JP2022034178A - Image forming system and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an image forming system and an image forming device that enable highly accurate judgment of print job execution. [Solution] The image forming system of the present invention includes an image forming device that executes a print job, a sensor that detects environmental information of the area in which the image forming device is installed, and a control device that controls the execution of the print job. When a print job execution request is made, the control device controls the execution of the print job based on data for predicting the execution result of the print job and current environmental information that corresponds to sensor installation information regarding the installation state of the sensor. [Selected Figure] Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming system and an image forming apparatus.

Conventionally, the success or failure of a print job executed by an image forming apparatus is influenced by the environment conditions (for example, temperature, humidity, etc.) in which the image forming apparatus is installed. This environmental situation not only changes due to the influence of seasons and weather, but also the operation of other image forming devices in the area where the image forming device is installed, and the movement of the user (for example, air conditioner, air purifier). It also changes due to the influence of the operation of the machine, etc.).

Therefore, in the past, in order to increase the success rate of print jobs, a sensor that detects environmental information was installed outside the image forming device, and the printing control method of the image forming device was changed based on the environmental information detected by the sensor. Alternatively, a technique for encouraging a user to perform a predetermined work has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Further, conventionally, in order to increase the success rate of a print job, a technique of changing the operating conditions of a print job based on the environmental information detected by a sensor installed outside the image forming apparatus has been proposed (for example,). See Patent Document 2).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-140518 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2019-28309

As described above, in order to increase the success rate of print jobs, it has been proposed to acquire environmental information from a sensor installed outside the image forming apparatus and control the image forming conditions based on the acquired environmental information. Has been done. However, since the influence of environmental changes changes depending on individual factors such as the local climate and the user's environment (building structure, etc.), it is difficult to make a highly accurate judgment on print job execution.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming system and an image forming apparatus capable of making a determination of print job execution with high accuracy. ..

In order to solve the above problems, the image forming system of the present invention has an image forming apparatus for executing a print job, a sensor for detecting environmental information in an area where the image forming apparatus is installed, and a control for controlling the execution of the print job. It is equipped with a device. When a print job execution request is made, the control device executes the print job based on the prediction data of the print job execution result and the current environment information corresponding to the sensor installation information regarding the sensor installation mode. Control.

Further, in order to solve the above problems, the image forming apparatus of the present invention includes a control device for controlling the execution of a print job. When the execution request of the print job is made, the control device detects the environmental information of the area where the image forming apparatus is installed and corresponds to the sensor installation information regarding the installation mode of the sensor provided outside the image forming apparatus. The execution of the print job is controlled based on the prediction data of the execution result of the print job and the current environment information.

According to the present invention having the above configuration, the image forming system and the image forming apparatus can determine the print job execution with high accuracy.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the image formation system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the image formation system in the print shop which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the sensor which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the image forming apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the information management apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the print job execution history information which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the sensor composition information which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the job execution start processing which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure at the time of the end of job execution which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the sensor configuration change processing which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is an operation screen transition flow which shows the procedure of the sensor addition operation which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is an operation screen transition flow which shows the procedure of the sensor addition operation which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is an operation screen transition flow which shows the procedure of the sensor addition operation which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention.

Hereinafter, the configuration of the image forming system and the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, and various control processes in the image forming system and the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention will be concretely described with reference to the drawings. To explain to. The present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[Overall configuration of image formation system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 1 includes a plurality of print shops (printer installation areas) 2, an information management device (server) 3, and a network 4. The plurality of print shops 2 and the information management device 3 are connected to the network 4. That is, between the plurality of print shops 2 and between each print shop 2 and the information management device 3, they are communicably connected to each other via the network 4.

In the present embodiment, an example in which the local printer installation area where the image forming apparatus 21 described later is provided is set as the print shop 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, and information management is performed via the network 4. Any area can be applied as the printer installation area as long as it can communicate with the device 3 or another printer installation area. For example, a specific area in the user's workplace may be used as a printer installation area, or a printer installation area may be provided for each floor or room in the same building.

[Configuration of image formation system in print shop]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming system in a print shop according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the print shop 2 has a plurality of image forming devices 21, a plurality of sensors 22a, 22b, 22c (sensor group), a user terminal (computer) 23, and an area network 24. In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, an example will be described in which the number of the image forming apparatus 21, the sensor, and the user terminal 23 included in the image forming system in the print shop 2 is 3, 3, and 1, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the number of the image forming apparatus 21, the sensor, and the user terminal 23 can be arbitrarily set.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of image forming devices 21, the sensors 22b in the sensor group, and the user terminal 23 are communicably connected to each other via the in-area network 24. The sensor 22c is directly and communicably connected to the predetermined image forming apparatus 21 by wire communication. The sensor 22a is directly and communicably connected to the predetermined image forming apparatus 21 by wireless communication. Further, the in-area network 24 is connected to a network 4 provided outside the print shop 2 (see FIG. 1). That is, the plurality of image forming devices 21, the plurality of sensors 22a, 22b, 22c and the user terminal 23 in the print shop 2 are communicably connected to the network 4 via the in-area network 24. In the example shown in FIG. 1, an example of connecting the network 24 in the area in the print shop 2 and the external network 4 so as to be communicable by wire is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. A plurality of image forming devices 21, a plurality of sensors 22a, 22b, 22c, and a user terminal 23 in the print shop 2 may be wirelessly connected to the network 4 so as to be communicable with each other.

Each sensor is provided to detect the environment (climate) information in the print shop 2. Each sensor may be a dedicated sensor for a predetermined image forming device 21 in the print shop 2, or may be a shared sensor for a plurality of image forming devices 21 in the print shop 2. Further, each sensor may be directly connected to the image forming apparatus 21 by wireless communication as shown in the sensor 22a shown in FIG. 2, or may be directly connected to the image forming apparatus 21 by wired communication as shown in the sensor 22c. However, the image forming apparatus 21 may be connected to the image forming apparatus 21 via the in-area network 24 as in the sensor 22b.

The user terminal 23 is used, for example, when the user makes various settings related to image formation (for example, print job settings) for the image forming apparatus 21, adds or deletes sensors, changes sensor installation information, and the like. A computer on which various user operations are performed.

[Internal configuration of each sensor]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 described later, an example is described in which the three sensors 22a, 22b, and 22c included in the sensor group are sensors that detect different types of sensor values (environmental information). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a part of a plurality of sensors may be a sensor that detects the same type of sensor value. Further, in the present embodiment, an example in which the internal configuration of the sensor is the same regardless of the type of the sensor will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and each of the components shown in FIG. 3 is shown according to the type of the sensor. A component other than the component may be included inside the sensor.

As shown in FIG. 3, each of the sensors 22a, 22b, and 22c has a sensor unit 50, a sensor control unit 51, a communication unit 52, and an external IF (Interface) 53. The sensor unit 50 is connected to the sensor control unit 51, the sensor control unit 51 is connected to the communication unit 52, and the communication unit 52 is connected to the external IF 53.

The sensor unit 50 detects environmental information such as temperature, humidity, and weather in the environment in which the image forming apparatus 21 is installed. The sensor unit 50 is composed of, for example, a thermometer, a hygrometer, a barometer, a camera, or the like (see FIG. 4 described later). The sensor control unit 51 controls the operation of the sensor. Specifically, the sensor control unit 51 uses, for example, a process of controlling the operation time and operation interval of the sensor unit 50, a process of acquiring environmental information detected by the sensor unit 50, and an image forming device 21 for acquiring the acquired environmental information. Performs processing and the like to control the communication unit 52 so as to transmit.

The communication unit 52 executes communication processing between the sensor and the image forming apparatus 21. Specifically, the communication unit 52 transmits, for example, the environmental information detected by the sensor unit 50 to a plurality of or predetermined image forming devices 21 in the same print shop 2 via the external IF 53 and the in-area network 24. Processing, processing for receiving a transmission request for environmental information from the image forming apparatus 21, and the like are performed. Further, the communication unit 52 is detected by the sensor unit 50 on a plurality of or predetermined image forming devices 21'in another print shop 2 via the external IF 53 and the network including the network 4 and the in-area network 24. It is also possible to perform a process of transmitting environmental information, a process of receiving a request for transmitting environmental information from the image forming apparatus 21', and the like.

The external IF 53 is an interface for performing wired communication or wireless communication between the sensor and the external device. Therefore, the external IF 53 is configured to include interfaces such as, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) 531 and WiFi (Wireless Fidelity: registered trademark) 532, Bluetooth 533 (registered trademark) and the like.

[Internal configuration of image forming apparatus]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 21 includes a control device 30 and a printing engine 40. The print engine 40 is connected to an engine control unit 35 described later in the control device 30, and the control device 30 is a network including a network 4, an area network 24, and the like via an external IF 36 described later provided inside the control device 30. Connected to the network so that it can communicate. The user terminal 23'connected via the network in FIG. 4 is another user terminal installed in its own print shop 2 or another user terminal 23'installed in another print shop 2. User terminal.

The control device 30 performs various controls related to image formation. Further, the print engine 40 performs image formation according to the instructions of the control device 30 (engine control unit 35 described later) to generate printed matter.

As shown in FIG. 4, the control device 30 has a control unit (CPU (Central Processing Unit) 37), a storage unit (ROM, RAM, HDD) 34, and an external IF 36. The control unit 37 is connected to the storage unit 34 and the external IF 36.

The control unit 37 is composed of, for example, a CPU, and controls the operation of each unit in the control device 30. The control unit 37 controls the process of predicting the success or failure of the execution of the print job described later, controls the execution or cancellation process of the print job based on the result of the prediction described later, and performs the prediction data by the machine learning process described later. It controls the processing to be generated. As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 37 has a print job control unit 31, a sensor management unit 32, a Web server / panel management unit 33, and an engine control unit 35 as functional blocks. The print job control unit 31 is connected to the sensor management unit 32, the Web server / panel management unit 33, the storage unit 34, the engine control unit 35, and the external IF 36. The sensor management unit 32 is connected to the Web server / panel management unit 33, the storage unit 34, and the external IF 36. Further, the Web server / panel management unit 33 is connected to the storage unit 34 and the external IF 36.

(1) Print job control unit The print job control unit 31 performs various controls related to the execution of print jobs in the image forming apparatus 21. Therefore, the print job control unit 31 predicts the success or failure of the print job performed in the job execution start process described later (see FIG. 8 described later), and processes such as execution and cancellation of the print job based on the prediction result, which will be described later. It also controls the job history information storage process and machine learning process performed in the job execution end process (see FIG. 9 described later), the sensor configuration change process described later (see FIG. 10 described later), and the like.

As shown in FIG. 4, the print job control unit 31 has a RIP (Raster Image Processor) unit 311, a job management unit 312, a machine learning unit 313, and a print success / failure prediction unit 314 as functional blocks.

The RIP unit 311 generates raster image data for image formation, and outputs the generated raster image data to the engine control unit 35.

The job management unit 312 receives the setting information of the print job (print job requested to be executed) to be executed from the Web server / panel management unit 33, and outputs (provides) the setting information of the received print job to the print success / failure prediction unit 314. )do. The setting information of the print job to be executed, which is set in the user terminal 23, is output to the job management unit 312 via various operation UIs (User Interface) 332 in the Web server / panel management unit 33.

Further, the job management unit 312 receives a prediction result of success / failure (success or failure) of the execution of the print job from the print success / failure prediction unit 314, and based on the prediction result, executes the print job or executes the print job to the engine control unit 35. Issue a command such as cancellation. Further, the job management unit 312 receives the print job execution result information (for example, success or failure of the executed print job) from the engine control unit 35, and the received print job execution result information and the print job setting. The information (as one set) in which the information and the environment information at the time of executing the print job (acquired by the sensor value acquisition unit 321) are linked is stored as the print job execution history information (see FIG. 6 described later). It is saved in the print job execution history storage unit 341 in 34.

Further, the job management unit 312 uploads (transmits) the print job execution history information of the image forming apparatus 21 to the information management apparatus 3 via the external IF 36 and the network network. Further, the job management unit 312 is, if necessary, a print job associated with, for example, sensor configuration information of another image forming device 21'on the network 4 stored in the information management device 3. It also has a function of downloading (receiving) various information such as learning result data (prediction data) for predicting the success or failure of execution and print job execution history information from the information management device 3 and storing them in the storage unit 34.

The machine learning unit 313 is learning result data for predicting the success or failure of execution of the print job associated with the sensor configuration information (see FIG. 7 described later) stored in the sensor configuration storage unit 343 of the storage unit 34. Generate (prediction data). The machine learning unit 313 performs machine learning using the print job execution history information stored in the print job execution history storage unit 341 of the storage unit 34, and the learning result data after the machine learning is the learning result of the storage unit 34. It is stored in the storage unit 342.

As the learning result data (prediction data) for predicting the success or failure of the print job execution, any parameter can be used as long as it is a parameter that can predict the success or failure of the print job execution. .. For example, it is possible to appropriately set forecast data suitable for the environment based on the environment (building structure, climate, etc.) of the installation area of the image forming apparatus 21 and the printing results (experience) by the local user. can. Further, as the machine learning method, any machine learning method can be used as long as it is a method applicable to the prediction processing of the success or failure of the execution of the print job. For example, the environment of the installation area of the image forming apparatus 21 can be used. Or, based on the printing results (experience) of local users, it is possible to adopt a learning method suitable for the environment.

The print success / failure prediction unit 314 predicts the success / failure (success or failure) of the print job execution when the print job execution request is generated. When the print job execution request is generated, the print success / failure prediction unit 314 first issues an instruction to acquire the sensor value to the sensor value acquisition unit 321 of the sensor management unit 32 before executing the prediction process. As a result, the sensor value acquisition unit 321 acquires the sensor value measured from each sensor (each of the sensors 22a, 22b, 22c) provided for the image forming apparatus 21. Further, the print success / failure prediction unit 314 acquires the sensor configuration information of each sensor provided for the image forming apparatus 21 from the sensor configuration storage unit 343, and of the print job to be executed (print job requested to be executed). The setting information is acquired from the job management unit 312. Next, the print success / failure prediction unit 314 stores the learning result data (prediction data) associated with the information based on the sensor configuration information of each sensor and the setting information of the print job to be executed. It is extracted from the learning result storage unit 342. Then, the print success / failure prediction unit 314 predicts the success / failure of the execution of the print job to be executed by using the acquired current sensor value of each sensor and the extracted learning result data, and sends the prediction result to the job management unit 312. Output.

The method for predicting the success or failure of the print job execution based on the current sensor value and the extracted learning result data is appropriately set according to, for example, the type of sensor value to be used and the content of the learning result data. That is, in the present embodiment, as a method for predicting the success or failure of the execution of the print job, for example, a prediction method considering the environment of the installation area of the image forming apparatus 21 and the printing results (experience) by the local user is adopted. be able to.

(2) Sensor management unit The sensor management unit 32 uses the sensor values detected by each sensor (in this example, the sensors 22a, 22b, and 22c) provided for the image forming apparatus 21 on the network and the outside. Obtained via IF36. The sensor management unit 32 transmits / receives (uploads or downloads) sensor configuration information to / from the information management device 3 via the external IF 36 and the network network, if necessary. Further, in the present embodiment, the sensor management unit 32 is used not only for other image forming devices (not only other image forming devices 21 in the same print shop 2) but also for other image forming devices (not only other image forming devices 21 in the same print shop 2) via an external IF 36 and a network network, if necessary. It is also possible to send / receive (upload or download) sensor configuration information to / from another image forming apparatus 21'in the print shop 2.

As shown in FIG. 4, the sensor management unit 32 has a sensor value acquisition unit 321 and a sensor configuration management unit 322 as functional blocks.

Upon receiving an instruction to acquire the sensor value from the print success / failure prediction unit 314 in the print job control unit 31, the sensor value acquisition unit 321 acquires the sensor value detected by each sensor provided for the image forming apparatus 21. Is performed, and the acquired sensor value is output to the print success / failure prediction unit 314. The sensor value acquisition process by the sensor value acquisition unit 321 may be performed not only at the timing of receiving the instruction to acquire the sensor value from the print success / failure prediction unit 314 but also periodically.

The sensor configuration management unit 322 appropriately acquires (downloads) necessary sensor configuration information from the information management device 3 via the external IF 36 and the network network in response to the instruction of the print job control unit 31, and stores the storage unit 34. It is stored in the sensor configuration storage unit 343 described later. The sensor configuration management unit 322 can also acquire (download) necessary sensor configuration information from another image forming apparatus via the external IF36 and the network network, if necessary.

Further, the sensor configuration management unit 322 is an image forming apparatus, for example, when a user adds or / or deletes a sensor (changes in the configuration of the sensor group) or a part of the sensors in the sensor group fails. When the configuration of the sensor group provided for 21 is changed, the sensor configuration information of each sensor included in the changed sensor group is extracted from the sensor configuration storage unit 343. At this time, the changed configuration information of the sensor group is also transmitted (uploaded) from the sensor configuration management unit 322 to the information management device 3 and stored in the information management device 3.

(3) Web server / panel management unit The Web server / panel management unit 33 manages information on various operations performed by the user on the user terminal 23. As shown in FIG. 4, the Web server / panel management unit 33 has a sensor management UI 331 and various operation UI 332s as functional blocks.

The sensor management UI 331 stores information on various operations (addition and / or deletion of sensors (change of sensor group configuration)) related to sensor settings performed by the user on the user terminal 23, which will be described later in the storage unit 34. Store in unit 343. Further, when the user performs a reference operation of the sensor group or the configuration information of each sensor via the user terminal 23, the sensor management UI 331 is for reference from the sensor configuration storage unit 343 in response to the user's reference request. The sensor configuration information data is extracted and transmitted to the user terminal 23. As a result, the sensor group required by the user and the configuration information of each sensor can be referred to on the screen of the user terminal 23.

Various operation UI332 manages information (print job setting information) of various operations (print job registration (addition), change, deletion operation, etc.) related to print job settings performed by the user on the user terminal 23. These information are output to the job management unit 312 in the print job control unit 31. Further, when the user performs a reference operation of the print job execution history information via the user terminal 23, the various operation UI 332 prints for reference from the print job execution history storage unit 341 in response to the user's reference request. The data of the job execution history information is extracted and transmitted to the user terminal 23. As a result, the user can refer to the print job execution history information on the screen of the user terminal 23.

(4) Engine control unit The engine control unit 35 controls various operations of the print engine 40 when forming an image based on the setting information of the print job.

(5) Storage unit The storage unit 34 is composed of, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or the like. The ROM is composed of a storage medium such as a non-volatile memory, and stores programs, data, and the like for the control unit 37 to perform various controls. The RAM is composed of a storage medium such as a volatile memory, and temporarily stores information (data) necessary for each process performed by the control unit 37. The HDD (readable non-transient recording medium) stores a program for the control unit 37 to perform various controls, an OS (Operating System), various parameters, and the like. The readable non-transient recording medium in which the program executed by the control unit 37 is stored is not limited to the HDD, and is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive), a CD (Compact Disc) -ROM, or a DVD. (Digital Versatile Disc) -A recording medium such as a ROM may be used.

The storage unit 34 also stores sensor configuration information, print job execution history information, and machine learning learning result data used in various processes related to the execution of the print job of the present embodiment. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the storage unit 34 has a print job execution history storage unit 341, a learning result storage unit 342, and a sensor configuration storage unit 343 as functional blocks related to print job execution control.

The print job execution history storage unit 341 stores the execution history information of the print job executed by the image forming apparatus 21. The print job execution history storage unit 341 contains not only the print job execution history information of its own image forming apparatus 21 but also the print job execution history information of other image forming apparatus on the network network as needed. It is downloaded from the management device 3 and saved.

The learning result storage unit 342 stores the result (learning result data) of machine learning performed in the machine learning unit 313 each time the print job is executed by the image forming apparatus 21. In the learning result storage unit 342, not only the result of machine learning performed by its own image forming apparatus 21 but also the result of machine learning of other image forming apparatus on the network network is information-managed as needed. It is downloaded from the device 3 and saved. The learning result data is associated with the configuration of the sensor group (combination of sensors and configuration information of each sensor) provided for the image forming apparatus 21.

The sensor configuration storage unit 343 stores sensor configuration information of each sensor installed in the image forming apparatus 21. The sensor configuration storage unit 343 is installed not only on the sensor configuration information of the sensor installed on its own image forming device 21 but also on other image forming devices on the network network as needed. The sensor configuration information of the sensor is downloaded from the information management device 3 and saved.

(6) External IF
In the external IF 36, the image forming apparatus 21 has an information management apparatus 3, each sensor in its own print shop 2 and other image forming apparatus 21, and another print shop 2 by wired or wireless communication via a network. It is an interface used when performing data communication with the image forming apparatus 21'inside. The external IF 36 is configured to include, for example, interfaces such as Ethernet 361, WiFi 362, and Bluetooth 363.

[Internal configuration of information management device]
The information management device 3 includes sensor configuration information (see FIG. 7 described later) of a sensor installed for each image forming device 21 and 21'in each print shop 2 connected on the network 4, and each image forming device. The print job execution history information of the print job executed by 21 and 21'(see FIG. 6 described later), and the learning result used when predicting the success or failure of the print job execution by each image forming apparatus 21 and 21'. It is a server device that manages data.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of an information management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5, the information management device 3 has an information management unit 61, a communication unit 62, and an external IF 63. The information management unit 61 is connected to the communication unit 62, and the communication unit 62 is connected to the external IF 63.

The information management unit 61 includes sensor configuration information (see FIG. 7 described later) of sensors installed for each image forming apparatus 21 and 21'in each print shop 2 connected to the network 4, and each image forming apparatus 21. , Print job execution history information of the print job executed in 21'(see FIG. 6 described later), and learning result data used when predicting the success or failure of the print job execution in each image forming apparatus 21 and 21'. To manage.

The communication unit 62 executes communication processing between the information management device 3 and the image forming devices 21 and 21'in each print shop 2 on the network 4. Specifically, the communication unit 62 includes the information management device 3 and the image forming devices 21 and 21'via the external IF63 and the network (including the network 4 and the network 24 in the area) as necessary. In between, sensor configuration information, print job execution history information, and learning result data are transmitted and received.

The external IF 63 is an interface for performing wired communication or wireless communication between the information management device 3 and the image forming devices 21 and 21'in each print shop 2 on the network 4. The external IF 63 is configured to include, for example, an interface such as Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth, or the like.

[Data structure of print job execution history information]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a data structure of print job execution history information according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the print job execution history information has a configuration in which the data of the print job execution history information executed by the image forming apparatus 21 is arranged in chronological order. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the larger the value of the job ID (Identification) described in the job ID column is the latest data.

The execution history data of each print job has a structure in which various information such as a job ID, a job execution result, a job setting, and a sensor value at the time of job execution are put together as a set. The execution history data of each print job may include data on the execution date and time of the print job.

As the data of the job ID, a number for identifying the print job is recorded. The present invention is not limited to this, and any data can be used as the job ID as long as the data can identify the print job.

As the job execution result, data indicating success or failure of job execution is recorded. The present invention is not limited to this, and when the job execution is unsuccessful, the print job execution history information may include data indicating the cause of the job failure together with the data indicating the failure. For example, if the job fails due to color defects, image stains, content differences, garbled characters, etc. in the inspection process of printed matter, the data indicating the defects at the time of inspection and / or the type of inspection defects are displayed. The indicated data is recorded as one of the print job execution history information. In addition, if the job fails due to a mechanical cause such as a jam in the recording medium (JAM) during job execution or a shortage of consumables (ink, etc.), data indicating the mechanical failure and / or , Data indicating the type of cause of mechanical failure is recorded as one of the print job execution history information. As described above, when the data indicating the cause of the job failure is included in the print job execution history information, the accuracy of determining the print job execution can be improved.

As the job setting data, various parameters (print job setting information) required when executing the print job are recorded. In this embodiment, for example, various parameters such as the presence / absence of double-sided printing, the number of pages, the number of copies, the paper size, the paper type, the paper basis weight, the binding position, and the staples are recorded as the setting information of the print job. The various parameters included in the print job setting information are appropriately changed according to, for example, the configuration and functions of the image forming apparatus.

As the sensor value data, the sensor value detected at the time of executing the print job is recorded in each sensor installed for the image forming apparatus 21. In the example shown in FIG. 6, when the print job is executed, the thermometer with the name "Thermal1", the hygrometer with the name "Humidity", the thermometer with the name "Thermal2", the barometer with the name "AirPressure", and the name "Weather" The measured value detected by a weather observation sensor (camera, etc.) is recorded as a sensor value.

[Data structure of sensor configuration information]
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a data structure of sensor configuration information according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, the sensor configuration information (sensor installation information) includes the sensor name, sensor value type, sensor connection method, sensor address, sensor position specification, sensor position, sensor value data processing method, and the like. It has a structure in which various information regarding the installation mode of the above is put together as a set.

As the sensor name data, data indicating a name that can identify the sensor is recorded. The present invention is not limited to this, and any data can be used as the sensor name as long as it is data that can identify the sensor (for example, a numerical value).

As the sensor value type data, data indicating the type of data actually detected by the sensor is recorded. In the example shown in FIG. 7, since the data actually detected by the thermometer, hygrometer, and barometer is numerical value, the data indicating the numerical value type is recorded as the sensor value type, and the weather observation sensor (camera, etc.) is used. Since the data to be actually detected is an image, the data indicating the image type is recorded as the type of the sensor value.

As the data of the connection method, data indicating a communication method (for example, IP (Internet Protocol), Bluetooth, etc.) between the sensor and the image forming apparatus 21 is recorded. Further, as the sensor address data, the address corresponding to the communication method of the connection method is recorded.

As the data for designating the position of the sensor, data indicating a method for designating the position of the sensor with respect to the image forming apparatus 21 is recorded. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the position of the sensor is specified by a method of specifying the position of the sensor with respect to the image forming apparatus 21 by a linear distance between the two, or a method of specifying the position of the sensor with respect to the image forming apparatus 21 by three-dimensional coordinates. do. Therefore, when the position of the sensor is specified by the former method, the data indicating the method of specifying the position of the sensor by the linear distance between the two as the data of the position specification of the sensor (“straight line” in FIG. 7). Is recorded, and when the position of the sensor is specified by the latter method, the data indicating the method of specifying the position of the sensor by the three-dimensional coordinates as the data of the position specification of the sensor (“3D position” in FIG. 7 ”. ) Is recorded. The linear distance between the image forming apparatus 21 and the sensor can be measured based on the intensity of the radio wave from the sensor received by the image forming apparatus 21. Further, the method of designating the position of the sensor is not limited to this example, and for example, a method of designating the position of the sensor with respect to the image forming apparatus 21 by two-dimensional coordinates may be adopted, or simply with respect to the image forming apparatus 21. A method of specifying by information indicating a qualitative relative position (for example, “top”, “bottom”, “left”, “right”, etc. of the image forming apparatus 21) may be adopted.

As the sensor position data, data indicating the sensor position with respect to the image forming apparatus 21 measured by the corresponding position designation method is recorded. When the method of specifying the position of the sensor by the linear distance is adopted, the value of the linear distance is recorded as the data indicating the position of the sensor, and the method of specifying the position of the sensor by the three-dimensional coordinates is adopted. In this case, the data indicating the three-dimensional coordinates is recorded as the data indicating the position of the sensor. When the method of designating the position of the sensor by a qualitative relative position with respect to the image forming apparatus 21 is adopted, the information indicating the relative position (for example, "top", "bottom", "left", etc. "Right" etc.) is recorded as data indicating the position of the sensor.

As the data of the data processing method, data indicating whether or not it is necessary to convert the type of data when transmitting the sensor value actually detected by the sensor to the image forming apparatus 21 is recorded. When it is not necessary to convert the data type, as shown in FIG. 7, data indicating that fact (“not specified” in FIG. 7) is recorded as data of the data processing method. On the other hand, when it is necessary to convert the data type, the data indicating the conversion method of the data type is recorded as the data of the data processing method. In the example shown in FIG. 7, when the data (image) detected by the weather observation sensor (camera or the like) is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 21, the weather information (“sunny”, “cloudy”, “rain”, etc. ), So the data indicating the conversion method (“image → weather” in FIG. 7) is recorded as the data of the data processing method.

[Job execution start processing]
Next, the procedure of the job execution start processing performed in the image forming apparatus 21 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a procedure of job execution start processing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the image forming apparatus 21, when the print job control unit 31 (job management unit 312) receives the setting information of the print job to be executed from the various operation UI 332s (when the user makes a print job execution request on the user terminal 23). , The job management unit 312 outputs the information of the print job to be executed to the print success / failure prediction unit 314. The setting information of the print job to be executed is, for example, various information (double-sided, number of pages, number of copies, paper size, paper type, paper) shown in the job setting column in the print job execution history information shown in FIG. Basis weight, binding position and stable setting information) are included. When the print job control unit 31 receives the setting information of the print job to be executed, the print job control unit 31 starts the job execution process.

First, the print job control unit 31 sets "0" in the index called "SensorIdx" (step S101). The index "SensorIdx" is an index for counting the number of sensors (sensors for which sensor values are acquired) provided for the image forming apparatus 21, and in the process of step S101, the index "SensorIdx" is used. The initial value "0" is set (initialization processing is performed).

Next, the print job control unit 31 acquires the sensor value of the sensor corresponding to the value of the index “SensorIdx” provided for the image forming apparatus 21 and set at the present time (step S102).

In this process, first, the print job control unit 31 issues a sensor value acquisition command for the sensor whose sensor value is to be acquired to the sensor management unit 32 (sensor value acquisition unit 321). Next, when the sensor value acquisition unit 321 receives the sensor value acquisition command, it sends a sensor value transmission request to the sensor for which the sensor value is to be acquired, and when the sensor value is received from the sensor, the sensor value acquisition unit 321 prints the received sensor value. It is output to the job control unit 31 (print success / failure prediction unit 314). Further, in the process of step S102, the print job control unit 31 searches for the sensor configuration storage unit 343 and acquires the sensor configuration information of the sensor whose sensor value is to be acquired from the sensor configuration storage unit 343. Further, in the present embodiment, the sensor value acquired in the process of step S102 is used in the job execution end process (see FIG. 9) described later, and is therefore temporarily stored. In this embodiment, the sensor configuration information of the sensor value acquisition target acquired in the process of step S102 may also be temporarily stored.

Next, the print job control unit 31 adds 1 to the value of the index “SensorIdx” (step S103).

Next, the print job control unit 31 determines whether or not the value of the index “SensorIdx” is equal to the number of sensors (the number of sensor connections) for which the sensor value is to be acquired (step S104).

In the process of step S104, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the value of the index "SensorIdx" is not equal to the number of sensor connections (when the determination in step S104 is No), the print job control unit 31 performs the process. The process returns to step S102, and the processes of steps S102 to S104 are repeated.

On the other hand, in the process of step S104, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the value of the index "SensorIdx" is equal to the number of sensor connections (when the step S104 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 (print success / failure). The prediction unit 314) predicts the success or failure of the execution of the print job to be executed (step S105). In this process, the print job control unit 31 (print success / failure prediction unit 314) first searches the learning result storage unit 342 using the print job setting information and the sensor configuration information of the sensor acquired in step 102 as keys. Then, the learning result data (prediction data) associated with the configuration of the sensor group provided for the image forming apparatus 21 is extracted. Next, the print job control unit 31 (print success / failure prediction unit 314) predicts the success or failure of the print job execution based on the current sensor value acquired in step 102 and the extracted learning result data.

Next, the print job control unit 31 (print success / failure prediction unit 314) determines whether or not the prediction result (success / failure of execution of the print job to be executed) obtained in the process of step S105 is successful (step S106). ).

In the process of step S106, when the print job control unit 31 (print success / failure prediction unit 314) determines that the prediction result is successful (when step S106 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 determines that the print job is successful. Is started (step S107). In this process, the print job control unit 31 issues an instruction to start the print job execution to the engine control unit 35. As a result, the print engine 40 is controlled so that the engine control unit 35 starts executing the print job, and the execution of the print job is started.

On the other hand, in the process of step S106, when the print job control unit 31 (print success / failure prediction unit 314) determines that the prediction result is not successful (failure) (when step S106 is No determination), the print job control The unit 31 notifies the error (step S108). Specifically, the print job control unit 31 controls the Web server / panel management unit 33 to display error information (prediction result is a failure) on the screen of the user terminal 23.

Next, the print job control unit 31 confirms the status of another machine (another image forming apparatus connected via the network 24 in the area or the network 4) (step S109). In this process, the print job control unit 31 transmits the setting information of the print job for which the prediction result is determined to be unsuccessful to another image forming apparatus (separate machine), and the print job can be executed by the other machine. Check if there is one.

In the process of step S109, the other machine that received the print job setting information performs the same process as the process of steps S101 to S105 described above, and the prediction result (success or success) obtained in the process of step S105 is performed. The information of failure) is returned to the image forming apparatus 21 of the transmission source.

Next, the print job control unit 31 determines whether or not the prediction result (other machine confirmation result) in the other machine is successful based on the information of the prediction result returned from the other machine (step S110). ..

In the process of step S110, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the prediction result on another machine is successful (when the step S110 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 separates the print job. Transfer to the machine (step S111). By this process, the print job determined by the own image forming apparatus 21 that the prediction result is unsuccessful is executed by another machine. After that, the print job control unit 31 notifies the user of the processing result of step S111 (step S113), and ends the job execution start processing.

On the other hand, in the process of step S110, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the prediction result of another machine is not successful (failure) (when step S110 is a No determination), the print job control unit 31 , Cancel the print job (step S112). After that, the print job control unit 31 notifies the user of the processing result of step S112 (step S113), and ends the job execution start processing.

If the image forming apparatus 21 of the company determines that the prediction result of the print job is unsuccessful and the print job is executed by another machine (another image forming apparatus), another machine that can be the transfer destination of the print job. When there are a plurality of print jobs, for example, the status confirmation process in step S109 is sequentially performed for each different machine, and the print job is transferred to the different machine for which the prediction result is successful. At this time, if the prediction result is successful with a plurality of different aircraft, the print job may be arbitrarily selected by selecting one different aircraft, which is convenient for the user (installed in a close location). , Has the same printing function, etc.) You may select one different machine and transfer the print job.

[Processing at the end of job execution]
Next, the procedure of the job execution end processing performed in the image forming apparatus 21 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure at the end of job execution according to the embodiment of the present invention. The job execution end processing is started when the execution of the print job predicted to be successful is completed in the image forming apparatus 21 of the job execution start processing described with reference to FIG.

First, the print job control unit 31 (job management unit 312) detects the end of execution of the print job (step S201). In this process, the job management unit 312 receives the print job execution end notification from the engine control unit 35.

Next, the print job control unit 31 (job management unit 312) acquires the execution result of the detected print job at the end of execution (step S202). The print job execution result is acquired from the engine control unit 35, and the print job execution result includes print job execution result (success or failure) information, print job job ID (number), and the like.

Next, the print job control unit 31 (job management unit 312) sets the index “SensorIdx” to “0” (step S203).

Next, the print job control unit 31 performs a sensor value acquisition process when the print job of the sensor whose sensor value is to be acquired is executed (step S204). In this process, the print job control unit 31 acquires the sensor value at the time of execution of the print job acquired and temporarily stored in step S102 of FIG. Further, in the process of step S204, the print job control unit 31 searches for the sensor configuration storage unit 343 and acquires the sensor configuration information of the sensor whose sensor value is to be acquired from the sensor configuration storage unit 343. When the sensor configuration information of the sensor whose sensor value is to be acquired acquired in step S102 of FIG. 8 is temporarily stored, the print job control unit 31 is temporarily stored in the process of step S204. Sensor configuration information may be acquired.

Next, the print job control unit 31 adds 1 to the value of the index “SensorIdx” (step S205).

Next, the print job control unit 31 determines whether or not the value of the index “SensorIdx” is equal to the number of sensors (the number of sensor connections) for which the sensor value is to be acquired (step S206).

In the process of step S206, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the value of the index "SensorIdx" is not equal to the number of sensor connections (when the determination in step S206 is No), the print job control unit 31 performs the process. The process returns to step S204, and the processes of steps S204 to S206 are repeated.

On the other hand, in the process of step S206, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the value of the index "SensorIdx" is equal to the number of sensor connections (when the step S206 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 (job management). Section 312) registers the data of the print job execution history information (step S207). In this process, the job management unit 312 prints the print job execution history information (see FIG. 6) generated by combining the print job setting information, the print job execution result, and the sensor value at the time of printing job execution. Registered in the execution history storage unit 341.

Next, the print job control unit 31 (machine learning unit 313) performs machine learning using the data of the print job execution history information registered in step S207, updates the learning result data (prediction data), and learns. It is registered in the result storage unit 342 (step S208). At this time, the updated learning result data is registered in association with the configuration of the sensor group (combination of sensors and configuration information of each sensor) at the time of executing the print job. Then, after the processing in step S208, the print job control unit 31 ends the processing at the end of job execution.

In the above-mentioned job execution end processing, a configuration example for generating prediction data by machine learning has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the user may be configured to generate prediction data by using an original algorithm devised in consideration of his / her own know-how (job execution experience).

Further, when the user is a user who does not have the job execution experience (know-how) in the configuration of the sensor installed for the image forming apparatus 21, the user executes the job execution in advance in the above-mentioned job execution end processing. Machine learning can be performed to generate prediction data by using the job execution history of other users who have already completed the job execution history. Therefore, in the present embodiment, even a user who does not have the know-how can improve the judgment accuracy of the print job execution.

[Sensor configuration change process]
Next, the procedure of the sensor configuration change processing performed in the image forming apparatus 21 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a sensor configuration change process according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this process, when a sensor is added, a sensor is deleted, a sensor configuration information is changed, or a combination thereof occurs for the image forming apparatus 21 (the user adds or deletes a sensor on the user terminal 23, or the sensor configuration information is displayed). It will be done when you make a change).

First, the print job control unit 31 detects a change in the sensor configuration (change in the configuration of the sensor group) (step S301). In this process, the print job control unit 31 receives a notification of the sensor configuration change from the sensor management unit 32 (sensor configuration management unit 322). The sensor configuration management unit 322 may, for example, have added or deleted a sensor or changed the sensor configuration information (the user has added or deleted a sensor or changed the sensor configuration information on the user terminal 23). When notified from the Web server / panel management unit 33 (sensor management UI 331) or when an update of the sensor configuration storage unit 343 is detected by periodic search processing, a print job indicating that the sensor configuration has been changed. Notify the control unit 31.

Next, the print job control unit 31 acquires the sensor configuration information of each sensor included in the changed sensor group from the sensor configuration storage unit 343 (step S302).

Next, the print job control unit 31 uses the sensor configuration information of each sensor included in the changed sensor group acquired in step S302 as a key, and the learning result data group (internal learning) stored in the learning result storage unit 342. Information) is searched (step S303). In this process, the print job control unit 31 changes the learning result data group stored in the learning result storage unit 342 of its own image forming apparatus 21 to the learning result data (prediction data) corresponding to the configuration of the sensor group. ) Exists or not.

Next, the print job control unit 31 determines whether or not the search result of the internal learning information is successful (step S304). In this process, when the learning result data (prediction data) corresponding to the changed configuration of the sensor group is obtained from the learning result storage unit 342 by the search of the internal learning information, the search result of the internal learning information is obtained. Is a success, step S304 is a Yes determination, and if any other result is obtained, step S304 is a No determination.

In the process of step S304, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the search result of the internal learning information is not successful (when the determination in step S304 is No), the print job control unit 31 processes the process of step S307 described later. I do.

On the other hand, in the process of step S304, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the search result of the internal learning information is successful (when the step S304 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 of step 303 Confirm with the user whether or not to use the learning result data (existing data) corresponding to the changed configuration of the sensor group obtained in the internal learning information search process in the job execution success / failure prediction process (step). S305). Specifically, the print job control unit 31 controls the Web server / panel management unit 33 to allow the user to confirm (select) whether or not the acquired learning result data (existing data) can be used. The information is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 23.

Next, the print job control unit 31 can use the learning result data (existing data) obtained in the search process of the internal learning information in step 303 based on the result of the user confirmation process in step S305. Is determined (step S306). In this process, if the result of the user confirmation process in step S305 is that the learning result data (existing data) can be used, step S306 is determined to be Yes, and in other cases, step S306 is determined to be No. Become.

In the process of step S306, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the learning result data (existing data) can be used (when the step S306 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 changes the sensor configuration. End the process.

On the other hand, when the print job control unit 31 determines in the process of step S306 that the learning result data (existing data) cannot be used (when step S306 is No determination), the print job control unit 31 will be described later. The process of step S307 is performed.

When a No determination is made in the process of step S304, or when a No determination is made in the process of step S306, the print job control unit 31 performs an external learning result information search process (step S307). In this process, the print job control unit 31 is outside the image forming apparatus 21 (via the network 4) using the sensor configuration information of each sensor included in the changed sensor group acquired in step S302 as a key. The learning result data group (external learning information) stored in the information management device 3 (which is connected) is searched. In this process, the print job control unit 31 determines whether or not the learning result data group stored in the information management device 3 has learning result data (prediction data) corresponding to the configuration of the changed sensor group. Search for.

Next, the print job control unit 31 determines whether or not the search result of the external learning information is successful (step S308). In this process, when the learning result data (prediction data) corresponding to the changed configuration of the sensor group is obtained from the information management device 3 by the search of the external learning information, the search result of the external learning information is obtained. If it is successful, step S308 is determined as Yes, and if any other result is obtained, step S308 is determined as No.

In the process of step S308, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the search result of the external learning information is not successful (when the determination in step S308 is No), the print job control unit 31 of the changed sensor group Notifying the user of information to start the prediction process using the data of the predetermined initial state (unlearned state) as the learning result data (prediction data) corresponding to the configuration (step S309), and then the sensor. End the configuration change process. After the processing of step S309, as the data for machine learning in the initial stage of the prediction processing, the print job execution history information (job execution result) corresponding to the configuration of the sensor group after the user manually changes the data via the user terminal 23. And the sensor value at the time of job execution) are registered in the print job execution history storage unit 341, and the print job control unit 31 (machine learning unit 313) uses the print job execution history information manually registered by the user. Machine learning may be performed, and the learning result data updated by this machine learning may be linked to the configuration of the changed sensor group and registered in the learning result storage unit 342.

On the other hand, in the process of step S308, when the print job control unit 31 determines that the search result of the external learning information is successful (when the step S308 is a Yes determination), the print job control unit 31 determines in step S308. The learning result data (prediction data) obtained from the information management device 3 is linked to the changed sensor group configuration (sensor combination and configuration information of each sensor) and registered in the learning result storage unit 342 (step S310). ), After that, the sensor configuration change process is terminated. After the processing in step S309, as the data for machine learning in the initial stage of the prediction processing, the print job execution history information (job execution result) corresponding to the configuration of the sensor group after the user manually changes the data via the user terminal 23. And the sensor value at the time of job execution) may be registered in the print job execution history storage unit 341. In this case, the print job control unit 31 (machine learning unit 313) performs machine learning using the print job execution history information manually registered by the user, and the sensor after changing the learning result data updated by this machine learning. It is associated with the composition of the group and registered in the learning result storage unit 342. As described above, when the user can manually register the data for machine learning at the initial stage of the prediction process, the initial judgment accuracy of the print job execution can be improved.

[Sensor addition procedure UI flow]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13, an operation procedure (operation screen transition flow) when the user adds a sensor to be connected to the image forming apparatus 21 by using the user terminal 23 will be described. 11 to 13 are operation screen transition flows showing the procedure of the sensor addition operation according to the embodiment of the present invention. The settings of various information on the screen of the user terminal 23 described below are displayed by the user operating the mouse, keyboard, etc. provided on the user terminal 23 and inputting the sensor setting information on the screen. It is done by pressing (clicking) the button.

As shown in FIG. 11, the sensor addition operation is first started by displaying a user interface (UI) called "sensor addition wizard" on the screen of the user terminal 23. In the sensor addition wizard 71, enter the sensor name of the sensor to be added by the user (for example, "Temple 1 (thermometer 1)"), and then when the user clicks the "Next" button, the sensor addition wizard (connection method). ) 72 is displayed on the screen.

The sensor addition wizard (connection method) 72 is a UI for setting a connection method between the sensor to be added and the image forming apparatus 21. In the sensor addition wizard (connection method) 72, when the user selects the sensor connection method from multiple methods and then the user clicks the "Next" button, the sensor addition wizard (connection setting) 73 is displayed on the screen. Is displayed in. Here, for example, when the IP network is selected as the connection method in the sensor addition wizard (connection method) 72, the IP address of the sensor (for example, "192.168.0.12") is displayed on the next screen. The sensor addition wizard (connection setting) 73A for setting is displayed. Further, for example, when Bluetooth is selected as the connection method in the sensor addition wizard (connection method) 72, the sensor addition wizard (connection setting) 73B for selecting the Bluetooth device name is displayed on the next screen. ..

When the user inputs the IP address in the sensor addition wizard (connection setting) 73A and then the user clicks the "Next" button, the sensor addition wizard (installation position specification method) 74 shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the screen. Will be done. In addition, when the user selects the Bluetooth device name in the sensor addition wizard (connection setting) 73B and then the user clicks the "Next" button, the sensor addition wizard (installation position specification method) 74 is displayed on the screen. To.

The sensor addition wizard (installation position designation method) 74 is a UI for setting a sensor installation position designation method. In the example shown in FIG. 12, "manual-straight line distance", "manual-three-dimensional (x, y, z)", "manual-two-dimensional (x, y)", "auto-Bluetooth", "auto-Wifi". A method for specifying the sensor installation position such as "" is provided, and in the sensor addition wizard (installation position specification method) 74, the user selects one of these multiple types of specification methods, and then the user " When you click the "Next" button, the sensor addition wizard (installation position) 75 corresponding to the specified method is displayed on the screen.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, when "manual-3D (x, y, z)" is selected in the sensor addition wizard (installation position designation method) 74, 3D coordinates are input. Sensor addition wizard (installation position) 75A is displayed on the screen, and when "manual-2D (x, y)" is selected, sensor addition wizard (installation position) for inputting 2D coordinates is selected. ) 75B is displayed on the screen, and when "Auto-Bluetooth" is selected, a sensor addition wizard (installation position) 75C for selecting the Bluetooth device name is displayed on the screen, and "Auto-Wifi" is displayed. When is selected, the sensor addition wizard (installation position) 75D for selecting the SSID (Service Set Identifier) is displayed on the screen. When the user clicks the "Next" button after setting the sensor installation position on these screens, the sensor addition wizard (data processing method) 76 shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the screen.

The sensor addition wizard (data processing method) 76 is a UI for designating the processing method of the environmental information data detected by the sensor. In the sensor addition wizard (data processing method) 76, the user can select "not specified" or "select from preset" as the data processing method. Here, when the user selects "not specified", the sensor addition wizard (final confirmation) 78 shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the screen, and when "select from preset" is selected, it is shown in FIG. The sensor addition wizard (data processing method selection) 77 is displayed on the screen.

In the sensor addition wizard (data processing method selection) 77, the data processing method corresponding to the type of environmental information data detected by the sensor is displayed in a list, and the user specifies one data processing method from the list, and then , When the user clicks the "Next" button, the sensor addition wizard (final confirmation) 78 is displayed on the screen.

The sensor addition wizard (final confirmation) 78 is a UI for finally confirming the sensor setting information (sensor configuration information) set by the user on each of the above-mentioned UI screens. In the sensor addition wizard (final confirmation) 78, for example, information such as a name, connection information, connection destination, installation position setting, installation position, data processing method, etc., which are sensor setting information, is displayed. In the sensor addition wizard (final confirmation) 78, when the user finally confirms the sensor setting information and clicks the "add" button, the sensor setting information is registered in the sensor configuration storage unit 343 as new sensor configuration information. Further, in the sensor addition wizard (final confirmation) 78, when the user clicks the "Cancel" button, the operation ends without adding the sensor (sensor setting information is not registered in the sensor configuration storage unit 343).

Although detailed description is omitted in the present embodiment, when the sensor configuration information of each sensor is changed or the sensor is deleted, the UI screen corresponding to these operations is displayed on the user terminal 23. , The sensor configuration information can be changed or the sensor can be deleted by the user performing a predetermined operation on the UI screen.

As described above, when a function capable of changing the configuration of the sensor installed in the image forming apparatus 21 is provided, in order to make a judgment of print job execution with high accuracy, the user can, for example, use the image forming apparatus 21. You can freely add or delete sensors (change the sensor configuration) in consideration of the configuration of the sensors installed for the device, the sensor value of each sensor, the user's own know-how (job execution experience), etc. ..

[effect]
As described above, in the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 21 of the present embodiment, the control device 30 has the sensor value of the sensor installed on the image forming apparatus 21 and the print job before the execution of the print job. Using the learning result data (prediction data) updated by the execution history information, it predicts whether or not the print job to be executed succeeds, and controls the execution of the print job based on the prediction result. Therefore, in the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 21 of the present embodiment, not only the local environment information but also the user's know-how and the like can be reflected in the judgment of the print job execution, and the judgment of the print job execution can be made. It can be done with high accuracy. Further, in the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 21 of the present embodiment, the user can freely set the configuration of the sensor group for the image forming apparatus 21, so that the user's know-how can be further executed in the print job. It can be reflected in the judgment of.

[Various variants]
In the above, the configuration of the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 21 according to the embodiment of the present invention, and various functions related to the execution control of the print job in the image forming system 1 and the image forming apparatus 21 (print job execution result). However, the present invention is not limited to these, and various other modifications can be taken as long as the gist of the present invention described in the scope of the patent claim is not deviated. ..

In the above embodiment, a configuration example is described in which the control device 30 in the image forming apparatus 21 predicts the execution result of the print job before the execution of the print job, and controls the execution of the print job based on the prediction result. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a control device having the same function as the control device 30 described in the above embodiment is provided outside the image forming device 21, and a print job is performed in the same manner as in the above embodiment by the control device provided outside the control device. The print job may be configured to predict the success or failure of the print job execution before the execution of the print job and control the execution of the print job based on the prediction result.

Further, in the above-described embodiment and modification, when the predetermined image forming apparatus 21 in the print shop 2 performs the prediction processing of the execution result of the print job, the sensor of the sensor installed on the predetermined image forming apparatus 21 Although examples using values have been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when predicting the execution result of a print job in a predetermined image forming apparatus 21 in the print shop 2, a sensor installed for another image forming apparatus 21 in the same print shop 2 is required. The sensor value of may be used.

1 ... Image formation system, 2 ... Print shop, 3 ... Information management device, 4 ... Network, 21 ... Image formation device, 22a, 22b, 22c ... Sensor, 23 ... User terminal, 24 ... Area network, 30 ... Control device , 31 ... Print job control unit, 32 ... Sensor management unit, 33 ... Web server / panel management unit, 34 ... Storage unit, 35 ... Engine control unit, 37 ... Control unit, 40 ... Print engine, 311 ... RIP unit, 312 ... Job management unit, 313 ... Machine learning unit, 314 ... Printing success / failure prediction unit, 321 ... Sensor value acquisition unit, 322 ... Sensor configuration management unit, 331 ... Sensor management UI, 332 ... Various operation UI, 341 ... Print job execution history Storage unit, 342 ... Learning result storage unit, 343 ... Sensor configuration storage unit

Claims (16)

An image forming device that executes a print job, and
A sensor that detects environmental information in the area where the image forming device is installed, and
A control device for controlling the execution of the print job is provided.
When the execution request of the print job is made, the control device is based on the prediction data of the execution result of the print job and the current environment information corresponding to the sensor installation information regarding the installation mode of the sensor. An image formation system characterized by controlling the execution of print jobs. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the control device updates the prediction data by machine learning using the execution history of the print job. The control device predicts the execution result of the print job based on the prediction data and the current environment information, and controls whether the print job can be executed or not based on the prediction result. The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2. A plurality of the sensors are installed for the image forming apparatus, and the sensors are installed.
The sensor installation information is provided for each of the plurality of sensors.
When the print job execution request is made, the control device controls the execution of the print job based on the prediction data corresponding to the sensor installation information of the plurality of sensors and the current environment information. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image forming system is characterized by the above. An information management device provided outside the control device is provided.
Any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor installation information, the print job execution history information, and the prediction data are managed by the control device and also managed by the information management device. The image forming system according to item 1. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a terminal device capable of registering the sensor installation information by a user. The image forming apparatus is provided with a plurality of the above-mentioned image forming devices.
When the execution request of the print job is made, the control device has the prediction data corresponding to the sensor installation information of the sensors installed for each of the plurality of image forming devices, and the current environment information. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the execution of the print job is controlled based on the above. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sensor installation information includes information regarding an installation position of the sensor with respect to the image forming apparatus. The image forming system according to claim 8, wherein the information regarding the installation position of the sensor is the coordinate information of the sensor with respect to the image forming apparatus. The image forming system according to claim 8, wherein the information regarding the installation position of the sensor is a distance between the image forming apparatus and the sensor. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the distance between the image forming apparatus and the sensor is acquired based on the reception intensity of the radio wave emitted by the sensor in the image forming apparatus. When a sensor is newly added and the configuration of the sensor group is changed, the control device acquires the sensor installation information of the newly added sensor and of each sensor included in the changed sensor group. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the execution of the print job is controlled based on the prediction data corresponding to the sensor installation information and the current environment information. A plurality of the sensors are installed for the image forming apparatus, and the sensors are installed.
When a part of the sensors among the plurality of sensors is removed and the configuration of the sensor group is changed, the control device corresponds to the sensor installation information of each sensor included in the changed sensor group. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the execution of the print job is controlled based on the prediction data and the current environmental information. The image forming apparatus is provided with a plurality of the above-mentioned image forming devices.
When the print job is executed in the predetermined image forming apparatus among the plurality of the image forming apparatus, the printing job is performed based on the prediction data corresponding to the sensor installation information and the current environment information. Any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the print job can be executed by an image forming apparatus other than the predetermined image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatus when it is predicted to fail. The image forming system according to item 1. The invention according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the control device manages the information regarding the execution result of the print job and the environment information at the time of executing the print job in association with each other. Image formation system. An image forming apparatus provided with a control device for controlling the execution of a print job.
When the execution request of the print job is made, the control device detects the environmental information of the area where the image forming apparatus is installed, and the sensor installation information regarding the installation mode of the sensor provided outside the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus, which controls the execution of the print job based on the data for predicting the execution result of the print job and the current environment information corresponding to the above.

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