JP2012096399A - Image forming apparatus and image forming method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To simplify operation in printing a plurality of files.SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus includes: a file selecting part 15 for selecting the plurality of files recorded in a storage part; an operation part for inputting a password; a file extracting part 103 for extracting the plurality of files selected by the file selecting part 15 from the storage part; a password setting determination part 105 for determining whether the password is set for the plurality of files selected by the file selecting part 15; a password verifying part 23 for verifying the set password; a printing part for printing the file; and a printing control part 27 for controlling the printing part. As the printing is started after the plurality of passwords set for the plurality of files are verified, operation for printing can be simplified.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copier, a facsimile machine, or a multifunction machine, for example, a multifunction machine having a direct print function for directly printing out a data file from a storage unit, the document recorded in the storage unit Files such as files and image files can be selected and printed.

  A file in which a password is set in advance can be printed when the operator inputs the password and the entered password matches the preset password (see, for example, Patent Document 1). .)

JP 2008-201044 A

  However, when printing a plurality of files in the conventional multifunction peripheral, the operator selects one file, inputs a password, performs printing, and after printing is completed, selects the next file. It is necessary to input a password to perform printing, which is troublesome.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and an image forming method capable of solving the problems of the conventional multifunction peripheral and simplifying the operation when printing a plurality of files.

  Therefore, in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, a file selection unit that selects a plurality of files recorded in the storage unit, an operation unit for inputting a password, and a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit. Is extracted from the storage unit, a password setting determination processing unit for determining whether or not a password is set for a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit, and the set password is input A password verification unit that verifies a set password, a printing unit that prints the file, and a print control unit that controls the printing unit, depending on whether the passwords match.

  Then, after the verification for a plurality of passwords set in a plurality of files is completed, the print control unit starts printing by the printing unit.

  According to the present invention, in the image forming apparatus, a file selection unit that selects a plurality of files recorded in the storage unit, an operation unit for inputting a password, and a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit Is extracted from the storage unit, a password setting determination processing unit for determining whether or not a password is set for a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit, and the set password is input A password verification unit that verifies a set password, a printing unit that prints the file, and a print control unit that controls the printing unit, depending on whether the passwords match.

  Then, after the verification for a plurality of passwords set in a plurality of files is completed, the print control unit starts printing by the printing unit.

  In this case, it is determined whether a password is set for the selected files, and for each file for which a password is set, whether the set password matches the password entered by the operator Since the printing is started after the password set in step S1 is verified, the work for performing the printing can be simplified.

2 is a functional block diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a multifunction machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the multifunction machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the operation panel in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. 3 is a first flowchart illustrating an operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows operation | movement of the multifunctional device in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a 1st figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the file system control part in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a 3rd figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a 4th figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a 5th figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a 6th figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram of the multifunctional machine in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a first flowchart illustrating a first operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the 1st operation | movement of the multifunctional device in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the 2nd operation performed in parallel with the 1st operation of the compound machine in a 2nd embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It is a 1st flowchart which shows 1st operation | movement of the multifunctional device in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the 1st operation | movement of the multifunction machine in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. It is a 1st figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 4th Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction machine according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a first flowchart illustrating an operation of the multifunction machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows operation | movement of the multifunctional device in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the subroutine of the printing order control process in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 1st figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the characteristic information of the file in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 1st figure which shows the example of the printing priority list in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of the printing priority list in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 3rd figure which shows the example of the printing priority list in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a 3rd figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in the 5th Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this case, as an image forming apparatus, a multi-function machine having a direct print function for directly printing out a data file from an external storage device will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a control block diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, reference numeral 11 denotes a multifunction peripheral. The multifunction peripheral 11 can place a scanner 30 as a first image processing section, an operation panel 33 as an operation / display section, a USB interface 34, and a plurality of documents. An automatic document feeder 35 for supplying originals to the scanner 30 one by one, a printer 36 as a second image processing unit, and the like. Various printing mechanisms 37 such as a wire dot type, an ink jet type, and an electrophotographic type as a printing unit, a paper cassette 38 as a medium containing unit for storing paper as a medium and supplying it to the printing mechanism 37 Prepare.

  In the case of the electrophotographic printer 36, the printing mechanism 37 is arranged in an image forming unit that forms an image of each color and each image forming unit based on toner as a developer of each color of black, yellow, magenta, and cyan. An LED head (printing head) as an exposure device which is disposed opposite to a photosensitive drum serving as an image carrier and which forms an electrostatic latent image as a latent image on the photosensitive drum; A toner image as a developer image of each color is placed on the sheet drum and transferred onto the sheet in order, and a transfer roller as a transfer member for forming a color toner image, and the color toner image is fixed on the sheet. A fixing device as a fixing device to be provided. Each image forming unit includes a photosensitive drum, a charging roller as a charging device that uniformly charges the photosensitive drum, a developing unit that develops an electrostatic latent image to form a toner image, and a photosensitive member after transfer. A cleaning device or the like for removing toner remaining on the surface of the body drum is provided.

  In the present embodiment, various sizes (paper sizes) of originals, for example, A3 size originals are placed on the automatic document supply unit 35, and A3 size papers are stored in the paper cassette 38. However, other sizes of originals can be placed on the automatic original supply unit 35, and other sizes of paper can be stored in the paper cassette 38.

  The scanner 30 is formed of a scanner body 30a having a scan head (not shown) for scanning (reading) the document supplied by the automatic document supply unit 35, transparent glass, plastic, etc., and the scanner body A flat bed 32 that is disposed on 30a and covers the flat bed 32 for setting a document, and covers the flat bed 32 so as to block light applied to the document from leaking outside when the document is scanned. 31 etc. are provided.

  The USB interface 34 is an interface for setting the USB memory 101 as an external storage device, as a storage unit, and as a recording medium that is detachably disposed on the main device. . The USB memory 101 stores a document file composed of document data, an image file composed of image data, and the like for performing direct printing (forming an image) using the direct print function of the multifunction machine 11 A plurality of files to be printed are recorded. Note that the format of a file to be directly printed is PDF, XPS, or the like for a document file, and JPEG, PNG, TIFF, or the like for an image file. Further, the USB memory 101 can record an image file read by the function of the Scan To USB Memory of the multifunction machine 11.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit board disposed in the multifunction machine 11 serves as a control unit that controls the scanner 30, the operation panel 33, the USB interface 34, the printer 36, and the multifunction machine 11 as a whole. CPU 40, RAM 41 as the first storage device, image processing ASIC 45 as the image processing means, network interface 42 for connecting the multifunction peripheral 11 and an external computer via a LAN by Ethernet (registered trademark), and a second storage An HDD (hard disk drive) 43 as a device and a recording medium is connected via a bus 44. The image processing ASIC 45 performs high-speed image processing on an image read by scanning a document, an image included in a file for direct printing by a direct print function, and the like. The bus 44 includes a plurality of signal lines arranged for performing transmission / reception of various signals and data, synchronization control, and the like.

  Next, the operation panel 33 will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an operation panel according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, 33 is an operation panel, 51 is formed at the center of the operation panel 33, a liquid crystal display (LCD) as a display unit for forming various screens, and 52 (52a, 52b) are liquid crystal displays 51. The operation unit 52 is formed around the operation unit 52. The operation unit 52 includes buttons k1 to k4 and k11 to k13 as operation elements. In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display 51 is configured by a touch panel and also functions as an operation unit.

  When the operator presses each of the buttons k1 to k4, each function of copy (Copy), facsimile (FAX), scan (ScanTo), or direct print (DirectPrint) can be selected in the multifunction machine 11. . Also, color printing or color scanning can be started by pressing the button k13, monochrome printing or monochrome scanning can be started by pressing the button k12, and each of the functions can be started by pressing the button k11. The processing in can be stopped.

  When the operator uses the multifunction machine 11, when a predetermined button of the buttons k1 to k4, for example, the button k4 is first pressed, the direct print function is selected and the liquid crystal is displayed as shown in the figure. An initial screen for the direct print function is formed on the display 51, and an operation menu m1 including keys qi (i = 1, 2,...) Indicating a plurality of items is displayed on the initial screen. The operator can select an item by touching (pressing down) a predetermined key qi displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. In addition to the operation menu m1, the liquid crystal display 51 displays a message ms1, instructions, etc. for the operator.

  Next, the CPU 40 will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the figure, the CPU 40 includes an operation panel control unit 13 as an operation panel control processing unit, a file system control unit 20 as a file system control processing unit, and a USB memory I / O as a USB memory I / O control processing unit. O control unit 21, encryption processing unit 25 as encryption processing unit, data conversion unit 26 as data conversion processing unit, print control unit 27 as print control processing unit, file extraction unit 103 as file extraction processing unit, password setting Each processing unit (processing unit) includes a password setting determination processing unit 105 as a determination processing unit, a next file determination processing unit 107 as a next file determination processing unit, and a function setting processing unit 109 as a function setting processing unit.

  The operation panel control unit 13 includes processing units (processing units) including a display processing unit 14 as a display processing unit, a file selection unit 15 as a file extraction processing unit, and a password input unit 16 as a password input processing unit. The encryption processing unit 25 includes each processing unit of an encrypted file detection unit 22 as an encrypted file detection processing unit, a password verification unit 23 as a password verification processing unit, and a decryption processing unit 24 as a decryption processing unit. (Processing means). The file extraction unit 103 performs file extraction processing, and reads (extracts) a file recorded in the USB memory 101 based on the selection of the file selection unit 15.

  The CPU 40 performs overall control of the multifunction machine 11, for example, the operation panel control unit 13, file system control unit 20, USB memory I / O control unit 21, encryption processing unit 25, data conversion unit 26, and print control. An instruction is appropriately sent to the unit 27.

  The operation panel control unit 13 performs an operation panel control process to display a message, an instruction, or the like on the liquid crystal display 51, or the operator presses or touches the buttons k1 to k4, k11 to k13, the key qi, or the like. Or a setting value in each function of the multifunction device 11 is managed, or an instruction to start processing is sent to each processing unit.

  The file system control unit 20 performs a file system control process, and accesses the file system of the HDD 43, the file system of the USB memory 101 that can be accessed via the USB interface 34, and the network interface 42. The file system on the network server can be accessed, and the file is taken into and out of each memory such as the HDD 43, the USB memory 101, and the RAM and ROM as storage devices on the network server.

  The USB memory I / O control unit 21 is a device driver for operating the USB interface 34. The operator takes out a file from the USB memory 101 set in the USB interface 34 of the multifunction machine 11 and controls the file system. Send to part 20.

  The encryption processing unit 25 performs encryption and decryption data processing on arbitrary capacity data. In this case, in the data processing for encryption, the encryption processing unit 25 uses the fixed-length character string (for example, 32 bytes) that serves as a key for the password, and the data of an equal amount of data to be encrypted. Is encrypted to create encrypted data. Also, in the decryption data processing, the decryption processing unit 24 performs decryption processing, and decrypts the encrypted data based on a fixed-length character string as a key. Note that the fixed-length character string serving as a key is created by a predetermined data conversion process based on the password set by the operator and other information related to the file.

  By the way, in the present embodiment, it is possible to print a plurality of files recorded in the USB memory 101 by the direct print function. However, when printing a plurality of files, each file If a password is set for a given file, select one file and enter the password to print. After printing is complete, select the next file and enter the password to print. If it is necessary to do, work is troublesome.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the operator inputs the password in advance and prints for all the files for which the password is set.

  Next, the operation of the multifunction machine 11 when printing a plurality of files will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the MFP according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the MFP according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 8 is a first diagram showing a display example of the liquid crystal display according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a second diagram showing a display example of the liquid crystal display according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the file system control unit in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a third diagram showing a display example of the liquid crystal display in the first embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a fourth diagram showing a display example of the liquid crystal display according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a fifth diagram showing a display example of the liquid crystal display according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 13 is the first implementation of the present invention. A sixth diagram illustrating a display example of a liquid crystal display in the state.

  First, when the operator presses the button k4 (FIG. 4) and selects the direct print function, the function setting processing unit 109 (FIG. 1) of the CPU 40 performs the function setting process to combine the direct print functions. Set to the machine 11 (step S1 in FIG. 5). Accordingly, the display processing unit 14 performs display processing to form an initial screen as shown in FIG. 4 on the liquid crystal display 51, and a file recording destination (in the present embodiment, in this embodiment). , HDD 43, USB memory 101, and network server memory) are displayed as an operation menu m1 with keys q1 to q3, and a message ms1 is displayed to inquire the operator from which recording destination the file is to be extracted (FIG. 5). Step S2).

  At this time, for example, when the operator touches the location of the item 2 displayed on the liquid crystal display 51, that is, the key q2 and selects the USB memory 101 as the file recording destination, the display processing unit 14 causes the liquid crystal display 51 to Then, an operation guidance screen as shown in FIG. 7 is formed, a message ms 2 is displayed on the operation guidance screen, and the operator is instructed to set the USB memory 101 in the USB interface 34.

  Then, when the operator sets the USB memory 101 in the USB interface 34 according to the message, the USB memory I / O control unit 21 detects that the USB memory 101 is set, and the display processing unit 14 displays on the liquid crystal display 51. 8, a file selection screen as shown in FIG. 8 is formed, and the files fi (i = 1, 2,..., N) recorded in the USB memory 101 are displayed in a list on the file selection screen and a message is displayed. ms3 is displayed, and the operator is instructed to select a file to be printed (step S3 in FIG. 5).

  In FIG. 8, reference numeral 61 denotes a folder in which each file displayed in the list is recorded, and 66a and 66b scroll display contents leftward or rightward when other files are recorded in the folder 61. It is a shift key as an operation element for making it happen.

  Subsequently, when the operator selects an arbitrary file from the list of displayed files fi on the file selection screen by touching the file fj (f1, f3) in the present embodiment, the display is performed. The processing unit 14 displays the selected file fj with characters and background reversed in black and white (in FIG. 8, for convenience, the background of the selected file fj is shown in a mesh). .

  Then, the file selection unit 15 selects each displayed file fj, and the file extraction unit 103 extracts (reads) the selected file fj from the USB memory 101 (step S4 in FIG. 5).

  Next, when the operator presses the button k12, the process for performing monochrome printing by the direct print function is started, and when the button k13 is pressed, the process for performing color printing by the direct print function is started. .

  Subsequently, the password setting determination processing unit 105 of the CPU 40 performs password setting determination processing, sequentially selects each of the files fj, and a password is set in the first selected file, in the present embodiment, the file f1. Determine whether or not.

  For this purpose, the password setting determination processing unit 105 notifies the encrypted file detection unit 22 of the recording destination of the file f1 and the name of the file f1. The encrypted file detection unit 22 performs an encrypted file detection process and sends a file data read request to the file system control unit 20 in order to read the contents of the file f1.

  When the file system control unit 20 receives a file data read request from the encrypted file detection unit 22, it creates a buffer area 95 of a predetermined size (memory capacity) in the memory area of the RAM 41 as shown in FIG. Then, the file system 91 of the USB memory 101 is accessed, and the data representing the contents of the file f 1, that is, the file data is copied to the buffer area 95. At this time, the password or the like recorded in the data area 93 in the file f1 is also copied to the buffer area 95 as file data.

  Therefore, the encrypted file detection unit 22 can indirectly refer to the file data of the file f1 through the file data copied to the buffer area 95.

  Then, the encrypted file detection unit 22 determines the position of the data area 93 in the file f1 by accessing the predetermined extension of the file f1 and information on the head area of the file f1, and is recorded in the data area 93. The obtained data is read (obtained) from the buffer area 95 and sent to the password setting determination processing unit 105. The password setting determination processing unit 105 determines whether or not a password is set in the file f1 based on whether or not a password is included in the data sent from the encrypted file detection unit 22 (step S5 in FIG. 5).

  Subsequently, when a password is set in the file f1 (Y in step S6 in FIG. 5), the display processing unit 14 forms a password input screen as shown in FIG. The name of the file f1 and the message ms4 are displayed on the password input screen to instruct the operator to input the password of the file f1, and a list 71 of character strings as operation elements for inputting the password is displayed. To do. When the operator inputs a password by touching a predetermined key in the character string list 71, the password input unit 16 performs a password input process, reads the input password, reads the password, the name of the file f1, The password verification unit 23 is notified of the location information of the folder 61 in which the file f1 is recorded (step S7 in FIG. 5).

  The password verification unit 23 performs password verification processing, reads the password from the buffer area 95 via the file system control unit 20, and inputs the password read from the buffer area 95 and the operator based on the determination algorithm. It is determined whether or not the password matches, and the determination result is notified to the CPU 40 (step S8 in FIG. 5).

  When it is determined in the password setting determination process that a password is not set (N in step S6 in FIG. 5), and when it is determined in the password verification process that the passwords match (Y in step S9 in FIG. 5), the CPU 40 The next file determination processing unit 107 performs the next file determination processing, and determines whether or not the next selected file, in the present embodiment, the file f3 exists by the password setting determination processing unit 105 (see FIG. 5 Step S10) If the file f3 exists (Y in Step S10 in FIG. 5), the file f3 is subjected to each process such as the password setting determination process, the password input process, and the password verification process.

  On the other hand, if the passwords do not match (N in step S9 in FIG. 5), the display processing unit 14 forms the password re-input screen shown in FIG. 11 on the liquid crystal display 51, and displays a message on the password re-input screen. ms5 is displayed to notify the operator that the passwords do not match, and the key q11 as an operation element for inputting the password again, and the key q12 as an operation element for canceling password verification and printing are displayed. Display and instruct the operator to enter the password again. When the operator touches the key q11, the display processing unit 14 forms the password input screen on the liquid crystal display 51 again. When the operator touches the key q12, the CPU 40 ends the process of FIG. 5 and the display processing unit 14 forms the initial screen on the liquid crystal display 51. Note that the password input by the operator for each selected file fj, the password read from the buffer area 95 in the password verification process, and the like are recorded in the RAM 41 as intermediate data, and can be used as needed thereafter. .

  In the present embodiment, when the passwords do not match (N in step S9 in FIG. 5), when the operator touches the key q12 formed on the password re-input screen as shown in FIG. Although the processing of FIG. 5 is terminated, only the selection of the file corresponding to the canceled password verification processing is invalidated, and the password verification is continued for the other selected files by continuing the processing of FIG. Can be done.

  In this way, when each process such as the password setting determination process, the password input process, the password verification process, etc. is performed for all the files fj (N in step S10 in FIG. 5), the encryption processing unit 25 The name of fj, the location information of the folder 61 in which each file fj is recorded, etc. are sent to the data converter 26.

  When the data conversion unit 26 performs data conversion processing and receives the name of each file fj, the location information of the folder 61 in which each file fj is recorded from the encryption processing unit 25, the file fj is sequentially buffered. File data is read from the area 95 and sent to the decryption processing unit 24.

  When the decryption processing unit 24 performs decryption processing and receives the file data of each file fj from the data conversion unit 26, the first file fj, in this embodiment, the area of the encrypted document data in the file f1 Is detected, the encrypted document data is read out, decrypted, and converted into plain text (step S11 in FIG. 6).

  At this time, the decryption processing unit 24 decrypts the document data using a predetermined decryption algorithm using the intermediate data. The decryption algorithm is selected depending on the specifications of each file format, each encryption algorithm, and the like.

  In this way, the document data converted into equal parts is sent to the print control unit 27 as print data.

  The print control unit 27 performs a print control process, and prints on the paper (forms an image) by the printing mechanism 37 based on the print data sent from the data conversion unit 26. At this time, the display processing unit 14 forms a print status notification screen as shown in FIG. 12 on the liquid crystal display 51, displays the message ms6 on the print status notification screen, and prints the file f1. The operator is notified of this (step S12 in FIG. 6).

  Then, the next file determination processing means determines whether or not there is a next file that has not been subjected to each processing such as decryption processing and print control processing, in the present embodiment, the file f3 (step S13 in FIG. 6). ), When there is a file f3 (Y in step S13 in FIG. 6), each process such as the decryption process and the print control process is performed on the file f3. In this case, the display processing unit 14 forms a print status notification screen as shown in FIG. 13 on the liquid crystal display 51, displays the messages ms7 and ms8 on the print status notification screen, and displays the file f1. The operator is notified that printing has ended and that the file f3 is being printed.

  In this way, when each process such as the decryption process and the print control process is performed on all the files fj, the CPU 40 ends the direct printing (N in step S13 in FIG. 6).

  In the present embodiment, the case where the files f1 and f3 are selected in the file selection screen shown in FIG. 8 has been described. For example, a plurality of files f1 to f3 are selected and all the selected files are selected. When passwords are set in f1 to f3, after the password verification processing for the files f1 to f3 is performed, printing by the printing mechanism 37 is started.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, after the password setting determination processing and the password verification processing are performed for all the files fj selected by the operator among the files fi extracted from the USB memory 101. Since printing is sequentially performed for each file for which no password is set and each file for which the password matches, the work for performing printing can be simplified.

  In the present embodiment, the USB memory 101 is used as the storage unit, but a memory built in as the storage unit, a storage terminal connected to the outside of the multi-function peripheral 11, such as a server, is used. You can also

Next, the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6 will be described.
Step S1: The direct print function is set.
Step S2 Inquires about the recording destination of the file.
Step S3: Display a list of files.
Step S4: The selected file fj is taken out.
Step S5: Password setting judgment processing is performed.
Step S6: It is determined whether or not a password is set for the selected file fj. If a password is set for the selected file fj, the process proceeds to step S7. If a password is not set, the process proceeds to step S10.
Step S7: Password input processing is performed.
Step S8: Password verification processing is performed.
Step S9: Determine whether the passwords match. If the passwords match, the process proceeds to step S10, and if the passwords do not match, the process returns to step S7.
Step S10: It is determined whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S5. If there is no next file, the process proceeds to step S11.
Step S11: A decoding process is performed.
Step S12 Print control processing is performed.
Step S13: It is determined whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S11. If there is no next file, the process ends.

  By the way, in this embodiment, after the password verification process is completed for all the selected files fj, the print control process is started, and the password setting determination process and the password verification process are performed. The print control process cannot be performed while Therefore, the work for printing cannot be simplified sufficiently.

  Accordingly, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in which print control processing can be performed in parallel while password setting determination processing and password verification processing are being performed. In addition, about the thing which has the same structure as 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is provided and the effect of the same embodiment is used about the effect of the invention by having the same structure.

  FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a second flowchart showing the first operation of the multifunction machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 18 is the first flowchart of the present invention. 12 is a flowchart of a second operation performed in parallel with the first operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment.

  First, the first operation of the multifunction machine 11 as the image forming apparatus will be described.

  When the operator selects the direct print function on the operation panel 33 (FIG. 4) as the operation / display unit, the function setting processing unit 109 as the function setting processing unit sets the direct print function in the multifunction machine 11. (FIG. 16, step S21). Accordingly, the display processing unit 14 as the display processing unit forms an initial screen (FIG. 4) on the liquid crystal display 51 as the display unit, displays the operation menu m1 on the initial screen, and from which recording destination. An inquiry is made to the operator as to whether to take out the file (step S22 in FIG. 16).

  At this time, for example, when the operator selects the USB memory 101 as an external storage device as a file recording destination, as a storage unit, and as a recording medium, the display processing unit 14 displays on the liquid crystal display 51. The operation guidance screen (FIG. 7) is formed, a message ms2 is displayed on the operation guidance screen, and the operator is instructed to set the USB memory 101 to the USB interface 34.

  When the operator sets the USB memory 101 to the USB interface 34, the USB memory I / O control unit 21 as the USB memory I / O control processing means detects that the USB memory 101 has been set, and performs the display process. The unit 14 forms a file selection screen (FIG. 8) on the liquid crystal display 51, and displays a list of files fi (i = 1, 2,..., N) recorded in the USB memory 101 on the file selection screen. At the same time, the message ms3 is displayed to instruct the operator to select a file to be printed (step S23 in FIG. 16).

  Subsequently, when the operator selects the file fj (f1, f3) from the displayed list on the file selection screen by touching the file fj, the display processing unit 14 performs the characters and back of the selected file fj. The ground is displayed with black and white reversed, the file selection unit 15 selects the displayed file fj, and the file extraction unit 103 as file extraction processing means extracts the file fj from the USB memory 101 (step S24 in FIG. 16). ).

  Next, when the operator presses the button k12, the process for performing monochrome printing by the direct print function is started, and when the button k13 is pressed, the process for performing color printing by the direct print function is started. .

  Subsequently, the password setting determination processing unit 105 as a password setting determination processing means performs password setting determination processing, sequentially selects the file fj, and stores the password in the first selected file, in the present embodiment, the file f1. Is determined (step S25 in FIG. 16).

  If a password is set in the file f1 (Y in step S26 in FIG. 16), the display processing unit 14 forms a password input screen (FIG. 10) on the liquid crystal display 51, and the password input screen is displayed. The name of the file f1 and the message ms4 are displayed, and the operator is instructed to input the password of the file f1. When the operator inputs a password, the password input unit 16 as a password input processing unit reads the input password, and stores the password, the name of the file f1, the location information of the folder 61 in which the file f1 is recorded, and the like. The password verification unit 23 as the verification processing means is notified (step S27 in FIG. 16).

  The password verification unit 23 determines whether the password read from the buffer area 95 matches the password input by the operator (step S28 in FIG. 16), and when it is determined that the passwords match (step 16 in FIG. 16). In step S29, the print permission unit 111 serving as a print permission processing unit of the CPU 40 serving as the control unit performs a print permission process and permits printing of the file f1 (step S30 in FIG. 16).

  When it is determined in the password setting determination process that a password is not set for the file f1 (N in step S26 in FIG. 16), and when printing is permitted for the file f1 in the print permission process, the CPU 40 The print state setting processing unit 113 as the print permission state setting processing unit performs a print permission state setting process, and turns on a flag indicating a state where printing is permitted for the file f1, that is, a print permission flag (FIG. 17). Step S31).

  On the other hand, if the passwords do not match (N in step S29 in FIG. 16), the display processing unit 14 forms a password re-input screen (FIG. 11) on the liquid crystal display 51 and displays the message ms5 on the password re-input screen. The message is displayed to notify the operator that the passwords do not match, and the operator is instructed to input the password again.

  Then, the next file determination processing unit 107 determines whether or not there is a next file, in the present embodiment, a file f3. If there is a file f3 (Y in step S32 in FIG. 17), the file f3 is described above. When each process such as a password setting determination process, a password input process, a password verification process, and a print permission process is performed and there is no next file (N in step S32 in FIG. 17), the CPU 40 ends the direct printing.

  On the other hand, the CPU 40 performs the print control process in parallel while the password setting determination process and the password verification process are being performed. Next, a second operation of the multifunction machine 11 for performing the print control process in parallel will be described. In this case, the second operation is started each time a predetermined time elapses by using the timer 117 (FIG. 14).

  First, the print permission state determination processing unit 115 as a print permission state determination processing unit of the CPU 40 performs a print permission state determination process, and in the present embodiment, a file fk ( It is determined whether there is f1, f3). When there is a file fk with the print permission flag turned on (Y in step S41 in FIG. 18), the password setting determination processing unit sequentially selects the file fk with the print permission flag turned on, and the first selected file In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not a password is set for the file f1. If there is no file for which the print permission flag is turned on (N in step S41 in FIG. 18), the timer 117 is reset and the process is terminated.

  When a password is set for the file f1 (Y in step S42 in FIG. 18), the encryption processing unit 25 as the encryption processing means stores the name of the file f1, the location information of the folder 61 in which the file f1 is recorded, and the like. The data is sent to the data conversion unit 26 as conversion processing means.

  The data conversion unit 26 reads out the file data from the buffer area 95 for the file f1 and sends it to the decoding processing unit 24 as decoding processing means. The decoding processing unit 24 receives the file data of the file f1 from the data conversion unit 26. Upon receipt, the encrypted document data area in the file f1 is detected, and the encrypted document data is read out, decrypted, and converted into plain text (step S43 in FIG. 18).

  If no password is set for the file f1 (N in step S42 in FIG. 18), there is no need to decrypt the file f1, so the print control unit 27 as the print control processing means prints without performing the decryption process. Control processing (step S44 in FIG. 18) is performed.

  In this way, the document data converted into equal parts is sent to the print control unit 27 as print data. Based on the print data sent from the data conversion unit 26, the print control unit 27 serves as an image forming unit and various printing mechanisms 37 such as a wire dot type, an ink jet type, and an electrophotographic type as a printing unit. Thus, printing is performed on the sheet as the medium (step S44 in FIG. 18). At this time, the display processing unit 14 forms a print status notification screen (FIG. 12) on the liquid crystal display 51, displays the message ms6 on the print status notification screen, and prints the file f1. Notify the operator.

  Then, the next file determination processing means determines whether or not there is a next file that has not been subjected to each processing such as decryption processing and print control processing, in the present embodiment, the file f3, and there is the file f3. In the case (Y in step S45 in FIG. 18), each process such as the decryption process and the print control process is performed on the file f3. In this case, the file selection unit 15 forms a printing status notification screen (FIG. 13) on the liquid crystal display 51, displays the messages ms7 and ms8 on the printing status notification screen, and the printing of the file f1 is completed. And the operator is notified that the file f3 is being printed.

  When each process such as the decryption process and the print control process is performed on all the files fk in this way, the CPU 40 ends the direct printing (N in step S45 in FIG. 18).

  In the present embodiment, the case where the files f1 and f3 are selected in the file selection screen shown in FIG. 8 has been described. For example, a plurality of files f1 to f3 are selected and all the selected files are selected. When passwords are set for f1 to f3, for example, when the password verification processing for the files f1 and f2 is completed before the predetermined time elapses in the timer 117, the password verification processing for the file f3 is performed. At the same time, the printing of the files f1 and f2 is started by the printing mechanism 37.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the print control process is performed in parallel while the password setting determination process and the password verification process are performed, and the file in which the password is not set and the password verification process are completed. Since the files are sequentially printed, the work for printing can be simplified. Further, it is possible to shorten the time from the input of the password by the operator to the end of printing.

Next, the flowcharts of FIGS. 16 and 17 will be described.
Step S21: The direct print function is set.
Step S22: Queries the recording destination of the file.
Step S23: A file is displayed in a list.
Step S24: The selected file fj is taken out.
Step S25: Password setting judgment processing is performed.
Step S26: It is determined whether or not a password is set for the selected file fj. If a password is set for the selected file fj, the process proceeds to step S27. If a password is not set, the process proceeds to step S31.
Step S27: Password input processing is performed.
Step S28: Password verification processing is performed.
Step S29: Determine whether the passwords match. If the passwords match, the process proceeds to step S30. If the passwords do not match, the process returns to step S27.
Step S30 Print permission processing is performed.
Step S31: The print permission flag is turned on.
Step S32: Determine whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S25. If there is no next file, the process ends.

Next, the flowchart of FIG. 18 will be described.
Step S41: It is determined whether there is a file fk with the print permission flag turned on. If there is a file fk with the print permission flag turned on, the process proceeds to step S42, and if there is no file fk with the print permission flag turned on, the process ends.
Step S42: It is determined whether or not a password is set for the file fk with the print permission flag turned on. If a password is set for the file fk with the print permission flag turned on, the process proceeds to step S43. If no password is set, the process proceeds to step S44.
Step S43 A decoding process is performed.
Step S44: A print control process is performed.
Step S45: Determine whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S42. If there is no next file, the process ends.

  By the way, in each of the embodiments, if it is determined in the password setting determination process that a password is set, the operator needs to input the password for each file for which the password is set. Therefore, the work for inputting the password is troublesome.

  Therefore, a third embodiment of the present invention that can simplify the operation for inputting the password will be described. In addition, about the thing which has the same structure as 1st, 2nd embodiment, the same code | symbol is provided and the effect of the embodiment is used about the effect of the invention by having the same structure.

  In the third embodiment, the second operation of the multifunction machine 11 as the image forming apparatus is the same as the first operation of the multifunction machine 11 in the second embodiment. Description is omitted.

  FIG. 19 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 20 is a first flowchart showing a first operation of the multifunction peripheral according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a display example of the liquid crystal display according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 22 is a second flowchart showing the first operation of the multifunction machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, the password input by the operator for each file fj, the password read from the buffer area 95 in the password verification process, and the like are recorded in the RAM 41 as the first storage device as intermediate data. .

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the password verification unit 23 as the password verification processing means of the CPU 40 as the control unit performs password verification processing, and the passwords match in the password verification processing for a predetermined file, for example, the file f1. In this case, the password is recorded as a verified password in a verified password recording unit (not shown) of the RAM 41, and the file recorded in the verified password recording unit in the password verification processing for another file, for example, the file f3, When the already-verified password used in the verification for f1 is read, it is determined whether the already-verified password that has been read and the password set for the file f3 and read from the buffer area 95 are the same. And password But it decides to match.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, first, when the operator selects the direct print function on the operation panel 33 (FIG. 4) as the operation / display unit, the function setting processing unit 108 as the function setting processing unit is Then, the direct printing function is set in the multifunction machine 11 (step S51 in FIG. 20). Accordingly, the display processing unit 14 as the display processing unit forms an initial screen (FIG. 4) on the liquid crystal display 51 as the display unit, displays the operation menu m1 on the initial screen, and from which recording destination. The operator is inquired about whether to take out the file (step S52 in FIG. 20).

  At this time, for example, when the operator selects the USB memory 101 as an external storage device as a file recording destination, as a storage unit, and as a recording medium, the display processing unit 14 displays on the liquid crystal display 51. An operation guidance screen (FIG. 7) is formed, a message ms2 is displayed on the operation guidance screen, and the operator is instructed to set the USB memory 101 to the USB interface 34.

  When the operator sets the USB memory 101 to the USB interface 34, the USB memory I / O control unit 21 as the USB memory I / O control processing means detects that the USB memory 101 has been set, and performs the display process. The unit 14 forms a file selection screen (FIG. 8) as shown in FIG. 22 on the liquid crystal display 51, and files fi (i = 1, 2,...) Recorded in the USB memory 101 on the file selection screen. , N) are displayed as a list, and a message ms3 is displayed to instruct the operator to select a file to be printed (step S53 in FIG. 20).

  Subsequently, when the operator selects an arbitrary file from the list of displayed files fi on the liquid crystal display 51 by touching the file fj (f1, f3, f7, f9 in the present embodiment), The display processing unit 14 displays the selected file fj with characters and background reversed in black and white (in FIG. 22, for convenience, the background of the selected file fj is represented by a mesh). . The file selection unit 15 selects the displayed file fj, and the file extraction unit 103 as a file extraction processing unit extracts the file fj from the USB memory 101 (step S54 in FIG. 20).

  Next, when the operator presses the button k12, the process for performing monochrome printing by the direct print function is started, and when the button k13 is pressed, the process for performing color printing by the direct print function is started. .

  Subsequently, the password setting determination processing unit 105 as the password setting determination processing means sequentially selects the file fj and determines whether a password is set for the first selected file, in the present embodiment, the file f1. Judgment is made (step S55 in FIG. 20).

  When a password is set in the file f1 (Y in step S56 in FIG. 20), the verified password extraction unit 121 as the verified password extraction processing unit of the CPU 40 performs the verified password extraction process and stores the existing password in the RAM 41. It is determined whether or not a verified password is recorded in the verification password recording unit (step S57 in FIG. 20).

  When the verified password is not recorded (N in step S57 in FIG. 20), the display processing unit 14 forms a password input screen (FIG. 10) on the liquid crystal display 51, and the file f1 is displayed on the password input screen. The name and message ms4 are displayed, and the operator is instructed to input the password for the file f1. When the operator inputs a password, the password input unit 16 as a password input processing unit reads the input password, and verifies the password, the name of the file f1, the location information of the folder 61 in which the file f1 is recorded, and the like. The password verification unit 23 as a processing means is notified (step S59 in FIG. 21).

  The password verification unit 23 performs password verification processing, determines whether the password read from the buffer area 95 matches the password input by the operator (step S61 in FIG. 21), and determines that the passwords match. If this is the case (Y in step S61 in FIG. 21), the matched password is recorded as a verified password in the verified password recording unit (step S62 in FIG. 21).

  Subsequently, the print permission processing unit 111 serving as a print permission processing unit of the CPU 40 performs a print permission process and permits the file f1 to be printed (step S63 in FIG. 21).

  If it is determined in the password setting determination process that no password is set for the file f1 (N in step S56 in FIG. 20), and if printing is permitted for the file f1 in the print permission process, the CPU 40 prints. The print permission state setting unit 113 as a permission state setting processing unit performs a print permission state setting process, and turns on a flag indicating a state where printing is permitted for the file f1, that is, a print permission flag (step in FIG. 21). S63).

  On the other hand, if the passwords do not match (N in step S61 in FIG. 21), the display processing unit 14 forms a password re-input screen (FIG. 11) on the liquid crystal display 51 and displays the message ms5 on the password re-input screen. The message is displayed to notify the operator that the passwords do not match, and the operator is instructed to input the password again.

  Then, the next file determination processing means determines whether or not there is a next file, in the present embodiment, the file f3. If there is a file f3 (Y in step S65 in FIG. 21), the password for the file f3 is determined. When processing such as setting determination processing, password input processing, password verification processing, and print permission processing is performed and there is no next file, the CPU 40 ends direct printing.

  Then, in the password setting determination processing for the files after file f3, if a password is set for the file (Y in step S56 in FIG. 20), the verified password extraction unit 121 stores the verified password recording unit in the verified password recording unit. It is determined whether a verified password is recorded (step S57 in FIG. 20). If a verified password is recorded (Y in step S57 in FIG. 20), the verified password is extracted from the verified password recording unit. (Read out) (Step S58 in FIG. 20).

  Subsequently, the password verification unit 122 performs password verification processing using the verified password extracted from the verified password recording unit (step S60 in FIG. 21), and the passwords match (Y in step S61 in FIG. 21). ) Performs a print permission process (step S63 in FIG. 21). If the passwords do not match (N in step S61 in FIG. 21), password input processing (step S59 in FIG. 21) is performed.

  If a plurality of verified passwords are recorded in the verified password recording unit, the verified password extracting unit 121 extracts a plurality of verified passwords from the verified password recording unit (step S58 in FIG. 20). The password verification unit 122 performs password verification processing on a plurality of verified passwords (step S60 in FIG. 21).

  In the present embodiment, the case where the files f1 and f3 are selected in the file selection screen shown in FIG. 8 has been described. For example, a plurality of files f1 to f3 are selected and all the selected files are selected. When the same password is set for f1 to f3, after the password verification processing for the file f1 is completed, the password input processing for the files f2 and f3 (step S59 in FIG. 21) is not performed, and the printing mechanism 37 Thus, printing of the files f1 to f3 is started.

  Thus, in this embodiment, when the password read from the verified password recording unit and the password read from the buffer area 95 match, the display processing unit 14 displays the password input screen on the liquid crystal display 51. Is not formed, and the operator is not instructed to input the password of the file f3, so that the operator does not need to input the password of the file f3. Therefore, the work for inputting the password can be simplified.

Next, the flowcharts of FIGS. 20 and 21 will be described.
Step S51: The direct print function is set.
Step S52: Queries the file recording destination.
Step S53: Displays a list of files.
Step S54: The selected file fj is taken out.
Step S55: Password setting judgment processing is performed.
Step S56: It is determined whether or not a password is set for the selected file fj. If a password is set for the selected file fj, the process proceeds to step S57. If a password is not set, the process proceeds to step S64.
Step S57: It is determined whether a verified password is recorded in the verified password recording unit. If the verified password is not recorded in the verified password recording unit, the process proceeds to step S59. If the verified password is recorded, the process proceeds to step S58.
Step S58: A verified password is extracted.
Step S59: Password input processing is performed.
Step S60: Password verification processing is performed.
Step S61: It is determined whether or not the passwords match. If the passwords match, the process proceeds to step S62, and if the passwords do not match, the process returns to step S59.
Step S62: The matched password is recorded in the verified password recording unit as the verified password.
Step S63: A print permission process is performed.
Step S64: The print permission flag is turned on.
Step S65: It is determined whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S55, and if there is no next file, the process ends.

  Next, a description will be given of a fourth embodiment of the present invention in which printing can be performed by setting printing attributes on the liquid crystal display 51. In addition, about the thing which has the same structure as 1st-3rd embodiment, the same code | symbol is provided and the effect of the same embodiment is used about the effect of the invention by having the same structure.

  FIG. 23 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 24 is a first diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. It is a 2nd figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display in 4th Embodiment.

  In this case, when the operator sets the USB memory 101 as an external storage device, as a storage unit, and as a recording medium to the USB interface 34, the USB memory I / O as a USB memory I / O control processing unit is set. The O control unit 21 detects that the USB memory 101 is set, and the display processing unit 14 as the display processing unit forms a file selection screen as shown in FIG. 24 on the liquid crystal display 51 as the display unit. The file selection screen includes a pull-down button k21 as an operation element for attribute setting for setting a print attribute, in this embodiment, a print layout, and as an attribute setting element. Form and display.

  When the operator presses the button k21, the display processing unit 14 causes the file selection screen to display normal printing for printing one page on one sheet and one sheet. A menu for N-up printing layout for printing a plurality of pages is displayed as “normal”, “2-up”, “3-up”,.

  Subsequently, when the operator selects a predetermined layout, in this embodiment, 2-up printing, the attribute setting unit 221 as the attribute setting processing unit of the CPU 40 as the control unit performs attribute setting processing, 2-up printing is set.

  When the print layout is set in this way, the display processing unit 14 forms a password input screen as shown in FIG. 25 on the liquid crystal display 51, and the file f1 is displayed on the password input screen. A name, a message ms4, and the like are displayed, and a pull-down button k22 as an operation element for attribute setting is displayed. The 2-up printing set in the attribute setting process is displayed as a default on the button k22.

  When printing is performed with the set 2-up printing on the password input screen, the operator inputs the password, and when printing is performed after changing the set 2-up printing to another layout, the operator Presses the button k22, selects the normal printing or other N-up printing layout, and inputs the password.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the operator selects a predetermined layout on the file selection screen, the selected layout is also set as the default on the password input screen. Can be simplified.

  In this embodiment, the file selection screen is formed as the first screen, and then the password input screen is formed as the second screen. However, the password input screen for a predetermined file is The layout set in the attribute setting process can be set as a default when the password input screen for another file is formed as the second screen.

  In this embodiment, the layout is set as the printing attribute. However, the printing paper size as the medium size, the printing direction (vertical or horizontal), single-sided / double-sided printing, color / monochrome printing. May be set.

  Next, a description will be given of a fifth embodiment of the present invention in which a printing order can be set based on printing conditions for printing each selected file fj. In addition, about the thing which has the same structure as 1st-4th embodiment, the same code | symbol is provided and the effect of the embodiment is used about the effect of the invention by having the same structure.

  FIG. 26 is a functional block diagram of a multifunction machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the figure, reference numeral 26 denotes a data conversion unit as a data conversion processing unit, 27 denotes a print control unit as a print control processing unit, and the data conversion unit 26 includes a color / monochrome determination unit 65 and a print as a color determination processing unit. The page control unit 86 as a quantity determination processing unit, and the print control unit 27 includes a print preparation state determination unit 87 as a print preparation state determination processing unit.

  The CPU 40 as a control unit includes a print order control unit 89 as a print order control processing unit.

  The color / monochrome determination unit 65 performs color determination processing, and sets the first color setting as to whether the selected file fj is set to perform color printing or is set to perform monochrome printing. Judge as printing conditions.

  Therefore, the color / monochrome determining unit 65 determines whether the file fj is made of color data or monochrome data, and whether the button k12 (FIG. 4) is pressed by the operator or the button k13 is pressed. Thus, it is determined whether the file fj is set to perform color printing or monochrome printing.

  That is, when the button k13 is pressed, if the file f1 is color data, the color / monochrome determination unit 65 determines that the file f1 is set to perform color printing, and the file f1 is monochrome data. If it is, it is determined that the file f1 is set to perform monochrome printing. On the other hand, when the button k12 is pressed, the color / monochrome determination unit 65 performs monochrome printing for the file f1 regardless of whether the file f1 is color data or the file f1 is monochrome data. It is determined that it is set to perform. When the button k12 is pressed, monochrome printing is performed on the file f1 in the print control process.

  Whether the file fj consists of color data or monochrome data can be determined by analyzing information on a predetermined area in the file data of each file fj based on the format specification.

  The page number determination unit 86 performs a print amount determination process, and determines the page number of the file fj as the second print condition. Therefore, the page number determination unit 86 determines the number of pages by analyzing information on a predetermined area in the file data of each file fj based on the format specification.

  The print preparation state determination unit 87 performs a print preparation state determination process, and a warm-up state as a print preparation state of the printing mechanism 37 of the printer 36 (FIG. 2) as the second image processing unit, that is, a warm-up process. The third printing condition is determined as to whether it is in a state where printing can be started immediately after the completion of, or whether warming-up processing has not been completed and printing cannot be started immediately.

  In the printer 36, when the power is turned on, it is necessary to perform a warm-up process for heating the LED head, the fixing device, and the like to a predetermined temperature before starting printing. In general, when printing is not performed for a predetermined time, the printer 36 may shift to a power saving state by the power save mode function. In such a case, the warm-up is performed before starting printing. It is necessary to perform processing.

  In general, the time for performing the warm-up process, that is, the warm-up time is set differently when performing color printing and when performing monochrome printing. This is because the temperature for enabling the LED head, the fixing device, and the like to start printing differs between color printing and monochrome printing. In this embodiment, the temperature required for color printing is lower than the temperature required for monochrome printing, and the warm-up time for color printing is the warm-up time for monochrome printing. Shorter.

  The print order control unit 89 performs a print order control process, and determines the first to third printing conditions determined by the color / monochrome determination unit 65, the page number determination unit 86, and the print preparation state determination unit 87, respectively. Based on the acquired first to third printing conditions, the printing order of each file fj is set.

  Next, the operation of the multifunction machine 11 in the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 27 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the multifunction device in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 28 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the multifunction device in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a subroutine of a printing order control process in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 30 is a first diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing file characteristic information in the fifth embodiment of the invention, FIG. 32 is a first diagram showing an example of a print priority list in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 33 is a diagram of the present invention. FIG. 34 is a third diagram showing an example of a print priority list according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of a print priority list according to the fifth embodiment. Liquid crystal in the fifth embodiment Second diagram illustrating a display example of Isupurei, FIG. 36 is a third diagram illustrating a display example of the liquid crystal display according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  When the operator selects the direct print function on the operation panel 33 (FIG. 4) as the operation / display unit, the function setting processing unit 109 as the function setting processing unit combines the direct print function as the image forming apparatus. The machine 11 is set (step S71 in FIG. 27). Accordingly, the display processing unit 14 as the display processing unit forms an initial screen (FIG. 4) on the liquid crystal display 51 as the display unit, displays the operation menu m1 on the initial screen, and from which recording destination. An inquiry is made to the operator as to whether to take out the file (step S72 in FIG. 27).

  At this time, when the operator selects the USB memory 101 as an external storage device as a file recording destination, as a storage unit, and as a recording medium, the display processing unit 14 displays the operation on the liquid crystal display 51. A guidance screen (FIG. 7) is formed, a message ms2 is displayed on the operation guidance screen, and the operator is instructed to set the USB memory 101 to the USB interface.

  When the operator sets the USB memory 101 to the USB interface 34, the USB memory I / O control unit 21 as the USB memory I / O control processing means detects that the USB memory 101 has been set, and performs the display process. As shown in FIG. 30, the unit 14 forms a file selection screen on the liquid crystal display 51, and files fi (i = 1, 2,..., N) recorded in the USB memory 101 on the file selection screen. Are displayed in a list and a message ms3 is displayed to instruct the operator to select a file to be printed (step S73 in FIG. 27).

  Subsequently, when the operator selects a file fj (f1, f3, f5, f7) from the displayed list on the file selection screen, the display processing unit 14 selects the selected file fj. The characters and background are displayed in black and white reversed, the file selection unit 15 selects the displayed file fj, and the file extraction unit 103 as file extraction processing means extracts the file fj from the USB memory 101 ( FIG. 27 step S74).

  In the present embodiment, each file fj has characteristic information as shown in FIG. The characteristic information includes the color setting and the number of pages.

  Next, when the operator presses the button k12, the process for performing monochrome printing by the direct print function is started, and when the button k13 is pressed, the process for performing color printing by the direct print function is started. .

  Subsequently, the password setting determination processing unit 105 as a password setting determination processing means performs password setting determination processing, sequentially selects the file fj, and stores the password in the first selected file, in the present embodiment, the file f1. Is determined (step S75 in FIG. 27).

  When a password is set in the file f1 (Y in step S76 in FIG. 27), the display processing unit 14 forms a password input screen (FIG. 10) on the liquid crystal display 51, and the password input screen is displayed. The name of the file f1 and the message ms4 are displayed, and the operator is instructed to input the password of the file f1. When the operator inputs a password, the password input unit 16 as a password input processing means reads the input password, and performs a password verification process on the password, the name of the file f1, the location information of the folder 61 in which the file f1 is recorded, and the like. The password verification unit 23 as a means is notified (step S77 in FIG. 27).

  The password verification unit 23 determines whether the password read from the buffer area 95 matches the password input by the operator (step S78 in FIG. 27), and when it is determined that the passwords match (step 27 in FIG. 27). (Y in S79), the next file determination processing means determines whether or not there is a file selected next by the password setting determination processing unit 105, in the present embodiment, the file f3 (step S80 in FIG. 27). ), If the file f3 exists (Y in step S80 in FIG. 27), each process such as the password setting determination process, the password input process, and the password verification process is performed on the file f3.

  On the other hand, if the passwords do not match (N in step S79 in FIG. 27), the display processing unit 14 forms a password re-input screen (FIG. 11) on the liquid crystal display 51 and displays the message ms5 on the password re-input screen. The message is displayed to notify the operator that the passwords do not match, and the operator is instructed to input the password again.

  In this way, when each process such as the password setting determination process, the password input process, the password verification process, etc. is performed for all the files fj (N in step S80 in FIG. 27), the print order control unit 89 sets each file fj. Is set (step S81 in FIG. 27).

  In the printing order control process shown in FIG. 29 (step S81 in FIG. 28), the printing order control unit 89 receives the password, the name of the file fj, the location information of the folder 61 in which the file fj is recorded, and the like from the password input unit 16. Read (acquire), and read (acquire) the intermediate data generated in the password verification process from the RAM 41 as the first storage device.

  Next, the printing order control unit 89 reads (acquires) the color setting as the characteristic information that is the determination result of the color / monochrome determination unit 65 and the page number that is the determination result of the page number determination unit 86 from the intermediate data. (FIG. 29 step S81-1, S81-2).

  Next, the next file determination processing unit 107 of the CPU 40 performs next file determination processing, determines whether or not there is a next file, in the present embodiment, the file f3, and if there is a file f3 (step in FIG. 29). In step S81-3, the color setting and the number of pages for the file f3 are read, thereby obtaining the color setting and the number of pages for each file as shown in FIG. If there is no next file (N in step S81-3 in FIG. 29), the printing order control unit 89 reads the warm-up state of the printing mechanism 37 of the printer 36, which is the determination result of the print preparation state determination unit 87 (step in FIG. 29). S81-4) (obtain).

  Subsequently, the printing order setting unit 131 as a printing priority list creation processing unit of the printing order control unit 89 performs a printing order setting process, and sets a printing order by creating a printing priority list for each file fj. (FIG. 29 step S81-5). In the print priority list at this time, the files fj are arranged in the order of extraction by the file selection unit 15 (FIG. 31). In the print priority list, printing is performed in order from the top.

  Next, the printing order changing unit 133 as the printing order changing processing unit of the printing order control unit 89 performs the printing order changing process (step S81-6 in FIG. 29), and the warming-up process of the printing mechanism 37 of the printer 36 is completed. Determine if it is in a state. By the way, in the present embodiment, for example, when fixing a toner image on a sheet by a fixing device (not shown) in the multi-function device 11, monochrome printing is generally possible at lower fixing temperatures than color printing. Therefore, monochrome printing can start printing operation earlier than color printing. Therefore, when the warm-up process of the printing mechanism 37 is not completed, the print priority order of the monochrome print file can be increased as shown in FIG. Further, for example, when the warm-up process of the printing mechanism 37 has been completed and the printing speed of color printing is set higher than the printing speed of monochrome printing, as shown in FIG. The print priority of the file can be increased. In that case, since printing with a smaller number of pages can be completed earlier, the printing order change processing means increases the printing priority of a file with a smaller number of pages, as shown in FIGS. You can also.

  When the button k12 is pressed, the print order change processing unit increases the print priority of a file with a small number of pages in a file for monochrome printing, as shown in FIG.

  In this way, when the print order is set, the print order control unit 89 selects the file fh (f7, f5, f3, f1) in the descending order of the print priority, and the encryption processing unit 25 as the encryption processing means. Send to. The encryption processing unit 25 sends the name of each file fh, the location information of the folder 61 in which each file fh is recorded, and the like to the data conversion unit 26 (step S82 in FIG. 28).

  The data conversion unit 26 sequentially reads out the file data from the buffer area 95 for each file fh and sends it to the decoding processing unit 24 as decoding processing means. The decoding processing unit 24 sends the file fh from the data conversion unit 26 to each file fh. When the file data is received, the first selected file fh, in this embodiment, the area of the encrypted document data in the file f7 is detected, the encrypted document data is read out, decrypted, and converted into plain text (Step S83 in FIG. 28).

  In this way, the document data converted into equal parts is sent to the print control unit 27 as print data. The print control unit 27 performs printing on paper as a medium by the printing mechanism 37 based on the print data sent from the data conversion unit 26. At this time, the display processing unit 14 forms a print status notification screen as shown in FIG. 35 on the liquid crystal display 51 and displays the message ms9 on the print status notification screen. For example, FIG. The operator is notified that the file f7 having the highest print priority in the print priority list shown is being printed (step S84 in FIG. 28).

  Then, the next file determination processing means determines whether or not there is a next file that has not been subjected to each process such as a decryption process and a print control process (step S85 in FIG. 28). 28) In step S85, the decryption process, the print control process, and the like are performed on the next file. In this case, the display processing unit 14 forms a print state notification screen as shown in FIG. 36 on the liquid crystal display 51, displays messages ms10 to 13 on the print state notification screen, and FIG. The operator is notified that printing of the files f7, f5, and f3 having a higher printing priority in the displayed printing priority list is complete and that the file f1 is being printed.

  In this way, when processing such as decryption processing and print control processing is performed for all the files in the print priority list, the CPU 40 ends the direct printing (N in step S85 in FIG. 28).

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the priority of printing can be increased for a file whose printing can be completed early based on the printing conditions, and printing can be performed with priority. The result can be obtained quickly. Therefore, the operability of the multifunction machine 11 can be improved.

Next, the flowcharts of FIGS. 27 and 28 will be described.
Step S71: The direct print function is set.
Step S72: Inquire about the file recording destination.
Step S73: Display a list of files.
Step S74: The selected file fj is taken out.
Step S75: Password setting judgment processing is performed.
Step S76: It is determined whether or not a password is set for the selected file fj. If a password is set for the selected file fj, the process proceeds to step S77. If a password is not set, the process proceeds to step S80.
Step S77: Password input processing is performed.
Step S78: Password verification processing is performed.
Step S79: Determine whether the passwords match. If the passwords match, the process proceeds to step S80, and if the passwords do not match, the process returns to step S77.
Step S80: Determine whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S75. If there is no next file, the process proceeds to step S81.
Step S81 Print order control processing is performed.
Step S82: Select a file having a high print priority.
Step S83 A decoding process is performed.
Step S84 Print control processing is performed.
Step S85: Whether the next file exists is determined. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S82. If there is no next file, the process ends.

Next, the flowchart of FIG. 29 will be described.
Step S81-1 Color setting is read.
Step S81-2 The number of pages is read.
Step S81-3: It is determined whether there is a next file. If there is a next file, the process returns to step S81-1, and if there is no next file, the process proceeds to step S81-4.
Step S81-4: The warm-up state of the printing mechanism 37 is read.
Step S81-5: Create a print priority list.
Step S81-6 Print order change processing is performed, and the process returns.

  In each of the above embodiments, the case where printing is performed for a file recorded in the USB memory 101 has been described. However, the present invention is performed when printing is performed for a file recorded in the HDD 43, a memory of a network server, or the like. Can be applied to.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, an example in which the present invention is applied to the multifunction machine 11 has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a printer, a copier, a facsimile machine, and the like.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, the first to fifth embodiments can be combined as necessary. For example, in the third embodiment, a verified password extraction unit 121 is added to the second embodiment, but a verified password extraction unit is added to the first and fourth embodiments. 121 can be added.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made based on the gist of the present invention, and they are not excluded from the scope of the present invention.

11 MFP 15 File Selection Unit 23 Password Verification Unit 27 Print Control Unit 37 Printing Mechanism 40 CPU
52 Operation part 103 File extraction part fj File

Claims (15)

A file selection unit for selecting a plurality of files recorded in the storage unit;
An operation unit for entering a password;
A file extraction unit for extracting a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit from the storage unit;
A password setting determination processing unit that determines whether or not passwords are set in a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit;
A password verification unit that verifies the set password according to whether the set password matches the entered password;
A printing unit for printing the file;
A print control unit for controlling the print unit,
The print control unit starts printing by the printing unit after verification of a plurality of passwords set in a plurality of files is completed.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing control unit starts printing by the printing unit after verification of all passwords set in the plurality of files is completed. A file selection section for selecting a plurality of files;
A file extraction unit for extracting a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit from the storage unit;
A password setting determination processing unit that determines whether or not passwords are set in a plurality of files selected by the file selection unit;
A password verification unit that verifies the set password according to whether the set password matches the entered password;
A printing unit for printing the file;
A print control unit for controlling the print unit;
And a timer for measuring time,
The print control unit starts printing by the printing unit for a file whose password has been verified before a predetermined time elapses after the time measurement by the timer is started in the plurality of files. An image forming apparatus.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein printing by the printing unit and input of the password are performed in parallel. A verified password recording unit for recording the verified password that has been verified by the password verification unit;
A verified password extraction unit that extracts the verified password from the verified password recording unit;
If the verified password is recorded in the verified password recording unit, the password verification unit determines whether the verified password matches the set password before the password is input by the operation unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is determined. A display for entering a password;
An attribute setting section for setting attributes of a plurality of selected files;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a display processing unit that displays the attribute setting unit on the display unit. A print order setting unit for setting the print order of the selected files;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print control unit prints a plurality of files based on a print order set by the print order setting unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the printing order setting unit changes the printing order depending on whether the selected file is color printing or monochrome printing.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the print order setting unit changes the print order depending on whether the selected file is single-sided printing or double-sided printing.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the print order setting unit changes the print order based on the number of pages of the selected file.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is a recording medium.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is detachably disposed on the main body device.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is an external storage device.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the recording medium is a USB memory. Extracting a plurality of selected files from the storage unit;
Determining whether a password is set for the extracted file;
Determining whether the set password matches the entered password for a file that has a password set;
And a step of starting file printing after verification of a plurality of passwords set in a plurality of files is completed.

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