JP6649679B2 - Image forming apparatus, print system including the same, control method, and computer program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of receiving a print instruction via a network, and more particularly, to an image forming apparatus that executes printing in a print setting when a print instruction is issued from an external device. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus to which an executable function can be added and a printing system including the same.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an image forming apparatus (typically, a copy machine) for forming an image on a recording sheet has been introduced as a type of an image processing apparatus which is an electronic apparatus in many business offices (company, office, etc.). . A multifunction peripheral (MFP), which is one type of such an image forming apparatus, has a plurality of functions, such as a copy mode, a facsimile mode, a printer mode compatible with a communication network (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a network), and a scanner mode. It has the function of.

  A plurality of personal computers (hereinafter, referred to as personal computers), a plurality of print servers, and a plurality of multifunction peripherals are interconnected via a network to enable transmission and reception of data such as print jobs between the personal computers, the print servers, and the multifunction peripherals. Systems are known.

  For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 below disclose systems in which print job data is registered in a server computer or a multifunction peripheral, and printing is performed by operating the multifunction peripheral. Further, in Patent Document 3 below, in a system in which a plurality of multifunction peripherals are connected to a network, print job data is registered in a server computer, and when a print job is designated and printed from a desired multifunction peripheral, There is disclosed a technique for notifying a user that a function of the multifunction peripheral is insufficient for performing a designated print job.

JP-A-11-249848 JP 2007-306398 A JP 2010-250544 A

  However, in the system disclosed in Patent Document 3, if a function is insufficient in a certain multifunction peripheral, printing is performed again on a server computer or the multifunction peripheral in order to print on another multifunction peripheral having the function. It is necessary to register job data, and there is a problem that it takes time.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus that can add a function executable by the image forming apparatus to an image forming apparatus that performs printing, in a print setting when printing is instructed from an external device, and an image forming apparatus including the same. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing system including:

  A print system according to a first aspect of the present invention is a print system including a terminal device capable of communicating with each other and a plurality of image forming apparatuses. The terminal device includes a print instruction unit that transmits a print job and setting information relating to conditions for forming an image on recording paper based on the print job to a specific first image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatuses. The first image forming apparatus includes: a first receiving unit that receives the print job and the setting information transmitted from the terminal device; a first storage unit that stores the received print job and the setting information; A first transmitting unit that transmits setting information and a print job to the second image forming apparatus in response to receiving a request for transmitting setting information from a second image forming apparatus different from the first image forming apparatus. . The second image forming apparatus stores in advance a second receiving unit that receives a print job and setting information transmitted from the first image forming apparatus, and function information regarding a function executable by the second image forming apparatus. A second storage unit for storing the received print job and setting information, a collating unit for collating the setting information with the function information to determine an additional function, a display unit for displaying the additional function, and a displayed additional function. A selection unit that receives a selection as to whether or not to execute the image forming apparatus; and an image forming unit that executes image formation based on the print job stored in the second storage unit in response to the selection unit executing the additional function. And an image forming unit that performs the additional function.

  Accordingly, a function that is not set to be executed when the user instructs printing by operating the terminal device and is executable by the second image forming apparatus can be changed by operating the second image forming apparatus. When printing, whether or not to execute as an additional function can be displayed in a selectable manner. If the user selects execution of the additional function, the selected additional function can be executed together with image formation.

  A print system according to a second aspect of the present invention is a print system including a first image forming apparatus and a second image forming apparatus that can communicate with each other. A first image forming apparatus configured to read a document and generate image data; a setting unit configured to receive setting information regarding an image forming condition on a recording sheet based on the image data; and to generate a job from the setting information and the image data. And a transmitting unit that transmits a job and setting information to the second image forming apparatus in response to receiving a request for transmitting setting information from the second image forming apparatus. The second image forming apparatus has a receiving unit that receives the job and the setting information transmitted from the first image forming apparatus, and function information about a function executable by the second image forming apparatus is stored in advance. A storage unit for storing the setting information and the function information; a matching unit for determining the additional function by comparing the setting information with the function information; a display unit for displaying the additional function; and a determination whether to execute the displayed additional function. A selection unit that receives a selection, and an image forming unit that executes image formation based on the job stored in the storage unit and executes the selected additional function in response to selection of execution of the additional function by the selection unit And

  Thus, after the user scans the original in the first image forming apparatus and sets the printing conditions, the function is not set to be executed when the user operates the second image apparatus to perform printing. The function executable by the two-image forming apparatus can be displayed so as to be selectable as to whether to execute it as an additional function. If the user selects execution of the additional function, the selected additional function can be executed together with image formation.

  Preferably, transmission and reception of setting information between the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus are performed according to a SOAP protocol.

  More preferably, the setting information is XML format data.

  More preferably, the function information is XML format data.

  As a result, setting information can be easily generated, and setting information can be transmitted and received efficiently. Also, the collation of the setting information with the function information becomes easy.

  Preferably, the additional function is an optional function of the second image forming apparatus.

  Thus, a function unique to the second image forming apparatus that the other image forming apparatus does not have can be executed as an additional function.

  An image forming apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that executes image formation on recording paper in response to a user operation. The image forming apparatus includes a receiving unit that receives a print job and setting information from an external device that stores a print job and setting information regarding image forming conditions based on the print job, and a function related to a function executable by the image forming apparatus. The information is stored in advance, and a storage unit for storing the received print job and setting information, and receiving an image formation instruction based on the print job, collating the setting information with the function information and adding an additional function A matching unit for determining the additional function, a display unit for displaying the additional function, a selecting unit for receiving a selection as to whether or not to execute the displayed additional function, and receiving a selection of execution of the additional function by the selecting unit. And an image forming unit that executes image formation based on the print job stored in the storage unit and executes the selected additional function.

  Accordingly, when the user operates the image forming apparatus to acquire and print the print job stored in the external apparatus, the function is not set to be executed, and the function is executable by the image forming apparatus. Whether or not to execute the function as an additional function can be displayed so as to be selectable. If the user selects execution of the additional function, the selected additional function can be executed together with image formation.

  An image forming apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that executes image formation on recording paper in response to a user operation. The image forming apparatus has a receiving unit that receives a print job transmitted from an external device and setting information regarding image forming conditions based on the print job, and function information regarding functions executable by the image forming apparatus. A storage unit for storing the received print job and setting information; and a collation unit for collating the setting information with the function information to determine an additional function in response to receiving an instruction to form an image based on the print job. A display unit that displays the additional function, a selection unit that receives a selection as to whether to execute the displayed additional function, and a storage unit that receives the selection of the execution of the additional function by the selection unit. And an image forming unit for executing image formation based on the selected print job and executing the selected additional function.

  Accordingly, when the user operates the terminal device and instructs printing, a function which is not set to be executed and which can be executed by the image forming apparatus is changed to a function which is executed by operating the image forming apparatus. In addition, whether or not to execute as an additional function can be displayed in a selectable manner. If the user selects execution of the additional function, the selected additional function can be executed together with image formation.

  Preferably, the additional function is an optional function of the image forming apparatus.

  Thus, a function unique to the image forming apparatus can be executed as an additional function.

  According to the present invention, when printing by operating the image forming apparatus, a function that is not set to be executed when printing is instructed and is executable by the image forming apparatus is added to the additional function. It can be displayed in a selectable manner whether or not to execute. If the user selects the execution of the additional function, the image forming apparatus can execute the selected additional function together with the image formation.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of each image forming apparatus (first to third MFPs) configuring the print system of FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of each terminal device (first to third PCs) included in the print system of FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a print instruction program executed in each terminal device of FIG. 1. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a job management program executed in a first MFP of FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a print execution program executed in the second and third MFPs in FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a screen displayed on the second and third MFPs. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a state where an item displayed in a list on the screen of FIG. 7 is selected. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a screen displayed following the screen of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen different from that of FIG. 9, which is displayed following the screen of FIG. 8. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a screen different from FIGS. 9 and 10 displayed subsequent to the screen of FIG. 8. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an error screen displayed on the second and third MFPs. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an error screen displayed on the second and third MFPs and different from FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the alternative screen of FIG. 11 displayed subsequent to the screen of FIG. 8. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a job management program executed in the first MFP of FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a print execution program executed in the first MFP of FIG. FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a job management program executed in the first MFP of FIG.

  In the following embodiments, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

(First Embodiment)
Referring to FIG. 1, a print system according to the first embodiment includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses (first MFP 100, second MFP 180, third MFP 190) connected to network 300, and a plurality of terminal devices (eg, personal computers). A first PC 200, a second PC 280, and a third PC 290). In FIG. 1, three first PCs 200, second PCs 280, and third PCs 290 are shown as a plurality of terminal devices, but it is sufficient if at least one terminal device is included. Other terminal devices may be connected to the network 300. Further, it is sufficient that at least two image forming apparatuses are included. Image forming apparatuses other than the first MFP 100, the second MFP 180, and the third MFP 190 may be connected to the network 300.

  The network 300 is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network). Although the network 300 is shown by one line in FIG. 1, the network 300 includes a case where a plurality of network cables are connected by a relay device such as a router or a gateway (neither is shown). .

  Here, it is assumed that the communication protocol of the network 300 in FIG. 1 is TCP / IP. A unique address (IP address) is set for each of the plurality of terminal devices and the image forming devices connected to the network 300.

  The first MFP 100, the second MFP 180, and the third MFP 190 have, for example, a copy function and a printer function. Referring to FIG. 2, first MFP 100 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 that controls the entire first MFP 100, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 104 for storing programs and the like, and a RAM that is a volatile storage device. (Random Access Memory) 106 and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 108, which is a nonvolatile storage device that retains data even when power is cut off. The ROM 104 stores programs and data necessary for controlling the operation of the first MFP 100.

  First MFP 100 includes an IF unit 110, a document reading unit 112, an image forming unit 114, an operation unit 116, and a bus 120. First MFP 100 further includes a paper feed unit, a recording paper transport unit, and a paper discharge tray (none is shown).

  Each unit is connected to the bus 120, and data (including control information) exchange between the units is performed via the bus 120. For example, the CPU 102 reads a program from the ROM 104 onto the RAM 106 via the bus 120, and executes the program using a part of the RAM 106 as a work area. That is, the CPU 102 controls each unit configuring the first MFP 100 according to the program stored in the ROM 104, and implements each function of the first MFP 100.

  The document reading unit 112 reads a document by using, for example, a charge-coupled device (CCD) and generates image data. The image data is temporarily stored in the RAM 106. The image forming unit 114 forms (prints) an image on recording paper conveyed from a paper feeding unit by a recording paper conveying unit based on image data on the RAM 106. The document reading unit 112 may be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF: Automatic Document Feeder).

  Operation unit 116 includes an input unit and a display unit. For example, if the operation unit 116 is a touch panel display, the display unit is a display panel configured by a liquid crystal panel or the like, and the input unit is a touch panel that is arranged on the display panel and detects a touched position. . A screen for instructing first MFP 100 is displayed on the display unit of operation unit 116. By selecting a key displayed on the display unit on the input unit superimposed on the display unit (touching a corresponding part on the touch panel), the user can perform a function setting, an operation instruction, and the like of first MFP 100. it can.

  For example, when the user instructs to execute copying of a document, the document set in the document reading unit 112 or the automatic document feeder is scanned as described above to generate image data, and the feeding is performed based on the image data. An image is formed on the recording paper pulled out from the paper section. The recording paper on which the image has been formed is discharged to a discharge tray.

  IF section 110 is an interface that is connected to network 300 and allows first MFP 100 to communicate with an external device via network 300. For example, NIC (Network Interface Card). Accordingly, first MFP 100 receives print job data (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a print job) from the terminal device and executes image formation on recording paper based on the print job data.

  First MFP 100 may include a modem and may be connected to a telephone line via the modem. If first MFP 100 is connected to a telephone line, the user can fax image data obtained by scanning a document via the telephone line.

  The second MFP 180 and the third MFP 190 are configured similarly to the first MFP 100. However, it is assumed that the second MFP 180 and the third MFP 190 each have optional functions that the first MFP 100 does not have. Optional functions include, for example, a function to bundle printed materials with staples and carry them out, a function to fold printed materials into a predetermined shape and discharge them (two-fold, three-fold, Z-fold, etc.), and a function to pierce printed materials and punch holes. Etc. The second MFP 180 and the third MFP 190 realize these functions when an optional device is mounted.

  Referring to FIG. 3, first PC 200 includes CPU 202, ROM 204, RAM 206, HDD 208, NIC 210, display unit 212, operation unit 214, and bus 220 to which these are connected. The second PC 280 and the third PC 290 are configured similarly to the first PC 200.

  The NIC 210 is connected to the network 300 and is an interface for the first terminal device 200 to communicate with an external device via the network 300.

  The display unit 212 includes a display device (such as a liquid crystal display device or a CRT display device) that can display an image, and a video output device that supplies a video signal to the display device. The video output device generates a video signal to be supplied to a display device from image data stored in a VRAM (for example, a predetermined area of the RAM 206). The operation unit 214 is a device for inputting an instruction to the first terminal device 200, and is, for example, a computer keyboard and a computer mouse.

  In the printing system configured as described above, when the user sets the printing conditions using the terminal device and gives an instruction to execute printing, a print job is generated. The generated print job is transmitted to first MFP 100 and temporarily stored in first MFP 100. Thereafter, the user can operate the image forming apparatus (the second MFP 180 or the third MFP 190), select a job to be printed from the displayed print job list, and execute printing. At this time, if there is a function that is not set when the printing is instructed among the functions provided in the operated image forming apparatus, the user sets the function to be newly executed and performs printing. Can be performed. Hereinafter, a specific description will be given.

  In order for the user to use the network communication function to transmit a print job from the first PC 200, the second PC 280, or the third PC 290, the user is required to log in to the network 300 using the first PC 200, the second PC 280, or the third PC 290. Known login authentication is performed. Here, it is assumed that, after logging in to first PC 200 and giving a print instruction, the user operates second MFP 180 to execute printing.

  Referring to FIG. 4, in step 400 of the print instruction program executed on first PC 200, CPU 202 accepts setting of printing conditions. The printing conditions can be set, for example, by the user designating a predetermined file (for example, decision document.doc, catalog.pdf, photo.xls, etc.), starting a predetermined application, and instructing printing. . The user operates the operation unit 214 to input printing conditions on a screen displayed by a predetermined printer driver installed in the first PC 200 in advance. The input printing conditions are stored in the RAM 206 as setting information. The printer driver used at this time is not a printer driver dedicated to a specific image forming apparatus, but a general-purpose printer driver, for example, capable of specifying printing conditions common to a general image forming apparatus. .

  In step 402, the CPU 202 determines whether print execution has been instructed. For example, the CPU 202 determines that print execution has been instructed by pressing an “OK” button on the screen displayed by the printer driver. If it is determined that print execution has been instructed, control proceeds to step 404. Otherwise, control returns to step 400.

  In step 404, the CPU 202 reads out the destination of the print job from the HDD 208. The HDDs of the first PC 200, the second PC 280, and the third PC 290 store the IP address of the first MFP 100 as the destination address of the print job.

  In step 406, the CPU 202 generates a print job in accordance with the setting information stored in step 400, and stores data including the setting information, the print job, and information (user ID) for specifying the user who instructed the generation of the job. The file is transmitted via the NIC 210. The setting information and the user ID are, for example, well-known tag format data such as an HTML format and an XML format.

  The user who instructed the generation of the job is a user who is currently logged in to the first PC 200, and is specified by the login ID. Therefore, the login ID is used as the user ID. The data file (setting information, print job and user ID) is transmitted as a packet. In the communication header of each packet, the IP address of first MFP 100 determined in step 404 is set as the destination address, and the IP address of first PC 200 is set as the source address. The communication header includes known additional information according to TCP / IP.

  As described above, the first PC 200 can transmit the data file including the setting information, the print job, and the user ID. The same print instruction program is executed in the second PC 280 and the third PC 290.

  Referring to FIG. 5, a job management program executed in first MFP 100 will be described. In step 500, the CPU 102 determines whether a data file including a print job has been received. If it is determined that it has been received, control proceeds to step 502. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 504.

  In step 502, the CPU 102 stores the received data file (setting information, print job, and user ID) in the RAM 106 or the HDD 108.

  In step 504, CPU 102 determines whether a job list request has been received from another MFP. The job list request is a predetermined command transmitted from the second MFP 180 or the third MFP 190 for specifying a user and requesting information of a print job corresponding to the user, which will be described later. If it is determined that the job list request has been received, the control proceeds to step 506. Otherwise, control moves to step 508.

  In step 506, the CPU 102 searches the print job stored in the HDD 108 using the user ID received in step 504, and transmits information (for example, job name, print instruction time, etc.) of the print job corresponding to the user ID. I do. At this time, the IP address of the transmission source included in the packet data of the job list request received in step 504 is used as the transmission destination address.

  In step 508, CPU 102 determines whether a setting information request has been received from another MFP. The setting information request is a predetermined command transmitted from the second MFP 180 or the third MFP 190 as described later. The setting information request is a request for specifying a job specifying information (hereinafter, also referred to as job specifying information) and requesting a print job and its setting information. If it is determined that the setting information request has been received, the control proceeds to step 510. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 512.

  In step 510, the CPU 102 searches for a print job stored in the HDD 108 based on the job identification information received in step 508, and transmits the relevant print job and its setting information. At this time, the IP address of the transmission source included in the packet data of the setting information request received in step 508 is used as the transmission destination address.

  In step 512, the CPU 102 determines whether or not termination of the program has been instructed. If the end is instructed, the program ends. Otherwise, control returns to step 500.

  Referring to FIG. 6, a print execution program executed in second MFP 180 or third MFP 190 will be described. Here, the print execution program is executed when the user operates the operation unit of second MFP 180 and selects a print key included in a screen (home screen) displayed when login authentication is passed. On the home screen, keys for selecting functions (copy, print, scan, etc.) provided in second MFP 180 are displayed.

  In step 600, the CPU transmits a job list request to first MFP 100. Specifically, the CPU transmits the user ID of the currently logged-in user and a predetermined command for requesting job information. In response to the job list request, as described above, first MFP 100 transmits the information of the job corresponding to the received user ID (step 506 in FIG. 5).

  In step 602, the CPU determines whether the job information has been successfully received. If so, control proceeds to step 604. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 620.

  In step 604, the CPU displays the job information received in step 602 on the display unit of the operation unit, and accepts an operation by the user. For example, a screen as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed. In the screen 800, the area 802 displays information of the received print job in a list format, and the area 804 displays a check box for selecting each item displayed in the list. A “next” key 806 is a key for transitioning a screen to the next screen. The “end” key is a key for canceling printing and terminating the printing.

  In step 606, the CPU determines whether the “next” key 806 has been operated in a state where any of the items displayed in the list has been selected. FIG. 8 shows a state where “catalog.pdf” is selected on the screen 800 of FIG. When the “next” key 806 is operated with the item selected in this manner, control proceeds to step 608. Otherwise (ie, when the “end” key is operated), the program ends. When this program ends, a home screen is displayed on the display unit of the operation unit.

  In step 608, the CPU transmits a setting information request to first MFP 100. Specifically, the CPU transmits job specifying information (for example, a job name) for specifying the job selected in step 606 and a predetermined command for requesting the setting information. In response to the setting information request, as described above, first MFP 100 transmits the print job corresponding to the received job specifying information and the setting information (step 510 in FIG. 5).

  In step 610, the CPU determines whether the print job and the setting information have been normally received. If successful, the CPU stores the received print job and setting information in the HDD, and the control proceeds to step 612. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 624.

  In step 612, the CPU refers to the setting information stored in the HDD in step 610, and among the functions that can be executed by second MFP 180, the functions that are not included in the setting information and are not set to be executed. Determine the function. Specifically, second MFP 180 stores information on functions executable by the installed optional devices in the HDD, and the CPU compares the information with the setting information. The information of the function executable by the optional device is, for example, data in an HTML format, an XML format, or the like.

  In step 614, the CPU displays the function determined in step 612 on the display unit of the operation unit as an addable function. For example, if a part of the setting information of the print job “catalog.pdf” is set as shown in Table 1 and the second MFP 180 has the stapling function and the inside folding function, the screen shown in FIG. When the “Next” key 806 is operated, a screen as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed.

表１において、「ＯＦＦ」は、印刷ジョブに関して、対応する機能を実行するように設定されていないことを表す。即ち、印刷ジョブ「カタログ．ｐｄｆ」に関して、ステープル機能及び内側２つ折り機能の何れも、実行するように設定されていない。したがって、ステップ６１２により、ステープル機能及び内側２つ折り機能が付加可能な機能として決定される。

In Table 1, “OFF” indicates that the print job is not set to execute the corresponding function. That is, neither the stapling function nor the inside folding function is set to be executed for the print job “catalog.pdf”. Therefore, in step 612, the staple function and the inside folding function are determined as functions that can be added.

  In the screen 820 of FIG. 9, the area 822 displays the functions that can be added in a list format, and the area 824 displays a check box for selecting each function. A “print” key 826 is a key for instructing execution of printing. An “end” key 828 is a key for canceling printing and terminating the printing.

  Further, even if the setting information of the print job “catalog.pdf” does not include the setting of Table 1, if the second MFP 180 has the stapling function and the inside folding function, the screen of FIG. When the “Next” key 806 is operated, a screen as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed.

  On the other hand, even if a part of the setting information of the print job “catalog.pdf” is set as shown in Table 1, the second MFP 180 has the stapling function but has to have the inside folding function. For example, a screen as shown in FIG. 10 is displayed. That is, in step 612, the staple function is determined as a function that can be added, but the inside folding function is not determined as a function that can be added. Therefore, on the screen 830 in FIG. 10, a display 832 representing the stapling function and a check box 834 for selecting the same are displayed.

  If a part of the setting information of the print job “catalog.pdf” is set as shown in Table 2, and the second MFP 180 has the stapling function and the inside folding function, the screen shown in FIG. When the “next” key 806 is operated, a screen as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed.

表２において、「ＯＮ」は、印刷ジョブに関して、対応する機能を実行するように設定されていることを表す。即ち、印刷ジョブ「カタログ．ｐｄｆ」に関して、ステープル機能は実行するように設定されているが、内側２つ折り機能は実行するように設定されていない。したがって、ステップ６１２により、内側２つ折り機能が付加可能な機能として決定される。図１１の画面８４０では、内側２つ折り機能を表す表示８４２と、それを選択するためのチェックボックス８４４が表示されている。

In Table 2, “ON” indicates that the corresponding function is set to be executed for the print job. That is, for the print job “catalog.pdf”, the stapling function is set to be executed, but the inside-folding function is not set to be executed. Therefore, in step 612, the inside folding function is determined as a function that can be added. On the screen 840 of FIG. 11, a display 842 indicating the inside folding function and a check box 844 for selecting the same are displayed.

  When setting information is data in tag format, for example, a tag corresponding to “additional function” is provided, “staple” and “fold inside” are set as tag attributes, and “ON” and “OFF” are set as attributes of each attribute. It can be a value.

  In step 616, the CPU determines whether a print instruction has been issued. Specifically, the CPU determines whether the “print” key 826 on the screen displayed in step 614 has been operated. If it is determined that the print instruction has been issued, the control proceeds to step 618. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 626.

  In step 618, the CPU executes printing according to the print job received in step 610 and its current setting information, and ends the program. As will be described later, if the current setting information has been changed to execute the additional function, the additional function is executed.

  If the instruction in step 616 is not a print instruction, in step 626, the CPU determines whether termination has been instructed. Specifically, the CPU determines whether or not “end” key 828 has been operated. When the end is instructed, the printing is canceled and the program ends. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 628.

  In step 628, the CPU determines whether the setting information has been changed. Specifically, the CPU determines whether the selection state of the additional function has been changed. Specifically, in FIG. 9, the CPU determines whether the check state of the check box in area 824 has been changed. If so, control transfers to step 630. Otherwise, control returns to step 616.

  In step 630, the CPU changes the setting information stored in the HDD, and displays a screen indicating the selected state of the additional function after the change. Thereafter, control returns to step 616.

  According to steps 616, 626, 628, and 630, the setting information stored in the HDD can be changed until a print instruction or an end instruction is issued according to a user operation.

  If it is not received in step 602, in step 620, the CPU displays a predetermined error screen on the display unit of the operation unit. For example, the CPU displays a screen shown in FIG. The screen 850 displays a message 852 indicating that the print job list could not be obtained.

  In step 622, the CPU determines whether termination has been instructed. Specifically, the CPU determines whether or not “end” key 854 on screen 850 has been operated. When the end is instructed, the CPU cancels the printing, deletes the screen 850, and ends the program.

  If the reception has not been completed in step 610, the CPU displays a predetermined error screen on the display unit of the operation unit in step 624. For example, the CPU displays a screen shown in FIG. On the screen 860, a message 862 indicating that the setting information could not be obtained is displayed. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 622.

  As described above, the second MFP 180 can select a function that has not been set to be executed when a print instruction is issued from the terminal device (the first PC 200, the second PC 280, or the third PC 290) as an additional function. Can be displayed. Therefore, the user can execute a function that was not set when the print instruction was issued when the user actually operates second MFP 180 to execute printing.

  In the above description, among the functions executable by the second MFP 180, the function set to be executed in the first setting information is described as a case where it is not displayed as shown in FIG. 11, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a screen as shown in FIG. 14 may be displayed instead of the screen 840 in FIG. A screen 870 in FIG. 14 shows a case where a part of the setting information of the print job “catalog.pdf” is set as shown in Table 2, and the second MFP 180 has the stapling function and the inside folding function. 8 is displayed when the “next” key 806 is operated on the screen of FIG. The staple function is set to ON (execute) in the setting information, but is displayed in the area 872 of the screen 870 as an additional function. A check box corresponding to the staple function in the area 874 is displayed with a check mark. If the display is performed in this way and the user can remove the check from the check box that is already checked, the user can actually perform the function set to be executed when the print instruction is issued. When printing is performed by operating the second MFP 180, it can be set not to be performed and printing can be performed.

  In the above, the case where the job name is transmitted as the job specifying information when transmitting the setting information request in step 608 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The job identification information transmitted together with the setting information request may be any information that can uniquely identify a job stored in first MFP 100. In the first MFP 100, if there is a possibility that different jobs are stored under the same job name, it is preferable that the job identification information include a user ID and time information in addition to the job name.

  In the above description, the case where the terminal device transmits the print job and the setting information to the image forming apparatus (first MFP 100) has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. Any device capable of storing the print job and the setting information and transmitting the print job and the setting information in response to a request from the image forming apparatus may be used. The device does not have a printing function (for example, a server computer). You may.

(Second embodiment)
In the first embodiment, it is assumed that a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected to a network. However, in the second embodiment, one image forming apparatus is connected to a network.

  Referring to FIG. 15, a print system according to the second embodiment includes a single image forming apparatus (first MFP 100) connected to network 300 and a plurality of terminal devices (first PC 200, second PC 280) such as a personal computer. , A third PC 290). This configuration is obtained by removing the second MFP 180 and the third MFP 190 from the configuration shown in FIG. 1 as the first embodiment. The first MFP 100, the first PC 200, the second PC 280, and the third PC 290 are configured similarly to the first embodiment. Therefore, reference is made to the reference numbers in FIGS.

  In the present embodiment, the print instruction program executed on the first PC 200, the second PC 280, and the third PC 290 is the same program as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. On the other hand, in first MFP 100, the job management program in FIG. 16 and the print execution program in FIG. 17 are executed. The flowchart of FIG. 16 is obtained by removing steps 504 to 510 from the flowchart of FIG. The flowchart of FIG. 17 is obtained by replacing Steps 600, 608 and 612 in the flowchart of FIG. 6 with Steps 640, 642 and 644, respectively, and deleting Steps 602, 610, 620, 622 and 624.

  To transmit a print job from the first PC 200, the second PC 280, or the third PC 290, the user needs to use the network communication function. Login authentication is performed. Here, it is assumed that the user logs in to first PC 200 and issues a print instruction.

  The user designates a predetermined file, starts a predetermined application, and instructs printing. Accordingly, the print instruction program of FIG. 4 is started in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and the user can set print conditions and instruct execution of printing. As a result, a print job is generated in accordance with the setting information, and a data file including the generated print job and the setting information and the user ID of the user who instructed the generation of the job is transmitted to the first MFP 100 via the NIC 210. Is done.

  Referring to FIG. 16, in the job management program executed in first MFP 100, CPU 102 determines whether or not a data file including a print job has been received (step 500). It is stored (step 502). The processing of steps 500 and 502 is repeated until an end instruction is received (step 512). Thus, the data files (setting information, print job, and user ID) transmitted from the first PC 200, the second PC 280, and the third PC 290 are stored in the HDD 108.

  Referring to FIG. 17, a print execution program executed in first MFP 100 will be described. The print execution program is executed when a user operates the operation unit 116 of the first MFP 100 and selects a print key included in a screen (home screen) displayed when login authentication is passed. On the home screen, keys for selecting functions (copy, print, scan, etc.) provided in first MFP 100 are displayed.

  In step 640, the CPU 102 searches for a print job stored in the HDD 108 using the user ID of the user who has passed the login authentication, and print job information (eg, job name, print instruction) corresponding to the user ID. Time).

  In step 604, the CPU 102 displays the information of the job read in step 640 on the display unit of the operation unit 116. As a result, a screen as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed. The CPU 102 receives the operation by the user, and determines in step 606 whether or not the “next” key 806 has been operated in a state where any of the items displayed in the list has been selected. If it is determined that the operation has been performed, the control proceeds to step 642.

  In step 642, the CPU 102 reads, from the HDD 108, setting information corresponding to information (for example, a job name) specifying the job selected in step 606.

  In step 644, the CPU 102 refers to the setting information read from the HDD 108 in step 642, and among the functions that can be executed by the first MFP 100, the functions that are not included in the setting information and are not set to be executed. Determine the function.

  Thereafter, in step 614, the CPU 102 displays the determined function on the display unit of the operation unit 116 as an addable function. As a result, screens as shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 are displayed. In steps 616, 626, 628, and 630, the CPU 102 changes the setting information stored in the HDD 108 according to the user's operation until a print instruction or an end instruction is issued. When a print instruction is issued, in step 618, the CPU 102 executes printing in accordance with the print job selected in step 606 and the current setting information corresponding to the user ID of the logged-in user. To end. If the current setting information has been changed to execute the additional function, the additional function is executed.

  As described above, the first MFP 100 displays on the operation unit 116 the function that has not been set to be executed when printing is instructed from the terminal device (first PC 200, second PC 280, third PC 290) as an additional function. Section. Therefore, the user can cause the functions not set when the print instruction is issued to be executed when the first MFP 100 is actually operated to execute printing.

(Third embodiment)
In the first and second embodiments, it is assumed that a print instruction is issued from the terminal device to the image forming apparatus. However, the third embodiment does not include the terminal device.

  Referring to FIG. 18, the print system according to the third embodiment includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses (first MFP 100, second MFP 180, and third MFP 190) connected to network 300. This configuration is a configuration in which the terminal device (first PC 200, second PC 280, third PC 290) is omitted in the first embodiment (FIG. 1). First MFP 100, second MFP 180, and third MFP 190 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Therefore, reference is made to the reference numbers in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, first MFP 100 scans a document according to a user operation and temporarily stores generated image data. Thereafter, the user operates another image forming apparatus (the second MFP 180 or the third MFP 190) to newly set an additional function based on the image data stored earlier and execute printing.

  In the present embodiment, first MFP 100 executes a job management program shown in FIG. The flowchart of FIG. 19 is obtained by replacing Steps 500 and 502 with Steps 520 to 532 in the flowchart of FIG. The second MFP 180 and the third MFP 190 execute the same print execution program as in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 19, a job management program executed in first MFP 100 will be described. In step 520, the CPU 102 determines whether or not the operation unit 116 has been operated to request the login authentication and has passed the login authentication. If the login authentication has been passed, the CPU 102 displays a home screen on the display unit of the operation unit 116, and the control proceeds to step 522. Otherwise, that is, when the operation unit 116 is not operated or when the login authentication is not passed, the control proceeds to step 504.

  In step 522, the CPU 102 determines whether the “special copy” key has been selected on the home screen. If the “special copy” key has been selected, control proceeds to step 524. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 532. A special copy is a process of scanning a document and generating image data after setting copy conditions as in a normal copy, but storing the image as a copy job without forming an image on recording paper. means.

  In step 524, the CPU 102 receives the setting of the copy condition. The input copy conditions are stored in the RAM 106 as setting information. The copy conditions are the same as the print conditions, and staples, folding, and the like may be specified for the printed matter. When the setting of the copy condition is completed, the control proceeds to step 526.

  In step 526, the CPU 102 determines whether or not execution of copying has been instructed. For example, the CPU 102 displays the copy key and the cancel key on the display unit of the operation unit 116, and when the copy key is operated, determines that the execution of the copy is instructed, and the control proceeds to step 528. Otherwise, that is, when the cancel key is operated, the CPU 102 deletes the stored setting information, and the control proceeds to step 504.

  In step 528, the CPU 102 controls the document reading unit 112 to scan the set document and generate image data.

  In step 530, the CPU 102 generates copy job data (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a copy job) in accordance with the image data generated in step 528 and the setting information stored in step 524, and stores the generated copy job in the setting information. Together with the information stored in the HDD 108. At this time, the CPU 102 stores the user ID of the currently logged-in user in association with the setting information and the copy job.

  Thereafter, as in the first embodiment, when receiving the job list request (including the user ID) in steps 504 and 506, the CPU 102 transmits the information of the copy job corresponding to the received user ID to the job list request. To the sender. When the CPU 102 receives the setting information request (including the job specifying information) in steps 508 and 510 as in the first embodiment, the CPU 102 transmits the corresponding copy job and setting information to the source of the setting information request. Send to

  If no special copy is selected in step 522, in step 532, the CPU 102 executes a process corresponding to the operation. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 504. The process executed in step 532 includes a logout process.

  In the present embodiment, when the user operates second MFP 180 and a job list request is transmitted to first MFP 100 (step 600 in FIG. 6), first MFP 100 transmits copy job information instead of print job information. The data is transmitted to the second MFP 180 (step 506 in FIG. 19). Therefore, the job list displayed on the operation unit of second MFP 180 is a list of copy jobs.

  In the present embodiment, when the user selects a copy job in the job list and a print information request is transmitted to first MFP 100 (step 608 in FIG. 6), first MFP 100 sets the print job and print setting information. Instead, it transmits the copy job and copy setting information to the second MFP 180 (step 510 in FIG. 19).

  As described above, the second MFP 180 can display a function that is not set to be executed when the user operates the first MFP 100 to instruct a special copy on the display unit of the operation unit so as to be selectable as an additional function. it can. Therefore, the user can execute a function that was not set when the special copy was instructed when actually operating second MFP 180 to execute printing. For example, if the second MFP 180 has a function that the first MFP 100 does not have, the function can be executed.

  In the above description, a case has been described in which, when the special copy is selected, the job is stored without performing printing after scanning, but the present invention is not limited to this. This may be the case where a normal copy key is selected. In this case, the user only needs to be able to select on the operation screen whether to execute normal copy processing or to save the job without printing after scanning. Also, the case where the scan key is pressed may be used. In this case, the user only needs to be able to select on the operation screen whether to execute normal scan processing or to set image forming conditions (setting information) after scanning and save the job.

  In the above-described first to third embodiments, a case has been described in which a post-processing function (such as stapling) for a printed material is targeted as an additional function. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Functions relating to image formation on recording paper (double-sided printing, aggregate printing, stamp printing, etc.) may be treated as additional functions.

  In the above-described first to third embodiments, the case where the print job and the corresponding print condition information (setting information) are handled as different data has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The structure of the print job and the information on the printing conditions is arbitrary. For example, the print job may include print condition information. Further, among the printing conditions, only the information on the optional functions may be set as the setting information, and the information on the other basic printing conditions may be included in the print job.

  In the first to third embodiments, the case where the login authentication is executed in the image forming apparatus has been described, but the login authentication is optional. If security is not considered, login authentication need not be performed. In this case, for example, in the print job list displayed on the second MFP 180 in the first embodiment, all print jobs acquired from the first MFP 100 without distinguishing users may be displayed. Even when the login authentication is not performed, the print job list for each user can be displayed by accepting the input of the user ID when receiving a print instruction from the terminal device and accepting the input of the user ID in the second MFP 180. is there.

  In the first to third embodiments, the case where the communication protocol is TCP / IP has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  In the first and third embodiments, the first MFP 100 receives the job list request from the second MFP 180 or the like, transmits the job information, and receives the setting information request, For example, HTTP or SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol), which is a well-known communication protocol, may be used in the process of transmitting. In SOAP, data to be communicated is data in XML format, and this data is transmitted according to a communication protocol such as HTTP.

  As described above, the present invention has been described by describing the embodiment. However, the above-described embodiment is an exemplification, and the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and may be implemented with various changes. be able to.

100 First MFP
102 CPU
104 ROM
106 RAM
108 HDD
110 IF section 112 Document reading section 114 Image forming section 116 Operation section 120 Bus 180 Second MFP
190 Third MFP
200 1st PC
202 CPU
204 ROM
206 RAM
208 HDD
210 NIC
212 display unit 214 operation unit 220 bus 280 second PC
290 3rd PC
300 Network

Claims (11)

A print system including a terminal device and a plurality of image forming apparatuses that can communicate with each other,
The terminal apparatus includes a print job, an information regarding the image forming conditions on the recording paper based on the print job, and a setting information including information indicating whether to execute the function associated with the image forming And a print instructing unit for transmitting to a specific first image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatuses,
The first image forming apparatus includes:
First receiving means for receiving the print job and the setting information transmitted from the terminal device;
First storage means for storing the received print job and the setting information;
Upon receiving a request for transmitting the setting information from a second image forming apparatus different from the first image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, the setting information and the print job are transmitted to the second image forming apparatus. First transmission means for transmitting to the image forming apparatus,
The second image forming apparatus includes:
A second receiving unit that receives the print job and the setting information transmitted from the first image forming apparatus;
Function information relating to a function executable by the second image forming apparatus is stored in advance, and a second storage unit configured to store the received print job and the setting information;
Collating means for collating the setting information and the function information, and determining the function information not set to be executed in the setting information as an additional function,
Display means for displaying the additional function;
Selecting means for receiving a selection as to whether or not to execute the displayed additional function,
In response to the execution of the additional function being selected by the selection unit, image formation is performed based on the print job stored in the second storage unit, and image formation is performed to execute the selected additional function. And a printing system. A print system including a first image forming apparatus and a second image forming apparatus that can communicate with each other,
The first image forming apparatus includes:
Reading means for reading an original to generate image data;
Setting means for receiving setting information, which is information on conditions for forming an image on a recording sheet based on the image data and includes information indicating whether to execute a function related to the image formation ,
Generating means for generating a job from the setting information and the image data;
Transmitting means for transmitting the job and the setting information to the second image forming apparatus in response to receiving the transmission request for the setting information from the second image forming apparatus,
The second image forming apparatus includes:
Receiving means for receiving the job and the setting information transmitted from the first image forming apparatus;
Storage means for storing function information relating to functions executable by the second image forming apparatus in advance and storing the received job and the setting information;
Collating means for collating the setting information and the function information, and determining the function information not set to be executed in the setting information as an additional function,
Display means for displaying the additional function;
Selecting means for receiving a selection as to whether or not to execute the displayed additional function,
Image forming means for executing image formation based on the job stored in the storage means in response to the execution of the additional function being selected by the selection means, and executing the selected additional function. Including, printing system.   The print system according to claim 1, wherein transmission and reception of the setting information between the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus are performed according to a SOAP protocol.   The print system according to claim 1, wherein the setting information is data in an XML format.   The print system according to claim 1, wherein the function information is XML format data.     The print system according to claim 1, wherein the additional function is an optional function of the second image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus that performs image formation on recording paper in response to a user operation,
A print job, an information relating to the image forming conditions based on the print job, from an external device that stores the setting information including information indicating whether to perform functions related to the image formation, the printing Receiving means for receiving a job and the setting information;
Storage means for storing in advance function information relating to functions executable by the image forming apparatus, and storing the received print job and the setting information;
In response to receiving the image formation instruction based on the print job, the setting information is compared with the function information, and the function information not set to be executed in the setting information is added as an additional function. Collation means for determining;
Display means for displaying the additional function;
Selecting means for receiving a selection as to whether or not to execute the displayed additional function,
Image forming means for executing the image formation based on the print job stored in the storage means and executing the selected additional function in response to the execution of the additional function being selected by the selecting means And an image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus that performs image formation on recording paper in response to a user operation,
A print job transmitted from an external device, an information relating to the image forming conditions based on the print job, receives the setting information including information indicating whether to execute the function associated with the image forming Receiving means;
Storage means for storing in advance function information relating to functions executable by the image forming apparatus, and storing the received print job and the setting information;
In response to receiving the image formation instruction based on the print job, the setting information is compared with the function information, and the function information not set to be executed in the setting information is added as an additional function. Collation means for determining;
Display means for displaying the additional function;
Selecting means for receiving a selection as to whether or not to execute the displayed additional function,
Image forming means for executing the image formation based on the print job stored in the storage means and executing the selected additional function in response to the execution of the additional function being selected by the selecting means And an image forming apparatus.     The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the additional function is an optional function of the image forming apparatus. A method of controlling a printing system including a terminal device and a plurality of image forming apparatuses that can communicate with each other,
The terminal device, and the print job, an information regarding the image forming conditions on the recording paper based on the print job, and a setting information including information indicating whether to execute the function associated with the image forming A print instruction step of transmitting to a specific first image forming apparatus of the plurality of image forming apparatuses;
A first receiving step in which the first image forming apparatus receives the print job and the setting information transmitted from the terminal device;
A first storage step in which the first image forming apparatus stores the received print job and the setting information;
The first image forming apparatus receives the setting information transmission request from a second image forming apparatus different from the first image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, and receives the setting information. And a first transmission step of transmitting the print job to the second image forming apparatus;
A second receiving step in which the second image forming apparatus receives the print job and the setting information transmitted from the first image forming apparatus;
A step in which the second image forming apparatus previously stores function information on a function executable by the second image forming apparatus;
A second storage step in which the second image forming apparatus stores the received print job and the setting information;
A collation step in which the second image forming apparatus collates the setting information with the function information, and determines the function information that is not set to be executed in the setting information as an additional function;
A display step of displaying the additional function by the second image forming apparatus;
A selecting step in which the second image forming apparatus receives a selection as to whether or not to execute the displayed additional function;
The second image forming apparatus executes image formation based on the print job stored in the second storage step in response to the execution of the additional function being selected in the selection step, and An image forming step of executing the additional function. An image forming apparatus that performs image formation on recording paper in response to a user operation,
A print job, an information relating to the image forming conditions based on the print job, from an external device that stores the setting information including information indicating whether to perform functions related to the image formation, the printing A receiving function for receiving a job and the setting information;
A storage function for storing in advance function information on a function executable by the image forming apparatus, and storing the received print job and the setting information;
In response to receiving the image formation instruction based on the print job, the setting information is compared with the function information, and the function information not set to be executed in the setting information is added as an additional function. Collation function to determine,
A display function for displaying the additional function;
A selection function for receiving selection of whether to execute the displayed additional function,
A function of executing the image formation based on the print job stored by the storage function in response to the execution of the additional function being selected by the selection function, and executing the selected additional function. Computer program to be realized.

Images