JP5678491B2 - Information processing system, image processing apparatus, print management server, method thereof, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing system, an image processing apparatus, a print management server, a method thereof, and a program, and more particularly to a technique for presenting a user with a possibility of an error relating to printing before printing. .

  In Patent Document 1, in a printing system in which a user terminal operated by a user and a printer are connected, print data generated using a printer driver installed in a client terminal is transmitted to the printer before printing. The printer driver acquires the job history with the print settings set in the print data, determines the error occurrence frequency in the print settings based on the acquired job history, and displays the result as a display screen of the client terminal. It is disclosed that a user is notified in advance of the possibility of an error by displaying on the screen.

  As described above, Patent Document 1 is premised on a mechanism in which a user terminal specifies a printer to perform printing and issues a print instruction to the specified printer.

JP 2009-9173 A

  However, for example, the print server stores a print job that is instructed to be output from the user terminal without specifying a printer that performs printing, and a printer that is authenticated by the IC card and permitted to use the print job from the print server. In the acquisition and printing mechanism, since the printer to be printed is not specified on the user terminal, it is not known which printer should determine the error occurrence frequency based on the job history, and an error occurs before printing. Conventionally, it has been difficult to notify a user of the possibility of occurrence. Therefore, it has been difficult to reduce the time required for handling a failure due to an error and for reprinting.

  Furthermore, when the above prior art idea is applied to this mechanism, it is possible to display the possibility of error occurrence for all printable printers on the display screen of the user terminal. As the number of errors increases, the possibility of the displayed error increases, and it becomes complicated for the user to check the error.

  Furthermore, since the recovery time differs depending on the type of error related to printing (for example, an error that causes the printing process to stop or an error that can be printed but the printing is dirty), what type of error is in advance? It has been difficult to notify a user in advance.

  Furthermore, it has been difficult in the past to present a user with a printer that is unlikely to cause an error when printing a print job instructed to be output from a user terminal.

  Furthermore, it has been difficult in the past to print a print job that has been instructed to be output from a user terminal and transmitted to another printer that is less prone to errors.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for presenting to a user whether or not a print result of print data is likely to fail before an instruction for printing is issued from an image processing apparatus.

The present invention, information including an image processing apparatus which performs a printing process by obtaining the print data stored in the print server, a print server for storing bibliographic information for managing the print data stored in the print server a processing system, the image processing apparatus, the user information indicating the user that are entered, and a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server According to the list transmission request transmitted from the print management server, the display unit can identify print data that may fail in the print result and print data that may not fail in the print result. Display means for displaying, wherein the print management server includes print data specifying information for specifying the print data, the user information, and print setting information. Print management storage means for storing bibliographic information associated with the printer information, error history information associated with the printer information and print setting information, and response to reception of the transmission request information for the list information from the image processing apparatus The printer included in the transmission request information included in the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the error history information stored in the print management storage unit According to the print setting information associated with the information, the print result in the image processing apparatus of the print data identified by the print data identification information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information may fail. Determination means for determining whether or not there is a print data characteristic of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information. Information, characterized in that it and a list transmitting means for transmitting the list information including the determination result by the determining means according to the print data identified in the image processing apparatus by the print data identification information.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to present to the user whether or not there is a high possibility that the print result of the print data will fail before issuing a print instruction from the image processing apparatus.

1 is a block diagram schematically showing a system configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing a hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing a hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus (multifunction machine) in FIG. 1. It is a schematic diagram explaining the whole flow of the output process in the system of this embodiment. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an authentication database 500 stored in an external memory 211 of the authentication server 200. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a bibliographic information database 600 stored in an external memory 211 of the print management server 600. FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a print job list request command 701, a print request command 702, and an LPR print command 703. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an error history table 800 stored in an external memory 211 of the print management server 600. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a successful printing history table 900 stored in an external memory 211 of the print management server 600. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a group table 1000 stored in an external memory 211 of the print management server 600. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a total result table. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print job list screen 1201 displayed on a display unit 320 of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a printable printer list screen 1301 displayed on the display unit 320 of the image processing apparatus. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the error registration screen 1400 displayed on the display part 320 of an image processing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st control processing procedure in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 2nd control processing procedure in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 3rd control processing procedure in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 4th control processing procedure in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process of the error total process in this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process of the error determination process in this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a system configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, a client PC 100, an authentication server 200, an image processing device (300, 400,...), A print server 500, and a print management server 600 communicate with each other via a network 700. Connected as possible.

  A printer driver is installed in the client PC 100. The printer driver generates print data (print job) based on data received from the application program, and transmits the generated print data to the print server 500 or the like. It has a function to do. The print data includes print setting information (print setting information) set by the user, the number of pages actually printed, and the like.

  The print server 500 has a function of receiving the print data from the client PC and storing it in a predetermined storage location.

  Further, after receiving the print data, the print server 500 analyzes the print data, and information (user name (login user name of the client PC), model) of each item in the record of the bibliographic information database 600 shown in FIG. Name (model name that can be printed), document ID (identification information for uniquely identifying the document), document name (print job name), print setting information (color printing (monochrome printing or color printing) Setting), the number of copies (setting how many copies to print), duplex printing (setting to perform single-sided printing or double-sided printing), bookbinding printing (setting whether to perform bookbinding printing), staple printing (Setting of whether or not to perform staple printing), etc.) and the like, and the like are stored in a predetermined storage location of the print management server 600.

  Further, when the print server 500 receives a print job output request (output instruction) from the print management server 600, the print server 500 can transmit the print job to the image processing apparatus instructed to output.

  The authentication server 200 includes an authentication database 500 (FIG. 5) in which a card manufacturing number (UID), which is identification information of an IC card, and a user name are stored in association with each other, and responds to an authentication request from the image processing apparatus. Authentication processing, and a function of transmitting the authentication result to the image processing apparatus.

  The image processing apparatus (300, 400...) Includes a card reader 319 for reading an IC card (storage medium). When an IC card held by the user is detected via the card reader 319, the IC card is detected. Has a function of reading a card manufacturing number (UID) stored in the card. The image processing apparatus transmits an authentication request including the read card manufacturing number (UID) to the authentication server 200, receives the authentication result from the authentication server 200, and instructs the user to use the image processing apparatus according to the authentication result. It has a function to decide whether to allow or not.

  When the user is authenticated and the use of the image processing apparatus is permitted, the image processing apparatus transmits a print job list acquisition request to the print management server 600, and the print job list information acquired from the print management server 600 A function for displaying a print job list screen according to the print job, a function for transmitting an output instruction for a print job selected by the user to the print management server 600, a function for performing print processing based on a print job received from the print server 500, A function of transmitting a registration request for error information to the print management server 600 is provided.

  Upon receiving bibliographic information from the print server 500, the print management server 600 stores the bibliographic information in a predetermined storage location (external memory) of the print management server 600, and obtains a print job list from the image processing apparatus. When a request is received, a function is provided that generates information on a list screen of print jobs that can be printed by the image processing apparatus using a print job that has been instructed by the user authenticated by the image processing apparatus.

  Further, the print management server 600 follows the print settings of a print job that can be printed by the image processing apparatus, and the error history table 800 stored in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600. A prediction function for predicting whether an error will occur when the print job is printed, a function for including a prediction result performed according to the prediction function in the information on the print job list screen, and transmitting the information to the image processing apparatus, and a user A function for transmitting an output instruction for the print job selected by the image processing apparatus to the print server 500, and a function for registering an error occurring in the image processing apparatus in the error history table 800. It has.

Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the client PC 100, the authentication server 200, the print server 500, and the print management server 600 illustrated in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the client PC 100, the authentication server 200, the print server 500, and the print management server 600 illustrated in FIG.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204. Further, the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 has a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) or an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as OS), which is a control program of the CPU 201, and functions executed by each server or each PC (information processing apparatus). Various programs and the like to be described later necessary for the realization are stored.

A RAM 203 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201. The CPU 201 implements various operations by loading a program or the like necessary for execution of processing from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the loaded program.

An input controller 205 controls input from an input unit 209 such as a keyboard (KB) or a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown). A video controller 206 controls display on the display unit 210 such as a CRT display (CRT) or a liquid crystal display.

A memory controller 207 is provided in an external storage device (hard disk (HD)), flexible disk (FD), or PCMCIA card slot for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, editing files, various data, and the like. Controls access to an external memory 211 such as a compact flash (registered trademark) memory connected via an adapter.

A communication I / F controller 208 is connected to and communicates with an external device via the network 700, and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP is possible.

Note that the CPU 201 enables display on the display unit 210 by executing outline font rasterization processing on a display information area in the RAM 203, for example. Further, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor (not shown) on the display unit 210.

Various programs to be described later for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211 and executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary. Further, files and various tables used when executing the program are also stored in the external memory 211.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the image processing apparatus (300, 400) shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the controller unit of the image processing apparatus (300, 400) shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 316 denotes a controller unit which is connected to a scanner 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer 312 functioning as an image output device, while being connected to a LAN (for example, the network 700 shown in FIG. 1) or a public line (WAN). ) (For example, PSTN or ISDN) to input / output image data and device information.

  In the controller unit 316, reference numeral 301 denotes a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system. A RAM 302 is a system work memory for the CPU 301 to operate, and is also a program memory for recording a program and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

  A ROM 303 stores a system boot program and various control programs. A hard disk drive (HDD) 304 stores various programs for controlling the system, image data, and the like.

  An operation unit interface (operation unit I / F) 307 is an interface unit with the operation unit (UI) 308, and outputs image data to be displayed on the display unit 320 of the operation unit 308 to the operation unit 308. The operation unit I / F 307 serves to transmit information (for example, information on a print instruction of a selected print job) input by the user (user) of the system from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301. Note that the operation unit 308 includes a display unit 320 having a touch panel, and various instructions can be given by a user pressing (touching with a finger or the like) a button displayed on the display unit.

  A network interface (Network I / F) 305 is connected to a network (LAN) and inputs / outputs data. A modem (MODEM) 306 is connected to a public line and inputs / outputs data such as FAX transmission / reception.

  Reference numeral 318 denotes an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE 1394, printer port, and RS-232C. In this embodiment, for reading an IC card required for authentication The card reader 319 is connected to the external I / F unit 318. The CPU 301 can control reading of information from the IC card by the card reader 319 via the external I / F 318, and can acquire information read from the IC card. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 309.

  Reference numeral 320 denotes an image bus interface (IMAGE BUS I / F), which is a bus bridge that connects the system bus 309 and an image bus 315 that transfers image data at high speed and converts the data structure.

  The image bus 315 is configured by a PCI bus or IEEE1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 315.

  A raster image processor (RIP) 310 develops vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image. A printer interface (printer I / F) 311 connects the printer 312 and the controller unit 316, and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. A scanner interface (scanner I / F) 313 connects the scanner 314 and the controller unit 316 and performs synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

  An image processing unit 317 performs correction, processing, and editing on input image data, and performs printer correction, resolution conversion, and the like on print output image data. In addition to this, the image processing unit 317 performs image data rotation and compression / decompression processing such as JPEG for multi-valued image data and JBIG, MMR, MH for binary image data.

  The scanner unit 314 illuminates an image on paper as a document and scans it with a CCD line sensor, thereby converting it into an electrical signal as raster image data. The original paper is set on the tray of the original feeder, and when the apparatus user gives a reading start instruction from the operation unit 308, the CPU 301 gives an instruction to the scanner 314, and the feeder feeds the original paper one by one to read the original image. I do.

  The printer unit 312 is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, and ink is ejected from a micro nozzle array directly on the paper. There is an inkjet method for printing an image, but any method may be used. The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 301. The printer unit 312 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has a paper cassette corresponding thereto.

  The operation unit 308 includes an LCD display unit 320, and a touch panel sheet is pasted on the LCD. The operation unit 308 displays an operation screen of the system, and when the displayed key is pressed, the position information is displayed on the operation unit I / O. This is transmitted to the CPU 301 via F307. The operation unit 308 includes, for example, a start key, a stop key, an ID key, a reset key, and the like as various operation keys.

  Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used when starting a document image reading operation. At the center of the start key, there are two color LEDs, green and red, which indicate whether or not the start key can be used. Further, the stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation in operation. The ID key of the operation unit 308 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is used when initializing settings from the operation unit.

  The card reader 319 reads information stored in an IC card (for example, Sony FeliCa (registered trademark)) under the control of the CPU 301, and reads the read information via the external I / F 318. The CPU 301 is notified.

  With the configuration described above, the image processing apparatus (300, 400) can transmit the image data read from the scanner 314 to the LAN 700, and print out the print data received from the LAN 700 by the printer 312.

  Also, the image data read from the scanner 314 can be faxed to the public line by the modem 306, and the image data received by fax from the public line can be output by the printer 312.

  Hereinafter, the overall flow of output processing in the system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, a normal printer driver is installed in each client PC 100, and a logical printer is added. Note that this logical printer has its print destination (print port) set in the print server 500.

  When the user gives a print instruction to the logical printer added to each client PC 100 and whose print destination is set in the print server 500, the output process of this embodiment is executed.

  The overall flow of the output process according to this embodiment will be described below.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the overall flow of output processing in the system of this embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 4, first, the user logs in to the client PC 100 ((1) -1), and from the application program executed on the client PC 100 to the logical printer corresponding to the printer driver set as the print destination. Give print instructions.

  In response to this print instruction, the application program of the client PC 100 transmits data to the printer driver via the graphic engine. The printer driver of the client PC 100 generates print data (print job) based on data received from the application program via the graphic engine. The client PC 100 transmits the generated print data to the print server 500 ((2) -1), and the print server 500 stores the print data in a predetermined storage location ((2) -2). Note that transmission from the client PC 100 to the print server 500 is performed using, for example, an LPR printing mechanism. At this time, the print server 500 does not transmit to the image processing apparatus even if the print data is stored in the predetermined storage location.

  Next, the print server 500 extracts (generates) bibliographic information data by analyzing the print data received from the client PC 100 and stored in the predetermined storage location ((2) -3). The (generated) bibliographic information data is transmitted to the print management server 600 and stored in a predetermined storage location (a preset directory) of the print management server 600 using a file sharing mechanism on the network ( (3) -1).

  The print management server 600 monitors the predetermined directory, and when the bibliographic information data is stored from the print server 500 in the predetermined directory, the bibliographic information data is analyzed to obtain the bibliographic information DB (printing). Registered in the external memory of the management server 600 (shown in FIG. 6 described later)) ((3) -2).

  Further, when the image processing apparatus 300 detects an IC card that can be read by the card reader 319, the image processing apparatus 300 reads the personal authentication information (card serial number (UID)) stored in the IC card and uses the read personal authentication information. It transmits to the authentication server 200 as an authentication request ((4) -1). The personal authentication information used for authentication may be any information as long as the information uniquely identifies the user. Here, the personal authentication information is described as an IC card manufacturing number (UID).

  When the authentication server 200 receives the personal authentication information from the image processing apparatus 300, the authentication server 200 performs an authentication process on the personal authentication information based on the authentication database 500 stored in the external memory 211 of the authentication server 200 ((4) -2). ), The authentication result is returned to the image processing apparatus 300 ((4) -3).

  If the authentication process is successful, the user name for logging in to the client PC 100 is transmitted as the authentication result.

  Next, when the image processing apparatus 300 receives an authentication result (user name to log in to the client PC 100) indicating that the authentication is successful from the authentication server 200, the image processing apparatus 300 transmits a print job list acquisition request to the print management server 600 ( (5) -1).

  The print job list acquisition request includes the name of the user who logs in to the client PC 100 (shown in FIG. 7 described later).

  When the print management server 600 receives a print job list acquisition request from the image processing apparatus 300, a record that matches the user name and printer name (or model name) included in the print job list acquisition request is displayed in the bibliographic information database. Search from 600 and extract.

  For each record (bibliographic information) extracted here, the print management server 600 includes information (error history table) including print settings included in the record, contents of each past error, and print settings in which the error has occurred. 800 (FIG. 8) or the tabulation result table (FIG. 11)) whether or not there is a possibility that an error will occur in printing the print job of the record, and what if there is a possibility that an error will occur It is determined (predicted) whether there is a possibility of an error ((5) -2).

  Then, the print management server 600 generates information for displaying a print job list screen (shown in FIG. 12 described later) including the determination result determined in (5) -2, and returns the information to the image processing apparatus 300 ( (5) -3).

  Upon receiving information for displaying the print job list screen from the print management server 600, the image processing apparatus 300 displays the print job list screen (FIG. 12) on the UI 321 of the operation unit 308 according to the information.

  When the user selects print data (print job) and issues a print instruction, the image processing apparatus 300 transmits a print request (output instruction) for the selected print data to the print management server 600 ( (6) -1). Note that this print request includes the login user name of the client PC 100 and a document ID for specifying (identifying) the print data (print job) (here, the time stamp is described as the document ID) (FIG. 7 described later). 702).

  When the print management server 600 receives a print data print request (output instruction) from the image processing apparatus 300, the print management server 600 obtains the bibliographic information of the print data for which the output instruction has been issued, the login user name (user name) of the client PC 100, and the print data. The document ID (time stamp) is used as a key to search from the bibliographic information database 600. Then, a print instruction for print data (print job) corresponding to (corresponding to) the bibliographic information obtained by the search is transmitted to the print server 500 ((6) -2).

  This print instruction is a print command including a document ID for specifying the corresponding print data (print job) (shown in FIG. 7 described later). The document ID (time stamp) described above is assigned when the print server 500 receives print data (print job) from the client PC 100 and is stored in the print server 500 in association with the print job.

  Upon receiving a print instruction from the print management server 600, the print server 500 transmits print data to the image processing apparatus 300 based on the print instruction and causes the image processing apparatus 300 to print (LPR printing) ((7) -1 ).

  Further, when the image processing apparatus 300 prints according to the print job (print data) received from the print server 500, the image processing apparatus 300 detects a device error, and if the device error cannot be printed normally Then, a request (error information registration request) for registering the error contents and the print setting contents of the print job in the print management server 600 is made ((8) -1).

  That is, the image processing apparatus 300 transmits error information including the document ID instructed to be printed by the image processing apparatus 300 and the error content to the print management server 600 as an error information registration request. Upon receiving this error information registration request, the print management server 600 searches for the bibliographic information database 600 using the document ID included in the error information registration request as a key, and specifies the error information registration request. The contents of the included error are registered (stored) in the error history table 800.

  Further, after the image processing apparatus 300 performs printing in accordance with the print job (print data) received from the print server 500, an error registration screen (FIG. 14) is displayed on the display unit 320. Then, the image processing apparatus 300 confirms the printed matter that has been printed by the user, and the user determines that printing has not been performed normally due to a printing error (such as print contamination) that is not a device error that the image processing apparatus 300 can detect. In this case, a registration instruction for the error content (such as print stains) is accepted by the user's operation via the error registration screen (FIG. 14). The image processing apparatus 300 that has received the registration instruction transmits to the print management server 600 the error content of the print error and the document ID of the printed print data as an error information registration request. Upon receiving this error information registration request, the print management server 600 searches for the bibliographic information database 600 using the document ID included in the error information registration request as a key, and specifies the error information registration request. The content of the included error is registered (stored) in the error history table 800 ((8) -2).

  Hereinafter, the processing procedure of the system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  Each process executed on the client PC 100 corresponding to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 15 to 20 is realized by the CPU 201 of the client PC 100 loading a program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  Each process executed by the print server 500 is realized by the CPU 201 of the print server 500 loading a program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  Each process executed by the image processing apparatus is realized by the CPU 201 of the image processing apparatus loading a program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the program.

  Each process executed by the authentication server 200 is realized by the CPU 201 of the authentication server 200 loading a program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the program.

  Each process executed by the print management server 600 is realized by the CPU 201 of the print management server 600 loading a program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a first control processing procedure in the present invention.

  In the client PC 100, in accordance with a print instruction from the user, the printer driver 150 of the client PC 100 generates print data (print job), transmits it to the print server 500, and issues a print instruction (step S1501).

  When the print server 500 receives a print job from the client PC 100 (step S1502), the print server 500 stores the print job in a predetermined storage area in the external memory 211 of the print server 500 (step S1503).

  Then, the print server 500 assigns a document ID (time stamp) for specifying the print job received from the client PC 100 to the print job, analyzes the data in the print job (step S1504), and prints the print job. A file including bibliographic information obtained from the job is generated (step S1505). Here, the bibliographic information includes “user name”, “model name” of the image processing apparatus capable of printing out, “document ID (time stamp)”, “document name (print job name)”, the print job The “print setting information”, which is the print setting information of the. Here, the “user name” indicates a login user ID (user name) of the client PC 100. For example, a Windows (registered trademark) login user ID is shown.

  Next, the print server 500 transmits a file including the bibliographic information generated in step S15050 to the print management server 600 (step S1506).

  Next, when the print management server 600 receives the file including the bibliographic information generated in step S15050 from the print server 500 (step S1507), the bibliographic information included in the file is stored in the bibliographic information database 600 (FIG. 6). Register with.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the bibliographic information database 600 stored in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600.

  The bibliographic information database 600 includes “user name”, “model name”, “document ID”, “document name”, print settings “color printing”, “number of copies”, “double-sided printing”, “bookbinding printing”, The print management server 600 registers bibliographic information included in the received file in one record of the bibliographic information database 600 in association with the corresponding item. “Document ID” or “document name” is also referred to as print data specifying information for specifying print data.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a second control processing procedure in the present invention.

  The second control processing procedure shown in FIG. 16 is executed after the first control processing procedure shown in FIG. 15 is executed.

  When the user holds an IC card over the IC card reader 319 connected to the image processing apparatus 300, the image processing apparatus 300 detects the IC card reader and detects the card manufacturing number (UID) stored in the IC card. ) (Personal authentication information) is acquired (step S1601). Then, the image processing apparatus 300 transmits an authentication request including the acquired card manufacturing number (UID) to the authentication server 200 (step S1602).

  When the authentication server 200 receives an authentication request including a card manufacturing number (UID) from the image processing apparatus 300 (step S1603), the card manufacturing number (UID) included in the authentication request is stored in the authentication database 500 (FIG. 5). It is determined whether or not the user has been authenticated (step S1604).

  The authentication server 200 stores the card manufacturing number (UID) included in the authentication request in the authentication database 500 (FIG. 5). The user name (user information) associated with the card manufacturing number (UID) and stored in the authentication database 500 is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 300 as an authentication result. On the other hand, if it is determined that the card manufacturing number (UID) is not stored in the authentication database 500 (FIG. 5), information indicating that the card has not been authenticated is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 300 as an authentication result (step S1605). ).

  When the image processing apparatus 300 receives the authentication result from the authentication server 200 (step S1606), the image processing apparatus 300 determines whether or not the authentication result indicates authentication and determines whether or not the user is authenticated (step S1606). S1607).

  If the image processing apparatus 300 indicates that the authentication result has not been authenticated and determines that the user has not been authenticated (step S1607: NO), the image processing apparatus 300 proceeds to step S1601. If it is determined that the authentication result indicates that the user has been authenticated (step S1607: YES), the print job list request command 701 shown in FIG. Is requested (step S1608).

  Here, the print job list request command 701 in FIG. 7 includes a command identifier indicating a request for the print job list screen (FIG. 12), the user name received from the authentication server 200 in step S1606, and the model name of the image processing apparatus 300. And a printer name (printer information) for specifying (identifying) the image processing apparatus. That is, transmission request information of list information including user information indicating a user and printer information indicating the image processing apparatus is transmitted to the print management server.

  When the print management server 600 receives the print job list request command 701 from the image processing apparatus 300 (step S1609), the print management server 600 uses the error history table 800 (FIG. 8) stored in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600. Then, a record (error information) in which the printer name and the user name included in the print job list request command 701 match is searched and extracted (acquired) (step S1610). Here, a record (error information) of a print job printed within a predetermined period from the present is extracted. For example, a record (error information) in which the printer name and the user name included in the print job list request command 701 match among the error information of the print job printed within one month from the present is searched and extracted ( get.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an error history table 800 (error history information) stored in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600.

  The error history table 800 includes an output date and time, a model name, a printer name, print setting information (“color printing”, “number of copies”, “double-sided printing”, “bookbinding printing”, “staple printing”, etc.), and error contents (“ Device error 1 (paper jam) ”,“ device error 2 (out of paper) ”,“ print error 1 (printed matter) ”,“ print error 2 (staple failure) ”, etc.).

  In other words, the error history table 800 indicates what type of print processing is performed (or attempted) on which image processing apparatus (or which model image processing apparatus) and what print setting. It remembers if an error occurred. These pieces of error information are registered by processing in step S1715 described later.

  The output date / time of the error history table 800 is the date / time when the image processing apparatus prints out. In FIG. 8, only the date printed is displayed, but it is also assumed that the printing time is also stored. The model name in the error history table 800 is the model name of the printed image processing apparatus. The printer name in the error history table 800 is the name of the printed image processing apparatus. Also, “color printing”, “number of copies”, “double-sided printing”, “bookbinding printing”, and “staple printing” in the error history table 800 are print setting information, and are print settings of a printed print job. In the example of FIG. 8, “◯” is stored in the print settings that are set to be executed, and “−” is stored in the print settings that are not set. In “color printing”, “color” is stored if color printing is set, and “monochrome” is stored if monochrome printing is set. Further, the “number of copies” stores the number of copies to be printed. Further, “◯” stored in “device error 1 (paper jam)” and “device error 2 (paper out)” is referred to as device error information. In addition, “◯” stored in “print error 1 (printed material stain)” and “print error 2 (staple failure)” is referred to as print error information.

  In the error history table 800, “device error 1 (paper jam)”, “device error 2 (out of paper)”, “print error 1 (printed matter)”, and “print error 2 (staple failure)” are respectively Indicates the details of the error that occurred. “◯” is stored in the item in which the error has occurred, and “-” is stored in the item in which the error has not occurred.

For example, “device error 1 (paper jam)” indicates a paper jam error in the image processing apparatus, and can be detected by the image processing apparatus. “Device error 2 (out of paper)” indicates that there is no paper for printing in the image processing apparatus, and the error can be detected by the image processing apparatus. “Print error 1 (dirt printed matter)” indicates an error in which the printed matter printed by the image processing apparatus is output in a dirty manner, and this error cannot be detected by the image processing apparatus. “Print error 2 (stapling defect)” is an error such as a misalignment of a plurality of sheets when stapled by the image processing apparatus. This error is also detected by the image processing apparatus. It is an error that cannot be done.
Returning to the description of FIG.

  Next, the print management server 600 performs an error totaling process on the records (error information) acquired in step S1610 as a target of tabulation (step S1611).

  Next, detailed processing of the error totaling processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a detailed process of the error totaling process in the present invention.

  The processing of each step in the flowchart shown in FIG. 19 is realized by the CPU 201 of the print management server 600 loading a program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  First, the print management server 600 executes the processing from step S1902 to step S1909 for each error item (content) of the record (error information) acquired in step S1610 (step S1901). For example, first, processing is performed on a record in which “device error 1 (paper jam)” is an error.

  Next, the print management server 600 receives the print job list request received in step S1609 from the print success history table 900 (FIG. 9) that stores the print settings of the print job in which no error has occurred for each printer name. A record (print success information) that matches the printer name included in the command 701 is acquired.

Here, a record (print success information) that matches the printer name included in the print job list request command 701 is retrieved from the print job records (print success information) printed within a predetermined period from the present time. To extract (acquire). For example, a record (print success information) that matches the printer name included in the print job list request command 701 is retrieved and extracted (acquired) from the print success information of the print job printed within one month from the present. To do.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a successful printing history table 900 stored in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600.

  The printing success history table 900 (FIG. 9) includes “output date / time”, “model name”, “printer name”, “print setting information (“ color printing ”,“ number of copies ”,“ double-sided printing ”,“ bookbinding printing ”). , “Staple printing”) ”. The successful printing information is information received from the image processing apparatus, and is registered in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600. That is, the print success history table 900 (FIG. 9) indicates that printing can be performed from this image processing apparatus or model without causing an error in this print setting.

  Next, the print management server 600 acquires from the print settings in which the error currently targeted, which is included in the record (error information) acquired in step S1610, has occurred, and the print success history table 900 (FIG. 9). The print settings of the record (print success information) are compared, and all the print settings in which an error has occurred that is different from the print settings of the print success information are specified (step S1902).

  Then, the print management server 600 determines whether or not the number of print settings identified as different in step S1902 is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value, and identifies print settings that are different from the threshold value. (Step S1903). For example, if “double-sided printing” is set as the print setting in which the current error has occurred as a print setting different from the print setting of the print success information, the record (error information) acquired in step S1610 is displayed. Among them, it is determined whether or not the number of records registered to execute “double-sided printing” in the print setting of the record in which the current error is registered is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value. Then, the print setting (for example, “double-sided printing”) determined to be greater than or equal to the threshold is specified.

  Since a plurality of print settings may be specified in step S1903, the print management server 600 executes the processing from step S1904 to step S1908 for each specified print setting.

  The print management server 600 determines whether or not the current print setting specified in step S1903 is the number of print copies (step S1905). If it is determined that the print setting is not the number of print copies, the print management server 600 is the current target. Are registered in the tabulation result table (FIG. 11) (error history information) (step S1906). Here, the tabulation result table is created for each printer name as shown in FIG. Therefore, in step S 1906, the printer name is registered in the tabulation result table included in the print job list request command 701 received in step S 1609.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tabulation result table in which tabulation results of the error tabulation processing of FIG. 19 are registered.

  FIG. 11A shows the details of an error that has occurred in the image processing apparatus (MFP 1 (printer name)) and the print settings that are set in the print job in which the error has occurred and are likely to cause an error. It is a registered total result table 1101. FIG. 11B shows the details of the error that has occurred in the image processing apparatus (MFP 2 (printer name)) and the print settings that have been set for the print job in which the error has occurred and that is likely to cause an error. Is a tabulation result table 1102 in which are registered.

  If the print management server 600 determines that the current print setting specified in step S1903 is the number of copies (step S1905: YES), the print management server 600 proceeds to step S1907.

  Next, the print management server 600 sets the maximum number of copies (maximum) among the records in the print success history table 900 that matches the printer name included in the print job list request command 701 received in step S1609. The minimum number of prints by comparing the number of print copies) with the value acquired in step S1610 and the record with the smallest print number (minimum print number) among the records that are currently targeted. It is determined whether the number of copies is greater than the maximum number of copies (step S1907).

  If the print management server 600 determines that the minimum number of copies is greater than the maximum number of copies, the print result server associates the minimum number of copies with the content of the error currently being processed, (FIG. 11) is registered (step S1907), and the process proceeds to step S1908. On the other hand, if it is determined that the minimum number of copies is not greater than the maximum number of copies, the process proceeds to step S1908.

  In step S1908, the next print setting specified in step S1903 is set as a processing target, and the process returns to step S1905. When the process is executed for all the print settings specified in step S1903, the process proceeds to step S1909.

  In step S1909, the process proceeds to step S1902 with the next error item in which an error has occurred being processed. Then, when the process from step S1902 to step S1908 is executed for all error items (contents) in which an error has occurred in the record acquired in step S1610, the error totaling process shown in FIG. 19 is terminated.

The above processing shown in FIG. 19 makes it possible to create the tabulation result table shown in FIG. As described above, in step S <b> 1611, a tabulation result table of printer names included in the print job list request command 701 received in step S <b> 1609 is created.
Returning to the description of FIG.

In step S1611, when the printer name tabulation result table included in the print job list request command 701 received in step S1609 is created, the process proceeds to step S1612 to execute error determination processing.
Detailed processing of the error determination processing is shown in FIG.

  Next, detailed processing of the error determination processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing detailed processing of error determination processing in the present invention.

  20 is realized by the CPU 201 of the print management server 600 loading the program stored in the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing it.

  First, the print management server 600 extracts (obtains) a record (bibliographic information) that matches the user name and model name included in the print job list request command 701 from the bibliographic information database 600 (FIG. 6) (step). S2001).

  The print management server 600 executes the processing from step S2003 to step S2011 for each bibliographic information acquired in step S2001.

  The print management server 600 determines whether there is currently a print setting in which the print setting information of the bibliographic information to be processed matches the print setting of the aggregation result table (FIG. 11) generated in step S1611 (step S2003). ).

  If it is determined that there is a matching print setting (step S2003: YES), the print management server 600 can generate all error contents stored as “O” in the matched print setting. It is determined as a peculiar error (step S2004).

  It is determined whether or not the error content determined in step S2004 is only a “device error” that can be detected by the image processing apparatus (step S2005).

  If it is determined that the error determined in step S2004 is only “device error” (step S2005: YES), the print management server 600 selects a print job corresponding to the bibliographic information that is currently processed in step S1601. As an error prediction as to whether an error will occur when printing is performed by the image processing apparatus that has detected the card, it is determined that “a device error is highly likely (“ ▲ ”)” (step S2008).

  If it is determined in step S2003 that there is no matching print setting (NO), the print management server 600 detects an IC card in step S1601 for a print job corresponding to the bibliographic information currently being processed. As an error prediction as to whether an error will occur when printing is performed by the image processing apparatus, it is determined that “the possibility that an error will occur is low (“ ◯ ”)” ”(step S2007).

  If the print management server 600 determines in step S2005 that the error content determined in step S2004 is not only “device error” that can be detected by the image processing apparatus (NO), the print management server 600 determines in step S2004. It is determined whether the error content is only a “print error” that the printer cannot detect (step S2006).

  If it is determined in step S2006 that there is only “print error” (YES), the print management server 600 displays a print job corresponding to the bibliographic information that is currently processed, and an image in which the IC card is detected in step S1601. As an error prediction as to whether an error will occur when printing is performed by the processing device, it is determined that “a print error that cannot be detected by the printer is likely to occur (“ Δ ”)” (step S2009).

  On the other hand, if the print management server 600 determines in step S2006 that there is not only “print error” (that is, it is determined that “◯” is stored in both “device error” and “print error”). If (NO), a print job corresponding to the bibliographic information that is currently processed is printed as an error prediction as to whether an error will occur when the image processing apparatus that detected the IC card in step S1601 is printed. It is determined that there is a high possibility that a printing error that cannot be detected will occur (“×”) ”(step S2010).

When the print management server 600 executes the processes of step S2007, step S2008, step S2009, and step S2010, the process shifts to step S2011, and executes the process of step S2003 with the next unprocessed bibliographic information as a processing target. To do. In addition, when the print management server 600 executes the processing from step S2003 to step S2010 for all the bibliographic information acquired in step S2001, the error determination processing ends.
Next, the description returns to FIG.

  In step S1612, the print management server 600 performs error prediction on whether an error occurs when the print data designated by the user is printed by the image processing apparatus that has detected the IC card in step S1601. Is displayed, and the list display information is transmitted to the image processing apparatus that has transmitted the print job list request command (step S1613).

  The list display information generated here includes the contents of the error prediction determined in step S2007, step S2008, step S2009, and step S2010 corresponding to each bibliographic information acquired in step S2001.

  Upon receiving the list display information (list information) from the print management server 600 (step S1614), the image processing apparatus displays a print job list screen (FIG. 12) according to the list display information (step S1615).

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print job list screen 1201 displayed on the display unit 320 of the image processing apparatus.

  FIG. 12 shows a document name 1202 which is the document name of the bibliographic information, the error prediction content 1203 determined in step S2007, step S2008, step S2009, and step S2010, the error content 1204 determined in step S2004, Is displayed.

  That is, the list display information generated in step S1613 includes such information and the document ID of each bibliographic information.

  The user confirms the print job list screen 1201 and selects a document (print job) to be printed. Specifically, the user selects which check box 1205, 1206, 1207, 1208 to specify which document (print job) is to be printed, and detects this by pressing the print button 1210. The image processing apparatus executes processing for printing a document designated by the user.

  By checking the print job list screen 1201, the user can grasp what kind of error can occur when printing is performed with an image processing apparatus holding an IC card.

In addition, the user confirms a document indicating that a device error or a print error may occur in the error prediction 1203, and when searching for a printer that is unlikely to cause an error, the user selects a document to be printed. By pressing a “printer button that is unlikely to cause an error” 1209, the image processing apparatus performs processing so as to search for a printer (image processing apparatus) that is unlikely to cause an error when printing the selected document. The search result can be displayed on the display unit 320 of the image processing apparatus. Furthermore, the image processing apparatus can process the selected image processing apparatus to print the selected document.
This will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a third control processing procedure in the present invention.

  After executing the processing of step S1615 in FIG. 16, the image processing apparatus shifts the processing to step S1701 in FIG.

  When the image processing apparatus accepts selection of a document displayed on the print job list screen (FIG. 12) by the user and determines that the print button 1210 is pressed (step S1701: YES), the image processing apparatus selects the selected document ( A print job output request is transmitted to the print management server 600 (step S1703). The output request transmitted here includes a print request command 702 (FIG. 7) including the document ID of the selected document, the user name received in step S1606, and a command identifier indicating the output request. .

  Also, the image processing apparatus accepts selection of a document displayed on the print job list screen (FIG. 12) by the user, and determines that the “printer button that is unlikely to cause an error” 1209 is pressed instead of the print button 1210. Then (step S1701: NO, step S1702: YES), the process proceeds to step S1801 in FIG. The image processing apparatus determines that the print button 1210 has not been pressed (step S1701: NO), and if it is determined in step S1702 that the “printer button that is unlikely to cause an error” 1209 has not been pressed ( NO), the process proceeds to step S1701, and waits for the user to press the print button 1210 or “printer button that is unlikely to cause an error” 1209.

  When receiving an output request from the image processing apparatus (step S1704), the print management server 600 receives the document ID included in the print request command 702 of the output request, and the IP address of the image processing apparatus that has transmitted the output request. Then, an LPR print command 703 (FIG. 7) including the printer name of the image processing apparatus is transmitted to the print server 500 to give a print instruction for the print job specified by the document ID (step S1705).

  When the print server 500 receives the LPR print command 703 (print command) from the image processing apparatus (step S1706), the print processing specified in the document ID includes the print job specified in the LPR print command 703. To the IP address (step S1707).

  When the image processing apparatus acquires a print job from the print server 500 (step S1708), the image processing apparatus executes print processing for the print job (step S1709).

  Then, the image processing apparatus detects a device error in the printing process, and determines whether or not a device error has occurred (step S1710). If it is determined that a device error has occurred (step S1710: YES), the content of the device error, the document ID of the print job in which the error has occurred, the output date and time, and the printer name are transmitted to the print management server 600. Then, an error information registration request is made (step S1713).

  Further, when printing is completed without a device error, the image processing apparatus displays an error registration screen (FIG. 14) on the display unit 320 (displays the registration screen) (step S1711).

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an error registration screen 1400 displayed on the display unit 320 of the image processing apparatus.

  The error registration screen 1400 is a screen for registering a print error that cannot be detected by the image processing apparatus.

  The error registration screen 1400 includes check boxes for selecting types of printing errors that cannot be detected by the image processing apparatus, such as printing error 1 (printed material stain) 1401 and printing error 2 (staple failure) 1402.

  When the image processing apparatus accepts selection of the type of printing error by the user and detects that the registration button 1403 has been pressed (step S1712: YES), the content of the printing error selected by the user and an error have occurred. The document ID of the print job, the output date and time, and the printer name are transmitted to the print management server 600, and an error information registration request (error registration request) is made (step S1713).

  When the print management server 600 receives the error content, document ID, output date / time, and printer name from the image processing apparatus 300 (step S1714), the print management server 600 searches the bibliographic information database 600 for a record that matches the document ID. To identify.

  Then, the print management server 600 associates the print setting and model name of the specified record, the output date and time received from the image processing apparatus 300, the printer name, and the error content in the error history table 800 (FIG. 8). Registration is performed (step S1715).

  When the image processing apparatus 300 detects that the logout button 1404 is pressed by the user in step S1712, the image processing apparatus 300 determines that no error has occurred (step S1712: NO), print success information indicating that printing has succeeded, and an error. The document ID, the output date and time, and the printer name of the print job in which no occurrence occurred are transmitted to the print management server 600 (step S1716).

  When the print management server 600 receives the successful printing information and the document ID from the image processing apparatus 300 (step S1717), the print management server 600 searches the bibliographic information database 600 for a record that matches the document ID and specifies it.

  Then, the print management server 600 associates the print setting and model name of the identified record, the output date and time received from the image processing apparatus 300, and the printer name with each other and registers them in the print success history table 900 (FIG. 9) ( Step S1718).

  Next, in step S1702, the image processing apparatus accepts selection of a document displayed on the print job list screen (FIG. 12) by the user and determines that the “printer button that is unlikely to cause an error” 1209 has been pressed. This process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth control processing procedure in the present invention.

  First, the image processing apparatus displays the document ID of the document selected by the user on the print job list screen (FIG. 12), the model name of the image processing apparatus (self), the printer name of the image processing apparatus, and the printer (image). A search request for the processing device is transmitted to the print management server 600 (step S1801).

  When the print management server 600 receives a model name of the image processing apparatus, a printer name of the image processing apparatus, a document ID, and a search request for the printer (image processing apparatus) from the image processing apparatus (step S1802). ), A record matching the model name is searched and acquired from the group table 1000 (FIG. 10) (step S1803).

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the group table 1000 stored in the external memory 211 of the print management server 600.

  The group table 1000 includes a “model name” that is the name of the model of the image processing apparatus, a “printer name” that is the name of the image processing apparatus, an “IP address” that is the IP address of the image processing apparatus, and the image processing It has an item of “installation location” which is the installation location of the apparatus.

  Next, the print management server 600 searches and acquires (extracts) a record that matches the printer name of the record acquired in step S1803 from the error history table 800 (FIG. 8) (step S1804). Here, a record (error information) of a print job printed within a predetermined period from the present is extracted. For example, among the error information (records) of a print job printed within one month from the present, a record (error information) that matches the printer name of the record acquired in step S1803 is searched and extracted (acquired).

  Then, the print management server 600 identifies all printer names (image processing apparatuses) included in all records acquired in step S1804. Then, the process from step S1806 to step S1808 is executed for each specified printer name (image processing apparatus).

  Next, the print management server 600 executes error totaling processing (FIG. 19) on the record of the printer name (image processing apparatus) that is the current processing target among the records acquired in step S1804 (step S1806).

  Since the above description already given about the detailed process of the error totaling process (FIG. 19) was the case where it was executed at step S1611, here, the case where it was executed at step S1806 will be described.

  Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 19, the detailed process of the error totaling process will be described.

  First, the print management server 600 performs steps S1902 to S1909 for each error item (content) of the record (error information) of the printer name (image processing apparatus) that is the current processing target among the records acquired in step S1804. Processing is executed (step S1901).

  Next, the print management server 600 selects a printer name (image) that is currently processed from the print success history table 900 (FIG. 9) that stores the print settings of a print job in which no error has occurred for each printer name. Processing unit) record (printing success information) is acquired.

Here, the record (printing success information) that matches the printer name (image processing apparatus) that is the current processing target is retrieved from the print job records (printing success information) printed within a predetermined period from the present time. Extract (acquire). For example, from the print success information of a print job printed within one month from the present, a record (print success information) that matches the printer name (image processing apparatus) that is the current processing target is searched and extracted (acquired). .

  Next, the print management server 600 includes the record (error information) of the printer name (image processing apparatus) that is the current processing target acquired in step S1804, and the print in which the error that is the current processing target has occurred. The setting and the print setting of the record (print success information) acquired from the print success history table 900 (FIG. 9) are compared, and all the print settings in which an error has occurred that is different from the print setting of the print success information are specified ( Step S1902).

  Then, the print management server 600 determines whether or not the number of print settings identified as different in step S1902 is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value, and identifies print settings that are different from the threshold value. (Step S1903). For example, if “double-sided printing” is set as the print setting in which the current error has occurred as the print setting different from the print setting of the print success information, the current processing target printer acquired in step S1804 Among the records (error information) of the name (image processing apparatus), the number of records registered to execute “double-sided printing” in the print setting of the record in which the target error is registered is It is determined whether or not the threshold is equal to or higher than a preset threshold, and a print setting (for example, “double-sided printing”) that is determined to be higher than the threshold is specified.

  Since a plurality of print settings may be specified in step S1903, the print management server 600 executes the processing from step S1904 to step S1908 for each specified print setting.

  The print management server 600 determines whether or not the current print setting specified in step S1903 is the number of print copies (step S1905). If it is determined that the print setting is not the number of print copies, the print management server 600 is the current target. Are registered in the tabulation result table (FIG. 11) in association with the current error setting and the content of the current error (step S1906).

Here, the tabulation result table is created for each printer name (image processing apparatus) as shown in FIG. Therefore, in step S1906, the printer name (image processing apparatus) that is the current processing target is registered in the tabulation result table.

  If the print management server 600 determines that the current print setting specified in step S1903 is the number of copies (step S1905: YES), the print management server 600 proceeds to step S1907.

  Next, the print management server 600 displays the maximum number of copies (maximum number of copies) in the record of the print success history table 900 that matches the printer name received in step S1802, and the current value acquired in step S1804. Compares the record with the name of the printer to be processed and the current target error in the record with the smallest number of copies (minimum number of copies). It is determined whether the value is larger than the number of copies (step S1907).

  If the print management server 600 determines that the minimum number of copies is greater than the maximum number of copies, the print management server 600 associates the minimum number of copies with the content of the error currently being processed, and Is registered in the tabulation result table (FIG. 11) of the printer name (image processing apparatus) (step S1907), and the process proceeds to step S1908. On the other hand, if it is determined that the minimum number of copies is not greater than the maximum number of copies, the process proceeds to step S1908.

  In step S1908, the next print setting specified in step S1903 is set as a processing target, and the process returns to step S1905. When the process is executed for all the print settings specified in step S1903, the process proceeds to step S1909.

  In step S1909, the process proceeds to step S1902 with the next error item in which an error has occurred being processed. When the process from step S1902 to step S1908 is executed for all error items (contents) in which an error has occurred in the record acquired in step S1610, the error aggregation process shown in FIG. 19 is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S1807. Transition.

  With the above processing, a tabulation result table of printer names (image processing apparatuses) to be processed can be generated.

  Next, the print management server 600 executes an error determination process according to the generated aggregation result table.

  Since the above description already given about the detailed processing (FIG. 20) of the error determination processing is a description about the case where it is executed in step S1612, here, the case where it is executed in step S1807 will be described.

  Detailed processing of the error determination processing executed in step S1807 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the print management server 600 extracts (obtains) a record (bibliographic information) that matches the document ID received in step S1802 from the bibliographic information database 600 (FIG. 6) (step S2001).

  The print management server 600 executes the processing from step S2003 to step S2011 for each bibliographic information acquired in step S2001.

  The print management server 600 determines whether there is a print setting in which the print setting information of the bibliographic information that is currently processed matches the print setting in the tabulation result table (FIG. 11) generated in step S1806 (step S2003). .

  If it is determined that there is a matching print setting (step S2003: YES), the print management server 600 can generate all error contents stored as “O” in the matched print setting. It is determined as a peculiar error (step S2004).

  It is determined whether or not the error content determined in step S2004 is only a “device error” that can be detected by the image processing apparatus (step S2005).

  If it is determined that the error determined in step S2004 is only “device error” (step S2005: YES), the print management server 600 determines that the print job corresponding to the bibliographic information that is currently processed is the current processing target. As an error prediction as to whether an error will occur when printing is performed by the image processing apparatus, it is determined that “a device error is highly likely (“ ▲ ”)” (step S2008).

  If the print management server 600 determines in step S2003 that there is no matching print setting (NO), the print management server 600 sends a print job corresponding to the bibliographic information to be processed at the current processing target image processing apparatus. As an error prediction as to whether an error will occur when printing is performed, it is determined that “the possibility that an error will occur is low (“ ◯ ”)” ”(step S2007).

  If the print management server 600 determines in step S2005 that the error content determined in step S2004 is not only “device error” that can be detected by the image processing apparatus (NO), the print management server 600 determines in step S2004. It is determined whether the error content is only a “print error” that the printer cannot detect (step S2006).

  If it is determined in step S2006 that there is only “print error” (YES), the print management server 600 prints the print job corresponding to the bibliographic information that is currently processed by the image processing apparatus that is currently processed. As an error prediction as to whether or not an error will occur, it is determined that “there is a high possibility that a printing error that cannot be detected by the printer (“ Δ ”)” will occur (step S2009).

  On the other hand, if the print management server 600 determines in step S2006 that there is not only “print error” (that is, it is determined that “◯” is stored in both “device error” and “print error”). ) (NO), “No device error and printing that cannot be detected by the printer” is used as an error prediction to determine whether an error occurs when a print job corresponding to the bibliographic information currently being processed is printed by the image processing apparatus currently being processed. It is determined that there is a high possibility of an error (“×”) ”(step S2010).

  When the print management server 600 executes the processes of step S2007, step S2008, step S2009, and step S2010, the process shifts to step S2011, and executes the process of step S2003 with the next unprocessed bibliographic information as a processing target. To do.

In addition, when the print management server 600 executes the processing from step S2003 to step S2010 for all the bibliographic information acquired in step S2001, the error management processing is ended, and the processing proceeds to step S1808.

  In step S1808, when the processes in steps S1806 and S1807 are executed for all the printer names (image processing apparatuses) searched in step S1803, the printer names (image processing apparatuses) in which the error prediction is determined to be “◯”. And a printer list screen (FIG. 13) including the “IP address” that is the IP address of the image processing apparatus and the “installation place” that is the installation place of the image processing apparatus acquired in step S1803. Display information is generated and returned to the image processing apparatus.

  Next, when receiving the display information from the print management server 600 (step S1810), the image processing apparatus displays a printer list screen (FIG. 13) on the display unit 320 according to the display information (step S1811).

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a printable printer list screen 1301 displayed on the display unit 320 of the image processing apparatus.

  The printer list screen 1301 displays a printer name 1308 of an image processing apparatus that can be printed, an error prediction result 1302, and an installation location 1303 of the image processing apparatus.

  The printer list screen 1301 displays check boxes (1304 and 1305) for accepting selection by the user of the image processing apparatus that performs printing.

  When the image processing apparatus detects that the user has selected the image processing apparatus to be printed and presses the print button 1307 (step S1812: YES), the document (on the print job list screen (FIG. 12)) A print job output request is transmitted to the print management server 600 (step S1813). The output request transmitted here includes a print request command including the document ID of the selected document, the user name, the IP address of the selected image processing apparatus that performs printing, and a command identifier indicating the output request. Is included.

  When the print management server 600 receives an output request from the image processing apparatus (step S1814), the document ID included in the print request command 702 of the output request and the image processing included in the output request. A print command including the IP address of the apparatus and the printer name of the image processing apparatus is transmitted to the print server 500, and a print job specified by the document ID is instructed (step S1815).

  When the print server 500 receives the print command from the image processing apparatus (step S1816), the print server 500 transmits the print job specified by the document ID to the IP address of the image processing apparatus included in the print command ( Step S1817).

  When the image processing apparatus acquires a print job from the print server 500 (step S1818), the image processing apparatus executes print processing for the print job (step S1819).

  Then, the image processing apparatus detects a device error in the printing process and determines whether a device error has occurred (step S1820). If it is determined that a device error has occurred (step S1820: YES), the contents of the error of the device error, the document ID of the print job in which the error has occurred, the output date and time, and the name of the printer that performed the printing process are printed and managed. A request for registration of error information is sent to the server 600 (step S1823).

  Further, when the printing process ends without a device error, the image processing apparatus displays an error registration screen (FIG. 14) on the display unit 320 (step S1821).

  When the image processing apparatus accepts selection of the type of print error by the user and detects that the registration button 1403 has been pressed (step S1822: YES), the content of the print error selected by the user and an error have occurred. The document ID of the print job, the output date and time, and the name of the printer that performed the printing process are transmitted to the print management server 600 to request registration of error information (step S1823).

  The information transmitted in step S1823 is received in step S1714 in FIG. 17 and registered in the error history table 800 in the same manner as in step S1715.

  Further, when detecting that the logout button 1404 is pressed by the user in step S1822, the image processing apparatus 300 determines that no error has occurred (step S1822: NO), and print success information indicating that printing has been successful. Then, the document ID, output date, and printer name of the print job in which no error has occurred are transmitted to the print management server 600 (step S1824).

  The information transmitted in step S1824 is received in step S1717 in FIG. 17, and is registered in the print success history table 900 as in step S1718.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to present to the user whether there is a high possibility that the print result of the print data will fail before issuing an instruction for printing from the image processing apparatus.

In this embodiment, the error determination process (for example, S2003) is determined using the total result table, but the error history table 800 may be used instead of the total result table. That is, as in the case of using the tabulation result table, the print settings stored in the error history table 800 may be set as the determination target, and the error content having the matching print settings may be determined.

Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, an apparatus, a method, a program, or a storage medium. You may apply to the system comprised from an apparatus, and may apply to the apparatus which consists of one apparatus.

Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code itself and the storage medium storing the program code constitute the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (basic system or operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. Needless to say, a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is determined based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Client PC 200 Authentication server 300 Image processing apparatus 400 Image processing apparatus 500 Print server 600 Print management server 700 Network

Claims (13)

A information processing system including an image processing apparatus which performs a printing process by obtaining the print data stored in the print server, a print server for storing bibliographic information for managing the print data stored in the print server And
The image processing apparatus includes:
User information indicating the user that are entered, a request transmission means for transmitting includes a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server,
In accordance with the list information received from the print management server, display means for displaying on the display section the print data in which the print result may fail and the print data in which the print result is unlikely to fail can be identified.
With
The print management server
Print management storage means for storing print data specifying information for specifying the print data, bibliographic information associated with the user information and print setting information, and error history information associated with the printer information and print setting information; ,
In response to receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the print management storage unit are stored. According to the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information. A determination unit that determines whether a print result of the specified print data in the image processing apparatus may fail;
List information including print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining unit related to print data specified by the print data specifying information List sending means for sending to the device;
An information processing system comprising: The error history information stored in the print management storage unit further includes device error information indicating that a print result may fail due to a device error that can be detected by the image processing apparatus, and the image processing apparatus detects Print error information indicating that a print result may fail due to a print error that cannot be performed is associated with the printer information and the print setting information,
The print management server
In response to receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the print management storage unit are stored. According to the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information. Error determination means for determining whether the print result of the specified print data in the image processing apparatus may fail due to a device error or whether the print result may fail due to a print error Prepared,
The list transmission unit further includes print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information received from the image processing apparatus, and the print data specified by the print data specifying information. Sending the list information including the determination result by the error determination means to the image processing device;
According to the list information received from the print management server, the display unit of the image processing apparatus includes print data in which a print result may fail due to a device error, and print data in which the print result may fail due to a print error The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the display unit and the print data that are unlikely to fail in the print result are displayed on the display unit in a distinguishable manner. The print management server
In response to receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the print management storage unit are stored. According to the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information. The apparatus further comprises both error determination means for determining whether the print result of the specified print data in the image processing apparatus may fail due to a device error or a print error,
The list transmission unit further includes print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information received from the image processing apparatus, and the print data specified by the print data specifying information. List information including determination results by both error determination means is transmitted to the image processing apparatus;
According to the list information received from the print management server, the display unit of the image processing apparatus may print data that may fail due to a device error and print error, and may fail due to a device error. 3. The display unit displays certain print data, print data in which a print result may fail due to a print error, and print data in which the print result is not likely to fail on a display unit. Information processing system described in 1. The image processing apparatus includes:
Detecting means for detecting a device error when performing print processing in accordance with a print command of the print data transmitted from a print server;
Device error information of the device error detected by the detection means, printer information of the image processing apparatus, and print data specifying information for specifying the print data in which the device error is detected are stored in the print management server. An error registration request means for sending and requesting registration;
Further comprising
The print management server
Device error information transmitted from the image processing apparatus by the error registration requesting means, and print setting information associated with print data specifying information transmitted from the image processing apparatus by the error registration requesting means, the error registration Registration means for registering in the error history information in association with the printer information transmitted from the image processing apparatus by the request means;
The information processing system according to claim 2, further comprising: The image processing apparatus includes:
A registration screen display means for displaying a registration screen for registering a print error related to printing of the print data when performing print processing according to a print command of the print data transmitted from the print server;
Further comprising
The error registration request unit specifies print error information of a print error input through a registration screen displayed on the registration screen display unit by a user operation, printer information of the image processing apparatus, and the print data. Print data specifying information to be sent to the print management server to make a registration request,
The registration unit of the print management server is associated with the print error information transmitted from the image processing apparatus by the error registration request unit and the print data specifying information transmitted from the image processing apparatus by the error registration request unit. 5. The information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the print setting information is registered in error history information in association with printer information transmitted from the image processing apparatus by the error registration request unit. An image processing apparatus which performs a printing process to obtain the print data stored in the print server, bibliographic print data identification information and user information for specifying a print data stored in the print server and the print setting information is associated A control method in an information processing system including a print management server including a print management storage unit that stores information and error history information in which printer information and print setting information are associated with each other,
Request transmitting means of said image processing apparatus, the user information indicating the user that are entered, and a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus transmits a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server Request sending process;
In accordance with the list information received from the print management server, the display unit of the image processing apparatus displays in a identifiable manner print data that may fail to print and print data that may not fail. Display process to be displayed on the section ;
In response to the determination unit of the print management server receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, print setting information of bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information; The user information included in the transmission request information is associated with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information stored in the print management storage unit. Determining whether there is a possibility that a print result of the print data specified by the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information in the image processing apparatus may fail;
The list transmission means of the print management server determines the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information, and the determination by the determining step relating to the print data specified by the print data specifying information A list transmission step of transmitting list information including a result to the image processing apparatus;
A control method in an information processing system comprising: An image processing apparatus which performs a printing process to obtain the print data stored in the print server, bibliographic print data identification information and user information for specifying a print data stored in the print server and the print setting information is associated A program executable by an information processing system including a print management server including a print management storage unit that stores information and error history information in which printer information and print setting information are associated with each other,
The image processing apparatus;
User information indicating the user that are entered, a request transmission means for transmitting includes a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server,
According to the list information received from the print management server, it functions as a display unit that displays on the display unit the print data that may cause the print result to fail and the print data that does not cause the print result to fail. ,
The print management server;
In response to receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the print management storage unit are stored. According to the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information. A determination unit that determines whether a print result of the specified print data in the image processing apparatus may fail;
List information including print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining unit related to print data specified by the print data specifying information A program that functions as list transmission means for transmitting to a device. Stores the print data specifying information and the bibliography information and the user information and the print setting information is associated for specifying the print data stored in the print server, the printer information and the print setting information and error history information associated a print management storage means, in response to receiving the transmission request information list information from the image processing apparatus, a print setting information bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information, the print management storage The bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information is printed in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information stored by the means. It is determined whether there is a possibility that a print result of the print data specified by the data specifying information in the image processing apparatus may fail. List information including determination means, print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining means regarding print data specified by the print data specifying information An image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a print management server having a list transmission means for transmitting print data to the image processing apparatus, and acquiring print data stored in the print server and performing print processing,
User information indicating the user that are entered, a request transmission means for transmitting includes a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server,
In response to the transmission of the transmission request information by the request transmission unit, there is no possibility that the print result may fail and the print result may fail in accordance with the list information received from the print management server. Display means for displaying the print data on the display unit in an identifiable manner;
An image processing apparatus comprising: It acquires the print data stored in the print server has a function of performing a printing process, the user information indicating the user that are entered, and a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, the transmission request of the list information of the print data There is a possibility that the print result may fail in accordance with the list information received from the print management server in response to the transmission of request information by the request transmission unit and the request transmission unit that transmits information to the print management server A print management server communicable with an image processing apparatus comprising: a display unit configured to display print data and print data that is unlikely to fail in a print result on a display unit;
Print data specifying information for specifying print data stored in the print server, bibliographic information in which the user information and print setting information are associated, and error history information in which printer information and print setting information are associated. Print management storage means for storing;
In response to receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the print management storage unit are stored. According to the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information. A determination unit that determines whether a print result of the specified print data in the image processing apparatus may fail;
List information including print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining unit related to print data specified by the print data specifying information List sending means for sending to the device;
A print management server comprising: Stores the print data specifying information and the bibliography information and the user information and the print setting information is associated for specifying the print data stored in the print server, the printer information and the print setting information and error history information associated a print management storage means, in response to receiving the transmission request information list information from the image processing apparatus, a print setting information bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information, the print management storage The bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information is printed in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information stored by the means. It is determined whether there is a possibility that a print result of the print data specified by the data specifying information in the image processing apparatus may fail. List information including determination means, print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining means regarding print data specified by the print data specifying information A list transmission unit for transmitting image data to the image processing apparatus, and a method for controlling the image processing apparatus to perform print processing by acquiring print data stored in the print server. ,
Request transmitting means of said image processing apparatus, the user information indicating the user that are entered, and a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus transmits a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server Request sending process;
In response to transmitting the transmission request information by the request transmission step, the display unit of the image processing apparatus, according to the list information received from the print management server, print data that may fail to print, A display process for displaying the print data on the display unit in an identifiable manner with print data that is unlikely to fail in the print result;
An image processing apparatus control method comprising: It acquires the print data stored in the print server has a function of performing a printing process, the user information indicating the user that are entered, and a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, the transmission request of the list information of the print data There is a possibility that the print result may fail in accordance with the list information received from the print management server in response to the transmission of request information by the request transmission unit and the request transmission unit that transmits information to the print management server Print data that is communicable with an image processing apparatus that includes print data and display means that displays the print data and print data that is unlikely to fail in a print result on a display unit, and that is stored in the print server The print data specifying information for specifying the user, the bibliographic information in which the user information and the print setting information are associated, the printer information and the print setting information A vignetting error history information and the control method of the print management server having a print management storage means for storing,
In response to the determination unit of the print management server receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, print setting information of bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information; The user information included in the transmission request information is associated with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information stored in the print management storage unit. Determining whether there is a possibility that a print result of the print data specified by the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information in the image processing apparatus may fail;
The list transmission means of the print management server determines the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information, and the determination by the determining step relating to the print data specified by the print data specifying information A list transmission step of transmitting list information including a result to the image processing apparatus;
A control method for a print management server, comprising: Stores the print data specifying information and the bibliography information and the user information and the print setting information is associated for specifying the print data stored in the print server, the printer information and the print setting information and error history information associated a print management storage means, in response to receiving the transmission request information list information from the image processing apparatus, a print setting information bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information, the print management storage The bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information is printed in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information stored by the means. It is determined whether there is a possibility that a print result of the print data specified by the data specifying information in the image processing apparatus may fail. And a constant means,
List information including print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining unit related to print data specified by the print data specifying information A program that is communicable with a print management server having a list transmission means for transmitting to the apparatus, and that can be read and executed by an image processing apparatus that acquires print data stored in the print server and performs print processing,
The image processing apparatus;
User information indicating the user that are entered, a request transmission means for transmitting includes a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, a transmission request information list information of the print data to the print server,
In response to the transmission of the transmission request information by the request transmission unit, there is no possibility that the print result may fail and the print result may fail in accordance with the list information received from the print management server. A program that functions as a display unit that displays print data on a display unit in an identifiable manner. It acquires the print data stored in the print server has a function of performing a printing process, the user information indicating the user that are entered, and a printer information indicating the image processing apparatus, the transmission request of the list information of the print data There is a possibility that the print result may fail in accordance with the list information received from the print management server in response to the transmission of request information by the request transmission unit and the request transmission unit that transmits information to the print management server A program that can be read and executed by a print management server that can communicate with an image processing apparatus that includes print data and display means that displays print data and print data that is unlikely to fail in a print result on a display unit. ,
The print management server;
Print data specifying information for specifying print data stored in the print server, bibliographic information in which the user information and print setting information are associated, and error history information in which printer information and print setting information are associated. Print management storage means for storing;
In response to receiving the transmission request information of the list information from the image processing apparatus, the print setting information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information and the print management storage unit are stored. According to the print data specifying information of the bibliographic information associated with the user information included in the transmission request information in accordance with the print setting information associated with the printer information included in the transmission request information included in the error history information. A determination unit that determines whether a print result of the specified print data in the image processing apparatus may fail;
List information including print data specifying information of bibliographic information associated with user information included in the transmission request information, and a determination result by the determining unit related to print data specified by the print data specifying information A program that functions as list transmission means for transmitting to a device.

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