Image forming apparatus, control method thereof, storage medium, and computer program product

Abstract

The invention provides an image forming apparatus, a control method thereof, a storage medium, and a computer program product. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print server system including a cloud print service, the image forming apparatus including: one or more storage devices that store an instruction set; and one or more processors that execute the instruction set to: display a two-dimensional code including identification information capable of recognizing the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the two-dimensional code set in the cloud print service, in which control of whether to display the two-dimensional code is performed based on the information related to the two-dimensional code, and the cloud print server system recognizes the image forming apparatus using the two-dimensional code and transmits the stored print job.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus, a control method for the image forming apparatus, a storage medium, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, cloud printing systems have become increasingly common (Japanese Patent Application Publication Nos. 2012-133489 and 2023-183237). In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-133489, a user uses a terminal to select a printing device registered in a cloud printing service (CPS) as the output destination and sends the print job to the CPS. The CPS then transmits the print job to the selected printing device upon receiving it. The printing device then performs printing based on the transmitted print job. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-183237 proposes a technology that obtains the cloud printer ID of the printing device by reading a QR code (registered trademark) displayed on the printing device, and performs pull printing on the printing device by associating the cloud printer ID with the print job.

[0003] As one might expect, when a printing device is registered in the CPS, a QR code identifying the registered printing device is automatically displayed on the device's operation screen. In this case, the user wishing to use that printing device loads the QR code and requests job release from the CPS. However, if the setting to use QR codes in the CPS is disabled, the print job previously sent to the CPS is not retained; instead, it is sent as is to another printing device (hereinafter referred to as direct printing). Therefore, no job is released in the CPS, and no printing process occurs. Consequently, pull printing functionality is not provided. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure enables a new mechanism that allows users to print targets as needed within a system that allows for maintaining print jobs.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure provides an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud printing server system including a cloud printing service. The image forming apparatus includes: one or more storage devices storing an instruction set; and one or more processors executing the instruction set to perform the following operations: displaying a QR code including identification information capable of recognizing the image forming apparatus, and receiving information related to the QR code set in the cloud printing service, wherein control is performed based on the information related to the QR code to determine whether to display the QR code, and the cloud printing server system uses the QR code to identify the image forming apparatus and send a saved print job.

[0006] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a control method for an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud printing server system including a cloud printing service. The control method includes: displaying a QR code, the QR code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the QR code set in the cloud printing service, wherein whether to display the QR code is controlled based on the information related to the QR code, and the cloud printing server system uses the QR code to identify the image forming apparatus and send a saved print job.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute steps of a control method for an image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus being able to communicate with a cloud printing server system including a cloud printing service, the control method comprising: displaying a QR code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the QR code set in the cloud printing service, wherein control is performed on whether to display the QR code based on the information related to the QR code, and the cloud printing server system uses the QR code to identify the image forming apparatus and send a saved print job.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a computer program product comprising a program for causing a computer to execute steps of a control method for an image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus being able to communicate with a cloud printing server system including a cloud printing service, the control method comprising: displaying a QR code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the QR code set in the cloud printing service, wherein control is performed on whether to display the QR code based on the information related to the QR code, and the cloud printing server system uses the QR code to identify the image forming apparatus and send a saved print job.

[0009] The features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of embodiments is given by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a diagram illustrating screen information generated by CPS according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figures 4A to 4C This is a diagram showing a screen of a printing apparatus according to a comparative example.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the block structure of a printing system according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figures 6A to 6D This is a diagram showing a screen of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure in a printing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a sequence diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure in a CPS according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure in a printing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a sequence diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure in a printing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating screen information generated by CPS according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing a screen of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0024] In the following, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Please note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Multiple features are described in the embodiments, but it is not implied that all of these features are required, and multiple features may be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given the same or similar constructions, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0025] In this specification, the term "printing apparatus" broadly includes apparatuses that form (record) images on recording material (recording medium), such as single-function printers, copiers, multifunction devices, and commercial printers. Furthermore, a printing apparatus can be a system (image forming system) in which the main body of the printing apparatus that forms images on recording material is connected to devices such as sheet handling apparatus and sheet feeding apparatus.

[0026] First Embodiment

[0027] Network Construction

[0028] First, refer to Figure 1 The construction of a printing system 10 according to this disclosure is described. The printing system 10 according to this embodiment includes a printing device 101, a cloud printing service (hereinafter also referred to as CPS) 102, an administrator terminal 103, and a client terminal 104. Note that the printing system 10 is an example of an "image forming system." Additionally, the printing device 101 is an example of an "image forming apparatus."

[0029] Printing device 101 communicates with CPS 102 via a network on the Internet. The network can be constructed by combining communication networks such as LANs and WANs, cellular networks (e.g., LTE and 5G), and wireless networks compliant with IEEE 802.11. That is, the network only needs to be able to send and receive data, and any communication method can be used at the physical layer. Administrator terminal 103 and client terminal 104 also communicate with CPS 102 via a communication network or cellular network on the Internet. Furthermore, printing device 101 communicates with CPS 102, administrator terminal 103, or client terminal 104 according to standards such as the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) PWG 5100.18, RFC 3995, or RFC 3996. Alternatively, printing device 101 communicates with CPS 102, administrator terminal 103, or client terminal 104 via a Graph API.

[0030] The printing device 101 has a scanning function for sending data based on an image read using a scanner to an external device, a printing function for printing an image on a sheet of material such as paper based on a print job received from an external device, and a copying function. That is, the printing device 101 can receive print jobs and perform printing via CPS 102.

[0031] In this embodiment, a multifunctional peripheral device (MFP) with multiple functions is given as an example of a printing device, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the printing device may be a single-function peripheral device (SFP) with only printing function. In addition, in this embodiment, printing on a sheet of material such as paper is given as an example, but it is not limited thereto, and this embodiment can also be applied to printing control in 3D printing and other applications that form three-dimensional objects based on three-dimensional shape data.

[0032] CPS102 receives and stores print jobs from client terminals such as client terminal 104. Subsequently, if CPS102 receives a job release request, it notifies the printing device 101 registered in CPS102 that a print job has been submitted. Upon receiving the notification, the printing device 101 acquires the print job and begins printing.

[0033] Block construction of printing system 10

[0034] Reference Figure 5 Describe the functional blocks of each device included in the printing system 10.

[0035] Block structure of printing device 101

[0036] The printing device 101 includes: a reading function for reading images on a sheet, a file sending function for sending the read images to an external communication device, etc. The printing device 101 also includes: a printing function for printing images on a sheet. The printing device 101 further includes: a function for receiving and printing print jobs from the CPS 102, the aforementioned user management function, and a print hold function.

[0037] The printing apparatus 101 includes a control unit 110 (an example of "controlling display and receiving") and an operation unit 116 (an example of "displaying information including identification information capable of recognizing the image forming apparatus"). The printing apparatus 101 also includes a scanner 118 and a printer 120. The control unit 110 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 111, ROM 112, RAM 113, memory 114, operation unit I / F 115, scanner I / F 117, printer I / F 119, and network I / F 121. Note that network I / F 121 is an example of "external communication with the image forming apparatus". The control unit 110 controls the overall operation of the printing apparatus 101.

[0038] The CPU 111 reads the control program stored in the read-only memory (ROM) 112 or the memory 114, and performs various types of control, such as print control and read control. The ROM 112 stores the control program that can be executed by the CPU 111. The random access memory (RAM) 113 is the main memory accessed by the CPU 111 and is used as a work area or temporary storage area for deploying various control programs. The memory 114 stores print jobs, image data, various programs, and various types of setup information. In this way, hardware such as the CPU 111, ROM 112, RAM 113, and memory 114 constitutes what is called a computer.

[0039] Note that in the printing apparatus 101, a CPU 111 uses a memory (RAM 113) to execute the processes shown in the flowcharts described below, but the processes can be executed in other ways. For example, multiple processors, memories, and storage devices can also cooperate to execute the processes shown in the flowcharts described below. Furthermore, some processes can be executed using hardware circuitry.

[0040] Printer I / F (interface) 119 connects printer 120 (printer engine) and control unit 110. Printing device 101 generates a print image and print control commands to be transmitted to printer 120 based on a print job. Printer 120 prints an image on sheet material fed from a paper tray (not shown) based on the print image and print control commands input via printer I / F 119. Note that the printing method can be electrophotographic, where toner is transferred to and fixed onto paper, or inkjet, where ink is sprayed onto paper.

[0041] Scanner I / F 117 connects scanner 118 and control unit 110. Scanner 118 reads the original placed on the document tray (not shown) and generates image data. The image data generated by scanner 118 is printed by printer 120, stored in memory 114, or sent to an external device via network I / F 121.

[0042] Operation unit I / F 115 connects operation unit 116 and control unit 110. Operation unit 116 is equipped with a liquid crystal display unit with touch panel function, various physical keys, etc. Operation unit 116 serves as a display unit for displaying information to the user and a receiving unit for receiving instructions from the user. CPU 111 cooperates with operation unit 116 to control the display of information and control the acceptance of user operations.

[0043] Network I / F 121 includes a communication module and is connected to a network cable. Printing device 101 can communicate with network (NW) 100 and external devices on the Internet via this network I / F 121. Note that in this embodiment, it is assumed that network I / F 121 is a communication interface for wired communication compliant with Ethernet (registered trademark), but it is not limited thereto. For example, network I / F 121 can be a wireless communication interface compliant with the IEEE 802.11 series. Furthermore, both can be wireless communication interfaces. It can also be a communication interface for mobile communication such as 3G lines (such as CDMA), 4G lines (such as LTE), or 5G lines (such as NR).

[0044] CPS102 block construction

[0045] The CPS102 is a computer that includes a processor such as a CPU, a main storage device such as ROM or RAM, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive, and a communication module such as a network interface card (NIC) or wireless circuitry. The auxiliary storage device stores the operating system (OS), various programs, various types of tabular information, etc. The stored programs are then loaded into the working area of ​​the main storage device and executed. By executing the programs, the various components are controlled, thereby achieving the functions corresponding to the predetermined purposes described later.

[0046] CPS102 includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication unit 203. The control unit 201 includes a processor or CPU and performs various controls within the CPS102. The storage unit 202 includes a main storage device such as ROM or RAM and an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive. The communication unit 203 includes a communication module such as a NIC or wireless circuit and is connected, for example, to NW 100 to communicate with various servers and information terminals on the network.

[0047] Block construction of administrator terminal 103

[0048] The administrator terminal 103 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU, a main storage device such as ROM or RAM, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive, and a communication module such as a NIC or wireless circuit. The auxiliary storage device stores the operating system (OS), various programs, various types of tabular information, etc. The stored programs are then loaded into the working area of ​​the main storage device and executed, and the execution of the programs controls various components, thereby achieving the functions corresponding to the predetermined purposes described later.

[0049] The administrator terminal 103 includes a control unit 301, a storage unit 302, a display unit 303, an operation unit 304, and a communication unit 305. The control unit 301 includes a processor and performs various controls within the administrator terminal 103. The storage unit 302 includes a main storage device such as ROM or RAM and an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive. The display unit 303 includes a display and displays information on the display. The operation unit 304 includes a display with touch panel functionality, various physical keys, etc., and serves as a receiving unit for receiving instructions from the user. The communication unit 305 includes a communication module and is connected, for example, to the NW100 to communicate with various servers and information terminals on the network.

[0050] Block construction of client terminal 104

[0051] Client terminal 104 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU, a main storage device such as ROM or RAM, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive, a communication module such as a NIC or wireless circuit, and a camera module. The auxiliary storage device stores the operating system (OS), various programs, various types of tabular information, etc. The stored programs are then loaded into the working area of ​​the main storage device and executed, and the execution of the programs controls the various components, thereby achieving the functions corresponding to the predetermined purposes described later.

[0052] The client terminal 104 includes a control unit 401, a storage unit 402, a display unit 403, an operation unit 404, a communication unit 405, and a camera unit 406. The control unit 401 includes a processor and performs various controls within the client terminal 104. The storage unit 402 includes a main storage device such as ROM or RAM and an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive. The display unit 403 includes a monitor and displays information on the monitor. The operation unit 404 includes a display with touch panel functionality, various physical keys, etc., and serves as a receiving unit for receiving instructions from the user. The communication unit 405 includes a communication module and is connected, for example, to NW 100 to communicate with various servers and information terminals on the network. The camera unit 406 includes a camera module and processes captured images.

[0053] Overview of Sequence Processing in Printing System 10

[0054] Reference Figure 2 An overview of the sequence processing of the printing system 10 is provided. Note that this is achieved, for example, by the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 reading the program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing the program. Figure 2Sequence processing can be implemented in various ways. For example, the sequence processing can be achieved by reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 202 through the control unit 201 of the CPS102. Alternatively, the sequence processing can be achieved by reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 302 through the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103. Or, the sequence processing can be achieved by reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 402 through the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104.

[0055] First, the differences between Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-183237 and this embodiment regarding the sequence of pull-to-print using QR codes (two-dimensional barcodes, an example of "barcodes") will be described. The disclosure in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-183237 includes a virtual printer. Then, when a portable communication device reads the QR code, a job is selected, and the job moves from the logical printer corresponding to the virtual printing device to the actual physical printer associated with the logical printer. On the other hand, in this embodiment, no logical printer is provided, and when the client terminal 104 reads... Figure 2 When the QR code shown is displayed, a job release request is made to CPS 102. Then, CPS 102 sends the print job to the actual physical printer (printing device 101).

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, in step S201, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 sends a printer registration request to the CPS 102 via network I / F 121. In this example, the printer to be registered is the printing device 101 itself. In the CPS 102, the control unit 201 receives the request via communication unit 203 and registers the printing device 101 to the service provided by the printing system 10. Note that this service is, for example, a pull-to-print service. The registration instruction stores, for example, identification information such as the identification information of the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 in the storage unit 202 to identify the printing device 101 that can use the pull-to-print service.

[0057] In step S202, the operation unit 304 of the administrator terminal 103 accepts the administrator's login operation. In step S203, the control unit 301 sends a login request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 305 based on the login operation. In step S204, in response to the administrator's operation, the control unit 301 sends a request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 305 to change the "Use QR code" setting. In step S205, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 accepts the change request via the communication unit 203 and actually changes the "Use QR code" setting. Then, the control unit 201 stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. Figure 2In the example shown, the "Use QR code" setting has been changed from OFF to ON.

[0058] In step S206, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts the user's login operation. In step S207, the control unit 401 sends a login request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. In step S208, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 authenticates the login request. If authentication is successful, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 sends a message indicating that the login request has been successful to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. Additionally, the control unit 201 sends a user token to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. The user token includes, for example, user identification information and is information indicating that the user has been authenticated. In step S209, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts the user's operation to upload a print job to the CPS 102. Then, the control unit 401 sends the print job to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405.

[0059] In step S210, the control unit 201 of CPS102 receives a print job via communication unit 203. Then, the control unit 201 determines whether the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 is ON. If it is determined that the setting is ON, the control unit 201 stores the print job in storage unit 202 in association with user information. Note that the user information includes identification information of the currently logged-in user, such as the user ID received from client terminal 104 when the user logs in. In step S211, the operation unit 404 of client terminal 104 accepts the user's logout operation. Then, the control unit 401 sends a logout request to CPS102 via communication unit 405. The user's operation then temporarily ends (step S212).

[0060] In step S213, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts the user's login operation again. In step S214, the control unit 401 sends a login request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. In step S215, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 authenticates the login request and sends the successful login request to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. Additionally, the control unit 201 sends a user token to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. Then, the client terminal 104 receives the user token.

[0061] In step S216, the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 receives printer management screen information from the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405 (for example, see...). Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe control unit 401 reads the QR code information included in the screen information. In step S217, the control unit 401 obtains the printer's identification information, such as a Universally Unique Identifier (UUID), from the information represented by the QR code information. The printer management screen information is created by the control unit 201 of the CPS102 in response to user login and includes QR code generation information that can encode the identification information of the printer allowed to be used by the logged-in user into a QR code. The association between the user and the printer allowed to be used can be based on, for example, a tenant, where a tenant is an example of a management unit of the cloud printing service, and a printer managed by the same tenant as the user can be a printer allowed to be used by the user. Of course, this is just an example, and users and printers can be associated with each other in a smaller management unit.

[0062] Alternatively, in step S216a, the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 can capture the QR code displayed on the screen of the printing device 101 via the camera unit 406 (e.g., as described later). Figure 6B The image is shown. In this case, in step S217a, the control unit 401 obtains the printer UUID from the information included in the QR code.

[0063] In step S218, control unit 401 sends a job release request, including the printer UUID and the user token received in step S215, to CPS 102 via communication unit 405. Here, the user token indicates that the release request was made by an authorized, authenticated user. In step S219, control unit 201 of CPS 102 receives the job release request via communication unit 203 and executes the job release. Note that job release, for example, refers to using the user token received in step S218 to identify the print job stored in storage unit 202 by control unit 201 and releasing the reserve setting for that print job.

[0064] The print job retention settings here are, for example, settings for each individual print job, and specifically settings for retaining print jobs uploaded from client terminal 104 in CPS 102. For instance, for print jobs uploaded from client terminal 104, the retention setting can be set to ON (i.e., the setting for retention in CPS 102) as the default setting. Note that when multiple print jobs uploaded by the user in connection with a release request are retained in CPS 102, a list of target print jobs is sent from CPS 102 to client terminal 104, allowing the user to select one. The selected print job can then be the target of job release. Alternatively, all print jobs uploaded by the user in connection with a release request can be the target of job release.

[0065] In step S220, the control unit 201 notifies the printing device 101, identified by the printer UUID received along with the job release request, of a job release event via the communication unit 203. In step S221, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives the event notification via the network I / F 121. Then, the CPU 111 requests the CPS 102 to acquire the print job via the network I / F 121. In step S222, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives the request to acquire the print job via the communication unit 203. Then, the control unit 201 sends the print job with the reserved settings released to the printing device 101 via the communication unit 203. In step S223, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives the print job via the network I / F 121. Then, the CPU 111 instructs the printer 120 to perform the printing process via the printer I / F 119.

[0066] Figures 6A to 6D Examples of images displayed on the operation screens (601 to 604) of the printing device 101. The operation screens (601 to 604) display "Use Cloud Printing" (an example of "Service Availability Information"). Additionally, the operation screens (601 to 604) display the current status (ON or OFF) of "Use QR Code" (examples of "First Information" and "Second Information" related to the display settings of identification information). Furthermore, the operation screens (601 to 604) display icons that allow setting "Use Cloud Printing" and "Use QR Code" to ON or OFF, respectively. Note that the lit "ON" icon for "Use Cloud Printing" is an example of "Enable Service Use," while the lit "OFF" icon is an example of "Disable Service Use." The setting values ​​corresponding to the settings for "Use Cloud Printing" and "Use QR Code" can be stored, for example, in the memory 114 of the printing device 101. Regarding the registration status, when... Figure 2 When the printer is successfully registered in step S201, information indicating that the printer has been registered can be stored in, for example, memory 114.

[0067] Additionally, the operation screens (601 to 604) display the registration status of the printing device 101 in the CPS 102 (an example of "service availability information"). Here, the operation screens (601 to 604) according to the first embodiment and the comparison example will be compared. Figures 4A to 4C The operation screen of the printing device. Therefore, it can be understood that the operation screen (601 to 604) according to the first embodiment is newly equipped with setting icons for the current state of "using QR code" and the ON / OFF state. Note that the comparative example is based on Figure 15, etc., of Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-183237.

[0068] When Figure 6AWhen "Use Cloud Printing" is set to OFF, the QR code is not displayed on operation screen 601. Figure 6A In the settings, "Use QR code" is set to OFF, but even if it is set to ON, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen 601. Furthermore, as... Figure 6B As shown, if "Use Cloud Printing" is ON and "Use QR Code" is ON, the printing device 101 is properly registered in the CPS 102 and can perform cloud printing normally, then the QR code is displayed on the operation screen 602. Figure 6C As shown, when "Use Cloud Printing" is ON and "Use QR Code" is OFF, the QR code will not be displayed on the operation screen 603 regardless of the registration status in CPS102. Figure 6D As shown, if "Use cloud printing" and "Use QR code" are ON, but for some reason the printing device 101 is not properly registered in CPS102, the QR code will not be displayed on the operation screen 604.

[0069] Notice, Figures 6A to 6D The images shown are merely examples, and the screen displaying the QR code does not need to be the same screen used to select settings. For example, the QR code could be displayed on the login screen when a user logs into the printing device 101 using an IC card, or it could be displayed on the top screen of the printing device 101 after login.

[0070] Figure 7 This is an example of a flowchart illustrating the display control performed by the CPU 111 of the printing device 101, which implements, for example, the above-described flowchart. Figures 6A to 6D The QR code display is controlled as shown. For example, the CPU 111 reads the program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executes the program to achieve the processing described below. Note that... Figure 7 The processing in this section specifically relates to the display control of QR codes, and regarding widgets on the UI screen other than QR codes, only widgets corresponding to predetermined text or settings need to be displayed. For example, when displaying widgets other than QR codes... Figures 6A to 6D After the widget other than the QR code shown, execute Figure 7 The process. Alternatively, the remaining components can be shown after the process shown in the attached diagram.

[0071] In step S701, CPU 111 checks the "Use cloud printing" setting. If it is set to OFF, the process proceeds to step S705. Then, in step S705, CPU 111 stops displaying the QR code on the operation screen. Figure 6A On the other hand, if it is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S702.

[0072] In step S702, CPU 111 checks the "Use QR code" setting. If it is set to OFF, the process proceeds to step S705. In step S705, CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen as described above. Figure 6C On the other hand, if it is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S703.

[0073] In step S703, CPU 111 checks whether the printing device 101 is correctly registered in CPS 102 and whether it is in a printable state. If CPU 111 determines that the printing device 101 is not correctly registered in CPS 102 and is in a printable state (an example of a situation where the service cannot be used), the process proceeds to step S705. In step S705, CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen as described above. Figure 6D Note that in this case, regardless of whether the "Use QR code" setting is ON or OFF, the CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen. On the other hand, if the CPU 111 determines that the printing device is correctly registered in the CPS 102 and is in a printable state, the process proceeds to step S704. In step S704, the CPU 111 displays the QR code on the operation screen. Figure 6B Then, the processing of this flowchart ends.

[0074] Operation and Effect

[0075] According to the above printing system 10, such as Figure 7 As shown in step S702, one of the conditions for displaying the QR code on the operation panel is that the "Use QR code" setting is ON. Therefore, even if the "Use QR code" setting is OFF, it prevents the QR code from being automatically displayed on the operation panel. This prevents the user from being misled about whether pull-to-print is possible.

[0076] Additionally, for example, according to the printing system 10 described above, the administrator can check the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102 via the administrator terminal 103 (step S203). Afterwards, the administrator can operate the "Use QR code" setting icon displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. Therefore, for example, if the "Use QR code" setting is set to ON in the CPS 102 and OFF in the printing device 101, the administrator can switch the "Use QR code" setting in the printing device 101 to ON by operating the operation screen of the printing device 101. In this case, a QR code is displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. Here, the user sends a print job to the CPS 102 via the client terminal 104 (step S209) and takes a picture of the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 (step S216). Then, since the print job is retained in CPS102 (step S210), the print job is printed by the QR code displaying printing device 101 in step S223 (pull printing).

[0077] On the other hand, for example, if the "Use QR code" setting is set to OFF in CPS102 and ON in printing device 101, the administrator operates the operation screen of printing device 101. Then, the "Use QR code" setting in printing device 101 can be switched back to OFF. In this case, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen of printing device 101. Therefore, the print job subsequently sent to CPS102 is not retained in CPS102 (step S209). The job is sent to printing device 101 as is (hereinafter also referred to as direct printing).

[0078] According to this disclosure, the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 is manually coordinated with the "Use QR code" setting in printing device 101. This prevents the user from misunderstanding whether pull-to-print is possible. Therefore, the user can print on the target as needed.

[0079] Furthermore, this transparency can be applied to management operations that prevent the "use QR code" setting from being automatically changed. Therefore, the printing system 10 can be introduced into many companies because it can adapt to various strategies.

[0080] Second Embodiment

[0081] In the second embodiment, in addition to the processing in the first embodiment, a mechanism for synchronizing the "using QR code" settings between the printing device 101 and CPS 102 will be described. Note that the hardware configuration of the devices in the second embodiment is similar to that in the first embodiment. The following mainly describes the differences between the first and second embodiments.

[0082] Figure 8 Examples illustrating details of sequence processing in the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment are provided. For example, the processing described below is implemented by the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 reading the program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing the program. Furthermore, for example, the processing described below is implemented by the control unit 201 of CPS 102 reading and executing the program stored in storage unit 202. Furthermore, for example, the processing described below is implemented by the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 reading and executing the program stored in storage unit 302. Furthermore, for example, the processing described below is implemented by the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 reading and executing the program stored in storage unit 402.

[0083] In the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment, a change in the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102 is notified to the printing device 101. Then, the printing device 101 synchronously controls the change of this setting. More specifically, for example, in step S801, the operation unit 304 of the administrator terminal 103 receives an operation from the administrator to change the "Use QR code" setting. In step S802, the control unit 301 sends a request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405 to change the setting. Note that the change of setting includes changing the "Use QR code" state from... Figure 3A The ON button shown on the screen changes to, as shown below. Figure 3B The screen shows OFF. The setting change also includes the reverse change of the "Use QR code" status from OFF to ON.

[0084] In step S803, the communication unit 203 of CPS102 receives a request to change settings. Then, the control unit 201 detects the request. Next, the control unit 201 changes the "Use QR code" setting according to the change request. Then, the control unit 201 causes the storage unit 202 to store the changed setting information. By changing settings in this way, for example, if the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 accesses CPS102 via the communication unit 305, the control unit 301 can obtain image information reflecting the setting change from CPS102. Then, the control unit 301 can cause the display unit 303 to display the image information reflecting the setting change.

[0085] In step S804, the control unit 201 of CPS102 notifies the printing device 101 via communication unit 203 that the "Use QR code" setting has changed. In step S805, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives the change via network I / F 121. Then, the CPU 111 updates the "Use QR code" setting stored in memory 114 of the printing device 101 to the received change. Furthermore, the CPU 111 controls the display of the QR code on the operation screen of the printing device 101 according to the notified change. For example, if the "Use QR code" setting changes from OFF to ON, the CPU 111... Figures 6C to 6B The "Use QR code" setting icon is illuminated ("ON"), and the QR code is displayed. Conversely, if the "Use QR code" setting is changed from ON to OFF, CPU 111 will... Figures 6B to 6C The "Use QR code" setting icon is illuminated ("OFF"), and the QR code is not displayed. In this way, the "Use QR code" setting is synchronized between CPS102 and printing device 101.

[0086] Figure 9 This enables the execution of, for example Figure 8 An example flowchart of the sequence processing CPS102 is shown. For example, the processing described below is implemented by the control unit 201 reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 202. In step S901, the control unit 201 detects the receipt of a request to change the "use QR code" setting via the communication unit 203.

[0087] In step S902, the control unit 201 reflects the received change. That is, the control unit 201 changes the "Use QR code" setting according to the change. Then, the control unit 201 stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. In step S903, the control unit 201 notifies the printing device 101 of the change in the "Use QR code" setting via the communication unit 203. Then, the process of this flowchart ends. Note that when an operation for storing the "Use QR code" setting value is performed on the client terminal 104 and a request for storing the setting value is received from the client terminal 104, the process can begin. Figure 9 The processing in the process.

[0088] Figure 10 This enables the process to proceed. Figure 8An example of a flowchart in the sequence processing printing apparatus 101 is shown. For example, the processing described below is implemented by the CPU 111 reading the program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing the program. In step S1001, the CPU 111 receives a change in the "Use QR code" setting via network I / F 121. This processing corresponds to... Figure 9 Step S903 in the process.

[0089] In step S1002, the CPU 111 stores the changed content in the memory 114, for example. Additionally, the CPU 111 controls the display of the QR code on the operation screen of the printing device 101 based on the notified changed content. For this purpose, for example, the method shown in the first embodiment can be implemented. Figure 7 The processing of this flowchart then concludes.

[0090] Note that the IPP protocol or a graphical API can be used to notify the printer 101 of changes from the CPS 102. Furthermore, since the CPS 102 and the printer 101 are continuously connected, the timing of notifications can be real-time. Additionally, the timing of notifications allows the printer 101 to poll the CPS 102 at regular intervals to check if a "Use QR code" setting event has occurred, and to provide a notification when a setting event is detected. Alternatively, instead of using polling, the printer 101 can periodically request the CPS 102 to check if a "Use QR code" setting event has occurred, and if a change has been made to the "Use QR code" settings, receive that change from the CPS 102.

[0091] Figure 11 Another example of sequence processing in the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment is shown. That is, Figure 11 and Figure 8 The difference is that, firstly, the printing device 101 accepts the change of the "Use QR code" setting. Then, the setting change is sent to the CPS 102, and the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102 is changed.

[0092] For example, the CPU 111 reads the program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executes the program to achieve the process described below. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 201 reads and executes the program stored in storage unit 202 to achieve this process. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 301 reads and executes the program stored in storage unit 302 to achieve this process. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 401 reads and executes the program stored in storage unit 402 to achieve this process.

[0093] In step S1101, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives an operation to change the "Use QR code" setting via the operation unit I / F 115. In step S1102, the CPU 111 changes the "Use QR code" setting according to the changed content. Then, the CPU 111 stores the changed content in the memory 114. In addition, the CPU 111 responds to the setting change by controlling the illumination of the "Use QR code" setting icon displayed on the display and the display of the QR code. In step S1103, the CPU 111 notifies the CPS 102 via the network I / F 121 that the "Use QR code" setting has been changed.

[0094] In step S1104, the communication unit 203 of CPS102 receives the setting change. Then, the control unit 201 changes the "Use QR code" setting according to the change. The control unit 201 then stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. By changing the setting in this way, for example, if the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 accesses CPS102 via the communication unit 305, the control unit 301 can obtain image information reflecting the setting change from CPS102. The control unit 301 can then cause the display unit 303 to display the image information reflecting the setting change. Note that after sending the changed settings to CPS102, if the printing device 101 does not receive a response indicating successful transmission or update of the settings in CPS101, the printing device 101 may revert the display to its state before the change.

[0095] Therefore, for example, if the "Use QR code" setting is changed from ON to OFF, then CPS102 will... Figure 3B The icon for the "Use QR code" setting is illuminated, and an image message without displaying the QR code can be generated. On the other hand, if a notification indicates that the "Use QR code" setting has been changed from OFF to ON, the CPS102 will... Figure 3A The "ON" setting icon for "Use QR code" is illuminated, and an image displaying the QR code can be generated. In this way, the "Use QR code" setting is automatically synchronized between the printing device 101 and CPS102.

[0096] Figure 12 This enables the process to proceed. Figure 11 An example of the control flow diagram of the CPU 111 of the printing apparatus 101 for sequence processing. For example, the processing described below is achieved by the CPU 111 reading the program stored in ROM 112 into RAM 113 and executing the program.

[0097] In step S1201, CPU 111 receives an operation to change the "Use QR code" setting via operation unit I / F 115. If a setting change is detected, the process proceeds to step S1202; otherwise, the determination is repeated. In step S1202, CPU 111 changes the "Use QR code" setting according to the change content. Then, CPU 111 stores the change content in memory 114. Additionally, in response to the setting change, CPU 111 controls the illumination of the "Use QR code" setting icon displayed on the screen and controls the display of the QR code. In step S1203, CPU 111 notifies CPS 102 via network I / F 121 that the "Use QR code" setting has changed. Then, the flowchart processing ends. Note that enabling... Figure 11 The control flow of CPS102 for sequence processing can be combined with Figure 10 The control flow is the same.

[0098] Operation and Effect

[0099] According to the disclosure of the second embodiment, for example, a user can touch the "Use QR code" setting icon displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 to change it from OFF to ON. In this case, the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102 is automatically synchronized to ON. In this case, a QR code is displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. Here, the user sends a print job to the CPS 102 via the client terminal 104 (step S209) and photographs the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 (step S216). Then, the print job is saved in the CPS 102 (step S210). Therefore, when the user photographs the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 (step S216), in step S223, the print job is printed by the printing device 101 displaying the QR code (pull printing).

[0100] Furthermore, for example, an administrator can first change the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 from OFF to ON via administrator terminal 103. In this case, the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 is also automatically synchronized to ON. Therefore, the user can perform pull-to-print.

[0101] Furthermore, for example, the setting icon for "Use QR Code" displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 can be touched to change it from ON to OFF. In this case, the QR code will no longer be displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. In this case, the "Use QR Code" setting in CPS 102 is automatically synchronized to OFF. Therefore, the print job subsequently sent to CPS 102 is not retained in CPS 102 (step S209). The job is printed directly by the printing device 101 as is. Note that this also applies when the "Use QR Code" setting in CPS 102 is first changed from ON to OFF.

[0102] According to this disclosure, the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 is automatically coordinated with the "Use QR code" setting in printing device 101. This prevents users from misunderstanding whether pull-to-print is possible. With such a printing device 101, users can print objects as needed.

[0103] Third Embodiment

[0104] In the third embodiment, the control until the change in the "use QR code" setting in the second embodiment is notified is the same (steps S804 and S1103). However, in the third embodiment, the control where the CPS102 or printing device 101, having received the notification, does not synchronously change the setting but instead notifies the administrator that the change has occurred differs from the second embodiment.

[0105] For example, when the administrator changes the "Use QR code" setting of the printing device 101 to ON, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives a notification of the change in the "Use QR code" setting from the printing device 101 via the communication unit 203, as in step S1103. However, the control unit 201 does not change the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102, and does not store the setting change in the storage unit 202. Figure 13 As shown, the control unit 201 keeps the "Use QR Code" OFF icon lit in the CPS 102 and generates image information that does not include a QR code but includes a message indicating that the "Use QR Code" setting of the printing device 101 is enabled. Then, the control unit 201 sends this image information to the administrator terminal 103 via the communication unit 203. In the administrator terminal 103, the control unit 301 receives the image information via the communication unit 305. Then, the control unit 301 displays the image information via the display unit 303. In this case, the administrator can recognize that the "Use QR Code" setting of the printing device 101 has been enabled.

[0106] Next, we will refer to Figure 14Describes the image displayed on the monitor of the printing device 101 when the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 is changed for the first time; this image is different from... Figure 13 The image shown. For example, as in step S805, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives a change in the "Use QR code" setting from the CPS 102. Then, the CPU 111 does not change the "Use QR code" setting and does not store the change in memory 114. Figure 14 As shown, the CPU 111 keeps the "Use QR code" OFF icon in the printing device 101 lit and keeps the QR code hidden. Then, the CPU 111 displays a message on the operation screen indicating that the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102 has been changed.

[0107] Operation and Effect

[0108] The printing system 10 according to the third embodiment provides the same effect as the first embodiment. Furthermore, according to this disclosure, even if the user attempting to operate the operation screen of the printing device 101 is not an administrator, the user can recognize the change in the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102. Therefore, since the user performs the operation to change the "Use QR code" setting in the printing device 101, the inconsistency in "Use QR code" between the CPS 102 and the printing device 101 is quickly resolved. This prevents the user from misunderstanding whether pull-to-print is possible. Therefore, the user can print the target as needed. Additionally, if an administrator who has changed the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102 forgets to change the "Use QR code" setting in the printing device 101, the administrator can be prompted to change the setting. This also applies to situations where the administrator changes the "Use QR code" setting in the printing device 101 but forgets to change the "Use QR code" setting in the CPS 102. According to this disclosure, the user can reliably print the target as needed.

[0109] Variation Example

[0110] This disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications are possible. For example, in the first embodiment, when the "Use QR code" setting in CPS102 is changed from OFF to ON, the "Use QR code" setting in printing device 101 can be automatically and synchronously changed from OFF to ON. However, the OFF icon for "Use QR code" displayed on the operation screen of printing device 101 can remain lit. Then, for example, an administrator can touch the ON icon for "Use QR code" on the operation screen of printing device 101 to make the QR code appear on the operation screen of printing device 101 for the first time.

[0111] Furthermore, the change to the "Use QR Code" setting sent from CPS102 to printing device 101 can be a change to settings related to QR code display. That is, the change to the "Use QR Code" setting can be a change to the "Use Cloud Printing" setting, a change to the registration status, or a combination of these settings. Additionally, if the change to the "Use Cloud Printing" setting in CPS102 fails, information regarding the failure can be sent to printing device 101 and displayed on the operation screen of printing device 101.

[0112] As another example of step S217, CPS102 may include a display and may display a QR code. The client terminal 104 may then capture an image of the QR code via camera unit 406 to obtain the printer UUID associated with the QR code.

[0113] Furthermore, CPS102 can periodically notify printing device 101 of the "Use QR Code" setting, instead of only notifying when the "Use QR Code" setting in CPS102 changes. Printing device 101 can then determine whether the notified "Use QR Code" setting differs from the existing setting. If it does, the "Use QR Code" setting can be changed. The "Use QR Code" setting can be periodically notified from printing device 101 to CPS102 in the same manner.

[0114] Furthermore, the code that can identify the printing device 101 is not limited to a QR code and can be replaced with any other two-dimensional code, as long as it is a barcode. A QR code can also be a one-dimensional barcode. In addition to barcodes, the printing device 101 can also be identified by its UUID, internal management number, and location information on the floor. These letters, numbers, etc. (examples of "identification information") can be displayed as is on the operation screen. Furthermore, the operation screen of the printing device 101 can display a setting icon for direct printing mode and maintenance information for the CPS 102 (examples of "first information" and "second information"), and this information can be synchronized between the printing device 101 and the CPS 102. When direct printing mode is ON, or when the CPS 102 is undergoing maintenance, the CPU 111 may not display the QR code on the operation screen.

[0115] Additionally, in the above embodiments, examples of printing device 101 being applied to pull-to-print and direct-print services are shown, but printing device 101 can also be applied to different network printing services using CPS 102.

[0116] Other embodiments

[0117] The present invention can also be implemented as follows: a computer of a system or apparatus that reads and executes computer-executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be more fully referred to as a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium") to perform one or more functions of the above-described embodiments, and / or, the system or apparatus includes one or more circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) for performing one or more functions of the above-described embodiments; and a method performed by the computer of the system or apparatus, for example, reading and executing the computer-executable instructions from the storage medium to perform one or more functions of the above-described embodiments, and / or, controlling the one or more circuits to perform one or more functions of the above-described embodiments. The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU)) and may include separate computers or a network of separate processors to read and execute the computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or a storage medium. The storage medium may include, for example, a hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), the memory of a distributed computing system, or an optical disc (such as a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile optical disc (DVD), or a Blu-ray disc (BD)). TM One or more of the following: flash memory devices and memory cards.

[0118] Other embodiments

[0119] Embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (including computer program products of computer programs) that performs the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer (central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device) reads and executes the computer program.

[0120] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such variations and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print server system including a cloud print service, the image forming apparatus comprising: one or more storage devices storing a set of instructions; and one or more processors executing the set of instructions to: display a two-dimensional code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus, and receive information related to the two-dimensional code set in the cloud print service, wherein a control of whether or not to display the two-dimensional code is made based on the information related to the two-dimensional code, and the cloud print server system uses the two-dimensional code to identify the image forming apparatus and transmit a saved print job. 2.The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further executing the instructions in the one or more storage devices to: accept an input of first information, the first information being information related to a display setting of the two-dimensional code, and control the display of the two-dimensional code and the acceptance of the input of the first information, wherein in the control, the first information is set using the input of the first information, the set first information is displayed, and the two-dimensional code is displayed using the set first information. 3.The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the information related to the two-dimensional code to be received is second information, and in the control, if the received second information is set after the first information and is inconsistent with the first information, information indicating that the received second information is inconsistent with the first information is displayed. 4.The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the one or more processors further execute the instructions in the one or more storage devices to transmit the set first information to the cloud print service. 5.The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the information related to the display setting of the two-dimensional code includes information on a setting of use of the two-dimensional code, and in the control, if a service related to a pull print provided by an image forming system including the image forming apparatus and the cloud print service is not available, the two-dimensional code is not displayed regardless of a setting state of the use of the two-dimensional code. 6.The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, the information on the availability of the service includes information on whether or not use of the service is enabled. 7.The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, the information on the availability of the service includes information on a registration state of the image forming apparatus to the service.

8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the two-dimensional code is a bar code. 9.A control method of an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print server system including a cloud print service, the control method comprising: displaying a two-dimensional code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the two-dimensional code set in the cloud print service. wherein the control of whether or not to display the two-dimensional code is performed based on the information related to the two-dimensional code, and the cloud print server system uses the two-dimensional code to identify the image forming apparatus and transmit the saved print job.

10. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute steps of a control method of an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print server system including a cloud print service, the control method comprising: displaying a two-dimensional code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the two-dimensional code set in the cloud print service, wherein the control of whether or not to display the two-dimensional code is performed based on the information related to the two-dimensional code, and the cloud print server system uses the two-dimensional code to identify the image forming apparatus and transmit the saved print job.

11. A computer program product comprising a program for causing a computer to execute steps of a control method of an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print server system including a cloud print service, the control method comprising: displaying a two-dimensional code including identification information capable of identifying the image forming apparatus; and receiving information related to the two-dimensional code set in the cloud print service, wherein the control of whether or not to display the two-dimensional code is performed based on the information related to the two-dimensional code, and the cloud print server system uses the two-dimensional code to identify the image forming apparatus and transmit the saved print job.

Images