JP5401437B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, a copier, a printer, and a FAX apparatus that has an authentication function and notifies a job.

  For example, image forming apparatuses such as multifunction peripherals, copiers, printers, and fax machines are installed in each department or floor, and generally one image forming apparatus is used by a plurality of people. If there are cases where a plurality of print jobs are transmitted from a plurality of people, printing across multiple pages may be executed. Thus, even if a print execution instruction is given, it is not always executed immediately. Therefore, the image forming apparatus may notify the information processing apparatus of the user who has performed printing that printing has been completed. An example of such a printing system is described in Patent Document 1.

  Specifically, Patent Document 1 includes an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus that performs printing based on print data from the information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus includes a result of monitoring the operating state of the image forming apparatus. A print completion notification means for performing a print completion notification on the screen based on the information processing apparatus, the information processing apparatus acquiring a print start time and a print end time by setting a print time threshold; A printing system is described in which the printing completion notification means performs a printing completion notification only when the calculated printing time is equal to or greater than a set threshold value. With this configuration, the print completion notification is made only when necessary without setting the presence / absence of the print completion notification for each print job (Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph [0007], stage, etc.) reference).

JP2009-15362

  When using the image forming apparatus, there are cases where operations and settings are performed directly on the image forming apparatus, such as copying, scanning, and transmission of scanned images. In addition, there is an image forming apparatus that performs printing after a user inputs a password or the like in order to prevent the printer job from being taken away (also referred to as “private printing”).

  The user inputs various operations and settings, and then issues an execution instruction to the image forming apparatus (for example, presses a start key). If there are no special circumstances, the user can complete the job by looking at the status display on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus or checking the number of printed output items. Check if you did.

  On the other hand, since an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral is shared by a plurality of people, the job may not be executed until the job is accumulated and another person's job is completed. Then, before the user's own job is executed and completed, the user may leave the image forming apparatus (for example, work convenience, sudden visitor, response to a telephone call, etc.). The user wants to know the execution result and status of an incomplete job that cannot be confirmed with his own eyes, and there is a high need for notification to the user.

  However, in a conventional image forming apparatus, in order to notify the end of a job such as printing or transmission, it is necessary to set a notification destination by direct input or calling from an address book. On the other hand, when it is necessary to move away from the image forming apparatus suddenly, there is often no room for setting a notification destination address. In addition, some users feel that it is bothersome to set whether to make a notification each time a job is executed or to set a notification destination address. For this reason, it is difficult to say that the notification function of the image forming apparatus is effectively utilized, and there is a problem in that it may not be possible to receive a highly necessary notification.

  In the invention of Patent Document 1, it is determined whether the printing time is equal to or more than a threshold value or whether the printing completion notification is performed or not depending on the number of printing surfaces. However, the printing time and the number of printing pages are merely a guide for the size of the job (the amount of the job), and are not directly related to the high necessity of notification. Even if the printing time is short and the number of printing surfaces is small, there is a job that the user strongly desires to receive a notification of the result and the situation, such as a job that has left the image forming apparatus before completion. Therefore, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, notification necessary for the user may not be made, and the above problem cannot be solved.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, triggered by logout when the user leaves the image forming apparatus, and automatically determines whether notification is necessary, It is an object of the present invention to make effective use of a notification function by surely transmitting a highly necessary notification that is highly desired by a user and having high necessity.

In order to solve the above problem, an image forming apparatus according to the present invention is registered in advance with an identification information input unit that receives input of identification information for specifying a user, a job to be executed, and a user who executes the job. User information that is information of each user, a storage unit that stores a notification destination address of each user, the identification information input to the identification information input unit, and the user information of the storage unit The authentication unit that identifies the user, the login unit that accepts job settings when the authentication unit identifies the user, and the input unit that accepts logout input that deviates from the login state, and the logout use If there is a notification target job that is an uncompleted job of the user, the user corresponding to the notification target job is set as the notification target person, and the notification target person is notified of the notification target job. A communication unit that transmits, have a, and a display unit for performing display, wherein the communication unit as a notification regarding the notification target job, the end notification to tell that the said notification target job which was not completed is completed, the The display unit displays an end notification setting screen for setting the end notification when an input to be displayed on the input unit is performed, and the input unit is used for each use. The end notification is sent only when the set time on the end notification setting screen for each person and the time from logout to completion of the notification target job exceeds the set time. An input as a condition to be performed is received, the storage unit stores a user to whom the condition is added, and the communication unit is configured to notify the user with the condition when the notification target job satisfies the condition. It was decided to send the end notification to the elephant's.

When logout is performed, there is a high possibility that the user will leave the image forming apparatus. According to this configuration, if there is a notification target job that is an incomplete job of the user who logs out, the communication unit A notification corresponding to the notification target job is transmitted to the notification target person, with the user corresponding to the target being the notification target person. As a result, a notification regarding an incomplete job is issued with logout as a trigger. Accordingly, the necessity of notification is automatically determined, and it is determined that notification is given to a job having a high need for notification, such as incomplete at the time of logout. Therefore, the user has a high degree of desire to know the output result and the output status, and the user can surely receive the notification and confirm the result and the status for a job that needs to be notified. In addition, when the user logs out and leaves the image forming apparatus (for example, a multifunction peripheral), the user can know that the job has been completed for an incomplete job. In the case of a print job, since the printed matter should be output, the output matter can be easily traced. Furthermore, the end notification is made only when a time exceeding the set time is required. Therefore, it is possible to receive an end notification only for a job that requires time to complete and requires attention, and the user can be set not to receive an unnecessary notification.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that automatically determines whether notification is necessary using logout as a trigger. In addition, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus in which a user's desired degree is high and a highly necessary notification is reliably transmitted and the notification function is effectively used.

1 is a schematic front sectional view illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral according to an embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment. (A) is a top view which shows an example of the operation panel which concerns on embodiment, (b) is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the soft keyboard which concerns on embodiment. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an operation panel in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the user registration change screen displayed on a liquid crystal display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the login screen in the operation panel which concerns on embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an end notification setting screen in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the completion notification which concerns on embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of end notification control in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an operation setting screen at the time of logout in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the status notification which concerns on embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of status notification processing in the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the present invention can be applied to various image forming apparatuses, and the multifunction apparatus 100 will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Outline of image forming apparatus)
First, an outline of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic front cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment includes an operation panel 1 (corresponding to an identification information input unit and an input unit) on the upper front side. In addition, the multifunction peripheral 100 includes a document transport unit 2, an image reading unit 3, a reader / writer 4 (corresponding to an identification information input unit), and the like. The MFP 100 includes, for example, a sheet feeding unit 5A, a conveyance path 5B, an image forming unit 6A, a fixing unit 6B, and the like.

  The original transport unit 2 automatically and continuously transports the originals stacked on the original tray 21 one by one toward the reading position (feed reading contact glass 31) of the image reading unit 3 when copying the originals. To do. The image reading unit 3 reads a document and forms image data of the document. A feed reading contact glass 31 and a placement reading contact glass 32 are provided on the upper surface of the image reading unit 3. The document conveying unit 2 is provided with a fulcrum on the back side of the paper surface of FIG. 1 and can be lifted. The document conveying unit 2 can hold the document placed on the placement reading contact glass 32.

  The image reading unit 3 is provided with optical system members (not shown) such as an exposure lamp, a mirror, a lens, and an image sensor (for example, CCD). Then, using these optical system members, each of the image sensors that receive the reflected light of the document by irradiating the document transported by the document transport unit 2 or the document placed on the placement reading contact glass 32 with light. The pixel output value is A / D converted to generate image data. The multi-function device 100 can perform printing based on image data obtained by reading (copy function).

  The sheet feeding unit 5A accommodates a plurality of sheets (for example, various sheets such as copy sheets, plain sheets, recycled sheets, thick sheets, and OHP sheets) and sends them one by one to the conveyance path 5B. The paper feeding unit 5A includes a cassette 51 on which stored paper is placed (in FIG. 1, the upper one is labeled 51A and the lower one is labeled 51B). In addition, a feed roller 52 that is rotationally driven to feed the cassette 51 from the cassette 51 to the transport path 5B is provided (in FIG. 1, the upper feed roller 52A and the lower feed roller 52B are labeled). For example, at the time of printing, the paper feed roller 52 is driven to rotate, and the sheets necessary for image formation are sent out one by one to the transport path 5B.

  The conveyance path 5 </ b> B is a conveyance path for conveying a sheet from the sheet feeding unit 5 </ b> A to the discharge tray 53. An image forming unit 6A, a fixing unit 6B, and the like are arranged on the conveyance path. In the conveyance path 5B, the guide 54 for guiding the paper, the conveyance roller pairs 55 and 56 that are rotationally driven during the conveyance of the sheet, and the conveyed sheet are made to wait in front of the image forming unit 6A. A registration roller pair 57 and the like for feeding out the paper at the timing of toner image formation are provided.

  The image forming unit 6A forms a toner image based on the image data, and transfers the toner image to the conveyed paper. Therefore, the image forming unit 6A includes a photosensitive drum 61 supported so as to be rotatable in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 1, and a charging device 62, an exposure device 63, a developing device 64, and a transfer device around the photosensitive drum 61. A roller 65, a cleaning device 66, and the like are provided.

  The toner image formation and transfer process will be described. First, the photosensitive drum 61 is provided at substantially the center of the image forming unit 6A. As shown in FIG. 1, a charging device 62, an exposure device 63, a developing device 64, a transfer roller 65, a cleaning device 66, and the like are provided around the photosensitive drum 61. The charging device 62 charges the photosensitive drum 61 to a predetermined potential. The exposure device 63 outputs a laser beam based on the image data, and scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 to form an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data. As the image data, image data obtained by the image reading unit 3 or image data transmitted from an external computer 200 or a counterpart FAX apparatus 300 (see FIG. 2) connected by a network or the like is used.

  The developing device 64 supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 and develops it. The transfer roller 65 is in pressure contact with the photosensitive drum 61, and a nip between the transfer roller 65 and the photosensitive drum 61 is formed. The sheet enters the nip while being timed according to the toner image. When the sheet enters, a predetermined voltage is applied to the transfer roller 65, and the toner image on the photosensitive drum 61 is transferred to the sheet. The cleaning device 66 removes the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 61 after the transfer.

  The fixing unit 6B fixes the toner image transferred to the paper. The fixing unit 6B in the present embodiment is mainly composed of a heating roller 67 and a pressure roller 68 that incorporate a heating element. The heating roller 67 and the pressure roller 68 are in pressure contact to form a nip. Then, as the sheet passes through the nip, the toner on the sheet surface is melted and heated, and the toner image is fixed on the sheet. The paper after the toner is fixed is received by the discharge tray 53. In this way, image formation (printing) is performed when the copying function and the printer function are used.

  As will be described in detail later, a reader / writer 4 that acquires identification information from a card 40 (see FIG. 2) that stores identification information for specifying a user above the right side surface of the multifunction peripheral 100 in the present embodiment. (Corresponding to an identification information input unit) is provided.

(Hardware configuration of MFP 100)
Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the multifunction device 100, a control unit 7 (corresponding to an authentication unit) is provided. The control unit 7 controls the operation of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 7 includes a CPU 71, an image processing unit 72, and the like. The control unit 7 is divided into functions such as a main control unit that performs overall control and image processing, and an engine control unit that controls ON / OFF of a motor that rotates image recording and various rotating bodies. Seeds may be provided. In this description, for convenience, a plurality of types of control units are collectively described as one control unit 7.

  The CPU 71 in the control unit 7 is a central processing unit, and controls each unit of the multifunction peripheral 100 based on programs and data stored in the storage unit 8 and developed. The image processing unit 72 performs various types of image processing on image data to be printed and image data transmitted to the external computer 200 or the counterpart FAX apparatus 300.

  The storage unit 8 is configured by combining nonvolatile and volatile storage devices such as ROM, RAM, HDD, and flash ROM. The storage unit 8 can store various programs and data for controlling the multifunction peripheral 100, various data such as setting data, image data, and the like. Further, regarding the present invention, the storage unit 8 also includes a job to be executed, a user name to be executed, user information for specifying the user, a notification destination address of each user, and the like. Remember.

  Then, the control unit 7 is connected to each unit such as the operation panel 1, the document conveying unit 2, the image reading unit 3, the paper feeding unit 5A, the conveyance path 5B, the image forming unit 6A, the fixing unit 6B, the reader / writer 4, and the signal lines and buses. Etc., and controls the operation of the multifunction peripheral 100 by controlling each unit and each device.

  Furthermore, the control unit 7 is connected to a communication unit 9 (communication interface) including various connectors, sockets, a communication control chip, and the like. The communication unit 9 is communicably connected to a plurality of computers 200 and a counterpart FAX apparatus 300 via a network, a public line, or the like. For example, the communication unit 9 can transmit data including image data to an external computer 200 or a counterpart FAX device 300 (Internet FAX may be used) (scanner function, FAX function). The communication unit 9 can also receive image data from the external computer 200 or the counterpart FAX apparatus 300 and perform printing based on the received image data (printer function, FAX function). As described above, the MFP 100 has a plurality of functions such as a copying function, a printer function, a scanning function, and a FAX function.

(Configuration of operation panel 1)
Next, an example of the operation panel 1 in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 4. FIG. 3A is a plan view showing an example of the operation panel 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the soft keyboard S1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. is there. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the operation panel 1 in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, as indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1, the operation panel 1 is provided on the upper front side of the multifunction peripheral 100. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 4, the operation panel 1 includes a liquid crystal display unit 11 that displays the state of the multifunction peripheral 100 and various messages. The liquid crystal display unit 11 can display one or a plurality of keys for selecting and setting functions. In addition, a touch panel 12 (for example, a resistive film type) is provided on the upper surface of the liquid crystal display unit 11. The touch panel 12 is for detecting the position and coordinates pressed by the liquid crystal display unit 11.

  Further, the liquid crystal display unit 11 and the touch panel 12 may require character input such as a user name and a password for various inputs. Therefore, when character input is required, the liquid crystal display unit 11 can display a soft keyboard S1 as shown in FIG. The image data of the soft keyboard S1 can be stored in the memory 16 in the operation panel 1. Then, the user can input letters, symbols, numbers, kana, kanji, and the like by pressing keys displayed as the soft keyboard S1.

  The operation panel 1 also includes a numeric keypad 13 for inputting numbers and the like (inputting the number of copies and FAX numbers), a start key 14 for instructing start of job execution such as copying, scanning, and transmission, and a login state. A logout key 15 for directly instructing logout is also provided. As described above, the operation panel 1 is also provided with hard keys for input and setting.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the operation panel 1 includes a liquid crystal display unit 11, a touch panel 12, a start key 14, a numeric keypad unit 13, a logout key 15, a display control unit 10, a memory 16 for storing various data, a driver. 17, a position confirmation unit 18 and the like are provided.

  The display control unit 10 is connected to keys provided on the operation panel 1 such as the numeric keypad 13, the start key 14, and the logout key 15, and recognizes the pressed key. The display control unit 10 controls display on the liquid crystal display unit 11.

  The display control unit 10 displays the screen and image data stored in the memory 16 on the liquid crystal display unit 11 (stores the screen and image data in the storage unit 8 of the control unit 7 and communicates with the display control unit via communication). 10 may receive image data). For example, the display control unit 10 supplies screen and image data to a driver 17 (for example, a liquid crystal driver IC) that actually controls the display of the liquid crystal display unit 11. In response to this, the driver 17 switches and changes the display of the liquid crystal display unit 11.

  The display control unit 10 is connected to the position confirmation unit 18. The position confirmation unit 18 grasps the pressed position of the liquid crystal display unit 11 based on the output voltage of the touch panel 12. The position confirmation unit 18 recognizes the coordinates of the pressed position and transmits digital data indicating the coordinates of the pressed position to the display control unit 10. The display control unit 10 grasps which key of the keys displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 11 is pressed from the screen currently displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 11, image data, and coordinates. In addition, without providing the position confirmation unit 18, the output of the touch panel 12 may be input to the display control unit 10, and the display control unit 10 may recognize the coordinates.

(User registration)
Next, an example of user registration according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the user registration change screen S2 displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 11. As shown in FIG. This user registration change screen S2 can be opened only by an authorized person such as an administrator of the multifunction peripheral 100, for example.

  Then, when the administrator presses the new key K1, the user of the multifunction device 100 can be newly registered. For example, registration contents (items) include “user name”, “user (kana)”, “login user name”, “login password”, “access level”, “affiliation department”, “mail address”, “network” Address "(for example, IP address or network path). It should be noted that more items may be registered. The items of “mail address” and “network address” are notification destination addresses in job completion notification and status notification in the present invention.

  The contents of items that are not registered are not displayed (for example, the item “user (kana)” in FIG. 5). A change key K2 (K2a to K2h) is provided for each item. For example, when any one of the change keys K2 is pressed, the soft keyboard S1 shown in FIG. 3B is displayed, and numbers, characters, etc. can be input and each item can be set. Thereby, the user registration of the multifunction peripheral 100 and the change registration of the already registered person can be performed. When the registration key K3 is pressed, the input made on the user registration change screen S2 is stored in the storage unit 8 as information (user information) used for authentication.

(Authentication in MFP 100)
Next, an example of authentication in the MFP 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 6. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the login screen S3 on the operation panel 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Here, the control unit 7 basically puts the multifunction device 100 in an unusable state (logout state). In the logout state, the operation panel 1 accepts only an input for login, and does not accept setting of various functions such as copying and an instruction to start a job unless logged in. For example, in an unusable state, even if an operation / input for performing copying or FAX transmission is performed on the operation panel 1, the operation panel 1 is ignored, and the control unit 7 ignores the operation instruction input.

  On the other hand, when authentication with the registered user is obtained, the user enters a login state, the operation panel 1 accepts settings for various functions such as copying, and job start instructions, and the control unit 7 can use the multifunction device 100. State.

  In the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the present embodiment, the user is authenticated by inputting to the operation panel 1 or causing the reader / writer 4 to read the card 40 possessed by the user. In order to give the multifunction device 100 an authentication function, it is only necessary to be able to perform either input to the operation panel 1 or reading of the card 40 by the reader / writer 4.

  First, authentication based on input to the operation panel 1 will be described. That is, the identification information input unit is the operation panel 1. In order to receive authentication and log in by inputting to the operation panel 1, as shown in FIG. 6, the user specifies a user with a user name (or user ID) or a login password on the login screen S3. Input as information (identification information). The display control unit 10 causes the liquid crystal display unit 11 to display a login screen S3 when in the logout state.

  For example, when the user presses the login user name key K4, the display control unit 10 displays the soft keyboard S1 shown in FIG. Even when the login password key K5 is pressed, the display control unit 10 displays the soft keyboard S1. Then, the user inputs his / her login user name and login password on the soft keyboard S1 screen. The display control unit 10 displays the input contents in the login user name display field B1 and the login password display field B2. For example, only “*” or the like may be displayed in the login password display field B2, and the password itself may not be displayed.

  When the login key K6 is pressed, authentication work is performed. For example, the user name and password (identification information for specifying the user) made on the operation panel 1 are sent to the control unit 7. And the control part 7 compares the user information of the user previously stored in the memory | storage part 8 by registration of a user, and the identification information input and acquired, and confirms whether it corresponds. If they match, the control unit 7 authenticates and determines that the multifunction device 100 may be used. Based on this determination, the display control unit 10 releases the lock, and the operation panel 1 receives any setting of various functions or an instruction to start a job.

  Next, authentication based on reading of the card 40 will be described. For example, information (identification information) for specifying the user is stored in advance in the card 40 (for example, written in the card 40 by the reader / writer 4). In the card 40, for example, data indicating a user name, an ID, a department to which the user belongs, usage authority, and the like are stored as identification information. The card 40 is, for example, an RFID IC card or a magnetic card.

  The reader / writer 4 acquires identification information from the card 40. The reader / writer 4 transmits the acquired identification information to the control unit 7. The control unit 7 compares the user information of the user stored in advance in the storage unit 8 by registration of the user with the identification information acquired by reading the card 40, and confirms whether they match. If they match, the control unit 7 authenticates and determines that the multifunction device 100 may be used.

  As described above, in the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 7 and the storage unit 8 function as an authentication unit that performs authentication. However, a dedicated authentication circuit such as a controller or a memory may be provided, or a part of the operation panel 1 such as the display control unit 10 and the memory 16 in the operation panel 1 may be operated as an authentication unit.

  To log out, the logout key 15 on the operation panel 1 may be pressed. Note that when a predetermined time (for example, several minutes) elapses after there is no input to the operation panel 1, the control unit 7 may automatically set the multifunction peripheral 100 in a logout state.

(End notification setting)
Next, an example of setting an end notification in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the end notification setting screen S4 in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the end notification according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, an end notification setting screen S4 illustrated in FIG. 7 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 11 of the operation panel 1. Each user logs in, inputs to the operation panel 1, displays the end notification setting screen S4, and can make settings related to the end notification. As described above, the end notification can be set for each user.

  In this end notification setting screen S4, when there is an uncompleted self job when logging out (when attempting to log out), what kind of notification is performed when the uncompleted self job ends after logout. It is a screen for setting.

  Jobs of the same type such as printing and transmission cannot be performed in parallel. Even if an instruction to execute a job for copying or transmitting image data is given, it is not always executed immediately in consideration of the job previously input to the multifunction peripheral 100. For example, if there are a copy job and a transmission job for several hundred pages first, a job such as own transmission or printing is started after the copy job is completed.

  As described above, a plurality of jobs may be stored in the storage unit 8. For example, the storage unit 8 stores image data of a document obtained by using the image reading unit 3 and job setting data for printing and transmission at the time of a copy or transmission job. The storage unit 8 may store image data and job setting data received from the computer 200 or the FAX apparatus 300 for printing or transmission.

  On the other hand, when the user logs out, it means that the user leaves the multi-function peripheral 100, and the user who logs out is highly interested in the execution result of an uncompleted job at the time of logout. For example, the user wants to know whether the data has been properly copied or the transmission of the image data has been completed.

  Therefore, after the user logs out, the incomplete self job to be executed can be set on the end notification setting screen S4.

  Specifically, regarding a notification when an uncompleted job at the time of logout is completed after logout, each user can select all notification key K7, partial notification key K8, non-notification on the end notification setting screen S4. It can be set by pressing any key of the notification key K9.

  The all notification key K7 is pressed when the communication unit 9 transmits an end notification of a job that has been completed after logout for all jobs that have not been completed at the time of logout. The partial notification key K8 is pressed when an end notification is transmitted from the communication unit 9 for a job that has been completed after the set time has elapsed since logout, among the jobs that have not been completed at the time of logout. The set time can be set by, for example, pressing the set time display field B3 and inputting to the numeric keypad 13. The non-notification key K9 is pressed when the communication unit 9 does not send an end notification even when the log-out process is completed after logout for all uncompleted jobs. For example, the pressed key is displayed in a black and white reversed state (in FIG. 7, a state where all notification keys K7 are selected) is displayed.

  A setting completion key K10 is provided on the end notification setting screen S4. Then, when the setting completion key K10 is pressed, the setting content is transmitted from the operation panel 1 to the control unit 7, and for example, the setting related to the end notification is stored in association with the user information (for each user).

  Here, the storage unit 8 stores each user's address (e-mail address or network address). Then, the communication unit 9 transmits an end notification including the contents as shown in FIG. 8 with the registered e-mail address or network address of the user's computer 200 as a destination. Note that the communication unit 9 may transmit an end notification as an e-mail, or may be data for displaying a message via the driver software of the multifunction peripheral 100 installed in the transmission destination computer 200.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of an end notification displayed on the display 201 of the user's computer 200. When the user's computer 200 receives the end notification, the user's computer 200 causes the display 201 of the computer 200 to display information such as the fact that the job has ended, the type of the completed job, and the date and time of the completed job.

  Note that when there are a plurality of jobs to be notified of completion for the same user, the end notification may be collectively performed for the plurality of jobs. For example, in addition to FIG. 8, job types such as “FAX”, “scan”, and “print” may be displayed together with the end date and time as the end notification. As described above, when the end notification is collectively performed for a plurality of jobs, for example, the communication unit 9 may notify the end notification after the execution of the last job of the notified jobs is completed. Note that the communication unit 9 may transmit an end notification and a log-out user's computer (notification destination address) to each job.

(End notification control)
Next, based on FIG. 9, an example of the end notification control in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of end notification control in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the start in FIG. 9 is a time when logging in, instructing execution of a job, and logging out before the end of the own job. When arranged in time series, the flow is: login → own job input, execution instruction → logout → own job end. In other words, the state where the job of the user who is going to log out is incomplete is started.

  When the logout key 15 is pressed on the operation panel 1 (automatic logout after a predetermined time has elapsed since the input to the operation panel 1 ceases), when trying to shift from the login state to the logout state, the control unit 7 8 is confirmed, and the setting of the end notification of the user who is going to log out is confirmed (step # 1).

  Then, the control unit 7 confirms whether or not the end notification setting of the user who wants to logout is a setting for not performing the end notification (the non notification key K9 is pressed) (step # 2). That is, the input unit (operation panel 1) accepts a setting for determining whether or not to end notification for each user, and the storage unit 8 stores whether or not to end notification for each user. The communication unit 9 transmits an end notification only to the notification target person who has set the end notification. If non-notification is set (Yes in step # 2), the end notification need not be performed, and thus this control may be terminated (end).

  On the other hand, if the non-notification setting is not set (No in step # 2), there is a possibility that when the uncompleted job is completed, the user must be notified of the end. Therefore, logout is first performed (step # 3). As a result, the operation panel 1 enters a state where it does not accept input.

  Then, the control unit 7 checks whether the job of the user who has logged out is completed because it is an uncompleted job at the time of logout (step # 4). This confirmation is periodically performed until the job is completed (No in step # 4 → returns to step # 4).

  On the other hand, when the job is completed (Yes in step # 4), the control unit 7 sets the end notification for the logged out user to be the end notification for all uncompleted jobs when the user logs out. Is confirmed (step # 5). In other words, it is confirmed whether the logged out user is the user who pressed the all notification key K7.

  If the setting is to perform all notifications (Yes in step # 5), the control unit 7 calls the notification destination address of the logged out user from the storage unit 8 (step # 6). Then, the control unit 7 causes the communication unit 9 to transmit an end notification to the called notification destination address (step # 7).

  If it is not set to perform all notifications (No in step # 5 if the partial notification key K8 has been pressed), the controller 7 determines that the elapsed time required from logout to job completion is the set time. (Step # 8). Note that an RTC 73 (Real Time Clock) for measuring time is provided in the control unit 7 (see FIG. 2), and the control unit 7 logs out time (with the logged out user) and time when the job is completed. May be stored in the storage unit 8, and the control unit 7 may recognize the elapsed time.

  If the elapsed time is longer (Yes in step # 8), it is necessary to notify the end, and the process proceeds to step # 6. In other words, the input unit (operation panel 1) notifies each user of the end notification only when the time from the logout to the completion of the notification target job exceeds a predetermined set time. The storage unit 8 stores the user with the condition, and the communication unit 9 transmits an end notification to the notification target person with the condition when the notification target job satisfies the condition. On the other hand, if the elapsed time is equal to or shorter than the set time (No in step # 8), it is not necessary to give an end notification, so this control may be ended (end).

  That is, the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100) of the present invention includes an identification information input unit (operation panel 1 and reader / writer 4) that receives input of identification information for specifying a user, a job to be executed, A user who executes the job, user information that is information of each user registered in advance, a storage unit 8 that stores a notification destination address of each user, and identification information that is input to the identification information input unit The authentication unit (for example, the control unit 7) that identifies the user by comparing the user information in the storage unit 8 and the login state that accepts the job setting when the authentication unit identifies the user, the login state If there is an input unit (operation panel 1) that accepts an input of logout that is out of the range and a notification target job that is an incomplete job of the user who logs out, the user corresponding to the notification target job is set as the notification target person. , A communication unit 9 for transmitting notifications about notified job notification target, the. Specifically, the communication unit 9 transmits, as a notification regarding the notification target job, an end notification that informs that the notification target job that has not been completed is completed, to the notification target person.

(Operation settings when logging out)
Next, an example of operation settings at the time of logout in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the operation setting screen S5 at the time of logout in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a status notification according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the operation setting screen S5 illustrated in FIG. 10 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 11 of the operation panel 1. Each user logs in, inputs to the operation panel 1, displays the operation setting screen S5, and can set processing for an uncompleted job that exists at the time of logout.

  This operation setting screen S5 is a screen for setting in advance what to do with the uncompleted self job when logging out. When it is necessary to log out and leave the MFP 100, there are some users who want to execute their own uncompleted jobs as they are, and users who do not want to execute their own uncompleted jobs because they cannot confirm it themselves. There is also.

  Therefore, in the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to set a process for an uncompleted job when the user logs out on the operation setting screen S5. Specifically, each user sets a process for his / her unfinished job at the time of logout by pressing any one of the execution key K11, the pause key K12, and the cancel key K13 on the operation setting screen S5. be able to.

  The execution key K11 is pressed when an uncompleted job is executed as it is when logging out. The temporary stop key K12 is pressed to temporarily stop the execution of the incomplete self job at the time of logout, and to resume the execution of the incomplete self job when the same user logs in again. It is. The cancel key K13 is pressed to discard the job data without executing the uncompleted job at the time of logout. For example, the pressed key is displayed in a black and white reversed state (in FIG. 10, the execution key K11 is selected).

  As shown in FIG. 10, on the operation setting screen S5, when logging out, it is possible to set whether or not to notify a processing result (status notification) for an uncompleted job. The ON key K14 is pressed when a status notification is transmitted from the multi-function device 100 (communication unit 9). The OFF key K15 is pressed when a status notification is not transmitted from the multifunction device 100 (communication unit 9) (in FIG. 10, the ON key K14 is shown pressed).

  A setting completion key K16 is provided on the operation setting screen S5. When the setting completion key K16 is pressed, the setting content is transmitted from the operation panel 1 to the control unit 7, and is associated with user information (for each user), for example, an uncompleted self job when logging out. And the setting regarding whether or not to send a status notification is stored.

  Here, the storage unit 8 stores each user's address (e-mail address or network address). And if it is a setting which transmits a status notification, the communication part 9 will transmit the status notification containing the content as shown in FIG. 11 toward the email address and network address of a user's computer 200 which were registered. The communication unit 9 may transmit the status notification as an e-mail, or may be data that causes the display 201 to display a message via the driver software of the multi-function device 100 installed in the transmission destination computer 200.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a status notification displayed on the display 201 of the user's computer 200. When the user's computer 200 receives the status notification, the user computer 200 displays information such as the date and time of logout, the type of incomplete job that existed when logging out, and the contents of processing for the job on the display 201 of the computer 200. .

  Even if the process for logging out is defined on the operation setting screen S5, the process may be changed depending on circumstances. For example, although the job is set to be executed as it is, the contents to be kept secret are included, so if you do not want to execute an incomplete job that exists when you log out, or if you are in front of the MFP 100 There may be times when you want to be executed.

  Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the communication unit 9 of the multi-function peripheral 100 embeds a link for changing processing for an uncompleted job when logging out in the status notification. The link destination is, for example, the communication unit 9 of the multifunction device 100. For example, the communication unit 9 is provided with a server unit 90 that accepts an operation on a web screen or a screen for changing processing for an uncompleted job when logging out (see FIG. 2). For example, the link is a link for accessing the server unit 90. Then, the user gives an instruction to the MFP 100 to change the processing for the unfinished job when logging out by accessing the server unit 90 or performing an operation on the browser. At this time, the computer 200 used by the user functions as a part that gives an instruction to the multifunction device 100.

(Status notification processing)
Next, an example of the flow of status notification processing in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described based on FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of status notification processing in the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the start of FIG. 12 is the time when logging in, instructing the execution of the job, and logging out before the end of the own job, as in the case of FIG. When arranged in time series, the flow is: login → own job input, execution instruction → logout. In other words, the state where the job of the user who is going to log out is incomplete is started.

  Before the logout key 15 is pressed on the operation panel 1 (automatic logout after a predetermined time has elapsed since the input to the operation panel 1 is lost), the control unit 7 stores the storage unit 8 before shifting from the login state to the logout state. The user who wants to log out confirms the settings for the incomplete job when logging out (step # 11). In other words, the control unit 7 confirms the setting content on the operation setting screen S5.

  The control unit 7 processes a job that has not been completed when logging out in accordance with the setting contents on the operation setting screen S5 (step # 12). Specifically, when the job is set to be paused, the control unit 7 removes the uncompleted job from the job execution target when logging out, and stores the job contents (image data and setting data) in the storage unit 8. Keep it. A paused job is triggered by the login of the same user.

  When setting to cancel the job, the control unit 7 removes the uncompleted job from the execution target when logging out. In addition, the control unit 7 deletes the job contents (image data and setting data) from the storage unit 8 after a predetermined time has elapsed since logging out.

  When an uncompleted job is executed as it is, the control unit 7 does not perform any particular processing, and when ready to execute, the control unit 7 operates the image forming unit 6A and the communication unit 9 to perform a print or transmission job. To do.

  Logout is performed after such an incomplete job is confirmed and processed (step # 13). As a result, the operation panel 1 enters a state where it does not accept input.

  Then, the control unit 7 confirms the contents of the storage unit 8 and confirms whether or not it is necessary to transmit a job status notification of the logged-out user as an uncompleted job at the time of logout (step # 14). In other words, the control unit 7 confirms whether the user who has logged out is set to transmit a status notification on the operation setting screen S5 (whether the ON key K14 has been pressed).

  If it is not necessary to transmit a status notification (No in step # 14), this process (this control) may be terminated. On the other hand, if it is necessary to transmit a status notification (Yes in step # 14), the control unit 7 generates a status notification while embedding a link to a screen for accepting a process change (step # 15). That is, the communication unit 9 transmits an operation procedure for instructing a change of processing for a notification target job to which the status notification has been made, included in the status notification.

  Then, the control unit 7 causes the communication unit 9 to transmit the generated status notification to the notification destination address of the logged out user (step # 16). And this process (this control) should just be complete | finished. In other words, the communication unit 9 transmits a status notification that informs the execution status of the notification target job to the notification target person at the time of logout as a notification regarding the notification target job.

  Specifically, the input unit (operation panel 1) accepts in advance an execution continuation setting (execution as it is, pressing of the execution key K11) for executing the notification target job as it is even when logout occurs, and the storage unit 8 continues execution. The user who has made the setting is stored, and when the logout is performed, if the execution continuation setting is made, the communication unit 9 transmits a status notification to the effect that the notification target job is executed as it is to the notification target user.

  The input unit (operation panel 1) accepts in advance a pause setting (pause, press of the pause key K12) to wait without executing the notification target job when logout is performed, and the storage unit 8 The user who made the suspension setting is stored, and when the communication unit 9 logs out, if the suspension setting has been made, the communication unit 9 sends a status notification indicating that the user is on standby without executing the notification target job. Send to.

  Further, the input unit (operation panel 1) accepts in advance a non-execution setting for canceling without executing the notification target job when logout occurs (cancel, pressing of the cancel key), and the storage unit 8 sets the non-execution setting. If the non-execution setting is made when logout is performed, the communication unit 9 transmits a status notification to the notification target person without executing the notification target job and discarding it. To do.

  It should be noted that after the end of this process, the process may be changed based on the link. However, the server unit 90 accepts processing content changes only when possible. For example, even though the image data and setting data of the job have already been deleted from the storage unit 8 due to the cancellation, the change to the process for executing the job as it is cannot be accepted. In addition, although the job that has not been completed has already been executed and completed, a change to the process of suspension or cancellation is not accepted. Therefore, for example, when an incomplete job has not yet been executed or is being executed, the server unit 90 accepts a change to processing for suspension or cancellation. In addition, the server unit 90 accepts switching to a process of executing a job that has been temporarily stopped or has not yet been deleted from the storage unit 8 with image data or setting data, for example.

Thus, according to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) When logout is performed, there is a high possibility that the user will leave the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100). However, the communication unit 9 has a job to be notified that is an incomplete job of the user who logs out. For example, the notification corresponding to the notification target job is transmitted to the notification target person with the user corresponding to the notification target job as the notification target person. As a result, a notification regarding an incomplete job is issued with logout as a trigger. Accordingly, the necessity of notification is automatically determined, and it is determined that notification is given to a job having a high need for notification, such as incomplete at the time of logout. Therefore, the user has a high degree of desire to know the output result and the output status, and the user can surely receive the notification and confirm the result and status for a job that is highly required to be notified.

(2) Further, as a notification regarding the notification target job, the communication unit 9 transmits, to the notification target person, an end notification notifying that the job has ended when the incomplete notification target job is completed. Accordingly, when the user logs out and leaves the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100), the user can know that the job has been completed for an incomplete job. In the case of a print job, since the printed matter should be output, the output matter can be easily traced.

(3) Further, the communication unit 9 transmits, as a notification regarding the notification target job, a status notification that informs the execution status of the notification target job to the notification target person when logging out. As a result, the user is notified of the execution status of an uncompleted job, triggered by logout when the user leaves the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100). Therefore, the user can know the execution status of the job that has not been completed at the time of logout.

(4) Also, whether or not it is considered necessary to notify the end depends on the user. According to this configuration, the communication unit 9 transmits the end notification only to the notification target person who is set to perform the end notification. To do. As a result, the user can set whether or not to receive an end notification, and can be set not to receive an unnecessary notification.

(5) Further, when the notification target job satisfies the condition, the communication unit 9 transmits an end notification to the notification target person with the condition. Thereby, the end notification is made only when a time exceeding the set time is required. Therefore, it is possible to receive an end notification only for a job that requires time to complete and requires attention, and the user can be set not to receive an unnecessary notification.

(6) to (8) When the logout is performed, if the execution continuation setting is made, the communication unit 9 transmits a status notification to the effect that the notification target job is executed as it is to the notification target person. Further, when the logout is performed and the temporary stop setting is made, the communication unit 9 transmits a status notification to the notification target person to wait without executing the notification target job. In addition, when the logout is performed and the non-execution setting is made, the communication unit 9 does not execute the notification target job and transmits a status notification for discarding to the notification target person. With these configurations, it is possible to notify the user of the execution status of a job having a high need for notification, such as an incomplete job that has been logged out and separated from the image forming apparatus (for example, the multifunction peripheral 100).

(9) Further, the communication unit 9 transmits an operation procedure for instructing processing for the notification target job for which the status notification has been made, included in the status notification. Thereby, after receiving the status notification, it is possible to perform processing different from preset processing (execution, pause, and cancellation). Accordingly, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of setting for the notified job.

  Moreover, although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  In the above-described embodiment, the end notification may be made by executing the job after the status notification is notified for the same incomplete job. Therefore, the operation panel 1 may receive a setting for only one notification, the storage unit 8 may store the setting, and the communication unit may transmit only one of the notifications according to the stored setting. .

  The present invention is applicable to an image forming apparatus that has an authentication function and performs notification.

100 MFP (image forming device)
1 Operation panel (identification information input part, input part)
4. Reader / writer (identification information input part)
7 Control part (authentication part)
8 Storage unit 9 Communication unit 200 Computer

Claims (7)

An identification information input unit that receives input of identification information for identifying a user;
A storage unit that stores a job to be executed, a user who executes the job, user information that is information of each user registered in advance, and a notification destination address of each user;
An authentication unit that identifies the user by comparing the identification information input to the identification information input unit with the user information in the storage unit;
When the authentication unit identifies a user, the login unit accepts a job setting, and an input unit accepts a logout input out of the login state.
If there is a notification target job that is an uncompleted job of a user who logs out, a communication unit that transmits a notification related to the notification target job to the notification target person with the user corresponding to the notification target job as a notification target;
Possess and display unit for performing a display, the,
The communication unit transmits, as a notification regarding the notification target job, an end notification that notifies the notification target job that has not been completed, to the notification target person,
The display unit displays an end notification setting screen for setting the end notification when an input to be displayed on the input unit is performed,
The input unit performs an input for setting a set time on the end notification setting screen for each user, and an end notification only when the time from logout to completion of the notification target job has passed the set time. And accepting an input as a condition for performing the end notification,
The storage unit stores a user with the condition,
When the notification target job satisfies the condition, the communication unit transmits the end notification to the notification target person who attached the condition .   The input unit accepts a setting for determining whether to perform the end notification for each user,
  The storage unit stores, for each user, whether to perform the end notification,
  The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit transmits the end notification only to the notification target person who is set to perform the end notification.   The said communication part transmits the status notification which tells the execution status of the said notification object job to the said notification object person at the time of logout as a notification regarding the said notification object job. Image forming apparatus. The input unit accepts in advance an execution continuation setting for executing the notification target job as it is even if there is a logout,
The storage unit stores the user who performed the execution continuation setting,
The communication unit, when the logout is performed, if the execution continuation setting is made, the communication unit transmits the status notification to the effect that the notification target job is executed as it is, to the notification target person. The image forming apparatus according to 3 . The input unit accepts in advance a pause setting for waiting without executing the notification target job when logout occurs,
The storage unit stores the user who made the pause setting,
The communication unit, when logout is performed, if the suspension setting is made, transmits the status notification to the notification target person to wait without executing the notification target job. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 or 4 . The input unit accepts in advance a non-execution setting for canceling without executing the notification target job when logout occurs,
The storage unit stores a user who has made the non-execution setting,
If the non-execution setting is made when the logout is performed, the communication unit does not execute the notification target job, and transmits the status notification for discarding to the notification target person. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5 . The said communication part includes the operation procedure for instruct | indicating the change of the process with respect to the said notification object job to which the said status notification was made included in the said status notification, It transmits, The any one of Claim 3 thru | or 6 characterized by the above-mentioned. The image forming apparatus described in 1.