JP2017037380A - Management device, image forming apparatus, image processing system, management method, and control program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a management device for image forming processing in an image forming apparatus, the management device capable of properly achieving restriction in use imposed on a user even if the image forming apparatus is installed in a public environment.SOLUTION: Restriction information indicating restriction in use of functions of an MFP 100 for each of users is stored in a restriction server 300. A terminal device 500 issues, to the MFP, a job to which information specifying a restriction server storing information on restriction on a user is added (S1). The MFP can specify the restriction server from the information included in the job (S2). The restriction information stored in the specified restriction server is compared with the details of processing set to the job to determine whether image forming processing according to the details of processing can be performed (S6), and the image forming processing in the job is instructed to the MFP according to the determination (S8).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present disclosure relates to a management apparatus, an image forming apparatus, an image processing system, a management method, and a control program, and more particularly, to a management apparatus, an image forming apparatus, an image processing system, a management method, and a control program for restricting user use.

  There are cases where functions available to a user of an image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) are limited. For example, depending on the user, the number of prints may be limited, print settings (color / monochrome, consolidated printing) may be limited, or the transmission destination may be limited. When imposing usage restrictions on users in an office environment, restriction information for each user is registered in advance in a management device such as a restriction server. Then, the MFP installed in the office environment acquires login user restriction information from the restriction server, thereby executing image forming processing according to the user operation within the login user restriction.

  Regarding the restriction and selection of the functions of the image forming apparatus, various techniques are disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 2015-72678, 2009-1223012, 2013-222307, and 2008-108010. Is disclosed.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2015-72678 JP 2009-123012 A JP 2013-222307 A JP 2008-108010 A

  In recent years, there are cases where an MFP is installed and used in a public environment that can be used by a plurality of companies and an unspecified number of users. For example, there are examples in which a plurality of companies jointly rent an office to share an MFP, or install an MFP in a store such as a convenience store. Also, even if an MFP is installed in an office environment that is used exclusively by a single company, each user terminal can instruct image formation processing via the Internet by installing a commercially available printing application. The image forming process is performed in the MFP without obtaining the restriction information from the restriction server.

In such a case, the use restriction imposed on the user is not realized in the MFP.
To deal with this problem, it may be possible to set restriction information on the MFP side in advance. However, when the MFP is installed in a state where it can be used by a plurality of companies or an unspecified number of users as described above, it is difficult to set restriction information for all users who may use the MFP.

  As another example, when a user device issues a job, it is conceivable to read user restriction information from the restriction server and set the image forming process among functions available to the user. However, according to this method, if the communication between the user device and the restriction server is interrupted, the job cannot be issued or delayed.

  An object of an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a management device that can appropriately realize usage restrictions imposed on a user even in an image forming apparatus installed in a public environment. Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of appropriately realizing usage restrictions imposed on a user even in an image forming apparatus installed in a public environment. Another object of the present invention is to provide an image processing system capable of appropriately realizing usage restrictions imposed on a user even in an image forming apparatus installed in a public environment. Another object of the present invention is to provide a management method capable of appropriately realizing usage restrictions imposed on users even in an image forming apparatus installed in a public environment. Another object of the present invention is to provide a control program that can appropriately realize the use restriction imposed on the user even in an image forming apparatus installed in a public environment.

  According to an embodiment, the management apparatus is an apparatus for managing image forming processing in the image forming apparatus, and is specified from information included in a job received by the image forming apparatus from another apparatus. Acquisition means for acquiring restriction information indicating the use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for the user associated with the job from a different memory device, and the restriction information acquired from the memory device and the setting for the job A determination means for determining whether or not an image forming process can be performed according to the processing content set for the job by comparing with the processed content, and for instructing the image forming apparatus of the job according to the determination. Instructing means.

  Preferably, the management device includes a notification unit for notifying the user associated with the job of the determination result when the determination unit determines that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not accepted. Further prepare.

  Preferably, the management device changes the processing content set for the job according to the restriction information when the determination unit determines that the image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is not possible. Means are further provided.

  According to another embodiment, the image forming apparatus is equipped with the above-described management apparatus, processing means for executing image forming processing for the job in accordance with an instruction from the instruction means, and information for specifying a memory device for the job And a discarding unit for discarding the job when the job is not included.

  According to another embodiment, an image processing system includes an image forming apparatus and a server. The server includes a memory for storing restriction information representing the use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for each user. An input means for the image forming apparatus to accept job input from another apparatus, a specifying means for the image forming apparatus to identify the server from information included in the job, and a user associated with the job from the memory of the server By comparing the acquisition means for acquiring the restriction information indicating the use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus with the restriction information acquired from the memory and the processing content set for the job, Determination means for determining whether or not image forming processing according to the set processing content is possible, instruction means for instructing the image forming apparatus to perform image forming processing for the job according to the determination, and the image forming apparatus for the job according to the instruction from the instruction means And a processing unit for executing an image forming process.

  According to another embodiment, the management method is a management method for image forming processing in an image processing system including an image forming apparatus and a server. The server includes a memory for storing restriction information representing the use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for each user. In this method, an image forming apparatus receives a job input from another apparatus, the image forming apparatus identifies a server from information included in the job, and an image of a user associated with the job from the server memory. The processing content set for the job by comparing the restriction information acquired from the memory and the processing information set for the job with the step of acquiring the restriction information indicating the usage restriction of the function of the forming device Determining whether or not the image forming process can be performed according to the method, instructing the image forming apparatus to perform the image forming process for the job according to the determination, and executing the image forming process for the job according to the instruction.

  According to another embodiment, the control program causes a computer installed in the management apparatus to execute processing for managing image forming processing in the image forming apparatus. This program stores, in a computer, restriction information representing restrictions on use of functions of the image forming apparatus for a user associated with the job, from information included in a job received by the image forming apparatus from another apparatus. A memory device that is different from the image forming device is identified and the restriction information is acquired, and the restriction information acquired from the memory device is compared with the processing content set for the job, so that the setting is made for the job. The step of determining whether or not the image forming process according to the processing content is possible and the step of instructing the image forming apparatus to perform the image forming process of the job according to the determination.

  According to another embodiment, the control program is a program that causes a computer installed in the terminal device to execute processing for issuing a job to the image forming apparatus. The program stores in a computer a step of accepting an operation for instructing the image forming apparatus to issue a job, and restriction information representing a restriction on use of the function of the image forming apparatus for a user associated with the job. A step of reading out information specifying a memory device mounted on a different device from the memory, and a step of adding information specifying the memory device to the job and issuing the job to the image forming apparatus.

  According to this disclosure, even in an image forming apparatus installed in a public environment, usage restrictions imposed on the user can be appropriately realized.

1 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of an image processing system (hereinafter, system) according to an embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus configuration of an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) included in a system. It is a block diagram showing an example of a device configuration of a restriction server. It is a block diagram showing an example of the apparatus structure of the terminal device contained in a system. It is a figure showing the specific example of the setting screen of a printing application. It is a figure showing the operation | movement outline | summary of the system concerning 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram showing an example of a functional structure of a terminal device. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the MFP according to the first embodiment. FIG. It is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a restriction server. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of operations of the terminal device and the MFP according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart showing the flow of operation in a restriction server. It is a figure showing the operation | movement outline | summary of the system concerning 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an MFP according to a second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of the MFP according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart showing the flow of operation | movement of the terminal device concerning 3rd Embodiment.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, these descriptions will not be repeated.

<System configuration>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a configuration of an image processing system (hereinafter, system) according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, this system includes an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) 100 as an example of an image forming apparatus, and a terminal device 500 as a user apparatus that issues a job.

  The terminal device 500 may be any device that can issue a job. The terminal device 500 is, for example, a tablet device, a smartphone, a personal computer, or the like.

  MFP 100 and terminal device 500 can communicate with each other via the Internet. Further, the MFP 100 and the terminal device 500 can perform wireless communication with each other. The wireless communication includes communication via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) such as WiFi (Wireless Fidelity), direct wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and infrared communication.

  MFP 100 included in this system is installed in a public environment. The public environment is, for example, an office shared by a plurality of companies or a storefront used by an unspecified number of users. The user of the terminal device 500 is an employee belonging to any one of the plurality of companies or one user among the unspecified number of users.

  MFP 100 can communicate with other apparatuses via the Internet. Other devices include, for example, restriction servers 300A, 300B, 300C,. The restriction servers 300A, 300B, 300C,...

  Restriction server 300 stores restriction information representing use restrictions of functions of MFP 100 for each user. Usage restrictions include, for example, whether or not color printing is possible, monochrome printing is possible or not, use of each function such as overseas facsimile transmission is possible or not, and the number of pages that can be printed in January This is the upper limit of the amount of consumables used. Usage restrictions are imposed for each user by a group to which the user belongs, such as a company. Each group sets restriction information for each user belonging to the group, and stores the restriction information in the restriction server 300 defined for the group among the restriction servers 300A, 300B, 300C.

<Device configuration>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the apparatus configuration of MFP 100. Referring to FIG. 2, MFP 100 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10 for controlling the entire apparatus, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 11 for storing a program executed by CPU 10, and a program executed by CPU 10. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 12 serving as a work area for execution and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 13 for storing image data and the like are included. The MFP 100 further includes a printer 14, a scanner 15, and a facsimile (FAX) device 16 as an example of hardware for executing image forming processing. In addition, MFP 100 includes an operation panel 17, a first communication unit 18 for communicating with other devices via the Internet, and a second communication unit 19 for communicating with terminal device 500 by wireless communication.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of the restriction server 300. The restriction server 300 may be a general server. That is, referring to FIG. 3, restriction server 300 becomes a work area when CPU 30 for controlling the entire apparatus, ROM 31 for storing a program executed by CPU 30, and a program executed by CPU 30. A RAM 32, an HDD 33 for storing various information such as restriction information, and a communication unit 34 for communicating with other devices via the Internet are included.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of the terminal device 500. Referring to FIG. 4, a terminal device 500 is a CPU 50 for controlling the entire device, a ROM 51 for storing a program executed by the CPU 50, and a work area when the CPU 50 executes a program. And a RAM 52 for storing information. The terminal device 500 may further include an operation unit 53 and a display 54. These may constitute a touch panel. Terminal device 500 further includes a first communication unit 55 for communicating with other devices via the Internet and a second communication unit 56 for communicating with MFP 100 by wireless communication.

[First Embodiment]
<Overview of operation>
In this system, the terminal device 500 issues a job to the MFP 100, and the MFP 100 processes the job. From terminal apparatus 500 to MFP 100, a job may be issued via the Internet, or a job may be issued by wireless communication.

  When a job is issued from the terminal device 500 to the MFP 100 by wireless communication, and when a job is issued from the terminal device 500 to the MFP 100 via a wireless LAN established in the office, the MFP 100 Accesses an in-house restriction server (not shown) connected by the wireless LAN, and obtains restriction information of the user (for example, the user of the terminal device 500) associated with the job from the restriction server. It is possible to determine whether or not the user associated with the job is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job issued to the restriction server. Alternatively, the MFP 100 passes the processing content set for the job issued to the restriction server, and inquires whether the user associated with the job is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content. Can do. Thereby, it is possible to realize the use restriction of the function of MFP 100 set for the user associated with the job.

  On the other hand, even when a job is issued from the terminal device 500 to the MFP 100 by wireless communication, a job is directly issued from the terminal device 500 to the MFP 100 without going through a network such as a wireless LAN. When a job is issued from the terminal device 500 to the MFP 100 via the Internet, the MFP 100 cannot determine whether the user belongs to a group such as a company that owns the office. In other words, the MFP 100 cannot specify a restriction server that stores restriction information about a user associated with the job. Alternatively, even when the MFP 100 is deployed in a public space such as a convenience store, it is not possible to specify a restriction server that stores restriction information about a user associated with an issued job. Therefore, in this case, MFP 100 performs job processing without acquiring restriction information, that is, without performing function restriction. Therefore, the use restriction of MFP 100 set for the user associated with the job is not properly realized.

  Therefore, in the system according to the present embodiment, when the terminal device 500 issues a job, the terminal device 500 adds information specifying the restriction server 300 that stores restriction information about the user associated with the job to the job. And issued to the MFP 100. The MFP 100 identifies the restriction server 300 from the information included in the job, and inquires of the restriction server 300 whether or not the user associated with the job is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job. The restriction server 300 compares the stored restriction information with the processing content set for the job to determine whether image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is possible. The MFP 100 is instructed to perform job image forming processing. Therefore, in the system according to the first embodiment, the restriction server 300 functions as a management device for managing image forming processing in the MFP 100.

  An application for issuing a job is installed in the terminal device 500 for realizing the job issuing process as described above. Hereinafter, this application is also referred to as a printing application.

  FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating specific examples of the setting screen of the print application. FIG. 5A illustrates a specific example of a setting screen when the terminal device 500 is a device such as a tablet. FIG. 5B illustrates a case where the print application is incorporated in a printer driver installed in a personal computer. 3 shows a specific example of a page for setting a print application on the printer driver setting screen.

  Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the print application accepts input of information for specifying a restriction server that stores restriction information about a user who is a job issuer, and stores it in advance. Keep it. The information for specifying the restriction server is, for example, access information (URL (Uniform Resource Locators)) to the server. The information for specifying the restriction server may be information for specifying the group to which the user belongs. Further, the print application may receive an input of a password or the like and store it in advance if necessary for acquiring information (user ID) for specifying a user or restriction information.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the operation of the system according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, first, terminal device 500 issues a job to MFP 100 using the printing application (step S1). Information specifying the restriction server 300 that stores restriction information about the user of the terminal device 500 that is a user associated with the job is added to the job issued using the print application.

  The MFP 100 that has received the job issued in step S1 identifies the restriction server 300 based on the information included in the job (step S2). Preferably, when the received job does not include information for specifying the restriction server 300, the MFP 100 discards the job (step S3). Alternatively, the MFP 100 may request information specifying the restriction server 300 from the terminal device 500. Further, the MFP 100 may be able to set whether or not to process a job that does not include information for specifying the restriction server 300. In other words, if it is set that the job that does not include the information that specifies the restriction server 300 may be processed for the MFP, the MFP 100 does not include the information that specifies the restriction server 300. Even handle it. If it is set that processing of a job that does not include information specifying the restriction server 300 is not allowed, the MFP 100 discards a job that does not include information specifying the restriction server 300, or the terminal device 500 For example, information specifying the restriction server 300 is requested.

  The MFP 100 passes the processing content set for the job to the specified restriction server 300 and inquires whether or not the image forming processing according to the processing content associated with the job is permitted (step). S4).

  Upon receiving the inquiry in step S4, the restriction server 300 identifies and reads out restriction information about the corresponding user from the restriction information group stored in the HDD 33, which is an example of a memory (step S5), and compares them. Thus, it is determined whether or not an image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is possible (step S6). For example, when color printing is not permitted for the user associated with the job and color printing is set for the job, the restriction server 300 executes the processing set for the job. It is determined that the image forming process according to the content is not permitted.

  Preferably, when it is determined in step S6 that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not permitted, the restriction server 300 sets the processing content set for the job as restriction information. (Step S7). For example, in the above example, the restriction server 300 changes the color printing set for the job to monochrome printing. Preferably, the restriction server 300 notifies the terminal device 500 of the determination result when it is determined in step S6 that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not accepted. Furthermore, the restriction server 300 may notify the terminal device 500 of the change when the processing content set for the job as described above is changed based on the restriction information. Alternatively, the restriction server 300 notifies the terminal device 500 of the determination result, and when there is an approval from the user of the terminal device 500, changes the processing content set for the job based on the restriction information. Also good.

  Restriction server 300 instructs MFP 100 to perform job image formation processing according to the determination result of step S6 (step S8). If it is determined that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is permitted, the restriction server 300 causes the MFP 100 to form an image according to the processing content set for the job in step S8. Instructs execution of processing. If it is determined that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not permitted, the restriction server 300 executes the image forming process changed in step S7 to the MFP 100 in step S8. Alternatively, an instruction to prohibit execution of the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is given.

  Receiving the instruction in step S8, the MFP 100 executes image forming processing for the job in accordance with the instruction (step S9). At this time, preferably, when the processing content set for the job is changed as described above, MFP 100 notifies terminal device 500 of the change (step S10). Alternatively, when instructed to prohibit execution of the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job in step S8, MFP 100 may notify terminal device 500 that the image forming process cannot be performed.

<Functional configuration>
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the terminal device 500 for performing the above operation. Each function of FIG. 7 is mainly realized by the CPU 50 when the CPU 50 of the terminal device 500 reads a program (print application) stored in the ROM 51 onto the RAM 52 and executes it.

  Referring to FIG. 7, CPU 50 of terminal device 500 includes an instruction input unit 501, a job generation unit 502, a reading unit 503, an additional processing unit 504, and an issuing unit 505.

  The RAM 52, which is an example of a memory, includes a restriction server information storage unit 521 that is a storage area for storing information specifying the restriction server 300 that stores user restriction information, which is input according to the print application setting screen. When information such as a URL is input according to the setting screen, it is stored in the restricted server information storage unit 521.

  The instruction input unit 501 receives an input of a user instruction from the operation unit 53 according to a user operation. If the user instruction is job issuance, the job generation unit 502 reads the specified job or generates a job. When the user instruction is job issuance, the reading unit 503 reads information specifying the restriction server 300 that stores the user restriction information from the restriction server information storage unit 521.

  The addition processing unit 504 adds the information specifying the read restriction server 300 to the job that issues, and the issuing unit 505 issues the job.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of MFP 100 for performing the above operation. Each function of FIG. 8 is realized mainly by the CPU 10 when the CPU 10 of the MFP 100 reads a program stored in the ROM 11 onto the RAM 12 and executes it.

  Referring to FIG. 8, CPU 10 of MFP 100 includes a job input unit 101, a storage unit 102, a specifying unit 103, and an inquiry unit 104.

  The job input unit 101 receives an input of a job issued from the terminal device 500. The input job is stored by the storage unit 102 in the job storage unit 131 which is a storage area included in the HDD 13 which is an example of a memory.

  Based on the information included in the job, the specifying unit 103 specifies the restriction server 300 that stores restriction information about a user associated with the job. The inquiry unit 104 passes the processing content set for the job to the specified restriction server 300 and inquires whether image forming processing according to the processing content is possible.

  CPU 10 further includes an instruction input unit 105 and a processing unit 106. The instruction input unit 105 accepts an input of an image forming process instruction from the restriction server 300 according to the determination of whether or not the image forming process can be performed by the restriction server 300. The processing unit 106 executes image forming processing such as printing in accordance with the instruction.

  Preferably, CPU 10 further includes a discard processing unit 107. The discard processing unit 107 performs a process of discarding the job when information specifying the restriction server 300 is not added to the job input from the terminal device 500. Further, the discard processing unit 107 may be configured to set whether or not to discard the job when the information specifying the restriction server 300 is not added to the job.

  Preferably, CPU 10 further includes a notification unit 110. The notification unit 110 is instructed by the restriction server 300 to prohibit or change the image forming process according to the determination result that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not permitted. The terminal device 500 is notified. The processing unit 106 may execute the image forming process after the execution of the image forming process is instructed based on the notification.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the restriction server 300 for performing the above operation. Each function of FIG. 9 is mainly realized by the CPU 30 when the CPU 30 of the restriction server 300 reads a program stored in the ROM 31 onto the RAM 32 and executes it.

  Referring to FIG. 9, CPU 30 of restriction server 300 includes an inquiry input unit 301, a reading unit 302, a determination unit 303, and an instruction output unit 304.

  The HDD 33, which is an example of a memory, includes a restriction information storage unit 331 that is a storage area for storing restriction information for each user.

  Inquiry input unit 301 receives processing details set for a job from MFP 100, and accepts an inquiry as to whether or not image forming processing according to the processing details is permitted to a user associated with the job. The reading unit 302 reads the restriction information about the user associated with the job to be inquired from the restriction information storage unit 331. The determination unit 303 compares the restriction information with the processing content set for the job to determine whether or not the user is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content. The instruction output unit 304 instructs the MFP 100 to execute an image forming process according to the determination.

  Preferably, CPU 30 further includes a changing unit 305. The changing unit 305 changes the processing content set for the job based on the restriction information when the determining unit 303 determines that the image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is not possible. In this case, the instruction output unit 304 instructs execution of an image forming process according to the changed processing content.

<Operation flow>
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of operations of terminal device 500 and MFP 100. The operation of the terminal device 500 shown in the flowchart on the left side of FIG. 10 is performed by the CPU 50 of the terminal device 500 reading out and executing the program (print application) stored in the ROM 51 on the RAM 52, and performing each function of FIG. Realized by demonstrating. Further, the operation of MFP 100 shown in the flowchart on the right side of FIG. 10 is realized by CPU 10 of MFP 100 reading out and executing a program stored in ROM 11 on RAM 12 to exhibit each function of FIG. The

  Referring to FIG. 10, when CPU 50 of terminal device 500 accepts a user operation for instructing job issuance (YES in step S101), CPU 50 reads information for specifying restriction server 300 from the memory (step S103) and issues it. (Step S105). Then, the CPU 50 issues a job to which information specifying the restriction server 300 is added to the MFP 100 (step S107).

  The CPU 10 of the MFP 100 that has received the job (step S201) analyzes the job and determines whether information for specifying the restriction server 300 is added. If the information is not added (step S203), the CPU 10 may discard the job (step S205) and skip the subsequent operations and end the process.

  If the information is added to the input job (YES in step S203), the CPU 10 identifies the restriction server 300 from the information (step S207), and is set in the job in the identified restriction server 300. The processing contents are handed over and an inquiry is made as to whether image forming processing according to the processing contents is possible (step S209).

  The CPU 10 executes image forming processing in accordance with an instruction from the restriction server 300 in response to the inquiry in step S209 (steps S213 and S217). That is, when the instruction from the restriction server 300 in response to the inquiry in step S209 is permitted to perform the image forming process according to the processing content set in the job, and instructs the execution of the image forming process (step S211). The CPU 10 executes an image forming process according to the processing content set for the job (step S213).

  If the instruction from the restriction server 300 in response to the inquiry in step S209 is an instruction based on a determination that image forming processing according to the processing content set in the job is not permitted (NO in step S211), the CPU 10 An image forming process in accordance with the changed processing content instructed from 300 is executed (step S217). Alternatively, when the restriction server 300 instructs the prohibition of the image forming process, the CPU 10 does not perform the image forming process according to the processing content set in the job. Preferably, when the instruction from the restriction server 300 is an instruction based on a determination that the image forming process according to the processing content set in the job is not permitted, the CPU 10 determines the determination result or the set process. The terminal device 500 is notified that the contents have been changed (step S215). Alternatively, the CPU 10 receives an instruction from the restriction server 300 when the user of the terminal device 500 does not execute the image forming process or consent to change the set processing content is obtained after the notification. The formation process (step S217) may be executed.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation flow in the restriction server 300. The operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 is realized by the CPU 30 of the restriction server 300 reading out the program stored in the ROM 31 to the RAM 32 and executing it, thereby exhibiting the functions of FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 11, when CPU 30 of restriction server 300 accepts the inquiry from terminal device 500 performed in step S209 (step S301), it reads the restriction information of the user associated with the job from the memory. (Step S303), the processing content set in the job is compared. As a result, if the user is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job (YES in step S305), CPU 30 executes execution of image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job. (Step S307).

  If the user is not permitted to perform the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job (NO in step S305), the CPU 30 changes the processing content set for the job based on the restriction information (step S309). The MFP 100 is instructed to execute an image forming process according to the changed processing content (step S311).

<Effect of the first embodiment>
When the system according to the present embodiment performs the above-described operation, MFP 100 accesses the restriction server 300 that stores restriction information indicating restriction on the use of functions of MFP 100 set for each user in the group to which the user belongs. Even if the MFP 100 is installed in a public environment in which information cannot be stored, the MFP 100 can acquire information specifying the restriction server 300 from the job. The function restriction set for the user based on the restriction information can be applied.

  This system is preferably applied, for example, when the MFP 100 is installed in an environment in which a plurality of companies are jointly using the system. In this case, since MFP 100 is used jointly, it is not appropriate to register restriction information for each user or information of restriction server 300 that stores restriction information in MFP 100. However, by adding information specifying the restriction server 300 to the job, the MFP 100 can apply the use restriction of the user to the image forming process of the job in cooperation with the restriction server 300.

  In addition, this system is constructed in an office used by one company, and a job is issued from the terminal device 500 to the MFP 100 without going through a network including the restriction server 300 such as a wireless LAN. However, the MFP 100 can apply the use restriction of the user to the image forming process of the job in cooperation with the restriction server 300.

[Second Embodiment]
In the system according to the first embodiment, the management server for managing image forming processing in MFP 100 is restriction server 300. However, the management device may be any device included in the system. In the system according to the second embodiment, MFP 100 functions as a management apparatus. The configuration of each device included in the system according to the second embodiment is the same as the configuration of each device included in the system according to the first embodiment.

<Overview of operation>
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an outline of the operation of the system according to the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 12, first, terminal device 500 issues a job to which information specifying the restriction server 300 is added to MFP 100 using a print application (step S <b> 11).

  The MFP 100 that has received the job issued in step S11 identifies the restriction server 300 based on the information included in the job (step S12). Preferably, when the received job does not include information for specifying the restriction server 300, the MFP 100 discards the job (step S13).

  The MFP 100 requests the specified restriction server 300 for restriction information of the user associated with the job (step S14). In response to the request in step S14, the restriction server 300 identifies and reads restriction information about the corresponding user from the restriction information group stored in the HDD 33, which is an example of a memory (step S15), and passes it to the MFP 100 (step S15). Step S16).

  Receiving the restriction information from the MFP 100, the MFP 100 compares the restriction information with the processing content set for the job to determine whether image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is possible (step S17). ). Preferably, when it is determined in step S17 that image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is not permitted, MFP 100 changes the processing content set for the job according to the restriction information. (Step S18). Preferably, MFP 100 notifies terminal device 500 of the determination result when it is determined in step S17 that image formation processing according to the processing content set for the job is not permitted (step S17). S21). Further, MFP 100 may notify terminal device 500 of the change when the processing content set for the job as described above is changed based on the restriction information. Alternatively, the MFP 100 may notify the result of the determination to the terminal device 500 and change the processing content set for the job based on the restriction information when there is an approval from the user of the terminal device 500. .

  The MFP 100 instructs the image forming process of the job to the processing unit 106 (FIG. 13) for executing the image forming process of the MFP 100 according to the determination result of step S17 (step S19). In accordance with the instruction in step S19, processing unit 106 of MFP 100 executes an image forming process for the job (step S20).

<Functional configuration>
The functional configuration of the terminal device 500 for performing the above operation is the same as the functional configuration of the terminal device 500 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of MFP 100 according to the second embodiment for performing the above-described operation. Each function of FIG. 13 is realized mainly by the CPU 10 when the CPU 10 of the MFP 100 reads a program stored in the ROM 11 onto the RAM 12 and executes it. 13, functions given the same reference numerals as the functions of MFP 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 8 are the same as the functions of MFP 100 according to the first embodiment. Do not repeat.

  Referring to FIG. 13, CPU 10 of MFP 100 according to the second embodiment includes a request unit 115 for requesting restriction information from restriction server 300 in place of inquiry unit 104.

  The CPU 10 includes a restriction information input unit 116, a determination unit 117, and an instruction unit 119 instead of the instruction input unit 105. Preferably, CPU 10 further includes a changing unit 118.

  The restriction information input unit 116 accepts input of restriction information from the restriction server 300 in response to the request. The determination unit 117 determines whether the user is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content by comparing the restriction information with the processing content set for the job. The instruction unit 119 instructs the processing unit 106 to execute the image forming process according to the determination. Preferably, the changing unit 118 changes the processing content set for the job based on the restriction information when the determining unit 117 determines that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not permitted. .

<Operation flow>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of MFP 100 according to the second embodiment. The operation of MFP 100 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 14 is realized when CPU 10 of MFP 100 reads out and executes a program stored in ROM 11 on RAM 12 and exhibits each function of FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 14, when CPU 10 of MFP 100 receives a job issued from terminal device 500 (step S401), CPU 10 analyzes the job and determines whether or not information specifying restriction server 300 is added. . When the information is not added (step S403), the CPU 10 may discard the job (step S405) and skip the subsequent operations to end.

  When the information is added to the input job (YES in step S403), the CPU 10 identifies the restriction server 300 from the information (step S407), and the identified restriction server 300 is associated with the job. By requesting the user restriction information, the user restriction information is acquired from the restriction server 300 (step S409).

  The CPU 10 compares the acquired restriction information with the processing content set for the job. As a result, if the user is permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job (YES in step S411), the CPU 10 executes execution of the image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job. The unit 106 is instructed (step S413). If the user is not permitted to perform image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job (NO in step S411), the CPU 10 changes the processing content set for the job based on the restriction information (step S415). The processing unit 106 is instructed to execute the image forming process according to the changed processing content (step S417).

<Effects of Second Embodiment>
Even in the system according to the second embodiment, even if the MFP 100 is installed in a public environment, it is set for the user based on the restriction information in the image forming process in the MFP 100. Functional restrictions can be applied.

[Third Embodiment]
In such a system, when the terminal apparatus 500 issues a job to the MFP 100, the terminal apparatus 500 accesses the restriction server 300 to acquire and add restriction information, or the terminal apparatus 500 functions as the management apparatus. Thus, it is conceivable to change the processing content to an available image forming process based on the restriction information stored in the restriction server 300.

  In the third embodiment, terminal device 500 functions as a management device for managing image forming processing in MFP 100. For this purpose, the CPU 50 of the terminal device 500 according to the third embodiment replaces the additional processing unit 504 with a request unit 115, a restriction information input unit 116, and a request unit 115 included in the CPU 10 of the MFP 100 according to the second embodiment. The same function as that of the determination unit 117 is included. In the terminal device 500 according to the third embodiment, the job generation unit 502 sets the processing content according to the above determination to the job.

  However, if the terminal device 500 is in an environment where communication with the restriction server 300 is not possible, or if communication between the terminal device 500 and the restriction server 300 is not possible, the terminal device 500 may issue a job to the MFP 100. Can not. In such a case, the terminal device 500 according to the third embodiment adds information specifying the restriction server 300 to the job, similarly to the terminal device 500 according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment. To do. That is, in this case, the MFP 100 and the restriction server 300 function as a management device for managing image forming processing in the MFP 100. That is, in the third embodiment, in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the terminal device 500 further functions as a management device for managing image forming processing in the MFP 100. It is configured.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of the terminal device 500 according to the third embodiment. The operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 is realized by the CPU 50 of the terminal device 500 reading the above-described program (print application) stored in the ROM 51 onto the RAM 52 and executing it.

  Referring to FIG. 15, when CPU 50 of terminal device 500 accepts a user operation for instructing the issuance of a job (YES in step S501), CPU 50 reads information for specifying restriction server 300 from the memory (step S503). The restriction server 300 is specified from the information (step S505). Then, the CPU 50 requests the specified restriction server 300 for user restriction information associated with the job (step S507).

  When the restriction information is acquired from the restriction server 300 in response to the request (YES in step S509), the CPU 50 performs the determination process in the restriction server 300 according to the first embodiment or the second embodiment. Processing similar to the determination processing in MFP 100 is executed. That is, the CPU 50 compares the acquired restriction information with the processing content set for the job, and if image forming processing according to the set processing content is permitted (YES in step S515), the CPU 50 instructs in step S501. The setting of the processed content is added to the job and the job is issued to MFP 100 (step S517). If the image forming process according to the processing content set in the job is not permitted (NO in step S515), the CPU 50 changes the processing content instructed in step S501 based on the restriction information (step S519). Alternatively, a user instruction to be changed is further received, the changed processing content setting is added to the job, and the job is issued to the MFP 100 (step S521).

  When the terminal device 500 is in an environment incapable of communicating with the restriction server 300, or communication between the terminal device 500 and the restriction server 300 is disconnected, and restriction information is not acquired from the restriction server 300 (in step S509) NO), the CPU 50 adds the information for specifying the restriction server 300 read from the memory in step S503 to a job for issuing information (step S511). Then, the CPU 50 issues a job to which information specifying the restriction server 300 is added to the MFP 100 (step S513). In this case, as described in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the job is permitted to the user to perform image forming processing according to the processing content set in the job in the restriction server 300 or the MFP 100. It is determined whether or not MFP 100 has performed the image forming process.

<Effect of the third embodiment>
Even when the terminal device 500 is configured to acquire the restriction information and set the processing content corresponding to the information for the job, even when the terminal device 500 cannot acquire the restriction information from the restriction server 300 By performing the operation as described above in the system according to the third embodiment, it is possible to apply the function restriction set for the user based on the restriction information in the image forming process in MFP 100. .

[Others]
The disclosed features are realized by one or more modules. For example, the feature can be realized by a circuit element or other hardware module, by a software module that defines processing for realizing the feature, or by a combination of a hardware module and a software module.

  It can also be provided as a program that is a combination of one or more software modules for causing each device included in the system to execute the above-described operation. Such a program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk attached to the computer, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory), a ROM, a RAM, and a memory card, and provided as a program product. You can also Alternatively, the program can be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk built in the computer. A program can also be provided by downloading via a network.

  The program according to the present disclosure is a program module that is provided as a part of a computer operating system (OS) and calls necessary modules in a predetermined arrangement at a predetermined timing to execute processing. Also good. In that case, the program itself does not include the module, and the process is executed in cooperation with the OS. Such a program that does not include a module may also be included in the program according to the present disclosure.

  Further, the program according to the present disclosure may be provided by being incorporated in a part of another program. Even in this case, the program itself does not include the module included in the other program, and the process is executed in cooperation with the other program. A program incorporated in such another program may also be included in the program according to the present disclosure.

  The provided program product is installed in a program storage unit such as a hard disk and executed. The program product includes the program itself and a recording medium on which the program is recorded.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  10, 30, 50 CPU, 11, 31, 51 ROM, 12, 32, 52 RAM, 13, 33 HDD, 14 Printer, 15 Scanner, 16 FAX device, 17 Operation panel, 18, 55 First communication unit, 19, 56 Second communication unit, 34 communication unit, 53 operation unit, 54 display, 100 MFP, 101 job input unit, 102 storage unit, 103 specifying unit, 104 inquiry unit, 105,501 instruction input unit, 106 processing unit, 107 discard Processing unit, 110 Notification unit, 115 Request unit, 116 Restriction information input unit, 117,303 Judgment unit, 118,305 Change unit, 119 Instruction unit, 131 Job storage unit, 300, 300A, 300B, 300C Restriction server, 301 Inquiry Input unit, 302, 503 reading unit, 304 instruction output unit, 3 31 restriction information storage unit, 500 terminal device, 502 job generation unit, 504 additional processing unit, 505 issuing unit, 521 restriction server information storage unit.

Claims (8)

A management apparatus for managing image forming processing in an image forming apparatus,
Restricted use of functions of the image forming apparatus for a user associated with the job from a memory device different from the image forming apparatus, which is specified from information included in a job received by the image forming apparatus from another apparatus Acquisition means for acquiring restriction information representing
Judgment means for judging whether image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is possible by comparing the restriction information acquired from the memory device with the processing content set for the job When,
And an instruction unit for instructing the image forming apparatus to perform image forming processing of the job according to the determination.   A notification means for notifying a user associated with the job of the result of the determination when it is determined by the determination means that the image forming process according to the processing content set for the job is not possible; The management apparatus according to claim 1.   And changing means for changing the processing content set for the job according to the restriction information when it is determined that the image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is rejected by the determining means. The management apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: An image forming apparatus equipped with the management device according to claim 1,
Processing means for executing an image forming process for the job in accordance with an instruction from the instruction means;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a discard unit configured to discard the job when the job does not include information for specifying the memory device. An image forming apparatus;
With a server,
The server includes a memory for storing restriction information representing a use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for each user.
An input means for the image forming apparatus to accept a job input from another apparatus;
A specifying unit for the image forming apparatus to specify the server from information included in the job;
Obtaining means for obtaining restriction information representing a use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for a user associated with the job from the memory of the server;
Judgment means for comparing the restriction information acquired from the memory and the processing content set for the job to determine whether image forming processing is possible according to the processing content set for the job When,
Instruction means for instructing the image forming apparatus to perform image forming processing of the job according to the determination;
An image processing system, further comprising: processing means for the image forming apparatus to execute image forming processing for the job in accordance with an instruction from the instruction means. An image forming process management method in an image processing system including an image forming apparatus and a server,
The server includes a memory for storing restriction information representing a use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for each user.
The image forming apparatus receiving a job input from another apparatus;
The image forming apparatus identifying the server from information included in the job;
Obtaining restriction information representing restrictions on the use of the function of the image forming apparatus for the user associated with the job from the memory of the server;
Comparing the restriction information acquired from the memory with the processing content set for the job to determine whether image forming processing is possible according to the processing content set for the job;
Instructing the image forming apparatus to perform image forming processing of the job according to the determination;
A management method comprising: the image forming apparatus executing an image forming process for the job according to the instruction. A program for causing a computer installed in the management apparatus to execute processing for managing image forming processing in the image forming apparatus,
The program is stored in the computer.
The image forming apparatus stores restriction information representing restrictions on use of functions of the image forming apparatus for a user associated with the job, based on information included in a job received by the image forming apparatus from another apparatus. Identifying a memory device different from the device and obtaining the restriction information;
Comparing the restriction information acquired from the memory device with the processing content set for the job to determine whether image forming processing according to the processing content set for the job is possible;
A step of instructing the image forming apparatus to perform image forming processing of the job according to the determination. A program for causing a computer mounted on a terminal device to execute processing for issuing a job to an image forming apparatus,
The program is stored in the computer.
Receiving an operation for instructing issue of a job to the image forming apparatus;
Stores restriction information indicating the use restriction of the function of the image forming apparatus for the user associated with the job, and reads information for specifying a memory device mounted on a device different from the image forming apparatus from the memory Steps,
A control program for adding information specifying the memory device to the job and causing the image forming apparatus to execute the job.

Images