JP2016021245A - system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent processing provided according to the number of times of call paid from being performed when a result of subtraction is a negative number and a predetermined due date has been exceeded.SOLUTION: A system includes storage means for storing the number of times of call corresponding to the amount of money paid in advance, subtraction means for subtracting the number of times of call paid from the number of times of call stored in the storage means, and control means for controlling to permit execution of processing to be provided according to the number of times of call paid even when a result of the subtraction by the subtraction means becomes a negative number. When a result of the subtraction by the subtraction means is a negative number and a predetermined due date has been exceeded, the control means controls not to execute the processing to be provided according to the number of times of call paid.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present invention relates to a system .

  Conventionally, as a type of image forming apparatus, there is a so-called prepaid printer that registers in advance the number of sheets to be printed as a frequency and executes printing within the frequency.

  Such prepaid printers generally have a method (job abort method) in which subsequent printing is stopped when the registered frequency is reached.

  On the other hand, printers that do not cause job abort have been developed in consideration of user convenience and the like.

  Various techniques relating to such prepaid printers have been proposed.

  For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-301747 proposes a technique for temporarily suspending a job, selecting addition of frequency or job abort, and restarting the job after execution of addition when selection of addition of frequency is selected. Yes.

  In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-299265, as a technique for preventing printing interruption, a print job is temporarily received by a server, the number of prints required for the job is confirmed, and the remaining frequency registered in the printing apparatus is compared. In this case, there is disclosed a technique for presenting a printing method that fits within the number of sheets, such as aggregate printing, and causing the user to re-submit such a job.

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-245767 proposes an invention in which all pages of print data are generated in advance and printing is started only when the remaining frequency is larger than the number of pages.

JP 2007-301747 A JP 2007-299265 A JP 2006-245767 A

The present invention provides a system that prevents the processing provided according to the paid frequency from being performed when the result of subtraction by the subtraction means is a negative number and a preset time limit has passed. Objective.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a system according to the invention of claim 1 includes a storage unit that stores a frequency corresponding to a prepaid amount, and a subtracting unit that subtracts the paid frequency from the frequency stored in the storage unit. Control means for allowing execution of processing provided according to the paid frequency even when the subtraction result by the subtraction means is a negative number, and the control means includes the subtraction means When the result of subtraction is a negative number and a preset time limit has passed, control is performed so as not to perform the processing provided according to the frequency paid .

The system according to a second aspect of the present invention provides a notification of the subtraction result to the external device connected via the communication means when the subtraction result by the subtracting means becomes a negative number with respect to the first aspect of the invention. It is characterized by further comprising an informing means for performing.

  According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, when the subtraction result by the subtracting means is a negative number and a preset time limit has passed , compared to the case where the present configuration is not provided , It is possible to prevent the processing provided depending on the frequency paid .

According to the invention described in claim 2, when the subtraction result becomes a negative number as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the subtraction result is notified to the external device connected via the communication means. it can be.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a frequency addition process. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a frequency addition and a timer reset process. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a page output process. It is a flowchart which shows the other process sequence of a page output process. It is a flowchart which shows the other process sequence of a page output process.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment as an example of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In addition, since description here is the best form by which this invention is implemented, this invention is not limited to the said form.

  An image forming system S1 and an image forming apparatus PR1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  A configuration example of the image forming system S1 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

The image forming system S1 (an example of the system ) purchases the frequency from the frequency management SA for managing the frequency permitted for printing and the network N (an example of communication means) such as the Internet or LAN from the frequency management server SA. The job is sent to the agent PC 10 composed of a personal computer (an example of an information processing apparatus) that additionally registers the frequency in the prepaid printer (image forming apparatus) PR1 via the network N and the prepaid printer PR1. An image is formed on a print sheet based on a client PC 11 configured by a personal computer (an example of an information processing apparatus) that sends (print information) and the frequency added from the agent PC 10 and the print information sent from the client PC 1. Prepaid printer (image forming device And PR1.

  In the image forming apparatus PR1, upon receiving a frequency addition request from the agent PC 10, the communication data control unit 15 interprets the frequency addition command and registers the frequency addition in the frequency counter 18.

  When the print information is sent from the client PC 11 to the image forming apparatus PR1, the communication data control unit 15 passes the job to the job management unit 16. The job management unit 16 executes the image form of the print information when the frequency counter 18 is 1 or more.

  The page output unit 17 (an example of an image forming unit) subtracts the frequency for the output page from the frequency counter 18 every time a page is output, and continues this operation until the final page is output.

  In the image forming system S1 according to the present embodiment, the page output unit 17 completes the output of the final page even when the frequency becomes 0 or minus (negative number) in the middle of the print information (job management unit 16). Until the job is completed), the page output is continued without interrupting the image forming process, and the frequency is continued to be subtracted with a minus value for each page output.

  Further, after the frequency counter becomes 0 or minus, the image forming process of new print information sent from the client PC 11 may not be executed.

  When the frequency is added from the agent PC 10 to the image forming apparatus PR1, the added frequency is added to update the frequency counter 18.

  Next, the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus PR1 and the image forming system S1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the functional block diagram of FIG.

  The image forming apparatus PR1 includes a frequency storage unit 100 (an example of a storage unit) configured by a non-volatile memory that stores a frequency corresponding to the amount paid in advance, and print information input from the outside via the network N. A page output unit 17 (an example of an image forming unit) that forms an image on a printing paper (an example of a recording medium) based on the above, and an execution mode (for example, color printing designation, double-sided) that is executed by the page output unit 17 The frequency counter 18 (an example of a subtracting unit) that subtracts the frequency corresponding to the print specification (print execution conditions such as print designation and paper size designation) from the frequency stored in the frequency storage unit 100, and the subtraction result by the frequency counter 18 is zero ( A control unit composed of a microcomputer or the like that controls to allow image formation by the page output unit 17 even when it is zero) or a negative number (minus) 01 (an example of control means) and when the result of subtraction by the frequency counter 18 becomes a negative number (minus), the billing unit 102 (for charging the amount corresponding to the negative frequency (minus) via the network N ( An example of charging means).

  Here, the control unit 101 does not perform image formation by the page output unit 17 when the negative number by the frequency counter 18 becomes equal to or less than a preset threshold (for example, −50 degrees, −100 degrees, etc.). You may make it control to.

  Further, when the subtraction result by the frequency counter 18 is zero (zero) or a negative number and a preset period (for example, several hours or one day) elapses, the control unit 101 outputs a page output unit. Control may be performed so that image formation according to 17 is not performed.

  In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, when the subtraction result by the frequency counter 18 becomes zero (zero) or a negative number (minus), the subtraction result is sent to an external device such as the client PC 10 connected via the network N. Is provided with a notification unit 103 (an example of a notification unit).

  As a result, the user or the like can determine, for example, whether or not to continue the printing process or whether or not to purchase the frequency by checking the frequency that is negative on a monitor (display unit) such as the client PC 10. Is done.

  According to the image forming system S1 according to the present embodiment, when print information is input to the image forming apparatus PR1, printing is started immediately without performing special processing for analyzing the number of pages of the job in advance. Thus, the efficiency of the printing process is improved.

  Further, even if the prepaid frequency is insufficient (that is, even if the subtraction result is zero or a negative number (becomes negative), printing is efficiently performed without being interrupted.

  Also, if the frequency minus value falls below the threshold, the next print information will not start printing until, for example, a new frequency is added. Even if it occurs, damage can be suppressed.

  Next, with reference to flowcharts of FIGS. 3 to 7, processing procedures of various processes executed in the image forming system S <b> 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  First, the processing procedure of the frequency addition process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S10, the agent PC 10 acquires the additional frequency from the frequency management server SA, and proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, the agent PC 10 adds the frequency to the printer PR1 and proceeds to step S12.

  In step S12, the printer PR1 updates the frequency counter = frequency counter + additional frequency and ends the process.

  Thereby, the frequency counter is updated.

  Next, an example of the frequency addition and timer reset processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S30, the agent PC 10 acquires the additional frequency from the frequency management server SA and proceeds to step S31.

  In step S31, the agent PC 10 adds the frequency to the printer PR1 and proceeds to step S32.

  In step S32, the printer PR1 updates “frequency counter = frequency counter + additional frequency”, and proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, it is determined whether or not “frequency counter> 0”. If “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S34, the frequency expired timer is reset, and the process ends.

  If “No”, the process is terminated as it is.

  Next, an example of the processing procedure of the page output process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In this process, the client PC 11 transmits print information (job) to the printer PR1 in step S40, and the process proceeds to step S41.

  In step S41, it is determined whether or not “frequency counter> 0”. If “No”, the process proceeds to step S42.

  Then, in step S42, it is determined whether or not “frequency expired timer <frequency expired time threshold”. If “No”, the job is not executed (step S43), and the process ends.

  Note that the frequency expiration time threshold value is not particularly limited, but is set to, for example, “1 hour”, “12 hours”, or the like.

  On the other hand, if “Yes” in the step S42, the process proceeds to a step S44.

  In addition, when “Yes” is determined in the step S41, the process proceeds to the step S44.

  In step S44, processing of print information is started. In step S45, a page is generated based on the print information, and the process proceeds to step S46.

  In step S46, "frequency counter-page frequency" is calculated, and the process proceeds to step S47.

  In step S47, the page is printed out, and then the process proceeds to step S48 to determine whether or not the job is finished.

  If “No”, the process returns to step S45. If “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S49.

  In step S49, it is determined whether or not “frequency counter> 0”. If “No”, the process proceeds to step S50, the frequency expired timer is turned on, and the process ends. If “Yes”, The process is terminated as it is.

  Thus, even when the frequency counter becomes a negative number (minus), the printing process is continued, and the efficiency of the printing process is improved. In addition, the frequency expired timer stops the printing process in a state where the frequency counter has become a negative number (minus) when a certain time has elapsed, thereby preventing economic disadvantages from occurring.

  Next, a processing procedure of page output processing according to another embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In this process, the client PC 11 transmits print information (job) to the printer PR1 in step S60, and the process proceeds to step S61.

  In step S61, it is determined whether or not “frequency counter> minus frequency threshold”. If “No”, the process proceeds to step S68, and the process is not executed (that is, the print process is stopped). Exit.

  The minus frequency threshold is not particularly limited, but is set to, for example, “−50 degrees”, “−100 degrees”, or the like.

  On the other hand, if “Yes” in the step S61, the process proceeds to a step S62 to start processing of the print information, and in a step S63, a page is generated based on the print information, and the process proceeds to the step S64.

  In step S64, "frequency counter-page frequency" is calculated, and the process proceeds to step S65.

  In step S65, the page is printed out and then the process proceeds to step S66 to determine whether or not “frequency counter> minus frequency threshold”.

  If “No”, the process ends. If “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S 67 to determine whether the job is completed.

  If “No”, the process returns to step S 63, and if “Yes”, the process ends.

  Thus, even when the frequency counter becomes a negative number (minus), the printing process is continued, and the efficiency of the printing process is improved. In addition, by setting a minus frequency threshold value, it is possible to prevent economic disadvantages from occurring.

  In step S61, instead of determining “frequency counter> minus frequency threshold”, it may be determined whether “frequency counter> 0”.

  Next, a processing procedure of page output processing according to another embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In this process, the client PC 11 transmits print information (job) to the printer PR1 in step S70, and the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, it is determined whether or not “frequency counter> 0”. If “No”, the process proceeds to step S79, and the process is terminated without executing the job (that is, stopping the printing process). To do.

  On the other hand, if “Yes” in the step S71, the process proceeds to a step S72 to start processing the print information. In a step S73, a page is generated based on the print information, and the process proceeds to the step S74.

  In step S74, “frequency counter−page frequency” is calculated, and the process proceeds to step S75.

  In step S75, the page is printed out and then the process proceeds to step S76 to determine whether or not the job is finished. If “No”, the process returns to step S73, and if “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S77. .

  In step S77, it is determined whether or not “frequency counter> 0”. If “No”, the frequency expired timer is turned on in step S78 to end the process. If “Yes”, the process is continued. finish.

  Thus, even when the frequency counter becomes a negative number (minus), the printing process is continued, and the efficiency of the printing process is improved. In addition, the frequency expired timer stops the printing process in a state where the frequency counter has become a negative number (minus) when a certain period of time has elapsed, thereby preventing an increase in economic disadvantage.

  Although the invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not limited to the disclosed technology. Should not be considered. That is, the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed restrictively based on the description in the above embodiment, but should be construed according to the description of the scope of claims. All modifications that fall within the scope of the claims and the equivalent technology are included.

  For example, in response to an inquiry from the client PC 11, the printer PR 1 may transmit the value of the frequency counter 18 via the network N and display it on the monitor of the client PC 11.

  The printer PR1 may be configured to switch between the prepaid method and the normal method.

  Further, different consumables may be used for the prepaid method and the normal method.

  The frequency may be weighted according to the type (size, color, paper) of the page to be output.

  When using a program, it can be provided via a network or stored in a recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

  That is, the predetermined program including the image processing program is not limited to being recorded in a storage device such as a hard disk as a recording medium, and the predetermined program can be provided as follows.

  For example, a predetermined program may be stored in the ROM, and the CPU may load the predetermined program from the ROM to the main storage device and execute it.

  The predetermined program may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a DVD-ROM, a CD-ROM, an MO (magneto-optical disk), a flexible disk, and distributed.

  Further, the image forming apparatus or the like is connected to a server apparatus or a host computer via a communication line (for example, the Internet), and after the predetermined program is downloaded from the server apparatus or the host computer, the predetermined program is executed. You may do it. In this case, examples of the download destination of the predetermined program include a memory such as a RAM and a storage device (recording medium) such as a hard disk.

The system according to the present invention can be applied to prepaid printers, multi-function machines, and the like.

S1 Image Forming System PR1 Image Forming Apparatus (Prepaid Printer)
SA Frequency management server 10 Agent PC
11 Client PC
15 Communication data control unit 16 Job management unit 17 Page output unit 18 Frequency counter 100 Frequency storage unit 101 Control unit 102 Charging unit 103 Notification unit

Claims (2)

Storage means for storing the frequency corresponding to the amount paid in advance;
Subtracting means for subtracting the paid frequency from the frequency stored in the storage means;
Control means for controlling to allow execution of processing provided according to the paid frequency even when the subtraction result by the subtraction means is a negative number;
With
The control means, when the subtraction result by the subtraction means is a negative number, and when a preset time limit has passed, the control means controls not to perform the process provided according to the frequency paid,
A system characterized by that. 2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that notifies an external device connected via the communication unit of the subtraction result when the subtraction result of the subtracting unit becomes a negative number.

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