JP2019053496A - System and program for printing - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a system for printing capable of notifying in timing information about by which printer and when printing should be done for a user scheduled to output a printed matter after a lapse of a long time from sending a print job of pull-printing to a server.SOLUTION: A system for printing includes an administrative server 10 having an information collection part 21 that repeatedly gathers information for determining by which printer out of a plurality of printers and when printing of a print job being held should be done, a device detection part 22 that repeatedly detects a suitable printer currently in a state suitable for printing one print job being held among the plurality of printers based on the gathered information, a timing determination part 23 that repeatedly determines, when a suitable printer has been detected, whether or not notification timing suited for notifying an owner of the one print job of the suitable printer has arrived, and a notification part 24 that notifies the owner of the one print job of the suitable printer when notification timing has arrived.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing system and a program for temporarily storing a received print job in a storage unit, and transferring the print job to a printing device selected later by the owner of the print job from a plurality of printing devices. .

  As a method for printing a confidential document, there is pull printing via a server. In pull printing, generally, a print job specifying a destination user is transmitted from a terminal device such as a PC (personal computer) to a server, the print job is held in the server, and the user can use a user with any printing device. When authentication is performed and a server requests acquisition of a print job addressed to itself from the operation panel, the corresponding print job is transferred from the server to the printing apparatus and printing is started. Pull printing receives user authentication at the output destination printing device at the start of printing, ensuring that the user is in front of the printing device and preventing information leakage due to the peeping of printed matter by others. can do.

  In a printing system that supports pull printing, a user who has submitted a print job to a server can perform printing on a favorite printing apparatus at any time. However, if you go to the desired printing device to actually start printing, your print job cannot be executed immediately because of out of materials (paper, toner) or while another person's print job is being output. , And so on.

  In order to cope with this problem, in the printing system disclosed in Patent Document 1 below, when a pull print print job is transmitted to the server, the state of the printing apparatus that is likely to be used by the user of the print job (out of toner) (Out of paper / occurrence of JAM / power supply) to the user, if there is a problem with the printing device that is always used, the user should be advised in advance to select another printing device as the output destination. Can be noticed.

JP 2014-85728 A

  In pull printing via a server, the period from when a print job is submitted to the server until the printing is actually started by the printing device may be relatively long, during which the status of the printing device (remaining amount of material, (Situations such as jams and malfunctions) may change.

  Therefore, when a pull print print job disclosed in Patent Document 1 is transmitted to the server, the state of the printing apparatus that is likely to be used by the user of the print job (out of toner / out of paper / occurrence of JAM / power supply) ) To the user, it is not possible to provide effective information to the user who starts printing after a long time has passed since the print job was submitted to the server. If you try, you still have a case where you couldn't use the printer right away. In other words, when printing is not started immediately after a pull print print job is transmitted to the server, the user cannot obtain information that accurately knows when and when to print with which printing apparatus.

  The present invention is intended to solve the above-described problem. When a user intends to output a printed matter after a long time has passed since a pull print print job is transmitted to the server, the user can print on which printing device. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing system and a program thereof that can provide information on what to do in a timely manner.

  The gist of the present invention for achieving the object lies in the inventions of the following items.

[1] A printing system that temporarily stores a received print job in a storage unit, and transfers the print job to a printing device selected later by the owner of the print job from a plurality of printing devices.
An information collection unit that repeatedly collects information for determining when to print on which printing device of the plurality of printing devices a print job held in the storage unit;
Based on the information collected by the information collection unit, among the plurality of printing devices, detection of a suitable printing device currently in a state suitable for printing one print job held in the storage unit is repeatedly performed. A device detector;
When the suitable printing device is detected by the device detecting unit, a notification timing suitable for notifying the owner of the one print job of the preferred printing device based on the information collected by the information collecting unit. A time determination unit that repeatedly determines whether or not it has arrived,
A notification unit that notifies the owner of the one print job of the preferred printing device when the timing determination unit determines that the notification timing has arrived;
A printing system characterized by comprising:

  In the above invention, the printing apparatus (preferred printing apparatus) that is currently in a state suitable for printing one print job by repeatedly collecting information for determining when to print on which printing apparatus among the plurality of printing apparatuses. When a suitable printing apparatus is detected, it is determined whether or not an appropriate timing for notifying the owner of one print job of information relating to the preferred printing apparatus is now. When it is determined that the present notification timing is appropriate, the user (owner) of one print job is notified of information on a suitable printing apparatus.

[2] The information collection unit collects the status of the printing apparatus and the position information of the owner.
The printing system according to [1], wherein

  In the above invention, the state of the printing apparatus is the occurrence of a failure, the remaining amount of material, the power supply state, and the like. The position of the owner may be a position relative to the printing apparatus.

[3] The device detection unit analyzes the information collected by the information collection unit during the most recent predetermined period,
The printing waiting time is within the specified time,
The probability of completing printing without any problems is above a certain level,
Be in a state where output is possible without switching the power supply state,
The printing system according to [1] or [2], wherein a printing device that satisfies a predetermined one or more of the printing devices is detected as the preferred printing device.

[4] The device detection unit
The printing according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the suitable printing device is detected on condition that the suitable printing device exists within a predetermined distance from the owner. system.

[5] The time determination unit
When the preferred printing device detected by the device detection unit is switched,
When the owner is within a predetermined distance of the preferred printing device,
When within a predetermined time from the reserved output time of the one print job,
The printing system according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein it is determined that the notification timing has arrived when one or more of the predetermined conditions are satisfied.

[6] The notification unit
Causing the preferred printing device to pronounce a voice message indicating that the device is the preferred printing device;
Causing the owner's mobile terminal to pronounce a voice message indicating which printing device is the preferred printing device;
Causing the display unit of the preferred printing device to display that the device is the preferred printing device;
Displaying information indicating which printing device is the preferred printing device on the display unit of the owner's mobile terminal;
The printing system according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the notification is performed by one or more of the above.

[7] The notification by the method of causing the preferred printing device to sound a voice message indicating that the preferred device is the preferred printing device is within a predetermined distance of the preferred printing device by the owner. The printing system according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the printing system is performed on the condition.

[8] The notification by the method of causing the preferred printing apparatus to sound a voice message indicating that the own printing apparatus is the preferred printing apparatus is performed by a notification other than the owner within a predetermined distance of the preferred printing apparatus. The printing system according to [7], which is performed on condition that there are no more than a predetermined number of people.

[9] When the owner is away from the preferred printing device by a predetermined distance or more when the notification is performed by causing the preferred printing device to generate a voice message, the notification unit The printing system according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the notification is performed by a mobile terminal.

[10] A server that temporarily stores the received print job in a storage unit, and transfers the print job to a printing device selected later by the owner of the print job from a plurality of printing devices, and prints the server
A program that operates to fulfill the functions of the information collection unit, the device detection unit, the time determination unit, and the notification unit in the printing system according to any one of [1] to [9].

  According to the printing system and the program according to the present invention, when to print on which printing device for a user who intends to output a printed matter after a long time has passed since a pull print job is transmitted to the server. Information can be provided in a timely manner.

It is a figure which shows the system configuration example of the printing system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a management server. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of a user's portable terminal. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of processing performed by a management server of the printing system. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of step S003 of the process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the continuation of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of step S004 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the continuation of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of step S005 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a process of step S063 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a process of step S064 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a process of step S065 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of step S007 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a process of FIG.14 S103. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of a process of FIG.14 S104. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of the process of step S105 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of step S009 of FIG.

  Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a system configuration example of a printing system 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The printing system 5 is operated in an office or the like. The printing system 5 includes a network 3 such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a management server 10 having a function as a pull print server, a plurality of image forming apparatuses 30 having a function as a printing apparatus, and a management server 10. The information processing device 8 of each user who transmits the print job and the portable terminal 50 carried by each user are connected. Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus 30 is also referred to as an MFP.

  The information processing apparatus 8 is a PC (Personal Computer) or the like in which a printer driver program or the like is installed. Upon receiving a pull print print job from the information processing apparatus 8, the management server 10 temporarily holds the print job in the storage unit of the management server 10, and thereafter, a plurality of owners (users) of the print job are under management. When one of the image forming apparatuses 30 is selected as the output destination of the print job, the print job is transferred to the selected image forming apparatus 30 and printed.

  More specifically, after transmitting a pull print print job from the information processing apparatus 8 or the like to the management server 10, the user logs in to any of the image forming apparatuses 30 and makes an output request for the print job at any time. . The output request is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 30 to the management server 10, and the management server 10 that has received the output request transfers the corresponding print job to the image forming apparatus 30 that is the transmission source of the output request. The image forming apparatus 30 executes printing based on the print job transferred from the management server 10. In the printing system 5, pull printing is performed in such a flow.

  In addition, the management server 10 of the printing system 5 periodically determines when and which image forming apparatus 30 among the plurality of managed image forming apparatuses 30 should print a print job held in the storage unit of the own apparatus. And a notification function for notifying the owner (user) of the held print job of information on the image forming apparatus 30 suitable for printing at an appropriate timing.

  Here, the management server 10 has an image forming apparatus 30 (hereinafter referred to as an optimum MFP) in a state suitable for execution of a print job at the present time, and the present time indicates the existence of the optimum MFP in the print job. When it is determined that the timing is suitable for notifying the user, the optimum MFP information is notified to the user of the print job. When the corresponding user is near the optimum MFP, the notification is performed by outputting or displaying a message from the optimum MFP by voice so that the corresponding user is near the optimum MFP. If not, the user's portable terminal 50 outputs or displays a message by voice.

An example of a use case in which the printing system 5 works effectively will be shown.
(Case 1)
The next day's meeting materials (electronic data) creation work was completed the night before the meeting, but the printed meeting materials were put on the desk according to ISMS (Information Security Management System) regulations (clear desk regulations). Cases where it is not possible to leave them, and there is no empty space in the cabinet, and it is only necessary to finish printing materials 15 minutes before the start of the meeting.

  On the night before the meeting, the user goes to the point where a print job for printing the material is submitted to the server, and the actual printing comes home on the next day, thinking about printing. The next day, when the user enters the floor where the MFP is installed (for example, the self-study space on the fifth floor), the printing system 5 has the ability to execute this print job on that floor, It is checked whether there is an optimal MFP (preferred printing apparatus) that is well (no failure or malfunction and has enough materials) and has a low waiting time. If there is an optimal MFP, the user's mobile terminal 50 In addition, the user is notified by sending a message recommending that the meeting material be printed immediately with the optimum MFP on the floor. If the user is near the optimum MFP, the above notification is performed by calling out from the optimum MFP by voice.

  As a result, the user can recognize that the conference material can be printed smoothly with the optimal MFP notified immediately. For example, if the user tries to print immediately before the conference, the printing device may be broken or another user may It is possible to avoid the occurrence of a situation where the user cannot print his / her material due to a large print job.

(Case 2)
After submitting a pull-print print job to the server, if the user was thinking about printing during breaks or between work, on the way to other departments for work or work (when walking in the office) or during breaks Executes a print job that has already been submitted and has not yet been output during the time (toilet, smoking, shopping at a store, lunch) from your seat to your destination (toilet, smoking room, store, in-house dining room or outside). When there is an optimal MFP with possible capabilities, good condition, and low waiting time, in the printing system 5, when the user passes near the optimal MFP, from the management server 10, the user's portable terminal 50 is notified of the optimum MFP, or when the user passes near the optimum MFP, a call is made by voice from the optimum MFP.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the management server 10. The management server 10 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 as a control unit that comprehensively controls the operation of the management server 10. The CPU 11 is connected to a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a nonvolatile memory 14, a hard disk device 15, a network communication unit 16, an operation panel 17 and the like through a bus.

  The CPU 11 is based on an OS (Operating System) program, and executes middleware, application programs, and the like. Various programs are stored in the ROM 12, and each function of the management server 10 is realized by the CPU 11 executing various processes in accordance with these programs.

  The RAM 13 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 11 executes processing based on a program.

  The nonvolatile memory 14 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information. In addition, various management tables related to the notification function described above are created and stored in the nonvolatile memory 14.

  The hard disk device (storage unit) 15 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and stores various programs and data. The hard disk device 15 holds a pull print print job received from the information processing device 8 or the like.

  The network communication unit 16 performs a function of communicating with the information processing apparatus 8, the image forming apparatus 30, the portable terminal 50, and other various apparatuses through the network 3 and wireless communication.

  The operation panel 17 includes an operation unit 18 and a display unit 19. The display unit 19 functions to display various operation screens, setting screens, and the like. The display unit 19 includes a liquid crystal display and its driver. The operation unit 18 functions to receive various operations from the user. The operation unit 18 includes a keyboard that receives input of characters, numbers, symbols, and the like, and a touch screen provided on the display surface of the display unit 19.

  The CPU 11 of the management server 10 functions based on a program to perform functions such as an information collection unit 21, a device detection unit 22, a time determination unit 23, and a notification unit 24.

  The information collection unit 21 sends a print job held in the hard disk device (storage unit) 15 at any image forming apparatus 30 among a plurality of managed image forming apparatuses 30 connected via the network 3. Information is repeatedly collected to determine whether to print.

  Here, information on the functions and capabilities of each image forming apparatus 30 (usable paper size, color / monochrome, whether double-sided printing is possible, etc.), information indicating the apparatus status, position information of the owner of the print job and other users Collect etc. Information indicating the device status includes device operation status, trouble occurrence status (type of trouble that occurred, occurrence rate for each type), waiting time (job queue status, etc.), power status (on, off, sleep, Power saving mode).

  The position information of the owner of the print job and other users is acquired from, for example, a portable terminal 50 having a GPS function possessed by each user, or a camera is installed in each image forming apparatus 30 or each room or hallway in the office. Installed, acquired and analyzed images taken by these cameras, recognize the position of each user. The image analysis processing may be performed on the camera side (for example, the image forming apparatus 30 having a camera). The position information may be represented by a relative position with respect to each image forming apparatus 30.

  The information is collected at a predetermined cycle such as 30 seconds. If the period is shortened, it will approach the state of continuous collection.

  The device detection unit 22 is a hard disk among a plurality of managed image forming devices 30 based on the information collected by the information collection unit 21 (analyzing information collected by the information collection unit during the most recent predetermined period). The image forming apparatus 30 (optimum MFP) that is currently in a state suitable for printing of the print job held in the apparatus (storage unit) 15 is repeatedly detected. Here, the detection is performed at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 30 seconds). The detection cycle is preferably the same as the cycle in which the information collecting unit 21 collects information. If the cycle is shortened, detection is always performed.

The best MFP for one print job is
(1) have the ability to execute the print job (color, A3, duplex, etc.);
(2) The printing waiting time is within a predetermined time,
(3) The probability of completing printing without any obstacles (including out of resources) is a certain level or higher.
(4) The output state is possible without switching the power supply state.
An MFP satisfying one or more predetermined conditions. Note that the presence of the print job within a predetermined distance from the owner of the print job may be included in the optimum MFP detection condition.

  When the device detection unit 22 detects the optimum MFP for one print job, the timing determination unit 23 selects the optimum MFP based on the information collected by the information collection unit 21 for the one print job. It is repeatedly determined whether notification timing suitable for notifying the owner has arrived.

Here, the time determination unit 23
(1) When the optimum MFP detected by the device detection unit 22 is switched,
(2) When the owner of the print job is within a predetermined distance of the optimum MFP,
(3) When the print job output reservation time is within a predetermined time,
It is determined that the notification timing has arrived when predetermined one or more of the above are satisfied.

  It is desirable that the determination cycle be the same as the cycle in which the information collection unit 21 collects information while the optimum MFP is detected. For example, while the optimum MFP is detected, every time the information collection unit 21 acquires new information, the notification timing is determined. If the period is shortened, it is always judged.

The notification unit 24
(1) Have the optimal MFP pronounce a voice message indicating that the apparatus is the optimal MFP (send a voice output instruction to the MFP),
(2) causing the portable terminal of the owner of the print job to pronounce a voice message indicating which MFP is the optimum MFP (sending a voice output instruction to the portable terminal);
(3) Display on the display unit of the operation panel of the optimum MFP that the own apparatus is the optimum MFP (send a display instruction to the MFP),
(4) Displaying information indicating which MFP is the optimum MFP on the display unit of the portable terminal of the owner of the print job (display instruction is transmitted to the portable terminal),
The user is notified by one or more of the above.

  In the case of notifying by the above method (1), the notifying unit 24 uses the condition that the owner of the corresponding print job is within a predetermined distance of the optimum MFP as a notification condition, or even more optimal. The notification condition is that there are no more than a predetermined number of users other than the owner of the corresponding print job within a predetermined distance of the MFP.

  Furthermore, when the notification unit 24 performs notification by the method (1) and the owner of the corresponding print job is away from the optimum MFP by a predetermined distance or more, the notification unit 24 uses the portable terminal of the owner of the print job. The notification method is switched to notify from 50. That is, switching to the notification method (2) or (4) above.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 30. The image forming apparatus 30 includes a CPU 31 that comprehensively controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 30. The CPU 31 includes a ROM 32, a RAM 33, an image reading unit 34, a printer unit 35, an operation panel 36, an authentication unit 39, an image processing unit 41, a nonvolatile memory 42, a hard disk device 43, an automatic document conveying unit 44, a facsimile communication unit 45, A network communication unit 46, an audio output unit 47, and the like are connected.

  The CPU 31 is based on the OS program, and executes middleware, application programs, and the like. Various programs are stored in the ROM 32, and each function of the image forming apparatus 30 is realized by the CPU 31 executing various processes in accordance with these programs.

  The RAM 33 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 31 executes processing based on a program, an image memory for storing image data, and the like.

  The nonvolatile memory 42 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information.

  The hard disk device 43 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and stores various programs and data in addition to print job data and image data.

  The image reading unit 34 functions to optically read a document and acquire image data. The image reading unit 34 sequentially, for example, a light source that irradiates light on a document, a line image sensor that receives the reflected light and reads the document for one line in the width direction, and sequentially reads the reading position in units of lines in the length direction of the document. An optical path composed of a moving unit for moving, a lens, a mirror, and the like for guiding reflected light from the document to the line image sensor to form an image, and a conversion unit for converting an analog image signal output from the line image sensor into digital image data And so on.

  The automatic document transport unit 44 feeds a document set on a document table one by one from the top one by one in order, passes the reading position of the image reading unit 34, and discharges the document to a predetermined discharge position. Fulfill. The image reading unit 34 has a function of reading a document placed on the platen glass and a function of sequentially reading a document conveyed by the automatic document conveyance unit 44.

  The operation panel 36 includes an operation unit 37 and a display unit 38. The display unit 38 has a function of displaying various operation screens, setting screens, and the like, and includes a liquid crystal display. The operation unit 37 includes various hard keys such as a start button and a numeric keypad that receive various operations from the user, and a touch screen provided on the display surface of the display unit 38. The touch screen is the same as that provided in the management server 10.

  The network communication unit 46 has a function of communicating with various devices, the management server 10, and the portable terminal 50 through a network.

  The voice output unit 47 generates a voice message or the like.

  The image processing unit 41 performs rasterization processing for converting print data into image data, image data compression and expansion processing, in addition to processing such as image enlargement / reduction and rotation.

  The printer unit 35 has a function of forming an image corresponding to image data on a recording sheet. Here, it has a recording paper transport device, a photosensitive drum, a charging device, a laser unit, a developing device, a transfer separation device, a cleaning device, and a fixing device, and forms an image by an electrophotographic process. It is configured as a so-called laser printer. Other methods may be used for image formation. The printer unit 35 includes a state detection unit such as a sensor for detecting the remaining amount of materials such as paper and toner and a sensor for detecting paper jam (JAM).

  The facsimile communication unit 45 performs a function of transmitting / receiving image data to / from a device having a facsimile function via a telephone line.

  The authentication unit 39 authenticates a user who uses the image forming apparatus 30. The authentication method may be any method using a password, ID card, fingerprint, vein, or the like. When an output request for a pull print print job is made, the user logs in the image forming apparatus 30 with user authentication by the authentication unit 39.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the user's portable terminal 50. The portable terminal 50 has a CPU 51 that controls the operation of the portable terminal 50 in an integrated manner. A ROM 52, RAM 53, nonvolatile memory 54, operation panel 55, authentication unit 58, network communication unit 59, position detection unit 61, audio output unit 62, and the like are connected to the CPU 51 through a bus. The portable terminal 50 may be configured with a general-purpose smartphone or the like.

  The CPU 51 is based on the OS program and executes middleware, application programs, and the like. Various programs are stored in the ROM 52, and each function of the portable terminal 50 is realized by the CPU 51 executing various processes in accordance with these programs.

  The RAM 53 is used as a work memory that temporarily stores various data when the CPU 51 executes processing based on a program.

  The nonvolatile memory 54 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information, storing application programs, and the like.

  The network communication unit 59 performs a function of communicating with various devices, the management server 10, the image forming apparatus 30, and the like through a network.

  The operation panel 55 includes an operation unit 56 and a display unit 57. The display unit 57 has a function of displaying various operation screens, setting screens, and the like. The operation unit 56 functions to receive various operations from the user, and includes a small number of hard switches and a touch panel.

  The authentication unit 58 authenticates a user who uses the portable terminal 50. The authentication method may be any method using a password, fingerprint, vein or the like.

  The position detection unit 61 detects the position of the mobile terminal 50 using a GPS function or the like. The voice output unit 62 generates a voice message.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of processing performed by the management server 10 of the printing system 5. When the management server 10 receives a pre-print print job from the information processing apparatus 8 or the like (step S001; Yes), the management server 10 associates the received print job with user information (information of the owner of the print job) and stores the print job. It is stored in (hard disk device 15) (step S002).

  The management server 10 (information collection unit 21) acquires various types of information of the MFP (image forming apparatus 30) connected to the management server 10 via the network 3 (step S003). Next, the management server 10 acquires the position information of the user (owner) of the unoutput print job held in the storage unit 15 of the own apparatus (step S004). In addition, in step S004, the location information of all users near the managed MFP is acquired.

  Next, the management server 10 (device detection unit 22) performs an MFP detection process optimal for processing a print job that has not been output (step S005). When the optimum MFP is not detected (step S006; No), the process proceeds to step S010.

  When an optimum MFP for processing an unoutput print job is detected (step S006; Yes), the management server 10 (time determination unit 23) selects the detected optimum MFP as an unoutput print job. It is determined whether the optimal timing for notifying the user is now (current time) (step S007).

  The management server 10 (notification unit 24) notifies the corresponding user of the optimum MFP (recommend printing immediately with the optimum MFP) if the present notification timing is optimum (step S008; Yes). (Step S009), the process proceeds to step S010.

  In step S010, it is checked whether there is an unoutput print job in the storage unit 15. If there is a print job for which printing has not been completed (not output) (step S010; No), the process returns to step S003 to continue the processing. If printing of all print jobs has been completed (step S010; Yes), this process ends.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing details of step S003 in FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 acquires an IP address of each MFP managed by the management server 10 with reference to a management table (not shown) (step S021).

  The management server 10 creates a command signal 1 for confirming the connection state with the management server 10 (step S022), and transmits the command signal 1 to all managed MFPs (step S023).

  Thereafter, the reception of the response signal 1 with respect to the command signal 1 is waited, and when a predetermined time has elapsed since the command signal 1 was transmitted (step S024; No), or from all the MFPs that are the transmission destination of the command signal 1 When the response signal 1 for the command signal 1 is received (step S025; Yes), the MFP information in the management table is updated based on the received response signal 1 (step S026). In other words, the MFP that has returned the response signal 1 registers in the management table that the MFP is connected to the management server 10 and the MFP that does not return the response signal 1 does not connect to the management server 10.

  Next, the management server 10 creates a command signal 2 for requesting the MFP for various pieces of device information (step S027), and an MFP (registered with connection) registered in the management table updated in step S026 ( The IP address of the MFP currently connected to the management server 10 is acquired (step S028). Then, the command signal 2 is transmitted to the MFP having the IP address acquired in step S028 (the MFP connected to the management server 10) (step S029).

  Thereafter, the reception of the response signal 2 for the command signal 2 is waited, and when a certain time has elapsed since the command signal 2 was transmitted (step S030; No), or a command is sent from all the MFPs to which the command signal 2 is transmitted. When the response signal 2 to the signal 2 is received (step S031; Yes), the device status information included in the received response signal 2 is associated with the current time and recorded in the management table (step S032). End the process.

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing details of step S004 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the management table, and the user (owner) of an unoutput print job stored in the storage unit of the management server 10 and information (IP address, etc.) of the user's portable terminal 50 ) (Step S041).

  Next, the management server 10 creates a command signal 3 for confirming the connection state between the management server 10 and the portable terminal 50 (step S042), and sends this to the registered portable terminals 50 of each user. Transmit (step S043).

  After that, it waits for the reception of the response signal 3 for the command signal 3, and when a certain time has passed since the command signal 3 was transmitted (step S044; No), or became the transmission destination of the command signal 3 in step S043 If the response signal 3 with respect to the command signal 3 is received from all the portable terminals 50 (step S045; Yes), the portable terminal information of a management table will be updated based on the received response signal 3 (step S046).

  That is, the mobile terminal 50 that has returned the response signal 3 indicating that communication is possible is connected to the management server 10 and can acquire position information. The terminal 50 registers in the management table that it is not connected to the management server 10 and cannot acquire position information.

  Next, the management server 10 creates a command signal 4 for requesting the location information of the mobile terminal 50 (step S047), and the mobile terminal registered as “capable of acquiring location information” in the management table updated in step S046. 50 IP addresses are acquired (step S048). And the command signal 4 is transmitted with respect to the portable terminal 50 (portable terminal 50 which can acquire position information) with the IP address acquired at step S048 (step S049).

  Thereafter, the reception of the response signal 4 to the command signal 4 is waited, and when a certain time has elapsed since the command signal 4 was transmitted (step S050; No), or all the mobile terminals 50 that are the transmission destination of the command signal 4 When the response signal 4 to the command signal 4 is received from step S051 (Yes), the positional information included in the received response signal 4 and the current time are associated with each other and recorded in the management table (step S052). End the process.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing details of step S005 in FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the nonvolatile memory 14 and obtains optimum MFP selection criteria information (step S061). The selection criteria information for selecting an optimum MFP can be set by the user selecting one or more of the options prepared in advance.

  If the optimum MFP selection criterion is set to “trouble occurrence rate” (step S062; trouble occurrence rate), a process for selecting an MFP with a low trouble occurrence rate is executed (step S063), and this process is terminated. To do.

  When the optimum MFP selection criterion is set to “waiting time” (step S062; waiting time), a process for selecting an MFP with a low processing waiting time is executed (step S064), and this process ends. .

  When the optimum MFP selection criterion is set to “power consumption” (step S062; power consumption), a process of selecting an MFP capable of processing without switching the power mode state is executed ( Step S065) This process ends.

  Note that a combination of two or more of “trouble occurrence rate”, “waiting time”, and “power consumption” may be used as the selection criterion. Further, the fact that the owner (user) of the print job is within a predetermined distance of the optimum MFP may be added to the optimum MFP selection condition.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details of the process in step S063 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to various MFP information (JAM occurrence rate, failure occurrence rate, remaining amount of material, etc.) recorded in the management table in step S032 (step S071). Then, for each MFP, the occurrence rate of JAM, the failure occurrence rate, and the remaining amount of materials (toner, paper, staples, etc.) are confirmed (step S072).

  The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the non-volatile memory 14 and acquires allowable values related to various states of the MFP (step S073). Specifically, an allowable value for the occurrence rate of JAM, an allowable value for the occurrence rate of defects, an allowable value for the remaining amount of material, and the like are acquired.

  The CPU 11 of the management server 10 is an MFP that is connected to the management server 10 and is in an available state, and that the value checked in step S072 is within the allowable value in step S073 (an MFP with a low trouble occurrence rate). ) Is performed (step S074).

  When an MFP with a low trouble occurrence rate is detected (step S075; Yes), the information of the detected MFP is registered together with the detection time, the management table is updated (step S076), and this process is terminated.

  If an MFP with a low trouble occurrence rate is not detected (step S075; No), the fact that the detected MFP does not exist is registered together with the time when the detection process is executed, and the management table is updated (step S077). This process ends.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of the process in step S064 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to various information (job processing waiting time) of the MFP recorded in the management table in step S032 (step S081). Then, the waiting time for job processing is confirmed for each MFP (step S082).

  The CPU 11 of the management server 10 is an MFP that is connected to the management server 10 and is in an available state, and the processing waiting time checked in step S082 is an MFP within a predetermined allowable time (the waiting time is low). The MFP is detected (step S083).

  If an MFP with a low waiting time is detected (step S084; Yes), the information of the detected MFP is registered together with the detection time, the management table is updated (step S085), and this process ends.

  If an MFP with a low waiting time is not detected (step S084; No), the fact that the detected MFP does not exist is registered together with the time when the detection process is executed, and the management table is updated (step S086). End the process.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing details of the process in step S065 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to various MFP information (the power mode state of the MFP) recorded in the management table in step S032 (step S091). Then, the state of the power mode is confirmed for each MFP (step S092).

  The CPU 11 of the management server 10 is an MFP that can execute a print job in the state of the power mode checked in step S092 among the MFPs connected to the management server 10 (an MFP that does not require switching of the power mode). ) Is performed (step S093). The MFP in the sleep mode or the power saving mode needs to switch the power mode to the normal power mode in order to execute the print job. An MFP already in the normal power mode can execute a print job without switching the state of the power mode.

  If an MFP capable of executing a print job without switching the power mode state is detected (step S094; Yes), the detected MFP information is registered along with the detection time, and the management table is updated (step S095). ), This process ends.

  If an MFP that can execute a print job without switching the power mode state is not detected (step S094; No), it indicates that there is no MFP that can execute the print job without switching the power mode state. Registration is performed together with the time at which the detection process is executed, the management table is updated (step S096), and this process ends.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of step S007 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the non-volatile memory 14 and acquires selection criterion information for the optimum notification timing (step S101). The selection criterion information for optimum notification timing can be set by the user selecting one or more of the options prepared in advance.

  When the optimum notification timing selection criterion is set to “optimal MFP switching” (step S0102; switching), a process of notifying when the optimal MFP is switched is executed (step S103). Exit.

  When the optimum MFP selection criterion is set to “the user of the print job has approached the optimum MFP” (step S102; being in the vicinity), the user is notified when the user of the print job has approached the optimum MFP. Is executed (step S104), and this process is terminated.

  If the optimum MFP selection criterion is set to “print reservation time is approaching” (step S102; print reservation time), a process for notifying when the print reservation time is approaching is executed (step S105). This process ends.

  It should be noted that a plurality of selection criteria “optimal MFP switching”, “print job user approaches the optimal MFP”, and “print reservation time approaches” may be combined.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing details of the process in step S103 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the management table stored in the nonvolatile memory 14 (step S111). Then, information on the most suitable MFP detected most recently is acquired (step S112), and information on the most suitable MFP detected immediately before is acquired (step S113).

  Next, the management server 10 compares the information of the most recently detected optimum MFP acquired in step S112 with the information of the most recently detected optimum MFP acquired in step S113 (step S114). Are the same or switched (step S115).

  When the optimum MFP is switched (step S115; Yes), it is determined that the present (current) is the optimum timing for notifying the owner (user) of the corresponding print job of the optimum MFP. The management table is updated by registration together with the determination time (step S116), and this process is terminated.

  If the optimum MFP has not been switched (step S115; No), this process ends.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing details of the process in step S104 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the management table stored in the nonvolatile memory 14 and acquires the optimum MFP installation position information (step S121). Next, the position information (position information of the user's portable terminal 50) of the corresponding user (owner of the corresponding print job) acquired in step S004 is acquired (step S122).

  Then, the position information of the corresponding user is compared with the optimal MFP installation position information (step S123), and it is determined whether or not the corresponding user is near the optimal MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S124).

  If the corresponding user is near the optimal MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S124; Yes), it is determined that the present (current) is the optimal timing for notifying the appropriate user of the optimal MFP. Is registered together with the determination time, the management table is updated (step S125), and this process is terminated.

  If the user is not near the optimum MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S124; No), the process ends.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing details of the process in step S105 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 refers to the management table stored in the nonvolatile memory 14 and refers to the reserved time of an unoutput print job (step S131). Next, the current time is acquired (step S132), and the current time is compared with the reserved time of the non-output print job (step S133), and the current time approaches within a predetermined time from the reserved time of the non-output print job. It is determined whether or not (step S134).

  If the current time is within a predetermined time from the reserved time of the print job that has not been output (step S134; Yes), it is determined that the present (current) is the optimal timing for notifying the user of the optimal MFP, This is registered together with the determination time, the management table is updated (step S135), and this process is terminated.

  If the current time is not within a predetermined time from the reserved time for an unoutput print job (step S134; No), this process ends.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of step S009 of FIG. The CPU 11 of the management server 10 determines whether or not a user (owner) of an unoutput print job is detected near the optimum MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S141).

  If a user of an unoutput print job is not detected near the optimum MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S141; No), information on the optimum MFP is notified to the portable terminal 50 of the user of the print job. (Step S144), the process is terminated.

  When a user of an unoutput print job is detected near the optimum MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S141; Yes), a user other than an unoutput print job is located near the optimum MFP (within a predetermined distance). It is determined whether there are a predetermined number of users or more (step S142). The predetermined number is set as appropriate (for example, about 1 to 3 people).

  If there are more than a predetermined number of users other than the user of the print job that has not been output near the optimal MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S142; Yes), the mobile terminal 50 of the user of the print job has the optimal MFP. Information is notified (step S144), and this process is terminated.

  If there are no more than a predetermined number of users other than the user of the non-output print job near the optimal MFP (within a predetermined distance) (step S142; No), the optimal MFP is in response to the user of the non-output print job. The optimal MFP is instructed to output a voice message indicating that it is desirable to immediately print the print job with the MFP (step S143).

  Thereafter, the management server 10 confirms whether the corresponding user has heard all the voice messages output from the optimum MFP or has left the optimum MFP before completing the listening (step S145). If all have been listened to (step S145; Yes: all heard), this process ends.

  If the corresponding user has moved to a position away from the optimal MFP by a predetermined distance or more before the end of the voice message by the optimal MFP (step S145; No: left without listening), the corresponding user's portable terminal 50 is displayed. The optimum MFP information is notified (step S146), and the process is terminated. In this notification, the management server 10 instructs the portable terminal 50 to output the remaining part of the voice message that is assumed not to be heard by the user. Alternatively, the portable terminal 50 is instructed to output a voice message from the beginning.

  As described above, in the printing system 5 according to the present embodiment, when a user intends to output a printed matter after a long time has passed since a pull print print job is transmitted to the server, the printing system 5 performs printing on which printing device. Information on what to do can be provided in a timely manner.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to that shown in the embodiment, and there are changes and additions within the scope of the present invention. Are also included in the present invention.

  The configuration of the printing system 5 shown in the embodiment is an example. For example, the present invention may be a single management server 10 excluding the image forming apparatus 30 and the portable terminal 50 or may be a program that causes the server to function as the management server 10. In addition, the printing system in each claim of a claim may point out the management server 10 single-piece | unit.

  The image forming apparatus 30 shown in the embodiment is an example, and any apparatus having the function of a printing apparatus may be used.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 ... Network 5 ... Printing system 8 ... Information processing apparatus 10 ... Management server 11 ... CPU
12 ... ROM
13 ... RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 14 ... Non-volatile memory 15 ... Hard disk device 16 ... Network communication part 17 ... Operation panel 18 ... Operation part 19 ... Display part 21 ... Information collection part 22 ... Device detection part 23 ... Time determination part 24 ... Notification part 30 ... Image forming apparatus 31 ... CPU
32 ... ROM
33 ... RAM
34 ... Image reading unit 35 ... Printer unit 36 ... Operation panel 37 ... Operation unit 38 ... Display unit 39 ... Authentication unit 41 ... Image processing unit 42 ... Non-volatile memory 43 ... Hard disk device 44 ... Automatic document feeder 45 ... Facsimile communication unit 46 ... Network communication part 47 ... Audio output part 50 ... Portable terminal 51 ... CPU
52 ... ROM
53 ... RAM
54 ... Non-volatile memory 55 ... Operation panel 56 ... Operation unit 57 ... Display unit 58 ... Authentication unit 59 ... Network communication unit 61 ... Position detection unit 62 ... Audio output unit

Claims (10)

A printing system that temporarily stores a received print job in a storage unit and transfers the print job to a printing device selected later by the owner of the print job from a plurality of printing devices,
An information collection unit that repeatedly collects information for determining when to print on which printing device of the plurality of printing devices a print job held in the storage unit;
Based on the information collected by the information collection unit, among the plurality of printing devices, detection of a suitable printing device currently in a state suitable for printing one print job held in the storage unit is repeatedly performed. A device detector;
When the suitable printing device is detected by the device detecting unit, a notification timing suitable for notifying the owner of the one print job of the preferred printing device based on the information collected by the information collecting unit. A time determination unit that repeatedly determines whether or not it has arrived,
A notification unit that notifies the owner of the one print job of the preferred printing device when the timing determination unit determines that the notification timing has arrived;
A printing system characterized by comprising: The information collection unit collects the status of the printing apparatus and the position information of the owner;
The printing system according to claim 1. The device detection unit analyzes the information collected by the information collection unit in the most recent predetermined period,
The printing waiting time is within the specified time,
The probability of completing printing without any problems is above a certain level,
Be in a state where output is possible without switching the power supply state,
The printing system according to claim 1, wherein a printing apparatus that satisfies a predetermined one or more of the plurality of printing apparatuses is detected as the preferred printing apparatus. The device detection unit is
The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the suitable printing apparatus is detected on condition that the suitable printing apparatus exists within a predetermined distance from the owner. The time determination unit
When the preferred printing device detected by the device detection unit is switched,
When the owner is within a predetermined distance of the preferred printing device,
When within a predetermined time from the reserved output time of the one print job,
5. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the notification timing is determined to be satisfied when a predetermined one or a plurality of the two are satisfied. The notification unit
Causing the preferred printing device to pronounce a voice message indicating that the device is the preferred printing device;
Causing the owner's mobile terminal to pronounce a voice message indicating which printing device is the preferred printing device;
Causing the display unit of the preferred printing device to display that the device is the preferred printing device;
Displaying information indicating which printing device is the preferred printing device on the display unit of the owner's mobile terminal;
The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the notification is performed by one or more of the above. The notification is performed on the condition that the owner is within a predetermined distance of the preferred printing device by the method of causing the preferred printing device to sound a voice message indicating that the own device is the preferred printing device. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The notification is performed by a person other than the owner within a predetermined distance of the preferred printing device by the notification unit by causing the preferred printing device to generate a voice message indicating that the device is the preferred printing device. The printing system according to claim 7, wherein the printing system is performed on condition that there are no more than a few. If the owner is away from the preferred printing device by a predetermined distance or more when the notification is performed by causing the preferred printing device to generate a voice message, the notification unit notifies the owner's mobile terminal. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the notification is performed. A server that temporarily stores the received print job in a storage unit, and transfers the print job to a printing device selected later by the owner of the print job from a plurality of printing devices;
10. The program according to claim 1, wherein the program is operated so as to perform the functions of the information collection unit, the device detection unit, the time determination unit, and the notification unit in the printing system according to claim 1.

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