JP2011119896A - Information processing device and control method for the same, image forming device and control method for the same, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow one print job inputted from a local I/F in an image forming device to be printed by the cooperation of a plurality of image forming devices. <P>SOLUTION: Communications between an MFP 100 and a terminal device 1000 are executed, and subsequently, a print job is inputted from the terminal device 1000 to the MFP 100. Then, when communications between another MFP 101 and the terminal device 1000 are executed, a PC 4001 executes the following processing. Namely, the PC determines whether or not the terminal devices executing communications with the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 have the same ID. When determining that communications are executed with the terminal devices 1000 having the same ID, the PC executes double print processing for printing one print job by the cooperation of the two MFPs 100, 101. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus such as a computer and a control method thereof, an image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) and a control method thereof, and a program for realizing the control method.

  In recent years, MFPs having a plurality of functions such as a scanner, a printer, and a multifunction peripheral have been deployed in a LAN environment, and have been shared within the LAN. When a plurality of MFPs are connected, a system for transmitting image data to a plurality of MFPs from an information processing apparatus on a network and executing one print job is disclosed (first conventional example) . According to such a system, high-speed and large-volume printing can be realized.

  On the other hand, as a data transfer method between the MFP and another device, for example, there is a method disclosed in Patent Document 1. In this method, apart from the method using the LAN described above, data is transferred wirelessly at high speed between devices at short distances using the local (I / F) interface of the MFP (second conventional method). Example). If such a data transfer method is applied, a user can transmit image data to the MFP only by placing a portable notebook PC, a mobile terminal, a mobile device such as a PDA in the communication unit of the MFP. become able to.

JP 2008-99236 A

  However, in the first conventional example, a plurality of MFPs execute one print job received from one information processing apparatus via the LAN, and the MFP uses the local I / F of the MFP to perform the print job. It does not input a print job.

  In the second conventional example, data is input to the MFP by short-distance communication between devices using the local I / F of the MFP, but one print is made by linking a plurality of MFPs. The job cannot be executed.

  As described above, conventionally, a technique for printing one print job input from a local I / F in the MFP in cooperation with a plurality of MFPs has not been realized.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above-described conventional problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus and its control method, an image forming apparatus and its control method, and a program as described below. That is, a plurality of image forming apparatuses can print a single print job input from a local I / F in the image forming apparatus in cooperation with each other.

  In order to achieve the above object, an information processing apparatus of the present invention is an information processing apparatus that manages a plurality of image forming apparatuses having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal apparatus via a network. Means for recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device; means for determining whether or not a first image forming device of the plurality of image forming devices has communicated with the terminal device; When the image forming apparatus communicates with the terminal apparatus, a print job input from a terminal apparatus having the same identification information as the terminal apparatus that has communicated with the first image forming apparatus is the first image forming apparatus. Means for determining whether or not the second image forming apparatus is different from the first image forming apparatus, and when the print job is being executed by the second image forming apparatus, By linking the serial second image forming apparatus is characterized in that a linkage means for executing the print job.

  According to the present invention, a plurality of image forming apparatuses can print one print job input from a local interface in the image forming apparatus in cooperation with each other. As a result, for example, printing can be performed at high speed even when a large amount of printing is performed, and user convenience is improved.

1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a controller unit of a PC and an MFP. FIG. It is a front view which shows the external appearance structure of a terminal device. (A) is a figure which shows the data communication order of MFP and a terminal device. (B) is a sequence diagram showing processing procedures of the MFP and the PC. (A) is a flowchart which shows the control by PC concerning 1st Embodiment. FIG. 5B is a flowchart showing details of the process in FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing processing of the MFP according to the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing processing of the MFP according to the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing processing of the MFP according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process of PC in 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure used in 4th Embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating processing of an MFP according to a fourth embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating processing of an MFP according to a fifth embodiment.

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

[First Embodiment]
<Configuration of image processing system>
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  This image processing system includes MFPs 100, 101, 102, an information processing apparatus (PC: Personal Computer) 4001 that functions as a device management server that manages these MFPs via a LAN 4000, and a terminal apparatus 1000. Terminal apparatus 1000 is wirelessly connected to the local I / F of each MFP 100, 101, 102. Note that the description of the MFP 101 and the MFP 102 is the same as that of the MFP 100, and is omitted.

  The MFP 100 includes a controller unit 110, a reader unit 200, an operation unit 250, a printer unit 300, a wireless communication unit 400, and an HDD 260.

  The controller unit 110 of the MFP 100 is electrically connected to the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300, receives information from the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300, and transmits various commands to the reader unit 200 and the printer unit 300. Or

  The controller unit 110 is connected to the MFP 101, the MFP 102, and the PC 4001 via the network (LAN) 4000 and receives image data and control commands from the MFPs 101, 102, and PC 4001.

  The reader unit 200 optically reads a document image and converts it into image data. Based on an instruction from the controller unit 110, the printer unit 300 feeds a sheet from the sheet feeding unit, prints image data on the fed sheet, and discharges the printed sheet to a sheet discharge unit.

  The operation unit 250 includes, for example, a touch panel unit, and receives a user's instruction through them. The operation unit 250 transmits a command corresponding to the instruction received from the user to the controller unit 110, and the controller unit 110 performs control according to the received command. In addition, operation unit 250 includes a soft key for accepting an operation of MFP 100 and a display device that displays functions and states of MFP 100. A HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 260 stores various settings of the MFP 100 and image data.

  Using these configurations, the MFP 100 executes a plurality of functions such as a printer function, a copy function, and an image data transmission function. For example, when executing the printer function, the controller unit 110 analyzes and develops print data (print job) received from the PC 4001 via the network 4000, converts the print data into image data, and outputs the image data to the printer unit 300. The printer unit 300 performs printing based on the image data received from the controller unit 110.

  The print data can also be received from the wireless communication unit 400 that is a local I / F. In that case, the MFP 100 can output image data stored in the terminal device 1000 described later and image data generated by analyzing files unique to various applications to the printer unit 300. Examples of the image data stored in the terminal device 1000 include image data in a format such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Expert Group) and TIFF (Tagged Image File Format).

  In the present embodiment, an MFP having a plurality of functions will be described as an example of an image forming apparatus. However, a copy machine having only a copy function or an SFP (Single Function Peripheral) having only a printer function is used. Also good.

  The wireless communication unit 400 detects that the terminal device 1000 such as a mobile phone, a PDA, or a notebook personal computer is brought close to the wireless communication unit 400 and transmits / receives control data, image data, and the like to / from the terminal device 1000. That is, when the user brings the terminal device 1000 close to the wireless communication unit 400, the MFP 100 and the terminal device 1000 can communicate with each other.

  The wireless communication unit 400 may be controlled based on an instruction from the controller unit 110, or may be configured such that the wireless communication unit 400 has its own CPU and the CPU controls the wireless communication unit 400. good.

  Next, the configuration of the controller unit of the PC 4001 and the MFPs 100, 101, 102 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the controller unit of the PC 4001 and the MFPs 100, 101, and 102.

  The controller unit 4100 of the PC 4001 includes a CPU 1, a RAM 2, a ROM 3, a keyboard I / F (interface) 5, a display I / F 6, an external memory I / F 7, and a printer I / F 8, which are connected to the system bus 4. ing.

  The CPU 1 executes a program stored in the ROM 3 or the external memory 11 and comprehensively controls each device connected to the system bus 4. The RAM 2 functions as a main memory and work area for the CPU 1.

  A keyboard I / F 5 controls key input from a keyboard 9 or a pointing device (not shown). The display I / F 6 controls display on the display 10. The external memory I / F 7 controls access to the external memory 11 such as a hard disk (HD) that stores a boot program, various applications, a printer driver, and the like.

  The printer I / F 8 is connected to the MFPs 100, 101, 102 via the LAN 4000 and executes communication control processing with the MFPs 100, 101, 102.

  The controller unit 110 of the MFP 100 includes a CPU 111, a RAM 112, a ROM 113, an input / output unit 115, a printer unit I / F 116, an external memory I / F 117, and a reader unit I / F 118, which are connected to a system bus 114. Yes.

  The printer CPU 111 outputs an image signal as output information to the printer unit 300 connected to the system bus 114 based on a control program stored in the ROM 113 or a control program stored in the external memory 120.

  The CPU 111 can perform communication processing with the PC 4001 via the input / output unit 115 and is configured to be able to notify the PC 4001 of MFP information and the like. The RAM 112 functions as a main memory and work area for the CPU 111. Access to the external memory 120 such as a hard disk (HD) is controlled by the external memory I / F 117.

Further, the operation unit 250 is provided with a switch for operation, an LED display, and the like.
The reader unit 200 is a document reading device, and transfers the read data to the system bus 114 via the reader unit interface 118.

<Configuration of terminal device>
Next, the configuration of the terminal device 1000 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing an external configuration of the terminal device 1000.

  The terminal device 1000 includes a display unit 401 for displaying various information and various buttons for instructing operations. The various buttons include a determination button 402 for determining an operation, a selection button 403 for selecting a file while viewing the display unit 401, a cancel button 404 for canceling the operation, and the like.

  The example of FIG. 3 shows a state in which the files held in the terminal device 1000 are displayed on the display unit 401. There are six files in Folder1, and WorkFile2 is highlighted and selected. .

  The data transfer from the terminal device 1000 to the MFP is performed when, for example, the file selected by the terminal device 1000 is transferred when the terminal device 1000 is brought close to the wireless communication unit 400 of the MFP. This data transfer method may be another method.

<Communication between MFP and terminal device>
FIG. 4A is a diagram showing a data communication order between the MFP 100 and the terminal device 1000, and shows a communication sequence when image data is sent from the terminal device 1000 to the MFP 100.

  First, the terminal device 1000 instructs the wireless communication unit 400 to issue a communication request (T11 in FIG. 4A). The wireless communication unit 400 of the MFP 100 that has received the communication request returns a communication response (T12). The terminal apparatus 1000 that has confirmed the communication response transmits identification information (ID) that can identify the individual terminal apparatus 1000 to the MFP 110 (T13).

  Next, the terminal device 1000 transmits <job information such as the size of data to be sent and file information (T14). Wireless communication may be interrupted, and it can be determined whether or not communication is interrupted by sending job information by comparing the received data size or file with the job information. The job information includes, for example, a job name and size, a transmission destination, and the like.

  Next, the terminal apparatus 1000 transmits data (T15). Thereafter, when the reception of the job data is completed, a completion notification is issued from the MFP 100 to the terminal device 1000 (T16), and the communication is disconnected (T17).

  In the above description, an example in which image data is sent from the terminal device 1000 to the MFP 100 has been shown. However, when image data is sent from the MFP 100 to the terminal device 1000, the sequence is the reverse of the above description.

<Processing flow for continuous printing>
FIG. 4B is a sequence diagram illustrating processing procedures of the MFP 100, the MFP 101, and the PC 4001. Note that the MFP 101 is an example of a first image forming apparatus, the MFP 100 is an example of a second image forming apparatus, and the PC 4001 is an example of an information processing apparatus.

  First, a file is selected in the terminal apparatus 1000, and a print job, which is print data relating to the selected file, is submitted to an arbitrary MFP among a plurality of MFPs, for example, the MFP 100 (FIG. 4B). T21). At that time, the MFP 100 recognizes the ID of the terminal device 1000. Then, the MFP 100 starts printing (T22). In addition, the MFP 100 sends the ID of the terminal device 1000 into which the print data has been input to the PC 4001, and the PC 4001 holds the terminal ID (T23).

  Thereafter, when the MFP 101 communicates with the terminal device 1000, the MFP 101 recognizes the ID of the terminal and sends the ID of the terminal device 1000 to the PC 4001 (T24). The ID is stored on the PC 4001 side (T25).

  Next, the PC 4001 compares the IDs of the terminal devices recognized by the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 (T26). If they are the same, that is, if the terminal devices communicating with the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 are the same, The following continuous print processing is performed. That is, the PC 4001 confirms the print status such as the remaining print data amount with respect to the MFP 100 (T27). The remaining print data is distributed so as to be processed by two MFPs 100 and 101 (T28). The MFP 100 and the MFP 101 print the distributed print data (T29, T30).

  In the following description, it is assumed that a print job is first input to the MFP 100 from the terminal device 1000, and thereafter, the terminal device 1000 and the MFP 101 communicate to start the above-described continuous print processing. However, there is no restriction that the print job must first be input to the MFP 100.

<PC processing>
Next, processing of the PC 4001 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5A is a flowchart showing the control processing by the PC 4001 according to the first embodiment.

  First, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 determines whether or not the MFP connected to the network 4000 has communicated with the terminal device 1000 (step S21 in FIG. 5A). For example, when there is communication with the MFP 101, the CPU 1 confirms whether a print job from the terminal apparatus 1000 or other copy jobs are not executed in the MFP 101 (step S22). If the job has not been executed (step S22 / YES), the process proceeds to step S23.

  In step S23, the CPU 1 recognizes an ID that can identify the individual terminal device 1000 (step S23). Then, in another MFP (for example, MFP 100) of MFP 101, it is determined whether a print job input from a terminal device having the same ID as the terminal device that communicated with MFP 101 is being executed (step S24). If no job is being executed by the terminal device having the same ID, this routine is terminated.

  In MFP 100, if a print job submitted from terminal device 1000 having the same ID is being executed, CPU 1 checks the progress of the job (step S25) and performs the following processing. In other words, the remaining print job is divided into two for MFP 100 and for MFP 101 in MFP 100 that is currently executing the print job and MFP 101 that is currently communicating with terminal apparatus 1000 (step S26). Thereafter, the CPU 1 distributes the two-divided print job as new job data (duplicate print job) to the MFP 100 and the MFP 101, respectively, in order to start the duplicate print process (step S27).

  FIG. 5B is a flowchart showing details of the processing from step S45 to step S47 in FIG. 5A, and shows an example of processing in which the PC 4001 generates a duplicate print job. In this example, it is assumed that the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 are performing the continuous print processing in cooperation.

  First, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 confirms the print speed of the MFP 100 (A sheet per minute) (step S41 in FIG. 5B), and further confirms the print speed of the MFP 101 (B sheets per minute) (step S42). . Thereafter, the remaining number of print jobs to be output in the double continuous printing process is confirmed (X sheets) (step S43).

Next, the CPU 1 determines the number of sheets to be printed by the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 (step S44). That is, the print job is divided. In this example,
MFP 100: X * A / (A + B)
MFP 101: X * B / (A + B)
As described above, the division is performed according to the print speed (number of sheets / minute) of the MFPs 100 and 101. Of course, division may be performed under conditions such as color / monochrome / double-sided printing.

  Next, the CPU 1 distributes the divided print job to the MFPs 100 and 101 (step S45).

<Processing of MFP 100>
FIG. 6A is a flowchart showing processing of MFP 100 according to the first embodiment.

  This process is an example when the MFP 101 and the terminal apparatus 1000 communicate with each other and start the multi-layer print process after a print job is input to the MFP 100.

  First, as a result of the terminal apparatus 1000 being brought close to the wireless communication unit 400 of the MFP 100, the CPU 111 of the MFP 100 determines whether the MFP 100 and the terminal apparatus 1000 have started communication (step S61). If there is communication, the ID of the terminal device 1000 is recognized (step S62).

  Next, the CPU 111 starts printing the print job designated by the terminal device 1000 (step S63), and then notifies the PC 4001 of the ID of the terminal device 1000 (step S64).

  Next, the CPU 111 confirms whether the printing has been completed (step S65), and if the printing has been completed, the process is ended as it is. If printing has not ended, it is determined whether or not a duplicate print job for performing a duplicate print process has been received from the PC 4001 (step S66). If a duplicate print job has not been received, the process again proceeds to confirmation of print completion (step S65). If a duplicate print job has been received, the print job data currently being executed is replaced with the received duplicate print job data (step S67).

<Processing of MFP 101>
FIG. 6B is a flowchart showing processing of the MFP 101 according to the first embodiment.

  This process is a process when the terminal apparatus 1000 and the MFP 101 communicate after the print job is input from the terminal apparatus 1000 to the MFP 100. In the example of FIG. 6A, when a print job is designated on the terminal device 1000, a flow for performing a continuous print process after printing the designated print job is shown.

  First, as a result of the terminal apparatus 1000 being brought close to the wireless communication unit 400 of the MFP 101, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 determines whether the MFP 101 and the terminal apparatus 1000 have started communication (step S71). If there is no communication, it waits until there is communication, and if there is communication, the ID of the terminal device 1000 is recognized (step S72).

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 determines whether print data is designated from the terminal device 1000 (step S73). If print data is designated, printing of data in the terminal device 1000 is started (step S74), and it is determined whether printing has been completed (step S75).

  When printing is completed (step S75 / YES) and when print data is not specified (step S73 / No), the ID of the terminal device 1000 is notified to the PC 4001 (step S76).

  The CPU 111 determines from a notification from the PC 4001 whether a print job input from the same terminal device is being executed by another MFP (step S77). If it is being executed by another MFP, the CPU 111 receives the duplicate print job generated by the PC 4001 (step S78) and starts the duplicate print process (step S79). Then, it is determined whether or not the continuous printing has been completed (step S80). If it is not operating in another MFP, the process is terminated as it is.

<Advantages of First Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, when communication between MFP 100 and terminal apparatus 1000 is performed, and after a print job is input from terminal apparatus 1000 to MFP 100, communication between other MFP 101 and terminal apparatus 1000 is performed, PC 4001 Perform the following process. That is, it is determined whether the terminal devices that communicate with MFP 100 and MFP 101 have the same ID. If it is determined that there is communication with the terminal device (1000) having the same ID, the two MFPs 100 and 101 are linked to execute a multiple print process for printing one print job.

  As a result, a single print job input from a local interface in the MFP can be printed in cooperation with a plurality of MFPs, and can be performed at high speed, for example, when printing in large quantities. User convenience is improved. In addition, users can submit print jobs by looking at the MFP itself by using a local I / F. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account differences such as color machines, black-and-white machines, and finishing. Another advantage is that you can select the desired MFP.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the second embodiment, the processing of the MFP 101 described in FIG. 6B in the first embodiment is changed. That is, a process for prompting the MFP user to determine whether or not to execute the multi-continuous printing process will be described.

<Processing of MFP 101>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing of the MFP 101 according to the second embodiment. The processing common to FIG. 6B is assigned the same reference numeral, and the description thereof is omitted.

  After the processing from step S71 to step S76, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 determines whether a print job input from the same terminal device is being executed by another MFP in step S77. If it is being executed by another MFP, the process proceeds to step S91.

  In step S <b> 91, the CPU 111 displays on the operation unit 250 of the MFP 101 an inquiry to the user as to whether or not to perform the multiple print process. If the user selects execution of the multiple continuous print process, the CPU 111 receives the multiple continuous print job from the PC 4001 (step S78), and starts the multiple continuous print process (step S79). If it is determined in step S91 that execution of the double continuous printing process is not selected, this routine is terminated.

<Advantages of Second Embodiment>
According to the second embodiment, the MFP 101 can prompt the user of the MFP 101 to determine whether or not to execute the multi-continuous printing process when there is communication with the terminal device 1000. User convenience can be further improved.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the third embodiment, the processing of the PC 4001 described in FIG. 5A in the first embodiment is changed. That is, a process that takes into consideration that an MFP that has stopped operating due to running out of paper or paper clogging during the execution of the multiple print process will be described.

<PC processing>
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing of the PC 4001 in the third embodiment. The same reference numerals are given to the processing common to FIG. 5A, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In step S27, it is assumed that the multi-layer print processing is started using the MFPs 100, 101, and 102. In subsequent step S101, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 determines whether or not the multi-continuous printing process is finished. If it is to be terminated, this routine is terminated as it is. If it has not been terminated, the CPU 1 inquires of the MFPs 100, 101, 102 whether the operation of the apparatus has been stopped (step S102).

  If the CPU 1 confirms that the operation of the apparatus has not stopped as a result of the inquiry, the CPU 1 proceeds to the determination of the end of the multi-layer print processing again (S101). If the operation of the apparatus is stopped and printing cannot be performed, the remaining job statuses in the MFPs 100, 101, and 102 are confirmed, and the print job is re-divided except for the MFPs whose operation is stopped (step). S103). Then, the job data is redistributed to the remaining MFPs (step S104).

  The state in which the operations of the MFPs 100, 101, and 102 are stopped and printing cannot be performed is due to various causes such as running out of paper or paper clogging.

<Advantages of Third Embodiment>
According to the present embodiment, even when an MFP that has stopped operating due to running out of paper or paper clogging occurs during the execution of the continuous print processing, the remaining print jobs that have not been executed are displayed. It can be redistributed to operable MFPs. Thereby, a user's usability can be improved further.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the fourth embodiment, processing using job specifying information for specifying a print job submitted to the MFP will be described.

<Processing of MFP 100>
FIG. 9A is a flowchart illustrating processing of the MFP 100 according to the fourth embodiment.

  First, the CPU 111 of the MFP 100 confirms whether communication with the terminal device 1000 has been performed (step S121). If there is communication with the terminal device 1000, the ID of the terminal device 1000 is recognized (step S122).

  Next, the CPU 111 generates job specifying information for specifying a print job input from the terminal device 1000, and transmits the job specifying information to the terminal device 1000 (step S123). Thereafter, the print job is started (step S124), and the ID of the terminal device 1000 is notified to the PC 4001 (step S125).

  FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the job specifying information.

  In the job specifying information, information on the MFP in which the job is input and information on the file input as the job are set for each job ID. The MFP information includes the model, location, IP address, and function (with / without double-sided printing, speed), and the file information includes the file name and size.

<Processing of MFP 101>
FIG. 10A is a flowchart illustrating processing of the MFP 101 according to the fourth embodiment. This process shows a flow when the MFP 101 communicates with the terminal device 1000 having the job specifying information.

  First, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 confirms whether there is communication with the terminal device 1000 (step S141). If there is communication, the CPU 111 confirms whether the job specifying information exists in the terminal device 1000 (step S142). If the job specifying information does not exist in the terminal device 1000, this routine is terminated as it is.

  When the terminal device 1000 has job specifying information, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 notifies the PC 4001 of the job specifying information (step S143). Note that the PC 4001 identifies the MFP that is currently executing the print job from the job identification information, and generates a duplicate print job.

  After that, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 receives a duplicate print job from the PC 4001 (step S144), and starts a duplicate print process (step S145). Note that the PC 4001 updates the job specifying information so that both the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 are executing jobs.

  The CPU 111 of the MFP 101 receives the job specifying information updated by the PC 4001 (step S146), and sends this updated job specifying information to the terminal device 1000 (step S147).

<PC processing>
FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing the processing of the PC 4001 in the fourth embodiment. This process shows a flow when the PC 4001 confirms or deletes the job specifying information in communication with the MFPs 100 and 101.

  First, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 confirms whether the MFP 100 or the MFP 101 communicates with the terminal device 1000 (step S161). If there is communication, it is confirmed whether the terminal device 1000 has job specifying information (step S162). If there is no job specifying information in the terminal device 1000, this routine is terminated as it is.

  When the job specifying information exists in the terminal device 1000, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 confirms with the MFPs 100 and 101 whether or not the execution of the print job specified by the job specifying information has been completed (step S163). For example, if the execution of the print job is finished in the MFP 101, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 issues an instruction to the MFP 101 to delete job specifying information related to the finished print job (step S165).

  For example, when the execution of the print job is not completed in the MFP 100, the CPU 1 of the PC 4001 confirms the job status with respect to the MFP 100 that is executing the print job (step S164). Then, the print job executed in the MFP 100 is divided into the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 (step S166) and distributed to the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 (step S167). Subsequently, the CPU 1 updates the job specifying information and distributes it to the MFP 100 and the MFP 101 (step S168).

<Advantages of Fourth Embodiment>
According to the present embodiment, processing is performed using job specifying information for specifying a print job submitted to the MFP. Therefore, the first, second, and third embodiments cannot be implemented. Two or more duplicate print jobs can be executed.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the fifth embodiment, when a print job is input from the terminal device 1000 to the MFP, the user does not always intend to perform the multiple print process. It is possible to select whether to perform or not.

<Processing of MFP 101>
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the MFP 101 according to the fifth embodiment.

  First, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 confirms whether communication with the terminal device 1000 has been performed (step S181). When communication is performed, the CPU 111 confirms whether a file is specified by the user in the terminal device 1000 (step S182).

  If the file is not specified, the CPU 111 checks whether the terminal device 1000 has job specifying information (step S189). If there is no job identification information, this routine is terminated as it is. If there is job identification information, the PC 4001 is notified of the job identification information (step S190), a duplicate print job is received from the PC 4001 (step S191), and the duplicate print process is started (step S192). .

  On the other hand, if a file is specified in step S182, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 checks whether the terminal device 1000 has job specifying information (step S183). If there is no job specifying information, the designated file is printed (S193).

  If the terminal device 1000 has job specifying information, it is checked whether the specified file is equal to the job specifying information file (step S184). If they are not equal, the designated file is printed (S193). If equal, confirmation is made with the user as to whether or not to perform the multiple print processing (step S185). As a result of the confirmation, if the user instructs not to perform the continuous printing process, the designated file is printed (S193).

  When the user gives an instruction to perform the repeated printing process, the CPU 111 of the MFP 101 notifies the PC 4001 of job specifying information (step S186), receives the repeated printing job from the PC 4001 (step S187), and repeats the repeated printing. Printing processing is started (step S188).

<Advantages of Fifth Embodiment>
When the terminal apparatus 1000 communicates with the MFP, it does not necessarily perform the repeated printing process. For example, even when the file specified by the terminal device 1000 and the file of the job specifying information are equal, the user may intend to print the file as a single print job. In such a case, it is possible to instruct not to perform the double continuous printing process. Thereby, a user's usability can be improved further.

[Other embodiments]
In each of the above embodiments, the PC 4001 that functions as a device management server that manages a plurality of MFPs is provided. However, the functions of the PC 4001 may be provided in the MFP. That is, it is possible to configure the CPU 111 of the MFP to execute each process of the PC 4001 described with reference to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 8 and 10B.

  Further, when the multi-continuous printing process is being performed, the state of the multi-continuous printing process may be confirmed by pressing a predetermined key on the operation unit 250 of the image forming apparatus. In this case, it is conceivable to display the status of the image forming apparatus that is performing the continuous print processing on the display 10 of the PC 4001, for example.

  The embodiment of the present invention can also be realized by executing software (program) acquired via a network or various storage media on a computer (CPU, processor).

100, 101, 102 MFP
110, 4100 Controller unit 400 Wireless communication unit 4000 LAN
4001 PC
1000 Terminal device

Claims (11)

An information processing apparatus for managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal apparatus via a network,
Means for recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device;
Means for determining whether a first image forming apparatus of the plurality of image forming apparatuses communicates with the terminal device;
When the first image forming apparatus communicates with the terminal apparatus, a print job input from a terminal apparatus having the same identification information as the terminal apparatus that has communicated with the first image forming apparatus is the first image forming apparatus. Means for determining whether the second image forming apparatus is different from the second image forming apparatus;
And a linkage unit configured to link the first and second image forming apparatuses to execute the print job when the print job is being executed by the second image forming apparatus. Information processing apparatus. The cooperation means is
Means for confirming the status of a print job being executed by the second image forming apparatus;
Means for dividing the print job according to the status of the confirmed print job;
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for distributing the divided print jobs to the first and second image forming apparatuses so as to be executed by the first and second image forming apparatuses, respectively. The information processing apparatus described in 1.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the division of the print job is performed according to a print speed of the first and second image forming apparatuses. After the first and second image forming apparatuses are linked by the linkage unit and the execution of the print job is started, the operation of the apparatus is stopped with respect to the first and second image forming apparatuses. Means to inquire whether or not,
If the operation of the first and second image forming apparatuses is stopped as a result of the inquiry, means for subdividing the print job except for the stopped image forming apparatus;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a unit that distributes the re-divided print job to the remaining image forming apparatuses. The cooperation means is
The print job is executed in cooperation with the first and second image forming apparatuses based on job specifying information for specifying a print job input from the terminal device to the image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The job specifying information includes information on an image forming apparatus in which a print job is input, and information on a file input as a print job,
The cooperation unit specifies an image forming apparatus that is executing a print job based on the job specifying information, and causes the first and second image forming apparatuses to cooperate to execute the print job. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5. An image forming apparatus having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal device and connected to an external image forming apparatus via a network,
Means for recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device;
Means for determining whether or not communication has been performed with the terminal device;
Means for determining whether a print job input from a terminal device having the same identification information as that of the terminal device is being executed by an external image forming device when communicating with the terminal device;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a linkage unit that executes the print job in cooperation with the external image forming apparatus when the print job is being executed by the external image forming apparatus. An information processing apparatus control method for managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal apparatus via a network,
Recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device;
Determining whether a first image forming apparatus of the plurality of image forming apparatuses communicates with the terminal device; and
When the first image forming apparatus communicates with the terminal apparatus, a print job input from a terminal apparatus having the same identification information as the terminal apparatus that has communicated with the first image forming apparatus is the first image forming apparatus. Determining whether or not the image forming apparatus is being executed by a second image forming apparatus different from the image forming apparatus;
A linkage step of causing the first and second image forming apparatuses to cooperate to execute the print job when the second image forming apparatus is executing the print job. Control method for information processing apparatus. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal apparatus and connected to an external image forming apparatus via a network,
Recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device;
Determining whether or not communication has been performed with the terminal device;
Determining whether or not a print job input from a terminal device having the same identification information as the terminal device is being executed by an external image forming device when communicating with the terminal device;
A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: a cooperation step of executing the print job in cooperation with the external image forming apparatus when the print job is executed in the external image forming apparatus . A computer-readable program for executing a control method of an information processing apparatus for managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal apparatus via a network,
Recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device;
Determining whether a first image forming apparatus of the plurality of image forming apparatuses has communicated with the terminal device;
When the first image forming apparatus communicates with the terminal apparatus, a print job input from a terminal apparatus having the same identification information as the terminal apparatus that has communicated with the first image forming apparatus is the first image forming apparatus. Determining whether or not the image forming apparatus is being executed by a second image forming apparatus different from the image forming apparatus;
And a linkage step of causing the first and second image forming apparatuses to cooperate to execute the print job when the print job is being executed by the second image forming apparatus. program. A computer-readable program for executing a method for controlling an image forming apparatus connected to an external image forming apparatus via a network, having a local interface capable of inputting a print job from a terminal device There,
Recognizing identification information for identifying the terminal device;
Determining whether or not communication has been performed with the terminal device;
Determining whether a print job input from a terminal device having the same identification information as the terminal device is being executed by an external image forming device when communicating with the terminal device;
And a linkage step of executing the print job in cooperation with the external image forming apparatus when the print job is being executed by the external image forming apparatus.

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