JP2012118931A - Image formation device, information processing device, and image formation program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image formation system which avoids a decrease in operation efficiency and secures temporary and local silence.SOLUTION: The image formation system includes a plurality of image formation devices 1A-1C. The image formation device 1A includes an operating part which operates so as to form an image for recording paper, and accept a reservation for a job that the operating part is to execute. The image formation device 1A instructs another image formation device (the image formation device 1B or image formation device 1C) to execute the job whose reservation is accepted when estimated sound volume of an operation sound of the operating part is to exceed sound volume limited with a silence level set by the image formation device 1A during the execution of the accepted job.

Description

  The present invention particularly relates to control based on operating sounds of image forming apparatuses in an image forming system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses.

  Conventionally, various technologies for controlling a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected in a network environment that has become mainstream in general offices have been disclosed.

  For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-172476 discloses a system that includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a management apparatus that manages the plurality of image forming apparatuses. In this system, when the temperature inside an image forming apparatus is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature (dangerous temperature), the temperature information is transmitted to the management apparatus. When there is a print waiting job in the image forming apparatus in which the temperature information is detected, the management apparatus causes another image forming apparatus to execute the print waiting job. As a result, a reduction in work efficiency or the like is avoided.

JP 2000-172476 A

  Some image forming apparatuses represented by printers and copiers form a toner image and fix the toner image on a recording medium by heating and pressurizing with a fixing device to form an image on the recording medium. is there. In such an image forming apparatus, various operations such as an exhaust fan for exhausting heat generated from the fixing device to the outside of the casing through an exhaust port provided in the apparatus casing, a roller for conveying recording paper, etc. Members are deployed. In recent years, there is a scene in which the operation sound generated by the operation of these operation members provided in the apparatus is regarded as a problem as a noise source.

  On the other hand, there are cases where it is desired to temporarily and silently secure a noise in a region where an image forming system is constructed, such as a place where a visitor is served in an office.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to avoid a reduction in work efficiency and secure temporary and local noise in an image forming system.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus that constitutes an image forming system together with a plurality of image forming devices, and includes an operating unit that operates to form an image on a recording sheet, and a job that is executed by the operating unit. Receiving means for accepting the reservation and control means for causing the operating unit to execute the job, the receiving means obtains an instruction input of restriction information relating to the volume of the operating sound of the operating part, and the control means is reserved by the receiving means. When the volume of the operating sound of the operating unit estimated at the time of execution of the job that accepts exceeds the volume restricted by the restriction information, the receiving unit accepts an image instead of causing the operating unit to execute the job that received the reservation. Instruct the forming equipment.

  Preferably, the control unit determines an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job based on a position where each image forming apparatus is installed.

  Preferably, the control unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in the order in which the installed position is away from the image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the control unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in order of increasing sound volume of operation sounds estimated in an image forming operation in each image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the control unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in order of increasing sound volume of operation sounds estimated in a post-processing operation for a sheet after image formation in each image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, when the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job that does not require a post-processing operation on the paper after the image formation, the control unit may perform the post-image formation among a plurality of image forming apparatuses. An image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job is determined with priority given to an image forming apparatus that does not have a means for a post-processing operation on a sheet.

  Preferably, when the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job that requires a post-processing operation on the paper after image formation, the position at which each image forming device is installed An image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job is preferentially determined in order of increasing distance from the apparatus and in ascending order of operation sound volume estimated in the post-processing operation.

  Preferably, when the job accepted by the accepting unit is a job for forming an image in monochrome, the control unit gives priority to an image forming apparatus that forms an image in monochrome and does not form an image in color. An image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job is determined.

  Preferably, when the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job for forming an image in color, the control unit gives priority to being a tandem type color image forming apparatus and instructs execution of the job. The image forming apparatus to be determined is determined.

  Preferably, the restriction information is a silent level that is a level that restricts the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit, and the control unit is configured to estimate the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit that is estimated when the reception unit accepts the reservation. When the job level specified for the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting means exceeds the allowable level in the silent level acquired for the operating sound of the operating unit When the determination is made, it is determined that the volume of the operating sound of the operating unit estimated at the time of execution of the job accepted by the accepting unit exceeds the volume restricted by the restriction information.

  An information processing apparatus according to the present invention is an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each image forming apparatus includes an operation unit that executes a job, and accepting means that accepts a job reservation; Storage means for storing restriction information related to the volume of operating sound of the operating section for each image forming apparatus, and volume of operating sound in the operating section of each image forming apparatus that is estimated when a job whose reservation is accepted by the receiving means is executed And a determining means for determining an image forming apparatus for instructing a job for which the accepting unit has accepted a reservation, from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses, based on the volume restricted by the restriction information for each image forming apparatus. Prepare.

  Preferably, the determining unit determines an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job based on a position where each image forming apparatus is installed.

  Preferably, the determining unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in the order in which the installed position is away from a specific place.

  Preferably, the determining unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in order of increasing sound volume of an operating sound estimated in an image forming operation in each image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the determining unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in order of increasing sound volume of an operation sound estimated in a post-processing operation on a sheet after image formation in each image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, when the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job that does not require a post-processing operation on the paper after the image formation, the determination unit includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses that have performed the post-image formation. Prioritizing an image forming apparatus that does not have a means for post-processing operation on paper, an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job is determined.

  Preferably, when the job for which the accepting unit has accepted the reservation is a job that requires a post-processing operation on the paper after image formation, the determining unit determines the position where each image forming apparatus is installed. An image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job is preferentially determined in the order of increasing distance from the place and in the order of the volume of the operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation.

  Preferably, when the job for which the accepting unit has accepted the reservation is a job for forming an image in monochrome, the determination unit gives priority to an image forming apparatus that forms an image in monochrome and does not form an image in color. An image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job is determined.

  Preferably, when the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job for forming an image in color, the determining unit gives priority to the job being a tandem color image forming apparatus and instructs execution of the job. The image forming apparatus to be determined is determined.

  Preferably, the restriction information is a silent level that is a level for restricting the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit, and the determination unit is configured to estimate the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit that is estimated when the reception unit accepts the reservation. An image forming apparatus that receives a job level that is the level for which the silent level stored in the storage unit is a level that permits the specified job level for the job for which the reservation unit has received a reservation is received. The means is determined as an image forming apparatus that indicates a job for which a reservation is accepted.

  An image forming program according to the present invention is an image forming program executed on a computer connectable to an image forming system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each image forming apparatus forms an image on a recording sheet. Designating means for designating one image forming apparatus and job, an obtaining means for obtaining restriction information relating to the volume of operating sound of the working part for each image forming apparatus, and designating means When the volume of the operating sound in the operating section of the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying means estimated when executing the job specified by exceeds the volume restricted by the restriction information for the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying means Instructing another image forming apparatus to execute the job designated by the designation means instead of instructing the image forming apparatus designated by the designation means To function as a stage.

  Preferably, the instruction unit determines an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job based on a position where each image forming apparatus is installed.

  Preferably, the instructing unit determines an image forming apparatus instructing execution of the job in priority in the order in which the installed position is away from the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying unit.

  Preferably, the instructing unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in order of increasing sound volume of an operating sound estimated in an image forming operation in each image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the instruction unit determines an image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute a job in order of increasing sound volume of an operation sound estimated in a post-processing operation for a sheet after image formation in each image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, when the job for which the designation unit accepts the reservation is a job that does not require a post-processing operation on the paper after the image formation, the instructing unit includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses after the image formation. Prioritizing an image forming apparatus that does not have a means for post-processing operation on paper, an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job is determined.

  Preferably, when the job for which the designation unit accepts the reservation is a job that requires a post-processing operation on the paper after image formation, the instruction unit determines the position where each image forming apparatus is installed. Are determined in order of increasing distance from the designated image forming apparatus and in ascending order of the volume of the operating sound estimated in the post-processing operation.

  Preferably, the instruction unit gives priority to an image forming apparatus that forms an image in monochrome and does not form an image in color when the job for which the designation unit has accepted a reservation is a job that forms an image in monochrome. An image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job is determined.

  Preferably, the instruction unit gives an instruction to execute the job with priority given to being a tandem type color image forming apparatus when the job for which the designation unit has accepted the reservation is a job for forming an image in color. The image forming apparatus to be determined is determined.

  Preferably, the restriction information is a silent level that is a level that restricts the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit, and the instruction unit is an image specified by the specifying unit that is estimated when a job whose reservation is accepted by the specifying unit is executed. The job level, which is the level of the operation sound volume of the operation unit of the forming apparatus, is specified, and the job level specified for the job for which the specifying unit accepts the reservation is the operation unit of the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying unit If it is determined that the silent level acquired for the operating sound exceeds the permissible level, the volume of the operating sound of the operating unit that is estimated when executing the job for which the designation means accepts the reservation is limited by the restriction information. It is judged that the volume exceeds

  According to the above configuration, when the operation sound assumed during the operation of the job reserved for the image forming apparatus exceeds the volume restricted by the restriction information input to the image forming apparatus, Execution of the job is instructed to other image forming apparatuses in the image forming system.

  Thus, in the image forming system, it is intended to avoid a decrease in work efficiency and secure a temporary and local noise.

1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of an image forming system according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the hardware constitutions of the server of FIG. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the hardware constitutions of PC (personal computer) of FIG. It is a flowchart of a mode setting process. It is a flowchart of the subroutine of the job execution process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the subroutine of the job level determination process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the subroutine of the job level determination process of FIG. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the content of apparatus information. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of contents of a state of the image forming apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the content of the job corresponding to each of the job level in this Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the subroutine of the transfer process of FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a priority processing subroutine of FIG. 13. It is a flowchart of the process performed in the server of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the process performed in PC of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen displayed by the process of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen displayed by the process of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen displayed by the process of FIG.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same.

(First embodiment)
[Overall configuration of image forming system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of an image forming system according to the present embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 1, the image forming system of the present embodiment includes image forming apparatuses 1 </ b> A to 1 </ b> C, a server 2 that is an example of an information processing apparatus, and a personal computer (PC) 3. The image forming apparatuses 1A to 1C, the server 2, and the PC 3 are configured to be able to communicate with each other via the network N.

  The number of image forming apparatuses included in the image forming system is not limited to “3” shown in FIG. As the image forming apparatuses 1A to 1C, an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a facsimile transmitter / receiver, a copier, or an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) is assumed. In this specification, the image forming apparatuses (image forming apparatuses 1A to 1C) included in the image forming system are collectively referred to as “image forming apparatus 1” as appropriate.

[Entire configuration of image forming apparatus]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Referring to FIG. 2, image forming apparatus 1 includes a document conveying unit 20 that conveys a document, an image reading unit 26 that reads the conveyed document as image data, and an image that forms an image based on the read image data. The forming unit 10, the paper feeding units 15 and 16 for feeding the recording paper, the fixing unit 40 for fixing the image transferred to the recording paper, and the post-processing unit 30 for performing post-processing on the recording paper Including. Further, in the image forming apparatus 1, there are a control unit for controlling the whole, an operation unit for receiving an input of an instruction (an operation unit 112 described later), a display unit for displaying information (a display unit 111 described later), and the like. Provided. The image forming apparatus 1 is also provided with an in-machine fan 200 for cooling the in-machine temperature. The in-machine fan 200 is included in the image forming unit 10.

  The document placed on the document table 21 of the document transport unit 20 is transported by the transport roller 22 and the like, read by the image reading unit 26, and discharged to the paper discharge tray 23.

  A CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) 24 of the image reading unit 26 acquires image data obtained by reading a document conveyed by the document conveying unit 20, for example. And it outputs to the control part 50.

  The image forming unit 10 includes a photoconductor as an image carrier, a charging unit, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer roller, and the like, and forms an image on the recording paper P that is conveyed and the image surface is unfixed. The completed recording paper P is output to the fixing unit 40. Although not shown in the present example, four developing devices are provided, and color printing can be performed using each color of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black.

  The fixing unit 40 performs a fixing process on the recorded recording paper P that has not been fixed. The fixing unit 40 is provided with a fan 310, a fixing roller 312, and a heater 314 provided in the fixing roller 312.

  The sheet is discharged from the fixing unit 40 to the post-processing unit 30 as necessary, and the post-processing unit 30 performs post-processing such as punching and stapling.

The paper feeding units 15 and 16 feed the recording paper P to the image forming unit 10.
The paper feed unit 15 is provided with cassettes 132, 142, and 152 that store a plurality of recording papers having different sizes. Pickup rollers 131, 141, and 151 are provided corresponding to the cassettes 132, 142, and 152, respectively, and convey recording paper from the cassettes to the image forming unit 10. Further, the paper is fed from the paper feed unit 16 to the image forming unit 10 via the pickup roller 161. Note that recording sheets are conveyed one by one from the sheet feeding units 15 and 16 to the image forming unit 10.

  In addition, the image forming unit 10 is provided with a correction roller (not shown) for correcting the bending such as the inclination of the paper.

  The post-processing unit 30 is a stapler (stapler 87 to be described later) for stapling (stapling) the paper after image formation, a folding unit (folding unit 88 to be described later) for performing folding processing such as bi-folding, and the like. And a punch unit (a punch unit 89 described later) for punching holes. The post-processing unit 30 distributes the paper to the mail bins 92 to 96 and outputs the paper tray 91 and the mail bins 92 to 96 for discharging the paper on which the image is formed in the image forming unit 10. And mail bin finisher 97.

[Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus]
FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Referring to FIG. 3, image forming apparatus 1 includes CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 that controls the entire image forming apparatus 1, RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that temporarily stores data, and CPU 101. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 103 that stores programs to be executed, constants, and the like; a storage unit 104 that stores image data and the like; an output control unit 105 that controls paper discharge in the paper discharge unit 90; A communication I / O 106 for communicating with other devices such as a personal computer via a network, a display unit 111 for displaying information for assisting the state and operation of the image forming apparatus 1, and the user forming the image forming apparatus 1. Including an operation unit 112, an image reading unit 26, an image forming unit 10, and a post-processing unit 30. .

  In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the output control unit 105 is provided in the paper discharge unit 90. Further, the CPU 101, the RAM 102, the ROM 103, the storage unit 104, and the communication I / O 106 are provided in the control unit 100. Note that these arrangement locations may be changed.

  The post-processing unit 30 includes the above-described stapler 87, unit 88, punch unit 89, and mail bin finisher 97.

[Device information]
In the image forming apparatus 1, information such as positions of the plurality of image forming apparatuses that can be connected to the server 2 via the network N is stored in the storage unit 104, for example. Hereinafter, in this specification, information about a plurality of image forming apparatuses on the network N is referred to as apparatus information.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of device information.
Referring to FIG. 10, in the apparatus information, latitude and longitude are stored as position information for each image forming apparatus included in the image forming system. In the device information, a silence level set in each image forming apparatus is registered. The silent level will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In addition, the device information includes information about functions provided in each image forming apparatus (function information). The function information includes information for specifying whether each image forming apparatus is capable of color printing and has a function of performing post-processing of paper after image formation.

  If the function information has a color printing function, the function is a four-cycle method (development of each color of cyan (C), yellow (Y), magenta (M), and black (K) on one drum). Or a tandem system (cyan (C), yellow (Y), magenta (M), black (K)) that forms an image on each drum. The information specifying whether the color printer is realized by a color printer of the above type is stored. In FIG. 10, the former is indicated as “4 cycles” and the latter is indicated as “tandem”.

  The post-processing function described above is a function realized by the mail bin finisher 97, the stapler 87, the folding unit 88, and the punch unit 89. That is, in FIG. 10, the image forming apparatus having the mail bin finisher 97, the stapler 87, the folding unit 88, and the punch unit 89 is registered as “present” for the post-processing function, and does not include these. The post-processing function is registered as “None”.

  The apparatus information described with reference to FIG. 10 may be acquired by the image forming apparatus 1 communicating directly with another image forming apparatus via the network N, or the server 2 via the network N. May be generated and stored in the server 2 by communicating with each image forming apparatus 1. In this case, the CPU 101 of the image forming apparatus 1 acquires apparatus information by communicating with the server 2 via the network N.

[Server configuration]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the hardware configuration of the server 2.

  Referring to FIG. 4, server 2 stores a CPU 201 that is an arithmetic device for overall control, a program executed by CPU 201 for server 2 to realize the functions described in this specification, and the like. ROM 221, RAM 222 for functioning as a work area when the CPU 201 executes a program, HD (Hard Disk) 23 for storing device information, and a network for controlling communication via the network N Controller 25.

[PC configuration]
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the hardware configuration of the PC 3.

  Referring to FIG. 5, the PC 3 is configured by, for example, a general computer. As an example, the CPU 301 which is an arithmetic device for controlling the whole and the functions described in the specification of the PC 3 are described. The ROM 31 for storing a program executed by the CPU 301 to realize the above, the RAM 32 for functioning as a work area when the CPU 301 executes the program, and the PC 3 exhibit the functions described in this specification. HD 33 that stores data necessary for the communication and a network controller 35 for controlling communication via the network N are included.

[Operation of Image Forming Apparatus]
In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 can operate in a silent mode that limits the volume of operating sound for the image forming operation by the image forming unit 10. For this reason, the image forming apparatus 1 accepts settings for setting the image forming apparatus 1 in the silent mode, settings for canceling the silent mode, and other inputs for setting the state of the image forming apparatus 1. It is done.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 1 determines whether or not to execute the job for which the reservation is accepted by the own apparatus. Specifically, the operation sound of the image forming unit 10 or the like estimated at the time of execution of the reserved job is detected at that time (or the state of the image forming apparatus 1 before the job is executed (setting of the silent mode or the like). ) Is changed, it is determined whether or not the job is to be executed based on whether or not the sound volume is permitted in the changed setting content).

  Hereinafter, the characteristic features of the present embodiment among the operations of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of processing (mode setting processing) executed when a setting for specifying the state of the image forming apparatus 1 is input to the image forming apparatus 1 by operating the operation unit 112 or the like. is there.

  When receiving the setting input, the CPU 101 starts a mode setting process. The mode setting may be input by operating the operation unit 112 as described above, or input from the server 2, the PC 3, or another image forming apparatus 1 via the network N. May be.

  Referring to FIG. 6, in the mode setting process, CPU 101 first determines in step SA10 whether or not the input information is an input for designating the state of image forming apparatus 1, and uses such information. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step SA20, and if not, the process proceeds to step SA30. The state designated here is usually one of silent levels 1 to 5 described later with reference to FIG. 11 or complete silence.

  In step SA20, CPU 101 accepts the specification of the silence level based on the input setting, and proceeds to step SA30. When such designation is accepted, for example, the silent level specified for the own device stored in the storage unit 104 is updated to the latest input silent level. Further, the CPU 101 may update the silence level of the own device and transmit the updated silence level to the server 2, the PC 3, and / or another image forming apparatus 1 via the network N. Accordingly, in the apparatus information (see FIG. 10) stored in the server 2, the PC 3, and / or the other image forming apparatus 1, the image forming apparatus 1 (any one of the image forming apparatuses 1A to 1C in FIG. 1) is stored. ) Can be updated.

  Here, the silent level is a level corresponding to the range of jobs allowed to be executed in the silent mode of the image forming apparatus 1.

  In the present embodiment, the state of the image forming apparatus 1 includes, for example, a normal mode, a silent mode, and a complete silent mode as shown in FIG. 11, and in particular, the silent mode includes silent levels 1 to 5. .

  The normal mode is a state in which any job is allowed to be executed. The silent mode is a state in which the volume of the operation sound of the operation executed in the image forming unit 10 and / or the post-processing unit 30 is limited. Complete silence is a state in which job execution is prohibited. The silent mode includes silent levels 1 to 5 with different levels that limit the operating sound.

  The silent level 5 corresponds to a state in which job execution is permitted for a job that does not have a stapling operation. That is, when the silent level of the image forming apparatus 1 is set to 5, the image forming apparatus 1 does not execute the job on its own machine, but causes other image forming apparatuses 1 on the network N to execute the job. To instruct.

  The silent level 4 is a level corresponding to a state where the operating sound allowed is lower than the silent level 5, and in addition to the stapling operation limited by the silent level 5, further operation of the mail bin finisher 97 is necessary. Corresponds to a state in which execution of the job is prohibited. In other words, when the silent level of the image forming apparatus 1 is set to 4, the CPU 101 does not execute a job that requires the operation of the mail bin finisher 97 but causes the other image forming apparatus 1 to execute it. Instruct.

  In addition to the jobs prohibited in the silent levels 4 and 5, the silent level 3 can discharge all sheets related to the job to the discharge tray 91 (that is, mail using the mail bin finisher 97). This is a level for executing only jobs that do not require paper discharge to bins 92-96. In other words, in a state where the silent level is set to 3, the image forming apparatus 1 uses the mail bins 92 to 92 by the job mail bin finisher 97 that is equal to or more than the number of sheets that can be discharged onto the discharge tray 91 (upper limit value 1 described later). Execution of the job for discharging the sheet to 96 is prohibited.

  Silent level 2 is a state in which only jobs where the total number of sheets in a job is equal to or less than a predetermined speed (the total number of sheets described later is an upper limit of 2) are executed.

  The silent level 1 corresponds to a state in which only the execution of jobs that can be executed in a situation where the fan 200 is stopped at a level where the temperature rise in the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 does not reach a predetermined temperature (dangerous temperature).

  Complete silence corresponds to a state in which execution of all jobs in the image forming apparatus 1 is prohibited.

  Returning to FIG. 6, after accepting the designation of the silent level in step SA20, the CPU 101 determines whether or not priority information is input in step SA30. If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step SA40. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step SA50.

  Priority information refers to a plurality of image forming apparatuses 1 in the system when a job reserved for the own apparatus is instructed to be executed to another image forming apparatus 1 based on a set silence level. It is information that prescribes matters to be prioritized when selecting. As priorities, matters relating to functions possessed by the apparatus and matters relating to the distance from the image forming apparatus 1 which is the current processing target can be considered.

  In step SA40, the CPU 101 receives input of priority information, stores the information in the storage unit 104 (updates the priority information to the input if already stored), and proceeds to step SA50. To proceed.

  In step SA50, the CPU 101 determines whether there is a job reserved for the image forming apparatus 1. If it is determined that there is a job, the process proceeds to step SA60, and if it is not, the process returns to step SA10. .

  In step SA60, the process for executing the reserved job (job execution process) is executed, and then the process proceeds to step SA10.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the job execution processing subroutine of FIG.
Referring to FIG. 7, in the job execution process, CPU 101 first determines in step SA610 whether or not the state of its own device is completely silent (see FIG. 11). If so, the process proceeds to step SA650. If the process proceeds and if not, the process proceeds to step SA620.

  In step SA650, a process for transferring a job reserved for the own apparatus to another image forming apparatus 1 is executed, and the process returns to FIG. The contents of step SA650 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step SA620, CPU 101 determines the level of the reserved job and advances the process to step S630.

  Here, the process of step SA620 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 which are flowcharts of a subroutine of the process.

  First, referring to FIG. 8, in order to determine the job level, the CPU 101 first determines in step SB10 whether the reserved job requires the operation of the stapler 87, and so on. If so, the process proceeds to step SB20. If not, the process proceeds to step SB30.

  In step SB20, the CPU 101 sets the level of the reserved job as A and returns the process to FIG.

  On the other hand, in step SB30, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the reserved job requires the operation of the mail bin finisher 97. If it is determined that it is necessary, the CPU 101 proceeds to step SB40 and determines that it is not required. Then, the process proceeds to step SB50.

  In step SB40, the CPU 101 determines that the level of the reserved job is 5, and returns the process to FIG.

  In step SB50, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the number of sheets on which images are formed in the reserved job exceeds a predetermined number (upper limit value 1 (P1)). Then, the process proceeds to step SB60, and if it is determined that it is P1 or less, the process proceeds to step SB70.

  In step SB60, the CPU 101 determines that the level of the reserved job is 4, and returns the process to FIG.

  On the other hand, in step SB70, the CPU 101 determines that the number of sheets on which images are formed in the reserved job is a value smaller than the above-described P1 and a predetermined number (upper limit value 2 (P2)). The process proceeds to step SB80 if it is determined that it is exceeded, and the process proceeds to step SB90 if it is determined that it is P2 or less.

  In step SB80, the CPU 101 determines that the level of the reserved job is 3, and returns the process to FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 9, in step SB90, CPU 101 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous printing operation (image forming operation) was performed in the own device. If it is determined that this is the case, the process proceeds to step SB100, and if it is determined that a predetermined time has already elapsed, the process proceeds to step SB110.

  In step SB100, the CPU 101 determines that the level of the reserved job is 2, and returns the process to FIG.

  On the other hand, in step SB110, the CPU 101 determines that the level of the reserved job is 1, and returns the process to FIG.

Here, the “job level” in the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the corresponding job for each job level in the present embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, the job level includes A and 6 levels 1 to 5 as shown in FIG. Job levels 1 to 5 and A correspond to the silent levels 1 to 5 and A described with reference to FIG.

  That is, if the job level is A, execution of the job is permitted only when the image forming apparatus 1 is in the normal state.

  If the job level is 5, the execution of the job is permitted only when the state of the image forming apparatus 1 is the normal state or the silent level 5.

  If the job level is 4, execution of the job is permitted only when the state of the image forming apparatus 1 is the normal state or the silent level 4 or 5.

  If the job level is 3, the execution of the job is permitted only when the state of the image forming apparatus 1 is the normal state or the silent level 3 to 5.

  If the job level is 2, the execution of the job is permitted only when the state of the image forming apparatus 1 is the normal state or the silent level 2 to 5.

  If the job level is 1, the execution of the job is permitted only when the state of the image forming apparatus 1 is the normal state or the silent level 1 to 5.

  Returning to FIG. 7, after determining the job level of the reserved job in step SA620, the CPU 101 advances the process to step SA630.

  In step SA630, CPU 101 determines whether the job level determined in step SA620 does not exceed the state of the own device (including the silent level) stored in storage unit 104, and determines that it does not exceed. The process proceeds to step SA640, and if not, the process proceeds to step SA650. Note that the job level does not exceed the state of the own device, as described above, is in a range where execution is permitted in a state where the job level is set in the image forming apparatus 1 (normal or silent level). Means that.

  In step SA640, CPU 101 executes the print operation for the reserved job and returns the process to FIG.

  In the job execution processing described above, based on the determination result of step SA630, the reserved job is executed by itself (step SA640), or is transferred to another image forming apparatus 1 to instruct execution. (Step SA650) is determined. In the process of step SA640, the operating sound level that is estimated to be generated in the execution of the reserved job is permitted to be generated in the image forming apparatus 1 (silent level). This corresponds to the determination of whether or not: If it is determined that the former is equal to or less than the latter, the reserved job is executed by the own device in step SA640. If the former is determined to exceed the latter, the job is executed by another image forming apparatus 1. To instruct.

  Next, the contents of the transfer process in step SA650 will be described with reference to FIG. 13 which is a flowchart of the process subroutine.

  Referring to FIG. 13, in the transfer process, CPU 101 first reads apparatus information (see FIG. 10) in step SC <b> 10 to confirm information of each image forming apparatus 1 on network N, and then proceeds to step SC <b> 20. Proceed with the process.

  In step SC20, the CPU 101 executes processing (priority processing) for setting conditions for determining a job transfer destination image forming apparatus 1 from among the other image forming apparatuses 1 on the network N, and step SC30. Proceed to the process.

  Here, the contents of the priority process in step SC20 will be described with reference to FIG. 14 which is a flowchart of the subroutine of the process.

  Referring to FIG. 14, in the priority process, CPU 101 first reads the job level determined in step SA620 in step SC210, and advances the process to step SC220.

  In step SC220, the CPU 101 refers to the apparatus information read in step SC10, selects an image forming apparatus that can execute the job to be transferred (reserved job), and performs the process in step SC230. Proceed.

  In step SC220, “executable” image forming apparatus means an image forming apparatus having a function required by a job to be transferred. For example, if the job requires color printing, an image forming apparatus having a color printing function is selected in step SC220. If the job to be transferred requires processing by the mail bin finisher 97, the stapler 87, the folding unit 88, or the punch unit 89, in step SC220, the image forming apparatus having the post-processing function is displayed. Selected.

  In step SC230, the CPU 101 reads the priority information registered in the storage unit 104 to determine whether or not a distance is set as a priority item based on the priority information. The process proceeds to SC270.

  On the other hand, if the distance is not set as a priority item, the process proceeds to step SC240.

  In step SC270, the image forming apparatuses selected in step SC200 are arranged in order of distance from the own apparatus, and the process returns to FIG. Note that the distance from the image forming apparatus 1 to the image forming apparatus 1 can be calculated based on the position information of the apparatus information (see FIG. 10).

  In the apparatus information, instead of storing the position information of each image forming apparatus 1, the order of the distance from the image forming apparatus 1 that is the processing target or the order of the distance of each image forming apparatus 1. May be stored. Specifically, in the apparatus information, instead of the position information, for example, as shown in Table 1, even if the distance priority level is stored for each image forming apparatus 1 so that the level becomes higher as the apparatus is farther away. good.

  In this case, in step SC <b> 270, the image forming apparatuses 1 having higher distance priority levels are arranged in a higher order.

  In step SC240, CPU 101 determines whether or not the function of the apparatus is set as a priority item in the priority information. If it is determined that the function is set, the process proceeds to step SC260. The process proceeds to SC250.

  In step SC260, the CPU 101 arranges the image forming apparatuses selected in step SC220 in descending order of the functions provided, and returns the process to FIG.

  Here, the function level of each image forming apparatus 1 is determined based on the content of the function information of the apparatus information (see FIG. 10), for example. Specifically, the one that has both the color printing function and the post-processing function is the highest, and then the one that does not have the color printing function but has the post-processing function. , Having no post-processing function, but having a color printing function (tandem), then having a color printing function (4 cycles), then, both color printing function and post-processing function It is in the order of those that do not have.

  In the apparatus information, for each image forming apparatus 1, an apparatus priority level corresponding to the type of each image forming apparatus 1 as shown in Table 2 may be stored instead of the function information.

  In Table 2, “monochrome printer” means a small desktop low-speed printer. “Color printer (1)” means a four-cycle color printer. The color printer (2) means a tandem color printer. The “monochrome multifunction device (1)” means a multifunction device having a low speed (relatively low image forming speed). “Monochrome MFP (2)” means a monochrome MFP capable of bookbinding (including the post-processing unit 30 in the image forming apparatus 1). “Color MFP (1)” means a MFP capable of color printing. “Color MFP (2)” means a color MFP capable of bookbinding.

  In this case, the image forming apparatuses 1 having higher apparatus priority levels are arranged in a higher order.

  In step SC250, the CPU 101 arranges the image forming apparatuses selected in step SC220 in consideration of both the distance and the function of the apparatus, and returns the process to FIG. In addition, the arrangement | positioning which considered both can consider giving a point about a function and distance, and arranging in the order of the said point, for example. For example, the point is set to one point every time the image forming apparatus 1 is separated from the image forming apparatus 1 by a predetermined distance. Further, 4 points are added when the post-processing function is provided, and 0 points are added when the post-processing function is not provided. In addition, when a color printing function is provided, 3 points are added if a color (tandem) printing function is provided, and 1 point is added if a color (4 cycles) is provided. If the color function is not provided, points are not added.

  In this way, points are calculated for each image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatuses are arranged in descending order of the points.

  As described with reference to Table 1 and Table 2, when the distance priority level and the device priority level are stored in the device information, the image forming devices are arranged in descending order of the sum of these levels. Is done.

  Returning to FIG. 13, after selecting and arranging the image forming apparatuses in step SC20, the CPU 101 selects the image forming apparatus based on the job level and the silent level in step SC30, and then proceeds to step SC40. Proceed with the process.

  In step SC30, specifically, in the image forming apparatus selected in step SC220, the silent level is equal to or higher than the job level determined in step SA620 (see FIG. 7), and step SC250. In step SC270, the image forming apparatus arranged at the top is selected.

  In step SC40, the CPU 101 executes processing for transferring the data of the job to be transferred to the image forming apparatus selected in step SC30, and returns the processing to FIG.

  In step SC40, if the reserved job data is transferred to the image forming apparatus 1, the job data is transferred to the image forming apparatus selected in step SC30.

  On the other hand, in step SA50, it is assumed that the job main body data has not yet been transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1, and only information for reserving a job is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1.

  In this case, in step SC40, for example, the server 2 which stores the data of the reserved job body is instructed to transfer the job body data to step SC30.

  In step SC40, the display unit 111 may display that the data is transferred to the image forming apparatus selected in step SC30.

  In the present embodiment described above, the state of the image forming apparatus 1 such as the silence level described with reference to FIG. 11 is an example of restriction information regarding the volume of the operating sound when a job is executed in the image forming apparatus. Also, the job level described with reference to FIG. 12 is an example of a volume index that is estimated to occur during the execution of a job. However, the manner in which these information and indicators are specified is not limited to that described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

  For example, when the image forming apparatus is a four-cycle color printer, the restriction information regarding the image forming apparatus may be set to one of three states as shown in Table 3, for example.

  The three states include “normal state”, “silent level 1 state”, and “completely silent state”. If the state of the image forming apparatus 1 to be processed is a normal state, any job is executed by itself. If the silent level 1 state, if the reserved job is monochrome printing, it is executed by itself, and if color printing is required, the other image forming apparatus 1 is instructed to execute the job. If it is in a completely silent state, it instructs other image forming apparatus 1 to execute the job regardless of the reserved job.

  In the present embodiment described above, among the plurality of image forming apparatuses 1 configuring the image forming system, the image forming apparatus 1 that has received a job reservation constitutes an image forming apparatus, and job transfer is performed. An image forming apparatus is configured by the image forming apparatus 1 other than that.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment described above, when a job is reserved for an image forming apparatus 1 in the image forming system, the image forming apparatus 1 sets the reserved job in its own apparatus. It is determined whether or not the reserved job can be executed based on the setting level of the silent level. If it is determined that the reserved job cannot be executed, the other image forming apparatus 1 constituting the system is instructed to execute the job. The process to do was executed.

  In the present embodiment, in the image forming system of FIG. 1, a reservation job is registered from the image forming apparatus 1 or the PC 3 to the server 2. The server 2 determines whether or not the reserved job can be executed by the image forming apparatus 1 specified in the reserved content. If the server 2 determines that the reserved job cannot be executed, the server 2 instructs the other image forming apparatus 1 to execute the job. To do.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart of processing executed by the CPU 201 when a job is reserved in the server 2 according to the present embodiment. This process is realized by the CPU 201 executing a program stored in the HD 23 or the ROM 221, for example. Further, as a premise for executing this processing, information (reservation information) for reserving a job is transmitted from the PC 3 or the image forming apparatus 1 to the server 2.

  Referring to FIG. 15, CPU 201 first reads device information (see FIG. 10) in step SD10, and advances the process to step SD20.

  In step SD20, the CPU 201 determines the job level of the reserved job and advances the process to step SD30. Note that the determination of the job level is realized, for example, according to the contents described with reference to FIGS.

  In step SD30, the CPU 201 compares the silent level of the reserved job with the job level determined in step SD20 to determine whether the image forming apparatus specified by the reservation information can execute the reserved job. If it is determined that it can be executed, the process proceeds to step SD40, and if it cannot be executed, the process proceeds to step SD50. In step SD30, when the job level determined in step SD20 does not exceed the silent level (registered in the apparatus information) for the image forming apparatus specified in the reservation information (see step S630 in FIG. 7). ), It is determined that the designated image forming apparatus can execute the job. Otherwise, it is determined that the job cannot be executed.

  In step SD40, the CPU 201 instructs the image forming apparatus 1 designated by the reservation information to execute the reserved job, and ends the process.

  On the other hand, in step SD50, the CPU 201 determines an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the reserved job, and advances the process to step SD60.

  As described with reference to FIG. 14, the image forming apparatus in step SD50 is determined after selecting an image forming apparatus that can execute the reserved job (see step SC220). Are arranged in accordance with the priority information (see step SC250 to step SC270), and the noise level set in the arranged image forming apparatuses is an image forming apparatus having a job level or higher determined in step SD20. Thus, the image forming apparatus having the highest rank in the arrangement is selected (see step SC30).

  In step SD60, the CPU 201 instructs the image forming apparatus determined in step SD50 to process the reserved job, and ends the process.

  In the present embodiment, the reservation information transmitted to the server 2 includes information specifying any one of the image forming apparatuses 1 included in the image forming system. When the reserved job level is not permitted to be executed by the designated image forming apparatus 1, the execution is instructed to the other image forming apparatus 1.

  Note that the reservation information may not include information specifying the image forming apparatus 1. In other words, the server 2 may select an image forming apparatus that instructs execution of a job from the plurality of image forming apparatuses 1 included in the image forming system according to the processing described with reference to FIG. In this case, “the order in which the distance from the designated image forming apparatus is away” is “the order in which the distance is away from the specific place”. For example, in the office, a place where a telephone is installed or a place where a customer is greeted can be considered.

[Third Embodiment]
In the image forming system according to the present embodiment, the PC 3 is characterized by processing related to job reservation (instruction) using a print driver installed in the PC 3.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart of processing executed for print job instruction in the PC 3 according to the present embodiment.

  When the print driver of the image forming apparatus 1 (any one of the image forming apparatuses 1A to 1C) designated to instruct execution of the job is activated in a state where the print job is specified in the PC 3, in step SE10. The CPU 301 reads the device information (see FIG. 10) and advances the process to step SE20. In the present embodiment, the device information may be stored in the HD 33 of the PC 3 or may be registered in the server 2 or the image forming apparatus 1. If the device information is registered in the server 2 or the image forming apparatus 1, the CPU 301 reads the device information via the network N in step SE10. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen by the printer driver. When the printer driver is activated in the PC 3, a screen 900 as shown in FIG. 17 is displayed on the display device connected to the PC 3 as a monitor of the PC 3. The screen 900 includes a button 901 and a button 902. A button 902 is a button operated to cancel a job execution instruction. A button 901 is a button operated to instruct the image forming apparatus 1 specified by the printer driver to execute a job. Step SE10 is executed in response to the operation of the button 901.

  In step SE20, the CPU 301 determines the job level of the specified job and advances the process to step SE30. The determination of the job level is realized, for example, according to the contents described with reference to FIGS.

  In step SE30, the CPU 301 is an image forming apparatus included in the image forming system, and is capable of executing the job specified as described above from among the image forming apparatuses in which the driver is installed in the PC 3. The device is selected, and the process proceeds to step SE40. Here, an image forming apparatus capable of executing a job is a function required by the job and each image forming apparatus registered in the apparatus information (see FIG. 10), as in step SC220 (see FIG. 14). And the function information.

  In step SE40, a screen for inquiring whether or not a job execution instruction can be given to the image forming apparatus arranged at the top of the image forming apparatuses selected in step SE30 is displayed, and the process proceeds to step SE50. .

  An example of the screen displayed on the display device connected to the PC 30 as a monitor in step SE40 is shown in FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 18, on screen 910, a message 913 including information for specifying the image forming apparatus arranged at the highest level among the image forming apparatuses selected in step SE30 is displayed.

  The screen 910 includes a button 911 that is operated when agreeing to instruct the image forming apparatus to execute the job, and a button 912 that is operated when not agreeing.

  In step SE50, an input to the information displayed in step SE40 is accepted. If the input agrees with the job instruction, the process proceeds to step SE70, and if the input does not agree, the process proceeds to step SE60.

  In step SE70, the CPU 301 instructs the image forming apparatus arranged at the top of the image forming apparatuses selected in step SE30 to execute a job, and ends the process.

  On the other hand, in step SE <b> 60, the CPU 301 receives the designation of the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job, instructs the designated image forming apparatus to execute the job, and ends the processing.

  The designation of the image forming apparatus in step SE60 is performed by, for example, displaying the image forming apparatus selected in step SE30 as a candidate on the display device, and selecting an image forming apparatus from the image forming apparatuses displayed as the candidate. It is realized by accepting information to do. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displaying candidates for the image forming apparatus.

  Referring to FIG. 19, on screen 920, image forming apparatus candidates are displayed in display field 923. In the display field 923, the names (printers 1 to 7) of all the image forming apparatuses whose drivers are installed in the PC 3 are displayed. However, in the display column 923, the name of the image forming apparatus selected in step SE30 is displayed in a mode different from that of the image forming apparatus not selected. Specifically, for example, the display color and the size of the displayed character are displayed differently. In FIG. 19, in the display column 923, the display mode is different by hatching the names of the image forming apparatuses. For example, the names of the image forming apparatuses (printer 3 to printer 6) with hatching are the names of the image forming apparatuses selected in step SE30, and the names of the other image forming apparatuses (printer, printer 2, printer) 7) is the name of the image forming apparatus other than that selected in step SE30.

  On the screen 920, the user is allowed to select an image forming apparatus from only the image forming apparatuses having names displayed with hatching. The CPU 301 does not accept an input for selecting another image forming apparatus.

  The screen 920 includes a button 921 that is operated when instructing the selected image forming apparatus to execute a job, and a button 922 that is operated to cancel the instruction to execute the job.

  When one image forming apparatus is selected from the image forming apparatuses displayed with the name hatched in the display field 923 and the button 921 is operated, the CPU 301 executes the job to the designated image forming apparatus. (Step SE60) and the process of FIG. 16 is terminated.

  In the display field 923, the name of the image forming apparatus (printer 6) arranged at the top of the image forming apparatuses selected in step SE30 is displayed as the name of the other selected image forming apparatus (printer 3). It is preferable to display in a mode different from that of the printer 5).

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1, 1A to 1C Image forming apparatus, 2 server, 3 PC, 101, 201, 301 CPU, N network.

Claims (30)

An image forming apparatus constituting an image forming system together with a plurality of image forming devices,
An operating unit that operates to form an image on recording paper;
Accepting means for accepting a reservation for a job to be executed by the operating unit;
Control means for causing the operating unit to execute the job,
The accepting unit obtains an instruction input of restriction information related to the volume of operating sound of the operating unit,
The control means accepts the reservation when the volume of the operation sound of the operating unit estimated at the time of execution of the job for which the acceptance means accepts the reservation exceeds the volume restricted by the restriction information. An image forming apparatus that instructs the image forming apparatus instead of causing the operating unit to execute the job.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job based on a position where each of the image forming apparatuses is installed.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit determines the image forming apparatus instructing execution of the job in priority in the order in which the installed position is away from the image forming apparatus.   The control unit determines the image forming device that gives an instruction to execute the job in priority from the smallest volume of the operation sound estimated in the image forming operation in each image forming device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3.   The control means determines the image forming apparatus instructing execution of the job in priority from the smallest volume of the operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation for the paper after image formation in each of the image forming apparatuses. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   When the job for which the accepting unit has accepted the reservation is a job that does not require a post-processing operation on the paper after the image formation, the control unit includes a plurality of post-image formation devices among the plurality of image forming devices. The image according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job is determined with priority on the image forming apparatus that does not have a means for a post-processing operation on a sheet. Forming equipment.   When the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job that requires a post-processing operation on a sheet after image formation, the position of each image forming device is set as the position of the image forming device. The image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job is preferentially determined in an order from a distance from the forming apparatus and in ascending order of the volume of operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6.   The control unit gives priority to the image forming apparatus that forms an image in monochrome and does not form an image in color when the job for which the reception unit has accepted the reservation is a job that forms an image in monochrome. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job is determined.   When the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job for forming an image in color, the control unit gives priority to being a tandem type color image forming device and instructs the execution of the job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus to be determined is determined. The restriction information is a silent level that is a level that restricts the volume of the operating sound of the operating unit,
The control means includes
Specifying a job level that is a level of a volume of an operating sound of the operating unit that is estimated when the accepting unit accepts a reservation;
The accepting means when it is determined that the job level specified for the job accepted by the accepting means exceeds an allowable level in the silent level acquired for the operating sound of the operating unit. The image formation according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the image forming unit determines that the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit estimated when executing the job for which the reservation is accepted exceeds the volume limited by the restriction information. apparatus. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
Each of the image forming apparatuses includes an operation unit that executes a job,
A reception means for accepting job reservations;
Storage means for storing restriction information regarding the volume of operating sound of the operating unit for each of the image forming apparatuses;
Based on the volume of the operating sound in the operating section of each of the image forming apparatuses estimated at the time of execution of the job for which the reception unit has accepted the reservation, and the volume limited by the restriction information on each of the image forming apparatuses An information processing apparatus comprising: a determination unit that determines the image forming apparatus that instructs a job that the reception unit has received a reservation from among the plurality of image forming apparatuses.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the determining unit determines the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job based on a position where each of the image forming apparatuses is installed.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the determination unit determines the image forming apparatus instructing execution of the job in priority in the order in which the installed position is away from a specific place.   12. The determination unit according to claim 11, wherein the determination unit determines the image forming apparatus instructing execution of the job in priority from the smallest volume of the operation sound estimated in the image forming operation in each image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of 13.   The determination unit determines the image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job in priority from the smallest volume of the operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation for the paper after image formation in each of the image forming apparatuses. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 14.   If the job whose reservation is accepted by the accepting unit is a job that does not require a post-processing operation on a sheet after image formation, the determination unit includes a plurality of post-image formation units among the plurality of image formation apparatuses. The information according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job is determined by giving priority to the image forming apparatus that does not have a means for a post-processing operation on a sheet. Processing equipment.   The determination unit determines whether the position where each of the image forming apparatuses is installed is a specific position when the job whose reservation is received by the receiving unit is a job that requires a post-processing operation on a sheet after image formation. 12. The image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job is preferentially determined in the order of distance from a place and in a descending order of the volume of operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation. Item 17. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Items 16.   In the case where the job accepted by the accepting unit is a job for forming a monochrome image, the determining unit gives priority to the image forming apparatus that forms a monochrome image and does not form a color image. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job is determined.   The determination unit gives an instruction to execute the job with priority given to being a tandem type color image forming apparatus when the job accepted by the receiving unit is a job for forming an image in color. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the image forming apparatus to be determined is determined. The restriction information is a silent level that is a level that restricts the volume of the operating sound of the operating unit,
The determining means includes
Specifying a job level that is a level of a volume of an operating sound of the operating unit that is estimated when the accepting unit accepts a reservation;
The reception unit has received a reservation for the image forming apparatus in which the silence level stored in the storage unit is a level that allows the job level specified for the job for which the reception unit has received a reservation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the information processing apparatus is determined as the image forming apparatus that instructs a job. An image forming program executed in a computer connectable to an image forming system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
Each of the image forming apparatuses includes an operation unit that operates to form an image on recording paper,
Designation means for designating one image forming apparatus and job;
Obtaining means for obtaining restriction information on the volume of operating sound of the operating unit for each of the image forming apparatuses; and
The volume of the operating sound in the operating unit of the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying means estimated when the job specified by the specifying means is executed is determined by the restriction information for the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying means. When the volume exceeds the restricted volume, it functions as an instruction unit for instructing the other image forming apparatus to execute the job designated by the designation unit instead of instructing the image forming apparatus designated by the designation unit. Program for image formation.   The image forming program according to claim 21, wherein the instruction unit determines the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job based on a position where each of the image forming apparatuses is installed.   23. The image forming apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the instruction unit preferentially determines the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job in the order in which the installed position is away from the image forming apparatus designated by the designation unit. Image forming program.   The said instruction | indication means determines the said image forming apparatus which instruct | indicates execution of the said job preferentially in order with a small volume of the operating sound estimated in the image forming operation in each said image forming apparatus. 24. The image forming program according to any one of 23.   The instruction unit determines the image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job in priority from the smallest volume of the operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation for the paper after image formation in each image forming apparatus; 25. The image forming program according to any one of claims 21 to 24.   When the job for which the designation unit has received a reservation is a job that does not require post-processing operation on the paper after the image formation, the instructing unit includes a plurality of post-image forming units among the plurality of image forming apparatuses. The image according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein the image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job is determined by giving priority to the image forming apparatus that does not have a means for a post-processing operation on paper. Forming program.   When the job for which the designation unit has received a reservation is a job that requires a post-processing operation on paper after image formation, the instruction unit determines the position where each image forming apparatus is installed The image forming apparatus that gives an instruction to execute the job is preferentially selected in the order of the distance from the image forming apparatus designated by the means, and in the order of the volume of the operation sound estimated in the post-processing operation. The image forming program according to any one of claims 21 to 26.   In the case where the job for which the designation unit has accepted the reservation is a job for forming an image in monochrome, the instruction unit gives priority to the image forming apparatus that forms an image in monochrome and does not form an image in color. 28. The image forming program according to claim 21, wherein the image forming apparatus that instructs execution of the job is determined.   The instruction means gives an instruction to execute the job with priority given to being a tandem type color image forming apparatus when the job whose reservation is accepted by the designation means is a job for forming an image in color. The image forming program according to any one of claims 21 to 28, wherein the image forming apparatus to be determined is determined. The restriction information is a silent level that is a level that restricts the volume of the operating sound of the operating unit,
The instruction means includes
Specifying a job level, which is a level about the volume of the operating sound of the operating section of the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying unit, which is estimated when the specifying unit receives a reservation;
The job level specified for the job for which the designation unit has accepted the reservation exceeds an allowable level in the silent level acquired for the operating sound of the operating unit of the image forming apparatus specified by the specifying unit. 23. When it is determined that the volume of the operation sound of the operation unit estimated when the job for which the reservation is accepted is executed, the determination unit determines that the volume of the operation sound exceeds the volume limited by the restriction information. 30. The image forming program according to claim 29.

Images