JP2017156980A - Installation package generation program of printer driver and utilization method of printer driver - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily restrict setting of a function related to printing and properly release restriction on setting of the function in accordance with a user group.SOLUTION: A management device (package generation program) displays on a display part a screen for selecting a specific function whose setting is restricted by utilizing a prohibition function of a printer driver, generates function restriction information for restricting the setting of the specific function selected on the screen, generates a restriction release password for releasing a portion or all of the restriction on the setting of the specific function, generates an installation package for installing the printer driver with the restricted setting of the specific function by using the printer driver, function restriction information and restriction release password, and notifies a user with permission of the setting of the specific function of the restriction release password.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present invention relates to an installation package generation program for a printer driver and a method for using the printer driver, and in particular, an installation package generation program for creating an installation package for installing a printer driver with limited function settings, and the installation package generation program. The present invention relates to a method of using a printer driver installed using an installation package created by using the printer driver.

  An image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripherals) has various printing functions such as color / monochrome and single-sided / double-sided. Further, when the image forming apparatus is used in a company or the like, the image forming apparatus is used by many users and various printing functions are used for each user. From such a background, when printing a document in a company or the like, there is an operation for restricting the setting of a print function for each user group. For example, the function setting is restricted for each user group, such as permitting color printing for users in the department but allowing only monochrome printing for users outside the department.

  As a method of restricting function settings for each user group, there is a method of using a department management authentication function provided in an image forming apparatus. In this method, which function is permitted to be used for each user group is registered in advance on the image forming apparatus side, and when a print job of a user group member is transmitted to the image forming apparatus, The print job is processed by determining permission / prohibition of use. For example, when a member of a user group who is permitted only monochrome printing sends a print job specifying color printing, the user cancels the print job, changes to monochrome printing, or processes the print job. Make restrictions.

  As a technique relating to such a function restriction of the image forming apparatus, for example, in Patent Document 1 below, registration means for registering batch setting information including a plurality of print setting information and restriction means for restricting the use of print setting information are disclosed. The first collective setting information that does not include the restricted print setting information is selected and used as a setting used for printing, and the second collective setting information that includes the restricted print setting information is used for printing. There is disclosed an information processing apparatus having a control unit that performs control so that it cannot be selected and used as a setting.

  Patent Document 2 below discloses an image forming apparatus having an authorization function for restricting a function that can be used for each user based on authorization setting data indicating availability of a predetermined function, and print data to the image forming apparatus. And a user terminal device on which a driver for transmitting is installed, and when the authorization setting data is set or changed, the image forming apparatus sends an authorization setting change notification indicating the current authorization setting data to the user terminal device When the user terminal apparatus receives the authorization setting change notification, the user terminal apparatus prohibits generation of print data using the unusable function by the driver based on the authorization setting data indicated by the authorization setting change notification. An image forming system is disclosed.

  Patent Document 3 listed below is an installation program for installing in a terminal device a device driver that provides a setting screen including a plurality of setting items related to the function of the device to be controlled, and includes information on the user of the terminal device. From among a plurality of device drivers that are different from the procedure (a) to be acquired and the limitation contents of setting values that can be set by the user for the plurality of setting items, which are stored in the storage unit that is the acquisition source of the device driver, A procedure (b) for selecting one device driver corresponding to the information about the user acquired in the procedure (a), and a method for installing the device driver selected in the procedure (b) in the terminal device. A configuration for causing a computer to execute the procedure (c) for performing the above control is disclosed.

  Further, in Patent Document 4 below, in a print control system in which a print driver executed in a printing apparatus is controlled by a printer driver installed in the information processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus includes a printing process included in the printing apparatus. A storage unit that stores function restriction information for restricting use of the function, and the printer driver detects a function that detects the function restriction information and the function restriction information detected by the detection unit. A configuration including a defining unit that defines the print processing function that can be used in the print processing as a print control condition is disclosed.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-151858 discloses a host computer having a printer driver capable of setting print conditions for print data and a printer device capable of generating an image from print data received from the host computer and printing the communication medium. In the printer system connected in the above, the printer device has an operation panel for setting printing conditions, and the host computer acquires the printing conditions set by the printer device, and the acquired printing conditions are set in the printer driver. A configuration having printing condition acquisition means for reflecting the setting at the time of printing is disclosed.

  Patent Document 6 below is a computer program for providing a user interface of a device driver, and locks the user interface by causing a specific file to exist or specific data to exist in a specific file. Program code for setting to a state and program code for determining whether a part or all of the user interface is set to a locked state depending on whether or not the specific file or specific data exists And a program code for displaying a part or all of the user interface in an inoperable state when it is determined that part or all of the user interface is set to the locked state. It is disclosed.

JP2015-172961A JP2015-114845A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-170685 JP 2004-220532 A JP 2003-323268 A JP 2003-216374 A

  When the function setting is restricted using the department management authentication function of the image forming apparatus, it is necessary to set a user group in the image forming apparatus. Therefore, in an environment where a plurality of image forming apparatuses are installed, the administrator must set a user group for each image forming apparatus, which is a burden on the administrator. In addition, when the member configuration of the user group is changed due to personnel changes or the like, the setting of each image forming apparatus must be changed each time, increasing the burden on the administrator. Further, since the function is limited after the print job is transmitted to the image forming apparatus, the print job is canceled or changed to monochrome printing after moving to the installation place of the image forming apparatus to receive the printed matter. It can be seen that the print job has been processed. Therefore, the user has to return to his / her seat and instruct reprinting, which causes a problem that it takes time.

  As another method, there is a method of authenticating a plurality of image forming apparatuses in one place by using an external server. However, this method requires preparation of the server, which also increases the burden on the administrator. End up. In addition, in the methods of Patent Documents 1 to 6, it is not possible to change functions that do not need to be restricted, it is necessary to create a dedicated restriction driver for each function to be restricted, or setting is required for each image forming apparatus. As a result, the burden on the administrator will increase.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its main purpose is to be able to easily limit the setting of functions related to printing and to appropriately limit the setting of functions according to the user group. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printer driver installation package generation program and a printer driver usage method that can be canceled.

  One aspect of the present invention is a package generation program that operates on an apparatus for generating an installation package for displaying a screen for setting functions related to printing and installing a printer driver that performs a print instruction in accordance with the setting of the screen. A first process for causing the device to display a first screen for selecting a specific function for restricting the setting using the prohibited function of the printer driver on the display unit; and the specific process selected on the first screen. A second process for generating function restriction information for restricting setting of functions and generating a restriction releasing password for releasing part or all of the restriction of the setting of the specific function; the printer driver; Using the function restriction information and the restriction release password, the printer driver in which the setting of the specific function is restricted is installed. Third process of generating the installation package for Lumpur, characterized in that to the execution.

  One aspect of the present invention is a method of using the printer driver in a printing system including a management apparatus that generates an installation package for installing a printer driver, and a client apparatus in which the printer driver is installed by the installation package. The management apparatus uses a first process for displaying a first screen for selecting a specific function for restricting settings using the prohibition function of the printer driver on a display unit of the own apparatus, and the first screen. Second processing for generating function restriction information for restricting the setting of the selected specific function and for generating a restriction releasing password for releasing part or all of the restriction of the setting of the specific function And the printer driver, the function restriction information, and the restriction release password. A third process for generating the installation package for installing the printer driver in which the setting of the function is restricted and transmitting it to the client device, and the restriction for a user who permits the setting of the specific function And a fourth process for notifying a password for cancellation, wherein the client device installs the printer driver using the installation package received from the management apparatus, and the printer driver with the function. Based on restriction information, a sixth process that starts in a state where the setting of the specific function is restricted; a seventh process that displays a password input screen for entering a password on the display unit of the device; and the password input screen And the password embedded in the installation package The eighth process for determining whether or not the password matches, and if the password matches, the printer driver is operated in a state where the restriction on the setting of the specific function is released, and if the password does not match, And a ninth process for operating the printer driver in a state where the setting is limited.

  According to the printer driver installation package generation program and the printer driver usage method of the present invention, it is possible to easily restrict the setting of functions related to printing, and to appropriately release the restriction of function settings according to the user group. can do.

  The reason is that the management device (package generation program) causes the display unit to display a screen for selecting a specific function that restricts settings using the prohibited function of the printer driver, and the specific function selected on the screen is displayed. Generates function restriction information for restricting settings, and generates a restriction release password for releasing part or all of the restrictions on the setting of a specific function, and the printer driver, function restriction information, and restriction release password Is used to generate an installation package for installing a printer driver in which the setting of a specific function is restricted, and the restriction release password is notified to the user who permits the setting of the specific function. .

  In addition, the client device installs the printer driver using the installation package received from the management device, starts the printer driver in a state where the setting of a specific function is restricted based on the function restriction information, and displays the display of the own device. Displays a password entry screen for entering the password, and determines whether the password entered on the password entry screen matches the password embedded in the installation package. This is because if the printer driver is operated in a state where the setting restriction is released and the passwords do not match, the printer driver is operated in a state where the setting of a specific function is restricted.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the management apparatus which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the client apparatus which concerns on one Example of this invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (installation package production | generation process) of the management apparatus which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows the operation | movement (installation package production | generation process in the case of setting an expiration date to a password) which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (password production | generation process) of the management apparatus which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement (installation package production | generation process in the case of setting the function restrict | limited individually) which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows the operation | movement (driver installation and function restriction | limiting process when not setting an expiration date to a password) which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows the operation | movement (driver installation and function restriction | limiting process when the expiration date is set to the password) which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the function restriction | limiting setting screen (color restriction tab screen) which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the function restriction | limiting setting screen (individual restriction tab screen) which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the function restriction detailed setting screen which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the password production | generation screen which concerns on one Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the password input screen which concerns on one Example of this invention. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print setting screen of a printer driver according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a print setting screen of a printer driver according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in the background art, an image forming apparatus such as an MFP has various printing functions. When the image forming apparatus is used in a company or the like, the image forming apparatus is used by a large number of users. Therefore, when a document is printed at a company or the like, the setting of the print function is restricted for each user group.

  As a method of restricting the function setting for each user group, there is a method of using a department management authentication function provided in the image forming apparatus. In this method, a user group must be set for each image forming apparatus. Therefore, it becomes a burden on the administrator. Further, in the case of personnel changes or the like, the setting of the image forming apparatus must be changed each time, which increases the burden on the administrator. Further, since the function restriction is performed after the print job is transmitted to the image forming apparatus, it is not known whether the function is restricted unless the user goes to the image forming apparatus, and reprinting takes time. Also, with other conventional methods, it is necessary to prepare the server, the functions that do not need to be restricted cannot be changed, it is necessary to create a restricted driver for each restricted function, or for each image forming apparatus Since the setting is necessary, the burden on the administrator also increases.

  Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, when providing an installation package for installing a printer driver, the setting of a specific function is restricted using a prohibition function, and a predetermined restriction release password is used. A printer driver set so that a part or all of the restrictions on the setting of a specific function can be removed can be installed. When a specific function is permitted to a certain user group with a predetermined restriction, the restriction releasing password is notified to the member of the user group, and the member inputs the restriction releasing password when using the printer driver. , Make certain functions available with certain restrictions. Further, by restricting the setting of a specific function for each user group and notifying a password for releasing the restriction according to the restriction, the specific function can be used in a restricted state according to the user group.

  As a result, even in an environment where a plurality of image forming apparatuses are installed, it is only necessary to prepare one installation package, so that the burden on the administrator can be reduced. In addition, since the user can see that the settings of specific functions are restricted by prohibition on the print setting screen of the printer driver, it is possible to prevent inconveniences such as printing under unintended conditions and requiring reprinting. can do.

  In order to describe the above-described embodiment of the present invention in more detail, a printer driver installation package generation program and a printer driver utilization method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. . FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to the present exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 2 to 4 are block diagrams illustrating configurations of a management apparatus, a client apparatus, and an image forming apparatus, respectively. 5 to 8 are flowcharts showing the operation of the management apparatus, and FIGS. 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing the operation of the client apparatus. 11 to 14 are examples of screens displayed on the display unit of the management apparatus, and FIGS. 15 to 17 are examples of screens displayed on the display unit of the client apparatus.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the printing system 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes one or more management apparatuses 20 that create an installation package, one or more client apparatuses 30 in which a printer driver is installed using the installation package, And one or a plurality of image forming apparatuses 40 that execute print processing based on a print job generated by a printer driver. These are connected via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) defined by standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), Token Ring, and FDDI (Fiber-Distributed Data Interface).

  In FIG. 1, the printing system 10 includes the management apparatus 20, the client apparatus 30, and the image forming apparatus 40. However, a configuration in which a controller is connected to a communication network and the controller controls the image forming apparatus 40 may be employed. When the printer driver is installed in the management apparatus 20 and the image forming apparatus 40 is instructed to print, the client apparatus 30 can be omitted. Hereinafter, each device will be described in detail on the assumption of the configuration of FIG.

[Management device]
The management device 20 is a computer device such as a personal computer, and generates an installation package for installing a printer driver whose function setting is restricted by using the prohibition function. As shown in FIG. 2A, the management device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a network I / F unit 23, a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, and the like.

  The control unit 21 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21a and a memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) 21b and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 21c. The CPU 21a stores a control program stored in the ROM 21b or the storage unit 22. The operation of the management apparatus 20 as a whole is controlled by developing it in the RAM 21c and executing it. Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, the control unit 21 (CPU 21a) executes an OS (Operating System) 26, a package generation program 27, and the like.

  The OS 26 is Windows (registered trademark), Macintosh (registered trademark), Android, or the like, and enables the management apparatus 20 to operate the package generation program 27 and, if necessary, a printer driver.

  The package generation program 27 is software that creates an installation package for installing a printer driver whose function setting is restricted by using a prohibited function. With this package generation program 27, the control unit 21 functions as a display control unit 27a, a function restriction setting unit 27b, a password generation unit 27c, a package generation unit 27d, a password notification unit 27e, and the like.

  The display control unit 27a causes the display unit 24 to display a later-described function restriction setting screen, function restriction detailed setting screen, password generation screen, and the like.

  The function restriction setting unit 27b sets function restriction information for restricting the setting of a specific function of the printer driver according to the settings of the function restriction setting screen and the function restriction detailed setting screen, and stores the function restriction information in the storage unit 22 or the like. This function restriction information is incorporated in a prohibition condition table that is referred to when the printer driver restricts the setting of a specific function using the prohibition function.

  The password generation unit 27c generates a restriction release password for releasing a part or all of the restriction on the setting of a specific function according to the setting of the password generation screen, and stores it in the storage unit 22 or the like. For example, the password input on the password generation screen is stored in the storage unit 22 or the like as a restriction release password. Alternatively, the master password and the expiration date input on the password generation screen are converted according to a predetermined rule, thereby generating a restriction release password and storing it in the storage unit 22 or the like. A restriction release password can be generated for each function, and a plurality of types of restriction release passwords (for example, a password for releasing a part of the restriction and a password for releasing all the restrictions, etc.) for one function. ) Can be generated.

  The package generation unit 27d reads out the printer driver, the function restriction information, and the restriction release password (may be a master password if a password is set to an expiration date) from the storage unit 22 and the like, and sets these as a package to specify An installation package for installing a printer driver whose function settings are restricted is generated, and the installation package is transmitted to the client device 30. The installation package is, for example, a program in an executable file format. By executing the program on the client device 30, a printer driver in which the setting of a specific function is restricted by the prohibition function is installed in the client device 30. The

  The password notifying unit 27e notifies each member of the user group who is permitted to use a specific function, using an e-mail or the like, using the restriction releasing password generated by the password generating unit 27c. When a plurality of restriction release passwords are generated, each restriction release password is notified to each member of the user group corresponding to the restriction content for a specific function. Note that the administrator may notify the password for releasing the restriction.

  The storage unit 22 is configured by an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like, a program for the CPU 21a to control each unit, information on the processing function of the own device, and a function set by the function restriction setting unit 27b. The restriction information, the restriction release password generated by the password generation unit 27c, the printer driver, the installation package created by the package generation program 27, and the like are stored.

  The network I / F unit 23 includes a NIC (Network Interface Card), a modem, and the like, connects the management apparatus 20 to a communication network, and transmits an installation package, a restriction release password, and the like to the client apparatus 20.

  The display unit 24 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (electroluminescence) display device, and the like. Under the control of the display control unit 27a, a function restriction setting screen, a function restriction detailed setting screen, and a password generation screen. Etc. are displayed.

  The operation unit 25 is configured with a mouse, a keyboard, and the like. The operation for setting the restriction function and the entry of the password for releasing the restriction on the function restriction setting screen and the function restriction detailed setting screen, and the master password and expiration date inputting operation on the password generation screen Make possible.

[Client device]
The client device 30 is a computer device such as a personal computer, creates a print job using a printer driver, and instructs the image forming apparatus 40 to print. As shown in FIG. 3A, the client device 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a network I / F unit 33, a display unit 34, an operation unit 35, and the like.

  The control unit 31 includes a CPU 31a and a memory such as a ROM 31b and a RAM 31c. The CPU 31a controls the overall operation of the client device 30 by developing and executing a control program stored in the ROM 31b and the storage unit 32 on the RAM 31c. To do. As shown in FIG. 3B, the control unit 31 (CPU 31a) executes an OS 36, an application 37, a printer driver 38, and the like.

  The OS 36 is Windows (registered trademark), Macintosh (registered trademark), Android, or the like, and allows the client device 30 to operate the application 37 and the printer driver 38.

  The application 37 is software that performs text creation, spreadsheet, image processing, and the like. The application 37 reads the printer driver 38 when a print instruction is given, and transfers the document data created by the application 37 to the printer driver 38.

  The printer driver 38 is installed using the installation package transmitted from the management apparatus 20, incorporates the function restriction information included in the installation package into the prohibition condition table, and stores the restriction release password in the storage unit 32 or the like. The printer driver 38 converts the document data created by the application 37 into a page description such as a print job (PJL (Printer Job Language), PS (PostScript), PCL (Printer Control Language), etc. in a language that the image forming apparatus 40 can interpret. PDL (Page Description Language) data described in a language or PDF (Portable Document Format) data). To this print job, the print conditions set on the print setting screen of the printer driver 38 are described and added to a print ticket or the like. By the printer driver 38, the control unit 31 functions as a display control unit 38a, an authentication processing unit 38b, a function restriction processing unit 38c, and the like.

  The display control unit 38a causes the display unit 34 to display a password input screen and a printer driver print setting screen, which will be described later. The print setting screen of this printer driver is composed of a plurality of tabs, and setting items for a plurality of functions are arranged for each tab. Based on the function restriction information incorporated in the installation package, a specific function is set by a prohibited function. The setting items for the specific function are displayed in gray out so that the function cannot be set. In addition, when the user is authenticated by the authentication processing unit 38b (when the restriction release password notified from the management device 20 or the administrator is input on the password input screen), a part or all of the restriction on the specific function is It is canceled and a specific function is displayed so that it can be set.

  The authentication processing unit 38b authenticates the user by comparing the password input on the password input screen with the restriction release password stored in the storage unit 32. Alternatively, the password input on the password input screen is reverse-converted using the rules used when the password generation unit 27c of the management device 20 generates the restriction release password, and the password and storage unit obtained by reverse conversion The user is authenticated by comparing it with the master password stored in 32 (or the master password obtained by reversely converting the restriction releasing password stored in the storage unit 32).

  The function restriction processing unit 38c restricts a specific function based on the function restriction information included in the installation package. Specifically, when the user is not authenticated by the authentication processing unit 38b or when the expiration date of the password has passed, the prohibition function is controlled so that a specific function cannot be set, and the authentication processing unit 38b Is authenticated (and within the password expiry date if necessary), the setting of the specific function is restricted according to the user group (restriction password) (that is, the setting of the specific function) The prohibition function is controlled so that a part or all of the restrictions are released.

  The storage unit 32 is configured by an HDD, an SSD, or the like, and includes a program for the CPU 31a to control each unit, information on processing functions of the own device, an installation package received from the management device 20, and function restriction information and restrictions extracted from the installation package. The master password and the expiration date information obtained by reversely converting the release password, the restriction release password, the document data created by the application 37, the print job data created by the printer driver 38, and the like are stored.

  The network I / F unit 33 includes a NIC, a modem, and the like, and connects the client device 30 to a communication network, receives an installation package and a restriction release password from the management device 20, and sends a print job to the image forming device 40. Or send.

  The display unit 34 includes a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, and the like, and displays a document creation screen of the application 37, a print setting screen of the printer driver 38, a password input screen, and the like.

  The operation unit 35 includes a mouse, a keyboard, and the like, and enables operations such as creation of a document by the application 37, setting of printing conditions by the printer driver 38, and input of a password.

[Image forming apparatus]
As shown in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 40 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a network I / F unit 43, a display operation unit 44, an image processing unit 45, a print processing unit 46, and the like.

  The control unit 41 includes a CPU 41a and a memory such as a ROM 41b and a RAM 41c. The CPU 41a expands and executes the control program stored in the ROM 41b and the storage unit 42 on the RAM 41c, thereby performing the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 40. Control.

  The storage unit 42 is configured by an HDD, an SSD, or the like, and stores a program for the CPU 41a to control each unit, information on processing functions of the own apparatus, print job data, image data generated from the print job, and the like.

  The network I / F unit 43 includes a NIC, a modem, and the like, connects the image forming apparatus 40 to a communication network, and receives a print job from the client apparatus 30.

  The display operation unit 44 is a touch panel provided with a pressure-sensitive operation unit (touch sensor) in which transparent electrodes are arranged in a grid pattern on the display unit, displays various screens related to printing processing, and performs various operations related to printing. to enable.

  The image processing unit 45 functions as a RIP unit (Raster Image Processor), translates a print job to generate intermediate data, and performs rendering to generate bitmap format image data (this series of processing is performed as RIP processing). Call it.) Further, the image processing unit 45 performs screen processing, gradation correction, density balance adjustment, thinning, halftone processing, and the like on the image data as necessary. Then, the image processing unit 45 outputs the generated image data to the print processing unit 46.

  The print processing unit (print engine) 46 executes print processing based on the image data. Specifically, the photosensitive drum charged by the charging device is irradiated with light corresponding to the image from the exposure device to form an electrostatic latent image, and the toner charged by the developing device is attached and developed. The image is primarily transferred to the transfer belt, secondarily transferred from the transfer belt to the paper, and a fixing device fixes the toner image on the paper.

  1 to 4 show an example of the printing system 10 of the present embodiment, and the configuration thereof can be changed as appropriate.

  A case where the setting of a specific function (for example, a color printing function) is restricted in the printing system 10 having the above configuration will be described. As a user group corresponding to the color printing function, (1) a user group that is permitted to perform color printing, (2) a user group that is permitted to perform color printing but only allows toner-saving printing, and (3) color printing. Can be classified into user groups that are restricted to monochrome printing only.

  In this embodiment, a restriction release password is issued for each of the above three types of user groups, and the prohibition display for a specific function on the print setting screen of the printer driver 38 is released with the restriction release password. By changing the prohibition display state so that a part or all of the specific function can be set, the specific function can be set with a predetermined limit for each user group. For this purpose, the administrator first generates a restriction release password for each user group, stores the function restriction information and the restriction release password in the installation package of the printer driver, and sets the restriction release password for each desired user group. Notify members. Hereinafter, it will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  First, the procedure for the management apparatus 20 to generate an installation package will be specifically described. The CPU 21a executes the process of each step shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 to 8 by developing and executing the package generation program stored in the ROM 21b or the storage unit 22 on the RAM 21c.

[Installation package creation procedure]
First, the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) causes the display unit 24 to display a function restriction setting screen for the package generation program (S101), and causes the administrator to set functions to be restricted. FIG. 11 shows an example of the function restriction setting screen 50, which includes setting items 50a for typical function restrictions (here, color restrictions). Then, when the control unit 21 (function restriction setting unit 27b) detects an operation of checking a check box of a function that the administrator wants to restrict, function control information that restricts the setting of the selected function (specific function) is displayed. Generate (S102).

  Next, when the control unit 21 (password generation unit 27c) detects an operation to input a password in the password input field corresponding to the function checked by the administrator, the control unit 21 (password generation unit 27c) uses the restriction release function corresponding to the function to limit the input password. The password is set and stored in the storage unit 22 (S103).

  Thereafter, when the control unit 21 (package generation unit 27d) detects an operation of the administrator pressing the “OK” button on the function restriction setting screen 50, the function generated by the printer driver having the prohibited function and the function restriction setting unit 27b. An installation package is created using the restriction information and the restriction release password set by the password generation unit 27c, and is transmitted to the client device 30 (S104). As a result, the printer driver is packaged in one execution file, and the function restriction information, the restriction release password, and the like are incorporated in the installation package. Then, the control unit 21 (password notifying unit 27e) or the administrator notifies each member of the user group that uses the selected function of the restriction release password by e-mail or the like (S105), and ends the series of processing. To do.

  Here, even if you want to exclude a member from a user group that is allowed to use a specific function (for example, color printing), if that member continues to use the restriction unlock password that was first notified, Can not be restricted. If such a situation is assumed, an expiration date may be set for the password for releasing the restriction, and if the expiration date has passed, the setting of the function may be restricted by prohibition operation with the password for releasing the restriction being invalidated. it can. The procedure in that case will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[Procedure for creating an installation package when an expiration date is set for a password]
First, the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) causes the display unit 24 to display a function restriction setting screen 50 as shown in FIG. 11 (S201), and causes the administrator to set functions to be restricted. Then, when the control unit 21 (function restriction setting unit 27b) detects an operation of checking a check box of a function that the administrator wants to restrict, function control information that restricts the setting of the selected function (specific function) is displayed. Generate (S202).

  Next, the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) checks the “Set expiration date” check box corresponding to the function checked by the administrator, and presses the detailed setting button to instruct the expiration date setting. When an operation for performing the above is detected (S203), a password generation screen is displayed on the display unit 24 (S204). FIG. 14 shows an example of the password generation screen 53, which includes a master password / expiration date input field and a restriction release password display field. When the administrator inputs the master password and the expiration date and detects an operation to instruct generation of a password by pressing the password generation button (S205), the control unit 21 (password generation unit 27c) The expiration date is converted in accordance with a predetermined rule to generate a restriction release password, which is displayed in the restriction release password display field (S206). Then, when the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) detects that the administrator presses the “OK” button on the password generation screen 53, the generated restriction release password is entered in the password entry field of the function restriction setting screen 50. reflect.

  Thereafter, when the control unit 21 (package generation unit 27d) detects an operation of the administrator pressing the “OK” button on the function restriction setting screen 50, the printer driver having the prohibited function and the function generated by the function restriction setting unit 27b. An installation package is created using the restriction information and the restriction release password generated by the password generation unit 27c (or the master password input on the password generation screen 53), and transmitted to the client device 30 (S207). Then, the control unit 21 (password notifying unit 27e) or the administrator notifies each member of the user group who uses the selected function of the password for restriction release by e-mail or the like (S208), and the series of processing ends. To do.

  In the above flow, the function restriction setting screen 50 is changed to the password generation screen 53. However, there is a case where only the restriction release password is generated, for example, when the restriction release password is changed. In this case, the password generation screen 53 can be directly called from the menu of the package generation program 27. The procedure in that case will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[Password generation procedure]
First, when the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) detects an operation instructing the administrator to set an expiration date in the menu of the package generation program 27 (S301), the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) displays on the display unit 24 as shown in FIG. The password generation screen 53 is displayed (S302). When the administrator inputs the master password and the expiration date and detects an operation for instructing password generation by pressing the password generation button (S303), the control unit 21 (password generation unit 27c) The expiration date is converted in accordance with a predetermined rule to generate a restriction release password (S304). Thereafter, the control unit 21 (password notifying unit 27e) or the administrator notifies each member of the user group of the cancellation password by e-mail or the like (S305), and the series of processing ends.

  6 and 7 describe the case where the expiration date is set and the restriction release password is generated. However, when the password has expired, the master password set first on the password generation screen 53 is described. And the expiration date to be updated, and the password generation button is pressed, the restriction release password is automatically generated, and the generated restriction release password is set by the control unit 21 (password notification unit 27e) or the administrator. Notify each member of the group.

  At that time, the member that permits the function to be restricted (for example, color printing) is notified of the newly generated restriction release password, and the member that is to be excluded from the user group is newly generated the restriction release password. Is not notified (or a restriction releasing password that restricts the setting of the function is notified), the setting of the function can be restricted to a specific member. In addition, when adding a member to a user group (for example, when adding a user to a “user group permitted to perform color printing”), it is only necessary to notify a restriction release password that permits color printing. As described above, in this embodiment, setting of a specific function can be restricted only by notifying each member of the password for releasing the restriction, so that the burden on the administrator can be reduced.

  5 and 6, the function to be restricted is selected on the function restriction setting screen 50. However, the function to be restricted can be individually set. The procedure in that case will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[Procedure for creating an installation package when the restriction function is individually set]
First, the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) displays a function restriction setting screen 50 as shown in FIG. 11 on the display unit 24 (S401), and when the administrator detects an operation for selecting an individual setting tab, The restriction function setting screen of the individual setting tab is displayed on the display unit 24 (S402). FIG. 12 is an example of the function restriction setting screen 51 of the individual restriction tab, and is provided with an individual restriction setting field 51a for setting a function to be restricted and a function restriction list 51b for displaying the set function.

  Next, when the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) detects an operation by the administrator to press the “reference button” in the individual restriction setting column 51a, the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) causes the display unit 24 to display a function restriction detailed setting screen (S403). ). FIG. 13 shows an example of the detailed function restriction setting screen 52. The restriction function name (control name), the setting value of the restriction function, whether to allow the setting value, and the like can be specified. When the controller 21 (function restriction setting unit 27b) detects an operation in which the administrator selects a restriction function, designates a setting value and permission, and presses an “OK” button on the function restriction detailed setting screen 52, The function restriction information for restricting the setting of the designated function is generated (S404), and the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) displays the restriction function set in the individual restriction setting field 51a of the function restriction setting screen 51. .

  Next, in the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a), the administrator checks the “Set expiration date” checkbox in the individual restriction setting column 51a, and presses the detailed setting button to instruct the expiration date setting. When an operation for performing the above is detected (S405), a password generation screen 53 as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the display unit 24 (S406). When the administrator inputs the master password and the expiration date and detects an operation for instructing password generation by pressing the password generation button (S407), the control unit 21 (password generation unit 27c) The expiration date is converted in accordance with a predetermined rule to generate a restriction release password (S408). Then, when the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) detects that the administrator presses the “OK” button on the password generation screen 53, the generated restriction release password is entered in the password entry field of the individual restriction setting field 51a. reflect.

  Thereafter, when the control unit 21 (display control unit 27a) detects an operation of the administrator pressing the “add individual restriction” button on the function restriction setting screen 51, the restriction function, the restriction release password, and the expiration date are restricted. It adds to the list 51b (S409). When the control unit 21 (package generation unit 27d) detects an operation of the administrator pressing the “OK” button on the function restriction setting screen 51, the printer driver having the prohibited function and the function generated by the function restriction setting unit 27b. An installation package is created using the restriction information and the restriction release password generated by the password generation unit 27c (or the master password input on the password generation screen 53), and is transmitted to the client device 30 (S410). Thereafter, the control unit 21 (password notifying unit 27e) or the administrator notifies each member of the user group using the selected function of the password for releasing the restriction by e-mail or the like (S411), and the series of processes is terminated. To do.

  In FIG. 8, the case where the expiration date is set for the restriction releasing password has been described. However, when the expiration date is not set, the individual restriction setting field 51a of the function restriction setting screen 51 is replaced with the steps S405 to S408. Just enter the password for releasing the restriction in the password entry field.

  Next, a procedure in which the client apparatus 30 installs and uses a printer driver using an installation package will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. In the following description, it is assumed that the installation package created according to the above procedure is transmitted to the client device 30 and each member of each user group is notified of the restriction release password.

  First, printer driver installation and function restriction processing when no expiration date is set for a password will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the member using the client device 30 operates the installation package in the executable file format, the printer driver 38 is installed in the client device 30 by the installation package (S501). Next, when the printer driver 38 is activated by a member operation (S502), the control unit 31 (display control unit 38a) displays a password input screen on the display unit 34 (S503). FIG. 15 is an example of the password input screen 60, and a password input field is provided.

  When the control unit 31 (authentication processing unit 38b) detects an operation for the member to input the password (S504), the input password and the password for restriction release incorporated in the installation package (stored in the storage unit 32). It is determined whether or not the restriction release password matches (S505). When the passwords match (when the restriction release password notified from the administrator is input), the control unit 31 (function restriction processing unit 38c) performs part or all of the restricted functions based on the function restriction information. The control unit 31 (display control unit 38a) sets a part or all of the functions restricted according to the user group (restriction release password) on the display unit 34. The enabled print setting screen is displayed (S506). On the other hand, if the passwords do not match, the control unit 31 (function restriction processing unit 38c) controls the prohibited function so that the restricted function cannot be set (forced to be set in advance), The control unit 31 (display control unit 38a) causes the display unit 34 to display a print setting screen in which the restricted function cannot be set (the function is fixed to a predetermined setting) (S507). Thereafter, the member sets print conditions on the print setting screen, transmits a print job to the image forming apparatus 40, and instructs printing.

  FIG. 16 is an example of the print setting screen 61 when the prohibition function is not operating. FIG. 17 shows an example of the print setting screen 62 in which the restricted function is disabled by operating the prohibition function. In this print setting screen 62, the color selection function is disabled (grayscale is set). A forbidden display part 62a (fixed) is displayed.

  Next, printer driver installation and function restriction processing when an expiration date is set for a password will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the member using the client device 30 operates the installation package in the executable file format, the printer driver 38 is installed in the client device 30 by the installation package (S601). Next, when the printer driver 38 is activated by a member's operation (S602), the control unit 31 (display control unit 38a) displays a password input screen 60 as shown in FIG. 15 on the display unit 34 (S603).

  When the control unit 31 (authentication processing unit 38b) detects that the member inputs the password (S604), the controller 31 reversely converts the input password in accordance with the same rules as the password generation, and the master password and the expiration date are obtained. Obtain (S605). Then, the control unit 31 (authentication processing unit 38b) determines the master password obtained by reverse conversion and the master password embedded in the installation package (the master password stored in the storage unit 32 or the restriction release stored in the storage unit 32). (S606), if the master password matches, the current date and time is within the expiration date obtained by reverse-converting the password. (S607).

  When the passwords match and are within the expiration date, the control unit 31 (function restriction processing unit 38c) is prohibited from functioning so that a part or all of the restricted functions can be set based on the function restriction information. The control unit 31 (display control unit 38a) displays, on the display unit 34, a print setting screen in which a part or all of the functions restricted according to the user group (restriction release password) can be set. (S608). On the other hand, if the passwords do not match or are not within the expiration date, the control unit 31 (function restriction processing unit 38c) prohibits the setting of the restricted function (forcibly becomes a predetermined setting). The function is controlled, and the control unit 31 (display control unit 38a) causes the display unit 34 to display a print setting screen in which the restricted function cannot be set (the function is fixed to a predetermined setting). (S609). Thereafter, the member sets print conditions on the print setting screen, transmits a print job to the image forming apparatus 40, and instructs printing.

  In FIGS. 9 and 10, when the passwords do not match, the print setting screen in which the restricted function cannot be set is displayed, but a message that the password is different is displayed on the display unit 34 and the user is displayed. You may be prompted to re-enter the password.

  The actual prohibition operation will be described below.

  For example, a member of a user group who is permitted to perform color printing inputs the notified “password to permit color printing” to the password input screen 60, so that all settings relating to color printing can be made on the print setting screen of the printer driver. It becomes possible, and it can print with the setting of color printing.

  Further, a member of the user group who is permitted to perform color printing but only toner-saving printing inputs the notified “password for permitting only economy printing in color printing” to the password input screen 60, so that the printer Although some settings relating to color printing can be made on the print setting screen of the driver, even if color printing is set, printing is forcibly performed with settings for toner saving printing.

  In addition, even if color printing is restricted and a member of a user group who is permitted only monochrome printing inputs the notified “password permitted only monochrome printing” into the password input screen 60, the user group member who is permitted only in monochrome printing can perform color printing on the print setting screen of the printer driver. Printing settings cannot be made, and printing can be performed only with monochrome printing settings.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said Example, The structure and control can be changed suitably, unless it deviates from the meaning of this invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the expiration date is set for the password has been described. However, a limit on the number of times of use can be set for the password. In that case, for example, a field for inputting the limit number is provided on the password generation surface 53, and the master password, the limit number, and the expiration date if necessary are converted in accordance with a predetermined rule to generate a limit release password. Then, the printer driver, the function restriction information, and the restriction release password are packaged to generate an installation package. Then, when using the printer driver, the restriction unlock password is reversely converted to obtain the limit number, the number of times the restricted function (color printing, single-sided printing, etc.) is used, If it exceeds, the prohibited function can be operated so that the restricted function cannot be set.

  In the above-described embodiment, color / monochrome printing and single-sided / double-sided printing are exemplified as the limiting functions. However, the limiting functions may be functions that can be limited by the prohibition function of the printer driver 38.

  In the above-described embodiment, the installation package is an executable file format program. However, the installation package may be a data package that can be used by an installer operating on the control unit 31 of the client device 30.

  The present invention relates to an installation package generation program for creating an installation package for installing a printer driver whose function settings are restricted, a recording medium on which the installation package generation program is recorded, and an installation package created using the installation package generation program It can be used for the usage method of the printer driver installed by.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Printing system 20 Management apparatus 21 Control part 21a CPU
21b ROM
21c RAM
22 Storage Unit 23 Network I / F Unit 24 Display Unit 25 Operation Unit 26 OS
27 Package generation program 27a Display control unit 27b Function restriction setting unit 27c Password generation unit 27d Package generation unit 27e Password notification unit 30 Client device 31 Control unit 31a CPU
31b ROM
31c RAM
32 storage unit 33 network I / F unit 34 display unit 35 operation unit 36 OS
37 Application 38 Printer Driver 38a Display Control Unit 38b Authentication Processing Unit 38c Function Restriction Processing Unit 40 Image Forming Device 41 Control Unit 41a CPU
41b ROM
41c RAM
42 Storage Unit 43 Network I / F Unit 44 Display Operation Unit 45 Image Processing Unit 46 Print Processing Unit 50 Function Restriction Setting Screen (Color Restriction Tab)
50a Setting items 51 Function restriction setting screen (Individual restriction tab)
51a Individual restriction setting field 51b Function restriction list 52 Detailed function restriction setting screen 53 Password generation screen 60 Password input screen 61, 62 Print setting screen 62a Prohibited display part

Claims (15)

A package generation program that operates on a device that generates an installation package for installing a printer driver that displays a screen for setting functions related to printing and performs a print instruction according to the setting of the screen,
In the device,
A first process for displaying on the display unit a first screen for selecting a specific function for restricting settings using the prohibit function of the printer driver;
The function restriction information for restricting the setting of the specific function selected on the first screen is generated, and the restriction releasing password for releasing a part or all of the restriction of the setting of the specific function is generated. A second process to generate,
Using the printer driver, the function restriction information, and the restriction release password to execute a third process for generating the installation package for installing the printer driver in which the setting of the specific function is restricted. ,
A package generation program characterized by that. In the second process, for each user group, the restriction release password is generated with a different restriction to be released.
The package generation program according to claim 1. In the second process, the first password input on the first screen is set as the restriction release password,
If the password entered when starting up the printer driver matches the password for canceling the setting, a part or all of the restriction on the setting of the specific function is released according to the password for canceling the setting. The printer driver operates;
The package generation program according to claim 1, wherein the package generation program is a package generation program. In the second process, the second password input on the second screen transitioned from the first screen and the expiration date set for the second password are converted according to a predetermined rule, Generate a password for restriction release,
If the password reversely converted in accordance with the rules and the second password match when the printer driver is started up, and a part of the restriction on the setting of the specific function according to the setting cancellation password, The printer driver operates in a state where everything is released.
The package generation program according to claim 1, wherein the package generation program is a package generation program. In the third process, a limit number for limiting the number of times the printer driver is used is incorporated in the installation package,
If the number of times that the printer driver has been used in a state where a part or all of the restriction on the setting of the specific function is released exceeds the limit number of times, the setting of the specific function is restricted in the state The printer driver works,
The package generation program according to claim 1, wherein the package generation program is a package generation program. In the third process, the installation package is generated as an executable file format program.
The package generation program according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein In addition to the device,
Causing a user who is permitted to set the specific function to execute a fourth process for notifying the restriction release password;
The package generation program according to claim 1, wherein the package generation program is a package generation program. A method of using the printer driver in a printing system, comprising: a management device that generates an installation package for installing a printer driver; and a client device in which the printer driver is installed by the installation package.
The management device
A first process of displaying a first screen for selecting a specific function for restricting settings using the prohibit function of the printer driver on the display unit of the device;
The function restriction information for restricting the setting of the specific function selected on the first screen is generated, and the restriction releasing password for releasing a part or all of the restriction of the setting of the specific function is generated. A second process to be generated;
Using the printer driver, the function restriction information, and the restriction release password, the installation package for installing the printer driver in which the setting of the specific function is restricted is generated and transmitted to the client device A third process;
Performing a fourth process of notifying the user of permission to set the specific function of the restriction release password;
The client device is
A fifth process for installing the printer driver using the installation package received from the management device;
A sixth process for starting the printer driver in a state where the setting of the specific function is restricted based on the function restriction information;
A seventh process for displaying a password input screen for inputting a password on the display unit of the device;
An eighth process for determining whether the password entered on the password entry screen matches the password embedded in the installation package;
When the passwords match, the printer driver is operated in a state where some or all of the restrictions on the setting of the specific function are released. When the passwords do not match, the setting of the specific function is restricted. Executing a ninth process for operating the printer driver;
A method of using a printer driver characterized by the above. In the second process, for each user group, the restriction release password is generated with different restrictions to be released,
In the fourth process, a user belonging to each of the user groups is notified of the restriction release password generated according to the user group.
The method of using a printer driver according to claim 8. In the second process, the first password input on the first screen is set as the restriction release password,
In the eighth process, it is determined whether the password entered on the password entry screen matches the setting cancellation password;
10. A method of using a printer driver according to claim 8, wherein the printer driver is used. In the second process, the second password input on the second screen transitioned from the first screen and the expiration date set for the second password are converted according to a predetermined rule, Generate a password for restriction release,
In the eighth process, a determination is made as to whether a password obtained by reversely converting the password input on the password input screen according to the rule matches the second password.
10. A method of using a printer driver according to claim 8, wherein the printer driver is used. In the eighth process, the password input on the password input screen is further inversely converted according to the rules to obtain an expiration date, and it is determined whether the current date and time is within the expiration date,
In the ninth process, when the passwords match and the current date and time is within the expiration date, the printer driver is operated in a state where part or all of the restrictions on the setting of the specific function are removed, If the passwords do not match or the current date and time are not within the expiration date, the printer driver is operated with the setting of the specific function restricted.
The method of using a printer driver according to claim 11. In the second process, a new restriction release password is generated using the second password and the expiration date newly entered on the second screen,
In the fourth process, the new restriction release password is notified to users belonging to a predetermined user group,
Prohibiting use of the printer driver in a state in which a part or all of the restriction on the setting of the specific function is released by a user deleted from the predetermined user group;
13. A method of using a printer driver according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the printer driver is used. In the third process, a limit number for limiting the number of times the printer driver is used is incorporated in the installation package,
In the eighth process, it is determined whether the number of times that the printer driver has been used in a state where a part or all of the restriction on the setting of the specific function is released is equal to or less than the restriction number;
In the ninth process, when the number of times of use exceeds the limit number of times, the printer driver is operated with the setting of the specific function being limited.
14. The method of using a printer driver according to claim 8, wherein the printer driver is used. In the third process, the installation package is generated as an executable file format program.
15. The method of using a printer driver according to claim 8, wherein the printer driver is used.

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