JP2019067452A - Image forming system, portable terminal, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a technology that, in cooperation of an image forming apparatus and a portable terminal with each other, makes it possible to check that the image forming apparatus cooperating with the portable terminal is an image forming apparatus desired by a user.SOLUTION: A portable terminal 50 acquires information (information for specifying apparatus) for a user to determine whether an image forming apparatus that is to cooperate with the portable terminal 50 is a desired image forming apparatus through BLE communication (short-range radio communication) with the image forming apparatus. The portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 700 confirming execution of cooperation with the image forming apparatus. The confirmation message 700 includes the information for specifying apparatus (for example, apparatus name "sixth floor, east side 1"). The portable terminal 50 executes the cooperation with the image forming apparatus (for example, authentication operation) according to the user's operation to confirm the confirmation message 700.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

  The present invention relates to a portable terminal that operates in cooperation with an image forming apparatus and technology related thereto.

  There is a technology for achieving cooperation between an image forming apparatus such as MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) and an external portable terminal (see Patent Document 1).

  Various wireless communication techniques may be used for communication between the image forming apparatus and the portable terminal. For example, communication by wireless LAN (such as IEEE 802.11) and / or near field communication may be used. As near field communication, communication based on Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, communication based on BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) which is an extended standard of Bluetooth (Bluetooth), and the like exist.

JP 2012-138970 A

  By utilizing such wireless communication for communication between the image forming apparatus and the portable terminal, various applied technologies are created.

  For example, the image forming apparatus transmits radio waves around the image using BLE or the like, and the mobile terminal which has moved to the periphery of the image forming apparatus receives the radio waves from BLE, whereby the mobile terminal generates an image. It is conceivable to detect the proximity to the forming device.

  In addition, the portable terminal can start various cooperative operations (for example, an authentication operation or the like) in response to detection of proximity to the image forming apparatus or the like.

  However, in the case where a plurality of (for example, two) image forming apparatuses are arranged side by side, etc., depending on the arrangement status of the apparatus and / or the radio wave condition, etc. The authentication operation may proceed. More specifically, in spite of the user's intention to proceed with the cooperation with a certain image forming apparatus, the portable terminal is supposed to be another image forming apparatus adjacent to the certain image forming apparatus ( An attempt may be made to advance the cooperative operation with an image forming apparatus different from the user's desired image forming apparatus. In this case, the authentication operation for another image forming apparatus proceeds, contrary to the user's intention.

  Such a situation may occur not only in the authentication operation but also in other cooperation operations.

  Therefore, the present invention can confirm that the image forming apparatus to which the portable terminal cooperates with the portable terminal is the image forming apparatus desired by the user when performing the cooperative operation between the image forming apparatus and the portable terminal of the user. The task is to provide technology.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, according to the invention of claim 1, the computer incorporated in the portable terminal, a) the user determines whether or not the image forming apparatus attempting to cooperate with the portable terminal is a desired image forming apparatus. Acquiring a device identification information which is information for determination using near field communication with the image forming apparatus, and b) a confirmation message for confirming execution of a cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus. Performing a step of displaying a confirmation message including the device specifying information on the operation means of the portable terminal, and c) executing the cooperation operation according to a confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user It is characterized by being a program for

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the program according to the first aspect, the step a) includes the steps of: a-1) acquiring device identification information by using radio waves for near-field wireless communication from the image forming device And a-2) acquiring the device identification information corresponding to the device identification information.

  According to the invention of claim 3, in the program according to the invention of claim 2, advertising data transmitted from the image forming apparatus using the radio wave for near-field communication is received in the step a-1). In addition, the device identification information included in the advertising data is extracted from the advertising data and acquired.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the program according to the second or third aspect, the step a-2) includes: a-2-1) a transmission request for the device identification information corresponding to the device identification information Transmitting the image forming apparatus to the image forming apparatus, and a-2-2) acquiring the apparatus specifying information by receiving the apparatus specifying information returned from the image forming apparatus in response to the transmission request. And providing a step.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the program according to the invention according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, in the step a-2), the device identification information corresponding to the device identification information is stored from the storage unit of the portable terminal. The device identification information is acquired by extracting.

  The invention according to claim 6 relates to the program according to the invention according to claim 1, wherein in step b), the intensity of the radio wave of the near field communication in step a) is larger than a predetermined threshold value. The confirmation message may be displayed.

  The invention according to claim 7 is the program according to the invention according to claim 1, wherein the program is an application for executing the cooperative operation, and in the step b), the application is operating in the foreground. The confirmation message is displayed within the screen of the application under direct control of the application.

  The invention according to claim 8 is the program according to the invention according to claim 1, wherein the program is an application for executing the cooperative operation, and in step b), the application is operating in the background. The confirmation message may be displayed using a notification function of an operating system of the portable terminal.

  The invention according to claim 9 relates to the program according to the invention according to claim 8, wherein the cooperative operation includes an authentication operation regarding the image forming apparatus, and the step b) b) user authentication for the image forming apparatus Determining whether information is registered in the portable terminal; b-2) when the user authentication information for the image forming apparatus is registered in the portable terminal; Displaying a first message for confirming the execution of the authentication operation, the first message including the device identification information as the confirmation message, and the step c) includes c-1) Sending the user authentication information to the image forming apparatus in response to a confirmation operation of the first message by a user.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the program according to the ninth aspect, in the step b), when the user authentication information for the image forming apparatus is not registered in the portable terminal, b) Displaying, as the confirmation message, a second message for confirming execution of an authentication information input operation of the authentication operations in the forming apparatus, the second message including the device identification information; C) displaying the input screen of the user authentication information according to c-2) the confirmation operation of the second message by the user; c) 3) authenticating the user using the input screen C) receiving the input of information; and c-4) transmitting the user authentication information to the image forming apparatus after the user authentication information is input. Characterized by further comprising a.

  The eleventh aspect of the present invention is the program according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the cooperative operation includes an authentication operation regarding the image forming apparatus.

  A twelfth aspect of the present invention is the program according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the cooperative operation includes a print output operation by the image forming apparatus.

  The invention according to claim 13 is the program according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the cooperative operation includes a scan operation by the image forming apparatus.

  The invention of claim 14 is a portable terminal, wherein apparatus specifying information is information for a user to determine whether an image forming apparatus that is trying to cooperate with the portable terminal is a desired image forming apparatus. An acquisition unit for acquiring using short-distance wireless communication with the image forming apparatus, and a confirmation message for confirming execution of a cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus, and displaying the confirmation message including the apparatus specifying information And an operation execution unit configured to execute the cooperation operation according to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user.

  The invention according to claim 15 is an image forming system, comprising: an image forming apparatus; and a portable terminal performing a cooperative operation with the image forming apparatus, wherein the portable terminal is trying to cooperate with the portable terminal Acquisition means for acquiring apparatus specifying information, which is information for the user to determine whether or not the forming apparatus is a desired image forming apparatus, using near field communication with the image forming apparatus; The display unit is a confirmation message for confirming the execution of the cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus, and the cooperation operation is executed according to the display means for displaying the confirmation message including the apparatus specifying information and the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user. And executing means.

  According to the inventions of claims 1 to 15, information for specifying a device (information for a user to determine whether or not an image forming device trying to cooperate with a portable terminal is a desired image forming device) Is a confirmation message obtained by using the short distance wireless communication and confirming execution of the cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus, and a confirmation message including the apparatus specifying information is displayed on the portable terminal, and the confirmation message by the user The cooperative operation is performed according to the confirmation operation of Therefore, when performing the cooperation operation between the image forming apparatus and the portable terminal of the user, the user can confirm that the image forming apparatus to which the portable terminal cooperates is the image forming apparatus desired by the user. .

FIG. 1 shows an image forming system. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the image forming apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of a portable terminal. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a time change of radio wave intensity when a portable terminal approaches an MFP. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the portable terminal approaching the MFP. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of a portable terminal. It is a flowchart (When the program for cooperation has a foreground operation state) which shows operation | movement of a portable terminal. It is a flowchart (When the program for cooperation has a background operation state) which shows operation | movement of a portable terminal. It is a timing chart which shows the operation example in a communication system. It is a figure which shows advertising data. It is a figure which shows a display screen (login reception screen). FIG. 6 is a view showing an apparatus data table in the MFP. It is a figure which shows the registration data table in a portable terminal. It is a figure which shows a confirmation message. It is a figure which shows a confirmation message. It is a figure which shows the input screen of authentication information. It is a figure which shows a confirmation message. It is a figure which shows a confirmation message. It is a figure which shows a display screen (top menu screen). It is a figure which shows the registration data table which concerns on a modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

<1. Configuration Overview>
FIG. 1 is a view showing an image forming system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes an MFP (image forming apparatus) 10 and a portable terminal 50.

  The MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 are wirelessly connected to each other using various wireless communication technologies. For example, for communication between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal, communication by wireless LAN (such as IEEE 802.11) and near field communication may be used. In this embodiment, communication based on BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) is used as short-distance wireless communication, and proximity determination processing and the like between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 are performed.

<2. Configuration of image forming apparatus>
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the image forming apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. Here, an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) is illustrated as the image forming apparatus 10. In FIG. 2, functional blocks of the MFP 10 are shown.

  The MFP 10 is an apparatus (also referred to as a multifunction peripheral) including a scan function, a copy function, a facsimile function, a box storage function, and the like. Specifically, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 2, the MFP 10 includes an image reading unit 2, a print output unit 3, a communication unit 4, a storage unit 5, an operation unit 6, a controller 9, and the like. The various functions are realized by operating the respective units in a complex manner.

  The image reading unit 2 is a processing unit that optically reads (that is, scans) a document placed at a predetermined position of the MFP 10 and generates image data (also referred to as a document image or a scanned image) of the document. is there. The image reading unit 2 is also referred to as a scanning unit.

  The print output unit 3 is an output unit that prints out an image on various media such as paper based on data regarding a print target.

  The communication unit 4 is a processing unit capable of performing facsimile communication via a public line or the like. Furthermore, the communication unit 4 can also perform various types of wireless communication (including wireless communication and the like by BLE). Specifically, the communication unit 4 includes a wireless LAN communication unit 4a that performs wireless communication by a wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11 or the like), and a BLE communication unit 4b that performs wireless communication by BLE. The MFP 10 incorporates a BLE chip 42 (also referred to as a short-distance wireless communication chip (or simply a communication chip)) that functions as part or all of the BLE communication unit 4b (see also FIG. 1). The BLE chip 42 can broadcast advertising data (Advertising Data). The advertising data includes the MAC address (Media Access Control address) of the MFP 10 and the like.

  The storage unit 5 is configured of a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD).

  The operation unit 6 includes an operation input unit 6a that receives an operation input to the MFP 10, and a display unit 6b that displays and outputs various information.

  In the MFP 10, a substantially plate-like operation panel portion 6c (see FIG. 1) is provided. In addition, the operation panel unit 6c has a touch panel 25 (see FIG. 1) on the front side. The touch panel 25 also functions as a part of the operation input unit 6a and also functions as a part of the display unit 6b. The touch panel 25 is configured by embedding various sensors and the like in a liquid crystal display panel, and can display various information and receive various operation inputs from the operator.

  The controller 9 is a control device that is built in the MFP 10 and controls the MFP 10 generally. The controller 9 is configured as a computer system including a CPU, various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM), and the like. The controller 9 realizes various processing units by executing predetermined software programs (hereinafter, also simply referred to as programs) stored in a ROM (for example, an EEPROM) in the CPU. The program (specifically, program module group) may be installed in the MFP 10 via a portable recording medium such as a USB memory or a wireless LAN.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the controller 9 realizes various processing units including the communication control unit 11, the input control unit 12, the display control unit 13 and the operation control unit 14 by executing the above program. Do.

  The communication control unit 11 is a processing unit that controls communication operation with another device (such as the portable terminal 50) in cooperation with the communication unit 4 or the like. The communication control unit 11 includes a transmission control unit that controls transmission operations of various data and a reception control unit that controls reception operations of various data.

  The input control unit 12 is a control unit that controls an operation input operation to the operation input unit 6a (the touch panel 25 or the like). For example, the input control unit 12 controls an operation of receiving an operation input (specification input from the user, etc.) on the operation screen displayed on the touch panel 25.

  The display control unit 13 is a processing unit that controls the display operation on the display unit 6 b (the touch panel 25 or the like). The display control unit 13 causes the touch panel 25 to display an operation screen (remote operation screen) 200 or the like for operating the MFP 10.

  The operation control unit 14 is a processing unit that controls various operations (authentication operation, print output operation, scan operation, etc.).

<3. Configuration of mobile terminal>
Next, the configuration of the portable terminal 50 will be described.

  The portable terminal 50 is an apparatus capable of performing a cooperative operation with the MFP 10 (image forming apparatus).

  Specifically, the portable terminal 50 is an information input / output terminal device (information terminal) capable of performing network communication with the MFP 10. Here, a smartphone is illustrated as the portable terminal 50. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the portable terminal 50 may be a tablet type terminal or the like.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the portable terminal 50. As shown in FIG.

  As shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 3, the portable terminal 50 includes a communication unit 54, a storage unit 55, an operation unit 56, a controller 59, and the like, and various units are operated by operating these units in combination. To realize the function of

  The communication unit 54 can perform various types of wireless communication (including wireless communication and the like by BLE). Specifically, the communication unit 54 includes a wireless LAN communication unit 54a that performs wireless communication by a wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11 or the like), and a BLE communication unit 54b that performs wireless communication by BLE. The BLE communication unit 54b receives advertising data broadcasted from the BLE chip 42 incorporated in the MFP 10 and measures the strength of the data transmission radio wave.

  The storage unit 55 is configured of a storage device such as a non-volatile semiconductor memory. The storage unit 55 stores various screens 500 described later (see FIG. 14 and the like) (specifically, display data thereof).

  The operation unit 56 includes an operation input unit 56a that receives an operation input to the portable terminal 50, and a display unit 56b that performs display output of various information. In the portable terminal 50, a touch panel 75 (see FIG. 1) configured by embedding various sensors and the like in a liquid crystal display panel is provided. The touch panel 75 also functions as a part of the operation input unit 56a and also functions as a part of the display unit 56b.

  For example, the touch panel 75 displays a confirmation message (described later) and the like for confirming execution of the cooperative operation with the image forming apparatus. Further, the touch panel 75 receives an operation input or the like with respect to the confirmation message.

  The controller 59 in FIG. 3 is a control device that is built in the portable terminal 50 and that controls the portable terminal 50 in an integrated manner. The controller 59 is configured as a computer system including a CPU, various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM), and the like. The controller 59 implements various processing units by executing predetermined software programs (hereinafter, also simply referred to as programs) stored in a storage unit (semiconductor memory or the like) in the CPU. The program (specifically, the program module group) may be installed in the portable terminal 50 via a portable recording medium such as a USB memory or a wireless LAN.

  In the portable terminal 50, a program (cooperation program) for achieving cooperation with the MFP 10 is installed. The cooperation program is an application software program (also simply referred to as an application) that realizes various processes including proximity detection processing on the MFP 10.

  Specifically, the controller 59 implements various processing units including the communication control unit 61, the input control unit 62, the display control unit 63, the acquisition unit 64, and the operation execution unit 65 by executing the cooperation program and the like. .

  The communication control unit 61 is a processing unit that controls the communication operation with the MFP 10 or the like in cooperation with the communication unit 54 or the like.

  The input control unit 62 is a control unit that controls an operation input operation to the operation input unit 56a (such as the touch panel 75).

  The display control unit 63 is a processing unit that controls the display operation on the display unit 56 b (the touch panel 75 or the like). The display control unit 63 controls, for example, the display operation and the like of the confirmation message (also referred to as a confirmation message display screen) 500 and 700 (described later).

  The acquisition unit 64 is a processing unit that acquires device identification information (described later). The acquisition unit 64 acquires device specifying information related to the MFP 10 by using near field communication with the MFP 10.

  The operation execution unit 65 is a processing unit that executes a predetermined cooperative operation (such as an authentication operation) in response to a confirmation operation (approval operation) of the confirmation message 500 or 700 by the user.

<4. Operation>
<4-1. Acquisition of device identification information, etc.>
The MFP 10 displays a login acceptance screen 201 as shown in FIG. 11 on the touch panel 25 in the login standby state (a state in which the user is waiting for login).

  Further, the MFP 10 always transmits radio waves for BLE communication at minute time intervals. Specifically, the BLE chip 42 (see FIG. 1) incorporated in the MFP 10 broadcasts advertising data at short time intervals. Advertising data is broadcast data transmitted using radio waves for near field communication (radio waves for BLE communication). The radio wave for BLE communication only reaches the peripheral area of MFP 10 (for example, within several tens of centimeters to several meters).

  On the other hand, the portable terminal 50 receives the radio wave for BLE communication from the MFP 10 and also measures the intensity of the radio wave from the MFP 10. Specifically, the BLE communication unit 54b of the portable terminal 50 receives advertising data (broadcasting transmitted from the BLE chip 42) and measures the strength of the data transmission radio wave. Further, the cooperation program installed in the portable terminal 50 acquires the intensity of the radio wave (in the foreground operation state or the background operation state). Note that the cooperation program may also perform part of the measurement process of the radio wave intensity.

  As the portable terminal 50 approaches the MFP 10 as the portable terminal 50 approaches (that is, as the distance between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 decreases), the radio wave intensity detected by the portable terminal 50 (sent from BLE chip 42 in the MFP 10) The strength of the received BLE radio wave is increased (see FIG. 4). Conversely, as the portable terminal 50 moves away from the MFP 10 (that is, as the distance between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 increases), the radio wave intensity detected by the portable terminal 50 (BLE radio wave intensity from the MFP 10) decreases.

  When the radio wave intensity detected by the portable terminal 50 changes (increases) to a value exceeding the predetermined threshold TH1 using such a property, the portable terminal 50 determines that the own device is close to the MFP 10 (See Figure 4). Specifically, the distance between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 (more specifically, the location where the BLE chip 42 is disposed in the MFP 10) is within a predetermined range (for example, 20 cm (centimeter)) (a predetermined distance D1 or less) It is determined that it is) (see FIG. 5). Note that the value of the radio wave intensity when the distance between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 approaches the distance D1 (for example, about 20 cm) may be measured in advance, and the measured value may be set as the threshold TH1.

  Specifically, first, as the user approaches the MFP 10, the intensity of the radio wave intensity detected by the portable terminal 50 gradually increases. For example, it is assumed that the user approaches the MFP 10 while holding the portable terminal 50 by hand and moves the portable terminal 50 by moving the portable terminal 50 held by the hand toward the vicinity of the touch panel 25. Along with such movement, the radio wave intensity detected by the portable terminal 50 increases from a value smaller than the threshold TH1 to a value exceeding the threshold TH1 (time T11) (see FIG. 4). In response to the detection of the increase in the radio wave intensity, the portable terminal 50 determines that the own device has approached the MFP 10 within a predetermined range.

  In the portable terminal 50, the cooperation program is operating in the foreground operation state (also referred to as the active state) or in the background operation state (also referred to as the inactive state). Various types of processing (processing after proximity determination processing) including such determination processing (proximity determination processing) are executed by the cooperation program. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation performed by the cooperation program.

  First, in step S21 of FIG. 6, the above-described proximity determination process is performed. Specifically, when the strength of the radio wave for near field communication (for BLE communication) from MFP 10 becomes larger than threshold TH1 for proximity detection, portable terminal 50 has its own device within a predetermined range with respect to MFP 10 Determine that it is close to the inside. In other words, the portable terminal 50 detects the proximity to the MFP 10. If the portable terminal 50 determines that the own device is in proximity to the MFP 10 within a predetermined range, the portable terminal 50 temporarily determines the MFP 10 (for example, 10a) as a cooperation destination device, and proceeds to step S22.

  In step S22, the portable terminal 50 transmits the device identification information (information for identifying each device) included in the radio wave for near field communication (in detail, advertising data) from the cooperation destination device (MFP 10a). ) Is extracted from the advertising data. For example, the MAC address (Media Access Control address) of the MFP 10a is extracted as device identification information. In this manner, the portable terminal 50 acquires the device identification information using the radio wave for near field communication from the MFP 10a.

  In the advertising data, an area (customizable area) that can be freely used for each user enterprise of BLE is allocated. More specifically, the advertising data is provided with a description area of a company ID and a customizable area (a unique data area for each company) following the description area of the company ID. Here, it is assumed that the MAC address of the MFP 10 (the source device of the advertising data) is described (included) in the customizable area of the advertising data (see FIG. 10).

  In step S22, the portable terminal 50 establishes wireless communication (for example, BLE wireless communication) with the MFP 10a (see also FIG. 9).

  In the next steps S23 and S24, the portable terminal 50 acquires information (hereinafter also referred to as "device specifying information") for the user to specify the desired image forming device based on the device identification information. The “device specifying information” is information for specifying one image forming device among a plurality of image forming devices, and a certain image forming device (image forming device trying to cooperate with the portable terminal 50) Is information for the user to determine whether the image forming apparatus is a desired image forming apparatus. The certain image forming apparatus is also expressed as an image forming apparatus (temporary determination apparatus) temporarily determined as a cooperation destination apparatus of the portable terminal 50.

  Specifically, first, the portable terminal 50 transmits a transmission request for device identification information of the MFP 10 to the MFP 10 (step S23). More specifically, a transmission request for transmission of device identification information corresponding to the MAC address (device identification information) (transmission request specifying the MAC address) is transmitted. In response to the transmission request, the MFP 10 extracts the device identification information from the device data table (device information) 300 (FIG. 12) stored in the storage unit 5 of the MFP 10. FIG. 12 shows the device data table 300. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 12, the device data table 300 in the MFP 10 stores the MAC address, IP address, model name, device name and the like of the MFP 10. The MFP 10 refers to the device data table 300 to confirm that the MAC address transmitted from the portable terminal 50 matches the MAC address of the own device (the MAC address of the device data table 300), and the model of the own device. The name, the device name, etc. are extracted from the device data table 300 as device identification information. For example, the model name "C652" of the MFP 10a and the device name "6th floor east side 1" of the MFP 10a are extracted as device specifying information of the MFP 10a.

  Here, although the portable terminal 50 transmits a transmission request for transmission of device identification information corresponding to a specific MAC address (transmission request specifying a specific MAC address), the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the case where the BLE communication establishment destination is always single, etc., the transmission request of the device specifying information (of the BLE communication establishment MFP 10a) may be transmitted to the BLE communication establishment MFP 10a. . Then, the portable terminal 50 may acquire the device specifying information returned from the MFP 10a as the device specifying information corresponding to the MFP 10a (the specific MAC address).

  Then, the MFP 10 transmits the extracted device specifying information to the portable terminal 50. In other words, the portable terminal 50 receives, from the MFP 10a, the device identification information returned in response to the transmission request (step S24).

  In this way, the portable terminal 50 acquires the device identification information of the login target MFP 10a through the short distance wireless communication (here, BLE communication) with the MFP 10a.

  In the next step S25, it is determined whether the cooperation program (cooperation application) has a foreground operation state or a background operation state.

  If the cooperation program has a foreground operation state, the process proceeds to step S31 in the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, when the cooperation program has the background operation state, the process proceeds to step S51 of the flowchart of FIG.

  As described later, when the cooperation program has a foreground operation state, a confirmation message 500 (see FIGS. 14 and 15) is displayed, and the cooperation program has a background operation state. If it does, the confirmation message 700 (see FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 etc.) is displayed.

<4-2. When the cooperation program has foreground operation state>
First, the operation of each device when the cooperation program has a foreground operation state will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S31, the portable terminal 50 determines whether or not the user authentication information for the MFP 10a has already been registered in the portable terminal 50. Specifically, based on the registration data table (registration information) 400 (401) (see FIG. 13) stored in the portable terminal 50, the matter is determined. When the portable terminal 50 stores the authentication information (both the user ID and the password) corresponding to the MAC address of the MFP 10 a (cooperation destination device) in the registration data table 401, the user authentication information for the MFP 10 a is It determines that it has been registered. On the other hand, when the authentication information corresponding to the MAC address of the MFP 10a is not complete (when at least one of the user ID and the password is blank), it is determined that the authentication information is not registered.

<4-2-1. When user authentication information is registered>
If it is determined that the user authentication information for the cooperation destination device (MFP 10a) is already registered in the portable terminal 50 (specifically, in the registration data table 400), the process proceeds from step S31 to step S32. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, user authentication information (user ID "SUZUKI1" and password "*******" corresponding to the MAC address ("11: 22: 33: 44: 55: 66") of MFP 10a. In the registration data table 400, the process proceeds to step S32.

  In this case, in step S32, the portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 510 (500) as shown in FIG. Confirmation message 510 is a message for confirming the execution of the authentication operation in MFP 10. Further, confirmation message 510 has words such as “Do you want to login to MFP in front of you (C 652 6th floor east side 1?)”, And device identification information (“C 652” and “6th floor east side” 1)). In other words, the information related to the combination of the model name “C652” and the device name “6th floor east side 1” is included in the confirmation message 510 as device identification information. The present invention is not limited to this. For example, only the device name of the model name “C652” of the MFP 10 a and the device name “6th floor east side 1” may be used as device specifying information of the MFP 10 a.

  The confirmation message 510 is displayed on the touch panel 75 under direct control by the cooperative application. Specifically, the confirmation message 510 is displayed in the screen 600 of the cooperative application having a foreground operation state. More specifically, the confirmation message 510 is displayed in the dialog screen superimposed on the screen 600 of the cooperation application.

  Then, the portable terminal 50 waits for approval for the confirmation message 510.

  The user sees the content of the confirmation message 510 and determines whether the image forming apparatus 10a (“C652_6 floor east side 1”) provisionally determined as the cooperation destination apparatus of the portable terminal 50 is a desired image forming apparatus. Do. When the image forming apparatus 10 a (“C652_6 floor east side 1”) is a desired image forming apparatus, the user presses the “Yes” button 511 in the confirmation message 510.

  When the "Yes" button 511 in the confirmation message 510 is pressed and the user gives approval for the confirmation message 510, the process proceeds from step S33 to step S35.

  In the case where the “No” button 512 in the confirmation message 510 is pressed and non-approval for the confirmation message 510 is given by the user, the process does not proceed to step S35 and the flowcharts of FIG. 6 and FIG. Thereafter, after a certain period of time has elapsed, the process of step S21 (FIG. 6) is started again.

  In step S35, the portable terminal 50 uses the MFP 10a temporarily determined as the cooperation destination device as the cooperation destination device in accordance with the confirmation operation (confirmation operation of the "Yes" button 511) (approval operation) of the confirmation message by the user. Then, the authentication operation regarding the MFP 10a is executed. Specifically, the portable terminal 50 transmits the user authentication information (more specifically, the user authentication information for the MFP 10 (10a)) registered in the registration data table 400 (FIG. 13) from the registration data table 400. The extracted user authentication information is extracted and transmitted to the MFP 10a. On the other hand, the MFP 10a executes an authentication process (collation process between the received user authentication information and the legitimate user authentication information) based on the user authentication information.

  If the authentication is successful, the MFP 10 changes the display screen of the touch panel 25. Specifically, the display screen of the touch panel 25 is changed from the display screen 201 of FIG. 11 to the display screen 202 of FIG. The display screen 201 is a display screen before login (login acceptance screen), and the display screen 202 is a display screen (top menu screen) immediately after login. The user can proceed with further processing using the display screen 202 of the touch panel 25 or the display screen (for example, a simulation screen of the display screen 202) displayed on the touch panel 75 or the like.

  If the authentication fails, the display screen of the touch panel 25 is not changed, and the display screen 201 of FIG. 11 is continuously displayed.

4-2-2. When user authentication information has not been registered>
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S31 (FIG. 7) that the user authentication information for the cooperation destination device (MFP 10a) is not yet registered in the portable terminal 50 (specifically, in the registration data table 400) Proceed to step S42. For example, when the user authentication information corresponding to the MAC address (“11: 22: 33: 44: 55: 66”) of the MFP 10 a does not exist in the registration data table 400, the process proceeds from step S31 to step S42.

  In this case, in step S42, the portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 520 (500) as shown in FIG. The confirmation message 520 is a message for confirming execution of an authentication operation (more specifically, an authentication operation including an authentication information input operation) in the MFP 10. In addition, confirmation message 520 has, for example, a statement such as "No authentication information corresponding to MFP in front (C652_6 floor east 1) has been registered. Do you want to log in after registering authentication information?" And has device identification information (“C652” and “6th floor east side 1”).

  The confirmation message 520 is displayed in the screen 600 of the cooperative application having the foreground operation state. More specifically, the confirmation message 520 is displayed in the dialog screen superimposed on the screen 600 of the cooperation application.

  Then, the portable terminal 50 waits for approval for the confirmation message 520.

  The user sees the content of the confirmation message 520 and determines whether the image forming apparatus 10a (“C652_6 floor east side 1”) provisionally determined as the cooperation destination apparatus of the portable terminal 50 is a desired image forming apparatus. Do.

  When the “Yes” button 521 in the confirmation message 520 is pressed and the user gives approval for the confirmation message 520, the process proceeds from step S43 to step S44.

  When the "No" button 522 in the confirmation message 520 is pressed and the confirmation message 520 is not approved (in the case of "non-approval"), the process does not advance to step S44 and the flowcharts of FIG. 6 and FIG. Do. Thereafter, after a certain period of time has elapsed, the process of step S21 (FIG. 6) is started again.

  In step S44, the portable terminal 50 displays the input screen 580 (FIG. 16) of the user authentication information on the touch panel 75 in response to the confirmation operation (approval operation) of the confirmation message 520 (500) by the user. The input screen 580 is a screen having an input field for various authentication information (user ID, password, etc.) as shown in FIG. The input screen 580 is a screen (more specifically, a dialog screen superimposed on the screen 600) displayed in the screen 600 of the cooperative application having the foreground operation state. Input of user authentication information is accepted using the input screen 580.

  After the user ID and password are input on the input screen 580, when the OK button 581 is pressed to confirm the input content, the portable terminal 50 registers the input user authentication information in the portable terminal 50. Registration (additional registration) in the data table 400 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S45, the same process as step S35 is performed. Specifically, portable terminal 50 determines MFP 10a provisionally determined as the cooperation destination device as the cooperation destination device, and transmits the user authentication information input (registered) in step S44 to MFP 10 (10a). (Step S45). On the other hand, the MFP 10 executes an authentication process (collation process between the received user authentication information and the legitimate user authentication information) and the like based on the user authentication information.

  As described above, the portable terminal 50 acquires device identification information ("C 652", "6th floor east side 1", etc.) through near-field wireless communication with the MFP 10, and displays a confirmation message including the device identification information. Do. More specifically, when the cooperative application is operating in the foreground, the confirmation message 500 (510, 520) is displayed in the screen of the cooperative application. The confirmation message 500 is displayed under direct control by the cooperation application. Then, an authentication process or the like is performed on condition that the approval operation is performed on the confirmation message 500.

  Therefore, the user browses the device specifying information included in the confirmation message 500, and after confirming that the device to be authenticated is the desired MFP 10 (for example, the MFP 10a with the device name “6th floor east side 1”) It is possible to advance cooperation processing with a desired MFP 10. In other words, when performing the cooperation operation between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 of the user, it can be confirmed that the MFP 10 of the cooperation destination for the portable terminal 50 is the MFP 10 desired by the user. More specifically, for example, when two MFPs 10 (the MFP 10a with the apparatus name “6th floor east side 1” and the MFP 10b with the device name “6th floor east side 2”) are arranged close to each other, the user logs in It is possible to reliably proceed with the login process (authentication process) with respect to one MFP 10 (for example, the MFP 10 a with the apparatus name “6th floor east side 1”) that is desired. If the device specifying information of MFP 10 (for example, MFP 10 b with device name “6th floor east 2”) other than MFP 10 a desired by the user is displayed on touch panel 75, the authentication process for MFP 10 b may be interrupted. It is possible.

  By the way, in the above, it has been described that the confirmation message 500 is displayed when the cooperative application is operating in the foreground.

  On the other hand, when the cooperative application is operating in the background, the cooperative application directly displays the confirmation message 500 in the screen of the cooperative application under direct control by the cooperative application. I can not In other words, the cooperative application operating in the background can not display the screen of the cooperative application superimposed on the screen (or home screen) of another application operating in the foreground.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when the cooperative application is operating in the background, as described later, the confirmation message 700 is a touch panel of the portable terminal 50 using the notification function of the operating system (OS) of the portable terminal 50. Displayed at 75.

<4-3. When the cooperation program has a background operation state>
Next, the operation of each device when the cooperation program has a background operation state will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S 51, the portable terminal 50 determines whether or not the user authentication information for the MFP 10 has already been registered in the portable terminal 50. Specifically, based on the registration data table (registration information) 400 (see FIG. 13) stored in the portable terminal 50, the matter is determined. In step S51, the same determination processing as step S31 is performed.

<4-3-1. When user authentication information is registered>
If it is determined that the user authentication information for the cooperation destination device (MFP 10a) is already registered in the portable terminal 50 (specifically, in the registration data table 400), the process proceeds from step S51 to step S52. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, user authentication information (user ID "SUZUKI1" and password "*******" corresponding to the MAC address ("11: 22: 33: 44: 55: 66") of MFP 10a. In the registration data table 400, the process proceeds to step S52.

  In this case, in step S52, the portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 710 (700) as shown in FIG. Confirmation message 710 is a message for confirming execution of the authentication operation in MFP 10. Confirmation message 710 has, for example, words such as “Do you want to log in to MFP in front (C 652 6th floor east side 1)?”, And device identification information (“C 652” and “6th floor east side 1”) )have. In other words, information relating to the combination of the model name “C652” and the device name “6th floor east side 1” is included in the confirmation message 710 as device identification information.

  The confirmation message 710 is displayed on the touch panel 75 using the notification function of the operating system (OS) of the portable terminal 50 (see FIG. 17).

  The notification function of the OS of the portable terminal 50 is one of the functions provided by the OS, and is a function of notifying the user of a message regarding each application (application in inactive state) via the OS. By using the notification function of the OS, it is possible to notify the user of a message regarding a certain application operating in the background.

  Specifically, the cooperative application being executed in the background is text information (character string information) indicating the confirmation message 710, and the operation content when the operation for the confirmation message 710 is received (execution command etc. described in the URL scheme) ) And to the OS. In step S52, the action content when the "Yes" button is pressed includes that the cooperation application is to be transitioned to the foreground operation state, and that the authentication operation (more specifically, the transmission operation of authentication information) is to be executed by the cooperation application. Is specified. These designations are made, for example, using the URL scheme “application1: auth?”. The URL scheme is specified in the form of “(application name): // ((command name in application))?”.

  The OS displays the confirmation message 710 on the touch panel 75 based on the text information received from the cooperation application. For example, the confirmation message 710 is displayed superimposed on a screen (for example, a home screen or a screen of another application) displayed in the foreground at that time.

  Then, the portable terminal 50 waits for approval for the confirmation message 710.

  The user sees the content of the confirmation message 710 and determines whether the image forming apparatus 10a (“C652_6 floor east side 1”) provisionally determined as the cooperation destination apparatus of the portable terminal 50 is a desired image forming apparatus. judge.

  When the “Yes” button 711 in the confirmation message 710 is pressed and the user gives approval for the confirmation message 710, the process proceeds from step S53 to step S54.

  In the case where the “No” button 712 in the confirmation message 710 is pressed and non-approval for the confirmation message 710 is given by the user, the process does not proceed to step S54 and the flowcharts of FIG. 6 and FIG. Thereafter, after a certain period of time has elapsed, the process of step S21 (FIG. 6) is started again.

  In step S54, the cooperative application transitions from the background operation state to the foreground operation state. Further, in the next step S55, the portable terminal 50 determines the MFP 10a temporarily determined as the cooperation destination device as the cooperation destination device, and executes the authentication operation regarding the MFP 10a.

  Specifically, an operation based on the URL scheme specified as the command to be executed when the “Yes” button 711 is pressed is performed. For example, based on the URL scheme "application1: auth?", The cooperation application ("application 1") transitions to the foreground operation state, and as the operation in the cooperation application, an authentication operation (operation corresponding to the command "auth") (More specifically, the transmission operation of authentication information) is performed. The authentication operation is similar to step S35.

  Specifically, the portable terminal 50 extracts user authentication information (more specifically, user authentication information for the MFP 10 (10a)) registered in the registration data table 400 (FIG. 13) from the registration data table 400. And transmits the extracted user authentication information to the MFP 10a. On the other hand, the MFP 10a executes an authentication process (collation process between the received user authentication information and the legitimate user authentication information) based on the user authentication information.

  If the authentication is successful, the MFP 10 changes the display screen of the touch panel 25. Specifically, the display screen of the touch panel 25 is changed from the display screen 201 of FIG. 11 to the display screen 202 of FIG.

  If the authentication fails, the display screen of the touch panel 25 is not changed, and the display screen 201 of FIG. 11 is continuously displayed.

4-3-2. When user authentication information has not been registered>
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S51 that the user authentication information for the cooperation destination device (MFP 10a) is not yet registered in the portable terminal 50 (specifically, in the registration data table 400), the process proceeds to step S62. move on. For example, when the user authentication information corresponding to the MAC address (“11: 22: 33: 44: 55: 66”) of the MFP 10a does not exist in the registration data table 400, the process proceeds from step S51 to step S62.

  In this case, in step S62, the portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 720 (700) as shown in FIG. The confirmation message 720 is a message for confirming execution of an authentication operation (more specifically, an authentication operation including an authentication information input operation) in the MFP 10a. In addition, confirmation message 720 has, for example, a statement such as “No authentication information corresponding to MFP in front (C652_6 floor east side 1) has been registered. Do you want to log in after registering authentication information?” And has device identification information (“C652” and “6th floor east side 1”).

  The confirmation message 720 is displayed on the touch panel 75 using the notification function of the operating system (OS) of the portable terminal 50 (see FIG. 17).

  Specifically, the cooperative application being executed in the background is text information (character string information) indicating the confirmation message 720, and the operation content when the operation for the confirmation message 720 is received (execution command etc. described in the URL scheme) ) And to the OS. In step S52, as an operation content when the "Yes" button is pressed, an authentication operation (more specifically, a registration operation (input operation) of authentication information) is executed by the cooperation application indicating that the cooperation application is transitioned to the foreground operation state. It is specified that it should be done. These designations are made, for example, using the URL scheme "application1: // register?".

  The OS displays a confirmation message 720 on the touch panel 75 based on the received text information. For example, the confirmation message 720 is displayed superimposed on the screen (for example, the home screen or the screen of another application) displayed at that time.

  Then, the portable terminal 50 waits for approval for the confirmation message 720.

  The user sees the content of the confirmation message 720 and determines whether the image forming apparatus 10a (“C652_6 floor east side 1”) provisionally determined as the cooperation destination apparatus of the portable terminal 50 is a desired image forming apparatus. Do.

  When the “Yes” button 721 in the confirmation message 720 is pressed and the user gives approval for the confirmation message 720, the process proceeds from step S63 to step S64.

  When the “No” button 722 in the confirmation message 720 is pressed and non-approval with respect to the confirmation message 720 is given by the user, the process does not proceed to step S64 and the flowcharts of FIGS. 6 and 8 temporarily end. Thereafter, after a certain period of time has elapsed, the process of step S21 (FIG. 6) is started again.

  In step S64, the cooperative application transitions from the background operation state to the foreground operation state. In the next step S65, the portable terminal 50 determines the MFP 10a temporarily determined as the cooperation destination device as the cooperation destination device, and executes the registration operation of the authentication information related to the MFP 10a.

  Specifically, an operation based on the URL scheme specified as a command to be executed when the “Yes” button 721 is pressed is performed. For example, based on the URL scheme “application1: // register?”, The cooperation application transitions to the foreground operation state, and the registration operation (input operation) of authentication information is executed in the cooperation application.

  More specifically, in step S65, in response to the pressing of the “Yes” button 721, the portable terminal 50 displays an input screen 580 (FIG. 16) of the user authentication information on the touch panel 75.

  When the user authentication information is input using the input screen 580 and the OK button 581 is pressed, the process proceeds to step S66. In step S66, the same operation as step S45 is performed. Specifically, the portable terminal 50 transmits the input user authentication information to the MFP 10 (10a). On the other hand, the MFP 10 executes an authentication process (collation process between the received user authentication information and the legitimate user authentication information) and the like based on the user authentication information.

  As described above, even when the cooperative application is operating in the background, the portable terminal 50 receives the device identification information ("C 652", "6th floor east side 1", etc.) through near-field wireless communication with the MFP 10. Acquire and display a confirmation message including the device identification information. Specifically, the confirmation message 700 (710, 720) is displayed on the touch panel 75 using the notification function of the OS. Then, an authentication process or the like is executed on condition that the approval operation is performed on the confirmation message 700.

  Therefore, the user browses the device identification information included in the confirmation message 700, and after confirming that the device to be authenticated is the desired MFP 10 (for example, the MFP 10a with the device name “6th floor east side 1”) It is possible to advance cooperation processing with a desired MFP 10. In other words, when performing the cooperation operation between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 of the user, the user can confirm that the MFP 10 of the cooperation destination for the portable terminal 50 is the MFP 10 desired by the user. More specifically, for example, in a case where two MFPs 10 (the MFP 10a with the apparatus name “6th floor east side 1” and the MFP 10b with the device name “6th floor east side 2”) are arranged close to each other, the user can It is possible to reliably proceed with the login process (authentication process) with respect to one MFP 10 (for example, the MFP 10 a with the apparatus name “6th floor east side 1”) which oneself wants to login. If the device specifying information of MFP 10 (for example, MFP 10 b with device name “6th floor east 2”) other than MFP 10 a desired by the user is displayed on touch panel 75, the user interrupts the authentication process for MFP 10 b. It is possible.

  In particular, in the above, when the cooperative application has a background operation state, the confirmation message 700 is displayed using the notification function of the OS of the portable terminal 50. Therefore, even when the cooperation application is not in the active state, the portable terminal 50 can reliably perform the cooperation process with the MFP 10 desired by the user.

  Further, in the above, when user authentication information for the MFP 10 a exists in the registration data table 400, the portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 710 on the touch panel 75. Then, when the content of the confirmation message 710 is approved, the cooperation application changes to the active state (foreground operation state) and the transmission process of the authentication information is immediately executed.

  On the other hand, when the user authentication information for the MFP 10 a does not exist in the registration data table 400, the portable terminal 50 displays a confirmation message 720 on the touch panel 75. Then, when the content of the confirmation message 720 is approved, the cooperation application transitions to the active state (foreground operation state), and the input screen 580 of the user authentication information is displayed. In addition, registration processing of authentication information is executed using the input screen 580. According to this, since the input screen 580 is displayed immediately after the content of the confirmation message 720 is approved, the user does not need to perform a menu selection operation for displaying the input screen 580, and the user authentication information It is possible to start typing immediately. Therefore, the user can obtain high operability.

  As described above, in response to the approval of the confirmation message 700, the cooperative application transits to the foreground operation state (active state), and the presence or absence of establishment of the predetermined condition (whether user authentication information for the MFP 10a exists in the registration data table 400) Each of the processes corresponding to?) Is immediately executed. Specifically, processing specified by an individual URL scheme (more specifically, its command name ("auth" / "register")) is executed. Therefore, immediately after transition from the background operation state to the foreground operation state, processing according to the presence / absence of the predetermined condition is appropriately executed.

<5. Modified example etc>
As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the thing of the content demonstrated above.

  For example, although the MAC address is illustrated as device identification information in the above embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this, and an IP address or the like may be used as device identification information.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the portable terminal 50 receives advertising data transmitted from the MFP 10a using radio waves for near-field wireless communication (step S21), and the device identification information (the identification data contained in the advertising data) MAC address is extracted from the advertising data. Further, after BLE communication is established between the two devices 10a and 50 (step S22), a transmission request for device identification information corresponding to the device identification information is sent from the portable terminal 50 to the MFP 10a using the BLE communication. It is transmitted (step S23). Then, the portable terminal 50 acquires the device specifying information by receiving the device specifying information (combination of the device name and the model name) returned from the MFP 10a in response to the transmission request (step S24). ). Briefly speaking, after receiving the device identification information (MAC address) from the MFP 10a, the portable terminal 50 further communicates with the MFP 10a to acquire device identification information (device name etc.). However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, in the case where an increase in the data capacity of advertising data is permitted, etc., the advertising data itself may include the device name of the MFP 10a (device specifying information). Then, the portable terminal 50 may extract the device name of the MFP 10 a (device identification information) from the received advertising data. In other words, the apparatus identification information may be acquired without the apparatus identification information (MAC address).

  Alternatively, the MAC address (device identification information) itself contained in the advertising data is acquired as device identification information, and a confirmation message including the MAC address (for example, “MFP in front of the eye (MAC address = 11: 22: 33 "Are you logging in to: 44: 55: 66)?" Or the like may be displayed. That is, the MAC address (device identification information) may be used as the device identification information as it is. In other words, the device identification information may be a "MAC address". More specifically, in the case where a sticker or the like describing the MAC address of the MFP 10a is attached to the front of the main body of the desired MFP 10a or the like, the user is included in the MAC address described in the sticker and the confirmation message. The identity with the MAC address may be confirmed. Thus, the user can confirm that the authentication target device (collaboration destination device) is the desired MFP 10a.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the advertising data includes the MAC address (device identification information), and the MAC address (device identification information) is set to BLE communication establishment (step S21) according to the reception of the advertising data (step S21). Although acquired before step S22), it is not limited to this. For example, when device identification information (such as a MAC address) is not included in the advertising data, the portable terminal 50 establishes BLE communication with the MFP 10a (step S22), and then uses the BLE communication to use the MFP 10a. Device identification information (such as a MAC address) may be acquired. More specifically, after establishment of BLE communication, a transmission request for device identification information (such as a MAC address) of the MFP 10a is sent from the portable terminal 50 to the MFP 10a, and the BLE communication is used according to the transmission request. Device identification information (such as a MAC address) of the MFP 10 a is transmitted from the MFP 10 a to the portable terminal 50. In this manner, the portable terminal 50 may acquire device identification information (such as a MAC address) of the MFP 10a.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the portable terminal 50 acquires the device specifying information of the MFP 10 a by further communicating with the MFP 10 a after acquiring the device identification information, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the portable terminal 50 may acquire the device identification information of the login target MFP 10a by extracting it from the registration data table 402 (400) (FIG. 20) in the storage unit 55. More specifically, the device name ("6th floor east side 1") or the like corresponding to the MAC address (the MAC address of the MFP 10a) transmitted from the MFP 10a is used as the device identification information of the MFP 10a as the login target. It may be extracted from 402. As shown in FIG. 20, in the registration data table 402 in the portable terminal 50, various information (specifically, the MAC address and IP address of each MFP 10) of one or more MFPs 10 registered in advance as a collaboration target , Model name, device name, authentication information, etc.) are stored.

  Further, as described above, the device specifying information is not limited to the combination of the model name and the device name, and may be, for example, only the “device name” or the “MAC address”. Alternatively, the device identification information may be an "IP address". For example, a confirmation message including the IP address (for example, a confirmation message having a statement such as "Do you want to login to the MFP in front of you (IP address = 192.168.30.1?") Should be displayed May be In the case where a sticker or the like describing the IP address of the MFP 10a is attached to the front of the main body of the desired MFP 10a or the like, the user is the same as the IP address described in the sticker and the IP address included in the confirmation message. You can check the sex. The “IP address” of MFP 10 a may be received by portable terminal 50 in the state included in advertising data as device identification information, or information for device identification from MFP 10 a in response to a transmission request after establishment of BLE communication. May be received as Thus, the device identification information may be an "IP address".

  Furthermore, the device identification information may be a combination of at least two or more of a MAC address, an IP address, a model name, a device name, and the like.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the authentication operation (login operation to the MFP 10) related to the MFP 10 is illustrated as the cooperation operation between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

  For example, the cooperation operation may include a print output operation by the MFP 10. More specifically, a print output job is registered first (at a location away from the MFP 10) in the cooperation application of the portable terminal 50 (registered in the portable terminal 50), and then the cooperation application is in the foreground or background Let's assume a situation that is in operation. In such a situation, in response to the approach of the portable terminal 50 to the MFP 10, a confirmation message may be displayed on the touch panel 75 to confirm to the user whether or not the print output job is to be executed. In the confirmation message, contents including device specifying information are displayed. For example, a confirmation message including the words “Do you want to print out a reserved job on the MFP in front of you (C652_6 floor 1 east)?” Is displayed. Then, in response to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user (such as pressing the “Yes” button), the print output operation regarding the print output job may be executed by the MFP 10.

  Alternatively, the linked operation may include a scan operation or the like by the MFP 10. For example, after the storage destination of the scan job or the like is designated by the cooperative application of the portable terminal 50, it is assumed that the cooperative application is operating in the foreground or background. In such a situation, in response to the proximity of the portable terminal 50 to the MFP 10, a confirmation message is displayed on the touch panel 75, which is a confirmation message for confirming to the user whether the scan job should be executed or not. You may For example, a confirmation message including the words, "Do you want to execute a scan job on the MFP in front of you (C652_6 floor east 1)?" Is displayed. Then, the scan operation regarding the scan job may be executed by the MFP 10 in response to the confirmation operation (the pressing of the “Yes” button or the like) of the confirmation message by the user.

  Also in these cooperative operations, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the above embodiment by displaying the confirmation message including the device specifying information.

1 Image Forming System 6c Operation Panel 10 MFP (Image Forming Apparatus)
25 Touch panel (for MFP) 42 BLE chip 50 Mobile terminal 75 (for mobile terminal) Touch panel 500 Confirmation message (during foreground operation)
700 confirmation message (during background operation)

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, according to the invention of claim 1, a computer controlling a portable terminal is a) whether or not the portable terminal approaches within a predetermined range with respect to the image forming apparatus based on near field communication. (B) when it is determined that one image forming apparatus and the portable terminal are in proximity within a predetermined range, cooperation with the portable terminal is performed only for the one image forming apparatus Displaying a confirmation message on the operation means of the portable terminal to confirm the operation as a cooperation destination device, and c) the one image forming apparatus being linked according to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user It is characterized by the above-mentioned. It is a program for performing the step of deciding as a former device.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the program according to the first aspect, d) near-field wireless communication with the one image forming apparatus with apparatus specifying information which is information for specifying the one image forming apparatus. Causing the computer to further execute the step of obtaining the information using the image forming apparatus, and in the determining, the one image forming apparatus specified by the apparatus specifying information is determined as the cooperation destination apparatus. I assume.

  The invention according to claim 3 is the program according to the invention according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the program is an application for executing the cooperation operation, and in the displaying step, the application is a foreground of the portable terminal. When the application is displaying a predetermined screen, the confirmation message is displayed so as to be superimposed on the predetermined screen when the application is operating.

  The invention according to claim 4 is a portable terminal, which comprises: determining means for determining whether or not the portable terminal has approached a predetermined range with respect to the image forming apparatus based on short distance wireless communication; When it is determined that the image forming apparatus and the portable terminal are in proximity to each other within a predetermined range, only the one image forming apparatus is decided as a cooperation destination apparatus that executes the cooperation operation with the portable terminal. The apparatus is characterized by comprising display means for displaying a confirmation message, and determination means for determining the one image forming apparatus as the cooperation destination apparatus according to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the portable terminal according to the invention according to claim 4, wherein short-distance wireless communication with the one image forming apparatus is performed with apparatus specifying information which is information for specifying the one image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus may further include an acquiring unit for acquiring the information, wherein the determining unit determines the one image forming apparatus specified by the apparatus specifying information as the cooperation destination apparatus.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the portable terminal according to the invention according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the display means is configured to execute the application when the application executing the cooperative operation is in an operation state in the foreground of the portable terminal. Is displaying a predetermined screen, the confirmation message is displayed superimposed on the predetermined screen.

  The invention according to claim 7 is an image forming system, comprising: a portable terminal; and an image forming apparatus, wherein the portable terminal is configured to transmit the predetermined information to the image forming apparatus based on near field communication. When it is determined that one image forming apparatus and the portable terminal have approached within a predetermined range, a determination unit that determines whether or not the image forming apparatus approaches within the range of only the one image forming apparatus, A display unit for displaying a confirmation message for determining a cooperation destination device to execute a cooperation operation with the mobile terminal, and the one image forming device as the cooperation destination device according to a confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user And determining means for determining as.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the seventh aspect, the one image forming apparatus stores the own apparatus specifying information which is information for specifying the own apparatus; And transmission means for transmitting the own device identification information stored in the storage means to the portable terminal when a request for device identification information is received from the portable terminal by near field communication. A portable terminal, requesting means for requesting the one image forming apparatus for the apparatus specifying information which is information for specifying the one image forming apparatus using the short distance wireless communication, and the request means And receiving means for receiving the apparatus specifying information transmitted from the one image forming apparatus based on a request by the image forming apparatus, the determining means including the one image specified by the apparatus specifying information. Formation Characterized by determining the location as the cooperation destination device.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system according to the seventh or eighth aspect, the display means is configured to operate when the application for executing the cooperative operation is in an operating state of the portable terminal in the foreground. While the application is displaying a predetermined screen, the confirmation message may be superimposed and displayed on the predetermined screen.

According to the inventions of claims 1 to 9 , in the case where one image forming apparatus cooperates with the portable terminal of the user, the user is a user of the one image forming apparatus as the cooperation destination for the portable terminal. It is possible to confirm that it is the desired image forming apparatus.

Claims (15)

The computer built in the mobile terminal,
a) Near-field wireless communication with the image forming apparatus with apparatus specifying information, which is information for the user to determine whether the image forming apparatus trying to cooperate with the portable terminal is a desired image forming apparatus Step of obtaining using
b) displaying on the operation means of the portable terminal a confirmation message for confirming execution of the cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus, the confirmation message including the apparatus specifying information;
c) executing the cooperation operation according to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user;
A program to run a program. In the program according to claim 1,
Said step a)
a-1) acquiring device identification information using near-field wireless communication radio waves from the image forming device;
a-2) acquiring the device identification information corresponding to the device identification information;
A program characterized by having: In the program according to claim 2,
In the step a-1), advertising data transmitted from the image forming apparatus using the radio wave for short distance wireless communication is received, and the device identification information included in the advertising data is the advertising A program characterized by being extracted and acquired from data. In the program according to claim 2 or claim 3,
Said step a-2),
a-2-1) transmitting a transmission request for the device identification information corresponding to the device identification information to the image forming device;
a-2-2) acquiring the device specifying information by receiving the device specifying information returned in response to the transmission request from the image forming device;
A program characterized by having: In the program according to claim 2 or claim 3,
The program is characterized in that, in the step a-2), the device specifying information is acquired by extracting the device specifying information corresponding to the device identification information from a storage unit of the portable terminal. In the program according to claim 1,
In the step b), the confirmation message is displayed under the condition that the intensity of the radio wave of the near field communication in the step a) is larger than a predetermined threshold. In the program according to claim 1,
The program is an application that executes the cooperative operation,
In the step b), when the application is operating in the foreground, the confirmation message is displayed in the screen of the application under direct control of the application. In the program according to claim 1,
The program is an application that executes the cooperative operation,
In the step b), when the application is operating in the background, the confirmation message is displayed using a notification function of an operating system of the portable terminal. In the program according to claim 8,
The cooperation operation includes an authentication operation regarding the image forming apparatus,
Said step b)
b-1) determining whether user authentication information for the image forming apparatus is registered in the portable terminal;
b-2) the first message for confirming execution of the authentication operation related to the image forming apparatus when the user authentication information for the image forming apparatus is registered in the portable terminal; Displaying a first message containing information as the confirmation message;
Have
Said step c)
c-1) transmitting the user authentication information to the image forming apparatus in response to a confirmation operation of the first message by the user;
A program characterized by having: In the program according to claim 9,
Said step b)
b-3) if the user authentication information for the image forming apparatus is not registered in the portable terminal, a second message confirming the execution of the authentication information input operation of the authentication operations in the image forming apparatus Displaying a second message including the device identification information as the confirmation message;
And have
Said step c)
c-2) displaying an input screen of the user authentication information according to a confirmation operation of the second message by the user;
c-3) accepting input of the user authentication information using the input screen;
c-4) transmitting the user authentication information to the image forming apparatus after the user authentication information is input;
The program characterized by further having. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
The program is characterized in that the cooperation operation includes an authentication operation regarding the image forming apparatus. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
The program is characterized in that the cooperative operation includes a print output operation by the image forming apparatus. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
The program is characterized in that the cooperation operation includes a scanning operation by the image forming apparatus. A mobile terminal,
Device identification information, which is information for the user to determine whether an image forming apparatus that is trying to cooperate with the portable terminal is a desired image forming apparatus, uses short-range wireless communication with the image forming apparatus Acquisition means to acquire
Display means for displaying a confirmation message for confirming the execution of the cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus, the confirmation message including the apparatus specifying information;
Operation execution means for executing the cooperation operation according to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user;
A mobile terminal characterized by comprising: An imaging system,
An image forming apparatus,
A portable terminal performing a cooperative operation with the image forming apparatus;
Equipped with
The portable terminal is
Device identification information, which is information for the user to determine whether an image forming apparatus that is trying to cooperate with the portable terminal is a desired image forming apparatus, uses short-distance wireless communication with the image forming apparatus Acquisition means to acquire
Display means for displaying a confirmation message for confirming the execution of the cooperation operation with the image forming apparatus, the confirmation message including the apparatus specifying information;
Execution means for executing the cooperation operation in response to the confirmation operation of the confirmation message by the user;
An image forming system comprising:

Images