RU2575407C2 - Imaging device having secure printing function, method of controlling said device and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: physics, computer engineering.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a system, a method and a computer-readable data medium for imaging. The device includes a logic input unit configured to allow a user to perform logic input into an imaging device, a determining unit configured to determine, when the imaging device is operating function-oriented authentication mode, whether a function selected by a user from a plurality of functions requires user authentication, wherein the plurality of functions includes a secure printing function intended for printing data in response to a password input, and a permission unit configured to, when the secure printing function is determined as the user-selected function and the determining unit determines that the user-selected function does not require user authentication, allow the user to use the secure printing function, even if the user is not authenticated.

EFFECT: enabling control of the need for user authentication.

10 cl, 25 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus endowed with a confidential printing function, a method for controlling such an apparatus, and a storage medium.

Description of the Related Art

[0002] A system is widely known in which print data transmitted from an external device such as a personal computer (PC) is backed up in an image forming apparatus, and the reserved print data is printed out in accordance with user actions performed on the control panel of the image forming apparatus . Typically, this printing is called redundant printing.

[0003] In the process of such redundant printing, the reserved print data can be printed after the user enters a password or authenticates the user on the operational screen image of the image forming apparatus.

[0004] Such redundant printing is very effective at printing, which the user does not want to show to others when the image forming apparatus is a shared printer connected to the network.

[0005] As an example of traditional redundant printing technology, a method has been proposed in which a print job to which a password is added is transferred from a personal computer PC to an image forming apparatus, and printing is performed after entering a password similar to the one added to the print job, from the control panel of the image forming apparatus (published Japanese patent application No. 2000-76028).

[0006] Although printing using a reservation printing method is sometimes called confidential printing, secret printing, private printing, authentication printing, etc., in the present invention, such printing is expressed as a confidential print job.

[0007] In particular, as a rule, a confidential print job is a job that is executed so that printing starts after the user enters the correct password from the console section of the image forming apparatus, while the confidentiality of the print job is ensured by imposing password restrictions to print. However, in this case, restrictions on the print password cannot be imposed on a regular print job, which is not a confidential print job.

[0008] In addition, as another way to ensure the confidentiality of the print job, a method for controlling access to the print job by administering print jobs in conjunction with user information of those users administered by the image forming apparatus has been proposed.

[0009] In this method, before transferring a print job from an external device, the user adds a registration name to the print job. Then, by the user entering the registration name and password into the image forming apparatus or by holding the IC card by the user on the card reader of the image forming apparatus, user authentication is performed.

[0010] Then, the image forming apparatus extracts from all print jobs those jobs that have a registration name added to them that corresponds to a registration name authenticated by the image forming apparatus and allows the user to perform actions exclusively with the highlighted print jobs.

[0011] According to this method, it is possible to prevent unauthorized processing of a print job, including not only a confidential print job, but also a regular print job by other users, thereby making it possible to ensure the confidentiality of all print jobs .

[0012] In addition, some imaging devices that perform user authentication are also provided with an authentication function for users who are not managed by the imaging device as guest users. Such a function is provided for users who wish to temporarily use an image forming apparatus.

[0013] For example, in the case where the image forming apparatus is endowed with a plurality of functions, such as a copy function, a scan function, and a print function, this function provides the possibility of temporarily allowing a person who is an outsider (guest) to use the copy function to copy a document as a guest user.

[0014] In the case where the user authenticates as a guest user, the image forming apparatus cannot identify the user, as a result of which it limits the processing of the print job in terms of preventing information leakage. That is, as a rule, the image forming apparatus does not allow the guest user to process the print job.

[0015] In particular, in the process of controlling access to a print job, in accordance with user authentication by the image forming apparatus, the above-described conventional technology has the following problem:

[0016] Among the imaging devices that provide many functions, such as the copy function, the scan function, and the print function, there is a device that is endowed with the function of activating and deactivating the need for user authentication on a functional basis.

[0017] Examples of the aforementioned function include a function-oriented authentication function that configures a plurality of functions, for example, so that the copy function is allowed to be used without user authentication, while the scan function would actually require user authentication.

[0018] A function-oriented authentication function is provided to save the time and labor of a user, usually administered by the image forming apparatus, to perform an authentication operation when the user uses a specific function of the image forming apparatus, which from the point of view of administration does not actually require user authentication . That is, the purpose of the function-oriented authentication function is different from the case where the aforementioned guest user uses an image forming apparatus.

[0019] Although the goal is excellent, also when the user authentication is not performed while using the function oriented authentication function, the image forming apparatus cannot identify the user like the above case with the guest user.

[0020] On the other hand, from the point of view of confidentiality, the print job requires performing access control on a user basis, which requires user identification.

[0021] Based on the foregoing, this is necessary in order for user authentication to become an integral part of the print job processing function, as a result of which there is no possibility of protecting the user from having to perform an authentication operation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present invention provides an image forming apparatus with a function of flexibly managing a need for user authentication when a user performs actions related to various functions of an image forming apparatus, a method for controlling such a device, and a storage medium.

[0023] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising a logical input unit configured to enable a user to obtain a logical input to an image forming apparatus, a determination unit configured to determine in case the image forming apparatus operates in a function-oriented mode authentication, whether the function selected by the user from the set of functions requires user authentication, many functions include at least a confidential printing function for printing data in response to a password and a permission unit configured to provide when the confidential printing function is set as a user-selected function and it is determined by the determination unit that user-selected function does not require user authentication, the user the ability to use the confidential printing function, even if the user is not an authentication cited.

[0024] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising the steps of enabling a user to log in to the image forming apparatus, determining if the image forming apparatus is in a function-oriented authentication mode, does the function selected by the user require of many functions, user authentication, and many functions include at least a conf identity printing, designed to print data in response to a password, and provide, in the case when the confidential printing function is determined as a function selected by the user and by the said determination step it is determined that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication, the user can use the confidential printing function even if the user is not authenticated.

[0025] In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a non-volatile machine-readable storage medium storing a machine-executable program for executing a method for controlling an image forming apparatus, the method comprising the steps of enabling a user to log in to the image forming apparatus, determining when the device imaging works in function-oriented authentication mode, does the function require wound by a user from a plurality of functions, user authentication, the plurality of functions including at least a confidential printing function for printing data in response to a password and providing, in case the confidential printing function is determined as a function selected by the user and by the determination stage determines that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication, the user the ability to use the privacy function noy printing, even if the user is not authenticated.

[0026] In accordance with the present invention, it becomes possible to provide an image forming apparatus with a function of flexibly controlling a need for performing user authentication when a user performs actions related to various functions of the image forming apparatus, a method of controlling such a device, and a storage medium.

[0027] In addition, the features of the present invention will become apparent after studying the following description of illustrative embodiments presented with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] FIG. 1 is a schematic graphical representation of an image forming system including an image forming apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIGS. 2A and 2B are graphical representations, each of which is an example of a screen image of the settings displayed on the display section of the personal computer PC illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of a flowchart of a print job transmitted by a central processing unit CPU illustrated in FIG.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a graphical representation of a flowchart of a print job received by a central processing unit CPU of an image forming apparatus.

[0032] FIGS. 5A and 5B are graphical representations illustrating examples of a screen for receiving the logical input details displayed on the console section illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a graphical view illustrating an example of an initial screen image displayed on a console section.

[0034] FIGS. 7A-7C are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed on the console section.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an access control process performed by a central processing unit CPU.

[0036] FIGS. 9A and 9B are graphical representations of algorithms of modified versions of the access control process illustrated in FIG.

[0037] FIGS. 10A and 10B are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed as a result of the process illustrated in FIG. 9B.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a graphical view illustrating an example of an initial screen image displayed on a console section of an image forming apparatus in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIGS. 12A-12C are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed on the console section.

[0040] FIG. 13 is a graphical representation of a display control process algorithm performed by a central processing unit CPU of an image forming apparatus.

[0041] FIGS. 14A-14C are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of a job history log displayed on a console section.

[0042] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a possible embodiment of a display control process illustrated in FIG. 13.

Description of Embodiments

[0043] Next, with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments, the present invention will be described in detail.

[0044] FIG. 1 is a schematic graphical representation of an image forming system 1 including an image forming apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 comprises an image forming device indicated by 1000, and a personal computer 21 PCs that are connected to each other via the network 101.

[0046] The control unit 200 of the image forming apparatus 1000 is connected to a scanner section 201, which is an image input device, a printer section 202 configured to print the image on a blank recording sheet, a network 101, and a public communication line 204, thereby inputting and output of graphic data and device information.

[0047] Furthermore, the control unit 200 includes a CPU 205, RAM 206, ROM 207, HDD 208, console section interface 209, network interface 211, modem 212, SRAM 213, and true pulse generator 214 RTC time, each of which is connected to the system bus 215.

[0048] The CPU 205 is a processor that controls the entire operation of the image forming apparatus 1000. RAM 206 is a system random access memory that is used to operate the central processing unit 205 CPU and functions as a memory for temporarily storing graphic data, user information, passwords, etc.

[0049] The ROM memory 207 is a boot ROM memory in which a boot program for the image forming apparatus 1000 is stored. Hard disk 208 HDD is a hard disk drive and saves system software, applications, graphics, etc. Hard disk 208 HDD also stores programs designed to perform the processes that will be described later in this document.

[0050] The console section interface 209 provides an interface to the console section 210 having a touch panel and outputs graphic data to be displayed on the console section 210 to the console section 210. In addition, the console section interface 209 transmits to the CPU 205 information that is input by the user from the console section 210 to the image forming apparatus 1000.

[0051] The network interface 211 is connected to a network 101 for inputting and outputting information to external devices. The modem 212 is connected to the public communication line 204 for inputting and outputting information to external devices. SRAM 213 is a volatile memory device that can operate at high speed. However, in the present embodiment, the SRAM 213 is configured with an equivalent non-volatile memory using a backup power source.

[0052] The RTC generator 214 is a true time pulse generator and continues to count the current time even in a state where the control unit 200 is turned off.

[0053] The control unit 200 also includes a RIP section 218, a device interface 219, a scanner graphics processor 220, a printer graphics processor 221, an encryption processor 222, and a decryption processor 223 that are connected to each other via the graphics bus 217. The graphics bus 217 and the system bus 215 are connected via a graphics bus interface 216, which is a bus bridge that transforms a data structure. Graphics bus 217 is a PCI bus.

[0054] RIP section 218 is a raster image processor that converts the PDL code to a raster image. An interface 219 connects the control unit 200 to the scanner section 201 and the printer section 202 to perform synchronously-asynchronous or asynchronously-synchronous conversion of graphic data.

[0055] The scanner graphics processor 220 performs correction, manipulation, and editing of graphic data input from the scanner section 201. The graphics processor 221 of the printer performs correction, conversion with a change in resolution, etc. graphic data that is intended for printing. An encryption processor 222 performs an encryption process on input data including graphic data. Decryption processor 223 performs the process of decrypting encrypted data.

[0056] At the same time, the personal computer 21 PC includes a central processing unit 20 CPU, a printer driver 22, an operation section 23 of the personal computer PC, a display section 24 of the personal computer PC, and a communication section 25 of the personal computer PC. The central processing unit 20 of the CPU controls the entire operation of the personal computer 21 PC. The printer driver 22 is a driver for controlling the image forming apparatus 1000. The operation section 23 of the personal computer PC contains a keyboard, mouse, etc. The personal computer display section 24 is a display device for displaying information to a user. The PC personal computer communication section 25 is a NIC controller (network interface controller) for connecting to a network 101.

[0057] When using the above configuration, the image forming apparatus 1000 performs a print job to print the image on a blank sheet for recording, and the user can perform actions associated with the print job. In addition, the print job is executed in accordance with a command from the personal computer 21 PC, wherein the expression “send the print job” means “transmit print data from the personal computer 21 PC to prompt the image forming apparatus 1000 to complete the print job”.

[0058] Next, transmission of the print job from the personal computer 21 PC will be described. When sending a print job, the user configures the settings on the operating section 23 of the personal computer PC.

[0059] FIGS. 2A and 2B are graphical representations, each of which is an example of a screen image of the settings displayed on the display section 24 of the personal computer PC illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0060] FIG. 2A is a screen image of printer driver settings, and FIG. 2B is a screen image of confidential printing settings.

[0061] A confidential print job can be configured on these settings screens. A confidential print job is a job that provides the user with the ability to perform actions related to the print job, including the action to start printing, provided that the user has been authenticated as the owner of the job by entering the correct password from the console section 210 of the generating device 1000 Images. Configuring a job for confidential printing is performed in such a way as to maintain the confidentiality of the print job by limiting the printing process with a password. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1000 has a confidential printing function that enables the user, in the case when the user intends to perform actions associated with the print job, to print the image on a blank sheet for recording, to perform actions associated with the print job, provided that the user has been authenticated as the owner of the print job.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 2A, on the screen image of the printer driver settings indicated by reference numeral 301, it is possible to set print settings including the need to use confidential printing, the sheet size, the number of copies, and the need to include a stamp . To activate the settings for confidential printing, the user ticks the box 302 of the checkbox for using confidential printing 302 and clicks OK 303. To terminate the configuration steps, the user presses the cancel button 304.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 2B, the confidential print settings screen indicated by 321 displays a login name input form 322 and a password input form 323. It should be noted that the user information of the personal computer 21 PC used by the user can be set as default data in the login name input form 322. In addition, the printer driver 22 can set default data in the form 323 password entry. To complete the settings on the screen image of the settings for confidential printing, the user presses the 324 OK button. To terminate the configuration, the user presses the cancel button 325.

[0064] The personal computer 21 PC sends a print job in accordance with the settings specified in the above-described screen images of the settings.

[0065] FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of a flowchart of a print job transmitted by a central processing unit 20 of a CPU illustrated in FIG.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 3, the operation section 23 of the personal computer PC receives a command from the user to display a screen image of the settings of the printer driver and displays the screen image 301 of the settings of the printer driver on the display section 24 of the personal computer PC (step S201).

[0067] Then, the operation section 23 of the personal computer PC obtains print job settings presented on the screen image 301 of the printer driver settings that were set by user actions (step S202), and configures the settings associated with the print job to Based on the received settings.

[0068] After this, the printer driver 22 obtains the settings of the confidential printing use check box 302 (step S203).

[0069] Subsequently, the printer driver 22 determines whether the settings for confidential printing have been activated based on the received settings of the confidential printing use flag window 302 (step S204).

[0070] If it was determined in step S204 that the confidential print settings were not activated (negative result of the determination in step S204), the printer driver 22 sends the print job as a normal print job, which is not a confidential job printing to the image forming apparatus 1000 (step S208), after which the process ends.

[0071] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S204 that the confidential printing settings were activated (positive determination made in step S204), the printer driver 22 displays a confidential print settings screen 321 on the personal computer display section 24 PC and prompts the user to enter the settings for the confidential print job (step S205).

[0072] The printer driver 22 obtains the settings for the confidential print job entered by the user on the screen 321 of the settings for the confidential print (step S206).

[0073] Then, the printer driver 22 generates a confidential print job by adding a login name and password to the image data (step S207). After that, the printer driver 22 sends the print job as a confidential print job to the image forming apparatus 1000 (step S208), after which this process ends.

[0074] Although the registration name is used in step S207, not only the registration name can be added to the information, but also other identification information, such as the domain name of the personal computer 21 PC used by the user.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a graphical representation of a process for receiving a print job performed by a central processor 205 of a CPU of the image forming apparatus 1000 illustrated in FIG.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 205 receives a print job sent from the personal computer PC 21 (step S401), stores the received print job on the HDD 208, and determines whether the received print job is a job for confidential printing (step S402).

[0077] If it was determined in step S402 that the received print job was not a confidential print job (negative result of the determination made in step S402), then the central processing unit 205 of the CPU performs the received print job (step S404), after which the process ends.

[0078] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S402 that the received print job was a confidential print job (a positive result of the determination made in step S402), the CPU 205 reserves the print job (step S403), after bringing this process to an end. “Reserve a print job” in other words means “pause a print job.”

[0079] Next, a description will be given of a user interface displayed on the console section 210 in an access control process for controlling actions to start an image forming apparatus 1000 prompting a confidential print job, etc.

[0080] FIGS. 5A and 5B are graphical views illustrating examples of a logical input requisite reception screen displayed on the console section 210 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0081] FIG. 5A depicts a screen for receiving logical login details, which is indicated by reference numeral 6001 and displayed when a guest logical input is provided. At the same time, FIG. 5B depicts a screen for receiving logical input details, which is indicated by reference numeral 11001 and displayed when a guest logical input is not provided.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the registration name input field 6002 is a field for inputting a personal user registration name. The password entry field 6003 is a field for entering a user password.

[0083] The logical input confirmation button 6004 is used to prompt the image forming apparatus 1000 to authenticate to log in to the image forming apparatus 1000 after the user enters a login name and password. After clicking on this button, the user authentication process is performed.

[0084] In addition, the guest logon confirmation button 6005, which is illustrated in FIG. 5A, is used by a user that is not administered by the image forming apparatus 1000 to obtain a logical input to the image forming apparatus 1000 as a guest user (or unknown user). Unlike a guest user, a user administered by the image forming apparatus 1000 is sometimes referred to in this description as the primary user. Therefore, users of the image forming apparatus 1000 include key users whose registration names are administered by the image forming apparatus 1000, and guest users whose registration names are not managed by the image forming apparatus 1000.

[0085] Furthermore, unlike the logical input account reception screen 6001, the guest logical input confirmation button 6005 is not displayed on the logical input account reception screen 11001 shown in FIG. 5B.

[0086] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation illustrating an example of an initial screen image displayed on the console section 210 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 6, an initial screen image denoted by reference numeral 7001 is used by a user to perform various functions that are provided to the image forming apparatus 1000, such as a copy function, a scan and transmit function, a scan and save function, the function of using the stored file, the function of confidential printing and the function of the output tray. The confidential print button 7002 in the initial screen image 7001 is for processing a confidential print job.

[0088] FIGS. 7A-7C are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed on the console section 210 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, the job list 8002 on the screen image of the confidential printing processing, denoted by reference numeral 8001, is an area for displaying the list of confidential print jobs. Window 8005 checkbox selection task is designed to select a job for confidential printing.

[0090] The print button 8003 is used to start printing the selected confidential print job. Cancel button 8004 is used to cancel printing of the selected confidential print job.

[0091] The user can select the confidential print job that is to be processed by ticking the box 8005 of the job select flag, and can also cause the image forming apparatus 1000 to start or cancel printing by pressing the print button 8003 or the cancel button 8004, respectively .

[0092] Fig. 7A depicts an example of a screen image of confidential printing processing in which some job names are hidden behind asterisks.

[0093] FIG. 7A displays job names regarding confidential print jobs having the registration name “User 1”.

[0094] At the same time, job names regarding confidential print jobs having registration names “User 2” and “User 3” that are different from the name “User 1” are hidden behind asterisks.

[0095] Furthermore, if the user selects a job having the registration name “User 2” or “User 3” by placing a checkmark in the check box 8005 of the job selection flag on the confidential print processing screen image 8001 shown in FIG. 7A, then the print button 8003 and the cancel button 8004 becomes unavailable, as a result of which the user is deprived of the ability to perform print and cancel actions.

[0096] FIG. 7B shows an example of a screen image of confidential printing processing in which all job names are hidden behind asterisks.

[0097] Even if the user selects any of the jobs by checking the box 8005 of the job selection flag on the confidential print processing screen 8001 shown in FIG. 7B, the print button 8003 and the cancel button 8004 become unavailable, as a result of which the user is no longer able to execute print and cancel actions.

[0098] Furthermore, in FIG. 7A, when the user presses the print button 8003 or the cancel button 8004, a password input screen (not shown) for a confidential print job is displayed.

[0099] The user enters the password added to the print job on the password input screen for subsequently completing the job processing. However, if the entered password does not match the password added to the print job, then the specified job is not processed.

[0100] FIG. 7C depicts an example of a screen image of confidential printing processing on which none of the job names are hidden.

[0101] Even if the user selects any of the jobs by checking the box 8005 of the job selection flag on the confidential print processing screen 8001 shown in FIG. 7C, the print button 8003 and the cancel button 8004 remain available, so that the user is allowed to execute print and cancel actions.

[0102] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an access control process performed by a central processing unit 205 of a CPU illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0103] The access control process depicted in FIG. 8 is performed upon the start of operation of the image forming apparatus 1000. In addition, the operational mode during which the access control process is performed includes a logical input mode and a function-oriented authentication mode.

[0104] The logical input mode is a mode in which the image forming apparatus 1000 always authenticates the user before allowing the user to use the image forming apparatus 1000. In addition, in the logical input mode, the image forming apparatus 1000 has a user authentication function that is not administered by the image forming apparatus 1000 as a guest user.

[0105] At the same time, the function-oriented authentication mode is an operational mode in which the need for user authentication can be determined for each of the various functions that the image forming apparatus 1000 is endowed with before the user starts using the image forming apparatus 1000. Various functions include a copy function, a print job processing function, a scan and transfer function for scanning and transmitting an image, and a detailed information display function for displaying detailed information about the history of completed print jobs.

[0106] For example, in the function-oriented authentication mode, you can set the copy function as a function that does not require user authentication and is available for use by any user without performing user authentication, and you can also set the print job processing function as a function, which requires user authentication and is available for use only when the user is authenticated.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 205 determines whether the operating mode is a function-oriented authentication mode (step S501). If it was determined in step S501 that the operating mode is not a function-oriented authentication mode, but is a logical input mode (negative result of the determination performed in step S501), the central processing unit 205 performs a startup process in the logical input mode (step S502) .

[0108] After completion of the startup process in the logical input mode, the CPU 205 displays on the console section 210 a screen 6001 for receiving the logical input details described with reference to Fig. 5A (step S503). At this stage, the user logs in after entering the registration name and password on the screen 6001 for receiving the details of the logical input or logs in as a guest user.

[0109] If the authentication of the logical input was unsuccessful (negative determination made in step S504), the CPU 205 returns to step S503, and if the authentication of the logical input has been completed successfully, which allows the user to log in (positive result determination made in step S504), the central processing unit 205 of the CPU displays on the console section 210 an initial screen image 7001 described with reference to FIG. 6 (step S505).

[0110] Subsequently, if the user presses the confidential print button 7002 for processing the confidential print job on the initial screen image 7001 (a positive determination made in step S506), the central processing unit 205 of the CPU displays a screen image 8001 on the console section 210 confidential printing processing described with reference to FIG. 7A or 7B (step S507).

[0111] Otherwise, if the confidential print button 7002 was not pressed in step S506 (a negative determination was made in step S506), the CPU Central Processing Unit 205 determines whether any other button has been pressed (step S506A). If no button was pressed (negative determination made in step S506A), then the CPU 205 returns to step S506, and if another button was pressed (positive determination made in step S506A), the CPU 205 provides the user is able to perform processing of the function corresponding to the pressed button (step S506B).

[0112] If the screen image of the confidential printing processing is displayed in step S507, the CPU 205 determines whether the currently logged in user is a guest user (step S508). If it was determined in step S508 that the currently logged in user is the main user (negative determination made in step S508), then the CPU 205 provides the currently logged in user with the ability to perform only those actions which are associated with the confidential print job of which it is the owner (step S509), after which this process ends. As described above, in the present embodiment, in the case of authenticating the user as the primary user, the user is given the opportunity to perform actions related to the confidential print job of the primary user, and in the case of authenticating the user as the guest user, as will be described herein below, the user is prohibited from performing any actions related to all confidential print jobs.

[0113] In this process, depending on whether the registration name of the currently logged in user matches the registration name added to the confidential print job, control is performed to change the way the list of jobs is displayed and determine the need to provide the user who received access at the moment, the ability to perform actions related to the job for confidential printing.

[0114] That is, if the currently logged in user has the registration name “User 1”, then the screen image 8001 of the confidential printing processing shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the console section 210.

[0115] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S508 that the currently logged in user is a guest user (a positive result of the determination made in step S508), then the CPU 205 forbids the user to process any confidential print jobs (step S510), after which the process ends. At this point, a screen image 8001 of the confidential printing processing shown in FIG. 7B is displayed on the console section 210.

[0116] If it was determined in step S501 that the operation mode is a function-oriented authentication mode (positive result of the determination made in step S501), the central processing unit 205 performs a start-up process in a function-oriented authentication mode (step S511).

[0117] After completion of the start-up process in the function-oriented authentication mode, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU displays on the console section 210 an initial screen image 7001 described with reference to FIG. 6 (step S512).

[0118] Subsequently, if the user presses the confidential print button 7002 for processing the confidential print job in the initial screen image 7001 (a positive determination made in step S513), the central processing unit 205 determines whether the confidential print processing function was is set available for use without user authentication in a function-oriented authentication mode (step S514). “Confidential Print Processing Function” means a function for providing actions related to a confidential print job, such as an action for printing a confidential print job and an action for canceling a confidential print job.

[0119] If it was determined in step S514 that the confidential print processing function was set without the need for user authentication (a positive determination made in step S514), the CPU 205 displays on the console section 210 a screen image 8001 of the confidential printing processing described with reference to FIG. 7C (step S515).

[0120] Then, the CPU 205 allows the user to process all confidential print jobs (step S516), after which this process ends.

[0121] In FIG. 7C, none of the “job names” of all confidential print jobs is hidden, so that the user is given the opportunity to perform actions to print and cancel all jobs. However, since a password has been added to each confidential print job, until the user enters the correct password, none of the print and cancel actions will actually be completed.

[0122] Based on the foregoing, a user who does not know the password cannot perform any actions, thereby reducing the level of confidentiality (protection).

[0123] In addition, as regards actions associated with conventional print jobs other than confidential print jobs, access control is performed in such a way that the current user who is currently granted access is only allowed to perform actions that associated with a print job that he owns. It is therefore possible to maintain confidentiality.

[0124] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S514 that the confidential printing processing function was not set to be available for use without user authentication (negative result of the determination performed in step S514), the CPU 205 displays a screen on the console section 210 11001 receiving logic input details described with reference to FIG. 5B (step S517). At this stage, the user gains access by entering the registration name and password on the screen 6001 receiving the details of the logical input.

[0125] In addition, on the screen 11001 receiving the details of the logical input button confirmation of the guest logical input is not displayed. The reason is that the image forming apparatus 1000 does not provide a logical input function for use by a guest user in a function-oriented authentication mode.

[0126] If the authentication of the logical input was unsuccessful (negative determination made in step S518), the CPU 205 returns to step S517, and if the authentication of the logical input has been completed successfully, which allows the user to obtain a logical input to the device 1000 forming the image (the result of the determination performed in step S518), the CPU 205 displays on the console section 210 a screen image 8001 of confidential printing processing, op described with reference to FIG. 7A (step S519).

[0127] Then, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU allows the user who is currently accessing to perform only those actions that are associated with the confidential print job of which he is the owner (step S520), after which this process ends.

[0128] In accordance with the access control process shown in FIG. 8, even when access control is performed to provide a user who accesses in accordance with user authentication, only those actions that are associated with the user's print job can be performed. currently accessed when the confidential print processing function is set without the need for user authentication in a function-oriented authentication mode, control in satisfied for enabling the user to handle the job on a confidential printing.

[0129] Based on the foregoing, when the user processes the confidential print job, the user is given the opportunity to perform the processing of the confidential print job without performing access steps, which improves usability.

[0130] At the same time, with respect to a conventional print job, which is not limited by a password, access control is performed so that a user who is granted access in accordance with user authentication is allowed to perform actions related only to that job on a seal that it owns, thereby maintaining confidentiality.

[0131] Furthermore, as shown in step S514, in accordance with the present embodiment, it is possible to flexibly control the need for authentication when the user performs actions related to various functions that the image forming apparatus is endowed with in accordance with the settings, indicating whether each function is available for use without authentication.

[0132] In addition, as shown in steps S514-S520, in the present embodiment, if it is determined that authentication tasks are required to perform actions related to the confidential print job, it is possible to perform actions related to the confidential print job printing of the primary user, while it is forbidden to perform actions associated with the task of confidential printing of the guest user.

[0133] FIGS. 9A and 9B are graphical representations of algorithms of modified versions of the access control process illustrated in FIG.

[0134] In the modified embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, the access control process shown in FIG. 8 predetermines that settings for activating and deactivating a need to enable a user to process confidential print jobs are also set for the user, which accesses as a guest user.

[0135] The modified embodiment of FIG. 9A of the access control process of FIG. 8 is different from the access control process of FIG. 8 after affirmatively answering the question asked in step S508, and therefore FIG. .9A shows only the different steps that follow after step S508.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 205 determines whether the settings for confidential print jobs are such that confidential print jobs can also be processed by the guest user (step S1201).

[0137] If it was determined in step S1201 that the settings for the confidential print jobs are such that the confidential print jobs can also be processed by the guest user (a positive result of the determination made in step S1201), the CPU 205 provides the user the ability to perform processing only tasks for confidential printing of the guest user (step S1202), after which this process ends. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the case of authenticating the user as the primary user, the user is given the opportunity to perform actions related to the confidential print job of the primary user, and in the case of authenticating the user as the guest user, the user is given the opportunity to perform actions related to the tasks for confidential printing only if the settings for confidential print jobs are I am one in which confidential print jobs can also be processed through a guest user.

[0138] This causes the screen image of the confidential printing processing described in FIG. 7C to be displayed on the console section 210, so that the guest user is also given the opportunity to perform actions related to the confidential printing task.

[0139] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1201 that the settings for the confidential print jobs are not such that the confidential print jobs can also be processed by the guest user (negative determination made in step S1201), then the central processing unit 205 CPU prohibits the user from processing any confidential print jobs (step S1203), after which this process ends.

[0140] This causes a screen image of the confidential printing processing described in relation to FIG. 7B to be displayed on the console section 210, whereby the user is prohibited from processing any confidential printing jobs.

[0141] According to the modified embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, the access control process shown in FIG. 8 is provided with the ability to set settings that allow even a guest user to process confidential print jobs.

[0142] Next, a modified embodiment of FIG. 9B of the access control process of FIG. 8 will be described. In the modified version shown in FIG. 9B of the access control process shown in FIG. 8, confidential printing jobs for which processing is allowed are activated and deactivated depending on what the operating mode is, namely, the logical input mode or feature-oriented authentication mode.

[0143] Confidential printing jobs for which processing is allowed are activated and deactivated depending on what the operating mode is, namely, a logical login mode or a function-oriented authentication mode, due to the expectation of various use cases that differ in purpose use as a prerequisite, that is, an option in which the guest user uses the confidential print function in the logical input mode, and an option in which the user Tel uses a secure printing function without user authentication function-oriented authentication mode.

[0144] For example, it is generally assumed that the guest user in the logon mode is not a user who uses the image forming apparatus 1000 daily, but is a user who temporarily uses him as a guest.

[0145] On the other hand, it is generally assumed that a function intended to enable a user to use an image forming apparatus 1000 without user authentication in a function-oriented authentication mode is used by a user who wishes to use the image forming apparatus 1000 in an easy and abbreviated manner daily without authentication.

[0146] The modified version of FIG. 9B of the access control process of FIG. 8 is different from the access control process of FIG. 8 after affirmatively answering the question asked in step S508, S516 and subsequent steps, and therefore, FIG. 9B depicts only different steps. This modified version is similar to that shown in FIG. 9A in terms of processing during which the central processing unit 205 proceeds from step S508 to step S1201, and if the answer to the question asked in step S1201 is negative, then the central processing unit 205 proceeds to step S1203, and therefore, the description begins after an affirmative answer to the question asked in step S1201.

[0147] In the modified embodiment shown in FIG. 9B of the access control process shown in FIG. 8, for each of the confidential print jobs reserved on the image forming apparatus 1000, it is determined whether the registration name indicating the owner of each job matches, which is added to the task, any registration name of one or more users, the administration of which is carried out by the device 1000 imaging.

[0148] In accordance with this definition made with respect to each of the confidential print jobs, if the user who owns the confidential print job is not a user administered by the image forming apparatus 1000, then the confidential print job is regarded as quality of the print job of an unknown user, and if the user is the main user, then the job of confidential printing is naturally regarded This is set as the print job for the primary user.

[0149] Based on this, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU determines whether the confidential print job is a print job of an unknown user (step S1301).

[0150] If it was determined in step S1301 that the confidential print job is a print job of an unknown user (a positive result of the determination made in step S1301), then it is judged that the confidential print job is a print job of an unknown user who has gained access as a guest user, and the user is given the opportunity to process the confidential print job (step S1303), after which this process ends.

[0151] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1301 that the confidential print job is not a print job for an unknown user (negative result of the determination made in step S1301), this indicates that the unknown user who has access as a guest user, is going to process the print job of the main user, as a result of which the CPU 205 prohibits the processing of the confidential print job (step S1302), after which this process is completed tsya.

[0152] Next will be described the steps of the access control process, which are depicted in figv and follow after step S515.

[0153] First, like step S1301, the CPU 205 determines whether the confidential print job is an unknown user print job (step S1304).

[0154] If it was determined in step S1304 that the confidential print job is a print job of an unknown user (a positive result of the determination made in step S1304), then the confidential print job is not regarded as a print job of the primary user, the use of which is allowed no authentication for easy use by the main user of the confidential printing function in a function-oriented authentication mode, resulting in a central processor CP U forbids the user to process the confidential print job (step S1306), after which this process ends.

[0155] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1304 that the confidential print job is not a print job for an unknown user (negative result of the determination made in step S1304), then the confidential print job is regarded as the main user print job , the use of which is allowed without authentication for easy use by the main user of the confidential printing function in the function-oriented authentication mode, as a result of which the cent The CPU 205 provides the user with the option of processing the confidential print job (step S1305), after which this process ends.

[0156] FIGS. 10A and 10B are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed as a result of the modified embodiment shown in FIG. 9B of the access control process shown in FIG.

[0157] FIG. 10A depicts an example of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed on the console section 210 as a result of a processing process in accordance with steps S1301 and S1302, or as a result of a processing process in accordance with step S1303.

[0158] FIG. 10A assumes that the registration names “User 1”, “User 2” and “User 3” are the registration names of the main users, and the registration name “User 4” is the registration name of the unknown user.

[0159] In this case, as shown in the screen image 8001 of confidential printing processing, confidential print jobs having the registration names “User 1”, “User 2”, and “User 3” are print jobs of the main users, wherein all the names of these print jobs are hidden behind asterisks.

[0160] Furthermore, if an unknown user selects these print jobs, then an unknown user is prohibited from performing printing and cancellation actions.

[0161] Otherwise, if it is considered that the confidential print job having the registration name “User 4” is a print job of an unknown user, and if the user who has accessed as a guest user selects this print job, then the user is given the opportunity to perform actions to print and cancel.

[0162] As described above, the names of confidential printing jobs of the main users administered by the image forming apparatus 1000, that is, users who use the image forming apparatus 1000 daily, are hidden from a guest user who temporarily uses the image forming apparatus in the mode logical input, while the guest user is prohibited from processing tasks, as a result of which it is possible to achieve the effect of preventing ut hibernation information is unknown to the user.

[0163] In addition, FIG. 10B depicts an example of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed on the console section 210 as a result of a processing process in accordance with steps S1304 and S1305, or as a result of a processing process in accordance with step S1306.

[0164] Also shown in FIG. 10B, the registration names “User 1”, “User 2” and “User 3” are the registration names of the main users, and the registration name “User 4” is the registration name of an unknown user.

[0165] In this case, as shown in the screen image 8001 of confidential printing processing, confidential print jobs having the registration names “User 1”, “User 2” and “User 3” are print jobs of the main users, and if the main Since the user selects a job from these print jobs, the owner of which he is, then the main user is given the opportunity to perform actions for printing and cancellation.

[0166] At the same time, a confidential print job having the registration name “User 4” is a print job of an unknown user, the job name being hidden behind asterisks, and if the primary user selects this print job, as shown in the example illustrated in FIG. 10B, the primary user is prohibited from performing print and cancel actions.

[0167] As described above, even in the case of using the confidential print processing function without authentication in the function-oriented authentication mode, only confidential print jobs of the main user, that is, the user who uses the image forming apparatus 1000 daily, are allowed to process the jobs on confidential printing, as a result of which it is possible to achieve the beneficial effect of preventing unauthorized use through unknown ELSE.

[0168] Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment of the present invention. The present embodiment differs from the first embodiment by a display control process for controlling the displayed information content on the confidential print processing screen image 8001 of the image forming apparatus 1000, more specifically, the user interface displayed on the console section 210, and is similar in relation to the rest hardware and software configuration, with the exception of processes that will be described in detail later in this document, similar processes of the first embodiment, so that the constituent elements corresponding to the constituent elements of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted. A description of various points will be made later in this document.

[0169] FIG. 11 is a graphical representation illustrating an example of an initial screen image displayed on the console section 210 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0170] As shown in FIG. 11, the initial screen image 7001 has a task history log display button 7005 that is added to the initial screen image described with reference to FIG. 6. By pressing the display history log button 7005, a print history log is displayed. This story will be described in this document below. In addition, the following description is provided as an example in which a scan and transmit button 7004 is used. The scan and transmit button 7004 is a button used to select the function of scanning the original using the scanner section 201 and transmitting data to the destination.

[0171] FIGS. 12A-12C are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of confidential printing processing displayed on the console section 210 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0172] FIG. 12A shows an example of displaying a list of all confidential print jobs reserved on the image forming apparatus 1000. The cancel button 8004 is unavailable and the user cannot press it.

[0173] FIG. 12B shows an example of displaying a list of all confidential print jobs reserved on the image forming apparatus 1000. FIG. 12B differs from FIG. 12A in that the cancel button 8004 is available and the user is given the opportunity to press it.

[0174] FIG. 12C shows an example of displaying a list of only those confidential print jobs from all confidential print jobs reserved on the image forming apparatus 1000, each of which has a registration name added to the confidential print job that corresponds to the user registration name, currently accessed.

[0175] In FIG. 12C, as an example, confidential print jobs of only the user who accesses using the registration name “User 1” are displayed.

[0176] Furthermore, in the screen image of the confidential printing processing shown in FIG. 12C, a button 8006 for displaying all jobs is provided. Button 8006 to display all tasks is a button used to display a list of all tasks for confidential printing, and if the user presses button 8006 to display all tasks, the screen image changes to the screen image illustrated in figa, while a list of all tasks for confidential is displayed printing reserved on the image forming apparatus 1000. However, it should be noted that in this case, the user who has gained access at the moment is given the opportunity to perform actions to cancel only those confidential print jobs that he owns.

[0177] FIG. 13 is a graphical representation of a flowchart of a display control process performed by the central processing unit 205 of the CPU illustrated in FIG.

[0178] It should be noted that in the display control process shown in FIG. 13, it is assumed that the confidential printing function of the image forming apparatus 1000 is set to be available for use without user authentication, and the scanning and transmission function is specified with a need for user authentication.

[0179] As shown in FIG. 13, the CPU 205 displays the initial screen image 7001 described with reference to FIG. 11 on the console section 210 (step S1401).

[0180] Then, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU determines whether the user has pressed any function button (step S1402). It should be noted that the function buttons mentioned in the present process are limited to the confidential print button 7002 and the scan and transmit button 7004, so a description of the cases of pressing other function buttons will be omitted.

[0181] Then, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU determines whether the user has pressed the confidential printing button 7002 (step S1403). If it was determined in step S1403 that the user had pressed the confidential printing button 7002 (a positive determination was made in step S1403), the CPU 205 displays a confidential print processing screen image 8001 described with reference to any of FIGS. 12A-12C, on the console section 210 (step S1404).

[0182] As mentioned above, the confidential printing function is set to be available for use without user authentication, in accordance with the settings of the function-oriented authentication mode, therefore, there is no need to display through the image forming apparatus 1000 a reception screen for a logical input for user authentication .

[0183] Furthermore, although FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate a screen image in which the list of confidential print jobs is displayed in the job list 8002, the confidential print jobs displayed in the job list 8002 are determined by the following steps.

[0184] Then, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU determines whether the user has been authenticated by the image forming apparatus 1000 and whether he is currently gaining access (step S1405).

[0185] If it was determined in step S1405 that the user was not currently logged in (negative result of the determination performed in step S1405), the CPU 205 displays a screen image of the confidential printing processing described with reference to FIG. 12A (step S1406), and returns to step S1401. As described above, in the present embodiment, in the case that it is determined that the actions associated with the confidential print job do not require authentication and that the user has not been authenticated (a negative result of the determination performed in step S1405), the user is provided the ability to perform actions related to the confidential print job, with the exception of canceling actions to delete the confidential print job displayed on the confid processing screen ntsialnoy printing.

[0186] The screen image of the confidential printing processing allows the user to select his job, the password from which he knows, to print. In addition, in FIG. 12A, the cancel button 8004 cannot be pressed, as mentioned above, so it is also possible to prevent the accidental cancellation of other tasks.

[0187] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1405 that the user was currently gaining access (positive result of the determination made in step S1405), the central processing unit 205 determines whether the current user is currently gaining access, by the administrator (step S1407). It should be noted that the administrator is the person who is responsible for administering the image forming apparatus 1000 and is authenticated by the image forming apparatus 1000 as an administrator in a manner different from other users.

[0188] If it was determined in step S1407 that the currently logged in user is an administrator (positive determination made in step S1407), the CPU 205 displays a screen image of the confidential printing processing described with reference to FIG. 12B (step S1408), and returns to step S1401.

[0189] In the screen image of the confidential printing processing illustrated in Fig. 12B, the administrator is given the opportunity to perform cancellation actions for all confidential print jobs, while he can delete the confidential print jobs that were reserved on the image forming apparatus 1000 unnecessarily .

[0190] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1407 that the currently logged in user is not an administrator (negative result of the determination performed in step S1407), the CPU 205 displays a screen image of the confidential print processing described with reference to FIG. 12C (step S1409), and returns to step S1401.

[0191] As shown in FIG. 12C, a user who is currently logged in who is not an administrator is given the opportunity to immediately process a print job without spending time and labor on finding its print jobs. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when it is determined that the actions associated with the confidential print job do not require authentication, and that the user is authenticated as an administrator, the user is given the opportunity to perform actions related to all confidential print jobs. Otherwise, if the user has not been authenticated as an administrator, then the user is given the opportunity to perform only those actions that are associated with the user’s confidential print job.

[0192] If it was determined in step S1403 that the user did not press the confidential print button 7002, but pressed the scan and transmit button 7004 (a negative determination was made in step S1403), the CPU 205 displays a logical input requisite reception screen 11001, described with reference to FIG. 5B (step S1410).

[0193] The logical input requisite screen 11001 is displayed at this stage due to the fact that the “scan and transmit” function is set as a function that requires user authentication in accordance with the settings of the function-oriented authentication function.

[0194] If the user enters the registration name and password on the screen 11001 receiving the logical login details for access and if the authentication of the logical input was unsuccessful (negative result of the determination performed at step S1411), the CPU 205 returns to step S1410, and if the authentication of the logical input was completed successfully, which gives the user the opportunity to gain access (a positive result of the determination performed in step S1411), then the CPU 205 displays a screen image of a scanning operation (not illustrated) in the console section 210 (step S1412) and returns to step S1401.

[0195] Although in the process shown in FIG. 13, after performing step S1412, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU returns to step S1401, if the user does not explicitly perform the logical output operation, the state of the current logical input is saved.

[0196] Based on the foregoing, if the user intends to process the confidential print job in a state in which the state of the user's logical input is saved, as mentioned above, the central processing unit 205 of the CPU proceeds from step S1405 to step S1407.

[0197] Further, the transition from step S1407 is determined depending on determining whether the user who received the logical input to the image forming apparatus 1000 is an administrator in the user authentication process in steps S1410 and S1411.

[0198] In the display control process shown in FIG. 13, the method for displaying confidential print jobs and controlling access to them for processing is properly changed and controlled depending on whether the user is currently accessed, and also depending on whether the currently logged in user is an administrator. This improves usability.

[0199] Although the method for displaying confidential print jobs, etc., has been described in the display control process of FIG. 13, the method can be applied to any other print job because it is a job for printing, including the information of the user who issued the print job (the owner of the print job).

[0200] Next, a description will be made of displaying information of the job history log. First, a user interface displayed on the console section 210 will be described.

[0201] FIGS. 14A-14C are graphical views illustrating examples of a screen image of a job history log displayed on the console section 210 of FIG. 1.

[0202] The on-screen image of the job history log, which is denoted by reference numeral 10001 and shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, displays job history log information recorded on the hard disk 208 of the HDD of the image forming apparatus 1000.

[0203] As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the job history log list 10002 is an area for displaying a list of job history log entries.

[0204] Window 10005 of the check box for selecting a history of tasks is intended to select a record of the history of the task log. Button 10007 output detailed information is intended to display detailed information about one entry in the history log of tasks. Detailed information includes the number of pages, the number of printed sheets, sheet size, color / monochrome printing mode, document name, etc., for each job.

[0205] The user can access the detailed history log information by selecting the desired job history log entry by placing a checkmark in the window 10005 of the task history log selection flag and pressing the detailed information button 10007.

[0206] FIG. 14A illustrates a screen image 10001 of a job history log showing a list of all job history log entries, while job names of all job history log entries are hidden behind asterisks, in addition, the detailed information output button 10007 is always inaccessible to prevent clicking it through the user.

[0207] FIG. 14B illustrates a screen image 10001 of a job history log showing a list of all job history log entries and job names, in addition, a detailed information output button 10007 is always displayed to enable the user to access detailed information.

[0208] FIG. 14C illustrates a screen image 10001 of a job history log showing a list of all job history log entries, with displayed job names being exclusively job names of highlighted job history log entries, each of which has a registration name that corresponds to a registration name currently logged in user.

[0209] That is, the name of a job in a job history journal entry that does not have a login name that matches the login name of the currently logged in user is hidden behind asterisks. Fig.14C depicts an example in which only the history entries of the job history of the user who accessed using the login name "User 1" are highlighted, while the job names of the highlighted history log entries are displayed.

[0210] In addition, the ability to press the detailed information output button 10007 is provided only when, by placing a checkmark in the window 10005 for the selection of the job history log, a job history log entry is selected that has a registration name that corresponds to the registration name of the currently logged in user .

[0211] Next, with the assumption that the image forming apparatus 1000 is configured in the aforementioned manner, a process for controlling a display image of a job history log will be described.

[0212] FIG. 15 is a graphical representation of an algorithm of a modified embodiment of the display control process shown in FIG. 13.

[0213] The display control process depicted in FIG. 15 is for controlling a method for displaying detailed information of a job history log. In addition, the display control process shown in FIG. 15 is performed when the user presses the job history log display button 7005 serving as a function button in step S1403 illustrated in FIG. 13, so the steps following step S1403.

[0214] As shown in FIG. 15, first, the CPU 205 displays on the console section 210 a screen image 10001 of the job history log described with reference to FIGS. 14A-14C (step S1501). At this stage, it is assumed that the function of displaying the history of tasks is set to be available for use without user authentication, in accordance with the settings of the function-oriented authentication mode.

[0215] Then, the CPU 205 determines whether the unconditional ability to display detailed information is provided (step S1502). In the process of this determination, predefined settings are used in the check box in combination with the resolution to display the task history log. Such a check box is preliminarily provided as one of the settings for configuring various settings of the image forming apparatus 1000, and typically, the administrator receives a logical input to the image forming apparatus 1000 by creating or changing settings in the check box.

[0216] If it was determined in step S1502 that there is an unconditional opportunity to display detailed information (positive determination made in step S1502), the CPU 205 displays a job history log screen 10001 described with reference to FIG. 14B (step S1506), and returns to step S1401.

[0217] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1502 that there is no unconditional opportunity to display detailed information (negative result of the determination performed in step S1502), the central processing unit 205 determines whether the user is currently granted access (step S1503 )

[0218] If it was determined in step S1503 that the user was not currently gaining access (negative result of the determination performed in step S1503), the central processing unit 205 displays a screen history image 10001 of the job history log described with reference to FIG. 14A ( step S1504), and returns to step S1401. As described above, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether the ability to display detailed information is provided continuously, and if it is determined that the ability to display detailed information is not always available and the user is not authenticated, then displaying detailed information of all completed print jobs is prohibited.

[0219] As described above, if the user has not received a logical input to the image forming apparatus 1000, a screen history image 10001 of the job history log illustrated in FIG. 14A is displayed, thereby preventing unidentified users from accidentally accessing detailed information job history journal. However, a list of the task history log is displayed, as a result of which the user can get minimal information, such as the result (YES / NO) about his task.

[0220] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1503 that the user was currently gaining access (positive result of the determination made in step S1503), the central processing unit 205 determines whether the currently logged in user is an administrator (step S1505).

[0221] If it was determined in step S1505 that the currently logged in user is an administrator (a positive determination made in step S1505), the CPU 205 displays a screen history image 10001 of the job history described with reference to FIG. .14B (step S1506), and returns to step S1401. As described above, the screen image 10001 of the task history log illustrated in FIG. 14B is a screen image on which it is possible to display detailed information of all entries in the task history log.

[0222] Otherwise, if it was determined in step S1505 that the currently logged in user is not an administrator (negative result of the determination performed in step S1505), the CPU 205 displays a screen image 10001 of the job history log, described with reference to FIG. 14C (step S1507). As described above, the screen history image 10001 of the job history log illustrated in FIG. 14C is a screen image that highlights only job history log entries that have a login name that corresponds to the login name of the currently logged in user, and the names of the selected jobs are displayed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether the ability to display detailed information is provided continuously, and if it is determined that the ability to display detailed information is not provided continuously and the user is authenticated as an administrator, then it is possible to display detailed log information of all completed print jobs. Otherwise, if the user has not been authenticated as an administrator, then it is possible to display only detailed information about the history of completed print jobs of the user.

[0223] Therefore, in a state where the user has received a logical input to the image forming apparatus 1000, it is possible to provide the user with the ability to access only the history information of the job history of the user who is currently accessing.

[0224] As described above, the method of displaying the history of the job history changes properly in accordance with whether the user is currently logged in and also according to whether the user who is currently logged in is an administrator, as described in the process illustrated in FIG. This prevents leakage of information from the job history log without harming usability.

[0225] Furthermore, although in the processes illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 15, with respect to the user’s actions for logging into the image forming apparatus 1000, the logical input is executed, for example, when the user selects a function requiring user authentication , another operational method for authenticating the user may be provided. For example, as another operational method for authenticating a user, a function button may be added to the initial screen image 7001 for use in explicitly performing accessing operations.

[0226] Aspects of the present invention can also be implemented by a computer system or device (or devices, such as a central processing unit CPU or microprocessor MPU) that reads and executes a program recorded on a storage device to perform the functions of the above embodiments, and also by a method, the steps of which are performed by a computer of a system or device by, for example, reading and executing a program recorded on a memory device, to execute I have the functions of the above embodiments. For this purpose, the program is provided to a computer, for example, over a network or from a recording medium of various types, serving as a storage device (for example, a computer-readable medium).

[0227] While the present invention has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed illustrative embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

[0228] This application claims priority in accordance with Japanese Patent Application No. 2013-015647, filed January 30, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Claims (10)

1. An image forming apparatus comprising:
a logical input unit configured to provide a user with the ability to log in to an image forming apparatus;
a determination unit configured to determine if the image forming apparatus operates in a function-oriented authentication mode, whether the function selected by the user from the plurality of functions requires user authentication, and this plurality of functions includes at least a confidential printing function for printing data in response to password entry; and
a permission unit configured to provide when the confidential printing function is defined as a function selected by the user and the determination unit determines that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication, the user can use the confidential printing function, even if the user is not authenticated. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user can be either a primary user whose registration name is administered by the image forming apparatus or a guest user whose registration name is not managed by the image forming apparatus, and
in this case, in the case when the determination unit determines that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication, the permission unit provides the user with the ability to use the confidential printing function, but prohibits the user from performing actions related to the guest user’s data. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a logical input mode operating unit configured to operate the image forming apparatus in a logical input mode, in which the user is given the opportunity to perform actions related to various functions that can be performed by the image forming apparatus after the user is authenticated as the primary user or guest user, and
however, the permission unit allows the user, when the user is authenticated as the main user, to perform actions related to the confidential print job of the main user, while the permission unit does not provide the user with the ability, when the user is authenticated as a guest user, to perform any actions associated with all confidential print jobs. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a logical input mode operating unit configured to operate the image forming apparatus in a logical input mode, in which the user is provided with the opportunity to ensure that various functions that can be performed by the image forming apparatus, will be executed after the user is authenticated as the primary user or guest user, and
wherein the permission unit allows the user, when the user is authenticated as the main user, to perform actions related to the confidential print job of the main user, while the permission unit allows the user, when the user is authenticated as a guest user, to perform actions, associated with the confidential print job of the guest user. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, in which, when the determination unit determines that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication and that the user has not been authenticated, the permission unit allows the user to perform actions, except for data deletion actions. 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user can be a user authenticated as an administrator who administers the image forming apparatus, and
in this case, in the case when the determination unit determines that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication and that the user has been authenticated as an administrator, the permission unit allows the user to use the confidential printing function. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein various functions that can be performed by the image forming apparatus include a detailed information display function for displaying detailed history information of print jobs that have been executed,
wherein the determining unit determines whether it is always allowed to display this detailed information, and
in this case, if it is determined that it is not always allowed to display detailed information and that the user has not been authenticated, the permission unit does not provide the ability to display detailed information about the history of print jobs that have been completed. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user can be a user authenticated as an administrator who administers the image forming apparatus, and
however, various functions that can be performed by the image forming apparatus include a detailed information display function for displaying detailed history of print jobs that have been executed,
wherein the determining unit determines whether it is always allowed to display this detailed information, and
at the same time, in the case of determining that it is not always allowed to display detailed information and that the user is authenticated as an administrator, the permission unit provides the ability to display detailed information about the history of all confidential print jobs that were performed, along with the fact that if the user was not authenticated as an administrator, the permission block provides the ability to display only detailed information about the history of completed print jobs of the user. 9. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus, comprising the steps of:
provide the user with the ability to logically enter the image forming apparatus;
determine, when the image forming apparatus operates in a function-oriented authentication mode, whether the function selected by the user from the set of functions requires user authentication, and this set of functions includes at least a confidential printing function for printing data in response to password entry; and
provide, when the confidential printing function is defined as a function selected by the user and it is determined at the determination stage that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication, the user can use the confidential printing function, even if the user is not authenticated. 10. A non-volatile computer-readable storage medium that stores a machine-executable program for executing a method for controlling an image forming apparatus comprising the steps of:
provide the user with the ability to logically enter the image forming apparatus;
determine, when the image forming apparatus operates in a function-oriented authentication mode, whether the function selected by the user from the set of functions requires user authentication, and this set of functions includes at least a confidential printing function for printing data in response to password entry; and
provide, when the confidential printing function is defined as a function selected by the user and it is determined at the determination stage that the function selected by the user does not require user authentication, the user can use the confidential printing function, even if the user is not authenticated.

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