JP2010250436A - Print system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To notify a user of that the function of a printer is insufficient in order to execute a print job to be transferred from a print server to the printer. <P>SOLUTION: In a routine A, processing A-1 for registering each multifunction unit 31 on a routine network in a data table; processing A-2 for setting the update intervals of the data table; and processing A-3 for collecting the operating state or function information of each multifunction unit 31, and for writing it in the data table are successively performed. In a routine B, processing B-1 for updating the data table; processing B-2 for determining whether or not the function information of the multifunction unit 31 is insufficient in order to execute the print job transferred from the terminal equipment 11 to the print server 21 by referring to the data table, and for notifying the terminal equipment 11 of the determination result; and processing B-3 for, when full-print to designate and read the print job from the multifunction unit 31 is performed, notifying the multifunction unit 31 of the similar determination result are successively performed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing system in which a terminal device, a print server, and a printing device are connected to each other through a network.

  A conventional system of this type is disclosed in Patent Document 1. In the system disclosed in Patent Document 1, a plurality of terminal devices (personal computers), a plurality of print servers, a plurality of multifunction devices, and a print management server are connected to each other via a network, and the terminal device, the print server, the multifunction device, and the printing are connected. Data such as print jobs can be sent and received between management servers.

  For example, the print job is transferred from the terminal device to the print server and stored, and is immediately transferred from the print server to the multifunction peripheral for execution or temporarily stored in the print server. Once stored in the print server, the user can designate the print job from the desired multifunction device, transfer the print job from the print server to the multifunction device, and execute the print job on the multifunction device ( (Referred to as a pull print).

JP 2007-334918 A

  However, in the conventional system, once a print job is transferred from the print server to the multifunction peripheral at the time of pull printing, the print job is not displayed even if the multifunction peripheral has insufficient functions to execute the print job. It was running on that multifunction device. For example, even if the print job is printing a color image and the multifunction device is for a monochrome image and does not support color images, the print job is executed and a monochrome image is printed. For this reason, wasteful execution of print jobs, waste of recording paper, and the like have occurred.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described conventional problems, and the function of the printing apparatus is insufficient to execute a print job transferred from the print server to the printing apparatus. Another object of the present invention is to provide a print system capable of notifying this fact.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention connects a terminal device, a print server, and a printing device to each other through a network, transfers a user's print job from the terminal device to the print server, stores the print job, and In a printing system in which a print job is further transferred from a print server to a printing apparatus and a print job is executed by the printing apparatus, the print server sends a registration request for registering the function of the printing apparatus and a print job transfer request from the printing apparatus. A determination unit that determines whether the function of the printing device registered in the registration unit satisfies the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing device when received, and the determination by the determination unit The result is notified from the print server to the printing apparatus.

  In addition, the print server indicates that the normal printing is possible when the determination unit determines that the function of the printing apparatus satisfies the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing apparatus. Notifying the device.

  Further, the print server indicates that normal printing is impossible when the determination unit determines that the function of the printing apparatus does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing apparatus. Notifying the printer.

  In addition, when the determination unit determines that the function of the printing device does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing device, the print server cannot perform normal printing. Notifying the printer.

  Further, after notifying the printing apparatus that normal printing is impossible, the print server transfers a print job to the printing apparatus in response to a forced output instruction from the printing apparatus.

  The registration unit registers the state of the printing apparatus together with the function of the printing apparatus, and the print server notifies the printing apparatus of the state of the printing apparatus together with the determination result by the determination unit.

  Further, the printing apparatus displays the contents of notification from the print server.

  Further, when the determination unit determines that the function of the printing apparatus does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing apparatus, the determination unit refers to the functions of all the printing apparatuses registered in the registration unit. Thus, the function of another printing apparatus that satisfies the execution requirement of the print job is retrieved, and the retrieved other printing apparatus is notified to the printing apparatus that has issued the print job transfer request.

  Further, the print server includes load distribution means for distributing and transferring a print job to a plurality of printing apparatuses, and the determination means refers to the functions of all the printing apparatuses registered in the registration means, The functions of a plurality of printing devices satisfying the execution requirements of the print job are searched, the searched printing devices are notified to the printing device that issued the print job transfer request, and the load distribution unit transfers the print job In response to a load distribution instruction from the printing apparatus that issued the request, the print job is distributed and transferred to each of the searched printing apparatuses.

  According to the present invention, in the print server, the function of the printing apparatus is registered, and when the print job transfer request is received from the printing apparatus, the registered function of the printing apparatus is transferred to the printing apparatus. Whether the print job execution requirement is satisfied or not is notified to the printing apparatus. For this reason, the user of the printing apparatus can know whether or not the print job is normally performed in the printing apparatus before the print job is transferred from the print server to the printing apparatus and executed.

  For example, when the print server determines that the function of the printing apparatus satisfies the print job execution requirement, the print server notifies the printing apparatus that normal printing is possible. Alternatively, when it is determined that the function of the printing apparatus does not satisfy the print job execution requirement, the printing apparatus is notified that normal printing is impossible. Regardless of which notification is received, the user of the printing apparatus can know whether or not the print job is normally performed by the printing apparatus.

  In addition, when the print server determines that the function of the printing device does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job, the print server notifies the reason for the failure of normal printing. , You can know why.

  Further, after notifying the printing apparatus that normal printing is not possible, the print server transfers the print job to the printing apparatus in response to a forced output instruction from the printing apparatus. For this reason, even if normal printing is impossible, the print job can be executed by the printing apparatus. However, the printing is incomplete. For example, a color image is printed as a monochrome image, or post-processing such as stapling is omitted.

  In addition, the print server notifies the printing apparatus of the status of the printing apparatus together with the determination result, so that the printing apparatus can execute the print job as well as knowing whether the printing job is normally performed by the printing apparatus. It is possible to know whether or not it is in a proper state.

  Further, when it is determined that the function of the printing device does not satisfy the print job execution requirement, the print server searches for another printing device that satisfies the print job execution requirement and issues a transfer request for the print job. Notifying the printer. For this reason, the user of the printing apparatus that has issued the print job transfer request can know the other printing apparatuses that satisfy the execution requirements for the print job, go to the other printing apparatuses, and from the other printing apparatuses. It is possible to perform normal printing by issuing a print job transfer request to the print server and executing the print job with this printing apparatus.

  Also, the print server searches for the functions of a plurality of printing devices that satisfy the print job execution requirements, notifies each of the searched printing devices to the printing device that issued the print job transfer request, and sends the print job transfer request. In response to the issued load distribution instruction from the printing apparatus, the print job is distributed and transferred to the searched printing apparatuses. That is, during pull printing, load distribution is performed such that a print job is distributed and transferred to a plurality of printing apparatuses in accordance with an instruction from a printing apparatus that has issued a print job transfer request. As a result, a print job can be executed quickly. Each of the searched printing apparatuses may or may not include a printing apparatus that has issued a print job transfer request.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a printing system of the present invention. (A), (b) is a block diagram which shows the structure of the terminal device in the system of FIG. 1, and a print server. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a multifunction machine in the system of FIG. 1. 2 is a flowchart showing an overview of the entire processing procedure of a print server in the system of FIG. 1. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for registering a multifunction peripheral in a data table of a print server. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for setting an update interval of a print server data table. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for collecting functions and states of a multifunction peripheral and writing them in a data table of a print server. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for updating a data table of a print server during pull printing. A flowchart showing a processing procedure for determining whether or not the function of the MFP is insufficient for executing a print job by referring to the data table of the print server at the time of pull printing and notifying the terminal device of the determination result It is. 3 is a diagram illustrating a data table of a print server for registering each multifunction device. FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating a storage area in which update intervals and the like of the data table in FIG. 10 are registered. (A), (b), and (c) are the figures which illustrate the operation screen utilized when registering the multifunctional device in the system of FIG. 1 to a data table. It is a figure which illustrates the operation screen utilized when registering the update interval etc. of a data table in the storage area of FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an operation screen when displaying a determination result on the terminal device as to whether or not the function of the MFP is insufficient for executing a print job. When pull-printing, refer to the print server's data table to determine whether the MFP has insufficient functions for executing the print job, and outline the processing procedure for notifying the MFP of the determination result. It is a flowchart to show. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for determining whether or not a multi-function peripheral that has issued a print job transfer request can execute a print job during pull printing, and notifying the multi-function peripheral of the determination result. During pull printing, it is determined whether the print job can be executed by each other MFP except for the MFP that has issued the print job transfer request, and this determination result is used for the MFP that has issued the print job transfer request. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence for notifying an apparatus. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure for updating a data table of a print server during pull printing. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an operation screen when a determination result as to whether or not a function of the multifunction device is insufficient for executing a print job is displayed on the multifunction device.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a printing system of the present invention. In the system PS of this embodiment, a plurality of terminal devices (personal computers) 11, a print server 21, and a plurality of multifunction devices 31 are connected to each other through a network N, and the terminal device 11, the print server 21, and the multifunction device 31 are connected. A print job or the like can be sent and received between the two. The network N is assumed to be a LAN, the Internet, or the like, but other types of networks may be applied.

  FIGS. 2A and 2B are block diagrams illustrating configurations of the terminal device 11 and the print server 21. 2A and 2B, since the terminal device 11 and the print server 21 have basically the same configuration, the names of parts that perform the same function are the same, and only the symbols are changed. Yes.

  2A and 2B, the CPUs 111 and 211 control each device and the like through the system buses 112 and 212, and comprehensively control the terminal device 11 or the print server 21. The ROMs 113 and 213 and the external memories 114 and 214 are necessary for realizing the functions of the BIOS (Basic Input / Output System), the operating system (OS), the terminal device 11, or the print server 21 that are executed by the CPUs 111 and 211. Various programs are stored.

  The RAMs 115 and 215 function as main memories and work areas for the CPUs 111 and 211. The CPUs 111 and 211 load necessary programs and the like from the ROMs 113 and 213 and the external memories 114 and 214 to the RAMs 115 and 215 and execute them, thereby realizing the functions of the terminal device 11 or the print server 21.

  The input controllers 116 and 216 relay input from the operation input units 117 and 217 such as a keyboard and a mouse to the CPUs 111 and 211.

  The video controllers 118 and 218 perform display control of the display devices 119 and 219. The CPUs 111 and 211 rasterize text and images in display memory areas such as the RAMs 115 and 215. The video controllers 118 and 218 display the rasterized text and images on the screens of the display devices 119 and 219. Further, the CPUs 111 and 211 move the cursors on the screens of the display devices 119 and 219 in accordance with inputs from the operation input units 117 and 217, thereby enabling an instruction using the cursors. Note that the display device may be of any type, such as a liquid crystal display device, a CRT, or an EL display device.

  The memory controllers 121 and 221 control reading and writing with respect to the external memories 114 and 214. The external memories 114 and 214 include a portable memory such as a hard disk (HD), a flexible disk (FD), or a compact flash (registered trademark), and executes reading / writing on these.

  The communication interfaces (communication I / F) 122 and 222 perform data communication with the terminal device 11, the print server 21, or the multifunction device 31 through the network N, and execute communication control of this data communication. . For example, communication control using TCP / IP is performed.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the multifunction machine 31. In FIG. 3, an image control unit 311 controls a scanner 312 that reads a document image and a printer 313 that prints text, images, and the like on recording paper, and print jobs and the like through a network N or a public line 314 (PSTN or ISDN). Send and receive.

  In the image control unit 311, the CPU 321 controls each device and the like through the system bus 322 to control the entire multifunction device 31. The ROM 323 stores a boot program and various control programs. A hard disk drive (HDD) 324 stores various application programs, image data, and the like.

  The RAM 325 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 321. The CPU 321 loads necessary programs and the like from the ROM 323 and HDD 324 to the RAM 325 and executes them to control the multi-function device 31.

  An operation interface (operation I / F) 326 is an interface of the operation input unit 315, and outputs an image to the operation input unit 315, and causes the operation input unit 315 to display the image on a screen of a display device attached thereto. In addition, the operation I / F 326 inputs an instruction to the touch panel overlaid on the screen of the display device from the touch panel, and determines an input to a button, a key, or the like displayed on the screen of the display device. These buttons and keys include a start key, a stop key, an ID key, a reset key, and the like. The start key is operated when instructing the scanner 312 to start reading a document image. The stop key is operated when instructing to stop the operation of the scanner 312 or the printer 313. The ID key is operated when inputting the user's name and password. The reset key is used when initially setting the operation input unit 315. Note that the display device may be of any type, such as a liquid crystal display device, a CRT, or an EL display device.

  The communication interface (communication I / F) 327 performs data communication with the terminal device 11 and the print server 21 through the network N, and executes communication control of this data communication. The modem 328 is connected to the public line 314 and performs facsimile communication and the like with the other communication terminal through the public line 314.

An external interface (external I / F) 329 is an interface that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, RS-232C, and the like, to which a card reader 316 for reading an IC card is connected. The CPU 321 inputs and acquires authentication data read from the IC card by the card reader 316 via the external I / F 329.
In addition to the card reader, the external I / F 329 is connected to a reader / writer, a connector, and the like (not shown) that can be detachably connected to a portable memory (for example, a USB memory).

  The card reader 316 is controlled by the CPU 321, reads authentication data from an IC card (for example, Sony Felica (registered trademark)), and notifies the CPU 321 of the authentication data via the external I / F 329.

  An image bus interface (image bus I / F) 331 is a bus bridge that interconnects the system bus 322 and an image bus 332 for transferring image data, and performs mutual conversion of data structures between both buses.

  The image bus 332 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. A raster image processor (PIP) 333, a printer interface (printer I / F) 334, a scanner interface (scanner I / F) 335, and an image processing unit 336 are connected to the image bus 332.

  For example, the RIP 333 expands vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image.

  A printer I / F 334 connects the printer 313 to the image control unit 311 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. The printer 313 is activated by the CPU 321 when the start of printing is instructed by the operation of the operation input unit 315. The printer 313 stores an image (raster image) on a recording sheet. An electrophotographic method for forming a toner image on a photosensitive member and transferring the toner image onto the recording sheet. Ink is applied to the recording sheet. Any of the ink jet method and the like that directly ejects may be used. Note that the printer 313 includes a plurality of paper feed trays to enable selection of different paper sizes or different paper orientations.

  The scanner I / F 335 connects the scanner 312 to the image control unit 311 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. The scanner 312 is activated by the CPU 321 when the start of the scanner is instructed by the operation of the operation input unit 315. When the scanner 312 is activated, the original paper is pulled out from the tray, the original image is read by the CCD line sensor, and image data indicating the original image (raster image) is generated and output.

  The image processing unit 336 corrects, processes, and edits image data. For example, correction or resolution conversion according to the characteristics of the multifunction device 31 is performed. Alternatively, image rotation, JPEG compression / decompression conversion processing for multi-valued image data, and compression / decompression processing such as JBIG, MMR, and MH for binary image data are performed.

  In the print system PS having such a configuration, the terminal device 11 can generate and transmit a print job by executing a printer driver. For example, the printer driver receives image data from an application program, generates a print job including image data and a print processing instruction, reads the print job from a storage device, and transmits the print job to the print server 21 via the network N. .

  This print job is immediately transferred from the print server 21 to the multi-function device 31 and executed, or temporarily stored in the print server 21. Once stored in the print server 21, the print job is designated from the desired multifunction device 31, the print job is transferred from the print server 21 to the multifunction device 31, and the print job is executed by the multifunction device 31. To do.

  Accordingly, in the print system PS, a print job can be immediately sent and received from the terminal device 11 to the desired multifunction device 31 via the print server 21, and the print job can be executed by the multifunction device 31 (normal print processing). Called). In addition, a print job is transmitted and received from the terminal device 11 to the print server 21, the print job is temporarily stored in the print server 21, and thereafter, the print job of the print server 21 can be designated and read from the multifunction device 31 ( This is called a pull print).

  Next, normal printing processing and pull printing will be described in detail. First, in the case of normal print processing in which a print job is immediately transferred from the print server 21 to the multi-function peripheral 31, the printer driver is executed by the CPU 111 in the terminal device 11 of FIG. Or the print job is read from the external memory 114 via the memory controller 121, and this print job is transmitted from the communication I / F 122 to the print server 21 via the network N.

  2B receives the print job from the terminal device 11 via the communication I / F 222, stores the print job in the external memory 214 via the memory controller 221, and transmits the print job to the communication I. / F222 immediately transmits to the multifunction device 31.

  3 receives a print job from the print server 21 via the communication I / F 327 and temporarily stores the print job in the HDD 324 or the like. This print job is read from the HDD 324 or the like, delivered to the image processing unit 336 via the image bus I / F 331, and subjected to image processing on the image data of the print job by the image processing unit 336, and then the printer I It is delivered to the printer 313 via / F334. The printer 313 analyzes the print job and records an image (raster image) indicated by the image data of the print job on a recording sheet.

  Next, in the case of pull printing in which the print job is temporarily stored in the print server 21 and then the print job is designated and read from the multi-function peripheral 31, the terminal device 11 in FIG. A print job is generated in the same manner as described above, but this print job is transmitted to the print server 21 together with a pull print instruction.

  When the print server 21 in FIG. 2B receives a pull print instruction print job via the communication I / F 222, the print server 21 stores and stores the print job in the external memory 214 via the memory controller 221.

  Thereafter, the user goes to the desired multifunction device 31 and operates the buttons and keys displayed on the display device of the operation input unit 315 to instruct transfer of the print job. In response to this, the CPU 321 transmits the print job transfer request from the communication I / F 327 to the print server 21.

  When the print server 21 in FIG. 2B receives a print job transfer request from the multi-function peripheral 31, the print server 21 notifies the CPU 211 of this transfer request. In response to this, the CPU 211 searches the external memory 214 for a corresponding print job, and transmits this print job to the multifunction device 31.

  3 receives the print job from the print server 21, the print job is temporarily stored in the HDD 324 or the like, and the image processing unit 336 performs image processing on the image data of the print job. The print job is delivered to the printer 313, and the printer 313 records an image (raster image) indicated by the image data of the print job on a recording sheet. At this time, instead of recording the image indicated by the image data of the print job, the print job may be output and stored in a portable memory (for example, a USB memory) via the external I / F 329. In this case, it is possible to connect the portable memory to the desired terminal device 11, load a print job from the portable memory to the terminal device 11, and display the print job on the display screen of the terminal device 11.

  By the way, each multifunction device 31 does not have the same printing function, and there is a difference in each printing function. For example, there are a function of printing both a color image and a monochrome image, a function of printing only a monochrome image, a post-processing function such as stapling, and the like, and these functions are selectively given to each multifunction device 31. . The print job selectively includes execution requirements for the print job such as a color image, a monochrome image, and post-processing. For this reason, depending on the multi-function device 31, the function may be insufficient to execute the print job.

  For example, even if a color image print job is given to the multifunction machine 31 having a function of printing only a monochrome image, a color image cannot be printed, and a monochrome image is printed.

  However, conventionally, in the case of pull printing, even if the function of the MFP 31 is insufficient to execute the print job transferred from the print server 21 to the MFP 31, the print job is executed by the MFP 31. Was. For this reason, for example, a color image is printed as a monochrome image, a print job is not satisfactorily performed, and recording paper is wasted.

  Therefore, in the system PS of the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the function of the multifunction device 31 is insufficient for executing the print job transferred from the terminal device 11 to the print server 21, and the determination result is used as the terminal device 11. Is displayed to notify the user.

  When a print job is designated from the multi-function peripheral 31 to the print server 21 and this print job is transferred from the print server 21 to the multi-function peripheral 31 (pull print), the multi-function peripheral 31 performs the print job. It is determined whether or not the function is insufficient, and the determination result is displayed on the multifunction device 31 to notify the user.

  Next, a processing procedure for such determination will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, the outline of the entire processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The processing of the flowchart of FIG. 4 includes a routine A for creating a data table used in the routine B in the external memory 214 of the print server 21 and writing basic information in the data table, and information on the data table. Or by referring to the data table, it is determined whether or not the function of the multi-function peripheral 31 is insufficient for executing the print job transferred from the terminal device 11 to the print server 21. Routine B to be notified to the terminal device 11 is included.

  In the routine A, a process A-1 for registering each multifunction device 31 on the network in the data table, a process A-2 for setting an update interval of the data table, and an operation state and function of each multifunction device 31 Processing A-3 for collecting information and writing it to the data table is sequentially performed.

  This routine A is executed by the print server 21 and can be executed, for example, when installing the software of the printing system SP or the routine A itself.

  In the routine B, the processing information B-1 for updating the data table and the function information of the multi-function device 31 for executing the print job transferred from the terminal device 11 to the print server 21 with reference to the data table are shown. The process B-2 for notifying the terminal apparatus 11 of the determination result and the pull print in which the print job is designated and read from the multi-function peripheral 31 are executed. Whether or not the function information of the multi-function device 31 is insufficient is determined, and processing B-3 for notifying the multi-function device 31 of the determination result is performed.

  This routine B is executed by the print server 21 and is executed at the time of pull printing described above.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a data table D1 in which each multifunction device 31 on the network is registered. In this data table D1, the serial number given to each multifunction device 31, the registered name of each multifunction device 31, the IP address of each multifunction device 31, the operating state of each multifunction device 31, and the function information of each multifunction device 31 Is registered. The operation state of the multifunction machine 31 indicates stop, standby, facsimile communication, execution of a print job, or the like. The function information of the multifunction device 31 indicates whether the multifunction device 31 supports color images, usable paper sizes, post-processing, and the like.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating a storage area D2 in which the update interval and the like of the data table D1 are registered. In the storage area D2 of FIG. 11, the registration date of the storage area D2, the unit of the update interval of the data table D1, the update interval, and the start time are stored.

  Next, the process A-1 for registering each MFP 31 on the network in the data table D1 of the external memory 214 of the print server 21 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the print server 21, the CPU 211 generates the data table D1 of FIG. 10 in the external memory 214, deletes the contents of the data table D1 (step S1001), and sets “0001” as the first serial number in the data table D1. Writing is performed (step S1002). Then, the CPU 211 displays an operation screen 41 as shown in FIG. 12A on the display device 219.

  The operation screen 41 in FIG. 12A corresponds to the three check boxes 42, 43, and 44, “use registration file”, “input one by one, register”, and “do not register”, respectively. It is attached and displayed. In addition, a “next” key 45 and an “end” key 46 are displayed.

  “Use registration file” indicates that an existing registration file in which the IP address and registration name of each MFP 31 is registered is used, and a check box is used when using this existing registration file. Enter a check mark in 42. Further, “input and register one by one” suggests that the IP address and registration name of the multifunction machine 31 are registered by the input operation of the operation input unit 217 in the print server 21. Enter a check mark in the check box 43. Further, “not register” indicates that the process of FIG. 5 is ended, and a check mark is entered in the check box 44 when the process is ended.

  For example, if a check mark is entered in the “input one by one and register” check box 43 on the operation screen 41 by the operation of the operation input unit 217, the CPU 211 indicates that there is a multifunction device 31 to be registered. It is determined (“Yes” in step S1003, and it is determined not to use the registered file (“No” in step S1004)), and an operation screen 51 as shown in FIG. 12B is displayed.

  In the operation screen 51 of FIG. 12B, an entry field 52 for entering the registered name of the multifunction machine 31 and an entry field 53 for entering the IP address of the multifunction machine 31 are displayed. Also, a “Next” key 54 and an “End” key 55 are displayed.

  Here, by the operation of the operation input unit 217, the registered name of the multifunction machine 31 is entered in the entry field 52 on the operation screen 51 (step S1005), and the IP address of the multifunction machine 31 is entered in the entry field 53 (step S1006). When a confirmation instruction is issued thereafter, the CPU 211 registers these registration names and IP addresses in the data table D1 in association with the serial number “0001” (step S1007).

  Thereafter, the CPU 211 increments the serial number to “0002” (step S1008), and when the “next” key 54 on the operation screen 51 is instructed by operation of the operation input unit 217, the CPU 211 selects the registration target. It is assumed that there is a next multi-function machine 31 (“Yes” in step S1009), the process returns to the process from step S1005, the second serial number “0002” is written in the data table D1, and the entry fields 52 and 53 are entered. Wait for entry of new registration name and IP address.

  When new registration names and IP addresses are entered in the entry fields 52 and 53, the registration names and IP addresses are written in the data table D1 in association with the serial numbers incremented in step S1008, and the operation screen is displayed. When the “next” key 54 on 51 is instructed, it is considered that there is a next multifunction device 31 to be registered, and the processing returns to step S1005. Similarly, the serial numbers corresponding to all the multifunction devices 31 are sequentially set, and the IP addresses and registered names of all the multifunction devices 31 are registered one by one corresponding to these serial numbers. Further, when the “end” key 55 on the operation screen 51 is instructed, the processing of FIG. 5 ends.

  If a check mark is entered in the “use registered file” check box 42 on the operation screen 41 by the operation of the operation input unit 217, the CPU 211 determines that there is a multifunction device 31 to be registered. (“Yes” in step S1003 and it is determined that the registration file is to be used (“Yes” in step S1004)), and an operation screen 61 as shown in FIG. 12C is displayed.

  In the operation screen 61 of FIG. 12C, an entry field 62 for entering the file name of the registered file is displayed. In addition, an “END” key 63 is displayed.

  When the file name of the registered file is entered in the entry field 62 on the operation screen 61 by the operation of the operation input unit 217 and a confirmation instruction is issued thereafter, the CPU 211 uses the file name as a search condition in the print server 21. The memory device of the RAM 215 or the external memory 214 is scanned to search for a registered file with this file name, and the IP addresses and registered names of all the multifunction devices 31 are read from the registered file, and the IP addresses of all the multifunction devices 31 are read. The address and registered name are registered in the data table D1 in the external memory 214. At this time, each time the IP address or registered name of each multifunction device 31 is sequentially registered in the data table D1, the serial number is incremented one by one, and each serial number corresponding to all the multifunction devices 31 is set. Then, the IP addresses and registered names of all the multifunction devices 31 are registered corresponding to these serial numbers (step S1010). Then, the process of FIG. 5 ends.

  Note that in any of the operation screens 41, 51, 61, when the “end” key is designated, the processing in FIG. 5 ends. Further, even if a check mark is entered in the “do not register” check box 44 of the operation screen 41, the processing of FIG.

  As described above, the registered names and IP addresses of all the multifunction devices 31 are input one by one by operating the operation input unit 217, or the registered names and IP addresses of all the multifunction devices 31 are read from the existing registration file in the print server 21. Registration in the data table D1 can be performed.

  Next, the process A-2 for setting the update interval of the data table will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the print server 21, the CPU 211 determines whether or not the registered name and IP address of at least one multifunction device 31 are registered in the data table D1 (step S2001), and if registered (step S2001). “Yes”), a storage area D 2 as shown in FIG. 11 is generated in the external memory 214, and an operation screen 71 as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the display device 219.

  A check box 72 is displayed on the operation screen 71 of FIG. 13, and “one-day interval update start time” and an entry column 73 are displayed corresponding to the check box 72. In addition, a check box 74 is displayed, and “time interval update interval update start time” and entry fields 75 and 76 are displayed corresponding to the check box 74. Further, an “END” key 77 is displayed.

  The “daily update start time” indicates that the data table D1 is updated at the update start time entered in the entry field 73 only once a day, and is checked when updating once a day. A check mark is entered in the box 72 and the update start time is entered in the entry field 73. The “time interval update interval update start time” indicates that the data table D1 is updated from the update start time entered in the entry column 76 at the time or minute interval entered in the entry column 75. When updating at intervals of hours or minutes, a check mark is entered in the check box 74, the time or minutes of the update interval is entered in the entry column 75, and the update start time is entered in the entry column 76.

  For example, if a check mark is entered in the check box 72 by the operation of the operation input unit 21 and the update start time is entered in the entry field 73, the daily unit is stored in the storage area D2 in association with the update interval unit, The update start time is stored in association with the start time (step S2002).

  In addition, if a check mark is entered in the check box 74 by the operation of the operation input unit 21 and an interval and update start time in hours or minutes are entered in the entry fields 75 and 76, the time unit is updated in the storage area D2. It is stored in association with the interval unit, the interval in hours or minutes is stored in association with the update interval, and the update start time is stored in association with the start time (step S2002).

  Thereafter, the processing of FIG. 6 ends. If the registered name and IP address of the multifunction device 31 are not registered in the data table D1 (“No” in step S2001), the processing in FIG. 6 ends.

  In this way, the update interval of the data table D2 can be set in units of one day, hours or minutes, and the update start time can be set.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7, the process A-3 for collecting the function information and operation state of each multifunction device 31 and writing it in the data table D1 will be described in detail.

  In the print server 21, the CPU 211 initializes the serial number, sets “0001” as the first serial number (step S3001), and the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” are stored in the data table D1. (Step S3002), and if it exists (“Yes” in step S3002), the registered name and IP address of the MFP 31 corresponding to the serial number “0001” are read from the data table D1. (Step S3003) A request for notification of the operating state and function information is transmitted to the MFP 31 on the network N corresponding to the registered name and IP address via the communication I / F controller 222 (Step S3004).

  In the multi-function device 31, a notification request from the print server 21 is received by the communication I / F 327 and input to the CPU 321. In response to this, the CPU 321 creates notification data indicating the operation state and function information of the multifunction device 31, and returns this notification data to the print server 21 from the communication I / F 327 through the network N.

  In the print server 21, this notification data is input to the CPU 211 via the communication I / F controller 222. The CPU 211 acquires the operation state and function information of the multifunction device 31 from the notification data, and registers the operation state and function information of the multifunction device 31 in association with the serial number “0001” in the data table D1 (step S3005). .

  Thereafter, the CPU 211 increments the serial number to “0002”, returns to step S3002, and determines whether or not the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0002” exist in the data table D1 ( If it exists (“Yes” in step S3002), the registered name and IP address of the MFP 31 corresponding to the serial number “0002” are read from the data table D1 (step S3003). Is notified of the operation state and function information (step S3004), the operation state and function information of the multi-function device 31 are acquired, and the operation state and function information of the multi-function device 31 are set to the serial number “0002”. The data is registered in the data table D1 in association with each other (step S3005).

  Similarly, if the serial number is incremented and the registered name and the IP address corresponding to the incremented serial number exist in the data table D1, the operation state and function information of the corresponding multifunction machine 31 are acquired. The operation state and function information of the multifunction machine 31 are registered in the data table D1. When the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number no longer exist in the data table D1 (“No” in step S3002), that is, the operation state and function information of all the multifunction devices 31 are stored in the data table D1. If registered, the processing of FIG. 7 ends.

  Next, the process B-1 for updating the data table D1 during pull printing will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the print server 21, the CPU 211 reads the update interval (1 day unit or hour or minute unit) and the update start time from the storage area D 2 in the external memory 214 (step S 4001), and refers to the timer built in the print server 21. The current time is acquired (step S4002), and the serial number is initialized to “0001” (step S4003). Then, the CPU 211 obtains at least one update time based on the update interval and the update start time of the storage area D2, and determines whether or not the obtained update time has reached the current time (step S4004). At this time, if the update time has not reached the current time (“No” in step S4004), the processing in FIG. 8 ends.

  If the CPU 211 determines that the update time has reached the current time (“Yes” in step S4004), the CPU 211 performs the same processing as in steps S3002 to S3006 in FIG. The function information is registered in the data table D1, and the latest contents are registered in the data table D1. That is, it is determined whether or not the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” set in step S4003 exist in the data table D1 (step S4005). If they exist (“Yes” in step S4005). Then, the registered name and IP address of the multifunction device 31 corresponding to the serial number “0001” are read from the data table D1 (step S4006), and a notification request for the operation state and function information is transmitted to the corresponding multifunction device 31 (step S4006). S4007). Then, the notification data is received from the multifunction device 31, the operation state and function information of the multifunction device 31 indicated by the notification data are acquired, and the operation state and function information of the multifunction device 31 correspond to the serial number “0001”. In addition, it is registered in the data table D1 (step S4008). Thereafter, the serial number is incremented (step S4009), and the process returns to step S4005.

  As long as the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number exist in the data table D1, the processing from step S4005 is repeated, and the operation state and function information of all the multifunction devices 31 are registered in the data table D1. Thereafter, the processing of FIG. 8 ends.

  Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 9, the function of the multifunction device 31 is insufficient to execute the print job transferred from the terminal device 11 to the print server 21 with reference to the data table D1 during pull printing. The process B-2 for determining whether or not to notify the terminal device 11 of the determination result will be described in detail.

  In the print server 21, when the CPU 211 receives and inputs a pull print instruction print job from the terminal device 11, the CPU 211 stores and stores the print job in the external memory 214 via the memory controller 221.

  The CPU 211 not only stores the print job but also analyzes the print job to determine whether the print job is a color image, the paper size necessary for execution of the print job, post-processing, etc. That is, the print job execution requirement is acquired (step S5001).

  Further, the CPU 211 refers to the data table D1 in the external memory 214, reads the registered name, serial number, and operation state of each multifunction device 31 from the data table D1, and registers the registered name, serial number, The operating state is transmitted to the terminal device 11 (step S5002).

  When the terminal device 11 receives the registered name, serial number, and operation state of each multifunction device 31, an operation screen 81 as shown in FIG. 14 that associates the registered name and operation state of each multifunction device 31 is displayed in the display memory. The operation screen 81 is set and displayed on the display device 119.

  In the operation screen 81 of FIG. 14, the registered name and the operation state of each multifunction device 31 are displayed in association with each other, and a message is also displayed in association with each other. The “specified printing is possible” message is a default setting. When an error message is received by the terminal device 11 together with the serial number as described later, the default message corresponding to the serial number is an error message. To be rewritten. Further, an “information update” key 82 and an “end” key 83 are displayed.

  Subsequently, the CPU 211 compares the function information with the execution requirements for the print job for each function information of each MFP 31 in the data table D1, and determines whether the function information satisfies the execution requirements for the print job (step). S5003). For example, if the print job execution requirement is a color image and stapling processing, and the color image and stapling processing are set as the function information of the multifunction machine 31, it is determined that the function information satisfies the print job execution requirement. Further, even if the staple processing is set as the function information of the multi-function device 31, if the color image is not set, it is determined that the function information does not satisfy the print job execution requirement.

  If the CPU 211 determines that the function information of the multifunction peripheral 31 does not satisfy the print job execution requirement (“Yes” in step S5004), the CPU 211 is set in advance to be displayed when the print job execution requirement is not satisfied. The error message is read from the external memory 214 (step S5005), and this error message is transmitted to the terminal device 11 together with the serial number of the multifunction machine 31 (step S5006).

  Here, respective error messages associated with various execution requirements such as color image, paper size, post-processing, etc. are stored in advance in the external memory 214, and error messages corresponding to the execution requirements that are not satisfied are externally stored. This error message is transmitted by reading from the memory 214. For example, if the execution requirement that has not been satisfied is a color image, an error message “color image is not possible” is set corresponding to this execution requirement. If the execution requirement that has not been satisfied is the paper size, an error message “paper size is different” is set corresponding to the execution requirement.

  When the terminal device 11 receives the error message together with the serial number of the multi-function peripheral 31, the error message is displayed in the display memory so that the default message corresponding to the serial number can be rewritten on the operation screen 81 of FIG. set.

  Such transmission / reception and display of an error message is performed for any MFP 31 that does not satisfy the print job execution requirement. As a result, on the operation screen 81 of FIG. 14, the registered names, operation states, and default messages or error messages of all the multifunction devices 31 are displayed. For this reason, the user of the terminal device 11 can know the multifunction device 31 that can execute the print job satisfactorily before executing the print job by pull printing, and performs the pull print by the multifunction device 31. As a result, the print job can be executed to avoid waste of execution of the print job and waste of recording paper. In addition, it is possible to know the reason why the print job is not executed satisfactorily by the multifunction device 31 by looking at the error message of the multifunction device 31.

  Thereafter, when the operation input unit 117 is operated by the user and the “end” key 83 on the operation screen 81 is instructed (“No” in step S5007 and step S5008, the processing of FIG. 9 is ended). To do.

  When the operation input unit 117 is operated by the user to update the data table D1 and the “information update” key 82 on the operation screen 81 is instructed (“Yes” in step S5007 and step S5008). ), The serial number is initialized to “0001” (step S5009). Then, similarly to steps S3002 to S3006 in FIG. 7, it is determined whether or not the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” exist in the data table D1 (step S5010). In step S5010, “Yes”), the registered name and IP address of the multifunction device 31 corresponding to the serial number “0001” are read from the data table D1 (step S5011), and the operation state and function information of the corresponding multifunction device 31 are acquired. Then, the operation state and function information of the multi-function device 31 are registered in the data table D1 in association with the serial number “0001” (step S5013). Thereafter, the serial number is incremented (step S5014), and the process returns to step S5010.

  As long as the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number exist in the data table D1, the processing from step S5010 is repeated, and the operation state and function information of all the multifunction devices 31 are registered in the data table D1. Is done.

  When the data table D1 is updated in this way, the processing from step S5001 is performed again, and the operation state, message, and the like of each multifunction device 31 on the operation screen 81 in FIG. 14 are updated. For this reason, the user can know the latest operation state, message, and the like of each multifunction device 31.

  When a print job designated for pull printing is transferred from the terminal device 11 to the print server 21 in this way, whether or not the function information of the multifunction machine 31 registered in the data table D1 satisfies the execution requirement of the print job. Since the determination is made and the determination result is notified to the terminal device 11, the terminal device 11 can know the multifunction device 31 that can execute the print job satisfactorily. In addition, it is possible to know the reason why the print job is not executed satisfactorily by the multifunction device 31 by looking at the error message of the multifunction device 31.

  Next, referring to the flowcharts of FIGS. 15 to 18, whether or not the function of the multifunction device 31 is insufficient for executing the print job at the time of pull printing in which the print job is designated and read from the multifunction device 31. Processing B-3 for making a determination and notifying the MFP 31 of the determination result will be described.

  As described above, in the process B-2, it is determined whether or not the function of the multi-function device 31 is insufficient, and the determination result is displayed on the terminal device 11. Pull-printing is not always done by going out, but pull-printing may be performed after a long time has passed. In this case, it is desirable that such a determination result is also displayed on the multi-function device 31 so that the user can confirm it. For this reason, in process B-3, the MFP 31 displays the determination result as to whether or not the function of the MFP 31 is insufficient.

  The flowchart in FIG. 15 shows an overview of the entire process B-3. When the print server 21 receives a print job transfer request from the multifunction machine 31, it notifies the CPU 211 of this transfer request. In response to this, the CPU 211 searches the external memory 214 for a corresponding print job, analyzes the print job, determines whether this print job is a color image, and the paper size necessary for executing this print job. Then, post-processing or the like, that is, print job execution requirements are acquired (step S6001).

  Further, the CPU 211 receives and acquires the registration name and serial number of the multifunction machine 31 together with the print job transfer request from the multifunction machine 31 (step S6002).

  The CPU 211 reads the function information corresponding to the registered name and serial number acquired in step S6002 with reference to the data table D1 in the external memory 214, that is, the function of the multifunction device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request. The information is read, it is determined whether or not the function information satisfies the print job execution requirement, and the determination result is transmitted to the multifunction device 31. The multi-function device 31 receives and displays the determination result. By displaying the determination result, it is possible to know whether or not the multi-function device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request can execute the print job. (Process B-3-1).

  Subsequently, the CPU 211 refers to the data table D1 in the external memory 214 to read out function information corresponding to other registered names and serial numbers, that is, other than the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request. The function information of each multifunction device 31 is read, and for each function information of each other multifunction device 31, it is sequentially determined whether or not the function information satisfies the print job execution requirement, and these determination results are sent as a print job transfer request. It transmits to the taken out multifunction machine 31. The multi-function device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request receives and displays these determination results. By displaying these determination results, it is possible to know whether or not a print job can be executed in each of the other multifunction devices 31 (processing B-3-2).

  FIG. 19 shows an operation screen 91 displayed on the display device of the operation input unit 315 of the multifunction machine 31 by the processes B-3-1 and B-3-2. The operation screen 91 includes a column 92 for displaying a determination result (processing B-3-1) on whether or not the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request can execute the print job, and other fields. A column 93 for displaying a determination result (processing B-3-2) as to whether or not each multi-function peripheral 31 can execute a print job is displayed. In addition, a “forced output” key 94, an “information update” key 95, and an “end” key 96 are displayed.

  In the column 93, the registered names and operation states of the other multifunction devices 31 are displayed in association with each other, and further, messages or error messages are also displayed in association with each other.

  After the operation screen 91 is displayed, when the user operates the operation input unit 315 and operates the “information update” key 95 on the operation screen 91 in FIG. 19 (“Yes” in steps S6003 and 6004). In response to this, the CPU 211 collects the operation state, function information, and the like of each multifunction device 31, and updates the data table D1 (processing B-3-3).

  Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 16, it is determined whether or not the multi-function device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request can execute the print job, and notifies the multi-function device 31 of the determination result. Process B-3-1 will be described in detail.

  The CPU 211 of the print server 21 refers to the data table D1 in the external memory 214, reads out the function information corresponding to the registered name and serial number of the multifunction machine 31 acquired in step S6002, that is, issues a print job transfer request. The function information of the multifunction device 31 is read (step S7001), the function information is checked against the print job execution requirements (step S7002), and it is determined whether the function information satisfies the print job execution requirements (step S7002). S7003).

  For example, when the CPU 211 determines that the function information of the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request satisfies the print job execution requirement (“Yes” in step S7003), the CPU 211 determines that the print job execution requirement is satisfied. A preset message to be displayed is read from the external memory 214, and this message is transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 31 that has issued the print job transfer request (step S7004).

  When receiving this message, the multi-function device 31 sets the message in the display memory so that this message is displayed in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 of FIG. As a result, a message is displayed in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 of the multifunction machine 31 (step S7005).

  If the CPU 211 determines that the function information of the MFP 31 that issued the print job transfer request does not satisfy the print job execution requirement (“No” in step S7003), the print job execution requirement is not satisfied. A preset error message to be displayed at this time is read from the external memory 214, and this error message is transmitted to the multi-function device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request (step S7006). For example, if the execution requirement that has not been satisfied is a color image, an error message “color image is not possible” is set corresponding to this execution requirement. If the execution requirement that has not been satisfied is the paper size, an error message “paper size is different” is set corresponding to the execution requirement.

  When receiving the error message, the multi-function device 31 sets the message in the display memory so that the error message is displayed in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 in FIG. As a result, an error message is displayed in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 of the multifunction machine 31 (step S7005).

  Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 17, it is determined whether the print job can be executed in each of the other multifunction devices 31 except the multifunction device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request. The process B-3-2 for notifying the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request will be described in detail.

  The CPU 211 of the print server 21 initializes the serial number to “0001” (step S8001), and determines whether the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” exist in the data table D1 (step S8001). S8002), it is determined whether or not the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” is that of the multi-function device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request (step S8003).

  The registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” do not exist in the data table D1 (“Yes” in step S8002), and the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” are the print job. If it is not that of the MFP 31 that issued the transfer request (“Yes” in step S8003), the CPU 211 refers to the data table D1 and registers the registered name and operation state of the MFP 31 corresponding to the serial number “0001”. And the registered name, serial number, and operation status of the multifunction device 31 are transmitted to the multifunction device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request.

  When receiving the registration name, serial number, and operation state of the multifunction device 31, the multifunction device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request displays the operation screen 91 in FIG. 19 in which the registration name and the operation state of the multifunction device 31 are associated with each other. The column 93 is set in the display memory, and the column 93 of the operation screen 91 is displayed on the display device (step S8004).

  Subsequently, the CPU 211 reads the function information corresponding to the serial number “0001” with reference to the data table D1, collates this function information with the print job execution requirements (step S8005), and prints this function information. It is determined whether or not the job execution requirement is satisfied (step S8006).

  For example, if the CPU 211 determines that the function information corresponding to the serial number “0001” satisfies the print job execution requirement (“Yes” in step S8006), it should be displayed when the print job execution requirement is satisfied. A preset message is read from the external memory 214, and this message is transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 31 that has issued the print job transfer request (step S8007).

  Upon receiving this message, the multi-function device 31 displays this message in association with the registered name and operation state of the multi-function device 31 displayed in the column 93 in step S8004 (step S8008).

  If the CPU 211 determines that the function information corresponding to the serial number “0001” does not satisfy the print job execution requirement (“No” in step S8006), the CPU 211 displays when the print job execution requirement is not satisfied. A preset error message to be read is read from the external memory 214, and this error message is transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 31 that has issued the print job transfer request (step S8009).

  Upon receiving this error message, the multi-function device 31 displays this error message in association with the registered name and operation state of the multi-function device 31 displayed in the column 93 in step S8004 (step S8008).

  Thereafter, the serial number is incremented (step S8010), and the process returns to step S8002.

  As long as the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number exist in the data table D1, the processing from step S8002 is repeated. If the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number are not those of the multi-function device 31 that issued the print job transfer request, the processing from step S8004 to step S8010 is performed. As a result, the registered names, operation states, and messages or error messages of all the other MFPs 31 except the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request are displayed in a list in the column 93 of the operation screen 91 of the MFP 31. The When the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number no longer exist, the processing in FIG. 17 ends.

  As described above, the function information of the MFP 31 satisfies the print job execution requirement in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 of the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request by the process B-3-1 of FIG. Or a message indicating whether or not the print job is satisfactorily executed by the multi-function device 31.

  In addition, by the process B-3-2 in FIG. 17, the column 93 of the operation screen 91 of the multifunction device 31 that has issued the print job transfer request has registered names of all the other multifunction devices 31 other than the multifunction device 31. Since the message indicating whether the operation status and the function information satisfy the print job execution requirement or the error message is displayed, the operation status in which the print job can be executed for any of all other multifunction devices 31. Whether or not the print job is satisfactorily executed.

  For example, if the user sees the message of the multifunction device 31 displayed in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 and knows that the print job is satisfactorily performed by the multifunction device 31, the user operates the operation input unit 315. Then, the transfer request for the print job is confirmed. The confirmation of the transfer request is transmitted from the multi-function device 31 to the print server 21.

  When the print server 21 receives the confirmation of the transfer request from the multifunction device 31, the print server 21 retrieves the corresponding print job from the external memory 214 and transmits this print job to the multifunction device 31. When receiving a print job from the print server 21, the multi-function device 31 delivers the print job to the printer 313, and the printer 313 records an image indicated by the image data of the print job on a recording sheet.

  Alternatively, if the user looks at the error message of the multifunction device 31 displayed in the column 92 of the operation screen 91 and knows that the print job cannot be satisfactorily performed by the multifunction device 31, the column 93 of the operation screen 91. The other MFP 31 that can execute the print job can be immediately found by looking at the operation state, message, or error message of the other MFP 31 displayed on the screen, up to the other MFP 31 that has been found. It is possible to go out and perform a print job by performing a pull print with the other multifunction device 31.

  Further, when the user learns that the print job cannot be satisfactorily performed by the multifunction device 31, the user may operate the operation input unit 315 and operate the “forced output” key 94 on the operation screen 91. . Also in this case, the transfer request for the print job is confirmed, the confirmation of the transfer request is transmitted from the multi-function peripheral 31 to the print server 21, and the print job is transferred from the print server 21 to the multi-function peripheral 31. A print job is executed. However, the print job is not executed satisfactorily. For example, a color image is recorded as a monochrome image.

  Next, the process B-3-3 for updating the data table D1 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the operation input unit 315 is operated by the user to update the data table D1 and the “update information” key 95 on the operation screen 91 is instructed, the serial number is initialized to “0001” (step) S9001). Then, similarly to steps S3002 to S3006 in FIG. 7, it is determined whether or not the registered name and IP address corresponding to the serial number “0001” exist in the data table D1 (step S9002). In step S9002, “Yes”), the registered name and IP address of the multifunction device 31 corresponding to the serial number “0001” are read from the data table D1 (step S9003), and the operation state and function information of the corresponding multifunction device 31 are acquired. In step S9004, the operation state and function information of the multi-function device 31 are registered in the data table D1 in association with the serial number “0001” (step S9005). Thereafter, the serial number is incremented (step S9006), and the process returns to step S9002.

  As long as the registered name and IP address corresponding to the stepped serial number exist in the data table D1, the processing from step S9002 is repeated, and the operation state and function information of all the multifunction devices 31 are registered in the data table D1. Is done.

  When the data table D1 is updated in this way, the processing B-3-1 and the processing B-3-2 are performed again, and the operation state and message of each multifunction device 31 on the operation screen 91 in FIG. 19 are updated. Is done. For this reason, the user can know the latest operation state, message, and the like of each multifunction device 31.

  By the way, in a state where a plurality of MFPs 31 capable of satisfactorily printing a print job are displayed in the fields 92 and 93 of the operation screen 91, load distribution is performed from the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request. May be issued to the print server 21 and the print job may be distributed and transferred from the print server 21 to the plurality of multifunction devices 31.

  For example, in the multi-function peripheral 31 that has issued a print job transfer request, the user can operate the operation input unit 315 to print a plurality of composites that can satisfactorily print the print jobs in the fields 92 and 93 of the operation screen 91. When the machine 31 is designated, the serial number of each designated multifunction machine 31 is transmitted to the print server 21.

  When the print server 21 receives the serial number of each multifunction device 31, it refers to the data table D 1, reads the IP addresses of these multifunction devices 31, and accesses these multifunction devices 31 using these IP addresses. Then, the print job is distributed to the respective multifunction devices 31 and transmitted.

  These multifunction devices 31 execute each distributed print job and output a plurality of recording sheets on which images are printed. The user goes around those multifunction machines 31 and collects the printed recording sheets. Thereby, even if the number of printed sheets is large, printing can be performed quickly.

  The distribution ratio of the print job may be equal to each MFP 31, or may be set by a user input operation in the MFP 31 that has issued the print job transfer request, or the print server 21. It may be automatically set on the side based on the function information of each multifunction device 31.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment of this invention was described referring an accompanying drawing, it cannot be overemphasized that this invention is not limited to the example which concerns. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. It is understood.

  For example, the process B-2 of the routine B in the flowchart of FIG. 4 can be omitted. In this case, the determination result as to whether or not the function information of the multifunction device 31 is insufficient is not notified or displayed to the terminal device 11, and the determination result is notified or displayed only to the multifunction device 31. .

11 Terminal device (personal computer)
21 Print server 31 MFP 111, 211, 321 CPU
112, 212, 322 System bus 113, 213, 323 ROM
114, 214 External memory 115, 215, 325 RAM
116, 216 Input controller 117, 217, 315 Operation input unit 118, 218 Video controller 119, 219 Display device 121, 221 Memory controller 122, 222 Communication interface (communication I / F)
311 Image Control Unit 312 Scanner 313 Printer 314 Public Line 316 Card Reader 324 Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
326 Operation interface (operation I / F)
327 Communication interface (communication I / F)
328 Modem 329 External interface (external I / F)
331 Image bus interface (image bus I / F)
332 Image bus 333 Raster image processor (PIP)
334 Printer Interface (Printer I / F)
335 Scanner Interface (Scanner I / F)
336 Image Processing Unit N Network

Claims (9)

The terminal device, the print server, and the printing device are connected to each other through a network, the user's print job is transferred from the terminal device to the print server and stored, and the print job is further transferred from the print server to the printing device. In a printing system that executes a print job on a printing device,
When the print server receives a request for transferring a print job from the printing device, the registration function that registers the function of the printing device transfers the function of the printing device registered in the registration device to the printing device. Determination means for determining whether or not an execution requirement of a print job to be satisfied is satisfied,
A print system that notifies a determination result by the determination means from a print server to a printing apparatus. The printing system according to claim 1,
When the determination unit determines that the function of the printing apparatus satisfies the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing apparatus, the print server notifies the printing apparatus that normal printing is possible. A printing system characterized by notification. The printing system according to claim 1 or 2,
When the determination unit determines that the function of the printing apparatus does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing apparatus, the print server indicates that normal printing is impossible. A printing system characterized by notifying the printer. The print system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
If the determination unit determines that the function of the printing device does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing device, the print server indicates that the normal printing is impossible. A printing system characterized by notifying the printer. The printing system according to claim 3,
The print server, after notifying the printing apparatus that normal printing is impossible, transfers the print job to the printing apparatus in response to a forced output instruction from the printing apparatus. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
In the registration means, the status of the printing apparatus is registered together with the function of the printing apparatus,
The printing system, wherein the printing server notifies the printing apparatus of the status of the printing apparatus together with the determination result by the determining means. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The printing system, wherein the printing apparatus displays notification contents from the print server. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
When the determination unit determines that the function of the printing apparatus does not satisfy the execution requirement of the print job transferred to the printing apparatus, the determination unit refers to the functions of all the printing apparatuses registered in the registration unit, A printing system that searches for a function of another printing apparatus that satisfies the execution requirement of the print job, and notifies the other printing apparatus that has searched for the printing apparatus that issued the transfer request for the print job. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The print server includes load distribution means for distributing and transferring a print job to a plurality of printing apparatuses,
The determination unit refers to the functions of all the printing apparatuses registered in the registration unit, searches for the functions of a plurality of printing apparatuses that satisfy the execution requirements of the print job, and sets the searched printing apparatuses to the Notify the printer that issued the print job transfer request,
The load distribution unit distributes and transfers a print job to each of the searched printing apparatuses in response to a load distribution instruction from a printing apparatus that has issued a print job transfer request.

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