JP6790580B2 - Access control system, image processing device, management server and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an access control system and related techniques.

There is a technique in which an administrator grants a temporary entry authority to a certain room to a user who does not have the entry authority to the certain room.

For example, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when a user who does not have the authority to enter the security room wishes to enter the security room, the user manages the temporary granting of the authority to enter the security room. Ask someone. The administrator who receives the request from the user makes a setting to grant the user temporary entry authority to the security room. Then, the user is allowed to enter the security room only within the valid period of the entry authority set by the administrator.

JP-A-2007-249912

By the way, in a company, for example, a room is provided for each department, and entry / exit management of each room is performed so that each user can enter only the room of his / her own department (in other words, he / she cannot enter the room of another department). It may have been done.

In the case where such entry / exit management is performed, when a certain user (for example, user U1) wishes to enter a room of another department, the technique described in Patent Document 1 is used as follows. It is conceivable that various operations will be performed.

For example, if the image processing device in the room of the department to which the user U1 belongs does not have the desired function (for example, the staple function) and the image processing device in the room of another department has the desired function, the user U1 has the desired function. Request the administrator to temporarily grant entry authority to the room (room in another department) where the image processing device having the above function is installed. The administrator who receives the request from the user U1 sets the temporary entry authority to the desired room of the user U1 (the room in which the image processing device having the desired function is installed). Then, when the administrator grants temporary entry authority, the user U1 is temporarily permitted to enter the desired room (room of another department), enters the desired room, and has a desired image. Use a processing device.

As described above, when the technique described in Patent Document 1 is used, a setting operation (authority granting operation) by the administrator is performed with respect to the temporary granting of entry authority to the room in which the user's desired image processing device is installed. Intervene. Therefore, a user who wants to use the image processing device of another department needs to request the administrator to grant the temporary entry authority, and the administrator sets the temporary entry authority for the user. It is necessary to do. In other words, when the setting operation by the administrator intervenes, both the user who wants to use the image processing device of another department and the administrator are required to perform troublesome operations (operations).

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of more easily performing entry / exit management regarding temporary entry into a room having no entry authority.

In order to solve the above problem, the invention of claim 1 is an entry / exit management system including a plurality of image processing devices and an entry / exit management server that manages entry / exit of a user, and is an image processing device. When the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the receiving means for receiving the usage request and the job execution device which is the image processing device for executing the job related to the usage request are installed. A calculation means for calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is a period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room, and the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user. A permission means for permitting entry / exit to / from the requesting user is provided , and the calculation means includes the job execution device, the entry / exit management server, and a management server that manages the plurality of image processing devices. provided either the authorization means is provided on the entering and leaving management server and said Rukoto.

The invention of claim 2 is a determination means for determining a condition-satisfying device, which is an image processing device that satisfies a predetermined condition regarding execution of the job, as the job execution device in the entry / exit management system according to the invention of claim 1. , Is further provided.

The invention of claim 3 includes, in the entry / exit management system according to the invention of claim 2, that the predetermined condition includes that the device subject to determination regarding the condition satisfaction has a required function for executing the job. It is characterized by.

The invention of claim 4 is the entry / exit management system according to the invention of claim 2 or 3, wherein the requesting user has the authority to use the device to be determined regarding the condition satisfaction. It is characterized by including.

The invention of claim 5 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the predetermined condition is that the device subject to determination regarding the condition satisfaction is at a time specified by the requesting user. It is characterized by including that it is possible to end the job.

The invention of claim 6 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the predetermined condition is that the device subject to determination regarding the condition satisfaction is at a time specified by the requesting user. It is characterized by including being able to start a job.

The invention of claim 7 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the predetermined condition is a room that can be used at a designated time by the requesting user. It is characterized by including that a device subject to determination regarding sufficiency is installed.

The invention of claim 8 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the determination means is a designated device which is an image processing device designated by the requesting user. In the case of a condition satisfying device, the designated device is determined as the job execution device.

The invention of claim 9 is the authority of the entry / exit management system according to the invention of claim 8, wherein the determination means is a room in which the requesting user has the authority to enter the room when the designated device is not the condition satisfying device. When the first search process for searching the condition satisfying device from the image processing devices installed in the holding room is performed and the condition satisfying device cannot be detected by the first search process, the requesting user enters the room. A second search process for searching for the condition-satisfying device from the image processing devices installed in the non-authoritative room, which is a room without authority, is performed, and the condition-satisfaction detected in the second search process is performed. The device is determined as the job execution device.

The invention of claim 10 is the entry / exit management system according to the invention of claim 9, wherein when a plurality of condition-satisfying devices are present in the non-authoritative room, the determination means is selected from the plurality of condition-satisfying devices. It is characterized in that the selected image processing device is determined as the job execution device.

The invention of claim 11 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the determination means is a management server that manages a plurality of image processing devices installed in a plurality of rooms. It is characterized in that it is provided.

In the invention of claim 12, in the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, it was confirmed that the requesting user entered the installation room within the entry / exit permission period. A job control means for executing the job in the job execution device in response to the above is further provided.

The invention of claim 13 is made after the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 11 confirms that the requesting user has entered the installation room within the entry / exit permission period. A job control means for executing the job in the job execution device in response to the elapse of a predetermined time is further provided.

The invention of claim 14 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the permission means prints out a printout output by the job execution device and obtains the requesting user. It is characterized in that the requesting user is allowed to leave the installation room on condition that the requesting user holds the room.

The invention of claim 15 is a notification to notify the requesting user of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user in the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14. It is characterized by further providing means.

The invention of claim 16 is the entering and leaving management system according to any one of claims 1 to invention of claim 14, before the start of the entering and leaving permission period, at least the user to have the authority to enter into the installation room It is further provided with a notification means for notifying one person of temporary entry into the installation room by the requesting user.

According to the invention of claim 17, in the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, the requesting user still leaves the installation room after the end of the entry / exit permission period. It is further provided with a notification means for notifying the administrator regarding the installation room of the unexited room of the requesting user from the installation room when it is confirmed that the room is not installed.

The invention of claim 18 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the calculation means is the job execution device after the entry / exit permission period is calculated. When the state transitions to the state in which the job cannot be executed and the job execution device returns to the state in which the job can be executed, the entry / exit permission period for the installation room of the job execution device is calculated again. It is characterized by that.

The invention of claim 19 is the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the calculation means executes the job after the entry / exit permission period for the installation room is calculated. When the device transitions to a state in which the job cannot be executed and an image processing device different from the job execution device executes the job as a new job execution device, the new job execution device is installed. A new entry / exit permission period is calculated for the room, and the permission means is the entry / exit of the room during the new entry / exit permission period, and the requesting user enters the room in which the new job execution device is installed. It is characterized by allowing leaving the room.

The invention of claim 20 is an image processing device managed by an entry / exit management system, in which a receiving means for receiving a request for use of the image processing device and entry into an installation room in which the image processing device is installed are entered. When the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority, the calculation means for calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room, and the installation room. The server that manages the entry / exit of the room is provided with a notification means for notifying the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.

The invention of claim 21 is that a) a step of receiving a request for use of the image processing device and b) the image processing device are installed in a computer built in an image processing device managed by an entry / exit management system. If the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to enter the installation room, the step of calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room. And c) It is a program for executing the step of notifying the server that manages the entry / exit of the installation room of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user. ..

The invention of claim 22 is a job execution device which is a management server in an entry / exit management system, a user who requests a usage request of the image processing device, and is an image processing device in which a job related to the usage request is executed. As an acquisition means for acquiring an entry / exit permission period, which is a period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room, for the requesting user who does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the is installed. The acquisition means includes, and a determination means for determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter and leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period acquired for the requesting user. The feature is that the entry / exit permission period calculated by either the job execution device or the device management server that manages the plurality of image processing devices is acquired from the device that has calculated the entry / exit permission period.
The invention of claim 23 is a job execution device which is a management server in an entry / exit management system, a user who requests a usage request of the image processing device, and is an image processing device in which a job related to the usage request is executed. As a calculation means for calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room, for the requesting user who does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the is installed. It is characterized by comprising a determination means for determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter or leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.

The invention of claim 24 is the management server according to the invention of claim 22 or 23, wherein the determination means enters and exits the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user. It is characterized in that it is permitted to the requesting user.

The invention of claim 25 is an image processing device in which a computer that is built in a management server in an entry / exit management system a) is a requesting user of a usage request of the image processing device and a job related to the usage request is executed. For the requesting user who does not have the authority to enter the installation room where the job execution device is installed, the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily allowed to enter / exit the installation room, is set. To execute the step of acquiring and b) the step of determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter and leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period acquired for the requesting user. In the program of step a), the entry / exit permission period calculated by either the job execution device or the device management server that manages a plurality of image processing devices is the entry / exit permission period. Is obtained from the calculated device.
The invention of claim 26 is an image processing device in which a computer that is built in a management server in an entry / exit management system a) is a requesting user of a usage request of the image processing device and a job related to the usage request is executed. For the requesting user who does not have the authority to enter the installation room where the job execution device is installed, the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room, is set. To execute the step of calculating and b) the step of determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter and leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user. Program.

According to the invention of claim 27, in the program according to the invention of claim 25 or 26 , in step b), entry / exit to / from the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user is performed. It is characterized in that it is permitted to the requesting user.

According to the inventions of claims 1 to 27 , when the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the job execution device for executing the job related to the usage request is installed. The entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room, is calculated. Then, entry / exit to the installation room during the entry / exit permission period is permitted to the requesting user. Therefore, it is possible to more easily manage entry / exit regarding temporary entry into a room for which the entry authority is not granted.

It is a figure which shows the entrance / exit management system which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows the functional block of an image processing apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the operation of the designated device. It is a figure which shows the entry authority management table. It is a figure which shows the user who has the authority to use each image processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the possession schematic function of each image processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the possession detailed function of each image processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the operation state of each image processing apparatus. It is a figure which shows the available time zone of each room. It is a figure which shows the entry authority management table after the update. It is a flowchart which shows the operation of the designated apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the print output which added the 2D barcode. It is a figure explaining the mode that the print job is started after a predetermined time from the confirmation of entry of the requesting user.

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

<1. First Embodiment>
<1-1. Configuration overview>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an entry / exit management system 1 according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the entry / exit management system 1 includes a plurality of image processing devices 10, an entry / exit management server 70, and a computer 30.

The elements 10, 30, and 70 in the system 1 are connected to each other so as to be communicable with each other via the network 108. The network 108 is composed of a LAN (Local Area Network), the Internet, and the like. Further, the connection mode to the network 108 may be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, in a certain company that has introduced the system 1, rooms (living rooms) R (Ra, Rb, Rc, ...) Are provided for each department.

Further, in this system 1, not all users can freely enter (enter / leave) the room R of each department, but the user can enter only the room R of his / her department. Exit management is being carried out. In other words, in this system 1, entry / exit management of each room R is performed so that the user cannot enter the room R of another department. Here, the entry / exit management server 70 performs such entry / exit management. The entry / exit management server 70 is a server device (server computer) different from the image processing device 10 and the computer 30.

Specifically, the entry / exit management server 70 has an entry authority management table 300 (see FIG. 4). In the room entry authority management table 300, a user having the room entry authority of each room R (specifically, user identification information (for example, user ID)) is registered in advance by an administrator or the like. In FIG. 4, the “◯” mark indicates that the user has the authority to enter the room, and the “x” mark indicates that the user does not have the authority to enter the room. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the user U1 has the authority to enter the room Ra (the room of the department to which the user U1 belongs) non-temporarily (in principle), but other rooms Rb, Rc ,. .. (Rooms in other departments) does not have the authority to enter.

Further, an entrance / exit management device is installed at the entrance / exit of each room R (Ra, Rb, Rc, ...). Here, a gate G (Ga, Gb, Gc, ...) (also referred to as a gate device) for room entry / exit management is arranged at the entrance / exit of each room R as the room entry / exit management device (FIG. 1). reference). The present invention is not limited to this, and for example, an electronic lock device may be installed at the entrance / exit (for example, near the door) of each room R as the entrance / exit management device.

The entry / exit management server 70 determines whether or not the user can enter / exit (enter / exit) the room R based on the entry authority management table 300 (FIG. 4), and the entry / exit management server 70 is installed at the entrance / exit of each room R. By controlling the operation of the management device (here, gate G), the entry and exit of the user into each room R is managed.

Specifically, when a user is allowed to enter a certain room R, the entry prohibition bar evacuates from the user's traveling path at the gate G of the certain room, and the passage of the user is hindered. Not (allowed). On the other hand, when the user is not allowed to enter the room R, the user can pass through the gate G (specifically, on the user's travel path) by projecting an entry prohibition bar or the like. Be hindered (prohibited).

More specifically, the user identification information (here, the user ID) of a user who intends to enter a certain room R (a user who intends to pass through a gate G installed at the entrance / exit of a certain room R) is the said certain. Obtained by Gate G in Room R. The acquired user ID is transmitted from the gate G to the entry / exit management server 70. The entry / exit management server 70 is based on the user ID acquired at the gate G of the certain room R and the entry authority management table 300, and the user who intends to enter the certain room R can enter the certain room R. Determine whether or not you have the authority to enter the room.

For example, when the user U1 tries to enter the room Ra of his / her department (trying to pass through the gate Ga), the entry / exit management server 70 sets the user ID of the user U1 and the entry authority management table 300 (FIG. 4). Based on this, it is determined that the user U1 has the authority to enter the room Ra. Then, the entry / exit management server 70 notifies the gate Ga that the entry of the user U1 should be permitted, and the entrance to the room Ra by the user U1 is not hindered (permitted) at the gate Ga. ..

On the other hand, for example, when the user U1 tries to enter the room Rb of another department (trying to pass through the gate Gb) (without having the temporary entry authority described later), the entry / exit management server 70 uses the user. Based on the user ID of U1 and the entry authority management table 300 (FIG. 4), it is determined that the user U1 does not have the entry authority to the room Rb. Then, the entry / exit management server 70 notifies the gate Gb of the room Rb that the entry of the user U1 should be refused, and the entrance to the room Rb by the user U1 is prevented (prohibited) at the gate Gb. ).

Here, the user has only the authority to enter the room R of his / her department, but the user is not limited to this, and the user also has the authority to enter a part of the room R of another department. You may be. For example, the user U1 may have the authority to enter not only the room Ra of his own department but also the room of a specific department (for example, room Rc).

Further, an image processing device 10 is installed in each room R (Ra, Rb, Rc, ...). Here, two image processing devices 10a1 and 10a2 are installed in the room Ra. Further, three image processing devices 10b1, 10b2, and 10b3 are installed in the room Rb. Further, three image processing devices 10c1, 10c2, and 10c3 are installed in the room Rc. These image processing devices 10 are managed by the system 1.

The following information is registered in each image processing device 10.

Specifically, in each image processing device 10, a user having the authority to enter the installation room R in which the own device is installed (specifically, user identification information (for example, user ID)) is assigned to the room entry / exit management server 70. Obtained from and pre-registered (see also FIG. 4). For example, in the image processing device 10a1, it is registered that the users U1 and U2 have the authority to enter the installation room Ra (see also FIG. 1) in which the image processing device 10a1 is installed.

Further, in each image processing device 10, a user who has the authority to use the own device (specifically, user identification information) is registered in advance. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a user who has the authority to use each image processing device 10. In FIG. 5, the “◯” mark indicates that the user has the usage authority, and the “x” mark indicates that the user does not have the usage authority. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, it is registered in the image processing device 10a1 that the users U1 and U2 have the authority to use the image processing device 10a.

Further, each image processing device 10 has a function (possessed function) possessed by the own device registered in advance. Specifically, each image processing device 10 has a function corresponding to a job type (also referred to as a "job type corresponding function" or a "summary function") and a function more detailed than the general function. (Also referred to as "detailed function") is registered in advance.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, each image processing device 10 is registered in advance with a possessed schematic function (“rough function” possessed by the image processing device 10) of its own device. In FIG. 6, the “◯” mark indicates that the corresponding schematic function is provided, and the “x” mark indicates that the corresponding schematic function is not provided. The "print" function is a general function corresponding to a print job (a general function required to execute a print job), and the "copy" function is a general function corresponding to a copy job (a general function required to execute a copy job). ). Further, the "scan" function is a general function corresponding to a scan job (a general function required to execute a scan job), and the "facsimile" function is a general function corresponding to a facsimile job (a general function required to execute a facsimile job). ). For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the image processing apparatus 10a1 has a printing function, a copying function, a scanning function, and a facsimile function. In other words, the image processing apparatus 10a1 can execute four types of jobs: a print job, a copy job, a scan job, and a facsimile job.

Further, as shown in FIG. 7, each image processing device 10 is pre-registered with its own detailed function (“detailed function” possessed by the image processing device 10). In FIG. 7, the “◯” mark indicates that the product has the corresponding detailed function, and the “x” mark indicates that the product does not have the corresponding detailed function. The "color" printing function is a detailed function required to execute a print job (or copy job) accompanied by color printing, and the "double-sided" printing function is used to execute a print job (or copy job) accompanied by double-sided printing. This is a detailed function required. The "sorter" function is a detailed function required to execute a print job (or copy job) accompanied by sorter processing, and the "staple" function is a detailed function required to execute a print job (or copy job) accompanied by staple processing. It is a function. Further, the "Z-fold" function is a detailed function required for executing a print job (or copy job) accompanied by a Z-fold process. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the image processing apparatus 10a1 has a color printing function, a double-sided printing function, and a sorter function, and does not have a staple function and a Z-fold function. Further, the processing capacity (printing speed) of the own device is also registered in advance in each image processing device 10.

Further, the operating status of the own device is registered in each image processing device 10. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an operating status of each image processing device 10. For example, when a print job is currently being executed in the image processing device 10a1, as shown in FIG. 8, the state of the image processing device 10a1 is "operating" (job is being executed) and image processing. The execution end time (scheduled end time) of the job being executed by the device 10a1 is registered in the image processing device 10a1. In addition, the reservation status (use reservation status) of the job in the own device is also registered in each image processing device 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, in the image processing device 10b2, it is registered (reserved) that the own device (image processing device 10b2) is used in the period from 10:10 to 10:30. ..

Further, each image processing device 10 can be used in each room R (Ra, Rb, Rc, ...) (Available time zone or can be entered) in a time zone (entering each room R). (Also called a time zone) is also registered in advance (see FIG. 9). For example, the room Ra is available from 8:00 to 22:00. In other words, the user can use the room Ra (enter the room Ra) before 7:59 and after 22:01 (even if he / she has the authority to enter the room Ra). Can not.

As will be described later, the information registered in each image processing device 10 is a device (“condition”) in which the image processing device 10 satisfies a predetermined condition regarding a job (a job given by a user) related to a usage request. It is also used as a determination process (determination process relating to condition satisfaction) as to whether or not it is a "satisfaction device").

The system 1 also has a computer 30. The computer 30 is configured as a so-called personal computer. A printer driver (software program) is installed in the computer 30, and it is possible to assign a print job or the like to the image processing device 10 by using the printer driver according to the operation of the computer 30 and the user.

<1-2. Image processing device configuration>
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional block of the image processing device 10. Here, the MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) is exemplified as the image processing device 10. In FIG. 2, the functional block of the MFP 10 is shown. The MFP 10 is also referred to as an image forming apparatus.

The MFP 10 is a device (also referred to as a multifunction device) having a printing function (printing function), a scanning function, a copying function, a facsimile function, a box storage function, and the like. Specifically, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 2, the MFP 10 includes an image reading unit 2, a print output unit 3, a communication unit 4, a storage unit 5, an operation unit 6, a controller 9, and the like. Various functions are realized by operating each part of the above in a complex manner.

It should be noted that some of the plurality of MFPs 10 constituting the system 1 do not have some functions (for example, a facsimile function) (see also FIG. 6).

The image reading unit 2 optically reads (that is, scans) a document placed at a predetermined position (ADF (Auto Document Feeder) or glass surface, etc.) of the MFP 10 and scans the document. This is a processing unit that generates image data (also referred to as an original image or a scanned image). The image reading unit 2 is also referred to as a scanning unit.

The print output unit 3 is an output unit that prints and outputs an image on various media such as paper based on data related to a print target (print target data).

The communication unit 4 is a processing unit capable of performing facsimile communication via a public line or the like. Further, the communication unit 4 can also perform network communication via the network. In this network communication, for example, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the MFP 10 can exchange various data in cooperation with a desired destination. The communication unit 4 has a transmission unit 4a for transmitting various data and a reception unit 4b for receiving various data.

The storage unit 5 is composed of a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD).

The operation unit 6 includes an operation input unit 6a that receives an operation input to the MFP 10 and a display unit 6b that displays and outputs various information.

The controller (control unit) 9 is a control device that is built in the MFP 10 and controls the MFP 10 in an integrated manner. The controller 9 is configured as a computer system including a CPU and various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM). The controller 9 realizes various processing units by executing a predetermined software program (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a program) stored in a ROM (for example, EEPROM (registered trademark)) in the CPU. The program (specifically, a program module group) may be recorded on a portable recording medium such as a USB memory, read from the recording medium, and installed in the MFP 10. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded via a network or the like and installed in the MFP 10.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the controller 9 includes the communication control unit 11, the input control unit 12, the display control unit 13, the job control unit 14, the determination unit 15, and the calculation unit 16 by executing the program. Realize various processing units including.

The communication control unit 11 is a processing unit that controls communication operations with other devices in cooperation with the communication unit 4 and the like.

The input control unit 12 is a control unit that controls an operation of receiving an operation input from a user to the operation input unit 6a (touch panel or the like).

The display control unit 13 is a processing unit that controls the display operation on the display unit 6b (touch panel or the like). The display control unit 13 causes the touch panel to display an operation screen or the like for operating the MFP 10.

The job control unit 14 is a processing unit that controls operations related to various jobs (print output operation, image reading operation, etc.). For example, the job control unit 14 causes the print output unit 3 to execute an operation (print output operation) related to the print job in response to the arrival of the execution start time (scheduled start time) specified (calculated) by the calculation unit 16. ..

The determination unit 15 is a processing unit that executes various determination operations. For example, the determination unit 15 executes a determination process regarding the sufficiency of a predetermined condition (described later) regarding the execution of a job (for example, a print job) related to a usage request. Specifically, the determination unit 15 is an MFP 10 (“condition satisfaction device”) in which a determination target device related to condition satisfaction (for example, an MFP 10 designated by a user (also referred to as a “designated device”) satisfies the predetermined condition. It is also referred to as). Further, when the determination target device (for example, the designated device) is a condition satisfying device, the determination unit 15 (determination unit) uses the designated device as the MFP 10 (also referred to as “job execution device”) in which the job is executed. To determine as.

The calculation unit 16 is a processing unit that calculates a period (also referred to as an “entrance / exit permission period”) during which a user is temporarily (exceptionally) permitted to enter / exit the installation room R in which the job execution device is installed. is there. Specifically, the entry / exit permission period is from the time (time) when the user starts the permission to enter the installation room R to the time (time) when the user finishes the permission to enter the installation room R. The period. The calculation unit 16 also calculates (designates) the execution start time (scheduled start time) of the job (specifically, the print job).

<1-3. Operation>
In this embodiment, in response to the setting operation of the user U1, the computer 30 desires the MFP10 of another department (here, the MFP10b1 installed in the room Rb) to execute the print job on the MFP10b1. Send a request to use. Upon receiving the usage request, the MFP10b1 determines whether or not the own device is a condition satisfying device (the MFP10 satisfying the conditions (1) to (5) described later). When the MFP10b1 is a condition satisfying device, the MFP10b1 further determines whether or not the user U1 has the authority to enter the room in which the own device is installed (the room in which the MFP10b1 is installed (here, the room Rb)). Then, when the user U1 does not have the authority to enter the installation room Rb, the MFP10b1 calculates a period (entrance / exit permission period) in which the user U1 is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room Rb. The entry / exit permission period calculated for the user U1 is notified to the user U1 and the entry / exit management server 70, and the user U1 is allowed to enter / exit the room Rb only during the entry / exit permission period. Then, the user U1 enters the room Rb within the entry / exit permission period, receives the print output of the print job executed by the MFP 10b1, and leaves the room Rb within the entry / exit permission period.

Here, it is assumed that user U1 (a user belonging to the department of room Ra) wants to print out 15 copies of 10 originals in a stapled state based on the data for print output. .. It is assumed that it is currently 9:30.

First, the computer 30 accepts various settings related to the usage request by the setting operation of the user U1. The user U1 may be inside the room of his / her department (here, room Ra), or may be outside the room Ra. In other words, the computer 30 used by the user U1 may exist inside the room Ra of the department to which the user U1 belongs, or may exist outside the room Ra.

Specifically, the user U1 logs in to the computer 30 using his / her own user ID and password, and then displays on the print setting screen (not shown) displayed on the computer 30 (specifically, the display screen of the printer driver). Make various settings related to the print job.

For example, the user U1 specifies a desired MFP 10 (device desired to be used) on the print setting screen. Here, the user U1 wants to execute a print job involving a staple process, and the MFP10b1 having a staple function (see also FIG. 7) is designated by the user U1 as a desired device to be used. It is assumed that the user U1 knows in advance which MFP 10 has the staple function.

Further, the user U1 specifies a desired detailed function (use desired function) by adding a check mark to the detailed setting item "staple" on the print setting screen. When the desired function (here, the staple function) is specified by the user U1, the information (setting content information) related to the setting content in the print job is added with the information (detailed function specification information) that the staple processing should be executed. Will be done.

Further, the user U1 specifies the number of copies of the original to be printed out (15 copies in this case) on the print setting screen. When the number of copies is specified, the information on the specified number of print output copies (number of copies information) is added to the setting content information related to the print job.

Further, the user U1 sets (designates) a desired end end time (desired end time) related to the execution of the print job on the print setting screen. Here, the user U1 wants to receive the printed output in a stapled state at 10:00, and sets (designates) "10:00" as the desired end time (designated time). When the desired end time is specified by the user, the specified information of the desired end time (here, "10:00") is added to the setting content information related to the print job.

Then, when the execution instruction of the print job is given by the click operation such as the "OK" button in the print setting screen, the computer 30 is the MFP10 (designated device) (here, the MFP10b1) designated by the user U1. A usage request indicating that a desired job (here, a print job) is desired to be executed and print target data are transmitted to the MFP 10b1 (step S12). Here, the usage request includes job information related to the job related to the usage request (here, a print job) and an execution command of the print job. The job information includes user identification information (here, user ID) of user U1 who is the requesting user of the usage request (user who has given the execution instruction of the print job), and setting content information related to the print job. Is done.

In the designated device (here, MFP10b1), in response to the reception of the usage request and the print target data, the print target data is temporarily stored in the MFP 10b1 and the following operations are started. To print.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the designated device (in this case, MFP10b1).

In step S11, the designated device (MFP10b1) satisfies the following conditions (1) to (5) relating to the execution of the job (here, the print job) related to the usage request by the own device (“condition satisfaction). It is determined whether or not it is a device "). In other words, it is determined whether or not the device to be determined regarding the sufficiency of the conditions (1) to (5) (here, the designated device) is the condition sufficiency device.

Specifically, the designated device is
(1) The requesting user has the authority to use the device to be judged (here, the designated device).
(2) The MFP 10 that the judgment target device (designated device) has a rough function corresponding to the type of job related to the usage request.
(3) The judgment target device (designated device) has the detailed functions specified by the requesting user for the job related to the usage request.
(4) It is possible for the device to be judged (designated device) to finish the job at the time specified by the requesting user (here, the desired end time), and (5) the time specified by the requesting user (designated). The device to be judged (designated device) is installed in the room R that can be used at (time).
It is determined whether or not the condition of is satisfied.

Each condition (1) to (5) will be described below.

Regarding the condition (1), the designated device (in this case, the MFP10b1) determines whether or not the requesting user (here, the user U1) of the usage request has the authority to use the determination target device (own device). Here, as shown in FIG. 5, the requesting user U1 has the authority to use the MFP10b1, and the MFP10b1 has the authority to use the own device by the requesting user U1 (the own device is a condition (1). ) Satisfies the above. If the requesting user does not have the authority to use the designated device, the designated device determines that the own device is not the MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (1).

Under the following conditions (2) and (3), the judgment target device (here, the designated device) is required to execute the job (here, a print job with staple processing) (required to execute the job). Whether or not it has a function) is determined.

Specifically, regarding the condition (2), the designated device (MFP10b1) has a schematic function (in this case, a print job) corresponding to the type of job related to the usage request (the type of job specified by the requesting user (here, the print job)). Here, it is determined whether or not the determination target device (own device) has the printing function). Here, as shown in FIG. 6, the MFP10b1 has a printing function, and the MFP10b1 has a schematic function corresponding to the type of job related to the usage request (the own device is a condition (2)). It is determined that the MFP 10 satisfies the above. If the designated device does not have a general function corresponding to the type of job related to the usage request, the designated device determines that the own device is not the MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (2).

Further, regarding the condition (3), the designated device (MFP10b1) performs the detailed function (here, the staple function) specified by the requesting user (here, the user U1) with respect to the job related to the usage request (here, the print job). It is determined whether or not the determination target device (own device) has it. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, the MFP10b1 has a staple function, and the MFP10b1 performs a detailed function (staple function) specified by the requesting user U1 regarding a print job (a print job accompanied by a staple process). It is determined that the own device has (the fact that the own device is an MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (3)). When the designated device does not have the detailed function (for example, the staple function) specified by the requesting user, the designated device determines that the own device is not the MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (3).

Further, regarding the condition (4), in the designated device (MFP10b1), the determination target device (own device) ends the job (print job in this case) at the designated time (here, the desired end time) by the requesting user U1. Whether or not this is possible is determined based on the setting content information of the print job. Here, the number of print outputs in the print job given by the user U1 is 150 sheets (= number of originals (10 sheets) x number of copies (15 copies)), and the printing speed of the MFP10b1 is 50 (sheets / minute). Yes (see also Figure 7). Therefore, the execution time (time required from the start of execution to the end of execution) of the print job is about 3 minutes (= 150/50). Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the MFP10b1 is currently waiting (not executing another job), and neither usage reservation is registered in the MFP10b1. That is, another print job is executed in the MFP10b1 between 9:57 (the time before the desired end time and the time required to execute the job (here, 3 minutes)) and 10:00 (the desired end time). I have no plans to do so. From the above, the MFP10b1 can execute the print job before the desired end time (10:00) specified by the user U1 and end the print job at the desired end time (own device). Is an MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (4)). If the job cannot be completed (executed) at the desired end time because the reservation for use of the designated device is registered in advance at the desired end time of the requesting user, the designated device is self-designated. It is determined that the device is not the MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (4).

Regarding the condition (5), the designated device (MFP10b1) is equipped with a determination target device (own device) in a room that can be used at a designated time by the requesting user U1 (a room that can be entered). It is determined whether or not it has been done. In other words, whether or not the time (designated time) specified by the requesting user U1 is within the time during which the room R (Rb) in which the determination target device (in this case, MFP10b1) is installed can be used. , Is determined. Here, as shown in FIG. 9, the designated time (10:00) of the requesting user U1 is the available time (enterable time) of the installation room Rb of the MFP10b1 (here, from 8:00 to 20:00). It is within 00 minutes). Therefore, the MFP10b1 determines that the own device is installed in the room Rb that can be used at the designated time of the requesting user U1 (that the own device is the MFP10 that satisfies the condition (5)). When the designated time of the requesting user is outside the available time of the installation room R of the designated device, the designated device determines that the own device is not the MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (5).

In this way, in the designated device (MFP10b1), whether or not the device to be determined regarding the condition satisfaction (here, the MFP10b1) is the MFP10 (condition satisfaction device) that satisfies the above conditions (1) to (5). Is determined. Here, as described above, it is determined in step S11 that the MFP 10b1 is the MFP 10 that satisfies all of the conditions (1) to (5) (the fact that the MFP 10b1 is the condition satisfying device). Then, the process proceeds to step S12.

When it is determined in step S11 that at least one of the conditions (1) to (5) is not satisfied and the determination target device (designated device) is not the condition satisfying device, the designated device is requested to be used. Notify the requesting user U1 of the usage request (specifically, the computer 30 of the user U1) of the inexecutability notification that the job (printing job) cannot be executed by the own device.

In step S12, the designated device (MFP10b1) determines its own device (determination target device) as a job execution device (MFP10 on which a job related to a usage request (here, a print job) is executed). Then, the MFP10b1 calculates the desired end time (here, 10:00) specified by the requesting user U1 for the print job as the scheduled end time of the print job. Further, the MFP10b1 calculates the time (9:57) before the execution time (here, 3 minutes) of the print job from the scheduled end time as the scheduled start time of the print job. The determined start scheduled time and end scheduled time are registered (reserved) in the job execution device (here, MFP10b1).

Then, the process proceeds to step S13, and the designated device (job execution device) (here, MFP10b1) is installed in the own device installation room R (room R in which the own device is installed) (here, room Rb (see FIG. 1). )) Is determined whether or not the requesting user U1 has the authority to enter the room (step S13).

Specifically, the MFP10b1 is based on the user identification information (here, the user ID) of the requesting source user and the user identification information (see FIG. 4) of the user who has the authority to enter the installation room Rb of the own device. It is determined whether or not the user U1 has the authority to enter the installation room Rb. Here, it is determined that the requesting user U1 does not have the authority to enter the installation room Rb of the MFP 10b1.

If it is determined in step S13 that the requesting user U1 has the authority to enter the installation room Rb in which the MFP10b1 is installed, the processes of steps S14 and S15 described later are not executed and the flowchart of FIG. 3 ends. To do. Then, entry / exit of the requesting user into the installation room R in which the job execution device (designated device) is installed is permitted as usual (based on the fact that the requesting user has the entry authority in principle). ..

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that the requesting user U1 does not have the authority to enter the installation room Rb in which the MFP10b1 is installed, the process proceeds to step S14.

In step S14, the MFP10 (designated device (MFP10b1)) determined as the job execution device is temporarily (exceptionally) allowed to enter and leave the installation room Rb by the requesting user U1. Entry / exit permission period) is calculated.

For example, the MFP10b1 calculates a time before a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) from the scheduled end time of the print job (here, 10:00) as the start of the entry / exit permission period, and further, the scheduled end time (here, here). The time after a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) from (10:00) is calculated as the end of the entry / exit permission period. That is, here, the period from 9:50 to 10:10 is calculated as the entry / exit permission period.

Then, the MFP10b1 sets the entry / exit permission period (here, 9:50 to 10:10) calculated for the requesting user U1 with the requesting user U1 (specifically, the computer 30 of the user U1). Notify the management server 70 (step S15).

When the process of step S15 is executed, the flowchart of FIG. 3 ends, and the following operations are performed in each device.

Specifically, the computer 30 responds to the notification of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the user U1 and displays the entry / exit permission period on the display screen (not shown) of the printer driver. Then, the user U1 knows the entry / exit permission period (the period during which his / her own entry / exit to the room Rb (room having no entry authority) of another department is temporarily permitted) on the display screen.

Further, when the entry / exit management server 70 acquires the entry / exit permission period calculated by the designated device for the user U1, the entry / exit authority management table 300 is updated. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the entrance authority management table 300 after the update. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the entry / exit permission period (here, the period from 9:50 to 10:10) obtained for the user U1 is valid (temporary entry authority). It is registered that the user U1 has.

After that, the MFP10 (here, MFP10b1) determined as the job execution device executes the print job in response to the arrival of the scheduled start time (here, 9:57) calculated for the print job. Specifically, the MFP 10b1 prints out the print target data temporarily stored in the own device in cooperation with the print output unit 3, and executes the staple process by using the staple function.

Further, in the entry / exit management server 70, when the user U1 enters the installation room R (here, the room Rb) in which the job execution device (in this case, the MFP10b1) is installed, the entry / exit permission calculated for the requesting user U1 is obtained. Entry / exit (entrance and exit) to the installation room Rb during the period is temporarily permitted for the user U1. In other words, although entry / exit of the requesting user U1 to the installation room Rb is not permitted in principle, entry / exit of the requesting user U1 to the installation room Rb during the entry / exit permission period is exceptional. Allowed for.

Specifically, when the user U1 passes through the gate Gb of the installation room Rb of the job execution device (MFP10b1) and tries to enter the installation room Rb within the entry / exit permission period (for example, 9:55). , The gate Gb acquires the user identification information (user ID) of the user U1 and transmits it to the entry / exit management server 70. The entry / exit management server 70 determines whether or not the user U1 has the entry authority to the room Rb based on the acquired user ID and the updated entry authority management table 300 (see FIG. 10). Here, it is determined that the user U1 has the temporary entry authority to the room Rb based on the entry / exit permission period (9:50 to 10:10) acquired for the user U1. Then, the entry / exit management server 70 determines that the user U1 should be allowed to enter / exit the room Rb during the entry / exit permission period, and permits the user U1 to enter the room Rb. Notify the gate Gb of the notification. At the gate Gb, in response to the permission notification, the user U1 is permitted to enter the room Rb (without hindering it).

When the user U1 is allowed to enter the room where the job execution device is installed (for example, room Rb), the user U1 prints out the print output (staple-fastened state) of the job execution device (MFP10b1). ) Is received from the output tray, and then the room is left from the installation room Rb by the end time of the entry / exit permission period (here, 10:10).

If the exit of the user U1 from the installation room Rb is not confirmed after the end of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the user U1, the entry / exit management server 70 uses the user U1 from the installation room Rb. Notify the administrator (administrator of room Rb) of the unleaved room. In other words, when it is confirmed that the user U1 has not yet left the installation room Rb (the user U1 is still in the installation room Rb) after the end of the entry / exit permission period. Is notified to the administrator that the user U1 has not left the room from the installation room Rb.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the authority to enter the installation room (here, room Rb) of the job execution device (here, MFP10b1) in which the job related to the usage request is executed is given to the requesting user (here, room Rb) of the usage request. Even if the user U1) does not have it, the requesting user U1 is temporarily allowed to enter and leave the installation room Rb. Specifically, the period during which the requesting user U1 is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room Rb (entrance / exit permission period) is automatically calculated, and the entry calculated for the requesting user U1. The entry / exit to / from the installation room Rb during the exit permission period is temporarily and automatically permitted to the requesting user U1. According to this, the setting operation (authorization operation) by the administrator does not intervene in the temporary entry of the user into the room which does not have the authority to enter (see the task column). Specifically, the user does not need to ask the administrator to grant the temporary entry authority when he / she wishes to temporarily enter the room without the entry authority. In addition, the administrator is not required to set the temporary entry authority. Therefore, it is possible to more easily manage entry / exit regarding temporary entry into a room for which the entry authority is not granted.

<2. Second Embodiment>
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

In the first embodiment, if the MFP10 (designated device) specified by the requesting user of the usage request is not a condition-satisfying device, the request cannot be executed to the effect that the job related to the usage request cannot be executed. The former user has been notified.

In this second embodiment, when the designated device is not the condition satisfying device, the condition satisfying device is searched from the MFP 10 different from the designated device.

In this second embodiment, each MFP 10 not only has various information about its own device, but also various information about another device (another MFP 10) (a user who has the authority to use another MFP 10, a function possessed by another MFP 10, etc. (FIG. FIG. 5 to FIG. 8))).

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the designated device according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, in the second embodiment, the processes of steps S21 to S26 are executed in addition to the processes of the first embodiment (steps S11 to S15 of FIG. 3). The processing of steps S11 to S15 (FIG. 11) of the second embodiment is the same as that of steps S11 to S15 (see FIG. 3) of the first embodiment.

Specifically, when it is determined in step S11 that the designated device is not the condition satisfying device, the condition satisfying device (predetermined condition relating to the job related to the usage request) is selected from the MFP 10 different from the designated device. The MFP10) that satisfies (1) to (5) (see the first embodiment) is searched (steps S21 and S23). In other words, it is determined whether or not the determination target device (here, the MFP10 different from the designated device) regarding the condition satisfaction of the conditions (1) to (5) is the condition satisfaction device.

Specifically, the search process of the condition satisfying device is executed in two stages (steps S21 and S23). In the first stage search process (step S21), the condition satisfying device is searched from the MFP 10 installed in the room (also referred to as “authority holding room”) in which the requesting user has the authority to enter the room. In the second stage search process (step S23), the condition satisfying device is searched from the MFP 10 installed in the room (also referred to as “non-authoritative room”) in which the requesting user does not have the authority to enter the room. The authority holding room is also referred to as an "entry permission room". The non-authoritative room is also referred to as a "non-permitted room".

First, in step S21, the first-stage search process is preferentially performed (as opposed to the second-stage search process). Specifically, the designated device is a room (authority holding room) (here, room Rb (see FIG. 4)) in which the requesting user (for example, user U3) has (non-temporarily) entry authority in principle. Determine if a condition-satisfying device exists.

For example, when the requesting user U3 designates the MFP10b3 of the authority holding room Rb as the desired device, and it is determined in step S11 that the designated device (MFP10b3) is not a condition satisfying device, the authority holding room Rb is set. Of the installed MFPs 10b1 to 10b3, the condition satisfying device is searched from the remaining MFPs 10b1 and 10b2 excluding the MFP10b2. Then, when at least one of the devices to be determined regarding the condition satisfaction (here, the remaining MFPs 10b1, 10b2) is the condition satisfaction device, the step is that the condition satisfaction device exists in the authority holding room (here, the room Rb). It is determined in S21.

Further, for example, when the MFP10c1 of the room (non-authoritative room) (for example, room Rc) in which the requesting user U3 does not have the entry authority is designated as the desired device to be used, the fact that the MFP10c1 is not the condition satisfying device is step S11. When the determination is made in, the condition satisfying device is searched from the determination target devices related to the condition satisfying property (here, MFPs 10b1 to 10b3 of the authority holding room Rb).

When at least one of the MFPs 10b1 to 10b3 is a condition satisfying device, it is determined in step S21 that the condition satisfying device exists in the authority holding room Rb.

Then, the process proceeds to step S22, and the designated device uses the condition satisfying device (condition satisfying device detected in the first search process) in the authority holding room (here, room Rb) as the job execution device (job execution device). It is determined as the MFP 10) in which the job related to the usage request is executed (step S22). For example, when the MFP10b2 of the authority holding room Rb is detected as the condition satisfying device, the MFP10b2 is determined as the job execution device.

When a plurality of condition satisfying devices exist in the authority holding room Rb, the MFP 10 selected from the plurality of condition satisfying devices is determined as the job execution device. For example, the designated device causes the computer 30 to display the device IDs of the plurality of condition satisfying devices, and determines the MFP 10 selected by the requesting user from the plurality of condition satisfying devices as the job execution device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the designated device may determine the condition satisfying device installed at the position closest to the position of the requesting user's seat as the job execution device among the plurality of condition satisfying devices. Good.

When the job execution device is determined in step S22, the designated device obtains job information related to the job (for example, a print job) related to the usage request, the execution command of the print job, and the print target data of the print job. It is transmitted to the MFP 10 determined as the executing device.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S21 that the condition satisfying device does not exist in the authority holding room (here, room Rb), the process proceeds to step S23. In other words, if the condition satisfying device cannot be detected by the search process of the first stage (step S22), the search process of the second stage is further executed.

Specifically, in step S23, the designated device determines whether or not the condition satisfying device exists in a room (authority non-holding room) in which the requesting user (for example, user U3) does not have the authority to enter the room. .. Here, the condition satisfying device is searched from the MFPs 10 installed in the rooms Ra, Rc, ... (See FIG. 4) to which the requesting user U3 does not have the entry authority. In other words, it is determined whether or not the condition satisfying device exists in the MFPs 10a1, 10a2, 10c1, 10c2, 10c3, ... (See also FIGS. 1 and 5) installed in the non-authoritative room. Will be done.

When at least one of the plurality of MFPs 10 installed in the non-authoritative holding room is a condition satisfying device, it is reported in step S23 that the condition satisfying device exists in the non-authoritative holding room (here, Ra, Rc, ...). Is judged.

Then, the process proceeds to step S24, and the designated device determines the condition satisfying device in the non-authoritative room (room Ra, Rc, ...) As the job execution device (step S24). For example, when the MFP 10c2 installed in the non-authoritative room Rc is detected as the condition satisfying device, the MFP 10c2 is determined as the job execution device.

When a plurality of condition satisfying devices exist in the non-authoritative room (room Ra, Rc, ...), the MFP 10 selected from the plurality of condition satisfying devices is determined as the job execution device. .. For example, the designated device causes the computer 30 to display the device IDs of the plurality of condition satisfying devices, and is selected by the requesting user U3 from the plurality of condition satisfying devices (plurality of condition satisfying devices in the non-authoritative room). The MFP 10 is determined as a job execution device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and among the plurality of condition satisfying devices, the condition satisfying device installed in the room closest to the room of the department to which the requesting user belongs may be determined as the job execution device.

When the job execution device is determined in step S24, the designated device obtains job information related to the job (for example, a print job) related to the usage request, an execution command of the print job, and print target data of the print job. It is transmitted to the MFP 10 determined as the executing device.

Then, the process proceeds to step S25, and the designated device calculates the entry / exit permission period for the installation room R of the MFP 10 (the MFP 10 of the non-authoritative room) determined as the job execution device. When the entry / exit permission period is calculated, the designated device notifies the requesting user and the entry / exit management server 70 of the entry / exit permission period (step S26). The processing contents of steps S25 and S26 are the same as the processing contents of steps S14 and S15 (see the first embodiment).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that the condition satisfying device does not exist in the non-authoritative room, the designated device cannot execute the job related to the usage request (here, the print job). Notify the requesting user (specifically, computer 30) of the notification.

Then, the flowchart of FIG. 11 ends.

After that, in the MFP 10 determined as the job execution device, the print job is executed in response to the arrival of the scheduled start time of the print job. Further, in the entry / exit management server 70, entry / exit to the installation room R of the job execution device during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the request source user is temporarily permitted to the request source user.

As described above, in the second embodiment, when the designated device is not the condition satisfying device, the condition satisfying device is searched from the MFP 10 installed in the authority holding room (room R in which the requesting user has the entry authority). The search process (first stage search process) is preferentially performed. Then, when the condition satisfying device cannot be detected by the search process of the first stage, the condition satisfying device is searched from the MFP 10 installed in the non-authority holding room (room R in which the requesting user does not have the entry authority). The search process (second stage search process) is further performed. In other words, if there is a condition satisfying device in the authority holding room (here, the room of the department to which the requesting user belongs) (in short, if it is not necessary to grant temporary entry authority), the authority The condition satisfying device of the holding room is determined as the job execution device. Therefore, by minimizing the opportunity for the user to enter the non-privileged room, the security deterioration in the non-privileged room can be suppressed, and the entry / exit management regarding temporary entry into the room without the authority to enter the room can be improved. It can be done easily.

<3. Modification example>
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above contents.

<Modification example of starting execution of print job>
For example, in each of the above embodiments, the print job is immediately executed by the job execution device in response to the arrival of the scheduled start time (9:57 in the above embodiment) calculated for the print job. Not limited to.

Here, when the execution of the print job is started in response to the arrival of the scheduled start time of the print job, when the requesting user has not arrived at the installation position of the job execution device at the scheduled end time of the print job. , The print output output by the job execution device is left in the output tray from the end of the print job to the arrival of the requesting user. For example, if the requesting user arrives at the installation position of the job execution device 5 minutes after the scheduled end time of the print job (for example, 10:00), it lasts for 5 minutes (10:00 to 10:05). , The printed output is left in the output tray. As a result, the printed output may be seen by users other than the requesting user.

In consideration of such circumstances, even when the scheduled start time calculated for the print job has arrived, when the entry of the requesting user into the installation room R of the job execution device has not yet been confirmed, the job The execution device may not start executing the print job. In short, start execution of the print job so that the requesting user has arrived at the installation position of the job execution device when the print job is completed (the print output can be received immediately at the end of execution). You may try to delay it.

Specifically, the requesting user enters the room R where the job execution device is installed (actual entry) within the entry / exit permission period (for example, 9:50 to 10:10) calculated for the requesting user. The print job may be executed in the job execution device in response to the confirmation.

Specifically, even when the scheduled start time calculated for the print job (for example, 9:57) has arrived, the job is executed when the requesting user has not yet confirmed the entry into the installation room R. The device does not start a print job (execution of the print job) (at this point). After that, for example, when the requesting user enters the installation room R at 10:05, entry of the requesting user into the installation room R is confirmed (via communication with the entry / exit management server 70). In response, the job executor starts the print job. Then, the requesting user moves to the installation position of the job execution device, and when the print job is completed by the job execution device, the requesting user receives the print output printed out by the job execution device.

In addition, the distance from the entrance / exit of the installation room R where the job execution device is installed to the installation position where the job execution device is installed may be relatively long. For example, the job execution device may be installed at a distance of about 3 minutes on foot from the entrance / exit of the room R where the job execution device is installed. In such a case, even if the job is executed by the job execution device in response to the confirmation that the requesting user has entered the room, the requesting user arrives at the installation position of the job execution device from the end of the print job. Until then, the printed matter may be left on the output tray.

In consideration of such circumstances, for example, in response to the elapse of a predetermined time ΔT (for example, 2 minutes) after the requesting user is confirmed to enter the installation room within the entry / exit permission period. The print job may be executed by the job execution device (see FIG. 13).

Specifically, when setting a print job, the requesting user estimates the approximate execution time (for example, about 1 minute) of the print job based on the amount of print target data (number of prints) of the print job. To do. In addition, the requesting user knows in advance (based on his / her own experience, etc.) the time required on foot (for example, about 3 minutes) from the entrance / exit of the designated device installation room R to the designated device installation position. ing. Using this information, the requesting user can use the print job on the print setting screen from the time he / she enters the room R where the designated device is installed until the execution of the print job is started in the designated device. Specify the time (waiting time from entry confirmation to execution start) ΔT (here, 2 minutes (= 3 minutes-1 minute)).

Then, the job execution device (designated device) does not immediately start the print job in response to the arrival of the scheduled start time T10 calculated for the print job, but the request source user's own device during the entry / exit permission period. After the entry into the installation room is confirmed and the time ΔT specified by the requesting user elapses, the print job is started (see FIG. 13). For example, the job execution device does not immediately start executing the print job even when the scheduled start time of the print job (for example, 9:57) has arrived. Then, for example, when it is confirmed that the requesting user has entered the installation room R at 10:05, 2 minutes after the requesting user is confirmed to enter the installation room R (designated time ΔT). ) Elapses (here, at 10:07), the job execution device executes the print job (see FIG. 13). After that, the print job (a print job having an execution time of about 1 minute) is completed at 10:08, and the print output product enters the installation room R at 10:05 and is about 10:08. It is received by the requesting user who arrives at the installation position of the job execution device.

Here, the predetermined time ΔT is specified by the requesting user, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the predetermined time may be specified in advance by the administrator or the like. For example, even if the predetermined time ΔT is specified in advance by the administrator or the like based on the average execution time of the print job and the time required on foot from the entrance / exit of each room R to the installation position of each MFP 10. Good.

In this way, even when the scheduled start time calculated for the print job has arrived, if the requesting user has not yet confirmed that the job execution device has entered the installation room R, the print job is executed. It may not be started.

According to this, in response to the confirmation that the requesting user has entered the room R where the job execution device is installed (or that a predetermined time has elapsed since the confirmation of the entry), the job execution device is notified. The print job starts to be executed. In other words, even when the scheduled start time of the print job arrives, the print job is not executed by the job execution device until the requesting user is confirmed to enter the installation room R. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the print output from being left in the output tray for a period from the time when the print output is output by the job execution device until the requesting user arrives at the installation position of the job execution device. It is possible to do.

<Modified example of exit permission conditions>
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, a condition for permitting exit from the installation room R of the job execution device may be further provided.

For example, on condition that the requesting user holds the printout output printed by the job execution device (leaving permission condition), the requesting user is allowed to leave the room R of the job execution device. It may be done.

Specifically, the job execution device prints out a print output (see FIG. 12) to which a two-dimensional barcode (QR code (registered trademark), etc.) 150 is added. Job identification information (for example, device ID and job ID of the job execution device) related to the job executed by the job execution device is written in the two-dimensional barcode 150.

Then, the requesting user holds the two-dimensional barcode 150 added to the print output over the gate G (specifically, the reading device installed in the gate G) of the installation room R of the job execution device, thereby holding the gate G. Extracts the job identification information written in the two-dimensional barcode 150. The extracted job identification information is transmitted from the gate G to the entry / exit management server 70. In the entry / exit management server 70, job identification information regarding a job executed by the job execution device is acquired in advance from the job execution device as regular information.

Then, the entry / exit management server 70 prints out by the job execution device based on the identity of the job identification information acquired from the print output at the gate G and the job identification information (regular information) acquired in advance. It is determined whether or not the requesting user holds the printed output.

For example, when it is confirmed that the requesting user holds the printout output printed by the job execution device, the entry / exit management server 70 leaves the requesting user (installation room R of the job execution device). Leave the room from).

On the other hand, if it is not confirmed that the requesting user holds the printout output printed by the job execution device, the entry / exit management server 70 leaves the requesting user (installation room R of the job execution device). Do not allow (leaving from). Then, the entry / exit management server 70 notifies the requesting user of the prevention of forgetting to take the printed output by voice output or the like. For example, a message such as "Please hold the 2D barcode attached to the print output over the reader" is output by voice, and the requesting user is notified to prevent forgetting to take the print output.

In this way, the requesting user requests the print output based on the job identification information about the job executed by the job execution device and the job identification information added to the print output printed by the job execution device. The requesting user may be allowed to leave the room R of the installation room R of the job execution device, provided that it is confirmed that the job is being held.

According to this, if the requesting user does not hold the print output, leaving the job execution device from the installation room R is not permitted. Therefore, it is possible to prevent forgetting to take the printed output.

<Example of modification related to notification to other users of temporary entry>
Further, in each of the above embodiments, a user who has the authority to enter the installation room R before the start of the entry / exit permission period (the entry / exit permission period for the installation room R of the job execution device) calculated for the requesting user. On the other hand, the requesting user may be further notified of the temporary entry into the installation room R.

Specifically, when the requesting user (for example, U1) temporarily enters the room where the job execution device is installed (for example, the room Rb that does not have the entry authority), the start of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user U1. A predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) before the time point, the designated device notifies the user belonging to the department of the room Rb of the temporary entry of the user U1 into the room Rb. All users belonging to the department of the room Rb may be notified of temporary entry into the room Rb by the user U1, or a part of the users belonging to the department of the room Rb (for example, room Rb). The user who is currently in the room) may be notified of the temporary entry of the user U1 into the room Rb. Further, which user is currently in the room Rb may be specified by, for example, the entry / exit management server 70.

In this way, before the start of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user, the requesting user (the installation concerned) is given to the user who has (non-temporarily) the authority to enter the installation room R of the job execution device. A user who does not have the authority to enter the room R) may be notified of the temporary entry into the installation room R.

<Modification example when the job execution device transitions to the job execution disabled state>
Further, in the above embodiment or the like, after the entry / exit permission period is calculated for the room R where the job execution device is installed, the job execution device cannot execute the job (also referred to as “job execution impossible state”). When the transition occurs, the following operations may be further performed.

For example, if an abnormality (for example, an error) occurs in the job execution device after the entry / exit permission period has been calculated for the installation room R of the job execution device (after step S14 or step S25), the job execution device will be affected. Transition to a state in which a job cannot be executed (job execution disabled state). When the job execution device acquires (detects) that its own device has transitioned to the job execution disabled state, it notifies the requesting user (specifically, computer 30) that the job execution device has transitioned to the job execution disabled state. Notice.

Then, whether or not the job execution device can return to the state in which the job related to the usage request can be executed (job execution state) based on the type of abnormality generated in the own device. , Is determined. In detail, it is determined whether or not the job execution device can return to the job execution state by the scheduled end time of the job.

For example, if a job executor transitions to a job unexecutable state due to a paper jam (an error that can be resolved relatively early) during the execution of another job, the job executor will Determines that the own device can return to the job execution state. If the job execution device can return to the job execution state by the scheduled end time of the job, the job execution device can return to the job execution state by the scheduled end time. Notify the requesting user. Then, for example, when it is detected that the paper jam is cleared and the job execution device has returned to the job execution enable state, the job execution device recalculates the entry / exit permission period for the requesting user. The recalculated entry / exit permission period is notified from the job execution device to the requesting user and the entry / exit management server 70.

On the other hand, when the job execution device transitions to the job execution disabled state due to a device failure (for example, a failure of the paper feed roller) (an abnormality that is difficult to resolve relatively early), the job execution device changes. , It is determined that it is difficult for the job execution device to return to the job executable state by the scheduled end time of the job. If it is difficult for the job execution device to return to the job executable state by the scheduled end time of the job, the job execution device is to that effect (it is difficult to return to the job executable state by the scheduled end time). (To that effect) is notified to the requesting user, and another MFP 10 is determined as a new job execution device. Specifically, the job execution device searches for a condition satisfying device from the MFP 10 different from the job execution device, and determines the MFP 10 determined as the condition satisfying device as a new job execution device (second execution). See also steps S21-S26 of the form). Then, when the requesting user does not have the authority to enter the installation room R of the new job execution device, a new entry / exit permission period is calculated for the new job execution device installation room R, and the new entry / exit permission period is calculated. The entry / exit permission period is notified to the requesting user and the entry / exit management server 70. After that, the entry / exit management server 70 temporarily permits entry / exit of the requesting user (entrance / exit to / from the installation room R of the new job execution device) during the new entry / exit permission period.

In this way, if the job execution device transitions to the job execution disabled state after the entry / exit permission period has been calculated for the room R where the job execution device is installed, the above measures may be taken. ..

<Modification example of job related to usage request>
Further, in each of the above embodiments, a usage request indicating that a print job is desired to be executed is transmitted to the designated device, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other jobs (scan job, copy job, etc.) A usage request to the effect that it is desired to be executed may be sent to the designated device.

For example, when a user wishes to execute a scan job and the MFP10 installed in the room R of his / her department is currently being used by another user, the user may use the MFP10 installed in the room R of the other department. Sometimes you want to run a scan job.

In such a case, after various settings related to the scan job are made by the user on the computer 30, the MP10 (designated device) installed in the room R of another department is subjected to the scan job by the designated device. A usage request is sent to the effect that it is desired to be executed. The usage request includes job information about the scan job. The job information includes user identification information (for example, user ID) of the requesting user of the usage request and setting content information related to the scan job.

Then, in the designated device, in response to the usage request, it is determined whether or not the own device is a condition-satisfying device, and the job execution device is determined and the entry / exit permission period is calculated. It is executed (see FIG. 3 of the first embodiment or FIG. 11 of the second embodiment).

After that, entry / exit to the installation room R of the job execution device during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user is temporarily permitted for the requesting user, and the requesting user is allowed to enter / exit during the entry / exit permission period. Enter the installation room R inside. Then, in response to the operation by the requesting user, the job execution device executes the scan job.

In this way, usage requests for jobs other than print jobs may be sent to the designated device.

<Modification example of the execution subject of each process>
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the designated device (MFP10 designated by the requesting user) executes the determination process regarding the condition satisfaction and the calculation process of the entry / exit permission period (see FIGS. 3 and 11). However, it is not limited to this. For example, the entry / exit management system 1 has a device management server that collectively manages the MFPs 10 installed in each room R, and the device management server performs operations such as the determination process and the calculation process. May be good.

Specifically, the computer 30 transmits the usage request of the MFP 10 (designated device) designated by the requesting user to the device management server instead of the designated device. Then, the device management server determines whether or not the designated device is a condition-satisfying device (step S11). In this modification, a user who has the authority to enter each room R is registered in advance in the device management server (see FIG. 4). In addition, the user who has the authority to use each MFP10, the possessed function of each MFP10, the detailed possessed function of each MFP10, and the operating status of each MFP10 are also registered in the device management server (see FIGS. 5 to 8). .. Further, the available time of each room R is also registered in advance in the device management server (see FIG. 9). The device management server determines whether or not the designated device is a condition-satisfying device based on this information.

When it is determined in step S11 that the designated device is a condition-satisfying device, the device management server determines the designated device as the job execution device (step S12), and the requesting user determines the job execution device installation room. It is determined whether or not the user has the authority to enter R (step S13). Then, when the requesting user does not have the authority to enter the installation room R, the device management server calculates the entry / exit permission period for the requesting user (step S14), and sets the entry / exit permission period as the requesting user. Is notified to the entry / exit management server 70 (step S15).

When it is determined in step S11 that the designated device is not a condition-satisfying device, a request source is an unexecutable notification that the job cannot be executed by the designated device, for example, as in the first embodiment. The user may be notified. Alternatively, as in the second embodiment, a search process for searching for a condition satisfying device from the MFP 10 different from the designated device may be executed (see steps S21 to S26 in FIG. 11).

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the designated device (or device management server) executes all of the processes (steps S11 to S15 (and S21 to S26)) of FIG. 3 (or FIG. 11). Not limited to. For example, the designated device may execute a part of the processes (steps S11 to S15 (and S21 to S26)) of FIG. 3 (or FIG. 11), and the device management server may execute the remaining processes. Specifically, the device management server executes the processing until the job execution device is determined (steps S11, S12 (and S21 to S24)), and the processing after the job execution device is determined (entrance / exit permission period). The job execution device may execute (steps S13 to S15 (and S25, S26)).

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the designated device (or device management server) executes a determination process (step S13) as to whether or not the requesting user has the authority to enter each room R. Not limited to. For example, the entry / exit management server 70 may execute the determination process in response to an inquiry from the designated device (or device management server). Then, the designated device (or device management server) uses the determination result (determination result of whether or not the requesting user has the authority to enter each room R) determined by the entry / exit management server 70 to enter or leave the room. It may be acquired from the management server 70.

In this modification, the device management server and the entry / exit management server 70 are separate devices, but the device management server and the entry / exit management server 70 may be the same device. .. In other words, one server device (management server) processes the device management server (steps S11 to S15 (and S21 to S26)) and the entry / exit management server 70 (user entry / exit to each room R). (Processing for determining the permission or disapproval of) may be performed. However, when the device management server and the room entry / exit management server 70 are the same device, the process of transmitting the room entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user to the room entry / exit management server 70 (part of step S15) is executed. Not done.

<Others>
Further, in each of the above embodiments, the time before a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) from the scheduled end time calculated for the print job is calculated as the start of the entry / exit permission period, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the scheduled end time may be calculated as the beginning of the entry / exit permission period.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the condition (4) relating to the condition satisfying device is that the device subject to the determination regarding the condition satisfying ability can end the job at the time specified by the requesting user (desired end time). (Refer to the first embodiment), but is not limited to this. For example, the condition (4) may be that the determination target device can start a job at a time (desired start time) specified by the requesting user.

Specifically, for example, when a user wants to execute a scan job using a desired MFP 10 at 10:00, the user can display a desired start time (desired start time or start of use) on the scan job setting screen. Time) is specified. Regarding the condition (4), whether or not the determination target device can start a job (here, a scan job) at the time (desired start time) specified by the requesting user on the setting screen is determined. It is judged. In other words, it is determined whether or not the requesting user can start using the determination target device at the time specified by the requesting user. Then, in the determination process regarding the condition satisfaction, in addition to the above conditions (1) to (3) and (5), the MFP 10 that satisfies the condition (4) is determined as the job execution device. As described above, the condition (4) may be that the device to be determined regarding the condition satisfaction can start the job at the desired start time of the requesting user.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, when the determination target device regarding the condition satisfaction satisfies all of the conditions (1) to (5), the determination target device is determined as the job execution device. The determination target device may be determined as the job execution device when the determination target device satisfies at least a part of the conditions (1) to (5).

Further, in the above embodiment or the like, in response to the usage request of the MFP 10 (designated device) designated by the user, it is determined whether or not the designated device is a condition-satisfying device, and the designated device is a condition. When it is not a satisfying device, a condition satisfying device is searched from among other MFPs 10, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the condition satisfying device may be searched from among a plurality of MFPs 10 in response to a usage request from the user without specifying the MFP10 by the user.

Specifically, the computer 30 sends a request for use of the MFP 10 (the MFP 10 capable of executing the job) to the device management server (or a predetermined MFP 10) without accepting the designation of the MFP 10 from the user when setting the job. Send. In response to the usage request, the device management server (or a predetermined MFP 10) searches for a condition-satisfying device from a plurality of MFPs 10 installed in each room R, and jobs the MFP 10 determined as the condition-satisfying device. Determined as the execution device. Then, when the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to use the installation room R of the MFP10 determined as the job execution device, the entry / exit permission period is calculated for the requesting user, and the requesting user is asked. , The MFP10 determined as the job execution device, the installation room R of the MFP10, and the entry / exit permission period are notified. After that, entry / exit to the installation room R during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user is temporarily permitted to the requesting user.

In this way, the job execution device may be determined from among the plurality of MFPs 10 in response to the request for using the MFP10.

1 Entrance / exit management system 10 Image processing device (MFP)
30 Computer 70 Entry / Exit Management Server

Claims (27)

It is an entry / exit management system composed of a plurality of image processing devices and an entry / exit management server that manages entry / exit of a user.
A receiving means for receiving a request for using an image processing device, and
If the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the job execution device, which is an image processing device for executing the job related to the usage request, is installed, the requesting user does not have the right to enter the installation room. A calculation method for calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which entry / exit is temporarily permitted.
A permission means for permitting the requesting user to enter or leave the installation room during the room entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.
With
The calculation means is provided in any one of the job execution device, the entry / exit management server, and a management server that manages the plurality of image processing devices.
The entry / exit management system is characterized in that the permission means is provided in the entry / exit management server. In the entry / exit management system according to claim 1,
A determination means for determining a condition-satisfying device, which is an image processing device that satisfies a predetermined condition regarding job execution, as the job execution device.
An entry / exit management system that is characterized by further provision. In the entry / exit management system according to claim 2,
The entrance / exit management system is characterized in that the predetermined condition includes that the device subject to determination regarding the condition satisfaction has a required function for executing the job. In the entry / exit management system according to claim 2 or 3.
The entry / exit management system, wherein the predetermined condition includes that the requesting user has the authority to use the device to be determined regarding the condition satisfaction. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 4.
The entrance / exit management system is characterized in that the predetermined condition includes that the device subject to determination regarding the condition satisfaction can end the job at a time specified by the requesting user. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 4.
The room entry / exit management system is characterized in that the predetermined condition includes that the device subject to determination regarding the condition satisfaction can start the job at a time specified by the requesting user. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 6.
The predetermined condition is an entry / exit management system including that a device subject to determination regarding condition satisfaction is installed in a room that can be used at a designated time by the requesting user. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 7.
When the designated device, which is an image processing device designated by the requesting user, is the condition satisfying device, the determining means determines the designated device as the job execution device. system. In the entry / exit management system according to claim 8,
When the designated device is not the condition satisfying device, the determination means
The first search process for searching for the condition satisfying device from the image processing devices installed in the authority holding room, which is the room in which the requesting user has the authority to enter the room, is performed.
When the condition satisfying device cannot be detected by the first search process, the condition satisfying device is searched from the image processing devices installed in the non-authority holding room, which is a room in which the requesting user does not have the authority to enter the room. A room entry / exit management system, characterized in that a second search process is performed, and the condition satisfying device detected in the second search process is determined as the job execution device. In the entry / exit management system according to claim 9,
The determination means is characterized in that, when a plurality of condition satisfying devices are present in the non-authoritative room, an image processing device selected from the plurality of condition satisfying devices is determined as the job execution device. Entry / exit management system. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 2 to 10.
The room entry / exit management system is characterized in that the determination means is provided in a management server that manages a plurality of image processing devices installed in a plurality of rooms. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
A job control means for executing the job in the job execution device in response to confirmation that the requesting user has entered the installation room within the entry / exit permission period.
An entry / exit management system that is characterized by further provision. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
A job control means for executing the job in the job execution device in response to the elapse of a predetermined time after the requesting user is confirmed to enter the installation room within the entry / exit permission period.
An entry / exit management system that is characterized by further provision. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.
The permission means is characterized in that the requesting user is allowed to leave the installation room on the condition that the requesting user holds the printout output printed by the job execution device. Entry / exit management system. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
A notification means for notifying the requesting user of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.
An entry / exit management system that is characterized by further provision. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
A notification means for notifying at least one user who has the authority to enter the installation room before the start of the entry / exit permission period to temporarily enter the installation room by the requesting user.
An entry / exit management system that is characterized by further provision. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
When it is confirmed that the requesting user has not yet left the installation room after the end of the entry / exit permission period, the unexited room of the requesting user from the installation room is managed with respect to the installation room. Notification means to notify the person,
An entry / exit management system that is characterized by further provision. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 17.
The calculation means can execute the job when the job execution device transitions to a state in which the job execution device cannot execute the job after the entry / exit permission period is calculated. A room entry / exit management system characterized in that when the state is restored, the entry / exit permission period for the installation room of the job execution device is calculated again. In the entry / exit management system according to any one of claims 1 to 18.
The calculation means is an image processing device different from the job execution device when the job execution device transitions to a state in which the job cannot be executed after the entry / exit permission period for the installation room is calculated. When the job is executed as a new job execution device, a new entry / exit permission period is calculated for the room in which the new job execution device is installed.
The permission means is an entry / exit management system for entering / exiting a room during the new entry / exit permission period, and permitting the requesting user to enter / exit the room in which the new job execution device is installed. .. An image processing device managed by the entry / exit management system.
A receiving means for receiving the usage request of the image processing device, and
If the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the image processing device is installed, the entry is a period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter or leave the installation room. A calculation method for calculating the exit permission period and
A notification means for notifying a server that manages entry / exit of the installation room of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.
An image processing device characterized by comprising. In the computer built in the image processing device managed by the entry / exit management system,
a) A step of receiving a request for using the image processing device, and
b) If the requesting user of the usage request does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the image processing device is installed, the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter or leave the installation room. A step to calculate a certain entry / exit permission period and
c) A step of notifying the server that manages entry / exit of the installation room of the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user, and
A program to execute. It is a management server in the entry / exit management system.
For the requesting user who is the requesting user of the usage request of the image processing device and does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the job executing device which is the image processing device in which the job related to the usage request is executed is installed. An acquisition means for acquiring an entry / exit permission period, which is a period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room.
A determination means for determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter or leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period acquired for the requesting user.
With
The acquisition means acquires the entry / exit permission period calculated by either the job execution device or the device management server that manages a plurality of image processing devices from the device that has calculated the entry / exit permission period. A management server that features. It is a management server in the entry / exit management system.
For the requesting user who is the requesting user of the usage request of the image processing device and does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the job executing device which is the image processing device in which the job related to the usage request is executed is installed. A calculation means for calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room.
A determination means for determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter or leave the installation room during the room entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.
A management server characterized by being equipped with. In the management server according to claim 22 or 23.
The determination means is a management server that permits the requesting user to enter or leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user. In the computer built in the management server in the entry / exit management system,
a) The requesting user who is the requesting user of the usage request of the image processing device and does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the job executing device which is the image processing device in which the job related to the usage request is executed is installed. With respect to the step of acquiring the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room.
b) A step of determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter or leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period acquired for the requesting user.
It is a program to execute
In step a), the entry / exit permission period calculated by either the job execution device or the device management server that manages the plurality of image processing devices is acquired from the device that calculated the entry / exit permission period. A program characterized by being done. In the computer built in the management server in the entry / exit management system,
a) The requesting user who is the requesting user of the usage request of the image processing device and does not have the authority to enter the installation room in which the job executing device which is the image processing device in which the job related to the usage request is executed is installed. With respect to the step of calculating the entry / exit permission period, which is the period during which the requesting user is temporarily permitted to enter / exit the installation room.
b) A step of determining that the requesting user should be permitted to enter or leave the installation room during the room entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.
A program to execute. In the program according to claim 25 or 26 .
The program in step b) is characterized in that the requesting user is permitted to enter or leave the installation room during the entry / exit permission period calculated for the requesting user.

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