JP2012076383A - Image forming apparatus and method of controlling the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a printed matter from being taken from a paper discharge unit by mistake with a simple structure in an image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: In a multi functional peripheral 1, a control unit 3 performs personal identification based on identification information input from a printing operator. A security paper discharge unit 15 may be shifted between a first state where a printed matter is carried therein and a printed matter can be externally taken therefrom and a second state where it cannot be taken therefrom. A printing record storage unit 27 stores printing records including printing information related to printing operators. The control unit 3 shifts the security paper discharge unit 15 from the second state to the first state on the basis of the input identification information and the printing records. An empty sensor 39 detects the presence/absence of a printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15. The control unit 3 reports the condition of the security paper discharge unit 15 on the basis of the input identification information, the printing records, and the presence/absence of the printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15 after the shift from the second state to the first state.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a control method thereof, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus having a lockable paper discharge unit and a control method thereof.

  Information leakage in the image forming apparatus occurs, for example, when the user forgets to remove his / her printed material from the paper discharge unit, or mistakenly or intentionally takes out another person's printed material from the paper discharge unit. Therefore, there is known a conventional image forming apparatus provided with a paper sorting apparatus provided with a plurality of personal bins in order to prevent information leakage. In the paper sorting apparatus, the printed materials are each discharged to a personal bin. Furthermore, the personal bin is provided with a locking means, and the locking means can be released by inputting a password by the print executor. In this way, the printed matter is prevented from being taken out accidentally (see Patent Document 1).

  The paper sorting apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a shared bin with locking means in addition to a personal bin with locking means. When each of the personal bins is full, a person who performs printing in the shared bin A destination corresponding to is displayed and the document is discharged to the shared bin. The shared bin is released only by the password of the print performer, and cannot be used by other print performers unless the document in the shared bin is empty. Therefore, in the shared bin, printed materials by a plurality of print performers are not mixed. As a result of the above, even if the print executor cannot take out another person's printed material and the print executor forgets to remove the printed material from the shared bin, information leakage is prevented.

JP-A-8-198500

  In the apparatus described in Patent Document 1, since a plurality of personal bins are provided, a relatively large paper sorting apparatus is required. In addition, when a print performer's personal bin is full, the printed material is discharged to the shared bin. However, unless the print performer removes all printed materials from the shared bin, The printed matter from is not discharged into the shared bin. Therefore, when a plurality of personal bins are full and a printed matter is left in the shared bin, there is a problem that printing is not permitted.

  An object of the present invention is to prevent a printed matter from being mistakenly taken out from a paper discharge unit with a simple configuration in an image forming apparatus.

  Hereinafter, a plurality of modes will be described as means for solving the problems. These aspects can be arbitrarily combined as necessary.

An image forming apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes an input unit, a print execution unit, a personal authentication unit, a paper discharge unit, a storage unit, a control unit, a detection unit, and a notification unit. . Print data is input to the input unit. The print execution unit performs printing based on the print data. The personal authentication unit performs personal authentication based on authentication information input from the print executor. The paper discharge unit can shift a state between a first state in which the printed material is carried in and the printed material can be taken out from the outside, and a second state in which the printed material cannot be taken out. The storage unit stores a print history including print information related to the print performer. The control unit shifts the paper discharge unit from the second state to the first state based on the input authentication information and print history. The detection unit detects the presence or absence of printed matter in the paper discharge unit. The notification unit notifies the status of the paper discharge unit based on the input authentication information, the print history, and the presence or absence of printed matter in the paper discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state.
In this apparatus, the notification unit appropriately notifies the status of the paper discharge unit based on the input authentication information, the print history, and the presence or absence of printed matter in the paper discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state. It can be performed. In particular, since personal authentication is performed by the personal authentication unit, it is possible to appropriately notify the print performer who performed personal authentication and other print performers according to the situation. Therefore, the printed matter is unlikely to be mistakenly taken out from the paper discharge unit, although the printed material is discharged from a plurality of print performers to one paper discharge unit.

In a state where the print history includes print information related to other print performers other than the authenticated print performer who performed personal authentication, if the detection unit detects that no printed matter exists in the paper discharge unit, The following operations may be performed. The notification unit notifies the authenticated print performer and other print performers that the printed matter does not exist in the paper discharge unit.
In this case, there is no printed matter in the paper discharge unit even though the print history includes print information related to other print performers, so the authenticated print performer mistakenly selects another print performer. There is a high possibility that the printed matter has been taken out of the paper discharge unit. Therefore, this is notified to the authenticated print performer and other print performers. As a result, the authenticated print executor can confirm the printed matter that he / she has taken out and return the printed matter of another print executor to the paper discharge unit. Also, other print performers can make an inquiry to the authenticated print performer if their prints are not returned to the paper discharge unit.

In a state where the print history includes print information related to other print performers, if the detection unit detects that printed matter exists in the paper discharge unit, the notification unit authenticates to other print performers. Information specifying the completed print performer may be notified.
In this case, the print history includes print information related to other print performers, and the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit, which is normal. However, it cannot be denied that the authenticated print executor mistakenly took out the printed matter of another print executor from the paper discharge unit. Therefore, information specifying the authenticated print performer is notified to other print performers. As a result, other print performers can make an inquiry to the authenticated print performer if their printed matter is insufficient in the paper discharge unit.

In a state where the print history does not include print information related to other print performers, if the detection unit detects that printed matter exists in the paper discharge unit, the notification unit notifies the authenticated print performer of the printed matter. May be present in the paper discharge unit.
In this case, since the print history is not included in the print history but the printed material is present in the paper discharge unit, the authenticated print performer can send his / her printed material to the paper discharge unit. There is a high possibility that you left it by mistake. Therefore, this is notified to the authenticated print executor. As a result, the authenticated print executor can take out the printed matter forgotten from the paper discharge unit.

The image forming apparatus may further include a removing unit that removes the printed material from the paper discharge unit if the paper discharge unit is not opened within a predetermined time after the notification.
In this apparatus, if the paper discharge unit is not opened within a predetermined time after notification, the removal unit removes the printed material from the paper discharge unit. Therefore, the left-over printed matter is not taken out from the paper discharge unit by other print performers.

The removal unit may remove the printed material existing in the paper discharge unit from the paper discharge unit if the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit after the paper discharge unit is opened and further closed.
In this apparatus, after the paper discharge unit is opened and further closed, the removal unit removes the printed matter from the paper discharge unit. Therefore, the left-over printed matter is not taken out from the paper discharge unit by other print performers.

An image forming apparatus control method according to another aspect of the present invention is a method for controlling the following image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes an input unit, a print execution unit, a paper discharge unit, a storage unit, and a detection unit. Print data is input to the input unit. The print execution unit performs printing based on the print data. The paper discharge unit can store the printed material and can shift the state between a first state where the printed material can be taken out from the outside and a second state where the printed material cannot be taken out. The storage unit stores a print history including print information related to the print performer. The detection unit detects the presence or absence of printed matter in the paper discharge unit. The image forming apparatus control method includes the following steps.
◎ Step of determining whether personal authentication has been performed ◎ Step of determining whether print information related to the authenticated print performer is included in the print history when personal authentication has been performed ◎ In the print history The step of shifting the paper discharge unit from the second state to the first state when print information related to the authenticated print performer is included ◎ Print information of print performers other than the authenticated print performer in the print history A step of determining whether or not a document is included ◎ Based on input authentication information, print history, and presence / absence of printed matter in the sheet discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state, the state of the sheet discharge unit In this method, in accordance with the input authentication information, print history, and presence / absence of printed matter in the paper discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state, the notification unit performs the paper discharge unit About the situation It is possible to perform a switching notification. In particular, since personal authentication is performed, appropriate notifications can be made to the print performer who performed personal authentication and other print performers according to the situation. Therefore, the printed matter is unlikely to be mistakenly taken out from the paper discharge unit, although the printed material is discharged from a plurality of print performers to one paper discharge unit.

The notification step may include the following steps.
◎ If it is determined that the print history contains print information related to other print performers, the step of determining whether or not the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit ◎ If there is no printed material in the paper discharge unit If it is determined, the step of notifying the authenticated print performer and other print performers that no printed matter exists in the paper discharge unit. In this method, print information related to other print performers is included in the print history. Although the printed matter does not exist in the paper discharge unit despite being included, there is a high possibility that the authenticated print executor mistakenly took out the printed matter of another print executor from the paper discharge unit. Therefore, this is notified to the authenticated print performer and other print performers. As a result, the authenticated print executor can confirm the printed matter that he / she has taken out and return the printed matter of another print executor to the paper discharge unit. Also, other print performers can make an inquiry to the authenticated print performer if their prints are not returned to the paper discharge unit.

  The step of notifying the authenticated print performer and other print performers that there is no printed material in the paper discharge unit may continue to be executed until it is determined that the printed material is present in the paper discharge unit.

The notification step may further include a step of notifying other print performers of information specifying the authenticated print performer if it is determined that the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit.
This method is normal because the print history includes print information related to other print performers and the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit. However, it cannot be denied that the authenticated print executor has accidentally taken out the printed matter of another print executor from the paper discharge unit. Therefore, information specifying the authenticated print performer is notified to other print performers. As a result, other print performers can make an inquiry to the authenticated print performer if their printed matter is insufficient in the paper discharge unit.

The notification step may include the following steps.
◎ If it is determined that the print history does not include print information related to other print performers, the step of determining whether or not the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit ◎ It is determined that the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit If this is the case, the step of notifying the authenticated print performer that the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit is performed even though the print history does not include print information related to other print performers. Since the printed material is present in the paper discharge unit, there is a high possibility that the authenticated print executor mistakenly left his / her printed material in the paper discharge unit. Therefore, this is notified to the authenticated print executor. As a result, the authenticated print executor can take out the printed matter forgotten from the paper discharge unit.

The control method of the image forming apparatus may further include the following steps.
◎ Step of determining whether the paper discharge unit is opened within a predetermined time after notification ◎ Step of removing the printed matter from the paper discharge unit if it is determined that the paper discharge unit is not open In this method, after notification If the paper discharge unit is not opened even after the predetermined time elapses, the printed matter is removed from the paper discharge unit. Accordingly, the left-over printed matter is not taken out by other print performers.

The control method of the image forming apparatus may further include the following steps.
◎ Steps for determining whether or not there is any printed material in the paper discharge unit after the paper output unit is opened and further closed ◎ If it is determined that there is printed material in the paper output unit, remove the printed material from the paper output unit Step In this method, when a predetermined time elapses after notification, the printed matter is removed from the paper discharge unit. Accordingly, the left-over printed matter is not taken out by other print performers.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, based on the input authentication information, the printing history, and the presence or absence of printed matter in the paper discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state, the notification unit is configured to Appropriate notifications about the situation can be made. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the printed matter from being mistakenly taken out from the paper discharge unit, even though the printed material is discharged from a plurality of print performers to one paper discharge unit.

1 is a configuration block diagram of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a configuration block diagram of a control device of a multifunction machine. 5 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the multifunction machine. 5 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the multifunction machine. Pop-up displayed on the screen of the PC of the authenticated print performer. Pop-up displayed on the screen of the PC of the authenticated print performer. Pop-up displayed on the screen of another print performer's PC. Print history displayed on the display of the MFP. Print history and printed matter acquisition history displayed on the display unit of the multifunction device. FIG. 5 is a configuration block diagram of a multifunction peripheral according to another embodiment of the present invention.

(1) Schematic Configuration of Multifunction Device A multifunction device 1 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. The multi-function device 1 has a printer function for printing print data sent from the outside. Furthermore, the multifunction device 1 has a copy function for printing the print data obtained by the scanner.
The multifunction device 1 includes a control unit 3, an image forming unit 5, a document reading unit 7, an operation unit 9, a display unit 11, a paper storage unit 13, a normal paper discharge unit 14, and a security paper discharge unit 15. And a disposal unit 17, a transport mechanism 19, and a communication interface 23.

The controller 3 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The CPU can execute various programs and execute programs. The ROM stores programs and data necessary for the CPU to operate. The RAM stores temporary data and a program created when the program is executed. When the CPU reads out and executes a program in a storage medium such as a ROM, various functions of the control unit 3 are realized, and each unit constituting the multifunction device 1 is controlled.
Note that the control unit 3 and other components are communicably connected via a bus 21.

  The image forming unit 5 forms an image on a sheet based on the print data of the original read by the original reading unit 7 and the print data sent from the personal computer. The image forming unit 5 can employ, for example, an electrophotographic system having a photosensitive drum, a charger, an exposure head, a developing device, and a transfer roller. As the image forming unit 5, an inkjet method may be adopted.

The document reading unit 7 reads a document image and generates print data. The document reading unit 7 includes a document transport device, a platen glass, a light source, a mirror group, a lens, a reading element, and a signal processing circuit (not shown).
The display unit 11 displays an image on the display panel, so that information such as the operation status of the multifunction device 1 and the occurrence of an error can be transmitted to the user.
The operation unit 9 includes a touch panel provided on the display panel and hard keys. The operation unit 9 can accept an operation from the user via the touch panel. The hard keys include keys such as a numeric keypad, an execution key, and a cancel key, and can accept operations from the user. The user can input an instruction to execute copying, scanning, facsimile transmission, or the like using the operation unit 9.

  The sheet storage unit 13 stores a large number of sheets before printing. The sheets in the sheet storage unit 13 are conveyed to the image forming unit 5 one by one by the conveyance mechanism 19.

The normal paper discharge unit 14 stores the printed paper. The paper printed by the image forming unit 5 is discharged by the transport mechanism 19 one by one to the normal paper discharge unit 14. The normal paper discharge unit 14 has a box shape, and the user can freely take out the printed matter from the normal paper discharge unit 14.
The security paper discharge unit 15 stores sheets printed based on the designation of security printing. The paper printed by the image forming unit 5 is discharged by the transport mechanism 19 to the security paper discharge unit 15 one by one. The security paper discharge unit 15 has a box shape and is provided with an openable / closable lid 15a. The user can take out the printed matter inside by opening the cover 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15.

  The discard unit 17 stores the printed material sent from the security paper discharge unit 15 by the transport mechanism 19. Only the administrator can open and close the discard unit 17. The administrator takes out the printed matter from the discarding unit 17 and discards it using a shredder. Further, a shredder may be provided in the discard unit 17.

  The communication interface 23 is connected to a LAN (Local Area Network) 41. Thereby, the multifunction device 1 can communicate with a plurality of personal computers 43 and a printer server (not shown) connected to the LAN 41. A printer driver that controls the control unit 3 of the multifunction device 1 is installed in each personal computer 43. The printer driver converts data instructed by the user of the personal computer 43 into print data that can be processed by the control unit 3, and generates a print job.

(2) Schematic Configuration of Control Unit The configuration of the control unit 3 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the configuration of the control unit of the multifunction machine.
The control unit 3 has a printing function, a display function, an image processing function, and other control functions. A storage unit 25 is connected to the control unit 3.
The storage unit 25 is, for example, a hard disk drive, and includes a print history storage unit 27 and an authentication data storage unit 29.

  The control unit 3 further has a function of performing personal authentication based on the ID and password input from the operation unit 9. Specifically, the control unit 3 determines whether or not the print execution person is included in the authentication data registered based on the ID and password. If the authentication data input by the input person matches the registered authentication data, the control unit 3 causes the authentication data storage unit 29 to store that personal authentication has been performed. The registered authentication data is stored in the storage unit 25. The target registered in the registered authentication data is a login user of the personal computer 43. In the authentication data, a user name, ID, password, and the like are recorded.

  The print history storage unit 27 can store a print history. The print history is a table that holds print information related to a plurality of prints that have been printed. The print information in the print history corresponds to a print job that is estimated to have a printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15. Each print information is added to the print history when a security print job or a security copy job occurs, and is deleted from the print history when the printed matter is taken out from the security paper discharge unit 17 or otherwise processed. Each print information has attributes such as a document ID, a user name (or a host name of a personal computer used by the user), the number of prints, and a print date and time (see FIGS. 8 and 9). When the print data is sent, the control unit 3 causes the image forming unit 5 to perform printing. Furthermore, the control unit 3 updates the print history when printing is completed. Specifically, the control unit 3 adds each piece of print information related to the finished printing to the print history. Further, as will be described later, the control unit 3 deletes each print information from the print history when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  The control unit 3 is connected to the lock mechanism 35, the open / close sensor 37, and the empty sensor 39 of the security paper discharge unit 15. The control unit 3 transmits a lock command and a release command to the lock mechanism 35. For example, the lock mechanism 35 includes a claw member and a solenoid. The open / close sensor 37 is, for example, an optical sensor or a limit switch, and detects whether the cover 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15 is open or closed. The empty sensor 39 is an optical sensor, for example, and detects whether or not the security paper discharge unit 15 is empty.

(3) Control Operation A security print control operation in the multifunction device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing the control operation of the multifunction machine. 5 and 6 are pop-ups displayed on the screen of the authenticated print performer's PC. FIG. 7 is a pop-up displayed on the screen of another print performer's PC.
The following operations are mainly operations in which the control unit 3 controls each component. In the initial state, personal authentication is not performed, and the cover 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15 is locked. Furthermore, in the following description, for the sake of simplicity, a series of operations will be described assuming that only security printing or security copying for handling confidential information has been performed.
3 and 4 are not limited to those shown in the drawings, and may be appropriately changed (change of order, omission or addition of steps) within the scope of the present invention.

In step S1, the control unit 3 determines whether or not a print job for which security print designation has been performed has occurred. Specifically, the control unit 3 waits for print data sent from a personal computer 43 or a printer server (not shown) on the LAN 41. For example, the security print is designated by the print executor using the setting screen of the personal computer 43.
When a print job is generated (Yes in step S1), the process proceeds to step S11. In step S <b> 11, the control unit 3 causes the image forming unit 5 to perform printing, and further updates the printing history in the printing history storage unit 27. Specifically, the control unit 3 adds new print information to the print history.
If a print job has not occurred (No in step S1), the process proceeds to step S2.

In step S2, the control unit 3 determines whether or not personal authentication has been started. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the print executor has input a correct ID and password from the operation unit 9. If no, the process returns to step S1. Therefore, until personal authentication is performed, the control unit 3 executes printing each time print data is received, and further updates the print history. In this way, printing is performed by a plurality of print performers, and the printed matter is carried into the security paper discharge unit 15. Thus, convenience can be improved because a plurality of printing operations can be executed continuously.
If Yes in step S <b> 2, the control unit 3 stores the authentication data in the authentication data storage unit 29. Then, the process moves to step S3. Thereafter, until the authentication is expired (steps S10 and S20), the control unit 3 does not instruct the execution of printing even if the print data is received.

In step S <b> 3, the control unit 3 determines whether the print information of the certifier exists in the print history. The case where the print information of the certifier does not exist in the print history is, for example, a case where the user comes to the multifunction device 1 and performs personal authentication in order to make a security copy. If No in step S3, the process moves to step S7. The security copy is designated by the user using the operation unit 9 and the display unit 11, for example.
In step S7, the control unit 3 determines whether or not the authenticator is executing a copy operation. If Yes, the process moves to step S8, and if No, the process moves to step S9.
In step S8, the control unit 3 causes the image forming unit 5 to perform printing and updates the printing history. When step S8 ends, the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S9, the control unit 3 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of personal authentication. If no, the process moves to step S7. That is, the control unit 3 waits for a copy operation to be performed within a predetermined time. If Yes in step S9, the process moves to step S10.
In step S10, the control unit 3 executes an authentication expiration process. Specifically, the control unit 3 deletes the authentication data stored in the authentication data storage unit 29. Further, the control unit 3 causes the display unit 11 to display a message notifying that authentication has expired for a predetermined time. When step S10 ends, the process returns to step S1.

If Yes in step S3, the process proceeds to step S4. In step S <b> 4, the control unit 3 transmits a release command to the lock mechanism 35 of the security paper discharge unit 15, and the lock mechanism 35 releases the lock of the security paper discharge unit 15. Thereby, the security paper discharge unit 15 shifts from the locked state to the released state.
In step S <b> 5, based on the detection signal from the open / close sensor 37, the control unit 3 waits for the lid 15 a of the security paper discharge unit 15 to be closed after being opened by the authenticator. If a predetermined time elapses without being closed after the lid 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15 is opened, the lid 15a can be automatically closed assuming that it is forgotten to close. The predetermined time in this case is preferably a time sufficient for the authenticator to open the lid 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15 to take out the printed material, confirm the printed material, and then close the lid 15a. Even if the lid 15a is closed, the lock mechanism 35 does not lock the lid 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15. Accordingly, the authenticator can open the security paper discharge unit 15 in subsequent control operations.
In addition, the date and time when the security paper discharge unit 15 is closed in step S5 is preferably stored as the print acquisition date and time of each print performer.

In step S12, the control unit 3 determines whether the print information in the print history is only for the authenticator. If Yes, the process moves to step S13, and if No, the process moves to step S21.
In step S <b> 13, the control unit 3 determines whether the security paper discharge unit 15 is empty based on the detection result from the empty sensor 39. If Yes, the process moves to step S19, and if No, the process moves to step S14. Here, “Yes” means that the print information in the print history is only the print information of the certifier and the security discharge unit 15 is empty, so that the certifier has taken out all his / her printed matter from the security discharge unit 15. Become. Further, No means that the printed material remains in the security paper discharge unit 15 even though the print information in the print history is only the print information of the authenticator. Will be left behind.

In step S <b> 19, the control unit 3 deletes the print information of the certifier from the print history in the print history storage unit 27.
In step S <b> 20, the control unit 3 deletes the authentication data from the authentication data storage unit 29 and transmits a lock command to the lock mechanism 35 of the security paper discharge unit 15. As a result, the lock mechanism 35 locks the security paper discharge unit 15. When step S20 ends, the process returns to step S1.

In step S14, the control unit 3 issues a warning to the authenticator. Specifically, the control unit 3 transmits the warning content to the personal computer 43 of the certifier via the communication interface 23 and the LAN 41. As a result, the printer driver of the personal computer 43 causes a warning to pop up on the browser. At the same time, it is preferable to display a warning on the display unit 11. As a result, when the certifier has a printed matter and is still near the multifunction device 1, the certifier can quickly notice the warning. As shown in FIG. 5, the warning states that the printed material remains in the security paper discharge unit 15 and that the printed material is discarded if left as it is.
In step S15, the control unit 3 determines whether or not the cover 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15 is opened within a predetermined time. The predetermined time is sufficient time for the certifier to return to his / her desk with printed matter, notice the warning displayed on the screen of the personal computer 43, and return to the multifunction device 1. preferable. If Yes, the process moves to step S16, and if No, the process moves to step S18.

In step S <b> 16, the control unit 3 waits for the lid 15 a to be closed based on the detection signal from the open / close sensor 37.
In step S <b> 17, the control unit 3 determines whether or not the security paper discharge unit 15 is empty based on the detection signal from the empty sensor 39. If Yes, the process moves to step S19, and if No, the process moves to step S18.

In step S <b> 18, the control unit 3 drives the transport mechanism 19 to move the printed matter remaining in the security paper discharge unit 15 to the discard unit 17. As a result, the security paper discharge unit 15 becomes empty.
Note that No in step S15 is a case where the authenticator fails to open the security paper discharge unit 15 within a predetermined time despite issuing a warning. That is, it is a case where the authenticator determines that the removal is unnecessary. Further, No in step S17 is a case where the printed matter remains in the security paper discharge unit 15 despite the lid 15a being opened and closed after the warning. That is, it is a case where the certifier checks the printed material and determines that it is not necessary to take it out.
In step S <b> 21, the control unit 3 determines whether the security paper discharge unit 15 is empty based on the detection signal from the empty sensor 39. If Yes, the process moves to step S22, and if No, the process moves to step S26. Yes in step S21 is a case where the security paper discharge unit 15 is empty even though there is print information other than the certifier in the print history. There is a high possibility that it has been removed from 15. Also, No in step S21 is a normal state because there is print information other than the certifier in the print history and the printed matter remains in the security paper discharge unit 15.

In step S22, the control unit 3 issues a warning to the authenticator. Specifically, the control unit 3 transmits the warning content to the personal computer 43 of the certifier via the communication interface 23 and the LAN 41. As a result, the printer driver in the personal computer 43 pops up a warning on the browser. At the same time, it is preferable to display a warning on the display unit 11. As a result, when the certifier has a printed matter and is still near the multifunction device 1, the certifier can quickly notice the warning. As shown in FIG. 6, the warning states that there is a high possibility that another person's document has been taken away, so that it is confirmed and returned to the security paper discharge unit 15.
In step S23, the control unit 3 sends an alert to the personal computer 43 of the print executor corresponding to the print information in the print history. As shown in FIG. 7, this alert indicates that there is a possibility that the printed matter is insufficient when the print executor becomes the certifier next time and opens the security paper discharge unit 15. If it is, it is intended to let you know who to contact.

In step S <b> 24, the control unit 3 determines whether the cover 15 a of the security paper discharge unit 15 has been opened based on the detection signal from the open / close sensor 37. If Yes, the process proceeds to step S25, and if No, the process returns to step S22. That is, if the cover 15a of the security paper discharge unit 15 is not opened, warnings and alerts continue to be issued.
In step S <b> 25, the control unit 3 waits for the lid 15 a of the security paper discharge unit 15 to be closed based on the detection signal from the open / close sensor 37. If the lid 15a is closed, the process returns to step S21 to determine whether or not the printed material has been returned to the security paper discharge unit 15. That is, the warning / alert continues to be issued until the printed matter is returned to the security paper discharge unit 15.

In step S26, the control unit 3 transmits an alert to the personal computer 43 of the print executor corresponding to the print information in the print history. As shown in FIG. 7, this alert indicates that there is a possibility that the printed matter may be insufficient when the print executor next opens the security paper discharge unit 15 as an authenticator, and is actually insufficient. In some cases, this is to let you know who to contact. In this case, since there is print information other than the certifier in the print history and the printed matter remains in the security paper discharge unit 15, it is in a normal state. However, it is not known whether or not the authenticator actually took out only his / her printed matter from the security paper discharge unit 15. Therefore, such an alert is displayed on the personal computer 43 of another print performer in case the certifier accidentally picks up another person's printed matter or intentionally replaces it. As a result, other print performers can be careful when taking out the printed matter from the security paper discharge unit 15 as an authenticator, and who should be inquired when their printed matter is insufficient. I understand.
When step S26 ends, the process proceeds to step S19.

(4) Features (A) As described in the above embodiment, in the MFP 1 according to this embodiment, when the print performer performs personal authentication, the security paper discharge unit 15 is unlocked, and the authenticator The paper can be taken out from the security paper discharge unit 15. In this case, printing can be executed for a plurality of print jobs until personal authentication is performed, and when personal authentication is performed, printing execution and personal authentication are prohibited until authentication is expired. Further, based on the presence / absence of paper in the security paper discharge unit 15, an appropriate notification is given to the authenticator and / or other print performers. As a result, the printed matter is unlikely to be mistakenly taken out from the security delivery unit 15 in spite of the structure in which the printed matter by a plurality of print performers is delivered to one security delivery unit 15. In this way, an image forming apparatus having a simple structure and high confidentiality is realized.

(B) More specifically, the MFP 1 includes an image forming unit 5 (print execution unit), a security paper discharge unit 15, a print history storage unit 27 (storage unit), a control unit 3, an empty And a sensor 39. Print data is input to the control unit 3. The image forming unit 5 performs printing based on the print data. The control unit 3 performs personal authentication based on the authentication information input from the print executor. The security paper discharge unit 15 is capable of transitioning between a first state where a printed material is carried in and the printed material can be removed from the outside, and a second state where the printed material cannot be removed. The print history storage unit 27 stores a print history including print information related to the print performer. The control unit 3 shifts the security paper discharge unit 15 from the second state to the first state based on the input authentication information and print history. The empty sensor 39 detects the presence or absence of printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15. The control unit 3 notifies the status of the security paper discharge unit 15 based on the input authentication information, the print history, and the presence or absence of printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15 after the transition from the second state to the first state. I do.
In this apparatus, based on the input authentication information, print history, and presence / absence of printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15 after the transition from the second state to the first state, the control unit 3 controls the security paper discharge unit 15. Appropriate notifications about the situation can be made. In particular, since the personal authentication is performed by the control unit 3, appropriate notifications can be made to the print performer who performed the personal authentication and other print performers according to the situation. Therefore, the printed matter is unlikely to be mistakenly taken out from the security delivery unit 15 in spite of the structure in which the printed matter by a plurality of print performers is delivered to one security delivery unit 15.

(C) In the control method of the multifunction device 1, the control unit 3 executes the following control operation.
◎ Step of determining whether personal authentication has been performed ◎ Step of determining whether print information related to the authenticated print performer is included in the print history when personal authentication has been performed ◎ In the print history Step of shifting the security paper discharge unit 15 from the second state to the first state when print information related to the authenticated print performer is included ◎ The print history of other print performers other than the authenticated print performer Step of determining whether or not print information is included ◎ Based on the input authentication information, print history, and presence or absence of printed matter in the security paper discharge unit 15 after the transition from the second state to the first state Notification step for notifying the status of the paper discharge unit 15 In this method, the input authentication information, the print history, and the security rejection after the transition from the second state to the first state are performed. Based on the presence or absence of print in Part 15, the control unit 3 can perform an appropriate notification on the status of the discharge portion. In particular, since personal authentication is performed, appropriate notifications can be made to the print performer who performed personal authentication and other print performers according to the situation. Therefore, the printed matter is unlikely to be mistakenly taken out from the security delivery unit 15 in spite of the structure in which the printed matter by a plurality of print performers is delivered to one security delivery unit 15.

(5) Second Embodiment In this embodiment, a step of displaying a print history on the display unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1 is provided between step S4 and step S5 of FIG. 3 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the authenticator can know the presence or absence of the printed matter of another print performer and the position of his / her printed matter in a state where the printed matter of the other print performer is mixed in the security paper discharge unit 15. As a result, the authenticator does not take out all the printed matter from the security paper discharge unit 15, and takes out his / her printed matter carefully when taking out.
FIG. 8 shows a print history displayed on the display unit 11 of the multifunction device 1. FIG. 8 is a print history displayed on the display unit of the multifunction peripheral. For example, if the authenticator is user B, the 11th sheet from the top is his / her printed matter.
In this example, the printing by the user A is executed before the printing by the user B, but the user B tries to take out the printed matter by performing personal authentication before the user A. Further, after printing by user B and before personal authentication, printing by user C is executed. Accordingly, printed materials are stacked on the security paper discharge unit 15 from the bottom in the order of the printed material of the user A, the printed material of the user B, and the printed material of the user C.

Further, when there is a print performer who has taken out the printed matter from the security paper discharge unit 15 after printing, the printed matter is acquired in addition to the print history in the step of displaying the print history on the display unit 11 of the multifunction device 1. A history may be displayed. The printed matter acquisition history includes information on a print performer who has taken out the printed matter from the security paper discharge unit 15 after the printing time of the certifier. Specifically, the user name (or the host name of the personal computer used by the user), the number of sheets, and the printed material acquisition date and time. As a result, the authenticator knows that another print performer has opened the security paper discharge unit 15 and has taken out the printed matter after the printed matter has been printed, so whether or not his printed matter has been taken out by mistake. You can be careful.
FIG. 9 shows the print history and printed matter acquisition history displayed on the display unit 11 of the multifunction machine 1. FIG. 9 is a print history and printed matter acquisition history displayed on the display unit of the multifunction peripheral. In this case, when the certifier is the user B, it can be seen that the user D and the user E have taken out the printed matter first, so that the user D and the user E can be inquired when their printed matter is insufficient. it can.
In this example, the user D takes out his / her printed matter from the security paper discharge unit 15 between the execution of printing by the user B and the execution of printing by the user C. Further, after printing by the user C, the user E takes out his / her printed matter. Therefore, there is a possibility that the user D has taken out the printed matter of the user A and the printed matter of the user B or out of order, and the user E has taken out the order of the printed matter of the user A, the printed matter of the user B, and the printed matter of the user C. May have broken. In order to deal with this problem, as shown in FIG. 9, attention is given to the possibility that the order of the printed matter has changed in the display on the display unit 11.

(6) Other Embodiments Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, a plurality of embodiments and modifications described in this specification can be arbitrarily combined as necessary.

(A) In the above-described embodiment, the multi-function peripheral in which the normal paper discharge section and the security paper discharge section are mixed has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a multi-function peripheral or printer having only a security paper discharge section. Such an example is shown in FIG.
(B) In the embodiment described above, in addition to the security print from the personal computer, the sheet is conveyed to the security paper discharge unit even when the user comes in front of the multifunction machine and performs a security copy. However, the present invention can also be applied to an apparatus that executes security printing when print data is transmitted from another connected device, such as a personal computer, but does not permit security copying. In that case, in the control flow shown in FIG. 3 of the embodiment, if there is no print history of the certifier in step S3, the control unit immediately performs the authentication expiration process, and then the process returns to step S1.
(C) In the above-described embodiment, the personal authentication is started by the user inputting the ID and password. However, other methods may be used. You may authenticate with the reader by a magnetic card, an IC card, and a barcode. Biometric authentication may also be used.
(D) In the above embodiment, only one paper discharge unit is shown, but the present invention can also be applied to a multi-function peripheral provided with a plurality of paper discharge units. In that case, at least one paper discharge unit needs to realize the characteristics of the above-described embodiment.
(E) In the above-described embodiment, the multifunction peripheral has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a printer having no copy function.
(F) In the embodiment described above, the printed matter remaining in the paper discharge unit is transported to the waste unit, and the paper discharge unit is emptied. However, for example, the administrator notifies the administrator to remove the printed material, You may make it empty a part.
(G) In the above embodiment, the printed matter left on the paper discharge unit is made unreadable by the shredder, but a printing process may be performed so as to make it unreadable.
(H) In the above-described embodiment, various notifications are performed by displaying characters on the display unit. However, the notifications may be performed by voice from a microphone or lighting / extinguishing of a lamp, or by appropriately combining these means.

  The present invention can be widely applied to an image forming apparatus having a lockable paper discharge unit and a control method thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Multifunctional device 3 Control part 5 Image formation part 7 Document reading part 9 Operation part 11 Display part 13 Paper storage part 15 Security paper discharge part 15a Cover 17 Disposal part 19 Transport mechanism 21 Bus 23 Communication interface 25 Storage part 27 Print history storage part 29 Authentication data storage unit 35 Lock mechanism 37 Open / close sensor 39 Empty sensor 41 LAN
43 Personal computer

Claims (13)

An input unit for inputting print data;
A print execution unit for performing printing based on the print data;
A personal authentication unit that performs personal authentication based on authentication information input from the print performer;
A paper discharge unit capable of transferring a state between a first state in which the printed material is carried in and the printed material can be removed from the outside, and a second state in which the printed material cannot be removed;
A storage unit for storing a print history including print information related to the print performer;
A control unit that shifts the paper discharge unit from the second state to the first state based on the input authentication information and the print history;
A detection unit for detecting presence or absence of the printed matter in the paper discharge unit;
Notification of the status of the paper discharge unit is performed based on the input authentication information, the print history, and the presence or absence of the printed matter in the paper discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state. A notification unit;
An image forming apparatus. In a state where the print history includes print information related to other print performers other than the authenticated print performer who performed personal authentication,
If the detection unit detects that the printed material does not exist in the paper discharge unit, the notification unit detects that the printed material does not exist in the paper discharge unit for the authenticated print performer and the other print performers. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, which notifies that. In a state where the print history includes print information related to the other print performer,
The notification unit notifies the other print performer of information specifying the authenticated print performer when the detection unit detects that the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit. Or the image forming apparatus according to 2; In a state where the print history does not include print information related to the other print performer,
2. The notification unit notifies the authenticated print executor that the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit when the detection unit detects that the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of?   The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a removing unit that removes the printed matter from the paper discharge unit if the paper discharge unit is not opened within a predetermined time after the notification.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the removing unit removes the printed material from the paper discharge unit if the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit after the paper discharge unit is opened and further closed. . An input unit for inputting print data;
A print execution unit for performing printing based on the print data;
A paper discharge unit capable of transferring a state between a first state in which the printed material is carried in and the printed material can be removed from the outside, and a second state in which the printed material cannot be removed;
A storage unit for storing a print history including print information related to the print performer;
A control unit for detecting the presence or absence of the printed matter in the paper discharge unit,
Determining whether personal authentication has been performed;
Determining whether or not print information related to an authenticated print performer is included in the print history when the personal authentication is performed;
When the print history includes print information related to the authenticated print executor, causing the paper discharge unit to transition from the second state to the first state;
Determining whether the print history includes print information of a print executor other than the authenticated print executor;
Notification of the status of the paper discharge unit is performed based on the input authentication information, the print history, and the presence or absence of the printed matter in the paper discharge unit after the transition from the second state to the first state. A notification step;
A method for controlling an image forming apparatus comprising: The notification step includes
If it is determined that the print history includes print information related to the other print performer, the step of determining whether the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit;
If it is determined that the printed material does not exist in the paper discharge unit, the step of notifying the authenticated print performer and the other print performers that the printed material does not exist in the paper discharge unit is included. The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 7.   The step of notifying the authenticated print executor and the other print executors that the printed material does not exist in the paper discharge unit is executed until it is determined that the printed material is present in the paper discharge unit. The control method for an image forming apparatus according to claim 8, which is continued. The notification step includes
The method further comprises a step of notifying the other print performer of information specifying the authenticated print performer if it is determined that the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit. A method for controlling the image forming apparatus according to the above. The notification step includes
If it is determined that the print history does not include print information related to the other print performer, the step of determining whether the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit;
And a step of notifying the authenticated print executor that the printed material exists in the paper discharge unit when it is determined that the printed material is present in the paper discharge unit. The method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 10. Determining whether or not the paper discharge unit has been opened within a predetermined time after the notification;
The image forming apparatus control method according to claim 11, further comprising a step of removing the printed matter from the paper discharge unit when it is determined that the paper discharge unit is not opened. Determining whether the printed matter is present in the paper discharge unit after the paper discharge unit is opened and further closed;
The method of controlling an image forming apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a step of removing the printed material from the paper discharge unit when it is determined that the printed material is present in the paper discharge unit.

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