JP7424064B2 - image forming system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming system including an information processing apparatus that transmits print data, and an image forming apparatus that performs printing based on the print data from the information processing apparatus.

Peripheral devices are provided for computers such as PCs. The computer recognizes peripheral connections, communicates with the peripherals, and operates the peripherals. Image forming devices are also used as peripheral devices (printers). When using peripheral devices, you may need to install driver software for the peripheral device you want to use on your computer. An example of a technique related to installing driver software on a computer is described in Patent Document 1.

Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes a method for installing software for operating a peripheral device on a computer processing device, in which the installation software is stored in the memory of the peripheral device, and the connection between the computer processing device and the peripheral device is A method is described for installing installation software on a computer processing device upon detection of a peripheral device. Plug-and-play is attempted to be achieved by downloading and installing a device driver from the nonvolatile memory of the device (see Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph [0008], etc.).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-353073

You may create and edit files on a computer (PC). Image forming devices are used to print file contents. Driver software for the image forming apparatus is installed in advance on the computer. Using the driver software, the image forming apparatus generates print data for printing the file. The computer sends print data to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus prints based on the received print data. In this way, in order to use the image forming apparatus as a printer, it is necessary to install driver software.

There is a tendency for the number of image forming apparatuses connected to the local network to increase as the number of employees increases and the office expands. Usually, each individual's computer is set to the image forming device that is usually used. For example, the image forming device closest to the seat is set as the normally used image forming device. Driver software for commonly used image forming devices is installed on the computer.

A user may move from his or her seat with a PC and work at a new location. For example, when attending a meeting, you may travel with your PC. The larger the office, the longer the travel distance is likely to be. It may be moved to another floor. When you want to print at a destination, there is a problem in that the image forming device you usually use (the image forming device on which driver software is installed) may be far away. Even though I'm on the move, I operate my computer as usual and print using the image forming device I normally use, but it takes a long time to go and pick up the printed material.

The technology described in Patent Document 1 is a plug-and-play installation method. This does not prevent printing from being performed by a positionally distant image forming apparatus.

In view of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, the present invention prevents printing on a physically distant image forming apparatus when a user is at a destination, and prints on a nearby image forming apparatus.

To solve the above problem, an image forming system according to a first aspect includes an information processing apparatus, a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a repeater. The relay relays communication between the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus to communicably connect the information processing apparatus and each of the image forming apparatuses. The information processing apparatus includes an input device that accepts selection of the image forming apparatus to be used. Before transmitting print job data used for printing, the information processing apparatus transmits print request data to the selected image forming apparatus. When receiving the print request data, the image forming apparatus recognizes the number of times the repeater relays from the information processing apparatus to the image forming apparatus. When the number of relays is equal to or greater than a predetermined upper limit, the image forming apparatus sends back first response data to the information processing apparatus to notify that the recognized number of relays is equal to or greater than the upper limit. .

According to the present invention, when the user is at a destination, it is possible to prevent printing on an image forming apparatus that is located away from the user. It is possible to direct the user to print using an image forming apparatus located nearby.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image forming system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an information processing device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 describes an example of print request processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow of the information processing device when receiving the first response data according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a confirmation screen according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a search result screen according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an installation confirmation screen according to the embodiment.

An example of an image forming system 100 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. Image forming system 100 includes image forming apparatus 1 , information processing apparatus 2 , and repeater 3 . Image forming system 100 includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses 1. Furthermore, the configuration, arrangement, and other elements described in this embodiment do not limit the scope of the invention and are merely illustrative examples.

(Image forming system 100)
First, an example of an image forming system 100 according to an embodiment will be described using FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image forming system 100 according to an embodiment.

Image forming system 100 includes at least one information processing device 2 and a plurality of image forming devices 1. There may be a plurality of information processing devices 2. The information processing device 2 is a computer. For example, the information processing device 2 is a PC or a server. The information processing device 2 is communicatively connected to each image forming device 1 and the repeater 3 to form a network. Information processing device 2 transmits print job data to image forming device 1 . As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 may use a wireless device as an access point. The image forming apparatus 1 and the information processing apparatus 2 may be communicably connected via a wireless device.

For example, the image forming apparatus 1 is a printer or a multifunction device. All image forming apparatuses 1 may be printers or multifunctional devices. The image forming apparatus 1 that has received the print job data addressed to itself analyzes the print job data and generates print image data. The image forming apparatus 1 prints based on the generated print image data.

A repeater 3 is used to construct a network (image forming system 100) including the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1. The repeater 3 connects one part of the network to another part of the network. Via the repeater 3, the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1 included in the image forming system 100 can communicate with each other. The repeater 3 is, for example, a router (it may be an L3 switch or a bridge). The repeater 3 includes, for example, a plurality of ports (connectors), a power supply circuit, a processor, and a switch circuit. FIG. 1 shows an example of an image forming system 100 of a certain company. The office includes the first floor and second floor. In the example of FIG. 1, each device on the first floor and each device on the second floor are communicably connected via a repeater 3. Devices on the same floor are also communicably connected via the repeater 3.

(Image forming device 1)
Next, an example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

Image forming apparatus 1 includes a control section 10, a storage section 11, an operation panel 12, and a printing section 13. The control unit 10 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 10 includes a control circuit 10a, an image processing circuit 10b, and a communication circuit 10c (control board). For example, the control circuit 10a is a CPU. The image processing circuit 10b performs various image processing. For example, the image processing circuit 10b is a circuit (ASIC) dedicated to image processing. The communication circuit 10c includes a connector, a communication control circuit, and a communication memory. The communication memory stores communication software. The communication circuit 10c can communicate with the information processing device 2, the repeater 3, and the wireless device 4.

The storage unit 11 includes ROM, storage, and RAM. For example, the ROM is a flash ROM. The storage is a large capacity non-volatile storage device (eg, HDD or SSD). The control circuit 10a controls each section (operation panel 12, printing section 13) using programs, data, and applications stored in the storage section 11.

The operation panel 12 includes a display panel 14, a touch panel 15, and hard keys 16. The display panel 14 displays a screen and images. The control unit 10 controls the display on the display panel 14. The control unit 10 causes the display panel 14 to display an operation image for setting. The operation images are, for example, buttons, keys, and tabs. Touch panel 15 accepts user operations on images displayed on display panel 14 . Based on the output of the touch panel 15, the control unit 10 recognizes the operated operation image. Based on the operated operation image, the control unit 10 recognizes the content of the user's operation. Hard keys 16 also accept user operations.

The printing section 13 includes a paper feeding section 17 , a paper transport section 18 , an image forming section 19 , and a fixing section 110 . The paper feed section 17 includes a paper cassette and a paper feed roller. A stack of paper is loaded into the paper cassette. During a print job, the control unit 10 rotates the paper feed roller to feed paper. The paper conveyance unit 18 includes a pair of conveyance rollers and a conveyance motor. The control unit 10 rotates the pair of transport rollers to transport the paper to the paper transport unit 18 .

The image forming section 19 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging device, a developing device, and a transfer roller. The image processing circuit 10b analyzes the received print job data and generates print image data. The image processing circuit 10b performs image processing of print image data. Based on the printing image data, the control section 10 causes the image forming section 19 to form a toner image. During printing, the control unit 10 rotates the photosensitive drum. The control unit 10 causes the charging device to charge the photoreceptor drum. Based on the print image data, the control unit 10 causes the exposure device to expose the photoreceptor drum. The control unit 10 causes the developing device to develop the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum with toner. The control unit 10 causes a transfer roller to transfer a toner image onto a sheet of paper being conveyed.

The control unit 10 causes the fixing unit 110 to fix the toner image transferred to the paper. The fixing unit 110 includes a heater and a fixing rotating body. The heater heats the fixing rotating body. The fixing rotor heats and presses the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred. The toner image is fixed on the paper by heating and pressure. The control unit 10 causes the paper transport unit 18 to discharge the fixed paper to the outside of the machine.

(Information processing device 2)
Next, an example of the information processing device 2 according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the information processing device 2 according to the embodiment.

A user uses the information processing device 2. One information processing device 2 may be provided to each person. For example, the information processing device 2 is portable (notebook PC). The information processing device 2 includes a processing section 20, an information storage section 21, a display 22, and an input device 23.

The processing section 20 is a board (main board) including a plurality of circuits and elements. The processing section 20 includes a control circuit 20a, an image processing circuit 20b, and an information communication circuit 20c. For example, the control circuit 20a is a CPU. The information storage unit 21 includes a flash ROM, storage, and RAM. For example, the storage is an HDD or an SSD. The information storage unit 21 stores the OS, data, programs, and applications in a nonvolatile manner. The processing unit 20 controls the operation of the information processing device 2 based on the OS, data, programs, and applications stored in the information storage unit 21. The information communication circuit 20c includes a communication control circuit and a communication memory. The communication memory stores communication software. The information communication circuit 20c communicates with the image forming apparatus 1, other information processing apparatuses 2, repeaters 3, and wireless devices 4 according to instructions from the processing section 20.

The processing unit 20 causes the display 22 to display a screen and information. The display 22 includes, for example, a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The input device 23 accepts user operations. For example, the input device 23 is a keyboard or a mouse. The input device 23 may be a touch panel 15 attached to the display 22. Based on the output of the input device 23, the processing unit 20 recognizes the content of the operation.

Furthermore, driver software 5 for the image forming apparatus 1 can be installed in the information storage section 21 . The user installs the driver software 5 corresponding to the model of the image forming apparatus 1 to be used into the information storage section 21. For example, the user uses the input device 23 to input a print command for the application. Based on the driver software 5, the processing unit 20 generates print job data of the file into which the print command is input. For example, the processing unit 20 includes data describing the contents of the file in a page description language in the print job data. The image forming apparatus 1 analyzes data written in a page description language and generates print image data.

(Print request before sending print job data)
Next, an example of print request processing according to the embodiment will be described using FIG. 4. FIG. 4 describes an example of print request processing according to the embodiment.

A user may want to print at a destination. The image forming apparatus 1 that is normally used may be far from the current work location. When a print command is input as usual (for example, by operating a print icon on an application), a printed matter may be output to the distant image forming apparatus 1. Therefore, before transmitting and receiving print job data, the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1 perform processing to check whether the image forming device 1 is far away.

This will be specifically explained using FIG. 4. The start of FIG. 4 is when the user uses the input device 23 to input a print command. First, the processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 recognizes the image forming device 1 selected as the image forming device 1 to be printed (used) (step #1). The information processing device 2 can select the image forming device 1 to print. The input device 23 accepts the selection of the image forming apparatus 1 to be used. In some cases, an instruction to start printing is issued without performing any selection operation. In this case, the processing unit 20 recognizes the image forming apparatus 1 that has been selected in advance as the normally used image forming apparatus 1 (default image forming apparatus 1) as the selected image forming apparatus 1.

The processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 causes the information communication circuit 20c to transmit print request data to the selected image forming device 1 (step #2). Print request data is data that is sent before sending print job data. Depending on the response from the image forming apparatus 1 to the print request data, the processing unit 20 determines whether or not to transmit the print job data.

The information storage unit 21 of the information processing device 2 stores the address of each image forming device 1 connected to the image forming system 100 (network). For example, the information storage unit 21 stores the IP address and MAC address of each image forming apparatus 1. The processing unit 20 generates print request data that includes the address of the selected image forming apparatus 1 as a destination.

The communication circuit 10c of the selected image forming apparatus 1 receives the print request data (step #3). The relay device 3 relays the print request data so that the selected image forming apparatus 1 receives the print request data. When relaying, the relay device 3 processes the print request data so that the number of relays from the information processing device 2 to the selected image forming device 1 can be determined.

For example, the relay device 3 may add its own address (of the relay device 3) to the print request data. For example, the relay device 3 adds its own IP address to the print request data (it may also be a MAC address). In this case, the control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 can recognize the number of relays based on the number of addresses attached to the print request data.

Alternatively, the print request data may include a maximum number of times of relaying, and when relaying, the repeater 3 may subtract one from the maximum number of times. The initial value of the maximum number of times is determined in advance. In this case, the control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 can recognize the number of relays based on the difference between the maximum number of times of reception and the initial value of the maximum number of times.

Based on the received print request data, the control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 recognizes the number of relays (step #4). The control unit 10 checks whether the number of relays is greater than or equal to the upper limit value D1 (step #5). The upper limit D1 is determined in advance. The storage unit 11 (for example, storage) of each image forming apparatus 1 stores the upper limit value D1 in a non-volatile manner (see FIG. 2). The upper limit value D1 is a value for determining whether the distance from the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data to the image forming device 1 that received the print request data is long. For example, the operation panel 12 accepts the setting of the upper limit value D1. The control unit 10 checks using the set upper limit value D1.

When the number of relays is equal to or greater than the upper limit D1 (Yes in step #5), the control unit 10 causes the communication circuit 10c to send back the first response data to the information processing device 2 (step #6). The destination is the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data. For example, the processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 includes its own address as the sender's address in the print request data. Based on the print request data, the control unit 10 recognizes the address of the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data. The control unit 10 generates first response data that includes the address of the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data as a destination.

The first response data is a message informing that the number of relays is greater than or equal to the upper limit D1. In other words, this is a message for notifying the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data of the possibility that the distance to the image forming device 1 is long. The information processing device 2 (information communication circuit 20c) that sent the print request data receives the first response data (step #7). Note that the control unit 10 may include the recognized number of relays in the first response data.

When receiving the first response data, the processing unit 20 starts processing when receiving the first response data. Since subsequent processing will be described later using a separate drawing, for convenience, in FIG. 4, this flowchart is assumed to end at step #7 (end).

When the number of relays is less than the upper limit D1 (No in step #5), the control unit 10 causes the communication circuit 10c to send back the second response data to the information processing device 2 (step #8). The destination is the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data. The control unit 10 generates second response data that includes, as the destination, the address of the information processing device 2 that transmitted the print request data.

The second response data is a message informing that the number of relays is less than the upper limit D1. In other words, this is a message to notify the information processing device 2 that sent the print request data that the image forming device 1 is not far away. The information processing device 2 (information communication circuit 20c) that sent the print request data receives the second response data (step #9). Note that the control unit 10 may include the recognized number of relays in the second response data.

The processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 that has received the second response data performs processing based on the driver software 5 to generate print job data. Then, the processing unit 20 causes the communication circuit 10c to transmit the generated print job data to the image forming apparatus 1 that has returned the second response data (that has transmitted the selected print request data) (step #10). ).

The image forming apparatus 1 that has returned the second response data receives the print job data. Based on the received print job data, the control section 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 causes the printing section 13 to print (step #11→end).

(Processing when first response data is received)
Next, an example of the processing of the information processing device 2 when receiving the first response data according to the embodiment will be described using FIGS. 5 to 8. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow of the information processing device 2 when receiving the first response data according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the confirmation screen 61 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the search result screen 62 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the installation confirmation screen 63 according to the embodiment.

The start of FIG. 5 is when the information processing device 2 receives the first response data. First, the processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 displays the confirmation screen 61 on the display 22 (step #21). FIG. 6 shows an example of the confirmation screen 61. The confirmation screen 61 includes a message informing the user that the previously selected image forming apparatus 1 (which sent the print request data and returned the first response data) may be far away. This allows the user to notice that he or she is attempting to print with the image forming apparatus 1 that is far away. At this time, the processing unit 20 may also display the number of relays notified by the image forming apparatus 1.

Furthermore, the processing unit 20 includes the inquiry image i1 in the confirmation screen 61. The inquiry image i1 is an image for confirming whether the print job data may be sent to the image forming apparatus 1 that has returned the first response data. The inquiry image i1 is a Yes button B1 and a No button B2. In the example of FIG. 6, the Yes button B1 includes the text "Print". No button B2 includes the text "Do not print." There may be cases where the user wants to have the image forming apparatus 1 that returned the first response data print, such as when the user is about to return to his or her seat after a meeting. When the user wants to cause the image forming apparatus 1 that has returned the first response data to print, the user operates the Yes button B1. When the user wants to print on another image forming apparatus 1, the user operates the No button B2.

Then, the processing unit 20 confirms whether or not the print job data may be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 that has returned the first response data (step #22). Specifically, the processing unit 20 checks which of the Yes button B1 and the No button B2 has been operated. When the Yes button B1 is operated, the processing unit 20 determines that the input device 23 has accepted an answer that may be sent. When the No button B2 is operated, the processing unit 20 determines that the input device 23 has accepted the answer that is not to be sent.

When the input device 23 accepts a response that can be transmitted (Yes in step #22), the processing unit 20 generates print job data and sends the generated print job data to the image forming apparatus 1 that has returned the first response data. Send print job data (step #23→end). As a result, the image forming apparatus 1 that sent back the first response data receives the print job data. Based on the received print job data, the control unit 10 causes the printing unit 13 to print.

When the input device 23 receives a response not to transmit (No in step #22), the processing unit 20 searches for an image forming apparatus 1 with which it can communicate (step #24). For example, the processing unit 20 may broadcast an inquiry to the image forming apparatus 1. Further, the processing unit 20 may execute a search program stored in the information storage unit 21 to search for image forming apparatuses 1 with which communication is possible. For example, the search program is a program that executes a network protocol command for recognizing the image forming apparatus 1.

Further, the server may store information about each image forming apparatus 1 connected to the network. The information on the image forming apparatus 1 includes, for example, information such as a name, a model number, and an address. In this case, the processing unit 20 obtains information about each image forming apparatus 1 from the server. Based on the acquired information, the processing unit 20 causes the information communication circuit 20c to attempt communication with each image forming apparatus 1.

In any case, the processing unit 20 causes the information communication circuit 20c to transmit an inquiry to each image forming apparatus 1 connected to the network. In response to the inquiry, the control unit 10 of each image forming apparatus 1 causes the communication circuit 10c to transmit a response message to the inquiry to the information processing apparatus 2. Based on the received response message, the processing unit 20 recognizes the image forming apparatus 1 with which it can communicate. The response message includes information such as the name and address of the image forming apparatus 1, for example.

When recognizing the image forming apparatus 1, the processing unit 20 also recognizes the number of relays to each image forming apparatus 1. For example, when relaying, the relay device 3 may process the inquiry data so that the number of relays from the information processing device 2 to the image forming device 1 can be determined. For example, repeater 3 may include its own address in the inquiry. Further, the maximum number of times of relaying may be included in the inquiry, and when relaying, the repeater 3 may subtract one from the maximum number of times of relaying. The control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 recognizes the number of times the inquiry is relayed. The control unit 10 may include the recognized number of relays in the response message.

For example, when relaying a response message, the relay device 3 may process the response message so that the number of relays from the image forming device 1 to the information processing device 2 can be known. For example, the repeater 3 may add its own address to the response message. Alternatively, the response message may include a maximum number of times of relaying, and when relaying, the repeater 3 may subtract one from the maximum number of times. Then, the processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 may recognize the number of times the response message is relayed.

Then, the processing unit 20 displays the search result screen 62 on the display 22 (step #25). FIG. 7 shows an example of the search result screen 62. The processing unit 20 causes the display 22 to display a list L1 of image forming apparatuses 1 with which communication is possible. Information regarding one image forming apparatus 1 is arranged in one row of the list L1. For example, names, addresses, and the number of recognized relays are listed. In this way, the processing unit 20 causes the display 22 to display the search results.

Here, the processing unit 20 displays the pull-down menu P1 within the search result screen 62. The number of relays can be selected using the pull-down menu P1. When the rightmost rectangle (shape including a triangle) of the pull-down menu P1 is operated, the processing unit 20 causes the display 22 to display a list of selectable relay times as a menu.

In FIG. 7, the minimum value is selected as the number of relays. In this case, the processing unit 20 includes only the image forming apparatus 1 with the minimum number of relays among the image forming apparatuses 1 in the list L1. In this way, the processing unit 20 may display only the image forming apparatus 1 with the smallest number of relays among the image forming apparatuses 1 that can communicate with the information processing apparatus 2 on the display 22 as a search result.

Further, in the pull-down menu P1, numbers may be selectable. For example, numbers such as 1 and 2 may be selectable. For example, when the number "2" is selected, the processing unit 20 displays only the image forming apparatuses 1 that have been relayed twice among the image forming apparatuses 1 that can communicate with the information processing apparatus 2 on the display 22 as a search result. to be displayed.

As shown in FIG. 7, the list L1 may include a designation button B3. One designation button B3 is provided for each image forming apparatus 1. Using the designation button B3, the user designates the image forming apparatus 1 that he or she wants to print. The input device 23 accepts the operation on the designation button B3 as an operation to designate one image forming apparatus 1 displayed as a search result (step #26).

When the image forming apparatus 1 is designated, the processing unit 20 obtains the position message D2 and position image data D3 from the designated image forming apparatus 1 (step #27). The storage unit 11 (storage) of each image forming apparatus 1 stores a predetermined position message D2 and position image data D3 in a non-volatile manner. The processing unit 20 causes the communication circuit 10c to transmit a request to send the position message D2 and the position image data D3 to the designated image forming apparatus 1. In response to this request, the control unit 10 of the image forming apparatus 1 transmits a position message D2 and position image data D3 to the information processing apparatus 2 (information).

A position message D2 is predetermined for each image forming apparatus 1. The position message D2 is a character string indicating the installation position (installation location) of the own device (image forming apparatus 1). For example, the location message D2 may be a character string that is a combination of the installation floor and direction of the image forming apparatus 1, such as "The installation location is on the second floor, southeast." Further, the location message D2 may include a character string indicating a landmark for searching for the specified image forming apparatus 1, such as "It is near Mr. A's desk in the development department."

The position image data D3 is image data of a map showing the installation position of the own machine. The position image data D3 is a map of the floor where the image forming apparatus 1 is installed. The map may depict things in the room, such as a desk, a PC, a door, a screen, a shelf, and a window. Further, a mark indicating the image forming apparatus 1 may be drawn on the map.

The processing unit 20 displays the acquired position message D2 and position image data D3 on the display 22 (step #28). In other words, messages and maps are displayed. Thereby, even if the user has never used the specified image forming apparatus 1, the location of the specified image forming apparatus 1 can be known. Next, the processing unit 20 checks whether the driver software 5 of the designated image forming apparatus 1 is installed (step #29). If it has not been installed (No in step #29), the processing unit 20 displays the installation confirmation screen 63 on the display 22 (step #210).

FIG. 8 shows an example of the installation confirmation screen 63. The installation confirmation screen 63 includes an installation execution button B4 and an installation non-execution button B5. When installing the driver software 5 for the designated image forming apparatus 1, the user operates the installation execution button B4. If the user does not want to install the driver software 5 for the designated image forming apparatus 1, the user operates the installation non-execution button B5.

The input device 23 receives an operation on the installation execution button B4 as an installation start instruction. The input device 23 accepts the operation of the installation non-execution button B5 as an answer not to start the installation. The processing unit 20 continues to check whether an instruction to start the installation has been given (Step #211) and whether or not an answer has been given not to start the installation (Step #212, No in Step #211→Step #212) (No in step #212 → returns to step #211).

When the answer (selection) is not to start the installation (when the installation non-execution button B5 is operated, Yes in step #212), the processing unit 20 ends this flowchart (END). Alternatively, the processing unit 20 may execute step #25 so that the image forming apparatus 1 can be specified again.

When the installation start instruction is given (when the installation execution button B4 is operated, Step #211: Yes), the processing unit 20 installs the driver software 5 (Step #213). The processing unit 20 causes the information communication circuit 20c to acquire the driver software 5 of the designated image forming apparatus 1. The processing unit 20 installs the acquired driver software 5 into the information storage unit 21 (storage).

The information communication circuit 20c may download the driver software 5 of the designated image forming apparatus 1 using the Internet. Further, the server may store the driver software 5 for each image forming apparatus 1. In this case, the information communication circuit 20c downloads the driver software 5 of the image forming apparatus 1 specified from the server.

When the driver software 5 is already installed (Yes in step #29) or when a new driver software 5 is installed (step #213), the processing unit 20 generates print job data and prints the specified image. The generated print job data is transmitted to the forming apparatus 1 (step #214→end). As a result, the designated image forming apparatus 1 receives the print job data. Based on the received print job data, the control section 10 of the designated image forming apparatus 1 causes the printing section 13 to print.

In this way, the image forming system 100 according to the embodiment includes the information processing device 2 , the plurality of image forming devices 1 , and the repeater 3 . The relay device 3 relays communication between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1 to connect the information processing device 2 and each image forming device 1 communicably. Information processing apparatus 2 includes an input device 23 that accepts selection of image forming apparatus 1 to be used. Before transmitting print job data used for printing, the information processing device 2 transmits print request data to the selected image forming device 1. When receiving the print request data, the image forming apparatus 1 recognizes the number of relays, which is the number of times the relay device 3 relayed data from the information processing apparatus 2 to the image forming apparatus 1. When the number of relays is greater than or equal to the predetermined upper limit D1, the image forming apparatus 1 sends back first response data to the information processing apparatus 2 to notify that the recognized number of relays is greater than or equal to the upper limit D1.

The farther the distance between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1 is, the greater the number of repeaters 3 that data sent from the information processing device 2 passes through before reaching the image forming device 1. This is because the longer the distance between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1, the longer the communication path. Depending on the number of repeaters 3, it is possible to determine whether the distance between the information processing device 2 and the image forming device 1 is long or short. The detection result can be notified from the image forming apparatus 1 to the information processing apparatus 2. Based on the notification from the image forming apparatus 1, the user can notice that the selected image forming apparatus 1 is far away. It is possible to prevent print job data from being sent to the image forming apparatus 1 that is far away.

Information processing device 2 includes a display 22 . When receiving the first response data, the information processing device 2 searches for an image forming device 1 with which it can communicate. The information processing device 2 displays the search results on the display 22. Image forming apparatuses 1 connected to the network can be confirmed. Candidates for the image forming apparatus 1 to be used instead can be shown. It is possible to make the user aware of the image forming apparatus 1 that is located close to the image forming apparatus 1.

The information processing device 2 displays only the image forming device 1 with the smallest number of relays among the image forming devices 1 with which communication is possible on the display 22 as a search result. The number of relays is small, and only image forming apparatuses 1 that are close to each other can be presented to the user. It is possible to inform the user of the nearby image forming apparatus 1 from the current position (movement destination).

The input device 23 accepts an operation for specifying one image forming apparatus 1 displayed as a search result. The information processing device 2 acquires the position message D2 from the designated image forming device 1. The information processing device 2 displays the acquired position message D2 on the display 22. Each image forming apparatus 1 stores a character string indicating its own installation position as a position message D2. The location message D2 allows the user to know the location of the designated image forming apparatus 1. The user knows where to go to get the printed matter.

The input device 23 accepts an operation for specifying one image forming apparatus 1 displayed as a search result. The information processing device 2 acquires position image data D3 from the designated image forming device 1. The information processing device 2 displays an image based on the acquired position image data D3 on the display 22. Each image forming apparatus 1 stores image data of a map indicating the installation position of the image forming apparatus 1 as position image data D3. The location of the designated image forming apparatus 1 can be determined by looking at the map. It is possible to check where the image forming apparatus 1 is located. The user knows where to go to get the printed matter.

When the driver software 5 for the specified image forming apparatus 1 is not installed, the information processing apparatus 2 performs an installation confirmation to confirm whether the driver software 5 for the specified image forming apparatus 1 can be installed. A screen 63 is displayed on the display 22. When the input device 23 receives the installation start instruction, the information processing apparatus 2 installs the driver software 5 of the specified image forming apparatus 1. After installation, the information processing device 2 transmits print job data to the designated image forming device 1. Installing the driver software 5 takes some time. Then, it is possible to select whether or not to install the driver software 5 in order to use the specified image forming apparatus 1. Automatic installation of driver software 5 that is unnecessary for the user can be prevented.

Information processing device 2 includes a display 22 . When receiving the first response data, the information processing device 2 displays an inquiry image i1 on the display 22 to confirm whether the print job data may be transmitted to the image forming device 1 that has returned the first response data. When the input device 23 accepts a reply that can be sent, the information processing apparatus 2 sends print job data to the image forming apparatus 1 that has sent back the first reply data. Print job data can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 1 that has been notified that the number of relays is high. Printing by an image forming apparatus 1 that is relayed many times is not prohibited. It is also possible to cause the image forming apparatus 1 located far away to perform printing.

When the number of relays is less than the upper limit D1, the image forming apparatus 1 returns second response data to the information processing apparatus 2 to notify that the number of relays is less than the upper limit D1. When receiving the second response data, the information processing device 2 transmits print job data to the image forming device 1 that has returned the second response data. When the number of relays is less than the upper limit D1 and it is not recognized as being far, printing can be started with the image forming apparatus 1 selected first.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The image forming system 100 that allows print job data to be transmitted to a nearby image forming apparatus 1 based on the number of relays has been described. The image forming apparatus 1 near the current position (movement destination) may be recognized without counting the number of relays. For example, inquiry data may be transmitted from the information processing device 2 to the server via the access point at the destination. In this case, the processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 includes the address of the access point (wireless device) in use in the inquiry data. The server stores the address of the nearest image forming apparatus 1 for each access point. The server returns the address of the image forming apparatus 1 closest to the access point to the information processing apparatus 2 as a response to the inquiry data. The processing unit 20 of the information processing device 2 may cause the information communication unit to transmit the print job data to the image forming device 1 at the returned address. Even in this case, it is possible to print output to the nearest image forming apparatus 1 when the user is at the destination.

The present invention can be used in an image forming system including an information processing device and an image forming device.

100 Image forming system 1 Image forming device 2 Information processing device 22 Display 23 Input device 3 Repeater 5 Driver software 63 Installation confirmation screen D1 Upper limit value D2 Position message D3 Position image data

Claims (8)

An information processing device, a plurality of image forming devices, and a relay that relays communication between the information processing device and the image forming device to communicably connect the information processing device and each of the image forming devices. ,
The information processing apparatus includes an input device that accepts a selection of the image forming apparatus to be used, and before transmitting print job data used for printing, transmits print request data to the selected image forming apparatus,
When receiving the print request data,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Recognizing the number of relays that is the number of times the relay relays from the information processing device to the image forming device;
An image characterized in that, when the number of relays is equal to or greater than a predetermined upper limit, first response data is sent back to the information processing device to notify that the recognized number of times of relay is equal to or greater than the upper limit. Formation system. The information processing device includes:
including the display;
When receiving the first response data, searching for the image forming device with which the device can communicate;
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein search results are displayed on the display. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the information processing apparatus displays, as the search result, only the image forming apparatus with the smallest number of relays among the image forming apparatuses with which the image forming apparatus can communicate. Formation system. the input device accepts an operation for specifying one of the image forming apparatuses displayed as the search result;
The information processing device includes:
obtaining a position message from the specified image forming apparatus;
displaying the acquired position message on the display;
4. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein each of the image forming apparatuses stores a character string indicating the installation position of the image forming apparatus as the position message. the input device accepts an operation for specifying one of the image forming apparatuses displayed as the search result;
The information processing device includes:
obtaining position image data from the designated image forming apparatus;
displaying an image based on the acquired position image data on the display;
5. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein each of the image forming apparatuses stores image data of a map indicating the installation position of the image forming apparatus as the position image data. When the driver software for the specified image forming device is not installed,
The information processing device includes:
displaying an installation confirmation screen on the display for confirming whether or not to install the driver software for the designated image forming apparatus;
When the input device receives an instruction to start installation, installing the driver software for the specified image forming apparatus;
6. The image forming system according to claim 4, wherein after installation, the print job data is transmitted to the specified image forming apparatus. The information processing device includes:
including the display;
When the first response data is received, displaying an inquiry image on the display for confirming whether the print job data may be sent to the image forming apparatus that has returned the first response data;
7. Any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the input device receives a reply that may be sent, the print job data is sent to the image forming apparatus that has sent back the first reply data. The image forming system according to item 1. When the number of relays is less than the upper limit,
The image forming apparatus returns second response data to the information processing apparatus informing that the number of relays is less than the upper limit value,
When the second response data is received,
8. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus transmits the print job data to the image forming apparatus that has returned the second response data.

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