JP6523041B2 - Image forming apparatus, information processing system, information processing program and information processing method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing program, and an information processing method, and more particularly to, for example, an image forming apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing program, and an information processing method installed in a store.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an example of this kind of background art. In the image forming system disclosed in Patent Document 1, the human sensor detects that the user has left the image forming apparatus, and the sheet detection sensor detects a misplaced sheet (printed matter) printed or a document When the detection sensor detects that the document has been misplaced, the user who has executed the immediately preceding job is specified as the misplaced user, and the contact information corresponding to the identification information of the misplaced user is acquired from the user information, and the obtained contact Notify the warning first.

JP, 2013-54209, A

  In this conventional image forming system, when a user misplaces a document or a printed matter, only the user is notified. Therefore, it is essential that the contact point of the user is registered in advance in the image forming apparatus, and the user inputs his own authentication information to perform the authentication process when using the image forming apparatus. Therefore, when the user uses the image forming apparatus without inputting his / her authentication information, or when the user's contact is not registered, the user can not be notified of the warning, and the existence of a lost item is I can not make you notice.

  Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide a novel image forming apparatus, information processing system, information processing program and information processing method.

  Another object of the present invention is an image forming apparatus capable of preventing loss of a lost item such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change in the image forming apparatus installed in a store or the like. Abstract: An information processing system, an information processing program, and an information processing method are provided.

A first aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus installed in a store, wherein a lost item detection unit for detecting presence or absence of a lost item by a user who uses the image forming apparatus, and a lost item detection unit detects that there is a lost item. Storage means for storing lost item information, deleting means for deleting lost item information stored in the storage means by receiving a predetermined operation, and an image forming apparatus when it is detected that there is a lost item by the lost item detection means When the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted by the deleting means, the store side transmits warning information different from the lost item information to the store side terminal connected communicably connected. A transmission unit for transmitting to a terminal is provided.

According to the first aspect of the invention, the transmitting means transmits the lost item information about the lost item to the shop side terminal when the left thing detecting means detects that there is a left thing, so the left clerk operating the shop side terminal forgets In the case where there is a lost item such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change in an image forming apparatus installed in a store or the like, it is possible to prevent the loss of the lost item. Also, since the transmitting means transmits the lost item information about the lost item to the shop side terminal, when the user uses the image forming apparatus without inputting his own authentication information, or when the user's contact is not registered. Even if the user can not contact the user, the store clerk can be made aware that there is something left behind. Furthermore, since the lost item information stored in the storage means is deleted by accepting a predetermined operation, the lost item information is appropriately managed such as deleting the lost item information when the lost item is secured and the warning becomes unnecessary. Can. Furthermore, when the image forming apparatus is operated before the forgotten item information is deleted, warning information different from the forgotten item information is transmitted to the shop-side terminal, so a user other than the store clerk and the user who left the forgotten item When using it, the store clerk can be made aware that there is a possibility that a lost item may be taken away, and the loss of the lost item can be prevented.

  A second invention is an image forming apparatus according to the first invention, which is an execution unit that executes a login process in accordance with a user operation, and a user about a logged-in user by the login process being executed by the execution unit. The information processing apparatus further comprises: user information storage means for storing information; and identification means for identifying a user who has forgotten something based on user information when there is a lost item detected by the lost item detection means, the transmission means comprising Further, the lost article information is transmitted to the user terminal of the identified user.

  According to the second aspect of the invention, since the lost item information is further transmitted to the user terminal of the user specified by the specifying means, it is possible to make the store clerk and the logged-in user notice that there is a lost item. can do.

  A third invention is an image forming apparatus according to the first invention, wherein the transmitting means is further within the range in which it can communicate with the image forming apparatus when it is detected by the forgotten material detecting means that there is a lost item. Send lost article information to all user terminals that do

  According to the third invention, when it is detected that there is a lost item by the lost item detection means, the lost item information is further transmitted to all the user terminals present in a communicable range with the image forming apparatus. A user having a user terminal present in a communicable range with the forming apparatus can notice that there is a lost item, and the lost item can be prevented from being lost.

The fourth invention is an image forming apparatus that is subordinate to the first to third invention, the transmit means transmits left something information if lost item information in the storage means is stored.

  According to the fourth aspect of the invention, since the lost item information is transmitted when the lost item information is stored in the storage unit, the lost item information can be appropriately transmitted by managing the lost item information.

A fifth invention is an information processing system having an image forming apparatus installed in a store, wherein there is a lost item by means of a lost item detection means for detecting presence or absence of a lost item by a user using the image forming device When it is detected that there is a lost item by the storage means for storing the lost item information, the deleting means for deleting the lost item information stored in the storage means by accepting a predetermined operation, and the lost item detection means Sending a lost item information about a lost item to a shop side terminal communicably connected to the image forming apparatus, and when the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted by the deleting unit, a warning different from the lost item information A transmitting unit is provided to transmit information to the shop-side terminal .

According to the fifth aspect of the invention, the transmitting means transmits the lost article information on the lost article to the shop side terminal when the lost article detecting means detects the presence of the left thing, so the left clerk operating the shop side terminal forgets In the case where there is a lost item such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change in an image forming apparatus installed in a store or the like, it is possible to prevent the loss of the lost item. Also, since the transmitting means transmits the lost item information about the lost item to the shop side terminal, when the user uses the image forming apparatus without inputting his own authentication information, or when the user's contact is not registered. Even if the user can not contact the user, the store clerk can be made aware that there is something left behind. Furthermore, since the lost item information stored in the storage means is deleted by accepting a predetermined operation, the lost item information is appropriately managed such as deleting the lost item information when the lost item is secured and the warning becomes unnecessary. Can. Furthermore, when the image forming apparatus is operated before the forgotten item information is deleted, warning information different from the forgotten item information is transmitted to the shop-side terminal, so a user other than the store clerk and the user who left the forgotten item When using it, the store clerk can be made aware that there is a possibility that a lost item may be taken away, and the loss of the lost item can be prevented.

A sixth invention is an information processing system according to the fifth invention, which is an execution unit that executes login processing according to a user operation, and a user about a logged-in user by the execution of the login processing by the execution unit. The information processing apparatus further comprises: user information storage means for storing information; and identification means for identifying a user who has forgotten something based on user information when there is a lost item detected by the lost item detection means, the transmission means comprising Further, the lost article information is transmitted to the user terminal of the identified user.

According to the sixth invention, the lost item information is further transmitted to the user terminal of the user identified by the identifying means, so that the store clerk and the logged-in user can notice that the forgotten item is present, preventing the lost item from being lost be able to.

A seventh invention is an information processing system according to the fifth invention, wherein the transmitting means is further within a communicable range with the image forming apparatus when the lost thing detection means detects that there is a lost thing. Send lost article information to all user terminals that do

According to the seventh invention, in the case where the lost item detection means detects that there is a lost item, the lost item information is further transmitted to all the user terminals present in a communicable range with the image forming apparatus. A user having a user terminal present in a communicable range with the forming apparatus can notice that there is a lost item, and the lost item can be prevented from being lost.

Eighth aspect of the present invention is an information processing system that is subordinate to the invention of the fifth to seventh, transmit means transmits left something information if lost item information in the storage means is stored.

According to the eighth aspect of the invention, since the lost item information is transmitted when the lost item information is stored in the storage unit, the lost item information can be appropriately transmitted by managing the lost item information.

A ninth aspect of the present invention is an information processing program executed by an image processing apparatus used in an information processing system having an image forming apparatus installed in a store, wherein a computer of the image forming apparatus uses the image forming apparatus. Memory by storing a lost item detection means for detecting presence or absence of a user's lost item, storage means for storing forgotten item information in a storage unit of the image forming apparatus when there is a lost item detected by the lost item detection means When it is detected that there is a lost item by the deletion means for deleting the lost item information stored in the unit and the lost item detection means, the lost item information about the lost item is transmitted to the shop side terminal communicably connected to the image forming apparatus If the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted by the deleting means, the warning information different from the lost item information is It is allowed to function as a transmission means for transmitting to the store terminal.

A tenth invention is an information processing method of an information processing system having an image forming apparatus installed in a store, wherein a computer of the information processing system detects presence or absence of a forgotten item of a user who uses the image forming apparatus and forgets Information is stored in the storage unit of the image forming apparatus, and by receiving a predetermined operation, the lost item information stored in the storage unit is deleted, and it is detected that there is a lost item In the case where a lost item information about a lost item is transmitted to a shop side terminal communicably connected to the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted, a warning different from the lost item information Send information to the store terminal .

In each of the ninth and tenth inventions, as in the first invention, when there is a lost item such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change in the image forming apparatus installed in a store or the like, the lost item is lost Can be prevented.

  According to the present invention, when there is a lost item such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change in the image forming apparatus installed in a store or the like, the lost item can be prevented from being lost.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the MFP shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an illustrative view showing a case where a person exists in a first range where a person detection sensor can detect. FIG. 4 is an illustrative view showing a case where there is no person in the first range. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the POS terminal shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the handy terminal shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an illustrative view showing one example of a warning screen displayed on the POS terminal and the handy terminal. FIG. 8 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of a RAM of the MFP shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 9 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of a RAM of the POS terminal shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of a RAM of the handy terminal shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a part of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU of the MFP shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system of the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a part of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU of the MFP according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a part of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU of the MFP according to the third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing another part of forgetting processing of the CPU of the MFP according to the third embodiment, which is subsequent to FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a portion of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a portion of an example of the lost article securing process of the CPU of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing another part of the lost object securing process of the CPU of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment and subsequent to FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the lost object notification processing of the CPU of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system 10 according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, an information processing system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) 12, a POS (Point of sales) terminal 14, a server 16, a coin vendor 18, and a plurality of handy terminals. Including 200. The MFP 12, the POS terminal 14, the server 16, and the plurality of handy terminals 200 are communicably connected via a network 20 such as the Internet.

  The MFP 12 is an image forming apparatus provided with a copying function, a printer function, a scanner function, a facsimile function, and the like. For example, MFP 12 is disposed in a store such as a supermarket or a convenience store, and a user mainly performs copying or / and printing on MFP 12. Therefore, the present invention is applicable not only to the MFP 12 but also to other image forming apparatuses such as a copier (copier), a printing apparatus (printer) and a facsimile.

  The MFP 12 includes an image reading unit and an image forming unit. The image reading unit includes a light source, a plurality of mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, and the like. The image reading unit exposes the surface of the document with a light source, and guides reflected light reflected from the surface of the document to an imaging lens by a plurality of mirrors. Then, the reflected light is imaged on the light receiving element of the line sensor by the imaging lens. The line sensor detects the luminance and the chromaticity of the reflected light formed on the light receiving element, and generates read image data based on the image of the document surface.

  The image forming unit is a general-purpose laser printer, and includes a photoreceptor, a charger, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, etc., and image data processed by the image processing circuit (image data for printing) Print the image corresponding to on recording paper (paper). Briefly described, in a laser printer, an electrostatic latent image is formed on a charged photosensitive drum, and toner is developed on the electrostatic latent image. That is, a toner image is formed. Then, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum is transferred to the sheet by the transfer roller, and the transferred toner image is fused and pressed to fix the sheet. Therefore, the image corresponding to the image data is printed on the paper. However, when printing in color, an electrostatic latent image for each color is formed on a photosensitive drum provided for each color of black, magenta, cyan, and yellow, and a toner image for each color is formed. The image is primarily transferred to an intermediate transfer roller and then transferred (secondary transfer) onto a sheet of paper. However, as the above-mentioned image data, image data obtained by reading an original by an image reading unit (read image data), image data transmitted (read) from an external computer, or image data read from an external memory installed in the MFP 12 Etc. are used.

  The POS terminal 14 is installed in a store and performs settlement of goods purchased by the user. Although not illustrated, the POS terminal 14 includes a communication module, a keyboard, a display, a receipt printer, a card reader, etc., and is mainly installed at a checkout place etc. and operated by a store clerk or the like in the store .

  The server 16 is a general-purpose server, and includes components such as a CPU, a RAM, and a communication module. The server 16 is communicably connected to the POS terminal 14 and the handy terminal 200 via the network 20. For example, the user can register the image data in the server 16 in advance, and perform a predetermined operation on the MFP 12 to read the registered image data and print it.

  The coin vendor 18 is a charging device communicably connected to the MFP 12 in a wired or wireless manner, and uses the MFP 12 to settle an expense in response to copying, printing or facsimile transmission. The coin vendor 18 is provided with a coin insertion slot, a coin return slot, a change return button, and the like. For example, when the user inserts a coin into coin vendor 18 from the coin insertion slot, the balance is displayed on the display unit of coin vendor 18 and notified to MFP 12. When the MFP 12 receives the notification of the balance, the MFP 12 becomes ready for copying, printing or facsimile transmission, and starts accepting user operations. The MFP 12 subtracts the cost corresponding to copying, printing or facsimile transmission from the balance, and notifies the coin vendor 18 of the balance. In response to this, the balance displayed on the display unit of the coin vendor 18 is updated. Also, when the change return button is operated, the balance coins are returned from the coin return port.

  The electrical configuration, function, and application of coin vendor 18 are already known, and since they are not essential contents of the present invention, detailed description will be omitted.

  The handy terminal 200 includes a communication module, a barcode reader, and the like, and is carried and used by a store clerk at a store, and performs confirmation of specification information of products, management of price information, management of inventory status, and the like. The handy terminal 200 is communicably connected to the server 16 and the POS terminal 14 via the network 20.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the MFP 12 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the MFP 12 includes a CPU 32. The CPU 32 includes the RAM 34, the touch panel control circuit 36, the drawing control circuit 38, the operation unit detection circuit 44, the human detection sensor 48, the document reading unit 50, the recording medium reading unit 52, the lost object detection sensor 54, The wireless communication circuit 56 is connected. Further, the touch panel 40 is connected to the touch panel control circuit 36, the main display 42 is connected to the drawing control circuit 38, and the operation unit 46 is connected to the operation unit detection circuit 44.

  The CPU 32 is in charge of overall control of the MFP 12. The RAM 34 is used as a work area and a buffer area of the CPU 32. The wireless communication circuit 56 has a function of performing wireless communication with another computer or access point. Therefore, the MFP 12 can communicate with the server 16, the POS terminal 14 or another MFP 12 directly or via the network 20. However, they may be connected communicably by wire.

  The touch panel control circuit 36 applies a necessary voltage or the like to the touch panel 40 and detects a touch operation (touch input) within the touch effective range of the touch panel 40, and detects touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input. Output to

  The touch panel 40 is a general-purpose touch panel, and any type of touch panel such as a capacitive type, an electromagnetic induction type, a resistive film type, an infrared type, etc. can be used. In the first embodiment, as the touch panel 40, a capacitive touch panel is provided on the display surface of the main display.

  The drawing control circuit 38 includes a GPU, a VRAM, etc. Under the direction of the CPU 32, the GPU uses display image data stored in the RAM 34 to display image data for displaying various screens on the main body display 42. Are generated in the VRAM, and the generated display image data is output to the main body display 42. As the main body display 42, for example, an LCD or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be used.

  The operation unit detection circuit 44 outputs an operation signal or operation data according to the operation of the operation unit 46 to the CPU 32. The operation unit 46 includes a plurality of operation buttons or operation keys, and more specifically, selection keys for selecting various modes (copy, printer, facsimile), setting of the number of copies, and inputting of a telephone number In addition to numeric keys (ten keys), # keys, and * keys for including, start key (start key) and stop key (cancel key) for starting and stopping printing or facsimile transmission. .

  In the first embodiment, the touch panel 40 and the operation unit 46 are provided as an example of the input means of the MFP 12, but a microphone may be further provided as another input means.

  The human detection sensor 48 is a distance sensor for detecting a person (user) existing in a predetermined range (first range A described later) in front of the MFP 12. For example, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a laser distance sensor Etc. are used. In the first embodiment, the CPU 32 detects that a person is present in front of the MFP 12 when the distance indicated by the distance data detected by the human detection sensor 48 is within a predetermined distance. However, a camera (image sensor) can be used as the human detection sensor 48. In this case, a predetermined range in front of the MFP 12 (a range including the first range A shown in FIG. 3) can be photographed by a camera, and the presence or absence of a person can be detected from the photographed image. A floor sensor (pressure sensor) can also be used as the human detection sensor 48. In this case, a floor sensor may be provided in a predetermined range in front of the MFP 12 to detect the presence or absence of a person based on the output of the floor sensor.

  FIG. 3 is an illustrative view showing a case where a person exists in a first range A in front of the MFP 12. FIG. 4 is an illustrative view showing a case where there is no person in the first range A in front of the MFP 12.

  For example, the first range A is a range in which it is considered that there is a user who operates the MFP 12, and the radius is defined by a semicircle of the first distance L1. However, the first distance L1 is a distance from the center of the front surface of the MFP 12. Further, the size and the shape of the first range A can be appropriately changed in accordance with the place where the MFP 12 is applied, the use situation, and the like. Although detailed description is omitted, distance sensors with positions and numbers capable of detecting a person (user) present in the first range A are provided as the person detection sensor 48. However, the detectable range of the human detection sensor 48 only needs to include the first range A, and does not have to coincide with the first range A.

  When a person is present in the first range A as shown in FIG. 3, the person detection sensor 48 is shorter when no person is present in the first range A as shown in FIG. 4 (than the first distance L1) The distance data of the distance is output to the CPU 32. The CPU 32 determines that a person is present in the first range A when distance data shorter than the first distance L1 is acquired.

  Further, the CPU 32 determines that a person exists in the first range A, and when the MFP 12 is operated, determines that the person is a user who uses the MFP 12. On the other hand, even if CPU 32 determines that a person is present in first range A but MFP 12 is not operated, the person is simply a person existing in front of MFP 12 or a person simply passing in front of MFP 12 I will judge.

  However, in the first embodiment, when the MFP 12 is operated, not only when the touch panel 40 or the operation unit 46 is operated, but when the document platen cover is opened and closed, the document is placed on the document placement table Also, the case where the coin is inserted into the coin vendor 18 and the case where the coin is inserted.

  The document placement table is a transparent glass provided in the document reading unit. When the MFP 12 is equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF), when the MFP 12 is operated, the document is placed on the document placement tray for automatically feeding the documents one by one. The case is also included.

  Referring back to FIG. 2, the document reading unit 50 includes a light source, a plurality of mirrors, an imaging lens, a line sensor, and the like (not shown). The document reading unit 50 exposes the surface of the document placed at a predetermined position of the document placement table by a light source, and guides the reflected light reflected from the surface of the document to the imaging lens by a plurality of mirrors. Then, the reflected light is imaged on the light receiving element of the line sensor by the imaging lens. The line sensor detects the brightness or chromaticity of the reflected light formed on the light receiving element, and generates read image data based on the image of the document surface. As a line sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) or the like is used. Although not shown, the document platen cover is provided to cover the document placement table of the document reading unit 50, and is connected to the main body of the MFP 12 so as to be openable and closable using a hinge.

  Although not shown, the recording medium reading unit 52 is connected to a connection unit (such as a connector or a memory slot) to which various recording media (such as an SD card, a USB memory, or an HDD drive) can be attached. The recording medium reading unit 52 reads image data from the recording medium attached to the connection unit and stores the image data in the RAM 34. However, image data is data about a photograph or a document.

  The lost object detection sensor 54 detects whether the MFP 12 has an object such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change. The leftover object detection sensor 54 includes a document detection sensor, a printed matter detection sensor, a recording medium detection sensor, and a change detection sensor.

  For example, the document detection sensor is a sensor (open / close detection sensor) that detects the open / close state of the document table cover, and includes an optical sensor of transmission type and an actuator that is moved up and down according to the open / close of the document table cover . When the platen cover is open, the actuator is moved upward, so that in the optical sensor, the light output from the light emitting unit is received by the light receiving unit. On the other hand, when the platen cover is closed, the actuator is pressed downward by the platen cover. Therefore, in the optical sensor, the light output from the light emitting unit is blocked by the actuator and the light is not incident on the light receiving unit .

  Therefore, based on the output of the document detection sensor, CPU 32 determines whether the platen cover has been opened or closed after copying, and determines whether a document is placed on document reading unit 50. When the MFP 12 is provided with an ADF, a mechanical switch using an actuator that functions as a document detection sensor is provided on the document tray from which the document is discharged. The CPU 32 determines whether there is a document in the document tray based on the on / off of the switch.

  Further, as the printed matter detection sensor, a mechanical switch using an actuator that functions as a printed matter detection sensor is provided on the discharge tray from which the printed matter is discharged. The CPU 32 determines whether there is a printed matter on the discharge tray based on the on / off of the switch.

  Furthermore, as the recording medium detection sensor, the recording medium is attached to the connection portion of the recording medium reading unit 52 based on whether the CPU 32 can directly communicate with the recording medium attached to the memory slot of the recording medium reading unit 52 It functions as a sensor that detects whether or not it is turned on.

  Furthermore, as the change detection sensor, a transmission-type optical sensor that emits light in the vertical direction is provided so as to penetrate a plate on which the discharged change at the back of the change return port is placed. When change is not taken (remained), the light output from the light emitting unit is blocked by the change. On the other hand, when the change is taken, the light output from the light emitting unit is received by the light receiving unit. Therefore, the CPU 32 determines whether a change remains based on the output of the change detection sensor.

  These document detection sensor, the printed matter detection sensor, and the change detection sensor are one example and should not be limited. Other sensors or other methods may be used to detect that the document is on the document holder or the discharge tray, that the printed matter is on the discharge tray, and that change is left.

  For example, after determining that there is a person in the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48, the CPU 32 determines the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48. If it is determined that there is no person, and it is determined that at least one of the document, the printed matter, the recording medium, and the change remains based on the output of the lost item detection sensor 54, it is determined that there is a lost item.

  The reason why it is determined that a person is present in the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48 is that there is a lost item after copying, printing or facsimile transmission is performed using the MFP 12. It is to determine whether there is any.

  However, after determining that there is a person in the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48, the CPU 32 determines a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, and the like based on the output of the lost object detection sensor 54. Even if it is determined that at least one of the change remains, if it is determined that there is a person in the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48, it is assumed that there is nothing left behind to decide. Further, after determining that there is a person in the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48, the CPU 32 determines the first range A based on the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48. If it is determined that no person is present, and if it is determined based on the output of the lost item detection sensor 54 that none of the document, the printed matter, the recording medium, and the change remains, it is determined that there is no lost item.

  Note that the electrical configuration of the MFP 12 shown in FIG. 2 is merely an example, and it is not necessary to be limited to this.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the POS terminal 14 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the POS terminal 14 of the first embodiment includes a CPU 112. Connected to the CPU 112 via the bus 140 are the RAM 114, the touch panel control circuit 116, the drawing control circuit 118, the operation unit detection circuit 124, and the wireless communication circuit 128. Further, the touch panel 120 is connected to the touch panel control circuit 116, the display 122 is connected to the drawing control circuit 118, and the operation unit 126 is connected to the operation unit detection circuit 124.

  The CPU 112 is responsible for overall control of the POS terminal 14. The RAM 114 is used as a work area and a buffer area of the CPU 112. The wireless communication circuit 128 has a function of performing wireless communication with another computer or access point. Therefore, the POS terminal 14 can communicate with the MFP 12 and the server 16 directly or via the network 20.

  The touch panel control circuit 116 applies a necessary voltage or the like to the touch panel 120 and detects a touch operation (touch input) within the touch effective range of the touch panel 120 to detect touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input. Output to

  The drawing control circuit 118 includes a GPU, a VRAM, and the like, and under the instruction of the CPU 112, the GPU uses display image data stored in the RAM 114 to display image data for displaying various screens on the display 122. The display image data generated and generated in the VRAM is output to the display 122.

  The operation unit detection circuit 124 is for detecting which operation has been selected in the operation unit 126, detects an operation on the operation unit 126, and outputs the operation to the CPU 112. In addition, the operation unit 126 includes a plurality of operation buttons.

  The electrical configuration of the POS terminal 14 shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and it is not necessary to be limited to this.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the handy terminal 200 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the handy terminal 200 of the first embodiment includes a CPU 212. Connected to the CPU 212 via the bus 240 are the RAM 214, the touch panel control circuit 216, the drawing control circuit 218, the operation unit detection circuit 224, and the wireless communication circuit 228. Further, the touch panel 220 is connected to the touch panel control circuit 216, the display 222 is connected to the drawing control circuit 218, and the operation unit 226 is connected to the operation unit detection circuit 224.

  The CPU 212 is responsible for overall control of the handy terminal 200. The RAM 214 is used as a work area and a buffer area of the CPU 212. The wireless communication circuit 228 has a function of performing wireless communication with another computer or access point. Therefore, the handy terminal 200 can communicate with the MFP 12, the POS terminal 14 and the server 16 directly or via the network 20.

  The touch panel control circuit 216 applies a necessary voltage or the like to the touch panel 220, detects a touch operation (touch input) within the touch effective range of the touch panel 220, and detects touch coordinate data indicating the position of the touch input. Output to

  The drawing control circuit 218 includes a GPU, a VRAM, and the like, and under the instruction of the CPU 212, the GPU uses display image data stored in the RAM 214 to display image data for displaying various screens on the display 222. The display image data generated and generated in the VRAM is output to the display 222.

  The operation unit detection circuit 224 is for detecting which operation has been selected in the operation unit 226, detects the operation in the operation unit 226, and outputs the operation to the CPU 212. The operation unit 226 also includes a plurality of operation buttons.

  The electrical configuration of the handy terminal 200 shown in FIG. 6 is merely an example, and it is not necessary to be limited to this.

  The information processing system 10 having such a configuration is applied to a store such as a convenience store, a mass retail store, or a supermarket, and provides a service in which a user performs copying, printing, or facsimile transmission using the MFP 12 disposed in the store. be able to.

  In such a service, for example, when the user copies or prints with MFP 12, it may be necessary to pick up an original, printed matter, recording medium and change after the end of copying or printing. Sometimes. In other words, there are things I can forget. Also, even if the user performs facsimile transmission, the user may forget to take out the document or / and change after facsimile transmission.

  Here, if it is detected based on the output of the lost object detection sensor 54, the user inputs authentication information in advance and logs in to the MFP 12, and the user responds to the authentication information in the server 16 according to the authentication information. When the contact of the possessed terminal is registered, the MFP 12 acquires the contact from the server 16, transmits information indicating that the contact has a lost item, and the user uses the possessed terminal. A warning that there is a lost item can be notified.

  However, if the user has not entered his authentication information in advance, or if the contact information of the terminal possessed by the user is not registered even though the authentication information has been entered, it is detected that there is a lost item Even if this is the case, the user can not be notified of the warning that there is a lost item. Therefore, there is a possibility that the user does not notice the lost item and loses the lost item.

  In order to avoid such an inconvenience, in the first embodiment, when there is a lost item, the MFP 12 transmits information on the missing item to the shop side terminal, and the store clerk has a lost item in the store clerk. A warning (hereinafter referred to as "first warning" for convenience of explanation) is notified. However, in this first embodiment, the shop side terminals are the POS terminal 14 and the plurality of handy terminals 200.

  FIG. 7 is an illustrative view showing one example of a first warning window 150 displayed on the POS terminal 14.

  As described above, when it is determined that there is a lost item based on the output of the human detection sensor 48 and the lost item detection sensor 54, the MFP 12 transmits lost item information to the POS terminal 14 and a plurality of handy terminals 200. For example, the lost item information is information about the presence of a lost item and the type of an item (a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, and a change, at least one) left in the MFP 12 and the coin vendor 18.

  When the POS terminal 14 receives the lost item information, as shown in FIG. 7, the POS terminal 14 displays a first warning window 150 on the display 122 of the POS terminal 14. However, although not shown, a basic screen 152 is displayed on the display 122 of the POS terminal 14 on which various icons to which a function for performing settlement of goods or confirmation of inventory is assigned are displayed. In the first embodiment, the first warning window 150 is displayed on the front of the basic screen 152.

  Although illustration etc. are omitted, similarly, when the lost item information is received, the first warning window 150 is displayed on the display 222 of the handy terminal 200. Although not shown, the first warning window 150 is also displayed on the main display 42 of the MFP 12.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, a first warning window is shown when the type of information included in the lost item information indicates a document, and the first warning window 150 displays “!!! Warning !!! A warning message of "Forgotten <document>" is displayed on the machine. Therefore, the store clerk is notified of a warning that there is a lost document. However, the same applies to the case where the forgotten item is a printed matter other than the original, a recording medium, or a change, and when there are plural types of forgotten items, all of them are notified. Also, the first warning window 150 can be closed by touching the display area of the first warning window 150. For example, when the display area of the first warning window 150 is touched in response to the store clerk being notified of the first warning and recovering (retaining) a lost item, the first warning window 150 is hidden. .

  The display mode of the first warning window 150 is not limited to this. When a message display area is provided in advance on the basic screen 152, a warning message may be displayed in the message display area. In addition, a close button for closing the first warning window 150 may be displayed in the display area of the first warning window 150 or the basic screen 152.

  The above-described operation of the MFP 12 is realized by the CPU 32 of the MFP 12 executing the control program for the MFP 12 stored in the RAM 34. However, the control program for the MFP 12 includes an information processing program for the MFP 12 for notifying of detection and warning of a lost item, and an image forming program for executing copying, printing, or facsimile transmission. The specific processing will be described later using a flow chart.

  FIG. 8 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map 300 of the RAM 34 incorporated in the MFP 12 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the RAM 34 includes a program storage area 302 and a data storage area 304. As described above, the program storage area 302 stores a control program (an information processing program and an image forming program for the MFP 12). The control program includes a communication program 302a, an operation detection program 302b, a person detection program 302c, a lost object detection program 302d, a warning program 302e, a print program 302f, and a display program 302g. However, the information processing program includes a communication program 302a, an operation detection program 302b, a person detection program 302c, a lost object detection program 302d, a warning program 302e, and the like.

  The communication program 302 a is a program for communicating with the POS terminal 14, the server 16 and a plurality of handy terminals 200 directly or through the network 20. However, the communication program 302a is also a program for communicating with another MFP or facsimile via a telephone line.

  The operation detection program 302b detects the coordinate data (touch coordinate data) output from the touch panel control circuit 36 in response to the touch on the touch panel 40, and the operation button included in the operation unit 46 is operated. It is also a program for detecting the operation data input from the operation unit detection circuit 44 accordingly.

  The human detection program 302 c is a program for acquiring distance data output from the human detection sensor 48 and detecting whether a human exists in the first range A.

  After the end of copying, printing or facsimile transmission, the forgotten item detection program 302d determines whether there is a forgotten item based on the detection result of the person detection program 302c and the output of the forgotten item detection sensor 54. It is a program for creating data (forgotten item information data 304 b) about lost item information and storing the data in the data storage area 304.

  The warning program 302e is a program for transmitting lost item information to the POS terminal 14 and the plurality of handy terminals 200 in accordance with the lost item information data 304b. At this time, the communication program 302 a is executed, and the MFP 12 communicates with the POS terminal 14 and a plurality of handy terminals 200.

  The print program 302 f may select a multi-color or single-color image according to image data read from the document by the document reading unit 50, image data read from the recording medium by the recording medium reading unit 52, or image data input from the outside. It is a program for forming on a recording medium (paper).

  The display program 302 g is a program for controlling the GPU to generate display image data corresponding to the first warning window 150, various operation screens and previews using the image generation data 304 a and outputting the display image data to the main body display 42. It is.

  Although not shown, the program storage area 302 also stores programs for selecting and executing various functions of the MFP 12.

  In the data storage area 304 of the RAM 34, image generation data 304a, lost item information data 304b and the like are stored.

  The image generation data 304 a is data such as polygon data or texture data for generating display image data corresponding to the first warning window 150, various operation screens, and a preview.

  The lost item information data 304 b is data on lost item information, and as described above, the lost item information is information on the presence of a lost item and the type of the lost item. The lost item information data 304 b is deleted when a predetermined operation is performed in the MFP 12, the POS terminal 14 or the handy terminal 200.

  Although not shown, the data storage area 304 stores other data necessary for the execution of the control program, such as touch coordinate data or operation data input according to the operation of the touch panel 40 or the operation unit 46. Or, timers (counters) or registers necessary for the execution of the control program may be provided.

  FIG. 9 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map 400 of the RAM 114 incorporated in the POS terminal 14 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the RAM 114 includes a program storage area 402 and a data storage area 404. As described above, the program storage area 402 of the RAM 114 stores an information processing program for the POS terminal 14. The information processing program includes a communication program 402a, an operation detection program 402b, a display program 402c, a warning program 402d, and the like. However, since the operation detection program 402b is the same as the above-described operation detection program 302b, the detailed description will be omitted. Further, since the display program 402c is the same as the display program 302g described above, the detailed description will be omitted.

  The communication program 402 a is a program for communicating with the MFP 12, the server 16 and a plurality of handy terminals 200 directly or through the network 20.

  The warning program 402 d is a program for displaying the first warning window 150 on the display 122 in accordance with the lost item information transmitted from the MFP 12.

  Although not shown, the program storage area 402 also stores programs for selecting and executing various functions executable by the POS terminal 14.

  Further, in the data storage area 404 of the RAM 114, image generation data 404a is stored. The image generation data 404a is data such as polygon data or texture data for generating display image data corresponding to the first warning window 150 and various operation screens.

  Although illustration is omitted, in the data storage area 404, touch coordinate data input in response to touching the touch panel 120 or operation data input in response to operation of the operation button of the operation unit 126. And other data necessary for execution of the information processing program for the POS terminal 14 is stored, or a timer (counter) or register necessary for execution of the information processing program for the POS terminal 14 is provided.

  FIG. 10 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map 500 of the RAM 214 incorporated in the handy terminal 200 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the RAM 214 includes a program storage area 502 and a data storage area 504. As described above, the program storage area 502 of the RAM 214 stores an information processing program for the handy terminal 200. The information processing program includes a communication program 502a, an operation detection program 502b, a display program 502c, a warning program 502d, and the like. However, since the operation detection program 502b is the same as the above-described operation detection program 302b, the detailed description will be omitted. Further, the display program 502c is the same as the display program 302g described above, and thus detailed description will be omitted.

  The communication program 502 a is a program for communicating with the MFP 12, the POS terminal 14 and the server 16 directly or through the network 20.

  The warning program 502 d is a program for displaying the first warning window 150 on the display 222 in accordance with the lost item information transmitted from the MFP 12.

  Although not shown, the program storage area 502 also stores programs for selecting and executing various functions that can be executed by the handy terminal 200.

  Further, in the data storage area 504 of the RAM 214, image generation data 504a is stored. The image generation data 504 a is data such as polygon data or texture data for generating display image data corresponding to the first warning window 150 and various operation screens.

  Although not shown, the data storage area 504 stores other data required to execute an information processing program for the handy terminal 200, such as operation data from the touch panel 220 or the operation unit 226, or the handy terminal A timer (counter) or a register necessary for the execution of the information processing program for 200 may be provided.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of forgetting the CPU 32 of the MFP 12 shown in FIG. This forgotten process is a process of determining whether or not there is a lost item in the MFP 12 and the coin vendor 18, and transmitting lost item information from the MFP 12 to the POS terminal 14 and a plurality of handy terminals 200 when there is a lost item.

  When the MFP 12 is activated, as shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 32 of the MFP 12 starts the forget-to-take process, acquires distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48 in step S1 and Determine whether (user) exists. If "NO" in the step S1, that is, if it is determined that no person exists in the first range A, the process returns to the same step S1 as it is.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S1, that is, if it is determined that a person is present in the first range A, the distance data detected by the person detection sensor 48 is obtained in a step S3. To determine if there is a person. Here, the CPU 32 determines whether a person who once existed in the first range A has left the first range A, that is, whether the user has left the MFP 12 from the front.

  If "NO" in the step S3, that is, if it is determined that a person is present in the first range A, it is determined that the user is present in the vicinity of the MFP 12, and the process returns to the same step S3 as it is. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S3, that is, if it is determined that there is no person in the first range A, it is determined that the user has left the front of the MFP 12, and the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, it is determined whether the MFP 12 has a lost item. The judgment as to whether or not there is something left behind is as described above. If "NO" in the step S5, that is, if there is no forgotten item in the MFP 12, it is determined that there is no forgotten item of the document, and the process returns to the step S1. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S5, that is, if there is a lost item in the MFP 12, the process proceeds to a step S7.

  In step S7, the forgotten item information data 304b for the information on the existence of the forgotten item and the type of the forgotten item is created. In the subsequent step S9, the first warning window 150 is displayed on the main body display 42.

  Subsequently, in step S11, the lost item information is transmitted to the POS terminal 14. Further, in step S13, the lost item information is transmitted to the handy terminal 200, and the process returns to step S1. However, in step S11, the CPU 32 sends the lost item information data 304b created in step S7 to the POS terminal 14, and in step S13 sends the lost item information data 304b created in step S7 to the handy terminal 200.

  According to the first embodiment, CPU 32 determines whether or not there is a lost item in MFP 12 and coin vendor 18 based on the detection results of person detection sensor 48 and lost item detection sensor 54, and determines that there is a lost item. Since the lost item information is transmitted to the POS terminal 14 and the handy terminal 200 in accordance with the warning program 302e, the store clerk operating the POS terminal 14 or the handy terminal 200 is notified of a warning that the MFP 12 and coin vendor 18 have lost items. be able to. Therefore, even if the MFP 12 and the coin vendor 18 installed in a store etc. have lost items for a document, printed matter, recording medium, and change, the store clerk can prevent the lost items from being lost.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, when the forgotten item information data 304b is stored in the data storage area 304 of the RAM 34, the forgotten item information is transmitted to the shop side terminal, so by managing the forgotten item information data 304b, The store clerk can be appropriately notified of the first warning.

Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, although lost item information is transmitted to both the POS terminal 14 and the handy terminal 200, it may be transmitted to either one.
Second Embodiment
The information processing system 10 of the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that lost item information is also transmitted to a terminal (user terminal) possessed by a user present in a store where the MFP 12 is provided. The contents different from the first embodiment will be described, and the redundant description will be omitted.

  FIG. 12 is an illustrative view showing one example of a configuration of the information processing system 10 of the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the information processing system 10 of the second embodiment further includes a plurality of user terminals 600.

  A typical example of the user terminal 600 is a smartphone or a future phone, and includes various functions such as a call function, an e-mail function, and a browser function. The electrical configuration, functions and applications of a smartphone or future phone are already known and are not the essential contents of the present invention, so a detailed description will be omitted.

  In the information processing system 10 of the second embodiment, the MFP 12, the POS terminal 14, the server 16, the plurality of handy terminals 200 and the plurality of user terminals 600 are communicably connected via the network 20 such as the Internet. Be done. For example, user terminal 600 is connected to network 20 via an access point provided in a store.

  In addition, in the information processing system 10 of the second embodiment, the user terminal 600 on which a dedicated application for receiving provision of a service (including a service for transmitting lost item information) using the information processing system 10 is installed. As long as the network 20 is connected. Therefore, the user terminal 600 can connect to the network 20 only when a dedicated application for using the information processing system 10 is installed, and the user terminal 600 is in a range connectable to the access point in the store. . If the user holding the user terminal 600 leaves the store and moves out of the range where it can be connected to the access point in the store, the user terminal 600 can not connect to the network 20.

  The method of communication is not limited, and if user terminal 600 and POS terminal 14 can perform near field communication such as WiFi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark), user terminal 600 and POS can communicate with each other. The terminal 14 may communicate directly. In this case, the user terminal 600 can also connect to the network 20 of the information processing system 10 via the POS terminal 14.

  As described above, in the information processing system 10 of the second embodiment, when the CPU 32 determines that there is a lost item in the MFP 12 based on the detection results of the person detection sensor 48 and the lost item detection sensor 54, the POS terminal 14, Lost item information is transmitted to a plurality of handy terminals 200 and all connectable user terminals 600. Although illustration is omitted, the user terminal 600 displays the first warning window 150 on its own display when the lost item information is received.

  In the following, the process of forgetting the CPU 32 built in the MFP 12 in the second embodiment will be described using the flowchart, but the same processes as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals. The duplicate contents will be omitted or briefly described.

  FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing a part of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU 32 of the MFP built in the MFP 12 according to the second embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in the second embodiment, the CPU 32 of the MFP 12 determines that there is a lost item ("YES" in step S5), and generates the lost item information data 304b in step S7. (1) The warning window 150 is displayed on the main body display 42, and in step S31, lost item information is transmitted (broadcast) to all connectable user terminals 600, and the process proceeds to step S11.

  In the second process, the processes in steps S1 to S9 and the processes in steps S11 to S13 are the same as those in the first example.

  According to the second embodiment, when it is determined that there is a lost item, the CPU 32 transmits lost item information not only to the POS terminal 14 and the plurality of handy terminals 200 but also to the user terminal 600 in the store. In addition to this, the user having the user terminal 600 in the store can also be notified of a warning that there is a lost item, and loss of the lost item can be prevented.

Note that, as described above, strictly speaking, if it is a range that can be connected to an access point in a store, lost item information can be received even if the user terminal 600 exists outside the store, Also in this case, the user is notified of a warning that there is something left behind.
Third Embodiment
In the information processing system 10 of the third embodiment, the second embodiment is implemented except that the user can log in to the MFP 12 using the authentication information, and for the logged-in user, the lost item information is transmitted to the contact address of the user. Since this example is the same as the example, contents different from those of the second embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.

  In the third embodiment, the program storage area 302 of the RAM 34 of the MFP 12 stores an authentication processing program for performing user authentication processing. Then, the CPU 32 performs user authentication processing in accordance with the authentication processing program. In the data storage area 304, user information data capable of identifying the logged-in user is stored. This user information data includes identification information (user ID) about the logged-in user, a contact registered corresponding to the user ID, time of login (including year and month) and time of log out (including year and month) Is described.

  However, the contact information is registered in the server 16 corresponding to the user ID, and when the login process is performed, the MFP 12 communicates with the server 16 to determine whether the entered user ID and password are correct. Inquire If the user ID and password are correct, the MFP 12 is notified that the authentication is OK and the registered contact address. However, if the user has not registered a contact address, only notification that the authentication is OK is given. On the other hand, when at least one of the user ID and the password is not correct, the MFP 12 is notified that the authentication is NG.

  The authentication process program is a program for executing an authentication process for authenticating a user who logs in to the MFP 12. According to this authentication processing program, when the user inputs authentication information at the start of using MFP 12, that is, when there is a login operation, CPU 32 inquires the server 16 of the input authentication information and can use the service for information processing system 10 If the user can use the service, log in. For example, the authentication information includes a user ID and a password. However, the authentication information may be stored in an IC card distributed to the user, and read from the IC card.

  Further, in the information processing system 10 of the third embodiment, the lost item information data 304 b includes data indicating which user has lost items. For example, when determining that there is a lost item, the CPU 32 creates a lost item information data 304 b including the user ID of the logged-in user or the user who logged in immediately before. However, since the user who has not logged in can not include the user ID, data (Null data) indicating that the user can not be specified is included in the lost item information data 304 b instead of the user ID.

  Therefore, in the information processing system 10 of the third embodiment, when it is determined that there is a lost item, the CPU 32 acquires a contact corresponding to the user ID included in the lost item information data 304 b, and the user terminal 600 of this contact. Send lost item information to As a method of transmitting the lost item information to the user terminal 600, it is conceivable to send an e-mail in which the lost item information is described at the contact point of the registered user.

  The following describes the forgetting process of the CPU 32 in the third embodiment with reference to the flowchart, but the same processes as the forgetting process described in the second embodiment have the same reference numerals, and duplicate contents are The explanation will be omitted or briefly described.

  FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a part of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU 32 built in the MFP 12 of the third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing another part of the forget-to-get process of the CPU 32 built in the MFP 12 of the third embodiment, which is a flow diagram subsequent to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 14, in the third embodiment, the CPU 32 of the MFP 12 determines whether or not a person is present in the first range A in step S1 when the forget-to-get process is started. If "NO" in the step S1, the process returns to the same step S1. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S1, it is determined in a step S51 whether or not there is a login operation.

  If "NO" in the step S51, that is, if there is no login operation, the process directly proceeds to the step S3. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S51, that is, if there is a login operation, in a step S53, login processing is performed according to the authentication processing program, and user information data is stored (updated) in the data storage area 304, The process proceeds to step S3.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, when the first warning is displayed on the main body display 42 in step S9, it is determined in step S55 whether it is possible to identify the user who left behind. Here, the CPU 32 refers to the user information data in the data storage area 304 to determine whether there is a currently logged-in user or a user logged in immediately before.

  If "NO" in the step S55, that is, if it is not possible to specify the user who has forgotten something, the first warning is notified to all connectable user terminals 600 in a step S31, and the process proceeds to the step S11.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S55, that is, if it is possible to specify the user who left behind, it is determined in a step S57 whether or not the user terminal 600 of the specified user can communicate. Here, the CPU 32 refers to the user information data and determines whether a contact is described in correspondence to the user ID of the specified user.

  If "NO" in the step S57, that is, if communication with the user terminal 600 of the specified user can not be performed, the process proceeds to the above-described step S31. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S57, that is, if communication with the user terminal 600 of the specified user is possible, the lost article information is transmitted to the user terminal 600 of the specified user in step S59, and the step S11 is performed. Go to

  Note that, in the processing of the third embodiment, the processing of steps S3 to S9 and the processing of steps S11 to S13 are the same as those of the second embodiment.

According to the third embodiment, for the user who logged in to the MFP 12, when the contact is registered, when it is determined that there is a lost item, the MFP 12 only has the POS terminal 14 and a plurality of handy terminals 200. In addition, since the lost item information is transmitted to the user terminal of the logged-in user, the user who made the lost item can be made aware of the lost item in addition to the clerk, and the loss of the lost item can be prevented.
Fourth Embodiment
In the information processing system 10 of the fourth embodiment, when the MFP 12 is operated by a user other than the user who left the lost item in the state where the left object is left, the lost item can be taken away by the shop terminal or / and the contact information of the user who left the item. The third embodiment is the same as the third embodiment except that warning information indicating that there is a problem is transmitted. Therefore, contents different from the third embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.

  In the fourth embodiment, in the program storage area 302 of the RAM 34 of the MFP 12, the program storage area 402 of the RAM 114 of the POS terminal 14, and the program storage area 502 of the RAM 214 of the handy terminal 200 A notification program is stored.

  When the CPU 32 of the MFP 12 or the CPU 112 of the POS terminal 14 or the CPU 212 of the handy terminal 200 receives a predetermined operation (hereinafter, referred to as a “lost item securing operation”), the lost item securing process is performed according to the lost item securing program.

  Here, the forgotten item securing operation is, for example, the first warning window 150 displayed on the POS terminal 14 or the handy terminal 200 in response to the store clerk receiving the notification of the first warning securing (collecting) the forgotten item. An operation of touching the display area is included. The forgotten item securing operation also includes an operation in which the user who has forgotten something touches the display area of the first warning window 150 displayed on the user terminal 600 in response to securing the forgotten item. Furthermore, the lost item securing operation also includes an operation in which the store clerk or the user who has left the item touches the display area of the first warning window 150 displayed on the MFP 12 in response to securing the lost item.

  The forgotten item securing operation is not limited to the operation of touching the display area of the first warning window 150, and the function of confirming that the forgotten item has been secured is assigned to the POS terminal 14, the handy terminal 200 or the user terminal 600. It is also possible to display a selected icon and touch the icon.

  However, in the forgotten item securing operation, in order to identify the person who secured the forgotten item, the operator is authenticated. For example, in the case where a user who has forgotten something performs a lost material securing operation, the above-described login operation is required in order to perform user authentication processing. In addition, when the store clerk performs an operation for securing a lost item, an authentication operation such as reading an ID card unique to the store clerk is required.

  The forgotten item securing program is a program for executing a process of updating the forgotten item information data 304b when the store clerk or the user who has forgotten item secures the forgotten item and the forgotten item securing operation is performed.

  For example, when the user who has forgotten something secures a lost article and a lost article securing operation is performed, the lost article information data 304 b for the lost article is deleted. In addition, when the clerk secures a lost item, data indicating the whereabouts of the lost item such as the name of the store where the lost item is secured is added, and the lost item information data 304b for the lost item is updated.

  In addition, when the store clerk secures a lost item, the lost item securing program secures a lost item in the user terminal 600 with reference to the updated lost item information data 304b if communication with the user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten is made. It is also a program for sending securing information including what has been done and whereabouts of lost items.

  The warning information transmission program stores warning information indicating that a forgotten item may be taken away when the MFP 12 is operated by a user (other user) other than the user who made the forgotten item in a state where there is a lost item or a shop terminal or And / or a program for transmitting to the user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten something.

  In this case, the MFP 12 transmits warning information to the POS terminal 14 and the plurality of handy terminals 200 that the lost item may be taken away, and the store terminal warns the store clerk that the lost item may be taken away (see FIG. Hereinafter, for the convenience of the description, "second warning" will be notified. Also, if MFP 12 can communicate with user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten something, it sends warning information to the user terminal 600 that there is a possibility that the forgotten thing will be taken away, and The second warning may be notified.

  In addition, the warning information transmission program indicates warning information indicating that a forgotten item may be taken away before another forgotten item securing operation is performed, that is, when the MFP 12 is operated by another user with the forgotten item. Data (warning information data) is added, and it is also a program for executing an update process of the lost item information data 304b. However, the warning information data does not have to be added to the lost item information data 304b, and may be stored in the RAM 34 in association with the lost item information data 304b.

  The location notification program displays a screen showing the whereabouts of a lost item, such as information on a store where the lost item is secured, when the user who lost the item is logged into the MFP 12 after the lost item is secured by the store clerk. It is a program for displaying on. However, the location notification program displays a screen indicating that the lost item can not be returned on the main body display 42 of the MFP 12 when the lost item is not secured.

  For example, on the screen indicating the location of the lost item, an icon to which a function for checking whether the lost item has been returned is displayed is displayed on MFP 12. If the icon is touched, the user who lost the item lost I judge that I secured it. At this time, the lost item information data 304 b for the lost item is deleted.

  The following describes the forgetting process of the CPU 32 in the fourth embodiment using the flowchart, but the same processes as the forgetting process described in the third embodiment have the same reference numerals, and duplicate contents are The explanation will be omitted or briefly described.

  FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing a part of an example of the process of forgetting the CPU 32 built in the MFP 12 of the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, in the fourth embodiment, the CPU 32 determines whether or not a person is present in the first range A in step S1 when the forget-to-get process is started. If "YES" in the step S1, that is, if it is determined that a person is present in the first range A, it is determined in a step S71 whether or not there is a left thing.

  If "NO" in the step S71, that is, if there is no forgotten item, the process directly proceeds to a step S51. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S71, that is, if there is a lost item, a lost item securing process (see FIGS. 17 and 18) described later is executed in a step S73, and the process returns to the step S1. The processing after step S51 is the same as that of the third embodiment.

  FIGS. 17 and 18 are flowcharts showing an example of the lost article securing process of the CPU 32 built in the MFP 12 according to the fourth embodiment. Although the case where the lost item securing process is performed in MFP 12 will be described here, the same applies to the case where the lost item securing process is performed in POS terminal 14, handy terminal 200, and user terminal 600.

  As shown in FIG. 17, when starting the lost item securing process, the CPU 32 determines whether or not a person (user) existing in the first range A can be specified in step S91. Here, it is determined whether or not there is a login operation.

  If "NO" in the step S91, that is, if there is no login operation, the process proceeds to a step S101 described later. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S91, that is, if there is a login operation, it is determined in a step S93 whether or not the logged-in user is the user who left behind. Here, the CPU 32 refers to the lost item information data 304b, compares the user ID input in the login operation with the user ID included in the lost item information data 304b, and the logged-in user and the user who left the lost item Determine if it matches. The same applies to the case where it is determined whether or not there is a lost item of the logged-in user.

  If "NO" in the step S93, that is, if the logged-in user is not the user who has forgotten something, the process proceeds to a step S101 described later.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S93, that is, if the logged-in user is a user who has forgotten something, it is determined in a step S95 whether or not there is nothing left behind. That is, it is determined whether or not the lost items have disappeared. Here, the CPU 32 acquires the detection result of the lost object detection sensor 54 and determines whether or not there is a lost object.

  If "NO" in the step S95, that is, if a forgotten item remains, the process returns to the same step S95 as it is. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S95, that is, if there is no lost item, it is checked in a step S97 whether or not the lost item is secured. Here, the CPU 32 displays on the main body display 42 an icon for confirming whether or not a lost item has been secured, and determines that the lost item is secured when the icon is selected. The same applies to the case where it is determined whether a lost item has been secured.

  If "NO" in the step S97, that is, if the forgotten item is not secured, the process returns to the same step S97 as it is. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S97, that is, if a lost item is secured, the lost item information data 304b is deleted in a step S99, the lost item securing process is ended, and the main routine (shown in FIG. 16). Return to the forgot handling process).

  Also, as described above, if "NO" in the step S91 or the step S93, the process proceeds to the step S101. In step S101, it is determined whether a person present in the first range A is a store clerk. Here, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the person existing in the first range A is a store clerk, based on whether or not the authentication operation by the store clerk-specific ID card has been performed.

  Although the detailed description is omitted, the MFP 12 is provided with a device for reading the information recorded in the ID card.

  If "YES" in the step S101, that is, if the person existing in the first range A is a store clerk, it is determined in a step S103 shown in FIG. 18 whether or not there is a lost item. If "NO" in the step S103, that is, if there are leftovers (remains), the process returns to the same step S103 as it is. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S103, that is, if there is no lost item, it is determined in a step S105 whether or not the lost item is secured.

  If "NO" in the step S105, that is, if the forgotten item is not secured, the process returns to the same step S105 as it is. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S105, that is, if the lost item is secured, the lost item information data 304b is updated in a step S107. Here, the CPU 32 adds data indicating the whereabouts of the lost item, such as the name of the store where the lost item is secured, to the lost item information data 304b.

  In the following step S109, it is determined whether or not communication with the user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten something is possible. If “NO” in the step S109, that is, if it is not possible to communicate with the user terminal 600 of the user who left the lost item, the left thing securing process is ended, and the process returns to the main routine.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S109, that is, if it is possible to communicate with the user terminal 600 of the user who left the lost item, the user terminal 600 of the user who left the left thing according to the updated lost item information data 304b in step S111. The securement information including that the lost item is secured is transmitted, the lost item securement process is ended, and the process returns to the main routine.

  Returning to FIG. 17, if “NO” in the step S101, that is, if the person present in the first range A is not a store clerk, it is determined in a step S113 whether or not there is a leftover. If "NO" in the step S113, that is, if a forgotten item remains, the process returns to the same step S113 as it is. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S113, that is, if there is no lost item, the lost item information data 304b is updated in a step S115. Here, the CPU 32 adds warning information data to the lost item information data 304 b.

  In the following step S117, it is determined whether or not communication with the user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten something is possible. If “NO” in the step S117, that is, if communication with the user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten something can not be performed, the process proceeds to step S121 described later.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S117, that is, if it is possible to communicate with the user terminal 600 of the user who has forgotten, in a step S119, referring to the updated lost thing information data 304b, the warning information is transmitted The process proceeds to step S121.

  In step S121, warning information is sent to the POS terminal 14, and in step S13, warning information is sent to the handy terminal 200, the forgotten matter securing process is ended, and the process returns to the main routine.

  FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing an example of the lost object notification processing of the CPU 32 incorporated in the MFP 12 of the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19, when the user performs a login operation in MFP 12, CPU 32 performs login processing in accordance with the authentication processing program in step S151, and determines in step S153 whether or not the logged-in user has a lost item.

  If "NO" in the step S153, that is, if there is no forgotten item of the logged-in user, the forgotten item notification process is ended.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S153, that is, if there is a lost item of the logged-in user, it is determined in a step S155 whether or not the lost item is secured. Here, the CPU 32 refers to the lost item information data 304 b to determine whether or not the lost item is secured.

  If "NO" in the step S155, that is, if the lost item is not secured, a screen indicating that the lost item can not be returned is displayed on the main body display 42 in a step S157, and the lost item notification processing is ended.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S155, that is, if the lost item is secured, a screen indicating the whereabouts of the lost item is displayed on the main body display 42 in a step S159. Here, the CPU 32 refers to the lost item information data 304 b to acquire information such as in which store the lost item is secured, and displays a screen indicating the location of the lost item on the main display 42.

  In the subsequent step S161, a return confirmation screen for confirming to the user whether or not the lost item has been returned is displayed on the main body display 42. Here, the CPU 32 displays on the return confirmation screen an icon for confirming whether or not the lost item has been returned. In the following step S163, it is determined whether a lost item has been returned. Here, when the icon for confirming whether or not the lost item has been returned is selected, it is determined that the lost item has been returned.

  If "NO" in the step S163, that is, if the lost item is not returned on the spot, the lost item notification process is ended as it is.

  On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S163, that is, if the lost item is returned, the lost item information data 304b is deleted in a step S165, and the lost item notification process is ended.

  According to the fourth embodiment, when the user secures a lost item, the lost item information data 304b is deleted by accepting a predetermined operation. Therefore, when a lost item is secured and a warning becomes unnecessary, the lost item information data It is possible to appropriately manage lost item information, such as deleting 304 b.

  Further, according to the fourth embodiment, when the MFP 12 is operated by another user before the forgotten item information data 304 b is deleted, the forgotten item information data 304 b is updated to at least the POS terminal 14 and the handy terminal 200. Since the second warning is notified to the store clerk, when the other user uses the MFP 12, the store clerk can be made aware that the lost item may be taken away, and the lost item can be prevented from being lost.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, although an example of an article such as a document, a printed matter, a recording medium, or a change has been described as a lost item, it is not necessary to be limited to this. Lost things are not limited to tangibles, and may be intangibles such as image data. For example, there is an information processing system in which image data is registered in advance in the server 16 or the like and image data registered in the server 16 is acquired by the MFP 12 and printing can be performed. In such an information processing system, when the user leaves the MFP 12 while the server 16 can be accessed, there is a risk that image data registered in the server 16 by another person may be printed. That is, when the user leaves the MFP 12 while the server 16 can be accessed, it can be regarded as a lost item. In this case, the MFP 12 may forcibly log out by performing authentication with a store clerk-specific ID card.

  In addition, the lost item information data 304 b is not limited to being stored in the RAM 34 of the MFP 12, and may be stored in the server 16.

  Furthermore, the specific numerical values, screen configurations and the like mentioned in the above-described embodiment are merely examples, and can be appropriately changed according to the actual product. Moreover, each step of the flow chart shown in the above-mentioned embodiment can be appropriately changed in the processing order as long as the same result is obtained.

10 ... information processing system 12 ... MFP
14 ... POS terminal 16 ... Server 20 ... Network 54 ... Lost object detection sensor 200 ... Handy terminal

Claims (10)

An image forming apparatus installed in a store,
Forgotten item detecting means for detecting presence or absence of forgotten items of the user using the image forming apparatus,
Storage means for storing the lost item information when the lost item detection means detects that there is a lost item;
A deletion unit that deletes the lost item information stored in the storage unit by receiving a predetermined operation, and the connected item is communicably connected to the image forming apparatus when the lost item detection unit detects that there is a lost item Information on the lost item is transmitted to the store side terminal, and the warning information different from the lost item information is stored in the store when the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted by the deleting unit. An image forming apparatus comprising transmitting means for transmitting to a side terminal . Execution means for executing login processing according to user's operation;
User information storage means for storing user information about the logged-in user by execution of the login process by the execution means, and when it is detected by the forgotten thing detection means that there is a lost item in the user information It further comprises a specifying means for specifying a user who has forgotten something based on
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting unit further transmits the lost article information to a user terminal of the user specified by the specifying unit.   The transmission means further transmits the forgotten item information to all user terminals present in a communicable range with the image forming apparatus when it is detected that the forgotten item is present by the forgotten item detection means. Image forming device. Before Symbol transmitting means transmits the leave something information when the lost item information in the storage means is stored, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. An information processing system having an image forming apparatus installed in a store, comprising:
Forgotten item detecting means for detecting presence or absence of forgotten items of the user using the image forming apparatus,
Storage means for storing the lost item information when the lost item detection means detects that there is a lost item;
A deletion unit that deletes the lost item information stored in the storage unit by receiving a predetermined operation, and the connected item is communicably connected to the image forming apparatus when the lost item detection unit detects that there is a lost item Information about the lost item is transmitted to the store side terminal, and when the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted by the deleting unit, the store side may be notified of warning information different from the lost item information. An information processing system comprising transmitting means for transmitting to a terminal . Execution means for executing login processing according to user's operation;
User information storage means for storing user information about the logged-in user by execution of the login process by the execution means, and when it is detected by the forgotten thing detection means that there is a lost item in the user information It further comprises a specifying means for specifying a user who has forgotten something based on
The information processing system according to claim 5 , wherein the transmission means further transmits the lost article information to a user terminal of the user specified by the specification means. 6. The apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein said transmitting means further transmits said forgotten item information to all user terminals present in a communicable range with said image forming apparatus, when said lost item detecting means detects that there is a lost item. Information processing system. Before Symbol transmitting means transmits the leave something information when the lost item information in the storage means is stored, the information processing system according to any one of claims 5 to 7. An information processing program executed by an image processing apparatus used in an information processing system having an image forming apparatus installed in a store, comprising:
A computer of the image forming apparatus;
Forgotten item detecting means for detecting presence or absence of forgotten items of the user using the image forming apparatus ,
A storage unit configured to store the lost item information in a storage unit of the image forming apparatus when the lost item detection unit detects that there is a lost item;
It is communicably connected to the image forming apparatus when deletion means for deleting the lost item information stored in the storage unit by receiving a predetermined operation, and when the left thing detection means detects that there is a lost item. Information about the lost item is transmitted to the store side terminal, and when the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted by the deleting unit, the store side may be notified of warning information different from the lost item information. An information processing program that causes a terminal to function as a transmission unit. An information processing method of an information processing system having an image forming apparatus installed in a store, comprising:
The computer of the information processing system is
(A) detecting the presence or absence of a forgotten item of a user who uses the image forming apparatus;
(B) When the presence of a lost item is detected in (a), the lost item information is stored in the storage unit of the image forming apparatus,
(C) deleting the lost article information stored in the storage unit by accepting a predetermined operation;
(D) When it is detected in (a) that there is a lost item, the lost item information on the lost item is transmitted to the shop side terminal communicably connected to the image forming apparatus , and
(E) When the image forming apparatus is operated before the lost item information is deleted in (c), warning information different from the lost item information is transmitted to the shop side terminal .

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