JP7041343B2 - Output controller and its processing method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an output control device that outputs print data in which an error has occurred, a processing method thereof, and a program.

Conventionally, so-called "pull print (accumulated printing)" is used in which printing data is output from a printing device by making a printing request from a printing device (hereinafter referred to as a multifunction device) for print data temporarily stored on a server. Printing system is known.

This enables the user to output print data from a desired printing device instead of outputting from the application to a specific printing device at the time of printing (for example, Patent Document 1).

There is also a mechanism in which print data is stored on a printing device, the stored name information of the printing device is managed by the printing device, and print data is acquired and output from a desired printing device according to this name information (). For example, Patent Document 2).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-176202 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-126375

As in Patent Document 2,
When constructing a system that does not build a server, print data is temporarily stored in the printing device, but at this time, due to the restrictions of the printing device, if the size of the print data is larger than the specified size, there is a problem that it cannot be stored. Occur.

This is because in the case of a printing device such as a multifunction device, the storage capacity is not large, and there are various basic functions and additional extended functions (additional applications), and data is received and saved from various places. Therefore, there is a limit on the size of files that can be saved at one time.

Therefore, when a large-sized print data is received, an error occurs because it cannot be saved in the printing device, and even if printing is performed again from the client terminal, an error occurs again and printing cannot be executed.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for printing print data that causes an error.

The output control device of the present invention is
Receiving means for receiving print data and
A determination means for determining whether the print data received by the receiving means satisfies a predetermined condition, and a determination means.
A storage means for storing print data determined by the determination means to satisfy a predetermined condition, and a storage means.
An output means for outputting print data stored in the storage means, and an output means.
When the printing data determined by the determination means to not satisfy the predetermined condition is received by the receiving means.
When the bibliographic information of the received print data is not stored in the storage means as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the print data is not stored in the storage means and the printing is performed. The data is not output by the output means, and the bibliographic information of the print data is controlled to be stored as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition.
When the bibliographic information of the received print data is stored in the storage means as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the print data is output without being stored in the storage means. With control means to control
It is characterized by having .

According to the present invention, it is possible to print print data that causes an error.

It is a system configuration diagram which shows an example of the configuration of a print system. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware composition of a client PC200. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the hardware composition of the multifunction device 300. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function of the multifunction device 300. It is a flowchart of print data generation and reception. It is a flowchart of name information notification and registration of print data. It is a flowchart of the authentication process. It is a flowchart of name information acquisition and list acquisition processing. It is a flowchart of a print instruction and a print data transmission process. It is a flowchart of a deletion instruction. It is a flowchart of the deletion process of name information. It is a figure which shows an example of the authentication screen. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which displays on a multifunction device. It is a figure which shows an example of a bibliographic information file. It is a figure which shows an example of a user information table. It is a figure which shows an example of a name information file. It is a figure which shows an example of the name state information management table. It is a figure which shows an example of the name service notification destination. It is a figure which shows an example of the notified name service list. It is a figure which shows the processing outline of a print system. It is a flowchart of the detailed process of step S205. It is a figure which shows the more detailed setting information of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the unacquired list screen. It is a flowchart of power on. It is a flowchart of power off. It is a flowchart of the state periodic update process.

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

The characteristic processing in this embodiment is shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, but the procedure is not limited to this processing.

FIG. 1 shows a multifunction device 300-1 having a print data receiving function, a journal information extraction, and a print data / journal information management function of the present invention, a multifunction device 300-2 having a name information management function, and name information. A system showing an example of the configuration of a multifunction device 300-3 equipped with a multifunction device UI control function according to a user's instruction such as acquisition, list acquisition, printing / deletion, and a print system (printing system) to which a client PC 200 can be applied. It is a block diagram.

In the system configuration of FIG. 1, for convenience of explaining the processing for each function, the multifunction device is described separately for each function, but as an embodiment, it is possible to operate as one program in the same housing. Is. One multifunction device may be provided with a print data receiving function, a bibliographic information extraction, a print data / bibliographic information management function, and a name information management function. Further, one multifunction device may be provided with a multifunction device UI control function and a name information management function according to a user's instruction such as name information acquisition, list acquisition, and printing / deletion. Further, all the functions may be provided in one multifunction device.

A printer driver is installed in the client PC 200, and this printer driver creates print data based on the data received from the application program, and transfers the print data to the multifunction device 300-1 or the like via the network (LAN600). Can be sent to.

The multifunction device 300-1 receives print data from the client PC 200 via the network (LAN600), and the function of extracting the bibliographic information and managing the print data / bibliographic information hooks the received print data to a predetermined storage location. save. In addition, the print instruction management data of the print data is analyzed, and the journal information such as the document name, the number of copies, the number of pages, the size, and the print settings of the analyzed print data is extracted, and the journal information file as shown in FIG. 14 is created. ..

At this time, if the size of the print data exceeds the predetermined size (the size that is the limit of the multifunction device), the print data cannot be saved, but the bibliographic information shall be managed. At this time, the print upper limit exceeding flag is stored in the bibliographic information.

In addition, the multifunction device 300-2 is notified that the print data is stored in the multifunction device 300-1 (name information notification).

Further, the multifunction device 300-1 can reply to the print data list and give a print instruction in response to the request by receiving various requests from the other multifunction device. In addition, the print data can be deleted upon request.

With the name information of the multifunction device 300-2, a desired multifunction device (for example, the multifunction device 300-3) can acquire print data from the multifunction device in which the print data is stored and execute printing.

Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus applicable to the client PC 200 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus applicable to the client PC 200 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 2, 201 is a CPU that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204. Further, the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 is necessary to realize a function executed by a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) or an operating system program (hereinafter, OS) which is a control program of the CPU 201, and each server or each PC. Stores various programs described later.

Reference numeral 203 denotes a RAM, which functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 201. The CPU 201 realizes various operations by loading a program or the like necessary for executing a process from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203 and executing the loaded program.

Further, 205 is an input controller, which controls input from a keyboard (KB) 209, a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown), or the like. Reference numeral 206 denotes a video controller, which controls the display on a display such as a CRT display (CRT) 210. Although it is described as CRT210 in FIG. 2, the display device may be not only the CRT but also another display device such as a liquid crystal display. These are used by the administrator as needed.

The 207 is a memory controller, which is connected to a hard disk (HDD) for storing boot programs, various applications, font data, user files, edit files, various data, etc., a flexible disk (FD), or a PCMCIA card slot via an adapter. It controls access to an external memory 211 such as a compact flash (registered trademark) memory.

Reference numeral 208 denotes a communication I / F controller, which connects and communicates with an external device via a network, and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP is possible.

The CPU 201 enables display on the CRT 210 by, for example, executing an outline font expansion (rasterization) process in the display information area in the RAM 203. Further, the CPU 201 enables a user instruction with a mouse cursor or the like (not shown) on the CRT 210.

Next, the hardware configurations of the multifunction devices 300-1, 300-2, and 300-3 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the multifunction devices 300-1, 300-2, and 300-3 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 3, 316 is a controller unit, which is connected to a scanner 314 functioning as an image input device and a printer 312 functioning as an image output device, while being connected to a LAN or a public line (WAN) (for example, PSTN or ISDN). By doing so, image data and device information are input and output.

In the controller unit 316, 301 is a CPU, which is a processor that controls the entire system. The 302 is a RAM, which is a system network memory for operating the CPU 301, a program memory for recording a program, and an image memory for temporarily recording image data.

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

Reference numeral 307 is an operation unit interface (operation unit I / F), which is an interface unit with the operation unit (UI) 308, and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 308 to the operation unit 308.

Further, the operation unit I / F 307 plays a role of transmitting information (for example, user information and the like) input by the system user from the operation unit 308 to the CPU 301. The operation unit 308 includes a display unit having a touch panel, and various instructions can be given by the user pressing (touching with a finger or the like) a button displayed on the display unit.

Reference numeral 305 is a network interface (Network I / F), which is connected to a network (LAN) to input / output data. Reference numeral 306 is a modem (MODEM), which is connected to a public line to input / output data such as transmission / reception of FAX.

Reference numeral 318 is an external interface (external I / F), which is an I / F unit that accepts external inputs such as USB, IEEE1394, a printer port, and RS-232C. In this embodiment, it is for reading an IC card required for authentication. Card reader 319 is connected to the external I / F unit 318. Then, the CPU 301 can control the reading of information from the IC card by the card reader 319 via the external I / F 318, and can acquire the information read from the IC card. The above devices are arranged on the system bus 309.

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

The image bus 315 is composed of a PCI bus or IEEE 1394. The following devices are arranged on the image bus 315.
Reference numeral 310 denotes a raster image processor (RIP), which expands vector data such as a PDL code into a bitmap image. Reference numeral 311 is a printer interface (printer I / F), which connects the printer 312 and the controller unit 316 to perform synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data. Further, 313 is a scanner interface (scanner I / F), which connects the scanner 314 and the controller unit 316 to perform synchronous / asynchronous conversion of image data.

Reference numeral 317 is an image processing unit, which corrects, processes, and edits the input image data, corrects the printer, converts the resolution of the print output image data, and the like. In addition to this, the image processing unit 317 performs compression / decompression processing of image data, JPEG for multi-valued image data, JBIG, MMR, MH, etc. for binary image data.

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

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

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

Here, the start key of the operation unit 308 is used when starting the reading operation of the original image. In the center of the start key, there is a two-color LED of green and red, and the color indicates whether the start key is ready for use. Further, the stop key of the operation unit 308 functions to stop the operation during operation. Further, the ID key of the operation unit 308 is used when inputting the user ID of the user. The reset key is used to initialize the settings from the operation unit.

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

With the above configuration, the multifunction devices 300-1, 300-2, and 300-3 transmit the image data read from the scanner 314 onto the LAN 600, and print the print data received from the LAN by the printer 312. be able to.

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

Hereinafter, each function provided in the multifunction device in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a functional block diagram of the multifunction device in the present embodiment. Detailed processing for each function will be described later.

In the present embodiment, the configuration of the multifunction device 300-1 to the multifunction device 300-3 is described, but since it can be realized as a single device, it will be described as one multifunction device (system). The multifunction device is also called an output control device.

The multifunction device is an output control device that stores print data.

The management unit 4001 is a functional unit that manages bibliographic information of print data in which an error has occurred. Further, when the size of the print data received by the receiving unit 4003, which will be described later, does not satisfy a predetermined condition, the print data received by the receiving unit 4003 is not stored, and the bibliographic information of the print data becomes an error. When the size of the print data satisfies a predetermined condition, the print data received by the receiving unit 4003 is stored, and the bibliographic information of the print data is managed as the bibliographic information of the stored print data. It is a functional part to print. The predetermined condition is the upper limit size.

The output unit 4002 is a functional unit that outputs print data without storing the print data when the print data in error is received again based on the bibliographic information. The output unit 4002 is also a functional unit that acquires and outputs print data that does not cause an error from the storage unit. Further, when the print data which is determined to match the bibliographic information released and set by the determination unit 4006 by the determination unit 4006 described later and which is an error is received again, the print data is not stored. It is a functional part that outputs.

The receiving unit 4003 is a function of receiving print data. For example, print data is received from the client PC 200.

The determination unit 4004 is a functional unit that determines whether or not to cancel the output in which the print data is stored when the bibliographic information of the print data in which the error has occurred is acquired in order to output the print data.

The setting unit 4005 is a function unit that sets the release so that the print data corresponding to the bibliographic information is output without being stored when the determination unit 4004 determines to release the data.

The determination unit 4006 is a function unit that determines whether or not the print data matches the bibliographic information released and set by the setting unit 4005.

Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the processing outline of the processing characteristic of the print system (printing system) according to the present invention will be described.

FIG. 19 is a processing schematic diagram of a print system (printing system).

FIG. 19 shows an outline of a process of receiving print data from the client PC 200 and notifying the name information, a process of acquiring a print data list after logging in to the multifunction device, a process of printing the printed data displayed in the list, and a process of deleting. There is. In addition, when the size of the print data exceeds the predetermined size, secure printing is canceled, and when printing is executed again from the client PC, the print data is not stored (saved) in the multifunction device and is printed immediately. It gives an overview.

In the present embodiment, print data exceeding a predetermined size will be described as print data that causes an error, but the error also includes the fact that the expected printing is not executed due to the conditions of the multifunction device.

First, the outline of the reception of print data and the name information notification process will be described.

(1) Using the printer driver on the client PC 200, after generating the print data, the print data is transmitted (printed) to the multifunction device 300-1 designated in advance by the printer driver as the transmission destination.

(2) The multifunction device 300-1 receives the print data and analyzes the print setting information (bibliographic information) included in the header of the print data. Further, the model name of the printer driver used for generating the print data is received from the client PC 200, the journal information extracted from the header of the print data is added, and the journal information file as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the multifunction device 300-1. Save to HDD 304.

(3) After extracting the bibliographic information, the print data received from the client PC 200 is stored in the HDD 304 on the multifunction device 300-1. At this time, if the print data exceeds the upper limit of the size, it cannot be saved in the HDD, and an error occurs. Therefore, when the upper limit of the size is exceeded, "1" is set in the print upper limit exceeding flag of the bibliographic information.

(4) After receiving the print data from the client PC 200, the multifunction device 300-1 inputs the name information including the generation user name, model name, and host name (storage destination) of the print data included in the bibliographic information file. , Notify the multifunction device 300-2 having the name service function registered in advance.

(5) The multifunction device 300-2 stores the received name information in the HDD 304 as a name information file as shown in FIG. 16A.

Next, an outline of the process for acquiring the print data list after the user logs in will be described.

(6) The multifunction device 300-3 receives a user login notification from the authentication program and acquires login user information. (7) The multifunction device 300-3 transmits a name information acquisition request including the user name included in the login user information and the model name of the own device to the multifunction device 300-2. The device information (IP address, host name, etc.) of the multifunction device 300-2 that requests name information acquisition is stored in advance in the multifunction device 300-3.

(8) The multifunction device 300-2 searches for a host name (storage destination) included in a name information file in which the user name, host name, and file name included in the received name information acquisition request match. (9) The host name (storage destination) of the searched result is replied to the multifunction device 300-3. In the present embodiment, the file name in which the user name and the host name match is searched for, but even if the multifunction device has a different host name (for example, a different model), the multifunction device can draw print data. If there is, it is feasible, so you may search by user name. For example, current multifunction devices can interpret general-purpose formats such as XPS data (XPS: XML Paper Specification). Further, it is possible to receive XPS data from the printer driver, interpret the XPS data with the multifunction device, and perform drawing processing. Therefore, any multifunction device that can interpret XPS data can be used for printing, so it is sufficient to search by at least the user name.

(10) The multifunction device 300-3 transmits a bibliographic information acquisition request including a login user name and a model name of its own device to the received host name (storage destination). When a plurality of host names (storage destinations) are included in the name information received from the multifunction device 300-2, a bibliographic information acquisition request is transmitted to all the host names (storage destinations) including the own device.

(11) The multifunction device 300-1 searches for the bibliographic information of the user that matches the user name in response to the received bibliographic information acquisition request. (12) The searched bibliographic information is transmitted to the multifunction device 300-3. The bibliographic information may be configured to transmit necessary bibliographic information. For example, information that can identify print data such as a file name is transmitted.

(13-1) The multifunction device 300-3 stores the received bibliographic information in the RAM 302 and displays it in a list on the operation unit 308. When bibliographic information is received from multiple host names (storage destinations), all bibliographic information is merged and displayed in a list. (13-2) At this time, if there is bibliographic information whose print upper limit exceeding flag is "1", the user is notified that there is print data that cannot be printed, and secure printing (reservoir printing) is canceled. Accepts the designation of. (13-3) When the designation of secure print release is accepted, the secure release flag of the bibliographic information is set to "1".

Next, the outline of the process from receiving the print instruction from the user to printing will be described.

(14-1) The list-displayed bibliographic information (print data) is selected from the user, and by accepting the press of the print instruction, the multifunction device 300-3 acquires the print request and of the selected print data. Send a print request including the file name to the host name (storage destination). When the host name (storage destination) of the print data selected by the user spans a plurality of multifunction devices, a print request is transmitted to all the multifunction devices including the own device.

(15-1) In response to the received print request, the multifunction device 300-1 acquires print data from the HDD 304 in its own device from the file name included in the print request. (16-1) The acquired print data is transmitted to the multifunction device 300-3. (16-2) The multifunction device 300-3 prints the received print data.

Next, the outline of the process from receiving the deletion instruction from the user to deleting the name information will be described.

(14-2) The list-displayed bibliographic information (print data) is selected from the user, and when the deletion instruction is pressed, the multifunction device 300-3 acquires the deletion request and of the selected print data. Send a deletion request including the file name to the host name (storage destination). As with the case of printing request, when spanning multiple multifunction devices, a deletion request is sent to all multifunction devices including the own device.

(15-2) In response to the received deletion request, the multifunction device 300-1 deletes the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file corresponding to the print data from the file name included in the deletion request from the HDD 304 in the own device. change. When a deletion request is received, the bibliographic information may be deleted and the print data may be deleted.

(17-1) When all the printable data status 1401 of the corresponding user has been deleted in the own device, the multifunction device 300-1 has a user name, a model name, and the like for the multifunction device 300-2. Sends a name information deletion notification including the host name (storage destination) of the own device. If there is even one printable data, the name information deletion notification is not sent. (17-2) The multifunction device 300-2 deletes the corresponding host name from the name information file stored in the HDD 304 according to the corresponding name information included in the received name information deletion notification.

(18-1) The client PC 200 re-executes printing in which an error occurs by the user, and outputs print data to the multifunction device 300-1. The multifunction device 300-3 receives the print data and determines whether the print data matches the managed bibliographic information and has the secure release flag "1". Here, when the print data has the secure release flag "1", the print data is passed to the print unit of the multifunction device 300-1 without controlling to save the print data, and immediate printing is executed. ..

As a result, it is possible to print even print data that exceeds the upper limit of the size and causes an error while realizing the storage printing.

It should be noted that the configuration of the multifunction device 300-1 and the multifunction device 300-3 realizes storage printing, and the multifunction device 300-1 has the function of the multifunction device 300-3, and the multifunction device 300-1 has the function of storage storage. It may be a configuration that realizes printing, and in any form, it is possible to print even print data that exceeds the size upper limit and causes an error.

Next, the processing of the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 11, FIGS. 20, and 23 to 25.

The programs and services described in this embodiment are installed in the multifunction device as software.

Further, each step is executed by the CPU (CPU 201 or CPU 301) of each device (client PC 200 or multifunction device 300-1, 300-2, 300-3).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of print data generation and reception in the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of name information notification and registration of print data in the present embodiment. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

Note that FIG. 5 shows the characteristic processing in this embodiment.

In step S000, the client PC 200 transmits the print data to the multifunction device 300-1 by using the printer driver on the client PC 200 in response to the print instruction from the user.

In the present embodiment, the print data is transmitted from the client PC 200, but the print data may be transmitted from the print server or the cloud server. Further, the print data may be a file in a general-purpose format such as PDF or data in PDL format. In the case of PDF or the like, bibliographic information is added to the properties of PDF or the like.

In step S001, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 monitors the port in advance and acquires the print data transmitted by the client PC 200 in S000 received by the port for receiving print data (LPR515 port or RAW9100 port). (Hook).

In step S002, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 acquires the model name (for example, MFP5050) of the printer driver used for creating the print data from the client PC 200 from the acquired print data. The model name acquired here may be configured to be used when determining a model to which the generated print data can be output. For example, by grouping each model and grouping and managing the model information in the group information that can be output, it is possible to output to the models belonging to the same group.

In step S003, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 extracts (acquires) various print data information (bibliographic information) as shown in FIG. 14 included in the header of the print data received from the client PC 200.

That is, steps S002 to S003 are processes for acquiring bibliographic information for managing the print data in response to the acceptance of the print data.

In step S004, the bibliographic information file (FIG. 14) stored in the multifunction device 300-1 is searched, the print upper limit exceeding flag is "1", and the job owner name (user name) and job name (document name) match. Check if there is bibliographic information to be printed. If there is no matching bibliographic information, the process is moved to S005. If there is matching bibliographic information, that is, if the print data has once exceeded the upper limit size and an error has occurred, the process is transferred to step S011.

In step S005, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 creates a bibliographic information file as shown in FIG. 14 based on the bibliographic information extracted in step S003 and stores it in a predetermined directory of the multifunction device 300-2. do.

Here, the bibliographic information file of FIG. 14 will be described. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a bibliographic information file. The bibliographic information file is stored in the HDD 304.

The bibliographic information file includes the user name (that is, user identification information) that created the print data by logging in to the client PC 200, the document name of the print data, the time stamp indicating the generation time of the print data, double-sided / single-sided, 2in1, and color. / Print setting information 1403 as shown in monochrome is included. In addition, the model name 1405 of the printer driver used to create the print data acquired from the client PC 200, the unique file name 1402 generated when the print data is received, the status 1401 indicating the processing content of the print data, and the host of the own device. It is composed of a name (print data storage destination) 1404, a print upper limit exceeding flag 1406, a secure release flag 1407, and the like. When the print data exceeds the upper limit size, the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 is set to 1, and when the user unlocks the security, the secure release flag 1407 is set to 1.

The bibliographic information may be in any file format as long as it is managed for each print data, and may be a database or a table.

In step S006, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 sets "0" to the secure release flag 1407 of the created bibliographic information file.

In step S007, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 sets "0" to the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 of the created bibliographic information file.

Needless to say, steps S006 and S007 can be performed in the process of creating the bibliographic information file in step S005.

In step S008, the size of the received print data is compared with the preset print upper limit size (for example, 2 giga), and it is determined whether or not the print upper limit size is larger than the print upper limit size. If it is equal to or less than the print upper limit size, the process is transferred to step S009. If the print upper limit size is exceeded, the process is transferred to step S010.

Although the condition is whether the print upper limit size is exceeded, it may be less than the print upper limit size, and it is determined whether or not the predetermined size condition is satisfied.

In step S009, the journal information service of the multifunction device 300-1 generates the journal information file in step S004, and then print data received from the client PC 200 with a unique file name 1402 generated when the print data is received. It is stored in a predetermined directory (HDD304) of -1.

In step S010, if the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 exceeds the print upper limit size, a print error occurs, printing is not executed, and the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 is set to "1".

In step S011, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 compares the size of the received print data with the preset print upper limit size (for example, 2 giga), and determines whether or not it is larger than the print upper limit size. .. If it is equal to or less than the print upper limit size, the process is transferred to step S005. If the print upper limit size is exceeded, the process is transferred to step S012.

In step S012, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines whether or not the secure release flag 1407 of the matched bibliographic information is "1". When the secure release flag 1407 is "1", the process is transferred to step S013. If the secure release flag 1407 is "0", the process is transferred to step S014. In step S013, the secure release flag 1407 is "1", and the user has instructed to perform immediate printing without saving the print data (instruction in 1300 of FIG. 13). The bibliographic information service passes the received print data to the print processing unit of the multifunction device 300-1, and executes printing.

In step S014, the user is notified of a message indicating that printing cannot be performed due to the size being exceeded. At this time, the multifunction device 300-1 may also be able to give an instruction to cancel the secure printing. When the release instruction is given, the secure release flag 1407 becomes "1".

The process of step S115 may be executed after step S014.

In step S015, since the print data has been printed, the matching bibliographic information is deleted.

Next, moving to FIG. 6, in step S106, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 acquires a list of notification destination name services registered in advance as shown in FIG. The multifunction device of the notification destination name service is the multifunction device 300-2 in the system configuration diagram of FIG.

Here, FIG. 17 will be described. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a name service notification destination. Further, the name service notification destination is stored in the HDD 304. Has been done.

FIG. 17 has the IP address of the multifunction device 300-2 operating as the name service as the name service notification destination. The host name may be used instead of the IP address.
In step S107, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 acquires a list of notified name services as shown in FIG.

Here, FIG. 18 will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a list of notified name services. Further, the notified name service list is stored in the HDD 304.

The notified name service list is managed for each user name that created the print data and the model name of the printer driver that was used to generate the print data by logging in to the client PC 200, and the multifunction device that notified the name information in step S111. Has an IP address of. The host name may be used instead of the IP address.

In addition, if the same user creates print data using the printer driver of the same model and the print data is received by the multifunction device 300-1, the previous name service multifunction device 300-2 may be affected by the network. Unless the notification fails, the same notification destination (IP address) as the notification destination name service list as shown in FIG. 17 acquired in step S106 is registered in the notified name service list. If the name service is deleted from the notified name service list in step S427, or if the notification fails, the notified name service list (FIG. 18) and the notified name service list (FIG. 17) do not match. ..

On the contrary, when the print data is created by using the user who generated the print data for the first time or the printer driver of the model used for the first time and the print data is received by the multifunction device 300-1, the notified name service list is displayed. It will be acquired in the sky. In addition, even if the printable data does not exist due to the deletion instruction from the user and the deletion notification is correctly executed, the notified name service list is obtained empty.

In step S108, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines whether the notified name service is registered in the notified name service list acquired in step S107. Then, if it is determined that even one notified name service is registered, the multifunction device 300-2 bibliographic information service proceeds to step S109, and even one notified name service is registered. If it is determined that the problem has not occurred, the process proceeds to step S111.

In step S109, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 is the notification destination name service as shown in FIG. 17 obtained in step S106 of the name service determined to be registered as notified in step S108. Remove from the target of. That is, the name service notification destination of FIG. 17 is held in the RAM 302, and the notified nail service list of FIG. 18 is deleted from the name service notification destination stored in the RAM 302.

As a result, regarding the notified name service, it is determined that the name information has already been notified, and the name information is deleted from the notification target, and unnecessary communication is not performed.

In step S110, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines whether or not the name service of the notification destination exists in the RAM 302. Then, if it is determined that even one notification destination name service exists, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 proceeds to step S111, and if there is no notification destination name service, the process proceeds to step S111. If it is determined, the process ends.

In step S111, when the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines that there is no notified name service in step S108, it is determined that the name service notification destination in FIG. 17 has a notification destination, and that there is a notification destination in step S110. If this is the case, the name information is transmitted to the name service multifunction device (corresponding to the multifunction device 300-2 in the system configuration diagram of FIG. 1) of the name service notification destination held in the RAM 302. That is, in order to notify that the print data is stored in the first image forming apparatus, it is a process of transmitting the image forming apparatus information specifying the first image forming apparatus to the second image forming apparatus.

The name information transmitted here is for identifying the print data creation user name (that is, user identification information) extracted in step S103, the model name of the printer driver used for print data creation, and the storage destination of the print data. The IP address (host name) of its own device is included.

In this way, when there is a notification destination in step S110 (for example, when the first user prints), the name information is transmitted to the multifunction device 300-2 of the name service, but when there is no notification destination in step S110 (for example). If the same user prints using the same model printer driver), the notification has already been sent, so the name information will not be sent to the name service multifunction device 300-2, and the communication load will be reduced. Is reduced.

When the multifunction device 300-2 is equipped with the function of the journal information server of the conventional print system, the information (file name, etc.) that identifies the print data and the information related to the print data such as the storage destination are displayed each time the print data is received. It must be transmitted to the multifunction device 300-2 (every time), and when a conventional print system is applied, the communication load is high. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, communication can be reduced, and printing can be executed from a desired multifunction device by a printing system in which print data is stored in the multifunction device.

In step S112, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 receives the name information from the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 in step S111. That is, it is a process of receiving image forming apparatus information from the first image forming apparatus.

In step S121, in the name service of the multifunction device 300-2, the IP address (host name) of the storage destination of the print data included in the name information acquired in step S112 is stored in the name status information management table as shown in FIG. 16B. Check if it is already registered.

In step S122, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 confirms the existence and status of the IP address (host name) of the print data storage destination in the name status information management table in step S121, and confirms the existence and status of the corresponding storage destination (IP address). ) Is present and is determined to be valid, the process proceeds to step S113, and if it is determined that the corresponding storage destination does not exist or is not valid, the process proceeds to step S123.

In step S123, when it is determined in step S122 that the corresponding storage destination does not exist or is not valid, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 is stored in the name status information management table as shown in FIG. 16B (valid). ) Is registered.

In step S113, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 has already created a name information file as shown in FIG. 16A, which is managed by the print data creation user name of the name information acquired in step S112 and the model name of the printer driver. Check if it is done.

Here, FIG. 16A will be described. FIG. 16A is a diagram showing an example of a name information file.

The name information file has a file name consisting of a print data creation user name and a printer driver model name. Further, in the file, the IP address (host name) of the multifunction device for identifying the storage destination of the print data of the received name information is stored.

The name information file may be in any file format as long as it can be determined by the user name and the model name. For example, it may be managed in a database or a table. Also, for different users and different model names, the name information file is generated with a different file name.

In step S114, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 confirms the existence of the name information file in step S113, and if it is determined that the name information file of the corresponding user name and model name already exists, the step is taken. The process proceeds to S116, and if it is determined that the name information file of the corresponding user and model name does not exist, the process proceeds to step S115.

In step S115, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 generates a file name with the user name and model name determined in step S114 that the corresponding name information file does not exist, and the name information file as shown in FIG. 16A. Is newly created. That is, the image forming apparatus information is stored for each user identification information.

In step S116, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 prints received in step S112 on the last line of the name information file whose existence is confirmed in step S114 or the name information file newly created in step S115. Add an IP address (host name) to identify the data storage destination. That is, it is a process of storing image forming apparatus information.

In step S117, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 responds to the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 with the addition result of the name information of the multifunction device 300-1.

In step S118, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the additional result response of the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 in step S117.

In step S119, if the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines that the name information has been correctly added in the additional response result received in step S118, the process proceeds to step S120 and the name information is added. If it is determined that the process has failed, the process proceeds to step S110.

In step S120, when it is determined in step S119 that the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 is correctly added, the notification destination name service (composite) corresponding to the notified name service list as shown in FIG. The IP address of the machine 300-2) is added, and the process returns to step S110. If it is determined in step S110 that the notification of the name information has been completed for all the notification destination name services, the process ends. That is, it is a process of storing the second image forming apparatus information to which the image forming apparatus information has been transmitted as the transmitted second image forming apparatus. The second image forming apparatus (transmitted information) that has been transmitted is shown in FIG.

Further, in steps S106 to S111, that is, the second image forming device that has not been transmitted without transmitting the image forming device information specifying the first image forming device to the second image forming device that has been transmitted. This is a process of transmitting image forming apparatus information specifying the first image forming apparatus to the apparatus. This can prevent duplication of transmission.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the authentication process in the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of name information acquisition and list acquisition processing in the present embodiment. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

Note that FIG. 8 shows the characteristic processing in this embodiment.

In step S200, the authentication program of the multifunction device 300-3 displays a screen as shown in FIG. 12 on the operation unit 308, and acquires the card ID information in the IC card held over the card reader 319.

Here, FIG. 12 will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an authentication screen. Further, the authentication screen is stored in the HDD 304.

On the authentication screen, it is possible to switch between IC card authentication and keyboard authentication. At the time of keyboard authentication, a soft keyboard is displayed on the operation unit 308, and a user name and password can be input. This authentication screen is a screen for IC card authentication.

In step S201, the authentication program of the multifunction device 300-3 acquires user information (user name, etc.) associated with the card ID acquired in step S200 from the user information table as shown in FIG. 15 held in advance. do. In this embodiment, the user information table is configured to be stored in the HDD 304 of the compound machine, but an IC card authentication request command including the card ID is transmitted to the authentication server that manages the card ID and the user information in association with each other. , User information may be acquired.

Here, FIG. 15 will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a user information table. Further, the user information table is stored in the HDD 304.

In the user information table, a user name, an e-mail address, and a card ID are associated and managed for each user, and user information of a plurality of users is stored. It should be noted that the configuration is not limited to the user name, e-mail address, and card ID, and may be configured to store authority information for using the multifunction device.

In step S202, the authentication program of the multifunction device 300-3 performs a login process (usage permission) to the multifunction device 300-3 based on the user information acquired in step S201.

In step S203, the authentication program of the multifunction device 300-3 notifies the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 of the login user information.

In step S204, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 acquires the login user information notified by the authentication program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S203.

In step S205, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 is a name service stored in advance based on the login user information acquired in step S204 and the model name of the own device (for example, MFP5050) acquired in advance. A request for acquisition of the name information (print data storage destination information) of the logged-in user is transmitted to the multifunction device 300-2 (default multifunction device (primary) for which acquisition is requested). If communication with the default multifunction device cannot be performed, an acquisition request is made to the next multifunction device (secondary). That is, it is a process of requesting the second image forming apparatus for the image forming apparatus information which is the storage destination of the print data.

The above step S205 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart for determining a multifunction device of a name service which is a contact destination for name information (print data storage destination information) in the present embodiment.

In step S2051, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 acquires the setting information for determining the multifunction device of the name service as shown in FIG. 17 preset. More detailed setting information of FIG. 17 is shown in FIG. 21, and will be described here with reference to FIG. 21.

In step S2052, it is determined whether or not the own device operates as a name service multifunction device. The determination as to whether or not the own device operates as a name service multifunction device is determined based on whether or not the primary name service (name service 1) multifunction device shown in FIG. 17 has the same IP address as the own device. The determination of whether or not the own device operates as a multifunction device of the name service may be determined by whether or not the communication port for operating as the name service is open in the own device. Further, it may be determined whether or not the own device operates as a name service multifunction device by turning the name service setting ON / OFF. When it is ON, it is determined that the own device is a name service, and when it is OFF, it is determined that the own device is not a name service.

When the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines that the own device is the setting of the multifunction device of the name service based on the name service setting acquired in S2501, the process proceeds to step S2503, and the own device names. If it is determined that the device is not a service multifunction device, the process proceeds to step S2054.

By determining whether or not the own device is a name service, unnecessary communication can be prevented and the communication load can be reduced.

In step S2053, when the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 is determined in step S2052 that the own device is a name service multifunction device,
Based on the login user information acquired in step S204 and the model name of the own device (for example, MFP5050) acquired in advance, the name information (print data storage destination information) stored in the own device in advance is acquired. do.

In step S2054, as described above in step S205, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 is based on the login user information acquired in step S204 and the model name of the own device (for example, MFP5050) acquired in advance. , With respect to the name service multifunction device 300-2 (default multifunction device (primary, for example, name service 1) for which acquisition is requested) according to the setting information for determining the name service multifunction device acquired in step S2051. A request for acquiring the name information (print data storage destination information) of the logged-in user is transmitted. If communication with the default multifunction device cannot be performed, an acquisition request is made to the next multifunction device (secondary, for example, name service 2).

In step S111, when the name information is notified, the name services 1 to 10 in FIG. 17 are notified, but in step S2054, when the name information acquisition request is made, the name service 1 is configured to perform the notification. ..

In step S206, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 receives the name information acquisition request transmitted by the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S205. That is, it is a process of receiving a request for image forming apparatus information from the first image forming apparatus.

In step S207, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 confirms the existence of the name information file as shown in FIG. 16A based on the user name and the model name included in the name information acquisition request received in step S206. The name information (print data storage destination information) of the user is searched.

More specifically, in order to acquire the storage destination information of the print job of the user who can print on the multifunction device running the printing program of the requesting multifunction device 300-3, the name information received in step S206 is acquired. A name information file as shown in FIG. 16A is searched based on the user name and model name included in the request. The file name of the name information file is composed of a user name and a model name, and the name information file is searched by comparing this file name with the user name and the model name included in the name information acquisition request. In the present embodiment, the model name is used, but since printing may be possible even if the models are different, a printer group indicating a group of printers, which is a group of printers capable of printing, may be used.

Further, the information in the name information file shown in FIG. 16A may be managed in a database instead of an individual file.

Then, the name information (print data storage destination information such as an IP address) of the destination multifunction device in which the print job printable by the corresponding user is stored, which is stored in the searched name information file, is acquired.

In step S220, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 is in a name state as shown in FIG. 16B based on the print data storage destination information (IP address, host name) included in the name information acquisition request received in step S206. Search in the information management table.

In step S208, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 responds to the name information (print data storage destination information) searched in step S207 and the name status information searched in step 220 to the print program of the multifunction device 300-3. .. That is, it is a process of transmitting specific information and state information in accordance with a request from the first image forming apparatus. Further, it is a process of transmitting an image forming apparatus information list according to the user identification information of the user who has logged in to the first image forming apparatus.

In step S209, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 receives the name information and the name status information transmitted by the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 in step S208. The received name information is stored in the RAM 302. That is, it is a reception process for receiving specific information and state information from the second image forming apparatus.

In step S210, when the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines that the name information received in step S209 has a print data storage destination of the logged-in user other than the own device, the process proceeds to step S211. If it is determined that there is no print data storage destination for the user other than the own device, the process proceeds to step S218. The above-mentioned step S210 will be described in more detail. The IP address information of the storage destination of the print data acquired in step S209 is compared with the IP address of the own device acquired in advance when the application is started, and the IP address information acquired from the name service of the compound machine 300-2 is included in the IP address information. If it is determined that an IP address other than the IP address of the device is included, the process proceeds to step S211. If it is determined that the IP address other than the own device is not included, the process proceeds to step S218.

In step S221, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 proceeds to step S211 if the name status information received in step S209 is valid, and proceeds to step S210 if the name status information is not valid. Proceed with processing. That is, it is a request process for requesting the image forming apparatus in which the print data is stored to list the print data according to the specific information indicating that the list of print data can be effectively acquired as the status information.

In step S211 the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 becomes a bibliographic information service corresponding to the print data storage destination when it is determined in step S210 that there is a print data storage destination of the logged-in user other than the own device. A request for acquiring a list of bibliographic information including the login user name and the model name of the own device is transmitted to the multifunction device 300-1. That is, it is a process of requesting a list of print data from each image forming apparatus corresponding to the received image forming apparatus information.

In step S212, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the bibliographic information list acquisition request transmitted by the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S211.

In step S213, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 is as shown in FIG. 14 corresponding to the received user and model name in accordance with the acquisition request of the bibliographic information list including the user name and model name received in step S212. Search the bibliographic information file.

In step S214, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 creates a bibliographic information list with the bibliographic information searched in step S213.

In step S215, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 transmits the bibliographic information list created in step S214 to the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3. That is, it is a process of receiving a list of image forming apparatus information which is a storage destination of print data from the second image forming apparatus.

In step S216, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 acquires the bibliographic information list transmitted by the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 in step S215. That is, it is a process of receiving from each image forming apparatus that requests a list of print data.

In step S217, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 deletes the storage destination of the print data that has received the bibliographic information list from the name information stored in the RAM 302 as received, and returns the process to step S210. In step S210, if there is a print data storage destination for which bibliographic information has not been acquired in the name information, steps S211 to S217 are repeated.

In step S218, when it is determined in step S210 that there is no print data storage destination for which bibliographic information has not been acquired in the name information, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 uses the bibliographic information of the logged-in user in the own device. get. That is, it is a process of requesting a list of print data from the first image forming apparatus, which is the own apparatus.

In step S225, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines whether or not there is bibliographic information in which the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 is "1" in the acquired bibliographic information. If there is bibliographic information in which the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 is "1", the process is transferred to step S226. If there is no bibliographic information in which the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 is "1", the process proceeds to step S219.

In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not there is bibliographic information in which the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 is "1" for all the acquired bibliographic information, and the secure print release message (1300 in FIG. 13) described later is determined. ) Is displayed, but a secure print release message may be displayed for each bibliographic information. Further, when the print data list is displayed in step S219 described later and the print upper limit exceeding flag 1406 of the bibliographic information of the selected print data is set to "1", the secure print release message (1300 in FIG. 13). May be displayed.

In step S226, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 displays a secure print release message (1300 in FIG. 13). Then, it is determined whether the OK button or the cancel button of the secure print release message (1300 in FIG. 13) is pressed. When the OK button is pressed, that is, when the permission to cancel the secure printing is given, the process is transferred to step S227. Further, when the cancel button is pressed, that is, when the cancellation of secure printing is not permitted, the process is transferred to step S219.

As described above, it goes without saying that it is possible to give an instruction to cancel secure printing for each print data (bibliographic information).

Here, 1300 of FIG. 13 will be described. On the screen of 1300, for example, the message "Do you want to cancel the secure printing and print with the printer A (192.168.0.1 / MFP5050) installed in XX because the printing upper limit has been exceeded?" Is displayed. In this display, the information of the multifunction device in which the print data is stored, which can be obtained from the bibliographic information, is displayed. As a result, the user can recognize on which multifunction device the secure printing is temporarily canceled and the immediate printing is performed.

In step S227, since the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 sets the secure release flag of the target bibliographic information to "1", a set instruction of the secure release flag "1" including information for specifying the bibliographic information. Is transmitted to the multifunction device 300-1 that has acquired the bibliographic information. If the bibliographic information is in the own device, set the secure release flag of the bibliographic information of the own device to "1".

In step S228, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the set command, identifies the bibliographic information file based on the information for specifying the bibliographic information, and sets the secure release flag to "1". do.

In the present embodiment, the print upper limit exceeding flag "1" is determined after the process of step S218, that is, after all the bibliographic information is acquired, but the print upper limit is printed each time the bibliographic information of step S216 is received. The overrun flag "1" may be determined and a secure print release message may be displayed.

In step S219, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 merges (for example, combines) the bibliographic information list acquired in steps S217 and S219, and displays the print data list screen as shown in 1310 of FIG. That is, it is a display process for displaying a list of print data acquired by a request by the request process.

In step S222, when there is an image forming apparatus indicating that the list of print data whose status information cannot be effectively acquired, the button of the unacquired list 1304 is displayed. Then, when the button of the unacquired list 1304 is pressed on the print data list screen as shown in 1310 of FIG. 13, the process proceeds to step S223. If the button is not pressed, the print data list screen waits for processing of other operations.

In step S223, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 merges (for example, combines) a list of devices for which the name status information acquired in step S221 is not valid, and displays an unacquired list screen as shown in FIG. 22. That is, it is a notification process for notifying the user that there is specific information indicating that the list of print data cannot be effectively acquired as the status information.

Here, 1310 of FIG. 13 will be described. 1310 of FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a print data list screen. Further, the print data list screen is stored in the HDD 304.

The print data list screen displays the merged bibliographic information list as a list of print data in 1301. Further, in 1301, print data can be selected.

Further, the print data list screen is provided with buttons for deletion 1302, print start 1303, and unacquired list 1304, so that the print data selected in 1301 can be deleted or print start (print instruction).

Here, FIG. 22 will be described. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of an unacquired list screen. Further, the unacquired list screen is stored in the HDD 304.

The unacquired list screen displays a list of devices whose merged name status information is not valid as an unacquired list in 2201. Further, in 2201, it is possible to reacquire the device that cannot be connected, and when the reacquisition button is pressed, the process proceeds to step S224.

In step S224, it is determined whether or not the reacquisition button of 2202 is pressed on the unacquired list screen as shown in FIG. If it is pressed, the process is transferred to step S225, and a request for acquiring a list of print data is executed to the target multifunction device. That is, it is a reception process for receiving a print data list request instruction to the image forming apparatus of specific information indicating that the list of print data notified by the notification process cannot be effectively acquired.

The request for acquiring the list of print data is the same as the processing of steps S211 to S216. If it is not pressed, the unacquired device list screen is displayed and the process of another operation is awaited.
If the print data can be reacquired, the process proceeds to step S221.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a print instruction and a print data transmission process in the present embodiment. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

In step S300, the user logged in to the multifunction device 300-3 displays arbitrary print data 1301 from the print data list screen as shown in 1310 of FIG. 13 displayed by the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S219. After being selected, the press of the print start 1303 is accepted, and the print instruction of the selected print data is given.

In step S301, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 is selected in step S300, the request instructed to print is acquired, and the host included in the bibliographic information of the print data selected from the bibliographic information list acquired in step S126. Acquire the name (storage destination) 1404.

In step S302, if it is determined that the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 has the host name (storage destination) information of the print instruction destination acquired in step S301, the process proceeds to step S303 and there is no print instruction destination. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S317.

In step S303, when it is determined in step S302 that the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 has a print instruction destination, the print program determines whether the print instruction destination of the selected print data is the own device. If it is determined that the print instruction destination of the selected print data is the own device, the process proceeds to step S314, and if it is determined that the print instruction destination of the selected print data is not the own device, the process proceeds to step S304. Proceed with processing.

In step S304, when the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines that the print instruction destination of the print data of the bibliographic information selected in step S303 is not the own device, the host name (storage destination) acquired in step S301. ), A print instruction request including the file name 1402 in the journal information of the selected print data is transmitted. When a plurality of print data stored in the same host name (storage destination) are selected in step S301, a print instruction request including the file names of all the corresponding print data is transmitted. That is, it is a process of making a print request to the image forming apparatus corresponding to the received image forming apparatus information. Further, it is a process of making a print request to the image forming apparatus in which the print data selected in the print data list is stored. This makes it possible to reduce the communication load.

In step S305, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the print instruction request transmitted by the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S304.

In step S306, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 acquires the corresponding print data from the HDD 304 based on the file name included in the print instruction request received in step S305.

In step S307, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 transmits the print data acquired in step S306 to the multifunction device 300-3 using, for example, the FTP protocol.

In step S308, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 receives the print data transmitted by the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 in step S307.

In step S309, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 prints the print data received in step S308.

In step S310, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines that among the file names included in the print instruction request received in step S305, there is print data that has not yet been transmitted to the multifunction device 300-3. If so, the process proceeds to step S306, and the process of steps S306 to S310 is repeated while there is print data that has not yet been transmitted to the multifunction device 300-3. If it is determined that there is no print data that has not yet been transmitted to the multifunction device 300-3, the process proceeds to step S311.

In step S311, when the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines that there is print data that has not yet been transmitted in step S310, a print instruction including a file name is given to the print program of the multifunction device 300-3. Send the result.

In step S312, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 receives the print instruction result transmitted by the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 in step S311 and proceeds to the process to step S316.

In step S313, when the print instruction destination is determined to be the own device in step S303, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 has the file name 1402 included in the bibliographic information of the print data selected by the user in step S300. Acquire the corresponding print data from within the own device. That is, it is a process of acquiring print data from the first image forming apparatus when the print data selected in the list of print data is stored in the first image forming apparatus.

In step S314, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 prints the print data acquired in step S313. That is, it is a process of printing the received print data according to the print request.

In step S315, when the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines that the print data that has not been printed yet is in the own device among the print data selected in S300, the process proceeds to step S313. While there is print data that has not been printed yet, the processes of steps S313 to S315 are repeated. If it is determined that there is no print data that has not been printed yet, the process proceeds to step S316.

In step S316, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 is the multifunction device for which the print instruction result is acquired in step S312, and the own device (multifunction device) for which the print instruction is completed in steps S313 to S315. It is deleted from the acquired storage destination information (excluded from the target of the print instruction destination), and the process is returned to step S302. While it is determined in step S302 that there is a print instruction destination, steps S303 to S316 are repeatedly executed, and if it is determined that there is no print instruction destination, the process proceeds to step S317.

In step S317, when it is determined in step S302 that there is no print instruction destination, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 displays an unselected print data list screen not selected by the user in step S300.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a deletion instruction in the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the name information deletion process in the present embodiment. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

In step S400, the user logged in to the multifunction device 300-3 can arbitrarily select from the print data list screen as shown in 1310 of FIG. 13 displayed by the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S219 or step S317. After the print data 1301 of the above is selected, the press of the delete 1302 is accepted, and the deletion instruction of the selected print data is given.

In step S401, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 receives the request selected by the user in step S400 and instructed to delete, and the print program of the selected print data from the bibliographic information list acquired in step S126. Acquires the host name (storage destination) 1404 included in the bibliographic information.

In step S402, if the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines in step S401 that there is even one host name (storage destination) information of the deletion instruction destination, the process proceeds to step S403, and the deletion instruction destination is set. If it is determined that there is no such procedure, the process proceeds to step S415.

In step S403, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines in step S402 that there is a deletion instruction destination, and if it is determined that the selection destination for deleting print data is the own device, step S411. If it is determined that the selected print data deletion instruction destination is not the own device, the process proceeds to step S404.

In step S404, when it is determined that the print data deletion instruction destination selected in step S403 is not the own device, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 refers to the host name (storage destination) acquired in step S401. Then, a deletion instruction request including the file name 1402 in the journal information of the selected print data is transmitted. When a plurality of print data stored in the same host name (storage destination) are selected in step S401, a deletion instruction request including the file names of all the corresponding print data is transmitted.

In step S405, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the deletion instruction request transmitted by the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 in step S404.

In step S406, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 acquires the bibliographic information file of the corresponding print data as shown in FIG. 14 based on the file name included in the deletion instruction request received in step S405.

In step S407, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 changes the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file for which the deletion instruction request was obtained in step S406 to deleted. That is, it is a process of putting the print data in the deleted state.

In step S408, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 contains print data whose status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted among the file names included in the deletion instruction request received in step S405. If it is determined to exist, the process proceeds to step S406, and the process of steps S406 to S408 is repeated while there is print data whose status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted. If it is determined that there is no print data whose status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted, the process proceeds to step S409.

In step S409, when the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines in step S408 that there is print data in which the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted, the printing data of the multifunction device 300-3 is determined. The deletion instruction result is transmitted to the print program, and the process proceeds to step S416.

In step S410, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 receives the deletion instruction result transmitted by the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 in step S409, and proceeds to step S414.

In step S411, when the deletion instruction destination is determined to be the own device in step S403, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 has the file name 1402 included in the bibliographic information of the print data selected by the user in step S400. Obtain the relevant bibliographic information file from within your device.

In step S412, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 changes the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file for which the deletion instruction request was obtained in step S406 to deleted.

In step S413, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 determines that among the print data selected in S400, there is still print data in the own device whose status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted. If so, the process proceeds to step S411, and the process of steps S411 to S413 is repeated while there is print data in which the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted. If it is determined that there is no print data whose status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been changed to deleted, the process proceeds to step S414.

In step S414, the printing program of the multifunction device 300-3 acquires the deletion instruction destination from which the deletion instruction result was acquired in step S410, and the own device deleted from step S411 to step S413 with the storage destination information acquired in step S401. It is deleted from the list of (excluded from the target of the deletion instruction destination), and the process is returned to step S402. While it is determined in step S402 that there is a deletion instruction destination, steps S403 to S314 are repeatedly executed, and if it is determined that there is no deletion instruction destination, the process proceeds to step S416.

In step S415, when it is determined in step S402 that there is no deletion instruction destination, the print program of the multifunction device 300-3 displays an unselected print data list screen not selected by the user in step S400.

In step S416, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines whether the printable data of the currently logged-in user still exists in the multifunction device 300-1 after transmitting the deletion result in the step S409. .. If it is determined that printable data still exists, the process ends, and if it is determined that the printable data of the currently logged-in user does not exist, the process proceeds to step S417.

In step S417, when it is determined in step S416 that the printable data of the currently logged-in user does not exist, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 displays a list of notified name services as shown in FIG. get.

In step S418, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines whether or not the multifunction device 300-2 of the name service notified as the print data storage destination of the user who has requested the deletion instruction exists. Then, if it is determined that even one notified name service exists, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 proceeds to step S419, and if there is no notified name service, the process proceeds to step S419. If it is determined, it is determined that there is no need to notify the deletion, and the process is terminated.

In step S419, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 is for the name service determined to have the notified name service in step S418 (corresponding to the multifunction device 300-2 in the system configuration diagram of FIG. 1). Send a notification of deletion of name information. The name information deletion notification transmitted here includes the user name of the currently logged-in user, the model name of the own device acquired in advance, and the IP address (host name) of the own device. That is, it is a process of notifying the second image forming apparatus of the deletion notification of the print data.

Further, steps S416 to S419 are processes for notifying the deletion notification when there is no printable print data in the first image forming apparatus.

In step S420, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 receives the deletion notification of the name information transmitted by the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 in step S419. That is, it is a process of receiving a print data deletion notification from the first image forming apparatus.

In step S421, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 confirms (searches) the name information file as shown in FIG. 16A corresponding to the user name and the model name included in the deletion notification of the name information received in step S420. ..

In step S422, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 determines that the storage destination IP address (host name) included in the deletion notification of the name information received in step S420 exists in the name information file confirmed in step S421. If so, the process proceeds to step S423, and if it is determined that the storage destination IP address does not exist, the process proceeds to step S424.

In step S423, when the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 determines in step S422 that the IP address (host name) of the storage destination included in the deletion notification exists, the corresponding IP address (host name) is set to step S421. Delete from the name information file confirmed in. That is, it is a process of deleting the image forming apparatus information of the first image forming apparatus for which the deletion notification has been given according to the deletion notification.

In step S424, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 determines that the IP address of the corresponding storage destination does not exist in step S422, and after deleting the IP address of the storage destination in step S423, the multifunction device 300 Send the deletion result of the name information to the bibliographic information service of -1.

In step S425, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the deletion result of the name information transmitted by the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 in step S424.

In step S426, when the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 determines that the deletion of the name information has been performed correctly based on the deletion result of the name information received in step S425, the process proceeds to step S427. If it is determined that the name information has not been deleted, the process proceeds to step S418.

In step S427, when it is determined in step S426 that the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 has correctly deleted the name information, the notified name from the notified name service list of FIG. 18 acquired in step S417. The service is deleted, and the process proceeds to step S418. In step S418, the process of step S427 is repeatedly executed from step S419 while it is determined that the notified name service still exists, and if it is determined that the notified name service does not exist yet, the process ends. That is, it is a process of deleting the image forming apparatus information of the second image forming apparatus that has been notified of deletion from the transmitted information according to the deletion notification.

Print data exists by appropriately deleting the name information from the name information file stored in the multifunction device of the name service and appropriately deleting it from the notified name service list stored in the multifunction device of the bibliographic information service. If not, unnecessary communication is not performed, so that the communication load can be reduced and printing can be executed from a desired printer.

In the present embodiment, the flow of deleting the name information described in steps S416 to S427 is described between the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 and the name service of the multifunction device 300-2, but the multifunction device 300 is described. Similarly, in the print program of -3, after changing the status 1401 in the journal information file corresponding to the print data held in the own device to deleted, the name information described in steps S416 to S427 is deleted. do.

Further, in the present embodiment, the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file is changed to deleted or the name information is notified to be deleted by the deletion instruction from the user, but after a certain period of time has elapsed from the print data generation time. For print data whose status 1401 in the bibliographic information file has not been deleted by the user's instruction, the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file should be automatically changed to deleted when the retention period has expired. Is also possible. Needless to say, even when the automatic deletion is performed, the flow of deleting the name information described in steps S416 to S426 described in this embodiment is carried out.

Further, in the present embodiment, the status 1401 in the bibliographic information file is only changed to deleted in response to the deletion instruction from the user, but the print data itself whose status 1401 has been deleted is displayed at a fixed time or at regular intervals. Needless to say, it is deleted from the HDD 304.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart in which the image forming apparatus storing the print data in the present embodiment is turned on. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

In step S2301, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives the notification of the power-on from the platform of the multifunction device 300-1 when the power is turned on, and transmits the name status information to the name service of the multifunction device 300-2. The name state information includes the IP address (host name), the basic information (MAC address), and the device state (power on) information of the image forming apparatus.

In step S2302, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 receives the name status information sent in step S2301.

In step S2303, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 is a name status information management table as shown in FIG. 16A corresponding to the IP address (host name) of the print data storage destination included in the name status information received in step S2302. Check (search) with.

In step S2304, in the name service of the multifunction device 300-2, the IP address (host name) of the storage destination included in the name status information received in step S2302 is stored in the name information management table (FIG. 16B) confirmed in step S2303. If it is determined that it exists, the process proceeds to step S2305, and if it is determined that the storage destination IP address does not exist, the process proceeds to step S2308.

In step S2305, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 uses the name status information management table as shown in FIG. 16B based on the IP address (host name) of the print data storage destination confirmed in step S2304. Check the basic information (MAC address) of.

In step S2306, if it is determined that the basic information (MAC address) acquired in step S2302, which is confirmed in step S2305, does not match the registered basic information (MAC address), the process proceeds to step S2308 and the determination is made to match. If so, the process ends.

If it is determined that the information does not match the registered infrastructure information (MAC address), it means that the multifunction device has been replaced.

In step S2307, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 shows the IP address (host name) and the basic information (MAC address) of the image forming apparatus included in the name state information received in step S2302 as shown in FIG. 16B. Register in the name status information management table and set the status effectively. That is, the state information indicating whether the list of print data can be effectively acquired depending on the state of the second image forming apparatus is managed in association with the specific information (IP address of the image forming apparatus or the like).

In step S2308, the name service of the composite machine 300-2 puts the new infrastructure information (MAC address) included in the name state information received in step S2302 into the name state information management table as shown in FIG. 16B. Overwrite the basic information (MAC address) corresponding to the IP address (host name) of, and set the status to valid (exchanged). That is, since the multifunction device has been replaced, the list of print data accumulated after the replacement can be effectively obtained, but the list of the past (before replacement) cannot be obtained (it does not become valid). The state information indicating whether the list of print data can be effectively acquired depending on the state of the second image forming apparatus is managed in association with the specific information (IP address of the image forming apparatus, etc.), and the individual identification information (MAC). When the individual receives the status information indicating that the list of print data can be effectively acquired from a different second image forming apparatus according to the address), the individual replaces the status information and the list of print data can be effectively acquired. This is a process to update the status information indicating that there is a possibility that there is no such information.

In step S2309, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 effectively sets the state corresponding to the IP address (host name) of the image forming apparatus in the name state information management table as shown in FIG. 16B. That is, it means that the bibliographic information can be obtained as usual because the power of the multifunction device is temporarily turned off and the power is turned on. Further, the state information indicating whether the list of print data can be effectively acquired depending on the state of the second image forming apparatus is managed in association with the specific information (IP address of the image forming apparatus or the like).

FIG. 24 is a flowchart in which the image forming apparatus storing the print data in the present embodiment is turned off. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

In step S2401, the bibliographic information service of the multifunction device 300-1 receives a power-off notification from the platform of the multifunction device 300-1 at the time of power-off, and before the actual power supply is stopped, the name status information is transmitted to the multifunction device. Send to the name service of 300-2. The name status information includes the IP address (host name) of the image forming apparatus and the apparatus status (power off) information. The bibliographic information service notifies the platform when it sends to the name service. As a result, the multifunction device 300-1 stops the actual power supply. That is, it is a state information transmission process for transmitting state information indicating that the list of print data cannot be effectively acquired to the second image forming apparatus when the power is turned off.

In step S2402, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 receives the name status information sent in step S2401. That is, it is a state information receiving process for receiving state information indicating that the list of print data cannot be effectively acquired.

In step S2403, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 is a name status information management table as shown in FIG. 16B corresponding to the IP address (host name) of the print data storage destination included in the name status information received in step S2402. Check (search) with.

In step S2404, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 determines that the storage destination IP address (host name) included in the name status information received in step S2402 exists in the name information management table confirmed in step S2403. If so, the process proceeds to step S2405, and if it is determined that the storage destination IP address does not exist, the process ends.

In step S2405, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 invalidates the state corresponding to the IP address (host name) of the image forming apparatus in the name state information management table as shown in FIG. 16B. That is, it is managed as a multifunction device that cannot acquire bibliographic information, and when the user prints, it becomes possible to confirm the multifunction device of the bibliographic information service for which the bibliographic information has not been acquired. That is, the state information indicating whether the list of print data can be effectively acquired depending on the state of the second image forming apparatus is managed in association with the specific information (IP address of the image forming apparatus or the like). The change to this state information is an update process to indicate that the list of print data cannot be effectively acquired.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart of the state periodic update process of the name service function in which the name information and the state information are registered in the present embodiment. Each process will be described with the number of steps.

In step S2501, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 monitors the state reception time of each image forming apparatus in the name state information management table as shown in FIG. 16B.

In step S2502, when the set update interval has elapsed from the state reception time of each image forming apparatus monitored in step S2501 and the current time is reached, the process proceeds to step S2503.

In step S2503, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 effectively updates the state in which the state of each image forming apparatus in the name state information management table as shown in FIG. 16B is valid (replaced). This is because the print data is deleted after a predetermined time elapses, so that the exchanged multifunction device after a certain period of time can be treated as a normal bibliographic information service multifunction device.

In step S2504, when the set deletion interval has elapsed from the state reception time of each image forming apparatus monitored in step S2501 and the current time has been reached, the process proceeds to step S2505.

In step S2505, the name service of the multifunction device 300-2 deletes the state information of each image forming apparatus of the name state information management table as shown in FIG. 16B confirmed in step S2504.

In this embodiment, a printing system using a multifunction device is used, and printing data is specified and printed by the operation unit of the multifunction device. However, a list of print data such as a laser beam printer can be displayed. It may be a printing system including a printer of an operation unit (display unit) that cannot be used.

In this case, when the user logs in to the printer and obtains the name information from the multifunction device of the name service, the print data list (bibliographic information list) is acquired from the multifunction device corresponding to the name information and corresponds to the bibliographic information. Make the print request a multifunction device. Alternatively, if the name information is acquired from the multifunction device of the name service without acquiring the print data list, the print data corresponding to the logged-in user is printed on the multifunction device corresponding to the acquired name information so as to print all at once. Make a request (request to print all the print data of the logged-in user to each multifunction device in which the print data of the logged-in user is stored).

Further, although the description has been made on the premise of a multifunction device, it can be realized if the printer can store print data instead of the multifunction device.

Further, as described above, in the description of the present embodiment, the multifunction device 300-1, the multifunction device 300-2, the multifunction device 300-3 and the multifunction device have been described separately, but the multifunction device 300-2 and the multifunction device 300- 1 may have the function of the multifunction device 300-3, and the multifunction device 300-1 may have the function of the multifunction device 300-2 and the function of the multifunction device 300-3. .. Further, the multifunction device 300-3 may have the functions of the multifunction device 300-1 and the functions of the multifunction device 300-2.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the print data that causes an error is printed. In particular, when a large size print data is received, an error occurs because it cannot be saved in the printing device, and even if printing is performed again from the client terminal, an error occurs again and printing cannot be executed. ..

As another effect, it becomes possible to appropriately manage the identification information of the image forming apparatus in which the print data is stored so that the desired print data can be printed.

Further, since the list of unnecessary print data is not acquired, the communication load is further reduced, and the user can be notified of the image forming apparatus which may not be able to effectively acquire the list of print data. It is possible to reduce unnecessary operations due to the image forming apparatus logged in by the printing user being confused, and it is possible to improve the convenience of the image forming apparatus.

Further, in consideration of the communication load, the print data is stored in the multifunction device (image forming device) without arranging the server for storing the print data, and the print data stored in each multifunction device (image forming device) is stored. Can be printed from a desired image forming apparatus.

In addition, even if the user prints print data on a specific multifunction device, the data can be stored on the HDD of the multifunction device, so it is necessary to install an external server like a conventional pull print system. It will be easier to operate.

It should be noted that the structure and contents of the various data described above are not limited to this, and it goes without saying that the structure and contents are various depending on the intended use and purpose.

Although one embodiment has been described above, the present invention can be, for example, an embodiment as a system, an apparatus, a method, a program, a recording medium, or the like, and specifically, is composed of a plurality of devices. It may be applied to a system or a device consisting of one device. Further, the multifunction device may be a single-function printer, or may be an output control device (system) in which the computer is connected to the printer or the multifunction device.

Further, the program in the present invention is a program in which a computer can execute the processing methods of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 11, 20, 8, 23, 24, and 25, and the storage medium of the present invention is. A program that allows a computer to execute the processing methods of FIGS. 5 to 11, 8, 23, 24, and 25 is stored. The program in the present invention may be a program for each processing method of each of the devices of FIGS. 5 to 11, FIG. 20, FIG. 8, FIG. 23, FIG. 24, and FIG. 25.

As described above, a recording medium recording a program that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment is supplied to the system or device, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or device stores the program in the recording medium. Needless to say, the object of the present invention is achieved by reading and executing.

In this case, the program itself read from the recording medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the recording medium storing the program constitutes the present invention.

Recording media for supplying programs include, for example, flexible disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, DVD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, ROMs, EEPROMs, and silicon. A disk, solid state drive, etc. can be used.

Further, by executing the program read by the computer, not only the function of the above-described embodiment is realized, but also the OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer is actually realized based on the instruction of the program. Needless to say, there are cases where a part or all of the processing is performed and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment.

Further, after the program read from the recording medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted in the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion board is based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that there are cases where the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion unit performs a part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or a device composed of one device. It goes without saying that the present invention can also be applied when it is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading the recording medium containing the program for achieving the present invention into the system or device, the system or device can enjoy the effect of the present invention.

Further, by downloading and reading a program for achieving the present invention from a server, database, or the like on the network by a communication program, the system or device can enjoy the effect of the present invention.

It should be noted that the present invention also includes all the configurations in which each of the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof are combined.

200 client PC
300-1 Multifunction device (bibliographic information service)
300-2 Multifunction device (name service)
300-3 Multifunction device (printing program)
600 LAN
4001 Management unit 4002 Output unit 4003 Reception unit 4004 Determination unit 4005 Setting unit 4006 Judgment unit

Claims (6)

Receiving means for receiving print data and
A determination means for determining whether the print data received by the receiving means satisfies a predetermined condition, and a determination means.
A storage means for storing print data determined by the determination means to satisfy a predetermined condition, and a storage means.
An output means for outputting print data stored in the storage means, and an output means .
When the printing data determined by the determination means to not satisfy the predetermined condition is received by the receiving means.
When the bibliographic information of the received print data is not stored in the storage means as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the print data is not stored in the storage means and the printing is performed. The data is not output by the output means, and the bibliographic information of the print data is controlled to be stored as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition.
When the bibliographic information of the received print data is stored in the storage means as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the print data is output without being stored in the storage means. With control means to control
An output control device characterized by having . The storage means further
When the determination means determines that the print data satisfies a predetermined condition, it is characterized in that the bibliographic information of the print data is stored as the bibliographic information of the print data stored in the storage means. The output control device according to claim 1. A selection receiving means that accepts a choice as to whether or not to output the print data without storing it in the storage means, and
The printing data determined by the determination means not to satisfy the predetermined condition is received by the receiving means, and the bibliographic information of the received print data is stored as the bibliographic information of the print data not satisfying the predetermined condition. When the print data is stored in the means and the selection receiving means accepts the selection to output without storing in the storage means , the print data is not stored in the storage means. The output control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output is controlled to be output. The output control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the predetermined condition is a condition based on the data size of the print data. The receiving step to receive the print data and
A determination step for determining whether the print data received in the reception step satisfies a predetermined condition, and a determination step.
A storage step for storing print data determined to satisfy a predetermined condition in the determination step, and a storage step.
An output step that outputs the print data stored in the storage step, and
When the print data determined not to satisfy the predetermined condition by the determination step is received by the reception step,
If the bibliographic information of the received print data is not stored in the storage means as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the print data is not stored in the storage step, and the print data is not stored. Is not output in the output step, and the bibliographic information of the print data is controlled to be stored as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition.
When the bibliographic information of the received print data is stored in the storage means as the bibliographic information of the print data that does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the print data is output without being stored in the storage step. With control steps to control
A control method of an output control device, characterized in that it has. A program for making a computer function as each means of the output control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 .

Images