JP2008211646A - Image formation system, information processor, information processing method, information processing program and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information processor that can set very low capable reduction of the probability that an image is browsed by unspecified users. <P>SOLUTION: The information processor, when transmission of secure job information (SJ information) is instructed by a user, transmits determination request information to an image forming apparatus prior to transmission of the SJ information (step 540). The image forming apparatus, when receiving the determination request information, determines whether an authentication device is connected and transmits the determination result information, corresponding to this determination result, to the information processor. The information processor, when the determination result information represents that the authentication device is connected to the image forming apparatus ("YES" in step 550), transmits the SJ information to the image forming apparatus (step 575); and when the determination result information represents that the authentication device is not connected to the image forming apparatus ("No" in step 550), the information processor will not transmit the SJ information to the image forming apparatus (step 580). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming apparatus capable of preventing an unspecified user from browsing an image (for example, a document and a graphic printed on paper) formed on a recording medium. The present invention relates to an image forming system, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing program, and an image forming apparatus.

  One of the image forming systems of this type includes an information processing apparatus that transmits secure job information including image forming information representing an image and authentication identification information (for example, a character string as a password) set by a user, And an image forming apparatus that holds the transmitted secure job information. When the user inputs the authentication input information to the authentication unit provided in the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus recognizes the authentication identification that matches the input authentication input information from the stored authentication identification information. Identify information. Then, the image forming apparatus forms an image on the recording medium based on the secure job information including the specified identification information for authentication (executes an image forming process based on the secure job information). In this way, printing that requests input of predetermined authentication input information at the start of printing is called secure printing.

As a result, printing is performed only when a user who can input the same authentication input information as the held authentication identification information is in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus (secure printing is performed). Can be prevented from being viewed by an unspecified user (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP-A-9-65148

  By the way, the image forming apparatus may be used by a group that does not need to perform secure printing. Therefore, it is not a good idea to configure the image forming apparatus so that all of the image forming apparatuses of a certain model are provided with an authentication unit for realizing secure printing. It is desirable that the image forming apparatus be configured so that an authentication unit can be additionally provided. Therefore, for example, it may be preferable to configure the authentication unit with an authentication device that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus.

  On the other hand, in the conventional image forming system, the information processing apparatus sometimes transmits the secure job information even when the image forming apparatus does not include an authentication unit. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus does not include an authentication unit (for example, when the authentication apparatus is removed from the image forming apparatus), the image forming information included in the transmitted secure job information is held in the image forming apparatus. There was a risk of being continued. Therefore, for example, when the image forming apparatus is discarded, there is a problem that the possibility of browsing an image increases by illegally acquiring image forming information held by an unspecified user.

  An image forming system according to the present invention has been made to address the above-described problems, and includes an image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming process based on secure job information including image forming information, and the secure job information. The image forming apparatus and the information processing apparatus are configured to be able to communicate with each other via a communication line.

The image forming apparatus includes:
The image forming process based on secure job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus is configured to include an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on input predetermined authentication input information. An execution determination unit that determines whether to execute based on the authentication result, and whether the authentication unit is provided based on predetermined determination request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus and the determination result And first result transmission means for transmitting determination result information corresponding to the information processing apparatus.

The information processing apparatus includes:
First request transmission means for transmitting the determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
Transmission determining means for determining whether to transmit the secure job information based on the determination result information transmitted from the image forming apparatus.

  According to this, the information processing apparatus transmits determination request information to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus determines whether the image forming apparatus includes an authentication unit based on the transmitted determination request information, and transmits determination result information corresponding to the determination result to the information processing apparatus. For example, when the image forming apparatus includes an authentication unit, the authentication unit is configured to be detachable from the image forming apparatus and the authentication unit is attached to the image forming apparatus. For example, the function can be switched between a state where the function can be achieved (on state) and a state where the function cannot be achieved (off state), and the function can be achieved.

  The information processing apparatus determines whether to transmit secure job information to the image forming apparatus based on the determination result information transmitted from the image forming apparatus. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus does not include an authentication unit, the information processing apparatus can be configured not to transmit secure job information. As a result, it is possible to avoid holding the image forming information in the image forming apparatus in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. Therefore, the possibility that an unspecified user illegally acquires image formation information from the image forming apparatus can be extremely reduced.

  In addition, the information processing apparatus according to the present invention is configured to include an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on the input predetermined input information for authentication, and secure job information including image forming information Is configured to be communicable with the image forming apparatus configured to determine whether or not to execute the image forming process based on the authentication result via a communication line, and the secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus. This is an information processing apparatus that can transmit.

Furthermore, an information processing apparatus according to the present invention includes:
First request transmission means for transmitting predetermined determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
The secure job information based on determination result information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted determination request information and that the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. Transmission determining means for determining whether or not to transmit.

  In this case, it is preferable that the first request transmitting unit is configured to transmit the determination request information only when transmitting the secure job information.

  According to this, determination request information is wasted when job information other than secure job information that does not require authentication means at the start of execution of image formation processing (for example, normal job information) is transmitted. Can be prevented.

  In this case, it is preferable that the transmission determining unit is configured to notify the user that the secure job information is not transmitted when it is determined not to transmit the secure job information.

  According to this, since the user can know that the secure job information is not transmitted, the user can quickly cope with the situation. That is, user convenience can be improved.

  In this case, when the determination result information is information corresponding to the fact that the image forming apparatus does not include the authentication unit, the transmission determination unit includes the authentication unit that indicates the state of the image forming apparatus. It is preferable to be configured to notify the user of promotion information for prompting the user to change to the state.

  According to this, the user is prompted to change the state of the image forming apparatus to a state where the authentication unit is provided. Accordingly, the user can quickly change the state of the image forming apparatus to a state in which the authentication unit is provided.

  In this case, when the transmission determination unit determines not to transmit the secure job information, the transmission determination unit transmits predetermined redetermination request information to the image forming apparatus, and forms the same image in response to the transmitted redetermination request information. It is configured to re-determine whether or not to transmit the secure job information based on information transmitted from the apparatus and re-determination result information as to whether or not the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. Is preferable.

  According to this, even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted because it is determined that the image forming apparatus does not include the authentication unit, the state of the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. When it is changed to (for example, when the authentication unit is configured to be detachable and the authentication unit is attached to the image forming apparatus), the secure job information can be transmitted. That is, user convenience can be improved.

  In this case, even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted, the transmission determining unit is configured to re-determine that the secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus in accordance with a user instruction. Is preferable.

  According to this, even if the image forming apparatus is not provided with the authentication unit, the user is unspecified due to a reason that the user will immediately change the state of the image forming apparatus to a state provided with the authentication unit. When the user determines that the image is unlikely to be viewed by the user, the secure job information can be easily transmitted. That is, user convenience can be improved.

In this case, the information processing apparatus
Even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted by the transmission determining unit, the image forming process based on the image forming information included in the secure job information is performed on the image forming apparatus according to a user instruction. It is preferable to include job transmission means for transmitting normal job information to be forcibly executed to the image forming apparatus.

  According to this, even when the image forming apparatus does not include an authentication unit, an image can be viewed by an unspecified user because the user is planning to move immediately to the vicinity of the image forming apparatus. When the user determines that the image quality is low, it is possible to force the image forming apparatus to execute an image forming process based on the image forming information that is to be transmitted by being included in the secure job information. That is, user convenience can be improved.

In the above-described image forming system,
The information processing apparatus is configured to include predetermined authentication identification information in the transmitted secure job information, and a second request for transmitting confirmation request information including the authentication identification information to the image forming apparatus. A transmission means,
The authentication unit holds the authentication identification information and the authentication input information in association with each other and holds the authentication identification information in association with authentication identification information included in the secure job information among the authentication identification information held therein. Configured to output the authentication result based on the authentication input information and the input authentication input information,
The image forming apparatus determines whether or not authentication identification information included in the confirmation request information is held in the authentication unit based on the confirmation request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus. A second result transmitting means for transmitting corresponding confirmation result information to the information processing apparatus;
The transmission determining unit of the information processing apparatus is configured to determine whether to transmit the secure job information based on the determination result information and the confirmation result information transmitted from the image forming apparatus. Is preferred.

  According to this, the information processing apparatus transmits confirmation request information including authentication identification information to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus determines whether or not authentication identification information included in the transmitted confirmation request information is held in the authentication unit, and transmits confirmation result information representing the determination result to the information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus determines whether or not to transmit secure job information to the image forming apparatus based on the determination result information and confirmation result information transmitted from the image forming apparatus.

  Therefore, even when the image forming apparatus includes an authentication unit, if the authentication identification information included in the secure job information is not held in the authentication unit, the information processing apparatus is configured not to transmit the secure job information. Can be configured. As a result, it is possible to avoid holding the image forming information in the image forming apparatus in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. Therefore, the possibility that an unspecified user illegally acquires image formation information from the image forming apparatus can be extremely reduced.

On the other hand, any one of the information processing apparatuses described above
The secure job information to be transmitted is configured to include predetermined identification information for authentication,
A second request transmission unit configured to transmit confirmation request information including the authentication identification information to the image forming apparatus;
The transmission determination unit determines whether authentication identification information included in the confirmation request information, which is information transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted confirmation request information, is held in the authentication unit. It is preferable that the secure job information is determined to be transmitted based on the confirmation result information about the information and the determination result information.

An information processing method according to the present invention includes:
It is possible to provide an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on the input input information for predetermined authentication, and whether or not to execute the image forming process based on secure job information including the image forming information is the same. Information processing method for transmitting secure job information to image forming apparatus using information processing apparatus configured to be able to communicate with the image forming apparatus configured to be determined based on the authentication result via a communication line It is.

Furthermore, an information processing method according to the present invention includes:
Transmitting predetermined determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
The secure job information based on determination result information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted determination request information and that the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. Determining whether or not to transmit.

On the other hand, an information processing program according to the present invention is:
It is possible to provide an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on the input input information for predetermined authentication, and whether or not to execute the image forming process based on secure job information including the image forming information is the same. The secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus by being executed by an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with the image forming apparatus configured to be determined based on the authentication result via a communication line. An information processing program.

Furthermore, an information processing program according to the present invention includes:
A procedure for transmitting predetermined determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
The secure job information based on determination result information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted determination request information and that the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. Determining whether or not to transmit.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is configured to be able to communicate with an information processing apparatus capable of transmitting secure job information including image forming information via a communication line, and to perform image forming processing based on the secure job information. This is an executable image forming apparatus.

Furthermore, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes:
The image forming process based on secure job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus is configured to include an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on input predetermined authentication input information. An execution determination unit that determines whether to execute based on the authentication result, and whether the authentication unit is provided based on predetermined determination request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus and the determination result And first result transmission means for transmitting determination result information corresponding to the information processing apparatus.

  Embodiments of an image forming system including an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus for executing an information processing program according to the present invention and using the information processing method according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. To do.

<First Embodiment>
As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system according to the first embodiment includes an image forming apparatus 20 and a plurality of information processing apparatuses connected to each other via a communication line (in this example, a local area network) 10. (Terminal device) 30 is provided.

(Image forming device)
The image forming apparatus 20 is a laser printer. The image forming apparatus 20 includes a CPU 21, a flash memory 22, a RAM 23 that constitutes a holding unit, a display unit 24, an operation input unit 25, a printer engine unit 26, and a connection interface connected to each other via a bus. Section 27 and a communication interface section 28 constituting a receiving means.

  The CPU 21 sends various instruction information to each component of the image forming apparatus 20 by executing a predetermined program.

  The flash memory 22 is a storage medium capable of holding (storing) information while the power is on and erasing (reading / writing) the held information. The flash memory 22 keeps holding information while the power is off. The flash memory 22 stores a program for operating the image forming apparatus 20 in advance.

  The RAM 23 is a readable / writable storage medium. The RAM 23 can hold information only while the power is on.

  The display unit 24 includes a display panel (in this example, a liquid crystal panel) not shown. In response to an instruction from the CPU 21, the display unit 24 displays an image including a message for notifying the user of information, an input field for allowing the user to input information, and the like on the display panel.

  The operation input unit 25 includes a plurality of buttons (not shown). The operation input unit 25 is configured such that when a button is pressed, information corresponding to the button is input. Information corresponding to each button is set in association with an image displayed by the display unit 24. The operation input unit 25 may be configured such that information is input when the user directly touches the display panel of the display unit 24.

  The printer engine unit 26 generates a photosensitive drum on which an electrostatic latent image is formed on the peripheral surface by being irradiated with laser light, and laser light that scans the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum based on image formation information. And a developer supply unit that supplies charged developer to the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum. Upon receiving the image formation information, the printer engine unit 26 executes an image formation process for forming an image with a developer on a sheet as a recording medium based on the received image formation information.

  The connection interface unit 27 includes an interface (in this example, a universal serial bus interface (USB interface)) capable of connecting (attaching) an external device so as to communicate with the external device.

  The communication interface unit 28 includes an interface (in this example, an interface via a communication cable) that can be connected to the communication line 10. The communication interface unit 28 is configured to transmit information to the information processing apparatus 30 while being connected to the communication line 10 and to receive information from the information processing apparatus 30. The communication interface unit 28 includes a buffer memory (not shown) that is a readable / writable storage medium that temporarily holds received information. The communication interface unit 28 may be configured to be connected to the communication line 10 in a wireless manner without using a communication cable.

(Authentication device)
Further, an authentication device 29 as an authentication unit is detachably attached to the image forming apparatus 20 and the authentication device 29 can be electrically connected in this state. That is, the authentication device 29 is disposed in the immediate vicinity of the display unit 24 and the operation input unit 25 of the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the authentication apparatus 29 is mounted and connected to the image forming apparatus 20. The authentication device 29 is switched between a normal mode and a registration mode in accordance with a user instruction via the operation input unit 25.

  The authentication device 29 includes a connection interface unit 29a, an input information input unit 29b, an authentication information registration unit 29c, an authentication information holding unit 29d, and an identification information specifying unit 29e.

  The connection interface unit 29 a can be connected (attached) to the connection interface unit 27 of the image forming apparatus 20. When the connection interface unit 29a is connected to the connection interface unit 27, the connection interface unit 29a notifies the image forming apparatus 20 that the authentication device 29 is connected. Device identification information) is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20 every time a predetermined time elapses.

  The input information input unit 29b can receive predetermined authentication input information. In this example, the authentication input information is information recorded on a card (IC card) including an IC chip. That is, the input information input unit 29b of this example reads information recorded on the IC card as authentication input information when the IC card is placed at a predetermined position. The input information input unit 29b sends the authentication input information read when the authentication device 29 is in the registration mode to the authentication information registration unit 29c, while the authentication input read when the authentication device 29 is in the normal mode. Information is sent to the identification information specifying unit 29e.

  The authentication information registration unit 29c is used for authentication identification information (in this example, a plurality of characters and numbers) input by the user using the display unit 24 and the operation input unit 25 while the authentication device 29 is in the registration mode. Can be received via the connection interface unit 29a. Note that the authentication information registration unit 29c may include an input unit that is independent of the display unit 24 and the operation input unit 25, and may be configured to receive authentication identification information input from the input unit.

  When the authentication information registration unit 29c receives the authentication identification information, the authentication information registration unit 29c waits to receive the authentication input information from the input information input unit 29b. When the authentication input information is sent from the input information input unit 29b, the authentication information registration unit 29c associates the received authentication input information with the input authentication identification information and causes the authentication information storage unit 29d to hold the information. It is like that.

  When the authentication information 29 is received from the input information input unit 29b in a state where the authentication device 29 is in the normal mode, the identification information specifying unit 29e selects the authentication identification information held in the authentication information holding unit 29d. The authentication identification information held in association with the received authentication input information is searched to identify one of the authentication identification information held therein.

  The identification information specifying unit 29e outputs authentication identification information specified when one of the authentication identification information held in the authentication information holding unit 29d is specified as an authentication result, and is held there. When one of the authentication identification information is not specified, information indicating that the authentication identification information could not be specified is output as an authentication result. The identification information specifying unit 29e is configured to send the output authentication result to the image forming apparatus 20 via the connection interface unit 29a.

(Information processing device)
The information processing apparatus 30 is a personal computer. The information processing apparatus 30 includes a CPU 31, a hard disk drive (HDD) 32, a RAM 33, a display unit 34, an operation input unit 35, and a communication interface unit 36 connected to each other via a bus. ing.

  The CPU 31 is configured to cause the information processing apparatus 30 to execute various operations by executing a predetermined program.

  The HDD 32 is a readable / writable storage medium. The HDD 32 keeps holding information while the power is off. The HDD 32 includes various programs including system programs for realizing basic functions (for example, input of information by operating the keyboard and mouse, display of images by a display, etc.) included in each component of the information processing apparatus 30. And data are retained. These programs are executed by the CPU 31.

  The RAM 33 is a readable / writable storage medium. The RAM 33 can hold information only while the power is on.

  The display unit 34 includes a display (not shown) having a display panel (in this example, a liquid crystal panel). In response to an instruction from the CPU 31, the display unit 34 displays an image including a message for notifying the user of information and an input field for allowing the user to input information, on the display panel.

  The operation input unit 35 includes a keyboard and a mouse (not shown). The operation input unit 25 corresponds to an image displayed on the display unit 34 when a keyboard key or a mouse click button is pressed (mouse is clicked) or when the mouse is moved. Information set for each operation is input. The operation input unit 35 sends input information to the CPU 31.

(Overview of operation)
Next, an outline of the operation of the image forming system configured as described above will be described.
The information processing apparatus 30 of this image forming system transmits either normal job information or secure job information, which is job information including image forming information, to the image forming apparatus 20 in response to an instruction from the user UA.

  When the user UA is instructed to transmit secure job information, the information processing apparatus 30 transmits determination request information to the image forming apparatus 20 prior to transmission of secure job information. When the image forming apparatus 20 receives the determination request information, the image forming apparatus 20 determines whether the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 and transmits determination result information corresponding to the determination result to the information processing apparatus 30.

  The information processing apparatus 30 transmits secure job information to the image forming apparatus when the determination result information indicates that the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20. When the image forming apparatus 20 receives the secure job information, the image forming apparatus 20 stores the received secure job information in the RAM 23. Thereafter, when the user UA inputs appropriate authentication input information to the authentication device 29 using the input information input unit 29 b, the image forming device 20 executes an image forming process based on the secure job information held in the RAM 23. . Thereby, secure printing is executed.

  On the other hand, when the determination result information indicates that the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20, the information processing apparatus 30 does not transmit secure job information to the image forming apparatus (prohibit transmission). Thereby, it is possible to avoid holding the image forming information in the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. Therefore, the possibility that an unspecified user illegally acquires image formation information from the image forming apparatus 20 can be extremely reduced.

(Details of operation)
Details of the operation of the image forming system will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  First, a user UA who uses this image forming system sends authentication input information and authentication identification information to the authentication device 29 (authentication information holding unit 29d) before performing secure printing using this image forming system. Register.

  More specifically, in a state where the authentication device 29 is mounted and connected to the image forming device 20, the user UA uses the display unit 24 and the operation input unit 25 to set the authentication device 29 to the registration mode. Authentication identification information CIDA (in this example, a user ID consisting of a plurality of symbols, which is a user ID input by the user UA when starting the use of the information processing device 30) is stored in the authentication information registration unit 29c of the authentication device 29 ). Next, the user UA arranges the IC card ICA owned by the user UA at a predetermined position on the authentication device 29, whereby the information CINA recorded on the IC card ICA is used as the authentication input information CINA. Let 29b read.

  The authentication information registration unit 29c of the authentication device 29 holds (stores) the authentication input information CINA read by the input information input unit 29b and the input authentication identification information CIDA in association with each other in the authentication information holding unit 29d. ) In this way, the authentication input information CINA and the authentication identification information CIDA are registered in the authentication device 29.

  Further, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 starts the processing of the printing control routine for performing the printing control shown by the flowchart in FIG. 2 every time a predetermined time elapses and when the printing control routine is not being executed. It has become.

  Therefore, when the predetermined timing comes, the CPU 21 starts processing from step 200 and proceeds to step 205 to determine whether or not reception of job information has started. At this point, the image forming apparatus 20 has not started receiving job information. Therefore, the CPU 21 waits at step 205 until it determines “No” at step 205 and starts receiving job information.

  Further, the CPU 21 starts the process of the determination result information transmission routine for transmitting the determination result information shown by the flowchart in FIG. 3 when the determination result information transmission routine is not being executed every elapse of a predetermined time. It is like that. Note that the execution of the routine of FIG. 3 corresponds to the achievement of the function of the first result transmission means.

  Therefore, when the predetermined timing comes, the CPU 21 starts processing from step 300 and proceeds to step 305 to determine whether or not determination request information has been received. At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 has not received the determination request information. Therefore, the CPU 21 waits at step 305 until it determines “No” at step 305 and receives determination request information.

  In addition, the CPU 21 starts the process of the confirmation result information transmission routine for transmitting the confirmation result information shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 when the confirmation result information transmission routine is not being executed every predetermined time. It is supposed to be. The execution of the routine of FIG. 4 corresponds to the achievement of the function of the second result transmission unit.

  Accordingly, when the predetermined timing is reached, the CPU 21 starts processing from step 400, proceeds to step 405, and determines whether confirmation request information has been received. At this time, the image forming apparatus 20 has not received the confirmation request information. Accordingly, the CPU 21 determines “No” in step 405 and waits in step 405 until confirmation request information is received.

  On the other hand, the user UA inputs print instruction information for instructing printing by operating a keyboard or a mouse in order to print a desired image in the application software (for example, document creation software or drawing creation software) being executed. (For example, print is selected from the menu).

  When receiving the print instruction information, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 starts to execute a job information transmission routine for transmitting the job information shown by the flowchart in FIG. Therefore, the CPU 31 starts the process from step 500 and proceeds to step 505 to display the print execution dialog 600 shown in FIG. 6 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  The print execution dialog 600 includes a secure print designation check box 601, a print button 602, and a cancel button 603.

  The secure printing designation check box 601 is switched between a selected state (checked state) and a non-selected state (unchecked state) when the mouse is clicked in a state where the mouse cursor is overlapped and displayed. It is like that. Thereafter, check boxes in a dialog, which will be described later, displayed by the display unit 34 operate in the same manner.

  The print button 602 displays an operation of being pressed when the mouse is clicked in a state where the mouse cursor is overlapped (hereinafter also referred to as “the print button 602 is pressed”). Yes. The cancel button 603 operates similarly. Hereinafter, buttons in a dialog, which will be described later, displayed by the display unit 34 also operate in the same manner.

The print execution dialog 600 generates information indicating that printing is executed when the print button 602 is pressed. Further, when the print button 602 is pressed, the print execution dialog 600 generates information indicating that secure printing is designated when the secure print designation check box 601 is selected, while the non-selected state If it is, information indicating that secure printing is not designated is generated.
The print execution dialog 600 generates information indicating that printing is not executed when the cancel button 603 is pressed.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 510 to determine whether or not the user UA has completed inputting information based on the print execution dialog 600. At this point, since the print execution dialog 600 has not generated any information indicating that printing is to be executed or information indicating that printing is not to be executed, the input of information by the user UA has not been completed. Therefore, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 510 and waits in step 510 until the input of information by the user UA is completed.

(Normal printing)
First, the case where the user UA desires printing that does not require input of predetermined authentication input information at the start of printing (normal printing) will be described. In this case, the user UA presses the print button 602 in a state where the secure print designation check box 601 is not selected.

  As a result, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that secure printing is not designated and information indicating that printing is to be executed. At this time, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 510 and proceeds to step 515 to end the display of the print execution dialog 600 and whether or not execution of printing is selected in the print execution dialog 600 (that is, print Whether the button 602 has been pressed or the cancel button 603 has been pressed).

  In this state, since information indicating that printing is to be executed has been input, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 515 and proceeds to step 520 to generate image formation information. This image formation information is information (data) representing an image desired to be printed by the user UA, and is information necessary for causing the image forming apparatus 20 to print the image.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 525 to determine whether or not secure printing is designated. As described above, in this state, since information indicating that secure printing is not designated is input, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 525 to proceed to step 530 to perform normal printing. Generate header information.

  Here, the header information for normal printing includes secure flag off information indicating that secure printing is not designated, and user identification information for identifying the user who transmitted the job information (in this example, the information processing device 30). A user ID input by the user when starting use) and job information identification information for identifying job information (in this example, a unique ID given to job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30) Number (serial number)) and terminal device identification information (in this example, an IP address) for causing the image forming apparatus 20 to identify (identify) the information processing apparatus that has transmitted the job information.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 535 and adds the image formation information generated in step 520 to the end of the header information generated in step 530 (in this case, normal printing header information), thereby performing the job. Information (in this case, normal job information) is generated, and the generated job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. Then, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 599 to end this routine once.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 starts to receive job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30. Accordingly, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 determines “Yes” in step 205 of the print control routine of FIG. 2 and proceeds to step 210 to determine whether or not the reception of the job information is completed.

  At this time, reception of job information has not been completed. Accordingly, the CPU 21 makes a “No” determination at step 210 and waits at step 210 until the reception of job information is completed.

  When the reception of the job information is completed, the CPU 21 determines “Yes” in step 210 and proceeds to step 215 to hold the received job information held in the buffer memory of the communication interface unit 28 in the RAM 23. And erases the information held in the buffer memory.

  Next, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 220 and determines whether or not secure printing is designated. In this state, secure flag off information indicating that secure printing is not designated is included in the header information.

  Therefore, the CPU 21 makes a “No” determination at step 220 and proceeds to step 225 to execute image forming processing based on the image forming information included in the job information held in the RAM 23 at step 215. The instruction information is sent to the printer engine unit 26. Accordingly, the printer engine unit 26 starts execution (printing) of the image forming process based on the image forming information.

  Then, the CPU 21 proceeds to Step 230 and determines whether or not the printing started in Step 225 has been completed. At this point, printing is not complete. Therefore, the CPU 21 makes a “No” determination at step 230 and waits at step 230 until printing is completed.

  When printing is completed, the CPU 21 makes a “Yes” determination at step 230 to proceed to step 235, where the job information held in the RAM 23 at step 215 (that is, the basis of completed printing). Job information including image formation information) is deleted from the RAM 23. Next, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 299 to end the present routine tentatively.

  As described above, when job information (normal job information) for which secure printing is not designated is transmitted (ordinary printing is instructed), the image forming apparatus 20 performs printing immediately after receiving the job information.

  If the user UA presses the cancel button 603 of the print execution dialog 600 in FIG. 6, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 proceeds to step 515 of the job information transmission routine in FIG. It is determined as “No”, and the process directly proceeds to step 599 to end the present routine temporarily without transmitting the job information. As a result, no job information is transmitted, so printing is not performed.

(Secure printing)
Next, the case where the user UA desires secure printing and the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming device 20 will be described. In this case, when the print execution dialog 600 of FIG. 6 is displayed on the display panel of the display unit 34, the user UA sets the secure print designation check box 601 to the selected state, and in that state the print button Push in 602.

  Thus, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 receives information indicating that secure printing is designated and information indicating that printing is to be executed. Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 525 of the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” at step 525 and proceeds to step 540 to obtain the determination request information including the terminal device identification information. It transmits to the image forming apparatus 20. Note that the execution of the processing of step 525 and the processing of step 540 corresponds to the achievement of the function of the first request transmission means.

  Thus, determination request information is transmitted only when secure job information is transmitted. In other words, when normal job information that is job information other than secure job information and that does not require the authentication device 29 is transmitted at the start of execution of the image forming process, the determination request information is prevented from being wasted. be able to.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 545 to determine whether determination result information has been received. At this time, the information processing apparatus 30 has not received the determination result information. Accordingly, the CPU 31 waits at step 545 until it determines “No” at step 545 and receives the determination result information.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the determination request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30. Accordingly, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 determines “Yes” in step 305 of the determination result information transmission routine of FIG. 3 and proceeds to step 310, where the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 (that is, The image forming apparatus 20 includes an authentication unit).

  In this state, since the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20, the image forming apparatus 20 has received device identification information representing the authentication apparatus 29 from the authentication apparatus 29. Accordingly, the CPU 21 determines “Yes” in step 310 and proceeds to step 315, and uses the connection determination information as determination result information based on the terminal device identification information included in the determination request information received in step 305. The information is transmitted to the specified information processing apparatus 30. This connection determination information is information indicating that the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20. Then, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 399 to end this routine once.

  Thereby, the information processing apparatus 30 receives the determination result information. Therefore, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 determines “Yes” in step 545 and proceeds to step 550, and the determination result information indicating that the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 is represented. It is determined whether or not. Note that the execution of the process of step 550 corresponds to the achievement of a part of the function of the transmission determining means.

  In this state, since the received determination result information is the connection determination information, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 550 and proceeds to step 555 to authenticate the user UA previously registered in the authentication device 29. Confirmation request including identification information CIDA (in this example, a user ID input by the user when starting to use the information processing device 30) and the terminal device identification information (in this example, the IP address of the information processing device 30) Information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. Note that the execution of the process of step 555 corresponds to the achievement of the function of the second request transmission means.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 560 to determine whether confirmation result information has been received. At this time, the information processing apparatus 30 has not received the confirmation result information. Accordingly, the CPU 31 determines “No” at step 560 and waits at step 560 until receiving confirmation result information.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the confirmation request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30. Accordingly, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 determines “Yes” in step 405 of the confirmation result information transmission routine of FIG. 4 and proceeds to step 410, and performs authentication for authentication included in the confirmation request information received in step 405. It is determined whether or not the identification information CIDA is held in the authentication information holding unit 29d of the authentication device 29 (the authentication identification information CIDA is registered).

  In this state, the authentication identification information CIDA is held in the authentication information holding unit 29d. Accordingly, the CPU 21 makes a “Yes” determination at step 410 to proceed to step 415, and uses the registered confirmation information as confirmation result information based on the terminal device identification information included in the confirmation request information received at step 405. The information is transmitted to the information processing device 30 specified. This registered confirmation information is information indicating that the authentication identification information is held in the authentication device 29. Then, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 499 to end this routine once.

  Thereby, the information processing apparatus 30 receives the confirmation result information. Accordingly, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 determines “Yes” in step 560 and proceeds to step 565, based on the confirmation result information received whether or not the authentication identification information is held in the authentication device 29. Judgment. Note that the execution of the processing of step 565 corresponds to the achievement of a part of the function of the transmission determining means.

  In this state, since the received confirmation result information is the registered confirmation information, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 565 and proceeds to step 570 to generate secure printing header information.

  Here, the secure printing header information includes secure flag ON information indicating that secure printing is designated, and authentication identification information CIDA (in this example, input by the user when starting use of the information processing apparatus 30). User identification information (in this example, the same user ID as the authentication identification information), the job information identification information (in this example, a serial number), and the terminal device identification information (in this example) In the example, the IP address of the information processing apparatus 30). If the user identification information is the same as the authentication identification information as in this example, the user identification information may be omitted.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 575 to add the image formation information generated in step 520 to the end of the header information generated in step 570 (in this case, secure printing header information), thereby creating a job. Information (in this case, secure job information) is generated, and the generated job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. Then, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 599 to end this routine once.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the secure job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30. Therefore, when the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 proceeds to step 215 in FIG. 2 to store the secure job information in the RAM 23 and then proceeds to step 220, it determines “Yes” at step 220 and proceeds to step 299. Proceed directly to end the print control routine.

  On the other hand, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 performs the process of the secure print control routine for controlling the secure print shown by the flowchart in FIG. 7 every time a predetermined time elapses and the secure print control routine is not being executed. It is supposed to start.

  Accordingly, when the predetermined timing comes, the CPU 21 starts processing from step 700 and proceeds to step 705 to determine whether or not the identification information for authentication by the authentication device 29 has been specified. At this time, the identification information for authentication has not been specified. Accordingly, the CPU 21 makes a “No” determination at step 705 and waits at step 705 until the identification of identification information for authentication is completed. Note that the execution of the processing of step 705 corresponds to the achievement of the function of the execution determining means.

  Now, in a state in which the user UA transmits a plurality of secure job information assigned with job IDs # 351 to # 355 from the information processing apparatus 30 to the image forming apparatus 20, # 351 to # 353 are assigned as job IDs. The case where it is desired that the image forming apparatus 20 execute the image forming process based on the image forming information included in the secure job information will be continued.

  In this case, the user UA transmits the plurality of secure job information from the information processing apparatus 30 and then causes the authentication apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus 20 to cause the image forming apparatus 20 to actually execute the image forming process. The authentication input information CINA is input to 29.

  More specifically, the user UA uses the display unit 24 and the operation input unit 25 to set the authentication device 29 to the normal mode. Then, the user UA arranges the IC card ICA owned by the user UA at a predetermined position on the authentication device 29, whereby the information CINA recorded on the IC card ICA is input to the authentication device 29 as authentication input information CINA. The information input part 29b is made to read.

  The identification information specifying unit 29e of the authentication device 29 is held in association with the authentication input information CINA read by the input information input unit 29b from the authentication identification information held in the authentication information holding unit 29d. One authentication identification information (that is, a user ID as authentication identification information registered by the user UA) CIDA is specified by searching the authentication identification information. Then, the identification information specifying unit 29e sends the specified authentication identification information CIDA to the image forming apparatus 20 as an authentication result.

  As a result, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 receives the authentication result sent from the authentication apparatus 29. Accordingly, the CPU 21 determines “Yes” in step 705 of the secure print control routine of FIG. 7 and proceeds to step 710 to display the job information selection dialog 800 shown in FIG. 8 on the display panel of the display unit 24. .

  In the job information selection dialog 800, job designation check boxes 801 to 805 and a selection completion button 806 are arranged.

  The job specification check boxes 801 to 805 are not selected (checked) when the predetermined button of the operation input unit 25 is pressed while one of the job specification check boxes 801 to 805 is specified. It switches to the selected state (state that is not checked). Thereafter, check boxes in a dialog described later displayed by the display unit 24 operate in the same manner.

  The selection completion button 806 displays an operation of being pressed when a predetermined button of the operation input unit 25 is pressed in a state where the selection completion button 806 is designated (hereinafter, “the selection completion button 806 is pressed”). Say.) Hereinafter, buttons in a dialog, which will be described later, displayed by the display unit 24 also operate in the same manner.

  The job information selection dialog 800 is configured to generate information indicating that the job ID corresponding to the job designation check boxes 801 to 805 in the selected state is selected when the selection completion button 806 is pressed.

  Next, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 715 to determine whether or not the user UA has completed inputting information based on the job information selection dialog 800. At this time, the job information selection dialog 800 has not generated information indicating that the job ID has been selected, and thus the input of information by the user UA has not been completed. Therefore, the CPU 21 determines “No” in step 715 and waits in step 715 until the input of information by the user UA is completed.

  On the other hand, the user UA sets the job designation check boxes 801 to 803 corresponding to the job IDs (# 351 to # 353) desired to be printed, and then presses the selection completion button 806.

  As a result, the CPU 21 receives information indicating that the job IDs (# 351 to # 353) corresponding to the selected job specification check boxes 801 to 803 have been selected. Therefore, the CPU 21 determines “Yes” in step 715 and proceeds to step 720 to end the display of the job information selection dialog 800 and specify the specified identification information for authentication among the job information held in the RAM 23. Instruction information for executing the image forming process based on the image forming information included in the secure job information including CIDA and including the selected job IDs (# 351 to # 353) is sent to the printer engine unit 26. Accordingly, the printer engine unit 26 starts execution (printing) of the image forming process based on the image forming information.

  Then, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 725 to determine whether or not all printing based on the secure job information including the job ID (# 351 to # 353) has been completed. At this point, all printing has not been completed. Therefore, the CPU 21 makes a “No” determination at step 725 and waits at step 725 until all printing is completed.

  When all the printing is completed, the CPU 21 determines “Yes” in step 725, proceeds to step 730, and forms the image that is the basis of the completed printing in the secure job information held in the RAM 23. The secure job information including the information (secure job information including the specified authentication identification information CIDA and including the selected job IDs (# 351 to # 353)) is erased from the RAM 23. Next, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 799 to end the present routine tentatively.

  As described above, when the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20, when the user UA instructs secure printing, the information processing apparatus 30 transmits secure job information to the image forming apparatus 20. The image forming apparatus 20 receives the secure job information and waits in a state where the received secure job information is held. Then, the user UA uses the IC card ICA to input the authentication input information CINA to the authentication device 29. When it is recognized that the authentication input information CINA is registered by the authentication device 29, printing is executed. . Therefore, only when the user UA is in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 20, the image forming process (printing) based on the job information is performed (secure printing is performed), so that an image formed on the recording medium is not present. Browsing by a specific user can be prevented.

(When transmission of secure job information is instructed when the authentication device is not connected)
Next, a description will be continued regarding a case where the user UA instructs to transmit secure job information in a state where the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming device 20.

  In this case, when the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 proceeds to step 310 of the determination result information transmission routine of FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 20 has not received the device identification information representing the authentication apparatus 29 from the authentication apparatus 29. Determines “No” in step 310 and proceeds to step 320.

  In step 320, the CPU 21 transmits the non-connection determination information as determination result information to the information processing apparatus 30 specified based on the terminal apparatus identification information included in the determination request information received in step 305. This non-connection determination information is information indicating that the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming device 20. Then, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 399 to end this routine once.

  Thereby, the information processing apparatus 30 receives the determination result information. Accordingly, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 determines “Yes” in step 545 of FIG. 5, proceeds to step 550, and determines that the determination result information indicating that the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 is received. It is determined whether it is represented.

  In this state, since the received determination result information is the non-connection determination information, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 550 and proceeds to step 580 to display the first error dialog 900 shown in FIG. It is displayed on the display panel of the display unit 34. Note that the execution of the processing of step 580 corresponds to the achievement of a part of the function of the transmission determining means.

  In the first error dialog 900, a message 901 indicating that job information is not transmitted and an OK button 902 are arranged. The first error dialog 900 generates information indicating that the message 901 has been confirmed by the user when the OK button 902 is pressed.

  When the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the message 901 has been confirmed by the user, the CPU 31 ends the display of the first error dialog 900. Then, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 599 to end this routine once.

  In this manner, when the image forming apparatus 20 does not include an authentication unit (when the authentication apparatus 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20), secure job information is not transmitted. As a result, it is possible to avoid holding the image forming information in the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. Therefore, the possibility that an unspecified user illegally acquires image formation information from the image forming apparatus 20 can be extremely reduced.

  Further, when it is determined not to transmit the secure job information, the user UA is notified that the secure job information is not transmitted. Thereby, since the user UA can know that fact, the user UA can quickly cope with the situation. That is, the convenience of the user UA can be improved.

(When transmission of secure job information is instructed by a user who has not registered identification information for authentication while the authentication device is connected)
Next, in a state where the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming device 20, a user UB that does not hold (identify) the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication information holding unit 29d transmits secure job information. The explanation is continued for the case where the instruction is given.

  In this case, when the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 proceeds to step 410 of the confirmation result information transmission routine of FIG. 4, the authentication identification information CIDB is not held in the authentication information holding unit 29d. It is determined as “No” at 410 and the process proceeds to step 420.

  In step 420, the CPU 21 transmits unregistered confirmation information as confirmation result information to the information processing apparatus 30 specified based on the terminal apparatus identification information included in the confirmation request information received in step 405. This unregistered confirmation information is information indicating that the authentication identification information is not held in the authentication device 29. Then, the CPU 21 proceeds to step 499 to end this routine once.

  Thereby, the information processing apparatus 30 receives the confirmation result information. Therefore, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 determines “Yes” in step 560 of FIG. 5 and proceeds to step 565.

  In this state, since the received confirmation result information is the unregistered confirmation information, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 565 to proceed to step 585 to display the second error dialog 1000 shown in FIG. It is displayed on the display panel of the display unit 34. Note that the execution of the process of step 585 corresponds to the achievement of a part of the function of the transmission determining means.

  In the second error dialog 1000, a message 1001 indicating that job information is not transmitted and an OK button 1002 are arranged. As a result, the user can know that the secure job information is not transmitted, and can quickly cope with the situation. That is, user convenience can be improved.

The second error dialog 1000 generates information indicating that the message 1001 has been confirmed by the user when the OK button 1002 is pressed.
When the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the message 1001 has been confirmed by the user, the CPU 31 ends the display of the second error dialog 1000. Then, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 599 to end this routine once.

  As described above, even when the image forming apparatus 20 includes the authentication unit (when the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20), the authentication identification information included in the secure job information is the authentication apparatus 29. If it is not stored in the secure job information, the secure job information is not transmitted. As a result, it is possible to avoid holding the image forming information in the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment of the image forming system of the present invention, when the image forming apparatus 20 does not include an authentication unit (when the authentication apparatus 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20). If the authentication identification information included in the secure job information is not held (registered) in the authentication device 29 even if the image forming device 20 includes the authentication unit, the secure job information is sent from the information processing device 30 to the secure job information. Is not sent. As a result, it is possible to avoid holding the image forming information in the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. Therefore, the possibility that an unspecified user illegally acquires image formation information from the image forming apparatus 20 can be extremely reduced.

Second Embodiment
Next, an image forming system according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the image forming system according to the second embodiment, when it is determined that secure job information is not transmitted to the image forming system according to the first embodiment, the authentication device 29 forms an image according to a user instruction. Redetermination request information for re-determining whether or not the apparatus 20 is provided is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20, and the information processing apparatus 30 sends the image forming apparatus 20 according to the redetermination result based on the redetermination request information. The only difference is that it is configured to re-determine whether or not to transmit secure job information. Accordingly, the following description will focus on such differences.

  The CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 according to the second embodiment executes the job information transmission routine shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 instead of the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment. Yes. This job information transmission routine excludes the processing of step 580 and the processing of step 585 from the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5, and adds the processing of steps 1105 to 1120 shown in FIG. 11 to the job information transmission routine of FIG. Routine. Note that the execution of the processing from step 1105 to step 1120 corresponds to the achievement of part of the function of the transmission determining means.

  When the user performs normal printing using this image forming system, as described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 executes the processing of Step 505 to Step 535 in FIG. Transmit to the forming apparatus 20. As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 immediately executes an image forming process based on the transmitted normal job information.

On the other hand, the case where the user performs secure printing using this image forming system will be described in order in the following four cases (1-1) to (2-2).
(1) When a user UA who has registered authentication identification information CIDA in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(1-1) When the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming device 20;
(1-2) When the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming device 20:
(2) When a user UB who has not registered the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(2-1) When the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming device 20;
(2-2) When the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming device 20:

(1) When a user UA who has registered authentication identification information CIDA in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(1-1) When Authentication Device 29 is Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 performs steps 505 to 525 and steps 540 to 575 in FIG. By executing the process, the secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. Thereby, the image forming apparatus 20 holds the transmitted secure job information in the RAM 23, and when authentication input information corresponding to the authentication identification information included in the held secure job information is input to the authentication apparatus 29. In a state where the execution of the image forming process based on the secure job information can be started.

(1-2) When Authentication Device 29 is not Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 executes the job information transmission routine (FIG. 11) to obtain information. The processing device 30 transmits determination request information to the image forming device 20 (step 540). Further, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 determines whether or not the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 based on the transmitted determination request information by executing the determination result information transmission routine of FIG. (Step 310) Determination result information corresponding to the determination result (in this case, non-connection determination information) is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 20 (Step 320).

Accordingly, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 550 of the job information transmission routine, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 550 and proceeds to step 1105.
In step 1105, the CPU 31 displays the first retry selection dialog 1200 shown in FIG. 12 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  The first retry selection dialog 1200 includes a message 1201 indicating that the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20 and a prompt to connect the authentication device 29, a retry button 1202, and a print cancel button 1203. , Is arranged.

  In this way, the user UA is notified of the promotion information for prompting the user UA to change the state of the image forming apparatus 20 to a state where the authentication unit is provided (a state where the authentication device 29 is connected). . As a result, the user UA can quickly change the state of the image forming apparatus 20 to a state in which the authentication unit is provided.

  The first retry selection dialog 1200 generates information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is re-determined (requires re-determination of the state of the authentication device 29) when the retry button 1202 is pressed. It has become. On the other hand, the first retry selection dialog 1200 is configured to generate information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is not redetermined when the print cancel button 1203 is pressed.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1110 to determine whether or not the user UA has completed inputting information based on the first retry selection dialog 1200. At this time, since the first retry selection dialog 1200 has not generated any information, the input of information by the user UA has not been completed. Therefore, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1110 and waits at step 1110 until the input of information by the user UA is completed.

(When retry is selected)
First, since the user UA has confirmed the message 1201 and changed the state of the image forming apparatus 20 to a state having an authentication unit (a state in which the authentication device 29 is connected), the state of the authentication device 29 is determined again. The case where it is hoped that it will be explained. In this case, the user UA presses the retry button 1202.

  Thereby, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is re-determined. Accordingly, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1110 to proceed to step 1115 to end the display of the first retry selection dialog 1200 and determine whether or not a retry has been selected in the first retry selection dialog 1200 (ie, It is determined whether the retry button 1202 has been pressed or the print cancel button 1203 has been pressed.

  In this state, since information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is re-determined is input, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 1115 and proceeds to step 540, as described above. The determination request information as redetermination request information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the determination request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30. Therefore, as described above, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 executes the determination result information transmission routine of FIG. 3, whereby the authentication device 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20 (that is, the image forming apparatus 20 is It is determined (re-determined) whether or not authentication means is provided, and determination result information (in this case, connection determination information) as redetermination result information corresponding to the determination result is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 30 ( Step 315).

  Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 550 of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 11), the CPU 31 determines “Yes” at step 550 and proceeds to step 555 and subsequent steps to transmit secure job information. After that, the job information transmission routine is once terminated. Even when the retry button 1202 is pressed, if the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 550 to proceed to step 1105, and again. A first retry selection dialog 1200 is displayed.

(When canceling printing is selected)
Next, a description will be continued for a case where the user UA does not wish to re-determine the state of the authentication device 29 because there is no plan to connect the authentication device 29 to the image forming apparatus 20. In this case, the user UA presses the print cancel button 1203 shown in FIG.

  Thereby, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is not redetermined. Accordingly, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1115 of the job information transmission routine, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1115 to directly proceed to step 599 to temporarily execute the job information transmission routine without transmitting job information. finish.

  As described above, when the information processing apparatus 30 determines not to transmit the secure job information, the information processing apparatus 30 transmits redetermination request information to the image forming apparatus 20 according to a user instruction. Further, the information processing apparatus 30 is information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 20 in response to the transmitted re-determination request information, and a re-determination result regarding whether or not the authentication apparatus 29 is connected to the image forming apparatus 20. Whether to transmit secure job information is re-determined based on the information.

  Thereby, even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted by determining that the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming device 20, the state of the image forming device 20 is connected to the authentication device 29. When the state is changed, the secure job information can be transmitted without the user performing an operation for transmitting the secure job information from the beginning. That is, user convenience can be improved.

(2) When a user UB who has not registered the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(2-1) When Authentication Device 29 is Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 executes the job information transmission routine (FIG. 11) to obtain information. The processing device 30 transmits confirmation request information including the identification information for authentication CIDB to the image forming device 20 (step 555). Further, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 executes the confirmation result information transmission routine of FIG. 4 so that the authentication identification information CIDB included in the transmitted confirmation request information is stored in the authentication information holding unit 29d of the authentication apparatus 29. It is determined whether it is held (step 410), and confirmation result information (in this case, unregistered confirmation information) representing (corresponding to) the determination result is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 20 (step 420).

Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 565 of the job information transmission routine, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 565 and proceeds to step 1120.
In step 1120, the CPU 31 displays the second retry selection dialog 1300 shown in FIG. 13 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  The second retry selection dialog 1300 is different from the first retry selection dialog 1200 only in that the message is different. In the second retry selection dialog 1300, a message 1301 indicating that the authentication identification information is not registered in the authentication device 29 and a message prompting the user to register the authentication identification information in the authentication device 29, a retry button 1302, and A print cancel button 1303 is arranged.

  In this way, the user UB is notified of the promotion information for prompting the user UB to register the authentication identification information in the authentication device 29. As a result, the user UB can quickly register the identification information for authentication in the authentication device 29.

(When retry is selected)
First, since the user UB has confirmed the message 1301 and registered the authentication input information CINB and the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29, the user UB wants to determine the state of the authentication device 29 again. To do. In this case, the user UB pushes the retry button 1302.

  Thereby, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is re-determined. Accordingly, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 1110 of FIG. 11 and proceeds to step 1115 to end the display of the second retry selection dialog 1300 and determine whether or not a retry is selected in the second retry selection dialog 1300. (That is, whether the retry button 1302 is pressed or the print cancel button 1303 is pressed).

  In this state, since the information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is re-determined is input, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 1115 and executes each process of step 540 to step 550. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 555, and as described above, the confirmation request information as reconfirmation request information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20.

  As a result, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the confirmation request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30. Therefore, as described above, the CPU 21 of the image forming apparatus 20 executes the confirmation result information transmission routine of FIG. 4, whereby the authentication identification information CIDB included in the transmitted confirmation request information is used for authentication of the authentication apparatus 29. It is determined whether the information is stored in the information storage unit 29d, and confirmation result information (in this case, registered confirmation information) as reconfirmation result information corresponding to the determination result is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 30 (step 415). ).

  Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 565 of the job information transmission routine, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 565 and proceeds to the steps after step 570 to transmit secure job information. The job information transmission routine is temporarily terminated. Even when the retry button 1302 is pressed, if the authentication identification information CIDB is not held in the authentication information holding unit 29d of the authentication device 29, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 565. In step 1120, the second retry selection dialog 1300 is displayed again.

(When canceling printing is selected)
Next, the case where the user UB does not intend to register the authentication input information CINB and the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29 and therefore does not wish to re-determine the state of the authentication device 29 will be described. . In this case, the user UB presses the print cancel button 1303 shown in FIG.

  Thereby, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the state of the authentication device 29 is not redetermined. Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1115 of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 11), the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1115 to directly proceed to step 599 to transmit the job information without transmitting the job information. The transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

  As described above, when the information processing apparatus 30 determines not to transmit the secure job information, the information processing apparatus 30 transmits reconfirmation request information to the image forming apparatus 20 in accordance with a user instruction. Further, the information processing apparatus 30 is a reconfirmation result as to whether or not the authentication apparatus 29 holds authentication identification information that is information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 20 in response to the transmitted reconfirmation request information. Whether to transmit secure job information is re-determined based on the information.

  As a result, even if it is determined not to transmit the secure job information by determining that the authentication device 29 does not hold the authentication identification information, the authentication identification information is registered in the authentication device 29. Sometimes, the secure job information can be transmitted without the user having to redo the operation for transmitting the secure job information from the beginning. That is, user convenience can be improved.

(2-2) When the Authentication Device 29 is not Connected to the Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as in the case of (1-2) described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 performs the job information transmission routine (FIG. 11). ), The CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 550 to proceed to step 1105 to display the first retry selection dialog 1200 shown in FIG. 12 on the display panel of the display unit 34. . Since the subsequent operations can be described in the same manner as the cases (1-1) to (2-1) described above, the description thereof will be omitted.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment of the image forming system of the present invention, the image forming information is held in the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. The convenience of the user can be improved while avoiding this. That is, even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted, the user can transmit the secure job information simply by pressing the retry button 1202 or 1302 after the state of the authentication device 29 changes.

<Third Embodiment>
Next, an image forming system according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The image forming system according to the third embodiment is an information processing apparatus in response to a user instruction even if it is determined that secure job information is not transmitted to the image forming system according to the first embodiment. The only difference is that secure job information can be forcibly transmitted from 30 to the image forming apparatus 20. Accordingly, the following description will focus on such differences.

  The CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 according to the third embodiment executes a job information transmission routine shown by a flowchart in FIG. 14 instead of the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment. Yes. This job information transmission routine excludes the processing of step 580 and the processing of step 585 from the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5, and adds the processing of steps 1405 to 1420 shown in FIG. 14 to the job information transmission routine of FIG. Routine. Note that the execution of the processing from step 1405 to step 1420 corresponds to the achievement of part of the function of the transmission determining means.

  Hereinafter, as in the second embodiment, four cases (1-1) to (2-2) will be described in order.

(1) When a user UA who has registered authentication identification information CIDA in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(1-1) When Authentication Device 29 is Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 performs steps 505 to 525 and steps 540 to 575 in FIG. By executing the process, the secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20.

(1-2) When Authentication Device 29 is not Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, CPU 31 of information processing device 30 starts processing of the job information transmission routine and proceeds to step 550. At this time, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 550 to proceed to step 1405.
In step 1405, the CPU 31 displays the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 shown in FIG. 15 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  The first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 includes a message 1501 indicating that the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20 and prompting the user to select whether or not to forcibly transmit job information. A button 1502 and a print cancel button 1503 are arranged.

  The first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 generates information indicating that job information is forcibly transmitted when the transmission button 1502 is pressed. On the other hand, the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 generates information indicating that job information is not transmitted when the print cancel button 1503 is pressed.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1410 to determine whether or not the user UA has completed inputting information based on the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500. At this time, since the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 has not generated any information, the input of information by the user UA has not been completed. Accordingly, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 1410 and waits in step 1410 until the input of information by the user UA is completed.

(When forced transmission is selected)
First, when the user UA determines that there is a low possibility that an image is viewed by an unspecified user because the user UA is scheduled to immediately change the state of the image forming apparatus 20 to a state where the authentication apparatus 29 is connected. It explains from. In this case, the user UA pushes the transmission button 1502.

  As a result, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the job information is forcibly transmitted. Accordingly, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 1410 of FIG. 14 and proceeds to step 1415 to end the display of the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 and select forced transmission in the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500. (That is, whether the send button 1502 is pressed or the print cancel button 1503 is pressed).

  In this state, since information indicating that the job information is forcibly transmitted is input, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1415 to proceed to steps after step 570 to perform secure job. After the information is transmitted, the job information transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

(When canceling printing is selected)
Next, the description will be continued for the case where the user UA desires that the secure job information is not transmitted because there is no plan to connect the authentication device 29 to the image forming apparatus 20. In this case, the user UA presses the print cancel button 1503 shown in FIG.

  Thus, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that job information is not transmitted. Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1415 of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 14), the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1415 to directly proceed to step 599, without transmitting the secure job information. The information transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

  As described above, even when the information processing apparatus 30 determines not to transmit the secure job information, if the user UA instructs to transmit the secure job information forcibly, the information processing apparatus 30 transmits the secure job information to the image forming apparatus. When it is transmitted to 20, it is determined again.

  Thereby, even when the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming device 20, the user immediately changes the state of the image forming device 20 to a state where the authentication device 29 is connected. When the user determines that there is a low possibility that an image is viewed by an unspecified user, the secure job information can be easily transmitted. That is, user convenience can be improved.

(2) When a user UB who has not registered the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(2-1) When Authentication Device 29 is Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, CPU 31 of information processing device 30 starts the process of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 14) and performs step When proceeding to 565, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 565 to proceed to step 1420.
In step 1420, the CPU 31 displays the second forced transmission selection dialog 1600 shown in FIG. 16 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  The second forced transmission selection dialog 1600 differs from the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 only in that the message is different. The second forced transmission selection dialog 1600 includes a message 1601 indicating that the authentication identification information is not registered in the authentication device 29 and prompting the user to select whether or not to forcibly transmit job information, and a transmission A button 1602 and a print cancel button 1603 are arranged.

(When forced transmission is selected)
First, it is determined that the user UB is unlikely to view an image by an unspecified user because the user is scheduled to immediately register the authentication input information CINB and the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29. The case will be explained. In this case, the user UB pushes the transmission button 1602.

  As a result, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that the job information is forcibly transmitted. Accordingly, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1410 to proceed to step 1415 to end the display of the second forced transmission selection dialog 1600 and whether or not forced transmission is selected in the second forced transmission selection dialog 1600. That is, it is determined whether the send button 1602 is pressed or the print cancel button 1603 is pressed.

  In this state, since information indicating that the job information is forcibly transmitted is input, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1415 to proceed to steps after step 570 to perform secure job. After the information is transmitted, the job information transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

(When canceling printing is selected)
Next, the case where the user UB desires that the job information is not transmitted because the user does not intend to register the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29 will be described. In this case, the user UB presses the print cancel button 1603 shown in FIG.

  Thus, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that job information is not transmitted. Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1415 of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 14), the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1415 to directly proceed to step 599, without transmitting the job information. The transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

  As described above, even when the information processing apparatus 30 determines not to transmit the secure job information, if the user UA instructs to transmit the secure job information forcibly, the information processing apparatus 30 transmits the secure job information to the image forming apparatus. When it is transmitted to 20, it is determined again.

  As a result, even if the authentication identification information is not registered in the authentication device 29, the image can be displayed by an unspecified user because the user intends to immediately register the authentication identification information in the authentication device 29. When the user determines that the possibility of browsing is low, the secure job information can be easily transmitted. That is, user convenience can be improved.

(2-2) When Authentication Device 29 is not Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as in the case of (1-2) described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 performs the job information transmission routine (FIG. 14). ), The CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 550 to proceed to step 1405 to display the first forced transmission selection dialog 1500 shown in FIG. 15 on the display panel of the display unit 34. Let Since subsequent operations can be described in the same manner as in the case of (1-1) described above, the description thereof will be omitted.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment of the image forming system of the present invention, the image forming information is formed without the user's intention in the state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. The convenience of the user can be improved while avoiding being held by the device 20. That is, even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted, the user can force the secure job information to be transmitted simply by pressing the transmission button 1502 or the transmission button 1602.

<Fourth embodiment>
Next, an image forming system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The image forming system according to the fourth embodiment uses the secure job information according to the user's instruction even when it is determined not to transmit the secure job information to the image forming system according to the first embodiment. The only difference is that normal job information that causes the image forming apparatus 20 to execute image forming processing based on the included image forming information can be transmitted from the information processing apparatus 30 to the image forming apparatus 20. Accordingly, the following description will focus on such differences.

  The CPU 31 of the information processing apparatus 30 according to the fourth embodiment executes the job information transmission routine shown by the flowchart in FIG. 17 instead of the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment. Yes. This job information transmission routine excludes the processing of step 580 and the processing of step 585 from the job information transmission routine of FIG. 5 and adds the processing of steps 1705 to 1730 shown in FIG. 17 to the job information transmission routine of FIG. Routine. Note that the execution of the processing from step 1705 to step 1730 corresponds to the achievement of the function of the job transmission means.

  Hereinafter, as in the second embodiment, four cases (1-1) to (2-2) will be described in order.

(1) When a user UA who has registered authentication identification information CIDA in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(1-1) When Authentication Device 29 is Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, CPU 31 of information processing device 30 starts the processing of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 17) and performs steps. When proceeding to 550, the CPU 31 determines “No” at step 550 and proceeds to step 1705.
In step 1705, the CPU 31 displays the first normal print selection dialog 1800 shown in FIG. 18 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  In the first normal print selection dialog 1800, a message indicating that the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20 and prompting the user to select whether or not to transmit normal job information instead of secure job information. A normal print button 1802 and a print cancel button 1803 are arranged.

  The first normal print selection dialog 1800 generates information indicating that normal job information is transmitted instead of secure job information when the normal print button 1802 is pressed. On the other hand, the first normal print selection dialog 1800 generates information indicating that job information is not transmitted when the print cancel button 1803 is pressed.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1710 to determine whether or not the user UA has completed inputting information based on the first normal print selection dialog 1800. At this time, since the first normal print selection dialog 1800 has not generated any information, the input of information by the user UA has not been completed. Therefore, the CPU 31 determines “No” in step 1710 and waits in step 1710 until the input of information by the user UA is completed.

(When normal printing is selected)
First, a case will be described where the user UA determines that there is a low possibility that an image is viewed by an unspecified user because the user UA plans to move immediately to the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 20 or the like. In this case, the user UA presses the normal print button 1802.

  Thus, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that normal job information is transmitted instead of secure job information. Accordingly, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1710 to proceed to step 1715 to end the display of the first normal print selection dialog 1800 and whether normal transmission has been selected in the first normal print selection dialog 1800. That is, it is determined whether the normal print button 1802 has been pressed or the print cancel button 1803 has been pressed.

  In this state, since information indicating that the normal job information is transmitted instead of the secure job information is input, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1715 and proceeds to step 1720 to execute the normal job information. Generate header information for printing.

  Next, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1725 to add the image formation information generated in step 520 to the end of the header information generated in step 1720 (in this case, normal printing header information), thereby performing the job. Information (in this case, normal job information) is generated, and the generated job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20. Then, the CPU 31 proceeds to step 599 to end this routine once.

  Thereby, as described above, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the normal job information and immediately executes the image forming process based on the received normal job information.

(When canceling printing is selected)
Next, the case where the user UA does not plan to move to the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 20 and desires that job information is not transmitted will be described. In this case, the user UA presses the print cancel button 1803 shown in FIG.

  Thus, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that job information is not transmitted. Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1715 of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 17), the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1715 to directly proceed to step 599, without transmitting the job information. The transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

  As described above, even when the information processing apparatus 30 determines not to transmit the secure job information, if the user UA instructs to transmit the normal job information instead of the secure job information, the secure job information Normal job information that causes the image forming apparatus 20 to forcibly execute image forming processing based on the image forming information included in the image forming apparatus 20 is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20.

  As a result, even when the authentication device 29 is not connected to the image forming apparatus 20, an image is viewed by an unspecified user because the user is scheduled to immediately move to the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 20. When the user determines that there is a low possibility of image formation, the image forming apparatus 20 can be forced to execute image forming processing based on the image forming information included in the secure job information. That is, user convenience can be improved.

(2) When a user UB who has not registered the authentication identification information CIDB in the authentication device 29 instructs transmission of secure job information, and
(2-1) When Authentication Device 29 is Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as described above, CPU 31 of information processing device 30 starts processing of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 17) and performs step When proceeding to 565, the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 565 to proceed to step 1730.
In step 1730, the CPU 31 displays the second normal print selection dialog 1900 shown in FIG. 19 on the display panel of the display unit 34.

  The second normal print selection dialog 1900 differs from the first normal print selection dialog 1800 only in that the message is different. In the second normal print selection dialog 1900, a message indicating that the authentication identification information is not registered in the authentication device 29 and prompting the user to select whether to transmit normal job information instead of the secure job information is displayed. 1901, a normal print button 1902, and a print cancel button 1903 are arranged.

(When normal printing is selected)
First, a case will be described where it is determined that the user UB is unlikely to view an image by an unspecified user because the user UB is scheduled to immediately move to the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 20 or the like. In this case, the user UB presses the normal print button 1902.

  Thus, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that normal job information is transmitted instead of secure job information. Accordingly, the CPU 31 makes a “Yes” determination at step 1710 to proceed to step 1715 to end the display of the second normal print selection dialog 1900 and whether or not normal transmission is selected in the second normal print selection dialog 1900. That is, it is determined whether the normal print button 1902 is pressed or the print cancel button 1903 is pressed.

  In this state, since information indicating that normal job information is transmitted instead of secure job information is input, the CPU 31 determines “Yes” in step 1715 and proceeds to steps after step 1720. Then, after transmitting the normal job information, this routine is temporarily terminated. Thereby, as described above, the image forming apparatus 20 receives the normal job information and immediately executes the image forming process based on the received normal job information.

(When canceling printing is selected)
Next, the case where the user UB desires that the job information is not transmitted because the user UB does not plan to move to the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 20 will be described. In this case, the user UB presses the print cancel button 1903 shown in FIG.

  Thus, the CPU 31 receives information indicating that job information is not transmitted. Therefore, when the CPU 31 proceeds to step 1715 of the job information transmission routine (FIG. 17), the CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 1715 to directly proceed to step 599, without transmitting the job information. The transmission routine is temporarily terminated.

  As described above, even when the information processing apparatus 30 determines not to transmit the secure job information, if the user UB instructs to transmit the normal job information instead of the secure job information, the secure job information Normal job information that causes the image forming apparatus 20 to forcibly execute image forming processing based on the image forming information included in the image forming apparatus 20 is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 20.

  As a result, even if the identification information for authentication is not registered in the authentication device 29, the image is browsed by an unspecified user because the user is planning to move immediately to the vicinity of the image forming device 20 or the like. When the user determines that there is a low possibility of image formation, the image forming apparatus 20 can be forced to execute image forming processing based on the image forming information included in the secure job information. That is, user convenience can be improved.

(2-2) When Authentication Device 29 is not Connected to Image Forming Device 20 In this case, as in the case of (1-2) described above, the CPU 31 of the information processing device 30 performs the job information transmission routine (FIG. 17). ), The CPU 31 makes a “No” determination at step 550 to proceed to step 1705 to display the first normal print selection dialog 1800 shown in FIG. 18 on the display panel of the display unit 34. Let Since subsequent operations can be described in the same manner as in the case of (1-1) described above, the description thereof will be omitted.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment of the image forming system of the present invention, the image forming information is held in the image forming apparatus 20 in a state where the image forming process based on the secure job information cannot be executed. The convenience of the user can be improved while avoiding this. That is, even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted, the user can transmit the normal job information instead of the secure job information simply by pressing the normal print button 1802 or the normal print button 1902.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to said each embodiment, A various modification can be employ | adopted within the scope of the present invention. For example, the authentication unit in each of the above embodiments is the authentication device 29 configured to be detachable from the image forming apparatus 20, but the function can be achieved in a state where the image forming apparatus 20 is connected (on state). ) And an authentication device configured to be switchable to a state where the same function cannot be achieved (off state).

  For example, the authentication device may include a switch, and may be switched between an on state and an off state according to the state of the switch. Further, the authentication device may be configured to achieve the function of the authentication means by executing a predetermined program, and a state in which the program is executed (that is, an on state) and a state in which the program is not executed ( That is, it may be switched to the off state. Note that the OFF state may include a case where the function cannot be achieved due to a failure of the authentication device.

  In such a case, the image forming apparatus 20 of each of the above embodiments determines that the image forming apparatus 20 includes an authentication unit when the authentication apparatus is in the on state, and the authentication apparatus is in the off state. Sometimes, the image forming apparatus 20 is configured to determine that the authentication unit is not provided.

  Further, the authentication device 29 of each of the above embodiments may be configured to process and hold information using a part of the image forming apparatus 20 (CPU 21, RAM 23, etc.).

  Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the authentication input information is information recorded on the IC card, but it may be biometric information such as a face shape, fingerprint or vein shape, and a plurality of characters and It may be a password composed of a symbol string including numbers.

  In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, as described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the authentication identification information corresponding to the authentication input information input by the user inputting the authentication input information is included. A list of secure job information is displayed, and the user is allowed to select secure job information for actually starting printing from the displayed secure job information.

  Instead, each of the above embodiments displays a list of all the secure job information transmitted and held by an arbitrary user, and the user wants to actually start printing from the displayed secure job information. It may be configured to start printing by causing the user to select secure job information and causing the user to input authentication input information corresponding to authentication identification information included in the selected secure job information.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a flowchart showing a program executed by a CPU of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1 for performing print control. 3 is a flowchart showing a program executed by a CPU of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1 for transmitting determination result information. 3 is a flowchart showing a program executed by a CPU of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1 for transmitting confirmation result information. 3 is a flowchart showing a program for transmitting job information, which is a program executed by the CPU of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an image displayed on a display unit of the information processing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 and prompting a user to select whether or not to execute printing. 3 is a flowchart showing a program executed by the CPU of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1 for performing secure printing control. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an image displayed on a display unit of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 and prompting a user to select job information to be printed. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an image displayed on a display unit of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and notifying a user that job information is not transmitted because an authentication apparatus is not connected. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an image displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and notifying a user that job information is not transmitted because authentication identification information is not registered. It is the flowchart which showed the program for transmitting the job information which is a program which CPU of the information processing apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention performs. The image displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention and prompting the user to select whether or not to re-determine the state of the authentication device when the authentication device is not connected FIG. The user can select whether to re-determine the status of the authentication device when the image is displayed on the display unit of the information processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention and the authentication identification information is not registered. It is the figure which showed the image to urge. It is the flowchart which showed the program for transmitting the job information which is a program which CPU of the information processing apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention performs. A user is prompted to select whether to send secure job information forcibly when the authentication apparatus is not connected to an image displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. It is the figure which showed the image. The user selects whether to send the secure job information forcibly when the image is displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention and the identification information for authentication is not registered. FIG. It is the flowchart which showed the program for transmitting the job information which is a program which CPU of the information processing apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment of this invention performs. Whether to transmit normal job information instead of secure job information when an image is displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention and the authentication apparatus is not connected. It is the figure which showed the image prompting the user. Whether or not to transmit normal job information instead of secure job information when the image is displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention and the authentication identification information is not registered It is the figure which showed the image which prompts the user to select.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Communication line, 20 ... Image forming apparatus, 21 ... CPU, 23 ... RAM, 24 ... Display part, 25 ... Operation input part, 26 ... Printer engine part, 27 ... Connection interface part, 28 ... Communication interface part, 29 ... Authentication device, 29a ... Connection interface unit, 29b ... Input information input unit, 29c ... Authentication information registration unit, 29d ... Authentication information holding unit, 29e ... Identification information specifying unit, 30 ... Information processing device, 31 ... CPU, 33 ... RAM, 34 ... display unit, 35 ... operation input unit, 36 ... communication interface unit.

Claims (13)

An image forming apparatus capable of executing an image forming process based on secure job information including image forming information, and an information processing apparatus capable of transmitting the secure job information, and the image forming apparatus and the information processing apparatus via a communication line In an image forming system configured to be able to communicate with each other,
The image forming apparatus includes:
The image forming process based on secure job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus is configured to include an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on input predetermined authentication input information. An execution determination unit that determines whether to execute based on the authentication result, and whether the authentication unit is provided based on predetermined determination request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus and the determination result First result transmission means for transmitting determination result information corresponding to the information processing apparatus,
The information processing apparatus includes:
First request transmission means for transmitting the determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
Transmission determining means for determining whether or not to transmit the secure job information based on the determination result information transmitted from the image forming apparatus;
An image forming system. It is possible to provide an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on the input input information for predetermined authentication, and whether or not to execute the image forming process based on secure job information including the image forming information is the same. An information processing apparatus configured to be able to communicate with an image forming apparatus configured to be determined based on an authentication result via a communication line, and capable of transmitting the secure job information to the image forming apparatus,
First request transmission means for transmitting predetermined determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
The secure job information based on determination result information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted determination request information and that the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. Transmission determining means for determining whether or not to transmit;
An information processing apparatus comprising: The information processing apparatus according to claim 2,
The information processing apparatus configured to transmit the determination request information only when transmitting the secure job information. In the information processing device according to claim 2 or 3,
An information processing apparatus configured to notify a user that transmission of the secure job information is not performed when the transmission determination unit determines not to transmit the secure job information. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
When the determination result information is information corresponding to the fact that the image forming apparatus does not include the authentication unit, the transmission determining unit changes the state of the image forming apparatus to a state including the authentication unit. An information processing apparatus configured to notify the user of promotion information for prompting the user to do so. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5,
When the transmission determination unit determines not to transmit the secure job information, the transmission determination unit transmits predetermined redetermination request information to the image forming apparatus, and transmits from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted redetermination request information. Information processing configured to re-determine whether to transmit the secure job information based on re-determination result information about whether the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6,
The transmission determining unit is configured to re-determine that the secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus in response to a user instruction even when it is determined not to transmit the secure job information. apparatus. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7,
Even if it is determined that the secure job information is not transmitted by the transmission determining unit, the image forming process based on the image forming information included in the secure job information is performed on the image forming apparatus according to a user instruction. An information processing apparatus comprising job transmission means for transmitting normal job information to be forcibly executed to the image forming apparatus. The image forming system according to claim 1,
The information processing apparatus is configured to include predetermined authentication identification information in the transmitted secure job information, and a second request for transmitting confirmation request information including the authentication identification information to the image forming apparatus. A transmission means,
The authentication unit holds the authentication identification information and the authentication input information in association with each other and holds the authentication identification information in association with authentication identification information included in the secure job information among the authentication identification information held therein. Configured to output the authentication result based on the authentication input information and the input authentication input information,
The image forming apparatus determines whether or not authentication identification information included in the confirmation request information is held in the authentication unit based on the confirmation request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus. A second result transmitting means for transmitting corresponding confirmation result information to the information processing apparatus;
The transmission determining unit of the information processing apparatus is configured to determine whether to transmit the secure job information based on the determination result information and the confirmation result information transmitted from the image forming apparatus. Forming system. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 8,
The secure job information to be transmitted is configured to include predetermined identification information for authentication,
A second request transmission unit configured to transmit confirmation request information including the authentication identification information to the image forming apparatus;
The transmission determination unit determines whether authentication identification information included in the confirmation request information, which is information transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted confirmation request information, is held in the authentication unit. An information processing apparatus configured to determine whether or not to transmit the secure job information based on the confirmation result information about the information and the determination result information. It is possible to provide an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on the input input information for predetermined authentication, and whether or not to execute the image forming process based on secure job information including the image forming information is the same. Information processing method for transmitting secure job information to image forming apparatus using information processing apparatus configured to be able to communicate with the image forming apparatus configured to be determined based on the authentication result via a communication line Because
Transmitting predetermined determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
The secure job information based on determination result information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted determination request information and that the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. Determining whether to transmit; and
An information processing method including: It is possible to provide an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on the input input information for predetermined authentication, and whether or not to execute the image forming process based on secure job information including the image forming information is the same. The secure job information is transmitted to the image forming apparatus by being executed by an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with the image forming apparatus configured to be determined based on the authentication result via a communication line. An information processing program,
A procedure for transmitting predetermined determination request information to the image forming apparatus;
The secure job information based on determination result information that is transmitted from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmitted determination request information and that the image forming apparatus includes the authentication unit. A procedure for deciding whether to send,
Information processing program including An image forming apparatus configured to be able to communicate with an information processing apparatus capable of transmitting secure job information including image formation information via a communication line, and capable of executing an image forming process based on the secure job information,
The image forming process based on secure job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus is configured to include an authentication unit that outputs a predetermined authentication result based on input predetermined authentication input information. An execution determination unit that determines whether to execute based on the authentication result, and whether the authentication unit is provided based on predetermined determination request information transmitted from the information processing apparatus and the determination result An image forming apparatus comprising: first result transmission means for transmitting determination result information corresponding to the information processing apparatus to the information processing apparatus.

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