JP2006344082A - Image forming apparatus, information processing apparatus, job processing method, job setting screen display method, storage medium storing computer-readable program, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the burden of function setting operation for job output setting to a user without requesting job setting registration processing by the user, and to complete function setting for an output job through a user-friendly user interface It is to be.
When a client computer and an image forming apparatus are connected, a job processing requester is specified by a code input from an operation unit, and job processing history information for the specified job processing requester is specified. The CPU 703 creates a job setting screen for each user based on the acquired job processing history information and displays it on the display unit of the operation unit 500 based on the acquired job processing history information.
[Selection] Figure 7

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that manages a job information history and processes a job, an information processing apparatus, a job processing method, a job setting screen display method, a storage medium storing a computer-readable program, and a program. It is about.

  Conventionally, a user identifies an individual person who uses the device in an image forming apparatus such as a printer (printing device), a scanner, a copying machine, or a multifunction device (MFP) that integrates them, and is preset for each user. The technology to reflect various settings corresponding to individuals recognized from multiple output screens on the operation display screen is to input means for identifying the user (eg ID number) when using the device. Then, the display output information stored in advance for each user is compared with the above-described means for specifying the user, and a process of displaying the information on the image forming apparatus is executed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

In addition, as the functions of image forming apparatuses have been increased, functions that are not grasped by the user and that functions cannot be used because settings relating to function use cannot be performed well are regarded as problems. Furthermore, a system for managing jobs for each user on the image forming apparatus (see, for example, Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3) also has a function of restricting the use of the user, so that the user can maximize the image forming apparatus. It is getting harder to save.
JP 06-078094 JP2001-282475 JP2002-116899

  However, the processing to be displayed on the conventional image forming apparatus has to be registered on the device in advance so that the user can have an arbitrary operation display screen. Further, even in an image forming apparatus having a learning function that does not require the registration process, the image forming apparatus stores the number and type of buttons actually pressed by the user, and an operation display screen is displayed according to the frequency. It was a process of changing.

  For this reason, it has become a burden for the user to register in the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, since it is necessary to register for each image forming apparatus, such as when using a plurality of image forming apparatuses properly, the burden is further increased.

  In addition, function restrictions (for example, a function for suppressing the number of printed sheets) in a job account system (for example, see Patent Document 2) may be restricted at an unexpected time, and the restrictions can be relaxed by changing settings in advance. In many cases, this can be avoided by printing the intended print job. However, since the function corresponding to such a change is not reflected in the display of the user UI, an effective function may be selected. The UI display control is also difficult to relax the user's restriction.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a job in an image forming apparatus or an information processing apparatus when the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus are connected. When performing output settings, displaying the user-oriented job output setting screen reduces the burden of function setting operations for job output settings to the user without requiring the user to register job settings. An image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, a job processing method, a job setting screen display method, a storage medium storing a computer-readable program, and a program that can complete an output job setting via a user-friendly user interface Is to provide.

  In addition, when printing restrictions are set for job output, it is recommended to set effective function settings for the user, so that job output settings can be made to satisfy the user's job output request even within printing restrictions. An image forming apparatus, an information processing apparatus, a job processing method, a job setting screen display method, a storage medium storing a computer-readable program, and a program are provided.

  The image forming apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that acquires a job output from an information processing apparatus to an image forming apparatus, associates the job information with user information included in the job information, and manages a job history. Specifying means for specifying a job processing requester, acquiring means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management apparatus, and the job acquired by the acquiring means And a UI control unit that creates a user-specific job setting screen based on the processing history information and displays the job setting screen on a display unit.

  The information processing apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An information processing apparatus capable of acquiring a job output to an image forming apparatus and communicating with the job management apparatus that associates the job information with user information included in the job information and manages a job history, Specifying means for specifying a person, acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management device, and job processing history information acquired by the acquisition means And a UI control unit for creating a job setting screen for each user and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit.

  The information processing apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an image forming apparatus, which monitors a job output to the image forming apparatus and associates the job information with user information included in the job information to manage a job history Means for acquiring a job processing requester, acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management means, and acquisition by the acquisition means UI control means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit.

  The image forming apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses, the specifying means for specifying a job processing requester, and the job processing requester specified by the specifying means An acquisition unit that acquires job processing history information for the job from the job management device, and a display that creates a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition unit and displays the job setting screen on the display unit Means.

  The job setting screen display method of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  A method for displaying a job setting screen in an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses, the specifying step for specifying a job processing requester, and the specifying step An acquisition step for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester from the job management device, and creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition step And a display step of displaying on the display unit.

  The information processing apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses, a specifying unit that specifies a job processing requester, and the job processing requester specified by the specifying unit An acquisition unit that acquires job processing history information for the job from the job management device, and a display that creates a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition unit and displays the job setting screen on the display unit Means.

  The job setting screen display method of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration. A method for displaying a job setting screen in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses, wherein a specifying step for specifying a job processing requester is specified by the specifying step An acquisition step for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester from the job management device, and creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition step And a display step of displaying on the display unit.

  According to the present invention, the image forming apparatus is optimal for the user without causing the user to make any function settings on the job output setting screen of the operation unit of the image forming apparatus or the job output setting screen of the information processing apparatus. The job output setting screen can be displayed, and the operability and convenience at the time of job output to the user's image forming apparatus can be improved.

  In addition, if the user has printing restrictions, etc., it is possible to recommend that the function settings be valid, and the print settings to enable the requested job to be output even within the printing restrictions set by the user. Can be performed on the user-oriented job output setting screen.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Description of system configuration>
[First Embodiment]
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an image forming system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The image forming system includes a copying machine, another image forming apparatus, and a computer as peripheral devices.

  In this embodiment, a UI display example associated with print processing in the image forming apparatus will be described. However, UI display control at the time of setting of a job setting screen of the scanner apparatus or a job setting screen related to other communication functions is performed. Can also be applied, and can also be applied to a setting UI by a driver in a client computer as an information processing apparatus capable of operating them remotely.

  In FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 100 or 200 capable of executing multi-function processing includes a reader unit 1, a printer unit 2, a controller unit 3, and a modem communication unit 4, a network processing unit 7, and PDL expansion. Part 8 and core part 10.

  The reader unit 1 reads an image of a document set on the image forming apparatus and outputs image data corresponding to the document image to the printer unit 2 through the core unit 10. The printer unit 2 records an image corresponding to the image data from the reader unit 1 on a recording sheet.

  The computers 11 and 12 are examples of information processing apparatuses, and are personal computers or workstations (PC / WS). A predetermined OS is installed and various applications stored in the storage device are executed. Perform predetermined data processing.

  Further, the PDL print data is sent from the computers 11 and 12 to the core unit 10 through the network 4 and the network processing unit 7, and the PDL development unit 8 develops the PDL data into image data that can be recorded by the printer unit 2. Printing is performed by the printer unit 2 through the unit 10. As the computers 11 and 12, a workstation or a standard PC can be used.

  A facsimile machine 14 transmits, for example, a document image read by the reader unit 1 via the public network 15 via the core unit 10 and the modem communication unit 4. Alternatively, image data from another facsimile machine 12 is received through the public line network 15, the modem communication unit 4, and the core unit 10, and the received image is printed by the printer unit 2 (printer engine unit 2).

  In addition, as an example of the storage unit of the information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, the hard disks 30 and 36 provided in the computers 11 and 12 are used. Reference numerals 35 and 37 denote display devices of the computers 11 and 12, for example, LCD displays.

  Reference numeral 31 denotes an input device of the computer 11, which includes a keyboard and a pointing device. Reference numeral 38 denotes an input device of the computer 12, which includes a keyboard and a pointing device. An operation unit 500 includes various keys (including soft keys) for performing operation instructions to the image forming apparatus 100, and a display unit that indicates the status of the printer unit 2 and the reader unit 1.

  An Internet network 21 is communicably connected to various computer devices including the data processing device 20.

  Note that the system configuration illustrated in FIG. 1 is an example, and is not limited to the illustrated configuration.

  FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing an example of the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 suitable for the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. An example of the image forming apparatus includes a printer, a scanner, and a fax. As an example of controlling the image forming apparatus, a predetermined storage area in the HDD of the image forming apparatus is secured as a box area, and the box It is also possible to manipulate the image data inside. Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus 100 will be described as an example.

  The image forming apparatus 100 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes a deck 150, a circulation type automatic document feeder (RDF) 180, and a finisher 190.

  The main body of the image forming apparatus 100 includes a platen glass 101, a scanner 102, scanning mirrors 105 and 106, a lens 108, a CCD sensor (image sensor unit) 109, a photosensitive drum 110, a primary charger 112, A pre-exposure lamp 114, a cleaning device 116, a transfer charger 118, an exposure control unit 120, a developing device 121, and a transfer belt 130 are provided.

  The paper feed unit includes an upper cassette 131, a lower cassette 132, pickup rollers 133 and 134, and paper feed rollers 135 and 136.

  Further, the paper transport unit includes a registration roller 137, an adsorption charger 138, a transfer belt roller 170, pre-fixing chargers 139 and 140, a fixing device 141, a paper discharge roller 142, a paper discharge flapper 154, a reverse path 155, and a refeed. A paper tray 156, a multiple flapper 157, a conveyance path 158, a paper feed roller 159, a path 160, a discharge roller 161, a first feed roller 162, a second feed roller 162a, and a reverse roller 163 are provided.

  In detail, the reader unit 1 in FIG. 1 corresponds to the platen glass 101 to the CCD sensor 109 in FIG. 2, and the printer unit 2 in FIG. 1 includes the photosensitive drum 110 to the reversing roller 163 in FIG. Corresponding to

  First, the reader unit 1 will be described in detail. The platen glass 101 is a document placement table. The scanner 102 includes a document illumination lamp 103, a scanning mirror 104, and the like.

  The scanner 102 is reciprocally scanned in a predetermined direction by a motor (not shown), whereby the reflected light 107 of the original is imaged on the CCD sensor 109 through the lens 108 through the scanning mirrors 104 to 106. It is converted into an electrical signal by the CCD sensor 109, A / D conversion and shading correction are performed by a scanner image processing unit (not shown) near the CCD sensor 109, and the memory is passed through the gate array 326 of the core unit 10 to be described later. In 324, it is stored as digital image data.

  Next, the printer unit 2 will be described in detail. The exposure control unit 120 includes a laser, a polygon scanner, and the like. The exposure control unit 120 reads out digital output image data stored in the memory 324 of the core unit 10 from the memory, and a gate array 326 of the core unit 10 described later includes a digital image. Data is converted into a video signal and sent to the printer unit via the I / F 325. The photosensitive drum 110 is irradiated with laser light 129 modulated based on the video signal.

  Around the photosensitive drum 110, a primary charger 112, a developing device 121, a transfer charger 118, a cleaning device 116, and a pre-exposure lamp 114 are provided. In the image forming unit 126 centering on the photosensitive drum 110, the photosensitive drum 110 is rotated in a direction indicated by an arrow by a motor (not shown), and after being charged to a desired potential by the primary charger 112, The laser beam 129 from the exposure control unit 120 is irradiated to form an electrostatic latent image.

  On the other hand, the transfer paper fed from the upper cassette 131 or the lower cassette 132 by the pickup rollers 133 and 134 is sent to the main body by the paper feed rollers 135 and 136 and fed to the transfer belt by the registration rollers 137 and visualized. The toner image is transferred onto the transfer paper by the transfer charger 118. After the transfer, the photosensitive drum 110 is cleaned of residual toner by the cleaning device 116, and the residual charge is erased by the pre-exposure lamp 114. After the transfer, the transfer paper is separated from the transfer belt 130, the toner is recharged by the pre-fixing chargers 139 and 140, sent to the fixing device 141, and fixed by pressurization and heating. Discharged outside.

  The adsorption charger 138 adsorbs the transfer sheet sent from the registration roller 137 to the transfer belt 130. The transfer belt roller 170 is used to rotate the transfer belt 130 and at the same time, is paired with the adsorption charger 138 to charge the transfer paper to the transfer belt 130 by adsorption.

  The image forming apparatus main body 100 is equipped with a deck 150 that can store, for example, 4000 transfer sheets. The lifter 151 of the deck 150 ascends according to the amount of transfer paper so that the transfer paper always contacts the paper feed roller 152. In addition, the image forming apparatus main body 100 is equipped with a multi-manual feed 153 that can accommodate, for example, 100 transfer sheets.

  The paper discharge flapper 154 switches the path between the duplex recording side or the multiple recording side and the paper discharge side. The transfer paper fed from the paper discharge roller 142 is switched from the double-sided recording side to the multiple recording side by this paper discharge flapper 154. The multiple flapper 157 switches between double-sided recording and multiple recording paths. By tilting the multiple flapper 157 to the left, the transfer paper is guided directly to the transport path 158 without passing through the reverse path 155. The paper feed roller 159 feeds the transfer paper to the photosensitive drum 110 side through the path 160.

  The discharge roller 161 is disposed in the vicinity of the paper discharge flapper 154 and discharges the transfer paper switched to the discharge side by the paper discharge flapper 154 to the outside of the apparatus. During double-sided recording (double-sided copying), the paper discharge flapper 154 is raised upward, the multiple flapper 157 is tilted to the right, the recorded (copied) transfer paper is passed through the reverse path 155, and the multiple flapper 157 is tilted to the left. Then, the paper is stored in the paper refeed tray 156 in a state of being turned upside down through the transport path 158. Further, at the time of multiple recording (multiple copying), the paper discharge flapper 154 is raised upward, the multiple flapper 157 is tilted to the left, the recorded (copied) transfer paper is passed through the transport path 158, and then the refeed tray 156. To store. The transfer sheets stored in the refeed tray 156 are guided one by one from the bottom to the registration rollers 137 of the main body via the path 160 by the sheet feed roller 159.

  When the transfer paper is reversed and discharged from the main body, the paper discharge flapper 154 is raised upward, the multiple flapper 157 is tilted to the right, and the recorded (copied) transfer paper is transported to the transport path 155 side. After the rear end passes through the first feed roller 162, it is conveyed to the second feed roller 162 a side by the reverse roller 163, and the transfer paper is turned over by the discharge roller 161 and discharged outside the apparatus. Further, the transfer paper discharged out of the apparatus is conveyed to the finisher 190.

  A finisher 190 stacks transfer sheets printed by the image forming apparatus 100. A path 193 is a path for receiving a transfer sheet printed by the image forming apparatus 100. The roller 197 sends the transfer paper conveyed from the path 193 to the path 195 or 196. The paper discharge flapper 194 is moved downward to send it to the path 195, and the paper discharge flapper 194 is moved upward to send it to the path 196.

  When the paper passes through the path 196, the paper is discharged to the bin 192 by the roller 198. When the pass 195 is taken, the paper is discharged to the bin 192 as it is. For example, when copying is performed, the transfer sheet is discharged to the bin 191, and when PDL printing is performed, the sheet is discharged to the bin 192, thereby improving user convenience.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a software (module) structure stored in the core unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 100 which is an example of the image forming apparatus of the present invention.

  In the module section 300 shown in FIG. 3, reference numeral 301 denotes a real-time OS that constitutes the first execution environment of the present invention for controlling the entire image forming apparatus. Generally, various functions of the image forming apparatus can be controlled in real time. Each module of the real-time OS or a group of libraries capable of critically controlling each function including an optional device of an image forming apparatus and an expansion card by instructing the CPU.

  The real-time OS 301 is realized by a group of modules that provide an interface command to an application that operates at the higher level.

  Reference numeral 302 denotes a controller control unit that operates on the real-time OS 301, and is configured by modules that control the reader unit 1, the printer unit 2, the modem communication unit 4, the PDL development unit 8, and the like.

  Reference numeral 303 denotes an application programming interface (hereinafter referred to as API), which responds to an instruction sequence of an instruction input from the application 304 and performs processing for accessing the controller control unit 302 through this interface, the network processing unit 7 and the network 4. And a function of sending a control command to the image forming apparatus 200 or the like via the.

  An application 304 runs on the real-time OS 301 and requests various processing from the controller control unit 302 using the API 303. It is also possible to communicate with client computers (information processing devices) 11, 12, and 20 on the network 4 via the network processing unit 7.

  Reference numeral 305 denotes a virtual machine that realizes a second execution environment that is optimal for executing a specific application, and is realized by, for example, Java (registered trademark).

  Reference numeral 306 denotes an API for an application on the virtual machine 305 that realizes the second execution environment to access the controller control unit 302 operating on the real-time OS 301 that is the first execution environment. And a function of sending a control command to the image forming apparatus 200 or the like via the network processing unit 7 and the network 4.

  Reference numeral 307 denotes a framework module (FrameWoork) having a function of comprehensively controlling applications on the virtual machine 305 that realizes the second execution environment. An application management application 308 has a function of managing other applications on the virtual machine 305 in the second execution environment, cooperates with the framework 307, and downloads, uploads, deletes, and invalidates applications 309 and 310 described later. Is to do.

  The applications 309 and 310 are applications that operate on the virtual machine 305 serving as the second execution environment, and request various processes from the controller control unit 302 using the API 306. It is also possible to communicate with the client computers 11, 12, and 20 on the network 4 via the network processing unit 7.

  A resource management unit 311 manages resources used by the virtual machine 305 that realizes the second execution environment, and operates on the real-time OS 301 that realizes the first execution environment. When the virtual machine 305 itself that implements the second execution environment, the API 306, the framework 307, or all applications on the OS 305 use the resource resources such as the memory, the resource management unit 311 has more resources than predetermined. It is restricted so that it cannot be used.

  First, the API 303 will be described.

  The API 303 is a set of interfaces on the real-time OS 301 respectively corresponding to a plurality of control commands for accessing the controller control unit 302 controlled by the real-time OS 301 that is the first execution environment. Each interface corresponding to this control command has a parameter for designating a target device for executing the control command, and the controller control unit 302 in the same device as the designation target, and image formation connected via the network 4 The controller control unit 302 of the device 200 can be specified.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an operation of calling the interface of the API 303 shown in FIG. 3, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 4, as the API 303, for example, when a real-time OS 301 is conventionally mounted alone on the image forming apparatus, an interface according to a printing protocol capable of finely controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus on the real-time OS 301. Groups are also conceivable.

  Here, the API 303 is a library group for realizing a network printing protocol. Reference numerals 401 to 406 denote steps corresponding to requests and the like.

  In the present embodiment, for example, it is assumed that the interface A corresponding to the control command A is called. Here, it is assumed that commands and interfaces can be called in a one-to-one correspondence. However, a plurality of simple commands may be combined and regarded as one new command, and this may be associated with the interface A.

  In step (401), the control application 304 calls the interface A of the API 303. An identifier representing an image forming apparatus to be processed can be added to the interface A. When the API 303 interprets the identifier added to the interface A and determines that the device indicated by the identifier is the image forming apparatus itself provided with the API 303, in step (402), the controller control unit 302 Command A is executed to perform the corresponding process.

  When the API 303 determines that the control target of the command is determined using identification information similar to that outside the device (image forming apparatus 200), in step (403), the packet corresponding to the command of the network 4 via the network processing unit 7 is obtained. Send format data.

  The network processing unit 7 functioning as an acquisition unit in the image forming apparatus 200 acquires a command from the acquired packet format data, and passes the command A data to the communication application 304A in step (404). The communication application 304A recognizes the interface A corresponding to the command A, and calls the interface A of the API 303 targeting the controller control unit 302 in the device in step (405).

  At this time, the interface A called in step (401) and the interface A called in step (405) can be the same.

  Since the target of the command is in the device, the API 303 performs processing corresponding to the command A to the controller control unit 302 in step (406). At this time, the processing corresponding to the command in step (402) and the processing corresponding to the command in step (406) are the same.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the operation of the API 306 shown in FIG. 3, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Reference numerals 501 to 507 denote steps corresponding to the request or the like.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that the interface A is called as an interface corresponding to the command A that finally instructs the image forming apparatus.

  First, step (501) shows that the interface A of the API 306 is called as the control application 309. Hereinafter, parts different from FIG. 4 will be described in detail.

  Each interface included in the API 306 is a suitable example of the second type instruction of the present embodiment. Each interface included in the API 303 is a suitable example of the first format instruction of the present embodiment.

  First, the API 306 will be described in detail.

  The API 306 is a set of interfaces on the virtual machine 305 that is the second execution environment, and includes an interface that can call an interface provided by the API 303.

  Each interface corresponding to each command of the API 306 has a parameter for designating a target for executing a control command as in the API 303, and is connected by the controller control unit 302 in the same device and the network 4 as the designated target. The controller control unit 302 of the image forming apparatus 200 that has been selected can be designated.

  Here, a case is considered in which interface A that needs to be converted into the first execution environment and executed is called.

  First, if the process to be activated by the called interface A is within the device, the API 306 interface is called. In response to the API 306 interface being called, the API 303 interface that can be interpreted by the real-time OS 301 is activated and called. When called, the interface of the API 303 activates a process corresponding to the command A in step (502). In step (503), the API 303 performs a process corresponding to the command to the controller control unit 302.

  In step (504), if the target of the command is outside the device (for example, the image forming apparatus 200), a packet corresponding to the command of the network 4 is transmitted via the network processing unit 7.

  The network processing unit 7 of the image forming apparatus 200 receives the transmitted packet, and passes the packet data corresponding to the command A to the communication application 304A in step (505).

  In step (506), the communication application 304A calls the interface A of the API 303 for the controller control unit 302 in the device. At this time, the interface A called in step (502) and the interface A called in step (506) are the same.

  In this way, the function to be operated is in the image forming apparatus 100 or another image forming apparatus 200 connected via the network, the apparatus architecture is different, and the OS It is possible to provide an API 306 that is an interface group that does not depend on each difference.

  In other words, by utilizing the API 306, that is, by learning the system of the API 306 of the second execution environment, various applications can be developed, and the API 303 can be called and utilized without overhead. When the various functions of the image forming apparatus are controlled, if there is already an API 303 as a development asset, this can be utilized.

  The API 306 performs processing corresponding to the command A to the controller control unit 302 in step (507) since the target of the command is in the device. At this time, it goes without saying that the processing corresponding to the command in step (503) and the processing corresponding to the command in step (507) are the same.

  Also, the processing from step (404) to step (406) shown in FIG. 4 is the same as the processing from step (505) to step (507). Needless to say, the operation is the same.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen displayed on the display unit of the operation unit 500 of the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1, and is executed on the real-time OS 301 which is an example of the first execution environment of the present invention. This is for selecting and executing an application. This screen is a touch panel, and the function is executed when the operator touches the frame of the function to be displayed.

  In FIG. 6, a copy mode key 623 is a key to be pressed when performing a copying operation. When the copy mode key 623 is pressed, a copy mode screen 630 is displayed.

  The extended function key 601 enters a mode such as duplex copying, multiple copying, movement, binding margin setting, frame erasure setting, etc., by pressing this key.

  An image mode key 602 enters a setting mode for shading, shadowing, trimming, and masking a copy image.

  A user mode key 603 can register a mode memory and set a standard mode screen.

  The applied zoom key 604 enters a mode for independently scaling the X and Y directions of the document, and a zoom program mode for calculating a scaling factor from the document size and copy size. An M1 key 605, an M2 key 606, and an M3 key 607 are keys that are pressed when calling a mode memory registered in each of them. Reference numeral 608 denotes a call key. An option key 609 is a key for setting an optional function such as a film projector for direct copying from a film.

  A sorter key 610 is a key for setting sort, non-sort, and group. A document mixed key 611 is a key to be pressed when setting A4 size and A3 size or B5 size and B4 size documents together in the document feeder. An equal magnification key 612 is a key to be pressed when the copy magnification is set to 100%. A paper selection key 613 is a key to be pressed when selecting a copy paper. The reduction key 614 and the enlargement key 615 are keys that are pressed when performing standard reduction and enlargement. Reference numeral 616 denotes a zoom key which is pressed when performing arbitrary reduction or enlargement.

  The density keys 618 and 620 are darkly copied every time the density key 618 is pressed, and lightly copied every time the density key 620 is pressed. The density display unit 617 changes its display left and right when the density keys 518 and 520 are pressed. An AE key 619 is a key to be pressed when automatic density adjustment copying is performed for a document having a dark background such as a newspaper.

  The HiFi key 621 is a key to be pressed when copying a document having a high halftone density such as a photo document. The character emphasis key 622 is a key to be pressed when it is desired to highlight characters in copying a character document.

  A transmission mode key 624 is a key to be pressed when performing fax transmission or the like. A box mode key 625 is a key that is pressed when operating data stored in a box. The copy mode key 623, the transmission mode key 624, and the box mode key 625 correspond to operations for selecting the application 304 executed on the OS 301, respectively.

  The extended mode mode key 626 is a mode key of the present invention, and transits to a screen for selecting and executing an application to be executed on the second execution environment 305 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the display is equivalent to the selection of other mode keys. However, the display may be made easier to recognize visually by changing the size or design of the keys.

  A status line 640 displays a message indicating the device status and print information. In the case of FIG. 6, this means that copying is in progress. A history key 650 is pressed to display history information of a printed job. For example, information such as an end time, a user name, a file name, and the number of copies of the print job is displayed.

  When the copy mode screen 630 is displayed, when an execution of a copying operation is instructed by a Start key (not shown) or the like, an interface for starting processing and setting various parameters to the API 303 is shown in step (401) shown in FIG. Called sequentially. Normally, since the copying operation is instructed to the inside of the apparatus, the API 303 transmits a command to the controller control unit 302 in step (402) shown in FIG. 4, and the copying operation is executed as a result.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 7, reference numeral 701 denotes an interface (I / F), which captures information exchanged with the modem communication unit 4, the network processing unit 7, and the PDL expansion unit 8 and writes it in the memory 704. A CPU 703 communicates with the data processing units 702 and 705 to control the reader unit 1 connected to the I / F 706 and to control the printer unit 2 connected to the I / F 708. The CPU 703 controls the operation unit 500 via the I / F 707.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining a data processing configuration in the image processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 and the computers 11 and 12 shown in FIG. And an example of an image processing system that acquires the contents of a job via a network at an arbitrary timing. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same thing as FIG.

  In FIG. 8, reference numeral 830 denotes a server computer, which is configured to be able to communicate with client computers 11 and 12 using a predetermined protocol via a network. Reference numeral 100 denotes a printer having a function of storing a print history in a built-in memory (print history holding function).

  An image forming apparatus 200 as an MFP (Multi Function Printer) has a printer function, a copy function, a scanner function, and a print history holding function in a built-in memory.

  Reference numeral 860 denotes a conventional printer (conventional printer) that does not have the print history holding function.

  The apparatuses 11, 12, 830, 100, and 200 can communicate with other apparatuses via a network.

  In the client computer 11, when the application 811 calls the GDI 812, the GDI 812 generates print data in response to an instruction from the application 811 and transmits the print data to the spooler 813. The job account client application 814 monitors (hooks) the application 811 calls the GDI 812 and accumulates job information related to the print data.

  The spooler 813 communicates with the peripheral device via the network, and transmits print data if the peripheral device is ready. When the client computer 12 functions as a print server, the print data generated by the GDI 812 is transmitted to the spooler 823.

  The job account client application 814 transmits the periodically accumulated job information to the job account server application 831 of the server computer 830.

  In the client computer 12, the application 821, the GDI 822, and the spooler 823 operate in the same manner as the application 810, the GDI 812, and the spooler 813, respectively.

  The job account client application 824 periodically monitors the spooler 823. If there is a print job spooled in the spooler 823, the job account client computer 824 acquires the information of the print job using the API. Specifically, the number of discharged sheets and the number of pages of the print job are acquired.

  Then, the job account client computer 824 transmits the job information stored in the internal memory to the job account server application 831 of the server computer 830.

  Even if the job account client application 824 of the client computer 12 does not regularly monitor the spooler 823, the OS may have a function of notifying other applications that the state of the spooler 823 has changed. That is, the OS only has to notify the job account client application 824 that the print job has been spooled in the spooler 823.

  In the server computer 830, the job account server application 831 receives job information from the job account client application 814 and the job account client application 824, and stores job information (for example, a job for each user on a hard disk or the like in a list format) in a nonvolatile storage device. (Including account files).

  Furthermore, the job account server application 831 investigates whether each of the image forming apparatuses as peripheral devices connected to the network has a job history holding function. Then, the job history (job information) is acquired from the image forming apparatus having the job history holding function.

  The outline of the printing system using the image forming apparatus and the information processing apparatus in the present embodiment has been described above.

  Further details are assumed to have the same or similar functions as those described in other patents (for example, see Patent Document 2).

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the job account server application 830 shown in FIG.

  Note that the job client applications 814 and 824 shown in FIG. 8 also include the following job information receiving unit, job information registration unit, and job history database.

  9, the job information receiving unit 831 acquires job information 841 and 851 from the job account client application 814, the job account client application 824, and the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 having a job history holding function via the network.

  The job information registration unit 902 registers the job information received by the job information reception unit 901 in the job history database 903. In this job account system, by referring to the data in the job history database 903, when and who executed what amount of jobs (number of pages, number of discharged sheets, paper type, etc.) on which image forming apparatus And a detailed job account is made for each user.

  In the image forming system configured as described above, in the present embodiment, a job output from the client computers 11 and 12 serving as information processing apparatuses to the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 is acquired, and the job information is used as the job information. For example, when a code is input from the operation unit 500 to an image forming apparatus that can communicate with a job management apparatus that manages a job history in association with the included user information, the code and the table for managing the registrant are referred to. The job processing requester is specified by comparison. The job processing history information registered in the job account server application 831 by the job account applications 814 and 824 of the client computers 11 and 12 functioning as the job management apparatus with the job processing history information for the specified job processing requester. CPU 703 obtains a job setting screen for each user based on the obtained job processing history information, and displays it on the display unit included in operation unit 500.

  In addition, the job setting screen display process for each user creates a job setting screen for each user including functional elements to be displayed based on the functional elements for each user extracted from the job processing history information.

  Further, when the user-specific job setting screen display process is stored in the storage means for storing the usage restrictions set for each user, the display is based on the functional elements for each user extracted from the job processing history information. A job setting screen for each user is created and displayed on the display unit, which is a combination of functional elements to be used and functions effective for use restrictions set for each user stored in the storage means.

  In addition, a button for instructing switching from the job setting screen for each user to the standard screen is provided (for example, a key 1308 shown in FIG. 13 to be described later). Then, the job setting screen for each user is switched to the standard job setting screen and displayed on the display unit.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the job processing history information includes the number of sheets used, the duplex function, the N-up function, the sort function, bookbinding printing, the number of copies, and the like corresponding to the usage form.

  As a result, in the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200, the user does not individually register the favorite job output setting screen in the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 or the like, and the code assigned to the user or the group. If it is determined that the specified user has already been registered with the job output, the registered user is registered. Functional elements that can be set with print functions are extracted from the job processing history information, and a job processing setting screen that is optimal for each user can be displayed on the operation unit 500. Therefore, it is possible to instruct the user to start printing the intended output job by shortening the processing time until the user can set job processing, and to set frequent function settings of the user, such as the number of copies. Etc. can be changed to complete the job processing setting, and a job based on the setting can be printed, so that the user convenience is improved.

  This alleviates the job processing setting burden in the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. 8, in the client computers 11 and 12 as information processing apparatuses. It can also be applied to print settings at the time of job output.

  That is, information processing that can communicate with a job management apparatus (for example, server computer 830) that acquires a job output to an image forming apparatus and associates the job information with user information included in the job information to manage a job history. In the apparatus, for example, the client computer 11, the job processing requester is specified from the user information included in the print information. Then, job processing history information for the specified job processing requester is acquired from the job management device, and based on the acquired job processing history information, a job setting screen for each user is created and displayed. To display.

  The means for registering and managing the job processing history information is provided with an equivalent function processing means in the information processing apparatus itself in place of the server computer 830, that is, the job account client application 814 has the job processing history information. It is good also as a structure provided with the function to register and manage.

  In other words, an information processing apparatus that can communicate with an image forming apparatus, monitors a job output to the image forming apparatus, associates the job information with user information included in the job information, and manages a job history In the management means (job account client application 814) and the client computer 11, for example, the job processing requester is specified from the user information included in the print information. Then, job processing history information for the specified job processing requester is acquired from the job account client application 814, and a job setting screen for each user is created based on the acquired job processing history information to display It is good also as a structure displayed on these.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, and usage forms (uses corresponding to the use forms) of the users such as the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 as MFPs. (Including the number of copies, duplex function, N-up function, sort function, bookbinding printing, number of copies, etc.), determine the optimal settings of the image forming device, and dynamically change the UI panel display Corresponds to the procedure. S1001 to S1009 indicate each step. Note that the processing in steps S1002 and S1003 is executed by the CPU of the information processing apparatus based on a program stored in the memory of the information processing apparatus. The processing in steps S1004 to S1006 is realized by the CPU 703 of the core unit 10 of the image forming apparatuses 11 and 12 loading a control program stored in a ROM or a hard disk into the memory 704 and executing it.

  In the flow shown in FIG. 10, when the user performs printing (or similar function selection operation such as fax, scan, print, etc.), first, in step S1001, remote printing (information processing apparatus (client computers 11, 12) is performed. The process branches depending on whether the printing is from the printer or the operation on the device (in the example shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200).

  Note that, in the present embodiment, the function for this discrimination operates independently on the information processing apparatus (client computers 11 and 12) and the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200.

  Therefore, the flow shown in FIG. 10 can be applied both on the information processing apparatus and on the image forming apparatus. Of course, the independent operation on the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus is one embodiment, and as an actual use form, there is no problem with enabling the present invention only on one side, for example, only on the image forming apparatus. Needless to say, there is no.

  First, in step S1001, after distinguishing the printing method, if it is a print request (hereinafter referred to as remote printing) from the information processing apparatuses 11, 12, etc., the information processing apparatus identifies the user in step S1002. Do. For example, in the present embodiment, it is specified from user information included in print information.

  As described with reference to FIG. 8, when the application 811 calls the GDI 812 in the client computer 11, the GDI 812 generates print data in response to an instruction from the application, as described in FIG. The print data is transmitted to the spooler 813. The job account client application 814 monitors (hooks) the application 811 calling the GDI 812 and accumulates job information related to the print data.

  Next, in step S1003, the information processing apparatus stores the job history database in the job account client application 814 (or the job history database 903 on the server computer 830 shown in FIG. 9) in step S1003. Referring to the user information, a UI set for each user is created as described later and displayed on the display device of the information processing apparatus. Details of the UI based on this display control (see FIG. 14) will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, the CPU 703 refers to the history information for each user and displays it as the print setting screen shown in FIG. 14. At this time, the print restriction is set for the user, for example, by a network administrator or the like. If the print settings exceed the current limit on the number of prints, the user has not set the function, but by setting the function, the job can be output even within the print limit. It is assumed that a setting screen capable of displaying function setting elements (for example, Nin1) that can set the function setting is created so that the function setting can be performed.

  In addition, it is optional to display an instruction button or the like for displaying a print setting element that is not displayed on the print setting screen that is created and displayed.

  Furthermore, if there are multiple job information histories even for the same user, the list is displayed and the setting screen to be displayed is selected, or the priority order is selected from the selection frequency of the setting screen. Alternatively, the setting screen selected by the user may be displayed. Thereby, a user's usability improves.

  The job information is transferred to the server computer 830 and stored in the job history database 903 on the server computer 830. Details regarding the registration process are described in Patent Document 2.

  Thereafter, in step S1004, for example, the received job information is printed in the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200. In step S1005, job information related to printing is acquired. In step S1006, the server computer 830 illustrated in FIG. Register in the job history database 903. After registration, the above process is repeated each time printing is performed again.

  Note that the processes in steps S1004, S1005, and S1006 are described in detail in Patent Document 2.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step 1001 that device printing (a form in which the user performs printing or the like by operating the operation unit 500 on the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200), the process proceeds to step S1007, and the user performs A predetermined code is input on the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200. Here, the input code is a department ID, a password, or the like set to identify a user or group. In step S1008, the image forming apparatus identifies a user (or group) based on a predetermined code input by the user. In step S1009, the CPU 702 determines the panel UI on the image forming apparatuses 11 and 12. By referring to the history database, adaptive display is performed for the user specified by the control based on the created UI. Details of the displayed UI will be described later. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1004.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The UI process determination process set for each user performed in step S1003 shown in FIG. Corresponds to the detailed procedure. S1101 to S1107 indicate each step. Each step is realized by the CPU of the information processing apparatus loading a control program stored in a ROM or a hard disk into the memory and executing it.

  First, in step S1101, the client computer 11 as an information processing apparatus acquires job information (refer to Patent Document 2 for details). In step S1102, the acquired job information is registered in the job history database 903 shown in FIG. 9 as a data file in a list format for each user. The listing is merely an example, and other methods such as registering in the job history database 903 and extracting the corresponding data every time it is used may be used.

  Next, in step S1103, the CPU extracts features from, for example, listed user information, and determines what setting the user is printing. For example, items such as N-up set value, number of copies, presence / absence of double-sided printing are listed from past job history. Furthermore, by registering the frequency of each set value together, it becomes possible to refer to the frequency of each set item. By referring to this frequency, the user-specific UI displayed on the display device by the CPU is displayed. The display may be reflected, for example, in the priority order of items to be displayed.

  Further, in step S1104, an item as a printing restriction set in the printing system (here, an upper limit value) is checked. If there is a match, the process proceeds to step S1105, a predetermined item is added, and the process proceeds to step S1106.

  For example, when printing restrictions are managed for each user, for example, when the printing limit number of users is approached, even if the user is not set to select the N-up printing function, By recommending the printing function, the user can select a function that reduces the user's printing restrictions as a result. Such a printing function, for example, a setting with many N-ups or double-sided printing is emphasized. When there is a function that is not normally used, such as UI assembly, highlighting of the function corresponds.

  At this time, it is desirable that the recommended printing function for the printing restriction is both sides and N-up printing (N is as large as possible).

  However, since the layout of the layout can be changed in some cases, the UI display is also included in the present embodiment so that such details can be set.

  Next, in step S1106, the CPU generates a UI for the corresponding user based on the information in steps S1104 and S1105, stores the information created in step S1107 in the memory, and returns to step S1101.

  The UI is generated by arranging UI objects and those assigned layout and functions.

  This created UI is displayed in step S1003 shown in FIG.

  This allows the user to check and change the setting items necessary for the user again before the actual printing is performed, and to automatically grasp the print suppression and the use of functions that have not been used before. Can do.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, and an operation unit on the device (image forming apparatuses 100 and 200) performed in step 1009 shown in FIG. This corresponds to the detailed procedure of the UI creation process determination process displayed on the operation unit 500 when printing (or scanning, etc.) is performed by the operation from 500. S1201 to S1208 indicate each step.

  Each step is realized by the CPU 703 of the core unit 10 of the image forming apparatuses 11 and 12 loading a control program stored in a ROM or a hard disk into the memory 704 and executing it.

  Further, this processing flow is not performed every time step S1009 shown in FIG. 10 is executed, but relates to means for creating a UI to be selected and displayed in step S1009 in advance. Of course, the processing shown in FIG. 12 may be performed every time step S1009 is executed. However, this requires many steps until the UI is displayed, which leads to a time delay and is not practical on the user interface. .

  First, in step S1201, the image forming apparatuses 100, 200, etc. acquire job information, and in step 1202, the HDDs (hardware) in the image forming apparatus are listed for each user according to the user information specified from the acquired job information. (Desk drive) or memory. In step S1203, feature information is extracted from the user information, and the CPU 703 determines what setting the user is printing. In step S1204, based on the feature information extracted in step S1203, the CPU 703 generates a UI that matches the user and stores it in the memory 704.

  Next, in step S1205, the UI information created in the job account system (printing system) of the client computers 11 and 12 as the information processing apparatus (referring to the UI information created in step S1106 in FIG. 11) is stored in the client. Acquired from the computer 11, 12 or the like.

  In step S1206, the UI information of both is compared. In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the number of times of printing is compared in step S1206 shown in FIG. Note that the functional elements to be compared are not limited to the number of times of printing, and may be determined based on the priority order of the set functional elements.

  Also, the UI created in step S1106 shown in FIG. 11 and the UI created in step S1204 in FIG. 12 may tend to be clearly biased when comparing the number of times of remote printing and the number of times of printing on the device. For example, the superiority is set to the UI created with the larger number of times.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the superiority index of each settable item in the print setting item can be arbitrarily set separately. For example, a permutation based on the printing date and a permutation based on the number of printed sheets are good examples.

  Next, in step S1206, if the CPU 703 determines that the UI created in step S1106 shown in FIG. 11 is superior to the UI created in step S1204 shown in FIG. Then, the UI is created again in consideration of the characteristics, and the determination process in step S1206 is repeated again.

  In step S1208, the UI that has passed through the determination process and becomes valid is stored and held in the memory 704. This is called by the CPU 703 in step S1009 shown in FIG. 10 and becomes a UI displayed on the operation unit 500 of the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200.

  Note that, as described above, the processing flows shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 have one feature that their execution timings are provided separately from the flow of FIG.

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible for the image forming apparatus to provide an optimal operation display screen to the user without making any settings when the user prints, and the convenience of the user is improved. be able to.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to effectively feed back unused functions of the image forming apparatus and information of the job account system (printing system), thereby improving operational convenience and reducing costs. Is obtained.

  An example of a UI created by the processing shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 will be described below.

  FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a display example of a user-specific job setting screen (UI) displayed on the operation unit of the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 shown in FIG. 1, and is created from information for each user. This corresponds to an example of the display panel UI. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same thing as FIG.

  In FIG. 13, reference numerals 1301, 1302, 1303 and 1304 denote optimum user setting keys which are different for each user arranged on the display panel UI and are displayed in step S1009 shown in FIG. The key is different for each specified user. The optimum user setting keys 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304 may be displayed as user key areas assigned on the standard screen, and the display positions of the optimum user setting keys 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304 are displayed. You may display in the area | region which a user can set.

  Further, when displaying the optimum user setting keys 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304, a sort key (not shown) may be provided so that the display position of each key can be moved and arranged. As a result, the user can customize the display positions of the optimum user setting keys 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304, and the usability of the user is improved.

  Further, a mask key or the like (not shown) may be provided so that user keys other than the keys on the standard screen can be masked.

  Further, the contents of the optimum user setting keys 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304 are prepared for the change request, the pressed state of each optimum user setting key 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304 is determined, and the setting value is changed. The user-friendliness of the user can be further improved by displaying the UI for controlling the information so that the information from the change input screen can be reflected on the display screen. Note that the UI for changing the setting value may be displayed in a key display area for convenient functions instead of displaying keys 1305 to 1307 described later.

  In addition, a specific combination of the optimum user setting keys 1301, 1302, 1303, and 1304 is assigned to one key, and the confirmation key or the like is displayed as the screen shown in FIG. If the settings are the same, the user identification for each user may be further improved by pressing one key.

  The optimum user setting key 1301 functions as a double-sided key. The optimum user setting key 1302 functions as a layout key. The optimum user setting key 1303 functions as a paper selection key. The optimum user setting key 1304 functions as a copy number key.

  Reference numerals 1305, 1306, and 1307 are user recommended setting keys, and in this embodiment, are setting key groups that are recommended for use by functions that are not used in the past and that are arranged on the display panel UI.

  A staple key 1305, a color key 1306, and an N-UP key 1307 are provided. The standard setting key 1308 is a key (changes the setting screen to an existing one) that switches the display to the conventional UI without using the display panel UI for each user.

  A setting addition key 1309 functions as a key for adding various settings from the present. The layout setting key 1310 functions as a key that is operated when the user rearranges the personal UI displayed on the operation unit 500 such as the image forming apparatus 100 or 200.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a message UI displayed on the display unit included in the client computers 11 and 12 illustrated in FIG.

  In FIG. 14, reference numeral 1401 denotes the entire UI to be displayed. A part 1402 displays a message from the job account applications 814 and 824 or the job account server application 831 on the information processing apparatus. In this example, the user is informed that the UI is activated from the printing system and that the designated print settings can be changed (notification example from the job account application).

  In FIG. 14, reference numeral 1403 denotes a portion for displaying the image forming apparatus designated by the user. It should be noted that whether this screen is displayed by being incorporated in a UI included in the printer driver or displayed as an independent UI is determined by setting the display screen. In addition, it is optional to configure the setting information of each item so that the user can easily recognize visually by using simple graphics, icons and other objects together.

  Reference numerals 1404, 1405, 1406, and 1407 denote optimum user setting keys. In this embodiment, the keys are different for each user arranged on the display panel UI.

  The optimum user setting key 1404 functions as a double-sided key depending on the user setting value. The optimum user setting key 1405 functions as a layout key depending on the user setting value. The optimum user setting key 1406 functions as a paper selection key depending on the user setting value. The optimum user setting key 1407 functions as a copy number key according to the user setting value.

  User recommended setting keys 1408, 1409, and 1410 are a group of setting keys that are recommended for use by functions that are not used in the past and that are arranged on the display panel UI according to this embodiment.

  Here, the user recommended setting key 1408 functions as a staple key. The user recommended setting key 1409 functions as an N-UP key (for example, 16 pages / sheet). The user recommended setting key 1410 functions as a color / grayscale switching key. Reference numeral 1411 denotes a key whose setting can be changed. Reference numeral 1422 denotes a key for starting printing with the current setting.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, a description will be given of a case where a user-specific UI is created and displayed when a print job is performed on the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200 or a user operates the operation unit 500 on the image forming apparatuses 100 and 200. However, when the user is provided with a plurality of image forming apparatuses having the same function or the like and the image forming system is configured, the image forming apparatus and the user shown in the first embodiment have a one-to-one correspondence. In some cases, the user interface may be used by the operation unit 500 of the own apparatus from another image forming apparatus.

  Therefore, after specifying the user, it is determined whether or not a plurality of image forming apparatuses are registered by the same user by referring to the data of the job history database 903, and the UI based on which history information is given to the user. It is possible to select whether to perform display, and it is possible to display a familiar UI regardless of which image forming apparatus the user is using.

  Of course, the UI display process can be similarly applied to the UI display control shown in FIG.

[Third Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, a case has been described in which UI other than the own device is used as display control of the own device. However, when the printing function cannot be reflected, for example, one side can be duplex printed, but the other side is duplex. When there is no function, when a user is operating on an image forming apparatus that does not have a duplex function, after displaying and setting the UI of the other image forming apparatus that has the duplex function, a job (scanner job, print job) May be transferred to an image forming apparatus having a double-sided function for processing.

[Fourth Embodiment]
The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs readable by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 in the present embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.

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

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a client computer browser is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on the recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. In other words, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  Also, the key information for encrypting the program of the present invention, storing it in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM and distributing it to the user, and decrypting the encryption from the homepage via the Internet to the user who cleared the predetermined condition It is also possible to download and execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install it on the computer.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

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

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will recognize that the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions in the present specification, but the following embodiments. Needless to say, is also included.

1 is a block diagram showing an example of an image forming system showing a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus suitable for an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a software (module) structure stored in a core unit of an image forming apparatus that is an example of the image forming apparatus of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement of the calling of the interface of API shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an operation of the API shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a screen displayed on a display unit of an operation unit of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a block diagram explaining the data processing structure in the image processing system which shows 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a job account server application 830 shown in FIG. 8. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a display example of a user-specific job setting screen (UI) displayed on an operation unit of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a figure which shows an example of the message UI displayed on the display part with which the client computer shown in FIG. 1 is provided. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read with the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

11, 12 Client computer 100, 200 Image forming apparatus (MFP)
811, 823 Application 812, 822 GDI
813, 823 Spooler 814, 824 Job account client computer 830 Job account server application

Claims (20)

An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that acquires a job output from an information processing apparatus to an image forming apparatus, associates the job information with user information included in the job information, and manages a job history. ,
A specific means for identifying the job processing requester;
Acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management device;
UI control means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition means and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
An image forming apparatus comprising:   The UI control unit creates a job setting screen for each user including functional elements to be displayed based on functional elements for each user extracted from the job processing history information. Image forming apparatus. Comprising storage means for storing usage restrictions set for each user;
The UI control means is effective for functional elements to be displayed based on user-specific functional elements extracted from the job processing history information and usage restrictions set for each user stored in the storage means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a job setting screen for each user combined with various functions is created and displayed on the display unit. An instruction means for instructing switching from the user-specific job setting screen to the standard screen;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the UI control unit switches from a job setting screen for each user to a standard job setting screen based on an instruction from the instruction unit and displays the image on the display unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the job processing history information includes a use number corresponding to a use form, a duplex function, an N-up function, a sort function, bookbinding printing, the number of copies, and the like. Having UI information acquisition means for acquiring job setting screen information for each remote user created by the information processing apparatus;
The UI control unit compares the job setting screen information for each remote user acquired by the UI information acquisition unit with the job setting screen information for each user to be created, and adjusts the contents of the job setting screen to be displayed. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that acquires a job output to an image forming apparatus, associates the job information with user information included in the job information, and manages a job history.
A specific means for identifying the job processing requester;
Acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management device;
UI control means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition means and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
An information processing apparatus comprising: An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an image forming apparatus,
Job management means for monitoring a job output to the image forming apparatus and managing the job history by associating the job information with user information included in the job information;
A specific means for identifying the job processing requester;
Acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management means;
UI control means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition means and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
An information processing apparatus comprising: Comprising storage means for storing usage restrictions set for each user;
The UI control unit creates a job setting screen for each user by combining a functional element for each user and a function effective for use restriction set for each user stored in the storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the information processing apparatus displays the information on a display unit. An instruction means for instructing switching from the user-specific job setting screen to the standard screen;
8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the UI control unit switches from a job setting screen for each user to a standard job setting screen based on an instruction from the instruction unit, and displays the standard job setting screen on the display unit. .   8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the job processing history information includes a use number corresponding to a use form, a duplex function, an N-up function, a sort function, bookbinding printing, the number of copies to be printed, and the like. Job processing in an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that acquires a job output from an information processing apparatus to the image forming apparatus and associates the job information with user information included in the job information to manage a job history A method,
A specific step for identifying the job processing requester;
An acquisition step of acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying step from the job management device;
A UI control step of creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired in the acquisition step and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
A job processing method. A job processing method in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that acquires a job output to an image forming apparatus and associates the job information with user information included in the job information and manages a job history,
A specific step for identifying the job processing requester;
An acquisition step of acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying step from the job management device;
A UI control step of creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired in the acquisition step and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
A job processing method. Jobs in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an image forming apparatus provided with job management means for monitoring a job output to the image forming apparatus and managing job history by associating the job information with user information included in the job information A processing method,
A specific step for identifying the job processing requester;
An acquisition step of acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying step from the job management unit;
UI control means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquiring step and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
A job processing method.   A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the job processing method according to claim 12.   A program for causing a computer to execute the job processing method according to claim 12. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
A specific means for identifying the job processing requester;
Acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management device;
Display means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition means and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
An image forming apparatus comprising: A job setting screen display method in an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
A specific step for identifying the job processing requester;
An acquisition step of acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying step from the job management device;
Based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition step, a display step of creating a job setting screen for each user and displaying it on a display unit;
A job setting screen display method characterized by comprising: An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
A specific means for identifying the job processing requester;
Acquisition means for acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying means from the job management device;
Display means for creating a job setting screen for each user based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition means and displaying the job setting screen on a display unit;
An information processing apparatus comprising: A job setting screen display method in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a job management apparatus that manages job processing history information of a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
A specific step for identifying the job processing requester;
An acquisition step of acquiring job processing history information for the job processing requester specified by the specifying step from the job management device;
Based on the job processing history information acquired by the acquisition step, a display step of creating a job setting screen for each user and displaying it on a display unit;
A job setting screen display method characterized by comprising:

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