JP2013086407A - Image forming device, image forming method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To permit the number of times an operation of returning to a normal energization mode is repeated to be reduced by an automatic decision about whether or not printing jobs should be quickly carried out when the printing jobs are included in a workflow defining that a plurality of processes are sequentially carried out.SOLUTION: The image forming device classifies the printing jobs into either jobs giving priority to execution or jobs giving priority to power saving by analyzing the detail of each process defined in the workflow when the workflow includes the printing jobs. In the course of progress of the processes based on the workflow, when the time to carry out the printing jobs has come, when the printing jobs are jobs giving priority to the power saving and the energization condition is a power saving mode, the device stores the printing jobs. On the other hand, when the printing jobs are the jobs giving priority to execution, the device carries out printing out based on the printing jobs.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming method, and a program, and in particular, automatically and sequentially executes jobs that can be executed in the image forming apparatus based on a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes. For technology.

  An image forming apparatus such as a multifunction machine transfers a toner image onto a printing paper, and then heats and presses the printing paper to fix the toner image on the printing paper. Therefore, the image forming apparatus includes a heater in a fixing unit that fixes the toner image on the printing paper. However, if the temperature of the heater in the fixing unit is kept at a constant temperature, the power consumed in the image forming apparatus increases. For this reason, various techniques have been proposed for reducing power consumption by shifting the energized state to the power saving mode when the conventional image forming apparatus is in a state in which print output is not performed.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for temporarily storing a print job when a print job that does not require real-time print output is received when the image forming apparatus is in a power saving mode. Then, in Patent Document 1, when the image forming apparatus determines that a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as receiving a print job that requires real-time print output, printing is performed based on the accumulated print job. The output is described.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-313488

  However, according to the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, when a print job is transmitted to the image forming apparatus, the user himself / herself has to determine and set whether or not to request print output in real time. There is annoyance.

  Further, recent image forming apparatuses can input a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, and can automatically and sequentially execute jobs that can be executed by the own machine based on the workflow. It has become like this. However, when this type of image forming apparatus executes a process based on a workflow, the workflow includes a print job from the viewpoint of efficiently executing all of the plurality of processes included in the workflow. For example, even if the energization state of the image forming apparatus is the power saving mode, the print job is promptly executed by returning to the normal energization mode.

  Accordingly, when the image forming apparatus automatically executes processing based on the workflow, the power saving mode returns to the normal energization mode. In order to prevent this, for example, as in Patent Document 1 described above, when the user instructs the image forming apparatus to execute processing based on a specific workflow, it is confirmed whether or not the print job is included in the workflow. However, if a print job is included, a setting that does not require real-time print output must be made for the print job. Therefore, there is a problem that the operation burden on the user is increased when processing based on the workflow is executed.

  Therefore, in order to solve the above-described problem, when a print job is included in a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, the print job should be executed promptly. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus, an image forming method, and a program that can reduce the number of operations to return to the normal energization mode by automatically determining whether or not the operation is normal.

  In order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 1 is an image forming apparatus that automatically executes an executable job based on a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes. A storage means for storing various information; a workflow acquisition means for acquiring the workflow; a workflow analysis means for analyzing the workflow acquired by the workflow acquisition means; and the workflow acquired by the workflow acquisition means. A job execution control unit that controls execution of the job, an image forming unit that performs image formation based on a print job instructed to be executed by the job execution control unit, and an energization state in the image forming unit. An energization control means for setting either the normal energization mode or the power saving mode; And the workflow analysis means analyzes the processing contents of each process defined in the workflow when the workflow includes a print job, thereby executing the print job as an execution priority job and a power saving priority job. And the job execution control means sets the print job as a power saving priority job at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow and is set by the energization control means. If the energization state of the image forming unit is the power saving mode, the print job is stored in the storage unit, while the print job is an execution priority job, or is set by the energization control unit. If the energization state of the image forming means is the normal energization mode, the image formation A construction which is characterized in that to perform print output based on the print job by driving the stage.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect, the workflow analysis unit includes a process in which a specific approver approves a printed matter output by executing a print job in the workflow. If included, the print job is classified as a power saving priority job.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus further includes a communication unit that communicates with an entrance / exit management device that manages an entrance / exit situation of the specific approver via a network, The job execution control unit drives the image forming unit when determining that the specific approver is in the room entry state by communicating with the room entry / exit management device at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow. By doing so, the print output based on the print job is performed.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the third aspect, the job execution control unit communicates with the entry / exit management device at the execution timing of a print job included in the workflow. When it is determined that the specific approver is in the room leaving state, the print job is stored in the storage unit, and then the specific approver enters the room entering state by periodically communicating with the room entry / exit management device. When the print job stored in the storage unit is read and the image forming unit is driven, print output based on the print job is performed.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the workflow analysis unit includes, in the workflow, processing for combining a stamp image with image data to be executed by a print job. Is included, the print job is classified as an execution priority job.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the stamp image is an image indicating that the image data is secret information.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the workflow analysis unit receives image data to be executed by a print job by FAX or email in the workflow. If the processing to be performed is included, the print job is classified as a power saving priority job.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the workflow analysis means includes, in the workflow, image data to be printed twice in trial printing and main printing. If print processing is included, the print job corresponding to the trial print is classified as an execution priority job, and the print job corresponding to the main print is classified as a power saving priority job. It is a configuration.

  The invention according to claim 9 is the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an operation unit that receives an operation input by a user, wherein the job execution control unit is classified as a power saving priority job. After the print job is stored in the storage unit, the print job is read from the storage unit and the image forming unit is driven in response to an instruction to execute the print job via the operation unit. In this configuration, print output based on the print job is performed.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the job execution control unit monitors the data amount of the print job stored in the storage unit, and the data amount is The print job is read from the storage unit at a timing exceeding a predetermined value, and the image forming unit is driven to perform print output based on the print job.

  The invention according to claim 11 is an image forming method for automatically executing an executable job on the basis of a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, and (a) And (b) when the workflow includes a print job, the processing contents of each process defined in the workflow are analyzed, so that the print job is divided into an execution priority job and a power saving priority job. A step of classifying in advance into any one of the above, and (c) controlling the execution of a job based on the workflow, wherein the step (c) is performed at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow. If the print job is a power saving priority job and the energization state of the image forming means that performs print output is the power saving mode, While the job is stored in a predetermined storage unit, if the print job is an execution priority job, or if the energization state of the image forming unit is the normal energization mode, the image forming unit is driven to In this configuration, print output based on a print job is performed.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program executed in an image forming apparatus capable of performing image formation and performing print output, wherein the image forming apparatus sequentially executes a plurality of processes. A workflow acquisition unit configured to acquire a defined workflow; a workflow analysis unit configured to analyze the workflow; and a job execution control unit configured to control execution of a job based on the workflow. When the workflow includes a print job, by analyzing the processing contents of each process defined in the workflow, the print job is classified in advance as either an execution priority job or a power saving priority job, The job execution control means includes a print job execution type included in the workflow. When the print job is a power saving priority job and the energization state of the image forming unit that performs print output is in the power saving mode, the print job is stored in a predetermined storage unit. Is an execution priority job, or when the energization state of the image forming unit is a normal energization mode, the image forming unit is driven to perform print output based on the print job. It is.

  According to the present invention, when a print job is included in a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, it is automatically determined whether or not the print job should be executed promptly. If the print job is not a job to be executed promptly at the execution timing of the print job based on the workflow and the energized state is the power saving mode, the print job can be stored and waited. Therefore, when the process based on the workflow is sequentially executed, the number of times that the power saving mode returns to the normal energization mode can be reduced.

  In addition, if the print job is a job to be executed promptly at the execution timing of the print job based on the workflow, the print output based on the print job is performed, so that the processing based on the workflow can be efficiently advanced. .

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming system. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure implement | achieved when CPU runs a program. It is a figure which shows an example of the workflow regarding the purchase application of equipment. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a CPU when processing based on the workflow of FIG. 4 is sequentially performed. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a detailed processing procedure regarding print job storage standby. It is a figure which shows an example of the workflow which synthesize | combines a stamp image with secret information and prints it out. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a CPU when processing based on the workflow in FIG. 7 is sequentially performed. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow for receiving FAX data from a specific destination and printing out the received FAX data. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a CPU when processing based on the workflow of FIG. 9 is sequentially performed. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow including a plurality of print jobs. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by a CPU when processing based on the workflow of FIG. 11 is sequentially performed.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, members that are common to each other are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment. The image forming system 1 is installed in an office environment, for example, and has a configuration in which the image forming apparatus 2 is connected to a network 7 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The image forming apparatus 2 includes a multi-function peripheral having a plurality of functions such as a copy function, a print function, a scan function, a FAX function, and an e-mail transmission / reception function, and executes a job corresponding to each function. The network 7 may include a wide area network such as the Internet.

  The network 7 is connected to a plurality of computers 3 assigned to each of a plurality of users for use individually. In the illustrated example, three computers 3 used by each of users A, B, and C are shown, but the number of computers 3 is not limited to this. Further, a plurality of servers such as a workflow management server 4, a document management server 5, and an entrance / exit management server 6 are connected to the network 7.

  The workflow management server 4 is a server that manages a workflow executed by the image forming apparatus 2. The workflow management server 4 includes a storage device 4a such as a hard disk device, and stores and manages various workflows 4b in the storage device 4a. The workflow 4b stored in the storage device 4a is information that is defined in advance to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, and is information that defines at least one job to be executed in the image forming apparatus 2. Accordingly, when the image forming apparatus 2 inputs the workflow 4b managed by the workflow management server 4, the image forming apparatus 2 can automatically execute a job that can be executed by the image forming apparatus 2 based on the workflow 4b. However, the plurality of processes included in the workflow 4b may include processes that cannot be automatically executed by the image forming apparatus 2.

  The document management server 5 is a server that centrally manages various document data used in the office environment. For example, when the document management server 5 receives a document data acquisition request via the network 7, the document management server 5 supplies the document data to the transmission source of the acquisition request.

  The entrance / exit management server 6 is a server that manages the entrance / exit status of each user. The entrance / exit management server 6 is connected to an unlocking device 6a for unlocking a locking door provided at the entrance of each office, for example. The unlocking device 6a is, for example, a device that reads information recorded on the IC card 6b possessed by each user and unlocks the locking door if the user is permitted to enter the room. The entrance / exit management server 6 acquires information read by each of the plurality of unlocking devices 6a, unlocking history, etc., and manages the entrance / exit status of each user in real time.

  The image forming apparatus 2 can perform data communication with each of the plurality of computers 3, the workflow management server 4, the document management server 5, and the entrance / exit management server 6 through the network 7 as described above. The job can be executed in cooperation with the apparatus. In particular, as described above, the image forming apparatus 2 according to the present embodiment is configured to sequentially execute processes based on the workflow 4b when the workflow 4b managed by the workflow management server 4 is input.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 2 is connected to the public telephone network 8 and can transmit and receive FAX data via the public telephone network 8. However, the image forming apparatus 2 also has an Internet FAX function, and can transmit and receive FAX data via the network 7 as well as the public telephone network 8.

  In the image forming system 1 as described above, when each user registers the workflow 4b in the workflow management server 4, the workflow 4b can be shared with other users and used. For example, when one user belonging to a certain group creates a document, the document is scanned by the image forming apparatus 2, and image data obtained thereby is stored in the document management server 5, and the image data is stored in another document. It may also be distributed to users. In such a case, the workflow 4b in which the processing for scanning the document, the processing for transmitting the image data to the document management server 5, and the processing for transmitting the image data to each user belonging to the same group is defined as the workflow management in advance. Register with the server 4 in advance. As a result, each user belonging to the same group selects a workflow 4b registered in advance in the workflow management server 4 and instructs the image forming apparatus 2 to execute the workflow 4b. And the image data transmission job are automatically executed. In particular, since the document reading setting at the time of scanning and the transmission destination of the image data are defined in the workflow 4b in advance, when the execution of the workflow 4b is instructed, the user does not need to perform these setting operations. There is an advantage that the utilization efficiency of 2 is improved. Hereinafter, such an image forming apparatus 2 will be described in detail.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a CPU 10, a memory 11, an energization control unit 12, a network interface 13, an operation panel 14, a scanner unit 15, a printer unit 16, and a FAX unit 17. And a storage device 18, which are configured to mutually input and output data via the data bus 19.

  The CPU 10 is a processing unit that controls the operation of each unit by executing the program 20 stored in the storage device 18. In particular, the CPU 10 is configured to control execution of processing based on the workflow 4b designated by the user by executing the program 20. Details of this will be described later. The memory 11 is used for storing temporary data generated when the CPU 10 executes the program 20.

  The energization control unit 12 is a processing unit that controls the energization state of each unit in the image forming apparatus 2. The energization control unit 12 performs control to switch the energization state of each unit of the image forming apparatus 2 between a normal energization mode and a power saving mode. The normal energization mode is a mode in which power is normally supplied to each unit. On the other hand, the power saving mode is a mode in which power consumption is reduced compared to the normal energization mode by cutting off power supply to the fixing unit 16a in the printer unit 16 at least. For example, when the state in which the print job is not being executed in the image forming apparatus 2 continues for a predetermined time, the energization control unit 12 shifts from the normal energization mode to the power saving mode, and power to the fixing unit 16 a in the printer unit 16. Shut off the supply. Thereafter, when a print job is executed in the image forming apparatus 2, the energization control unit 12 can shift from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode based on an instruction from the CPU 10, and can perform image formation in the printer unit 16. Return to the state.

  The network interface 13 is for connecting the image forming apparatus 2 to the network 7. The CPU 10 performs data communication with each device described above via the network interface 13. For example, when executing a transmission job such as image data in the image forming apparatus 2, the CPU 10 transmits data to each apparatus connected to the network 7 via the network interface 13. Further, the FAX unit 17 may transmit and receive FAX data via the network interface 13.

  The operation panel 14 serves as a user interface when the user operates the image forming apparatus 2. The operation panel 14 includes a display unit 14a that displays various types of information to the user, and an operation unit 14b that receives an operation input by the user. The display unit 14a is configured by a color liquid crystal display, for example. The operation unit 14b includes a touch panel key arranged on the display screen of the display unit 14a and push button keys arranged around the display screen.

  For example, the user operates the operation panel 14 to display a list of workflows 4b registered in the workflow management server 4, and selects a desired workflow from the list, thereby causing the image forming apparatus 2 to display the list. On the other hand, one workflow to be executed can be instructed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, each user operates the computer 3 to remotely log in to the image forming apparatus 2 to instruct the image forming apparatus 2 of one workflow to be executed. It is also possible to do.

  The scanner unit 15 is a processing unit that reads a document set by a user and generates image data. When a scan job is executed in the image forming apparatus 2, the scanner unit 15 operates based on an instruction from the CPU 10 and generates image data. The scanner unit 15 also operates when copying or FAX transmission is performed in the image forming apparatus 2, but these processes include a scan job.

  The printer unit 16 is a processing unit that forms an image on a sheet material such as printing paper based on input image data and performs printout. That is, the printer unit 16 is an image forming unit in the present embodiment. When a print job is executed in the image forming apparatus 2, the printer unit 16 operates based on a print job execution instruction from the CPU 10 and forms an image based on image data included in the print job. The printer unit 16 may operate even when copying or FAX reception is performed in the image forming apparatus 2, but these processes include a print job.

  The printer unit 16 includes a fixing unit 16a for fixing the toner image transferred to the sheet material as described above. The fixing unit 16a is provided with a heater for heating and heating a transfer roller (not shown). The heater is controlled to keep the transfer roller at a constant temperature in the normal energization mode. On the other hand, in the power saving mode, the power supply to the fixing unit 16a is cut off, so that the power consumption by the heater can be suppressed.

  The FAX unit 17 is a processing unit that transmits and receives FAX data. The FAX unit 17 transmits the FAX data via the public telephone network 8 or the network 7 when a FAX data transmission job is executed in the image forming apparatus 2. The FAX unit 17 monitors data received via the public telephone network 8 or the network 7, and performs reception processing of the FAX data if it is FAX data.

  The storage device 18 is a non-volatile storage unit configured by a hard disk device or the like. The storage device 18 stores a program 20 executed by the CPU 10 in advance. In addition, the storage device 18 stores information regarding users who are permitted to use the image forming apparatus 2 as user information 21. The user information 21 is information in which, for example, a user ID, a password, an e-mail address, etc. are registered for each user.

  The storage device 18 is provided with a print job storage area 22 for storing a print job and image data included in the print job. The print job storage area 22 is for temporarily storing a print job to be executed in the image forming apparatus 2.

  In the configuration as described above, when it is necessary to cause the printer unit 16 to execute a print job while the energization state is in the power saving mode, the energization control unit 12 first changes the energization state from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode. To move to. At this time, the fixing unit 16a needs to heat the heater to raise the temperature of the transfer roller to a certain temperature in a short time. Therefore, the power consumed when returning from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is larger than that in the normal energization mode. Therefore, in order to reduce the power consumed in the image forming apparatus 2, it is desirable to reduce the number of times such a return operation is performed as much as possible.

  Therefore, when the image forming apparatus 2 according to the present embodiment automatically executes a job based on the workflow 4b defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, the workflow 4b includes a print job. If so, it is automatically determined whether or not it is necessary to immediately execute the print job. As a result, when the print job included in the workflow 4b is to be executed immediately at the execution timing, the printer unit 16 promptly executes the print job regardless of the energization state by the energization control unit 12. At this time, if the energization state by the energization control unit 12 is in the power saving mode, the power saving mode is first returned to the normal energization mode. When the printer unit 16 is ready to execute a print job, the print job included in the workflow 4b is executed.

  On the other hand, when it is not necessary to immediately execute the print job included in the workflow 4b at the execution timing, if the energization state by the energization control unit 12 is the power saving mode, the print job is temporarily stored in the print job storage area 22. And store the print job on standby. Thereafter, the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 can be executed, for example, when the energization state returns from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode as the printer unit 16 executes another print job. The print job is executed at a preferred timing.

  As a result, even when the workflow 4b includes a print job, the image forming apparatus 2 according to the present embodiment can store the print job in the print job storage area 22 and wait for it without immediately executing the print job. As a result, the number of times the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is performed can be reduced.

  In particular, since a plurality of processes are defined in the workflow 4b, it is difficult for a user who gives an instruction to execute the workflow 4b to know in advance when the print job included in the workflow 4b is executed. For example, even when the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is in the normal energization mode at the timing when the user instructs the execution of the workflow 4b, the image forming apparatus 2 performs processing based on the workflow 4b before the execution timing of the print job thereafter. May be shifted from the normal energization mode to the power saving mode in the course of being sequentially performed. For this reason, when the user instructs execution of the workflow 4b, it is not only troublesome for the user but also image formation if it is configured to simultaneously specify whether or not to immediately execute the print job included in the workflow 4b. There is also a possibility that a return operation unintended by the user is performed in the device 2.

  In order to prevent this, in the present embodiment, as described above, the image forming apparatus 2 is configured to automatically determine whether or not it is necessary to immediately execute the print job included in the workflow 4b. Such automatic determination is performed by the CPU 10 executing the program 20. Hereinafter, functions and operations performed by the CPU 10 executing the program 20 will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration realized by the CPU 10 executing the program 20. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the CPU 10 functions as a workflow acquisition unit 31, a workflow analysis unit 32, a job execution control unit 34, and an image processing unit 35.

  The workflow acquisition unit 31 is a processing unit that acquires one workflow 4b to be executed from the workflow management server 4 based on a user instruction. When the workflow acquisition unit 31 acquires the workflow 4b designated by the user from the workflow management server 4, the workflow acquisition unit 31 associates the workflow 4b with the user and stores them in the memory 11 or the storage device 18.

  The workflow analysis unit 32 is a processing unit that analyzes the workflow 4b acquired by the workflow acquisition unit 31. The workflow analysis unit 32 analyzes the workflow 4b to determine whether or not a print job is included in the workflow 4b. As a result, when the print job is not included in the workflow 4b, the workflow analysis unit 32 instructs the job execution control unit 34 to start processing based on the workflow 4b. The workflow analysis unit 32 includes a priority determination unit 33. When the workflow 4b includes a print job, the workflow determination unit 33 causes the priority determination unit 33 to function.

  The priority determination unit 33 is a processing unit that classifies the print job included in the workflow 4b into one of an execution priority job and a power saving priority job. In other words, the priority determination unit 33 analyzes the processing content of each process defined in the workflow 4b, and thereby executes a print job included in the workflow 4b as either an execution priority job or a power saving priority job. Classify into: Here, an execution priority job is a job that prioritizes job execution over power saving. The power saving priority job is a job that prioritizes power saving over job execution. Accordingly, when the priority determination unit 33 analyzes the processing content of each process defined in the workflow 4b and determines that the print job included in the workflow 4b should be immediately executed, the priority determination unit 33 executes the print job. Classify as a priority job. If it is determined that it is not necessary to execute the job immediately, the print job is classified as a power saving priority job. The priority determination unit 33 then instructs the job execution control unit 34 to start processing based on the workflow 4b, and notifies the job execution control unit 34 of the print job classification result.

  The job execution control unit 34 is a control unit that sequentially executes jobs that can be executed in the image forming apparatus 2 among a plurality of processes defined in the workflow 4b based on the analysis result of the workflow analysis unit 32. The job execution control unit 34 controls the execution of jobs defined in the workflow 4b by controlling the operations of the scanner unit 15, the printer unit 16, and the FAX unit 17.

  Then, the job execution control unit 34 advances the processing one by one based on the workflow 4b, so that when the print job included in the workflow 4b comes to the execution timing, the print job becomes the execution priority job and the power saving priority. Determine whether it is classified as a job.

  As a result, when the print job is a power saving priority job and the energized state at that timing is the power saving mode, the job execution control unit 34 does not immediately execute the print job but instead executes the print job. Are stored in the print job storage area 22. Therefore, in this case, the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is not performed, and the power consumption can be suppressed.

  However, even if the print job is a power saving priority job and the energization state at that timing is the power saving mode, if the workflow 4b is a specific workflow, the job execution control unit 34 The print job may be executed immediately. This will be described in detail later.

  Even if the print job is a power saving priority job, if the energization state at that timing is the normal energization mode, the job execution control unit 34 outputs the print job to the printer unit 16, thereby Is executed immediately. Also in this case, since the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is not performed, power consumption can be suppressed. In addition, since the print job included in the workflow 4b is promptly executed, the processing defined in the workflow 4b can be efficiently advanced.

  On the other hand, when the print job is an execution priority job, the job execution control unit 34 outputs the print job to the printer unit 16 to immediately execute the print job. However, in this case, an operation of returning the energized state from the power saving mode to the normal energizing mode may be performed. In other words, since the print job is a job that prioritizes job execution over power saving, the job execution control unit 34 sends a command to the energization control unit 12 to return to the normal energization mode and the print job. Is output to the printer unit 16. As a result, the print job included in the workflow 4b is promptly executed, so that the processing defined in the workflow 4b can be efficiently advanced.

  When the job execution control unit 34 stores a print job in the print job storage area 22, the job execution control unit 34 is in a state of monitoring whether or not it is time to execute the print job. For example, when the power saving mode is canceled and the normal energization mode is restored, or when the data amount of the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 exceeds a predetermined value, the timing for executing the print job is reached. Is detected. When it is detected that it is time to execute the print job, the job execution control unit 34 reads the print job from the print job storage area 22 and outputs it to the printer unit 16. As a result, the process defined in the workflow 4b advances by one.

  Further, when the job execution control unit 34 reads out a print job from the print job storage area 22 and outputs it to the printer unit 16, if a plurality of print jobs are stored in the print job storage area 22, the plurality of print jobs are displayed. Read all. Then, control is performed so that these print jobs are collectively printed out.

  When storing the print job in the print job storage area 22, the job execution control unit 34 sends an e-mail to the user who has instructed the execution of the workflow 4 b to notify that the print job is in a standby state. It is preferable to do. Thereby, the user can grasp that the print job included in the workflow 4b is not immediately executed. When the user wants to immediately execute the print job, the user can instruct the image forming apparatus 2 to perform print output. Further, such notification is not necessarily performed by e-mail, and may be performed by displaying the notification on the display unit 14a of the operation panel 14, for example.

  Further, when the job execution control unit 34 reads and executes a print job from the print job storage area 22, the job execution control unit 34 transmits an e-mail to the user who has instructed execution of the workflow 4b to notify that the print job has been executed. It is preferable. As a result, the user can grasp that the print job included in the workflow 4b has been executed.

  The image processing unit 35 is a processing unit that functions when a specific image process is included in a plurality of processes defined in the workflow 4b and executes the image process. The image processing performed by the image processing unit 35 includes, for example, a combining process for combining a stamp image with specific image data. When the workflow 4b includes such a composition process, the job execution control unit 34 causes the image processing unit 35 to function when it is time to execute the composition process. Then, the image processing unit 35 performs processing for combining the stamp image with the input image data based on an instruction from the job execution control unit 34, and outputs the combined image data to the job execution control unit 34.

  In the following, operations performed in the CPU 10 having the above functions will be described with some specific contents of the workflow 4b.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow 4b related to an equipment purchase application. In the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 4, it is defined that five processes from "Process 1" to "Process 5" are sequentially executed. “Process 1” is a process of automatically downloading an application form for applying for equipment purchase from the document management server 5. “Process 2” is a process for printing out the downloaded application form. Therefore, “Process 2” corresponds to a print job executed in the image forming apparatus 2. “Process 3” is a process in which the approver seals the printed application form. This “processing 3” cannot be automatically executed in the image forming apparatus 2 but is manually performed by an approver (user C) defined in the workflow 4b. “Process 4” is a process of reading the application form stamped by the approver using the scan function. “Process 5” is a process for automatically transmitting the image data read by the scan function to the transmission destination designated by the workflow 4b.

  In the workflow 4b as shown in FIG. 4, the user C who is the approver confirms the printed matter printed out in “Processing 2” in “Processing 3” and approves the equipment purchase application. A stamping operation is performed. For this reason, when the user C who is the approver has left the office due to a meeting or a business trip, it is not necessary to immediately execute the print output of “Process 2”. Therefore, if the priority determination unit 33 that functions in the CPU 10 includes a process in which the specific approver approves the printed matter output by executing the print job in the workflow 4b to be executed, Classify print jobs as power saving priority jobs.

  However, when it is time to execute the print output of “Process 2”, if the approver user C is in the room entry state, it is preferable to execute the print job corresponding to “Process 2” promptly. Therefore, in the case of the workflow 4b as shown in FIG. 4, the job execution control unit 34 refers to the workflow 4b and executes the print job when it is time to execute the print job corresponding to “Process 2”. A user who approves the printed matter to be output (user C in the case of FIG. 4) is specified. Then, the job execution control unit 34 accesses the entry / exit management server 6 and confirms whether or not the user C who approves the printed matter is in the entry state. As a result, if the user C who approves the printed material enters the room, the print job is immediately executed. That is, in this case, even if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is in the power saving mode, the print job is promptly executed after returning to the normal energization mode. As a result, since the approval work can be performed promptly when the user C who is the approver is in the room, each process defined in the workflow 4b can be efficiently executed. Become.

  On the other hand, if the user C who approves the printed matter is in the leaving state, the job execution control unit 34 performs the same processing as that of a normal power saving priority job. That is, the job execution control unit 34 confirms the energization state of the fixing unit 16a and determines whether or not it is in the power saving mode. In the power saving mode, the print job is not executed immediately, but is stored in the print job storage area 22.

  Thereafter, the job execution control unit 34 reads the print job from the print job storage area 22 at a timing at which the print job should be executed, and executes the print job. Then, the remaining processes defined in the workflow 4b are sequentially performed.

  5 and 6 are flowcharts showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the CPU 10 when the processing based on the workflow 4b in FIG. 4 is sequentially performed. When the CPU 10 acquires the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 10 starts this process. When acquiring the workflow 4b, the CPU 10 analyzes the workflow 4b (step S10) and determines whether a print job is included in the workflow 4b (step S11). As a result, if the workflow 4b does not include a print job (NO in step S11), the process performed by the CPU 10 proceeds to step S24.

  When the workflow 4b includes a print job (YES in step S11), the CPU 10 determines whether or not the workflow 4b includes a process for the approver to stamp the printed material (step S12). . If the process performed by the approver is included (YES in step S12), the CPU 10 classifies the print job as a power saving priority job (step S13). On the other hand, if the process performed by the approver is not included (NO in step S12), the CPU 10 classifies the print job as an execution priority job (step S14).

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes processing based on the workflow 4b until the print job execution timing comes (steps S15 and S16). Each time one process defined in the workflow 4b is completed, the job execution control unit 34 rewrites the completion flag (see FIG. 4) corresponding to the process in the workflow 4b from, for example, “0” to “1”. To go. Thereby, even if the process based on the workflow 4b is interrupted, it is possible to grasp how far the process has been completed.

  When the print job execution timing comes (YES in step S16), the CPU 10 determines whether or not the print job is a power saving priority job (step S17). As a result, if the print job is an execution priority job (NO in step S17), the processing performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S23. At this time, if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is performed.

  In contrast, if the print job is a power saving priority job (YES in step S17), the CPU 10 accesses the entry / exit management server 6 and acquires entry / exit information regarding the user C who approves the printed matter (step S18). Then, it is determined whether or not the user C who is the approver is in the room entry state (step S19). As a result, if the user C who is the approver is in the room entry state (YES in step S19), the processing performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S23. Also at this time, if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is performed.

  On the other hand, when the user C who is the approver is in the leaving state (NO in step S19), the CPU 10 confirms the energization state of the fixing unit 16a (step S20) and determines whether or not it is in the power saving mode (step S20). Step S21). As a result, if the energization state is the normal energization mode (NO in step S21), step S22 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S23. If the energized state is the power saving mode (YES in step S22), the CPU 10 executes a print job storage standby process (step S22).

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed processing procedure regarding the print job storage standby (step S22). When starting this process, the CPU 10 stores the print job that is currently being executed in the print job storage area 22 (step S30). At this time, as described above, it is preferable that the CPU 10 notifies the user who has instructed the execution of the workflow 4b that the print job included in the workflow 4b has been accumulated and waited.

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 enters a state of monitoring whether or not it is time to execute the print job. That is, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the power saving mode is canceled and the normal energization mode is restored (step S31). When returning to the normal energization mode (YES in step S31), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 (step S32). Thus, for example, when the image forming apparatus 2 executes another print job, the print job included in the workflow 4b can be executed at the same time.

  If the normal energization mode has not been restored (NO in step S31), the CPU 10 accesses the entry / exit management server 6 again to acquire entry / exit information relating to the user C who approves the printed matter (step S33). It is determined whether or not the user C who is a person is in the room entry state (step S34). When the approver user C is in the room entry state (YES in step S34), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 (step S32). As a result, when the user C who is the approver returns from the leaving state to the entering state, the print job included in the workflow 4b can be executed at that timing.

  When the user C who is the approver is still in the room leaving state (NO in step S34), the CPU 10 acquires the data amount of the print data stored in the print job storage area 22 (step S35), and the data amount It is determined whether or not exceeds a predetermined value (step S36). Note that the data amount determined at this time is the total data amount of a plurality of print jobs when a plurality of print jobs are stored in the print job storage area 22. As a result, if the data amount of the print data exceeds the predetermined value (YES in step S36), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 (step S32). As a result, it is possible to prevent the state in which the storable area of the storage device 18 is occupied by a large number of print jobs from continuing for a long time.

  If the data amount of the print data does not exceed the predetermined value (NO in step S36), the CPU 10 performs print output based on the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 by the user who has instructed execution of the workflow 4b. It is determined whether or not execution has been instructed (step S37). If there is a print output instruction from the user (YES in step S37), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 (step S32). As a result, the print job included in the workflow 4b can be executed at the timing when the user who has instructed the execution of the workflow 4b desires the print output.

  If there is no print output instruction from the user (NO in step S37), the processing by the CPU 10 returns to step S31 described above. By repeating the above-described processing, it is monitored whether or not it is time to execute the print job stored in the print job storage area 22. When it is detected that it is time to execute the print job stored in the print job storage area 22, the print job is read from the print job storage area 22 (step S32).

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 5, the CPU 10 next executes the print output included in the workflow 4b (step S23). Here, when print output is performed based on the print job read from the print job storage area 22 in step S22, the CPU 10 executes the print job included in the workflow 4b to the user who instructs the execution of the workflow 4b. It is preferable to notify. When the print output is completed, the CPU 10 rewrites the completion flag (see FIG. 4) corresponding to the print output in the workflow 4b, for example, from “0” to “1”.

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes all the processes defined in the workflow 4b by sequentially executing the remaining processes defined in the workflow 4b (step S24). Also at this time, every time one process defined in the workflow 4b is completed, the CPU 10 rewrites the completion flag (see FIG. 4) corresponding to the process in the workflow 4b from “0” to “1”, for example. To go. When all the processes defined in the workflow are completed, the process based on the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a process in which a print job is included in the workflow 4b to be executed, and a specific approver approves a printed matter output by executing the print job in the workflow 4b. Is included, the print job is classified as a power saving priority job. For this reason, when there is no specific approver, power saving is prioritized, and the print job included in the workflow 4b can be put on standby without being immediately executed. In addition, when the image forming apparatus 2 can confirm that a specific approver is in the room entry state by communicating with the room entry / exit management server 6 at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow 4b, In this configuration, the printer unit 16 is driven to quickly perform print output based on the print job. Therefore, if the specific approver who approves the printed matter is in the room entry state, the print job included in the workflow 4b is immediately executed, so that each process defined in the workflow 4b can be efficiently advanced. Become.

  In addition, when the image forming apparatus 2 can confirm that a specific approver is in an exit state by communicating with the entrance / exit management server 6 at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow 4b, the image forming apparatus 2 executes the print job. It is stored in the print job storage area 22 to enter a standby state. Thereafter, when the image forming apparatus 2 can confirm that the specific approver is in the room entry state by periodically communicating with the room entry / exit management server 6, the print job stored in the print job storage area 22 is stored. By reading and driving the printer unit 16, print output based on the print job is performed. Accordingly, when a specific approver who approves the printed material returns to the room entry state, the print job included in the workflow 4b is immediately executed at that timing, and thus each process defined in the workflow 4b is promptly advanced thereafter. Will be able to.

  Next, FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow 4b for combining the stamp image with the secret information and printing it out. In the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 7, it is defined that four processes from "Process 1" to "Process 4" are sequentially executed. “Process 1” is a process for automatically downloading a secret document including secret information such as a product development plan from the document management server 5. “Process 2” is a process of automatically downloading a stamp image to be combined with the downloaded secret document from the document management server 5. The stamp image is an image indicating confidential information, and is an image including a character string such as “confidential” or “copy prohibited”. “Process 3” is a process for automatically synthesizing a stamp image with the downloaded secret document. “Process 4” is a process for printing out the confidential document combined with the stamp image. Therefore, this “processing 4” corresponds to a print job executed in the image forming apparatus 2.

  In the workflow 4b as shown in FIG. 7, the secret information is included in the printed matter printed out in “Process 4”. If a printed matter including such secret information is printed out at the same time as another printed matter, the secret information may be seen by a third party, which is not preferable. Therefore, the priority determination unit 33 functioning in the CPU 10 includes a combining process for combining a stamp image indicating confidential information with a document (image data) to be executed by the print job in the workflow 4b. If so, the print job is classified as an execution priority job. As a result, the print job that outputs the printed matter including the confidential information is immediately executed in the course of the process of the workflow 4b, and thus it is possible to prevent the confidential information from being seen by a third party. .

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the CPU 10 when the processing based on the workflow 4b in FIG. 7 is sequentially performed. When the CPU 10 acquires the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 10 starts this process. When acquiring the workflow 4b, the CPU 10 analyzes the workflow 4b (step S40), and determines whether or not a print job is included in the workflow 4b (step S41). As a result, if the workflow 4b does not include a print job (NO in step S41), the process performed by the CPU 10 proceeds to step S53.

  If the workflow 4b includes a print job (YES in step S41), the CPU 10 determines whether the workflow 4b includes a stamp image composition process (step S42). If stamp image composition processing is included (YES in step S42), the CPU 10 classifies the print job as an execution priority job (step S43). On the other hand, if the stamp image composition processing is not included (NO in step S42), the CPU 10 classifies the print job as a power saving priority job (step S44).

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes processing based on the workflow 4b until the print job execution timing comes (steps S45 and S46). When the print job execution timing comes (YES in step S46), the CPU 10 determines whether the print job is a power saving priority job (step S47). As a result, if the print job is an execution priority job (NO in step S47), the processing performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S52. At this time, if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is performed.

  On the other hand, if the print job is a power saving priority job (YES in step S47), the CPU 10 checks the energization state of the fixing unit 16a (step S48) and determines whether or not it is in the power saving mode (step S48). Step S49). As a result, if the energization state is the normal energization mode (NO in step S49), the process performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S52.

  When the energized state is the power saving mode (YES in step S49), the CPU 10 stores the print job in the print job storage area 22 (step S50). Thereafter, the CPU 10 enters a state of monitoring whether or not it is time to execute the print job. That is, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the power saving mode is canceled and the normal energization mode is restored (step S51). When returning to the normal energization mode (YES in step S51), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22, and executes print output based on the read print job (step S52).

  Even when the normal energization mode is not restored, the print job is read out and executed when the data amount of the print data stored in the print job storage area 22 exceeds the predetermined value as described above. Also good. Further, when a user who has instructed execution of the workflow 4b is instructed to execute print output, a print job may be read out and executed.

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 sequentially executes the remaining processes defined in the workflow 4b, thereby executing all the processes defined in the workflow 4b (step S54). When all the processes defined in the workflow are completed, the process based on the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, when the workflow 4b includes the process of combining the stamp image with the image data to be executed by the print job, the image forming apparatus 2 classifies the print job as an execution priority job. Therefore, when it is time to execute a print job included in the workflow 4b, the print job is immediately executed. As a result, it is possible to prevent a third party from seeing the printed matter that is output along with the execution of the print job.

  Further, the image forming apparatus 2 is configured to classify the print job included in the workflow 4b as an execution priority job when the stamp image combined with the image data by the combining process is an image indicating confidential information. Yes. Therefore, there is an advantage that it is possible to prevent the printed material from being viewed by a third party, particularly when the printed material includes confidential information.

  Further, when the workflow 4b does not include the stamp image synthesis process, the image forming apparatus 2 classifies the print job included in the workflow 4b as a power saving priority job. Therefore, even if the workflow 4b includes a print job, if the workflow 4b does not include a stamp image composition process, priority is given to power saving, without immediately executing the print job included in the workflow 4b. You will be able to wait.

  Next, FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow 4b that receives FAX data from a specific destination and prints it out. In the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 9, it is defined that two processes from "Process 1" to "Process 2" are sequentially executed. “Process 1” is a process of receiving FAX data transmitted from a specific destination. “Process 2” is a process for performing print output based on the received FAX data. Therefore, this “processing 2” corresponds to a print job executed in the image forming apparatus 2.

  In the workflow 4b as shown in FIG. 9, the timing for receiving the “processing 1” FAX data is indeterminate. For this reason, the timing at which the print output of “Process 2” is performed is also uncertain. In other words, the execution timing of such a print job included in the workflow 4b is determined by the convenience of the other party, and the image forming apparatus 2 is a job that does not need to perform print output particularly quickly. FIG. 9 illustrates the reception of FAX data, but the same applies to the reception of e-mail, for example. Therefore, the priority determination unit 33 that functions in the CPU 10 includes a process in which the workflow 4b includes a print job, and the workflow 4b receives image data to be executed by the print job by FAX or e-mail. If so, the print job is classified as a power saving priority job. As a result, even when a fax or electronic mail defined in the workflow 4b is received, if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, the power saving mode can be continued.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the CPU 10 when the processing based on the workflow 4b in FIG. 9 is sequentially performed. When the CPU 10 acquires the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 10 starts this process. When acquiring the workflow 4b, the CPU 10 analyzes the workflow 4b (step S60), and determines whether or not a print job is included in the workflow 4b (step S61). As a result, when the workflow 4b does not include a print job (NO in step S61), the process performed by the CPU 10 proceeds to step S73.

  If the workflow 4b includes a print job (YES in step S61), the CPU 10 determines whether the workflow 4b includes processing for receiving the print job by FAX (step S62). If the process of receiving a print job by FAX is included (YES in step S62), the CPU 10 classifies the print job as a power saving priority job (step S63). On the other hand, when the process of receiving a print job by FAX is not included (NO in step S62), the CPU 10 classifies the print job as an execution priority job (step S64). The same applies to the case where the workflow 4b includes a process of receiving a print job by e-mail.

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes processing based on the workflow 4b until the print job execution timing comes (steps S65 and S66). In the case of the workflow 4b of FIG. 9, in steps S65 and S66, reception of FAX data from a specific partner is awaited. When a print job is acquired and the execution timing of the print job is reached (YES in step S66), the CPU 10 determines whether or not the print job is a power saving priority job (step S67). As a result, if the print job is an execution priority job (NO in step S67), the processing performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S72. Then, a print job is executed. At this time, if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is performed.

  On the other hand, if the print job is a power saving priority job (YES in step S67), the CPU 10 checks the energization state of the fixing unit 16a (step S68) and determines whether it is in the power saving mode (step S68). Step S69). As a result, if the energization state is the normal energization mode (NO in step S69), the process performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S72. Then, a print job is executed.

  When the energized state is the power saving mode (YES in step S69), the CPU 10 stores the print job in the print job storage area 22 (step S70). Thereafter, the CPU 10 enters a state of monitoring whether or not it is time to execute the print job. That is, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the power saving mode is canceled and the normal energization mode is restored (step S71). When returning to the normal energization mode (YES in step S71), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22, and executes the print output based on the read print job (step S72).

  Even when the normal energization mode is not restored, the print job is read out and executed when the data amount of the print data stored in the print job storage area 22 exceeds the predetermined value as described above. Also good. Further, when a user who has instructed execution of the workflow 4b is instructed to execute print output, a print job may be read out and executed.

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes all the processes defined in the workflow 4b by sequentially executing the remaining processes defined in the workflow 4b (step S73). When all the processes defined in the workflow are completed, the process based on the flowchart of FIG. 10 ends.

  As described above, when the workflow 4b includes processing for receiving image data to be executed by a print job by FAX or e-mail, the image forming apparatus 2 classifies the print job as a power saving priority job. Therefore, when the image data transmitted from a specific destination is received, if the fixing unit 16a is in the power saving mode, the print job can be put on standby, and the power saving mode can be continued. It becomes like this.

  Next, FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow 4b including a plurality of print jobs. The workflow 4b in FIG. 11 includes two print jobs, trial printing and main printing. Trial printing is printing for the user to check the finished state by printing out only the first page of a plurality of pages, for example. The main printing is a production printing performed after the finished state is confirmed by the user, and is a printing for outputting all pages. By executing such a workflow 4b, the user can instruct execution of the main printing after confirming the finished state by the trial printing. If you do not like the finished state of trial printing, you can change the print settings and perform trial printing again.

  In the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 11, it is defined that four processes from "Process 1" to "Process 4" are sequentially executed. “Process 1” is a process for automatically downloading a document such as a document from the document management server 5. “Process 2” is a process of performing a trial print output of the downloaded document. Therefore, “Process 2” corresponds to the first print job executed in the image forming apparatus 2. “Process 3” is a process in which the user confirms the finished state of the trial printed document. This “Process 3” is a process that cannot be automatically executed in the image forming apparatus 2 and is manually performed by a user who has instructed execution of the workflow 4b. “Process 4” is a process of performing a main print output of the downloaded document based on an instruction from the user. Therefore, “Process 4” corresponds to a second print job executed in the image forming apparatus 2.

  In the workflow 4b as shown in FIG. 11, the user confirms the printed matter to be printed out in “Process 2” in “Process 3”. In order for the user to start the confirmation work promptly, it is preferable that the print job corresponding to “Process 2” is executed promptly. On the other hand, the timing at which the user finishes the confirmation of the printed matter output by trial printing is indeterminate. Therefore, the execution timing of the print job corresponding to “Process 4” is also uncertain. In other words, the execution timing of the print job corresponding to “Processing 4” is determined by the convenience of the user, and is not particularly urgent in the image forming apparatus 2 and does not need to be printed out.

  Therefore, the priority determination unit 33 that functions in the CPU 10 prioritizes execution of a print job corresponding to trial printing when the workflow 4b includes processing for performing print output in two times, trial printing and main printing. The job is classified, and the print job corresponding to the main print is classified as a power saving priority job. As a result, the print job for trial printing defined in the workflow 4b can be promptly executed, while the execution of the print job for actual printing can be put on standby.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure performed by the CPU 10 when processing based on the workflow 4b in FIG. 11 is sequentially performed. When the CPU 10 acquires the workflow 4b shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 10 starts this process. When acquiring the workflow 4b, the CPU 10 analyzes the workflow 4b (step S80) and determines whether or not a print job is included in the workflow 4b (step S81). As a result, if the workflow 4b does not include a print job (NO in step S81), the process performed by the CPU 10 proceeds to step S94.

  When the workflow 4b includes a print job (YES in step S81), the CPU 10 determines whether the workflow 4b includes two print jobs, trial printing and main printing (step S82). ). If two print jobs of trial printing and main printing are included (YES in step S82), the CPU 10 classifies the print jobs corresponding to the trial printing as execution priority jobs and corresponds to the main printing. The print job is classified as a power saving priority job (step S83). On the other hand, when trial printing and main printing are not included (NO in step S82), the CPU 10 classifies the print job included in the workflow 4b as an execution priority job (step S84).

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 executes processing based on the workflow 4b until the execution timing of the print job is reached (steps S85 and S86). As a result, first, the execution timing of the print job corresponding to the trial printing is reached.

  When it is time to execute the print job (YES in step S86), the CPU 10 determines whether the print job is a power saving priority job (step S87). If the print job is an execution priority job (NO in step S87), the processing performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S92. Then, a print job is executed. At this time, if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, the return operation from the power saving mode to the normal energization mode is performed. In the case of a print job by trial printing, the process jumps from step S87 to step S92 and the print job is executed.

  On the other hand, if the print job is a power saving priority job (YES in step S87), the CPU 10 checks the energization state of the fixing unit 16a (step S88) and determines whether it is in the power saving mode (step S88). Step S89). As a result, if the energization state is the normal energization mode (NO in step S89), the process performed by the CPU 10 jumps to step S92. Then, a print job is executed.

  When the energized state is the power saving mode (YES in step S89), the CPU 10 stores the print job in the print job storage area 22 (step S90). Thereafter, the CPU 10 enters a state of monitoring whether or not it is time to execute the print job. That is, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the power saving mode is canceled and the normal energization mode is restored (step S91). When returning to the normal energization mode (YES in step S91), the CPU 10 reads the print job stored in the print job storage area 22, and executes print output based on the read print job (step S92).

  Even when the normal energization mode is not restored, the print job is read out and executed when the data amount of the print data stored in the print job storage area 22 exceeds the predetermined value as described above. Also good. Further, when a user who has instructed execution of the workflow 4b is instructed to execute print output, a print job may be read out and executed.

  Thereafter, the CPU 10 determines whether another print job is included in the workflow 4b (step S93). If another print job is included (YES in step S93), the process returns to step S85. When it is time to execute another print job (YES in step S86), the processes in steps S87 to S92 described above are executed again. In the case of a print job by main printing, YES is determined in the step S87, and if the energization state of the fixing unit 16a is the power saving mode, it is stored in the print job storage area 22. When the power saving mode is canceled, print output based on the print job is performed.

  Note that, as described above, as a result of the user confirming the finished state by trial printing, the user may not like the finished state, and may change the print settings and instruct execution of trial printing again. In this case, after returning to step S85, NO is returned again in step S87, and the second trial printing is immediately executed.

  If it is determined in step S93 that there is no other print job (NO in step S93), the CPU 10 subsequently executes the remaining processes defined in the workflow 4b, thereby defining the workflow 4b. All the processes are executed (step S94). When all the processes defined in the workflow are completed, the process based on the flowchart of FIG.

  As described above, when the workflow 4b includes the process of performing the print output of the image data to be printed in two times of the trial printing and the main printing, the printing corresponding to the trial printing is performed. The job is classified as an execution priority job, and the print job corresponding to the main printing is classified as a power saving priority job. Therefore, a print job corresponding to trial printing is promptly executed. Therefore, the user can immediately start the confirmation work of the printed matter output by the trial printing. On the other hand, when the print job corresponding to the main print is executed, if the fixing unit 16a is in the power saving mode, the print job can be put on standby, so that the power saving mode can be continued. .

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 2 of the present embodiment is configured to automatically execute jobs that can be executed based on the workflow 4b that is defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes. Yes. When the execution of the process based on the workflow 4b is instructed, the workflow 4b is analyzed. When the print job is included in the workflow 4b, the processing contents of each process defined in the workflow 4b are analyzed. By doing so, the print job is classified in advance into either an execution priority job or a power saving priority job. Thereafter, the execution of the process based on the workflow 4b is started, and when the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow 4b is reached, the print job is a power saving priority job, and the energization state of the printer unit 16 is the power saving. If the mode is selected, the print job is stored in the print job storage area 22. On the other hand, when the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow 4b is reached, if the print job is an execution priority job, or if the energization state of the printer unit 16 is the normal energization mode, the printer unit 16 is driven. Thus, print output based on the print job is performed.

  That is, if the image forming apparatus 2 of the present embodiment includes a print job in the workflow 4b defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes, should the print job be executed promptly? It is configured to automatically determine whether or not. When it is not necessary to execute the print job included in the workflow 4b promptly, the print job is temporarily stored in the print job storage area 22 and put into an execution standby state. The number of times of returning to the normal energization mode can be reduced.

  As mentioned above, although one Embodiment regarding this invention was described, this invention is not restricted to the thing of the content mentioned above, A various modification is applicable.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the case where the image forming apparatus 2 downloads the image data to be executed by the print job from the document management server 5 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image data may be acquired from the computer 3 or may be acquired from another device. Further, the image data may be stored in advance in the storage device 18 of the image forming apparatus 2.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, the processing performed when the image forming apparatus 2 acquires the workflow 4b of FIGS. 4, 7, 9, and 11 has been individually described (FIG. 5, FIG. 8, FIG. 10 and FIG. 12). However, actually, when the image forming apparatus 2 acquires any one of the workflows 4b in FIGS. 4, 7, 9, and 11, the image forming apparatus 2 determines the type of the acquired workflow 4b. By determining, what kind of workflow the acquired workflow 4b is is specified, and processing based on any of the flowcharts of FIG. 5, FIG. 8, FIG. 10 and FIG. Is preferably configured to execute.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the image forming apparatus 2 is a multi-function machine having a plurality of functions such as a copy function, a scan function, a printer function, and a FAX function has been illustrated. However, the image forming apparatus 2 is not necessarily limited to being a multi-function machine. is not. For example, the image forming apparatus 2 may be a printer dedicated machine.

2 Image forming device 4 Workflow management server 6 Entrance / exit management server (entrance / exit management device)
7 Network 12 Energization control unit (energization control means)
16 Printer section (image forming means)
18 Storage device (storage means)
20 program 31 workflow acquisition unit (workflow acquisition means)
32 Workflow analysis unit (workflow analysis means)
33 Priority Determination Unit 34 Job Execution Control Unit (Job Execution Control Unit)

Claims (12)

An image forming apparatus that automatically executes an executable job based on a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes.
Storage means for storing various information;
Workflow acquisition means for acquiring the workflow;
Workflow analysis means for analyzing the workflow acquired by the workflow acquisition means;
Job execution control means for controlling job execution based on the workflow acquired by the workflow acquisition means;
An image forming unit for performing image formation and performing print output based on a print job instructed to be executed by the job execution control unit;
An energization control unit that sets the energization state in the image forming unit to either a normal energization mode or a power saving mode;
With
When the workflow includes a print job, the workflow analysis unit analyzes the processing content of each process defined in the workflow, thereby executing the print job as either an execution priority job or a power saving priority job. Classify in advance,
The job execution control unit is configured such that, at the execution timing of a print job included in the workflow, the print job is a power saving priority job, and the energization state of the image forming unit set by the energization control unit is When in the power saving mode, the print job is stored in the storage unit, while when the print job is an execution priority job, or the energization state of the image forming unit set by the energization control unit is An image forming apparatus, wherein in the normal energization mode, the image forming unit is driven to perform print output based on the print job.   The workflow analysis unit classifies the print job as a power saving priority job when the workflow includes a process in which a specific approver approves a printed matter output by executing the print job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: A communication means for communicating via a network with an entry / exit management device that manages the entry / exit status of the specific approver;
When the job execution control unit determines that the specific approver is in the room entry state by communicating with the room entry / exit management device at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow, the image formation unit is The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein printing output based on the print job is performed by driving.   When the job execution control unit determines that the specific approver is in an exit state by communicating with the entrance / exit management device at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow, The storage unit stores the print job stored in the storage unit when the specific approver is determined to be in the room entry state by periodically communicating with the entry / exit management device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein printing output based on the print job is performed by driving the image forming unit.   The workflow analysis unit categorizes the print job as an execution priority job when the workflow includes a process of combining a stamp image with image data to be executed by the print job. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 1 to 4.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the stamp image is an image indicating that the image data is confidential information.   The workflow analysis unit classifies the print job as a power saving priority job when the workflow includes a process of receiving image data to be executed by the print job by FAX or e-mail. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The workflow analysis unit executes a print job corresponding to trial printing when the workflow includes a process of performing print output of image data to be printed in two steps of trial printing and main printing. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is classified as a priority job, and a print job corresponding to the main printing is classified as a power saving priority job. An operation means for receiving an operation input by a user;
The job execution control unit stores a print job classified as a power saving priority job in the storage unit and then instructs the execution of the print job via the operation unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a print job is read and the image forming unit is driven to perform print output based on the print job.   The job execution control unit monitors the data amount of the print job stored in the storage unit, reads the print job from the storage unit at a timing when the data amount exceeds a predetermined value, and drives the image forming unit The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein print output based on the print job is performed. An image forming method for automatically executing an executable job based on a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes,
(a) obtaining the workflow;
(b) When a print job is included in the workflow, the print job is analyzed in advance as either an execution priority job or a power saving priority job by analyzing the processing contents of each process defined in the workflow. A step of classification;
(c) controlling execution of a job based on the workflow;
Have
The step (c) is when the print job is a power saving priority job at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow, and the energization state of the image forming unit that performs print output is the power saving mode. Stores the print job in a predetermined storage unit, and drives the image forming unit when the print job is an execution priority job or when the energization state of the image forming unit is the normal energization mode. An image forming method characterized by causing print output based on the print job. A program executed in an image forming apparatus capable of performing image formation and performing print output, the image forming apparatus comprising:
Workflow acquisition means for acquiring a workflow defined to sequentially execute a plurality of processes;
Workflow analysis means for analyzing the workflow; and
Job execution control means for controlling job execution based on the workflow;
Function as
When the workflow includes a print job, the workflow analysis unit analyzes the processing contents of each process defined in the workflow, thereby executing the print job as either an execution priority job or a power saving priority job. Classify them in advance,
In the job execution control unit, the print job is a power saving priority job at the execution timing of the print job included in the workflow, and the energization state of the image forming unit that performs print output is in the power saving mode. Storing the print job in a predetermined storage unit, and driving the image forming unit when the print job is an execution priority job or when the energization state of the image forming unit is the normal energization mode. A program that causes a print output based on the print job to be performed.

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