JP6844456B2 - Image processing equipment, image processing systems, and programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, and a program.

Conventionally, for example, in the operation of many chain stores such as food supermarkets, when distributing printed matter such as advertisements to each store, the file created by the headquarters is uploaded to a dedicated file server or online storage in the cloud. It is common practice to print with a printer on each store side.

In that case, the store either downloads the file using an information processing terminal such as a PC (Personal Computer) and prints it with a printer, or uses the printer to access the online storage to acquire the file and print it. The technique of doing (called pull printing) is already known.

For example, a document management system that prints using a pull print function is known (see Patent Document 1). In this document management system, when a print instruction is transmitted from the multifunction device to the report management server, the report management server receives the print instruction and acquires desired document data. Then, the report management server generates a print job of the document data and sends it to the multifunction device, and the multifunction device prints the document data.

However, in a system using the conventional pull print function as described above, for example, it is desired to print a specific print file (output target file) with predetermined print settings (output settings) such as color, staple, and thick paper. Even in this case, it was necessary to individually set the print settings in each of the image processing devices on the side where the print file was acquired and print the print file.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and when an output target file is acquired from an external device and output, a desired output setting is set for the output target file without individually setting the output. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, and a program capable of outputting a file.

An output setting file that associates the output target file with the file identification information that identifies the output target file and the setting information that is set when the output target file is output in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the purpose. In an image processing device connected to an external device that stores the above in a folder via a network, a communication control unit that receives the output target file and the output setting file from the external device, and the output target file. With reference to the received output setting file, the output setting management unit that sets the output setting according to the setting information corresponding to the file identification information of the output target file, and the set setting information Based on this, the external device includes an output control unit that outputs the output target file , the external device stores a plurality of the output target files in the folder, and the setting information is stored in all the said folders. The output setting management unit gives priority to the individual setting information over the common setting information, including common setting information for the output target file and individual setting information for each output target file saved in the folder. to set the output settings by.

According to the present invention, when an output target file is acquired from an external device and output, it is possible to set a desired output setting for the output target file and output the output target file without individually setting the output setting.

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of the image processing system of the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the file server and the PC of the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the file server of the embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for saving the print setting file. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the print setting file. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the MFP of the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a file selection screen. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a login screen. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing a display process of a file selection screen in the MFP of the embodiment. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of the authentication information transmitted from the MFP to the file server, the file name of the designated folder, and the file list acquisition request. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a file list received by the MFP from the file server. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a file list transmitted from the file server to the MFP. FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram showing a print process of a print file in the MFP of the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a flow of display processing of a file selection screen in the MFP of the embodiment. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a flow of printing processing of a print file in the MFP of the embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a flow of a print setting file saving process in the MFP of the embodiment.

An image processing apparatus, an image processing system, and an embodiment of a program will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of the image processing system of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, in an image processing system, MFPs (Multifunction Peripheral) 100, 200a, 200b, a file server 300, and a PC (Personal Computer) 500 are connected via a network 30. For communication between the MFPs 100, 200a, 200b, the file server 300, and the PC500, for example, SMB (Server Message Block), which is widely used as a network file sharing protocol, is used.

FIG. 1 shows an example in which the MFP100 and PC500 are installed in the head office, the MFP200a is installed in the branch office 1, and the MFP200b is installed in the branch office 2. The image processing system of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 1 performs printing using the pull print function. That is, the MFPs 200a and 200b of the branches 1 and 2 print the print files (for example, Word, PDF, JPEG, etc.) stored in the folder of the file server 300 (for example, GoogleDrive (registered trademark), DropBox (registered trademark), etc.). Download and get. Then, the acquired print file is printed in the MFPs 200a and 200b of the branches 1 and 2.

Specifically, for example, a user of the head office saves a print file of an advertisement such as a pop created on the PC 500 in the file server 300. Then, the users of the branches 1 and 2 can use the MFPs 200a and 200b when they acquire a print file from the file server 300, print it, and post the printed advertisement in the store. As a result, a common advertisement can be posted at each store.

At this time, in the present embodiment, after the print file created by the PC 500 is saved in the file server 300, the MFP 100 or the PC 500 of the head office saves the print settings of the print file in the file server 300. This print setting assumes the print setting to be applied when printing is performed by the MFPs 200a and 200b of the branches 1 and 2. Then, the MFPs 200a and 200b of the branches 1 and 2 acquire the print settings and the print file, and when printing the print file, print the print file according to the print settings stored in the file server 300 in advance.

The MFPs 100, 200a, and 200b are devices having various functions such as a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function, and are examples of image processing devices. In the image processing system shown in FIG. 1, three MFPs 100, 200a, and 200b are connected, but the number of MFPs is arbitrary, and one, two, or four or more MFPs may be installed. Further, a printing application (hereinafter, referred to as "printing application") 50 is installed in the MFPs 100, 200a, and 200b. In the following, when the MFP of any branch such as the MFP 200a and 200b is shown, it may be described as the MFP 200.

The print application 50 is for providing a function of printing a print file (an example of an output target file) such as image data or a document on a recording medium such as paper (an example of output) by using the functions of the MFPs 100 and 200. It is software. The print application 50 is, for example, a Java (registered trademark) application that runs on Android (registered trademark) executed by the operation unit 20 (see FIG. 3 and the like). In the present embodiment, the print application 50 is a type of application that is installed in the operation unit 20 of the MFPs 100 and 200 and operates on the operating system of the operation unit 20, but the print application 50 is a Web type application on the cloud. In the case of an application, it may be a Web-type application that operates a print application on a cloud server via a browser application installed in the operation unit of the MFP. The print application 50 is an example of an output application that provides a function of outputting an output target file. As an example other than printing, the output includes e-mail transmission with a file attached, file transfer, fax transmission, and the like.

The PC 500 generates a print file to be printed by the MFPs 100 and 200. For example, as described above, the PC 500 generates print files such as image data and documents as advertisements such as pops. Then, the PC 500 transmits the generated print file to the file server 300.

The file server 300 stores information related to the print file, such as a print file such as an image or a document in a format that can be printed by the MFPs 100 and 200 generated by the PC 500, and a print setting file that saves the print settings of the print file. It is an example of an external device. The file server 300 is a device that transmits a print file, a print setting file, or the like in response to a request from the MFPs 100 and 200. The details of the print setting file will be described later.

Next, the hardware configurations of the file server 300 and the PC 500 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the file server and the PC of the embodiment. Hereinafter, the file server 300 will be described, but the same applies to the PC 500.

As shown in FIG. 2, the file server 300 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 601, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 602, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 603, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 604, and a display 605. A communication I / F (interface) 606, a keyboard 607, and a mouse 608 are provided.

The CPU 601 controls the operation of the entire file server 300. The CPU 601 controls the operation of the entire file server 300 by executing a program stored in the ROM 602, the HDD 604, or the like with the RAM 603 as a work area.

The display 605 is a display unit that displays various information such as characters or images. The display 605 is, for example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

The communication I / F 606 is an interface for connecting to the network 30 and performing data communication. The communication I / F 606 is an interface corresponding to Ethernet (registered trademark) such as 10Base-T, 100Base-TX or 1000Base-T.

The keyboard 607 is an input device for selecting characters, numbers, various instructions, and the like. The mouse 608 is an input device for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, and the like.

The CPU 601, ROM 602, RAM 603, HDD 604, display 605, communication I / F 606, keyboard 607, and mouse 608 are connected to each other so as to be communicable with each other by a bus 611 such as an address bus and a data bus.

Next, the hardware configurations of the MFPs 100 and 200 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the MFPs 100 and 200 receive an operation input by a main body 10 capable of realizing various functions such as a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function, and an operation instruction to the main body 10. It is provided with an operation unit 20 for performing the above.

It should be noted that accepting an operation input by a user is a concept including accepting information (including a signal indicating a coordinate value of a screen) input in response to a user's operation. The main body 10 and the operation unit 20 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a dedicated communication path 40. As the communication path 40, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard can be used, but any standard may be used regardless of whether it is wired or wireless.

The main body 10 can perform an operation according to the operation input received by the operation unit 20. Further, the main body 10 can also communicate with an external device such as a file server 300, and can perform an operation according to an instruction received from the external device.

First, a hardware configuration example of the main body 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the main body 10 includes a CPU 11, a ROM 12, a RAM 13, an HDD 14, a communication I / F 15, a connection I / F 16, and an engine unit 17, which are via the system bus 18. They are interconnected.

The CPU 11 comprehensively controls the operation of the main body 10. The CPU 11 controls the operation of the entire main body 10 by executing a program stored in the ROM 12 or the HDD 14 or the like using the RAM 13 as a work area (work area), and has the above-mentioned copy function, scanner function, fax function, printer function, etc. Realize various functions of.

The communication I / F 15 is an interface for connecting to the network 30. The connection I / F 16 is an interface for communicating with the operation unit 20 via the communication path 40.

The engine unit 17 is hardware that performs general-purpose information processing and processing other than communication in order to realize a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function (an example of an output function). For example, it is equipped with a scanner (image reading unit) that scans and reads an image of a document, a plotter (image forming unit) that prints on a recording medium such as paper, and a fax machine that performs fax communication. In addition, it may have specific options such as a finisher for sorting printed recording media and an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) that automatically feeds documents.

Next, a hardware configuration example of the operation unit 20 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the operation unit 20 connects the CPU 21, the ROM 22, the RAM 23, the flash memory 24, the communication I / F 25, the connection I / F 26, the operation panel 27, and the external connection I / F 28. These are connected to each other via the system bus 29.

The CPU 21 comprehensively controls the operation of the operation unit 20. The CPU 21 controls the operation of the entire operation unit 20 by executing a program stored in the ROM 22 or the flash memory 24 or the like using the RAM 23 as a work area (work area), and provides information (image) according to the input received from the user. ) Is displayed and other functions described later are realized.

The communication I / F 25 is an interface for connecting to the network 30. The connection I / F 26 is an interface for communicating with the main body 10 via the communication path 40. The external connection I / F 28 is an interface for connecting to an IC card reader or the like.

The operation panel 27 accepts various inputs according to the user's operation and displays various information (for example, information according to the received operation input, various screens, etc.). In this example, the operation panel 27 is composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) equipped with a touch panel function, but is not limited thereto. For example, it may be configured by an organic EL display device equipped with a touch panel function. Further, in addition to or in place of this, an operation unit such as a hardware key and a display unit such as a lamp may be provided. The operation panel 27 is an example of a display unit.

In the present embodiment, the software on the main body 10 side and the software on the operation unit 20 side are different from each other in order to maintain the independence of the functions. That is, the main body 10 and the operation unit 20 operate independently of each other in separate operating systems (OS: Operating System). For example, it is possible to use Linux (registered trademark) as the software on the main body 10 side and Android (registered trademark) as the software on the operation unit 20 side. The operating system of the main body 10 is an example of the first operating system, and the operating system of the operation unit 20 is an example of the second operating system. The print application 50 is an application that runs on the operating system of the operation unit 20.

As described above, in the MFPs 100 and 200 of the present embodiment, since the main body 10 and the operation unit 20 operate on different operating systems, the communication between the main body 10 and the operation unit 20 is between the processes in the common device. It is not communication, but communication between different devices. An operation (command communication) of transmitting information (instruction content from the user) received by the operation unit 20 to the main body 10 and an operation of the main body 10 notifying the operation unit 20 of an event correspond to this.

Here, the function of the main body 10 can be used by the operation unit 20 performing command communication to the main body 10. In addition, the event notified from the main body 10 to the operation unit 20 includes the execution status of the operation in the main body 10, the contents set on the main body 10 side, and the like.

Next, the functional configuration of the file server 300 will be described. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the file server of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the file server 300 includes a communication control unit 301, a storage control unit 302, and a storage unit 310, and is connected to each other.

The storage unit 310 stores various information, screens, and the like, and is realized by the ROM 602 and the HDD 604 (see FIG. 2). In the present embodiment, the storage unit 310 stores print files such as images and documents. The print file is a file such as image data or a document, and in the above-mentioned example of a store (branch office) and a headquarters, it is information to be presented to a customer such as an advertisement or an announcement created using the image or a document.

The storage unit 310 stores the print file in association with the file identification information that identifies the print file. Specifically, for example, the storage unit 310 of the present embodiment stores the print file with a unique file name (an example of file identification information) for identifying the print file. Further, in the storage unit 310, a plurality of related print files are collectively stored in the folder. The folder has a unique folder name that identifies the folder.

Further, in the present embodiment, the storage unit 310 stores a print setting file including setting information set when printing the print file. Specifically, the storage unit 310 stores a print setting file in which a file name for identifying a print file and setting information set when printing the print file are associated with each other. This print setting file is saved for each folder including one or a plurality of print files, and is included in the folder and saved. Further, in the print setting file, when there are a plurality of print files or folders in the folder, the setting information can be saved in association with each print file or folder. A specific example is shown below. The print setting file is an example of the output setting file.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for saving the print setting file. The print setting file is saved for each folder as described above. As shown in FIG. 5, for example, when a print setting file is created in the "/ Shared / POP /" "folder, the path of the print setting file is" / Shared / POP / .__ print_setting_ "". , Create the target folder with the specific file name "" .__ print_setting_ "".

In the example of FIG. 5, the print setting file is saved in the "/ Shared / POP /" folder and the "/ Shared / Campaign /" folder. The setting information of each print setting file is valid only for the folder in which the print file is saved, and does not apply to other folders. In addition, the print setting file is a file with a hidden attribute, and is invisible to general users when viewed with a PC client.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the print setting file. As described with reference to FIG. 5, the print setting file stores the setting information for the print file and the folder saved in the same folder as the folder in which the print setting file is saved. As shown in FIG. 6, in the print setting file, the setting information to be set at the time of printing is associated with the file name of the target print file and the folder name of the folder.

When the print setting file of FIG. 6 is saved in the "" / Shared / POP / "" folder shown in FIG. 5, for example, in the print file of the file name "" /Shared/POP/flyer A.pdf "". The setting information is associated with it. Specifically, in the print file "" Flyer A.pdf "", as setting information, "color: full color 100%, variable magnification: 100%, number of copies: 100 sheets, resolution: 600 dpi, tray: automatic, double-sided / single-sided" : One side, sort / stack: none "is associated. As a result, the MFP200 or the like sets the setting information in the print parameter of the print file "" Flyer A.pdf "".

Further, in FIG. 6, for example, the setting information is associated with the folder having the folder name "" / Shared / POP / FolderA "". Specifically, in the folder "" FolderA "", as setting information, "color: monochrome 100%, scaling: 100%, number of copies: 100 sheets, resolution: 600 dpi, tray: automatic, double-sided / single-sided: single-sided, sort / Stack: None ”is associated. As a result, the MFP200 and the like set the setting information in the print parameters of all the print files in the folder "" FolderA "".

Here, for example, the print setting file of FIG. 6 is saved in the folder "" FolderA "", and a plurality of print files "" Leaflet A.pdf "" "" Leaflet B.pdf "in the folder" "FolderA" ". The case where "" and "" Leaflet C.pdf "" are saved will be described. In this case, the setting information (common setting information) for the folder "" FolderA "" is set for all the print files (here, three print files) in FolderA. In addition, the setting information (individual setting information) for each of the print files "" Flyer A.pdf "", "" Flyer B.pdf "", and "" Flyer C.pdf "" is saved in the folder "FolderA". Is set for the print file (flyer A.pdf, leaflet B.pdf, leaflet C.pdf). In this case, the setting information (individual setting information) of the individual files (flyer A.pdf, leaflet B.pdf, leaflet C.pdf) has priority over the setting information (common setting information) of the folder (FolderA). Is set to the print parameter of the print file. That is, the setting information of the folder (FolderA) is not applied, but the setting information of the individual files (flyer A.pdf, leaflet B.pdf, leaflet C.pdf) is applied.

Here, saving the print setting file will be described. The following methods can be considered as a method for saving the print setting file.

The first is to save a single print settings file in the root folder and save the print settings for all print files on the file server. The root folder is the highest level folder on the file server.

The second method is to save a single print setting file in the setting folder for the print application and save the print settings of all the print files on the file server.

Thirdly, a method of saving one print setting file for each print file can be considered.

Fourth, there is a method of saving one print setting file for each folder. In this method, when the user makes print settings, the print settings for a plurality of print files in the folder are written so as to be collectively included in one print setting file. In this embodiment, this method is mainly adopted, and one print setting file including print settings for a plurality of print files is acquired at the timing of accessing a folder in the server, such as after starting a print application. As a result, the print setting file in the folder can be acquired only once, and network access can be performed collectively, so that the amount of communication can be reduced. In addition, since it is not necessary to acquire the print setting file many times, there is an advantage that the display speed can be improved. Also, even if the user has write permission depending on the folder such as the root folder, the print setting file can be placed using the folder without write permission. It is said that the fourth method, which has more merits, is mainly adopted, but the first to third methods may be adopted, and these are not excluded.

The print setting file can be saved from the operation unit 20 of the MFPs 100 and 200 or the PC 500 to the file server 300. In the present embodiment, the configuration is described in which the MFP 100 installed in the head office stores the print setting file, and the MFPs 200a and 200b of the branches 1 and 2 acquire the print setting file and print the print file. For example, the data format of the print setting file transmitted from the file server 300 to the MFP 200 is "JSON (JavaScript (registered trademark) Object Notation)", and the extension is ".settings".

The communication control unit 301 controls the communication performed by the communication I / F 606 (see FIG. 2) with the external device connected via the network 30 such as the MFPs 100 and 200. For example, the communication control unit 301 of the present embodiment receives the request from the MFPs 100 and 200, and transmits the information corresponding to the request to the MFPs 100 and 200.

Specifically, for example, the communication control unit 301 requests from the MFPs 100 and 200 to acquire the folder name of the designated folder, which is the folder set by the print application 50, and the file list (list of file names) of the print files. When it is received, the storage unit 310 is referred to, and the file list of the print files stored in the designated folder indicated by the received folder name is transmitted to the MFPs 100 and 200. For example, the data format of the file list transmitted from the file server 300 to the MFP 200 may be an SMB original data format or a JSON format. Further, the file list is acquired by transmitting an acquisition request using the SMB protocol from the operation unit 20 of the MFP 200.

Further, when the communication control unit 301 receives the folder name of the designated folder and the acquisition request of the print setting file, the communication control unit 301 refers to the storage unit 310 and selects the print setting file saved in the designated folder indicated by the received folder name. It is transmitted to MFPs 100 and 200. That is, the communication control unit 301 transmits the print setting file of the folder in which the print file desired to be printed is saved to the MFPs 100 and 200.

When the communication control unit 301 receives the print file acquisition request specified by the user from the MFPs 100 and 200, the communication control unit 301 refers to the storage unit 310 and transmits the requested print file to the MFPs 100 and 200. Further, when the print setting file created by the MFP 100 is transmitted, the communication control unit 301 receives the print setting file.

Further, when the file server 300 transmits / receives information to / from the MFPs 100 and 200, the file server 300 performs an authentication process for a user who uses the MFPs 100 and 200. In this case, the communication control unit 301 receives the authentication information from the MFPs 100 and 200. Then, the authentication process is performed using the authentication information received by the file server 300, and when the authentication is successful, the communication control unit 301 transmits the requested information. The authentication information is information that can identify a user, such as a user ID and a password.

The storage control unit 302 stores, updates, and deletes various types of information in the storage unit 310. In the present embodiment, the storage control unit 302 saves, updates, or deletes a print file, a print setting file, or the like received from an external device in the storage unit 310, for example.

Next, the functional configuration of the MFP 100 will be described. Since the MFP 200 has the same configuration, it will be omitted. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the MFP of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the operation unit 20 of the MFP 100 includes an input reception unit 101, a display control unit 102, a communication control unit 103, an acquisition unit 104, a storage control unit 105, a collation unit 106, and a print setting. It includes a management unit 107, a connection control unit 108, and a storage unit 110, and related functions are connected to each other. Further, the main body 10 of the MFP 100 includes a communication control unit 121, a print control unit 122, a connection control unit 123, and a storage unit 120, and related functions are connected to each other. Further, the operation unit 20 and the main body 10 are connected to each other by the connection control unit 108 and the connection control unit 123. The connection control unit 108 is realized by the connection I / F26 of FIG. 3, and the connection control unit 123 is realized by the connection I / F16.

Here, the MFP 100 of the present embodiment has a configuration in which the main body 10 and the operation unit 20 are included in one device, but the MFP 100 may be divided into a plurality of devices. That is, the main body device (main body 10) and the operation device (operation unit 20) may be one device as in the present embodiment, or the operation device is separate from the main body device like the tablet terminal device. It may be the device of.

The storage unit 110 is provided in the operation unit 20 and stores various information, screens, and the like, and is realized by the ROM 22 and the flash memory 24 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, for example, the storage unit 110 stores information constituting various screens, a file list acquired from the file server 300, a print setting file including setting information set at the time of printing, and the like.

The storage unit 120 is provided in the main body 10 and stores various information, screens, and the like, and is realized by the HDD 14 (see FIG. 3). In the present embodiment, the storage unit 120 stores server information, which is information about the file server 300, a print file acquired from the file server 300, and the like.

Here, the server information is information required when accessing the file server 300 from the MFP 100, and is, for example, the address (IP address, etc.), the authentication information (user ID, password), and the designation of the file server 300. The folder name of the folder. In the present embodiment, only the server information of the file server 300 is stored, but when connected to a plurality of file servers, all the connected server information may be stored.

Next, the function of the main body 10 of the MFP 100 will be described.

The communication control unit 121 transmits and receives various information to and from an external device such as a file server 300 via the network 30 by the communication I / F15. Further, the connection control unit 123 transmits and receives various information to and from the operation unit 20 by the connection I / F 16.

The print control unit 122 prints the print file specified by the user by the engine unit 17 based on the setting information of the print setting file, and is an example of the output control unit.

Next, the function of the operation unit 20 of the MFP 100 will be described.

The input receiving unit 101 controls to receive various operation inputs by the user from the operation panel 27. Specifically, the input reception unit 101 accepts the activation of the print application 50 that executes the print process of the print file.

Further, the input receiving unit 101 receives from the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8) an instruction to specify a print file desired to be printed and to start printing the print file. At this time, if the print setting is set by the print setting file received from the file server 300, the specified print file is printed.

If the print setting cannot be set by the print setting file received from the file server 300, the input receiving unit 101 accepts the input of the setting information from the print setting screen D2 (see FIG. 9). Then, the print setting is set according to the received setting information, and the designated print file is printed.

Further, when a print setting file is generated and saved, the input reception unit 101 specifies a print file from the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8) and print settings indicating that the setting information of the print file is input. Accepts input instructions (output setting input instructions). Then, the print setting screen D2 (see FIG. 9) is displayed, and the input receiving unit 101 receives the input of the setting information from the print setting screen D2 and the save instruction indicating that the setting information is to be saved. As a result, the input setting information is saved in the file server 300. In this embodiment, it is the MFP 100 of the head office that generates and saves the print setting file.

Further, when a device administrator or the like who has the authority to input the setting information of the print setting file and save it in the file server 300 logs in to the MFP 100, the input receiving unit 101 inputs the authentication information, for example, the user ID and the password. Accept.

The display control unit 102 controls the operation panel 27 to display various screens such as a setting screen and various information. Specifically, the display control unit 102 displays a file selection screen displaying a list of icons that are display images of print files on the operation panel 27 (display unit) based on the file list received by the connection control unit 108. .. At this time, if the print file has the setting information by the print setting file, the display control unit 102 attaches a setting badge (an example of the setting existence information) indicating that the print file has the setting information to the icon of the print file. To display the file selection screen. Further, the display control unit 102 displays on the file selection screen a print setting button to be pressed to receive a print setting input instruction indicating that the setting information is to be input. When this print setting button is pressed, the screen transitions to the print setting screen.

Here, the file selection screen will be described with reference to the figure. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a file selection screen. In the file selection screen D1 shown in FIG. 8, print file icons (P1 to P6) are listed on the left side. Then, the print file P6 displays a setting badge P6a (“setting”) indicating that the print setting has been made, that is, that the print file P6 has the setting information. And the menu is displayed on the right side. This menu includes a preview button for instructing the display of the preview screen, a print setting button B1 for receiving a print setting input instruction, and a start button B2 for instructing the start of printing.

Here, the icons on the file selection screen (P1 to P6 in FIG. 8) are created by the print application 50, for example, based on the file name and extension of the file list received from the file server 300. Only for JPEG files, prefetch (files are acquired in advance when accessing the specified folder) to create thumbnails and display them. However, in the case of other files other than JPEG files, thumbnails are created only when they are acquired from the file server 300 at the time of output such as printing. For files for which thumbnails have not been created (files for which thumbnails have not been acquired), an icon indicating the file type is displayed. Therefore, for example, P4 and P6 in FIG. 8 are icons indicating the file type (files have not been acquired by the MFP 200), and P5 indicates thumbnails (files have been acquired).

The display control unit 102 displays a print setting screen (output setting screen) for inputting setting information saved in the print setting file on the operation panel 27. At this time, when a user who has the authority to save the print setting file is logged in, the display control unit 102 presses the print setting screen to receive a save instruction indicating that the setting information is saved in the file server 300. Display the print setting save button B3.

Here, a print setting screen provided with a print setting save button will be described with reference to the figure. For example, on the file selection screen D1 shown in FIG. 8, when one or more print files are selected and the print setting button B1 is pressed, the print setting screen is displayed. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen. In the print setting screen D2 shown in FIG. 9, the print setting S is displayed on the left side, and setting information such as scaling, number of copies, and resolution is displayed. Then, on the right side, the above-mentioned preview button, the above-mentioned print setting save button B3 instructing to save the setting information in the print setting file, and the above-mentioned start button B2 are displayed. By changing the print setting S to the desired setting information on the print setting screen D2 and pressing the print setting save button B3, the setting information of one or more selected print files is transmitted to the file server 300 for printing. It is saved in the configuration file.

In addition, the print setting save button B3 will be described. The print setting save button B3 for saving the setting information shown in FIG. 9 is displayed only when the user logged in to the MFP 100 is a device administrator or the like who has the authority to save the setting information. Further, the print setting save button B3 is displayed only when the account of the file server 300 set in the print application 50 has the write permission of the target folder.

In the present embodiment, the print setting file is saved from the MFPs 100 and 200, but it may be saved from the PC 500. That is, when the print setting file is saved from the PC 500, the print setting screen D2 is similarly displayed on the display unit of the display 605 or the like (see FIG. 2), the user accepts the input of the setting information, and the print setting file is saved in the file server 300. can do.

Further, when creating and saving a print setting file in the MFP 100, a plurality of print files can be selected. In this case, the same print settings shall be applied to all of the selected print files.

Here, for example, a case where there is a print file in which print settings have already been made among the selected plurality of print files will be described. In this case, for example, the print setting save button B3 on the print setting screen D2 can be grayed out so that it cannot be operated or selected. As another configuration, when the print setting button B1 on the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8) is pressed, a warning screen indicating that there is a print file for which print settings have already been set may be displayed.

Further, on the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8), when printing a print file with a setting badge, the print setting screen D2 is displayed when the print setting button B1 is pressed, and printing is performed when the setting information is input. The settings are changed. If the print file is printed without saving the changed print settings (without pressing the print setting save button B3), the print settings are replaced on the MFP200 side and printed. When the changed print settings are saved (when the print setting save button B3 is pressed), the setting information (setting information corresponding to the file) in the print setting file on the file server 300 side is replaced. Alternatively, when the changed print setting is saved, the corresponding setting information in the print setting file acquired in the MFP 200 may be updated to the changed setting information.

In addition, the display control unit 102 displays a login screen for the above-mentioned device administrator or the like to log in on the operation panel 27. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a login screen. On the login screen D3 shown in FIG. 10, characters prompting the user ID and password to be input are displayed, and the input area a1 for inputting the user ID, the input area a2 for inputting the password, and the login button a3 for logging in are displayed. It is displayed. The user can log in as a device administrator by entering the user ID and password in the input areas a1 and a2, respectively, and pressing the login button a3.

Further, when the display control unit 102 cannot set the setting information of the print setting file acquired from the file server 300 as it is in the print file, the display control unit 102 displays a warning screen indicating that fact on the operation panel 27. Then, the display control unit 102 displays the print setting screen on the operation panel 27 and prompts the input of the setting information.

The communication control unit 103 transmits and receives various information to and from a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet by using the communication I / F25.

The connection control unit 108 transmits and receives various information, screens, and the like to and from the main body 10 by the connection I / F 26. Therefore, the connection control unit 108 receives various information received from an external device such as a file server 300 by the communication control unit 121 via the connection control unit 123 of the main body 10 by the connection I / F 26, or receives various information. It is transmitted to an external device such as a file server 300.

Specifically, the connection control unit 108 transmits and receives the following information to and from the file server 300 via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121. The connection control unit 108 sends a file list acquisition request to the file server 300 together with the server information and the folder name of the designated folder, and receives the file list of the designated folder indicated by the file name. That is, the connection control unit 108 receives the file list including the file names of the print files included in the designated folder. Further, the connection control unit 108 sends a print setting file acquisition request to the file server 300 together with the folder name of the designated folder, and receives the print setting file of the designated folder indicated by the file name. That is, the connection control unit 108 receives the print setting file for the print file included in the designated folder and included in the folder.

Further, after receiving the file list and the print setting file, the connection control unit 108 sends a request for acquiring the print file indicated by the icon designated by the user from the file selection screen D1 to the file server 300, and is designated. Receive the print file indicated by the icon. The connection control unit 108 receives the print file when the print control unit 122 prints the print file (when there is an instruction to start printing the print file). When the connection control unit 108 receives the save instruction, the connection control unit 108 transmits the file name of the print file selected by the user and the setting information input by the user to the file server 300. The connection control unit 108 is an example of a communication control unit.

The acquisition unit 104 acquires desired information from the storage units 110 and 120. Specifically, for example, the acquisition unit 104 acquires a file list or a print setting file from the storage unit 110 when displaying the file selection screen.

The storage control unit 105 controls the storage of information in the storage units 110 and 120. Specifically, the storage control unit 105 stores the file list and the print setting file received from the file server 300 in the storage unit 110. Further, the storage control unit 105 saves the print file received from the file server 300 in association with the file name.

The collation unit 106 collates the file name included in the print setting file received from the file server 300 with the file name of the received file list. Then, when the print setting file contains a file name that matches the file name in the file list, the display control unit 102 sets to indicate that the print file indicated by the file name on the file selection screen has the setting information. The badge is displayed.

When printing the print file (print file specified by the user) received from the file server 300, the print setting management unit 107 refers to the received print setting file and uses the setting information corresponding to the file name of the print file. Set print settings. As described with reference to FIG. 6, when the print setting file saved in the folder contains common setting information for the folder and individual setting information for each print file saved in the folder. , The print setting management unit 107 sets the print setting by giving priority to the individual setting information over the common setting information. If the print settings cannot be set based on the setting information of the received print setting file, the print setting screen is displayed and the setting information is input by the user. In this case, the print setting management unit 107 sets the print setting according to the setting information input by the user. The print setting management unit 107 is an example of the output setting management unit.

From the above, the print application 50 of the operation unit 20 of the present embodiment receives the file list including the file name of the print file and the print setting file from the file server 300 using the SMB protocol, and adds the received file list to the received file list. Display the file selection screen based on the included file extension (display a list of print file icons (display images)). Then, the print application 50 compares the file names included in the file list and the print setting file, and sets badge indicating that the print file icon indicated by the file name to which the setting information is associated has the setting information. Is attached. Further, the print application 50 receives the print file from the file server 300 and refers to the received print setting file when the print start instruction is given to the print file indicated by the icon with the setting badge. , Gives a print instruction to the print function of the main body 10 with the setting information corresponding to the file name of the print file. The function of the range surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 7 is the function of the print application 50.

Next, an outline of the flow from the MFP 200 acquiring the print file specified by the file list from the file server 300 and printing the print file will be described. When the print application 50 is started, the operation unit 20 of the MFP 200 acquires a file list and a print setting file from the file server 300 using the SMB protocol.

The operation unit 20 creates a print file icon based on the extension of the file name in the file list. Further, the operation unit 20 compares the file list with the print setting file. Specifically, among the file identification information in the file list (see the name column in FIG. 14), among the file names shown below the last "\", the file name of the print setting file (file name in FIG. 6). Extract the ones that have (see column).

A setting badge is attached to the icon corresponding to the extracted file name (print file having setting information) in the file list, and a list of icons is displayed (see the file selection screen D1 in FIG. 8). At this point, the print file itself has not been acquired by the MFP 200. Only print files and JPEG files that have been printed in the past have been acquired, but basically they have not been acquired.

Then, among the print files indicated by the icons displayed in the list, the print file selected by the user for printing is acquired from the file server 300, and the selected print file is a print file with a setting badge. Prints by setting the setting information in the print setting file acquired in the MFP 200 to the print settings.

If the print setting is changed and the print file is printed without saving, the changed print setting is applied only to the print of the print file. On the other hand, when the print setting is changed and saved to print the print file, the setting information in the print setting file acquired in the file server 300 or the operation unit 20 of the MFP 200 is updated and rewritten. The details of the file selection screen display process and the print file print process will be described below.

Next, a process in which the MFP 200 acquires a file list and a print setting file from the file server 300 and displays the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8) will be described. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing a display process of a file selection screen in the MFP of the embodiment.

First, when the operation unit 20 receives the start of the print application 50 from the user (step S10), the operation unit 20 confirms the start of the main body 10 (step S11), and if it is started, to that effect (start OK). Acquire (step S12). Here, the activation confirmation performed from the operation unit 20 to the main body 10 means that the operation unit 20 and the main body 10 are connected to the Web server (service layer of the main body 10) provided in the main body 10 from the operation unit 20. Includes startup confirmation, connection confirmation, etc. to confirm whether the power is on and available.

Next, the operation unit 20 searches the storage unit 120 of the main body 10 for server information (step S13), and acquires the server information of the saved file server 300 (step S14).

The operation unit 20 accesses the file server 300 by the address of the acquired server information, and transmits the acquisition request of the file list to the file server 300 together with the authentication information and the folder name of the designated folder (step S15).

Here, the authentication information transmitted from the MFP 100 to the file server 300, the file name of the designated folder, and the file list acquisition request will be specifically described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of the authentication information transmitted from the MFP to the file server, the file name of the designated folder, and the file list acquisition request. As shown in FIG. 12, the items of information to be transmitted to the file server 300 include a command, a folder name of a designated folder, and a user ID and password which are authentication information. Then, in FIG. 12, specific contents corresponding to these items are shown. That is, the MFP100 has the command "get file list", the folder name of the specified folder "\\ 192.168.0.1 \ SharedFiles \ POPFiles" (full path), and the user ID (authentication information) "userB". , The password (authentication information) "password" is transmitted to the file server 300.

Returning to FIG. 11, the operation unit 20 receives the file list of the print files stored in the designated folder (step S16).

Here, the file list (response to the information in FIG. 12) received by the MFP 100 from the file server 300 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a file list received by the MFP from the file server. As shown in FIG. 13, the items of information received from the file server 300 include a type, a name, access permission information, an owner, a creation date and time, and a size. Then, in FIG. 13, specific contents corresponding to these items are shown.

That is, the "type" is a flag type and indicates either a folder or a print file. The "name" is a character-type data format and indicates the file name of the print file or the folder name of the folder in which the print file is saved. FIG. 13 shows an example of the name when the type is a print file, and shows the print file name “” \\ 192.168.0.1 \ SharedFiles \ POPFiles \ Flyer A.pdf ””. Further, the "access permission information" is a flag type and indicates one of read / write / read only / inaccessible. Further, the "owner" is a character type data format and indicates a person who generated the print file, and in FIG. 13, "userB" is indicated. Further, the "creation date and time" of the print file is an integer data format, and in FIG. 13, it is shown that it is "2016/02/25/13: 00: 05". Further, the "size" is an integer data format, and the size of the print file is shown to be 1048576 bytes in FIG.

Further, for example, a plurality of folders and print files may exist in one folder stored in the file server 300. Therefore, a case where a plurality of pieces of information are transmitted as a response from the file server 300 to the items shown in FIG. 13 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a file list transmitted from the file server to the MFP.

When a plurality of folders or print files exist in the folder stored in the file server 300, as shown in FIG. 14, each item (type and name, permission information, owner, creation date and time, and size) Multiple pieces of information are responded in response. FIG. 14 shows an example in which a designated folder, three print files, and one folder are saved.

Returning to FIG. 11, the operation unit 20 transmits a print setting file acquisition request to the file server 300 together with the folder name of the designated folder (step S17). Specifically, for example, the operation unit 20 requests the print setting file by designating the print setting file based on the specified folder name to the access destination file server 300 by using the SMB protocol, and files. Obtain the print setting file from the server 300. Then, the operation unit 20 receives the print setting file saved in the designated folder (step S18).

Next, the operation unit 20 collates the file list received from the file server 300 with the print setting file (step S19). That is, it is determined whether or not the file name included in the print setting file and the file name in the file list match. If they match, the print file indicated by the file name has print settings and the setting information exists.

Then, the display control unit 102 attaches a setting badge to the print file in which the setting information exists, and displays the file selection screen D1 which is a list of print files (step S20).

Next, a process in which the MFP 200 acquires a print file from the file server 300 and prints the print file will be described. FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram showing a print process of a print file in the MFP of the embodiment.

First, when the operation unit 20 receives the print file designation and the print start instruction (output start instruction) from the file selection screen D1 by the user (step S30), the operation unit 20 requests to acquire the print file designated by the file server 300. Is transmitted (step S31), and a print file is acquired (step S32).

The operation unit 20 saves the acquired print file in the storage unit 120 of the main body 10 (step S33), and acquires from the main body 10 that the saving is completed (step S34).

Set the print parameters when the print file has been saved. After that, the print setting file acquired when the file list is acquired is referred to, and whether or not the setting information exists in the set print file, and if so, whether or not the setting information is valid in the MFP to be printed. The process branches depending on. The case where the setting information is invalid means that, for example, among a plurality of setting information, there is even one item whose print setting cannot be set as it is due to the presence or absence of a finisher, a difference in tray setting, and the like.

First, when the setting information of the print file exists and the setting information is valid in the MFP 200, the process R1 shown in FIG. 15 is executed. That is, the operation unit 20 sets the setting information of the print setting file as it is as the print parameter of the print setting in the print file (step S35).

If the print file setting information exists and the setting information is invalid in the MFP 200, the process R2 shown in FIG. 15 is executed. That is, the operation unit 20 notifies the user by displaying a warning screen indicating that the setting information of the print setting file cannot be set as it is in the print file (step S36). Next, the operation unit 20 displays the print setting screen D2 (see FIG. 9) (step S37) and prompts the input of the setting information. Then, when the operation unit 20 receives the input of the setting information from the user (step S38), the operation unit 20 sets the input setting information as a print parameter of the print setting (step S39).

If the print file setting information does not exist, the process R3 shown in FIG. 15 is executed. That is, the operation unit 20 sets the default setting value set in the MFP 200 in advance as the print parameter of the print setting (step S40).

Then, after the processes R1, R2, and R3, the operation unit 20 transmits a print instruction (output instruction) to the main body 10 together with the set print parameters (step S41). The main body 10 asynchronously prints the print file based on the print parameters (step S42).

Here, a case where a plurality of print files are selected and printing is executed will be described. If the same setting information exists in all of a plurality of print files, the same setting information is set in all the print files and printed as in process R1. On the other hand, when different setting information exists in a plurality of print files, for example, a warning screen indicating that the settings cannot be made because the setting information of the print setting file is different is displayed, and the default for all print files as in process R3. Set the setting value of and print. Further, for example, after displaying the warning screen, the print setting screen is displayed as in the process R2, the input of the setting information is accepted from the user, and the input setting information is set and printed.

Next, a process in which the MFP 100 acquires a file list and a print setting file from the file server 300 and displays the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a flow of display processing of a file selection screen in the MFP of the embodiment.

First, when the input receiving unit 101 receives the activation of the print application 50 from the user (step S50), when the activation is confirmed and activated, the acquisition unit 104 searches the storage unit 120 of the main body 10 for server information. (Step S51) to acquire the server information of the saved file server 300 (step S52).

Next, the connection control unit 108 makes a file list acquisition request (see FIG. 12) together with the authentication information included in the server information and the folder name of the designated folder via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121. It is transmitted to the file server 300 (step S53). Then, the connection control unit 108 receives the file list (see FIG. 14) of the print files stored in the designated folder from the file server 300 via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121 (step S54). ..

Further, the connection control unit 108 transmits a print setting file acquisition request to the file server 300 together with the folder name of the designated folder via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121 (step S55). Then, the connection control unit 108 receives the print setting file stored in the designated folder from the file server 300 via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121 (step S56).

Next, the collation unit 106 collates the received file list received from the file server 300 with the received print setting file (step S57), and sets the file name included in the print setting file and the file name of the file list. It is determined whether or not they match (step S58).

If they match (step S58: Yes), a setting badge is attached to the print file indicated by the file name because the setting information exists (step S59). Then, the display control unit 102 attaches a setting badge to the print file in which the setting information exists, and displays the file selection screen D1 on the operation panel 27 (step S60).

On the other hand, if they do not match (step S58: No), the display control unit 102 displays the file selection screen D1 on the operation panel 27 without attaching the setting badge to the print file.

Next, a process in which the MFP 200 acquires a print file from the file server 300 and prints the print file will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a flow of printing processing of a print file in the MFP of the embodiment.

First, the input receiving unit 101 receives a user to specify a print file and give an instruction to start printing from the file selection screen D1 (step S70). The connection control unit 108 transmits a print file acquisition request designated to the file server 300 via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121 (step S71), and acquires the print file (step S72). Then, the storage control unit 105 saves the print file in the storage unit 120 (step S73).

The print setting management unit 107 determines whether or not the setting information exists in the designated print file (step S74). When the setting information exists (step S74: Yes), the print setting management unit 107 determines whether or not the setting information is valid in the MFP 200 (step S75).

When the setting information is valid (step S75: Yes), the print setting management unit 107 sets the setting information of the print setting file in the print parameter of the print setting in the specified print file (step S76).

On the other hand, when the setting information is invalid (step S75: No), the display control unit 102 displays a warning screen indicating that the setting information of the print setting file cannot be set as it is in the specified print file (step S77). ). Next, the display control unit 102 displays the print setting screen D2 (see FIG. 9) (step S78) and prompts the input of the setting information. Then, when the input receiving unit 101 receives the input of the setting information from the user (step S79), the print setting management unit 107 sets the input setting information in the print parameter of the print setting (step S80).

If the setting information does not exist in step S74 (step S74: No), the print setting management unit 107 sets the default setting value set in the MFP 200 in advance as the print parameter of the print setting (step S81).

Then, the print setting management unit 107 transmits a print instruction to the print control unit 122 together with the set print parameters via the connection control units 108 and 123 (step S82). The print control unit 122 asynchronously prints the print file based on the print parameters (step S83).

Next, a process of accepting the input of the setting information of the selected print file by the MFP 200 and saving the setting information in the print setting file will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a flow of a print setting file saving process in the MFP of the embodiment.

First, the input receiving unit 101 accepts the user from the file selection screen D1 (see FIG. 8) to select a print file for which the setting information is desired to be saved (step S70). Then, the input receiving unit 101 receives the print setting input instruction by pressing the print setting button B1 (step S71).

When the print setting button B1 is pressed, the display control unit 102 displays the print setting screen D2 (see FIG. 9) on the operation panel 27 (step S72). The input receiving unit 101 receives the input of the setting information from the print setting screen D2 (step S73). Then, the input receiving unit 101 receives an instruction to save the setting information by pressing the print setting saving button B3 (step S74).

When the print setting save button B3 is pressed, the connection control unit 108 sends the file name of the selected print file and the input setting information to the file server 300 via the connection control unit 123 and the communication control unit 121. (Step S75). The file server 300 that has received the file name and the setting information of the print file stores the file name and the setting information in association with each other in the print setting file saved in the folder containing the print file in the storage unit 310.

As described above, in the image processing system of the present embodiment, the file server 300 associates the print file with the print setting file (file name of the print file and the setting information set when printing) generated from the MFP 100 or the PC 500. File) and for each folder where the print file is saved. Then, the MFP 200 receives the print file and the print setting file from the file server 300, sets the setting information of the print setting file, and prints the print file. Thereby, when the print file is acquired from the file server 300 and printed, the desired print setting can be set in the print file and the print file can be printed without individually setting the print setting on the MFP 100 side.

The program executed by the MFPs 100 and 200 of the present embodiment is provided by being incorporated in a ROM or the like in advance. The program executed by the MFPs 100 and 200 of the present embodiment is a file in an installable format or an executable format on a computer such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). It may be configured to be recorded and provided on a readable recording medium.

Further, the program executed by the MFPs 100 and 200 of the present embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by downloading via the network. Further, the program executed by the MFPs 100 and 200 of the present embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

The program executed by the MFPs 100 and 200 of the present embodiment has a module configuration including the above-mentioned units (input reception unit, display control unit, communication control unit, acquisition unit, storage control unit, collation unit, print setting management unit). As the actual hardware, the CPU (processor) reads the program from the ROM and executes it so that each part is loaded on the main memory and each part is generated on the main memory. It has become. Further, for example, a part or all of the functions of the above-mentioned parts may be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit.

In the above embodiment, an example in which the image processing apparatus of the present invention is applied to a multifunction device (MFP) having at least two functions of a copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function will be described. It can be applied to any device provided with an image forming unit such as a copying machine, a printer, and a facsimile machine.

10 Main unit 20 Operation unit 50 Print application 101 Input reception unit 102 Display control unit 103 Communication control unit 104 Acquisition unit 105 Storage control unit 106 Collation unit 107 Print setting management unit 108 Connection control unit 110, 120 Storage unit 121 Communication control unit 122 Printing Control unit 123 Connection control unit 300 File server 301 Communication control unit 302 Storage control unit 310 Storage unit

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-12336

Claims (14)

The output target file, the file identification information that identifies the output target file, and the output setting file that associates the setting information that is set when the output target file is output are stored in a folder via an external device and a network. In the connected image processing device
A communication control unit that receives the output target file and the output setting file from the external device.
When outputting the output target file, the output setting management unit that refers to the received output setting file and sets the output setting according to the setting information corresponding to the file identification information of the output target file.
An output control unit that outputs the output target file based on the set setting information,
Equipped with a,
The external device saves a plurality of the output target files in the folder.
The setting information includes common setting information for all the output target files stored in the folder and individual setting information for each output target file stored in the folder.
The output setting management unit sets the output setting by giving priority to the individual setting information with respect to the common setting information.
Image processing device. The communication control unit receives from the external device a file list including the file identification information of the plurality of output target files and the output setting file.
A display control unit that displays a list of display images of the output target file on the display unit based on the received file list is further provided.
The communication control unit receives the output target file indicated by the display image designated to the user from the displayed display image from the external device, and receives the output target file.
When the output setting management unit outputs the designated output target file, the output setting management unit refers to the received output setting file and outputs the setting information corresponding to the file identification information of the designated output target file. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting is set. The communication control unit receives the file list including the file identification information of the output target file included in the folder and the output of the output target file included in the folder and included in the folder from the external device. Receive the configuration file and
A collating unit that collates the file identification information included in the output setting file with the file identification information included in the file list.
When the output setting file contains the file identification information that matches the file identification information included in the file list, the display image of the output target file indicated by the file identification information has the setting information. The image according to claim 1, further comprising a display control unit that displays a list of the display images of the output target file indicated by the received file identification information on the display unit, with setting existence information indicating that effect. Processing equipment. After receiving the file list and the output setting file, the communication control unit outputs the output target file indicated by the display image designated to the user from the display image displayed in the list to the output control unit. The image processing device according to claim 2, which is received from the external device when it is output by. The image processing device is
The first operating system, and at least the main body with output function,
It has a second operating system, and includes an operation unit that gives operation instructions to the main body.
The operating unit further comprises an output application running on the second operating system.
The output application
Using the SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, the file list including the file identification information of the output target file and the output setting file are received from the external device.
A list of display images of the output target file is displayed based on the file extension included in the file list.
The file identification information included in the file list and the output setting file is compared, and the setting information is included in the display image of the output target file indicated by the file identification information associated with the setting information. With the setting existence information indicating that
When an output start instruction is given to the output target file indicated by the display image to which the setting existence information is attached, the output target file is received from the external device and the output target file is received from the external device.
The image processing according to claim 2 , wherein an output instruction is given to the output function of the main body with the setting information corresponding to the file identification information of the output target file with reference to the received output setting file. apparatus. An input reception unit that accepts the designation of the output target file from the displayed images displayed in the list is further provided.
The image processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the communication control unit transmits a designated acquisition request for the output target file to the external device, and receives the designated output target file from the external device. When the output setting management unit cannot set the output setting based on the setting information of the output setting file received by the display control unit, the display control unit displays an output setting screen for inputting the setting information on the display unit.
The input receiving unit receives the input of the setting information from the output setting screen, and receives the input.
The image processing device according to claim 6 , wherein the output setting management unit sets output settings based on the input setting information. The input receiving unit receives the designation of the output target file and the output setting input instruction indicating that the setting information of the output target file is input from the displayed images displayed in a list.
When the display control unit receives the output setting input instruction, the display control unit displays the output setting screen on the display unit.
The input receiving unit receives the input of the setting information from the output setting screen, and receives the input.
The communication control unit transmits the input setting information together with the file identification information of the designated output target file to the external device.
The image processing device according to claim 7 , wherein the external device associates the received file identification information with the setting information and saves the received file identification information in the output setting file. When a user who has the authority to save the output target file is logged in, the display control unit displays a save instruction image instructing that the setting information is saved on the output setting screen.
After receiving the input of the setting information from the output setting screen, the input receiving unit receives a save instruction indicating that the setting information is to be saved from the save instruction image.
The image processing according to claim 8 , wherein when the communication control unit receives the save instruction, it transmits the input setting information together with the file identification information of the designated output target file to the external device. apparatus. The input receiving unit receives the designation of a plurality of the output target files and the output setting input instruction from the displayed images displayed in a list.
The communication control unit transmits the input setting information to the external device together with the plurality of file identification information corresponding to the plurality of designated output target files.
The image processing device according to claim 8 or 9 , wherein the external device associates each of the received plurality of the file identification information with the setting information and stores the setting information in the output setting file. In an image processing system including an image processing device and an external device connected to the image processing device via a network.
The external device is
A storage unit that stores the output target file, the file identification information that identifies the output target file, and the output setting file that associates the setting information that is set when the output target file is output, in a folder.
A transmission unit that transmits the output target file and the output setting file to the image processing device is provided.
The image processing device is
A communication control unit that receives the output target file and the output setting file from the external device.
When outputting the output target file, the output setting management unit that refers to the received output setting file and sets the output setting according to the setting information corresponding to the file identification information of the output target file.
An output control unit that outputs the output target file based on the set setting information,
Equipped with a,
The external device saves a plurality of the output target files in the folder.
The setting information includes common setting information for all the output target files stored in the folder and individual setting information for each output target file stored in the folder.
The output setting management unit sets the output setting by giving priority to the individual setting information with respect to the common setting information.
Image processing system. The storage unit, for each folder including the output target file, storing the output setting file, the image processing system according to claim 1 1. The output setting file stores in association with the setting information to each of a plurality of the output target file, the image processing system according to claim 1 2. An output setting file that associates the output target file with the file identification information that identifies the output target file and the setting information that is set when the output target file is output is stored in a folder via an external device and a network. To the connected computer
A communication control function for receiving the output target file and the output setting file in the folder from the external device.
When outputting the output target file, referring to the received output setting file, common setting information for all the output target files saved in the folder and individual output target files saved in the folder. of the individual setting information for, and the said individual setting information in preference to the common setting information, the output setting management function to set the output set by the setting information that corresponds to the file identification information of the output target file ,
An output control function that outputs the output target file based on the set setting information, and
A program to realize.

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