JP2013202946A - Image forming apparatus, image forming program, and image forming system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To print data to be printed, stored in a communication terminal by a simple system configuration and to print the data to be printed with a simple operation by each of image forming apparatuses having a different image forming process as necessary.SOLUTION: In a first image forming apparatus 1, a data transmission and reception part 102 receives print data including data to be printed, print accompanying information and apparatus specification information from the first image forming apparatus 1, when an apparatus specification instruction associated with identification information accepted from a user by an identification information accepting part 105 indicates the first image forming apparatus 1, a control part 101 allows an image forming part 130 to print the data to be printed, and when the apparatus specification instruction indicates a second image forming apparatus, the control part 101 outputs the data to be printed and the print accompanying information to the data conversion tool of an information processor 7.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming program, and an image forming system, and more particularly to a technique for printing print target data received from a communication terminal device in the image forming apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a network print system that can acquire information stored in a print service server on the Internet from an image forming apparatus installed at a remote location via the Internet and print the acquired document. Yes. As such a network print system, as shown in the following Patent Document 1, a user accesses the print service server from his / her own communication terminal device (such as a mobile device) and registers print target data in advance. Thereafter, when the user inputs a document ID (identification) to an image forming apparatus installed in a convenience store or the like, the image forming apparatus accesses the print service server via the Internet, and the document is received from the print service server. It is known to obtain print target data corresponding to an ID and print the print target data.

JP 2008-97239 A

  However, in the above-described conventional image forming system, the user needs to register the print target data to be printed by the image forming apparatus in advance with the print service server. Therefore, it is necessary to perform troublesome preparation work for printing. Today, it is desirable for users to be able to print data to be printed stored in communication terminal devices such as their own mobile devices with simpler operations using image forming devices installed in public places. It is rare.

  Further, while solving the above problems, each of the print target data has an image forming process suitable for the data type according to the type of print target data, for example, photographic data in JPEG format or document data. It is also desired that printing with each image forming apparatus having a different image forming process is realized by a simple operation as necessary, such as printing with an image forming apparatus.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and enables printing of data to be printed stored in a communication terminal device with a simple system configuration, and has different image forming processes as necessary. It is an object to enable printing with each image forming apparatus with a simple operation.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the print target data, the print accompanying information, and the image forming apparatus used for printing the print target data are the image forming apparatus itself or the image forming apparatus. Data received from a communication terminal device, using a predetermined protocol corresponding to the image forming apparatus, print data having an apparatus designation instruction for designating which of the separate image forming apparatuses has a different process A receiver,
An identification information creating unit that creates identification information for specifying the print data when the data receiving unit receives the print data;
An identification information transmission unit that transmits the identification information created by the identification information creation unit to the communication terminal device that has transmitted the print data;
A print information storage unit that stores the print data received by the data reception unit in association with the created identification information;
A print unit that prints the print target data included in the print data; and
An identification information receiving unit for receiving input of identification information;
When the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit, when the device designation instruction of the print data stored in the print information storage unit in association with the identification information indicates the image forming apparatus itself, When the print target data of the print data is printed on the printing unit using a part of the print accompanying information, and the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming apparatus, the print target data of the print data and the print accompanying data And a control unit that outputs information to a data conversion tool that converts information into a data format suitable for printing by the separate image forming apparatus.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming process in which the image forming apparatus itself or the image forming apparatus is used for printing the print target data, the printing accompanying information, and the image forming apparatus used for printing the print target data. Receiving data received from a communication terminal device by a predetermined protocol corresponding to the image forming apparatus, with a device designation instruction for designating which of the different image forming apparatuses is different from each other. And
An identification information creating unit that creates identification information for specifying the print data when the data receiving unit receives the print data;
An identification information transmission unit that transmits the identification information created by the identification information creation unit to the communication terminal device that has transmitted the print data;
A storage controller that associates the print data received by the data receiver with the created identification information and stores it in a print information storage;
An identification information receiving unit for receiving input of identification information;
When the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit, when the device designation instruction of the print data stored in the print information storage unit in association with the identification information indicates the image forming apparatus itself, When printing target data of print data is printed on a printing unit included in the image forming apparatus itself using a part of the printing accompanying information, and the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming apparatus, the print data Is an image forming program that causes a computer to function as a control unit that outputs the data to be printed and the printing accompanying information to a data conversion tool that converts the data to be printed into a data format suitable for printing by the separate image forming apparatus.

The invention according to claim 6 is an image forming system having at least a control unit provided in the communication terminal device and a first image forming device capable of communicating with the communication terminal device,
The control unit of the communication terminal device is
A print job reception unit that receives a print job input from a user;
A print target data generating unit that generates print target data to be printed by the print job in a data format suitable for printing by the first image forming apparatus;
Whether the image forming apparatus used for printing the print target data is the first image forming apparatus or a separate second image forming apparatus having a different image forming process from the first image forming apparatus. An instruction receiving unit for receiving a device specifying instruction to be specified from a user;
Print data including the print target data, the print accompanying information extracted from the print job, and the device designation instruction received by the instruction receiving unit is applied in advance to the first image forming apparatus. A communication unit that transmits to the first image forming apparatus with a predetermined protocol,
The first image forming apparatus includes:
A data receiving unit that receives the print data from the communication terminal device with the predetermined protocol;
An identification information creating unit that creates identification information for specifying the print data when the data receiving unit receives the print data;
An identification information transmission unit that transmits the identification information created by the identification information creation unit to the communication terminal device that has transmitted the print data;
A print information storage unit that stores the print data received by the data reception unit in association with the created identification information;
A print unit that prints the print target data included in the print data; and
An identification information receiving unit for receiving input of identification information;
When the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit, when the device designation instruction of the print data stored in the print information storage unit in association with the identification information indicates the first image forming device When the print target data of the print data is printed on the printing unit using a part of the printing accompanying information, and the device designation instruction indicates the second image forming device, the print target data of the print data And a control unit that outputs the printing-accompanying information to a data conversion tool that converts the information associated with the printing into a data format suitable for printing by the second image forming apparatus.

  According to these inventions, since the image forming apparatus receives print data from a communication terminal device such as a mobile device and performs printing without using the print service server required in the prior art, the communication terminal device It is possible to construct a system for printing the print target data stored in the printer without requiring a print service server. Further, if the user performs an operation of transmitting print data from the communication terminal device to the image forming apparatus without performing the work of registering the print data in the print service server in advance, the print data is transferred to the image forming apparatus. Is received and can be printed, so there is no need to ask the user for troublesome preparatory work for this printing.

  Further, when the control unit prints the print data associated with the identification information, if the device designation instruction indicates the image forming device itself, the control unit prints the print target data on the printing unit included in the image forming device. When the apparatus designation instruction indicates the separate image forming apparatus, the user outputs the print data and the print accompanying information to a data conversion tool that performs data conversion suitable for the separate image forming apparatus. Regardless of whether the print target data is printed by the image forming apparatus or a separate image forming apparatus, the communication terminal apparatus can be used to input identification information to the image forming apparatus including the identification information receiving unit. It is possible to distribute the print target data to the image forming apparatus designated by the above operation and perform printing.

  For example, the user selects printing by an image forming apparatus having an electrophotographic image forming process in the case of a text document, and a separate image having a sublimation type image forming process in the case of photographic data such as JPEG format. If an operation such as selecting printing by the forming apparatus is performed on the communication terminal device, then the image is printed at any of the image forming apparatuses at the installation location of both of these image forming apparatuses. If an operation for inputting identification information is performed in the forming apparatus, printing can be performed by the selected image forming apparatus.

  For this reason, while obtaining the effects described above, the print target data is classified into an image suitable for each type depending on the type of print target data, for example, photographic data in JPEG format or the like or document data. Printing with the image forming apparatus in the forming process can be realized without imposing a burden on the user.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, the print target data stored in the communication terminal device can be printed with a simple system configuration, and printed by each image forming device having a different image forming process as necessary. However, it becomes possible with a simple operation.

  The invention according to claim 2 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit associates with the identification information when the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming device. The printing target data of the print data and the printing accompanying information are output to the data conversion tool mounted on an apparatus separate from the image forming apparatus itself.

  In this invention, since the image forming apparatus does not include a data conversion tool for an image forming process that is not applied to the image forming apparatus, the data to be printed is reduced while reducing the processing load on the image forming apparatus. It enables printing on separate image forming apparatuses with different forming processes.

The invention according to claim 3 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the data conversion tool,
The control unit includes the output of print target data and print accompanying information of the print data associated with the identification information when the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming device. This is performed for the data conversion tool.

  In this invention, since the data conversion tool for the separate image forming apparatus having an image forming process different from that of the image forming apparatus is mounted on the image forming apparatus, data conversion processing for the separate image forming apparatus is performed. In addition, a separate apparatus, such as an information processing apparatus, is not required, and this makes it possible to connect the separate image forming apparatus to the image forming apparatus.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, the data receiving unit includes print data further including billing information of the print target data. Received from the communication terminal device,
A determination unit that determines whether or not a printing fee is required for the user based on charging information included in the print data specified by the identification information received as input;
A charge collection unit for collecting the printing fee indicated by the billing information from the user;
When the control unit determines that the printing fee is necessary by the determining unit, after the printing fee is collected from the user by the fee collecting unit, the printing unit prints the print target data. Alternatively, when the printing target data is output to the data conversion tool and the printing accompanying information is output, and the determination unit determines that the printing fee is unnecessary, the printing target data is output by the fee collection unit. The printing unit prints the print target data or outputs the print target data and the print accompanying information to the data conversion tool without the condition of collecting the printing fee from the user.

  In this invention, after the identification information receiving unit receives the identification information from the user, the determination unit determines whether or not the printing fee is necessary based on the charging information included in the print data specified by the identification information, and performs control. Based on whether or not the printing fee is required, printing by the printing unit or output of the print data to the data conversion tool is subject to the collection of the printing fee from the user, or the printing fee is not collected from the user Since it is controlled whether or not to perform, it becomes possible for a provider of the image forming apparatus to provide the user with a printing service corresponding to the contents of the charge imposed on the user.

  According to the present invention, printing target data stored in the communication terminal device can be printed with a simple system configuration, and can be printed by each image forming device having a different image forming process as necessary. It becomes possible by simple operation.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of an internal configuration of a first image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the outline of an internal structure of a communication terminal device. It is a block diagram which shows the outline of an internal structure of information processing apparatus. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of an internal configuration of a second image forming apparatus. 2 is a diagram conceptually illustrating functions for printing by an image forming system. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a first embodiment of printing processing by the image forming system. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an outline of data communication between a communication terminal device and a first image forming apparatus. 3 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the first image forming apparatus 1 after print data reception and identification information transmission. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen by a display part. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen by a display part. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen by a display part. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of an information processing apparatus that has received print target data from a first image forming apparatus and a second image forming apparatus. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a second embodiment of a printing process performed by the image forming system. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a second embodiment of processing of the first image forming apparatus 1 after receiving print data from a communication terminal device. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen by a display part. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a modified form of the internal configuration of the first image forming apparatus.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus, an image forming program, and an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  An image forming system 10 according to the present invention includes a first image forming apparatus 1, a control unit in a communication terminal apparatus 2, an information processing apparatus 7, and a second image forming apparatus 8. .

  The communication terminal device 2 includes a mobile device having mobility such as a tablet personal computer, a smartphone, or a mobile phone. The communication terminal device 2 has a communication function using a wireless local area network (LAN) or the like, and transmits / receives data to / from the first image forming apparatus 1 via the wireless LAN access point 5 described later by the communication function. Do. The communication terminal device 2 is owned by each user who visits a convenience store where the first image forming apparatus 1 is installed, for example.

  A first image forming apparatus (“image forming apparatus” and “first image forming apparatus” in claims) 1 that is also an embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus having at least a printer function. It may be a so-called multi-function machine having a plurality of functions such as a copy machine and a fax machine. In the present embodiment, the first image forming apparatus 1 performs printing in an image forming process using an electrophotographic method, and will be described as a multifunction machine. The first image forming apparatus 1 has a communication function using a wireless LAN or the like, and performs data transmission / reception with the communication terminal apparatus 2 by the communication function.

  For example, the first image forming apparatus 1 is installed in a public store such as a convenience store. The first image forming apparatus 1 is connected to a wireless LAN access point 5 and has a communication function for communicating with the communication terminal device 2 via the wireless LAN access point 5. Note that the first image forming apparatus 1 may have a communication function of connecting to the communication terminal apparatus 2 by wire and communicating with the communication terminal apparatus 2 through the wired connection. However, hereinafter, the first image forming apparatus 1 will be described by taking as an example a configuration in which the first image forming apparatus 1 communicates with the communication terminal apparatus 2 via the wireless LAN access point 5. That is, the first image forming apparatus 1 performs communication with the communication terminal apparatus 2 within the communicable range of the wireless LAN access point 5 through the wireless LAN access point 5 by the communication function. The wireless LAN access point 5 is a radio wave repeater that connects terminals via a wireless LAN. For example, for a communication terminal device within a communicable range, an ID (identification) and a password disclosed to a user in advance are used. By requesting authentication (such as SSID (Service Set Identifier)) and performing the authentication, the communication terminal device within the communication range can access the wireless LAN access point 5.

  The first image forming apparatus 1 receives, from the communication terminal apparatus 2, the print target data and the print accompanying information stored in the communication terminal apparatus 2 through network communication via the wireless LAN access point 5, The printing target data is printed (image formation) using at least a part of the printing accompanying information.

  The first image forming apparatus 1 is connected to the information processing apparatus 7. The first image forming apparatus 1 receives the print target data and printing accompanying information received from the communication terminal apparatus 2 as described above according to the contents indicated by the apparatus specifying instruction (details will be described later) received from the communication terminal apparatus 2. Either printing by the forming unit 130 or output to the information processing apparatus 7 is performed.

  The information processing apparatus 7 receives the print target data output from the first image forming apparatus 1 and the print accompanying information, and can print the print target data on the second image forming apparatus 8. The data is converted into a data format, for example, a printer language (page description language) used in the second image forming apparatus 8. The information processing apparatus 7 causes the second image forming apparatus 8 to print the converted print target data using at least a part of the print accompanying information.

  The second image forming apparatus 8 is connected to the information processing apparatus 7. The second image forming apparatus 8 receives the print target data from the information processing apparatus 7, and uses the print target data for another image forming process (for example, a sublimation type, different from the first image forming apparatus 1). Or printing by an image forming process using a lithograph or the like. In the present embodiment, the image forming process of the second image forming apparatus 8 is a sublimation type.

  In the image forming system 10, the first image forming apparatus 1 and the second image forming apparatus are transmitted by transmitting print data to the first image forming apparatus 1 based on the operation of the communication terminal device 2 by the user. In both cases, printing is selectively possible.

  Further, a coin vendor (fee collection unit) 6 is connected to the first image forming apparatus 1. The coin vendor 6 is a device that collects coins or banknotes as a printing fee for the print target data from a user and detects completion of collection (payment completion). The coin vendor 6 has a communication function for performing data communication with the control unit 101 (FIG. 2) of the first image forming apparatus 1, and the printing fee collection from the user is completed or not completed. Information is notified to the first image forming apparatus 1. Note that the coin vendor 6 functions as a part of the first image forming apparatus 1 as long as it is necessary in the embodiments described later.

  Next, the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of the first image forming apparatus 1.

  The first image forming apparatus 1 includes a control unit 100, an image reading unit 110, an image memory 120, and an image forming unit 130.

  The image reading unit 110 includes a scanner that reads an original image.

  The image memory 120 is an area for temporarily storing document data read by the image reading unit 110 and temporarily storing data to be printed by the image forming unit 130.

  The image forming unit 130 includes an electrophotographic charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, and the like. The image forming unit 130 forms an image of the print target data received by the data transmission / reception unit 102 from the communication terminal device 2, the original reading data obtained by the image reading unit 110, and the like.

  The first image forming apparatus 1 executes various functions necessary for facsimile communication and receives image data from an external facsimile apparatus through a public line, an image forming or transmission start key, a numeric keypad, Consists of abbreviated number keys, etc., and various operation instructions from the user (for example, input of an identification number to be described later, print execution instruction for executing printing on print data (print target data) temporarily stored in the HDD 170) Are provided, and an operation unit 20 that accepts an input and a display unit 150 that includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like that displays operation guidance to the user. The display unit 150 may include a touch panel function to accept various operation instructions from the user.

  Further, the first image forming apparatus 1 includes an HDD (hard disk) 170 having a large-capacity storage area for storing document image data read by the image reading unit 110. In the present embodiment, the HDD 170 temporarily stores print data received by the data transmission / reception unit 102 (described later) from the communication terminal device 2 and holds the print target data until there is a print execution instruction from the user. Functions as a storage unit.

  The control unit 100 includes a CPU and the like. The control unit 100 includes a control unit 101, a data transmission / reception unit 102, an identification information creation unit 103, an identification information transmission unit 104, an identification information reception unit 105, and a determination unit 106. Note that an image forming program (also an embodiment of the present invention) is stored in the HDD 170 or a ROM (not shown), and the control unit 100 operates as a computer according to the image forming program, whereby the image forming application 200. Functions as a control unit 101, a data transmission / reception unit 102, an identification information creation unit 103, an identification information transmission unit 104, an identification information reception unit 105, and a determination unit 106. However, the control unit 101, the data transmission / reception unit 102, the identification information creation unit 103, the identification information transmission unit 104, the identification information reception unit 105, and the determination unit 106 of the control unit 100 do not depend on the operation based on the image forming program. In addition, each may be configured by a hard circuit. Moreover, the control unit 100 is sufficient if it has the determination part 106 as long as it is required in embodiment shown below.

  The data transmission / reception unit 102 receives print data including print target data, print accompanying information, and a device designation instruction from the communication terminal device 2 via the wireless LAN access point 5 and the network interface 160. The data transmission / reception unit 102 may receive the print data from the communication terminal device 2 via a wired connection and via the network interface 160. However, as described above, in the present embodiment, a configuration using a wireless LAN connection is an example. I will explain. The data transmitting / receiving unit 102 is an example of a data receiving unit in the claims.

  The print target data is data indicating the substance of an image to be printed, and is generated in the printer language used in the first image forming apparatus 1 by the printer driver function of the control unit provided in the communication terminal apparatus 2. ing.

  The print accompanying information is a document name, color / monochrome printing, page size, number of pages, number of copies, and the like, and is information necessary for specifying a printing method of print target data. Note that the printing-accompanying information includes device information indicating the communication terminal device 2 that has transmitted the print data.

  The apparatus designation instruction is an instruction for designating an image forming apparatus (in this embodiment, either the first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8) that specifies an image forming apparatus used for printing.

  The print data including the print target data, the print accompanying information, and the device designation instruction is set as a predetermined protocol (in this embodiment, HTTPS) by the control unit included in the communication terminal device 2. Sent from the communication terminal device 2 to the first image forming apparatus 1. The data transmission / reception unit 102 receives only the print data generated by the predetermined protocol.

  In addition, the data transmission / reception unit 102 performs communication necessary for print control of print target data between the communication terminal device 2 and the information processing device 7. For example, the data transmission / reception unit 102 receives connection device information indicating whether or not the second image forming device 8 is connected to the information processing device 7 from the communication unit 702 of the information processing device 7 to be described later. The connected device information is transmitted to the communication terminal device 2.

  When the data transmission / reception unit 102 receives the print data from the communication terminal device 2, the identification information creation unit 103 creates identification information used for specifying the print data. This identification information is information attached to each print data in order to specify print data designated by the user from a plurality of print data stored in the HDD 170 serving as a print data storage unit. The identification information creating unit 103 randomly creates different identification information for each print data when the print data is received. The control unit 101 stores the received print data in an HDD (data storage unit) 170 in association with the identification information created for the print data. In this respect, the control unit 101 is an example of a storage control unit in the claims.

  The identification information transmission unit 104 transmits (replies) the identification information created by the identification information creation unit 103 for the print data to the communication terminal device 2 that has transmitted the print data.

  The identification information receiving unit 105 receives input of identification information from the user. The display unit 150 displays a message requesting the user to input identification information under the control of the control unit 101. When the user inputs identification information by operating the operation unit 20, the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit 105.

  The control unit 101 controls operation of each unit included in the first image forming apparatus 1. Further, the control unit 101 reads out from the HDD 170 the print data associated with the identification information whose input has been received by the identification information receiving unit 105, and based on the content indicated by the device designation instruction included in the print data, It controls whether the output destination of the print data stored in the HDD 170 in association with the information is the image forming unit 130 or the information processing apparatus 7. When the device designation instruction indicates the first image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 101 causes the image forming unit 130 to print (image formation) the print target data included in the print data. As will be described later, the image data included in the print target data is printed on the image forming unit 130 in, for example, jpeg format received from the communication terminal device 2. Further, when the device designation instruction indicates the second image forming apparatus 8, the control unit 101 outputs the print target data included in the print data to the information processing apparatus 7 via the network interface 160. The control unit 101 is connected to the coin vendor 6 and the information processing device 7 via an interface.

  Furthermore, when the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit 105, the control unit 101 associates the identification information with the identification information based on the content indicated by the device designation instruction stored in the HDD 170 in association with the identification information. Then, it controls whether the output destination of the print data stored in the HDD 170 is the image forming unit 130 or the information processing apparatus 7.

  The determination unit 106 determines whether a printing fee is required for the user. Based on the billing information included in the print data corresponding to the identification information received by the identification information receiving unit 105, the determination unit 106 determines whether to print the print target data included in the print data corresponding to the identification information. Determine whether you need to collect printing fees.

  Further, the first image forming apparatus 1 includes an image processing unit 190 that performs image image data editing / processing (code / decoding processing, enlargement / reduction processing, compression / expansion processing) processing read by the image reading unit 110, and the like. And a network interface 160 that performs network communication with the communication terminal device 2 via the wireless LAN access point 5.

  Next, the configuration of the communication terminal device 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of the communication terminal device 2.

  The communication terminal device 2 includes a control unit 300, a ROM 312, a RAM 313, a memory 314, a display unit 315, a call function unit 317, a communication interface 318, and an input unit 319. These units can transmit / receive data or signals to / from each other via a CPU bus.

  The control unit 300 includes a CPU and the like. The ROM 312 stores an operation program for basic operations of the communication terminal device 2. The RAM 313 is used as an operation area of the control unit 300.

  The memory 314 is a storage medium for storing print target data and programs. The memory 314 stores various print target data including document data or image data to be printed in a part of the storage area. The memory 314 stores a communication program that causes the control unit 300 to function as the communication application 30 that enables network communication with the first image forming apparatus 1.

  The control unit 300 functions as the control unit 301, the reception unit 302, the print target data generation unit 303, the charging information generation unit 304, and the communication unit 305 as the communication application 30 by operating according to the communication program.

  However, the control unit 301, the reception unit 302, the print target data generation unit 303, the billing information generation unit 304, and the communication unit 305 of the control unit 300 are each configured by a hardware circuit regardless of the operation based on the communication program. May be. In addition, the control unit 300 only needs to include the accounting information creation unit 304 as long as it is necessary in the embodiment described below.

  The display unit 315 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like, and displays various data contents, operation guidance for a user who operates the communication terminal device 2, and the like by display control by the control unit 301.

  The call function unit 317 executes a function for making a telephone call using a public line. The communication terminal device 2 may be configured not to include the call function unit 317.

  The communication interface 318 functions as an interface for performing data communication with the first image forming apparatus 1 by connection to the wireless LAN access point 5 and an interface for performing communication necessary for the call function by the call function unit 317. To do.

  The input unit 319 includes a key provided on the casing of the communication terminal device 2, a touch panel mechanism provided on the display screen portion of the display unit 315, and the like, and various operation instructions are input from the user.

  As described above, the control unit 300 includes the control unit 301, the reception unit 302, the print target data generation unit 303, the charging information creation unit 304, and the communication unit 305.

  The control unit 301 controls the operation of the communication terminal apparatus 2 in order to perform processing necessary for printing the print target data stored in the communication terminal apparatus 2 with the first image forming apparatus 1.

  The accepting unit 302 accepts input of a print job input from the user via the input unit 319. For example, the input unit 319 includes, as a print job, image data and document data stored in the memory 314, data created by an application executable on the communication terminal device 2, and the Internet browsed on the communication terminal device 2. The user inputs the designation of print target data from the image data displayed on the above website, the print job execution instruction, and the like. For the print job, the reception unit 302 also receives information related to printing accompanying information such as document name, color / monochrome printing, page size, number of pages, number of copies, and the like. However, it is not intended to limit the types of instructions that the input unit 319 receives from the user.

  Further, the accepting unit 302 accepts a device designation instruction for designating an image forming device used for printing the print target data from the user. In the present embodiment, the apparatus designation instruction is to cause the electrophotographic first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8 having a sublimation type image forming process to print the print data. Is an instruction to specify.

  The print target data generation unit 303 has a function of converting the print target data into a printer language corresponding to the print format of the first image forming apparatus 1. The print target data generation unit 303 outputs the print target data indicated by the print job received by the reception unit 302, that is, the print target data designated as the print target in the first image forming apparatus 1 by the user. It is converted into a printer language (page description language, in this embodiment, PCL) employed in the image forming apparatus 1. In the present embodiment, the print target data generation unit 303 will be described assuming that the image data portion of the print target data is generated as jpeg format data.

  The communication unit 305 is connected to the wireless LAN access point 5 via the communication interface 318, and print data including print target data converted into the printer language and print accompanying information about the print target data is stored in advance. The data is transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 1 as a predetermined protocol (in this embodiment, HTTPS). Note that the print accompanying information transmitted by the communication unit 305 includes device information indicating the communication terminal device 2. The communication unit 305 communicates with the first image forming apparatus 1 various data necessary for printing the print target data.

  The accounting information creation unit 304 creates accounting information indicating a printing fee required for a user who instructs printing of the print target data based on the printing accompanying information included in the print job. The billing information creation unit 304 includes, as billing information, fee required information indicating that it is necessary to collect a printing fee from the user by the coin vendor 6, and the user has already paid the printing fee or does not ask for the printing fee. Create one of the charge-free information that indicates The charging information creation unit 304, for example, based on the color / monochrome printing, page size, number of pages, number of copies, etc. of the above-mentioned printing accompanying information, a predetermined color printing fee (yen) / 1 sheet, monochrome printing fee (yen ) / Printing fee is calculated using information such as additional charge (yen) per page and page size, and when fee-required information is created as charging information, this printing fee information is added to the charging information.

  Next, the configuration of the information processing apparatus 7 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of the information processing apparatus 7. However, the description of the same configuration as the communication terminal device 2 described above with reference to FIG. 3 is omitted.

  The information processing apparatus 7 includes a control unit 700, a ROM 712, a RAM 713, an HDD 714, and a communication interface 718. These units can transmit / receive data or signals to / from each other via a CPU bus.

  The control unit 700 includes a CPU and the like. The ROM 712 stores an operation program for basic operations of the information processing apparatus 7. The RAM 713 is used as an operation area of the control unit 700.

  The HDD 714 is a storage medium for storing various data such as print target data, print accompanying information, and programs. The HDD 714 stores a data conversion program that causes the control unit 700 to function as the communication unit 702 and the data conversion tool 703 with print data received from the first image forming apparatus 1.

  The communication interface 718 functions as an interface for performing data communication with the first image forming apparatus 1. The second image forming apparatus 8 is connected to the first image forming apparatus 1 via a network.

  The control unit 700 functions as a control unit 701, a communication unit 702, and a data conversion tool 703.

  The control unit 701 performs operation control of the information processing apparatus 7 in order to perform processing necessary for printing the print target data received from the first image forming apparatus 1 by the first image forming apparatus 1.

  The communication unit 702 transmits the print target data converted from the first image forming apparatus 1 to the printer language applied to the first image forming apparatus 1 via the communication interface 718 and the print target data. Is received by a predetermined protocol (HTTPS in this embodiment). In addition, the communication unit 702 sends, to the second image forming apparatus 8, print data converted by the data conversion tool 703 into the data format adopted by the second image forming apparatus 8 as a second image. Transmit to the forming device 8. The communication unit 702 performs various data necessary for printing the print target data with the second image forming apparatus 8 between the first image forming apparatus 1 and the second image forming apparatus 8. Communicate.

  In addition, the communication unit 702 acquires information on a device connected to the information processing apparatus 7 and notifies the acquired information to the first image forming apparatus 1 side. For example, the communication unit 702 detects the second image forming apparatus 8 connected to the communication interface 318 via USB using an existing connected device detection method, and transmits the detection result to the first image forming apparatus 1. In the first image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 101 indicates that the information processing apparatus 7 has detected the second image forming apparatus 8 based on the detection result received from the communication unit 702 of the information processing apparatus 7. In the case shown, data output to the information processing device 7 is performed.

  The data conversion tool 703 is a data format that allows the second image forming apparatus 8 to print the image data portion of the data included in the print target data received by the communication unit 702 from the first image forming apparatus 1. Convert to For example, the data conversion tool 703 converts image data in the jpeg format as described above into bitmap format data that can be printed by the second image forming apparatus 8.

  Further, the data conversion tool 703 converts the print target data (including the converted image data portion if included) into a printer language (page description language) corresponding to the second image forming apparatus 8. That is, the data conversion tool 703 displays the print target data indicated by the print job received by the reception unit 302 of the communication terminal device 2, that is, the print target data designated as the print target in the first image forming apparatus 1 by the user. Is converted into a printer language used in the second image forming apparatus 8. That is, the data conversion tool 703 performs the data conversion on the print target data received from the first image forming apparatus 1 via the communication unit 702. Note that the data conversion by the data conversion tool 703 is not limited to this, and any data conversion can be used as long as it can be converted into a data format that can be printed by the second image forming apparatus 8.

  The communication unit 702 outputs the print target data converted by the data conversion tool 703 to the second image forming apparatus 8 via the interface.

  Next, the configuration of the second image forming apparatus 8 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of the second image forming apparatus 8. The description of the same configuration as that of the first image forming apparatus 1 described with reference to FIG. 2 is omitted.

  The second image forming apparatus 8 includes a control unit 800, an image memory 820, and an image forming unit 830. The image memory 820 temporarily stores the print target data after the data conversion received from the information processing apparatus 7 for image formation by the image forming unit 830. The image forming unit 830 is a sublimation type image forming mechanism, and includes an ink ribbon supply mechanism, an ink ribbon peeling member, a thermal print head, a platen roller, a paper feed mechanism, and the like.

  The control unit 800 includes a CPU and the like. The control unit 800 includes a control unit 801 and a data receiving unit 802.

  The control unit 801 controls operation of each operation mechanism such as the image forming unit 830 provided in the second image forming apparatus 8.

  The data receiving unit 802 receives print target data from the information processing apparatus 7 via the network interface 860. The data receiving unit 802 receives print target data from the information processing apparatus 7 via the network interface 860 by wired connection, but may be configured to receive print target data from the information processing apparatus 7 by wireless LAN connection. Absent.

  Further, the first image forming apparatus 1 includes an image forming unit 830, an image memory 820, an image processing unit 890, and a network interface 860.

  Next, processing when printing target data received from the communication terminal apparatus 2 is printed by the first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8 will be described from a functional viewpoint. FIG. 6 is a diagram conceptually showing functions for printing by the image forming system 10.

  In the communication terminal device 2, the communication application 30 is activated by an operation of the input unit 319 by the user. The communication application 30 converts the print target data designated by an instruction from the user into a printer language corresponding to the first image forming apparatus 1. The communication application 30 detects a wireless LAN access point that can communicate at the location of the communication terminal device 2. In addition, the communication application 30 receives a device designation instruction, which is an instruction for specifying an image forming apparatus used for printing by the user, from the user. Further, the communication application 30 is connected to the wireless LAN access point, and print data including print target data after conversion into the printer language, print accompanying information about the print target data, and a device designation instruction. Is transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 1 as the predetermined protocol.

  In the first image forming apparatus 1, the image forming application 200 stands by in a state where the print data having the predetermined protocol can be received via the wireless LAN access point 5. The first image forming apparatus 1 can control the image forming unit 130 to print the print target data included in the print data by causing the control unit 100 to perform a separate operation independent of the image forming application 200. However, the predetermined protocol is different from the protocol used in the print control by the control unit 100. In the first image forming apparatus 1, when print data having the predetermined protocol is transmitted from the communication terminal apparatus 2, the image forming application 200 acquires the print data. The image forming application 200 stores the received print data in the HDD 170.

  Further, the image forming application 200 transmits information such as the identification information described above to the communication application 30 of the communication terminal device 2.

  In addition, the control unit 100 functions as a browser, and the browser cooperates with the image forming application 200 to transfer print data included in the print data acquired by the image forming application 200 to the first image forming apparatus 1 or A guide for the user necessary for printing by the second image forming apparatus 8 is displayed on the display unit 150.

  The image forming application 200 reads out print data corresponding to the identification information from the HDD 170 on condition that the identification information is input from the user, and the device designation information associated with the identification information indicates the first image forming apparatus 1. If the image forming unit 130 included in the first image forming apparatus 1 prints the print target data included in the print data, and the apparatus designation information indicates the second image forming apparatus 8, The print target data is output to the information processing apparatus 7.

  The image forming application 200 also cooperates with the coin vendor 6, transmits a printing fee collection instruction to the coin vendor 6, and receives a printing fee collection completion notification from the coin vendor 6. Note that the cooperation between the image forming application 200 and the coin vendor 6 is a constituent element of the first image forming apparatus 1 as long as it is necessary in the embodiment described below.

  When the information processing apparatus 7 receives the print target data and the print accompanying information in a state of being converted into the printer language applied to the first image forming apparatus 1 from the first image forming apparatus 1, The data conversion tool 703 performs data conversion on the print target data so that the second image forming apparatus 8 can perform printing. The print target data after the data conversion is output to the second image forming apparatus 8 by the communication unit 702.

  The second image forming apparatus 8 causes the image forming unit 830 to print the print target data received from the information processing apparatus 7.

  Next, a first embodiment of printing processing by the image forming system 10 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the printing process performed by the image forming system 10. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an outline of data communication between the communication terminal apparatus 2 and the first image forming apparatus 1.

  When the activation instruction of the communication application 30 is input by the operation of the input unit 319 of the communication terminal device 2 by the user and the control unit 100 receives the activation instruction (YES in S1), the control unit 100 Start up (S2). Thereby, the control unit 100 functions as a control unit 301 as the communication application 30, a reception unit 302, a print target data generation unit 303, and a communication unit 305.

  When the communication application 30 starts up, the communication unit 305 executes a wireless LAN connection function via the network interface 160 and searches for a connectable wireless LAN access point (S3). When the communication unit 305 detects a connectable wireless LAN access point (YES in S3), it connects to the wireless LAN access point (S4). If the communication unit 305 does not detect the wireless LAN access point (NO in S3), the printing process is terminated.

  Subsequently, the control unit 301 searches for the first image forming apparatus 1 that is network-connected to the connected wireless LAN access point (S5). The communication terminal apparatus 2 and the first image forming apparatus 1 use a predetermined protocol such as SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) and Bonjour (Bonjour), so there is no need to input an IP address or set a DNS server. And mutual devices can automatically detect each other.

  If the control unit 301 has not detected the first image forming apparatus 1 (NO in S5), the printing process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 301 detects the first image forming apparatus 1 (YES in S5), the display unit 315 specifies the print target data to be printed and the image forming apparatus used for the printing. A message prompting the input of the device designation instruction to be designated is displayed (S6). Note that the control unit 301 sends a message for prompting the input of the device designation instruction, the communication unit 305 connects the data transmission / reception unit 102 of the first image forming apparatus 1 to the information processing apparatus 7. When the connected device information indicating that the device is received is also displayed on the display unit 315. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the second image forming apparatus 8 is connected to the information processing apparatus 7 and the communication unit 305 has received connected device information indicating the connection.

  Thereafter, a print job in which data to be printed is designated by the user, and an apparatus designation instruction for designating an image forming apparatus (either the first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8) used for the printing. When input by the operation of the input unit 319 and the print job is received by the reception unit 302 (YES in S7), the print target data generation unit 303 displays the print target data (designated by the user) indicated by the received print job. (Print target data) from the memory 314 of the communication terminal apparatus 2 and the like, and the print target data is stored in a predetermined printer language corresponding to the first image forming apparatus 1 (PCL in this embodiment). (S8). The print target data generation unit 303 waits for conversion of the print target data into the printer language until both the print job and the apparatus designation instruction are received by the reception unit 302 (NO in S7).

  Then, the communication unit 305 acquires information such as the number of copies associated with printing information and color / monochrome printing for the print target data from the received print job, and device information indicating the communication terminal device 2 in the acquired information. Is added to the print accompanying information, and the print data including the print accompanying information, the print target data corresponding to the predetermined printer language, and the received device designation instruction is defined in advance. As a protocol (HTTPS in the present embodiment), it is transmitted from the communication interface 318 to the first image forming apparatus 1 via the wireless LAN access point 5 (S9).

  In the first image forming apparatus 1, when print data is transmitted from the communication unit 305 of the communication terminal apparatus 2 using the protocol as described above, the data transmitting / receiving unit 102 serving as the image forming application 200 starts from the protocol. Is received via the wireless LAN access point 5 and the network interface 160 (S21). When the print data is received, the identification information creation unit 103 creates identification information about the print data (S22). The control unit 101 stores the print data in the HDD 170 in association with the identification information (S23). Then, the identification information transmission unit 104 transmits the identification number to the communication terminal apparatus 2 that has transmitted the print data via the network interface 160 and the wireless LAN access point 5 (S24). In the present embodiment, the identification information transmission unit 104 displays, in addition to the identification information, print data reception date and time, expiration date, status (waiting for printing), and print accompanying information included in the print data, as a communication terminal device. 2 is transmitted.

  In the communication terminal device 2, when the identification information about the print data previously transmitted to the first image forming device 1 is transmitted from the first image forming device 1 in this way, the communication unit 305 The identification information is received (S10). Then, the control unit 301 displays the received identification information on the display unit 315 (S11). In the present embodiment, the communication unit 305 also receives the print data reception date and time, expiration date, status (waiting for printing), the print accompanying information, and an apparatus designation instruction. In addition to the identification information, information such as an image of data to be printed or an image forming apparatus used for printing is displayed on the display unit 315. By displaying the identification information, the user of the communication terminal device 2 can grasp the identification information about the print target data transmitted by the user.

  Next, processing of the first image forming apparatus 1 after receiving print data and transmitting identification information will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing processing of the first image forming apparatus 1 after receiving print data and transmitting identification information. 10 to 12 are diagrams showing examples of display screens by the display unit 150.

  In the first image forming apparatus 1, after the identification information transmission unit 104 transmits the identification information about the received print data to the communication terminal apparatus 2, the input of a print execution instruction from the user is awaited. In this standby state, the control unit 101 displays the standby screen D1 shown in FIG. 10 on the display unit 150 (S31).

In this state, for example, the user performs a touch operation on the “print service” display portion d1 on the initial guidance screen D1, and based on the touch operation, the communication terminal device is provided by the touch panel mechanism provided as the operation unit 20 on the display unit 150. 2, when an instruction to execute a print service, which is a process for printing the print target data received from S2 (YES in S32), the control unit 101 prompts the user to input identification information. Is displayed on the display unit 150 (S33). The control unit 101 displays the standby screen D1 on the display unit 150 until an instruction to execute the print service is input (NO in S32, S31).

  Here, the identification information about the print data previously transmitted from the communication terminal apparatus 2 to the first image forming apparatus 1 based on the instruction from the user is, for example, the operation of the operation unit 20 by the user and the input of the identification information. When the identification information input by the touch operation of the “OK” button d21 on the screen D2 is received by the identification information receiving unit 105 (YES in S34), the control unit 101 receives the identification information for which the input has been received. 12 is read from the HDD 170, and the print specification information included in the print data associated with the print data, the reception date and time of the print data, the expiration date and the status (waiting for printing), and the device designation information are read from the HDD 170. The confirmation screen D3 is displayed on the display unit 150 (S35). The control unit 101 displays the identification information, the document name, the name of the image forming apparatus used for printing (displayed in the column “Printer” in FIG. 12), and the like on the display unit 150 as the document confirmation screen D3. The control unit 101 displays the identification information input screen D2 on the display unit 150 until input of identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit 105 (NO in S34, S33).

  In a state where the document confirmation screen D3 is displayed on the display unit 150, for example, when the user touches the “print” button d31 on the document confirmation screen D3 or operates the operation unit 20, the printing indicated by the display is performed. When the print instruction for the target data is input and the print instruction is received by the control unit 101 (YES in S36), the control unit 101 receives the device designation instruction associated with the identification information for which the input is received. It is determined whether the image forming apparatus shown is the first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8 (S37). The control unit 101 displays the document confirmation screen D3 on the display unit 150 until it receives an input of a print instruction (NO in S36, S35).

  When the control unit 101 determines that the image forming apparatus indicated by the apparatus designation instruction is the first image forming apparatus 1 (“first image forming apparatus” in S37), the control unit 101 includes the received identification information. The print target data included in the corresponding print data is read from the HDD 170, and the image forming unit 130 forms an image with the content indicated by the print accompanying information of the print target data (S38), and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 101 determines that the image forming apparatus indicated by the apparatus designation instruction is the second image forming apparatus 8 (“second image forming apparatus” in S37), the received identification is performed. The print target data and the print accompanying information included in the print data corresponding to the information are read from the HDD 170 and output to the information processing apparatus 7 (S39), and the process ends.

  Next, processing of the information processing apparatus 7 that has received the print target data from the first image forming apparatus 1 and the second image forming apparatus 8 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing processing of the information processing apparatus 7 that has received the print target data from the first image forming apparatus 1 and the second image forming apparatus 8.

  As described above, in the first image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 101 determines that the image forming apparatus indicated by the apparatus designation instruction is the second image forming apparatus 8 (“S 2 ”), and when the print target data and the print accompanying information are output to the information processing apparatus 7 (S39 in FIG. 9), in the information processing apparatus 7, the communication interface 718 displays the print target data. Received from the first image forming apparatus 1 (S51).

  The data conversion tool 703 converts the image data portion included in the print target data from the data format corresponding to the first image forming apparatus 1 with respect to the print target data received by the communication interface 718 from the second image forming apparatus. 8 is converted to a data format corresponding to 8, and the data to be printed that has undergone the data format change processing is converted into a printer language (page description language) employed by the second image forming apparatus 8 (S52). That is, the data conversion tool 703 converts the print target data that has been a printer language suitable for printing on the first image forming apparatus 1 into a printer language suitable for printing on the second image forming apparatus 8. .

  The print target data converted into the data format suitable for the second image forming apparatus 8 by the process of S52 is output to the second image forming apparatus 8 by the communication unit 702 via the communication interface 718 (S53).

  In the second image forming apparatus 8, the data receiving unit 802 receives the data to be printed that has been converted as described above from the information processing apparatus 7 via the network interface 860 (S61). The control unit 801 causes the image forming unit 830 that forms an image by the sublimation image forming process to form an image (S62).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the image forming system 10, the first image forming apparatus 1 receives print data from the communication terminal apparatus 2 without going through the print service server on the Internet, and the printing is performed. Since the printing target data included in the data is printed, the printing target data stored in the communication terminal device 2 is printed by the first image forming apparatus 1 installed in a public place such as a convenience store. Can be constructed with a simple configuration without requiring a print service server.

  Even if the user does not register the print data in the print service server in advance, even if the user goes to a convenience store or the like in which the first image forming apparatus 1 is installed, the communication terminal device 2 If an operation for transmitting print data from the communication terminal device 2 to the first image forming device 1 is performed, the print data can be transmitted from the communication terminal device 2 to the first image forming device 1 for printing. Without burdensome troublesome preparation work.

  Further, according to the printing process by the image forming system 10, the user can use the first data regardless of whether the print target data is printed by the first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8. When a printing instruction such as an operation for inputting the identification information is performed in the image forming apparatus 1, it is designated by the operation of the communication terminal apparatus 2 out of the first image forming apparatus 1 and the second image forming apparatus 8. It is possible to sort the print target data to the other image forming apparatus and perform printing.

  For example, in the case of photographic data in JPEG format or the like, the user selects printing by the second second image forming apparatus 8 having a sublimation type image forming process. In the case of a text document, the user selects an electrophotographic image. If an operation such as selecting printing by the first first image forming apparatus 1 having a forming process is performed on the communication terminal apparatus 2, then any image forming apparatus is installed at the installation location of these image forming apparatuses. Even when printing is performed, if the operation for inputting the identification information is performed in the first image forming apparatus 1, printing can be performed by the selected image forming apparatus.

  For this reason, while obtaining the effects described above, the print target data is classified into an image suitable for each type depending on the type of print target data, for example, photographic data in JPEG format or the like or document data. Printing with the image forming apparatus in the forming process can be realized without imposing a burden on the user.

  Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the print target data stored in the communication terminal device 2 can be printed with a simple system configuration, and the print target data is subjected to an image forming process according to the data type. Printing can be performed with a simple operation using the image forming apparatus.

  Next, a second embodiment of the printing process by the image forming system 10 and a second embodiment of the process of the first image forming apparatus 1 after receiving the print data from the communication terminal apparatus 2 and transmitting the identification information will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a second embodiment of the printing process by the image forming system 10. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a second embodiment of the process of the first image forming apparatus 1 after receiving print data from the communication terminal apparatus 2. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen by the display unit 150. Each second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10 in addition to FIGS. Note that description of the same processing as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  In the second embodiment, the communication terminal device 2 includes a charging information creation unit 304 in the control unit 100. In the communication terminal device 2, after the print target data generation unit 303 converts the print target data into a predetermined printer language (S 78), the billing information creation unit 304 generates billing information including fee required information or fee unnecessary information. Create (S79). For example, the user has already paid the printing fee for the print target data to the provider of the image forming system 10 or the first image forming apparatus 1, and the number provided by the provider on the condition that the payment is completed. Alternatively, when payment completion information including symbols or the like is input to the input unit 319 of the communication terminal device 2, the charging information creation unit 304 includes fee-free information in the charging information. On the other hand, if the payment completion information has not been input by the user, the charging information creation unit 304 includes the fee required information in the charging information.

  The billing information creation unit 304, when creating fee-required information as billing information, includes information related to the printing-accompanying information of the print target data designated by the user as the print target at this time (page size, number of pages, etc. ) Is obtained from the print job, print fee information indicating the print fee calculated based on the information related to the print accompanying information is created, and the print fee information is added to the billing information.

  In the communication terminal device 2, when the print data is transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 1 (S80), the communication unit 305 first prints the print data including the accounting information in the print target data and the print accompanying information. To the image forming apparatus 1.

  In the first image forming apparatus 1, when the data transmission / reception unit 102 receives the print data (S91), similarly to the first embodiment, the processing of S92 to S94 is performed, and the communication terminal apparatus that has transmitted the print data 2, the identification information created for the print data is transmitted. In the first image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 101 displays a standby screen D1 (FIG. 10) on the display unit 150 and waits for input of identification information from the user.

  Thereafter, in the first image forming apparatus 1, an instruction to execute the print service and identification information about the print data desired by the user are accepted (YES in S102 in FIG. 15, YES in S104), and the control unit When 101 receives a print instruction (YES in S106), the determination unit 106 determines whether or not it is necessary to collect a print fee from the user based on the charge information included in the print data corresponding to the received identification information. Judgment is made (S107).

  Here, when the determination unit 106 detects fee-required information from the billing information and determines that the user needs to collect the printing fee (YES in S107), the control unit 101 displays the information on the display unit 150, for example, FIG. By displaying a printing fee input screen D4 shown in FIG. 16 or the like, a message prompting to input the printing fee to the coin vendor 6 is displayed (S108).

  After this display, the user inserts a printing fee into the coin vendor 6 with coins or bills, and when the coin vendor 6 detects the insertion of coins or bills corresponding to the printing fee (that is, the printing fee payment is completed) (YES in S109). The control unit 101 is notified of the detection from the coin vendor 6, and the control unit 101 detects the image forming apparatus indicated by the apparatus designation instruction included in the print data associated with the identification information for which the input has been accepted. Then, it is determined whether the image forming apparatus 1 is the first image forming apparatus 1 or the second image forming apparatus 8 (S110). Thereafter, the control unit 101 performs either image formation by the image forming unit 130 or output of the print target data to the information processing apparatus 7 based on the determination result (S111, S112). The control unit 101 displays the printing fee input screen D4 on the display unit 150 until it receives notification from the coin vendor 6 that the printing fee payment completion has been detected (NO in S109, S108).

  On the other hand, in S107, when the determination unit 106 detects fee-free information from the billing information and determines that it is not necessary to collect a print fee from the user (NO in S107), the control unit 101 performs printing by the coin vendor 6. It is determined which image forming apparatus performs image formation without requiring detection of completion of payment (S110), and based on the determination result, image formation by the image forming unit 130, or One of the print target data is output to the information processing apparatus 7 (S111, S112).

  According to the second embodiment, printing from the user is performed according to the contents of the charge imposed on the user by the provider of the image forming system 10, the first image forming apparatus 1, or the second image forming apparatus 8. Since it is possible to control whether printing is performed on the condition that charges are collected or printing is performed without collecting a printing charge from the user, it is possible to provide the user with a printing service according to the charging state for the user.

  The present invention is not limited to the configuration of each of the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made. For example, in each of the embodiments described above, the information processing apparatus 7 includes the communication unit 702 and the data conversion tool 703. As illustrated in FIG. The image forming apparatus 1 may be provided. In this case, the second image forming apparatus 8 can print the print target data sent from the communication terminal apparatus 2 without providing the information processing apparatus 7.

  The configurations and processes shown in the above embodiments using FIGS. 1 to 17 are only one embodiment of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention to the configurations and processes.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image forming system 1 1st image forming apparatus 100 Control unit 101 Control part 102 Data transmission / reception part 103 Identification information creation part 104 Identification information transmission part 105 Identification information reception part 106 Judgment part 2 Communication terminal device 300 Control unit 301 Control part 302 Reception unit 303 Print target data generation unit 304 Billing information creation unit 305 Communication unit 6 Coin vendor 7 Information processing device 700 Control unit 701 Control unit 702 Communication unit 703 Data conversion tool 8 Second image forming device 800 Control unit 801 Control unit 802 Data receiver

Claims (6)

The print target data, the printing accompanying information, and the image forming apparatus used for printing the print target data are either the image forming apparatus itself or a separate image forming apparatus having a different image forming process from the image forming apparatus. A data receiving unit for receiving print data having a device designation instruction for designating from a communication terminal device with a predetermined protocol corresponding to the image forming device;
An identification information creating unit that creates identification information for specifying the print data when the data receiving unit receives the print data;
An identification information transmission unit that transmits the identification information created by the identification information creation unit to the communication terminal device that has transmitted the print data;
A print information storage unit that stores the print data received by the data reception unit in association with the created identification information;
A print unit that prints the print target data included in the print data; and
An identification information receiving unit for receiving input of identification information;
When the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit, when the device designation instruction of the print data stored in the print information storage unit in association with the identification information indicates the image forming apparatus itself, When the print target data of the print data is printed on the printing unit using a part of the print accompanying information, and the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming apparatus, the print target data of the print data and the print accompanying data An image forming apparatus comprising: a control unit that outputs information to a data conversion tool that converts information into a data format suitable for printing by the separate image forming apparatus.   The control unit outputs the print target data and the print accompanying information of the print data associated with the identification information when the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming device and the image forming device itself. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is applied to the data conversion tool mounted on a separate apparatus. Further comprising the data conversion tool,
The control unit includes the output of print target data and print accompanying information of the print data associated with the identification information when the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus performs the data conversion tool. The data receiving unit receives print data further including billing information of the print target data from the communication terminal device;
A determination unit that determines whether or not a printing fee is required for the user based on charging information included in the print data specified by the identification information received as input;
A charge collection unit for collecting the printing fee indicated by the billing information from the user;
When the control unit determines that the printing fee is necessary by the determining unit, after the printing fee is collected from the user by the fee collecting unit, the printing unit prints the print target data. Alternatively, when the printing target data is output to the data conversion tool and the printing accompanying information is output, and the determination unit determines that the printing fee is unnecessary, the printing target data is output by the fee collection unit. The printing target data is printed by the printing unit or the printing target data and the printing-accompanying information are output to the data conversion tool without the condition of collecting a printing fee from a user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3. The print target data, the printing accompanying information, and the image forming apparatus used for printing the print target data are either the image forming apparatus itself or a separate image forming apparatus having a different image forming process from the image forming apparatus. A data receiving unit for receiving print data having a device designation instruction for designating from a communication terminal device with a predetermined protocol corresponding to the image forming device;
An identification information creating unit that creates identification information for specifying the print data when the data receiving unit receives the print data;
An identification information transmission unit that transmits the identification information created by the identification information creation unit to the communication terminal device that has transmitted the print data;
A storage controller that associates the print data received by the data receiver with the created identification information and stores it in a print information storage;
An identification information receiving unit for receiving input of identification information;
When the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit, when the device designation instruction of the print data stored in the print information storage unit in association with the identification information indicates the image forming apparatus itself, When printing target data of print data is printed on a printing unit included in the image forming apparatus itself using a part of the printing accompanying information, and the device designation instruction indicates the separate image forming apparatus, the print data An image forming program that causes a computer to function as a control unit that outputs data to be printed and information associated with printing to a data conversion tool that converts the data to be printed into a data format suitable for printing by the separate image forming apparatus. An image forming system having at least a control unit provided in a communication terminal device and a first image forming device capable of communicating with the communication terminal device,
The control unit of the communication terminal device is
A print job reception unit that receives a print job input from a user;
A print target data generating unit that generates print target data to be printed by the print job in a data format suitable for printing by the first image forming apparatus;
Whether the image forming apparatus used for printing the print target data is the first image forming apparatus or a separate second image forming apparatus having a different image forming process from the first image forming apparatus. An instruction receiving unit for receiving a device specifying instruction to be specified from a user;
Print data including the print target data, the print accompanying information extracted from the print job, and the device designation instruction received by the instruction receiving unit is applied in advance to the first image forming apparatus. A communication unit that transmits to the first image forming apparatus with a predetermined protocol,
The first image forming apparatus includes:
A data receiving unit that receives the print data from the communication terminal device with the predetermined protocol;
An identification information creating unit that creates identification information for specifying the print data when the data receiving unit receives the print data;
An identification information transmission unit that transmits the identification information created by the identification information creation unit to the communication terminal device that has transmitted the print data;
A print information storage unit that stores the print data received by the data reception unit in association with the created identification information;
A print unit that prints the print target data included in the print data; and
An identification information receiving unit for receiving input of identification information;
When the identification information is received by the identification information receiving unit, when the device designation instruction of the print data stored in the print information storage unit in association with the identification information indicates the first image forming device When the print target data of the print data is printed on the printing unit using a part of the printing accompanying information, and the device designation instruction indicates the second image forming device, the print target data of the print data And a control unit that outputs the printing-accompanying information to a data conversion tool that converts the information associated with the printing into a data format suitable for printing by the second image forming apparatus.