JP2007172396A - Print system and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To perform a flexible operation of a print system while covering the vulnerability of image forming apparatus connected with each other through a network. <P>SOLUTION: The print system (S) is equipped with: an additional discrimination means (C17) for discriminating whether or not an additional discrimination condition is satisfied, the additional discrimination condition being preset so as to discriminate whether or not to form images when a sub network (3, 4) connected to an image information transmitter (PC) and a sub network (3, 4) connected to the image forming apparatus (Pr1) do not match; and an image forming means (C13) for executing image formation when the sub network (3, 4) connected to the image information transmitter (PC) and the sub network (3, 4) match, and executing the image formation also when the additional discrimination condition is satisfied. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention provides a plurality of image forming apparatuses such as a printer, a FAX, and a multifunction peripheral connected to a public communication line such as the Internet or a network such as a LAN (local area network), and the image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to the image forming apparatus and the print system connected to a network having a plurality of sub-networks.

  In recent years, information transmission technology via a network has been developed, and personal computers, servers, printers, scanners, and the like are often connected via a network. Such network-connected printers are vulnerable to a DoS attack (Denial of Service Attack) by a malicious user because they accept print instructions from an unspecified number of users on the network. There is a risk that processing such as printout cannot be performed or processing takes a very long time.

The following conventional technique (J01) is known as a technique for dealing with such vulnerability.
(J01) Technology described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-345552) In Patent Document 1, whether or not network information (subnetwork address) of a personal computer matches network information (subnetwork address) of a printer Accordingly, there is described a technique for suppressing output of print data transmitted from a device connected to another subnetwork that is not desired by the owner of the subnetwork or the owning organization by switching the operation mode. .

JP 2003-345552 A ("0088" to "0125")

(Problems of conventional technology)
In the prior art (J01), the operation mode for rejecting or holding the received print data (image information) is changed based only on network information such as whether or not they are in the same sub-network. Print data is rejected or suspended. However, in the actual usage environment, for example, when the user wants to send data from a conference room, another office, or a personal computer on a business trip to the printer of his department and print it out, the conventional technology (J01) Even when the operation mode switching condition is met, there is a case where it is desired to execute the printout. In other words, the conventional technique (J01) has a problem in that it cannot be printed out at all when it meets the condition for switching the operation mode, and flexible operation is difficult.

In view of the above circumstances, the present invention has the following description (O01) as a technical problem.
(O01) To realize flexible operation while covering the vulnerability of image forming apparatuses connected via a network.

(Invention)
Next, the present invention that has solved the above problems will be described. In order to facilitate the correspondence between the elements of the present invention and elements of specific examples (examples) of the embodiments described later, Add the code enclosed in parentheses. The reason why the present invention is described in correspondence with the reference numerals of the embodiments described later is to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and not to limit the scope of the present invention to the embodiments.

(First invention)
In order to solve the above technical problem, the print system (S) of the first invention is characterized by comprising the following structural requirements (A01) to (A07).
(A01) An image information transmitting apparatus (PC) connected to a network (N) having a plurality of sub-networks (3, 4) and transmitting image information to the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) via the network (N) ),
(A02) Image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) connected to the network (N) and performing image formation according to received image information transmitted from the image information transmitting apparatus (PC),
(A03) Transmitting device subnetwork specifying means (C16A, C16A ′) for specifying the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected,
(A04) Image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means (C16B, 16B ′) for specifying the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected;
(A05) Whether the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected match Sub-network matching determining means (C16, C16 ′) for determining
(A06) When the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3,4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected do not match, An additional determination means (C17) for determining whether or not an additional determination condition set in advance for determining whether or not to perform image formation is satisfied;
(A07) When image formation is executed when the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3,4) match, and the additional determination condition is satisfied Also, an image forming means (C13) for executing image formation.

(Operation of the first invention)
In the print system (S) according to the first aspect of the present invention having the structural requirements (A01) to (A07), the image information transmitting device (PC) connected to the network (N) having a plurality of sub-networks (3, 4). Transmits image information to the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) via the network (N). The image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) connected to the network (N) perform image formation according to the image information transmitted from the image information transmitting apparatus (PC) and received. The transmission device subnetwork specifying means (C16A, C16A ′) specifies the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmission device (PC) is connected. The image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means (C16B, 16B ′) specifies the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected.

  The sub-network matching determination means (C16, C16 ′) is connected to the sub-network (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the sub-network (to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected). 3) and 4) are discriminated. The additional determination means (C17) includes a subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and a subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected. If they do not match, it is determined whether or not an additional determination condition set in advance for determining whether or not to perform image formation is satisfied. The image forming means (C13) executes image formation when the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3, 4) match, and performs the additional determination. Image formation is also performed when the condition is satisfied.

  Therefore, in the print system (S) of the first invention, image formation is performed when the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3,4) match. Even if the sub-network (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected does not match the sub-network (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected, additional discrimination is performed. If the condition is satisfied, image formation is executed. As a result, image formation of the image information transmitted from the image information transmitting device (PC) connected to the different sub-networks (3, 4) is limited, so that an unspecified number of users can be connected via the network (N). The vulnerability of being able to output can be eliminated, and image formation is performed if the additional determination condition is satisfied, so that flexible operation is possible.

(Second invention)
In order to solve the above technical problem, the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) of the second invention are characterized by including the following structural requirements (B01) to (B06).
(B01) Image information receiving means (C11) for receiving image information transmitted from an image information transmitting device (PC) connected to the network (N),
(B02) transmitting device subnetwork specifying means (C16A, C16A ′) for specifying the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected;
(B03) Image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means (C16B, 16B ′) for specifying the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected;
(B04) Whether or not the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected match Sub-network matching determining means (C16, C16 ′) for determining
(B05) When the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3,4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected do not match, An additional determination means (C17) for determining whether or not an additional determination condition set in advance for determining whether or not to perform image formation is satisfied;
(B06) When image formation is performed when the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting apparatus (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3,4) match, and the additional determination condition is satisfied Also, an image forming means (C13) for executing image formation.

(Operation of the second invention)
In the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) according to the second aspect of the present invention having the structural requirements (B01) to (B06), the image information receiving means (C11) includes an image information transmitting apparatus (C11) connected to the network (N). The image information transmitted from the PC is received. The transmission device subnetwork specifying means (C16A, C16A ′) specifies the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmission device (PC) is connected. The image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means (C16B, 16B ′) specifies the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected. The sub-network matching determination means (C16, C16 ′) is connected to the sub-network (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the sub-network (to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected). 3) and 4) are discriminated.

  The additional determination means (C17) includes a subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and a subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected. If they do not match, it is determined whether or not an additional determination condition set in advance for determining whether or not to perform image formation is satisfied. The image forming means (C13) executes image formation when the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3, 4) match, and performs the additional determination. Image formation is also performed when the condition is satisfied.

  Therefore, in the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) of the second invention, image formation is performed when the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting apparatus (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3,4) match. Even if the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected do not match. If the additional determination condition is satisfied, image formation is executed. As a result, image formation of the image information transmitted from the image information transmitting device (PC) connected to the different sub-networks (3, 4) is limited, so that an unspecified number of users can be connected via the network (N). The vulnerability of being able to output can be eliminated, and image formation is performed if the additional determination condition is satisfied, so that flexible operation is possible.

(Embodiment 1)
A first aspect of the invention is characterized in that, in the first invention or the second invention, the following constituent elements (A08) and (A09) are provided.
(A08) The transmitting device subnetwork specifying means (C16A) for specifying the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected based on the IP address of the image information transmitting device (PC) ,
(A09) The image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means for specifying the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected based on the IP addresses of the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5). (C16B).

(Operation of Form 1 of the Invention)
In the first aspect of the invention having the configuration requirements (A08) and (A09), the transmission device subnetwork specifying unit (C16A) transmits the image information based on the IP address of the image information transmission device (PC). The subnetwork (3, 4) to which the device (PC) is connected is specified. The image forming apparatus sub-network specifying means (C16B) selects the sub-network (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1-Pr5) are connected based on the IP address of the image forming apparatuses (Pr1-Pr5). Identify. Therefore, the subnetwork (3, 4) can be identified and discriminated using the IP address.

(Embodiment 2)
A second aspect of the invention is characterized in that, in any one of the first invention, the second invention and the first aspect of the invention, the following constitutional requirements (A010) to (A012) are provided.
(A010) In order to obtain the administrator's permission as the additional determination condition, the sub-network (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected and the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected. Output permission inquiry information transmitting means (C17B) for transmitting output permission inquiry information for inquiring the administrator whether output from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) is possible or not when the subnetwork (3, 4) does not match.
(A011) Output permission information receiving means (C17C) for receiving the output permission information transmitted from the administrator in response to the permission inquiry information;
(A012) The additional determination means (C17) for determining whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied based on the output permission information.

(Operation of Embodiment 2)
In the second aspect of the invention having the configuration requirements (A010) to (A012), the output permission / inquiry inquiry information transmitting means (C17B) is configured to transmit the image information transmitting apparatus in order to obtain an administrator's permission as the additional determination condition. When the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the (PC) is connected and the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected do not match, the image forming apparatus (Pr1) is notified to the administrator. ~ Pr5), the output permission inquiry information for inquiring whether output is possible is transmitted. The output permission information receiving means (C17C) receives the output permission information transmitted from the administrator in response to the permission inquiry information. The additional determination means (C17) determines whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied based on the output availability information. Therefore, the administrator can manage whether output is possible.

(Embodiment 3)
A third aspect of the invention is characterized in that, in the second aspect of the invention, the following structural requirement (A013) is provided.
(A013) Output enable / disable inquiry information transmitting means (C17B) for transmitting an e-mail as the output enable / disable inquiry information, and the output enable / disable information receiving means (C17C) for receiving an e-mail as the output enable / disable information.
(Operation of Form 3 of the Invention)
In the third aspect of the invention having the configuration requirement (A013), the output availability inquiry information transmitting means (C17B) transmits an e-mail as the output availability inquiry information. The output availability information receiving means (C17C) receives an electronic mail as output availability information. Therefore, it is possible to exchange output permission inquiry information and output permission information using electronic mail.

(Embodiment 4)
A fourth aspect of the invention is characterized in that in any one of the first invention, the second invention and the first to third aspects of the invention, the following constituent elements (A014) and (A015) are provided.
(A014) As the additional determination condition, a permission subnetwork (3, 4) that is different from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) and permits output from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) ( 3, 4) additional determination condition storage means (C17F),
(A015) When the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected does not match the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected Whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied by determining whether or not the subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected matches the permitted subnetwork (3, 4). The additional determination means (C17) for determining whether or not.

(Operation of Embodiment 4)
In the fourth embodiment of the invention having the configuration requirements (A014) and (A015), the additional determination condition storage means (C17F) has a sub-network different from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) as the additional determination condition. 3 and 4) and the permitted sub-network (3, 4) that permits the output from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5). The additional determination means (C17) includes a subnetwork (3, 4) to which an image information transmitting device (PC) is connected, and a subnetwork (3, 4) to which the image forming devices (Pr1 to Pr5) are connected. If the sub-networks (3, 4) to which the image information transmitting device (PC) is connected match the permitted sub-network (3,4), the additional determination condition is determined. Whether or not the above is satisfied is determined. Therefore, in the fourth aspect of the invention, whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied can be automatically determined based on whether or not it matches the permitted subnetwork (3, 4).

(Embodiment 5)
A fifth aspect of the invention is characterized in that in any one of the first invention, the second invention and the first to fourth aspects of the invention, the following constituent elements (A016) and (A017) are provided.
(A016) An additional determination condition storage means (C17H) for storing, as the additional determination condition, a permission determination page number (Na) that is the number of pages permitted to be output from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5).
(A017) The additional discriminating means (C17) for discriminating whether or not the additional discriminating condition is satisfied by discriminating whether or not the page number (N1) of the received image information is equal to or smaller than the permission discriminating page number (Na). ).

(Operation of Embodiment 5)
In the fifth aspect of the invention having the configuration requirements (A016) and (A017), the additional determination condition storage unit (C17H) permits the output from the image forming apparatuses (Pr1 to Pr5) as the additional determination condition. The number of permission determination pages (Na) that is the number of pages is stored. The additional determination means (C17) determines whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied by determining whether the page number (N1) of the received image information is equal to or less than the number of permission determination pages (Na). . Therefore, the determination can be made automatically based on whether the number is less than or equal to the number of permission determination pages (Na).

The above-described present invention has the following effect (E01).
(E01) A flexible operation can be realized while covering the vulnerability of the image forming apparatuses connected via the network.

Next, specific examples (examples) of the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.
In order to facilitate understanding of the following description, in the drawings, the front-rear direction is the X-axis direction, the left-right direction is the Y-axis direction, the up-down direction is the Z-axis direction, and arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, The direction indicated by Z and -Z or the indicated side is defined as the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, the lower side, or the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, and the lower side, respectively.
In the figure, “•” in “○” means an arrow heading from the back of the page to the front, and “×” in “○” is the front of the page. It means an arrow pointing from the back to the back.

FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of a printing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
1, a printing system S according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a network N including an Internet line (public communication line) 1 and a local area network (LAN) 2. The local area network 2 is connected to the Internet line 1 via a router R. In the first embodiment, the local area network 2 includes a first subnetwork 3 for the first business department and a second subnetwork 4 for the second business department, and the first subnetwork 3 and the second subnetwork 4 are provided. The network 4 is connected via a router R.
Each of the sub-networks 3 and 4 includes a plurality of client personal computers PC and network-connected multifunction peripherals (image forming apparatuses having copy, fax, printer, and scanner functions) Pr1 to Pr4, an administrator server of a network administrator Sb and other workstations, database servers, and the like (not shown) are connected.

Each of the client personal computers PC and the administrator server Sb is constituted by a computer device, and includes a computer main body H1, a display H2, an input device such as a keyboard H3 and a mouse H4, an HD drive (hard disk drive) not shown, It is composed of a CD drive (compact disk drive) or the like.
The multifunction peripherals Pr1 to Pr5 have a user interface UI, a plurality of paper feed trays TR for feeding printing paper, and a paper discharge tray TRh. The MFPs Pr1 to Pr5 are conventionally known electrophotographic MFPs having all the functions of a copy, a printer, a FAX, and a network scanner (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-287297). Various multifunction devices can be used.

  In FIG. 1, the print system S according to the first embodiment is operated in a TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) environment that is currently in widespread use, and each device PC, Pr1 connected to a network N is shown. -Pr4 is assigned (set) with unique network identification information (IP address). In the first embodiment, each device PC, Pr1, and Pr2 connected to the first sub-network 3 has an IP address of “192.168.8.0. *” (* Is a value that varies from device to device from 0 to 255). Is assigned, and “192.168.1. *” Is assigned as an IP address to each of the devices PC, Pr3, and Pr4 connected to the second sub-network 4.

Here, the IP address will be described. In IPv4 (Internet Protocol Version 4), the IP address is a 32-bit number (actually, it is expressed as “123.123.123.123” or the like by dividing it into 8-bit decimal numbers). Is used. In the standard, the upper 16 bits of the 32 bits are used as network address numbers, and the lower 16 bits are used as host address numbers. Since the host address number is 16 bits (that is, 0 to 65535), 65536 devices are managed, and it is difficult to manage all of them. Therefore, at present, the host address number is divided into upper 8 bits and lower 8 bits (subnetized) and managed by 256 units corresponding to the lower 8 bits. At this time, the subnet mask is used to obtain the subnet network address from the IP address, and the subnet network address can be obtained by ANDing the IP address with the subnet mask. In the case of the lower 8 bits, the subnet mask is “255.255.255.0”, and the upper 24 bits are the network address of the subnet. In the first embodiment, this subnet mask is set and stored in each device. Therefore, the network address of the subnet of the first subnetwork 3 is “192.168.0.0”, and the network address of the subnet of the second subnetwork 4 is “192.168.1.0”.
The IP address and the subnet mask are conventionally known as described in Patent Document 1 and the like.

(Description of the control part of Example 1)
(Explanation of control part of client PC)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) showing each function provided in the control part of the client personal computer as the image information transmitting apparatus of the first embodiment.
In FIG. 2, the computer main body H1 of the client personal computer PC has an I / O (input / output interface) for performing input / output of signals with the outside and adjustment of the input / output signal level, programs and data for performing necessary processing, ROM (Read Only Memory) in which is stored, RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing necessary data, CPU (Central Processing Unit) that performs processing according to programs stored in a hard disk, ROM, etc. ), A clock oscillator, and the like.
The client personal computer PC having the above configuration can realize various functions by executing a program stored in the hard disk, ROM, or the like.

  In the hard disk drive of the client personal computer PC, a basic software (operating system) OS that controls basic operations of the client personal computer, application programs AP such as document creation software and drawing software, and network identification information assigned to the client personal computer PC An image information transmission control program (printer driver) PD that transmits image information to the image forming apparatuses Pr1 to Pr5 in response to a print instruction from the transmission apparatus network information storage unit C1 that stores (IP address) and the application program AP or the like. It is remembered. Hereinafter, each function (control means) excluding the conventionally known operating system OS and application program AP will be described. In the printing system S of the first embodiment, the other client personal computers PC are configured in the same manner as the client personal computers PC, and thus detailed description and illustration thereof are omitted.

C1: Transmission device network information storage means The transmission device network information storage means C1 has IP address storage means C1A for storing the IP address of the client personal computer PC and subnet mask storage means C1B for storing the subnet mask of the client personal computer PC. Then, the network information including the IP address and the subnet mask of the image information transmitting apparatus (client personal computer PC) is stored.

PD: Image forming apparatus selection program (printer driver)
The print setting program PD includes an image information transmission unit C2, and transmits information on an image for which a print instruction has been issued to the selected multifunction peripherals Pr1 to Pr5.
C2: Image information transmission means The image information transmission means C2 includes transmission device network information transmission means C8A for transmitting the network information of the client personal computer PC stored in the transmission device network information storage means C1, and includes the network information. The image information is transmitted to the multifunction peripherals Pr1 to Pr5.

(Description of control unit of image forming apparatus)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control unit of the multifunction peripheral as the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
In FIG. 3, the controller C of the MFP Pr according to the first embodiment includes an I / O (input / output interface) that performs input / output of signals to / from the outside, adjustment of input / output signal levels, and a program for performing necessary processing. And a ROM (read only memory) or hard disk in which data and the like are stored, a RAM (random access memory) for temporarily storing necessary data, and a CPU that performs processing according to a program stored in the ROM ( A central processing unit) and a microcomputer having a clock oscillator and the like, and various functions can be realized by executing a program stored in the ROM or the like.
The controller C of each of the multifunction peripherals Pr1 to Pr5 is configured in the same manner. Therefore, in the following description, the multifunction peripheral Pr1 will be described, and a detailed description of the other multifunction peripherals Pr2 to Pr5 will be omitted.

(Signal input element connected to the controller C)
The controller C receives signals from signal input elements such as a UI (user interface) and various sensors (not shown).
The UI includes input keys such as a display UI1, a copy start key UI2, a numeric keypad UI3, etc., and detects that they are input, and inputs a detection signal to the controller C.

(Control element connected to the controller C)
The controller C is connected to an image recording member PrA and other control elements that form an image according to image information, record the image on a sheet fed from the sheet feed tray TR, and discharge the image onto the discharge tray TRh. These operation control signals are output.

(Function of the controller C)
The controller C has a function (control means) for executing a process corresponding to an output signal from each signal output element, information received via the network N, and a signal and outputting a control signal to each control element. Have. The function (control means) of the controller C will be described next.
C11: Image information receiving means The image information receiving means C11 receives image information transmitted from the client personal computer PC.
C12: Job storage means The job storage means C12 has a job list storage means C12A and a hold list storage means C12B, and receives received image information, read image information during a copy operation, a scanner operation, and a FAX transmission operation. And the like (information) for performing operations (jobs) such as printing operations such as printing operations, scanner operations, FAX operations, and copying operations.

C12A: Job List Storage Unit The job list storage unit C12A stores a job list that lists job data to be executed in the order received. The job list storage unit C12A according to the first embodiment stores (registers) the image information transmitted via the network in the job list when the image information is transmitted from the client personal computer PC in the same subnetwork or when the output is permitted. )
C12B: On-hold list storage means The on-hold list storage means C12B stores image information in a hold state as to whether or not to execute a job while inquiring about output permission.

C13: Image recording means (image forming means)
The image recording means C13 controls the operation of the image recording member PrA, executes the jobs stored in the job storage means C12 in the order received, and records images on the paper. The image recording unit C13 according to the first embodiment executes image formation when the subnetwork to which the client personal computer PC (image information transmitting apparatus) is connected matches the subnetwork, and satisfies an additional determination condition described later. Even in this case, image formation is executed.
C14: Image Display Unit The image display unit C14 includes an initial image display unit C14A, a registration change setting image display unit C14B, and an additional discrimination setting image display unit C14C, and displays an image corresponding to an input to the user interface UI. Displayed on the display UI1.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an initial image according to the first embodiment.
C14A: Initial image display means The initial image display means C14A displays an initial image 11 (menu image, see FIG. 4) for selecting each function of the multifunction peripheral Pr1 on the display unit UI1. 4, the initial image 11 according to the first embodiment includes a function selection icon 12 (see “copy” icon 12a, “FAX” icon 12b, and “scanner” icon 12c in FIG. 4) for selecting each function, and a composite. A registration change icon 13 (see “Register / Change” icon in FIG. 4) for registering and changing various settings and specifications of the machine Pr1.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a registration change setting image according to the first embodiment.
C14B: Registration Change Setting Image Display Unit The registration change setting image display unit C14B displays a registration change setting image 21 (see FIG. 5) for selecting items for registering and changing various settings and specifications of the multifunction peripheral Pr1. To display. In FIG. 5, the registration change setting image 21 of the first embodiment includes an additional determination setting icon 22 (FIG. 5) for setting whether or not to perform additional determination when the sub-networks of the client personal computer PC and the multifunction peripheral Pr1 are different. 5 and a specification setting icon 23 for setting other specifications such as a fax destination and group (see “destination group registration” icon and “destination table registration” icon in FIG. 5). , An end icon 24 (see “Close” icon in FIG. 5) for ending registration and change.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an additional determination setting image according to the first embodiment.
C14C: Additional determination setting image display means The additional determination setting image display means C14C displays an additional determination setting image 31 (see FIG. 6) for setting whether or not to perform additional determination on the display unit UI1. In FIG. 6, an additional determination setting image 31 according to the first embodiment executes an additional determination with an additional determination invalid image 32 (see the “invalid” radio button in FIG. 6) for designating that additional determination is not performed. And an additional determination invalid image 33 (refer to the “valid” radio button in FIG. 6) and a setting end image 34 (see the “close” icon in FIG. 6) for ending the additional determination setting. . As shown in FIG. 6, the electronic mail (E-mail) address of the inquiry destination is set in advance.

C15: Image forming apparatus network information storage means The image forming apparatus network information storage means C15 includes an IP address storage means C15A for storing the IP address of the multifunction peripheral (image forming apparatus) Pr1, and a subnet for storing the subnet mask of the multifunction peripheral Pr1. Network information including the IP address and subnet mask of the multifunction peripheral Pr1.

C16: Subnetwork match determination means The subnetwork match determination means C16 has a transmission device subnetwork specification means C16A and an image forming device subnetwork specification means C16B, to which a client personal computer PC (image information transmission device) is connected. It is determined whether or not the sub-networks 3 and 4 match the sub-networks 3 and 4 to which the multifunction peripheral Pr1 (image forming apparatus) is connected. The sub-network matching determination unit C5 according to the first embodiment determines whether or not the sub-networks 3 and 4 match by determining whether or not the subnet network addresses match.

C16A: Transmitting device subnetwork specifying means The transmitting device subnetwork specifying means C16A specifies the subnetwork to which the client personal computer PC is connected. The transmission apparatus subnetwork specifying unit C16A according to the first embodiment specifies the subnetwork by calculating the network address of the subnet of the client personal computer PC from the acquired IP address and subnet mask of the client personal computer PC.
C16B: Image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means The image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means C16B specifies the subnetwork to which the multifunction peripheral Pr1 is connected. The image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying unit C16B according to the first exemplary embodiment specifies the subnetwork by calculating the network address of the subnet of the MFP Pr1 from the acquired IP address of the MFP Pr1 and the subnet mask of the client personal computer PC. .

C17: Additional determination means The addition determination means C17 includes an additional determination execution setting determination means C17A, an output permission inquiry information transmission means C17B, and an output permission information reception means C17C, and is a sub-network in which the client and the personal computer PC are connected. If the sub-network to which the MFP Pr1 is connected does not match, it is determined whether or not an additional determination condition set in advance for determining whether or not to perform image formation is satisfied. The additional determination means C17 of the first embodiment determines whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied by determining whether or not the administrator has given permission as the additional determination condition.
C17A: Additional determination execution setting determination means The additional determination execution setting determination means C17A has additional determination execution setting storage means C17A1 for storing whether or not the additional determination set by the input to the additional determination setting image is executed. Then, based on the record information of the additional determination execution setting storage means C17A1, it is determined whether or not to perform additional determination.

C17B: Output availability inquiry information transmission means The output availability inquiry information transmission means C17B transmits output availability inquiry information that inquires the administrator of the availability of output from the image forming apparatus. The output permission inquiry information transmitting unit C17B according to the first exemplary embodiment receives received data identification information (for example, when the subnetwork to which the client personal computer PC (transmission source) is connected does not match the subnetwork to which the multifunction peripheral Pr1 is connected). , Reception time), multifunction device identification information (multifunction device name), IP address, subnet mask, received data transmission source identification information (user name, etc.), and e-mail containing the transmission source IP address, It is transmitted to the administrator server Sb as output permission inquiry information.
C17C: Output availability information receiving means The output availability information receiving means C17C receives the output availability information transmitted from the administrator in response to the permission inquiry information. The output availability information receiving unit C17C according to the first embodiment receives an email as the output availability information transmitted from the administrator server Sb.

(Description of the control unit of the administrator server Sb)
FIG. 7 is a block diagram (function block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control part of the administrator server according to the first embodiment.
In FIG. 7, the computer main body H1 of the administrator server Sb is an I / O (input / output interface) that performs input / output of signals to / from the outside, adjustment of input / output signal levels, and the like, and programs and data for performing necessary processing. ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores data, RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing necessary data, CPU (Central Processing Processing) that performs processing according to programs stored in a hard disk, ROM, etc. Device), a clock oscillator, and the like.
The administrator server Sb configured as described above can realize various functions by executing programs stored in the hard disk, ROM, or the like.

In FIG. 7, the administrator server Sb of the first embodiment has a basic software (operating system) OS and an application program AP, and stores the network information of the administrator server Sb, like the client personal computer PC. It has information storage means C21.
Further, the administrator server Sb of the first embodiment has the following functional means.
C22: Output availability inquiry information receiving means The output availability inquiry information receiving means C22 receives the output availability inquiry information transmitted from the multifunction peripherals Pr1 to Pr5. The output availability inquiry information receiving means C22 according to the first embodiment receives an e-mail as the output availability inquiry information.

C23: Output availability information creation means When the output availability information creation means C23 receives the output availability inquiry information, the output availability information creation means C23 creates output availability information according to the input by the administrator input devices H3 and H4. The output permission / prohibition information creating means C23 according to the first embodiment describes the identification information of the image information in the subject field, and “permit” is described in the body of the e-mail when permitting the printout. If not, an e-mail (output enable / disable information) with “not permitted” in the body of the e-mail is created.
C24: Output availability information transmitting unit The output availability information transmitting unit C24 transmits the created output availability information (e-mail in the first embodiment) to the multifunction peripheral Pr1 that has transmitted the output availability inquiry information.
The output availability inquiry information receiving means C22, output availability information creating means C23, and output availability information transmitting means C24 can be configured by conventionally known e-mail transmission / reception software (so-called mailer).

(Description of Flowchart of Example 1)
Next, the processing flow of the multifunction peripheral Pr1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart. Processing of the client personal computer PC that transmits image information including network information to the multifunction peripheral Pr1 in response to a user input. Since the processing of the administrator server Sb that receives an email transmitted from the multifunction device Pr1 or transmits an email created by the administrator to the multifunction device Pr1 is simple, the illustration and detailed description will be given. Omitted.

(Explanation of flow chart of print availability determination process)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of printability determination processing of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is performed according to a program stored in a ROM, a hard disk, or the like of the multifunction peripheral Pr1. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the multifunction peripheral Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 8 is started when the multifunction device Pr1 is powered on.

In ST1 of FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not print data (image information) transmitted from the client personal computer PC has been received. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST2. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST9.
In ST2, basic print permission determination processing for determining whether or not printing is possible by determining whether or not the client personal computer PC that transmitted the print data (image information) and the multifunction peripheral Pr1 are in the same subnetwork (FIG. 9) and proceed to ST3.
In ST3, it is determined whether the received print data cannot be printed. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST4. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST12.

In ST4, it is determined whether or not the execution of the additional determination is valid. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST5, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST6.
In ST5, since printing (image formation) is not permitted, the received data is deleted. Then, the process returns to ST1.
In ST6, as output permission inquiry information to be transmitted to the administrator server Sb, an e-mail in which job data identification information, multifunction device Pr1 identification information, IP address, subnet mask, transmission source identification information, and IP address are described create. Then, the process proceeds to ST7.
In ST7, an e-mail is transmitted to a registered administrator (a person who can determine whether or not it is permitted). Then, the process proceeds to ST8.
In ST8, the received data is registered (stored) in the hold list. Then, the process returns to ST1.

In ST9, it is determined whether or not an e-mail as output permission information transmitted from the administrator server Sb has been received. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST10, and if no (N), the process returns to ST1.
In ST10, it is determined whether or not an email whose output is not permitted is received. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST11. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST12.
In ST11, the target print data for which output is permitted is deleted from the hold list.
In ST12, the received print data or the print data held in the hold list is registered in the job list. Then, the process returns to ST1.

(Description of basic printing permission / inhibition determination process (ST2 subroutine))
FIG. 9 is a flowchart of basic printing permission / inhibition determination processing according to the first embodiment, which is a subroutine of ST2 in FIG.
In ST21 of FIG. 9, the IP address and subnet mask of the multifunction machine are acquired. Then, the process proceeds to ST22.
In ST22, the subnet network address is detected by masking the IP address of the MFP with a subnet mask. Then, the process proceeds to ST23.

In ST23, the IP address of the transmission source (client personal computer PC) included in the received data is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to ST24.
In ST24, the IP address of the transmission source is masked with the subnet mask of the multifunction device, and the network address of the transmission source subnet is detected. Then, the process proceeds to ST25.
In ST25, it is determined whether or not the transmission source sub-network matches the sub-network of the multifunction peripheral Pr1. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST26, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST27.
In ST26, the received data is set to a printable job. Then, the basic printability determination process in FIG. 9 is terminated, and the process returns to the printability determination process in FIG.
In ST27, the received data is set to a job that cannot be printed. Then, the basic printability determination process in FIG. 9 is terminated, and the process returns to the printability determination process in FIG.

(Description of flowchart of function selection process)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the function selection process of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.
The processing of each ST (step) in the flowchart of FIG. 10 is performed according to a program stored in the ROM, the hard disk, or the like of the multifunction peripheral Pr1. Further, this process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes (such as the print permission / inhibition determination process) of the multifunction machine Pr1.
The flowchart shown in FIG. 10 is started when the MFP Pr1 is powered on.

In ST31 of FIG. 10, the initial image 11 is displayed on the display unit UI1. Then, the process proceeds to ST32.
In ST32, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the “copy” icon 12a has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST33, and if no (N), the process proceeds to ST34.
In ST33, a conventionally known copy function selection process for setting the number of copies and executing a copy operation as a job is performed, and the process returns to ST31.
In ST34, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the “scanner” icon 12b has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST35, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST36.
In ST35, a conventionally known scanner function selection process for executing a scanner operation (job) for reading a document image is performed, and the process returns to ST31.

In ST36, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the “FAX” icon 12c has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST37, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST38.
In ST37, a destination function is input, a process for selecting a FAX function for executing a conventionally known FAX operation (job) for reading and transmitting a document image is performed, and the process returns to ST31.
In ST38, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting the registration change icon 13 has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST39. If no (N), the process returns to ST32.
In ST39, registration change processing (refer to a subroutine of FIG. 11 described later) for registering and changing the specifications of the multifunction peripheral Pr1 is executed, and the process returns to ST31.

(Explanation of registration change process (ST39 subroutine))
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the registration change process according to the first embodiment, which is a subroutine of ST39 in FIG.
In ST41 of FIG. 11, the registration change setting image 21 is displayed on the display unit UI1. Then, the process proceeds to ST42.
In ST42, it is determined whether or not an input for selecting “printable / unusable condition setting” (additional determination setting icon 22) has been made. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST43, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST48.
In ST43, the additional determination setting image 31 is displayed on the display unit UI1. Then, the process proceeds to ST44.

In ST44, it is determined whether or not a setting end image 34 ("Close" icon in FIG. 6) has been input. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST45, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST46.
In ST45, the validity / invalidity of the additional determination is updated to the contents set in the additional determination setting image 31. Then, the process returns to ST41.
In ST46, it is determined whether or not other input is made in the additional determination setting image 31. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST47, and, if no (N), the process returns to ST44.
In ST47, the additional determination setting image 31 is updated according to the input. Then, the process returns to ST44.

In ST48, it is determined whether or not the end icon 24 (see the “Close” icon in FIG. 5) of the registration change setting image 21 has been input. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST49, and if yes (Y), the registration change process of FIG. 11 is terminated and the process returns to FIG.
In ST49, it is determined whether or not other input is made on the registration change setting image 21. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST50, and, if no (N), the process returns to ST41.
In ST50, a process (such as a destination setting process (not shown)) corresponding to the input in the registration change setting image 21 is executed, and the process returns to ST41.

(Operation of Example 1)
In the printing system S of the first embodiment having the above-described configuration, in principle, it is transmitted from an image information transmitting apparatus (client personal computer PC, administrator server Sb, etc.) connected to a sub-network 4 different from the multifunction peripheral Pr1. Output of image information (printout) is not executed. If the additional determination is valid and the sub-networks are different, an inquiry is made to the administrator server Sb as to whether output is possible, and if the administrator gives permission, a printout is executed. That is, the printout is executed when the administrator's permission, which is an additional determination condition, is given.
Therefore, in principle, when it is sent from a client personal computer connected to a different subnetwork, it is not printed out, so the vulnerability that an unspecified number of users can output via the network is eliminated. Security can be ensured. In addition, when the administrator gives permission, printout can be performed even when the sub-network is different, so that flexible operation can be performed according to the user.

In addition, since it is possible to set whether or not to perform the additional determination (ST6 to ST12), the security level can be flexibly changed according to the use environment.
In addition, the received data is suspended until permission from the administrator is obtained, and the process is not interrupted and waits until a reply is received from the administrator, so that it does not affect other processes and the processing speed is reduced. Can be suppressed.

  Next, the printing system S according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the description of the second embodiment, components corresponding to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and details thereof are described. The detailed explanation is omitted. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment in other points.

(Description of Control Unit of Example 2)
(Explanation of control part of client PC)
FIG. 12 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) showing each function provided in the control part of the client personal computer as the image information transmitting apparatus of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. is there.
In FIG. 12, in the printing system S of the second embodiment, the basic print permission determination process for determining whether or not the sub-networks match is performed on the information (zone name) of the zone of AppleTalk (registered trademark) instead of the network address of the subnet. Based on the network address of the subnet. That is, in the second embodiment, the basic printing permission / inhibition determination process is executed based on the zone as the sub-network.

Accordingly, in the client personal computer PC according to the second embodiment, the transmission apparatus network information storage unit C1 stores information on the zone in which the client personal computer PC is set in addition to the IP address storage unit C1A and the subnet mask storage unit C1B. A zone information storage unit C1C is provided to store network information including an IP address, a subnet mask, and zone information.
Therefore, image information including network information (IP address and zone information) is transmitted to the multifunction peripheral Pr1.

(Description of control unit of image forming apparatus)
(Function of the controller C of the second embodiment)
FIG. 13 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control unit of the multifunction peripheral as the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 3 according to the first embodiment. is there.
In FIG. 13, the controller C of the image forming apparatus Pr1 according to the second embodiment performs image processing apparatus network information storage means C15 in the controller C of the image forming apparatus Pr1 according to the second embodiment as the print system S according to the second embodiment performs the basic printing permission / inhibition determination process. In addition to the IP address storage means C15A and the subnet mask storage means C15B, it has zone information storage means C15C for storing zone information of the multifunction peripheral Pr1, and stores network information composed of the IP address, subnet mask and zone information. To do. In the second embodiment, the IP address storage unit C15A can be omitted.

Further, the sub-network matching determination unit C16 ′ includes a transmission device sub-network specifying unit C16A ′ for specifying a sub-network identified by the zone information of the image information transmission device (client personal computer) PC, and a multifunction device Pr1 (image forming device). Image forming apparatus sub-network specifying means C16B 'for specifying the sub-network identified by the zone information, and determining whether or not the sub-networks match by determining whether or not the zone information matches. Determine.
Furthermore, in the additional determination means C17 of the second embodiment, the output permission / inquiry inquiry information transmission means C17B and the output permission / reception information reception means C17C are omitted, and the transmission device subnetwork specifying means C17D and the permission subnetwork storage means (addition determination condition storage means). Whether or not output (printout) is possible is determined based on the network address of the subnetwork calculated from the IP address and subnet mask.

The transmitting device subnetwork specifying means C17D, like the transmitting device subnetwork specifying means C16A of the first embodiment, obtains the network address of the subnetwork from the IP address of the client personal computer PC that is the transmission source and the subnet mask of the multifunction device Pr1. Compute and identify the subnetwork.
C17F: Permitted subnetwork storage means (additional determination condition storage means)
The permitted sub-network storage unit C17F stores, as additional determination conditions, a permitted sub-network that is different from the sub-network to which the multi-function device Pr1 is connected and permits output from the multi-function device Pr1. The network address of the permitted subnetwork (for example, the network address “192.168.1.0” of the second subnetwork 4) is set in advance by the administrator.

(Explanation of flowchart of embodiment 2)
Next, the flowchart of the second embodiment will be described. The same steps (ST) numbers are assigned to the same processes as those of the flowchart of the first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted.
(Explanation of flow chart of print availability determination process)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the print feasibility determination process according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. 8 according to the first embodiment.

In FIG. 14, the printability determination process of the second embodiment determines whether or not the print data that is ST1 is the same as the print permission determination process of the first embodiment, and if yes (Y), ST2 ′. If the answer is no (N), ST1 is repeated.
In ST2 ′, basic printing availability determination processing (see 15 subroutine described later) for determining whether or not the sub-networks match based on the zone information is executed, and the process proceeds to ST3.
Next, the same ST3 to ST5 and ST12 as in the printability determination process of the first embodiment are executed, and if yes (Y) in ST4, the process proceeds to ST61.
In ST61, additional printing permission / non-permission determining means for determining whether printing is possible or not based on the network address of the sub-network (refer to a subroutine of FIG. 16 described later) is executed, and the process proceeds to ST62.
In ST62, it is determined whether or not the received data is determined as non-printable data based on the determination by the additional printing possibility determination means (ST61). If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST5, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST12.

(Description of basic printing permission / inhibition determination process (ST2 'subroutine))
FIG. 15 is a flowchart of basic print permission / inhibition determination processing according to the second embodiment, which is a subroutine corresponding to FIG. 9 according to the first embodiment.
In ST71 of FIG. 15, the sub-network is detected by acquiring the zone information of the multifunction peripheral. Then, the process proceeds to ST72.
In ST72, the subnetwork is detected by acquiring the zone information of the transmission source (client personal computer PC) included in the received data. Then, the process proceeds to ST73.
In ST73, it is determined whether or not the source zone information (subnetwork) matches the zone information (subnetwork) of the multifunction peripheral Pr1. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST74, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST75.
In ST74, the received data is set to a printable job. Then, the basic printability determination process in FIG. 15 is terminated, and the process returns to the printability determination process in FIG.
In ST75, the received data is set to a job that cannot be printed. Then, the basic printability determination process in FIG. 15 is terminated, and the process returns to the printability determination process in FIG.

(Explanation of Additional Printing Allowability Determination Process (ST61 Subroutine))
FIG. 16 is a flowchart of additional print permission / inhibition determination processing according to the second embodiment, which is a subroutine of ST61 in FIG.
In ST81 in FIG. 16, the subnet mask of the multifunction device is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to ST82.
In ST82, the IP address of the transmission source (client personal computer PC) included in the received data is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to ST83.
In ST83, the IP address of the transmission source is masked with the subnet mask of the multifunction peripheral Pr1, and the network address of the transmission source subnet is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to ST84.
In ST84, it is determined whether or not the network address of the transmission source subnetwork matches the network address of the permitted subnetwork stored in the permitted subnetwork storage means C17F. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST85, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST86.
In ST85, the received data is set to a printable job. Then, the additional printability determination process in FIG. 16 is terminated, and the process returns to the printability determination process in FIG.
In ST86, the received data is set to a job that cannot be printed. Then, the additional printability determination process in FIG. 16 is terminated, and the process returns to the printability determination process in FIG.

(Operation of Example 2)
In the printing system S according to the second embodiment having the above-described configuration, whether or not the sub-networks 3 and 4 match is determined based on the zone information. In principle, the printout is executed when the zones match. . If the additional determination is valid even if the zones do not match, output is permitted if the sub-network of the client personal computer PC is a pre-registered permitted sub-network.
Therefore, in the printing system S of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the output of a user set with a permitted sub-network is permitted while eliminating the vulnerability that an unspecified number of users can output via the network. Therefore, flexible operation can be performed according to the user.
In the printing system S of the second embodiment, the administrator does not need to create an e-mail. Therefore, the burden on the administrator can be reduced and the time required for sending / receiving e-mail can be omitted. Can be operated.

  Next, the print system S according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the description of the third embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the components corresponding to the components of the first and second embodiments, and Detailed description thereof is omitted. The third embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first and second embodiments in other points.

(Description of Control Unit of Example 3)
(Description of control unit of image forming apparatus)
(Function of the controller C of the third embodiment)
FIG. 17 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control unit of the multifunction machine as the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 13 according to the second embodiment. is there.
In FIG. 17, in the print system S of the third embodiment, the additional determination is performed based on the number of pages of received image data, not the permission of the administrator or the network address of the subnet.
Accordingly, in the multifunction device Pr1 according to the third embodiment, the additional determination unit C17 replaces the transmission device subnetwork specifying unit C17D and the permitted subnetwork storage unit C17F according to the second embodiment and outputs an output page of received data (image information). A page number counting unit C17G for counting the number N1, and a permission determination page number storage unit (additional storage) for storing a permission determination page number Na that is the number of pages permitted to be output from the multifunction peripheral Pr1 (image forming apparatus) as an additional determination condition. Determination condition storage means) C17H. Then, the additional determination means C17 of Example 3 determines whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied by determining whether or not the page number N1 of the received image information is equal to or less than the permission determination page number Na. The permission determination page number Na is preset and registered by the administrator.

(Description of Flowchart of Example 3)
Next, the flowchart of the third embodiment will be described. The same steps (ST) numbers are assigned to the same processes as those in the flowcharts of the first and second embodiments, and detailed description thereof is omitted.
(Explanation of Additional Printing Allowability Determination Process (ST61 Subroutine))
FIG. 18 is a flowchart of additional print permission / inhibition determination processing according to the third embodiment, which is a subroutine corresponding to FIG. 16 according to the second embodiment.
In ST91 of FIG. 18, the number of output pages N1 is counted (acquired) based on the information on the number of pages included in the received print data (image information). Then, the process proceeds to ST92.
In ST92, it is determined whether or not the output page number N1 is equal to or smaller than the permission determination page number Na. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST93, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST94.
In ST93, the received data is set to a printable job. Then, the additional printability determination process in FIG. 18 is terminated and the process returns to the printability determination process.
In ST94, the received data is set to a job that cannot be printed. Then, the additional printability determination process in FIG. 18 is terminated and the process returns to the printability determination process.

(Operation of Example 3)
In the printing system S according to the third embodiment having the above-described configuration, as in the second embodiment, in principle, the printout is executed when the zones match. Even if the zones do not match, if the additional determination is valid, if the page number N1 of the received image information is less than or equal to the permission determination page number Na, the data amount is not so large and the cost is not high. Output is allowed.
Therefore, in the printing system S according to the third embodiment, since the vulnerability that an unspecified number of users can output a large amount of image information via the network is eliminated, the output of the permission determination page number Na or less is permitted. Operation is possible.

(Example of change)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to the said Example, A various change is performed within the range of the summary of this invention described in the claim. It is possible. Modification examples (H01) to (H011) of the present invention are exemplified below.
(H01) In the above-described embodiment, the configuration of the devices connected on the network N is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and a network scanner, a database server, a workstation, or the like can be connected. , 4 has no problem even if there is only one image forming apparatus. Further, the image forming apparatus is not limited to the multifunction peripheral Pr1 connected to the network, and an image forming apparatus connected to the network via a printer server may be used.

(H02) It is also possible to combine the first to third embodiments, and there may be a plurality of additional determination conditions, and it is also possible to configure so that output is permitted when one or more of them are satisfied. Also, it is possible to select and set an additional determination condition to be used from among a plurality of additional determination conditions.
(H03) In the above embodiment, the IP address and subnet mask or zone information is used in the basic discrimination process and the additional discrimination process. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a work used in Windows (registered trademark) In a network divided into a plurality of sub-networks configured by groups, it can be configured to determine whether or not the sub-networks match based on whether or not the work group names match. is there.

(H04) In the above embodiment, the subnet mask used is the subnet mask of the device (client personal computer) that determines the matching of the sub-networks. However, the subnet mask is not limited to this, and the subnet mask information is also transmitted when the IP address is transmitted. It is also possible to transmit and use it for discrimination.
(H05) In the above embodiment, the sub-networks 3 and 4 are configured as intranets. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a sub-network can be configured via the Internet line 1.
(H06) In the above embodiment, it is desirable that only the administrator can set the administrator's e-mail address, permitted subnetworks, and number of permitted determination pages, but it is also possible for the user to be able to set. Further, the IP address is not limited to a subnetwork unit as in the permitted subnetwork, and an individual IP address can be stored as an additional determination condition.
(H07) In the embodiment, specific numerical values such as an IP address and a subnet mask are not limited to the above values and can be changed. The IP address can also be automatically set using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).

(H08) In the above-described embodiment, the additional determination unit C17 is provided in the image forming apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is provided in the administrator server Sb, and the IP address, zone information, and number of output pages N1 from the multifunction peripherals Pr1 to Pr5. It is also possible to configure so that the administrator server Sb makes a determination and returns the result to the image forming apparatus.
(H09) In the above-described embodiment, an example of a multifunction peripheral having all the functions of a copy, a printer, a scanner, and a FAX is illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and image information is received via a network such as a printer or FAX. Any image forming apparatus capable of outputting can be applied to any image forming apparatus.

(H010) In the first embodiment, an e-mail is used as the output permission inquiry information and the output permission information. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any specific data format can be adopted. Further, the information described in the electronic mail is not limited to the information described in the above embodiment, and can be added or deleted as necessary.
(H011) In the third embodiment, the number of permission determination pages is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, additional determination is performed such that output is permitted when the data capacity of received data is equal to or less than the permission determination capacity. It is also possible.

FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of a printing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) showing each function provided in the control part of the client personal computer as the image information transmitting apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control unit of the multifunction peripheral as the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an initial image according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a registration change setting image according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an additional determination setting image according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram (function block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control part of the administrator server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of printability determination processing of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of basic printing permission / inhibition determination processing according to the first embodiment, which is a subroutine of ST2 in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the function selection process of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the registration change process according to the first embodiment, which is a subroutine of ST39 in FIG. FIG. 12 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) showing each function provided in the control part of the client personal computer as the image information transmitting apparatus of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 2 of the first embodiment. is there. FIG. 13 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control unit of the multifunction peripheral as the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 3 according to the first embodiment. is there. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the print feasibility determination process according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. 8 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of basic print permission / inhibition determination processing according to the second embodiment, which is a subroutine corresponding to FIG. 9 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of additional print permission / inhibition determination processing according to the second embodiment, which is a subroutine of ST61 in FIG. FIG. 17 is a block diagram (functional block diagram) illustrating each function provided in the control unit of the multifunction machine as the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 13 according to the second embodiment. is there. FIG. 18 is a flowchart of additional print permission / inhibition determination processing according to the third embodiment, which is a subroutine corresponding to FIG. 16 according to the second embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

3, 4 ... Subnetwork,
C11: Image information receiving means,
C13: image forming means,
C16, C16 ′... Subnetwork match determination means,
C16A, C16A ′... Transmitting device subnetwork specifying means,
C16B, 16B ′... Image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means,
C17 ... additional discrimination means,
C17B ... Output availability inquiry information transmission means,
C17C: Output availability information receiving means,
C17F: Additional discrimination condition storage means,
C17H: Additional discrimination condition storage means,
N ... Network,
N1 ... number of pages,
Na: Number of pages for permission determination,
PC: Image information transmission device,
Pr1 to Pr5: Image forming apparatus,
S: Print system.

Claims (7)

A printing system comprising the following configuration requirements (A01) to (A07):
(A01) An image information transmitting apparatus that is connected to a network having a plurality of sub-networks and transmits image information to the image forming apparatus via the network;
(A02) An image forming apparatus that is connected to the network and that forms an image according to image information transmitted from the image information transmitting apparatus and received;
(A03) Transmitting device subnetwork specifying means for specifying a subnetwork to which the image information transmitting device is connected;
(A04) Image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means for specifying a subnetwork to which the image forming apparatus is connected;
(A05) Subnetwork matching determining means for determining whether or not the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting device is connected matches the subnetwork to which the image forming device is connected;
(A06) Additional discrimination preset in order to discriminate whether or not to perform image formation when the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting device is connected does not match the subnetwork to which the image forming device is connected Additional discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the condition is satisfied,
(A07) Image forming means for performing image formation when the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting apparatus is connected matches the subnetwork, and for performing image formation even when the additional determination condition is satisfied. The printing system according to claim 1, comprising the following configuration requirements (A08) and (A09):
(A08) The transmitting device subnetwork specifying means for specifying the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting device is connected based on the IP address of the image information transmitting device;
(A09) The image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means for specifying the subnetwork to which the image forming apparatus is connected based on the IP address of the image forming apparatus. The printing system according to claim 1, comprising the following configuration requirements (A010) to (A012):
(A010) In order to obtain the administrator's permission as the additional determination condition, when the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting apparatus is connected does not match the subnetwork to which the image forming apparatus is connected, Output enable / disable inquiry information transmitting means (A011) for transmitting output enable / disable inquiry information for inquiring output enable / disable from the image forming apparatus, and receiving output enable / disable information received from the administrator in response to the permission inquiry information means,
(A012) The additional determination means for determining whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied based on the output permission information. The printing system according to claim 3, comprising the following configuration requirements (A 013):
(A013) Output enable / disable inquiry information transmitting means for transmitting an e-mail as the output enable / disable inquiry information, and the output enable / disable information receiving means for receiving an e-mail as the output enable / disable information. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising the following configuration requirements (A014) and (A015):
(A014) An additional determination condition storage means for storing a permitted subnetwork that is a subnetwork different from the image forming apparatus and permits output from the image forming apparatus as the additional determination condition;
(A015) When the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting apparatus is connected does not match the subnetwork to which the image forming apparatus is connected, the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting apparatus is connected is the permission subnetwork. The additional determination means for determining whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied by determining whether or not they match. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising the following configuration requirements (A016) and (A017):
(A016) An additional determination condition storage unit that stores the number of permitted determination pages, which is the number of pages permitted to be output from the image forming apparatus, as the additional determination condition;
(A017) The additional determination means for determining whether or not the additional determination condition is satisfied by determining whether or not the number of pages of the received image information is equal to or less than the number of permission determination pages. An image forming apparatus comprising the following configuration requirements (B01) to (B06):
(B01) Image information receiving means for receiving image information transmitted from an image information transmitting device connected to the network;
(B02) Transmitting device subnetwork specifying means for specifying a subnetwork to which the image information transmitting device is connected;
(B03) Image forming apparatus subnetwork specifying means for specifying a subnetwork to which the image forming apparatus is connected;
(B04) Subnetwork matching determining means for determining whether or not the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting apparatus is connected matches the subnetwork to which the image forming apparatus is connected;
(B05) Additional discrimination preset in order to discriminate whether or not to perform image formation when the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting device is connected does not match the subnetwork to which the image forming device is connected Additional discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the condition is satisfied,
(B06) Image forming means for performing image formation when the subnetwork to which the image information transmitting apparatus is connected matches the subnetwork, and for performing image formation even when the additional determination condition is satisfied.

Images