JP2019004262A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that enables a user to easily print an image of a document from an external image forming apparatus without requiring the user to bring the document to the outside.SOLUTION: When receiving an instruction to form an image with an external image forming apparatus from a display operation unit, an image forming apparatus displays, on the display operation unit, a list of the external image forming apparatuses available received by a communication unit, when one external image forming apparatus is selected from among the external image forming apparatuses displayed on the list, and the display operation unit receives the instruction to form the image on the basis of image data acquired by an image acquisition unit, causes the communication unit to transmit the image data and the instruction to the external image forming apparatus, and causes the external image forming apparatus to form the image on the basis of the image data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

  Image forming apparatuses such as copiers and printers are classified into image forming apparatuses having a color printing function (hereinafter referred to as color machines) and image forming apparatuses having only a monochrome printing function and not having color printing functions (hereinafter referred to as monochrome machines). Broadly divided.

  When a plurality of image forming apparatuses are installed in an office, if at least one color machine is included in the image forming apparatuses, print data can be captured from a monochrome machine and output from the color machine. it can.

  As such a technique, a mutual transfer relationship in which an input image in a monochrome image forming apparatus can be output as a non-monochrome image in a color image forming apparatus is set, and each of one or more monochrome image forming apparatuses and color image forming apparatuses is set. An invention of a tandem image forming apparatus connected via a communication medium has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2003-115965 A

  However, since the demand for color machines is high, office image forming apparatuses inevitably have higher initial costs and costs required for consumables such as toner than monochrome machines. Is often used.

  If a user who only owns a monochrome machine wants to perform color printing, he / she can go to a convenience store or a commercial facility where the color machine is installed, and perform color printing. The document may be damaged or lost.

  In addition, when the number of color machines that can be used in the vicinity is limited, there are many situations in which usable color machines are already being used by other users. In this case, the user has to wait until the color machine in use is free, and reading of the original is started after the color machine is free, so there is a problem that it takes a long time to complete printing.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of easily printing an image of an original from an external image forming apparatus without taking out the original to the outside. Is to provide.

  The present invention includes an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data, an image formation unit that forms an image based on the image data, a display operation unit that displays an operation screen and receives a command from a user, and a network. A communication unit that receives information of an external image forming apparatus and transmits to the external image forming apparatus an instruction to form an image based on the image data and the image data; the image data acquisition unit; and the image A control unit that controls the forming unit, the display operation unit, and the communication unit, and the control unit receives an instruction from the display operation unit that an image should be formed by the external image forming apparatus. Based on the information received by the communication unit, a list of available external image forming apparatuses is displayed on the display operation unit, and the external image displayed in the list is displayed. When one external image forming apparatus is selected from among the forming apparatuses, and when the display operation unit receives an instruction to form an image, the image data and the external image forming apparatus are It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus that transmits the command to the communication unit and causes the external image forming apparatus to form an image based on the image data.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an image forming apparatus that can easily print an image of an original from an external image forming apparatus without taking out the original to the outside.

1 is a perspective view illustrating an appearance of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a panel unit of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of schematic structure of the image forming system of this invention. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of processing by the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a main screen displayed on a display operation unit of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a list of available external image forming apparatuses. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a list of available external image forming apparatuses displayed on a display operation unit of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a main screen of an external image forming apparatus. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of processing by an available external image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the image forming system which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the process by the image forming apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the list | wrist of the usable external image forming apparatus displayed on the display operation part of the image forming apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the process by the available external image forming apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. 10 is a flowchart showing a main screen display process of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention; It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the login screen of the image forming apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the list | wrist of the external image forming apparatus which can be utilized displayed on the display operation part of the image forming apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the search range of the available external image forming apparatus displayed on the display operation part of the image forming apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, the following description is an illustration in all the points, Comprising: It should not be interpreted as limiting this invention.

As mentioned above,
(I) An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes an image data acquisition unit that acquires image data, an image formation unit that forms an image based on the image data, and a display operation that displays an operation screen and receives a command from a user A communication unit that receives information of an external image forming apparatus via a network and transmits an instruction to form an image based on the image data and the image data to the external image forming apparatus; An image data acquisition unit, the image forming unit, the display operation unit, and a control unit that controls the communication unit, and the control unit displays the instruction to form an image by the external image forming apparatus. When received from the operation unit, based on the information received by the communication unit, a list of available external image forming apparatuses is displayed on the display operation unit and displayed in the list. When one of the external image forming apparatuses thus selected is selected, when the display operation unit receives a command to form an image, the external image forming apparatus is On the other hand, the image data and the command are transmitted to the communication unit, and the external image forming apparatus is caused to form an image based on the image data.

In the present invention, the “image forming apparatus” is an apparatus having an image data acquiring function for acquiring image data and an image forming function for forming an image based on the image data, such as a multi-functional machine equipped with a scanner.
The “image data acquisition unit” has an image reading function such as a scanner that generates image data by reading a document. Alternatively, image data may be acquired via a network, USB, or the like.
An “external image forming apparatus” is an image forming apparatus that can communicate via a network, and may be an image forming apparatus installed in a convenience store or a commercial facility, or the same office as the image forming apparatus of the present invention. Alternatively, it may be an image forming apparatus installed indoors.

Furthermore, the preferable aspect of this invention is demonstrated.
(Ii) In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus has a function of forming a monochrome image, the image data acquisition unit has a function of acquiring color image data, and the external image The forming apparatus may have a function of forming a color image.

  In this way, even in an image forming apparatus that can print only a monochrome image, color image data is acquired and transmitted to the external image forming apparatus, so that the color based on the image data can be obtained from the external image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus capable of easily printing an image can be realized.

(Iii) In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the information includes data of an operation screen of the external image forming apparatus, and the display operation unit should form an image by the external image forming apparatus. An operation key that accepts the command may be displayed on the operation screen.

  In this way, an image forming apparatus that allows a user to easily switch to a print mode in which an image is printed by an external image forming apparatus by operating a specific operation key displayed on the operation screen is realized. it can.

(Iv) In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the image forming apparatus further includes a user authentication unit, and the control unit displays the operation key on the display operation unit when the user authentication unit authenticates a predetermined user. It may be.

  In this way, it is possible to realize an image forming apparatus that displays an operation key for switching to a print mode for printing by an external image forming apparatus only for an authenticated user.

  The “user authentication unit” is a part that authenticates a predetermined user by IC card, password or biometric authentication such as fingerprint authentication or iris authentication.

(V) In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit may cause the display operation unit to display the operation key when the display operation unit receives a predetermined operation.

  In this way, it is possible to realize an image forming apparatus that displays an operation key for switching to a print mode for printing by an external image forming apparatus when a predetermined operation is received.

  Examples of the “predetermined operation” include a hidden pattern operation in which a specific part (such as the upper right part) of the operation screen is touched a specific number of times (such as four times) or an operation of moving a plurality of levels from the portal operation screen. Etc.

(Vi) In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the information of the external image forming apparatus includes at least one information among information relating to a position, an image forming speed, and an operating state of the external image forming apparatus, The control unit calculates an expected time required for the external image forming apparatus to form an image based on the image data based on the image data and the information, and obtains a list of the external image forming apparatus and the estimated time. You may display on the said display operation part.

  In this way, the user can select the optimum external image forming apparatus from the list and perform printing by referring to the external image forming apparatus displayed in the list and the estimated time required for printing. It becomes possible.

The “expected time” is an expected time until the completion of printing based on the size of image data, the image forming speed, and the like.
Estimated time is the travel time to the location where the external image forming device is installed, the scheduled maintenance time of the external image forming device, the usage time of the store or facility where the external image forming device is installed, or the printing of other users May include a printing waiting time.

Embodiment 1
<Schematic Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus 1>
An image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of an image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the image forming apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the panel unit 17 of the image forming apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 of FIG.

  The image forming apparatus 1 is an apparatus such as a multifunction machine that digitally processes image data and has a copying function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a panel unit 17.
As shown in FIG. 3, the panel unit 17 includes a display operation unit 171 and a physical operation unit 172.

The display operation unit 171 includes a display panel configured from a liquid crystal panel and the like, and a projected capacitive touch panel that is disposed on the display panel and detects a position where a user's finger approaches.
In addition to the capacitance method that detects changes in capacitance, the touch operation detection method includes a resistive film method that detects voltage, an optical method that detects by blocking infrared light, and ultrasonic detection. An ultrasonic method that uses an electronic pen as an indicator may be used. Further, a method in which the position of a fingertip or the like can be detected without contact using infrared rays or the like may be used.
The physical operation unit 172 includes an indicator lamp, a power key, a power saving key, and a home key.

  The image forming apparatus 1 executes a job such as a scanner, printing, copying, or image transmission based on an instruction from a user received via the display operation unit 171 or the physical operation unit 172.

Next, a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a control unit 10, an image data acquisition unit 11, an image forming unit 12, a storage unit 13, an image processing unit 14, a communication unit 15, a paper feeding unit 16, a panel unit 17, and A timer 18 is provided.
Hereinafter, each component of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

The control unit 10 controls the image forming apparatus 1 in an integrated manner, and includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, various interface circuits, and the like.
The control unit 10 monitors and controls all loads such as detection of each sensor, motor, clutch, panel unit 17 and the like in order to control the operation of the entire image forming apparatus 1.

The image data acquisition unit 11 is a part that detects and reads a document placed on a document table or a document conveyed from a document tray, and generates image data. Further, this is a part for acquiring image data generated by an external information processing apparatus (not shown) or a facsimile apparatus (not shown).
When acquiring image data from an external information processing apparatus or the like, the image data may be acquired via a wired or wireless network, or the image data recorded on a USB or the like may be acquired. It may also be a combination of these.

The image forming unit 12 is a part that prints out image data acquired by the image data acquiring unit 11 and processed by the image processing unit 14 on a sheet, and includes an LSU 121.
The LSU 121 is an apparatus that forms an electrostatic latent image by irradiating a charged surface of a photosensitive drum with laser light corresponding to image data information including a digital signal.

The storage unit 13 is an element or a storage medium that stores information necessary for realizing various functions of the image forming apparatus 1, a control program, and the like. For example, a semiconductor element such as RAM or ROM, a hard disk, a flash storage unit, or a storage medium such as SSD is used.
Note that the program and data may be stored in different devices, such that the data storage area is a hard disk drive and the program storage area is a flash storage unit.

  The image processing unit 14 converts the document image read by the image data acquisition unit 11 into an appropriate electrical signal, generates image data, and receives the image data input from the image data acquisition unit 11 from the display operation unit 171. This is a part that performs processing so as to be suitable for output such as enlargement / reduction in accordance with the command.

  The communication unit 15 communicates with an external image forming apparatus 2, a computer, a portable information terminal, an information processing apparatus, a facsimile apparatus, etc. via a network 3 and the like, and transmits various information such as mail and FAX to these external devices. This is a portion that transmits and receives to and from the image forming apparatus 2 and the like.

  The paper feed unit 16 is a part that conveys the paper stored in the paper feed cassette and the manual feed tray to the image forming unit 12.

  The panel unit 17 is a unit including a liquid crystal display, and includes a display operation unit 171 and a physical operation unit 172.

  The display operation unit 171 is a part that displays various information. The display operation unit 171 includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an EL display, and the like, and is a display device such as a monitor or a line display for displaying electronic data such as a processing state by an operating system or application software. The control unit 10 displays the operation and state of the image forming apparatus 1 through the display operation unit 171.

  The display operation unit 171 includes a touch panel and is a part that receives a command from the user.

<Schematic Configuration of Image Forming System 100 According to Embodiment 1 of the Invention>
Next, a schematic configuration of the image forming system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, an image forming system 100 according to the present invention includes an image forming apparatus 1 (monochrome machine) according to the present invention and external image forming apparatuses 2A, 2B and 2C (color machines). Are connected to each other.

  External image forming apparatuses 2A, 2B, and 2C (hereinafter sometimes collectively referred to as external image forming apparatus 2) transmit main screen data in response to a request from image forming apparatus 1. The external image forming apparatus 2 has the same configuration as the image forming apparatus 1 except that a color image can be printed.

<Print Setting of External Image Forming Apparatus 2 by Image Forming Apparatus 1>
Next, the print setting of the external image forming apparatus 2 by the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an outline of processing by the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a main screen displayed on the display operation unit 171 of the image forming apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a list of external image forming apparatuses 2 that can be used. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a list of available external image forming apparatuses 2 displayed on the display operation unit 171 of the image forming apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a main screen of the external image forming apparatus 2. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming system 100 of the present invention.

First, in step S1, the control unit 10 determines whether or not a color mode is selected (step S1).
Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the control unit 10 determines whether or not the “color mode” key K <b> 1 on the main screen displayed on the display operation unit 171 has been touched.
Further, instead of the “color mode” key name, “color execution key” or “color start key” may be used.

  When the color mode is selected (when the determination in step S1 is Yes), the control unit 10 forms an external image having a color printing function that can be used on the network 3 via the communication unit 15 in step S2. The device 2 is searched (step S2).

  On the other hand, when the color mode is not selected (when the determination in step S1 is No), the control unit 10 accepts a monochrome mode process in step S3 (step S3).

Next, in step S4, the control unit 10 determines whether an available external image forming apparatus 2 exists on the network 3 (step S4).
When the usable external image forming apparatus 2 exists on the network 3 (when the determination in step S4 is Yes), the control unit 10 determines that the number of usable external image forming apparatuses 2 is 2 in step S5. It is determined whether or not the number is higher than or equal to a table (step S5).

On the other hand, when the usable external image forming apparatus 2 does not exist on the network 3 (when the determination in step S4 is No), the control unit 10 determines in step S6 that the usable external image forming apparatus 2 exists. The user is notified of the fact (step S6).
Then, the control part 10 performs the process of step S3 (step S3).

Next, in step S5, when the number of available external image forming apparatuses 2 is two or more (when the determination in step S5 is Yes), the control unit 10 uses the available external image in step S7. A list of forming apparatuses 2 is displayed (step S7).
Then, the control part 10 performs determination of step S9 (step S9).

FIG. 8 shows an example of a list of external image forming apparatuses 2 that can be used.
In the list of FIG. 8, for each of the available external image forming apparatuses 2, in order from the left, a check column, position information of the external image forming apparatus 2, color speed (sheets / minute), and presence / absence of a post-processing function Is displayed.
As post-processing functions, for example, the presence / absence of functions such as stapling, punching, saddle stitching / center folding, booklet, copy-forgery-inhibited pattern copy, enlarged continuous shooting, OHP interleaf, long print, and clear holder printing is displayed. Here, “◯” in the post-processing function indicates that there is a function, and “×” indicates that there is no function.

The control unit 10 acquires information on the external image forming apparatus 2 by checking the available external image forming apparatus 2 when the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on or at a predetermined time.
Check items include the status of consumables related to printing of toner, paper, etc., the occurrence of errors, the presence of post-processing options, and the like.

  Specifically, as shown in Fig. 9, it can be used with the message "The following color MFPs are available. Please check the color MFP you want to use and press the [OK] key." A list of external image forming apparatuses 2 is displayed.

  On the other hand, in step S5, when there is only one external image forming apparatus 2 that can be used (when the determination in step S5 is No), in step S8, the control unit 10 determines that the external image forming apparatus 2 is concerned. The main screen is displayed and processing is accepted (step S8).

Thereafter, in step S10, the control unit 10 issues a PIN code for authentication of the external image forming apparatus 2 to which a color image is to be output, and causes the display operation unit 171 to display it (step S10).
Further, the control unit 10 may transmit the PIN code to the user's mobile terminal or the like.
Thereafter, the control unit 10 ends the processing of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Specifically, the control unit 10 directly clones the data on the main screen of the external image forming apparatus 2 via the network 3, thereby forming an external image on the display operation unit 171 as shown in FIG. 10. The main screen of the device 2 is displayed.

Next, in step S9, the control unit 10 determines whether one external image forming apparatus 2 is selected from the list of available external image forming apparatuses 2 (step S9).
When one external image forming apparatus 2 is selected (when the determination in step S9 is Yes), the control unit 10 performs the process of step S8 (step S8).

  On the other hand, when one external image forming apparatus 2 is not selected (when the determination in step S8 is No), the control unit 10 performs the process of step S3 (step S3).

  Alternatively, the control unit 10 displays a list of available external image forming apparatuses 2 and displays a predetermined time (for example, one minute) when a specific external image forming apparatus 2 is not selected. You may make it perform the transfer process to step S3.

  After receiving the monochrome mode process, the control unit 10 ends the process of the image forming apparatus 1.

  It is assumed that the control unit 10 temporarily stores print data in the storage unit 13 when receiving a print instruction to the external image forming apparatus 2 that can be used.

<Procedure for Printing Color Image by External Image Forming Apparatus 2>
Next, a color image printing procedure by the external image forming apparatus 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an outline of processing by the available external image forming apparatus 2.

  When a PIN code is input from the operation unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 in step S11 of FIG. 11 (step S11), the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 receives the input PIN code in step S12. Based on the above, print data is requested to the image forming apparatus 1 (step S12).

  When receiving a print request from the external image forming apparatus 2, the control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 causes the external image forming apparatus 2 to transmit print data to the communication unit 15.

  Next, in step S13, the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 determines whether print data has been received (step S13).

When print data is received (when the determination in step S13 is Yes), the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 causes the printing unit to print a color image based on the print data in step S14 (step S14). .
Thereafter, the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 ends the process.

  On the other hand, when print data is not received in step S13 (when the determination in step S13 is No), the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 repeats the determination in step S13 (step S13).

  In this way, even a user who does not own the external image forming apparatus 2 (color machine), which has an initial cost, and who owns only the image forming apparatus 1 (monochrome machine), does not take out the document outside. Thus, the image forming apparatus 1 that can easily print the image of the document from the external image forming apparatus 2 can be realized.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, an image forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming system 100A according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 12, an image forming system 100 A according to the present invention includes an image forming apparatus 1 according to the present invention, an external image forming apparatus 2, and a server 4, which are connected to each other via a network 3.
The image forming system 100A according to the second embodiment is different from the image forming system 100 according to the first embodiment in that the server 4 is included.

The server 4 holds the data of the main screen of the external image forming apparatus 2 and transmits the data of the main screen in response to a request from the image forming apparatus 1.
The server 4 holds the operation settings and print data transmitted from the image forming apparatus 1 and transmits the print data in response to a request from the external image forming apparatus 2.

<Print setting of color image by image forming apparatus 1>
Next, an outline of processing by the image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an outline of processing by the image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
The processes in steps S21 to S30 in FIG. 13 correspond to the processes in steps S1 to S10 in FIG.
Here, processing in steps S31 to S32 not shown in FIG. 6 will be described.
The schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment is the same as the configuration illustrated in FIG.

  When one external image forming apparatus 2 is selected in step S29 in FIG. 13 (when the determination in step S29 is Yes), the control unit 10 selects to store the print data in the server 4 in step S31. It is determined whether or not it has been done (step S31).

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a list of available external image forming apparatuses 2 displayed on the display operation unit 171 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 14, a display of “deposit in a Web storage box” is displayed together with a check box on the list of available external image forming apparatuses 2.
The user can select saving of print data in the server 4 by checking the check box and pressing the “OK” key.

In step S31, when storage of print data in the server 4 is selected (when the determination in step S31 is Yes), the control unit 10 causes the server 4 to transmit print data to the communication unit 15 in step S32. (Step S32).
Then, the control part 10 performs the process of step S28 (step S28).

<Procedure for Printing Color Image by External Image Forming Apparatus 2>
Next, a color image printing procedure by the external image forming apparatus 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an outline of processing by the available external image forming apparatus 2.

The processes in steps S41, S43, and S44 in FIG. 15 correspond to the processes in steps S11, S13, and S14 in FIG.
Here, the process of step S42 and S45-S47 which are not described in FIG. 11 is demonstrated.

  When a PIN code is input from the operation unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 in step S41 in FIG. 15, the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 sends the server 4 to the server 4 based on the PIN code in the subsequent step S42. Print data is requested (step S42).

  In this way, the user can download the print data from the server 4 and print it by inputting the PIN code to the external image forming apparatus 2.

  Next, after printing a color image in step S44, the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 displays a message for selecting whether or not to erase the print data in the server in step S45. (Step S45).

  Subsequently, in step S46, the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 determines whether or not the user has selected to delete the print data in the server 4 (step S46).

  When the erasing of the print data in the server 4 is selected (when the determination in step S46 is Yes), the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 issues a print data erasure command to the server 4 in step S47. The data is transmitted to the communication unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 (step S47).

  On the other hand, when the erasing of the print data in the server 4 is not selected (when the determination in step S46 is No), the control unit of the external image forming apparatus 2 ends the process.

  Thus, by leaving the print data in the server 4, it is possible to continue to download the print data from another external image forming apparatus 2 and print it. Therefore, the user can print the same print data from the external image forming apparatus 2 installed in the vicinity of a plurality of business trip destinations.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, an image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a main screen display process of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 shows an example of a login screen of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing.
The schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment is the same as the configuration illustrated in FIG.

In step S51 of FIG. 16, the control unit 10 causes the display operation unit 171 to display a login screen.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, a login screen that prompts input of a login name and password is displayed on the display operation unit 171.

Next, in step S52, the control unit 10 determines whether or not a login name and a password have been input (step S52).
When the login name and the password are input (when the determination in step S52 is Yes), the control unit 10 performs the determination in step S53 (step S53).
On the other hand, when the login name and password are not input (when the determination in step S52 is No), the control unit 10 repeats the determination in step S52 (step S52).

Next, in step S53, the control unit 10 determines whether or not the user is permitted to use the color mode based on the input login name (step S53).
When the user is permitted to use the color mode (when the determination in step S53 is Yes), the control unit 10 displays the main screen to which the “color mode” key K1 is added on the display operation unit 171 in step S54. (Step S54).
On the other hand, when the user is not permitted to use the color mode (when the determination in step S53 is No), the control unit 10 displays a main screen without the “color mode” key K1 on the display operation unit 171 in step S55. (Step S55).

  In this way, by displaying the main screen with the “color mode” key K1 added only to users who are permitted to use the color mode, it is possible to prevent confusion among normal users who use only the monochrome function.

(Modification 1)
Next, as a first modification of the third embodiment, when a predetermined hidden pattern operation is performed, the mode may be shifted to the color mode.
The hidden pattern operation is, for example, an operation of touching a specific part (such as the upper right part) on the screen of the display operation unit 171 a specific number of times (such as four times).

(Modification 2)
As a second modification of the third embodiment, for example, the operation may be changed from the “special function” setting to the color mode by an operation of moving a plurality of levels from the main screen.

(Modification 3)
As a third modification of the third embodiment, it may be possible to determine whether or not the user is permitted to use the color mode based on biometric authentication such as an IC card, fingerprint authentication, and iris authentication instead of a login name.

(Embodiment 4)
Next, an image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a list of available external image forming apparatuses 2 displayed on the display operation unit 171 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the control unit 10 may display a print acquisition time required for printing when displaying a list of available external image forming apparatuses 2.

For example, it is assumed that the following two external image forming apparatuses 2A and 2B can be used when printing five copies of a 100-page document.
(1) An external image forming apparatus 2A that is installed on the office floor 3 minutes on foot and has 20 sheets of color per minute.
(2) An external image forming apparatus 2B installed in a convenience store 5 minutes on foot and 60 sheets of color per minute.

  At this time, the display operation unit 171 displays that the external image forming apparatus 2A takes 28 minutes to print, and the external image forming apparatus 2B takes 13.34 minutes.

  In this way, the user can select an external image forming apparatus 2 that can be used with reference to the print acquisition time required for printing displayed in the list, so that convenience for the user is improved.

(Embodiment 5)
Next, an image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a search range of the available external image forming apparatus 2 displayed on the display operation unit 171 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 19, when searching for an external image forming apparatus 2 that can be used, the control unit 10 determines the position of the image forming apparatus 1, the position specified by the user (from the point of detection or movement planned destination by GPS). Search) or a region specified by the user can be used as a search origin.

  In this way, since the appropriate external image forming apparatus 2 is searched based on the point designated by the user, it is possible to select the convenient external image forming apparatus 2.

(Embodiment 6)
As the image forming apparatus 1 of the sixth embodiment, the control unit 10 searches the display operation unit 171 for the external image forming apparatus 2 that is close to the business trip destination based on the user's schedule information (business trip destination, time zone, etc.). You may make it do.

  In this way, since an appropriate external image forming apparatus 2 is searched according to the user's schedule information, it is possible to select the convenient external image forming apparatus 2.

(Embodiment 7)
When the user sets post-processing functions such as stapling, punching, and booklet processing as the image forming apparatus 1 according to the seventh embodiment, the control unit 10 displays only the external image forming apparatus 2 having the post-processing function. You may make it display on the part 171. FIG.

  In this way, since the external image forming apparatus 2 that can use the post-processing function set by the user is searched, it is possible to select the external image forming apparatus 2 that is highly convenient.

(Embodiment 8)
As the image forming apparatus 1 according to the eighth embodiment, the control unit 10 may display the available external image forming apparatus 2 on the display operation unit 171 based on the time zone in which the user uses the image forming apparatus 1. Good.

  For example, when the user prints print data that takes 30 minutes or more to print at 17:00, the image forming apparatus 2 outside the office that closes at 17:15 cannot complete printing, so the color machine is excluded from the candidates. Is done.

  Even if the external image forming apparatus 2 in the office is closed for 10 minutes at 17:30, the external image forming apparatus 2 is excluded from the candidates even if the user travel time is 30 minutes or more. Is done.

  In this way, since only the color machines in the time zone that the user can use are listed, it is possible to select the external image forming apparatus 2 that is highly convenient.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention include combinations of any of the above-described plurality of embodiments.
In addition to the above-described embodiments, there can be various modifications of the present invention. These modifications should not be construed as not belonging to the scope of the present invention. The present invention should include the meaning equivalent to the scope of the claims and all modifications within the scope.

1: image forming apparatus, 2, 2A, 2B, 2C: external image forming apparatus, 3: network, 4: server, 10: control unit, 11: image data acquisition unit, 12: image forming unit, 13: storage unit , 14: image processing unit, 15: communication unit, 16: paper feeding unit, 17: panel unit, 18: timing unit, 100, 100A: image forming system, 121: LSU, 171: display operation unit, 172: physical operation Part, K1: key

Claims (6)

An image data acquisition unit for acquiring image data;
An image forming unit that forms an image based on the image data;
A display operation unit that displays an operation screen and receives a command from the user;
A communication unit that receives information of an external image forming apparatus via a network and transmits an instruction to form an image based on the image data and the image data to the external image forming apparatus;
A control unit that controls the image data acquisition unit, the image forming unit, the display operation unit, and the communication unit;
When the control unit receives an instruction to form an image from the external image forming apparatus from the display operation unit, the external image forming apparatus can be used based on the information received by the communication unit. The display operation unit, and when one of the external image forming apparatuses displayed in the list is selected, an instruction to form an image is issued. When the display operation unit accepts, the external image forming apparatus transmits the image data and the command to the communication unit, and causes the external image forming apparatus to form an image based on the image data. An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus has a function of forming a monochrome image,
The image data acquisition unit has a function of acquiring color image data,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the external image forming apparatus has a function of forming a color image. The information includes operation screen data of the external image forming apparatus,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display operation unit displays on the operation screen an operation key that receives a command to form an image by the external image forming apparatus. A user authentication unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit causes the display operation unit to display the operation key when the user authentication unit authenticates a predetermined user.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit displays the operation key on the display operation unit when the display operation unit receives a predetermined operation.   The information on the external image forming apparatus includes at least one piece of information related to the position, image forming speed, and operating status of the external image forming apparatus, and the control unit includes the image data and the information. The external image forming apparatus calculates an expected time required to form an image based on the image data, and causes the display operation unit to display a list of the external image forming apparatus and the estimated time. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 5.