JP5601707B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having a display unit and an input unit such as a touch panel, and an image forming system including the image forming apparatus.

  There is an image forming apparatus (so-called printer function) that receives printing data including image data and print setting data (for example, paper settings and magnification) from an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer and performs printing. In such an image forming apparatus, confidential documents may be printed. However, if the image forming apparatus receives printing data and immediately performs printing, the printed matter is left until the sender (user) of the printing data goes to pick it up. Then, there is a risk that confidential documents can be seen or taken away by a third party. For this reason, there is an image forming apparatus that starts printing after the sender surely moves to the image forming apparatus. For example, the image forming apparatus starts printing using a password input to the sender's image forming apparatus as a trigger (sometimes referred to as “private print”).

  An example of a printer control system that performs such printing is described in Patent Document 1. Specifically, in Patent Document 1, in a printer control system used in a printing system constructed with a LAN, password setting means for setting a password for print data output from a host computer, and a password for the print data are set. A printer control system is described that includes a control unit that controls printing not to be performed until a specific command is input, and a printing unit that performs a printing operation when the specific command is input. . With this configuration, the print data is printed out only after a print password is set in the print server or printer, and security of the print data is to be ensured (Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph [0006], etc.) reference).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 08-083153

  In the case of private printing, the image forming apparatus holds and stores print data until a password or the like is input. For example, printing data is stored in a print job box. On the other hand, the image forming apparatus is usually shared by a plurality of people, and there are a plurality of senders of printing data. Therefore, the image forming apparatus may hold and store a plurality of printing data.

  When printing by private printing, it is necessary to select printing data that the user wants to print from the stored printing data. Therefore, the image forming apparatus displays a list of print data on a display unit such as a liquid crystal panel of the operation panel. Then, the user designates the sender of the print data and the print data to be printed, and inputs the password. As a result, the user can obtain a desired printed matter.

  Here, in order to be able to specify the print data to be printed, it is necessary to display information necessary for searching the target print data on the display unit. In this case, for example, the data name (file name) of the printing data, information indicating the sender (for example, the sender name and address), the transmission date and time of the printing data, and the like are displayed on the display unit.

  However, there is a case where the information displayed for searching for the target print data can be viewed by a third party (a person other than the person who transmitted the print data). A third party can confirm and acquire information such as the name of the print data and the personal computer from which the data was transmitted. Therefore, when information such as the data name of printing data is displayed on the display unit, there is a problem in terms of information security safety. For example, if a third party is malicious, information such as the data name of printing data may be used to steal data from a computer storing confidential document data.

  Here, in the printer control system described in Patent Document 1, the printer is not provided with a display unit, and a printer switch is input in direct transmission of print data from the host computer to the printer. The printer starts a printing operation (see Patent Document 1: Paragraph [0018]). Therefore, the image forming apparatus does not display information such as the data name of the print data, and cannot solve the above problem. Patent Document 1 also shows an example in which a password is input to a print server (see Patent Document 1: Paragraph [0015]), but whether or not to display information such as the data name of print data. There is no mention of the point. Therefore, the invention described in Patent Document 1 cannot solve the above problem.

  In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention makes it impossible to confirm information on print data by a third party when displaying information such as the data name of print data for selecting and specifying print data. The task is to improve safety in information security.

In order to solve the above problem, an image forming apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention stores a communication unit that receives print data with an authentication code attached from an external device, and stores and stores the print data received by the communication unit. A storage unit, a display unit that displays a list of information on the print data including at least a data name of the print data, and an input for processing the print data, for each of the print data, An input unit that accepts input for display content on the display unit, and the display unit displays a code input screen for inputting codes before displaying the list, and the code is input to the input unit and if, before the authentication code that matches the input code only the display on the list information of the print data attached, the authentication code does not match the entered code is attached The information of the print data was decided that you do not want to appear in the list.

  According to this configuration, the display unit displays a code input screen for inputting codes before displaying the list. When a code is input to the input unit, an authentication code that matches the input code is displayed. Displays a list of attached print data. As a result, the code is requested to be input before the data name of the printing data is displayed. Further, only the information of the printing data with the authentication code corresponding to the input code is displayed. Accordingly, information such as the data name of the printing data cannot be confirmed by a third party, and the security (confidentiality) in information security can be improved.

In the invention according to claim 1 , the input unit accepts input of a plurality of codes, and the display unit displays and inputs the code input screen for inputting a plurality of codes. The print data to which the authentication code that matches a plurality of codes is attached is collectively displayed in the list.

  In some cases, different authentication codes are attached even to print data transmitted by the same person. Therefore, for example, when printing of a plurality of printing data is used, and it is necessary to input a plurality of codes, if only one type of code can be input, an operation procedure of code input → printing is performed. Multiple repetitions are required. However, according to this configuration, the display unit displays a code input screen for inputting a plurality of codes, and displays a list of print data with authentication codes that match the plurality of input codes. Are displayed together. As a result, a plurality of print data can be authenticated at a time. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the same operation from being repeated, to facilitate the operation, and to improve the convenience of the image forming apparatus.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the display unit displays a sender of the print data, and the transmission unit is selected after the sender is selected for the input unit. The person displays the same number of code input fields as the number of types of the authentication code attached to the print data on the code input screen.

  According to this configuration, the display unit displays the same number of code input fields as the number of types of authentication codes attached to the print data on the code input screen. Thereby, it is possible to grasp how many codes need to be input in order to print all of the print data.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a communication unit that receives print data to which an authentication code is attached from an external device, a storage unit that accumulates and stores the print data received by the communication unit, For each of the printing data, a display unit that displays a list of information on the printing data including at least the data name of the printing data, an input for processing the printing data, and a display on the display unit An input unit that accepts input for content, and the display unit displays a code input screen for inputting codes before displaying the list, and is input when a code is input to the input unit Only the information of the printing data with the authentication code that matches the code is displayed in the list, and the information of the printing data with the authentication code that does not match the input code is displayed. Serial no listed, whether if said authentication code different from the code entered by the code input screen is the print data attached, the display unit, redisplays the code input screen It was decided to display a confirmation screen to confirm.

  According to this configuration, the display unit is configured to confirm whether or not to redisplay the code input screen when there is print data to which an authentication code different from the code input on the code input screen is present. Display a confirmation screen. Thereby, in order to print the remaining print data, the user can recognize that a code different from the previously input code is required. Therefore, the convenience in code input can be improved.

Further, in the invention according to claim 3, when the display unit redisplays the code input screen based on the confirmation screen, the number of the code input fields on the code input screen displayed immediately before is displayed immediately before. The number of the code input fields obtained by subtracting the number of the code input on the displayed code input screen and the number matching the authentication code is displayed.

  According to this configuration, when redisplaying the code input screen, the display unit uses the code input field displayed on the code input screen displayed immediately before and the code input on the code input screen displayed immediately before Displays the number of code entry fields minus the number that matches the code. Thereby, it is possible to grasp how many additional codes are required to print all the print data. Therefore, convenience can be enhanced by transmitting a message to the user (sender) in code input.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first to third aspects of the present invention, the image forming unit includes an image forming unit that forms an image based on the printing data, and the image forming unit includes the printing in the displayed list. When there is an input for designating data for printing, printing is performed based on the designated printing data.

  According to this configuration, the image forming unit performs printing based on the designated print data when there is an input designating the print data in the displayed list. Thus, printing is performed in a state where the user is in front of the image forming apparatus and can be prevented from being taken away by a third party. Accordingly, information security safety can be improved.

Note that the present invention communicates with an information processing apparatus as an external device, receives a print data with an authentication code from the external device, and stores the print data received by the communication unit. A storage unit for storing, a display unit for displaying a list of information on the print data including at least the data name of the print data for each print data, and an input for processing the print data And an input unit that accepts an input for display content on the display unit, and the display unit displays a code input screen for inputting codes before displaying the list, and the code is displayed on the input unit. If There entered, with the only authentication code of the print data attached information displayed on the list, the authentication code does not match the entered code matches the entered code And an image forming apparatus to the information of the printing data is not displayed on the list that has an input device for inputting the authentication code, the image forming the print data to which the authentication code is attached It can also be regarded as an image forming system including an information processing apparatus that transmits information to the apparatus .

  According to this configuration, as in the first aspect, the information security (security) of the image forming system is improved by preventing the third party from confirming information such as the data name of the print data. Can do.

  As described above, when displaying information such as the data name of the print data, the code is required to be input before the data name of the print data is displayed. Thereby, the third party cannot confirm the information of the printing data. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that is highly safe in information security and easy to operate.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an image forming system according to a first embodiment. 1 is a schematic front sectional view illustrating an example of a multifunction machine according to a first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image forming system according to a first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of display control in private printing according to the first embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the sender display screen which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the code input screen which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the printing data list screen which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of display control in private printing according to the second embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the code | cord | chord input screen which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the confirmation screen for confirming whether the code input screen which concerns on 2nd Embodiment is displayed again. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the code input screen of the redisplay which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the data list screen for printing which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, first, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The present invention can be applied to various image forming systems, and includes an image forming system including a multifunction peripheral 100 (corresponding to an image forming apparatus) and a PC 200 (corresponding to a personal computer, an external device, an information processing apparatus, for example). 400 will be described as an example. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Outline of image forming system 400)
First, an example of an image forming system 400 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image forming system 400 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  A multifunction device 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a scanner function, a copy function, a print function, a FAX function, and the like. Then, as shown in FIG. 1, the PC 200 is communicably connected to the multifunction device 100. For example, each PC 200 and the multifunction peripheral 100 are connected by a network. Note that the PC 200 and the multifunction device 100 can be directly connected using a cable (for example, a USB cable) without using a network.

  Each PC 200 includes an input device 201 such as a keyboard (a mouse is not shown) and a display 202. Driver software for using the multifunction device 100 as a printer is installed in a storage device 203 (see FIG. 3) such as an HDD in each PC 200. A user can attach an authentication code (password) to print data to be transmitted to the multi-function peripheral 100 by activating the driver software and operating the driver software.

  The printing data includes setting data such as paper used for printing, image data to be printed, an authentication code, and the like, and each PC 200 transmits the data to the multifunction device 100. The multi-function device 100 receives this print data and executes printing (printer function).

(Outline of image forming apparatus)
Next, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic front sectional view showing an example of the multi-function device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the multifunction peripheral 100 of the present embodiment has a document cover 101 at the top, and the main body of the multifunction peripheral 100 includes an operation panel 1, an image reading unit 102, a paper feeding unit 2, and a conveyance path 3. , An image forming unit 4, a fixing unit 5 and the like are provided.

  First, as indicated by a broken line in FIG. 2, the operation panel 1 is provided above the front surface of the multi-function device 100. The operation panel 1 includes a liquid crystal display unit 6 (corresponding to a display unit) that displays the state of the multifunction peripheral 100 and various messages. The liquid crystal display unit 6 can display one or a plurality of keys for performing function selection, setting, character input, and the like. Further, the liquid crystal display unit 6 is provided with a touch panel unit 61 (for example, a resistance film type, which corresponds to an input unit). The touch panel unit 61 is for detecting the position and coordinates of the part pressed on the liquid crystal display unit 6. The operation panel 1 is also provided with a start key 11 for instructing the start of execution of various functions such as copying and a numeric keypad 12 for inputting numbers.

  Further, the operation panel 1 is provided with a print box key 13 for displaying printing data stored in the multi-function device 100 and a sender thereof. The sender who sent the print data with the authentication code from the PC 200 presses the print box key 13 to open the print job box and perform various operations using the operation panel 1 to print the print data. Can be done. As described above, the operation panel 1 is also provided with various hardware keys (corresponding to the input unit) such as the start key 11, the numeric keypad 12, and the print box key 13.

  The document cover 101 has a fulcrum in the depth direction in FIG. 2 and can be opened and closed in the vertical direction. The document cover 101 presses the document placed on the placement reading contact glass 102A when the document is copied. The image reading unit 102 reads a document and forms image data of the document. In the image reading unit 102, an optical system member (not shown) such as an exposure lamp, a mirror, a lens, and an image sensor (for example, CCD) is provided. In place of the document cover 101, a document conveying device that automatically and continuously conveys the loaded documents one by one toward the reading position (feed reading contact glass 102B) of the image reading unit 102 may be provided. Good.

  Then, using these optical system members, the document placed on the placement reading contact glass 102A is irradiated with light, and the output value of each pixel of the image sensor receiving the reflected light of the document is A / D converted. Then, image data is generated. The multi-function device 100 can perform printing based on image data obtained by reading (copy function).

  The paper feed unit 2 stores a plurality of sheets (for example, various sheets such as copy sheets, plain sheets, recycled sheets, thick sheets, and OHP sheets) and feeds them one by one to the conveyance path 3. The paper feed unit 2 includes a cassette 21 on which stored paper is placed (in FIG. 2, the upper one is denoted by 21A and the lower one is denoted by 21B). In addition, a feed roller 22 that is rotationally driven in order to send it out from the cassette 21 to the transport path 3 is provided (in FIG. 2, the upper one is denoted by 22A and the lower one is denoted by 22B). For example, at the time of printing, the paper feed roller 22 is driven to rotate, and the sheets required for printing are sent out one by one to the conveyance path 3.

  The transport path 3 is a path for transporting paper from the paper feed unit 2 to the discharge tray 31. An image forming unit 4, a fixing unit 5 and the like are arranged on the sheet conveyance path. In the conveyance path 3, a guide for guiding the paper, a pair of conveyance rollers 32 and 33 that are rotationally driven during the conveyance of the sheet, and the conveyed sheet are made to wait in front of the image forming unit 4, and toner A registration roller pair 34 and the like for feeding paper at the timing of image formation are provided.

  The image forming unit 4 forms a toner image based on the image data, and transfers the toner image to the conveyed paper. For this reason, the image forming unit 4 includes a photosensitive drum 41 supported so as to be rotatable in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 2, and a charging device 42, an exposure device 43, and a developing unit disposed around the photosensitive drum 41. A device 44, a transfer roller 45, a cleaning device 46, and the like are provided.

  The toner image formation and transfer process will be described. A photosensitive drum 41 provided at substantially the center of the image forming unit 4 and driven to rotate in a predetermined direction is a charging device provided obliquely above and to the right of the photosensitive drum 41 in FIG. 42 is charged to a predetermined potential. In FIG. 4, an exposure device 43 is provided on the right side of the charging device 42, outputs a laser beam based on the image data, scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 41, and an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data. Form. As the image data, image data obtained by the image reading unit 102, image data transmitted from an external PC 200 or a counterpart FAX apparatus 300 (see FIG. 3) connected via a network or the like is used.

  In FIG. 2, a developing device 44 provided diagonally to the right of the photosensitive drum 41 supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 41 and develops it. The transfer roller 45 provided on the left side of the photosensitive drum 41 is pressed against the photosensitive drum 41 to form a nip. The sheet enters the nip while being timed according to the toner image. When the sheet enters, a predetermined voltage is applied to the transfer roller 45, and the toner image on the photosensitive drum 41 is transferred to the sheet. The cleaning device 46 removes the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 41 after the transfer.

  The fixing unit 5 fixes the toner image transferred to the paper. The fixing unit 5 in the present embodiment is mainly composed of a heating roller 51 and a pressure roller 52 containing a heating element. The heating roller 51 and the pressure roller 52 are pressed to form a nip. Then, as the sheet passes through the nip, the toner on the sheet surface is melted and heated, and the toner image is fixed on the sheet. The paper after toner fixing is discharged to the discharge tray 31. In this way, image formation (printing) is performed when the copy function and printer function are used.

(Hardware configuration of image forming system 400)
Therefore, an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming system 400 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming system 400 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the PC 200 will be described. Although a plurality of PCs 200 can be connected to the multifunction peripheral 100, for convenience, only one PC 200 is shown in FIG.

  The PC 200 includes therein a processing unit 204 that performs data processing and control in the PC 200. The processing unit 204 is composed of, for example, a substrate on which a CPU and various chips are mounted. The storage device 203 includes, for example, an HDD, a flash ROM, and a RAM, and stores, for example, a control program for the PC 200 and driver software for the multifunction peripheral 100. The input device 201 is a keyboard or a mouse, for example, and is an input interface to the PC 200. The display 202 displays various screens. For example, when the driver software is activated, a screen related to print settings in the multifunction peripheral 100 is displayed. The data communication unit 205 is an interface for connecting to another PC 200, the multifunction device 100, or a network, and includes a communication chip, a connector, and the like.

  Regarding the present invention, the information processing apparatus (for example, the PC 200) in the image forming system 400 of the present embodiment has an input device 201 for inputting an authentication code, and print data to which the authentication code is attached. Data is transmitted from the data communication unit 205 to the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100).

  Next, the multifunction device 100 will be described. A control unit 7 is provided in the multifunction peripheral 100. The control unit 7 controls the operation of the multifunction peripheral 100 and includes, for example, a CPU 71, an image processing unit 72, and the like. The control unit 7 is divided into a plurality of functions, such as a main control unit that performs overall control and image processing, and an engine control unit that controls ON / OFF of a motor that rotates an image forming and various rotating bodies. Seeds may be provided.

  The CPU 71 is a central processing unit, and controls each unit of the multifunction peripheral 100 based on programs and data stored in the storage unit 73 and developed. The image processing unit 72 performs various types of image processing on image data to be printed and image data transmitted to the external PC 200 or the counterpart FAX apparatus 300.

  The storage unit 73 includes, for example, a ROM, a RAM, and an HDD, and is configured by combining nonvolatile and volatile storage devices. The storage unit 73 stores various programs and data for controlling the multifunction peripheral 100, various data such as setting data and image data. For example, print data with an authentication code transmitted from each PC 200 is stored in the HDD of the storage unit 73.

  The control unit 7 is connected to the operation panel 1, the image reading unit 102, the paper feeding unit 2, the conveyance path 3, the image forming unit 4, the fixing unit 5, and the like through a bus, a signal line, and the like. To control the operation of the multifunction peripheral 100.

  The operation panel 1 of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment includes, for example, a display control unit 8, a memory 14, a driver circuit 15, a liquid crystal display unit 6, and a touch panel unit 61. The display control unit 8 is configured by a CPU, an IC, and the like, and controls display on the liquid crystal display unit 6. Specifically, for example, the display control unit 8 controls the display by giving screen image data and instructions to the driver circuit 15 that drives the liquid crystal display unit 6 and controls the display. Further, the display control unit 8 receives the output of the touch panel unit 61 and specifies the coordinates pressed on the liquid crystal display unit 6. For example, data such as a table indicating correspondence between the output of the touch panel unit 61 and coordinates is stored in the memory 14.

  The display control unit 8 identifies and recognizes the pressed key by, for example, comparing the coordinates of the pressed position with the image data of various screens displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 6. In this way, the user can make settings for using each function such as copying. For example, the display control unit 8 recognizes the set content and transmits the content to the control unit 7 of the main body. As a result, the control unit 7 causes each unit in the multifunction peripheral 100 to perform an operation reflecting the setting contents on the operation panel 1.

  Further, the screen and image data displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 6 are stored in, for example, the memory 14 in the operation panel 1. Then, every time a key or the like displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 6 is pressed, the display control unit 8 reads the screen to be displayed and the image data of the image from the memory 14. Various hard keys (start key and print box key 13) provided on the operation panel 1 are also connected to the display control unit 8, and the display control unit 8 recognizes that various keys have been pressed and controls to that effect. To part 7.

  Furthermore, the control unit 7 is connected to a communication unit 74 including various connectors, sockets, a communication control chip, and the like. The communication unit 74 communicatively connects the PC 200 or the partner FAX apparatus 300 to the multifunction peripheral 100 via a network, a public line, or the like. For example, data including image data can be transmitted to an external PC 200 or a counterpart FAX apparatus 300 (Internet FAX may be used) (scanner function, FAX function). Printing can also be performed based on image data from the PC 200 or the counterpart FAX apparatus 300 (printer function, FAX function). In particular, regarding the printer function, the communication unit 74 receives print data to which an authentication code is attached from the PC 200. As described above, the MFP 100 includes a plurality of functions among a copy function, a printer function, a scan function, and a FAX function.

(Private print)
Next, an example of a private print according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of display control in private printing according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the sender display screen 91 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the code input screen 92 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a print data list screen 93 (corresponding to a list) according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the image forming system 400 of the present embodiment has a private print function from the viewpoint of taking away printed materials by a third party and preventing unauthorized persons from viewing confidential documents. In the private print, each user attaches an authentication code (password) from the PC 200 and transmits print data. The multifunction peripheral 100 that has received the print data does not immediately print but stores and stores it in the storage unit 73. Then, the multifunction device 100 performs printing upon receiving an input of an authentication code (password). As a result, printing is performed in a state where there is a sender of printing data near the multi-function peripheral 100, and a third party is prevented from taking away the printed matter.

  Accordingly, the flow of display control in private printing will be described with reference to FIG. 4, and the screen displayed on the operation panel 1 in private printing will also be described.

  First, the start of FIG. 4 is a state in which the printing data with the authentication code is accumulated and stored in the storage unit 73 of the multifunction peripheral 100. Specifically, a person who wants to print operates an application that handles image data, document data, an electronic document, and the like on the PC 200 and issues a print instruction. At this time, on the screen for print setting displayed on the display 202 of the PC 200 by the driver software of the multi-function device 100, a setting for attaching an authentication code (password) is performed using the input device 201 (for example, keyboard) of the PC 200. be able to. For example, the authentication code is an arbitrary four-digit number. The authentication code may include characters and symbols, and the number of digits is not limited to four digits. The authentication code can be changed for each print data.

  When the setting for attaching the authentication code to the print data is made, the PC 200 attaches the authentication code to the print data and transmits the print data to the multifunction peripheral 100. The communication unit 74 of the multifunction peripheral 100 receives the print data. And the control part 7 confirms whether the code for authentication is attached | subjected to the data for printing. If an authentication code is attached, the control unit 7 does not immediately perform print processing control, but stores it in the storage unit 73. On the other hand, if the authentication code is not attached, the control unit 7 operates the image processing unit 72, the image forming unit 4, and the like, and printing based on the print data is executed.

  As described above, at the start of FIG. 4, the MFP 100 (the storage unit 73 thereof) stores printing data with an authentication code for private printing. Then, when the print box key 13 is pressed or the liquid crystal display unit 6 is operated, the display control unit 8 displays the sender display screen 91 on the liquid crystal display unit 6 as shown in FIG. # 1).

  For display on the sender display screen 91, for example, data indicating the sender of the printing data stored in the storage unit 73 is sent from the control unit 7 to the display control unit 8. When receiving the printing data, the control unit 7 and the communication unit 74 confirm the transmission source (understand the sender), and the storage unit 73 also stores data indicating the sender in association with the printing data. Remember. Alternatively, the control unit 7 may confirm information indicating the sender attached to the print data.

  On the sender display screen 91 in step # 1, sender names are displayed side by side in the vertical direction (in the example shown in FIG. 5, Ko0890 and four others). On the sender display screen 91, the sender of the printing data (the person who intends to print) selects his / her name and presses the open key K1. In other words, the display control unit 8 recognizes that an input for designating the sender has been performed on the sender display screen 91 by the touch panel unit 61 (step # 2).

  When the sender designation input is performed in step # 2, the display control unit 8 displays a code input screen 92 as shown in FIG. 6 on the liquid crystal display unit 6 (step # 3). Then, the user inputs a code (password) using the numeric keypad 12 or the like, and presses the OK key K2 after the input is completed. By pressing the OK key K2, the display control unit 8 recognizes that a code has been input (step # 4).

  Then, the display control unit 8 transmits the input code to the control unit 7, and the control unit 7 compares the authentication code attached to the print data with the input code and prints that match. Whether there is data for use is checked (step # 5). Note that the authentication code attached to the print data and the input code are compared and verified only for print data relating to the sender designated on the sender display screen 91.

  In this description, an example in which the control unit 7 compares and collates the authentication code with the code input to the operation panel 1 will be described. For example, the control unit 7 is attached to each print data. The authentication code may be given to the display control unit 8, and the display control unit 8 may compare and verify the authentication code and the input code.

  If there is no print data with a matching authentication code (No in step # 5), the control unit 7 notifies the display control unit 8 of the fact, and the display control unit 8 displays the sender display screen. 91 is displayed (return to step # 1). On the other hand, if there is print data with a matching authentication code (Yes in step # 5), the display control unit 8 displays a print data list screen 93 as shown in FIG. (Step # 6 → End). Then, an instruction for printing or the like is given on the print data list screen 93.

  When the print data list screen 93 is displayed, for example, the control unit 7 gives the display control unit 8 information related to the print data to which the authentication code that matches the input code is attached. For example, the information given to the display control unit 8 includes the data name of the print data, the reception date / time of the print data (transmission date / time from the PC 200), and other types of information such as the number of pages and the paper size. May be given.

  That is, the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100) of the image forming system 400 according to the present invention includes a communication unit 74 that receives print data to which an authentication code is attached from an external device (for example, the PC 200), and a communication unit. The storage unit 73 that accumulates and stores the print data received by 74, and a display unit (liquid crystal display) that displays a list (print data list screen 93) including at least the data name of the print data for each print data. Unit 6), an input for processing the print data, and an input unit (such as touch panel unit 61) that accepts an input for the display content on the display unit. When the code input screen 92 for inputting the code is displayed and a code is input to the input unit, a list of print data (printing) with an authentication code that matches the input code is displayed. To display the data list screen 93).

  Thus, unlike the prior art, the code input screen 92 is displayed before the print data list screen 93 is displayed. Thereby, even the data name of the printing data can be prevented from being seen by a third party.

  The operation on the print data list screen 93 and the processing for the operation will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, the print data list display area 93F displays a list of data names and reception dates and times of print data in which the input code matches the authentication code. FIG. 7 exemplifies data names of print data such as “meeting material” and “order book”.

  A check box 93C is provided on the left side of the print data displayed in the print data list display area 93F. When the printing data is pressed, the display control unit 8 causes the liquid crystal display unit 6 to display a check in the check box 93C. As a result, the print data is selected.

  Further, below the print data list display area 93F, three keys of a delete key K3, a print key K4, and a detail key K5 are displayed side by side. When the delete key K3 is pressed, the display control unit 8 sends an instruction to delete the selected print data to the control unit 7. In response to this, the control unit 7 deletes the printing data selected from the storage unit 73. As a result, the selected printing data cannot be printed.

  When the print key K4 is pressed, the display control unit 8 sends a print instruction for the selected print data to the control unit 7. In response to this, the control unit 7 reads the selected printing data from the storage unit 73 and causes the image forming unit 4 or the like to perform printing (printer function). That is, the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100) according to the present invention includes an image forming unit 4 that forms an image based on print data, and the image forming unit 4 displays a displayed list (print data list screen). 93), when printing data is designated, printing is performed based on the designated printing data. Further, when the detail key K5 is pressed, the display control unit 8 asks the control unit 7 for detailed information on the selected print data. In response to this, the control unit 7 reads out the file information (for example, data size, creator, etc.) of the selected printing data from the storage unit 73 and gives it to the display control unit 8. Then, the display control unit 8 displays the given information.

  When the close key K6 provided below the three keys is pressed, the display control unit 8 stops displaying the print data list screen 93, for example, displays the initial setting screen, It will be in the standby state which accepts input.

  In this way, according to the present invention, the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) displays the code input screen 92 for inputting codes before displaying the list (print data list screen 93). When a code is input to a part (touch panel part 61 or the like), a list of print data with an authentication code that matches the input code is displayed. As a result, the code is requested to be input before the data name of the printing data is displayed. Further, only the information of the printing data with the authentication code corresponding to the input code is displayed. Accordingly, information such as the data name of the printing data cannot be confirmed by a third party, and the security (confidentiality) in information security can be improved.

  Further, when there is an input for designating print data in the displayed list (print data list screen 93), the image forming unit 4 performs printing based on the designated print data. Thus, printing is performed in a state where the user is in front of the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100) and can be prevented from being taken away by a third party. Accordingly, information security safety can be improved. Further, the present invention can be regarded as an image forming system 400 including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus (for example, PC 200), and prevents confirmation of information such as the data name of printing data by a third party. Information security (security) of the image forming system 400 can be improved.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, an example of a private print according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of display control in private printing according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the code input screen 92 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen 94 for confirming whether or not to redisplay the code input screen 92 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the re-displayed code input screen 92 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a print data list screen 93 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment, the case where there is one type of code (password) input on the code input screen 92 has been described. However, even when the same person transmits print data, the PC 200 can be used to attach a different authentication code for each print data. Therefore, in the second embodiment, it is possible to input a plurality of codes at a time on the code input screen 92, thereby facilitating private print operations.

  Except for points described below as differences, the second embodiment, such as the hardware configuration of the image forming system 400, may be the same as the first embodiment. In view of this, parts common to the first embodiment and the second embodiment are omitted from the illustration and description because they use the description in the first embodiment unless otherwise described.

  Accordingly, the flow of display control in private printing in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 8, and the screen displayed on the operation panel 1 in private printing will also be described.

  First, the start of FIG. 8 is a state in which the printing data with the authentication code attached is stored and stored in the storage unit 73 of the multi-function peripheral 100, as in the first embodiment. The display control unit 8 displays the same sender display screen 91 (see FIG. 5) as that in the first embodiment by pressing the print box key 13 or operating the liquid crystal display unit 6. 6 is displayed (step # 21). Note that the communication (data exchange indicating the sender) between the display control unit 8 and the control unit 7 on the sender display screen 91 may be the same as in the first embodiment. The display control unit 8 also recognizes that an input for designating the sender has been performed on the sender display screen 91 by the touch panel unit 61 (step # 22), as in the first embodiment. It is the same.

  When the sender designation input is performed in step # 22, the display control unit 8 transmits data indicating the designated sender to the control unit 7, and also displays the authentication code in the printing data of the designated sender. Data indicating the number of types is received from the control unit 7. That is, the display control unit 8 confirms the number of types of authentication codes (step # 23), and the display control unit 8 displays a code input screen 92 as shown in FIG. 9 on the liquid crystal display unit 6 ( Step # 24).

  In the present embodiment, the number of code input fields 921 corresponding to the number of types of authentication codes is displayed on the code input screen 92 for each sender (step # 24). FIG. 9 shows an example of the code input screen 92 when there are four types of authentication codes and four code input fields 921 are displayed. As described above, in the present embodiment, the number of code input fields 921 to be displayed depends on the required number of authentication codes when displaying a list of print data transmitted from the sender to the multifunction peripheral 100. Change dynamically. Note that there is one type of code entered in one code input field 921.

  In other words, the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) displays the sender of the print data, and after the sender has been selected for the input unit (touch panel unit 61, etc.), the sender attached the print data. The same number of code input fields 921 as the number of authentication code types are displayed on the code input screen 92.

  For example, by pressing the code input field 921, the code input field 921 to be input is designated, and the code is input using the numeric keypad 12. For example, when a correct code is input to all of the code input fields 921, the display control unit 8 displays a print data list screen 93 indicating all the print data transmitted from the PC 200 by the sender on the liquid crystal display unit 6. (See FIG. 12).

  Therefore, when the OK key K2 is pressed on the code input screen 92, the display control unit 8 confirms whether the input code matches all kinds of authentication codes regarding the sender (step # 25). . Specifically, the display control unit 8 transmits all input codes to the control unit 7, and the control unit 7 compares the authentication code attached to the print data with the input code. , Collate. Then, the control unit 7 sends, for example, data indicating whether or not all types of authentication codes match and the number of authentication codes that do not match the number of matching authentication codes to the display control unit 8. Send the indicated data. For example, in this way, the display control unit 8 confirms step # 25.

  In this description, an example in which the control unit 7 compares and collates the authentication code with the code input to the operation panel 1 will be described. For example, the control unit 7 performs printing for each sender. All of the authentication codes attached to the authentication data may be given to the display control unit 8, and the display control unit 8 may compare and verify the authentication code and the input code.

  If the codes input on the code input screen 92 do not match all types of authentication codes (No in step # 25), the display control unit 8 determines that the codes input on the code input screen 92 are all types. A confirmation screen 94 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 6 for confirming that it does not match the authentication code and whether to re-enter the code (step # 26). That is, if there is print data to which an authentication code different from the code input on the code input screen 92 is present, the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) determines whether or not to redisplay the code input screen 92. A confirmation screen 94 for confirmation is displayed.

  An example of the confirmation screen 94 for re-inputting the code is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the display control unit 8 confirms the number of print data that does not match (or the number of authentication codes that do not match) for the person who entered the code, and whether to input the code again. The text is displayed on the confirmation screen 94. The display control unit 8 confirms whether or not the code input screen 92 should be displayed again by pressing the Yes key K7 or No key K8 displayed on the confirmation screen 94 (step # 27).

  If the Yes key K7 is pressed and the code input screen 92 is redisplayed (Yes in Step # 27), the display control unit 8 uses the authentication code that does not match the previous code input for the code input person. A code input screen 92 showing code input fields 921 for the number of codes is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 6 (step # 28). In other words, on the previous code input screen 92, the portion that matches the input code and the authentication code is regarded as a correct code input, and the number of codes for input is reduced. That is, when the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) redisplays the code input screen 92 based on the confirmation screen 94, the code displayed immediately before is determined from the number of code input fields 921 on the code input screen 92 displayed immediately before. The number of code input fields 921 obtained by subtracting the number of codes entered on the input screen 92 and the number of matching codes is displayed. Then, the process returns to step # 25.

  FIG. 11 shows an example in which the code input field 921 is reduced on the code input screen 92 displayed again. FIG. 11 shows an example of the code input screen 92 redisplayed after the code input screen 92 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed first. For example, in the code input screen 92 shown in FIG. 9, when only two of the four codes are input and the authentication code does not match, the re-displayed code input screen 92 is shown in FIG. Then, only the input of the remaining two codes is required. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience of requiring the same code to be input a plurality of times.

  On the other hand, when the codes input on the code input screen 92 match all types of authentication codes (Yes in step # 25), and the No key K8 is pressed, the code input screen 92 is displayed again. If there is not (No in step # 27), the display control unit 8 displays the print data list screen 93 for only the print data in which the input code matches the authentication code as shown in FIG. (Step # 29 → End). The input unit (touch panel unit 61 or the like) accepts input of a plurality of codes, and the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) displays a code input screen 92 for inputting a plurality of codes and is inputted. The print data with the authentication codes that match a plurality of codes are displayed together in a list (print data list screen 93). Note that the print data list screen 93 is instructed to print, delete, confirm details, etc., as in the first embodiment.

  When the print data list screen 93 is displayed, for example, the control unit 7 gives the display control unit 8 information related to the print data to which the authentication code that matches the input code is attached. For example, the information given to the display control unit 8 includes the name of the print data, the reception date / time of the print data (transmission date / time from the PC 200), and the like, as in the first embodiment.

  Thus, unlike the prior art, the code input screen 92 is displayed before the print data list screen 93 is displayed. Thereby, even the data name of the printing data can be prevented from being seen by a third party.

  In some cases, different authentication codes are attached even to print data transmitted by the same person. Therefore, for example, when printing of a plurality of printing data is used, and it is necessary to input a plurality of codes, if only one type of code can be input, an operation procedure of code input → printing is performed. Multiple repetitions are required. However, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) displays and inputs a code input screen 92 for inputting a plurality of codes. The print data with the authentication codes that match the plurality of codes are displayed together in a list (print data list screen 93). As a result, a plurality of print data can be authenticated at a time. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the same operation from being repeated, to facilitate the operation, and to improve the convenience of the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100).

  In addition, the display unit (liquid crystal display unit 6) displays on the code input screen 92 as many code input fields 921 as the number of types of authentication codes attached to the print data. Thereby, it is possible to grasp how many codes need to be input in order to print all of the print data. In addition, when there is print data with an authentication code different from the code input on the code input screen 92, the display unit confirms whether or not to redisplay the code input screen 92 94 is displayed. Thereby, in order to print the remaining print data, the user can recognize that a code different from the previously input code is required. Therefore, the convenience in code input can be improved. When the code input screen 92 is redisplayed, the display unit uses the code input field 921 displayed on the code input screen 92 displayed immediately before and the code input on the code input screen 92 displayed just before and the authentication input. The number of code input fields 921 obtained by subtracting the number corresponding to the code is displayed. Thereby, it is possible to grasp how many additional codes are required to print all the print data. Therefore, convenience can be enhanced by transmitting a message to the user (sender) in code input.

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

  The present invention is applicable to an image forming apparatus having a display unit and an input unit such as the operation panel 1 and an image forming system including an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Multifunctional device (image forming apparatus) 1 Operation panel 4 Image forming part 6 Liquid crystal display part (display part)
61 Touch Panel Unit (Input Unit) 7 Control Unit 73 Storage Unit 74 Communication Unit 92 Code Input Screen 921 Code Input Field 93 Print Data List Screen (List) 94 Confirmation Screen 200 PC (External Device, Information Processing Device) 201 Input Device 400 Image forming system

Claims (4)

A communication unit for receiving print data with an authentication code attached from an external device;
A storage unit for accumulating and storing the print data received by the communication unit;
A display unit that displays a list of information of the print data including at least the data name of the print data for each of the print data;
An input for processing the print data; and an input unit that receives an input to display content on the display unit;
The display unit displays a code input screen for inputting codes before displaying the list. When a code is input to the input unit, the authentication code that matches the input code is attached. Only the information on the print data is displayed on the list, the information on the print data with the authentication code not matching the input code is not displayed on the list ,
The input unit accepts input of a plurality of codes,
The display unit displays the code input screen for inputting a plurality of codes, and collects the print data with the authentication code that matches the plurality of input codes in the list. image forming apparatus and displaying Te. The display unit displays a sender of the printing data, and after the sender is selected for the input unit, the sender selects the type of the authentication code attached to the printing data. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the same number of code input fields as the number are displayed on the code input screen. A communication unit for receiving print data with an authentication code attached from an external device;
A storage unit for accumulating and storing the print data received by the communication unit;
A display unit that displays a list of information of the print data including at least the data name of the print data for each of the print data;
An input for processing the print data; and an input unit that receives an input to display content on the display unit;
The display unit displays a code input screen for inputting codes before displaying the list. When a code is input to the input unit, the authentication code that matches the input code is attached. Only the information on the print data is displayed on the list, the information on the print data with the authentication code not matching the input code is not displayed on the list,
When there is the print data with the authentication code different from the code input on the code input screen, the display unit confirms whether to redisplay the code input screen When displaying the screen and redisplaying the code input screen based on the confirmation screen, from the number of code input fields on the code input screen displayed immediately before, the code input screen displayed just before was input An image forming apparatus that displays the number of code input fields obtained by subtracting the number of codes and the number that matches the authentication code . An image forming unit that forms an image based on the printing data;
The image forming unit, when there is an input for designating the print data in the display the list, according to claim 1, wherein the printing is performed based on the designated said print data The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

Images