JP2009107784A - Image forming device, print control method in confidential printing mode and print control program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device or the like capable of securing confidentiality by preventing excessive papers from being discharged into an unlocked discharge bin when the printing in the confidential printing mode such as personal printing mode is performed in large numbers and exceeds the allowable number of sheets for storing in the paper discharge bin. <P>SOLUTION: Printing job by the confidential printing mode is executed by a printing means 12, and a printed paper is discharged in any one of vacant state paper discharge bin of a plurality of paper discharge pins 14 which are releasably locked by an electric signal. When it is detected that a discharged paper reaches the allowable number of sheets for storing in the bin, a paper discharging destination is switched to the paper discharge bin 14 in other vacant state. When a user indicates the lock release of the paper discharge bin in order to take out the printed paper, it is determined whether or not the user is a regular user having the authority for taking out the discharged paper by an authentication means 106. When it is determined to be a regular user, lock of the paper discharge bin is released by a control means 100. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having a plurality of paper discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electric signal and capable of printing in a confidential printing mode, a printing control method in a confidential printing mode, and a printing control program.

  A confidential printing mode that is a printing mode for preventing leakage of information to a third party, for example, an image forming apparatus capable of printing in the confidential printing mode. There has been proposed an image forming apparatus in which sheets are accumulated in a first discharge bin that is not permitted to be taken out and are not output to a second discharge bin that exists outside (see Patent Document 1).

  Also, a printing unit that prints a paper that has been requested to be printed, a paper ejection port with a lock that physically seals the paper printed and discharged by the printing unit, and a lock control that controls locking of the paper ejection port with a lock. There is also proposed an image forming apparatus that is provided with a means and locks and physically seals a sheet take-out port so that a sheet printed by a user is not acquired or viewed by others (see Patent Document 2).

In addition, a paper discharge bin having a lock mechanism that locks a paper discharge port printed by the print processing unit, a second paper discharge bin that is not locked for paper discharge, and paper discharged in a locked state. And a determination unit that determines whether or not to discharge the paper when the discharge port is determined to be discharged and the discharge port is locked, the discharge is determined to be discharged to the first discharge bin and the discharge is not locked. In this case, an image forming apparatus that discharges a sheet to a second sheet discharge bin has also been proposed (see Patent Document 3).
JP-A-7-131620 JP 2004-331238 A JP 2006-333196 A

  However, in the image forming apparatuses described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, since the number of locked paper discharge bins to which the paper printed in the confidential print mode is discharged is one, the capacity of the paper discharge bins ( If a large amount of printing is performed that exceeds the maximum number of sheets that can be stored, the sheet cannot be discharged to the locked discharge bin. In this case, there is a problem that confidentiality cannot be protected when paper is discharged to another unlocked paper discharge bin.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and even when a large amount of printing is performed in a confidential printing mode such as a confidential printing mode and the allowable number of sheets stored in the paper discharge bin is exceeded, the excess paper is locked. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus, a print control method in a confidential print mode, and a print control program that can prevent confidential paper from being discharged into a paper discharge bin that has not been printed.

The above problem is solved by the following means.
(1) A printing unit capable of performing printing in the confidential printing mode and a plurality of paper discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electric signal, and a sheet printed by the printing unit is stored in the paper discharge bin. Paper discharge means for discharging paper, detection means for detecting that the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the paper discharge bin, and paper printed in the confidential printing mode by the printing means However, the paper discharge unit is controlled so that paper is discharged to one of the locked paper discharge bins, and the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin is stored. When the detection unit detects that the allowable number of sheets has been reached, the control unit switches the discharge destination to another empty discharge bin among the plurality of discharge bins, and discharges to the discharge bin. Authorized users with the right to take out And a storage unit for storing information on a paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged, and authentication for determining whether a user who has issued an instruction to unlock the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged is the authorized user. And unlocking means for releasing the lock of the paper discharge bin when the user who instructed the lock release of the paper discharge bin by the authentication means is determined to be the authorized user. An image forming apparatus.
(2) When it is detected by the detection means that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable storage number, when there is no other empty discharge bin that is locked, 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops printing by the printing unit.
(3) The image forming apparatus according to (1) or (2), wherein the control unit interrupts printing in the confidential printing mode being executed by the printing unit based on a user instruction, and resumes the printing after the interruption.
(4) The confidential printing mode is a confidential printing mode instructed from the terminal device, and the authorized user has delegated the right to take out the paper ejected to the paper ejection bin from the user instructed to print or from the user 4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the image forming apparatus is a user.
(5) The confidential printing mode is a mode for printing image data received by facsimile, and the authorized user is discharged from a user set in advance corresponding to a facsimile transmission source or from the user to a discharge bin. 4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 3, wherein the user is a user who has been delegated authority to take out paper.
(6) An operation panel is provided, and the confidential printing mode is a confidential copy mode set via the operation panel, and a user who has set the confidential copy mode by the authorized user or a user to the paper output bin 4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3, which is a user who has been delegated authority to take out discharged paper.
(7) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (6), further including notification means for notifying the authorized user of the end of printing.
(8) Setting means for setting an administrator of the image forming apparatus, and when a paper jam occurs during execution of printing in the confidential printing mode, the user who instructed the printing and the administrator set by the setting means And a notification means for notifying the fact, and based on an instruction from the user or the administrator, the unlocking means can unlock the discharge bin. The image forming apparatus described.
(9) The image forming apparatus according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 8, wherein the discharge bin can be unlocked by the unlocking means by remote operation.
(10) A step of executing printing in the confidential printing mode, and detecting that the number of sheets discharged to a discharge bin that can be locked and released by an electric signal has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin. And the sheet printed in the confidential printing mode is discharged to one of the locked empty discharge bins among a plurality of discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electrical signal. And when it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to that discharge bin has reached the allowable number of storage bins, a step of switching the discharge destination to another empty discharge bin; Associating with an authorized user who has authority to take out the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin, storing information on the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged, and locking the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged Instruct to cancel Determining whether or not the user is the regular user, and unlocking the paper discharge bin when the user who has instructed the unlocking of the paper discharge bin is determined to be the regular user. A printing control method using a confidential printing mode.
(11) A step of executing printing in the confidential printing mode, and detecting that the number of sheets discharged to a discharge bin that can be locked and released by an electric signal has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin. And the sheet printed in the confidential printing mode is discharged to one of the locked empty discharge bins among a plurality of discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electrical signal. And when it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to that discharge bin has reached the allowable number of storage bins, a step of switching the discharge destination to another empty discharge bin; Associating with an authorized user who has authority to take out the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin, storing information on the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged, and locking the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged Instruct to cancel Determining whether or not the user is the regular user, and unlocking the paper discharge bin when the user who has instructed the unlocking of the paper discharge bin is determined to be the regular user. A printing control program for causing the computer of the image forming apparatus to execute the steps.

  According to the invention described in (1) above, a print job in the confidential print mode is executed by the printing unit, and the printed paper is one of the plurality of paper discharge bins that are locked so as to be releasable by an electrical signal. Paper is discharged into an empty paper discharge bin. When it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the bin has reached the bin storage allowable number, the discharge destination is switched to another empty discharge bin. Then, when the user gives an instruction to unlock the paper discharge bin in order to take out the printed paper, it is determined whether or not the user is an authorized user who has the authority to take out the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin. If it is determined that the user is a user, the lock of the paper discharge bin is released.

  As described above, when it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin, the discharge destination is switched to another empty discharge bin. Even if a large amount of printing is performed in the print mode and the maximum number of sheets that can be stored in the output bin is exceeded, it is possible to prevent sheets from being discharged to an output bin or tray that is not locked as before. , Can ensure confidentiality.

  According to the invention described in (2) above, when it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets, there is no other empty discharge bin that is locked. In this case, since printing is stopped, it is possible to prevent the paper from being discharged to the paper discharge bin or the paper discharge tray that is not locked.

  According to the invention described in item (3) above, the user can interrupt printing in the confidential printing mode being executed by the printing unit, and can resume printing after the interruption.

  According to the invention described in (4) above, during printing in the confidential printing mode instructed from the terminal device, even if the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin exceeds the allowable number of sheets to be stored, another lock has occurred. The paper is switched to the paper discharge bin and discharged. Further, not only the user who has instructed printing in the confidential printing mode but also the user who has been delegated the authority to take out the paper discharged from the user to the paper discharge bin, unlocks the paper discharge bin and discharges it. The printed paper can be taken out.

  According to the invention described in (5) above, even when the image data received by facsimile is being printed, even if the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin exceeds the allowable storage number, another locked discharge bin Paper is discharged after switching to. In addition, a user set in advance corresponding to the facsimile transmission source or a user who has been delegated the right to take out the paper discharged from the user to the paper discharge bin unlocks the paper discharge bin and discharges the paper. Can be taken out.

  According to the invention described in item (6) above, even when the image data of the document is printed in the confidential copy mode, even if the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin exceeds the allowable storage number, another locked discharge is performed. Paper is discharged after switching to the paper bin. Also, a user who has set the confidential copy mode or a user who has been delegated the right to take out the paper discharged from the user to the paper discharge bin unlocks the paper discharge bin and takes out the discharged paper. be able to.

  According to the invention described in the preceding item (7), the authorized user can know that the printing in the confidential printing mode has ended.

  According to the invention described in item (8) above, when a paper jam occurs during printing in the confidential printing mode, not only the user who has instructed printing but also the set administrator releases the lock on the discharge bin. Thus, the paper jam can be eliminated.

  According to the invention described in item (9) above, the discharge bin can be unlocked by remote control, which is convenient.

  According to the invention described in item (10) above, when it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin, the discharge destination is discharged to another empty state. Since it is switched to the paper bin, printing in the confidential print mode is performed in large quantities, and even if the maximum number of sheets that can be stored in the discharge bin is exceeded, the paper bin is not locked as in the conventional case. Paper discharge can be prevented and confidentiality can be ensured.

  According to the invention described in item (11) above, when it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin, the discharge destination is discharged to another empty state. The process of switching to the paper bin can be executed by the computer of the image forming apparatus.

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

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a printing system in which an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is used.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the printing system includes an image forming apparatus 1, terminal apparatuses 2 and 3, and is connected to each other via a network 5 including a LAN.

  The image forming apparatus 1 is an MFP (Multi Function Peripherals) which is a multi-function digital multifunction peripheral, and has a function of copying a set original, a function of printing print data transmitted from the terminal device via the network 5, A FAX transmission / reception function performed via the telephone line 6 is provided.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 1 can execute printing in the confidential printing mode that is the confidential printing mode (hereinafter, printing in the confidential printing mode is also referred to as confidential printing) transmitted from the terminal device 2 or 3. The image data of the set original is printed in the confidential printing mode, that is, the confidential copy can be performed. Furthermore, confidential FAX data received by facsimile can be printed in the confidential print mode.

  The terminal devices 2 and 3 are personal computers (hereinafter referred to as personal computers), and are installed with document creation software used when a user creates a document, a printer driver corresponding to the image forming apparatus 1, and the like.

  When the terminal devices 2 and 3 accept a print job execution instruction from the user via the printer driver, the terminal devices 2 and 3 convert the document data into print data and transmit the print data to the image forming apparatus 1 via the network 5. .

  At this time, the terminal devices 2 and 3 are configured to be able to receive an instruction for confidential printing to the image forming apparatus 1. When this is accepted, the terminal apparatuses 2 and 3 are instructed to the image forming apparatus 1 according to the confidential printing mode. Along with the print job, information on the user who has designated the print job input by the user (user information) is transmitted.

  Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a scanner unit 10, an operation panel unit 11, a printer unit 12, a paper feed unit 13, a paper discharge unit 16, and the like.

  The scanner unit 10 reads a document set by a user and converts it into image data.

  The operation panel unit 11 displays various screens and messages, and is used by the user to perform input operations. The operation panel unit 11 includes a liquid crystal display unit that displays various screens and messages, and a key input unit including a start key, a numeric keypad, and the like. And.

  The printing unit 12 prints image data of a document read by the scanner unit 10 or print data transmitted from the terminal devices 2 and 3 on a sheet conveyed from the sheet feeding unit 13. It has an electrophotographic image forming mechanism.

  The paper supply unit 13 supplies printing paper to the printing unit.

  The paper discharge unit 16 discharges the paper printed by the printing unit 12, and includes a plurality of electronic key-attached paper discharge bins 14 and a plurality of lockless paper discharge bins for storing the discharged paper. 15.

  The electronic key discharge bin 14 is a bin used when the confidential printing mode or the confidential copy mode is set. When the discharged paper is taken out, user authentication is required and the authentication is successful. Then, the electronic key is unlocked (unlocked) by an electrical signal, and the paper can be taken out.

  The lockless paper discharge bin 15 is a paper discharge bin that does not require user authentication to take out the discharged paper and allows any user to take out the paper freely. (Including copy mode).

  Next, the electrical configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a CPU 100, a ROM 101, a RAM 102, the scanner unit 10, the operation panel unit 11, the printing unit 12, the paper feeding unit 13, the paper discharge unit 16, the storage unit 105, and the authentication unit. 106, a communication unit 108, and the like, which are connected to each other via a system bus 110.

  The CPU 100 performs overall control of the entire image forming apparatus 1 by executing a program stored in the ROM 101. Further, in this embodiment, the process for determining whether or not the number of printed sheets stored in the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 has reached the storable number is determined. The process of switching the destination to another empty electronic keyed paper discharge bin is performed, which will be described in detail later.

  The ROM 101 stores programs to be executed by the CPU 100 and other data.

  The RAM 102 serves as a work area when the CPU 100 executes a program, and temporarily stores programs and various data. In this embodiment, user information at the time of specifying the confidential print mode transmitted from the terminal device 2 or 3, user information about a user who has set the confidential copy mode, and user information are associated with the paper discharge destination. Information on a certain electronic key-attached paper discharge bin is temporarily stored.

  The storage unit 105 includes a recording medium such as a hard disk and stores image data and other various data.

  The authentication unit 106 authenticates the user when unlocking the electronic key of the electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14. That is, the user ID input from the operation panel unit 11 as user authentication information, the user information transmitted from the terminal device 2 or 3 in the confidential print mode, or the user information of the user who has set the confidential copy mode. User authentication is performed by determining whether or not they match.

  In this embodiment, the user authentication is performed when the user inputs the user ID from the operation panel unit 11, but the user authentication may be performed by another method such as an IC card or biometric authentication. good.

  The communication unit 108 transmits / receives FAX data via the telephone line 6 in addition to transmitting / receiving data to / from an external storage device such as the terminal device 2 or 3.

  Next, the configuration of the terminal device 2 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. Since the configuration of the terminal device 3 is the same as that of the terminal device 2, description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 2 includes a CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display unit 123, a storage unit 124, a key input unit 125, a mouse 126, a communication interface (communication I / F) 127, a CD-ROM 128, and the like. Are connected to each other via a system bus 129.

  The CPU 120 generally controls the entire terminal device 1, and details thereof will be described later.

  The ROM 121 stores an operation program for the CPU 120 and other data.

  The RAM 122 provides a work area when the CPU 120 operates according to the operation program.

  The display unit 123 displays various messages and input reception screens for users, selection screens, and the like, and displays user-created documents and the like.

  The storage unit 124 stores data files such as document data and image data created by operating the key input unit 125 and the mouse 126, application software software, a printer driver, and other data.

  The keyboard 125 and the mouse 126 are used for an input operation by the user.

The communication interface 127 functions as a communication unit that transmits and receives data to and from the image forming apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG.
The CD-ROM drive 128 drives the CD-ROM. Next, the operation of the terminal device 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This operation is realized by the CPU 120 executing a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 121.

  The user creates a document using the document creation software installed in the terminal device 2. When the document creation is completed, when the printer driver is opened and the confidential print mode is set, it is determined whether or not the confidential print mode is selected by the user (step S10), and the confidential print mode is selected. If not (NO in step S10), the process proceeds to step S14, and a print job including print data is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1. On the other hand, when the confidential printing mode is selected (YES in step S10), the process waits for user information to be input (step S12).

  When user information is input (YES in step S12), in step S16, a print job including designation of confidential print mode and print data and the user information are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1.

  Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. This operation is realized by the CPU 100 executing a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 101.

  When a print job, user information, or the like is received (step S20), it is determined whether or not a confidential print mode setting instruction has been issued (step S22). If a confidential print mode setting instruction has not been issued (step S22). After NO is set in step S22, the normal mode is set, the paper discharge destination is set to the lockless discharge bin 15 (step S24), printing is started (step S26), and printing is ended (step S28). The process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if an instruction to set the confidential printing mode is given in step S22 (YES in step S22), the confidential printing mode is set (step S30), and the user information transmitted from the terminal device is stored in the RAM 102. (Step S32).

  Next, a check is made of the electronically empty discharge bin 14 with an electronic key that is locked, that is, capable of discharging (step S34), and any of the discharge bins 14 with an electronic key that can be discharged is discharged. Information on the electronic key-added paper discharge bin 14 set as the paper destination (step S36) and associated with the user information is stored in the RAM 102 (step S38).

  Next, confidential printing is started (step S40), and it is determined whether printing is completed (step S42).

  If printing has not been completed (NO in step S42), it is determined whether or not the number of printed sheets exceeds the allowable number of sheets stored in the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 as the paper discharge destination (step S44). If it has not exceeded (NO in step S44), the discharge to the electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 is still possible, and the process returns to step S42. On the other hand, if it exceeds (YES in step S44), the paper can no longer be discharged to the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14, and it is determined whether there is another empty electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 or not. Performed (step S46).

  If there is another empty electronic key discharge bin 14 (YES in step S46), the discharge destination is switched to the electronic key discharge bin 14 (step S48), and the discharge destination is discharged. After the bin information is stored in the RAM 102 in association with the user information (step S50), the process returns to step S42. On the other hand, if there is no electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 that can be discharged (NO in step S46), no further printing can be continued, and the process proceeds to step S52 in FIG. S52) The terminal device 2 is notified that printing has been interrupted (step S53).

  When the user who has issued the print instruction recognizes that printing has been interrupted via the display unit 123 of the terminal device 2, he or she goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1 to take out the already printed paper. The user authentication information is input from 11 etc.

  The user is authenticated by determining whether or not the input user authentication information matches the user information stored in the ROM 102 (step S54).

  If the authentication failure, that is, the user who has input the user authentication information is not a regular user (a user indicated by the user information) (NO in step S54), a message indicating the authentication failure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11, and again Prompts for user authentication information.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful, that is, if the user who has input the user authentication information is a regular user (YES in step S54), the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 from which the paper has been discharged is confirmed (step S56). The electronic keys of all the electronic key-equipped paper discharge bins 14 are unlocked (unlocked) by an electric signal (step S58).

  The user takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

  A determination is made as to whether or not all sheets have been removed (step S60). If not all have been removed (NO in step S60), the process waits until all the sheets have been removed. On the other hand, if all of them have been taken out (YES in step S60), the unlocked discharge bin with electronic key is locked (step S62), and the process returns to step S36 in the flowchart shown in FIG. Is done.

  When confidential printing is completed in step S42 of FIG. 5 (YES in step S42), a print job completion notification is transmitted to the user terminal device 2 (step S64).

  When the user who has instructed printing recognizes that the print job has been completed via the display unit 123 of the terminal device 2, he or she goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1 and takes out the printed paper, such as the operation panel 11. Enter user authentication information.

  By determining whether or not the input user authentication information matches the user information stored in the ROM 102, the user is authenticated (step S66).

  If the authentication failure, that is, the user who entered the user authentication information is not a regular user (NO in step S66), a message indicating the authentication failure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11 to prompt the user to input the user authentication information again.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful, that is, if the user who has input the user authentication information is a regular user (YES in step S66), the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 from which the paper has been discharged is confirmed (step S68). The electronic keys of all the electronic key-equipped paper discharge bins 14 are unlocked (unlocked) by an electric signal (step S70).

  The user takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

  A determination is made as to whether or not all sheets have been removed (step S72). If all sheets have not been removed (NO in step S72), the process waits until all the sheets have been removed. On the other hand, if all of them are taken out (YES in step S72), all the unlocked discharge bins with electronic keys are locked (step S62).

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when confidential printing is being executed, when the number of discharged sheets reaches the allowable number of sheets stored in the electronic key discharge bin, the discharge destination of the sheet is set. Since it can be switched to another empty paper bin with an electronic key, even when printing a large amount of documents that require confidentiality, the paper output bin is not locked as before. Can be prevented from being discharged to these bins or trays by switching to a paper discharge tray, etc., and it is possible to prevent leakage of data from printed documents and removal of paper, etc., ensuring confidentiality Can do.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  This embodiment is configured to enable interrupt processing of other jobs even during confidential printing. Note that the configuration of the printing system, the image forming apparatus 1, and the terminal apparatuses 2 and 3 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. In addition, this embodiment is implement | achieved when CPU100 runs the program preserve | saved on recording media, such as ROM101.

  The user creates a confidential document using the document creation software installed in the terminal device 2. Then, the printer driver is used to transmit a confidential print instruction, a print job including print data, user information, and the like to the image forming apparatus 1.

  When a print job, user information, and the like are received, the confidential printing mode is set in the image forming apparatus 1 and confidential printing is started (step S100), and the confidential display shown in FIG. A printing execution screen 150 is displayed (step S102).

  On the confidential printing execution screen 150, printing is temporarily suspended together with a message indicating that confidential printing is being executed, confidential printing is temporarily suspended, and whether another job is to be executed. An “interrupt” key 151 is displayed.

  When the user who has instructed printing in the confidential mode or another user presses the interruption key 151 to interrupt the other job, a temporary interruption of the printing being executed is accepted (step S104).

  A user who interrupts another job inputs user authentication information from the operation panel unit 11.

  In the image forming apparatus 1, it is determined whether or not user authentication information has been input (step S106). If it has not been input (NO in step S106), the image forming apparatus 1 waits until it is input.

  On the other hand, if it is input (YES in step S106), the user is instructed to print in the confidential mode by collating the input authentication information with the user information transmitted from the terminal device. Is determined (step S108).

  If the user is the print instructor (YES in step S108), it is determined whether the confidential printing being executed has ended (step S110). If the user has ended (YES in step S110), the paper is ejected. The electronic key of the discharged bin 14 with electronic key is unlocked (step S112), and the process proceeds to step S142.

  On the other hand, if confidential printing has not ended (NO in step S110), the process proceeds to step S114.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S108 that the user who has input the user authentication information is not a print instructor (NO in step S108), the process proceeds to step S114 because it is an interrupt process from another user.

  In step S114, the confidential printing being executed is interrupted, and then it is determined whether all of the paper being printed at the time of the interruption is discharged to the electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 (step S116).

  If the sheet is not discharged (NO in step S116), the process waits until the sheet is discharged. If the paper is discharged (YES in step S116), the print data of the interrupted job is saved (step S118), and the lockless paper discharge bin 15 is set as a paper discharge destination in order to execute another job. In step S120, when a start instruction is received from the user, execution of another job is started (step S122).

  When the other job is completed (step S124), after the logout of the user who has instructed execution of the other job is confirmed (step S126), the paper discharge destination is switched to the original electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 (step S126). Step S128).

  Next, execution of confidential printing is resumed from the interrupted portion (step S130), and when confidential printing is completed (step S132), an end notification is transmitted to the terminal device 2 (step S134).

  After confirming the job completion notification displayed on the display unit 123 of the terminal device, the user who has instructed confidential printing goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1 and inputs user authentication information from the operation panel 11.

  By determining whether or not the input user authentication information matches the user information stored in the ROM 102, the user is authenticated (step S136).

  If the authentication has failed, that is, if the user who has entered the user authentication information is not a regular user (NO in step S136), the fact that authentication is not performed is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11 and there is a possibility of an input error. Prompt for information.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful, that is, if the user who has input the user authentication information is a regular user (YES in step S136), the electronic bin with electronic key 14 that has ejected the paper is confirmed (step S138), and the target The electronic keys of all the electronic key-equipped paper discharge bins 14 are unlocked (step S140).

  The user takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

  A determination is made as to whether or not all sheets have been removed (step S142). If not all have been removed (NO in step S142), the process waits until all the sheets have been removed. On the other hand, if all of them are taken out (YES in step S142), the unlocked bin 14 with electronic key is locked (step S144).

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when an instruction to interrupt another job is given during confidential printing, the confidential printing being executed is interrupted and another job is executed. Printing resumes. Thereby, even during confidential printing, for example, it is possible to cope with a rush job of another user, which is convenient.

  Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  This embodiment relates to processing when confidential FAX data is received via the telephone line 6.

  Since the configuration of the printing system and the image forming apparatus 1 is the same as that of the first embodiment except for the storage unit 105, only the storage unit 105 will be described here.

  The storage unit 105 stores the FAX number of the confidential FAX data transmission source, the person who is set in advance corresponding to the facsimile transmission source, the person in charge when the confidential FAX data is received, the mail address of the person in charge, and the like. Saved.

  That is, when confidential FAX data is received via the telephone line 6, the terminal device 2 or 3 of the person in charge is notified that the FAX has been received.

  A BOX, which is a storage area for storing received FAX data, is provided for each FAX number of the transmission source, and the received FAX data is stored in a BOX corresponding to the FAX number of the transmission source.

  In addition, for each FAX number of the transmission source of the received FAX data, settings for storing the received data as electronic data or printing are registered in advance.

  Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This operation is realized when the CPU 100 executes a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 101.

  When FAX data is received via the telephone line 6 (Step S200), it is determined whether or not the transmission source FAX number that has transmitted the FAX data is registered (Step S201).

  If the FAX number is not registered (NO in step S201), the paper discharge destination is set to one of the keyless bins 15, the received FAX data is printed (step S204), and the paper is discharged. (Step S205).

  On the other hand, when the FAX number is registered (YES in Step S201), the received FAX data is stored in the BOX corresponding to the FAX number of the transmission source (Step S202), and the FAX data received from the transmission source is electronically stored. It is determined whether storage is set or printing is set (step S203).

  When the electronic storage is set (“electronic storage” in step S203), the fact that the FAX data has been received is transmitted to the terminal device of the person in charge (step S206), and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if printing is set ("print" in step S203), the locked discharge bin 14 with electronic key that can be discharged is confirmed (step S208), and one of the discharges with electronic key is discharged. After the bin 14 is set as the paper discharge destination (step S208), information on the electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 set as the paper discharge destination is stored in the ROM 102 in association with the person in charge (step S212).

  Next, printing of the received FAX data is started (step S214), and it is determined whether printing is finished (step S216).

  If printing has not ended (NO in step S216), it is determined whether or not the number of printed sheets exceeds the allowable number of sheets stored in the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 that is the paper discharge destination (step S218). If it has not exceeded (NO in step S218), since the paper can still be discharged to the bin 14 with electronic key, the process returns to step S216. On the other hand, if it exceeds (YES in step S218), the electronic key discharge bin 14 can no longer be discharged, so whether there is another empty electronic key discharge bin 14 that can be discharged. Is determined (step S220).

  If there is another empty electronic key bin 14 (YES in step S220), the discharge destination is switched to the electronic key discharge bin 14 (step S222), and the discharge bin of the discharge bin of the discharge destination is changed. The information is associated with the person in charge and stored in the RAM 102 (step S224), and the process returns to step S216.

  On the other hand, if there is no electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 that can be discharged (NO in step S220), no more printing can be continued, and the process proceeds to step S226 in FIG. In step S226, the terminal device of the person in charge of the FAX data is notified that printing has been interrupted (step S228).

  When the person in charge recognizes that printing has been interrupted via the display unit 123 of the terminal device 2 or 3, the person in charge goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1 to take out the already printed paper, and so on. Enter the person authentication information.

  By determining whether or not the input person-in-charge authentication information matches the person-in-charge information stored in the storage unit 105, the person-in-charge is authenticated (step S230).

  If the authentication failure, that is, the person who has entered the person authentication information is not a regular person registered in the storage unit 105 (NO in step S230), a message indicating the authentication failure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11. The user is prompted to input user authentication information again.

  On the other hand, when the authentication is successful, that is, the person in charge who has entered the person authentication information is a regular person registered in the storage unit 105 (YES in step S230), the electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 from which the sheet has been discharged. Is confirmed (step S232), and the electronic keys of all target electronic key-equipped paper discharge bins 14 are unlocked (step S234).

  The person in charge takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

  A determination is made as to whether or not all sheets have been removed (step S236). If not all have been removed (NO in step S236), the process waits until all the sheets have been removed. On the other hand, if all of them have been taken out (YES in step S236), the unlocked electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 with electronic key is locked (step S238), and the process returns to step S210 in the flowchart shown in FIG. Printing is performed.

  When printing is completed in step S216 of FIG. 9 (YES in step S216), a print completion notification is transmitted to the terminal device of the person in charge (step S240).

  When the person in charge recognizes that the printing of the FAX data is finished from the display of the terminal device or the like, the person in charge goes to the place where the image forming apparatus 1 is installed and takes out person-in-charge authentication information from the operation panel 11 or the like to take out the printed paper. Enter.

  Authentication is performed by determining whether the input person-in-charge authentication information matches the person-in-charge information registered in the storage unit 105 (step S242).

  If the authentication has failed (NO in step S242), a message indicating the authentication failure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11 to prompt the user to input user authentication information again.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful, that is, the person in charge of inputting the user authentication information is a regular person in charge (YES in step S242), the electronic-keyed paper discharge bin 14 from which the paper has been discharged is confirmed (step S244). ) The electronic keys of all target electronic key-equipped paper discharge bins 14 are unlocked (step S246).

  The person in charge takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

It is determined whether or not all the sheets have been taken out (step S248),
If all the sheets have not been taken out (NO in step S248), the process waits until all the sheets are taken out. On the other hand, when all the sheets have been taken out (YES in step S248), all the unlocked discharge bins with electronic keys are locked (step S250).

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when FAX data is received from a transmission source registered in advance, printing is performed when the FAX data is stored in the BOX and the print setting is made. The paper is discharged to the empty electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14.

  In addition, when the number of discharged sheets reaches the allowable number of sheets stored in the electronic key discharge bin during printing, the paper discharge destination is switched to another empty electronic key discharge bin. Therefore, even when printing a large amount of FAX-received documents that require confidentiality, it is possible to prevent leakage of data from the printed document, removal of paper, etc., and ensure confidentiality. it can.

  Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The present embodiment is an embodiment regarding processing when an instruction for confidential copy is given by the user from the operation panel unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Note that the configuration of the printing system and the image forming apparatus 1 is the same as that in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This operation is realized when the CPU 100 executes a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 101.

  The user inputs user authentication information from the operation panel 11.

  In the image forming apparatus 1, user authentication is performed based on the input user authentication information, and it is determined whether or not the authentication has been performed (step S300).

  If not authenticated (NO in step S300), a message indicating authentication failure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11 to prompt the user to input user authentication information again.

    On the other hand, if authenticated (YES in step S300), it waits for a mode setting instruction from the user, and determines whether the instructed mode is a confidential copy mode (step S302). If the confidential copy mode setting instruction has not been issued (NO in step S302), the normal mode is set (step S304), the paper discharge destination is set to the lockless bin 15, and copying is started (step S304). In step S306, when the copy is completed (step S308), the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the confidential copy mode setting instruction is issued in step S302 (YES in step S302), the confidential copy mode is set (step S310), and the user information of the user who has issued the confidential copy mode setting instruction is stored in the RAM 102. (Step S312).

  Next, a check is made of the electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 that can be discharged, that is, a locked empty state (step S314), and one of the discharge bins 14 with the electronic key that can be discharged is set as a discharge destination. The information of the electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 set as the paper discharge destination is stored in the RAM 102 in association with the user information (step S318).

  Next, confidential copy is started (step S320), and it is determined whether or not the copy is completed (step S322).

  If copying has not been completed (NO in step S322), it is determined whether or not the number of printed (copied) sheets has exceeded the allowable number of sheets stored in the electronic keyed paper discharge bin 14 as the paper discharge destination ( In step S324), if not exceeded (NO in step S324), the discharge to the electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 is still possible, and the process returns to step S322. On the other hand, if it exceeds (YES in step S324), the electronic key discharge bin 14 can no longer be discharged, so it is determined whether there is another empty electronic key discharge bin 14 or not. Performed (step S326).

  If there is another empty electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 (YES in step S326), the paper discharge destination is switched to this electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 (step S328), and the paper discharge destination is discharged. The bin information is stored in the RAM 102 in association with the user information (step S330), and the process returns to step S322. On the other hand, if there is no discharge bin 14 with an electronic key that can be discharged (NO in step S326), no further printing can be continued, and the process proceeds to step S52 in FIG. S52) The terminal device 2 is notified that printing has been interrupted (step S53). In the following, since the same processing as Step S53 to Step S62 of FIG. 6 is performed, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In step S62, when the electronic key-equipped paper discharge bin 14 is locked (step S62), the process returns to step S316 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11, and the rest of the printing is performed.

  When copying is completed in step S322 of FIG. 11 (YES in step S322), a job completion notification is transmitted to the user terminal device 2 (step S332).

  When the user who has instructed confidential copying recognizes that the print job has been completed via the display unit 123 of the terminal device 2, he or she goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1 and takes out the printed paper. The user authentication information is input from, for example.

  By determining whether or not the input user authentication information matches the user information stored in the ROM 102, the user is authenticated (step S334).

  If the authentication failure, that is, the user who has input the user authentication information is not a regular user (NO in step S334), a message indicating the authentication failure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel 11 to prompt the user to input the user authentication information again.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful, that is, the user who has input the user authentication information is a regular user (YES in step S334), the electronic bin with electronic key 14 that has ejected the sheet is confirmed (step S336), and the target The electronic keys of all the electronic key-equipped paper discharge bins 14 are unlocked (unlocked) by an electrical signal (step S338).

  The user takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

  A determination is made as to whether or not all sheets have been removed (step S340). If not all have been removed (NO in step S340), the process waits until all the sheets have been removed. On the other hand, if all of them are taken out (YES in step S340), all the unlocked discharge bins 14 with electronic keys are locked (step S342).

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when the confidential copy is being executed and the number of discharged sheets reaches the allowable number of sheets stored in the electronic key discharge bin, the discharge destination of the sheet is set. Since it can be switched to another empty paper bin with an electronic key, even when copying a large amount of documents that require confidentiality, a paper bin or tray that is not locked as before The paper can be prevented from being discharged, and the leakage of data from the copy document and the removal of the paper can be prevented, thereby ensuring confidentiality.

  Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  In the first embodiment, in the confidential printing mode, the sheet discharged to the bin 14 with the electronic key can be taken out only as an authorized user by the printing instructor. In addition, a user who has been delegated the right to take out the paper discharged from the print instructor to the paper discharge bin 14 can also take out the paper as a regular user. Note that the printing system, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 and the like are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, the operation of the terminal device 2 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. This operation is realized by the CPU 120 executing a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 121.

  The user creates a document using the document creation software installed in the terminal device 2. When the document creation is completed, the printer driver is opened and the confidential print mode is set.

  It is determined whether or not the confidential print mode has been selected (step S400). If not selected (NO in step S400), the process proceeds to step S404, and a print job including print data is transferred to the image forming apparatus 1. Send. On the other hand, when the confidential printing mode is selected (YES in step S400), the process waits for input of user information from the user (step S402).

  If entered (YES in step S402), in step S403, it is determined whether or not the authentication information of the user who has been delegated the authority to take out the paper discharged from the print instructor to the paper discharge bin 14 has been input. If entered (YES in step S403), the print job including the confidential print mode designation and print data, the user information, and the authority transferer authentication information are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S405). If not input (NO in step S403), the print job including the confidential print mode designation and the print data and the user information are transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S406).

  The image forming apparatus 1 to which a print job or the like is transmitted from the terminal device operates as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13 when the CPU 100 executes a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 101. The operation in the case where the information of the user who has been delegated the retrieval authority is not transmitted is the same as that in FIG. The operation in the case where the information of the user to whom the take-out authority has been delegated is transmitted is the same as the flowchart of FIG. 5 except for step S332, step S364, and step S366, and therefore the same steps are the same as in FIG. The description will be omitted with reference numerals, and only the difference will be described.

  That is, after setting the confidential printing mode in step S30, in step S332, not only the user information instructing printing but also the authentication information of the user to whom the authority has been delegated is stored in the RAM 102. If printing is completed in step S40 (YES in step S40), not only the user who has instructed printing but also the user whose authority has been delegated is notified in step S364. Then, when not only the user who has instructed printing but also the user whose authority has been delegated inputs the authentication information, in step S366, whether the user is the user who has instructed printing or the user whose authority has been delegated, that is, the authorized user. If it is determined whether the user is a regular user (YES in step S366), the process proceeds to step S68.

  If there is no electronic key-attached paper discharge bin that can be discharged in step S46 (NO in step S46), the process proceeds to step S52 in FIG. 6 and the same processing as in FIG. 6 is executed.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, not only a user who gives an instruction to print in the confidential print mode, but also a user who has been delegated the authority to take out the paper discharged from the user to the paper discharge bin. Can be released and the discharged paper can be taken out.

  In the case of FAX reception in FIG. 9 or confidential copy in FIG. 11, a user who has delegated paper take-out authority can take out discharged paper from the person in charge or the user who has instructed copying. It is also good.

  Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The present embodiment is an embodiment relating to processing when a paper jam occurs during printing in the confidential printing mode (in this example, confidential printing mode). Note that the printing system, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 and the like are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

  The operation of the image forming apparatus 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This operation is realized by the CPU 100 executing a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 101.

  When the user inputs authentication information and instructs a print job, it is determined whether or not printing is in confidential printing mode (step S500). If printing is not in confidential printing mode (NO in step S500), The paper discharge destination is set to the keyless bin 15 and printing is started (step S524).

  When the occurrence of a paper jam is detected during printing (step S526), the fact is notified to the user terminal device.

  When the paper jam processing is performed by the user, it is accepted (step S528). After the printing is resumed, the printing is terminated (step S530), and the processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, when printing in confidential printing mode in step S500 (YES in step S500), as a user who can unlock (unlock) the paper jam handling cover, a print instructor, a paper take-out authority delegate, The administrator is registered in the RAM 102 (step S502), and the paper jam handling cover is locked (locked) (step S504).

  When the occurrence of a paper jam is detected during printing (step S506), the print instructor, authority delegator, and administrator are notified of this (step S508).

  The print instructor, authority delegator, or administrator who is informed that a paper jam has occurred goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1 and inputs authentication information from the operation panel unit 11.

  When authentication information is input from the print instructor, authority delegator, or administrator, it is determined whether to authenticate the user from the input information and the information stored in the RAM 102 (step S510). ).

  If the authentication is unsuccessful (NO in step S510), a message to that effect is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel unit 11, and the user is prompted to input authentication information again.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful (YES in step S510), the paper jam handling cover is unlocked (step S512).

Next, it is determined whether or not the paper jam processing has been completed (step S514), the cause of the paper jam is removed by the user, and when the paper jam processing is completed (YES in step S514), the paper jam processing cover is locked ( In step S516, confidential printing is resumed (step S518). When confidential printing is finished (step S520), the lock of the paper jam handling cover is unlocked (step S522), and the process is finished.
As described above, according to this embodiment, the paper jam handling cover is locked during printing in the confidential printing mode, and when a paper jam occurs, the user, authority delegator, or administrator who instructed printing is notified. Since the processing cover is unlocked, it is possible to prevent a third party from taking away the printed paper that has been seen or jammed.

  Next, an image forming apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  In the first to fifth embodiments, when unlocking the discharge bin with electronic key, the user goes to the installation location of the image forming apparatus and inputs the user information to unlock it. In the embodiment, it is possible to unlock the discharge bin with the electronic key by remote operation.

  Note that the configuration of the printing system, the image forming apparatus 1, and the terminal apparatuses 2 and 3 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  First, the operation of the terminal device 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This operation is realized by the CPU 120 executing a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 121.

  It is determined whether or not a confidential printing end notification is received from the image forming apparatus 1 that is executing confidential printing (step S600). If not received (NO in step S600), the process waits until it is received. On the other hand, if it is received (YES in step S600), the WEB tool is opened (step S602), and when the user selects the confidential print mode, this is accepted (step S604), and the user ID and password input screen ( (Not shown) is displayed.

  When the user inputs the user ID and password from the input screen, the user ID and password are accepted (step S606).

  The user is authenticated from the input user ID and password (step S608). If the authentication fails (NO in step S608), that fact is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit of the operation panel unit 11, and the user receives Wait for the user ID and password to be entered again.

  On the other hand, if the authentication is successful (YES in step S608), an instruction to unlock the electronic key in the electronic-key-attached paper discharge bin 14 is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S610), and the process ends.

  Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. This operation is realized by the CPU 100 executing a program stored in a recording medium such as the ROM 101.

  When an unlocking instruction is received from the terminal device 2 (step S620), the electronic key of the designated electronic key-attached paper discharge bin 14 is unlocked (step S622).

  The user who has instructed printing or another user takes out the paper from the unlocked paper discharge bin 14 with the electronic key.

  In step S624, it is determined whether or not all the sheets have been taken out. If all the sheets have not been taken out (NO in step S624), the process waits until all the sheets are taken out.

  On the other hand, if all of them have been taken out (YES in step S624), the unlocked electronic key-attached discharge bin 14 with electronic key is locked (step S626), and the process ends.

  As described above, since the discharge bin can be unlocked by remote operation, even if the print instructor is absent on a business trip or the like, it is unlocked by remote operation, and for example, a sheet is supplied to a reliable user. Can be taken out.

1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a printing system. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a terminal device. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the terminal device in 1st Embodiment. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display screen in the case of interrupting confidential printing. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG. 9. Flowchart for explaining the operation of the image forming apparatus in the fourth embodiment It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the terminal device in 5th Embodiment. It is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of an image forming apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement of the terminal device in 7th Embodiment. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of an image forming apparatus according to a seventh embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image forming apparatus 2, 3 ... Terminal device 10 ... Scanner part 11 ... Operation panel part 12 ... Printing part 13 ... Paper feed part 14 ... Paper discharge with an electronic key Bin 15: Unlocked paper discharge bin 16 ... Paper discharge unit 100 ... CPU (control means, detection means, lock release means)
101 ... ROM
102 ... RAM
105: Storage unit 106: Authentication unit 108: Communication unit

Claims (11)

A printing means capable of printing in the confidential printing mode;
A paper discharge unit having a plurality of paper discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electrical signal, and discharges the paper printed by the printing unit to the paper discharge bin;
Detecting means for detecting that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin;
Controlling the paper discharge means so that the paper printed in the confidential print mode by the printing means is discharged to any one of the locked paper discharge bins. When the detection unit detects that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable storage number, the discharge destination is set to another empty discharge bin among the plurality of discharge bins. Control means for switching;
Storage means for storing information on a paper discharge bin from which paper has been discharged in association with a regular user who has authority to take out the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin;
Authentication means for determining whether a user who gives an instruction to unlock the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged is the authorized user;
Unlocking means for unlocking the discharge bin when it is determined that the user who instructed the unlocking of the discharge bin by the authentication means is the authorized user;
An image forming apparatus comprising:   When the detection unit detects that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable storage number, and there is no other empty discharge bin locked, the control unit The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein printing by the printing unit is stopped.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit interrupts printing in the confidential printing mode being executed by the printing unit based on a user instruction, and resumes the printing after the interruption.   The confidential printing mode is a confidential printing mode instructed from a terminal device, and is a user to whom printing has been instructed by the authorized user or a user to whom the authority to take out the paper ejected from the user to the paper ejection bin has been delegated. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The confidential printing mode is a mode for printing image data received by a facsimile, and the authorized user is a user set in advance corresponding to a facsimile transmission source or a sheet discharged from the user to a discharge bin. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is a user to whom a take-out authority is delegated. Having an operation panel,
The confidential printing mode is a confidential copy mode set via the operation panel, and the authorized user has the authority to take out the paper discharged from the user set to the confidential copy mode or the user to the paper discharge bin. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is a delegated user.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the authorized user of the end of printing. Setting means for setting an administrator of the image forming apparatus;
A notification means for notifying the user who has instructed printing and the administrator set by the setting means when a paper jam occurs during execution of printing in the confidential printing mode;
With
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unlocking unit can unlock the discharge bin based on an instruction from the user or an administrator.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the unlocking unit can unlock the discharge bin by remote operation. Performing printing in secure print mode;
Detecting that the number of sheets discharged to a discharge bin that can be locked and released by an electrical signal has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin;
The paper printed in the confidential printing mode is discharged into one of the locked empty discharge bins among a plurality of discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electrical signal, and When it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin, the step of switching the discharge destination to another empty discharge bin;
Storing information on a paper discharge bin from which the paper is discharged in association with a regular user having authority to take out the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin;
Determining whether a user who has issued an instruction to unlock the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged is the authorized user;
When the user who gives an instruction to unlock the discharge bin is determined to be the regular user, the step of releasing the lock of the discharge bin;
A printing control method using a confidential printing mode. Performing printing in secure print mode;
Detecting that the number of sheets discharged to a discharge bin that can be locked and released by an electrical signal has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin;
The paper printed in the confidential printing mode is discharged into one of the locked empty discharge bins among a plurality of discharge bins that can be locked and released by an electrical signal, and When it is detected that the number of sheets discharged to the discharge bin has reached the allowable number of sheets stored in the discharge bin, the step of switching the discharge destination to another empty discharge bin;
Storing information on a paper discharge bin from which the paper is discharged in association with a regular user having authority to take out the paper discharged to the paper discharge bin;
Determining whether a user who has issued an instruction to unlock the paper discharge bin from which the paper has been discharged is the authorized user;
When the user who gives an instruction to unlock the discharge bin is determined to be the regular user, the step of releasing the lock of the discharge bin;
Is a print control program for causing a computer of the image forming apparatus to execute.

Images