JP4740704B2 - Printing method and printing system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a print job management apparatus connected to a network, a printing method using the print job management apparatus, and a printing program.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, with the development of networks, technologies related to network printers that connect information processing apparatuses and printers to a network and perform print processing from a plurality of information processing apparatuses using the printers have become widespread. Problems with network printers include the fact that the printer is far away from the information processing device that issues the print instruction, so that someone else accidentally picked up the printed paper or forgot that the print instruction was issued. There was something that forgot to take. Further, there is a problem that the waiting time becomes long depending on the degree of congestion of the printing process. In order to solve these problems, for example, there is a technique for performing reserved printing (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, there are many techniques for preventing forgetting to take out paper by notifying forgetting to take paper (for example, see Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-17259 JP 2004-195845 A

  However, in the above prior art, there is a problem that it is necessary to go to the collection in accordance with the reserved time, which imposes work restrictions on the operator and is still complicated for the operator. there were. Also. If the operator only notices that he has forgotten to take the paper, the paper will still be left if the operator is not aware of the notification, and proper document management cannot be performed.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a printing method, a printing program, and a print job management apparatus capable of appropriately performing document print management in order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a printing method according to the present invention prints information related to a print job (“print job information”) and the print job by an information processing apparatus connected to a network. A print job input process that receives input of information relating to an operator who can perform the operation (“first operator information”), and the print that is input in the print job input process by a print job management apparatus connected to the network Input of information related to the operator (“second operator information”) by a print job registration step for registering job information in association with the first operator information and an operator information input device connected to the network On the basis of the operator information input step for receiving the print information, the first operator information, and the second operator information. The print job registered in the blanking registration process, associated with the operation information input device, characterized in that it contains a print job execution step of executing by the connected printing device to the network.

  The printing method according to the present invention further includes a determination step of determining whether the second operator information is appropriate in the above invention, wherein the operator information input step is based on a result determined by the determination step. The second operator information is invalidated.

  The printing method according to the present invention is the printing method according to the second aspect, wherein the operator information input device receives a second input of the second operator information before the print job is executed by the print job execution step. In the second operator information input step, the execution of the print job is stopped when the second operator information is input in the second operator information input step.

  In the printing method according to the present invention, in the above invention, a third operation for accepting re-input of the second operator information after execution of the print job is stopped by the operator information input device. An operator information input step, and when the second operator information is input in the third operator information input step, from the time when execution of the print job is stopped by the printing device, It is characterized by resuming execution.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing method according to the fourth aspect, wherein the operator information input device receives a second input of the second operator information after completion of execution of the print job by the print job execution step. A history information creation step for creating history information on the completion of printing of the print job based on the second operator information input in the fourth operator information input step. , Including.

  In the printing method according to the present invention, in the above invention, the execution of the print job is stopped by an operator information input device connected to the network, which is different from the operator information input device. A fifth operator information input step for accepting second input of the second operator information, and when the second operator information is input in the fifth operator information input step, The execution of the print job is resumed from the time when the execution of the print job is stopped by the printing device connected to the network, which is associated with the operator information input device.

  In the printing method according to the present invention, in the above invention, the second operator information input device accepts re-input of the second operator information after completion of execution of the print job in the print job execution step. History information generation including a sixth operator information input step, and generating history information on completion of printing of the print job based on the second operator information input in the sixth operator information input step And a process.

  In the printing method according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the operator information input device is a reading device that reads an IC card storing information related to the operator.

  Further, the printing method according to the present invention is the reading / writing device according to the above invention, wherein the operator information input device reads an IC card capable of reading and writing information, and is created in the history information creating step. A history information writing step of writing history information on completion of printing into the IC card by a reading / writing device is included.

  In the printing method according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the operator information input device is built in the printing device.

  The printing method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the printing method includes a deletion step of deleting the print job information registered by the print job registration step after a predetermined time has elapsed from the registration.

  Further, the printing program according to the present invention inputs information on a print job (“print job information”) and information on an operator who can print based on the print job (“first operator information”). A print job registration step of causing the information processing apparatus connected to the network to execute the received print job input step and registering the print job information input in the print job input step in association with the first operator information; An operator information input step for receiving information related to an operator (“second operator information”), which is executed by the print job management apparatus connected to the network, is input to the operator information connected to the network. In the print job registration step, the apparatus executes the process, based on the first operator information and the second operator information. The print job execution step of executing a print job registered, the associated with the operator information input device, characterized in that it is executed by the connected printing device to the network.

  In addition, the print job management apparatus according to the present invention includes information on a print job (“print job information”) and information on an operator who can print the print job (“first operator information”). A first receiving unit that receives from the processing device; a print job registration unit that registers the print job information received by the first receiving unit in association with the first operator information; "Second operator information") based on the second receiving means for receiving from the operator information input device, the first operator information, and the second operator information, the print job registration Transmitting means for transmitting the print job registered by the means to a printing apparatus associated with the operator information input apparatus.

  According to the present invention, printing is started when the operator is in the vicinity of the printing apparatus, and when the printed paper is collected, the operator performs a confirmation operation to appropriately perform print management of the document. It is possible to obtain a print method, a print program, and a print job management apparatus that can be used.

  Exemplary embodiments of a printing method, a printing program, and a print job management apparatus according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(System overview)
First, an overview of the entire system including the print job management apparatus according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the printing system includes an information processing apparatus 101, a print job management apparatus (print server) 102 that realizes a function as a print job management apparatus, a print request database (DB) 103, and a print log database (DB). 104, an IC card reader / writer (R / W) 105 (105 a, 105 b), a printing device 106 (106 a, 106 b), and an authentication server 107, each connected by a network 100. .

  A network 100 connects the above-described constituent devices 101 to 107. Specifically, the network 100 is configured by a LAN, a WAN, or the like, and further includes a network that can transmit and receive data, such as the Internet and a general public line. Further, the present invention is not limited to wired connection, and may be realized by wireless (for example, wireless LAN).

  The information processing apparatus 101 creates a print job (specifically, for example, a document or an image) or transmits the created print job to the print server 102. A plurality of information processing apparatuses 101 can be connected to the network 100. Specifically, the information processing apparatus 101 is realized by, for example, a personal computer. The information processing apparatus 101 may be a mobile personal computer, a mobile phone, a PDA, or the like.

  In this way, the information processing apparatus 101 not only accepts input of information related to the print job (“print job information”) from the operator, but also information related to the operator who can print the print job (“first” The operator information ")" is accepted. That is, the person who permits the print job in the printing apparatus 106, specifically, the creator of the print job or the recipient of the printed matter is designated. In the printing apparatus 106, only the operator described in the first operator information can be printed. The information processing apparatus 101 also transmits the first operator information to the print server 102 together with the print job.

  The print server 102 controls the entire system connected by the network 100 and realizes a function as a print job management apparatus. Detailed contents of the print server 102 will be described later (see FIGS. 2 and 3).

  The print request DB 103 registers print job information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 101. Similarly, the first operator information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 101 may be associated and registered. In FIG. 1, the print request DB 103 is directly connected to the print server 102, but is not limited thereto, and may be built in the print server 102 or may be connected via the network 100.

  The print log DB 104 registers a print log (print request) created by the print server 102. The print log includes, for example, print completion history information of the print job. Details of the print log will be described later (see FIG. 4). The print log DB 104 is directly connected to the print server 102 in the same manner as the print request DB 103 in FIG. 1, but is not limited thereto, and may be built in the print server 102 or connected via the network 100. May be.

  The IC card reader / writer (R / W) 105 (105a, 105b) reads information stored in an IC card (not shown) owned by the operator or writes information to the IC card. Specifically, the reading / writing operation is performed only by bringing the IC card close to a predetermined position of the R / W 105. Thereby, it is possible to realize the function of the operator information input device that accepts input of information (second operator information) related to the operator stored in the IC card.

  The second operator information may include a password that only the operator can know. In addition, the R / W 105 transmits the read second operator information directly to the print server 102. Then, the print server 102 performs authentication by transmitting the second operator information to the authentication server 107, and receives the authentication result from the authentication server 107. Further, the R / W 105 may transmit the read second operator information to the authentication server 107 and perform authentication processing of the second operator information.

  When the authentication process is completed and the authentication is OK, the second operator information is transmitted from the authentication server 107 or the R / W 105 that has received the information regarding the authentication OK from the authentication server 107 to the print server 102. You may make it do. On the other hand, in the case of authentication NG, the R / W 105 receives information to that effect from the print server 102 or the authentication server 107, and notifies that the authentication has not been performed, for example, a display provided in the R / W not shown or The voice output device notifies the operator and also gives an instruction to the operator to read the IC card again.

  The R / W 105 may be a single device (for example, the R / W 105a), or may be built in the printing device 106b like the R / W 105b. In the case of a single apparatus such as the R / W 105a, the printing apparatus 106a associated with the R / W 105a is always provided in the vicinity thereof. Thereby, reading of the IC card to the R / W 105a can also serve as an instruction to start printing in the printing apparatus 106a.

  Further, although the R / W 105 is used in FIG. 1, the R / W 105 is not limited to the R / W 105 as long as the function of the operator information input device can be realized. Specifically, it may be a device that directly inputs an operator code (including a password) or a device that performs biometric authentication (fingerprint, vein, retina, voiceprint, etc.), and has a plurality of functions of these devices. It may be a device.

  The printing apparatuses 106 (106a and 106b) receive print job information from the print server 102, and execute printing on recording paper based on the received print job information. Specifically, the function is realized by, for example, the printer 106a or the multifunction peripheral 106b. More specifically, the printer 106a is various printers such as a laser printer and an ink jet printer, and the multi-function device 106b has an image reading function using a scanner, a copying function, and the like in addition to a printing function. In addition, the printing apparatus 106 may be an apparatus having a function of printing an image, such as a digital copying machine or a facsimile.

  The authentication server 107 receives the second operator information transmitted from the R / W 105, extracts a password or the like from the information, compares it with the second operator information and password registered in advance, and performs authentication. Determine if it is possible. If authentication is impossible, a message to that effect is sent back to the R / W 105. On the other hand, if authentication is possible, the fact may be returned to the R / W 105. If the transmission destination of the authenticated second operator information is known, the transmission destination is authenticated. You may make it transmit the 2nd operator information to which the information to that effect was attached.

  In such a system configuration, the operator first issues a print instruction from the information processing apparatus 101. Accordingly, the print job (print request) is accumulated in the print request DB 103 of the print server 102. Next, the operator himself (or an operator with printing authority) holds the IC card over the R / W 105 of the IC card installed in the vicinity of the printing apparatus 106.

  Then, the operator information of the IC card is read, and the authentication server 107 is inquired about whether printing (paper output) is possible. As a result, when the authentication is successful, the printed paper is output (discharged) from the printing apparatus 106. Thereafter, when the output (printing) is completed, the operator holds the IC card over the R / W 105 again. Accordingly, the print server 106 can recognize that the operator has collected the printed paper, can delete the print job, and can also include that fact in the print log.

(Hardware configuration of print job management device)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the print job management apparatus according to this embodiment. In FIG. 2, the print job management apparatus 102 is detachably attachable to, for example, a CPU 201, a RAM 202, a ROM 203, an HDD (hard disk drive) 204, an HD (hard disk) 205, and an FDD (flexible disk drive) 206. As an example of a recording medium, an FD (flexible disk) 207, a display 208, an I / F (interface) 209, a keyboard (operation buttons) 210, a touch panel 211, a scanner unit 212, and a printer unit 213 are provided. I have. The components 201 to 213 are connected by a bus 200.

  The CPU 201 governs overall control of the print server 102. The RAM 202 is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The ROM 203 stores a program such as a boot program. The HDD 204 controls data read / write with respect to the HD 205 according to the control of the CPU 201. The HD 205 stores data written under the control of the HDD 204.

  The FDD 206 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the FD 207 according to the control of the CPU 201. The FD 207 stores data written under the control of the FDD 206 or causes the information processing apparatus 101 to read data recorded on the FD 207. In addition to the FD 207, the removable recording medium may be a CD-ROM (CD-R, CD-RW), MO, DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), memory card, or the like. A display 208 displays data such as documents, images, and function information. For example, in addition to a TFT liquid crystal display, a CRT, an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like may be used.

  An I / F (interface) 209 is connected to the network 100 through a communication line, and is connected to a server, a mobile terminal device, various databases (not shown), and the like via the network 100. The I / F 209 controls the interface between the network 100 and the inside of the apparatus, and controls data input / output from the information processing apparatus 101, the R / W 105, the printing apparatus 106, the various databases 103 and 104, and the like. The I / F 209 is, for example, a modem or a LAN adapter. The I / F 209 can also be used as an external input / output such as a USB.

  A keyboard (operation buttons) 210 and a touch panel 211 are used for inputting and setting various data. The scanner unit 212 optically reads image information. It also has a function to read barcodes, digital watermarks, and the like. In addition to the scanner device, the scanner unit 212 may be a digital still camera, a digital video camera, or the like that can optically read an image. The printer unit 213 is directly connected to the print server 102 separately from the printing apparatus 106, and prints image information and other information. For example, a laser beam printer, an ink jet printer, a thermal printer, an impact printer, or the like.

(Functional configuration of print job management device)
Next, a functional configuration of the print job management apparatus (print server) 102 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the print job management apparatus according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, a print server 102 serving as a print job management apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a control unit 300, a print job reception unit 301, a print job registration unit 302, and an operator information reception unit 303. , A print job extraction unit 304, a print job transmission unit 305, a print log creation unit 306, a print log registration unit 307, and a print job deletion unit 308.

  Here, the control unit 300 governs overall control of the print server 102. The print job receiving unit 301 receives the print job information and the first operator information from the information processing apparatus 101 via the network 100 and passes them to the control unit 300.

  The print job registration unit 302 registers the print job information received by the print job reception unit 301 in the print request DB 103 in association with the first operator information. Specifically, the print job registration unit 302 realizes its function by causing the CPU 201 to execute programs stored in the RAM 202, the ROM 203, the HD 205, and the FD 207 shown in FIG. 2, for example.

  The operator information receiving unit 303 receives the second operator information from the R / W 105 having a function as an operator information input device and passes it to the control unit 300. The control unit 300 causes the authentication server 107 to determine whether the second operator information is appropriate. Then, based on the result determined by the authentication server 107, if appropriate, the print job extracting unit 304 extracts the corresponding print job, and the print job transmitting unit 305 transmits the print job to the printing apparatus 106. . Therefore, if it is inappropriate, that is, if the authentication is not performed, the second operator information is invalidated. That is, with the second operator information, a print job is printed from the print job transmission unit 305. There is no transmission to device 106. Specifically, the operator information receiving unit 303 can realize its function by, for example, the I / F 209 shown in FIG.

  Based on the second operator information, the print job extraction unit 304 searches the print request DB 103 for first operator information related (for example, matching) with the second operator information, and is searched. The print job information stored in association with the first operator information is extracted.

  The print job transmission unit 305 transmits the print job to the printing apparatus 106 associated with the R / W 105 based on the first operator information and the second operator information. Specifically, the print job extracted by the print job extraction unit 304 is transmitted.

  When the operator information receiving unit 303 receives the second operator information for the second time before the print job is executed, the control unit 300 executes the print job, specifically, print job transmission. The transmission of the print job from the unit 305 to the printing apparatus 106 is stopped. When a print job is transmitted for each print page, the print job transmission may be canceled for each print page. Further, when the operator information receiving unit 303 receives the second operator information (third time) again, the control unit 300 resumes execution of the canceled print job. If the print job has not been executed at all, it is executed from the beginning. If execution of a print job has been canceled for each print page, the process resumes from the point at which execution of the print job was canceled.

  When resuming, it may be a printing apparatus (for example, the printing apparatus 106a) in which execution of the print job is stopped, or may be a printing apparatus 106b different from the printing apparatus 106a. Which printing device 106 restarts execution of the print job is determined by the R / W 105 from which the IC card has been read.

  When the operator information receiving unit 303 receives the second operator information after the execution of the print job is completed, the print log creating unit 306 creates a print log according to an instruction from the control unit 300. The print log can include, for example, print completion history information of the print job. Similarly, when the execution of the print job is resumed and the second operator information is received after the execution of the print job is completed, the control unit 300 causes the print log creation unit 306 to create a print log. It is good to do so.

  Furthermore, the created print log can be registered by the print log registration unit 307. The created print log may be written to the operator's IC card by the R / W 105.

  The print job deletion unit 308 deletes a print job registered in the print job registration unit 302 according to an instruction from the control unit 300. When the control unit 300 recognizes that the printed paper has been collected by the operator by receiving the second operator information after the execution of the print job is completed, the control unit 300 causes the print job deletion unit 308 to On the other hand, the execution is completed and an instruction to delete the print job is given. The print job deletion unit 308 deletes the print job when an instruction is given from the control unit 300 or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the instruction was given.

  Further, the control unit 300 can arbitrarily change a predetermined time (for example, 2 minutes, for example, two minutes after being registered in the print job registration unit 302. The predetermined time can be designated for each print job. If the second operator information is not received even after elapse of time, it is determined that the operator has no intention to print (output), and the print job is deleted. The deletion unit 308 may be instructed. As a result, it is possible to avoid the state where unnecessary print jobs are registered in the print job registration unit 302. At this time, notification information (for example, refer to FIG. 6 described later) for deleting in advance and notification information for completion of deletion (for example, refer to FIG. 7 described later) are transmitted to the information processing apparatus 101 of the operator. Also good.

  As described above, the print job management apparatus 102 includes a spool monitoring function and an authentication monitoring function. With the spool monitoring function, when an operator prints, the print job can be stored in the spool, output to paper after IC card authentication, the print job can be recorded in a log, and the log file can be exported as necessary it can.

  The R / W 105 is monitored by the authentication monitoring function. When the IC card is held over, the authentication is started, and the print job can be executed only when the authentication is successful. In addition, printing authority can be set, and printing authority can be determined by an IC card carried by the operator.

  Further, the print job management apparatus 102 can register and manage the printing apparatus 106 and the R / W 105 as a management tool. Further, the output setting for each printing apparatus 106 can be performed, and the output setting can be changed depending on the presence or absence of authentication. It is also possible to set print log export. In addition, the registered print log can be searched.

  Further, the spool holding time (or spool holding period) of the print job can be set for each operator. Specifically, the spool holding time is a time when counting starts from the completion of the print job input process such as “after 5 minutes (after receiving a request instruction to store the print job in the spool)”. Further, it is possible to set a spool holding period in which output is possible only within a certain period. Specifically, the spool holding period may be set as, for example, “September 19th 2:15 pm to 3 pm”. With this setting, it is possible for the operator to improve the convenience of collecting the printing paper and to prevent the loss of the printed paper, theft, the snooping of the printed contents, etc. Leakage can be reliably prevented. This is particularly effective when the operator who generates the print job is different from the person who collects the print paper.

(Print log contents)
Next, the contents of the print log created by the print log creation unit 306 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the print log. In FIG. 4, the print log includes a printed (or designated) printer name, a print file name, an information processing apparatus (PC) name that generated a print job, an operator (user) name, a total number of print instructions, From items such as the number of print instruction bytes, the total number of prints actually printed, the total number of print bytes actually printed, print status code, print status string (completion, deletion, etc.), print request time, print output / deletion time Become. Here, the print output time may be the time when printing is actually finished, or the time when the operator holds the IC card over the R / W 105 for confirmation of receipt. Further, although not shown, an item of spool holding time or spool holding period may be provided to store the information.

(Printing procedure)
Next, the processing procedure of the printing method according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the contents of the printing method processing (processing of the information processing apparatus 101) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the flowchart of FIG. 5, it is first determined whether or not a print job has been input by the operator (step S501). If a print job is input (step S501: Yes), the print job is transmitted to the printer server 102 via the network 100 (step S502), and the process proceeds to step S503. On the other hand, if no print job has been input (step S501: No), the process proceeds to step S503 without doing anything.

  Next, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to delete the print job (step S503). However, this is only when a print job has already been input. The delete instruction is input to the information processing apparatus 101 by the operator when the print job is once input but the printing becomes unnecessary after that. If there is a print job deletion instruction (step S503: Yes), a print job deletion instruction is transmitted to the printer server 102 via the network 100 (step S504), and the process proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, if there is no instruction to delete the print job (step S503: No), the process proceeds to step S505 without doing anything.

  Next, it is determined whether a warning message has been received from the printer server 102 via the network 100 (step S505). If a warning message is received (step S505: Yes), the information processing apparatus 101 outputs (displays) the warning message (step S506). Specifically, the warning message is, for example, a pop-up screen or voice guidance shown in FIG. Since this warning message is received when printing (paper output) has not yet been completed, this warning message is not received when printing (paper output) has already been completed. Therefore, the warning message can prompt the operator to perform printing (paper output) processing before the print job is deleted. On the other hand, if no warning message has been received (step S505: No), the process proceeds to step S507 without doing anything.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a deletion message has been received from the printer server 102 via the network 100 (step S507). If a delete message is received (step S507: Yes), the information processing apparatus 101 outputs (displays) the delete message (step S508), and returns to step S501. Specifically, the deletion message is, for example, a pop-up screen or voice guidance shown in FIG. As with the warning message, this deletion message is received when printing (paper output) has not yet been completed. Therefore, when all printing (paper output) has already been completed, this deletion message is received. There is nothing. Therefore, after this deletion message, the operator receives another print job input. On the other hand, if there is no instruction to delete the print job (step S507: No), the process proceeds to step S501 without doing anything.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the printing method processing (processing of the print server 102) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the flowchart of FIG. 8, it is first determined whether or not a print job has been received from the information processing apparatus 101 via the network 100 (step S801). If the print job is received and received (step S801: Yes), the received print job is registered in the print job registration unit 302 (for example, the print request DB 103) (step S802) and a timer is set. Is started (step S803).

  Next, it is determined whether a print end notification has been received from the printing apparatus 106 via the network 100 (step S804). If the print end notification has not been received (step S804: No), it is next determined whether information related to the deletion instruction for the registered print job has been received from the information processing apparatus 101 via the network 100. Is determined (step S805). Here, when the information regarding the deletion instruction has not been received (step S805: No), it waits for a predetermined time (for example, 2 minutes) to elapse (step S806), and when the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S806). (S806: No) returns to step S804.

  As described above, when steps S804 to S806 are repeated and a print end notification is received (step S804: Yes), a deletion instruction is received (step S805: Yes), or when a predetermined time has elapsed (step S806: Yes). In any case, the process proceeds to step S807, and the registered print job is deleted (step S807). Thus, a series of processes related to one print job is completed.

  9 and 10 are flowcharts showing the contents of the printing method processing (another processing of the print server 102) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the flowchart of FIG. 9, first, it is determined whether operator information is received from the R / W 105 via the network 100 (step S901). If the operator information is received and received (step S901: Yes), the print job corresponding to the received operator information is selected from the print jobs registered in the print job registration unit 302. A job is extracted (step S902). Further, the printing apparatus 106 is specified from the information regarding the R / W 105 to which the operator information has been transmitted (step S903).

  Then, the extracted print job is transmitted to the specified printing apparatus 106 (step S904). Thereafter, it is determined whether a print end notification is received from the printing apparatus 106 (step S905). Here, if the operator information is received (step S906: Yes) without receiving the print end notification (step S905: No), it is determined that the instruction is related to the print cancellation. Subsequent processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, when the print end notification is not received (step S905: No) and the operator information is not received (step S906: No), the process returns to step S905.

  If a print end notification is received from the printing apparatus 106 in step S905 (step S905: Yes), it is next determined whether operator information has been received from the R / W 105 via the network 100 (step S907). ). Here, when operator information is received (step S907: Yes), it transfers to step S910. On the other hand, when the operator information has not been received (step S907: No), it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (specifically, for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed (step S908). Here, when the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S908: No), the process returns to step S907. If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S908: Yes), it is determined that the operator has forgotten the receipt confirmation, and is registered in the receipt notification non-reception list (step S909), and then the process proceeds to step S910. .

  In step S910, a print log is created (step S910), the created print log is registered in the print log registration unit 307 (for example, the print log DB 104) (step S911), and a series of processing ends.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 10, when operator information is received (step S906: Yes), a print interruption signal is transmitted to the printing apparatus 106 via the network 100 (step S1001). Thereafter, information on the print completion status is received from the printing apparatus 106 (step S1002), and information on the print completion status is stored (step S1003). The information regarding the print completion status includes information regarding whether printing has already been completed, one page has not been printed yet, or halfway pages have been printed.

  Then, a message is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 101 via the network 100 (step S1004). The message may be transmitted not only to the information processing apparatus 101 but also to the R / W 105 or the printing apparatus 106 and displayed on a display screen of the R / W 105 or the printing apparatus 106 that is not illustrated. Further, this message may be transmitted to a portable information terminal device (for example, a mobile phone) carried by the operator, and the contents thereof may be displayed or output as voice. Specifically, the message is, for example, a pop-up screen or voice guidance shown in FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether operator information has been received from the R / W 105 via the network 100 (step S1005). If the operator information is received (step S1005: Yes), the printing apparatus 106 is identified from the R / W 105 (step S1006), and the print job to the identified printing apparatus 106 and the printing for the print job are completed. The status (stored in step S1003) is transmitted to the specified printing apparatus 106 (step S1007). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S905 shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  If the operator information is not received in step S1005 (step S1005: No), it is next determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) has elapsed (step S1008). Here, if the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S1008: No), it is determined whether or not there has been a cancel instruction to cancel the restart of the interrupted printing (step S1009). If there is no cancel instruction (step S1009: No), the process returns to step S1005.

  If the predetermined time has elapsed in step S1008 (step S1008: Yes) or if there is a cancel instruction in step S1009 (step S1009: Yes), the print job and the stored print completion related to the print job are completed. The situation is deleted (step S1010), and a message is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 101 via the network 100 (step S1011), and the series of processing ends. This message may be transmitted to a portable information terminal device (for example, a mobile phone) carried by the operator, and the contents thereof may be displayed or output as voice. Specifically, the message is, for example, a pop-up screen or voice guidance shown in FIG.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the information processing apparatus 101 receives input of print job information and first operator information, and the print job management apparatus (print server 102) connected to the network. The input print job information is registered in association with the first operator information, and the operator information input device (R / W 105) accepts the input of the second operator information, and the first operator information and Since the registered print job is executed by the printing device 106 associated with the R / W 105 based on the second operator information, the input of the second operation information, specifically, the IC card is loaded into the R card. Printing is started when it is held over / W105.

  This eliminates the need for the operator to wait for printing to begin in front of the printing device 106. Also, since printing has not been started, the contents cannot be seen by others. In addition, since printing is started only after an operator comes to the printing apparatus 106, it is possible to avoid that only printing is performed and the printer is left uncollected.

  Further, any printing apparatus connected to the network 100 can be easily printed. Therefore, for example, printing can be performed from a printer installed in a convenience store or the like. Also, by installing the printer 106 and the R / W 105 at the entrance of the conference room and holding the IC card over the attendees, the attendance confirmation of the conference and the printing (distribution) of the conference material can be performed simultaneously.

  Furthermore, an application form in which personal information (address, name, etc.) is written can be printed by holding the IC card over the R / W 105 provided in the vicinity of the application window. As a result, it can be stamped as necessary and submitted to the window, and the application procedure can be performed efficiently.

  Therefore, the printed material of each operator is not buried in the printing apparatus 106 and is not mixed with the printed material of another person. In addition, desired paper (for example, bill-only paper, high-quality paper, etc.) can be easily replaced during printing. Furthermore, the secret document can be printed and collected at a timing desired by the operator without being seen by others.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, whether or not the second operator information is appropriate is determined (authenticated), and based on the determined result, the second operator information is invalidated. You do not have to do or collect printed documents. Further, it is possible to avoid printing by a person who does not have printing authority.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the R / W 105 accepts re-input of the second operator information before execution of the print job, and when the second operator information is input, the print job Stop execution. Further, after the execution of the print job is stopped by the R / W 105, the second operator information is input again, and when the second operator information is input, the print device 106 performs the print job. The execution of the print job is resumed from the point when the execution of is stopped.

  As a result, printing can be stopped at the timing desired by the operator, or the stopped printing can be resumed. Therefore, even when another person is printing, it is possible to easily perform interrupt printing.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the R / W 105 accepts the second input of the second operator information after the execution of the print job is completed, and based on the input second operator information, the print job Create print completion history information. Accordingly, it is possible to record whether or not the operator has performed the confirmation work after collection, and appropriate print document management can be easily performed.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, after execution of the print job is canceled by the R / W 105a, the second input of the second operator information is accepted by the R / W 105b different from the R / W 105a, When the second operator information is input, the printing apparatus 106b associated with the R / W 105b resumes the execution of the print job from the time when the execution of the print job is stopped.

  Thereby, it is possible to print one print job by a plurality of printing apparatuses 106. For example, even when printing cannot be continued due to a failure of the printing apparatus 106a or when the operator is forced to move, another printing can be performed only by a simple operation such as holding the IC card. The device 106b can continue printing.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the R / W 105 is a reading / writing device that reads an IC card capable of reading and writing information, and the created print completion history information (print log) is read and written. The data can be written (exported) to the IC card by a loading device (R / W 105).

  Thereby, the operator's own print log can be voluntarily held or forcibly held. Further, when the receipt confirmation process is not performed, a penalty such as the next printing cannot be performed can be imposed using the stored print log information.

  Also, according to the present embodiment, the registered print job information can be deleted after a predetermined time has elapsed since registration. As a result, a print job that has been instructed but is no longer needed can be deleted without printing. Therefore, unnecessary printing is suppressed, and paper and ink (toner) are saved.

  If a plurality of print jobs that can be output to the person in charge are stored when the second operator information is input, printing of all the print jobs is executed. For example, it is possible to reduce the trouble of collecting printed materials when a plurality of print jobs, such as a print job that is stored by another operator, and a print job that is addressed to itself are stored at the same time. When a plurality of print job information that can be output is stored when the second operator information is input, a list of the plurality of print job information stored on a display screen (not shown) is displayed. The input of a print instruction for only a desired print job may be received from the display. As a result, a plurality of print jobs can be stored in advance, and only necessary ones can be printed individually as appropriate.

  The printing method described in this embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a transmission medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

  As described above, the printing method, printing program, and print job management apparatus according to the present invention are suitable for use in a network printer system that prints a created document or the like on a remote printer or the like connected to a network.

1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a print job management apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a print job management apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of a print log. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process (process of information processing apparatus) of the printing method concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display content displayed on the display screen of information processing apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the display content displayed on the display screen of information processing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process (print server process) of the printing method concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process (print server process) of the printing method concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process (print server process) of the printing method concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the display content displayed on the display screen of information processing apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the display content displayed on the display screen of information processing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Network 101 Information processing apparatus 102 Print job management apparatus (print server)
103 Print request database (DB)
104 Print log database (DB)
105a, 105b IC card reader / writer (R / W)
106a, 106b Printing device 107 Authentication server 300 Control unit 301 Print job reception unit 302 Print job registration unit 303 Operator information reception unit 304 Print job extraction unit 305 Print job transmission unit 306 Print log creation unit 307 Print log registration unit 308 Print job Delete part

Claims (9)

Information related to a print job (hereinafter referred to as “print job information”) and information related to an operator who can print the print job (hereinafter referred to as “first operator information”) by an information processing apparatus connected to the network. A print job input process that accepts input,
A print job registration step of registering the print job information input in the print job input step in association with the first operator information by a print job management apparatus connected to the network;
An operator information input step for receiving input of information about the operator (hereinafter referred to as “second operator information”) by an operator information input device connected to the network;
Based on the first operator information and the second operator information, the print job registered in the print job registration step is connected to the network associated with the operator information input device. A print job execution process executed by the printing apparatus;
A second operator information input step for accepting a second input of the second operator information by the operator information input device before executing the print job in the print job execution step;
Including
The printing method, wherein execution of the print job is stopped when the second operator information is input in the second operator information input step. A third operator information input step for accepting re-input of the second operator information after execution of the print job is stopped by the operator information input device;
When the second operator information is input in the third operator information input step, the execution of the print job is resumed from the time when the execution of the print job is stopped by the printing apparatus. The printing method according to claim 1 . Information related to a print job (hereinafter referred to as “print job information”) and information related to an operator who can print the print job (hereinafter referred to as “first operator information”) by an information processing apparatus connected to the network. A print job input process that accepts input,
A print job registration step of registering the print job information input in the print job input step in association with the first operator information by a print job management apparatus connected to the network;
An operator information input step for receiving input of information about the operator (hereinafter referred to as “second operator information”) by an operator information input device connected to the network;
Based on the first operator information and the second operator information, the print job registered in the print job registration step is connected to the network associated with the operator information input device. A print job execution process executed by the printing apparatus;
A fourth operator information input step for receiving a second input of the second operator information after completion of execution of the print job by the print job execution step by the operator information input device;
A history information creation step of creating history information of printing completion of the print job based on the second operator information input in the fourth operator information input step;
The printing method characterized by including. The fifth operator information input device connected to the network receives a second input of the second operator information after the execution of the print job is stopped by an operator information input device different from the operator information input device. Including the operator information input process of
When the second operator information is input in the fifth operator information input step, the print job is connected by the printing device connected to the network and associated with the other operator information input device. the printing method according to claim 1, characterized in that from the time of stop of execution, resuming execution of the print job. A sixth operator information input step for receiving a second input of the second operator information after completion of execution of the print job by the print job execution step by the another operator information input device;
Based on the second operator information input in the sixth operator information input step, a history information creation step for creating print completion history information of the print job;
The printing method according to claim 4 , further comprising: The operator information input device is a reading / writing device for reading an IC card capable of reading and writing information,
The printing method according to the history information of print completion created in the history information creating step, to claim 3 or 5 by reading and writing device, characterized in that they include historical information writing step of writing to said IC card. A determination step of determining suitability of the second operator information;
The printing according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the operator information input step invalidates the second operator information based on a result determined by the determination step. Method. A printing system in which an information processing device, a print job management device, an operator information input device, and a printing device are connected to a network,
Input of information regarding a print job (hereinafter referred to as “print job information”) and information regarding an operator capable of printing the print job (hereinafter referred to as “first operator information”) included in the information processing apparatus. A print job input means to accept;
A print job registration unit that is provided in the print job management apparatus and registers the print job information input in the print job input unit in association with the first operator information;
Operator information input means for receiving information related to the operator (hereinafter referred to as “second operator information”) provided in the operator information input device;
Based on the first operator information and the second operator information provided in the printing device associated with the operator information input device, the print job registered in the print job registration unit is executed. A print job execution means;
A second operator information input unit that is provided in the operator information input device and that receives a second input of the second operator information before executing the print job by the print job execution unit;
With
The printing system, wherein when the second operator information is input by the second operator information input unit, the execution of the print job is stopped. A printing system in which an information processing device, a print job management device, an operator information input device, and a printing device are connected to a network,
Input of information regarding a print job (hereinafter referred to as “print job information”) and information regarding an operator capable of printing the print job (hereinafter referred to as “first operator information”) included in the information processing apparatus. A print job input means to accept;
A print job registration unit that is provided in the print job management apparatus and registers the print job information input in the print job input unit in association with the first operator information;
Operator information input means for receiving information related to the operator (hereinafter referred to as “second operator information”) provided in the operator information input device;
Based on the first operator information and the second operator information provided in the printing device associated with the operator information input device, the print job registered in the print job registration unit is executed. A print job execution means;
A fourth operator information input unit that is provided in the operator information input device and that receives a second input of the second operator information after completion of execution of the print job by the print job execution unit;
History information creating means for creating print completion history information of the print job based on the second operator information input in the fourth operator information input means;
A printing system comprising:

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