JP2020177278A - Image processing device, image processing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an image processing device which causes no print waiting time.SOLUTION: An image processing device according to one aspect of a technology of the present disclosure comprises: a print job acquisition unit which acquires a print job instructing print processing based on image data; an execution time output unit which outputs a predicted value of an execution time of the print processing predicted on the basis of the print job; a target time acquisition unit which acquires a target time; a terminal position acquisition unit which acquires position information on an information terminal; a destination position acquisition unit which acquires position information on a destination; an estimated destination arrival time acquisition unit which acquires an estimated destination arrival time when a user of the information terminal arrives at the destination on the basis of the position information on the information terminal and the position information on the destination; and an image processing unit which executes image processing determined on the basis of the target time and the estimated destination arrival time for the image data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present application relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing method, and a program.

A technique is known in which a cloud storage server that stores image files and a printing device are linked to print an image file specified by an information terminal such as a smartphone on the printing device.

Further, based on the movement path and movement time of the user of the information terminal and the printing time by the printing device, a printing device installed at a place where the printed matter can be output at a desired timing is determined as the output destination of the printed matter, and the user prints. A technique for shortening the printing waiting time until printing is completed after arriving at the position of the device is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, when image processing such as resolution conversion, file compression, and PostScript conversion is executed on the image data to be printed before the printing process is executed, these images Depending on the processing execution time, a printing waiting time may occur.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus that does not cause a printing waiting time.

The image processing apparatus according to one aspect of the disclosed technology has a print job acquisition unit that acquires a print job instructing a print process based on image data, and a predicted value of the execution time of the print process predicted based on the print job. The execution time output unit to be output, the target time acquisition unit to acquire the target time, the terminal position acquisition unit to acquire the position information of the information terminal, the destination position acquisition unit to acquire the position information of the destination, and the above information. Based on the location information of the terminal and the location information of the destination, the destination arrival scheduled time acquisition unit for acquiring the destination arrival scheduled time when the user of the information terminal arrives at the destination, and the destination time It has an image processing unit that executes image processing determined based on the estimated arrival time at the destination on the image data.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus that does not cause a printing waiting time.

It is a figure explaining an example of the structure of the image formation system including the image processing apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the hardware configuration of a smartphone. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the hardware configuration of a printing apparatus. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the functional structure of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing by the image processing apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure explaining an example of the structure of the image formation system including the image processing apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the functional structure of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing by the image processing apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the functional structure of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing by the image processing apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the functional structure of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing by the image processing apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining an example of the functional structure of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing by the image processing apparatus which concerns on 5th Embodiment.

Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components may be designated by the same reference numerals and duplicate description may be omitted.

In the following, an image forming system including the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described as an example.

[First Embodiment]
<Structure of an image forming system including the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming system 100 including an image processing device 5 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 includes a cloud storage server 2, an indoor positioning system 3, a smartphone 4, an image processing device 5, and a printing device 9, and these include a network 1 such as the Internet. They are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other. In addition, each has a means of wireless communication or a means of wired communication.

The cloud storage server 2 is a cloud server that stores image files. The cloud storage server 2 can be realized by a computer or the like equipped with a general OS (Operating System) or the like. Further, the cloud storage server 2 transmits a predetermined image file among the accumulated image files to the image processing device 5 in response to a transmission request.

The indoor positioning system 3 can measure (position) the position of a measurement target indoors by transmitting and receiving signals compatible with GPS (Global Positioning System) by a dedicated device such as a beacon placed indoors such as an office. IEMS (Indoor MEssaging System). As for IMES, since the techniques disclosed in JP-A-2014-075783 and JP-A-2014-057273 can be applied, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

In the smartphone 4 as an example of the information terminal, a printer driver is installed, and a print job instructing the printing process of the image file stored in the cloud storage server 2 according to the instruction of the user of the smartphone 4 is performed via the network 1. Is transmitted to the image processing device 5.

Further, the smartphone 4 utilizes Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a microphone provided in the smartphone 4 to receive a signal transmitted by a dedicated device such as a beacon provided in the indoor positioning system 3 and obtains coordinate information of the current position of the smartphone 4. get. Then, the acquired coordinate information is transmitted to the image processing device 5 via the network 1. The information terminal is not limited to the smartphone 4. Even if it is a mobile phone, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), etc., as long as the printer driver is installed and it has a function to acquire the coordinate information of the current position based on the signal transmitted by a dedicated device such as a beacon. good.

The image processing device 5 can be realized by a computer or the like equipped with a general OS or the like. The image processing device 5 acquires a print job from the smartphone 4 and requests the cloud storage server 2 to transmit an image file specified by the print job. Then, a predetermined image process is executed on the image data included in the image file acquired from the cloud storage server 2, and the image file including the image data after the image process is transmitted to the printing device 9.

Here, the image processing function executed by the image processing apparatus 5 includes at least one of a resolution conversion process of image data, a scaling process, a compression process of an image file, and a PostScript conversion process.

The printing device 9 is a device having a printing function such as an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral / Product / Printer). The printing device 9 forms an image on a recording medium such as paper based on the image data after image processing included in the image file received from the image processing device 5. In the example of FIG. 1, an example in which one printing device 9 is used is shown as an example, but the image forming system 100 may include a plurality of printing devices.

Further, if the printing device 9 is a device having a communication function, it outputs PJ (Projector: projector), IWB (Interactive White Board: white board having an electronic whiteboard function capable of mutual communication), digital signage, or the like. Devices, HUD (Head Up Display) devices, industrial machines, imaging devices, sound collectors, medical devices, network home appliances, automobiles (Connected Cars), notebook PCs (Personal Computers), mobile phones, smartphones, tablet terminals, game machines, It may be a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a digital camera, a wearable PC, a desktop PC, or the like.

Further, the configuration of the image forming system 100 shown in FIG. 1 is an example and may be another configuration.

<Hardware configuration of the image processing device according to the embodiment>
Next, the hardware configuration of the image processing device 5 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the image processing device 5 according to the embodiment.

The image processing device 5 is constructed by a computer. As shown in FIG. 2, the image processing device 5 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 501, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 502, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 503, an HD (Hard Disk) 504, and an HDD ( Hard Disk Drive) Controller 505 and. Further, the image processing device 5 includes a display 506, an external device connection I / F (Interface) 508, a network I / F 509, a data bus 510, a keyboard 511, a pointing device 512, and a DVD-RW (Digital Versatile). It includes a Disk Rewritable) drive 514, a media I / F 516, and a timer 517.

Of these, the CPU 501 controls the operation of the entire image processing device 5. The ROM 502 stores a program used for driving the CPU 501 such as an IPL (Initial Program Loader). The RAM 503 is used as a work area of the CPU 501.

The HD504 stores various data such as programs. The HDD controller 505 controls reading or writing of various data to the HD 504 according to the control of the CPU 501. The display 506 displays various information such as a cursor, a menu, a window, characters, or an image.

The external device connection I / F 508 is an interface for connecting various external devices. The external device in this case is, for example, a printing device 9 or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The network I / F 509 is an interface for performing data communication using the network 1. The data bus 510 is an address bus, a data bus, or the like for electrically connecting each component such as the CPU 501 shown in FIG.

Further, the keyboard 511 is a kind of input means including a plurality of keys for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions and the like. The pointing device 512 is a kind of input means for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, moving a cursor, and the like.

The DVD-RW drive 514 controls reading or writing of various data to the DVD-RW 513 as an example of the removable recording medium. In addition, it is not limited to DVD-RW, and may be DVD-R or the like. The media I / F 516 controls reading or writing (storage) of data to a recording medium 515 such as a flash memory.

The timer 517 can acquire the current time and measure the time.

The image processing device 5 according to the embodiment can realize various functions described later by the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 2 and the execution of a predetermined program by the CPU 501.

Further, the cloud storage server 2 is also constructed by a computer in the same manner. Since the hardware configuration of the cloud storage server 2 is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 2, duplicate description will be omitted.

<Smartphone hardware configuration>
Next, the hardware configuration of the smartphone 4 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the smartphone 4.

As shown in FIG. 3, the smartphone 4 has a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, an EEPROM 404, a CMOS sensor 405, an image sensor I / F 406, an acceleration / orientation sensor 407, a media I / F 409, and GPS reception. It is provided with a unit 411.

Of these, the CPU 401 controls the operation of the entire smartphone 4. The ROM 402 stores a program used to drive the CPU 401 such as the CPU 401 and IPL. The RAM 403 is used as a work area for the CPU 401.

The EEPROM 404 reads or writes various data such as a smartphone program under the control of the CPU 401. The CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor 405 is a kind of built-in imaging means for acquiring image data by imaging a subject (mainly a self-portrait) under the control of the CPU 401. Instead of a CMOS sensor, an imaging means such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor may be used.

The image sensor I / F 406 is a circuit that controls the drive of the CMOS sensor 405. The acceleration / orientation sensor 407 is a variety of sensors such as an electronic magnetic compass, a gyro compass, and an acceleration sensor that detect the geomagnetism. The media I / F 409 controls reading or writing (storage) of data to a recording medium 408 such as a flash memory. The GPS receiving unit 411 receives GPS signals from GPS satellites.

Further, the smartphone 4 includes a long-distance communication circuit 412, a CMOS sensor 413, an image sensor I / F 414, a microphone 415, a speaker 416, a sound input / output I / F 417, a display 418, and an external device connection I /. It includes an F (Interface) 419, a short-range communication circuit 420, an antenna 420a of the short-range communication circuit 420, and a touch panel 421.

Of these, the telecommunications circuit 412 is a circuit that communicates with other devices via the network 1. The CMOS sensor 413 is a kind of built-in imaging means that images a subject and obtains image data under the control of the CPU 401. The image sensor I / F 414 is a circuit that controls the drive of the CMOS sensor 413.

The microphone 415 is a built-in circuit that converts sound into an electric signal. The speaker 416 is a built-in circuit that converts an electric signal into physical vibration to produce sounds such as music and voice. The sound input / output I / F 417 is a circuit that processes sound signal input / output between the microphone 415 and the speaker 416 under the control of the CPU 401. The display 418 is a kind of display means such as a liquid crystal or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) for displaying an image of a subject, various icons, and the like.

The external device connection I / F419 is an interface for connecting various external devices. The short-range communication circuit 420 is a communication circuit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth. The touch panel 421 is a kind of input means for operating the smartphone 4 by the user pressing the display 418.

Further, the smartphone 4 is provided with a bus line 410. The bus line 410 is an address bus, a data bus, or the like for electrically connecting each component such as the CPU 401 shown in FIG.

<Hardware configuration of printing device>
Next, the hardware configuration of the printing apparatus 9 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the printing apparatus 9.

As shown in FIG. 4, the printing device 9 includes a controller 910, a short-range communication circuit 920, an engine control unit 930, an operation panel 940, and a network I / F 950.

Of these, the controller 910 includes a CPU 901, which is a main part of a computer, a system memory (MEM-P) 902, a north bridge (NB) 903, a south bridge (SB) 904, and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). A configuration including a 906, a local memory (MEM-C) 907 as a storage unit, an HDD controller 908, and an HD 909 as a storage unit, and connecting the NB 903 and the ASIC 906 with an AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus 921. It has become.

Of these, the CPU 901 is a control unit that controls the entire printing apparatus 9. The NB903 is a bridge for connecting the CPU 901, the MEM-P902, the SB904, and the AGP bus 921, and includes a memory controller that controls reading and writing to the MEM-P902, a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) master, and an AGP target. To be equipped.

The MEM-P902 includes a ROM 902a that is a memory for storing programs and data that realizes each function of the controller 910, and a RAM 902b that is used as a memory for drawing programs and data and for drawing in memory printing. The program stored in the RAM 902b is configured to be provided by recording a file in an installable format or an executable format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, or DVD. You may.

The SB904 is a bridge for connecting the NB903 to a PCI device and peripheral devices. The ASIC 906 is an IC (Integrated Circuit) for image processing applications having hardware elements for image processing, and has a role of a bridge connecting the AGP bus 921, the PCI bus 922, the HDD 908, and the MEM-C907, respectively.

This ASIC906 includes a PCI target and an AGP master, an arbiter (ARB) that forms the core of the ASIC906, a memory controller that controls MEM-C907, and a plurality of DMACs (Direct Memory) that rotate image data by hardware logic or the like. An Access Controller) and a PCI unit that transfers data between the scanner unit 931 and the printer unit 932 via the PCI bus 922. A USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface or an IEEE 1394 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 1394) interface may be connected to the ASIC 906.

The MEM-C907 is a local memory used as a copy image buffer and a code buffer. The HD909 is a storage for accumulating image data, accumulating font data used at the time of printing, and accumulating forms.

The HD909 controls reading or writing of data to the HD909 according to the control of the CPU 901. The AGP bus 921 is a bus interface for a graphics accelerator card proposed to speed up graphics processing, and the graphics accelerator card can be speeded up by directly accessing the MEM-P902 with high throughput. ..

Further, the short-range communication circuit 920 includes a short-range communication circuit 920a. The short-range communication circuit 920 is a communication circuit such as NFC or Bluetooth.

Further, the engine control unit 930 is composed of a scanner unit 931 and a printer unit 932. Further, the operation panel 940 displays the current setting value, the selection screen, and the like, and displays the panel display unit 940a such as a touch panel that receives the input from the operator, and the setting value of the image formation condition such as the density setting condition. It is provided with an operation panel 940b including a numeric keypad for receiving and a start key for receiving a copy start instruction. The controller 910 controls the entire printing device 9, for example, drawing, communication, input from the operation panel 940, and the like. The scanner unit 931 or the printer unit 932 includes an image processing portion such as error diffusion and gamma conversion.

The printing device 9 can sequentially switch and select the document box function, the copy function, the printer function, and the facsimile function by the application switching key on the operation panel 940. When the document box function is selected, the document box mode is set, when the copy function is selected, the copy mode is set, when the printer function is selected, the printer mode is set, and when the facsimile mode is selected, the facsimile mode is set.

Further, the network I / F950 is an interface for performing data communication using the network 1. The short-range communication circuit 920 and the network I / F 950 are electrically connected to the ASIC 906 via the PCI bus 922.

<Functional configuration of the image processing device according to the first embodiment>
Next, the functional configuration of the image processing device 5 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the image processing device 5. As shown in FIG. 5, the image processing device 5 includes a transmission / reception unit 201, a print job acquisition unit 202, an image data acquisition unit 203, an execution time output unit 204, a target time acquisition unit 205, and a terminal position acquisition unit. It includes 206 and a destination position acquisition unit 207. Further, the image processing device 5 includes a printing device position storage unit 208, a destination estimated arrival time acquisition unit 209, an image processing unit 210, and an image file transmission unit 211.

Of these, the print job acquisition unit 202, the image data acquisition unit 203, the execution time output unit 204, the target time acquisition unit 205, the terminal position acquisition unit 206, the destination position acquisition unit 207, the image processing device 5, and the destination arrival schedule. The time acquisition unit 209 and the image processing unit 210 are realized by the CPU 501 of FIG. 2 executing a predetermined program or the like.

The transmission / reception unit 201 is realized by the network I / F509 or the like shown in FIG. 2 and transmits / receives various data.

The print job acquisition unit 202 acquires a print job instructing print processing based on image data from the smartphone 4 via the transmission / reception unit 201, and outputs print job information to the image data acquisition unit 203 and the execution time output unit 204. .. Here, the print job includes identification information that identifies the printing device 9 that executes the printing process.

The image data acquisition unit 203 inputs print job information from the print job acquisition unit 202, and transmits a transmission request of an image file including image data to be printed to the cloud storage server 2 via the transmission / reception unit 201. Further, the image data acquisition unit 203 receives the image file in response to the transmission request from the cloud storage server 2 via the transmission / reception unit 201. Then, the received image file is output to the image processing unit 210.

Execution time output unit 204, based on the print job information input from the print job obtaining unit 202 predicts the execution time t ₁ of the printing process by the printing device 9, and outputs the target time obtaining unit 205. More specifically, the execution time output unit 204 determines the print color of the print process instructed by the print job, the number of copies to be printed, the presence or absence of post-processing, etc., and the standard per recording medium such as paper by the printing device 9. from Do print processing time and the like, the print job is to predict the execution time t ₁ of a printing process directs. The standard printing processing time per recording medium such as paper by the printing apparatus 9 is predetermined and stored in HD504 or the like in FIG. The execution time output unit 204 can acquire a standard print processing time per recording medium by referring to HD504 or the like based on the identification information of the printing device 9.

In addition, the standard time for the user of the smartphone 4 to send the print job to perform the user authentication operation using the ID card or the like after arriving at the position of the printing device 9 and the printing of the operation panel 940 on the printing device 9 The standard time of the operation of pressing the start button to start printing may be set in advance, and these times may be added to the execution time t ₁ of the printing process.

The target time acquisition unit 205 acquires the scheduled end time (scheduled print end time) of the print process when the printing device 9 executes the print process instructed by the print job as the target time. The target time acquisition unit 205 adds the execution time t ₁ of the print process input from the execution time output unit 204 to the current time T ₀ acquired by the timer 517 in FIG. 2 to obtain the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ . get. The target time acquisition unit 205 outputs the acquired information of the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ to the image processing unit 210.

In addition, the target time acquisition unit 205 receives the transmission time information of the print job transmitted by the smartphone 4 together with the print job via the transmission / reception unit 201 instead of the current time acquired by the timer 517, and uses this as the current time. You may get it. Further, in the following, there are other cases where the current time acquired by the timer 517 is used. Similarly, in these cases, the print job transmitted by the smartphone 4 together with the print job instead of the current time acquired by the timer 517. The transmission time of may be acquired as the current time.

The terminal position acquisition unit 206 acquires the coordinate information of the current position of the smartphone 4 transmitted by the smartphone 4 via the transmission / reception unit 201, and outputs this to the destination position acquisition unit 207 and the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209. To do.

The destination position acquisition unit 207 acquires information on the installation position of the printing device 9 that executes the printing process instructed by the print job as the destination position information. The destination position acquisition unit 207 can acquire information on the installation position of the printing device 9 by referring to the printing device position storage unit 208 based on the identification information of the printing device 9. The printing device position storage unit 208 is realized by the HD504 or the like shown in FIG. 2, and stores the installation position information of each of the plurality of printing devices including the printing device 9. The destination position acquisition unit 207 outputs the acquired installation position information of the printing device 9 to the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209.

The destination arrival scheduled time acquisition unit 209 is used by the user of the smartphone 4 based on the position information of the smartphone 4 acquired from the terminal position acquisition unit 206 and the installation position information of the printing device 9 acquired from the destination position acquisition unit 207. , Acquire the estimated arrival time of the destination to arrive at the installation position of the printing device 9 which is the destination.

More specifically, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 uses the position information of the smartphone 4 acquired from the terminal position acquisition unit 206 and the installation position information of the printing device 9 acquired from the destination position acquisition unit 207 to perform a printing job. The distance from the position of the smartphone 4 at the time of transmission to the installation position of the printing device 9 is acquired. Then, this distance is divided by a predetermined standard walking speed, and the user's travel time from the position of the smartphone 4 at the time of transmitting the print job to the installation position of the printing device 9 (smartphone 4 travel time) t ₂ To get. The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 can acquire the destination arrival estimated time T ₀ + t ₂ by adding the travel time t ₂ to the current time T ₀ acquired by the timer 517 of FIG.

However, the method of acquiring the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ by the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 is not limited to this. For example, as another example, a standard movement route according to the position is predetermined and stored in HD504 or the like in advance. The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 acquires a standard movement route from the position of the smartphone 4 at the time of transmitting the print job to the installation position of the printing device 9 by referring to the HD504 or the like, and sets the standard movement route. The travel time t ₂ may be obtained by dividing the distance along the line by the standard walking speed.

The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 outputs the acquired information of the destination arrival estimated time T ₀ + t ₂ to the image processing unit 210.

The image processing unit 210 uses the information of the estimated printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ input from the target time acquisition unit 205 and the information of the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ input from the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209. Based on this, the image processing to be performed is determined. Then, the determined image processing is executed on the image data included in the image file input from the image data acquisition unit 203. As described above, this image processing includes at least one of a resolution conversion process of image data, a scaling process, a compression process of an image file, and a PostScript conversion process.

More specifically, the image processing unit 210 includes a determination unit 220. The determination unit 220 compares the estimated printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ with the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t _2, and the estimated printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ is earlier than the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t _2. It is determined whether or not it is. When it is determined that the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ is earlier than the scheduled destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ , the image processing unit 210 determines that the image quality is prioritized according to the instruction of the print job. Execute the process.

Image processing that prioritizes image quality is, for example, resolution conversion processing that converts the resolution of image data contained in an image file from 600 dpi (dots per inch) to 1200 dpi to increase the resolution, and compression processing that reduces the compression rate of JPEG images. Or, a process of producing an uncompressed TIFF image. By these processes, the image quality can be improved (the size of the image file is increased), and the size of the recording medium can be changed so that the characters can be printed in a larger size according to the user's preference. Usability can be improved.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ is not earlier than the scheduled destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ , the image processing unit 210 executes image processing giving priority to printing speed. The image processing that gives priority to printing speed is, for example, a resolution conversion process that converts the resolution of the image data included in the image file from 1200 dpi to 600 dpi to reduce the resolution, a compression process that reduces the size of the image file, and the like. By these processes, the time for the printing device 9 to receive (download) the image file from the image processing device 5 and the time for executing the printing process are shortened, and the estimated printing end time T ₀ + t _{1 is set} to the estimated destination arrival time T _0. It can be faster than + t ₂ .

The image processing unit 210 outputs an image file including the above-mentioned image data after image processing to the image file transmission unit 211.

The image file transmission unit 211 is realized by the network I / F 509 or the like shown in FIG. 2, and transmits the image file input from the image processing unit 210 to the printing device 9.

In the above example, the print job includes identification information that identifies the printing device 9 that executes the printing process, and the destination position acquisition unit 207 acquires the position information of the printing device 9 according to the identification information. However, it is not limited to this.

As another example, the image forming system 100 includes a plurality of printing devices installed at different locations. The destination position acquisition unit 207 refers to the printing device position storage unit 208 based on the coordinate information of the current position of the smartphone 4 input from the terminal position acquisition unit 206, and prints at the position closest to the current position of the smartphone 4. The device may be specified and its position information may be output to the destination arrival scheduled time acquisition unit 209. By doing so, the user can make the printing device closest to the current position execute the printing process instructed by the printing job.

<Processing by the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment>
Next, the processing by the image processing apparatus 5 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the image processing apparatus 5 according to the present embodiment.

First, in step S61, the print job acquisition unit 202 acquires a print job instructing the print process based on the image data from the smartphone 4 via the transmission / reception unit 201, and acquires the print job information from the image data acquisition unit 203 and the execution time. Output to output unit 204.

Subsequently, in step S62, the image data acquisition unit 203 transmits a transmission request for an image file containing the image data to be printed to the cloud storage server 2 via the transmission / reception unit 201. Further, the image data acquisition unit 203 receives the image file in response to the transmission request from the cloud storage server 2 via the transmission / reception unit 201. Then, the received image file is output to the image processing unit 210.

Subsequently, in step S63, the execution time output unit 204, based on the print job information to predict the execution time t ₁ of the printing process by the printing device 9, and it outputs the target time obtaining unit 205.

Subsequently, in step S64, the target time acquisition unit 205 adds the execution time t ₁ of the print process input from the execution time output unit 204 to the current time acquired by the timer 517 of FIG. 2, and the scheduled print end time. Acquire T ₀ + t ₁ . The target time acquisition unit 205 outputs the acquired information of the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ to the image processing unit 210.

Subsequently, in step S65, the terminal position acquisition unit 206 acquires the coordinate information of the current position of the smartphone 4 transmitted by the smartphone 4 via the transmission / reception unit 201, and obtains this to the destination position acquisition unit 207 and the destination arrival. Output to the scheduled time acquisition unit 209.

Subsequently, in step S66, the destination position acquisition unit 207 refers to the printing device position storage unit 208 based on the identification information of the printing device 9 that executes the printing process instructed by the print job, and refers to the installation position of the printing device 9. Information is acquired as the location information of the destination. Then, the destination position acquisition unit 207 outputs the acquired information on the installation position of the printing device 9 to the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209.

Subsequently, in step S67, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 obtains the position information of the smartphone 4 acquired from the terminal position acquisition unit 206 and the installation position information of the printing device 9 acquired from the destination position acquisition unit 207. Based on this, the user of the smartphone 4 acquires the estimated time of arrival T ₀ + t ₂ of the destination arriving at the installation position of the printing device 9 which is the destination. The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 outputs the acquired information of the destination arrival estimated time T ₀ + t ₂ to the image processing unit 210.

Subsequently, in step S68, the determination unit 220 included in the image processing unit 210 input the information of the estimated printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ input from the target time acquisition unit 205 and the information of the estimated destination arrival time acquisition unit 209. by comparing the destination arrival time T _{0 +} t ₂ information, print the scheduled end time T _{0 +} t ₁ determines whether or not it is earlier than the destination scheduled arrival time T _{0 +} t _2.

If it is determined in step S68 that the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ is earlier than the scheduled destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ (step S68, Yes), the process proceeds to step S69, and the image processing unit 210 moves to step S69. , Perform image processing with priority on image quality. Then, the image processing unit 210 outputs an image file including the image data after the image processing to the image file transmission unit 211.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S68 that the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ is not earlier than the scheduled destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ (step S68, No), the process proceeds to step S70, and the image processing unit 210 Executes image processing that gives priority to printing speed. Then, the image processing unit 210 outputs an image file including the image data after the image processing to the image file transmission unit 211.

Subsequently, the image file transmission unit 211 transmits the image file input from the image processing unit 210 to the printing device 9 via the network 1.

In this way, the image processing device 5 executes predetermined image processing on the image data included in the image file stored in the cloud storage server 2 in response to the print job, and the printing device 9 executes the predetermined image processing on the image after the image processing. Printing processing based on data can be executed.

<Operational effect of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment>
Next, the operation and effect of the image processing device 5 according to the present embodiment will be described.

A technique is known in which a cloud storage server that stores image files and a printing device are linked to print an image file specified by an information terminal such as a smartphone on the printing device.

Further, based on the movement path and movement time of the user of the information terminal and the printing time by the printing device, a printing device installed at a place where the printed matter can be output at a desired timing is determined as the output destination of the printed matter, and the user prints. A technique for reducing the printing waiting time from the arrival at the position of the device to the completion of printing is disclosed.

However, in these conventional techniques, when image processing such as resolution conversion, file compression, and PostScript conversion is executed on the image data to be printed before the printing process is executed, these images are used. Depending on the processing execution time, a printing waiting time may occur.

In the present embodiment, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209 arrives at the destination arrival time when the user of the smartphone 4 arrives at the position of the printing device 9 based on the position information of the smartphone 4 and the position information of the printing device 9. Acquire T ₀ + t ₂ . Further, the target time acquisition unit 205 acquires the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ when the printing device 9 executes the printing process instructed by the print job as the target time.

Then, the estimated time of arrival at the destination T ₀ + t ₂ and the estimated time of printing end T ₀ + t ₁ are compared. If the scheduled print end time T ₀ + t ₁ is earlier than the scheduled arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ , the user of the smartphone 4 instructs printing, and then when the user arrives at the installation position of the printing device 9, the instructed printing is performed. Is finished, so there is no printing waiting time. Therefore, the image processing unit 210 executes image processing that gives priority to image quality, which can improve the usability of the printing device 9.

On the other hand, if the scheduled printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ is not earlier than the scheduled destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ , when the user arrives at the installation position of the printing device 9, the instructed printing is not finished yet, so the printing is not finished as it is. There is a printing wait time. Therefore, the image processing unit 210 executes image processing that gives priority to printing speed in order to advance the printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ . As a result, the estimated printing end time T ₀ + t ₁ can be made earlier than the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₂ , and the printing process can be completed by the time the user arrives at the installation position of the printing device 9. As a result, it is possible to prevent the waiting time for printing from occurring. In this way, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus that does not cause a printing waiting time.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described. The description of the same components as those in the embodiment described above will be omitted.

<Structure of an image forming system including the image processing device according to the second embodiment>
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image forming system 100a including the image processing device 5a according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the image forming system 100a includes an image processing device 5a and a schedule management server 6.

The schedule management server 6 is a cloud server that manages the schedule information of the user of the smartphone 4. The schedule management server 6 can be realized by a computer or the like equipped with a general OS or the like, and includes a means of wireless communication or a means of wired communication. Further, the schedule management server 6 transmits predetermined schedule information among the schedule information to be managed to the image processing device 5a in response to the transmission request. The schedule management server 6 can also manage schedule information other than the users of the smartphone 4.

The schedule management server 6 is constructed by a computer in the same manner as the image processing device 5 described in the first embodiment. Since the hardware configuration of the schedule management server 6 is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 2, duplicate description will be omitted here.

<Functional configuration of the image processing device according to the second embodiment>
Next, the functional configuration of the image processing device 5a according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the image processing device 5a. As shown in FIG. 8, the image processing device 5a includes an execution time output unit 204a, a printing device position acquisition unit 212, a target time acquisition unit 205a, a destination position acquisition unit 207a, and a destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit. It includes 209a and an image processing unit 210a.

Execution time output unit 204a, based on the print job information input from the print job obtaining unit 202, the printing apparatus 9 according to predict the execution time t ₁ of the printing process, the destination estimated arrival time acquisition unit the execution time t ₁ predicted Output to 209a.

Target time obtaining unit 205a, a target time, and outputs the acquired start time T ₁ of the conference user participates smartphone 4 to the image processing unit 210a. Target time obtaining unit 205a, based on the identification number of the user of the smartphone 4, with reference to the schedule management server 6 via the transceiver 201 and the network 1, the user of the smartphone 4 acquires the start time T ₁ of the attending meetings be able to. Here, the start time T ₁ of the conference for the user to participate in the smartphone 4 is an example of the "start time of the event."

The printing device position acquisition unit 212 acquires information on the installation position of the printing device 9 that executes the printing process instructed by the print job. The printing device position acquisition unit 212 can acquire information on the installation position of the printing device 9 by referring to the printing device position storage unit 208 based on the identification information of the printing device 9. The printing device position acquisition unit 212 outputs the acquired installation position information of the printing device 9 to the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a.

The destination position acquisition unit 207a acquires information on the venue of the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates as the location information of the destination. The destination position acquisition unit 207a refers to the schedule management server 6 via the transmission / reception unit 201 and the network 1 based on the identification number of the user of the smartphone 4, and acquires information on the venue of the meeting in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates. can do. Here, the venue of the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates is an example of the “event venue”. The destination position acquisition unit 207a outputs information on the venue of the conference to the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a.

The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a includes the position information of the smartphone 4 input from the terminal position acquisition unit 206, the conference venue information input from the destination position acquisition unit 207a, and the execution time input from the execution time output unit 204a. and the time t _1, and the installation position information of the printing apparatus 9 which is input from the printing device position acquisition unit 212, based on, the venue of the conference is the destination, to get the destination arrival time at which the user arrives.

More specifically, the destination arrival scheduled time acquisition unit 209a is a print job based on the position information of the smartphone 4 input from the terminal position acquisition unit 206 and the installation position information of the printing device 9 input from the printing device position acquisition unit 212. The distance from the position of the smartphone 4 at the time of transmission to the installation position of the printing device 9 is acquired. Then, this distance is divided by a predetermined standard walking speed, and the user's travel time from the position of the smartphone 4 at the time of transmitting the print job to the installation position of the printing device 9 (smartphone 4 travel time) t ₂ To get.

Further, the destination arrival scheduled time acquisition unit 209a is based on the installation position information of the printing device 9 input from the printing device position acquisition unit 212 and the conference holding location information input from the destination position acquisition unit 207a. Get the distance from the location of the meeting to the meeting place. Then, this distance is divided by a predetermined standard walking speed to obtain the user's travel time (smartphone 4's travel time) t ₃ from the installation position of the printing device 9 to the meeting place.

In other words, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a moves from the position where the user sends the print job on the smartphone 4 to the installation position of the printing device 9, obtains the printed matter output by the printing device 9, and holds the printed matter. You can get time to travel to the meeting place.

The estimated destination arrival time acquisition unit 209a adds the travel times t ₂ and t ₃ and the execution time t ₁ to the current time T ₀ acquired by the timer 517 in FIG. 2, and adds the estimated destination arrival time T _0. + T ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ can be obtained.

However, the method of acquiring the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ by the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a is not limited to this. For example, as another example, a standard movement route according to the position is predetermined and stored in HD504 or the like in advance. The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a refers to the HD504 and the like, and refers to the standard movement route from the position of the smartphone 4 to the installation position of the printing device 9 at the time of transmitting the print job, and the meeting from the installation position of the printing device 9. By acquiring the standard travel route to the venue of the event and dividing the distance along the standard travel route by the predetermined standard walking speed, the travel times t ₂ and t ₃ are acquired. Is also good.

The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a outputs the acquired information of the destination arrival estimated time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ to the image processing unit 210 a.

Image processing unit 210a is, start time and _{T 1} of the information, information of the destination arrival was input from the destination estimated arrival time acquisition unit 209a time _{T 0 + t 1 + t 2} + t 3 of the conference, which was input from the target time obtaining unit 205a Based on the above, the image processing to be executed is determined. Then, the determined image processing is executed on the image data included in the image file input from the image data acquisition unit 203.

More specifically, the image processing unit 210a includes a determination unit 220a. The determination unit 220a compares the scheduled start time T _{1 of the} conference with the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t _3, and the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is the scheduled start time T of the conference. It is determined whether or not the time is earlier than ₁ . Then, when it is determined that the scheduled arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is earlier than the start time T _{1 of the} conference, the image processing unit 210a executes image processing giving priority to image quality.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the estimated time of arrival at the destination T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is not earlier than the start time T _{1 of the} conference, the image processing unit 210a executes image processing giving priority to printing speed. As a result, the time for the printing device 9 to receive (download) the image file from the image processing device 5 and the time for printing are shortened, and the estimated time of arrival at the destination T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is set from the start time T _{1 of the} conference. Can be done faster.

The image processing unit 210a outputs an image file including the above-mentioned image data after image processing to the image file transmission unit 211.

<Processing by the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment>
Next, the processing by the image processing apparatus 5a according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the image processing apparatus 5a according to the present embodiment. The processing of steps S91 to S92 in FIG. 9 is the same as the processing of steps S61 to S62 in FIG. 6, and the processing of steps S100 to S102 in FIG. 9 is the same as the processing of steps S69 to S71 in FIG. Therefore, duplicate explanations will be omitted.

In step S93, the execution time output unit 204a, based on the print job information input from the print job obtaining unit 202 predicts the execution time t ₁ of the printing process by the printing device 9, the output destination arrival time acquisition unit 209a To do.

Subsequently, in step S94, target time obtaining unit 205a, a target time to obtain the starting time _{T 1} of the conference user participates smartphone 4, and outputs to the image processing unit 210a.

Subsequently, in step S95, the terminal position acquisition unit 206 acquires the coordinate information of the current position of the smartphone 4 transmitted by the smartphone 4 via the transmission / reception unit 201, and obtains the destination position acquisition unit 207a and the destination arrival. Output to the scheduled time acquisition unit 209a.

Subsequently, in step S96, the printing device position acquisition unit 212 acquires the position information of the printing device 9 and outputs the position information to the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a.

Subsequently, in step S97, the destination position acquisition unit 207a acquires information on the venue of the conference and outputs the information to the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a.

Subsequently, in step S98, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a receives the position information of the smartphone 4 input from the terminal position acquisition unit 206, the installation position information of the printing device 9 input from the printing device position acquisition unit 212, and the installation position information of the printing device 9. based on the meeting location information of the input from the destination position acquisition unit 207a, and the execution time t ₁ input from the execution time output section 204a, the user, destination arrival scheduled to arrive at the venue of the conference is the destination Get the time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ . The destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit 209a outputs the acquired information of the destination arrival estimated time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ to the image processing unit 210 a.

Subsequently, in step S99, the determination unit 220a included in the image processing unit 210a includes a start time _{T 1} meeting information input from the target time obtaining unit 205a, a destination input from the destination estimated arrival time acquisition unit 209a Estimated arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is compared with the information to determine whether the estimated arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is earlier than the start time T _{1 of the} conference. ..

If it is determined in step S99 that the scheduled arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is earlier than the start time T _{1 of the} conference (step S99, Yes), the process proceeds to step S100 and the destination If it is determined that the scheduled arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is not earlier than the start time T _{1 of the} conference (steps S99, No), the process proceeds to step S101.

In this way, the image processing device 5a executes predetermined image processing on the image data included in the image file stored in the cloud storage server 2 in response to the printing job, and the printing device 9 executes the predetermined image processing on the image after the image processing. Printing processing based on data can be executed.

<Operational effect of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment>
Next, the operation and effect of the image processing device 5a according to the present embodiment will be described.

When printing the explanatory materials used in the meeting, finish printing the printed matter such as the explanatory materials by the start time of the meeting registered in the schedule management server 6, and bring the required number of printed materials to the meeting place. You may want to arrive.

In this case, when image processing such as resolution conversion, file compression, PostScript conversion, etc. is executed, the conference starts with the printed explanatory material due to the print waiting time generated according to the execution time of these image processes. In some cases, it was not possible to arrive at the meeting place by the time.

In the present embodiment, the destination estimated arrival time acquisition unit 209a, based on the position information of the smartphone 4, and the position information of the printing apparatus 9, and the information of the venue of the meeting, and the execution time t ₁ of the printing process, smartphone The user of 4 acquires the estimated time of arrival at the destination T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ when the user arrives at the position of the printing device 9. Further, target time obtaining unit 205a, a target time, to acquire the start time _{T 1} of the conference.

Then, the estimated destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is compared with the conference start time T _1, and the destination arrival time T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is earlier than the conference start time T _1. If so, you can arrive at the meeting place by the start time of the meeting with the printed explanatory material. Therefore, the image processing unit 210a executes image processing that gives priority to image quality, which can improve the usability of the printing device 9.

On the other hand, if the estimated time of arrival at the destination T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ is not earlier than the start time T _{1 of} the meeting, bring the printed explanatory material to the meeting place by the start time of the meeting. I can't arrive. Therefore, the image processing unit 210a executes image processing that gives priority to printing speed. As a result, the estimated time of arrival at the destination T ₀ + t ₁ + t ₂ + t ₃ can be set earlier than the start time T _{1 of the} meeting, and the user can hold the meeting by the start time of the meeting with the printed explanatory material. You can reach the place.

Since the other effects are the same as those described in the first embodiment, duplicate explanations will be omitted.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the image processing apparatus 5b according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the image processing device 5b according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the image processing device 5b includes a user selection information acquisition unit 213 and an image processing unit 210b.

The user selection information acquisition unit 213 is realized by the CPU 501 of FIG. 2 executing a predetermined program. The user selection information acquisition unit 213 transmits the feature information when the image processing is changed to the smartphone 4 or the like via the transmission / reception unit 201, and displays the feature information on the display 418 or the like in FIG. This feature information is information related to image processing that prioritizes image quality, image processing that prioritizes printing speed, scheduled printing completion time, estimated time of arrival at a destination, and the like.

The user selection information acquisition unit 213 acquires an instruction for image processing selected by the user according to the feature information displayed on the display 418 or the like via the transmission / reception unit 201, and outputs this to the image processing unit 210b.

The image processing unit 210b executes image processing in response to an instruction for image processing selected by the user input from the user selection information acquisition unit 213.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the image processing apparatus 5b according to the present embodiment. The processing of steps S111 to S119 in FIG. 11 is the same as the processing of steps S91 to S99 in FIG. Further, the processing of steps S123 to S125 in FIG. 11 is the same as the processing of steps S100 to S102 in FIG. Therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted here.

In step S120, the user selection information acquisition unit 213 transmits the feature information when the image processing by the image processing unit 210b is changed to the smartphone 4 or the like via the transmission / reception unit 201 and displays it on the display 418 or the like in FIG. Let me.

Subsequently, in step S121, the user selection information acquisition unit 213 determines whether or not the instruction for the image processing selected by the user has been acquired.

If the user has not acquired the instruction for the image processing selected in step S121 (steps S121, No), the process returns to step S121 and the process of step S121 is repeated until the instruction for the image processing selected by the user is acquired. ..

When the instruction for the image processing selected by the user is acquired in step S121 (step S121, Yes), the process proceeds to step S122.

In step S122, the user selection information acquisition unit 213 determines whether or not the instruction for the image processing selected by the user is an instruction that prioritizes image quality.

When the instruction for the image processing selected by the user in step S122 is an instruction for giving priority to image quality (step S122, Yes), the process proceeds to step S123, and the instruction for the image processing selected by the user is not an instruction for giving priority to image quality. In the case (step S122, No), the process proceeds to step S124.

In this way, in the present embodiment, the instruction for the image processing selected by the user can be reflected in the image processing by the image processing unit 210b.

Since the other effects are the same as those described in the first and second embodiments, duplicate description will be omitted.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, the image processing apparatus 5c according to the fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the image processing device 5c according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the image processing device 5c includes a participant information acquisition unit 214, a setting information storage unit 215, and an image processing unit 210c.

The participant information acquisition unit 214 is realized by the CPU 501 of FIG. 2 executing a predetermined program. The participant information acquisition unit 214 refers to the schedule management server 6 via the transmission / reception unit 201 and the network 1 based on the identification number of the user of the smartphone 4, and identifies other participants of the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates. Get information. Here, the other participants of the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates is an example of "event participants".

In addition, the participant information acquisition unit 214 acquires the setting information by referring to the setting information storage unit 215 based on the identification information of the participants of the conference. Here, the setting information storage unit 215 is realized by the HD504 or the like shown in FIG. 2 and stores the setting information associated with the participants.

This setting information is setting information related to the printing process by the printing apparatus 9, and specifically, it is information such as a setting for enlarging the characters included in the image data to make it easier to see, and a setting for enlarging the paper size. Since the setting information changes according to each participant's preference, the setting information storage unit 215 updates the setting information each time the setting information associated with the participant is changed by the participant. However, it is preferable to store the latest setting information. As a result, the latest preference of the participant can be reflected in the printing process. The participant information acquisition unit 214 outputs the acquired setting information to the image processing unit 210c.

The image processing unit 210c executes image processing according to the setting information input from the participant information acquisition unit 214.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the image processing apparatus 5c according to the present embodiment. The processing of steps S131 to S141 in FIG. 13 is the same as the processing of steps S111 to S121 in FIG. Further, the processing of steps S145 to S147 in FIG. 13 is the same as the processing of steps S123 to S125 in FIG. Therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted here.

In step S142, the user selection information acquisition unit 213 determines whether or not the instruction for the image processing selected by the user is an instruction that prioritizes image quality.

When the instruction for the image processing selected by the user in step S142 is an instruction for giving priority to image quality (step S142, Yes), the process proceeds to step S145, and the instruction for the image processing selected by the user is not an instruction for giving priority to image quality. In the case (step S142, No), the process proceeds to step S143.

In step S143, the participant information acquisition unit 214 refers to the schedule management server 6 based on the identification number of the user of the smartphone 4 and acquires the identification information of other participants of the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates. .. Then, based on the participant's identification information, the setting information storage unit 215 is referred to to determine whether or not there is the participant's setting information.

If it is determined in step S143 that there is participant setting information (step S143, Yes), the participant information acquisition unit 214 outputs the setting information to the image processing unit 210c. Then, the image processing unit 210c executes image processing according to the setting information. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no participant setting information (step S143, No), the process proceeds to step S146.

In this way, the setting information of the participants of the conference can be reflected in the image processing by the image processing unit 210c.

Participants in the conference may include people who cannot read small letters. In this case, if the print speed is prioritized and the size of the image file is reduced, the participants of the conference cannot use the printed matter properly. In the present embodiment, the participant information acquisition unit 214 confirms the presence / absence of the setting information of the participants of the conference, and if there is, acquires the setting information and reflects it in the image processing. This allows conference participants to use the printed matter appropriately.

Since the effects other than this are the same as those described in the first to third embodiments, duplicate explanations will be omitted.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, the image processing apparatus 5d according to the fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the image processing device 5d according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the image processing device 5d includes a participant list creation unit 216 and an image processing unit 210d.

The participant list creation unit 216 is realized by the CPU 501 of FIG. 2 executing a predetermined program. The participant list creation unit 216 refers to the schedule management server 6 based on the identification number of the user of the smartphone 4, acquires the names of other participants in the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates, and obtains the names of the participants. Create a text file. Then, the participant list creation unit 216 outputs a text file of the participant's name to the image processing unit 210d.

The image processing unit 210d includes a file composition unit 221. The file composition unit 221 synthesizes the text file of the participant name input from the participant list creation unit 216 and the image file input from the image data acquisition unit 203 by logical sum. Then, the combined image file is transmitted to the printing device 9 via the image file transmission unit 211.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the image processing apparatus 5d according to the present embodiment. The processing of steps S151 to S161 in FIG. 15 is the same as the processing of steps S111 to S121 in FIG. Further, the processing of steps S163 to S166 in FIG. 15 is the same as the processing of steps S122 to S125 in FIG. Therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted here.

In step S162, the participant list creation unit 216 refers to the schedule management server 6 based on the identification number of the user of the smartphone 4 and acquires the name information of other participants of the conference in which the user of the smartphone 4 participates. , Create a text file of participants' names. Then, the participant list creation unit 216 outputs a text file of the participant's name to the image processing unit 210d.

The file composition unit 221 included in the image processing unit 210d synthesizes the text file of the participant's name input from the participant list creation unit 216 and the image file input from the image data acquisition unit 203 by logical sum. Then, the combined image file is transmitted to the printing device 9 via the image file transmission unit 211.

In the present embodiment, by doing so, the image processing can be changed according to the print settings for each participant, and the printed matter can be printed so that the participant can know who the printed matter is for.

Since the other effects are the same as those described in the first to third embodiments, duplicate description will be omitted.

Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments specifically disclosed, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of claims. is there.

The embodiment also includes an image processing method. For example, the image processing method includes a print job acquisition step of acquiring a print job instructing print processing based on image data, and an execution time output step of outputting a predicted value of the execution time of the print process predicted based on the print job. The target time acquisition process for acquiring the target time, the terminal position acquisition process for acquiring the position information of the information terminal, the destination position acquisition process for acquiring the position information of the destination, and the position information of the information terminal. Based on the location information of the destination, the destination arrival scheduled time acquisition process for acquiring the destination arrival scheduled time at which the user of the information terminal arrives at the destination, the destination time, and the destination arrival schedule The image processing step of executing the image processing determined based on the time and the image data on the image data is included. By such an image processing method, the same effect as that of the above-mentioned image processing apparatus can be obtained.

In addition, embodiments also include programs. For example, the program is a computer,
A print job acquisition unit that acquires a print job that instructs print processing based on image data, an execution time output unit that outputs a predicted value of the execution time of the print process predicted based on the print job, and a target time that acquires a target time. Based on the acquisition unit, the terminal position acquisition unit that acquires the position information of the information terminal, the destination position acquisition unit that acquires the position information of the destination, the position information of the information terminal, and the position information of the destination. The destination arrival scheduled time acquisition unit for acquiring the destination arrival scheduled time when the user of the information terminal arrives at the destination, and the image processing determined based on the destination time and the destination arrival scheduled time are performed. It functions as an image processing unit to be executed for image data. With such a program, the same effect as that of the image processing apparatus described above can be obtained.

Further, each function of the embodiment described above can be realized by one or a plurality of processing circuits. Here, the "processing circuit" in the present specification is a processor programmed to execute each function by software such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, or a processor designed to execute each function described above. It shall include devices such as ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), DSP (digital signal processor), FPGA (field programmable gate array) and conventional circuit modules.

1 Network 2 Cloud storage server 3 Indoor positioning system 4 Smartphone 5 Image processing device 6 Schedule management server 9 Printing device 100 Image formation system 201 Transmission / reception unit 202 Print job acquisition unit 203 Image data acquisition unit 204 Execution time output unit 205 Target time acquisition unit 206 Terminal position acquisition unit 207 Destination position acquisition unit 208 Printing device position storage unit 209 Estimated destination arrival time acquisition unit 210 Image processing unit 211 Image file transmission unit 212 Printing device position acquisition unit 213 User selection information acquisition unit 214 Participant information Acquisition unit 215 Setting information storage unit 216 Participant list creation unit 220 Judgment unit 221 File composition unit

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-09477

Claims (9)

A print job acquisition unit that acquires a print job that instructs print processing based on image data,
An execution time output unit that outputs a predicted value of the execution time of the print process predicted based on the print job, and an execution time output unit.
The target time acquisition unit that acquires the target time, and
The terminal position acquisition unit that acquires the position information of the information terminal,
The destination position acquisition unit that acquires the location information of the destination,
Based on the location information of the information terminal and the location information of the destination, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit for acquiring the destination arrival estimated time when the user of the information terminal arrives at the destination
An image processing device including an image processing unit that executes image processing determined based on the target time and the scheduled arrival time at the destination on the image data. The target time acquisition unit
As the target time, the scheduled end time of the printing process is acquired based on the predicted value of the execution time.
The destination position acquisition unit
The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the position information of the printing device that executes the printing process is acquired as the position information of the destination. It has a printing device position acquisition unit that acquires position information of the printing device that executes the printing process.
The target time acquisition unit
As the target time, the start time of the event in which the user participates is acquired.
The destination position acquisition unit
As the location information of the destination, the venue information of the event in which the user participates is acquired, and the information is obtained.
The destination arrival time acquisition unit
The first aspect of claim 1, wherein the estimated time of arrival at the destination is acquired based on the position information of the information terminal, the position information of the destination, the predicted value of the execution time, and the position information of the printing device. Image processing device. The image processing unit
The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the estimated time of arrival at the destination is earlier than the destination time, the process of reducing the size of the image file containing the image data is executed. .. The image processing unit
The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the estimated time of arrival at the destination is not earlier than the destination time, the process of increasing the size of the image file containing the image data is executed. Participant information acquisition department that acquires information on participants of the event,
It has a setting information storage unit for storing the setting information of the printing device associated with the participant.
The image processing unit
Image processing determined based on the target time, the scheduled arrival time at the destination, and the setting information acquired by referring to the setting information storage unit based on the participant is executed on the image data. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5. The image processing device according to claim 6, wherein the setting information includes information on the names of the participants. A print job acquisition process that acquires a print job that instructs print processing based on image data,
An execution time output process that outputs a predicted value of the execution time of the print process predicted based on the print job, and an execution time output process.
The target time acquisition process to acquire the target time and
The terminal position acquisition process for acquiring the position information of the information terminal,
The destination position acquisition process for acquiring the destination position information,
Based on the location information of the information terminal and the location information of the destination, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition step of acquiring the destination arrival estimated time when the user of the information terminal arrives at the destination
An image processing method including an image processing step of executing image processing determined based on the target time and the estimated destination arrival time on the image data. Computer,
Print job acquisition unit that acquires print jobs that instruct print processing based on image data,
An execution time output unit that outputs a predicted value of the execution time of the print process predicted based on the print job.
Target time acquisition unit, which acquires the target time
Terminal position acquisition unit that acquires the position information of the information terminal,
Destination position acquisition unit, which acquires the location information of the destination,
Based on the position information of the information terminal and the position information of the destination, the destination arrival estimated time acquisition unit for acquiring the destination arrival time when the user of the information terminal arrives at the destination, and the purpose A program that functions as an image processing unit that executes image processing determined based on the time and the estimated time of arrival at the destination on the image data.

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