, number of discharged sheets, paper type) on which peripheral device, and a detailed job account Management is executed according to the procedure shown in FIG.

<Processing by application>
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the job management apparatus according to the present invention. This processing corresponds to the processing procedure when the job registration unit 702 of the job information management module 1031c registers the job information received by the job reception unit 701 in the JHDB 703. S801 to S808 indicate each step, and each step is realized by the CPU included in the base SC 1030 loading and executing the job information management module 1031c on the RAM.

  First, the job information management module 1031c determines whether there is unprocessed job information in the job receiving unit 701, and ends the processing if there is no unprocessed job information.

  On the other hand, if the job information management module 1031c determines that there is unprocessed job information in step S801, unprocessed job information is acquired from the job receiving unit 701 in step S802. Next, in step S803, it is determined whether the acquired job information indicates that the job is accompanied by paper discharge. If it is determined that the job does not involve paper discharge, the process returns to step S801.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S803 that the job involves paper discharge, the process proceeds to step S804.

  The processes in steps S804 to S808 are processes for registering job information in the job history database 703.

  That is, in FIG. 1, when the CC 1020 functions as a print server of the CC 1010, job information generated by the CC 1010 may be transmitted from both the JACA 1014 and the JACA 1024 to the JASA 1031.

  Therefore, the job information management module 1031c performs filtering in steps S804 to S807 so that duplicate job information is not registered in the job history database 703.

  First, in step S804, the job information management module 1031c determines whether the job information is acquired from the peripheral device. Here, if the job information is acquired from the peripheral device, there is no fear of duplicate registration, so the process proceeds to step S808, the job information management unit 702 registers the job information in the job history database 703, and step S801. Return to.

  On the other hand, if the job information management module 1031c determines in step S804 that the job information has not been acquired from the peripheral device, it determines in step S805 whether the job information has been acquired by a hook.

  In the present embodiment, as one method for determining whether the job information is acquired by a hook, there is a method for determining which OS the job information is acquired. That is, it is possible to determine whether or not job information has been acquired by hook depending on the type of OS.

  For example, in CC1010, when OS1 is installed and operating, and in CC1020, OS2 is installed and operating, if job information is acquired by OS1, the job information is acquired by hook Is. If the job information is acquired by OS2, it is acquired from the spooler 1023.

  Therefore, if it is determined in step S805 that the job information is not acquired by the hook, it is determined that there is no possibility of duplicate registration, the process proceeds to step S808, and the job information management unit 702 stores the job information in the job history database. Registration is performed in step S703, and the process returns to step S801.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S805 that the job information is acquired by hooking, in step S806, the job information management module 1031c is a printer in which the output destination of the job related to the job information is shared. Judge whether or not. If the job information management module 1031c determines that the output destination of the job related to the job information is not a shared printer, the job information management module 1031c determines that there is no possibility of duplicate registration, and proceeds to step S808 to execute the job information management unit 702. Thus, the job information is registered in the job history database 703, and the process returns to step S801.

  On the other hand, if the job information management module 1031c determines in step S806 that the output destination of the job related to the job information is a shared printer, the process advances to step S807.

  In step S807, it is determined whether the job information is acquired from the spooler 1023 of the client computer (for example, CC 1020 of the job management system shown in FIG. 1) as a print server that manages the shared printer.

  If the job information management module 1031c determines that the job information has not been acquired from the spooler, the job information management module 1031c determines that there is no fear of duplicate registration, and proceeds to step S808. The job information management unit 702 stores the job information in the job Registration is performed in the history database 703, and the process returns to step S801.

  On the other hand, if the job information management module 1031c determines in step S807 that the job information has been acquired from the spooler, the process directly returns to step S801 without performing duplicate registration.

  As a result, even if the job information management module 1031c acquires job information from the CCs 1010 and 1020 and determines that the job information has been acquired from the spooler, the job information management module 1031c stores appropriate job information in the database without registering duplicate information. You can register.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of one piece of job information registered in the job history database 703 illustrated in FIG. The job history database 703 includes items and contents of the items.

  In FIG. 9, reference numeral 901 denotes a job output device, that is, information indicating, for example, “MFP-1” indicating which peripheral device has processed the job. In the case of a job that does not involve paper discharge, it is stored that it is a file name (document scanning), fax transmission, or other job that does not involve paper discharge.

  Reference numeral 902 denotes a job information acquisition method in which, for example, “apparatus job history” is set. In this embodiment, the job information acquisition method includes acquisition by a hook, acquisition from a spooler, and acquisition from a job history holding function.

  Reference numeral 903 denotes a time, for example, “1999/11 / 01pm5 GMT” is set as the start time or end time of the job. Reference numeral 904 denotes a type of discharged paper, which corresponds to a state where “OHP” is set, for example.

  Reference numeral 905 denotes the number of output pages, which corresponds to a state in which “7” is set, for example. Reference numeral 906 denotes the number of discharged sheets, which corresponds to a state in which “4” is set, for example.

  Reference numeral 907 denotes a shared printer. Whether or not the job information is input from the client computer to the shared printer corresponds to a state where “NO” is set, for example.

  An issuer 908 corresponds to a state in which the user name of the issuer of job information, for example, “Taro Yamada” is set. Reference numeral 909 denotes a mode, which corresponds to a state in which information for identifying whether a job for color printing or a job for monochrome printing, for example, “color” is set. Reference numeral 910 denotes a printed document name, which corresponds to a state in which “confidential document.txt” is set, for example.

  Reference numeral 911 denotes single-sided duplex information, which corresponds to a state in which information for identifying single-sided printing or duplex printing, for example, “double-sided” is set. Reference numeral 912 denotes Nin1 information, which corresponds to a state in which information for identifying how many pages of information are printed on one side as layout printing, for example, “1” is set.

<Print processing flow>
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. This processing corresponds to a processing procedure performed in the CC 1010 (or 1020), for example. Note that S10001 to S10009 indicate each step, and each step is realized by the client computer loading and executing the JACA 1014 in the RAM by the CPU.

  First, in step S10001, it is determined by the spooler 1023 or the hook whether or not the user has instructed printing in the application 1011 of the CC 1010 (or 1020).

  Next, in step S10002, JACA 1014 (or 1024) checks what print request is issued by hooking (or accessing spooler 1023), and obtains it as job information.

  Next, in step S10003, the JACA 1014 determines whether or not the content of the print job is printing of only one page. If it is determined that the JACA 1014 is a one-page job, it is determined in step S10007 whether the JACA 1014 is a print permission setting. If JACA 1014 determines that printing is possible, the process proceeds to step S10008, and if printing is not possible, the process returns to step S10001.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10003 that printing is not performed for only one page, use restriction information managed in the database 1060 of the base SC 1030 is acquired in step S10004. For example, in the case of printing of two pages or more, if double-sided printing or Nin1 printing is not set, use restriction information that matches the setting condition is acquired.

  In step S10005, the information acquired in the previous step is referred to and it is determined whether the setting condition is met. Here, for example, in the case of printing of two or more pages, if the setting of double-sided printing or Nin1 printing is not set, it is assumed that the setting condition is met. If it is determined in step S10005 that the setting condition is not met (for example, in the case of printing of two or more pages, double-sided printing or Nin1 printing is set), the process proceeds to step S10008. If it is determined in step S10005 that the setting condition is met (for example, when printing is performed for two or more pages, neither duplex printing nor Nin1 printing is set), the process proceeds to step S10006.

  Next, in step S10006, the base SC 1030 is informed of information on the user etc. that matches the above setting conditions (may be all of the information shown in FIG. 9, such as the output device, time, issuer, document name, etc. Send limited information).

  Next, in step S10007, the information acquired in the previous step is referred to. If printing is possible, the print log information is transmitted to the base SC 1030 to the job information management module 1031c in step S10008.

  Subsequently, in step S10009, printing processing is executed by the printer 10040 or the like. Then, the process returns to step S10001.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10007 that printing is not permitted, the process returns to step S10001.

  Thereby, the CCs 1010, 1020, etc. acquire usage restriction information from the management SC 1030, which will be described later, in step S10004, and reliably detect user information etc. in an attempt to execute a print job that exceeds the usage conditions, ie, usage restrictions. Can do. Then, the detected user information (see FIG. 9) can be transmitted to the management SC 1030, and the information can be managed in the database of the management SC 1030.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure in the server apparatus according to the present embodiment. This processing corresponds to the processing procedure performed in SC1030, for example. Note that S10011 to S10015 indicate steps, and each step is realized by the CPU 1030 loading the job information management module 1031c into the RAM and executing it.

  In step S100011, usage restriction information is set and stored in the user information management module 1031a. Next, it is determined whether or not information such as a user that matches the use restriction setting condition (use condition) is transmitted from the CC 1010. If it is determined that information on a user or the like that matches the use restriction setting conditions has not been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S10014.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10012 that information such as a user that matches the usage restriction setting condition is transmitted, the information is added to the HD 206 of the base SC 1030 in step S10013.

  In step S10014, it is determined whether an instruction to display the information added in step S10013 is issued through the user information management module 1031a. If it is determined that a display instruction has not been issued, the process returns to step S10012.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10014 that a display instruction has been issued, the stored information is displayed on the display device in step S10015. Then, the process returns to step S10012.

  As a result, the management SC 1030 freely sets the setting conditions in the CCs 1010 and 1020, and acquires from the CCs 1010 and 1020 user information and the like for executing a print job that matches the setting conditions. The acquired user information and the like can be registered in the database 1060 to manage the job processing status.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the server device can acquire user information that violates the set restriction information and manage it with the database on the server device side. As a result, the administrator of the server device can refer to the contents of the database for the user information that is executing such a print job without notifying the user who is in breach of the use restriction. Judgment can be made.

  In other words, when the peripheral device has a consumable material saving function, for example, double-sided printing or Nin1 printing, it can be confirmed whether or not these functions are being used effectively. Can be promoted.

[Second Embodiment]
Although the case where job information is managed in units of users has been described in the above embodiment, the present invention can be applied to a network system that manages a plurality of users as a group.

[Third Embodiment]
In the above embodiment, when a user who has made a print request prints multiple pages of information from the CCs 1010 and 1020, an example of managing whether or not the paper saving output function provided in the printing apparatus is effectively used for each user Explained.

  Further, a case has been described in which the base SC 1030 manages user information that does not use the paper saving output function effectively as a list, and the network administrator can confirm the users notified of the list.

  On the other hand, as another embodiment, it is configured to obtain information on a user who is effectively using the paper saving output function, and relax the restrictions set for the user to make it convenient for the user. May be.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the above embodiment, job information is managed for each user. However, when job information is registered in the database 1060, a counter is provided for each parameter constituting the job information, and the job information using the counter value is used. May be analyzed in detail for each parameter (which can be counted in 901 to 912 shown in FIG. 9).

[Fifth Embodiment]
The configuration of the data processing program that can be read by the job management system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory maps shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the job management apparatus according to the present invention.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

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

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

  The functions shown in FIGS. 8, 10, and 11 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

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

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

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

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

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

  As another program supply method, a browser of a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading.

  It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage.

  That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

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

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

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

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

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will not limit the spirit and scope of the present invention to the specific description in the present specification.

1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a job account system to which a job management apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applicable. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of CC shown in FIG. 1, base SC. It is a figure which shows an example of the memory map on RAM shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the memory map in the state in which the job management program and related data are stored in FD or CD-ROM. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of inputting information stored in a storage medium such as an FD or a CD-ROM illustrated in FIG. 4 to a computer apparatus. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the peripheral device which the job management apparatus which shows this embodiment can manage. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a job information management module of JASA shown in FIG. 1. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st data processing procedure in the job management apparatus which concerns on this invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of one piece of job information registered in the job history database illustrated in FIG. 7. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 2nd data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus which shows this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the data processing procedure in the server apparatus which shows this embodiment. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read by the data management apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read with the information processing apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1010, 1020 Client computer (CC)
1030 Site server computer 1030
1031 Job Account Server Application (JASA)

Claims (24)

A job management device capable of communicating with an information processing device capable of outputting a job to a predetermined peripheral device,
Setting means for setting use conditions of a predetermined peripheral device for processing the job in the information processing apparatus;
Obtaining means for obtaining job information that matches the use conditions transmitted from the information processing apparatus;
Registration means for registering job information acquired by the acquisition means in a database;
A job management apparatus comprising:   The job management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the job information before executing a job for the predetermined peripheral device by the information processing apparatus.   The job management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the job information includes job issuer information, job setting information, job information, peripheral device information, and the like.   The job management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit is capable of setting the use condition in a job processing mode that promotes the reduction of consumables. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job information output to a predetermined peripheral device,
Obtaining means for obtaining a use condition for restricting job processing for the predetermined peripheral device transmitted from the job management device;
Determining means for determining whether or not job information set in a job to be executed matches a use condition acquired by the acquiring means;
A transmission unit configured to transmit the job information to the job management apparatus when the determination unit determines that the job information matches the use condition;
An information processing apparatus comprising: A determination unit that determines whether the job can be executed when the determination unit determines that the job information matches the use condition;
The transmission unit transmits the job information to the job management apparatus when the determination unit determines that the job information matches the use condition before the determination unit determines whether the job can be executed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.   The job management apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the job information includes job issuer information, job setting information, job information, peripheral device information, and the like. A job management method in a job management apparatus capable of communicating with an information processing apparatus capable of outputting a job to a predetermined peripheral device,
A setting step for setting use conditions of a predetermined peripheral device for processing the job in the information processing apparatus;
An acquisition step of acquiring job information that matches the use conditions transmitted from the information processing apparatus;
A registration step of registering job information acquired in the acquisition step in a database;
A job management method.   9. The job management method according to claim 8, wherein the acquiring step acquires the job information before executing a job for the predetermined peripheral device by the information processing apparatus.   The job management method according to claim 9, wherein the setting step enables the use condition to be set in a job processing mode that promotes saving of consumables. A job management method in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job information to be output to a predetermined peripheral device,
An acquisition step of acquiring a use condition for limiting job processing for the predetermined peripheral device transmitted from the job management device;
A determination step for determining whether or not the job information set in the job to be executed matches the usage conditions acquired by the acquisition step;
A transmission step for transmitting the job information to the job management device when the determination step determines that the job information matches the use conditions;
A job management method. A determination step for determining whether or not the job can be executed when the determination step determines that the job information matches the use condition;
The transmission step transmits the job information to the job management apparatus when the determination step determines that the job information matches the use conditions before determining whether or not the job can be executed in the determination step. The job management method according to claim 12.   The job management apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the job information includes job issuer information, job setting information, job information, peripheral device information, and the like.   A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the method according to claim 8.   A program for causing a computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 8 to 13. A discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the job satisfies the condition;
A notification means for notifying the server of user information when the determination means determines that the job matches the condition;
An information processing apparatus comprising: a print processing unit configured to perform a print process when the determination unit determines that the job does not satisfy a condition. A determination means for determining whether or not the job is one page;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein when the determination unit determines that the job is one page, the determination unit performs determination. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising an acquisition unit configured to acquire the condition from a server. A determining step for determining whether or not the job satisfies the condition;
A notification step of notifying the server of user information when it is determined by the determination step that the job matches the conditions;
An information processing method comprising: a print processing step of performing a print process when the determination step determines that the job does not meet the conditions. A determination step for determining whether or not the job is one page;
The information processing method according to claim 19, wherein when the determination step determines that the job is one page, the determination step performs determination. 21. The information processing method according to claim 19, further comprising an acquisition step of acquiring the condition from a server. A determining step for determining whether or not the job satisfies the condition;
A notification step of notifying the server of user information when it is determined by the determination step that the job matches the conditions;
A program for causing a computer to execute a print processing step for performing a print process when it is determined in the determination step that the job does not satisfy a condition. Causing the computer to execute a determination step of determining whether or not the job is one page;
23. The program according to claim 22, wherein, when the determination step determines that the job is one page, the determination step performs determination. 24. The program according to claim 22, further comprising an acquisition step of acquiring the condition from a server.

Images