JP2020077117A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To enable improvement in the convenience and security of private print jobs.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 1 comprises: a designation accepting unit 102 for accepting one or more user names for executing private print jobs accepted by a job accepting unit 101, and designation of an access code and a printing condition for each user name; an HDD 92 for associating the one or more user names, the access code and the printing condition for each user name with respect to the private print job and storing them in a dedicated storage area 92A for the user name; a network interface unit 91 for transmitting notification information to a terminal device having the user name stored in the dedicated storage area 92A; a user authentication unit 103; a selection accepting unit 104; a determination unit 105 for determining whether the access code matches; and a job execution control unit 106 for executing the private print job in accordance with the print condition when it is determined that the access code matches.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to a technique for further improving security so that a user who has previously designated private printing can perform private printing.

  In recent years, image forming apparatuses have a storage area called a personal box for each user, and each user can store document data such as image data and document data in his / her own personal box. There are some with.

  As an output form of image formation using the above box function, there is a function called a private print function. When the image forming apparatus receives a private print job from the terminal device, the private print function temporarily stores the private print job and the identification information (for example, user ID) of the transmission source in the personal box, and then the transmission source. User inputs the identification information of the transmission source to the operation unit of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus reads the private print job corresponding to the identification information from the personal box and executes the image formation based on the private print job. It is a function to do. As a result, only the user who is the sender of the private print job can obtain the printed matter of the private print job, so that the image forming apparatus and the terminal device, which is the sender of the private print job, are mutually connected. Even if the printed matter is present at a distant position, security can be secured without the printed matter being visually recognized by other users.

  Further, the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 associates the private print job received from the terminal device of the transmission source user with the identification information of the execution user designated in advance by the transmission source user, and associates the execution user's personal box. When the designated execution user inputs the identification information of the execution user into the operation unit of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus reads out the private print job corresponding to the identification information from the personal box and executes the private printing. Image formation is executed based on the job. As a result, the user who has transmitted the private print job can cause the execution user designated in advance to execute the private print job. For this reason, even if the image forming apparatus and the terminal device of the executing user who executes the private print job exist at positions distant from each other, the printed matter is not visually recognized by users other than the sender and the executing user. , Security can be secured.

JP, 2011-172046, A

  However, in Patent Document 1, it is not possible to set a plurality of executing users for one private print job. Further, it is not possible to set individual print conditions for each executing user for one private print job. Further, it is necessary to individually create a private print job for each of a plurality of executing users, and it takes time to create a private print job to be executed by a plurality of users. Further, when the identification information (user ID) of the executing user is known to another user, the private print job may be illegally executed by the other user.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and effective use of private print jobs, construction of secure according to each executing user, reduction of private print job creation time for multiple users, It is intended to enable the security of private printing to be further improved. That is, it is possible to improve the convenience and security of a private print job.

  An image forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus connected to a terminal device via a network, the job receiving unit receiving a private print job from the terminal device, and the job receiving unit receiving the job. A designation receiving unit that receives designations of one or more user names for executing private print jobs, different access codes for each user name, and print conditions of the private print job for each user name, and the job receiving unit. A storage unit that associates the received private print job with one or more user names accepted by the designated acceptance unit, an access code for each user name, and a printing condition, and stores the associated private print job in a shared storage area available to each user. Sending notification information including a request to execute the private print job and an access code specified by the user with the user name, to the information processing device used by the user with the user name stored in the shared storage area The transmitting unit, the operating unit operated by the user, the user name and access code input to the operating unit by the user who received the notification information, and the user name and access code stored in the shared storage area. A determination unit that determines whether or not they match, and when the determination unit determines that the access codes match, a private print job associated with the access code stored in the shared storage area is set as the printing condition. And a job execution control unit that executes the job according to the following.

  An image forming apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus connected to a plurality of terminal devices via a network, and a private print job from a first terminal device of the plurality of terminal devices. Of the private print job, the access code different for each user name, and the print condition of the private print job for each user name. For a private reception job accepted by the job acceptance unit and a designation acceptance unit that accepts designations, respectively, one or more user names accepted by the designation acceptance unit, an access code for each user name, and print conditions are associated with each other. A storage unit for storing in a dedicated storage area exclusively owned by a user having a user name, and a second terminal device used by a user having a user name stored in the dedicated storage region among the plurality of terminal devices, A transmission unit that transmits notification information including a private print job execution request and an access code designated by the user of the user name, an operation unit that is operated by the user, and user authentication information that stores user authentication information in advance. The storage unit determines whether or not the input information input to the operation unit by the user who has received the notification information and the user authentication information stored in advance in the user authentication information storage unit match. A user authentication unit that determines that the login is made by a legitimate user when determined, and a dedicated storage of the logged-in user in the storage unit that is determined by the user authentication unit as a legitimate user login When the private print job is stored in the area, a selection accepting unit that accepts a private printing selection by the user, and an access input to the operation unit when the selection accepting unit accepts the private printing selection A determination unit that determines whether the code and the access code for the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of the regular user match, and the determination unit determines whether the access codes match. In this case, a job execution control unit that executes the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of the regular user according to the printing conditions is provided.

  According to the present invention, effective use of private print jobs, construction of security according to each executing user, reduction of private print job creation time for multiple users, and further improvement of private print security are achieved. Can be planned. That is, it is possible to improve the convenience and security of the private print job.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing appearances of an image forming apparatus and a plurality of terminal devices according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a main internal configuration of the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of private print processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a private print job transmission screen displayed on the first terminal device, and FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a table configuration of a user authentication information storage unit. (A) is a diagram showing an example of a function selection screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus, and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a transmission source user authentication information input screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus. is there. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus, which is a setting screen of a private print job stored in a private box of a transmission source user, and FIG. FIG. (A) is a diagram showing an example of a screen for adding an executing user and setting the number of copies, and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a list display screen. (A) is a diagram showing an example of a screen for adding an executing user and setting the number of copies, and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a list display screen. (A) is a diagram showing an example of an execution user authentication information input screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus, and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a private print execution screen displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus. is there. It is a functional block diagram which shows the main internal structural examples of the image forming apparatus of 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting an execution user addition and the number of print copies and execution order displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a list display screen. Is. FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of a screen for adding an executing user and setting the number of print copies and printable time zone displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment, and FIG. FIG. It is a functional block diagram which shows the main internal structural examples of the image forming apparatus of 4th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the setting screen of the print print mail displayed on the 1st terminal device in 4th Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of an image forming apparatus and a plurality of terminal devices according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The image forming apparatus 1 of the first embodiment is connected to a plurality of terminal devices 201, 202, 203 via a network.

  The terminal devices 201, 202, and 203 are terminal devices such as a notebook computer, a tablet computer, and a desktop computer, and include a display unit 222, a communication unit 224, and a control unit (not shown). These components can transmit / receive data or signals to / from each other via a bus. For example, the terminal devices 201, 202, and 203 have installed therein a communication application for transmitting and receiving mail with the image forming apparatus 1.

  The display unit 222 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Organic Light-Emitting Diode), or the like.

  The communication unit 224 is a communication interface including a communication module such as a LAN chip (not shown). The communication unit 224 has a function of communicating with the image forming apparatus 1.

  Next, the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. The image forming apparatus 1 is, for example, a multifunction machine having a plurality of functions such as a copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an apparatus main body 2, an image reading unit 5 disposed above the apparatus main body 2, and a connecting unit provided between the image reading unit 5 and the apparatus main body 2. 3 and 3.

  A housing 7 forming an outer shell of the image forming apparatus 1 accommodates a plurality of constituent devices for realizing various functions of the image forming apparatus 1. For example, the housing 7 houses the image reading unit 5, the image forming unit 12 (FIG. 2), the fixing unit 13 (FIG. 2), the paper feeding unit 30, and the like.

  The image reading unit 5 is an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) having a document feeding unit 6 and a scanner that optically reads a document fed by the document feeding unit 6 or a document placed on a contact glass (not shown). is there. When the image forming apparatus 1 performs the image reading operation, the image reading unit 5 reads the originals conveyed by the original conveying unit 6 or the originals placed on a contact glass (not shown) one by one, thereby reading the originals. Get an image.

  The image forming unit 12 includes a photoconductor drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, and a transfer device, and an image read by the image reading unit 5, a plurality of network-connected terminal devices 201, 202, 203, and the like. An image is formed (printed) on the recording paper supplied from the paper supply unit 30 using print data sent from the facsimile machine or another facsimile machine. The recording paper on which the image has been formed is subjected to a fixing process by the fixing unit 13 and then discharged onto the discharge tray 4.

  The operation unit 47 is operated by the user. The operation unit 47 is, for example, a start key for instructing execution of functions that can be performed by the image forming apparatus 1, a determination key (enter key) for confirming the operation of the user (operator), and further for inputting numerical values. Equipped with numeric input keys.

  In addition, the operation unit 47 includes a display unit 473 that displays operation guidance to the user. The display unit 473 is a touch panel, and the user can operate the image forming apparatus 1 by touching an image or an icon displayed on the display unit 473.

  Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the main internal configuration of the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment.

  The image forming apparatus 1 includes a control unit 10. The control unit 10 includes a processor, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and the like. The processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or the like.

  The image reading unit 5 includes a reading mechanism including a light irradiation unit and a CCD sensor under the control of the control unit 10. The image reading unit 5 reads an image from the original by irradiating the original with the light emitting unit and receiving the reflected light by the CCD sensor.

  The image processing unit 31 performs image processing on the document image read by the image reading unit 5 as necessary. For example, the image processing unit 31 performs predetermined image processing such as shading correction in order to improve the quality of the image read by the image reading unit 5 after being formed by the image forming unit 12.

  The image memory 32 is an area for temporarily storing a document image obtained by reading by the image reading unit 5 and temporarily storing an image to be image-formed by the image forming unit 12.

  The image forming unit 12 forms an image of a document image read by the image reading unit 5, print data received from the network-connected terminal device 201, or the like.

  The fixing unit 13 heats the recording paper on which an image (toner image) is formed on the surface by the image forming process of the image forming unit 12, and performs the fixing process of recording and fixing the image by thermocompression bonding.

  The operation unit 47 receives instructions from the user regarding various operations and processes that the image forming apparatus 1 can execute. The operation unit 47 includes a display unit 473 that displays operation guidance to the user.

  The facsimile communication unit 71 includes an encoding / decoding unit, a modulation / demodulation unit, and an NCU (Network Control Unit) (not shown), and performs facsimile transmission / reception using a public telephone line network.

  The network interface unit 91 is composed of a communication module such as a LAN board, and transmits / receives various data to / from the terminal devices 201, 202, 203 and the like via a LAN or the like connected to the network interface unit 91. In particular, the network interface unit 91 receives print data from the terminal device 201 or the like, for example, a private print job.

  An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 92 is a large-capacity storage device that stores various data and programs, a document image read by the image reading unit 5, and the like. Further, the HDD 92 includes a dedicated storage area 92A exclusively used by the user and a user authentication information storage unit 92B that stores user authentication information in advance. The dedicated storage area 92A is, for example, a storage area called a personal box prepared for each user. The HDD 92 is an example of a storage unit in the claims.

  The drive motor 70 is a drive source that applies a rotational drive force to each of the rotating members in the image forming unit 12, the fixing unit 13 and the like, the pair of conveying rollers, and the like.

  The control unit 10 includes a control unit 100, a job reception unit 101, a designation reception unit 102, a user authentication unit 103, a selection reception unit 104, a determination unit 105, a job execution control unit 106, and an execution determination unit 107. And a memory erasing unit 108.

  The control unit 10 includes a control unit 100, a job receiving unit 101, a designation receiving unit 102, a user authenticating unit 103, and a selection receiving unit 104, when the control program stored in the HDD 92 is executed by the processor. It functions as a determination unit 105, a job execution control unit 106, an execution determination unit 107, and a storage deletion unit 108. Each of the above components of the control unit 10 may be configured by a hardware circuit instead of the operation based on the control program described above.

  The control unit 100 controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 100 also includes an image reading unit 5, a document conveying unit 6, an image processing unit 31, an image memory 32, an image forming unit 12, a fixing unit 13, an operation unit 47, a display unit 473, a facsimile communication unit 71, and a network interface. It is connected to the unit 91, the HDD (hard disk drive) 92, etc., and controls the drive of each of these units.

  The job receiving unit 101 receives a private print job from a first terminal device (in the present embodiment, the terminal device 201 of a transmission source user, for example) of the plurality of terminal devices 201, 202, 203 and the like.

  The designation receiving unit 102 designates one or more user names for executing the private print jobs received by the job receiving unit 101, an access code different for each user name, and print conditions for the private print job for each user name. Are accepted respectively.

  The HDD 92 associates the private print job accepted by the job accepting unit 101 with one or more user names accepted by the designation accepting unit 102, the access code for each user name, and the printing condition, so that the user having the user name is exclusively used. It is stored in the dedicated storage area 92A. For example, when the user name is two, the HDD 92 stores one private print job in association with each user name, access code, and print condition in each dedicated storage area 92A for each user name. In this embodiment, two user names N002 and N003 are associated with one private print job, and the user name N002 is the access code “ABCD1234” (see FIG. 6A). And the printing conditions of the user name N002 (the number of printable copies is three: see FIG. 7B) are associated, and the user name N003 is an access code of the user name N003, for example, “ABCD1235” (FIG. 8A). )) Is associated with the printing condition of the user name N003 (the number of printable copies is 1 copy: see FIG. 8B), and the dedicated storage area 92A of the user name N002 and the dedicated storage area 92A of the user name N003 are associated with each other. Are stored in each. That is, the private print job is temporarily stored in the execution user's dedicated storage area 92A (that is, the private box with the user name N002 and the private box with the user name N003, respectively).

  The user authentication information storage unit 92B stores user authentication information in advance. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4B, the user authentication information storage unit 92B stores user names N001, N002, N003, N004, etc., as authorized users, and passwords ABC, DEF, GHI, JKL and the email address of each user name (for example, aaa@aaa.com, bbb@bbb.com, ccc@ccc.com, ddd@ddd.com, etc.) are stored in one-to-one correspondence. ..

  The network interface unit 91 is a second terminal device (in the present embodiment, for example, a transmission source) used by a user having a user name stored in the dedicated storage area 92A among the plurality of terminal devices 201, 202, 203 and the like. The notification information including the execution request of the private print job and the access code designated by the user having the user name is transmitted to the terminal device 202, 203) of the executing user designated in advance by the user, for example, by e-mail. As for the mail addresses of the user names N001 and N002 of the terminal devices 202 and 203, the control unit 100 controls the mail addresses of the user names N001 and N002 stored in the user authentication information storage unit 92B to bbb@bbb.com. , Ccc@ccc.com are read to set. The network interface unit 91 is an example of the transmission unit in the claims.

  The user authentication unit 103 determines whether or not the input information input to the operation unit 47 by the user who has received the notification information and the user authentication information stored in advance in the user authentication information storage unit 92B match, and the match is satisfied. If is determined, it is determined that the login is a legitimate user.

  If the user authentication unit 103 determines that the login has been performed by a legitimate user, and the private print job is stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the logged-in user in the HDD 92, the selection acceptance unit 104 determines whether the user accepts the print job. Accept private print selection.

  When the selection receiving unit 104 receives the selection of private printing, the determination unit 105 accesses the access code input to the operation unit 47 and the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user. It is determined whether the code matches.

  When the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit 106 executes the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user according to the print conditions.

  Further, when the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit 106 inputs a print request (that is, an excess condition) that exceeds the print condition to the operation unit 47 by the user. The display unit 473 (notification unit) is caused to execute the notification that cannot be executed without executing the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user.

  The execution determination unit 107 determines whether or not the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the regular user in the job execution control unit 106 has been executed according to the printing conditions. For example, when the print permission number of copies is set to 3 as the print condition, the execution determination unit 107 determines that the private print has been performed according to the print condition when three copies are printed, and the private print is still 2 If only one copy has been printed, it is determined that it has not been executed according to the printing conditions, and if the remaining one copy has been printed, it is determined that it has been executed according to the printing conditions.

  When the execution determination unit 107 determines that the private print job has been executed according to the printing conditions, the storage deletion unit 108 deletes the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A, and the execution determination unit 107 When it is determined that the private print job has been executed only in part of the printing conditions in step S1, the private stored in the dedicated storage area 92A when it is determined that the private print job has been executed under the remaining conditions of the printing conditions. Erase the print job.

  By the way, in the present embodiment, after the image forming apparatus 1 receives one private print job transmitted from the first terminal device (terminal device 201) of the source user, the source user selects the image forming apparatus 1. A supplementary description will be given below of a configuration for visiting a user and previously designating a user who executes one private print job.

  The HDD 92 is dedicated to the private print job received by the job receiving unit 101 from the first terminal device (the terminal device 201 of the transmission source user in this embodiment) exclusively for the user having the user name N001 of the first terminal device. It is stored in the storage area 92A. That is, the private print job is temporarily stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the source user (that is, the private box with the user name N001).

  The user authentication unit 103 includes the input information input to the operation unit 47 by the user of the terminal device 201 (first terminal device) (that is, the transmission source user) and the user authentication information stored in advance in the user authentication information storage unit 92B. It is determined whether or not is matched, and when it is determined that the login is performed by the user of the terminal device 201.

  The designation accepting unit 102 determines that the user authentication unit 103 has logged in by the user (transmission source user) of the terminal device 201, and the private printing is performed in the dedicated storage area 92A of the login transmission source user in the HDD 92. When the job is stored, the user of the first terminal device operates the operation unit to accept designation of the one or more user names, the access code, and the printing condition.

  According to this configuration, the transmission source user (the user of the terminal device 201) visits the image forming apparatus 1 and logs in, and one or more user names are set for the private print jobs stored in the transmission source user's dedicated storage area 92A. The designation of the access code and the printing condition can be performed by the operation unit 47 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  Next, in the image forming apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, of the plurality of terminal devices 201, 202, 203, etc., the private print job transmitted from the terminal device 201 that is the transmission source user is received, and the transmission source user The private print processing for causing the execution user designated in advance to execute the received private print job will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, in the terminal device 201 which is the transmission source user, the communication application installed in advance is activated. The control unit of the terminal device 201 displays the private print job transmission screen (see FIG. 4A) on the display unit of the terminal device 201. In the transmission screen shown in FIG. 4A, the transmission source user operates the selection button K1 to select the image data (image data of the examination document) relating to the private print job. The image data of this examination document includes highly confidential image data such as a loan examination document and a business plan examination document. Next, the transmission source user operates the selection button K2 to select the image forming apparatus that is the transmission destination of the private print job. Here, the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to “multifunction device: M001”, and “multifunction device: M001” is selected. Further, the transmission source user selects basic printing conditions (monochrome / color, single-sided / double-sided, aggregation (not aggregated if “NORMAL”), etc. for the private print job. Then, when the transmission source user is ready to transmit the private print job, the transmission source user operates the OK button K3 on the transmission screen shown in FIG. 4A to transfer the private print job from the terminal device 201 to the image forming apparatus 1. Sent.

  The network interface unit 91 of the image forming apparatus 1 receives the private print job transmitted from the terminal device 201 which is the transmission source user. Then, as shown in FIG. 3, the job receiving unit 101 receives the private print job received by the network interface unit 91 (S11). The HDD 92 temporarily stores the private print job received by the job receiving unit 101 from the terminal device 201 of the transmission source user in the dedicated storage area 92A of the user name N001 of the terminal device 201 (that is, the private box of the user name N001). Remember.

  After the private print job from the terminal device 201 of the transmission source user is received by the image forming apparatus 1, the transmission source user goes to the image forming apparatus 1. The source user touches the selection button K4 of the private box on the function selection screen shown in FIG. 5A displayed on the display unit 473. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, a detection signal indicating the touch operation of the selection button K4 of the private box is output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100 transmits the transmission illustrated in FIG. 5B based on the detection signal. The former user authentication information input screen is displayed on the display unit 473.

  The transmission source user touches the alphanumeric button group K7 while selecting the user name input field K5 on the transmission source user authentication information input screen shown in FIG. Enter the user name. Then, the source user touches the alphanumeric button group K7 while selecting the password input field K6 to input the password. Then, the source user touches the OK button K8. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information of the user name input field K5 and the password input field K6 and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K8 are output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100, Based on the detection signal, the input information of the user name input field K5 and the password input field K6 is output to the user authentication unit 103.

  The user authentication unit 103 receives the source user name and password input by the source user to the operation unit 47 (S12). The user authentication unit 103 determines whether the input information input by the transmission source user to the operation unit 47 and the user authentication information stored in advance in the user authentication information storage unit 92B match, and it is determined that they match. In this case, it is determined that the user of the terminal device 201 has logged in. When the user name “N001” and the password “ABC” shown in FIG. 4B are input as the input information, the user authentication unit 103 stores them in the user authentication information storage unit 92B in advance. It is determined that the user authentication information and the user authentication information match, and it is determined that the user of the terminal device 201 has logged in (S13 “YES”). When the user name “N001” and the password other than “ABC” shown in FIG. 4B are input (S13 “NO”), the process returns to S12.

  When it is determined that the user of the terminal device 201 has logged in (S13 “YES”), the control unit 100 sets the private print job setting screen stored in the private box of the source user (FIG. 6A). Is displayed on the display unit 473.

  The designation receiving unit 102 designates one or more user names for executing the private print jobs received by the job receiving unit 101, an access code different for each user name, and print conditions for the private print job for each user name. Are respectively accepted (S14).

  Specifically, the transmission source user operates the Type (type) selection field K11 on the setting screen shown in FIG. 6A displayed on the display unit 473 to select private printing. When private printing is selected in this way, a check mark is put in the check box K12 at the lower left of the icon of the private print job. Subsequently, the transmission source user inputs an arbitrary access code while selecting the access code input field K13. Here, it is assumed that "ABCD1234" is input as the access code. The control unit 100 may automatically input an access code randomly generated by a random number generation unit (not shown) when the transmission source user selects the access code input field K13.

  Subsequently, the transmission source user checks the check box K14 of the serial number giving setting of the access code to put a check mark. As a result, if only the access code of the first user is input, the control unit 100 automatically changes the access codes of other executing users to different contents (for example, serial numbers) as shown in FIG. , Random numbers, etc.). Then, the source user touches the user's add button K15. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information of the private printing, the access code, and the serial number assignment setting of the access code, and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the add button K15 by the user are output to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 displays the list display screen shown in FIG. 6B on the display unit 473 based on the detection signal. Further, the control unit 100 outputs each input information of the private printing, the access code, and the access code serial number assignment setting to the designation receiving unit 102.

  The transmission source user operates the add button K16 on the list display screen shown in FIG. 6B displayed on the display unit 473 to select the addition of the user. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, a detection signal indicating the touch operation of the add button K16 is output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100, based on the detection signal, detects the execution user of the execution user illustrated in FIG. A screen for adding and setting the number of copies is displayed on the display unit 473. The source user inputs the user name “N002” to be added while selecting the user name column K21 on the setting screen shown in FIG. 7A displayed on the display unit 473. Further, the source user inputs the number of print permitted copies in a state where the print number column K22 is selected. Here, it is assumed that “3”, which is a numerical value indicating the number of print permitted copies, is input. Then, the source user touches the OK button K23. When canceling, the cancel button K24 is touch-operated. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, the input information of the user name column K21 and the number of copies column K22 and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K23 are output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100 receives the information. The list display screen shown in FIG. 7B is displayed on the display unit 473 based on the detection signal. Here, as shown in FIG. 7B, a list of the specified user name “N002” as the current execution user and the print permitted copy number “3” set for the user name “N002” is displayed. ing.

  The source user operates the add button K25 on the list display screen shown in FIG. 7B displayed on the display unit 473 to select the addition of the user. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, a detection signal indicating the touch operation of the additional button K25 is output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100, based on the detection signal, indicates the execution user of the execution user shown in FIG. A screen for adding and setting the number of copies is displayed on the display unit 473. The source user inputs the user name “N003” to be added while selecting the user name column K31 in the setting screen shown in FIG. 8A displayed on the display unit 473. Further, the source user inputs the number of print permitted copies in a state where the print number column K32 is selected. Here, it is assumed that “1”, which is a numerical value indicating the number of print permitted copies, is input. By the way, since the check box K14 of the access code serial number assignment setting shown in FIG. 6A is checked, the control unit 100 automatically sets the access code for the user name “N003” which is another executing user. Set to different contents. Here, "ABCD1235" is automatically entered as the access code for the user name "N003", and the access code for the user name "N002" is serially numbered as "ABCD1234".

  Then, the source user touches the OK button K33. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information of the user name column K31 and the number of copies column K32 and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K33 are output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100 receives the information. The list display screen shown in FIG. 8B is displayed on the display unit 473 based on the detection signal. Here, the control unit 100 sets the user name “N002” and the user name “N003” as the current execution user, the print permission number “3” given to the user name “N002”, and the user name “N003”. The given print permission copy number “1” is displayed on the display unit 473 as a list.

  On the list display screen shown in FIG. 8B displayed on the display unit 473, the transmission source user operates the OK button K36 when the current execution user is OK. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, a detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K36 is output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100 adds the added user names “N002” and “N003” and each print permission. The input information of the number of copies “3” and “1” is output to the designation receiving unit 102.

  Returning to FIG. 3, after S14 described above, the HDD 92, under the control of the control unit 100, receives the two user names ("" of the two user names accepted by the designation accepting unit 102 for one private print job accepted by the job accepting unit 101. "N002" and "N003"), the access code for each user name ("ABCD1234" and "ABCD1235"), and the printing condition (each print permission number of copies "3" and "1") are associated with each other, and the user of the user name owns them. It is stored in the dedicated storage area 92A (S15).

  The network interface unit 91 includes a terminal device 202 having a user name “N002” stored in the dedicated storage area 92A and a user name “N003 stored in the dedicated storage area 92A among the plurality of terminal devices 201, 202, and 203. The notification information including the private print job execution request and the access code designated by the user of the user name is sent to each of the terminal devices 203 of the above-mentioned "Email" by e-mail (S16). Regarding the email addresses for the user names N002 and N003, the control unit 100 causes the email addresses bbb@bbb.com and ccc@ccc.com of the user names N002 and N003 stored in the user authentication information storage unit 92B. Are read out to set each.

  For example, when the notification information e-mail is opened on the terminal device 202 having the user name “N002”, the display unit 222 displays the user name of the transmission source and the execution request for the private print job (for example, the transmission source user privately). (For example, a sentence to the effect that the print job was sent), the job name of the private print job is "Review.Doc", the print permitted number of copies is "3", and the access code of the user name N002 is "ABCD1234". Notification information is displayed.

  In addition, when the notification information e-mail is opened on the terminal device 203 having the user name “N003”, the display unit 222 displays the user name of the sender and a request to execute the private print job (for example, a private message from the sender user). (For example, a sentence indicating that the print job has been sent), the job name of the private print job is "Examination form. Doc", the print permitted number of copies is "1", and the access code of the user name N003 is "ABCD1235". Notification information is displayed.

  Then, the user names “N002” and “N003” of the terminal devices 202 and 203 that have received the notification information respectively go to the image forming apparatus 1. Here, it is assumed that the executing user with the user name “N002” first visited the image forming apparatus 1. The executing user touches the private box selection button K4 on the function selection screen shown in FIG. 5A displayed on the display unit 473. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, a detection signal indicating the touch operation of the selection button K4 of the private box is output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100 executes the operation shown in FIG. 9A based on the detection signal. The user authentication information input screen is displayed on the display unit 473.

  The executing user of the user name “N002” touches the alphanumeric button group K7 while selecting the user name input field K5 on the executing user authentication information input screen shown in FIG. 9A displayed on the display unit 473. Operate and enter the user name. Subsequently, the executing user having the user name “N002” inputs the password by touching the alphanumeric button group K7 while selecting the password input field K6. Then, the executing user with the user name “N002” touches the OK button K8. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information of the user name input field K5 and the password input field K6 and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K8 are output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100, Based on the detection signal, the input information of the user name input field K5 and the password input field K6 is output to the user authentication unit 103.

  The user authentication unit 103 receives the execution user name and the password input to the operation unit 47 by the execution user having the user name “N002” that has received the notification information (S17). The user authentication unit 103 determines whether or not the input information input to the operation unit 47 by the executing user having the user name “N002” and the user authentication information previously stored in the user authentication information storage unit 92B match. When the match is determined, it is determined that the user of the terminal device 202 has logged in. When the user name “N002” and the password “DEF” shown in FIG. 4B are input as the input information, the user authentication unit 103 stores them in the user authentication information storage unit 92B in advance. It is determined that the user authentication information matches the user authentication information, and it is determined that the user of the terminal device 202 has logged in (S18 “YES”). When the user name “N002” and the password other than “DEF” shown in FIG. 4B are input (S18 “NO”), the user is not the executing user, and the control unit 100 Terminates this processing.

  When it is determined that the user of the terminal device 202 has logged in (S18 “YES”), the control unit 100 displays the private print execution screen of the execution user of the user name “N002” shown in FIG. 9B. It is displayed on the display unit 473 (S19).

  The selection accepting unit 104 determines that the user authenticating unit 103 has logged in by the executing user of the user name “N002”, and the private print job is stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the logged-in user name “N002” in the HDD 92. If it is stored, the private printing selection by the executing user with the user name “N002” is accepted. Specifically, the executing user with the user name “N002” indicates that the private printing target is displayed in the private printing target display field K41 on the private printing execution screen of the executing user with the user name “N002” shown in FIG. 9B. It is displayed that it is an "examination document", and a check mark is entered by performing a check operation in the check box K42 for selecting the private print target. As a result, the “examination document” that is the target of private printing is selected. The executing user with the user name "N002" operates the print copy number column K44 to select the print copy number. Here, it is assumed that “3”, which is the numerical value indicating the number of print copies, is selected. Note that the control unit 100 is aware of the print conditions (the number of print permitted copies is three: see FIG. 7B) for the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the user name “N002”, and the number of print copies is determined. The number of print copies selected in the column K44 is controlled so as not to exceed the number of print permission copies.

  When the selection receiving unit 104 receives the selection of private printing, the determination unit 105 accesses the access code input to the operation unit 47 and the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user. It is determined whether the codes match (S20). Specifically, the determination unit 105 determines that the executing user with the user name “N002” has the access code (that is, “ABCD1234”) included in the notification information as the access code input field K43 shown in FIG. 9B. If it is input to, it is determined that it matches the content (see FIG. 6A) of the access code previously specified by the transmission source user (S20 “YES”). If an incorrect access code is input in the access code input field K43 shown in FIG. 9B (S20 “NO”), the process returns to S20. Further, in S20, when the number of times of input to the access code input field K43 shown in FIG. 9B has reached a predetermined prescribed number or when the predetermined input allowable time is exceeded, the control unit 100 The present process may be ended.

  When the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit 106 executes the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user according to the print conditions. Specifically, the executing user with the user name "N002" touches the print start button K45 for private printing on the private printing execution screen of the executing user with the user name "N002" shown in FIG. 9B (S21). "YES"). By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information in the display column K41 and the print number column K44 and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the print start button K45 are output to the control unit 100, and the control unit 100 receives the information. Based on the detection signal, three copies of image formation (printing) based on the "examination document" that is the private print target shown in FIG. 9B is executed (S22). When the cancel button K46 is touch-operated by the executing user with the user name “N002”, the control unit 211 ends this processing. That is, the private printing is canceled without being started.

  When the number of print permission copies is set to 3 as the print condition, the execution determination unit 107 determines that the private print has been executed according to the print condition when three copies are printed, and the private print is still only two copies. If it has not been printed, it is determined that it has not been executed according to the printing conditions, and if the remaining one copy has been printed, it is determined that it has been executed according to the printing conditions.

  When the execution determination unit 107 determines that the private print job has been executed according to the print condition (for example, three copies printing), the memory deletion unit 108 deletes the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A. However, if the execution determination unit 107 determines that the private print job has executed only part (for example, two copies) of the printing conditions (for example, three copies), the remaining printing conditions remain. When it is determined that the execution is completed under the condition (for example, the remaining one copy), the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A is deleted (S23). That is, the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A with the user name N002 is deleted. Similarly, when it is determined that the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A with the user name N003 is executed according to the printing conditions (for example, one copy print), the private storage area 92A with the user name N003 is stored. The stored private print job is deleted, and the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A with the user name N001 is also deleted. Therefore, the private print job can be executed according to the print conditions, and the private print job can be prevented from being erased by the execution under the print conditions.

  As described above, the executing user with the user name “N002” first visits the image forming apparatus 1 to execute the private print job. The execution of the private print job by the executing user is basically the same as the case of the user name “N002”, and therefore the description thereof is omitted here.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the designation receiving unit 102 has one or more user names for executing the private print jobs received by the job receiving unit 101, a different access code for each user name, and the user name. The print condition specification for each private print job is accepted. The HDD 92 associates the private print job accepted by the job accepting unit 101 with one or more user names accepted by the designation accepting unit 102, the access code for each user name, and the printing condition, so that the user having the user name is exclusively used. It is stored in the dedicated storage area 92A. The network interface unit 91 requests execution of the private print job to the terminal devices 202 and 203 used by the user having the user name stored in the dedicated storage area 92A among the plurality of terminal devices and the user name of the user name. Send notification information including the access code specified by the user. When the selection receiving unit 104 receives the selection of private printing, the determination unit 105 performs the above-mentioned access code input to the operation unit 47 and the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user. It is determined whether the access code matches. When the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit 106 executes the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user according to the print conditions.

  This makes it possible to easily add a plurality of execution users to one private print job. Furthermore, individual printing conditions can be set for each executing user for one private print job. For this reason, it is possible to effectively use one private print job for a plurality of execution users while constructing security according to each execution user. Further, since it is not necessary to individually create a private print job for each of a plurality of executing users, it is possible to reduce the time for creating a private print job to be executed by a plurality of users. Further, since the access code is issued, it is possible to reduce the unauthorized execution of the private print job by an unauthorized user. Therefore, security for private printing can be further improved. Therefore, effective use of private print jobs, construction of security according to each executing user, reduction of private print job creation time for multiple users, and further improvement of private print security can be achieved. it can.

  Next, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a main internal configuration example of the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment. FIG. 11A is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting the execution user addition and the number of print copies and execution order displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment, and FIG. 11B is a list display screen. It is a figure which shows an example.

  The second embodiment further includes a progress status determination unit 109 and the addition of the functions to be described later to the designation receiving unit 102 and the job execution control unit 106 of the first embodiment, as described above. Since it is different from the first embodiment, the progress determination unit 109, the designation receiving unit 102, and the job execution control unit 106 will be described in detail. The same components as those shown in FIG. 2 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

  When a plurality of user names for executing the private print job accepted by the job accepting unit 101 are designated, the designation accepting unit 102 according to the second embodiment uses the plurality of user names as printing conditions for the private print job. A function has been added to accept the specification of the print order of. In the second embodiment, the control unit 100 causes the display unit 473 to display the screen for setting the execution user addition, the number of print copies, and the execution order illustrated in FIG. 11A, instead of FIG. 8A. With the execution order designation field K37 on the setting screen shown in FIG. 11A selected, the execution order of private job printing with the user name “N003” is input. Here, it is assumed that “2”, which is a numerical value indicating the execution order, is input.

  Then, the source user touches the OK button K33. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information of the user name column K31, the number of copies column K32, and the execution order designation column K37, and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K33 are output to the control unit 100, The control unit 100 displays the list display screen shown in FIG. 11B on the display unit 473 based on the detection signal. Here, the control unit 100 sets the user name “N002” and the user name “N003” as the current execution user, the print permission number “3” and the execution order “1” for the user name “N002”, and the user name “N002”. The display unit 473 displays a list of the print permitted copy number “1” and the execution order “2” for “N003”.

  The progress status determination unit 109 determines the progress status of the printing order for the plurality of user names accepted by the designation acceptance unit 102. For example, the progress status determination unit 109 determines that the user name “N002” has executed the private print job according to the print condition (print permission copy number “3”), that is, the progress status of the print order, and thus the user name It is possible to determine that the printing order has arrived at the user name “N003” next to “N002”.

  The job execution control unit 106 according to the second embodiment determines that the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, and the progress determination unit 109 determines that the print order of the regular user has arrived. Then, a function for executing the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the regular user according to the print condition is added.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, when the designation of the print order for the plurality of user names is accepted, the execution order of the private print jobs can be designated for the plurality of users, and the print order for the plurality of users can be designated. You can determine the order in which you will obtain your private print. Therefore, it is possible to execute the private print job according to the business position of each user.

  Next, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12A is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting the number of print users and the number of print copies and printable time zones displayed on the display unit of the image forming apparatus of the third embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a list. It is a figure which shows an example of a display screen.

  The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above in that the later-described functions are added to the designation receiving unit 102, the HDD 92, and the job execution control unit 106 of the first embodiment, and thus the designation receiving unit 102. The HDD 92 and the job execution control unit 106 will be described in detail. The same components as those shown in FIG. 2 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

  When a plurality of user names for executing the private print job received by the job receiving unit are specified, the designation receiving unit 102 according to the third embodiment sets the print conditions of the private print job for each of the plurality of user names. A function to accept the specification of the print time zone has been added to. In the third embodiment, instead of FIG. 8A, a screen for setting the addition of the executing user, the number of print copies, and the printable time zone shown in FIG. 12A is displayed. With the printable time period designation field K38 on the setting screen shown in FIG. 12A selected, the printable time period for private job printing with the user name "N003" is input. Here, it is assumed that "18: 00-24: 00" is input as the printable time zone.

  Then, the source user touches the OK button K33. By the touch function of the touch panel of the display unit 473, each input information of the user name column K31, the print number column K32, and the printable time period designation column K38, and the detection signal indicating the touch operation of the OK button K33 are output to the control unit 100. Then, the control unit 100 displays the list display screen shown in FIG. 12B on the display unit 473 based on the detection signal. Here, the control unit 100 sets the user name “N002” and the user name “N003” as the current execution user, the print permitted number “3” and the printable time period “9: 00-17” for the user name “N002”. The display unit 473 displays a list of the print permission number “1” and the printable time period “18:00 to 24:00” for the user name “N003”.

  The HDD 92 of the third embodiment stores the printing time zone for each of the plurality of user names accepted by the designation accepting unit 102. For example, the HDD 92 stores the private print job and the print permitted number of copies “3” in the dedicated storage area 92A of the user name “N002” in association with the printable time zone “9:00 to 17:00”, and stores it. In the dedicated storage area 92A with the name "N003", the printable time zone "18: 00-24: 00" is also stored in association with the private print job and the print permitted copy number "1".

  When the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit 106 according to the third embodiment prints the time when a regular user logs in for each of a plurality of user names stored in the HDD 92. When it is determined that it is within the printing time zone of the regular user in the time zone, a function is added to execute the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the regular user according to the printing condition. Further, the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with a real-time clock and can specify the time when the authorized user logged in.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, when the designation of the print time zone is accepted for each of the plurality of user names, the time zone in which the private print job is executed can be designated for each of the plurality of users. Therefore, it is possible to execute a private print job suitable for the work status of each user (for example, work system or work hours).

  Next, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the main internal configuration of the image forming apparatus of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print print mail setting screen displayed on the first terminal device according to the fourth embodiment.

  The fourth embodiment further includes a private print mail determination unit 110, and the functions described below are added to the network interface unit 91 and the designation reception unit 102 according to the first embodiment. Since it is different from the first embodiment, the private print mail determining unit 110, the network interface unit 91, and the designation receiving unit 102 will be described in detail. The same components as those shown in FIG. 2 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

  First, in the terminal device 201, which is the sender user, the communication application installed in advance is started, and the e-mail function is selected to display the e-mail transmission screen of the e-mail with the private print job attached (see FIG. 14). (See). On the mail transmission screen shown in FIG. 14, the sender user checks the check box K51 that specifies that "Private print job" should be included in the subject of the mail, so that a check mark is entered. Further, the transmission source user operates the selection button K52 to select the image data (image data of the examination document) relating to the private print job. Further, the source user operates the selection button K53 to select the image forming apparatus of the destination (TO). Also, the source user operates the selection button K54 to select the CC destination user name. The user names “N002” and “N003” of the selected CC destination are displayed in the display field K55 for the current setting of the CC destination. Although the user name of the CC destination is set here, the user name of the BCC destination may be set. Then, when the sender user is ready to send the private print job by mail, he or she operates the mail send button K56 shown in FIG. 14, the private print job is attached, and "Private print job" is added to the subject. The inserted e-mail is mailed from the terminal device 201 to the image forming apparatus 1.

  The network interface unit 91 of the fourth embodiment has an additional function of receiving an electronic mail (that is, a private print mail) to which a private print job is attached. The network interface unit 91 is an example of the receiving unit in the claims.

  The private print mail determination unit 110 determines whether the email received by the network interface unit 91 is a private print email based on the specific information included in the email. This specific information may be any information indicating that it is a private print mail. Here, the specific information is a specific character that is the character of "private print job" in the subject of the electronic mail. The private print mail determination unit 110 determines that the email is a private print mail if the subject of the email includes a specific character that is the character “private print job”. The specific information is not limited to the specific characters in the subject of the email, and the specific characters may be inserted in the name of the private print job attached to the email.

  When the private print mail determining unit 110 determines that the electronic mail received by the network interface unit 91 is a private print mail, the designation receiving unit 102 according to the fourth embodiment recognizes the electronic mail received by the network interface unit 91. A CC address or a BCC address is accepted as the user name.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, even a terminal device in which a printer driver is not installed can execute a private print job using e-mail.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the control unit 100 sets the printing conditions (the number of print permitted copies is three: see FIG. 7B) for the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the user name “N002”. It is grasped and controlled so that the number of print copies selected in the print copy column K44 shown in FIG. 9B does not exceed the number of print permission, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match each other, the job execution control unit 106 requests the user to print a print request that exceeds the print condition (for example, print three copies) (for example, indicate that four or more copies have been printed). (Condition) is input to the operation unit 47, the display unit 473 (notification unit) is caused to perform a notification that the execution cannot be performed without executing the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area 92A of the authorized user. You may do it. In other words, the display unit 473 notifies the user that private printing cannot be performed according to the control of the job execution control unit 106 when printing is requested for a private print job with a print request that exceeds the print conditions (for example, private printing). (For example, a notification indicating that printing cannot be performed) is performed. Further, a sound output unit (not shown) of the image forming apparatus 1 (for example, a speaker) may output a notification sound indicating that private printing cannot be performed together with or in place of the notification display. The display unit 473 or the voice output unit (not shown) is an example of the notification unit in the claims.

  According to this configuration, when the user inputs a print request that exceeds the print condition of the private print job to the operation unit 47, the private print job is not executed, and thus it is possible to prevent the print execution under the excess condition. Further, since the display unit 473 (notifying unit) gives a notification that cannot be executed, the user can be prompted to execute according to the printing conditions. Therefore, the private print job can be executed according to the print conditions.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, one private print job is added for each user name, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by specifying a group for one private print job, a plurality of user names belonging to the specified group may be stored in association with one private print job. Specifically, when a plurality of user names for executing the private print job accepted by the job accepting unit 101 are designated, the designation accepting unit 102 designates the user name of a group including the plurality of user names. Accept by designation. According to this configuration, by specifying a group for one private print job, it is possible to collectively specify a plurality of user names included in the group, and for a plurality of users included in the group. Can instruct execution of a private print job.

  Further, although the image forming apparatus 1 of each of the above-described embodiments is configured to include the HDD 92 having the dedicated storage area 92A for each user, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus 1 of the modification may be configured to include a shared storage area that can be used by each user, instead of the dedicated storage area 92A. In this case, the determination unit 105 in each of the above-described embodiments determines the user name and access code input by the user who has received the notification information on the operation unit 47, and the user name and access code stored in the shared storage area. Are determined to match. When the determination unit 105 determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit 106 executes the private print job associated with the access code stored in the shared storage area according to the print condition. According to this configuration, as in the case of the above-described embodiment, effective use of private print jobs, construction of security according to each executing user, reduction of private print job creation time for a plurality of users, It is possible to further improve the security of private printing.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the first terminal device is the terminal device 201, but it may be any one of the terminal devices 202 and 203. Further, although the second terminal devices are the terminal devices 202 and 203, the present invention is not limited to this. Further, the terminal device of the user who receives the notification does not need to be constantly connected to the network, and can receive at least a mail or the like from the image forming device 1, an information processing device, a mobile phone terminal. Any portable information device may be used.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the first terminal device and the second terminal device are the terminal devices 201, 202, 203, etc., but they may be information processing devices, mobile phone terminals, mobile information devices, etc. Good.

1 Image Forming Apparatus 10 Control Unit 92 HDD
92A dedicated storage area 92B user authentication information storage section 91 network interface section (transmission section, reception section)
100 control unit 101 job reception unit 102 designation reception unit 103 user authentication unit 104 selection reception unit 105 determination unit 106 job execution control unit 107 execution determination unit 108 storage deletion unit 201 terminal device (first terminal device)
202, 203 terminal device (second terminal device)
473 display unit (notification unit)

Claims (9)

An image forming apparatus connected to a terminal device via a network,
A job reception unit that receives a private print job from the terminal device,
A designation receiving unit that receives designation of one or more user names for executing the private print job received by the job receiving unit, an access code different for each user name, and print conditions of the private print job for each user name. When,
The private print job accepted by the job accepting unit is associated with one or more user names accepted by the designated accepting unit, an access code for each user name, and a print condition, and is stored in a shared storage area usable by each user. A storage unit for storing,
The notification information including the execution request of the private print job and the access code designated by the user of the user name is transmitted to the information processing device used by the user of the user name stored in the shared storage area. A transmitter,
An operation unit operated by the user,
A determination unit that determines whether the user name and access code input to the operation unit by the user who receives the notification information and the user name and access code stored in the shared storage area match,
A job execution control unit that executes a private print job associated with the access code stored in the shared storage area according to the printing condition when the determination unit determines that the access codes match. Forming equipment. An image forming apparatus connected to a plurality of terminal devices via a network,
A job receiving unit that receives a private print job from a first terminal device of the plurality of terminal devices;
A designation receiving unit that receives designation of one or more user names for executing the private print job received by the job receiving unit, an access code different for each user name, and print conditions of the private print job for each user name. When,
With respect to the private print job accepted by the job accepting unit, one or more user names accepted by the designated accepting unit, an access code for each user name, and print conditions are associated with each other, and a dedicated storage exclusively for a user having the user name is stored. A storage unit that stores the area,
Of the plurality of terminal devices, the second terminal device used by the user having the user name stored in the dedicated storage area is requested to execute the private print job, and is designated by the user having the user name. A transmission unit for transmitting notification information including an access code,
An operation unit operated by the user,
A user authentication information storage unit that stores user authentication information in advance,
When the user who receives the notification information inputs the input information to the operation unit and the user authentication information stored in advance in the user authentication information storage unit, it is determined whether or not the same is determined, A user authentication unit that determines that the login is by a legitimate user,
Selection of private printing by the user when the user authentication unit determines that the login is made by a legitimate user and the private print job is stored in the dedicated storage area of the logged-in user in the storage unit. A selection receiving section that receives
When the selection receiving unit receives the selection of private printing, the access code input to the operation unit matches the access code for the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of the regular user. A determination unit for determining whether or not to
An image forming apparatus, comprising: a job execution control unit that executes a private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of the authorized user according to the printing conditions when the determination unit determines that the access codes match. .. The storage unit stores the private print job received by the job receiving unit from the first terminal device in a dedicated storage area exclusively owned by a user having a user name of the first terminal device,
The user authentication unit determines whether the input information input by the user of the first terminal device to the operation unit and the user authentication information previously stored in the user authentication information storage unit match, If a match is determined, it is determined that the login by the user of the first terminal device,
The designation receiving unit determines that the user authentication unit has logged in by a user of the first terminal device, and stores the designated storage unit in a dedicated storage area of the logged-in user of the first terminal device. 3. The specification of the one or more user names, the access code, and the printing condition is accepted by the operation of the operation unit by the user of the first terminal device when the private print job is stored. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. In the case where a plurality of user names for executing the private print jobs received by the job receiving unit are specified, the designation receiving unit designates a print order for the plurality of user names as a print condition of the private print job. Accept
The image forming apparatus further includes a progress status determination unit that determines the progress status of the printing order for the plurality of user names accepted by the designation accepting unit, thereby determining the user whose print order has arrived.
When the determination unit determines that the access codes match, and the progress determination unit determines that the print order of the regular user has arrived, the job execution control unit determines that The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of an authorized user is executed according to the print condition. In the case where a plurality of user names for executing the private print job received by the job receiving unit are specified, the designation receiving unit sets a print time zone for each of the plurality of user names as a print condition of the private print job. Accept specifications,
The storage unit stores a printing time zone for each of a plurality of user names accepted by the designation accepting unit,
In the case where the determination unit determines that the access codes match, the job execution control unit determines that the time when the regular user logs in is the printing time zone for each of the plurality of user names stored in the storage unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, when it is determined that the printing time is within the printing time zone of the regular user based on the above, the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of the regular user is executed according to the printing condition. ..   The designation receiving unit receives designation of the user name by designating a group including the plurality of user names when a plurality of user names for executing the private print job received by the job receiving unit are designated. 2. The image forming apparatus according to item 2. A receiving unit for receiving a private print mail to which the private print job is attached,
A private print mail determining unit that determines whether the email received by the receiving unit is the private print email based on specific information included in the email;
When the private print mail determining unit determines that the email received by the receiving unit is a private print email, the designated receiving unit sets the CC address or the BCC address of the email received by the receiving unit to the user. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, which is accepted as a name. An execution determination unit that determines whether or not the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area of the regular user in the job execution control unit is executed according to the printing conditions;
If the execution determination unit determines that the private print job has been executed according to the printing conditions, the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area is deleted, and the execution determination unit determines that the private print job is When it is determined that only a part of the print conditions has been executed, the storage erasing unit that erases the private print job stored in the dedicated storage area when it is determined that the execution of the remaining print conditions is completed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, further comprising: Further provided with an informing unit for informing the user,
When the determination unit determines that the access codes match, when the user inputs a print request that exceeds the print condition to the operation unit, the job execution control unit stores the dedicated storage for the authorized user. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the notification unit is caused to execute a notification that cannot be executed without executing the private print job stored in the area.