JP2021115821A - Image formation apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To restrict functions of an image formation apparatus so as to prevent the inconvenience in the actual use by considering an actual use state.SOLUTION: An image formation apparatus comprises: an operation panel; a printer unit; a storage unit; and a control unit. The storage unit stores history data including an executed job type, an executing person and a job date. The control unit generates summed-up data by summing up the use frequency in each time zone in a predetermined business unit for each job type on the basis of the history data. The control unit generates a restriction list that defines the restriction or permission of the use for each time zone for each job type on the basis of the summed-up data. The control unit performs the use restriction and use permission on the basis of the restriction list.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that limits jobs according to the affiliation of the user.

There are image forming devices such as multifunction devices, printers, and copiers. The image forming apparatus may handle data of important documents. In consideration of information security safety, the image forming apparatus may authenticate the user and restrict the use of functions according to the user. Patent Document 1 describes an example of a system that limits the functions of the image forming apparatus according to the identified user.

Specifically, Patent Document 1 is an information processing system including a management device for managing the usage history of the functions of the user's image forming device and an image forming device, and the management device uses an authentication medium from the image forming device. When the existing authentication request or the authentication request using the user authentication information input by the image forming device is accepted and the authentication request using the authentication medium is received from the image forming device, the functions that are not frequently used by the user are restricted. When notifying the image forming apparatus of the function information to be performed or receiving an authentication request using the user authentication information input by the image forming apparatus, the function information preset for using the image forming apparatus is displayed. Notifying the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus outputs an authentication request by reading the authentication medium or an authentication request by inputting the user authentication information to the management device, and the image forming apparatus outputs the authentication request to the management device based on the functional information obtained as a result of the authentication request. An information processing system that controls the function of the image forming apparatus is described. With this configuration, the function is to be controlled based on the function information obtained as a result of reading the authentication medium or inputting the user authentication information (see Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph [0009], etc.).

Japanese Patent No. 6216859

From the viewpoint of preventing leakage of confidential information and reducing costs, restrictions on the use of image forming devices are increasing. The functions that can be used are restricted for each user. For example, there is a case where an upper limit is set on the number of printed sheets. In addition, it may not be possible to execute jobs that require communication charges such as facsimiles.

When limiting the functions that can be used with the image forming apparatus, the functions may not be available when you want to use them. In this case, you will have to ask the administrator to do the work of removing the restrictions, or have someone who can use the function act for you. Requesting or acting on your behalf is time-consuming and inconvenient. In particular, in recent years, the allocation of personnel and work in the workplace has been diversifying so that work can be done more efficiently. For example, a team system may be introduced to enable employees to work as a team across departmental boundaries. When using an image forming device, the use of types of jobs that are not often used in the department to which the employee belongs may increase. Limits should be imposed in consideration of actual staffing and actual usage. There is a problem that restrictions should be imposed so as not to cause inconvenience in actual use.

In the technique described in Patent Document 1, functions not used by the user are uniformly disabled. Once unavailable, the feature is not available. The period of non-use continues, and the period of virtually unavailability continues for a long time. Even if you want to use it, you may not be able to use it, such as when the work you are in charge of changes.

In view of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, the present invention takes into consideration the actual usage situation, and limits the functions of the image forming apparatus so as not to cause inconvenience in actual use.

In order to solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes an operation panel, a printer unit, a storage unit, and a control unit. The operation panel includes a display panel for displaying an image. The operation panel accepts settings. The printer unit prints. The storage unit stores historical data including a job type which is a type of executed job, a job executor, and a date and time when the job is executed. Based on the input identification information, the control unit identifies the executor of the job and stores the history data in the storage unit. Based on the history data, the control unit generates aggregated data in which the number of times of use in each time zone is aggregated for each job type in a predetermined business unit. Based on the aggregated data, the control unit generates a restriction list in which usage restrictions or permits are defined for each of the time zones for each of the job types. The control unit generates the restriction list for each business unit. Based on the restriction list, the control unit restricts the use and permits the use.

According to the present invention, the functions of the image forming apparatus can be limited in consideration of the actual usage situation. The function of the image forming apparatus can be restricted so as not to cause inconvenience in actual use.

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 user data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the kind of jobs which can be executed by the multifunction device which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the history data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the generation of the restriction list which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the aggregated data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the restriction list which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the priority definition data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the priority definition data which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the adjustment of the restriction list which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of permission and restriction of a job by the restriction list which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the restriction notification screen which concerns on embodiment.

Hereinafter, an example of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12. In the following description, the multifunction device 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. The multifunction device 100 can scan, transmit, print, save image data, and the like. 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.

(Multifunction device 100)
Next, 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.

For example, the multifunction device 100 can print in color. The multifunction device 100 includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, a document transport unit 3a, an image reading unit 3b, an operation panel 4, and a printer unit 5.

The control unit 1 controls the operation of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 1 includes a control circuit 10, an image processing circuit 11, and a communication circuit 12. The control circuit 10 is, for example, a CPU. Based on the programs and data stored in the storage unit 2, the control circuit 10 controls each unit (document transport unit 3a, image reading unit 3b, operation panel 4, printer unit 5, communication circuit 12). The image processing circuit 11 performs various image processing. For example, the image processing circuit 11 is a circuit (ASIC) dedicated to image processing.

The communication circuit 12 includes a connector, a communication control circuit (communication chip), and a communication memory. The communication memory stores communication software. The communication circuit 12 communicates with the computer 200, the facsimile machine 300, the first device 101, and the second device 102. For example, the computer 200 is a PC or a server. The first device 101 and the second device 102 are other image forming devices. The computer 200, the first device 101, and the second device 102 are connected to the same local network as the multifunction device 100. For example, the first device 101 and the second device 102 are a multifunction device 100 or a printer.

The multifunction device 100 includes a ROM, a RAM, and a storage as a storage unit 2. The ROM is, for example, a flash ROM. The ROM and RAM are mounted on the control unit 1 (control board). The storage is a large-capacity non-volatile storage device such as an HDD or SSD. The storage is connected to the control board with a cable. The storage unit 2 stores various data and control programs. For example, the storage unit 2 stores control data, setting data, and image data.

The document transfer unit 3a includes a document tray, a document transfer roller pair, and a document transfer motor. The document transport unit 3a transports the set document toward the reading position of the document. The image reading unit 3b includes an image sensor and a lamp. Further, the image reading unit 3b includes a contact glass for transport reading. The conveyed document passes through one side of the contact glass for transport reading. The lamp of the image reading unit 3b irradiates the conveyed document with light. Based on the reflected light, the image sensor reads the conveyed document.

Further, the image reading unit 3b includes a platen (contact glass). Documents to be read can be set one by one on one side of the platen. When reading a document on the platen, the lamp illuminates the document set on the platen. The image sensor reads the document on the platen. The analog image signal generated by the image sensor of the image reading unit 3b is input to the control unit 1. The image processing circuit 11 of the control unit 1 generates scanned image data (image data of the original) based on the analog image signal.

The operation panel 4 includes a display panel 41, a touch panel 42, and a hard key 43. The display panel 41 displays a screen and an image. The control unit 1 controls the display of the display panel 41. The control unit 1 displays an operation image used for setting a job on the display panel 41. For example, the operation image is a button or a key. The touch panel 42 accepts the user's operation on the display panel 41. Based on the output of the touch panel 42, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated operation image. The control unit 1 recognizes the operation content of the user based on the operated operation image. The hard key 43 also accepts user operations.

The printer unit 5 includes a paper feeding unit 51, a paper conveying unit 52, an image forming unit 53, and a fixing unit 54. The paper feed unit 51 includes a paper cassette and a paper feed roller. The stack of paper is set in the paper cassette. At the time of a print job, the control unit 1 rotates the paper feed roller to supply paper. The paper transport unit 52 includes a transport roller pair and a transport motor. The transfer motor rotates a pair of transfer rollers. The control unit 1 rotates the transfer motor and the transfer roller pair to transfer the paper to the paper transfer unit 52.

The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 53 to form a toner image based on the image data. The image forming unit 53 includes an image forming unit for four colors (black, magenta, cyan, and yellow), an exposure apparatus, and an intermediate transfer unit. Each image forming unit includes a photoconductor drum, a charging device, and a developing device. At the time of printing, the control unit 1 rotates the main motor (not shown) to rotate the photoconductor drum. Further, the control unit 1 charges the photoconductor drum in the charging device. Further, the control unit 1 exposes the photoconductor drum to the exposure device based on the output image data, and the control unit 1 causes the developing device to develop the electrostatic latent image of the photoconductor drum with toner. The intermediate transfer unit includes an intermediate transfer belt, a plurality of tensioning rollers, and a secondary transfer roller. The toner image of each photoconductor drum is first transferred to the intermediate transfer belt. The secondary transfer roller is used to perform the secondary transfer of the toner image to the paper conveyed from the intermediate transfer belt.

The control unit 1 causes the fixing unit 54 to fix the toner image transferred to the paper. Specifically, the fixing unit 54 includes, for example, a heater and a plurality of fixing rotating bodies. The heater heats the fixing rotating body. The paper on which the toner image is transferred enters the nip of the fixing rotating body, and is heated and pressurized. By this heating and pressurization, the toner image is fixed on the paper. The control unit 1 discharges the fixed paper to the outside of the machine to the paper transport unit 52.

(Identification of user)
Next, an example of identification of a user in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of user data D1 according to the embodiment.

To use the multifunction device 100, it is necessary to log in. When not logged in (when logged out), the control unit 1 displays a message informing that the user should log in on the display panel 41. When the user identifies someone, the control unit 1 sets the operation panel 4 in the logged-in state. In the logged-in state, the operation panel 4 receives a job type selection, a selection of a setting item to be used in the selected job type, a setting value of the selected setting item, and a job execution start instruction.

Each user holds an identification card to identify the user. The identification card stores the identification information. For example, the identification card is an ID card. The identification card includes an antenna and a memory. The memory non-volatilely stores the identification information.

The multifunction device 100 includes a reader / writer 6 (see FIG. 1). The reader / writer 6 includes an antenna and a communication control circuit. The reader / writer 6 reads the information on the identification card held over by wireless communication. The reader / writer 6 can also write the identification information edited by the multifunction device 100 on the identification card held over.

The identification information includes information for recognizing who the user (card holder) is. For example, the identification information includes the name, ID, and password of a person who can use the multifunction device 100. The identification information may further include other information.

The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the user data D1 for the user's recognition. For example, the storage of the storage unit 2 stores the user data D1. The user data D1 is data that defines information for identifying each person who has the authority to use the multifunction device 100. The user data D1 includes, for example, a name, an ID, a password, and a business unit. A business unit is a unit (a person's clogging) in performing a work. Business units are, for example, teams, departments, and floors (floors where work is done). The definition of team, department, and floor is not mandatory (it does not have to be). On the other hand, in the user data D1, the business unit defined for each individual may be one or a plurality of teams, departments, and floors.

The control unit 1 searches the user data D1 for a person (information) that matches the input (read) identification information. The control unit 1 identifies (recognizes) that the matching person is the user of the multifunction device 100. In this case, the control unit 1 sets the operation panel 4 in the logged-in state and displays the setting screen on the display panel 41. When the job is executed, the control unit 1 recognizes the identified user as the job executor. If there is no user who matches the input (read) identification information, the control unit 1 determines that the identification has failed. The control unit 1 maintains the operation panel 4 in the logout state.

The operation panel 4 may accept the input of the identification information without using the card. In this case, in the logout state, the control unit 1 displays the software keyboard screen on the display panel 41. The user inputs identification information using this screen. For example, the user enters a name and password. Based on the input information, the control unit 1 identifies the user.

(Types of jobs that can be executed)
Next, an example of the types of jobs that can be executed by the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of types of jobs that can be executed by the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment.

The multifunction device 100 has a scanning function, a transmission / reception function, a printing function, and a box function. When the scanning function is used, the control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 3b to read the original and generates the image data of the original. When the transmission / reception function is used, the control unit 1 causes the communication circuit 12 to communicate with the computer 200 or the facsimile machine 300. When the print function is used, the control unit 1 causes the printer unit 5 to print based on the image data. When the box function is used, the control unit 1 causes the storage unit 2 (storage) to read and write image data. A storage area for the box function is preset in the storage. The box means a storage area for the box function.

By combining two or more of the scan function, the transmission / reception function, the print function, and the box function, the multifunction device 100 can execute various jobs. When the job is executed, the image processing circuit 11 of the control unit 1 performs image processing on the image data. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a job that can be executed by the multifunction device 100. The multifunction device 100 may perform a type of job other than that shown in FIG.

"Host to Print" is a job in which the image processing circuit 11 generates image data for printing by processing the print job data received from the computer 200, and the printer unit 5 prints based on the generated image data for printing. .. In "Scan to Print", the image processing circuit 11 generates image data for printing by processing the image data of the original obtained by reading the image reading unit 3b, and the printer unit 5 prints based on the image data for printing. It is a job to do (so-called copy job). In "Scan to Fax", the image data of the original obtained by scanning the image reading unit 3b is processed, the image processing circuit 11 generates the transmission data, and the communication circuit 12 facsimiles the transmission data generated. It is a job.

In "Scan to Email", the image processing circuit 11 generates a transmission file by processing the image data of the original obtained by scanning the image reading unit 3b, and the communication circuit 12 e-mails the generated transmission file. It is a job to attach to and send. In the "Scan to Box", the image processing circuit 11 generates a storage file by processing the image data of the original obtained by scanning the image reading unit 3b, and the storage unit 2 (storage) stores the storage file. It is a job. In "Scan to SMB", the image processing circuit 11 generates a file for saving by processing the image data of the original obtained by scanning the image reading unit 3b, and the communication circuit 12 is placed in a shared folder of the computer 200 designated. It is a job to send a file for saving to.

In the "Box to Print", the image processing circuit 11 processes the storage file stored in the storage unit 2 (storage) to generate print image data, and the printer unit 5 generates the print image data based on the generated print image data. This is a job to print. "Box to Fax" is a job in which the image processing circuit 11 processes a storage file stored in the storage unit 2 (storage) to generate transmission data, and the communication circuit 12 facsimiles and transmits the transmission data generated. Is. The "Box to Memory" is a job in which the control unit 1 reads a storage file from the storage unit 2 (storage), and the communication circuit 12 attaches the read storage file to an e-mail and sends it. The "Box to SMB" is a job in which the control unit 1 reads the storage file from the storage unit 2 (storage), and the communication circuit 12 transmits the storage file to the shared folder of the designated computer 200.

(Saving history data D2)
Next, an example of saving the history data D2 in the multifunction device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of history data D2 according to the embodiment.

The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the history data D2 (see FIG. 1). The history data D2 is data indicating the history of each executed job (contents of the job executed by the multifunction device 100). Each time a job is executed, the control unit 1 adds the history data D2 of the executed job to the storage unit 2.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of history data D2. The history data D2 includes the job executor, the affiliation of the executor, the type of the executed job (job type), the content of the executed job, the date and time when the job was executed, and the usage time (time required from the start to the end of the job). , Time required to execute the job) is included.

Based on the input identification information, the control unit 1 identifies the executor of the job. The communication circuit 12 receives print job data from the computer 200. In order to identify the sender of the print job data (the executor of the print job), the storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the sender identification data. The sender identification data is data in which the name of the computer 200 used by the user and the address of the computer 200 are defined for each user. In the case of Host to Print, the control unit 1 identifies (recognizes) the user based on the name and address of the computer 200 that sent the print job data.

At the start of the job, the control unit 1 starts measuring the time (usage time) required for the job. When the job is completed, the control unit 1 generates the history data D2. The history data D2 includes the measured usage time, job content, job type, and job start date / time (usage date / time). The control unit 1 non-volatilely stores the generated history data D2 in the storage unit 2.

(Generation of restriction list D5)
Next, an example of generating the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 10. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of generation of the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of aggregated data D3 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment. 8 and 9 are diagrams showing an example of priority definition data D4 according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of adjustment of the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment.

The control unit 1 periodically generates the restriction list D5. The restriction list D5 is a list that defines job types for which usage is restricted and job types for which usage is permitted for each time zone. When the restriction list D5 is generated, the history data D2 is aggregated. Based on the aggregation result, the control unit 1 generates the restriction list D5.

The generation cycle of the restriction list D5 is predetermined. For example, once a week, the control unit 1 generates the restriction list D5. The production cycle is not limited to one week, and the production cycle may be one day, several days, several weeks, one month, several months, or one year. The operation panel 4 may accept the setting of the generation cycle. In this case, the control unit 1 generates a generation list every time the set generation cycle elapses. Further, the operation panel 4 may accept the setting of the date and time for generating the restriction list D5. In this case, the control unit 1 generates the generation list at the set date and time.

The length of each time zone in the restriction list D5 is predetermined. In this description, an example of dividing a day into three time zones, a first time zone, a second time zone, and a third time zone, will be described. The first time zone is the first half (morning) time zone during working hours. For example, the first time zone is from 9:00 to 13:00. The second time zone is the second half (afternoon) time zone during working hours. For example, the second time zone is from 13:00 to 18:00. The third time zone is the nighttime (midnight) time zone. For example, the third time zone is from 18:00 to 24:00 and from 0:00 to 9:00.

A day may be divided into one time zone, a day may be divided into two time zones, or a day may be divided into four or more time zones (for example, three hours each). The operation panel 4 accepts the setting of the length of the time zone. The control unit 1 divides the day into time zones set by the operation panel 4.

First, the start of FIG. 5 is the time when the generation of the restriction list D5 is started. First, the control unit 1 generates the aggregated data D3 (step # 1). The control unit 1 aggregates the history data D2 of the jobs executed during the aggregation period and generates the aggregation data D3. The aggregated data D3 is data that aggregates the number of times of use in each time zone for each job type.

The aggregation period is predetermined. For example, the aggregation period is the period from the time when the restriction list D5 was generated last time to the time when the generation list is generated this time. In this case, the length of the aggregation period coincides with the generation cycle of the restriction list D5. The aggregation period may be longer than the generation cycle. For example, the length may be several cycles of the generation cycle. The operation panel 4 accepts the setting of the aggregation period. The control unit 1 generates an aggregation based on the history data D2 of the set aggregation period.

The control unit 1 generates aggregated data D3 for each individual user. When the number of people registered in the user data D1 is 50, the aggregated data D3 for 50 people is generated. The control unit 1 also generates aggregated data D3 for each business unit. For example, the control unit 1 totals the aggregated data D3 of each user belonging to the business unit to generate the aggregated data D3 of the business unit. For example, the control unit 1 generates aggregated data D3 for each team, each department, and each floor.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of aggregated data D3 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 shows an example of the aggregated data D3 of the business unit of the team A. In FIG. 6, the column below the number "1" below the day of the week indicates the first time zone. The column below the number "2" below the day of the week indicates the second time zone. The column below the number "3" below the day of the week indicates the third time zone. The number of times indicates the total number of jobs executed by the members of Team A within the time zone. The time indicates the total execution time of the jobs of the members of Team A within the time zone. Looking at the aggregated data D3 in FIG. 6, it can be seen that the team A often prints on the multifunction device 100, and the data transmission is a small business unit.

The control unit 1 stores the generated aggregated data D3 in the storage unit 2 (storage) (step # 2). The storage unit 2 stores the non-volatilely generated aggregated data D3 so that it can be referred to at any time. When the new aggregated data D3 is stored, the control unit 1 may cause the storage unit 2 to erase the previously generated (aggregated data D3 generated when the restriction list D5 before the previous time is generated). ..

Here, the generated aggregated data D3 can be viewed. Further, the operation panel 4 receives a print instruction of the aggregated data D3. At this time, the control unit 1 causes the printer unit 5 to print based on the aggregated data D3. A printed matter of the aggregated data D3 is obtained. A document showing the usage status of the multifunction device 100 for each time zone can be obtained. Further, the operation panel 4 receives a display instruction of the aggregated data D3. At this time, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the contents of the aggregated data D3. It is possible to check the usage status of the multifunction device 100 for each time zone.

The operation panel 4 may accept the designation of the user who prints or displays the aggregated data D3, or the business unit. When the operation panel 4 receives the user's individual designation and display instruction, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the aggregated data D3 of the designated user. When the operation panel 4 receives the user's individual designation and the print instruction, the control unit 1 causes the printer unit 5 to print the aggregated data D3 of the designated user. When the operation panel 4 receives the designation of the business unit and the display instruction, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display the aggregated data D3 of the designated business unit. When the operation panel 4 receives the designation of the business unit and the print instruction, the control unit 1 causes the printer unit 5 to print the aggregated data D3 of the designated business unit.

Next, the control unit 1 generates the restriction list D5 based on the aggregated data D3 for each user and each business unit (step # 3). The restriction list D5 is data that defines usage restrictions or permits for each job type.

The control unit 1 has a reference value or more and a reference time or more for a time zone in which there is a job type in which the number of times of use is equal to or more than a predetermined reference value and the length of usage time is equal to or longer than a predetermined reference time. Generate a restriction list D5 that restricts the use of the job types of. A restriction list D5 that prevents overuse can be generated. Here, the control unit 1 may impose a restriction prohibiting any use. Further, the control unit 1 may execute the job type up to a predetermined number of times (permit use), and may limit the job type from being executed more than the predetermined number of times (use prohibited more than the predetermined number of times). The operation panel 4 may accept a predetermined number of settings. Further, the operation panel 4 may accept the selection of whether to impose a restriction prohibiting all use or a restriction to allow the execution of the job type up to a predetermined number of times for each user and each business unit. .. In this case, the control unit 1 limits with the selected restriction content.

When the usage of the overused job type is restricted, the restriction list D5 whose usage is not restricted is generated when the next restriction list D5 is created. The user executes the job while paying attention to the number of times of use. It is possible to reduce the running cost of the multifunction device 100.

The control unit 1 permits the use of job types that are less than the reference value and less than the reference time in a time zone in which the number of times of use is less than the reference value or the length of the usage time is less than the reference time. Generate the restriction list D5. Do not limit the use of less-used job types.

The reference value and reference time are set in advance. The storage unit 2 (storage) non-volatilely stores the reference value and the reference time. The operation panel 4 may accept the setting of the reference value and the reference time. In this case, the storage unit 2 stores the set reference value and the reference time. The control unit 1 compares the set reference value with the number of uses. The control unit 1 compares the set reference time with the usage time.

FIG. 7 shows an example of the restriction list D5 determined based on the number of times of use and the time of use. FIG. 7 shows an example of the restriction list D5 of the business unit of Team A. 〇 in the restriction list D5 indicates the time zone in which the use is permitted. * In the restriction list D5 indicates the time zone in which usage is restricted. It is possible to generate a restriction list D5 in consideration of the actual usage situation of the user. Further, in order to eliminate the inconvenience that the data cannot be used when it is desired to be used, the control unit 1 adjusts the contents of the restriction list D5 based on the priority definition data D4 (step # 4).

8 and 9 show an example of priority definition data D4 according to the embodiment. “○” in FIGS. 8 and 9 indicates permission for use. “*” In FIGS. 8 and 9 indicates that the use is restricted (for example, prohibited). “−” In FIGS. 8 and 9 indicates that the permission and restriction are not adjusted by the priority definition data D4 (the part where the restriction list D5 generated first is left as it is).

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the use of all job types may be restricted (for example, prohibited) at all time zones at midnight and Saturday and Sunday. You can force them to finish their work within the prescribed business hours.

FIG. 8 shows an example of priority definition data D4 for each business unit of team A. The priority definition data D4 of FIG. 8 uniformly restricts (for example, prohibits) the use of job types related to data transmission. For example, the business of the business unit (team A) does not need to perform a job related to data transmission, and the cost required for communication is higher for the other image forming device (first device 101 or second device 102). If it is cheap, as shown in FIG. 8, the multifunction device 100 may limit the use of jobs related to transmission. In this case, when performing a job related to data transmission, it is possible to induce the user to use another image forming apparatus (first apparatus 101 or second apparatus 102). In the priority definition data D4 shown in FIG. 8, printing is permitted at a specific time zone on a specific day of the week.

FIG. 9 shows an example of priority definition data D4 for each business unit of Team B. For example, it is assumed that the multifunction device 100 has a lower communication cost than the first device 101 and the second device 102. Team B is a team that exchanges more data than printing. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 9, the type of job related to data transmission may be the priority definition data D4 whose contents can be basically used. Further, in consideration of almost no printing, basically, the priority definition data D4 may be used as the content that allows printing during business hours.

FIG. 10 shows an example of the restriction list D5 after adjusting the restriction list D5 of FIG. 7 with the priority definition data D4 of FIG. The restriction list D5 of FIG. 10 shows an example of a list adjusted to the content that is affected by the transmission restriction of FIG. 8 and restricts the use of the types of jobs for transmitting image data. When adjusting using the priority definition data D4, the control unit 1 sets the same job type and the same time zone in the restriction list D5 for the time zone defined as being permitted to be used (marked with ◯) in the priority definition data D4. , Set the time zone to allow the use. The control unit 1 sets the same job type and the same time zone in the restriction list D5 as the time zone for restricting the use for the time zone defined in the priority definition data D4 to restrict the use (marked with *).

Priority definition data D4 can be defined for each business unit. Further, the priority definition data D4 can be defined for each user. For example, the administrator of the multifunction device 100 creates and edits the priority definition data D4 using the operation panel 4. The storage unit 2 (storage) non-volatilely stores the created priority definition data D4. It is also possible not to define the priority definition data D4 for the business unit. It is also possible not to define the priority definition data D4 for each user.

Further, the control unit 1 may automatically generate priority definition data D4 for each business unit or each user. The storage unit 2 (storage) non-volatilely stores the automatically created priority definition data D4. For example, when the priority definition data D4 is automatically created, the creator (administrator) inputs the restriction policy. For example, the operation panel 4 accepts the setting of the policy for automatically generating the priority definition data D4. For example, the operation panel 4 accepts settings of a job type and its time zone that allow constant use, a job type and its time zone that restricts constant use, and a job type and its time zone that are not adjusted by the priority definition data D4. The control unit 1 automatically generates the priority definition data D4 according to the set policy. As a result, the burden of creating the priority definition data D4 can be reduced. If the automatically generated priority definition data D4 is dissatisfied, the administrator may edit the automatically generated priority definition data D4 on the operation panel 4.

For users and business units for which priority definition data D4 is not set, the control unit 1 does not adjust the restriction list D5. The control unit 1 non-volatilely stores the adjusted (not adjusted in some cases) business units and the restriction list D5 of each user in the storage unit 2 (see step # 5, FIG. 1). The control unit 1 ends the process related to the generation of the restriction list D5 (end).

(Permissions and restrictions based on restriction list D5)
Next, an example of permission and restriction of the job based on the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of permission and restriction of a job based on the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the restriction notification screen 44 according to the embodiment.

The start of FIG. 11 is when the user receives the identification and selects the job type on the operation panel 4, or when the control unit 1 identifies the user based on the computer 200 that has transmitted the print job data. ..

First, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the identified user is an inexperienced person (step # 21). New personnel, such as new employees and mid-career hires, may start working. The new human resources are not accustomed to operating the multifunction device 100 (image forming apparatus). If you let an inexperienced person use various functions, you may fail many times. Paper, power, and communication costs can be wasted. Therefore, in the multifunction device 100, a stronger restriction is applied to an inexperienced person.

The storage unit 2 (storage) non-volatilely stores the inexperienced person data D6. Unskilled person data D6 is data that defines a user to be treated as an unskilled person. The administrator of the multifunction device 100 sets the inexperienced person data D6. For example, the administrator includes the name, ID, password, etc. of a person who has been in the company for a certain period of time in the inexperienced person data D6.

When the identified user is an inexperienced person (Yes in step # 21), the control unit 1 is the restriction list D5 having the strictest usage restriction among the generated restriction list D5, or an inexperienced person created in advance. Select the restriction list D5 for (step # 22). As a result, even if an inexperienced person belongs to any of the business units, it is possible to automatically impose stricter usage restrictions than the business unit to which the unskilled person belongs.

For example, the restriction list D5 with the strictest usage restriction is the restriction list with the smallest number of time zones permitted to be used in all job types among the restriction list D5 for each user and business unit stored in the storage unit 2. It is D5.

The restriction list D5 for inexperienced people is preset. The administrator operates the operation panel 4 to create a restriction list D5 for inexperienced users. For example, the restriction list D5 for inexperienced persons may have contents that can only be copied (Scan to Print) only in a specific time zone.

The operation panel 4 may accept the selection of which of the restriction list D5, which has the strictest usage restriction, and the restriction list D5 for inexperienced persons should be used. When the user is an inexperienced person, the control unit 1 adopts the selected restriction list D5.

When the identified user is not an inexperienced person (No in step # 21), the control unit 1 confirms whether or not any business unit belongs to the identified user (step # 23). When it does not belong to the business unit (No in step # 23), the control unit 1 selects the identified user individual restriction list D5 (step # 24). When the business unit is set (Yes in step # 23), the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the identified user has a plurality of business units (step # 25).

When the business unit to which the user belongs is one (No in step # 25), the control unit 1 selects the restriction list D5 of the business unit to which the user belongs (step # 26). When there are a plurality of business units to which the user belongs (Yes in step # 25), the control unit 1 selects one of the restriction list D5 of the plurality of business units (step # 27).

Priorities are set in advance for each business unit. The operation panel 4 accepts the setting of the priority of the business unit. The control unit 1 stores the set priority of the business unit in the storage unit 2 (storage) as the priority data D7. The storage unit 2 non-volatilely stores the priority data D7. With reference to the priority data D7, the control unit 1 selects one restriction list D5.

For example, if team A is ranked first in the priority order among the business units and the identified user belongs to team A, the control unit 1 selects the restriction list D5 of team A. If the priority of a certain department is second and the identified user belongs to a certain department but does not belong to the first business unit, the control unit 1 selects the restriction list D5 of the department. There may be multiple teams, departments, and floors. Therefore, a priority is set for each of the business units registered in the user data D1.

The control unit 1 refers to the selected restriction list D5 and determines whether or not to prohibit the execution of the selected (or is to be executed) job type in the current time zone (step # 28). In the case of the restriction of prohibition of use, the control unit 1 determines that execution is prohibited. If it can be used up to a predetermined number of times, the control unit 1 determines that execution is prohibited when the selected restriction list D5 and the selected job type have already been executed a predetermined number of times. On the other hand, when the number of executions for the selected restriction list D5 and the selected job type is less than the predetermined number, the control unit 1 determines that the prohibition is not performed. When it is determined that the execution is prohibited (Yes in step # 28), the control unit 1 displays the restriction notification screen 44 on the display panel 41 (step # 29). Then, the processing of this flowchart ends (end).

FIG. 12 shows an example of the restriction notification screen 44. On the restriction notification screen 44, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display that the selected job type cannot be executed. In the example of FIG. 12, the control unit 1 displays the message "This function cannot be used".

As shown in FIG. 12, when the display panel 41 displays that the selected job type cannot be executed, the control unit 1 may display another image forming apparatus capable of executing the job type on the display panel 41. .. For example, when printing is prohibited, the control unit 1 displays another image forming apparatus (for example, either one or both of the first apparatus 101 and the second apparatus 102) whose printing cost is lower than that of the multifunction device 100. Display on 41. When data transmission is prohibited, the control unit 1 displays another image forming device (for example, either one or both of the first device 101 and the second device 102) whose communication cost is lower than that of the multifunction device 100. To display. It can be motivated to use other image forming devices that are cheaper.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12, when the display panel 41 displays that the selected job type cannot be executed, the control unit 1 displays the date and time zone on which the selected job type in the restriction list D5 can be executed. It may be displayed on 41. You can tell when the selected job can be executed.

If it is determined not to prohibit (No in step # 28), the control unit 1 executes the job of the selected job type (step # 210). Step # 210 ends the processing of this flowchart (end). After the job is completed, new history data D2 is saved.

(Change of restriction list D5)
Next, an example of changing the restriction list D5 according to the embodiment will be described. The control unit 1 creates the restriction list D5 according to the actual use. However, there may be times when you want some job types to be available only at certain times of the day. Conversely, you may want to make certain job types unavailable at certain times of the day. Therefore, the content of the restriction list D5 can be changed after the fact.

The operation panel 4 accepts changes in the contents of the restriction list D5. Only the administrator may be able to change the contents of the restriction list D5. In this case, the change of the content of the restriction list D5 is accepted only when it can be identified as the administrator. When the restriction list D5 is changed, the control unit 1 restricts the use and permits the use based on the changed restriction list D5.

In this way, the image forming apparatus (multifunction device 100) according to the embodiment includes an operation panel 4, a printer unit 5, a storage unit 2, and a control unit 1. The operation panel 4 includes a display panel 41 for displaying an image. The operation panel 4 accepts the setting. The printer unit 5 prints. The storage unit 2 stores the history data D2 including the job type which is the type of the executed job, the executor of the job, and the date and time when the job was performed. Based on the input identification information, the control unit 1 identifies the executor of the job and stores the history data D2 in the storage unit 2. Based on the history data D2, the control unit 1 generates aggregated data D3 that aggregates the number of times of use in each time zone for each job type in a predetermined business unit. Based on the aggregated data D3, the control unit 1 generates a restriction list D5 that defines usage restrictions or permits for each time zone for each job type. The control unit 1 generates a restriction list D5 for each business unit. Based on the restriction list D5, the control unit 1 restricts the use and permits the use.

Whether or not it can be used can be automatically set for each fixed unit (for example, team) of the user and for each job type. The types of jobs that can be used by the image forming apparatus can be automatically limited based on the user's unit (business unit). In consideration of the actual usage status of each business unit, the types of jobs that can be used by the image forming apparatus can be automatically set so that even if they want to use them, they may not be available.

The history data D2 includes the usage time, which is the time required for job execution, as the history of each executed job. The control unit 1 has a reference value or more and a reference time or more for a time zone in which there is a job type in which the number of times of use is equal to or more than a predetermined reference value and the length of usage time is equal to or longer than a predetermined reference time. Generate a restriction list D5 that restricts the use of the job types of. It is not desirable to overuse the image forming apparatus indefinitely just because the use is permitted. It is possible to limit the use of job types that are considered to be overused. It can be encouraged to curb usage.

The control unit 1 permits the use of job types that are less than the reference value and less than the reference time in a time zone in which the number of times of use is less than the reference value or the length of the usage time is less than the reference time. Generate the restriction list D5. If the number of uses is small, the usage restrictions can be automatically lifted. Even if you want to use it, you can reduce the number of cases where it cannot be used.

The operation panel 4 accepts changes in the contents of the restriction list D5. Based on the changed restriction list D5, the control unit 1 restricts the use and permits the use. The contents of the automatically generated restriction list D5 can be modified. For example, by setting (operation) on the operation panel 4, it is possible to prohibit the use of a specific job type for a specific business unit.

The storage unit 2 stores priority definition data D4 that defines a job type and a time zone for which usage is permitted or restricted. The control unit 1 adjusts the restriction list D5 so as to allow or restrict the use of the job type defined in the priority definition data D4 in the time zone defined in the priority definition data D4. Based on the adjusted restriction list D5 list, the control unit 1 restricts the use and permits the use. It is possible to always allow or restrict the use of a specific business unit, a specific time zone, and a specific job type. Regardless of the number of times of use and the time of use, it is possible to always set a time zone for permission or restriction. The contents of the restriction list D5 can be adjusted in consideration of the circumstances. In addition, by intentionally imposing restrictions, it is possible to induce the use of other image forming devices. For example, printing on an image forming apparatus having a high printing cost can be restricted, and printing can be performed on another image forming apparatus.

When the operation panel 4 accepts the selection of the job type whose use is restricted, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display that the selected job type cannot be executed. You can notify the user that the selected job cannot be executed.

When the display panel 41 displays that the selected job type cannot be executed, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 41 to display another image forming apparatus capable of executing the selected job type. It can be directed to utilize other image forming devices. For example, it is possible to induce printing by an image forming apparatus having a low printing cost instead of an image forming apparatus having a high printing cost.

The storage unit 2 stores the unskilled person data D6 that defines the user to be treated as the unskilled person. When the identified user is a user registered in the inexperienced person data D6, the control unit 1 uses the restricted list D5 with the strictest usage restriction among the generated restriction list D5, or an inexperienced person created in advance. Restriction for use and permission for use are performed based on the restriction list D5. It is possible to impose strict usage restrictions on new employees and mid-career hires who are not accustomed to work. Even if they belong to the same business unit, it is possible to make a difference in the functions that can be used depending on the familiarity and unfamiliarity with the business.

Priorities are set for each business unit. When the identified user belongs to a plurality of business units, the control unit 1 selects the restricted list D5 of the business unit having the highest priority among the plurality of restricted lists D5. Based on the selected restriction list D5, the control unit 1 restricts the use and permits the use. A plurality of restriction lists D5 can be prioritized. Based on the high-priority restriction list D5, the use of job types can be restricted and permitted.

The operation panel 4 receives a print instruction of the aggregated data D3. When the print instruction of the aggregated data D3 is given, the control unit 1 causes the printer unit 5 to print based on the aggregated data D3. You can check the contents of the summary list. It is possible to grasp the usage status of the image forming apparatus. For example, it is possible to know the time zone that is frequently used and the time zone that is rarely used.

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 as an image forming apparatus for identifying a user.

100 Multifunction device (image forming device) 4 Operation panel 5 Printer unit 2 Storage unit 1 Control unit 41 Display panel D2 History data D3 Aggregate data D4 Priority definition data D5 Restriction list D6 Inexperienced person data

Claims (10)

An operation panel that accepts settings, including a display panel that displays images,
The printer section that prints and
A storage unit that stores historical data including the job type that is the type of the executed job, the executor of the job, and the date and time when the job was executed.
The job executor is identified based on the input identification information, and the history data is stored in the storage unit.
Based on the history data, for each of the job types, aggregated data is generated in which the number of times of use in each time zone is aggregated in a predetermined business unit.
Based on the aggregated data, for each of the job types, a restriction list that defines usage restrictions or permits is generated for each time zone.
The restriction list is generated for each business unit, and the restriction list is generated.
An image forming apparatus including a control unit that restricts usage and permits usage based on the restriction list. The history data includes the usage time, which is the time required for job execution, as the history of each executed job.
The control unit has the reference value or more for the time zone in which the job type has the number of times of use equal to or more than the predetermined reference value and the length of the utilization time is equal to or more than the predetermined reference time. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising generating the restriction list that restricts the use of the job type for the reference time or longer. The control unit is less than the reference value and less than the reference time for the time zone in which the number of times of use is less than the reference value or the length of the utilization time is less than the reference time for the job type. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the restriction list that permits the use of the job type is generated. The operation panel accepts changes to the contents of the restriction list and accepts changes.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit performs usage restriction and usage permission based on the modified list of restrictions. The storage unit stores priority definition data that defines the job type and the time zone for which usage is permitted or restricted.
The control unit
The restriction list is adjusted so as to allow or restrict the use of the job type defined in the priority definition data in the time zone defined in the priority definition data.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the usage restriction and usage permission are performed based on the adjusted restriction list. When the operation panel accepts the selection of the job type whose use is restricted
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit displays on the display panel that the selected job type cannot be executed. When the display panel displays that the selected job type cannot be executed,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the control unit displays another image forming apparatus capable of executing the selected job type on the display panel. The storage unit stores inexperienced person data that defines a user to be treated as an inexperienced person.
When the identified user is a user registered in the inexperienced person data,
The control unit is characterized in that the usage restriction and the usage permission are performed based on the restriction list having the strictest usage restriction among the generated restriction lists or the restriction list for the inexperienced person created in advance. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7. Priorities are set for the business units.
When the identified user belongs to more than one business unit
The control unit
Among the plurality of restriction lists, the restriction list of the business unit having the highest priority is selected.
The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the use restriction and the use permission are performed based on the selected restriction list. The operation panel receives the printing instruction of the aggregated data and receives the printing instruction.
The image forming according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when the printing instruction of the aggregated data is given, the control unit causes the printer unit to print based on the aggregated data. Device.

Images