JP2017011562A - Image forming apparatus, information processing system, control method for the same, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a mechanism that can notify a user of whether processing that has not been completed by a device used in the past can be executed by a device being used.MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM: An image forming apparatus executes log-in by a user to the apparatus, stores error information on errors occurred in the apparatus, acquires error information on errors occurred in another image forming apparatus to which a log-in user logged in in the past, determines whether processing corresponding to the error information can be executed in the apparatus on the basis of the acquired error information, and notifies the user of a result of the determination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an information processing system, a control method thereof, and a program.

  If an error occurs during processing in the image forming apparatus, the processing is interrupted. In some cases, in order to execute the interrupted process on another image forming apparatus, it is necessary to log in to the other image forming apparatus and then call up a function screen necessary for executing the process and execute the operation again. There is inefficiency.

  For example, Patent Document 1 stores information on a printing process that is interrupted when the printing process of the image forming apparatus is interrupted, communicates with other image forming apparatuses connected via a network, and stores other images. It is described whether the forming apparatus can restart the interrupted printing process, and when it is determined that the forming process can be restarted, the image forming apparatus automatically restarts the printing process. ing.

JP 2009-255356 A

  In Patent Document 1, a user can designate a candidate image forming apparatus as a determination target of whether or not to resume the process in advance. In the case of a user who can use a plurality of image forming apparatuses installed on the floor, the user is, for example, any other installed as close as possible from the current position (eg, before the image forming apparatus that interrupted the process). It seems that he wants to use the image forming apparatus. However, the candidate image forming apparatus is not necessarily installed at a position close to the user's position.

  It is also conceivable to log in to an image forming apparatus installed nearby and restart the process, or re-execute from the beginning, but the process interrupted due to an error or the like may be performed by another newly formed image forming apparatus. When the user does not know whether or not the process can be executed, the user needs to check whether the process is properly executed by searching for a function corresponding to the process after logging in or by instructing the process execution. There is trouble.

  Further, by checking the information of the error that is occurring, it is conceivable to log out without executing the desired function although logged in to the image forming apparatus. In Patent Document 1, it is determined whether or not the interrupted process can be resumed by another image forming apparatus, but no care has been taken regarding a process that has not been executed / completed or its function.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism capable of notifying whether a device that has been used in the past can be executed by a device that has not been terminated.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with another image forming apparatus, and includes login execution means for executing login to a user's own apparatus, error information indicating an error, Error information storage means for storing error information of errors that occurred in the error information of errors that have occurred in other image forming apparatuses that have been logged in in the past by the user who logged in to the own machine in the login execution means, Based on the error information acquired by the acquisition unit that acquires the error information stored in the error information storage unit in the other image forming apparatus, the processing corresponding to the error information is executed by the own machine A process availability determination unit that determines whether the process is possible, and a notification that the process is possible when the process determination unit determines that the process is possible. Characterized in that it comprises a notifying means for notifying the processing is not possible when it is determined that the stage in the process is not possible, the.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to notify whether processing that has not been completed by a device used in the past can be executed by the device being used.

It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the information processing system in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of information processing apparatus in embodiment of this invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus in an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of the various apparatuses in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the memory | storage process of error information in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the write-in process of error information in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the notification process availability process in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the various data table in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the screen in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the storage process of the error information by the interruption of a process in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the restart of a process in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the various data table in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the screen in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the screen in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process in the 4th Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  First, an example of the configuration of an information processing system in the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  Each device is communicably connected via a network such as a LAN 101. The PC 100 generates print data and transmits the print data to the MFP 300 (generic name of the MFP 300A and MFP 300B / image forming apparatus) designated by the user via the LAN 101. The multifunction device 300 receives the print data and stores it in the storage device. In addition, the multifunction device 300 includes a card reader / writer, and writes information on errors occurring in the self-device to the IC card and reads information on errors of other devices written on the IC card. Then, it is determined whether the processing corresponding to the error information of the other device can be executed by the own device from the read error information of the other device and the function information of the own device, and notifies the user of the determination result. The above is the description of FIG.

  Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus in the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration applicable to the PC 100 shown in FIG. 1, for example.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204. Further, the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 is necessary to realize a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) or an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as an OS), which is a control program of the CPU 201, or a function executed by each server or each PC. Various programs to be described later are stored.

  A RAM 203 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 implements various operations by loading a program or the like necessary for execution of processing from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the loaded program.

  An input controller 205 controls input from a keyboard (KB) 209 or a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown). A video controller 206 controls display on a display device such as a CRT display (CRT) 210. In FIG. 2, although described as CRT 210, the display device is not limited to the CRT, but may be another display device such as a liquid crystal display. These are used by the administrator as needed.

  A memory controller 207 is connected to the hard disk (HD), flexible disk (FD), or PCMCIA card slot for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, editing files, various data, etc. via an adapter. The access to the external memory 211 such as a compact flash (registered trademark) memory is controlled.

  A communication I / F controller 208 is connected to and communicates with an external device via a network (for example, the LAN 101 shown in FIG. 1), and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP is possible.

  Note that the CPU 201 enables display on the CRT 210 by executing outline font rasterization processing on a display information area in the RAM 203, for example. In addition, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 210.

  Various programs to be described later for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211 and executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary. Furthermore, definition files and various information tables used when executing the program are also stored in the external memory 211, and a detailed description thereof will be described later. The above is the description of FIG.

  Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus in the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration applicable to, for example, the MFP 300A and the MFP 300B illustrated in FIG.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 316 denotes a controller unit which is connected to a scanner 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer 312 functioning as an image output device, while being connected to a LAN (for example, the LAN 101 shown in FIG. 1) or a public line (WAN). By connecting to (for example, PSTN or ISDN), input / output of image data and device information is performed.

  In the controller unit 316, reference numeral 301 denotes a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system. A RAM 302 is a system work memory for the CPU 301 to operate, and is also a program memory for recording a program and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

  A ROM 303 stores a system boot program and various control programs. A hard disk drive (HDD) 304 stores various programs for controlling the system, image data, and the like.

  An operation unit interface (operation unit I / F) 307 is an interface unit with the operation unit (keyboard) 308. Further, the operation unit I / F 307 serves to transmit the key information (for example, pressing of the start button) input from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301.

  A network interface (Network I / F) 305 is connected to the network (LAN) 101. In addition, wireless communication is also possible, and connection is made with other devices by communication using infrared rays, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Input and output data. A modem (MODEM) 306 is connected to a public line and inputs / outputs data such as FAX transmission / reception.

  Reference numeral 318 denotes an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, and RS-232C. In this embodiment, an IC card for a portable terminal required for authentication A card reader 319 for reading (storage medium) is connected to the external I / F 318. The CPU 301 can control reading of information from the IC card of the mobile terminal by the card reader 319 via the external I / F 318, and can acquire information read from the IC card of the mobile terminal. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 309.

Reference numeral 320 denotes an image bus interface (IMAGE BUS I / F), which is a bus bridge that connects the system bus 309 and an image bus 315 that transfers image data at high speed and converts the data structure.
The image bus 315 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 315.

  A raster image processor (RIP) 310 develops vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image. A printer interface (printer I / F) 311 connects the printer 312 and the controller unit 316, and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. A scanner interface (scanner I / F) 313 connects the scanner 314 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  An image processing unit 317 performs correction, processing, and editing on input image data, and performs printer correction, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data. In addition to this, the image processing unit 317 performs image data rotation and compression / decompression processing such as JPEG for multi-valued image data and JBIG, MMR, MH for binary image data.

  The scanner 314 illuminates an image on paper as a document and scans it with a CCD line sensor, thereby converting it into an electrical signal as raster image data. The original paper is set on the tray of the original feeder, and when the apparatus user gives a reading start instruction from the operation unit 308, the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner 314, and the feeder feeds the original paper one by one to read the original image. I do.

  The printer 312 is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, and an image is directly printed on paper by ejecting ink from a minute nozzle array. There are inkjet methods for printing, but any method may be used. The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301. The printer 312 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has a paper cassette corresponding thereto.

  The operation unit 308 has an LCD display unit, and a touch panel sheet is affixed on the LCD. The operation unit 308 displays an operation screen of the system. To the CPU 301 via The operation unit 308 includes, for example, a start key, a stop key, an ID key, a reset key, and the like as various operation keys.

  Note that the display unit has different display performance depending on the printer, and a printer that can be operated via a touch panel, a printer that simply has a liquid crystal screen and displays a character string (displays the print status and the name of the document being printed). Is structured.

  Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used when starting a document image reading operation. At the center of the start key, there are two color LEDs, green and red, which indicate whether or not the start key can be used. Further, the stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation in operation. The ID key of the operation unit 308 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is used when initializing settings from the operation unit.

  The card reader 319 reads information stored in an IC card (which may be provided in the portable terminal as an IC chip) under the control of the CPU 301, and reads the read information via the external I / F 318. To notify. The card reader 319 corresponds to the NFC communication standard, and is configured to be able to read and write to an IC card or an IC chip of a portable terminal (card reader / writer). In addition, when an NFC standard-compliant portable terminal is held over an NFC standard-compliant card reader, authentication is performed and the portable terminal is paired with a printer (multifunction device). Then, communication (P2P) can be established between the held portable terminal and the printer (multifunction machine) to perform data communication. In addition, it is also possible to take over communication (handover) to Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), which are high-speed communication standards, and to perform communication between the portable terminal and the printer (multifunction device). For example, by holding the portable terminal over a card reader, an image stored in the portable terminal can be transmitted to a printer (multifunction machine). The details of the NFC communication standard are conventional techniques, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

  In the above-described multifunction device 300, a platform for controlling the multifunction device 300 exists, and an authentication application for communicating with the authentication server is operating on the platform. The authentication application is stored in the HDD 304. An area on the HDD 304 is secured for a login context that is managed by the platform and stores user information at the time of login, and various setting information.

  On the platform, an application in which the main body function of the MFP 300 is extended is installed and operating. These applications are executed using the platform API. Through this platform, it is possible to control each function of the printer.

  In addition, the MFP 300 also stores a Web browser, and can also cooperate with the Web system. In this case, the screen received from the web application server is displayed using a web browser. A command instructed on the Web browser is requested to the Web application server, and the MFP 300 can execute an operation (scanning or print processing) by receiving the command from the Web application server.

  With the configuration as described above, the multifunction peripheral 300 can transmit the image data read from the scanner 314 to the LAN 101 and print out the print data received from the LAN 101 by the printer 312.

  Also, the image data read from the scanner 314 can be faxed to the public line by the modem 306, and the image data received by fax from the public line can be output by the printer 312. The above is the description of FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 4, an example of a functional configuration of various apparatuses in the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The print data generation unit 401 is a generation unit that generates print data. The print data transmission unit 402 is a transmission unit that transmits print data to the MFP 300.

  The own device function storage unit 411 is a storage unit that stores a list of functions of the own device. The print data reception unit 412 is a reception unit that receives the print data transmitted by the print data transmission unit 402. The print data storage unit 413 is a storage unit that stores the print data received by the print data reception unit 412.

  The error information storage unit 414 is a storage unit that stores error information generated in the own device. For example, the identification information (error code) of an error that has occurred in the device itself and the information of the function that is being requested for repair (function identification information / function name) are stored as error information. Details of the repair request will be described later.

  The error information writing processing unit 415 is a processing unit that writes the error information stored in the error information storage unit 414 to an IC card (portable storage medium) possessed by the user by using a card reader / writer function. The error information reading processing unit (error information acquisition processing unit) 416 is an acquisition unit that reads (reads) and acquires error information written and stored in the IC card using the function of the card reader / writer. .

  The process propriety determination unit 417 includes a function of the own device stored in the own device function storage unit 411 and a function corresponding to the error information acquired by the error information reading processing unit 416 (for example, a function itself indicating error information). In comparison, the determination unit determines whether or not the own device has a function corresponding to the error information. In other words, it is a determination unit that determines whether the processing of the function in which an error has occurred in another device can be processed by the own device.

  The notification unit 418 is a notification unit that notifies the user of the determination result by the process availability determination unit 417. For example, notification is performed by displaying a notification screen (for example, 930 and 940 in FIG. 9) indicating the content of the determination result on the display screen. The operation history storage unit 419 is a storage unit that stores a history of processes executed and executed in the multifunction machine 300 (for example, 860 in FIG. 8 / described later). The above is the description of FIG.

  <First Embodiment>

  Hereinafter, the processing in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, the flow of error information storage processing in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  The CPU 301 of the multifunction machine 300A is activated, for example, in response to a user operation (step S501). Then, it is determined whether or not an error has occurred in the device itself (step S502). If an error has occurred (YES in step S502), identification information (error information / error code) of the error that is occurring is externally determined. Store in the memory (step S503).

  For example, it is stored in the error information 840 being generated shown in FIG. Whether the error information indicates an error corresponding to which function of the own device can be identified from, for example, a character string of the error information. For example, if there is a character string “Print” in the error information, it is an error corresponding to the print function, and if there is a character string “Scan” in the error information, it is an error corresponding to the scan function. Further, it is assumed that the error information (error code) is stored and managed in the character code and error contents in the error code list 850 stored in common in each MFP 300.

  If it is determined that no error has occurred in the own device (NO in step S502), it is determined whether an operation for requesting repair of the own device by a user operation has been received (step S504). For example, the pressing of the “repair request” button is accepted on the menu screen 900 of FIG. 9, and the selection of the function name from the function name list and / or the input of the error code are accepted on the repair request screen 910. When a press of an “OK” button is received to make a repair request to the repair request destination, it is determined that a repair request operation has been received. For example, the function name list displays a list of functions of the own apparatus stored in the external memory of the multi-function apparatus 300A (here, the function list 820 of FIG. 8). The own device function list stored in the external memory of the own device is shown in the own device function list 830 of FIG.

  If it is determined that a repair request operation has been received (YES in step S504), the CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300A stores the error code in the error information 840 that is occurring when an error code is input. The storage process is not performed when the error code is already stored in the error information 840 that is occurring. If no error code is input on the repair request screen 910, a character string corresponding to the selected function name is stored in the error information 840 as a pseudo error code. For example, when the function name = print (print), the pseudo error code is “Print”, and when the function name = scan, the pseudo error code is “Scan”. That is, information on a character string that can identify which function has an error when another image forming apparatus reads the error information is stored.

  If it is determined that a repair request operation has not been received (NO in step S504), the process ends. The above is the description of FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the flow of error information writing processing in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A performs a user login process (step S601). For example, by detecting an IC card, the card ID in the IC card is acquired, authentication is performed using a user ID / password corresponding to the card ID, and if the authentication is successful, the user ID using the user ID is authenticated. Log in the user to the machine. Authentication information (authentication information 800 / card ID 801, user ID 802, password 803 in FIG. 8) used for the authentication is assumed to be stored in an authentication server (not shown), and the MFP 300 communicates with the authentication server. Thus, it is assumed that the authentication process described above is executed by the authentication server, the authentication result is received, and the user login process is executed.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, it is assumed that login to the apparatus = use (use) of the apparatus.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A accepts the operation (step S602), and determines whether the accepted operation is a logout operation (step S603). For example, when an instruction to press the “logout” button on the menu screen 900 is received, it is determined that a logout operation has been received.

  If it is determined that the accepted operation is not a logout operation (NO in step S603), processing according to the accepted operation is executed (corresponding to step S607 / job execution means). The processing corresponding to the accepted operation is, for example, pressing of a “print” button, selection of print data, and print processing corresponding to a print instruction. The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A stores the history of the accepted operation (history storing the function name of the process executed according to the accepted operation) in the external memory (step S608). For example, the operation history 860 in FIG. 8 includes an operation 861 that is identification information of an executed operation (here, a function name of a process executed and completed (completed)), and a time 862 at which the process by the operation was executed. Remember. And a process is returned before step S602.

  If it is determined in step S603 that the operation accepted in step S602 is a logout operation (YES in step S603), the CPU 301 of the multifunction machine 300A performs an operation on the multifunction machine after the login until the logout operation is performed. It is determined whether there is information stored in the operation history (step S604). Here, when an operation other than login / logout (here, the function name of the process executed by the operation) is stored in the operation history 860, it is determined that the operation has been performed on the MFP before the logout operation is performed. . That is, when a process is executed by a user operation and it is stored that the process is completed, it is determined that an operation has been performed on the multifunction device before a logout operation is performed.

  If there is an operation history (YES in step S604), logout is executed and the process is terminated. If there is no operation history (NO in step S604), the CPU 301 of the multi-function peripheral 300A determines whether error information is stored in the error information 840 being generated in the own machine (step S605). If the error information is stored (YES in step S605), for example, the card writing screen 920 of FIG. 9 is displayed, and the card reader / writer is made to trick the IC card, and stored in the error information 840 being generated. Is written (stored) in the storage area of the IC card that has been tricked (detected by the MFP 300A) (step S606). For example, the value of the error information 840 being generated is written in the error information 813 of the error information list 810 in FIG. 8, the MFP ID 812 that is identification information of the own device is written, and the error information list 810 is stored in the storage area of the IC card. To do. No. 811 is an identification number of data in the error information list.

  When the user logs out without any operation even after logging in and an error has occurred in the MFP 300A, the user logs in to the MFP 300A to use (use) a function, but an error occurs. Therefore, it is considered that the user has logged out without being able to perform the operation related to the function. In order to use the function, it is conceivable to log in to another multifunction device (for example, the multifunction device 300B). Therefore, the MFP 300A writes the error information to the IC card in order to make it possible to determine whether or not the process in which an error has occurred in the MFP (for example, the MFP 300B) that logs in next time can be executed. is there. The above is the description of FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 7, the flow of processing availability notification processing in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300B performs the login process by detecting the IC card as described in step S601 of FIG. 6 (corresponding to the login execution means), and is stored in the IC card from the detected IC card. A process of reading (acquiring) error information is performed (step S701).

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300B determines whether error information (for example, an error code) has been acquired (step S702). If error information could not be acquired (NO in step S702), the menu screen 900 is displayed and the processing in FIG. If error information has been acquired (YES in step S702), a list of functions of the own device is acquired (step S703), and a list of error information currently occurring in the own device stored in the own device (for example, 840 in FIG. 8). Is obtained) (step S704).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card can be executed by the own device (step S705).

  Here, the CPU 301 of the multifunction device 300B has a function of processing indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card, and the multifunction device 300B stores the error information related to the function in the error information 840 being generated in the own device. If the function is not performed (that is, if an error relating to the function has not occurred and the function can be used), it is determined that the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card can be executed by the own device. . When the multifunction device 300B does not have a function of processing indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card, or the multifunction device 300B has the function, but the error information related to the function is the error information 840 being generated in the own device. Is stored in, the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card is determined to be unexecutable by the own device.

  If the CPU 301 of the MFP 300B determines that the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card can be executed by the own machine (YES in step S705), the CPU 301 notifies the user that the process can be executed by the own machine. Accordingly, a screen as shown in the notification screen 930 of FIG. 9 is displayed on the display screen (step S706). If it is determined that the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card cannot be executed by the own machine (NO in step S705), the notification shown in FIG. 9 is used to notify the user that the process cannot be executed by the own machine A screen as shown on the screen 940 is displayed on the display screen (step S707). The above is the description of FIG.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to notify whether processing that has not been completed by a device used in the past can be executed by the device being used.

  For example, in the first embodiment, it is possible to notify the user whether processing by a function that has not been instructed to be executed by a device used in the past can be executed by the newly used device.

  When a plurality of pieces of error information are stored in the IC card, it is determined that any one of the functions can be executed by the MFP 300B, and any of the functions cannot be executed by the MFP 300B. In this case, as shown at 930 in FIG. 9, a notification screen including the function name of the function determined to be executable may be displayed.

  <Second Embodiment>

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Detailed descriptions of processes, screens, and data configurations common to the first embodiment are omitted.

  In the second embodiment, there is provided a mechanism capable of resuming processing interrupted by a device used in the past by the device being used.

  For example, a process interrupted by a device that has been used in the past can be notified whether the user can newly restart a device that is arbitrarily logged in, and the processing can be restarted.

  First, with reference to FIG. 10, the flow of error information storage processing due to processing interruption in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  In the second embodiment, in response to a user operation, the CPU 201 of the PC 100 generates print data including the bibliographic information of the user ID logged in to the PC, and the multifunction device (here, the specified print data is designated). To the MFP 300A). The multifunction peripheral 300A receives the print data, extracts bibliographic information, and stores the print data in an external memory in association with the bibliographic information (including user information). For example, a job ID (job ID 1212) is assigned as print data (print job) waiting for processing, and the user is associated with the user ID 1211 acquired from the bibliographic information for each user as shown in the job list 1210 in FIG. (Data 1215). At the time of storage, “waiting for processing” is inserted into the status 1213. The number of processed pages is 0/10 (0 out of 10 pages) as information indicating how many pages have been processed with respect to the page of print data, for example, as shown in the data of job ID 1212 = Print JOB 150 which is 10 pages of print data. Insert a page process / that is, a value indicating unprocessed).

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A executes the processing of steps S601 to S603 in FIG. 6 of the first embodiment, and when it is determined in step S603 that the operation accepted in step S602 is not a logout operation (NO in step S603). ), The process of step S1001 is started.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A determines whether the operation received in step S602 is a print execution (print execution) operation (step S1001), and determines that the received operation is a print execution operation (step S1001). YES), the printing process is executed according to the operation (step S1006 / corresponding to job execution means), and the number of pages for which printing has been completed is stored in the number of processed sheets 1214 (corresponding to the result storage means). For example, when 10 pages of print data are printed up to 2 pages, 2/10 (a value indicating processing of 2 pages out of 10 pages) is inserted into the processing number 1214 and stored. Then, the process proceeds to step S1007. If it is determined that the accepted operation is not a print execution operation (NO in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S1002.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A determines whether the operation received in step S602 is a scan execution operation (step S1002), and determines that the received operation is a scan execution operation (YES in step S1002). A new job ID 1212 (ScanJOB) is generated and stored in the job list 1210 in association with the user ID of the login user. Then, the status 1213 is changed from “Waiting for processing” to “Processing”. The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A executes a scan process (corresponding to step S1005 / job execution means), and stores the number of pages (number of sheets) of the scanned data in the processed number 1214 (execution result) (corresponding to the result storage means). ). In the case of scanning, the value of the number of sheets successfully scanned is simply inserted (“1” if the first sheet is successful, and “2” if the second sheet is successful). Further, image data (scan data / data 1215) generated by scanning is stored in association with the job. Then, the process proceeds to step S1007. If it is determined that the accepted operation is not a scan execution operation (NO in step S1002), the process proceeds to step S1003.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A determines whether the operation received in step S602 is a copy execution operation (step S1003), and determines that the received operation is a copy process execution operation (YES in step S1003). ), A new job ID 1212 (Copy JOB) is generated and stored in the job list 1210 in association with the user ID of the login user. Then, the status 1213 is changed from “Waiting for processing” to “Processing”. The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A executes a copy process (step S1004 / corresponds to job execution means), and stores the number of copies (scan and print) completed in the processed number 1214 (corresponds to a result storage means). In the case of copying, it is assumed that the value of the number of sheets successfully copied (“1” if the first sheet is successful, “2” if the second sheet is successful) is inserted. Further, the image data (scan data / data 1215) generated by the scan after completion of the copy is stored in association with the job. Then, the process proceeds to step S1007. If it is determined that the accepted operation is not an operation for executing a copy process (NO in step S1003), the process ends.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A determines whether an error has occurred in the processing executed in step S1004, step S1005, or step S1006 (whether the processing was interrupted without being executed to the end) (step S1007). If no error occurs and the process is executed normally (NO in step S1007), the process proceeds to step S608 in FIG.

  When the process is interrupted without being executed until the end (YES in step S1007), the CPU 301 of the MFP 300A is a notification screen indicating that the process is interrupted (that an error has occurred). The selection screen 1300 (FIG. 13 / screen for selecting whether to save the interrupted processing result on the IC card) to be selected by the user (for example, the MFP 300B) is displayed on the display screen (step S1008).

  Whether the CPU 301 of the MFP 300A has received an instruction to save the intermediate result of the process (1214 in FIG. 12 / information such as how many pages have been printed / how many pages have been scanned) in the IC card Determination is made (step S1009). For example, if the “Yes” button is pressed on the selection screen 1300 in FIG. 13, it is determined that an instruction to save the intermediate result of the process is received, and if the “No” button is pressed, the process is performed. It is determined that an instruction not to store the intermediate result has been accepted.

  If an instruction not to store the intermediate result is accepted (NO in step S1009), the process ends. If an instruction to save the intermediate result is received (YES in step S1009), information on the intermediate result of the process is stored in the external memory of the MFP 300A itself (step S1010), and it is determined that the information is generated in step S1007. The identification information (error code) of the detected error is acquired and written to the IC card (step S1011). In step S1011, the CPU 301 of the multifunction peripheral 300A displays, for example, the card writing screen 920 of FIG. 9 and causes the card reader / writer to trick the user's IC card into the storage area of the IC card detected by being tricked. Processing for writing information of the error information list 1200 shown in FIG. 12 is performed.

  The error information list 1200 is information that is stored in the external memory of the multifunction peripheral 300 and written to the IC card. Since 811 to 813 in FIG. 12 are the same as 811 to 813 in FIG. The function 1201 necessary for continuation is identification information of a function necessary for resuming / continuing the process interrupted by the error indicated in the error information 813. In No. 001, a stapling error has occurred, so a stapling function is required to continue processing. In No002, since the toner has run out (here, “toner003” = magenta indicates running out of toner), a color print function is required to continue the processing.

  The multifunction device 300 stores a correspondence table 1220 indicating which function is required for continuation / resumption of processing when an error occurs, and the CPU 201 stores the correspondence table 1220 in the multifunction device 300. The function necessary for the continuation is specified with reference to 1201 and inserted. Since 1221 and 1222 of the correspondence table 1220 are the same as the error information 813 and the function 1201 necessary for continuation described above, description thereof is omitted.

  The job ID 1202 is identification information of the interrupted job (error job). The number of processed sheets 1203 is the number of processed sheets of the job indicated by the job ID 1202. When the continuation of the process is instructed, for example, in the case of print data, the print process is resumed from the page next to the page indicated by the number of processed sheets. The above is the description of FIG. 12 and FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the flow of resuming processing in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The CPU 301 of the multifunction machine 300B executes the processes of steps S701 to S704 in FIG. Here, it is assumed that the error information acquired in the error information acquisition process of step S701 is information of the error information list 1200.

  In step S705, the CPU 301 of the multifunction machine 300B determines whether the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card can be executed by the own machine (step S705). Here, when the function 1201 necessary for continuation is present in the own apparatus function list 830, it is determined that the process can be executed by the own apparatus, and the process is performed when the function 1201 necessary for continuation is not present in the own function list 830. It is determined that it cannot be executed.

  If the CPU 301 of the MFP 300B determines that the process indicated by the error information acquired from the IC card can be executed by the own machine (YES in step S705), the CPU 301 continues the process by the own machine (interrupted) A notification screen 1310 for instructing (operating) is displayed on the display screen (step S1101).

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300B determines whether an operation for continuing the process is received on the notification screen 1310 (step S1012). When an operation for not continuing is received (NO in step S1012, for example, pressing the “No” button) ), The menu screen 900 is displayed, and the process of FIG. When an operation to continue is accepted (YES in step S1012, for example, when a press of a “Yes” button is accepted / corresponds to a restart instruction accepting unit), the job with the job ID 1202 obtained from the IC card is obtained from the IC card. A request is made to the multifunction device having the multifunction device ID 812 that interrupted the job indicated by the multifunction device ID 812 (FIG. 12) (step S1103). Here, it is assumed that a job acquisition request is made to the MFP 300A.

  The CPU 301 of the MFP 300A receives the job acquisition request (step S1104), acquires data 1215 (print data or image data generated by scanning) of the job being processed in response to the request, and the data 1215 is transmitted to the MFP 300B together with the job ID (step S1105).

  The CPU 301 of the multifunction machine 300B receives the data (step S1106) and restarts (step S1107 / corresponds to process restarting means).

  In the case of a print job, printing is executed from the page after the processed page indicated by the processed number 1214.

  In the case of a scan job, a scan of the paper inserted in the tray is executed, and the image generated by the scan is combined so as to be the page after the scan data acquired from the multifunction peripheral 300A and stored in the external memory. To do.

  In the case of a copy job, when a sheet is inserted in the tray, the sheet is scanned, and the image generated by the scan is combined so as to be a page after the scan data acquired from the MFP 300A. Then, printing (copy processing) of the scan data is executed. If no sheet is inserted in the tray, the pages corresponding to the number of processed sheets 1214 in the scan data acquired from the multifunction peripheral 300A are skipped, and copying is resumed. For example, when the number of processed sheets is 3, printing is resumed from the fourth page of the scan data.

  After restarting the process, the CPU 201 of the MFP 300B moves the process to step S1007 in FIG. The above is the description of FIG.

  Note that after executing the process in step S1107, if it is determined in step S1007 that the process has been completed without interruption (NO in step S1007), for example, the error information deletion screen 1400 of FIG. 14 is displayed on the display screen. The error information of the job that has been successfully processed by restarting the processing in the multifunction device 300B and stored in the storage area of the IC card detected by letting the card reader / writer lean over the IC card is displayed by the multifunction device 300B. It may be deleted from the card.

  In the second embodiment described above, the error information list 1200 is stored in the IC card. For example, the error information list 810 is stored in the IC card and the next login is performed by the multifunction peripheral 300 (for example, the multifunction device). When the error information 813 can be acquired in the machine 300B) (YES in step S702), the error information is transmitted to the multifunction machine 300A so that the multifunction machine 300A combines the information of 1201 to 1203 corresponding to the error information. Processing in step S703 is performed based on the error information list 810 acquired from the IC card by the MFP 300B that has returned to the MFP 300B and received the returned information and the information 1201 to 1203 in FIG. 12 received from the MFP 300A. May be executed.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, a process interrupted by a device used in the past can be restarted by the device being used.

  <Third Embodiment>

  Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Detailed descriptions of processes, screens, and data configurations common to the other embodiments are omitted.

  In the third embodiment, the determination of the presence / absence of error information in a device used in the past and the determination of whether the processing corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own device are performed by one device.

  For example, the determination is performed by the multifunction machine 300B that is currently used and the user next logs in.

  Further, in the third embodiment, it is assumed that at least the process of FIG. 5 described above has already been executed.

  The CPU 201 of the multifunction device 300B executes a user login process (step S1501), and identifies the device (here, assumed to be the multifunction device 300A) that logged in last time with the user ID used for the login (step S1502). ). For example, authentication history information (not shown) stored in the authentication server (for example, information indicating when and what user ID is issued from which device and whether or not the authentication is successful) is stored in the authentication server. Identify the MFP that was acquired from (1) and succeeded in the previous authentication (login).

  The CPU 201 of the MFP 300B requests the MFP 300A that has logged in last time to check whether there is an error occurring in the MFP 300A (step S1503). This request is an error information acquisition request for requesting a return to the MFP 300B to acquire the error information list 840 of the error when an error has occurred in the MFP 300A.

  The CPU 201 of the multifunction machine 300A accepts the request (step S1504) and replies to the multifunction machine 300B (step S1505). For example, if an error is occurring, an error information list 840 (error code of an error occurring on the own device) is transmitted to the multifunction device 300B, and if no error has occurred, it indicates that no error has occurred. Information is transmitted to the MFP 300B.

  The CPU 201 of the MFP 300B receives the information on the answer (step S1506), and determines whether error information has been acquired from the answer (whether an error has occurred in the MFP 300A) (step S1507). If it is determined that the error information could not be acquired from the answer (NO in step S1507), for example, the menu screen 900 of FIG. 9 is displayed and the processing of FIG. 15 is terminated, and if it is determined that the error information can be acquired from the answer (YES in step S1507) The process proceeds to step S703 in FIG. Since the processing after step S703 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description is omitted.

  The above is the description of the third embodiment of the present invention.

  According to the third embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not there is error information in a device used in the past, and whether or not the processing corresponding to the error information can be executed by one device with one device.

  <Fourth Embodiment>

  Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Detailed descriptions of processes, screens, and data configurations common to the other embodiments are omitted.

  In the fourth embodiment, the presence / absence of operation history of devices used in the past and the presence / absence of error information are determined by one device.

  For example, the determination is performed by the multifunction machine 300B that is currently used and the user next logs in.

  In the fourth embodiment, it is assumed that at least the processing in FIG. 5 and the processing in steps S601 to S603 and S608 in FIG. 6 have already been executed.

  The processing in steps S1601 and S1602 is the same as the processing in steps S1501 and S1502 in FIG.

  The CPU 201 of the MFP 300B requests the MFP 300A, which is the previously logged-in device identified in Step S1602, whether or not there is an operation history from the previous login to logout and error information (Step S1603). The request is for acquiring information on whether a function was executed or an error occurred in the multifunction device 300A when the login user of the multifunction device 300B last logged in to another device (the multifunction device 300A). This is an acquisition request.

  The MFP 300A accepts the request (step S1604) and replies (step S1605). For example, if there is information on the operation history 860 executed before the current time from when the user logs in to when the user logs out, the information on the operation history 860 is transmitted to the multifunction peripheral 300B. Otherwise, at the previous login, information indicating that no operation was performed by the user in the multifunction device 300A (information indicating that there is no operation history) is transmitted to the multifunction device 300B. If an error has occurred in the multifunction device 300A, an error information list 840 (error codes of errors occurring in the own device) is transmitted to the multifunction device 300B. If no error has occurred, an error has occurred. Information indicating the absence is transmitted to the MFP 300B.

  The CPU 201 of the MFP 300B receives the information of the answer (step S1606), and whether the response includes operation history information (when the user used the MFP 300A last time, the function was executed by the user operation). Whether there is a history is determined (step S1607). If it is determined that the operation history information is not included in the answer (NO in step S1607), the process ends. If it is determined that the operation history information is included in the answer (YES in step S1607), the process proceeds to step S1608.

  The CPU 201 of the MFP 300B determines whether error information has been acquired from the answer in Step S1608 (whether an error has occurred in the MFP 300A) (Step S1608). If it is determined that error information could not be acquired from the answer (NO in step S1608), the process ends. If it is determined that error information could be acquired from the answer (YES in step S1608), the process proceeds to step S703 in FIG. Transition. Since the processing after step S703 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description is omitted.

  The above is the description of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  According to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not there is an operation history of a device used in the past and whether or not there is error information with a single device.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to notify whether processing that has not been completed by a device used in the past can be executed by the device being used.

  For example, it is possible to notify whether processing that has not been executed by a device used in the past can be executed by the device being used, and resume processing.

  In step S504 and step S505 of the above-described embodiment of the present invention, when it is determined that a repair request operation has been received, information on the function for which the repair request operation has been performed is stored as error information. For example, when the MFP 300 determines whether a repair request has been transmitted to the transmission destination, and it is determined that a repair request has been transmitted to the transmission destination, the function that has made the repair request as the transmission history of the repair request is identified. The information and information such as the transmission time may be associated with each other and stored in the external memory in step S505.

  In step S1505 and step S1605 of the above-described embodiment of the present invention, the MFP 300A transmits error information of an error occurring in itself to the MFP 300B, but the user logs in to the MFP 300A. Error information of an error that has initially occurred in the MFP 300A may be transmitted to the MFP 300B. For example, the CPU 301 of the MFP 300A associates error information (eg, error occurrence date / time and error resolution date / time information / not shown) from the occurrence of an error with the error information into the error information 840 being generated. To remember. Further, when the logged-in user logs out, the information on the date and time when the logout was performed is transmitted to the authentication server (not shown) together with the logged-out user ID, and the date and time when the user logged into the MFP 300A and the logout at the authentication server. Remember the date and time. The CPU 301 of the multifunction device 300B transmits the request transmitted in step S1503 in FIG. 15 and step S1603 in FIG. 16 to the multifunction device 300A including the user ID of the login user who has logged in to the multifunction device 300B. The MFP 300A requests and obtains the previous login date and logout date and time of the MFP 300A corresponding to the user ID included in the request to the authentication server, and from the error occurrence date and error resolution date and time of the external memory, It is assumed that error information that occurred or occurred during the previous login of the user to the MFP 300A is identified and returned to the MFP 300B in steps S1505 and S1605. Here, the login date / time and the logout date / time are stored in the authentication server. However, for example, the login date / time and the logout date / time may be stored in association with the user ID in the external memory of the MFP 300A. The login date and time is stored in the external memory in association with the user ID when the user logs in.

  It should be noted that the present invention can be implemented as, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program, or storage medium, and can be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices. You may apply to the apparatus which consists of one apparatus.

  Note that the present invention includes a software program that implements the functions of the above-described embodiments directly or remotely from a system or apparatus. The present invention also includes a case where the system or the computer of the apparatus is achieved by reading and executing the supplied program code.

  Accordingly, since the functions of the present invention are implemented by computer, the program code installed in the computer also implements the present invention. In other words, the present invention includes a computer program itself for realizing the functional processing of the present invention.

  Examples of the recording medium for supplying the program include a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, and CD-RW. In addition, there are magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD-R), and the like.

  As another program supply method, a browser on a client computer is used to connect to an Internet home page. The computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function can be downloaded from the homepage by downloading it to a recording medium such as a hard disk.

  It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server that allows a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer is also included in the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. Let It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the downloaded key information and install the program on a computer.

  Further, the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the computer executing the read program. In addition, based on the instructions of the program, an OS or the like running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments can also be realized by the processing.

  Further, the program read from the recording medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Thereafter, the CPU of the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

The above-described embodiments are merely examples of implementation in carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto.
That is, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the technical idea or the main features thereof.

100 PC
101 LAN
300A MFP 300B MFP

Claims (12)

An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with another image forming apparatus,
Login execution means for executing login to the user's own machine;
Error information indicating an error, and error information storage means for storing error information of an error that has occurred in the own device;
Error information of an error that has occurred in another image forming apparatus to which a user who has logged in to the own apparatus by the login execution unit has logged in in the past, and is stored in the error information storage unit in the other image forming apparatus An acquisition means for acquiring error information;
Based on the error information acquired by the acquisition unit, a process availability determination unit that determines whether the process corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own machine;
When it is determined that the process is possible by the process availability determination unit, the process is notified, and when the process availability determination unit determines that the process is not possible, the process is not possible Notification means to
An image forming apparatus comprising: The error information storage means stores the error information of the own device in the portable storage medium by writing the error information in the portable storage medium,
The said acquisition means acquires the said error information of the other image forming apparatus memorize | stored in the said portable storage medium by reading the information memorize | stored in the said portable storage medium. Image forming apparatus. Operation history storage means for storing a user's operation history in the own machine;
With
The notification means is a case where there is a user operation history in the other image forming apparatus stored in the operation history storage means of the other image forming apparatus to which the user has logged in in the past, and the process propriety determination 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the processing corresponding to the error information of the error that has occurred in the other image forming apparatus is executable by the device, the processing is possible. The image forming apparatus according to 2.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the operation history storage unit stores, as an operation history, a history of processes that have been successfully executed according to a user operation. Job execution means for executing a job in response to a user operation;
Result storage means for storing a job execution result in the job execution means;
With
5. The process determination unit according to claim 1, wherein the process determination unit determines whether or not a process in which an execution result of a job executed in the other image forming apparatus indicates a process interruption is resumed by the own apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. Resumption instruction accepting means for accepting an instruction to resume the suspended process when it is determined by the determination means that the resuming process is possible;
A process resuming unit for resuming the suspended process by itself when the resumption instruction accepting unit accepts an instruction to resume the process;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising:   The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the process resuming unit restarts the process from the middle based on the execution result information indicating the interruption of the process. An image forming apparatus control method capable of communicating with other image forming apparatuses,
Login execution process for executing login to the user's own machine;
Error information indicating an error, an error information storage step for storing error information of an error that has occurred in the own machine,
Error information of an error that has occurred in another image forming apparatus in which the user who logged in to the own apparatus in the login execution step has logged in in the past, and stored in the error information storage step in the other image forming apparatus An acquisition process for acquiring error information;
Based on the error information acquired in the acquisition step, a process propriety determination step for determining whether the process corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own machine,
When it is determined that the process can be performed in the process availability determination step, the process is notified, and when it is determined that the process is not possible in the process determination process, the process is not possible. A notification process to
A control method for an image forming apparatus. A program that can be executed by an image forming apparatus that can communicate with another image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus;
Login execution means for executing login to the user's own machine;
Error information indicating an error, and error information storage means for storing error information of an error that has occurred in the own device;
Error information of an error that has occurred in another image forming apparatus to which a user who has logged in to the own apparatus by the login execution unit has logged in in the past, and is stored in the error information storage unit in the other image forming apparatus An acquisition means for acquiring error information;
Based on the error information acquired by the acquisition unit, a process availability determination unit that determines whether the process corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own machine;
When it is determined that the process is possible by the process availability determination unit, the process is notified, and when the process availability determination unit determines that the process is not possible, the process is not possible A program for an image forming apparatus, wherein the program is made to function as a notification means. An information processing system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
The first image forming apparatus
Error information indicating an error, and error information storage means for storing error information of an error that has occurred in the own device;
With
The second image forming apparatus
Login execution means for executing login to the user's own machine;
Error information of an error that has occurred in the first image forming apparatus in which a user who has logged in to the own apparatus in the past has logged in by the login execution unit, and the error information storage unit in the first image forming apparatus Obtaining means for obtaining stored error information;
Based on the error information acquired by the acquisition unit, a process availability determination unit that determines whether the process corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own machine;
When it is determined that the process is possible by the process availability determination unit, the process is notified, and when the process availability determination unit determines that the process is not possible, the process is not possible Notification means to
An information processing system comprising: A control method for an information processing system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
In the first image forming apparatus,
Error information indicating an error, an error information storage step for storing error information of an error that has occurred in the own machine,
Including
In the second image forming apparatus,
Login execution process for executing login to the user's own machine;
Error information of an error that has occurred in the first image forming apparatus in which a user who has logged in to the own apparatus in the past in the login execution step has logged in, and in the error information storage step in the first image forming apparatus An acquisition step of acquiring stored error information;
Based on the error information acquired in the acquisition step, a process propriety determination step for determining whether the process corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own machine,
When it is determined that the process can be performed in the process availability determination step, the process is notified, and when it is determined that the process is not possible in the process determination process, the process is not possible. A notification process to
A method for controlling an information processing system comprising: A program that can be executed by an information processing system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
The first image forming apparatus is
It is error information indicating an error, and functions as an error information storage means for storing error information of an error that has occurred in the own machine,
A second image forming apparatus;
Login execution means for executing login to the user's own machine;
Error information of an error that has occurred in the first image forming apparatus in which a user who has logged in to the own apparatus in the past has logged in by the login execution unit, and the error information storage unit in the first image forming apparatus Obtaining means for obtaining stored error information;
Based on the error information acquired by the acquisition unit, a process availability determination unit that determines whether the process corresponding to the error information can be executed by the own machine;
When it is determined that the process is possible by the process availability determination unit, the process is notified, and when the process availability determination unit determines that the process is not possible, the process is not possible An information processing system program that functions as a notification means.

Images