JP2021062549A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

To reduce time required after connection of a memory device until printing is started, in reading a file from the memory device to perform printing.SOLUTION: A memorizing part of an image forming device memorizes a set file in which a set value is described. A control part compares a file name of the set file with a name of a file for printing memorized by a memory device connected to an interface part. The control part sets the set file in which the file name is included in the file for printing as an applicable file that is applied to the file for printing including in the name the file name of the set file. On the basis of a set value of the applicable file, the control part makes a printing part print the file for printing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that acquires a file from an external memory and prints based on the acquired file.

There are image forming devices such as multifunction devices, printers, and fax machines. Some image forming devices are provided with various setting items (functions). The user selects a setting item and determines a setting value of the selected setting item so that a desired result can be obtained. For example, if you want to enlarge, select the enlargement setting item and set the enlargement ratio. It is troublesome to set many setting values every time printing is performed. Therefore, it may be possible to register a combination of frequently used setting values as setting information. Patent Document 1 describes an example of a device capable of registering setting information.

Specifically, in Patent Document 1, the personal computer executes a printing process by using various setting information stored in the registry of the hard disk in the printer driver. The CPU records the registry setting information in the FD as a printer driver setting file. Another personal computer reads the setting information recorded in the FD. The CPU of another personal computer registers the setting information specified by the specified information in its own registry. The printer driver executes the printing process based on the setting information newly registered in the registry (Patent Document 1: Abstract).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-135343

When printing with an image forming apparatus, the user sets a print job so as to obtain a desired result. For example, when a user wants to obtain a 2in1 printed matter (printed matter in which two pages are arranged on one sheet), the user sets aggregation (2in1). However, it takes some time to set up printing. In addition, when there are many items to be set, the user must set all the set values without error. There is a problem that the print setting work may take time.

In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the setting information of one personal computer can be copied to another personal computer. However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to select the setting information to be used each time printing is performed. In some cases, it is necessary to additionally set a desired setting value. It may take time to set up printing.

In view of the above problems of the prior art, the present invention reduces the time (time required for setting) from the connection of the memory device to the start of printing when the file is read from the memory device and printed.

The image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a printing unit, a storage unit, an interface unit, and a control unit. The printing unit prints. The storage unit stores a setting file in which setting values used in the print job are described. A memory device for storing a print file is connected to the interface unit. When the memory device is connected to the interface unit, the control unit compares the file name of the setting file with the name of the print file. The control unit defines the setting file in which the file name is included in the name of the print file as an applicable file to be applied to the print file in which the file name of the setting file is included in the name. Based on the set value of the applicable file, the control unit causes the printing unit to print the printing file.

According to the present invention, when a file is read from a memory device and printed, the time required for setting can be reduced. The time from connecting the memory device to starting printing can be reduced. An image forming apparatus capable of starting printing quickly can be provided.

It is a figure which shows an example of the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the contents of the setting file which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the creation screen of the setting file which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the process of automatic printing of the print file of the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the usage authority definition data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the automatic change of the setting value of the application file which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the print log data which concerns on embodiment.

Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. The multifunction device 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element such as the configuration and the arrangement described in the present embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an explanatory example.

Here, the memory device 9 can be connected to the multifunction device 100. Then, the multifunction device 100 can print based on the print file 8 stored in the memory device 9. Hereinafter, printing based on the print file 8 stored in the memory device 9 will be referred to as external memory printing.

(Multifunction device 100)
An example of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1, the multifunction device 100 includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, an image reading unit 3, an operation panel 4, a printing unit 5, a communication unit 12, and an interface unit 6.

The control unit 1 controls the operation of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 1 includes a control circuit 10 and an image processing circuit 11. The control circuit 10 is, for example, a CPU. The control circuit 10 performs processing and calculation related to the job. The image processing circuit 11 includes a circuit for processing image data. The image processing circuit 11 is, for example, an ASIC.

The image processing circuit 11 can generate image data based on the file (print file 8) (rasterize processing). The image processing circuit 11 performs image processing of the generated image data. The image processing circuit 11 performs image processing according to the print setting. The image processing circuit 11 generates output image data based on the image data after image processing. The output image data is image data indicating whether or not toner is applied. The printing unit 5 prints based on the output image data.

The storage unit 2 includes a RAM, a ROM, and a storage. The storage is a large-capacity non-volatile storage device. For example, the storage is an HDD or SSD. The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores data, settings, and programs for controlling the multifunction device 100. The control circuit 10 controls the multifunction device 100 based on the programs and data stored in the storage unit 2.

At the time of a job of reading a document (copy job, scan job), the control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 3 to read the document. The image reading unit 3 includes a lamp and an image sensor. The image reading unit 3 generates image data of the original. The image data obtained by reading can also be stored in the memory device 9.

The operation panel 4 accepts the user's setting operation. The operation panel 4 includes a display panel 4a, a touch panel 4b, and a hard key 4c. The display panel 4a is a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The control unit 1 displays a setting screen and an operation image on the display panel 4a. Operational images are, for example, buttons, softkeys, and tabs. The user operates (touches) the operation image displayed on the display panel 4a. As a result, the user can input various settings of the multifunction device 100.

The touch panel 4b is provided on the upper surface of the display panel 4a. The touch panel 4b detects the position and coordinates touched by the user. The touch panel 4b accepts the user's operation. The output of the touch panel 4b is input to the control unit 1. The control unit 1 recognizes the user's touch position. Based on the output of the touch panel 4b, the control unit 1 recognizes the operation image operated by the user. The control unit 1 recognizes the user's setting operation. Based on the user's settings, the control unit 1 operates the image reading unit 3, the printing unit 5, and the communication unit 12 (to perform a job). For example, the hard key 4c is a numeric keypad or a start key. The numeric keypad is a key for inputting numbers. The start key is a key for instructing to start a job. The hard key 4c also accepts user operations.

The printing unit 5 includes, for example, a paper feeding unit 5a, a paper conveying unit 5b, an image forming unit 5c, and a fixing unit 5d. The paper feed unit 5a includes, for example, a paper cassette and a paper feed roller that feeds paper. At the time of printing, the control unit 1 supplies the paper to the paper feed unit 5a. The paper transport unit 5b includes, for example, a motor and a pair of transport rollers. The control unit 1 conveys the paper fed from the paper feeding unit 5a to the paper conveying unit 5b. The image forming unit 5c includes, for example, a photoconductor drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, and a transfer roller. The control unit 1 charges the photoconductor drum and exposes the photoconductor drum based on the image data. Further, the control unit 1 develops an electrostatic latent image of the photoconductor drum with toner. Further, the control unit 1 transfers the toner image to the paper. The fixing portion 5d includes, for example, a heater and a rotating body for fixing. The control unit 1 heats and pressurizes the paper on which the toner image is transferred to the fixing unit 5d. The control unit 1 causes the fixing unit 5d to fix the toner image.

For example, the communication unit 12 includes a network communication circuit and a network communication memory. The network communication memory stores software for network communication. The communication unit 12 can communicate with the computer 200 via the network. The computer 200 is, for example, a PC, a server, a smartphone, or a mobile phone.

The interface unit 6 includes a communication circuit (communication control circuit) for communicating with the device, a communication memory, and a connector. The memory device 9 can be connected (attached) to the connector as a device. The memory device 9 stores a file. The memory device 9 is, for example, a flash memory. The interface unit 6 and the control unit 1 may be provided on the same substrate. The communication circuit of the interface unit 6 communicates (exchanges data) with the memory device 9 connected to the connector.

For example, the interface unit 6 is a circuit board that conforms to the USB standard and communicates with a USB device. For example, the memory device 9 is a USB memory. The communication standard of the interface unit 6 is not limited to the USB standard. For example, the memory device 9 may be a memory card. In this case, the interface unit 6 communicates in accordance with the memory card standard.

The control unit 1 (control circuit 10) communicates with the memory device 9 via the interface unit 6. The interface unit 6 detects that the memory device 9 is connected (attached or inserted) to the connector. When the connection is detected, the interface unit 6 notifies the control unit 1 that the memory device 9 has been connected. Based on this notification, the control unit 1 recognizes that the memory device 9 is connected. That is, the control unit 1 can recognize that there is a connected memory device 9.

Further, the interface unit 6 detects that the memory device 9 has been removed (disconnected from the connector). When the removal is detected, the interface unit 6 notifies the control unit 1 (control circuit 10) that the memory device 9 has been removed. Based on this notification, the control unit 1 recognizes the removal of the memory device 9. That is, the control unit 1 can also recognize that there is no memory device 9 connected.

The control unit 1 (control circuit 10) may cause the interface unit 6 to read the print file 8 stored in the connected memory device 9. Based on the read print file 8, the control unit 1 may cause the print unit 5 to print. The control unit 1 can also store (write) data in the memory device 9. For example, the control unit 1 can write the image file obtained by scanning to the memory device 9.

(Registration of configuration file 7)
Next, an example of registration of the setting file 7 in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the setting file 7 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the creation screen 71 of the setting file 7 according to the embodiment.

The setting file 7 is a file in which setting values used in the print job are described. The setting file 7 is, for example, a text file. The setting file 7 may be in a format other than a text file. The setting file 7 includes, for example, a setting item name and a setting value corresponding to the setting item name. Setting item names and setting values are described using letters, numbers, and symbols. Multiple setting items and their setting values can be set. In the multifunction device 100, the setting file 7 can be registered in the storage unit 2. The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the setting file 7. The control unit 1 may apply the setting file 7 to the print file 8 to cause the print unit 5 to print the print file 8. At this time, printing is performed based on the setting value defined in the setting file 7.

FIG. 2 shows an example of the contents of the setting file 7. The setting file 7 in FIG. 2 is given the name of Test. The setting values of the setting items are described in the setting file 7. In the setting file 7 of FIG. 2, setting values are defined (described) for the setting items of paper size, resolution, print orientation, aggregation, and eco-print. The setting items and their setting values that can be defined in the setting file 7 are not limited to the example of FIG. For another setting item that can be used in the multifunction device 100, the setting value can be set in the setting file 7. For example, setting values of setting items such as the number of copies, the paper cassette to be used, zoom (enlargement / reduction), and rotation may be set in the setting file 7.

The setting value of the aggregation setting item indicates the number of pages to be included in one sheet of paper. For example, when the setting value of the aggregation setting item is 2, the control unit 1 includes the contents of two pages on one sheet of paper. In the eco-print setting item, ON (enabled) / OFF (disabled) of the eco-print function is set as a set value. When the eco-print function is ON, the control unit 1 (image processing circuit 11) processes the image data used for printing to reduce the amount of toner consumed. For example, the control unit 1 converts some of the pixels (dots) on which the toner is placed in the output image data into pixels on which the toner is not placed. For example, a part printed in black with the eco-print function disabled is printed in gray when the eco-print function is enabled. In addition, the eco-print setting items also include a value indicating the toner consumption suppression level as a setting value. The larger the value, the lower the toner consumption. The higher the suppression level, the larger the rate at which the control unit 1 converts the pixel on which the toner is applied into the pixel on which the toner is not applied.

It is not necessary to set the setting values in the setting file 7 for all the setting items for printing of the multifunction device 100. Only for the desired setting items, the user may set the setting values in the setting file 7. At the time of printing, the control unit 1 applies the setting value of the setting file 7 to the setting item whose setting value is determined by the setting file 7. The control unit 1 applies the default setting value (initial value) to the setting item for which the setting value is not defined in the setting file 7.

In the multifunction device 100, default setting values are predetermined for each setting item. The storage unit 2 stores the default setting value data D1 in which the default setting value of each setting item is defined (see FIG. 1).

For example, the setting file 7 can be created using a computer 200 (PC). The setting file 7 may be created by the driver software for printing on the multifunction device 100. Further, an application capable of creating the setting file 7 may be installed on the computer 200. The user can create a setting file 7 containing frequently used setting values and favorite setting values.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the creation screen 71 of the setting file 7 displayed on the display of the computer 200. FIG. 3 shows an example of using an application that can create a setting file 7. The computer 200 can select a setting item and set a setting value of the selected setting item on the creation screen 71. Further, the computer 200 accepts the input of the file name of the setting file 7 on the creation screen 71. These settings can be made using the input devices (mouse, keyboard) of the computer 200.

The setting file 7 can be registered by transmitting the setting file 7 from the computer 200. The storage unit 2 is provided with a storage area (folder for setting files) for storing the setting file 7. The control unit 1 stores the setting file 7 received by the communication unit 12 in the setting file folder.

The setting file 7 can also be registered using the memory device 9. The user stores the created setting file 7 in the memory device 9. For example, the memory device 9 is connected to the computer 200, and the user writes the setting file 7 to the memory device 9 by using the keyboard or the mouse. The control unit 1 searches for the setting file 7 stored in the memory device 9. The file format of the setting file 7 is predetermined. For example, the control unit 1 recognizes a file having a predetermined format and including a setting item name and a setting value that can be selected by the multifunction device 100 as a setting file 7. When the setting file 7 is found, the control unit 1 copies the setting file 7. The control unit 1 stores the copied setting file 7 in the setting file folder.

Further, when the memory device 9 is connected, the control unit 1 may start the file management application. The storage unit 2 may store the file management application. When the file management application is started, the control unit 1 displays the file operation screen on the display panel 4a. On the file operation screen, the user can select a folder and a file provided in the connected memory device 9 by using the operation panel 4. The control unit 1 may store the file specified on the screen of the file management application as the setting file 7 in the setting file folder.

(Printer's recognition)
Next, an example of recognition of the user (printer) in the multifunction device 100 will be described. First, the multifunction device 100 has an external memory printing function. In other words, the multifunction device 100 can print based on the print file 8 stored in the memory device 9.

First, the control unit 1 shifts the mode of the multifunction device 100 between the login mode and the logout mode. For example, in the login mode, the control unit 1 causes the operation panel 4 to accept the job setting. In the logout mode, the control unit 1 does not allow the operation panel 4 to accept job settings. Further, for example, only in the login mode, the control unit 1 starts a print job, a copy job, a transmission job, and an external memory print job. In the logout mode, the control unit 1 does not start these jobs.

In order to switch from the logout mode to the login mode, it is required to input information for logging in (to obtain authentication) to the multifunction device 100. In the following, an example of inputting information for logging in (authentication) to the operation panel 4 will be described. An ID card may be used for inputting information for receiving authentication.

In the logout mode, the operation panel 4 accepts input of information for logging in. The information for logging in is, for example, a user name and a password. The information for logging in may be information other than the user name and password.

The storage unit 2 stores the authentication data D2. The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the authentication data D2 (see FIG. 1). The authentication data D2 is data that defines a name (user name) of a person who can use the multifunction device 100 and a password corresponding to the user name. Based on the authentication data D2, the control unit 1 determines whether or not the input information is correct.

When the input information does not match the authentication data D2 of any person, the control unit 1 determines that the input information is incorrect. In this case, the control unit 1 maintains the logout mode. When the input information matches the authentication data D2 of any person, the control unit 1 determines that the input information is correct. The control unit 1 recognizes (authenticates) a person whose input information and the authentication data D2 match as a user. In this case, the control unit 1 makes a transition to the login mode.

When printing to external memory, the user needs to be authenticated. In other words, the user needs to log in to the multifunction device 100 (operation panel 4). When the memory device 9 is connected before the login mode is set, the control unit 1 starts the external memory printing after the login mode is set. The control unit 1 recognizes the user who is logged in (authenticated) when starting the external memory printing as the printer. That is, the control unit 1 can recognize the user (printer) who is trying to print based on the print file 8 of the memory device 9.

When the logout key (hard key 4c) is operated on the operation panel 4, or when the time when the operation panel 4 is not operated in the login mode elapses a predetermined automatic logout time, the control unit 1 performs the control unit 1. The multifunction device 100 is set to the logout mode.

It is also possible to set it so that login is not required. The operation panel 4 accepts settings that require or do not require login. For example, the administrator of the multifunction device 100 sets whether or not to log in. When the login-free setting is made, the control unit 1 maintains the login mode. The user can set the job without logging in.

(Automatic printing of print file 8)
Next, an example of the automatic printing process of the printing file 8 of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic printing process of the printing file 8 of the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of usage authority definition data D3 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of automatic change of the set value of the application file 70 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the print log data 81 according to the embodiment.

The multifunction device 100 is equipped with an automatic printing function for external memory printing. The automatic print function is a function that automatically prints a print file 8 stored in the connected memory device 9. In other words, the automatic printing function is a function that automatically starts printing the print file 8 of the memory device 9. When printing the print file 8 by automatic printing, the control unit 1 automatically determines the setting file 7 to be applied to the print file 8. Based on the setting file 7 determined to be applied, the control unit 1 automatically determines the setting value for printing of the print file 8. Printing starts even if the user does not set it.

The operation panel 4 accepts selection of whether to enable or disable the automatic printing function. When the automatic printing function is selected, when the memory device 9 is connected, the control unit 1 automatically starts printing based on the print file 8 of the memory device 9.

When the invalidation of the automatic printing function is selected, the control unit 1 does not start automatic printing even if the memory device 9 is connected. When the print file 8 of the memory device 9 to be printed is selected on the operation panel 4, the control unit 1 starts printing.

The start of FIG. 4 is when the control unit 1 recognizes that the memory device 9 is connected to the interface unit 6 with the automatic printing function enabled selected.

First, the control unit 1 (control circuit 10) confirms whether or not the automatic printing folder is provided in the storage area of the memory device 9 (step # 11). The folder for automatic printing is a folder with a predetermined name. This is a folder for storing the print file 8 to be printed by automatic printing. The name of the folder for automatic printing can be a name indicating that the file to be printed is stored, for example, "to be print".

The operation panel 4 may accept the setting of the name of the folder for automatic printing. In this case, the control unit 1 recognizes the folder with the set name as the folder for automatic printing. The user creates a folder with a predetermined name in the storage area of the memory device 9. Then, the user stores the print file 8 to be printed by automatic printing in the automatic printing folder. As a result, among the files included in the memory device 9, it is possible to prevent the files that do not need to be printed from being automatically printed.

When the folder for automatic printing is not provided (No in step # 11), the control unit 1 (control circuit 10) ends this flowchart (end). When there is an automatic print folder (Yes in step # 11), the control unit 1 reads one file of a predetermined format among the files included in the automatic print folder as a print file 8 (step # 12).

The control unit 1 reads a file of a predetermined format, which has not been read yet, from the folder for automatic printing. For example, the predetermined format is PDF, TIFF, JPEG, XPS, OpenXPS. The control unit 1 reads any one of the PDF file, TIFF file, JPEG file, XPS file, and OpenXPS file as the print file 8. The predetermined format is not limited to these file formats. The control unit may read a file in a file format other than these as a print file. If there is no file in the predetermined format in the folder for automatic printing, the control unit 1 may end this flowchart.

The control unit 1 stores one read file 8 for printing in the storage unit 2 (RAM) (step # 13). Next, the control unit 1 compares the name of the read print file 8 with the file name of the registered setting file 7 (step # 14). The user includes the file name of the setting file 7 to be applied in the name of the print file 8.

The control unit 1 confirms whether or not the name of the print file 8 includes the file name of any of the setting files 7 (step # 15). If the file name is not included (No in step # 15), the control unit 1 determines that the default setting value is applied (step # 16).

In this case, the control unit 1 starts printing based on the default set value (step # 17). Specifically, the control unit 1 (image processing circuit 11) generates raster data (image data) based on the print file 8. According to the default setting value, the control unit 1 performs image processing of the generated image data to generate output image data. The control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to print based on the output image data and the default set value.

When the file name is included (Yes in step # 15), the control unit 1 determines the applicable file 70 (see FIG. 6) (step # 18). The application file 70 is a setting file 7 applied to the read print file 8. Specifically, the control unit 1 defines the setting file 7 in which the file name is included in the name of the print file 8 as the application file 70.

The name of one print file 8 may include the names of a plurality of setting files 7. In this case, the control unit 1 defines the setting file 7 having the smallest difference from the name of the print file 8 as the application file 70 among the plurality of setting files 7. For example, it is assumed that a setting file 7 having a file name of test and a setting file 7 having a file name of another-test are registered. When the name of the print file 8 is another-test, the control unit 1 defines the setting file 7 whose file name is another-test as the application file 70. On the contrary, when the name of the print file 8 is test, the control unit 1 defines the setting file 7 whose file name is test as the application file 70.

When the application file 70 is defined (step # 18), the control unit 1 determines whether or not the printer has the authority to use the application file 70 (step # 19). In other words, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the person who intends to print has the authority to use the setting file 7 corresponding to the print file 8. The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the usage authority definition data D3. The usage authority definition data D3 is data that defines a setting file 7 that can be used for each user. The control unit 1 refers to the usage authority definition data D3 and determines whether or not the printer has the usage authority of the application file 70.

For example, the operation panel 4 accepts the availability setting of each setting file 7 for each user. For example, the administrator of the multifunction device 100 makes this setting. Based on the settings made in the operation panel 4, the control unit 1 creates the usage authority definition data D3 and stores it in the storage unit 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of usage authority definition data D3. Yes in FIG. 5 indicates that there is usage authority. No in FIG. 5 indicates that there is no usage authority. In this way, it is possible to determine whether or not the setting file 7 can be used for each user.

When it is determined that the printer has the authority to use the application file 70 (Yes in step # 19), the control unit 1 starts printing based on the set value described in the application file 70 (step # 20). Specifically, the control unit 1 (image processing circuit 11) generates raster data (image data) based on the print file 8. Using the set value of the application file 70, the control unit 1 performs image processing of the generated image data to generate output image data. The control unit 1 applies the default setting value to the setting item for which the setting value is not described in the application file 70. The control unit 1 causes the print unit 5 to print based on the set value of the application file 70 and the generated output image data.

When it is determined that the printer does not have the authority to use the application file 70 (No in step # 19), the control unit 1 changes the set value of the application file 70 (step # 21). Specifically, when the user does not have the authority to use the application file 70, the control unit 1 changes the setting value of the application file 70 so that the amount of toner consumed in printing and the amount of printing paper are reduced. Regarding the setting file 7 of the setting value in which the image quality is prioritized and the amount of toner used is large, the number of users who have the usage authority may be limited to a part. Excessive consumption of toner by unauthorized persons should be prevented.

On the other hand, the user stores the print file 8 in the memory device 9 for printing. It is also not preferable not to perform automatic printing of the print file 8 at all even if the user does not have the authority to use the applicable file 70. Therefore, if the user does not have the authority to use the applicable file 70, the image quality (toner consumption) is reduced and the print file 8 is printed.

For example, when the eco-print setting value is invalid in the application file 70, the control unit 1 may effectively change the eco-print setting value. Further, the control unit 1 may increase the value indicating the toner consumption suppression level in the eco-print so that the toner consumption suppression becomes stronger. The control unit 1 may forcibly change the suppression level to the maximum level, for example. If the eco-print is valid and the suppression level is maximum in the application file 70 for which the usage authority is not granted, the control unit 1 may not change the setting value of the application file 70.

Further, when the color is set as the print color setting value in the application file 70, the control unit 1 may change the print color setting value to monochrome. When the aggregation setting value is 1 in the application file 70, the control unit 1 may change the aggregation setting value to 2 or more. Further, the control unit 1 may add a reduction magnification to the application file 70 as a set value.

FIG. 6 shows an example of automatic change of the setting value of the application file 70 (setting file 7 applied to the print file 8). As shown in FIG. 6, the setting value of the application file 70 is changed so that the toner consumption is reduced. FIG. 6 shows an example of increasing the suppression level of toner consumption. Further, FIG. 6 shows an example of increasing the number of pages (aggregation number) included in one sheet of paper. As the number of aggregates increases, one page is reduced. As a result, less toner is consumed in printing than before increasing the number of aggregates. In addition, less printing paper is used.

Then, the control unit 1 starts printing based on the set value of the application file 70 whose set value is automatically changed (step # 22). Specifically, the control unit 1 (image processing circuit 11) generates raster data (image data) based on the print file 8. Using the changed setting value of the application file 70, the control unit 1 performs image processing of the generated image data to generate output image data. The control unit 1 applies the default setting value to the setting item for which the setting value is not described in the applied file 70 after the change. The control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to print based on the set value of the applied file 70 after the change and the generated output image data.

When printing of the print file 8 is started (step # 17, step # 20, step # 22), the control unit 1 writes the print log data 81 to the automatic printing folder of the memory device 9 (step # 23, FIG. 1).

When the print file 8 is printed based on the application file 70, the control unit 1 applies the file name of the application file 70 (applied setting file 7) and the print file 8 automatically printed by applying the application file 70. The name may be included in the print log data 81. FIG. 7 shows an example of the print log data 81. As shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 1 may include the description content (set value used in printing) of the application file 70 in the print log data 81.

When the print file 8 is printed by changing the setting value of the application file 70, the control unit 1 applies the file name of the application file 70 whose setting value is changed and the print file automatically printed by applying the application file 70. The name of 8 and a message notifying that the user does not have the usage right may be included in the print log data 81.

When the print file 8 is printed with the default set value, the control unit 1 may include the name of the automatically printed print file 8 and a message notifying that the print file 8 has been printed with the default set value in the print log data 81.

After writing the print log data 81, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the unprocessed print file 8 is in the automatic print folder (step # 24). In other words, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not an unprinted print file 8 that has not been read yet remains. When there is an unprocessed print file 8 (Yes in step # 24), the control unit 1 executes step # 12 (returns to step # 12). If there is no unprocessed print file 8 (No in step # 24), the control unit 1 ends the process of this flowchart (END).

In this way, the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) according to the embodiment includes a printing unit 5, a storage unit 2, an interface unit 6, and a control unit 1. The printing unit 5 prints. The storage unit 2 stores a setting file 7 in which the setting values used in the print job are described. A memory device 9 for storing a print file 8 is connected to the interface unit 6. When the memory device 9 is connected to the interface unit 6, the control unit 1 compares the file name of the setting file 7 with the name of the print file 8. The control unit 1 defines the setting file 7 in which the file name is included in the name of the print file 8 as the application file 70 to be applied to the print file 8 in which the file name of the setting file 7 is included in the name. Based on the set value of the application file 70, the control unit 1 causes the print unit 5 to print the print file 8.

The setting file 7 (applicable file 70) to be applied to the print file 8 can be automatically determined from the setting files 7 registered in advance. Based on the defined applicable file 70, printing of the print file 8 can be automatically started. Printing of the print file 8 can be started even if the user does not set when reading the print file 8. The time from the connection of the memory device 9 to the start of printing can be reduced. The user may include the file name of the setting file 7 to be applied in advance in the name of the print file 8. When printing using the data of the memory device 9, the time required for the user's setting can be reduced.

The storage unit 2 stores the usage authority definition data D3 that defines the setting file 7 that can be used for each user. The control unit 1 recognizes the printer who intends to print based on the print file 8 stored in the memory device 9. The control unit 1 refers to the usage authority definition data D3 and determines whether or not the printer has the usage authority of the applicable file 70 corresponding to the print file 8 to be printed. When having the authority to use the application file 70, the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to print the print file 8 based on the application file 70. When the control unit 1 does not have the authority to use the application file 70, the control unit 1 changes the setting value defined in the application file 70, and causes the printing unit 5 to print the print file 8 based on the changed setting value. It is possible to determine whether or not the person who intends to print has the authority to use the applicable file 70 corresponding to the print file 8. If you do not have the usage authority, you can automatically change the setting value of the application file 70. A person who does not have the usage authority can prevent the same printed matter as the person who has the usage authority.

When not having the authority to use the application file 70, the control unit 1 changes the setting value defined in the application file 70 so that the amount of toner consumed in printing is reduced. If you do not have the authority to use the setting file 7, you can automatically print the print file 8 using the setting values that can save toner. It is possible to prevent printing with higher image quality than necessary by an unauthorized person.

When the name of one print file 8 includes the file names of a plurality of setting files 7, the control unit 1 has the smallest difference between the name of the print file 8 and the file name among the plurality of setting files 7. 7 is defined as the application file 70. When there are a plurality of candidates for the applicable file 70, one appropriate setting file 7 can be selected from the candidates.

The control unit 1 confirms whether or not a folder for automatic printing is provided in the storage area of the memory device 9. The control unit 1 determines the applicable file 70 for the print file 8 included in the automatic print folder. The folder for automatic printing is a folder with a predetermined name. Only the print file 8 stored in the folder with a specific name can be automatically printed. Among the files stored in the memory device 9, files that do not need to be printed can be prevented from being printed. The user may store the print file 8 to be printed in a folder having a specific name.

The storage unit 2 stores the default set value data D1. The default setting value data D1 is data in which the default setting value for printing is defined. Based on the default setting value data D1, the control unit 1 causes the printing unit 5 to print a print file 8 in which the file name of any setting file 7 is not included in the name. For the print file 8 for which the applicable file 70 cannot be determined, printing can be automatically started by using the default setting value data D1. Printing can be started automatically without including the file name of the setting file 7 in the name of the print file 8.

When the print file 8 is printed, the control unit 1 generates print log data 81 including the file name of the application file 70 and the name of the print file 8 printed by applying the application file 70. The control unit 1 stores the generated print log data 81 in the memory device 9. A log indicating that printing has been performed based on the print file 8 of the memory device 9 can be left in the memory device 9. It is possible to confirm whether or not printing is performed based on the print file 8 based on the presence or absence of log data. By viewing the log data, it is possible to confirm which setting file 7 is applied for printing.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention.

The present invention can be used for an image forming apparatus to which a memory device can be connected.

100 Multifunction device (image forming device) 1 Control unit 2 Storage unit 5 Printing unit 6 Interface unit 7 Setting file 70 Applicable file 8 Printing file 81 Print log data 9 Memory device D3 Usage permission definition data

Claims (7)

The printing department that prints and
A storage unit that stores a setting file that describes the setting values used in the print job,
An interface that can be connected to a memory device that stores print files,
When the memory device is connected to the interface unit, the file name of the setting file and the name of the print file are compared.
The setting file in which the file name is included in the name of the print file is defined as an applicable file to be applied to the print file in which the file name of the setting file is included in the name.
An image forming apparatus including a control unit that causes the printing unit to print the printing file based on a set value of the applicable file. The storage unit stores usage authority definition data that defines the setting file that can be used for each user.
The control unit
Recognizing the printer who intends to print based on the print file stored in the memory device,
With reference to the usage authority definition data, it is determined whether or not the printer has the usage authority of the applicable file corresponding to the print file to be printed.
When the user has the authority to use the applicable file, the print file is printed by the printing unit based on the applicable file.
When the user does not have the authority to use the applicable file, the setting value defined in the applicable file is changed, and the printing file is printed on the printing unit based on the changed setting value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. When you do not have the authority to use the applicable file
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit changes the set value defined in the application file so that the amount of toner consumed in printing is reduced. When the name of one print file includes the file names of a plurality of the setting files,
The image according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit defines the setting file having the smallest difference between the name of the print file and the file name among the plurality of setting files as the applicable file. Forming device. The control unit
Check if a folder for automatic printing is provided in the storage area of the memory device, and check
For the print file included in the automatic print folder, the applicable file is defined.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the folder for automatic printing is a folder having a predetermined name. The storage unit stores default setting value data, and stores the default setting value data.
The default setting value data is data in which the default setting value in printing is defined.
Any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit causes the printing unit to print the print file, which does not include the file name of any of the setting files in the name, based on the default setting value data. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. When the print file is printed
The control unit
Generate print log data including the file name of the applicable file and the name of the print file printed by applying the applicable file.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the generated print log data is stored in the memory device.

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