JP2019160051A - Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an information processing device for executing the process defined in a workflow using one or more plug-ins, in which the plug-ins can be easily managed in aggregation units in which units use records are aggregated.SOLUTION: The information processing device comprises: a setting unit for setting, for a function including in workflow, information in aggregation units capable of executing a function among one or more aggregation units in which units the use records of the function are aggregated; a notification unit for notifying information of workflow that accompanies setting in aggregation units in which units a function is executed, to an image processing device that accepts execution of a workflow; a reception unit for receiving a workflow execution request including information in aggregation units selected by a user requesting the execution of the workflow; a control unit for controlling the execution of a function included in the workflow on the basis of information in aggregation units included in the workflow execution request; and a collection unit for collecting information in aggregation units having executed the function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program.

  There is known an information processing system that executes processing based on a workflow in which a plurality of functions are defined. In such a system, for example, a plurality of plug-ins that execute functions desired to be executed on the workflow are arranged in the server device, and the server device is defined in the workflow in response to an execution request from the image processing device or the like. Each function is executed using a plug-in.

  In addition, in a print control apparatus that designates a billing address by adding a billing code corresponding to the billing address for each print, whether the print setting should be billed by the billing code based on a preset rule. A technique for determining is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In the conventional technology, for example, by installing a new plug-in and placing it on the server device, each user can use the new plug-in. For this reason, for example, it has been difficult to manage plug-ins for each counting unit, such as controlling execution of plug-ins for each counting unit for counting usage results and totaling the usage results.

  Further, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 only discloses a mechanism for billing using billing codes, and it is difficult to manage plug-ins for each aggregation unit.

  Embodiments of the present invention have been made in view of the above-described problems, and use results are totaled in an information processing apparatus that executes processing defined in a workflow using one or more plug-ins. Plug-ins can be easily managed for each aggregation unit.

  In order to solve the above problem, an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is an information processing apparatus that executes the function based on a workflow in which one or more functions are defined, and is included in the workflow For a function, among one or more aggregation units that aggregate the usage results of the function, a setting unit that sets information of the aggregation unit that can execute the function, and setting of the aggregation unit that executes the function The workflow execution request includes a notification unit for notifying the information on the workflow to the image processing apparatus that accepts execution of the workflow, and information on the aggregation unit selected by the user who requests execution of the workflow And a function of the function included in the workflow based on the information on the aggregation unit included in the workflow execution request. Having a control unit for controlling the rows, and a collecting unit for collecting information of the count unit that performed the function.

  According to an embodiment of the present invention, in an information processing apparatus that executes processing defined in a workflow using one or more plug-ins, the plug-ins are easily managed for each aggregation unit that totals usage results. Will be able to.

It is a figure showing an example of system configuration of an information processing system concerning one embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the setting of the workflow which concerns on one Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of execution operation of the workflow which concerns on one Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the hardware constitutions of the delivery server which concerns on one Embodiment. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a function structure of the information processing system which concerns on one Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a process of the information processing system which concerns on one Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the reception process of the execution operation which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the execution process of the workflow which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the report information which concerns on one Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the execution process of the workflow which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<System configuration>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. The information processing system 100 includes, for example, the distribution server 101 and the image forming apparatus 102 connected to the distribution server 101 via the network N1, and executes processing based on a workflow in which one or more functions are defined. System.

  Here, the workflow is information in which one or more functions (plug-ins) provided in the distribution server 101 and the order of processing are defined, and is set by an administrator of the information processing system 100, for example. In the workflow, for example, the order in which one or more functions are executed is defined.

  The distribution server (information processing apparatus) 101 is an information processing apparatus such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a system including a plurality of information processing apparatuses. The distribution server 101 executes one or more functions defined in the workflow on data to be processed acquired from the image forming apparatus 102 or the like according to a workflow in which one or more functions are defined.

  The image forming apparatus (image processing apparatus) 102 is, for example, an electronic device such as a multi-function machine in which a scan function, a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function, and the like are mounted in one housing, and a scanner having a scan function. The image forming apparatus 102 is an example of an image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus may be an information terminal such as a PC, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone, or may be an electronic device such as an electronic whiteboard, a video conference apparatus, or a projector. Here, the following description will be made assuming that the image processing apparatus is the image forming apparatus 102.

  In the above configuration, the distribution server 101 has a function of setting a workflow by an operation of an administrator or the like.

(About workflow settings)
FIG. 2 is a diagram for describing setting of a workflow according to an embodiment. FIG. 2A shows an example of the workflow 210. In the example of FIG. 2A, the workflow 210 is defined such that a character recognition plug-in 211, a translation plug-in 212, and a mail transmission plug-in 213 are executed in order.

  The character recognition plug-in 211 is a plug-in that realizes a character recognition function for extracting a character string from image data or the like by, for example, OCR (Optical Character Recognition). The translation plug-in 212 is a plug-in that realizes a translation function for translating a character string extracted by the character recognition plug-in 211, for example. The mail transmission plug-in 213 is a plug-in that realizes a mail transmission function for transmitting, for example, a result of translation by the translation plug-in 212 to a predetermined destination.

  Each plug-in is realized by, for example, an application program (hereinafter referred to as an application) installed in the distribution server 101. Further, at least a part of each plug-in may be realized by hardware or the like connected to the distribution server 101.

  The administrator or the like can define a workflow as shown in FIG. 2A, for example, using the function of setting the workflow of the distribution server 101. In this embodiment, an administrator or the like can set a cost center that can execute each plug-in.

  The cost center is an example of a totaling unit that totals the usage results of each function (plug-in), and is used, for example, for billing, usage amount totalization, usage result reports, or the like. The cost center may be represented by identification information such as a tenant ID for identifying a tenant, a department ID for identifying a department, a group ID for identifying a group, and a floor ID for identifying a floor.

  For example, when setting a workflow as shown in FIG. 2A, the administrator or the like can use each function by using an available cost center setting screen 220 as shown in FIG. 2C. A cost center.

  In the example of FIG. 2B, the cost center list 221 registered in the information processing system 100 is displayed on the setting screen 220 of available cost centers. The administrator or the like selects, for example, a cost center permitted to use the “translation” function from the cost center list 221 using the check box 222 or the like, and selects an “add” button 223.

  Thereby, for example, as shown in the cost center setting screen 230 shown in FIG. 2C, the selected cost center is displayed in the available cost center 224. Further, in the cost center setting screen 230 shown in FIG. 2C, by selecting a cost center from the available cost centers 224 and selecting a “delete” button, the cost from the available cost centers 224 is selected. The center can be deleted. Furthermore, by selecting a “decision” button 232 on the cost center setting screen 230 shown in FIG. 2C, a cost center capable of executing the translation function can be set.

  Similarly, for each function included in the workflow 210, the administrator can set a cost center that can use the function.

  When the workflow information is set, the distribution server 101 notifies the set workflow information to the image forming apparatus 102 that receives the workflow execution (step S101 in FIG. 1).

(About workflow execution operations)
A user who requests execution of a workflow can request the distribution server 101 to execute the workflow using the image forming apparatus 102.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for describing an example of a workflow execution operation according to an embodiment. A user who requests execution of a workflow selects a workflow to be executed from, for example, a workflow selection screen 310 shown in FIG. 3A displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus 102.

  In the example of FIG. 3A, a selection button 311 for “distribution flow 1”, a selection button 312 for “distribution flow 2”, an explanation of processing 313, and the like are displayed on the workflow selection screen 310. Has been. The process description 313 is not limited to a character string, and may be a workflow 210 as illustrated in FIG. 2A, for example.

  For example, the user determines the processing content of each workflow based on the processing description 313 and selects a selection button for selecting a workflow to be executed, for example, a selection button 312 for “distribution flow 2”. Accordingly, for example, a cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 3A is displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus 102, for example.

  In the example of FIG. 3B, the cost center selection screen 320 displays a pull-down menu 321 for selecting a cost center of each function included in the workflow. The user can select a cost center for executing each function using, for example, a pull-down menu 321 or the like.

  At this time, for example, when a cost center that is not used or allowed is selected on the available cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 2B, the image forming apparatus 102 displays, for example, FIG. A warning screen 330 as shown in c) is displayed on the operation panel or the like.

  In the example of FIG. 3C, the warning screen 330 displays a warning dialog 331 indicating that a cost center with no authority (not permitted to use) has been selected. Thereby, it is possible to prevent or reduce the execution of the workflow in a state where a cost center that is not permitted to be used is selected.

  When the “reselect” button 332 is selected in the warning dialog 331, for example, a cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 3B is displayed again on the operation panel or the like. On the other hand, when the “OK” button 333 is selected, for example, it is possible to proceed to a workflow execution screen 340 as shown in FIG. However, in this case, the function in which the cost center that is not permitted to be used is not executed, and only other processing is executed.

  When a cost center permitted to be used is set on the cost center selection screen 320 shown in FIG. 3B, the image forming apparatus 102 displays, for example, a workflow execution screen as shown in FIG. 340 is displayed on the operation panel.

  The user can request the distribution server 101 to execute the workflow by selecting the “start” button 341 on the workflow execution screen 340 as shown in FIG. As a result, the image forming apparatus 102 transmits a workflow execution request including the image data to be processed, the workflow ID for identifying the selected workflow, and information on the cost center for executing each function, to the distribution server 101. (Step S102 in FIG. 1).

(Execution of workflow)
The distribution server 101 controls the execution of each function included in the workflow based on the information of the cost center that executes each function included in the workflow execution request transmitted from the image forming apparatus 102.

  For example, when the information on the cost center that executes each function included in the workflow execution request is included in the information on the cost center set on the available cost center setting screen 230, the distribution server 101 Let it run. On the other hand, if the cost center information for executing each function included in the workflow execution request is not included in the cost center information set on the available cost center setting screen 230, the execution of the function is restricted. Do (for example, stop). As a result, the distribution server 101 can control the execution of the plug-in for each cost center.

  Further, when executing the workflow, the distribution server 101 collects and manages information on the cost center that has executed each function. As a result, the distribution server 101 can tabulate the use results of plug-ins for each cost center.

  Note that the data for which the predetermined processing has been executed by the execution of the workflow is distributed to a distribution destination corresponding to the workflow, for example, the distribution destination 103 connected via the network N2 (step S103 in FIG. 1).

  The distribution destination 103 may be an information terminal such as a PC, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone, or may be a storage server, a mail transmission server, or the like. Further, the network N1 and the network N2 may be the same network or different networks.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the distribution server (information processing apparatus) 101 that executes the process defined in the workflow using one or more plug-ins, it is easy for each tabulation unit that counts usage results. You will be able to manage plugins.

<Hardware configuration>
(Hardware configuration of distribution server)
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a distribution server according to an embodiment. The distribution server 101 has a general computer configuration. For example, a central processing unit (CPU) 401, a random access memory (RAM) 402, a read only memory (ROM) 403, a storage device 404, a network I / O F405, an input device 406, a display device 407, an external I / F 408, a bus 409, and the like.

  The CPU 401 is an arithmetic device that implements each function of the distribution server 101 by reading a program or data stored in the ROM 403, the storage device 404, or the like onto the RAM 402 and executing processing. A RAM 402 is a volatile memory used as a work area for the CPU 401. The ROM 403 is a non-volatile memory that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off.

  The storage device 404 is a large-capacity storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive), and stores an OS (Operating System), application programs, various data, and the like. A network I / F 405 is a communication interface for connecting the distribution server 101 to the networks N1, N2, and the like.

  The input device 406 is, for example, a pointing device such as a mouse or an input device such as a keyboard, and is used to input each operation signal to the distribution server 101. The display device 407 is a display device such as a display, and displays a processing result or the like by the distribution server 101.

  The external I / F 408 is an interface with an external device. The external device includes, for example, the storage medium 410 and the like. A bus 409 is connected to each of the above-described components, and transmits an address signal, a data signal, various control signals, and the like.

(Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus)
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 102 according to the embodiment.

  The image forming apparatus 102 includes a controller 510, an operation panel 520, a communication I / F 530, a plotter 540, a scanner 550, a fax control unit (hereinafter referred to as FCU) 560, and the like.

  The controller 510 includes a CPU 511, a RAM 512, a ROM 513, an NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM) 514, an HDD 515, and the like.

  The ROM 513 is a nonvolatile storage device that stores various programs and data. The RAM 512 is a volatile storage device that temporarily stores programs and data. The NVRAM 514 is a writable nonvolatile storage device that stores setting information and the like, for example. The HDD 515 is a large-capacity storage device that stores various programs and data.

  The CPU 511 is an arithmetic unit that realizes overall control and functions of the image forming apparatus 102 by reading programs, data, setting information, and the like from the ROM 513, the NVRAM 514, the HDD 515, and the like onto the RAM 512 and executing processing.

  The operation panel 520 includes an input unit that receives input from the user and a display unit that performs display. The communication I / F 530 is an interface that connects the image forming apparatus 102 to the networks N1, N2, and the like. Thereby, the image forming apparatus 102 can communicate with the distribution server 101 and the like.

  The plotter 540 is a printing device that prints print data. The scanner 550 is a reading device that reads a document or the like. The FCU 560 transmits and receives fax data.

<Functional configuration>
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment.

(Functional configuration of distribution server)
The distribution server 101 includes, for example, a communication unit 611, a workflow setting unit 612, a workflow information notification unit 613, a display input control unit 614, an information collection unit 615, an information output unit 616, a process execution unit 617, a workflow control unit 618, and a storage unit. 619 etc.

  For example, the distribution server 101 implements each functional configuration described above by executing a predetermined program by the CPU 401 in FIG. 4. In addition, at least a part of each functional configuration described above may be realized by hardware.

  The communication unit (reception unit) 611 connects the distribution server 101 to the networks N1, N2, and the like using the network I / F 405 of FIG. 4, for example, and communicates with the image forming apparatus 102, the information terminal 601, the management server 602, and the like. I do. For example, the communication unit 611 functions as a reception unit that receives a workflow execution request from the image forming apparatus 102 or the like.

  The workflow setting unit (setting unit) 612 sets, for example, the workflow 210 as shown in FIG. 2A and, for each function included in the workflow 210, information on the cost center that can execute the function. Set. For example, the workflow setting unit 612 uses the display input control unit 614 to display the available cost center setting screen 220 as shown in FIG. 2B, and the cost center selected by the administrator or the like. Get information. Note that the cost center is an example of one or more counting units for counting the usage results of each function.

  The plug-in may include a plug-in that does not require setting of an available cost center. For example, a plug-in that realizes general functions such as image compression, rotation, and mail transmission may be used without setting a cost center.

  Note that the workflow information set by the workflow setting unit 612 is stored in, for example, the workflow information 631 in the storage unit 619.

  A workflow information notification unit (notification unit) 613 notifies the workflow information set by the workflow setting unit 612 to the image forming apparatus 102 that accepts the execution of the workflow. The workflow information notified here is accompanied by the setting of a cost center for executing each function using a cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 3B when the workflow is executed.

  For example, the display input control unit 614 displays a display screen as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C and accepts an input operation by an administrator or the like. For example, the display input control unit 614 may display a display screen on the display device 407 of FIG. 4 and receive an input operation of an administrator or the like by the input device 406, or a web browser of the information terminal 601 For example, the display screen may be displayed to accept an input operation by an administrator or the like.

  The process execution unit 617 includes a plurality of plug-ins A621, plug-in B622,..., And executes processes according to control from the workflow control unit 618.

  The workflow control unit (control unit) 618 controls the execution of each function included in the workflow based on the cost center information for executing each function included in the workflow execution request received from the image forming apparatus 102 or the like. .

  For example, when the cost center information for executing each function included in the workflow execution request is included in the cost center information set by the workflow setting unit 612, the workflow control unit 618 executes the function. On the other hand, if the cost center information for executing each function included in the workflow execution request is not included in the cost center information set in the workflow setting unit 612, the workflow control unit 618 executes the function. Limit (for example, stop execution).

  As an example, “Cost Center A” and “Cost Center B” are set as cost centers in which the “translation” function can be used on the setting screen 230 of available cost centers shown in FIG.

  In this case, if “Cost Center A” or “Cost Center B” is set as a cost center for executing the “translation” function included in the workflow execution request, the workflow control unit 618 causes the translation plug-in 212 to Is executed.

  On the other hand, if a cost center other than “Cost Center A” and “Cost Center B” is set as a cost center for executing the “translation” function included in the workflow execution request, the workflow control unit 618 will Stop execution.

  The information collection unit (collection unit) 615 collects information on the cost center that executed each function under the control of the workflow control unit 618 and stores the information in the log information 632 of the storage unit 619, for example.

  The information output unit 616 outputs the log information 632 collected by the information collection unit 615, the analysis result of the log information 632, and the like to an external device such as the management server 602 and the information terminal 601.

  The storage unit 619 is realized by, for example, a program executed by the CPU 401 in FIG. 4, the storage device 404, the RAM 402, and the like, and stores various information such as workflow information 631 and log information 632.

(Functional configuration of image forming apparatus)
The image forming apparatus 102 includes, for example, a communication unit 641, a workflow information acquisition unit 642, a display control unit 643, an operation reception unit 644, an image acquisition unit 645, an execution request unit 646, a storage unit 647, and the like.

  For example, the image forming apparatus 102 implements each functional configuration described above by executing a predetermined program by the CPU 511 in FIG. 5. In addition, at least a part of each functional configuration described above may be realized by hardware.

  The communication unit 641 connects the image forming apparatus 102 to the networks N1, N2, and the like using the communication I / F 530 of FIG. 5, for example, and communicates with other devices such as the distribution server 101.

  The workflow information acquisition unit (acquisition unit) 642 acquires workflow information notified from the distribution server 101 and stores the information in the storage unit 647, for example.

  The display control unit 643 uses, for example, the workflow information acquired by the workflow information acquisition unit 642 to display a workflow selection screen 310, a cost center selection screen 320, and the like as shown in FIG. 3 on an operation panel (display unit). 520 is displayed.

  The operation reception unit 644 receives a selection operation by the user for the workflow selection screen 310, the cost center selection screen 320, the workflow execution screen 340, and the like displayed on the operation panel 520 by the display control unit 643.

  The image acquisition unit 645 acquires image data to be processed using, for example, the scanner 550 shown in FIG.

  The execution request unit 646 transmits to the distribution server 101 an execution request that requests execution of a workflow including information on the cost center selected on the workflow selection screen 310, the cost center selection screen 320, and the like.

  The storage unit 647 is realized by, for example, the program executed by the CPU 511 in FIG. 5, the HDD 515, the RAM 512, and the like, and stores various information such as workflow information acquired by the workflow information acquisition unit 642.

(About information terminals and management servers)
The information terminal 601 is an information processing apparatus such as a PC, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone that is used by an administrator or the like. The information terminal 601 is connected to the distribution server 101 using a web browser or the like, and performs workflow setting and the like.

  The management server 602 is an external server that can communicate with the distribution server 101 via the networks N1, N2, and the like. The management server 602 may have the information output unit 616, the log information 632, and the like that the distribution server 101 has.

<Process flow>
Subsequently, a processing flow of the information processing method according to the present embodiment will be described.

(Processing of information processing system)
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the information processing system according to the embodiment. This process shows the flow of the entire information processing system 100.

  In step S701, the workflow setting unit 612 of the distribution server 101 accepts the setting of a cost center that can use each function for each function included in the workflow. For example, the workflow setting unit 612 uses the display input control unit 614 to display the available cost center setting screens 220 and 230 as shown in FIGS. Accept setting operation.

  In step S <b> 702, the workflow setting unit 612 of the distribution server 101 creates workflow information accompanied by setting of a cost center for executing a function included in the workflow.

  In step S <b> 703, the workflow information notification unit 613 of the distribution server 101 transmits the created workflow information to the image forming apparatus 102.

  In step S <b> 704, the image forming apparatus 102 executes, for example, a workflow execution operation reception process, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 8, and receives a workflow execution operation by the user.

  In step S705, the distribution server 101 executes, for example, a workflow execution process described later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 11, and executes the requested workflow.

(Execution operation acceptance process)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of execution operation reception processing according to an embodiment. This process corresponds to, for example, the process of step S704 in FIG.

  In step S801, the display control unit 643 of the image forming apparatus 102 displays a workflow selection screen 310 as shown in FIG. 3A on the operation panel 520, for example. In the example of FIG. 3A, a user who requests execution of a workflow selects a workflow to be executed using the selection button 311 of “distribution flow 1”, the selection button 312 of “distribution flow 2”, and the like. Can do.

  In step S802, the display control unit 643 causes the operation panel 520 or the like to display a cost center selection screen corresponding to the workflow selected from the workflow selection screen 310. Thereby, for example, a cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 3B is displayed on the operation panel 520 or the like.

  In step S <b> 803, the operation reception unit 644 of the image forming apparatus 102 acquires information on the cost center that can execute each function of the workflow from the workflow information acquired by the workflow information acquisition unit 642. This information is, for example, information set by an administrator or the like using the available cost center setting screens 220 and 230 shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C.

  In step S804, the operation accepting unit 644 accepts a cost center selection operation by the user on the cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 3B, for example.

  In step S805, the operation reception unit 644 of the image forming apparatus 102 determines whether a cost center capable of executing each function has been selected in step S804.

  If a cost center capable of executing each function is not selected, the operation reception unit 644 causes the process to proceed to step S806. On the other hand, when a cost center capable of executing each function is selected, the operation reception unit 644 causes the process to proceed to step S808.

  In step S806, the display control unit 643 of the image forming apparatus 102 displays a warning screen 330 as illustrated in FIG. 3C on the operation panel 520, for example.

  In step S807, the operation reception unit 644 of the image forming apparatus 102 determines whether a reselection operation by the user has been received. For example, the operation accepting unit 644 determines that the reselection operation by the user has been accepted when the selection of the “reselect” button 332 is detected on the warning screen 330 as shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the operation accepting unit 644 detects selection of the “OK” button 333 on the warning screen 330 as illustrated in FIG. 3C, the operation accepting unit 644 determines that the reselection operation by the user is not accepted.

  When the reselection operation by the user is received, the image forming apparatus 102 returns the process to step S802 to display the cost center selection screen 320 as shown in FIG. 3B again, for example. On the other hand, when the reselection operation by the user has not been received, the image forming apparatus 102 shifts the processing to step S808.

  In step S808, the operation reception unit 644 of the image forming apparatus 102 stores workflow information including information on the selected cost center in the storage unit 647.

  In step S <b> 809, the execution request unit 646 of the image forming apparatus 102 transmits an execution request for requesting execution of a workflow including information on the selected cost center to the distribution server 101 in accordance with an execution operation by the user. For example, when the operation receiving unit 644 detects selection of the “start” button 341 on the workflow execution screen 340 as illustrated in FIG. 3D, the execution request unit 646 sends a workflow execution request to the distribution server. 101.

  Through the above processing, a workflow execution request including information on the cost center selected by the user who requests execution of the workflow is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 102 to the distribution server 101.

(Execution operation acceptance process)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a workflow execution process according to an embodiment. This process corresponds to, for example, the process of step S705 in FIG.

  In step S901, the workflow control unit 618 of the distribution server 101 initializes a variable n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 1) to 1, and executes the processes in and after step S902.

  In step S902, the workflow control unit 618 transitions to the nth function (plug-in) of the workflow requested to be executed. For example, when an execution request for the workflow 210 as illustrated in FIG. 2A is received and the value of n is “1”, the workflow control unit 618 transitions to the character recognition plug-in 211.

  In step S903, the workflow control unit 618 determines whether a cost center capable of executing the function is set for the transition destination function. Here, for example, in the execution operation reception process shown in FIG. 8, for each function included in the workflow, a cost center for executing the function is set by the user.

  In addition, for each function included in the workflow, a cost center capable of executing each function is set by the workflow setting unit 612 of the distribution server 101, for example, in the process of step S701 in FIG. For example, in the setting screen of available cost centers shown in FIG. 2C, available cost centers “Cost Center A” and “Cost Center B” are set for the “translation” function.

  For example, when the cost center for executing the “translation” function included in the execution request is included in the available cost centers set in the workflow setting unit 612, the workflow control unit 618 can execute the function execution cost. Judge that the center is set. In this case, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the process to step S904.

  On the other hand, if the cost center for executing the “translation” function included in the execution request is not included in the available cost centers set in the workflow setting unit 612, the workflow control unit 618 can execute the function. Judge that the center is not set. In this case, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the process to step S905.

  In step S904, the workflow control unit 618 causes the process execution unit 617 to execute the transition destination function. For example, when the transition destination function is a “translation” function, the workflow control unit 618 causes the translation plug-in 212 to execute a translation process.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the workflow control unit 618 causes each function to be executed when the cost center that executes each function set by the user is a cost center that can execute each function. On the other hand, if the cost center for executing each function set by the user is a cost center capable of executing each function, the workflow control unit 618 stops the execution of each function.

  In step S905, the information collection unit 615 collects log information of the processes executed in steps S902 to S904, and stores the collected log information in the log information 632 of the storage unit 619. For example, when the “translation” function is executed by “Cost Center A”, the information collection unit 615 stores the information in the log information 632. For example, when the execution of the “translation” function is stopped, the information collection unit 615 stores the information in the log information 632.

  In step S906, for example, the workflow control unit 618 determines whether the value of n is larger than nMAX, which is the number of functions included in the workflow, to determine whether the processing for each process included in the workflow has been completed. Judge whether or not.

  If the value of n is less than nMAX, that is, if there is a function for which processing has not been completed, the workflow control unit 618 adds 1 to the variable n and returns the processing to step S902, whereby the next function On the other hand, the processing of steps S902 to S905 is executed.

  On the other hand, when the value of n is greater than or equal to nMAX, that is, when the process for each process is completed, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the process to step S908.

  In step S908, the information output unit 616 of the distribution server 101 determines in steps S901 to S907 whether the function for which the cost center has been set has been executed.

  When the function for which the cost center is set is not executed, the information output unit 616 ends the process. On the other hand, when the process in which the function for which the cost center has been set is executed, the information output unit 616 executes the reporting process in step S909.

  For example, the information output unit 616 may transmit the log information collected in step S905 to the management server 602 that manages the cost center, or report information as shown in FIG. The information may be transmitted to the information terminal 601.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of report information according to an embodiment. In the example of FIG. 10, the report information 1000 displays a usage record for each cost center on a date selected from the date list 1001, for example, as a bar graph 1002. Note that the report information illustrated in FIG. 10 is an example, and the report information may be, for example, information that displays a usage record for each cost center in units of weeks, months, or the like.

  Further, the report information as shown in FIG. 10 may be generated by the information output unit 616 of the distribution server 101, or the management server 601 or the like uses log information or the like output by the information output unit 616. It may be generated.

  As described above, in the information processing system 100 according to the present embodiment, for each function (plug-in) included in the distribution server 101, a usage record for each cost center (for example, usage count, usage amount, usage time, etc.) is provided. It can be easily grasped.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, it has been described that a cost center capable of executing the function is set for each function included in the workflow. However, an available cost center is set for the workflow. Not all functions may be included. For example, it is desirable that general functions such as image conversion, image compression, and mail transmission can be freely used by the user regardless of the setting of the cost center.

  In the second embodiment, a workflow execution process when the workflow includes a function for which an available cost center is not set will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a workflow execution process according to the second embodiment. Of the processes shown in FIG. 11, the processes in steps S901, S902, S905 to S909 are the same as the workflow execution process shown in FIG. 10, and therefore, the description will focus on the differences from the process shown in FIG. Do.

  In step S1101, the workflow control unit 618 of the distribution server 101 determines whether a cost center is set for the transition destination function. In the present embodiment, the workflow may include a function for which information of a cost center (a cost center that can be used, a cost center that executes a function, etc.) is not set.

  When the cost center is not set for the transition destination function, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the processing to step S1103. On the other hand, when a cost center is set for the transition destination function, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the processing to step S1102.

  In step S1102, the workflow control unit 618 determines whether a cost center capable of executing the function is set for the function at the transition destination. Since this process is the same as the process of step S903 in FIG. 9, detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  If a cost center capable of executing the function is set for the transition destination function, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the process to step S1103. On the other hand, if a cost center capable of executing the function is not set for the transition destination function, the workflow control unit 618 shifts the process to step S905.

  In step S1103, the workflow control unit 618 causes the process execution unit 617 to execute the transition destination function. For example, when the transition destination function is a “translation” function, the workflow control unit 618 causes the translation plug-in 212 to execute a translation process.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the workflow control unit 618 executes the function for which the cost center is not set as it is, and the function for which the cost center is set is set when an available cost center is set. Only run.

  According to the present embodiment, by setting the cost center only for the function for which the usage results by the cost center are to be managed, for example, for the functions common to each cost center, the operations such as setting and selecting the cost center are performed. Can be omitted.

  As described above, according to each of the above-described embodiments, the distribution unit (information processing apparatus) 101 that executes processing defined in the workflow using one or more plug-ins is a totaling unit (cost center) that totals usage results ) Can control the execution of the plug-in.

  Further, according to each of the above-described embodiments, in each distribution unit (information processing apparatus) 101 that executes processing defined in a workflow using one or more plug-ins, for each aggregation unit that totals usage results, You can aggregate usage results.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the distribution server (information processing apparatus) 101 that executes the process defined in the workflow using one or more plug-ins, You can manage plugins easily.

  Note that the functional configuration of the information processing system 100 illustrated in FIG. 6 is an example. The information processing system 100 can employ various functional configurations depending on, for example, applications and purposes. For example, the workflow setting unit 612 and the workflow information notification unit 613 included in the distribution server 101 of FIG. 6 may be included in other devices such as the information terminal 601, the image forming apparatus 102, the management server 602, and the like.

  Further, the workflow control unit 618, the process execution unit 617, and the like included in the distribution server 101 may be included in other devices such as the image forming apparatus 102, for example.

  Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the information output unit 616 included in the distribution server 101 of FIG. 6 may be included in other devices such as the information terminal 601 and the management server 602, for example.

  Furthermore, each function provided in the image forming apparatus 102 may be included in another apparatus such as the information terminal 601.

100 Information processing system 101 Distribution server (information processing apparatus)
102 Image forming apparatus (image processing apparatus)
611 Communication unit (receiving unit)
612 Workflow setting part (setting part)
613 Workflow information notification unit (notification unit)
615 Information collection unit (collection unit)
616 Information output unit 617 Process execution unit 618 Workflow control unit (control unit)
642 Workflow information acquisition unit (acquisition unit)
643 Display control unit 646 Execution request unit

JP 2013-109580 A

Claims (10)

An information processing apparatus that executes the function based on a workflow in which one or more functions are defined,
For a function included in the workflow, a setting unit that sets information of the aggregation unit that can execute the function among one or more aggregation units that aggregate usage records of the function;
A notification unit that notifies the image processing apparatus that accepts the execution of the workflow, the information of the workflow that includes the setting of the aggregation unit for executing the function;
A receiving unit that receives the execution request of the workflow including information on the aggregation unit selected by a user who requests execution of the workflow;
A control unit that controls execution of the function included in the workflow based on the information of the aggregation unit included in the execution request of the workflow;
A collection unit that collects information of the aggregation unit that has executed the function;
An information processing apparatus.   The control unit is configured to execute the function when the information on the aggregation unit included in the workflow execution request is included in the information on the aggregation unit that can execute the function set by the setting unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus causes the function to be executed.   The control unit restricts execution of the function when the information on the aggregation unit included in the workflow execution request is not included in the information on the aggregation unit that can execute the function set by the setting unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.   The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the setting unit sets information of the aggregation unit that can execute the function for each function included in the workflow.   5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an information output unit that outputs information indicating a usage record of the function for each aggregation unit using the information collected by the collection unit. An information processing system including an image processing device and an information processing device connected to the image processing device via a network, and executing the function based on a workflow in which one or more functions are defined,
The information processing apparatus includes:
For a function included in the workflow, a setting unit that sets information of the aggregation unit that can execute the function among the aggregation units that aggregate the usage results of the function;
A notification unit for notifying the image processing apparatus that receives the execution of the workflow, the information on the workflow with the setting of the aggregation unit for executing the function;
A receiving unit that receives the execution request of the workflow including information on the aggregation unit selected by a user who requests execution of the workflow;
A control unit that controls execution of the function included in the workflow based on the information of the aggregation unit included in the execution request of the workflow;
A collection unit that collects information of the aggregation unit that has executed the function;
An information processing system. The image processing apparatus includes:
An acquisition unit for acquiring the workflow information from the information processing apparatus;
A display control unit that displays on the display unit a selection screen for selecting information of the aggregation unit that executes the function included in the workflow, using the acquired information of the workflow;
An execution request unit that transmits the execution request of the workflow including information on the aggregation unit selected on the selection screen to the information processing apparatus;
The information processing system according to claim 6.   The display control unit may not execute the function when the information on the aggregation unit selected on the selection screen is not included in the information on the aggregation unit that can execute the function set by the setting unit. The information processing system according to claim 7, wherein a warning screen is displayed on the display unit. An information processing method in which an information processing apparatus executes the function based on a workflow in which one or more functions are defined,
The information processing apparatus is
For the functions included in the workflow, a step of setting information on the aggregation units that can execute the function among the aggregation units that aggregate the usage results of the functions;
Informing the image processing apparatus that accepts the execution of the workflow of the workflow information accompanied by the setting of the aggregation unit for executing the function;
Receiving the workflow execution request including information on the aggregation unit selected by a user requesting the workflow execution;
Controlling the execution of the function included in the workflow based on information of the aggregation unit included in the execution request of the workflow;
Collecting information on the aggregation units that have performed the function;
An information processing method is executed.   A program for causing an information processing apparatus to execute the information processing method according to claim 9.

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