JP2012252615A - Image forming system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve security.SOLUTION: In an image forming system where a plurality of multifunction machines are connected capable of data communication with one another via a network, when a user name and password of a user A are input to a first multifunction machine (step S1) and the user A is permitted to log in to the first multifunction machine (step S2; YES), the user A logs in to the first multifunction machine (step S3). Inquiry for the log-in state of the user A is then issued to other multifunction machines in the network (step S4), and it is determined if the user A has logged in to another multifunction machine on the basis of the result of the inquiry (step S5). If the user A has logged in to another multifunction machine (step S5; YES), an instruction for the user A to log out is transmitted to the other multifunction machine logged in by the user A (step S6).

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system.

  In recent years, in an environment in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected under a network, a plurality of image forming apparatuses are used depending on the installation location and the function / performance to be used. In some cases, when using the image forming apparatus, a login operation is required, and only registered users are allowed to use the image forming apparatus. For example, a billing management device that performs billing control appropriately when the same user logs in to a plurality of image forming apparatuses at the same time has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-176631

  However, if a user who has logged in to an image forming apparatus logs in to another image forming apparatus and forgets to log out from the image forming apparatus that previously logged in, the user logged in first Another user can use the image forming apparatus. In this case, it is meaningless to allow only registered users to use it, and there was a security problem. Further, if a user who is not present is logged in to the image forming apparatus unnecessarily, another person cannot log in to the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus cannot be used properly. There was also a problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to improve security.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is an image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a network so that data communication is possible, and each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses is connected. Includes a storage unit that stores first authentication information corresponding to a user permitted to log in to the image forming apparatus, an operation unit for inputting second authentication information, and a first input from the operation unit. And a control unit that permits log-in to the image forming apparatus when the two authentication information matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit, and one user has the plurality of image forming apparatuses When the user logs in to one of the image forming apparatuses, the control unit of the one image forming apparatus determines whether there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in. of Za is already if there is another image forming apparatus that is logged in, to the other image forming apparatus, and transmits the instruction to log out of the one user.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the first aspect, the control unit of the one image forming apparatus controls the other image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Based on the result of inquiring whether or not one user is logged in, it is determined whether or not there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the first or second aspect, the control unit of the other image forming apparatus gives an instruction to log out the one user from the one image forming apparatus. If it is received, it is determined whether or not the job of the one user is being executed. If the job of the one user is being executed, the job is executed after the job being executed is completed. Log out the user.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the control unit of the other image forming apparatus is configured to control the one user from the one image forming apparatus. When an instruction to log out is received, it is determined whether or not the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state. If the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state, a login is performed. Maintain state.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the fourth aspect, the predetermined function setting state is different from a default setting.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the fourth aspect, the predetermined function setting state is a state in which a predetermined number or more of setting items are changed from default values.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the fourth aspect, the predetermined function setting state is a state in which a predetermined setting item is changed from a default value.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a server are connected via a network so that data communication is possible, and the server includes the plurality of image forming apparatuses. A storage unit that stores first authentication information corresponding to each user who is permitted to log in, and second authentication information received from any one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses is the storage unit. A first control unit that transmits an authentication result indicating whether or not the first authentication information stored in the first authentication information matches the image forming apparatus that is a transmission source of the second authentication information. Each of the image forming apparatuses transmits an operation unit for inputting the second authentication information and the second authentication information input from the operation unit to the server, and receives the authentication result received from the server. Base And a second control unit that determines whether or not to permit login to the image forming apparatus, wherein the first control unit receives from one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. If there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in when the second authentication information of the one user matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit. If there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in, an instruction to log out the one user is transmitted to the other image forming apparatus.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the eighth aspect, the server stores a second storage unit that stores login state information indicating a user's login state with respect to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses transmits information indicating that a user has logged in or logged out to the server, and the first control unit includes the plurality of image forming apparatuses. The login state information stored in the second storage unit is updated based on information indicating that the user has logged in or logged out of the image forming apparatus received from any one of the image forming apparatuses. And another image in which the one user has already logged in based on the login state information stored in the second storage unit. It is determined whether there is formed device.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the eighth or ninth aspect, the second control unit of the other image forming apparatus receives an instruction to log out the one user from the server. If the job of the one user is being executed, and if the job of the one user is being executed, the job of the one user is completed. Log out the user.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the second control unit of the other image forming apparatus logs out the one user from the server. When the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state, it is determined whether the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state. To maintain.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the eleventh aspect, the predetermined function setting state is different from a default setting.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the eleventh aspect, the predetermined function setting state is a state in which a predetermined number or more of setting items are changed from default values.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the eleventh aspect, the predetermined function setting state is a state in which a predetermined setting item is changed from a default value.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent other image forming apparatuses from being left in a logged-in state, and to improve security.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is determined whether there is another image forming apparatus to which one user has already logged in by making an inquiry to all the other image forming apparatuses. Can do.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the user from logging out without completing the job.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to determine whether or not to log out according to the state of another image forming apparatus.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when there is a setting change in another image forming apparatus, the setting state can be maintained.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when there is a setting change for a predetermined number or more of setting items in another image forming apparatus, the setting state can be maintained.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when there is a setting change for a setting item that is predetermined in another image forming apparatus, the setting state can be maintained.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent other image forming apparatuses from being left in a logged-in state, and to improve security.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to determine whether there is another image forming apparatus in which one user has already logged in based on the login state information.

  According to the invention described in claim 10, it is possible to prevent the user from logging out without completing the job.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, whether or not to log out can be determined according to the state of another image forming apparatus.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, when there is a setting change in another image forming apparatus, the setting state can be maintained.

  According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, when there is a setting change for a predetermined number or more of setting items in another image forming apparatus, the setting state can be maintained.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, when there is a setting change for a setting item that is predetermined in another image forming apparatus, the setting state can be maintained.

1 is a system configuration diagram of an image forming system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a multifunction machine. It is a figure which shows the structure of an operation part. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a login process executed in the multifunction machine according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart illustrating logout processing executed in the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the logout process in the modification 1 of 1st Embodiment. It is an example of an image quality adjustment screen. It is a figure for demonstrating an expansion continuous shooting function. It is an example of an expansion continuous shooting setting screen. It is a flowchart which shows the logout process in the modification 2 of 1st Embodiment. FIG. 3 is a system configuration diagram of an image forming system according to a second embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of a server. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a login process executed in the multifunction machine according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the login status management process performed in the server of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the logout instruction | indication process performed in the server of 2nd Embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating logout processing executed in the multifunction peripheral according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the logout process in the modification 1 of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the logout process in the modification 2 of 2nd Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
First, a first embodiment of an image forming system according to the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 shows a system configuration of an image forming system 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, an image forming system 100 includes a multifunction peripheral (MFP: Multi-fu) as an image forming apparatus.
, 10 n are connected via a network N so that data communication is possible.

  The multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b,..., 10n are multipurpose image forming apparatuses having a printer function, a copy function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function.

  FIG. 2 shows a functional configuration of the multifunction machine 10a. As shown in FIG. 2, the multifunction machine 10a includes a central processing unit (CPU) 11, a read only memory (ROM) 12, a random access memory (RAM) 13, a storage unit 14, an operation unit 15, and a display unit. 16, an image reading unit 17, an image forming unit 18, a post-processing unit 19, a network I / F (InterFace) unit 20, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) I / F unit 21, a public line I / F unit 22, and the like. Each part is connected by a bus 23.

  The CPU 11 comprehensively controls processing operations of the respective units of the multifunction machine 10a. The CPU 11 reads out various processing programs stored in the ROM 12 and develops them in the RAM 13, and performs overall control of each function such as a printer function, a copy function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function in cooperation with the program.

  The ROM 12 is configured by a nonvolatile semiconductor memory or the like, and stores various processing programs, parameters and files necessary for executing the programs.

The RAM 13 forms a work area for temporarily storing various processing programs executed by the CPU 11 and data related to these programs.
For example, the RAM 13 stores the job data before execution in association with the user who has instructed execution of the job. A job is a series of operations related to image formation. For example, when a copy made of a document of a predetermined page is created, a job is a series of operations related to image formation of a document of a predetermined page. When performed, it refers to a series of operations related to image formation of a plurality of copies.

The storage unit 14 includes a storage device such as a nonvolatile semiconductor memory or a hard disk, and stores data related to various processes.
The storage unit 14 stores first authentication information (user name, password) corresponding to a user (registered user) permitted to log in to the multifunction peripheral 10a in advance.
The storage unit 14 stores function mode information indicating the currently designated function mode (copy mode, scan mode, FAX mode, etc.) in the multifunction machine 10a.
The storage unit 14 stores setting information in the multifunction machine 10a. The setting information includes a setting value and information indicating whether or not there is a change from the default value for each setting item. The setting information includes various information set in the multifunction machine 10a, such as image forming conditions (paper, number of copies, magnification, duplex / single-sided, aggregation, etc.), post-processing conditions (sort, staple, punch, etc.).
The storage unit 14 stores transmission destination information in the scan mode and the FAX mode for each registered user.

  The operation unit 15 is a functional unit that accepts an operation by a user. As illustrated in FIG. 3, as shown in FIG. Consists of The operation unit 15 detects the position on the touch panel 15a that is in contact with the user's fingertip, touch pen, or the like, and outputs a position signal to the CPU 11. Further, the operation unit 15 outputs a press signal of the pressed hard key 15b to the CPU 11. For example, the operation unit 15 is used when inputting second authentication information (user name, password).

The hard key 15b includes a mode switching key 31, a reset key 32, a ten key 33, a start key 34, a stop key 35, and a utility key 36.
The mode switch key 31 is a key for switching modes such as FAX, scan, folder, and copy. The folder mode refers to a mode in which image data is selected by selecting image data stored in a predetermined folder in the storage unit 14.
The reset key 32 is a key for returning the setting to the initial setting value.
The numeric keypad 33 is a key for inputting numerical values and characters.
The start key 34 is a key for starting operations such as copying, printing, and transmission.
The stop key 35 is a key for stopping the operation state.
The utility key 36 is a key for performing system setting and adjustment of the main body of the multifunction machine 10a.

  The display unit 16 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, and the like, and displays various operation screens, processing results, and the like according to display signals input from the CPU 11.

  The image reading unit 17 optically scans a document, photoelectrically converts the document by a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, reads the document image, and generates red (R), green (G), and blue (B) image data. IR (Image Reader) and ADF (Auto Document Feeder) for automatically feeding a document are provided.

  The image forming unit 18 is based on the image data generated by the image reading unit 17, the image data received by the network I / F unit 20, the FAX image data received by the public line I / F unit 22, and the like. An image is formed on a sheet. For example, the image forming unit 18 performs electrophotographic image formation, and includes a photosensitive drum, a charging unit that charges the photosensitive drum, an exposure unit that exposes and scans the surface of the photosensitive drum based on image data, The image forming apparatus includes a developing unit that attaches toner to the photoconductive drum, a transfer unit that transfers a toner image formed on the photoconductive drum to printing paper, and a fixing unit that fixes the toner image formed on the printing paper.

  The post-processing unit 19 performs post-processing such as sorting, stapling, and punching on the paper after image formation.

  The network I / F unit 20 is configured by a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like, and transmits / receives data to / from an external device via the network N.

  The USB I / F unit 21 is an interface for connecting to an external device having a USB interface.

  The public line I / F unit 22 is connected to the public line, and performs FAX transmission / reception. The public line I / F unit 22 includes a modem for converting a received analog signal into a digital signal that can be processed on the multifunction peripheral 10a side, and a TEL response module having an automatic voice response function.

  When the second authentication information (a combination of a user name and a password) input from the operation unit 15 matches the first authentication information (a combination of a user name and a password) stored in the storage unit 14, the CPU 11 The login to the multifunction machine 10a is permitted.

When one user logs in to the multifunction machine 10a, the CPU 11 determines whether there is another multifunction machine in which one user has already logged in. Specifically, the CPU 11 inquires whether or not one user is logged in to all other multifunction devices among the plurality of multifunction devices 10a, 10b,. Based on the result, it is determined whether or not there is another multifunction machine in which one user has already logged in.
When there is another multifunction device to which one user has already logged in, the CPU 11 sends an instruction to log out the one user to the other multifunction device via the network I / F unit 20. To do.

  When the CPU 11 receives an instruction to log out one user from one multifunction device via the network I / F unit 20, the CPU 11 determines whether or not one user's job is being executed. If the user's job is being executed, the user is logged out after the job being executed is completed.

  When the CPU 11 receives an instruction to log out one user from one multifunction device via the network I / F unit 20, whether or not the multifunction device 10a (own device) is in a predetermined function setting state. If the MFP 10a is in a predetermined function setting state, the login state is maintained. For example, when the multifunction machine 10a is in a state different from the default setting, the CPU 11 maintains the login state.

  The multi-function devices 10b,..., 10n other than the multi-function device 10a have the same configuration as the multi-function device 10a.

Next, the operation in the image forming system 100 will be described.
User A wanted to copy with the multifunction device 10a due to the location of installation and the functions / performances he / she would like to use. However, since another user was using it, he tried to log in to another multifunction device 10b and copy it. . If the use of the multifunction device 10a by another user is completed before the copy is executed, a situation can be assumed in which the user A moves to a free multifunction device 10a. Here, a case where user A newly logs in to the multifunction machine 10a will be described as an example.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing login processing executed in the multifunction machine 10a. This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

  First, when a user name and a password (second authentication information) of the user A are input by an operation from the operation unit 15 of the user (step S1), the user A logs in the multifunction machine 10a by the CPU 11. It is determined whether or not it is permitted (step S2). Specifically, the CPU 11 determines whether there is a match between the second authentication information input from the operation unit 15 and the first authentication information stored in the storage unit 14. Is done.

  When the login of user A is permitted to the multifunction machine 10a (step S2; YES), that is, the first authentication in which the second authentication information input from the operation unit 15 is stored in the storage unit 14 If the information matches the information, the CPU 11 logs in the multifunction peripheral 10a of the user A (step S3).

  Next, the CPU 11 causes the login status of the user A (whether or not the user A is logged in) to all the other MFPs 10b,..., 10n under the network N via the network I / F unit 20. ) Is made (step S4). Then, the CPU 11 indicates whether or not the user A is logged in to each of the multifunction devices 10b,..., 10n from the other multifunction devices 10b,. Information is received.

  Next, based on the result of the inquiry in step S4, the CPU 11 determines whether there is another multifunction machine 10b,..., 10n to which the user A has already logged in (step S5). When there is another multifunction machine 10b,..., 10n where user A is logged in (step S5; YES), user A is logged in via the network I / F unit 20 by the CPU 11. An instruction to log out user A is transmitted to the multifunction device (hereinafter referred to as the target multifunction device) (step S6).

  In step S2, when the login of user A is not permitted to the multifunction device 10a (step S2; NO), in step S5, other multifunction devices 10b,. If not (step S5; NO), or after step S6, the login process ends.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing logout processing executed in the multifunction machine 10b among the multifunction machines 10b,..., 10n other than the multifunction machine 10a. This process is a process executed after an inquiry about the login state of the user A is made from the multifunction machine 10a, and is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

  In the multifunction machine 10b, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the user A is in a login state (step S11). If the user A is not logged in (step S11; NO), the process ends.

  In step S11, when the user A is in the login state (step S11; YES), the CPU 11 indicates that the user A is in the login state to the multifunction peripheral 10a via the network I / F unit 20. Notification is made (step S12).

  Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not an instruction to log out the user A in the multifunction device 10b is received from the multifunction device 10a via the network I / F unit 20 (step S13). If no instruction for logging out of user A is received and there is no input from the operation unit 15 for a predetermined time, the CPU 11 logs out of user A.

  When an instruction to log out the user A is received from the multifunction device 10a in the multifunction device 10b (step S13; YES), the CPU 11 determines whether there is a job being executed for the user A (step S13; YES). Step S14). If there is a job being executed for the user A (step S14; YES), the user A is on standby until the job is completed.

  In step S14, when there is no job being executed for the user A (step S14; NO), the CPU 11 refers to the function mode information stored in the storage unit 14, and the MFP 10b is in the FAX mode or the scan mode. Is determined (step S15). When the multifunction machine 10b is in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S15; YES), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S18).

In step S15, when the multifunction machine 10b is not in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S15; NO), the CPU 11 maintains the login state. Then, the CPU 11 refers to the setting information stored in the storage unit 14 and determines whether or not the multifunction device 10b is in a state different from the default setting (step S16). Specifically, when there is one or more setting items that are changed from the default values, the CPU 11 determines that the state is different from the default settings. On the other hand, if there is no change from the default value for all setting items, it is determined that the default setting state is set. When the multifunction machine 10b is in the default setting state (step S16; NO), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S18).

  In step S16, when the multifunction machine 10b is in a state different from the default setting (step S16; YES), the login state is maintained by the CPU 11. Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S17). If the predetermined time has not passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S17; NO), the process returns to step S15.

In step S17, when a predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S17; YES), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S18).
This completes the logout process executed in the multifunction machine 10b.

  Note that, among the multifunction devices 10b,..., 10n other than the multifunction device 10a, the multifunction device 10b has been described as an example, but the same applies to other multifunction devices.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, in an environment where a plurality of multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b,. When logging in to another multifunction device, an instruction to log out is sent from the newly logged-in multifunction device to the previously logged-in multifunction device, preventing the multifunction device from being left in the logged-in state. And security can be improved.

  Also, by making an inquiry from the newly logged-in multifunction device to all other multifunction devices, it is possible to check whether there is another multifunction device in which the same user as the newly logged-in multifunction device has already logged in. Judgment can be made.

  Also, if you log in to another multifunction device while a job is being executed on a certain multifunction device, you want to complete the job on the multifunction device that was logged in first while using the new multifunction device. Conceivable. In other words, suddenly stopping the job and logging out in the MFP that has previously logged in causes a disadvantage to the user. According to the first embodiment, in the multi-function peripheral that has received an instruction to log out, if the corresponding user's job is being executed, the logout is performed after the job being executed is completed. Can be prevented from logging out without completing.

  Also, when another multifunction device that has received an instruction to log out is in a predetermined function setting state, the login state is maintained, so whether to log out is determined according to the state of the other multifunction device. be able to. Specifically, since the login state is maintained when the other multifunction device is in a state different from the default setting, the setting state can be maintained when the setting is changed in the other multifunction device. .

  In addition, if the MFP is left with the FAX mode and the scan mode selected, the transmission destination information may be leaked to other users. However, according to the first embodiment, an instruction to log out is issued. If the other multifunction device received is in the FAX mode or the scan mode, the user immediately logs out, so that it is possible to prevent transmission destination information and the like from leaking.

[Modification 1]
Next, Modification 1 of the first embodiment will be described.
In the first embodiment, when an instruction to log out one user is received from one multifunction device, the login state is maintained when another multifunction device is in a state different from the default setting. However, in the first modification, when an instruction to log out one user is received from one MFP, the setting items of a predetermined number (for example, “3”) or more are changed from the default values in other MFPs. Stay logged in when you are. This predetermined number can be arbitrarily changed. Other configurations and processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a logout process executed in the multifunction peripheral (referred to as the multifunction peripheral 10b) in which the login status of the user A is inquired from one multifunction peripheral (referred to as the multifunction peripheral 10a). This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

The processes in steps S21 to S25 in FIG. 6 are the same as the processes in steps S11 to S15 in FIG.
In step S25, when the multifunction device 10b is not in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S25; NO), the CPU 11 refers to the setting information stored in the storage unit 14, and changes the default value for each setting item. Based on the information indicating the presence / absence of whether or not there is a change from the default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items in the multi-function peripheral 10b, it is determined (step S26). When there is no change from the default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items (step S26; NO), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S28).

  In step S26, when there is a change from the default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items (step S26; YES), the CPU 11 maintains the login state. Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S27). If the predetermined time has not passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S27; NO), the process returns to step S25.

In step S27, when the predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S27; YES), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S28).
This completes the logout process in the first modification.

  As described above, according to the first modification, in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, other MFPs that have received an instruction to log out have default values for setting items greater than a predetermined number. Since the login state is maintained when the state has been changed from, the setting state can be maintained when there is a setting change for a predetermined number or more of setting items in other multifunction devices. .

[Modification 2]
Next, Modification 2 of the first embodiment will be described.
In the first embodiment, when an instruction to log out one user is received from one multifunction device, the login state is maintained when another multifunction device is in a state different from the default setting. However, in the second modification, when an instruction to log out one user is received from one multifunction device, the login state is maintained when a predetermined setting item is changed from a default value in another multifunction device. To do. The predetermined setting item can be arbitrarily changed. Other configurations and processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  For example, if there is a change from the default setting state for setting items related to image quality adjustment in another MFP that has already been logged in by one user, the state of fine adjustment to the image quality desired by the user is wasted. Do not log out. FIG. 7 shows an example of the image quality adjustment screen 161. The image quality adjustment screen 161 includes a density setting area P1, a brightness setting area P2, a contrast setting area P3, and a saturation setting area P4. In each of the setting areas P1 to P4, the density, brightness, contrast, and saturation can be increased or decreased stepwise with a default value as the center.

Also, in other MFPs where one user has already logged in, if the setting of the function consisting of a combination of multiple setting items has been completed, the state set for multiple setting items should not be wasted In addition, logout is excluded. As a function that is realized by a combination of a plurality of setting items, there is an enlarged continuous shooting.
Enlarged continuous shooting refers to a function of enlarging and copying an original image to a size exceeding the paper size that can be set in the multifunction device, such as A0 size or B0 size, as shown in FIG. When the original size and the final size (size after enlargement copy) are designated and copied, the original image is divided and enlarged on different sheets. When the copies of the divided images are joined together, an enlarged copy of the final size is completed. For example, A0 size posters can be made by dividing and copying 8 sheets of A3 size paper and joining these 8 sheets.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of the enlarged continuous shooting setting screen 162. The enlarged continuous shooting setting screen 162 includes a document size setting area Q1, a used paper setting area Q2, and a finished setting area Q3. The document size setting area Q1 is an area for setting the document size. The used paper setting area Q2 is an area for setting the used paper (size / paper type). The completion setting area Q3 is an area for setting the completion state of enlarged continuous shooting by designating the image size, paper size, or magnification.

  When “finished image size” is designated, the image of the document size set in the document size setting area Q1 is enlarged (scaled) to the image size set in the completion setting area Q3. For example, when an A3 (420 × 297 mm) original is scaled to an image size B3 (514 × 364 mm) using A3 (420 × 297 mm) paper, it is 1.224 times on four A3 paper. An image enlarged to (B3 / A3) is formed.

  When “finished paper size” is designated, the image of the document size set in the document size setting area Q1 is enlarged (scaled) to the paper size set in the completion setting area Q3. For example, when a letter size (279.4 × 215.9 mm) original is scaled to a paper size A2 (594 × 420 mm) using A3 (420 × 297 mm) paper, it is placed on two A3 paper. The magnification at which the image just fits, that is, the smaller one of the magnification in the long side direction (594 / 279.4 = 1.414 times) and the magnification in the short side direction (420 / 215.9 = 1.945 times) An enlarged image is formed by.

  When “magnification” is designated, an image with the magnification set in the finished setting area Q3 is formed so as to fit exactly using the used paper set in the used paper setting area Q2. For example, when an A3 (420 × 297 mm) original is scaled at a magnification of 2 using A3 (420 × 297 mm) paper, the image is enlarged to A1 (840 × 594 mm) in which four A3 papers are combined. Is formed.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a logout process executed in a multifunction device (referred to as the multifunction device 10b) in which the login status of the user A is inquired from one multifunction device (referred to as the multifunction device 10a). This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

The processes in steps S31 to S35 in FIG. 10 are the same as the processes in steps S11 to S15 in FIG.
In step S35, when the multifunction machine 10b is not in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S35; NO), the CPU 11 refers to the setting information stored in the storage unit 14, and changes the default value for each setting item. Based on the information indicating the presence or absence, whether or not there is a change from a default value for a predetermined setting item in the multifunction machine 10b is determined (step S36). For example, it is determined whether or not there is a change from a default value for a setting item formed by a combination of a plurality of setting items such as a setting item related to image quality adjustment and enlarged continuous shooting. When the predetermined setting item is not changed from the default value (step S36; NO), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S38).

  In step S36, when there is a change from a default value for a predetermined setting item (step S36; YES), the login state is maintained by the CPU 11. Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S37). If the predetermined time has not passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S37; NO), the process returns to step S35.

In step S37, when a predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S37; YES), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S38).
This completes the logout process in the second modification.

  As described above, according to the second modification, in addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, other MFPs that have received an instruction to perform logout are changed from the default values for predetermined setting items. Since the log-in state is maintained in the case of the changed state, the setting state can be maintained in the case where there is a setting change for a predetermined setting item in another multi-function peripheral.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described.
FIG. 11 shows a system configuration of an image forming system 200 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the image forming system 200 is configured by connecting MFPs 10 a, 10 b,..., 10 n serving as image forming apparatuses and a server 40 via a network N so that data communication is possible. ing.

  The MFPs 10a, 10b,..., 10n are different in that the server 40 manages the first authentication information, but the other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, so FIG. Incorporated, illustration and description of the configuration are omitted. Hereinafter, a configuration and processing characteristic of the second embodiment will be described.

The CPU 11 of the multifunction peripheral 10 a as the second control unit transmits the second authentication information input from the operation unit 15 to the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20.
The CPU 11 of the multifunction device 10a determines whether or not to permit login to the multifunction device 10a based on the authentication result received from the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20.

  When the user logs in or logs out in the multifunction device 10a, the CPU 11 of the multifunction device 10a transmits information indicating that the user has logged in or logged out in the multifunction device 10a to the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20.

  When the CPU 11 of the multifunction peripheral 10a receives an instruction to log out one user from the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20, the CPU 11 determines whether the job of the one user is being executed. When a job for one user is being executed, the user is logged out after the job being executed is completed.

  When the CPU 11 of the multifunction device 10a receives an instruction to log out one user from the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20, is the multifunction device 10a (own device) in a predetermined function setting state? If the MFP 10a is in a predetermined function setting state, the login state is maintained. For example, when the multifunction machine 10a is in a state different from the default setting, the CPU 11 maintains the login state.

  The multi-function devices 10b,..., 10n other than the multi-function device 10a have the same configuration as the multi-function device 10a.

The server 40 is configured by a general PC (Personal Computer).
FIG. 12 shows a functional configuration of the server 40. As shown in FIG. 12, the server 40 includes a CPU 41 as a first control unit, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a storage unit 44, an operation unit 45, a display unit 46, a network I / F unit 47, and the like. Are connected by a bus 48.

  The CPU 41 controls the processing operation of each unit of the server 40 in an integrated manner. The CPU 41 reads out various processing programs stored in the ROM 42 or the storage unit 44, develops them in the RAM 43, and executes various processes in cooperation with the programs.

  The ROM 42 is constituted by a nonvolatile semiconductor memory or the like, and stores various processing programs, parameters and files necessary for executing the programs.

  The RAM 43 forms a work area for temporarily storing various processing programs executed by the CPU 41 and data related to these programs.

The storage unit 44 includes a storage device such as a nonvolatile semiconductor memory or a hard disk, and stores various processing programs, data related to various processes, and the like.
The storage unit 44 stores first authentication information (user name, password) corresponding to a user (registered user) who is permitted to log in to each of the multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b,.
In addition, the storage unit 44 stores login state information indicating a user's login state with respect to each of the plurality of multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b, ..., 10n. The login status information includes information indicating the presence / absence of a logged-in user for each MFP, and the user name of any logged-in user.

  The operation unit 45 includes a keyboard having cursor keys, character input keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse, and receives an operation input by a user. The operation unit 45 outputs an operation signal input by a key operation on the keyboard or a mouse operation to the CPU 41.

  The display unit 46 includes an LCD, and displays various operation screens and various processing results according to display signals input from the CPU 41.

The network I / F unit 47 transmits / receives data to / from an external device via the network N.

  The CPU 41 stores second authentication information received from any one of the plurality of multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b,..., 10n via the network I / F unit 47 in the storage unit 44. An authentication result indicating whether or not it matches the first authentication information is transmitted to the MFP as the transmission source of the second authentication information.

  The CPU 41 receives the information indicating that the user has logged in or logged out from the multi-function peripheral 10a, 10b,..., 10n received from any one of the multi-function peripherals via the network I / F unit 47. Based on this, the login state information stored in the storage unit 44 is updated.

The CPU 41 stores in the storage unit 44 the second authentication information of one user received from one of the multiple multifunction devices 10a, 10b,..., 10n via the network I / F unit 47. If it matches the stored first authentication information, it is determined whether or not there is another multifunction device to which one user has already logged in. Specifically, the CPU 41 determines whether there is another multifunction device in which one user has already logged in based on the login state information for each multifunction device stored in the storage unit 44.
When there is another multifunction device in which one user has already logged in, the CPU 41 transmits an instruction to log out the one user to the other multifunction device via the network I / F unit 47. .

Next, the operation in the image forming system 200 will be described.
Here, a case where user A newly logs in to the multifunction machine 10a will be described as an example.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a login process executed in the multifunction machine 10a. This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

  First, when the user name and password (second authentication information) of the user A are input by an operation from the user operation unit 15 (step S41), the operation is performed by the CPU 11 via the network I / F unit 20. The login input information (second authentication information) of the user A input from the unit 15 is transmitted to the server 40 (step S42).

  Next, when the CPU 11 receives the authentication result of the user A from the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20 (step S43), the CPU 11 permits the login of the user A to the multifunction machine 10a. Is determined (step S44). Specifically, based on the authentication result received from the server 40, the CPU 11 determines whether or not to permit the user A to log in to the multifunction machine 10a.

  If the login of user A is permitted to the multifunction device 10a (step S44; YES), the CPU 11 logs in to the multifunction device 10a by the CPU 11 (step S45), and the network I / F unit 20 The server 40 is notified of information indicating that the user A has logged in to the multifunction machine 10a (step S46).

  In step S44, when the login of the user A is not permitted to the multifunction peripheral 10a (step S44; NO), or after step S46, the login process ends.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing login state management processing executed in the server 40. This processing is realized by software processing in cooperation with the CPU 41 and a program stored in the storage unit 44.

  When the network I / F unit 47 receives information indicating that a certain user has logged in from any one of the plurality of multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b,. (S51; YES), the CPU 41 updates the login state information of the multifunction peripheral stored in the storage unit 44 (step S52). Specifically, the CPU 41 changes “information indicating whether there is a logged-in user” included in the login status information of the MFP to “has a login user”, and the user who has logged in to the MFP A user name is added.

  In step S51, when information indicating that a certain user has logged in is not received (step S51; NO), or after step S52, the network I / F unit 47 causes the plurality of multifunction peripherals 10a, 10b,. When information indicating that a certain user has logged out is received from one of the multifunction peripherals 10n (step S53; YES), the CPU 41 stores the information of the multifunction peripheral stored in the storage unit 44. The login status information is updated (step S54). Specifically, the CPU 41 changes “information indicating whether there is a logged-in user” included in the login status information of the multifunction device to “no logged-in user”, and the user who has logged in to the multifunction device The user name is deleted.

  In step S53, when information indicating that a certain user has logged out is not received (step S53; NO), or after step S54, the process returns to step S51 and the process is repeated.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing logout instruction processing executed in the server 40. This process is a process executed when the user A logs in the multifunction machine 10a, and is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 41 and a program stored in the storage unit 44.

  First, when the log-in input information (second authentication information) of the user A is received from the multifunction peripheral 10a by the network I / F unit 47 (step S61; YES), the CPU 41 determines the authentication of the user A. (Step S62). Specifically, the CPU 41 determines whether there is a match between the second authentication information received from the multifunction machine 10 a and the first authentication information stored in the storage unit 44. Is done.

  Next, the CPU 41 notifies the MFP 10a that is the transmission source of the login input information of the authentication result of the user A via the network I / F unit 47 (step S63).

  Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the login of the user A is permitted (step S64). When login of the user A is permitted (step S64; YES), that is, when the second authentication information received from the multi-function device 10a matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit 44. Is determined by the CPU 41 based on the login state information stored in the storage unit 44 whether there is another multifunction peripheral 10b,. S65).

  When there is another multifunction machine 10b,..., 10n where user A is logged in (step S65; YES), user A is logged in via the network I / F unit 47 by the CPU 41. An instruction to log out user A is transmitted to the target multifunction peripheral (step S66).

  If the login input information of the user A is not received from the multifunction peripheral 10a in step S61 (step S61; NO), or if the login of the user A is not permitted in step S64 (step S64; NO), in step S65. When there is no other multifunction peripheral 10b,..., 10n to which the user A is logged in (step S65; NO), or after step S66, the logout instruction process ends.

  FIG. 16 shows a multi-function device (in this case, the multi-function device 10b) that the user A has already logged in before the user A logs in to the multi-function device 10a among the multi-function devices 10b,. This will be described with reference to an example.) FIG. This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

  First, the CPU 11 determines whether or not an instruction to log out the user A in the multifunction machine 10b is received from the server 40 via the network I / F unit 20 (step S71). If no instruction for logging out of user A is received and there is no input from the operation unit 15 for a predetermined time, the CPU 11 logs out of user A.

  When an instruction to log out user A is received from the server 40 in the multifunction machine 10b (step S71; YES), the CPU 11 determines whether there is a job being executed for the user A (step S71). S72). If there is a job being executed for the user A (step S72; YES), the job is on standby until the job is completed.

  In step S72, when there is no job being executed for the user A (step S72; NO), the CPU 11 refers to the function mode information stored in the storage unit 14, and the MFP 10b is in the FAX mode or the scan mode. Is determined (step S73). When the multifunction machine 10b is in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S73; YES), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S76).

  In step S73, if the multifunction machine 10b is not in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S73; NO), the CPU 11 maintains the login state. Then, the CPU 11 refers to the setting information stored in the storage unit 14 and determines whether or not the multifunction machine 10b is in a state different from the default setting (step S74). Specifically, when there is one or more setting items that are changed from the default values, the CPU 11 determines that the state is different from the default settings. On the other hand, if there is no change from the default value for all setting items, it is determined that the default setting state is set. When the multifunction machine 10b is in the default setting state (step S74; NO), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S76).

  In step S74, if the multifunction machine 10b is in a state different from the default setting (step S74; YES), the login state is maintained by the CPU 11. Then, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S75). If the predetermined time has not passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S75; NO), the process returns to step S73.

In step S75, when the predetermined time has passed without any operation input from the operation unit 15 (step S75; YES), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S76).

After step S76, the CPU 11 notifies the server 40 of information indicating that the user A has logged out from the multifunction peripheral 10b via the network I / F unit 20 (step S77).
This completes the logout process executed in the multifunction machine 10b.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, in the server 40, the second of one user received from one multifunction machine among the plurality of multifunction machines 10a, 10b,. When the authentication information matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit 44 of the server 40, an instruction to log out the one user is issued to another multifunction device to which the one user has already logged in. Since the transmission is performed, it is possible to prevent other multifunction devices from being left in the logged-in state, and to improve security.

  Further, the server 40 can determine whether or not there is another multifunction machine in which one user has already logged in, based on the login state information stored in the storage unit 44.

  In addition, if the MFP receives a command to log out and the corresponding user's job is being executed, the user is logged out after the job being executed is completed. Can be prevented.

  Also, when another multifunction device that has received an instruction to log out is in a predetermined function setting state, the login state is maintained, so whether to log out is determined according to the state of the other multifunction device. be able to. Specifically, since the login state is maintained when the other multifunction device is in a state different from the default setting, the setting state can be maintained when the setting is changed in the other multifunction device. .

[Modification 1]
Next, Modification 1 of the second embodiment will be described.
In the second embodiment, when an instruction to log out one user is received from the server 40, when the other MFP is in a state different from the default setting, the login state is maintained. In the first modification, when an instruction to log out one user is received from the server 40, the login state is maintained when a predetermined number or more of setting items are changed from the default values in other multifunction devices. This predetermined number can be arbitrarily changed. Other configurations and processes are the same as those in the second embodiment.

  FIG. 17 shows a multi-function device (in this case, the multi-function device 10b) that the user A has already logged in before the user A logs in to the multi-function device 10a among the multi-function devices 10b,. This will be described with reference to an example.) FIG. This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

The processes in steps S81 to S83 in FIG. 17 are the same as the processes in steps S71 to S73 in FIG.
In step S83, when the multifunction machine 10b is not in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S83; NO), the CPU 11 refers to the setting information stored in the storage unit 14, and changes the default value for each setting item. Based on the information indicating the presence or absence, whether or not there is a change from the default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items in the multifunction machine 10b is determined (step S84). When there is no change from the default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items (step S84; NO), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S86).

In step S84, when there is a change from the default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items (step S84; YES), the login state is maintained by the CPU 11, and the process proceeds to step S85.
The processes in steps S85 to S87 in FIG. 17 are the same as the processes in steps S75 to S77 in FIG.
This completes the logout process in the first modification.

  As described above, according to the first modification, in addition to the same effects as those of the second embodiment, other MFPs that have received an instruction to log out have default values for setting items greater than a predetermined number. Since the login state is maintained when the state has been changed from, the setting state can be maintained when there is a setting change for a predetermined number or more of setting items in other multifunction devices. .

[Modification 2]
Next, Modification 2 of the second embodiment will be described.
In the second embodiment, when an instruction to log out one user is received from the server 40, when the other MFP is in a state different from the default setting, the login state is maintained. In the second modification, when an instruction to log out one user is received from the server 40, the login state is maintained when a predetermined setting item is changed from a default value in another multifunction device. The predetermined setting item can be arbitrarily changed. Other configurations and processes are the same as those in the second embodiment.

  FIG. 18 shows a multi-function device (in this case, the multi-function device 10b) that the user A has already logged in before the user A logs in to the multi-function device 10a among the multi-function devices 10b,. This will be described with reference to an example.) FIG. This process is realized by a software process in cooperation with the CPU 11 and a program stored in the ROM 12.

The processes in steps S91 to S93 in FIG. 18 are the same as the processes in steps S71 to S73 in FIG.
In step S93, when the multifunction machine 10b is not in the FAX mode or the scan mode (step S93; NO), the CPU 11 refers to the setting information stored in the storage unit 14 and changes the default value for each setting item. Based on the information indicating the presence or absence, whether or not there is a change from a default value for a predetermined setting item in the multifunction machine 10b is determined (step S94). When the predetermined setting item is not changed from the default value (step S94; NO), the CPU 11 logs out the user A (step S96).

In step S94, when there is a change from the default value for a predetermined setting item (step S94; YES), the CPU 11 maintains the login state and proceeds to step S95.
The processes in steps S95 to S97 in FIG. 18 are the same as the processes in steps S75 to S77 in FIG.
This completes the logout process in the second modification.

As described above, according to the second modification, in addition to the same effects as those of the second embodiment, other MFPs that have received an instruction to log out are changed from default values for predetermined setting items. Since the log-in state is maintained in the case of the changed state, the setting state can be maintained in the case where there is a setting change for a predetermined setting item in another multi-function peripheral.

  In the second embodiment and the first and second modifications of the second embodiment, when login or logout is performed in each multifunction device 10a, 10b,. The server 40 is notified each time, but in the server 40, the second authentication information of one user received from one of the multi-function machines matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit 44. In this case, it is possible to inquire the login status of one user to all other multifunction devices.

  The description in each of the above embodiments is an example of the image forming system according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this. The detailed configuration and detailed operation of each device constituting the system can be changed as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  For example, the combination of users permitted to log in may be different for each MFP in the image forming system.

  In the above description, an example in which a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like is used as a computer-readable medium storing a program for executing each process is disclosed, but the present invention is not limited to this example. As another computer-readable medium, a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM can be applied. A carrier wave may be applied as a medium for providing program data via a communication line.

10a, 10b,..., 10n MFP 11 CPU
12 ROM
13 RAM
14 storage unit 15 operation unit 16 display unit 17 image reading unit 18 image forming unit 19 post-processing unit 20 network I / F unit 21 USB I / F unit 22 public line I / F unit 40 server 41 CPU
42 ROM
43 RAM
44 Storage Unit 45 Operation Unit 46 Display Unit 47 Network I / F Unit 100 Image Forming System 200 Image Forming System N Network

Claims (14)

An image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a network so that data communication is possible,
Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses includes:
A storage unit for storing first authentication information corresponding to a user permitted to log in to the image forming apparatus;
An operation unit for inputting second authentication information;
A control unit that permits login to the image forming apparatus when the second authentication information input from the operation unit matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit;
With
When one user logs in to one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses,
The control unit of the one image forming apparatus
Determining whether there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in;
An image forming system that, when there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in, transmits an instruction to log out the one user to the other image forming apparatus. The control unit of the one image forming apparatus includes:
Based on the result of inquiring whether or not the one user is logged in to all other image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, the one user has already logged in To determine whether there is an image forming apparatus,
The image forming system according to claim 1. The control unit of the other image forming apparatus includes:
When receiving an instruction to log out the one user from the one image forming apparatus, it is determined whether or not the job of the one user is being executed,
If the job of the one user is being executed, the user is logged out after the job being executed is completed.
The image forming system according to claim 1. The control unit of the other image forming apparatus includes:
When receiving an instruction to log out the one user from the one image forming apparatus, it is determined whether the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state;
When the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state, the login state is maintained.
The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The predetermined function setting state is different from the default setting.
The image forming system according to claim 4. The predetermined function setting state is a state changed from a default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items.
The image forming system according to claim 4. The predetermined function setting state is a state changed from a default value for a predetermined setting item.
The image forming system according to claim 4. An image forming system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a server are connected to be able to perform data communication via a network,
The server
A storage unit for storing first authentication information corresponding to a user permitted to log in to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses;
An authentication result indicating whether or not the second authentication information received from any one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit. A first control unit that transmits the authentication information of 2 to the image forming apparatus that is the transmission source;
With
Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses includes:
An operation unit for inputting the second authentication information;
Transmitting the second authentication information input from the operation unit to the server;
A second control unit that determines whether to permit login to the image forming apparatus based on an authentication result received from the server;
With
The first controller is
The first user when the second authentication information of one user received from one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses matches the first authentication information stored in the storage unit. Determine if there are other image forming devices already logged in,
An image forming system that, when there is another image forming apparatus to which the one user has already logged in, transmits an instruction to log out the one user to the other image forming apparatus. The server
A second storage unit that stores login state information indicating a user's login state with respect to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses;
Each of the second control units of the plurality of image forming apparatuses includes:
In the image forming apparatus, information indicating that the user has logged in or logged out is transmitted to the server,
The first controller is
Login state information stored in the second storage unit based on information indicating that the user has logged in or logged out from the image forming apparatus received from any one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Update
Determining whether there is another image forming apparatus in which the one user has already logged in based on the login state information stored in the second storage unit;
The image forming system according to claim 8. The second control unit of the other image forming apparatus includes:
When receiving an instruction to log out the one user from the server, it is determined whether or not the job of the one user is being executed,
If the job of the one user is being executed, the user is logged out after the job being executed is completed.
The image forming system according to claim 8 or 9. The second control unit of the other image forming apparatus includes:
When receiving an instruction to log out the one user from the server, it is determined whether the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state;
When the other image forming apparatus is in a predetermined function setting state, the login state is maintained.
The image forming system according to claim 8. The predetermined function setting state is different from the default setting.
The image forming system according to claim 11. The predetermined function setting state is a state changed from a default value for a predetermined number or more of setting items.
The image forming system according to claim 11. The predetermined function setting state is a state changed from a default value for a predetermined setting item.
The image forming system according to claim 11.

Images