First image forming apparatus, second image forming apparatus, and processing method

Abstract

This helps to prevent any loss of convenience for users. [Solution] The first image forming apparatus includes a print data acquisition unit, a modification unit, and a print data transmission unit. The print data acquisition unit acquires print data from a terminal device. The modification unit performs a first sequence modification process on the print data. The print data transmission unit transmits the print data, which has undergone the first sequence modification process, to the second image forming apparatus.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a first image forming apparatus, a second image forming apparatus, and a processing method. [Background Art]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a print system. In the system according to Patent Document 1, a print instruction apparatus transmits data related to a print target document to a document storage apparatus. A user selects a print output apparatus that is to perform print output from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses. Then, after a user authentication operation using an operation input unit or the like of the print output apparatus, print data is acquired from the document storage apparatus, and print output is performed by the print output apparatus. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-190146 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] In the technology according to Patent Document 1, when a print output apparatus acquires print data from a document storage apparatus and performs printing, there is a risk that a desired print result cannot be obtained. Therefore, there is a risk that convenience is reduced. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0005] A first image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure includes: a print data acquisition unit that acquires print data from a terminal apparatus; a changing unit that performs changing processing of a first order, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus outputs the print data, in the print data; and a print data transmission unit that transmits the print data subjected to the changing processing of the first order to a second image forming apparatus.

[0006] The second image forming apparatus according to this disclosure includes an authentication unit that performs user authentication, a print data acquisition unit that, upon successful authentication, acquires print data from a first image forming apparatus that has acquired print data from a terminal device or from a terminal device that has transmitted print data to the first image forming apparatus, and a printing unit that prints the acquired print data. The print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit is modified based on the order in which the second image forming apparatus outputs the print data, with respect to the first order, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus outputs the print data.

[0007] The processing method according to this disclosure is a processing method performed by a first image forming apparatus, which acquires print data from a terminal device, performs a first sequence modification process on the print data, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus outputs the print data, and transmits the print data on which the first sequence modification process has been performed to a second image forming apparatus. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating the overview of the processing performed in the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This figure illustrates print original data and print data according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the configuration of the terminal device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This figure shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This figure shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This figure shows the processing performed by the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This figure shows the processing performed by the processing system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9]It is a diagram for explaining the difference between the comparative example and the first embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining the difference between the comparative example and the first embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a terminal device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a second image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing processing executed by the processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a first image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a model table according to the third embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing processing executed by the processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a first image forming apparatus according to a first modification of the third embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a slave device table according to the first modification of the third embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a first image forming apparatus according to a second modification of the third embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a change history according to the second modification of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (First Embodiment) Embodiments are described below with reference to the drawings. For clarity of explanation, the following description and the accompanying drawings are appropriately omitted and simplified. In addition, in each drawing, the same elements are denoted by the same reference signs, and redundant description is omitted as necessary.

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a processing system 1 according to the first embodiment. The processing system 1 includes one or more terminal devices 10, a first image forming apparatus 100, and one or more second image forming apparatuses 200. The terminal device 10, the first image forming apparatus 100, and the second image forming apparatus 200 are communicatively connected to each other via a wired or wireless network 2. The network 2 may be, for example, a LAN such as a wired LAN (Local Area Network) or a wireless LAN, or may be the Internet.

[0011] The terminal device 10 functions as a computer including a processor and a memory. The terminal device 10 operates under an OS, which is basic software. The terminal device 10 is a device used by a user, such as a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a smart device, for example. The terminal device 10 functions as a client PC. Details of the terminal device 10 will be described later.

[0012] The first image forming apparatus 100 is an image forming apparatus such as a printer, for example. Further, the first image forming apparatus 100 may be, for example, a multifunction peripheral (MFP: Multifunction Peripheral). The first image forming apparatus 100 performs image forming processing, that is, printing processing, for forming an image on a print medium such as paper. The first image forming apparatus 100 functions as a master device in the processing system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the first image forming apparatus 100 includes at least an operation panel 112, a paper feed tray 114, and a paper discharge tray 116. The operation panel 112 is, for example, a touch panel in which a display device and an input device are integrated. The paper feed tray 114 stores paper, which is a print medium, for example, for each paper size. Paper on which an image has been formed is discharged to the paper discharge tray 116. Other components of the first image forming apparatus 100 will be described later.

[0013] The second image forming apparatus 200 is, for example, an image forming apparatus such as a printer. Alternatively, the second image forming apparatus 200 may be, for example, a multifunction printer (MFP). The second image forming apparatus 200 performs image forming processing, that is, printing processing, which involves forming an image on a printing medium such as paper. The second image forming apparatus 200 functions as a slave unit in the processing system 1. As shown in Figure 1, the second image forming apparatus 200 has at least an operation panel 212, a paper feed tray 214, and a paper output tray 216. The operation panel 212 is, for example, a touch panel that integrates a display device and an input device. The paper feed tray 214 stores paper, which is the printing medium, for example, according to paper size. The paper with the formed image is discharged into the paper output tray 216. Other components of the second image forming apparatus 200 will be described later.

[0014] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the processing performed in the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The terminal device 10 generates print original data based on the operation of user A. Then, as indicated by arrow S1, the terminal device 10 transmits print data PD corresponding to the print original data to the first image forming apparatus 100 based on the operation of user A. The print original data and print data PD represent images that user A wishes to be printed on a printing medium. Furthermore, the print data PD transmitted from the terminal device 10 to the first image forming apparatus 100 is generated to correspond to the printing process in the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data PD will be described later. The first image forming apparatus 100 stores the print data PD received from the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 may store the print data PD transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 100 using, for example, a spooler.

[0015] When the first image forming apparatus 100 is being used by user B, the first image forming apparatus 100 cannot immediately print the print data PD. Therefore, user A performs a process to ensure that the print data PD is printed by the second image forming apparatus 200. Specifically, user A performs an operation to authenticate user A in the second image forming apparatus 200. As a result, the second image forming apparatus 200 performs the authentication process for user A. If authentication of user A is successful, the second image forming apparatus 200 requests the print data PD for user A from the first image forming apparatus 100. At this time, the first image forming apparatus 100 sends a print job list, which is a list of print jobs for user A, to the second image forming apparatus 200. As a result, the print job list for user A is displayed on the operation panel 212 of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0016] When user A operates the control panel 212, which displays the print job list, to select a print job related to the print data PD, the second image forming apparatus 200 transmits the selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100. Then, as indicated by arrow S2, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the print data PD corresponding to the print job indicated in the selection result to the second image forming apparatus 200. The second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing on the acquired print data PD. As a result, the print medium on which the image of the print data PD has been formed is discharged into the output tray 216.

[0017] Furthermore, if print data PD is stored in the terminal device 10, the terminal device 10 may send the print data PD to the second image forming apparatus 200. Specifically, when user A selects a print job related to the print data PD by operating the operation panel 212 which displays the print job list, the second image forming apparatus 200 may send the selection result to the terminal device 10. Then, as shown by arrow S3, the terminal device 10 sends the print data PD corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result to the second image forming apparatus 200. The second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing on the acquired print data PD. As a result, the print medium on which the image of the print data PD has been formed is discharged into the output tray 216. Note that the print data PD is data in which the images of the pages are arranged in the order in which they will be printed by the image forming apparatus that prints the print data PD. This will be described in detail below.

[0018] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating print original data and print data according to Embodiment 1. The print original data PD0 is generated by an application such as document editing software or image editing software. The print original data may be, for example, data in PDF (Portable Document Format) format. The print original data may include images of multiple pages. For example, if the print original data PD0 is data for 3 pages, that is, data to be printed across 3 print media, then, as illustrated in Figure 3, the print original data PD1 includes image #1 for the first page, image #2 for the second page, and image #3 for the third page.

[0019] Print data PD1 and print data PD2 are generated based on print original data PD0. Print data PD1 and print data PD2 are generated according to the functions of the image forming apparatus that prints the image of print original data PD0. For example, print data PD1 and print data PD2 are generated by the printer driver corresponding to the image forming apparatus that prints the image of print original data PD0.

[0020] Specifically, if the user operates the terminal device 10 to print the image of the print original data PD0 using an image forming machine that is a face-down machine, the terminal device 10 generates print data PD1 using the print original data PD0. On the other hand, if the user operates the terminal device 10 to print the image of the print original data PD0 using an image forming machine that is a face-up machine, the terminal device 10 generates print data PD2 using the print original data PD0. As will be described later, the printing order, or output order, of the multiple pages of the print original data PD0 differs between print data PD1 and print data PD2. Here, the output order is the order in which the image forming machine outputs the print data. More specifically, the output order is the order in which the image forming machine prints the pages of the print data. As will be described later, the output order of the print data is determined for each image forming machine. The output order of the image forming machine that outputs the print data differs depending on whether the image forming machine is a face-down machine or a face-up machine.

[0021] Here, a face-down machine is an image forming device that discharges printing media into the output tray so that the printed side faces downwards after printing. In other words, a face-down machine has a face-down output function that discharges printing media into the output tray so that the printed side faces downwards after printing. The printed side is the side of the printing medium on which the image is formed. In a face-down machine, the printed side of the first printed page becomes the bottom surface of the stack of discharged printing media. Therefore, a face-down machine performs forward printing, printing the target pages in order from the first page to the last page. When printing print source data PD0 in a face-down machine, first, the face-down machine forms image #1 on the first printing medium #1 and discharges printing medium #1 into the output tray. Next, the face-down machine forms image #2 on the second printing medium #2 and discharges printing medium #2 into the output tray. The face-down machine then forms image #3 on the third print medium #3 and ejects print medium #3 to the output tray. As a result, the output tray is loaded with multiple print mediums, each with an image formed on its underside in the order of the pages of the print source data PD0.

[0022] Therefore, the print data PD1 corresponding to the face-down machine is generated so that image #1 of the print original data PD1 is output first, image #2 is output second, and image #3 is output third. Thus, in print data PD1, the images of multiple pages of print original data PD0 are generated in the order of image #1, image #2, and image #3. In other words, in print data PD1, the multiple pages of print original data PD0 are arranged in correct order. To put it another way, the output order of print data PD1 is correct order. And when the face-down machine outputs the pages of print data PD1, it outputs print data PD1 in correct order, that is, in the order of image #1, image #2, and image #3. In other words, the output order of the print data on the face-down machine is correct order.

[0023] On the other hand, a face-up machine is an image forming device that discharges the printing medium into the output tray so that the printed side faces upwards after printing. In other words, a face-up machine has a face-up output function that discharges the printing medium into the output tray so that the printed side faces upwards after printing. In a face-up machine, the printed side of the last printed page becomes the top surface of the stack of discharged printing mediums. Therefore, in a face-up machine, in order to ensure that the printed sides of the discharged stack of printing mediums are arranged in the original page order of the print document, the machine performs reverse printing, printing the target pages sequentially from the last page to the first page. When printing print document data PD0 in a face-up machine, first, the face-up machine forms image #3 on the first printing medium #1 and discharges printing medium #1 into the output tray. Next, the face-up machine forms image #2 on the second printing medium #2 and discharges printing medium #2 into the output tray. The face-up machine then forms image #1 on the third print medium #3 and discharges print medium #3 into the output tray. As a result, the output tray is loaded with multiple print mediums, each with an image formed on its top surface in the order of the pages of the print source data PD0.

[0024] Therefore, the print data PD2 corresponding to the face-up machine is generated so that image #3 of the print original data PD1 is output first, image #2 is output second, and image #1 is output third. Thus, in print data PD2, the images of multiple pages of print original data PD0 are generated in the order of image #3, image #2, and image #1. In other words, in print data PD2, the multiple pages of print original data PD0 are arranged in reverse order. To put it another way, the output order of print data PD2 is reversed. And when the face-up machine outputs the pages of print data PD2, it outputs print data PD1 in reverse order, that is, in the order of image #3, image #2, and image #1. In other words, the output order of the print data on the face-up machine is reversed.

[0025] Figure 4 shows the configuration of a terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 1. The terminal device 10 has a main hardware configuration consisting of a processing unit 12, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 16, and an interface unit 18. The processing unit 12, storage unit 14, communication unit 16, and interface unit 18 may be interconnected via a data bus or the like.

[0026] The processing unit 12 is a processor, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processing unit 12 may have multiple processors. The processing unit 12 functions as an arithmetic unit that performs control processing and calculation processing. The processing unit 12 controls the storage unit 14, the communication unit 16, and the interface unit 18.

[0027] The storage unit 14 is, for example, a storage device such as a memory or hard disk. The storage unit 14 is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 14 has the function of storing control programs and arithmetic programs executed by the processing unit 12. The storage unit 14 also has the function of temporarily storing processing data. The storage unit 14 may include a database.

[0028] The communication unit 16 performs the necessary processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with other devices via the network 2. The communication unit 16 may include a communication port, router, firewall, etc. The communication unit 16 performs the processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. The communication unit 16 may also perform the processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via a LAN such as a wireless LAN. Furthermore, the communication unit 16 may also perform the processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via the internet.

[0029] The interface unit 18 is, for example, a user interface. The interface unit 18 accepts data input operations from the user of the terminal device 10 and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 18 has a display unit and an operation unit. The display unit is a display device that displays images, for example, a display. The display unit is an output device that outputs information. The operation unit is an input device that inputs or selects information, for example, a keyboard or mouse. The operation unit is an input device that inputs information. The interface unit 18 may be configured such that the input device and the output device are integrated, for example, a touchscreen or touch panel. In this case, the display unit and the operation unit may be physically integrated. The interface unit 18 may also have a speaker and a microphone.

[0030] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 1 includes, as its components, an OS 20 (Operating System), an application 30, a printer driver 40, a print data generation unit 50, and a first print data transmission unit 60. The OS 20 is the basic software. In addition, each component other than the OS 20 operates using the functions of the OS 20.

[0031] Each of the above-described components can be realized, for example, by having the processing unit 12 control and execute a program. More specifically, each component can be realized by having the processing unit 12 execute a program stored in the storage unit 14. Alternatively, each component can be realized by recording the necessary program on any non-volatile recording medium and installing it as needed. This is also true in other embodiments.

[0032] Furthermore, each component is not limited to being implemented by software through a program; it may also be implemented by a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Additionally, each component may be implemented using a user-programmable integrated circuit, such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or a microcontroller. In this case, the program composed of the above-mentioned components may be implemented using this integrated circuit. The same applies to other embodiments.

[0033] Application 30 is application software capable of performing processes involving printing. Application 30 may be, for example, document editing software, spreadsheet software, image editing software, or photo display software. Application 30 generates print document data.

[0034] The printer driver 40 is installed on the terminal device 10 by the operation of the installer. The printer driver 40 is software for controlling and operating image forming apparatuses such as the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. The printer driver 40 generates a print job corresponding to the print document data generated by the application 30. Here, the printer driver 40 is provided for at least the first image forming apparatus 100. When the user performs an operation to cause the first image forming apparatus 100 to process the print document data, the printer driver 40 of the first image forming apparatus 100 generates a print job corresponding to the first image forming apparatus 100 using the print document data. Note that a printer driver 40 may also be provided for the second image forming apparatus 200. In this case, when the user performs an operation to cause the second image forming apparatus 200 to process the print document data, the printer driver 40 of the second image forming apparatus 200 generates a print job corresponding to the second image forming apparatus 200 using the print document data.

[0035] The print data generation unit 50 generates print data, which is the print target for the first image forming apparatus 100 and is transmitted to the master unit, i.e., the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data generation unit 50 may also be implemented by the printer driver 40. The print data generation unit 50 acquires the print original data generated by the application 30. Using the print original data, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data to be used in the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0036] Here, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data according to the function of the first image forming apparatus 100. In other words, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data in accordance with the first sequence, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus 100 outputs print data (output order). If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, the first sequence of the first image forming apparatus 100 is forward order. On the other hand, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, the first sequence of the first image forming apparatus 100 is reverse order.

[0037] Specifically, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, that is, if the first image forming apparatus 100 has a face-down paper output function, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data in the correct order for the print original data. In other words, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data in the correct order for the first sequence. If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine and application 30 generates print original data PD0 as illustrated in Figure 3, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data PD1 as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0038] On the other hand, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, that is, if the first image forming apparatus 100 has a face-up paper output function, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data in reverse order of the print original data. In other words, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data in the reverse order of the first sequence. If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine and application 30 generates print original data PD0 as illustrated in Figure 3, the print data generation unit 50 generates print data PD2 as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0039] The first print data transmission unit 60 performs processing to transmit the print data generated by the print data generation unit 50 to the first image forming apparatus 100. The first print data transmission unit 60 may also control the communication unit 16 to transmit the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100. The first print data transmission unit 60 may also transmit a print job including the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 as a print command. The print job (print command) may include print data, print settings, user identification information which is the identification information of the user of the terminal device 10, and the transmission time of the print job (print data). The user identification information may be the identification information of the terminal device 10.

[0040] Figure 5 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1. The first image forming apparatus 100 has, as its main hardware components, a processing unit 102, a storage unit 104, a communication unit 106, an interface unit 108, and a printing unit 110. The processing unit 102, storage unit 104, communication unit 106, interface unit 108, and printing unit 110 may be interconnected via a data bus or the like.

[0041] The processing unit 102 is, for example, a processor such as a CPU. The processing unit 102 may have multiple processors. The processing unit 102 has the function of an arithmetic unit that performs control processing and calculation processing. The processing unit 102 controls the storage unit 104, the communication unit 106, the interface unit 108, and the printing unit 110.

[0042] The storage unit 104 is, for example, a storage device such as memory or a hard disk. The storage unit 104 is, for example, ROM or RAM. The storage unit 104 has the function of storing control programs and arithmetic programs executed by the processing unit 102. The storage unit 104 also has the function of temporarily storing processing data. The storage unit 104 may include a database.

[0043] The communication unit 106 performs the necessary processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with other devices via the network 2. The communication unit 106 may include a communication port, router, firewall, etc. The communication unit 106 performs the processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200. The communication unit 106 may also perform the processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via a LAN such as a wireless LAN. Furthermore, the communication unit 106 may also perform the processing for the first image forming apparatus 100 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200 via the internet.

[0044] The interface unit 108 is, for example, a user interface. The interface unit 108 receives data input operations from the user of the first image forming apparatus 100 and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 108 has input devices such as buttons, a keyboard, a touch panel, or a mouse, and output devices such as a display or a speaker. The interface unit 108 may be configured with the input device and output device integrated into one unit. The interface unit 108 receives data input operations from the user and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 108 includes an operation panel 112.

[0045] The printing unit 110 has a printing function for forming an image on paper, i.e., a printing medium. The printing unit 110 includes a printing engine. The printing engine is a mechanical configuration that performs printing of an image onto the printing medium. The printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing using toner in an electrophotographic manner. Alternatively, the printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing in an inkjet manner. The printing engine may also have a transport mechanism for transporting the printing medium.

[0046] The printing unit 110 forms an image corresponding to the print data on the printing medium stored in the paper feed tray 114, and transports the print medium with the formed image to the paper output tray 116. Here, the printing unit 110 performs printing in a first sequence. If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, the printing unit 110 prints the print data in forward order. In this case, the first sequence is forward order. On the other hand, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, the printing unit 110 prints the print data in reverse order. In this case, the first sequence is reverse order.

[0047] Furthermore, the first image forming apparatus 100 includes, as components, a first sequence storage unit 120, a print data acquisition unit 130, and a print data storage unit 132. The first image forming apparatus 100 also includes, as components, a request acquisition unit 140, a print job information transmission unit 142, a selection result acquisition unit 144, a sequence acquisition unit 150, a change unit 160, and a print data transmission unit 170. The first image forming apparatus 100 may have an operating system (OS) as its basic software. The components other than the OS described above may operate using the functions of the OS. Furthermore, the first image forming apparatus 100 may have components substantially similar to those of the second image forming apparatus 200, which will be described later. That is, the first image forming apparatus 100 may function as a slave unit. This is also true in other embodiments described later.

[0048] Each of the above-described components can be realized, for example, by executing a program under the control of the processing unit 102. More specifically, each component can be realized by the processing unit 102 executing a program stored in the storage unit 104. Alternatively, each component can be realized by recording the necessary program on any non-volatile recording medium and installing it as needed. These principles also apply to other embodiments.

[0049] Furthermore, each component is not limited to being implemented by software through a program; it may also be implemented by a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Additionally, each component may be implemented using a user-programmable integrated circuit, such as an FPGA or microcontroller. In this case, the program composed of the above-mentioned components may be implemented using this integrated circuit. These points are also true in other embodiments.

[0050] The first sequence storage unit 120 stores sequence data indicating the first sequence of the first image forming apparatus 100. The first sequence storage unit 120 may be implemented by the storage unit 104. If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, the first sequence storage unit 120 stores data indicating that the first sequence is in the correct order. If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, the first sequence storage unit 120 stores data indicating that the first sequence is in the reverse order.

[0051] The print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data from the terminal device 10. Specifically, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data that is the target of printing in the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data acquisition unit 130 may acquire print data when the communication unit 106 receives print data from the terminal device 10. Alternatively, the print data acquisition unit 130 may acquire print data by acquiring a print job from the terminal device 10. The print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data in which the output order is the first sequence. Therefore, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data in which the first sequence is in the correct order. If the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data in which the first sequence is in the reverse order.

[0052] The print data storage unit 132 stores the acquired print data. The print data storage unit 132 may be implemented by the storage unit 104. The print data storage unit 132 stores the print data in association with the user identification information of the user of the terminal device 10 that sent the print data. In other words, the print data storage unit 132 stores print jobs that include print data and user identification information. As a result, the print data storage unit 132 stores print job information that indicates multiple print jobs. The print job information indicates a print job list, which is a list of print jobs. The print job information may be generated for each user.

[0053] The request acquisition unit 140 acquires a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200 that requests the transmission of print data. In other words, the request acquisition unit 140 acquires the print data request acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus 200. The request acquisition unit 140 may also acquire the print data request when the communication unit 106 receives the print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200. Specifically, the request acquisition unit 140 acquires the print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200 when authentication processing is performed in the second image forming apparatus 200 and user authentication is successful. The authentication processing in the second image forming apparatus 200 will be described later.

[0054] The print data request may include user identification information, which is the identification information of a user who has successfully authenticated, and slave machine identification information, which is the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The print data request may also indicate the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. Here, the second sequence is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs the print data (output order). If the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the second sequence is in forward order. On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the second sequence is in reverse order.

[0055] The request acquisition unit 140 can identify the second image forming apparatus 200 that is requesting print data by acquiring a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200. Furthermore, if user authentication is successful in the second image forming apparatus 200, the request acquisition unit 140 can identify the second image forming apparatus 200 and the user that is requesting print data by acquiring a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0056] The print job information transmission unit 142 performs processing to transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200. The print job information transmission unit 142 may transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200 by controlling the communication unit 106. The print job information transmission unit 142 transmits the print job information relating to the user identification information indicated in the print data request, which is stored in the print data storage unit 132, to the second image forming apparatus 200 relating to the slave device identification information indicated in the print data request. In other words, the print job information transmission unit 142 transmits print job information relating to the authenticated user to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0057] As a result, the operation panel 212 of the second image forming apparatus 200 displays a list of print jobs for the authenticated user. Then, as described above, when the user operates the operation panel 212 to select a print job, the second image forming apparatus 200 transmits the print job selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0058] The selection result acquisition unit 144 acquires the selection result of a print job from the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result acquisition unit 144 may also acquire the selection result when the communication unit 106 receives the selection result from the second image forming apparatus 200. Here, the selection result indicates the print job selected by the user. The selection result may also indicate the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may also indicate a request for print data related to the print job selected by the user. In this case, the selection result acquisition unit 144 can function as a request acquisition unit that acquires the request for print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus.

[0059] The sequence acquisition unit 150 acquires the second sequence, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs print data. The sequence acquisition unit 150 acquires the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. If the second sequence is indicated in the print data request, the sequence acquisition unit 150 may acquire the second sequence from the print data request. If the second sequence is indicated in the selection result, the sequence acquisition unit 150 may acquire the second sequence from the selection result. In addition, the sequence acquisition unit 150 may acquire the second sequence from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the print data request and the selection result. In this case, the sequence acquisition unit 150 may acquire the second sequence from the second image forming apparatus 200 in response to acquiring a print data request.

[0060] The modification unit 160 performs a modification process to change the output order in the print data. In other words, the modification unit 160 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data. To put it another way, the modification unit 160 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result. The modification unit 160 performs modification processing on the print data stored in the print data storage unit 132. Specifically, the modification unit 160 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data based on the second order, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs the print data. More specifically, the modification unit 160 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data based on the comparison result obtained by comparing the first order and the second order. The modification unit 160 does not change the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are the same. On the other hand, the modification unit 160 changes the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are different. In other words, the modification process includes cases where the first order in the print data is changed and cases where the first order in the print data is not changed.

[0061] Let's explain using the examples in Figures 2 and 3. When the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data PD1 in which the first sequence is in the correct order. Here, when the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the second sequence is in the correct order. Therefore, the second sequence is the same as the first sequence. Therefore, the modification unit 160 does not modify the print data PD1. On the other hand, when the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the second sequence is in the reverse order. Therefore, the second sequence is different from the first sequence. Therefore, the modification unit 160 changes the print data PD1, which is in the correct order, to print data PD2, which is in the reverse order. As a result, the modification unit 160 generates print data PD2 in which the first sequence has been changed.

[0062] Furthermore, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires print data PD2 in which the first order is in reverse. Here, if the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the second order is in forward order. Therefore, the second order is different from the first order. Accordingly, the modification unit 160 changes the print data PD2, which is in reverse order, to print data PD1, which is in forward order. As a result, the modification unit 160 generates print data PD1 in which the first order has been changed. On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the second order is in reverse order. Therefore, the second order is the same as the first order. Accordingly, the modification unit 160 does not modify the print data PD2.

[0063] The print data transmission unit 170 transmits the print data, which has undergone the first sequence change process, to the second image forming apparatus 200. The print data transmission unit 170 may also transmit the print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 by controlling the communication unit 106. In addition, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits print data relating to a user who has successfully been authenticated to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0064] Specifically, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits the print data with the first order changed to the second image forming apparatus 200 when the first order and the second order are different. On the other hand, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits the print data with the first order unchanged to the second image forming apparatus 200 when the first order and the second order are the same.

[0065] Figure 6 shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 1. The second image forming apparatus 200 has, as its main hardware components, a processing unit 202, a storage unit 204, a communication unit 206, an interface unit 208, and a printing unit 210. The processing unit 202, storage unit 204, communication unit 206, interface unit 208, and printing unit 210 may be interconnected via a data bus or the like.

[0066] The processing unit 202 is, for example, a processor such as a CPU. The processing unit 202 may have multiple processors. The processing unit 202 has the function of an arithmetic unit that performs control processing and calculation processing. The processing unit 202 controls the storage unit 204, the communication unit 206, the interface unit 208, and the printing unit 210.

[0067] The storage unit 204 is, for example, a storage device such as memory or a hard disk. The storage unit 204 is, for example, ROM or RAM. The storage unit 204 has the function of storing control programs and arithmetic programs executed by the processing unit 202. The storage unit 204 also has the function of temporarily storing processing data. The storage unit 204 may include a database.

[0068] The communication unit 206 performs the necessary processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with other devices via the network 2. The communication unit 206 may include a communication port, router, firewall, etc. The communication unit 206 performs the processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the first image forming apparatus 100. The communication unit 206 may also perform the processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the first image forming apparatus 100 via a LAN such as a wireless LAN. Furthermore, the communication unit 206 may also perform the processing for the second image forming apparatus 200 to communicate with the terminal device 10 and the first image forming apparatus 100 via the internet.

[0069] The interface unit 208 is, for example, a user interface. The interface unit 208 receives data input operations from the user of the second image forming apparatus 200 and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 208 has input devices such as buttons, a keyboard, a touch panel, or a mouse, and output devices such as a display or a speaker. The interface unit 208 may be configured with the input device and output device integrated into one unit. The interface unit 208 receives data input operations from the user and outputs information to the user. The interface unit 208 includes an operation panel 212.

[0070] The printing unit 210 has a printing function for forming an image on paper, i.e., a printing medium. The printing unit 210 includes a printing engine. The printing engine is a mechanical configuration that performs printing of an image onto the printing medium. The printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing using toner in an electrophotographic manner. Alternatively, the printing engine may have, for example, a mechanism that performs printing in an inkjet manner. The printing engine may also have a transport mechanism for transporting the printing medium.

[0071] The printing unit 210 forms an image corresponding to the print data on the printing medium stored in the paper feed tray 214 and transports the print medium with the formed image to the paper output tray 216. Here, the printing unit 210 performs printing in the second order. If the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the printing unit 210 prints the print data in the forward order. In this case, the second order is the forward order. On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the printing unit 210 prints the print data in the reverse order. In this case, the second order is the reverse order.

[0072] Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200 includes, as components, a second sequence storage unit 220, an authentication unit 230, and a request transmission unit 232. The second image forming apparatus 200 also includes, as components, a print job information acquisition unit 240, a print job information display unit 242, a selection result transmission unit 244, a print data acquisition unit 250, and a print instruction unit 260. The second image forming apparatus 200 may have an operating system (OS) as its basic software. The components other than the OS described above may operate using the functions of the OS. The second image forming apparatus 200 may also have components that are substantially the same as those of the first image forming apparatus 100 described above. That is, the second image forming apparatus 200 may function as a master unit. This is also true in other embodiments described later.

[0073] Each of the above-described components can be realized, for example, by executing a program under the control of the processing unit 202. More specifically, each component can be realized by the processing unit 202 executing a program stored in the storage unit 204. Alternatively, each component can be realized by recording the necessary program on any non-volatile recording medium and installing it as needed. These principles also apply to other embodiments.

[0074] Furthermore, each component is not limited to being implemented by software through a program; it may also be implemented by a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Additionally, each component may be implemented using a user-programmable integrated circuit, such as an FPGA or microcontroller. In this case, the program composed of the above-mentioned components may be implemented using this integrated circuit. These points are also true in other embodiments.

[0075] The second sequence storage unit 220 stores sequence data indicating the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. The second sequence storage unit 220 may be implemented by the storage unit 204. If the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the second sequence storage unit 220 stores data indicating that the second sequence is in the correct order. If the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the second sequence storage unit 220 stores data indicating that the second sequence is in the reverse order.

[0076] The authentication unit 230 performs user authentication. Specifically, the authentication unit 230 determines whether the user attempting authentication is a legitimate user of the second image forming apparatus 200. In other words, the authentication unit 230 determines whether the user attempting authentication is a pre-registered user. More specifically, the authentication unit 230 obtains the user's identification information by having the user attempting authentication operate the interface unit 208. The authentication unit 230 then determines whether the obtained user identification information is included in the pre-registered registration information. The registration information may be stored in the second image forming apparatus 200, or it may be stored in a server that is communicably connected to the second image forming apparatus 200. The authentication unit 230 determines that the user's authentication was successful if the obtained user identification information is included in the registration information. On the other hand, the authentication unit 230 determines that the user's authentication failed if the obtained user identification information is not included in the registration information.

[0077] The request transmission unit 232 transmits a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100. The request transmission unit 232 may transmit the print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 by controlling the communication unit 206. Specifically, if user authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 transmits a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100, requesting that the print data transmitted from the terminal device 10 to the first image forming apparatus 100 be transmitted to the second image forming apparatus 200. As described above, the print data request may include user identification information, which is the identification information of the authenticated user, and slave device identification information, which is the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200. The print data request may also indicate the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0078] The print job information acquisition unit 240 acquires print job information from the first image forming apparatus 100. The print job information acquisition unit 240 may also acquire print job information when the communication unit 206 receives print job information from the first image forming apparatus 100. The print job information acquisition unit 240 acquires print job information related to a user whose authentication has been successful from the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0079] The print job information display unit 242 performs processing to display the print job list indicated by the print job information. Specifically, the print job information display unit 242 displays the print job list on the interface unit 208, such as the operation panel 212. The user then performs a print job selection operation from the print job list displayed on the interface unit 208 by the print job information display unit 242.

[0080] The selection result transmission unit 244 transmits the user's selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100. The selection result transmission unit 244 may also transmit the selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100 by controlling the communication unit 206. As described above, the selection result indicates the print job selected by the user. The selection result may also indicate the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may also indicate a request for print data related to the print job selected by the user.

[0081] The print data acquisition unit 250 acquires print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data acquisition unit 250 may also acquire print data when the communication unit 206 receives print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. If authentication is successful, the print data acquisition unit 250 acquires print data relating to the authenticated user from the first image forming apparatus 100, which has acquired print data from the terminal device 10. Here, in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250, the first sequence, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus 100 outputs print data, has been modified based on the second sequence, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs print data. In other words, in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250, the first sequence may have been modified to match the second sequence, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs print data.

[0082] For example, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine and the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the first order of the print data is changed from the correct order to the second order, which is the reverse order. On the other hand, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine and the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the first order of the print data is changed from the reverse order to the second order, which is the correct order.

[0083] Furthermore, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-down machine and the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine, the second sequence is the same forward order as the first sequence, so the first sequence of the print data remains in the forward order. Also, if the first image forming apparatus 100 is a face-up machine and the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-up machine, the second sequence is the same reverse order as the first sequence, so the first sequence of the print data remains in the reverse order.

[0084] The print instruction unit 260 instructs the print unit 210 to print the acquired print data and controls the print unit 210. As a result, the print unit 210 prints the acquired print data. Here, as described above, the print data that the print unit 210 is printing has undergone modification processing based on the second sequence in relation to the first sequence. Therefore, the print unit 210 prints the print data according to the paper output function of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0085] Figures 7 and 8 show the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figures 7 and 8 show the processing method performed by the first image forming apparatus 100. Figure 7 shows a sequence diagram illustrating the processing method performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0086] The terminal device 10 transmits the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S100). Specifically, as described above, the print data generation unit 50 generates the print data. The first print data transmission unit 60 transmits the generated print data to the first image forming apparatus 100. In the first image forming apparatus 100, the print data acquisition unit 130 acquires the print data from the terminal device 10 as described above (step S102). The print data storage unit 132 then stores the acquired print data as described above (step S104).

[0087] In the second image forming apparatus 200, the authentication unit 230 performs user authentication as described above (step S112). If authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 transmits a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above (step S114). The first image forming apparatus 100 then transmits print job information in response to the print data request (step S116). Specifically, the request acquisition unit 140 acquires a print data request from the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above. The print job information transmission unit 142 performs processing to transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above.

[0088] The second image forming apparatus 200 displays print job information (step S122). Specifically, the print job information acquisition unit 240 acquires print job information from the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above. The print job information display unit 242 displays the print job list indicated by the print job information on the interface unit 208. Then, in the second image forming apparatus 200, the selection result transmission unit 244 transmits the user's selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above (step S124). As a result, the selection result acquisition unit 144 of the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print job selection result as described above. Then, the first image forming apparatus 100 performs a process to change the output order in the print data (step S140).

[0089] Figure 8 is a flowchart detailing the process in S140. In the first image forming apparatus 100, the sequence acquisition unit 150 acquires the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200 as described above (step S142). The modification unit 160 compares the first sequence and the second sequence as described above and determines whether they match (step S144). If the first sequence and the second sequence match (YES in S144), the modification unit 160 determines not to change the output order of the print data (first sequence) (step S146). On the other hand, if the first sequence and the second sequence do not match (NO in S144), the modification unit 160 changes the output order of the print data (first sequence) as described above (step S148). Specifically, the modification unit 160 changes the first sequence in the print data to match the second sequence.

[0090] In the first image forming apparatus 100, the print data transmission unit 170 transmits the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 (step S152). As a result, the print data acquisition unit 250 of the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires the modified print data. The second image forming apparatus 200 then performs printing on the print data (step S154). Specifically, in the second image forming apparatus 200, the print instruction unit 260 instructs the print unit 210 to print the acquired print data as described above. As a result, the print unit 210 prints the acquired print data.

[0091] Figures 9 and 10 are diagrams illustrating the differences between the comparative example and Embodiment 1. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the processing of the first image forming apparatus 101 according to the comparative example. Here, in Figure 9, the first image forming apparatus 101 is assumed to be a face-down machine. The second image forming apparatus 200A is assumed to be a face-down machine. The second image forming apparatus 200B is assumed to be a face-up machine.

[0092] As indicated by arrow S11, terminal device 10 transmits print data PD1 in the correct order to first image forming apparatus 101. Then, when the second image forming apparatus 200A requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101, as indicated by arrow S12, the first image forming apparatus 101 transmits print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200A. In this case, when the second image forming apparatus 200A performs the printing process on the print data PD1, the print media with the bottom surface facing down is discharged into the output tray 216 in the order of page 1, page 2, and page 3. Therefore, the bundle of print media is in the desired order. In this case, the desired printing result can be obtained.

[0093] On the other hand, when the second image forming apparatus 200B requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 101, the first image forming apparatus 101 sends the print data PD1 to the second image forming apparatus 200B, as indicated by arrow S13. In this case, when the second image forming apparatus 200B performs the print processing on the print data PD1, the output tray 216 may discharge the print media with the top surface facing the print side in the order of page 1, page 2, and page 3. In this case, the bundle of print media is not in the desired order. Alternatively, the second image forming apparatus 200B may not be able to print using the print data PD1. Therefore, in the comparative example, there is a risk that the desired print result may not be obtained.

[0094] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the processing performed by the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 10, the first image forming apparatus 100 is assumed to be a face-down machine. The second image forming apparatus 200A is assumed to be a face-down machine. The second image forming apparatus 200B is assumed to be a face-up machine.

[0095] As indicated by arrow S21, terminal device 10 transmits print data PD1 in the correct order to first image forming apparatus 100. Then, suppose a request for print data is received from second image forming apparatus 200A to first image forming apparatus 100. Here, the output order of second image forming apparatus 200A is the same as the output order of first image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, as indicated by arrow S22, first image forming apparatus 100 transmits print data PD1 to second image forming apparatus 200A without changing the output order. In this case, when second image forming apparatus 200A performs the printing process for print data PD1, the print media with the bottom surface facing down is discharged into the output tray 216 in the order of page 1, page 2, and page 3. Therefore, the bundle of print media is in the desired order.

[0096] On the other hand, suppose the second image forming apparatus 200B requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 100. Here, the output order of the second image forming apparatus 200B is different from the output order of the first image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, the first image forming apparatus 100 changes the output order of the print data to match the output order of the second image forming apparatus 200B. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 converts print data PD1 to print data PD2. Then, as shown by arrow S23, the first image forming apparatus 100 sends print data PD2 to the second image forming apparatus 200B. In this case, when the second image forming apparatus 200B performs the printing process on print data PD1, the print media with the top surface facing up is discharged into the output tray 216 in the order of page 3, page 2, and page 1. Therefore, the bundle of print media is in the desired order.

[0097] Thus, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 1 can acquire print data that has been modified according to the second sequence. Therefore, in Embodiment 1, the user can obtain the desired print result without relying on the paper output functions of the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. Consequently, Embodiment 1 offers improved convenience compared to the comparative example.

[0098] In the above-described embodiment 1, the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200 was assumed to be included in the print data request or selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200, but the configuration is not limited to this. The first image forming apparatus 100 may request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the second sequence. On the other hand, if the second sequence is included in the print data request or selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200, it becomes unnecessary for the first image forming apparatus 100 to request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the second sequence. Therefore, the processing of the first image forming apparatus 100 is simplified.

[0099] Furthermore, while the above-described Embodiment 1 used single-sided printing as an example, the configuration is not limited to this. In other words, the same applies to double-sided printing. Now, suppose that the second image forming apparatus 200B, which is a face-up machine, requests print data from the first image forming apparatus 100, which is a face-down machine. In the above-described Embodiment 1, when the second image forming apparatus 200B performs the print processing for the print data PD1, in the case of double-sided printing, the odd-numbered pages are printed on the top surface of the print medium. Therefore, the print medium is discharged into the output tray 216 in the order of the 3rd page first, and the 1st and 2nd pages second. Thus, the bundle of print medium is in the desired order.

[0100] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. For clarity of explanation, the following descriptions and drawings have been omitted and simplified as appropriate. In addition, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals in each drawing, and redundant explanations have been omitted where necessary. Therefore, the following description will mainly focus on the differences from Embodiment 1 described above. Note that in Embodiment 2, the configuration of the processing system 1 is substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1, so its description will be omitted.

[0101] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 may be substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1, so its description will be omitted. Note that the first image forming apparatus 100 in Embodiment 2 does not necessarily have the selection result acquisition unit 144, sequence acquisition unit 150, modification unit 160, and print data transmission unit 170 shown in Figure 5. Hereinafter, Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires print data from the terminal device 10. In other words, in Embodiment 2, it is the terminal device 10 that transmits print data to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0102] Figure 11 shows the configuration of the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2. Similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2 has a main hardware configuration consisting of a processing unit 12, a storage unit 14, a communication unit 16, and an interface unit 18. Also, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2 has as its components an OS 20, an application 30, a printer driver 40, a print data generation unit 50, and a first print data transmission unit 60. Furthermore, the terminal device 10 according to Embodiment 2 also has a print data storage unit 70, a selection result acquisition unit 72, a sequence acquisition unit 74, a modification unit 76, and a second print data transmission unit 78. Note that the OS 20, application 30, printer driver 40, print data generation unit 50, and first print data transmission unit 60 are substantially the same as those in Embodiment 1, so their explanation is omitted.

[0103] The print data storage unit 70 stores the print data transmitted by the first print data transmission unit 60 to the first image forming apparatus 100. The print data storage unit 70 may be implemented by the storage unit 14. Alternatively, the print data storage unit 70 may be implemented by a spooler.

[0104] The selection result acquisition unit 72 may have substantially the same functions as the selection result acquisition unit 144 described above. The selection result acquisition unit 72 acquires the selection result of a print job from the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result acquisition unit 72 may acquire the selection result when the communication unit 16 receives the selection result from the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may indicate the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. The selection result may also indicate a print data request related to the print job selected by the user. In this case, the selection result acquisition unit 72 may function as a request acquisition unit that acquires the print data request acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus.

[0105] The sequence acquisition unit 74 may have substantially the same functions as the sequence acquisition unit 150 described above. The sequence acquisition unit 74 acquires the second sequence, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs print data. If the second sequence is indicated in the selection result, the sequence acquisition unit 74 may acquire the second sequence from the selection result. If the second sequence is indicated in the print data request, the sequence acquisition unit 74 may acquire the second sequence from the print data request. In addition, the sequence acquisition unit 74 may acquire the second sequence from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the selection result. Furthermore, the sequence acquisition unit 74 may acquire the second sequence in response to acquiring the selection result.

[0106] The modification unit 76 may have substantially the same function as the modification unit 160 described above. The modification unit 76 performs a modification process to change the output order in the print data. In other words, the modification unit 76 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data. To put it another way, the modification unit 76 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result. The modification unit 76 performs a modification process on the print data stored in the print data storage unit 70. Specifically, the modification unit 76 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data based on the second order. More specifically, the modification unit 76 performs a modification process to change the first order in the print data based on the comparison result obtained by comparing the first order and the second order. The modification unit 76 does not change the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are the same. On the other hand, the modification unit 76 changes the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are different.

[0107] The second print data transmission unit 78 may have substantially the same functions as the print data transmission unit 170 described above. The second print data transmission unit 78 may transmit print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 by controlling the communication unit 16. If the first order and the second order are different, the second print data transmission unit 78 transmits the print data with the first order changed to the second image forming apparatus 200. If the first order and the second order are the same, the second print data transmission unit 78 transmits the print data with the first order unchanged to the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0108] Figure 12 shows the configuration of the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2. Similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 has a processing unit 202, a storage unit 204, a communication unit 206, an interface unit 208, and a printing unit 210 as its main hardware configuration. Also, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 has a second sequence storage unit 220, an authentication unit 230, a request transmission unit 232, a print job information acquisition unit 240, a print job information display unit 242, and a print instruction unit 260 as its components. Furthermore, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 has a selection result transmission unit 244A and a print data acquisition unit 250A instead of a selection result transmission unit 244 and a print data acquisition unit 250. Note that, of the components of the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2, the components other than the selection result transmission unit 244A and the print data acquisition unit 250A are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 1, so their description will be omitted.

[0109] The selection result transmission unit 244A transmits the user's selection result to the terminal device 10. The selection result transmission unit 244A may also transmit the selection result to the terminal device 10 by controlling the communication unit 206. Note that the other functions of the selection result transmission unit 244A are substantially the same as those of the selection result transmission unit 244, so their explanation is omitted.

[0110] The print data acquisition unit 250A acquires print data from the terminal device 10. The print data acquisition unit 250A may also acquire print data when the communication unit 206 receives print data from the terminal device 10. If authentication is successful, the print data acquisition unit 250A acquires print data from the terminal device 10 for the authenticated user. Here, in the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit 250A, a modification process is performed on the first sequence, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus 100 outputs print data, based on the second sequence, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus 200 outputs print data.

[0111] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 13 shows the processing method performed by the second image forming apparatus 200. Figure 13 shows a sequence diagram showing the processing method performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 2.

[0112] Similar to the process in S100 shown in Figure 7 above, the terminal device 10 transmits the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S200). Also, similar to the process in S102 shown in Figure 7 above, the print data acquisition unit 130 in the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print data from the terminal device 10 (step S202). The print data storage unit 132 then stores the acquired print data (step S204). Also, in the terminal device 10, the print data storage unit 70 stores the print data transmitted to the first image forming apparatus 100 as described above (step S206).

[0113] Similar to the process in S112 shown in Figure 7 above, the authentication unit 230 in the second image forming apparatus 200 performs user authentication (step S212). If authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 sends a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S214). Then, similar to the process in S116 shown in Figure 7 above, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits print job information in response to the print data request (step S216).

[0114] Similar to the process in S122 shown in Figure 7 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 displays print job information (step S222). Then, in the second image forming apparatus 200, the selection result transmission unit 244A transmits the user's selection result to the terminal device 10 as described above (step S224). As a result, the selection result acquisition unit 72 of the terminal device 10 acquires the print job selection result as described above. Then, the terminal device 10 performs a process to change the output order in the print data in substantially the same manner as the process shown in Figure 8 (step S240).

[0115] Specifically, similar to the process in S142 shown in Figure 8 above, the sequence acquisition unit 74 acquires the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. Similar to the process in S144 shown in Figure 8 above, the modification unit 76 compares the first sequence and the second sequence to determine whether they match. If the first sequence and the second sequence match, similar to the process in S146 shown in Figure 8 above, the modification unit 76 determines not to change the output order of the print data (first sequence). On the other hand, if the first sequence and the second sequence do not match, similar to the process in S148 shown in Figure 8 above, the modification unit 76 changes the output order of the print data (first sequence). Specifically, the modification unit 76 changes the first sequence in the print data to match the second sequence.

[0116] In the terminal device 10, the second print data transmission unit 78 transmits the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 (step S252). As a result, the print data acquisition unit 250A of the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires the modified print data. Then, similar to the process in S154 shown in Figure 7 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing processing on the print data (step S254).

[0117] Similar to Embodiment 1, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 can acquire print data that has been modified according to the second sequence. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, the user can obtain the desired print result without relying on the paper output functions of the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, convenience is improved.

[0118] In the above-described embodiment 2, the selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200 included the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, but the configuration is not limited to this. The terminal device 10 may request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the second sequence. On the other hand, if the selection result transmitted by the second image forming apparatus 200 includes the second sequence, it becomes unnecessary for the terminal device 10 to request the second image forming apparatus 200 to transmit the second sequence. Therefore, the processing of the terminal device 10 is simplified.

[0119] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. For clarity of explanation, the following descriptions and drawings have been omitted and simplified as appropriate. In addition, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals in each drawing, and redundant explanations have been omitted where necessary. Therefore, the following description will mainly focus on the differences from Embodiment 1 described above. Note that in Embodiment 3, the configuration of the processing system 1 is substantially the same as that of Embodiment 1, so its description will be omitted.

[0120] Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, the configurations of the terminal device 10 and the second image forming apparatus 200 may be substantially the same as those in Embodiment 1, so their description will be omitted. Embodiment 3 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the first image forming apparatus 100 determines the second sequence. That is, in Embodiment 3, the first image forming apparatus 100 determines whether the second image forming apparatus 200 is a face-down machine or a face-up machine. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, the print data request and selection result do not need to indicate the second sequence. Also, in Embodiment 3, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not need to request the second sequence from the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0121] Figure 14 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3. Similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a processing unit 102, a storage unit 104, a communication unit 106, an interface unit 108, and a printing unit 110 as its main hardware configuration. Also, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a first sequence storage unit 120, a print data acquisition unit 130, and a print data storage unit 132 as its components. Furthermore, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a request acquisition unit 140, a print job information transmission unit 142, a selection result acquisition unit 144, and a print data transmission unit 170 as its components. Furthermore, the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3 has a model information acquisition unit 152, a model table storage unit 154, and a change unit 160A instead of the sequence acquisition unit 150 and the change unit 160. In addition, of the components of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 3, the components other than the model information acquisition unit 152, the model table storage unit 154, and the modification unit 160A are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 1, so their description will be omitted. In Embodiment 3, at least one of the print data request and selection result acquired by the first image forming apparatus 100 from the second image forming apparatus 200 may indicate the model information of the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0122] The machine information acquisition unit 152 acquires the machine information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. The machine information indicates the model of the second image forming apparatus 200. The machine information may, for example, indicate the model number and manufacturer name of the second image forming apparatus 200. If the machine information is indicated in the print data request, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the print data request. If the machine information is indicated in the selection result, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the selection result. In addition, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the second image forming apparatus 200 separately from the print data request and the selection result. In this case, the machine information acquisition unit 152 may acquire the machine information from the second image forming apparatus 200 in response to acquiring the print data request.

[0123] The model table storage unit 154 stores the model table. The model table storage unit 154 may be implemented by the memory unit 104. The model table indicates, for each model, whether it is a face-down machine or a face-up machine. In other words, the model table associates a model with its paper output function. The model table storage unit 154 may be provided in a device such as a server that is communicatively connected to the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0124] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a model table according to Embodiment 3. In the example in Figure 15, the model table shows that model A is a face-down machine. The model table also shows that model B is a face-up machine. The model table also shows that model C is a face-down machine. Therefore, the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is model A, is forward. The second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is model B, is reverse. The second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is model C, is forward.

[0125] The modification unit 160A performs a modification of the first order of the print data based on the machine information. In other words, the modification unit 160A performs a modification of the first order of the print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result, based on the machine information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. The modification unit 160A uses the machine information and the machine table to perform a modification of the first order of the print data stored in the print data storage unit 132.

[0126] Specifically, the modification unit 160A uses the model information obtained from the second image forming apparatus 200 and the model table to determine the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200. For example, in the example in Figure 15, if the model information indicates "Model A", the modification unit 160A determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 to be "Forward". If the model information indicates "Model B", the modification unit 160A determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 to be "Reverse". If the model information indicates "Model C", the modification unit 160A determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 to be "Forward". Then, based on the determined second order, the modification unit 160A performs the process of changing the first order in the print data. More specifically, the modification unit 160A performs the process of changing the first order in the print data based on the comparison result obtained by comparing the first order and the second order. The modification unit 160A does not change the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are the same. On the other hand, the modification unit 160A changes the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are different.

[0127] Figure 16 is a diagram showing the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 3. Figure 16 shows the processing method performed by the first image forming apparatus 100. Figure 16 shows a sequence diagram showing the processing method performed by the processing system 1 according to Embodiment 3.

[0128] Similar to the process in S100 shown in Figure 7 above, the terminal device 10 transmits the print data to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S300). Similar to the process in S102 shown in Figure 7 above, the print data acquisition unit 130 in the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print data from the terminal device 10 (step S302). The print data storage unit 132 then stores the acquired print data (step S304).

[0129] Similar to the process in S112 shown in Figure 7 above, the authentication unit 230 in the second image forming apparatus 200 performs user authentication (step S312). If authentication is successful, the request transmission unit 232 sends a print data request to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S314). Then, similar to the process in S116 shown in Figure 7 above, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits print job information in response to the print data request (step S316).

[0130] Similar to the process in S122 shown in Figure 7 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 displays print job information (step S322). Then, similar to the process in S124 shown in Figure 7 above, the selection result transmission unit 244 in the second image forming apparatus 200 transmits the selection result to the first image forming apparatus 100 (step S324). As a result, the selection result acquisition unit 144 of the first image forming apparatus 100 acquires the print job selection result as described above.

[0131] In the first image forming apparatus 100, the machine information acquisition unit 152 acquires machine information as described above (step S326). The modification unit 160A determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 based on the machine information as described above (step S328). Then, the modification unit 160A performs a modification process to change the output order in the print data (step S340). Here, the modification unit 160A performs all processing except for the processing in S142 in the flowchart shown in Figure 8. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, the processing in S142 is unnecessary.

[0132] Similar to the process in S152 shown in Figure 7 above, the print data transmission unit 170 in the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200 (step S352). As a result, the print data acquisition unit 250 of the second image forming apparatus 200 acquires the modified print data. Then, similar to the process in S154 shown in Figure 7 above, the second image forming apparatus 200 performs printing processing on the print data (step S354).

[0133] Similar to Embodiment 1, the second image forming apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 3 can acquire print data that has been modified according to the second sequence. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, similar to Embodiment 1, the user can obtain the desired print result without relying on the paper output functions of the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. Therefore, in Embodiment 3, convenience is improved, similar to Embodiment 1. Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, the user can obtain the desired print result without the print data request and selection result indicating the second sequence.

[0134] (First modified example of Embodiment 3) Figure 17 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to the first modification of Embodiment 3. The first image forming apparatus 100 according to the first modification has a slave machine table storage unit 156 and a modification unit 160B instead of the model information acquisition unit 152, model table storage unit 154, and modification unit 160A. Of the components of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to the first modification, the components other than the slave machine table storage unit 156 and the modification unit 160B are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 3 described above, so their description is omitted. In the first modification, the print data request and selection result do not need to show the model information of the second image forming apparatus 200. As described above, at least one of the print data request and selection result shows the slave machine identification information, which is the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request.

[0135] The slave unit table storage unit 156 stores the slave unit table. The slave unit table storage unit 156 may be implemented by the memory unit 104. The slave unit table indicates whether each slave unit, i.e., the second image forming apparatus 200, is a face-down machine or a face-up machine. The slave unit table associates the identification information of each slave unit of the second image forming apparatus 200 with the paper output function of that second image forming apparatus 200. In other words, the slave unit table indicates the second sequence of each second image forming apparatus 200. That is, the slave unit table storage unit 156 stores the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 stores the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200. The slave unit table may be stored in the first image forming apparatus 100 during the initial communication setup between the first image forming apparatus 100 and the second image forming apparatus 200. Furthermore, the sub-unit table storage unit 156 may be provided in a device such as a server that is communicatively connected to the first image forming apparatus 100.

[0136] Figure 18 illustrates a sub-unit table according to the first modification of Embodiment 3. In the example of Figure 18, the sub-unit table indicates that sub-unit A is a face-down unit. The sub-unit table also indicates that sub-unit B is a face-up unit. The sub-unit table also indicates that sub-unit C is a face-down unit. Therefore, the second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is sub-unit A, is the forward sequence. The second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is sub-unit B, is the reverse sequence. The second sequence of the second image forming apparatus 200, which is sub-unit C, is the forward sequence.

[0137] The modification unit 160B performs a modification of the first order of the print data based on the second order stored in the first image forming apparatus 100. The modification unit 160B performs a modification of the first order of the print data corresponding to the print job shown in the selection result based on the slave machine identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request. The modification unit 160B uses the slave machine identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 and the slave machine table stored in the first image forming apparatus 100 to perform a modification of the first order of the print data stored in the print data storage unit 132.

[0138] Specifically, the modification unit 160B uses the slave machine identification information and slave machine table of the second image forming apparatus 200 to determine the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200. For example, in the example shown in Figure 15, if the slave machine identification information indicates "Slave Machine A", the modification unit 160B determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 to be "Forward Order". If the slave machine identification information indicates "Slave Machine B", the modification unit 160B determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 to be "Reverse Order". If the slave machine identification information indicates "Slave Machine C", the modification unit 160B determines the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 to be "Forward Order". Then, the modification unit 160B changes the first order in the print data based on the determined second order. More specifically, the modification unit 160B changes the first order in the print data based on the comparison result obtained by comparing the first order and the second order. The modification unit 160B does not change the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are the same. On the other hand, the modification unit 160B changes the first order in the print data if the first order and the second order are different.

[0139] Thus, in the first modified example of Embodiment 3, the modification unit 160B is configured to perform a modification process of the first order of print data based on the second order of the second image forming apparatus 200 stored in the first image forming apparatus 100. As a result, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not need to obtain the second order from the second image forming apparatus 200 each time it receives a print data request.

[0140] (Second modified example of Embodiment 3) Figure 19 shows the configuration of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to a second modification of Embodiment 3. The first image forming apparatus 100 according to the second modification has a sequence acquisition unit 150C, a change history storage unit 158, and a change unit 160C instead of a model information acquisition unit 152, a model table storage unit 154, and a change unit 160A. Of the components of the first image forming apparatus 100 according to the second modification, the components other than the sequence acquisition unit 150C, the change history storage unit 158, and the change unit 160C are substantially the same as those according to Embodiment 3 described above, so their description is omitted. In the second modification, the print data request and selection result do not need to show the model information of the second image forming apparatus 200. As described above, at least one of the print data request and selection result shows the identification information of the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request.

[0141] The sequence acquisition unit 150C has substantially the same function as the sequence acquisition unit 150 described above. However, it should be noted that the sequence acquisition unit 150C will not acquire the second sequence again from the second image forming apparatus 200 once the second sequence has been acquired.

[0142] The change history storage unit 158 ​​stores the change history. The change history storage unit 158 ​​may be implemented by the storage unit 104. The change history is a history of the change processing of the first sequence of print data for each slave unit, i.e., the second image forming apparatus 200.

[0143] Figure 20 illustrates the change history for a second modified example of Embodiment 3. In the example in Figure 20, the change history shows that the first order of the print data was not changed in the change process for slave unit A. The change history also shows that the first order of the print data was changed in the change process for slave unit B. The change history also shows that the first order of the print data was not changed in the change process for slave unit C.

[0144] The modification unit 160C performs substantially the same processing as the modification unit 160 in Embodiment 1 during the first modification process for a given second image forming apparatus 200. That is, the modification unit 160C performs modification processing on the first order of the print data based on a comparison between the second order acquired by the order acquisition unit 150C and the first order of the first image forming apparatus 100. The modification unit 160C then stores the history of the modification process in the modification history storage unit 158.

[0145] On the other hand, for the second and subsequent modification processes for the second image forming apparatus 200, the modification unit 160C uses the modification history stored in the modification history storage unit 158 ​​to modify the first order of the print data. For example, in the example in Figure 20, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit A, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and determines that the first order of the print data should not be changed. On the other hand, if the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request is slave unit B, the modification unit 160C refers to the modification history and modifies the first order of the print data.

[0146] Thus, in the second modification of Embodiment 3, the modification unit 160C is configured to change the first order of print data based on the history of the first order of print data change processing stored in the first image forming apparatus 100. As a result, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not need to obtain the second order from the second image forming apparatus 200 each time it obtains a print data request.

[0147] (modified version) It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the order of each process in the sequence diagram and flowchart described above can be changed as appropriate. Also, one or more of the processes in the sequence diagram and flowchart described above can be omitted. Furthermore, the multiple embodiments described above are applicable to each other. For example, Embodiment 3 is applicable not only to Embodiment 1 but also to Embodiment 2.

[0148] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the first image forming apparatus 100 transmits print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200 that sent the print data request, but the configuration is not limited to this. In other words, the first image forming apparatus 100 does not have to transmit print job information to the second image forming apparatus 200. For example, the first image forming apparatus 100 may perform modification processing on all print data related to the user indicated in the print data request, which is stored in the print data storage unit 132. Then, the first image forming apparatus 100 may transmit all the modified print data to the second image forming apparatus 200. Alternatively, for example, the first image forming apparatus 100 may perform modification processing on the latest print data related to the user indicated in the print data request, which is stored in the print data storage unit 132.

[0149] In the examples described above, the program includes a set of instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more of the functions described in the embodiments. The program may be stored on a non-temporary computer-readable medium or a physical storage medium. Examples, but not limited to, include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The program may be transmitted over a temporary computer-readable medium or a communication medium. Examples, but not limited to, include electrical, optical, acoustic or other forms of propagating signals. The program may also be included in a program product. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0150] 1…Processing system, 2…Network, 10…Terminal device, 12…Processing unit, 14…Storage unit, 16…Communication unit, 18…Interface unit, 30…Application, 40…Printer driver, 50…Print data generation unit, 60…First print data transmission unit, 70…Print data storage unit, 72…Selection result acquisition unit, 74…Order acquisition unit, 76…Change unit, 78…Second print data transmission unit, 100…First image forming apparatus, 101…First image forming apparatus, 102…Processing unit, 104…Storage unit, 106…Communication unit, 108…Interface unit, 110…Printing unit, 112…Operation panel, 114…Paper feed tray, 116…Paper output tray, 120…First order storage unit, 130…Print data acquisition unit, 132…Print data storage unit 140...Request acquisition unit, 142...Print job information transmission unit, 144...Selection result acquisition unit, 150...Order acquisition unit, 152...Model information acquisition unit, 154...Model table storage unit, 156...Slave machine table storage unit, 158...Change history storage unit, 160...Change unit, 170...Print data transmission unit, 200...Second image forming apparatus, 202...Processing unit, 204...Storage unit, 206...Communication unit, 208...Interface unit, 210...Printing unit, 212...Operation panel, 214...Paper feed tray, 216...Paper output tray, 220...Second order storage unit, 230...Authentication unit, 232...Request transmission unit, 240...Print job information acquisition unit, 242...Print job information display unit, 244...Selection result transmission unit, 250...Print data acquisition unit, 260...Print instruction unit

Claims

1. The first image forming apparatus, A print data acquisition unit that acquires print data from a terminal device, A modification unit that performs a first sequence modification process in the print data, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus outputs the print data, A print data transmission unit that transmits the print data after the first order modification process has been performed to a second image forming apparatus, A first image forming apparatus having [a certain feature].

2. A sequence acquisition unit acquires a second sequence, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus outputs print data. It further possesses, The modification unit performs the modification of the first order of the print data based on the second order. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The modification unit performs the modification process of the first order of the print data based on the comparison result obtained by comparing the first order and the second order. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The modification unit modifies the first order of the print data if the first order and the second order are different. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 3.

5. A request acquisition unit that acquires the request for print data acquired by the first image forming apparatus from the second image forming apparatus. It further possesses, The sequence acquisition unit acquires the second sequence in response to acquiring the request. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 2.

6. The request acquisition unit acquires the request from the second image forming apparatus when the user authentication in the second image forming apparatus is successful. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The print data transmission unit transmits print data relating to the user whose authentication has been successful to the second image forming apparatus. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 6.

8. Model information acquisition unit that acquires model information of the second image forming apparatus, It further possesses, The modification unit performs the process of changing the first order of the print data based on the model information. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The modification unit performs the modification of the first order of the print data based on the second order stored in the first image forming apparatus, which is the order in which the second image forming apparatus outputs the print data. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

10. The modification unit performs the modification of the first order of the print data based on the history of the modification process of the first order of the print data. The first image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

11. A second image forming apparatus, The authentication unit performs user authentication, If the authentication is successful, the print data acquisition unit acquires print data from the first image forming apparatus that acquired the print data from the terminal device or from the terminal device that transmitted the print data to the first image forming apparatus. A printing unit that prints the acquired print data, It has, In the print data acquired by the print data acquisition unit, the first sequence, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus outputs the print data, is modified based on the order in which the second image forming apparatus outputs the print data. Second image forming device.

12. A processing method performed by a first image forming apparatus, The terminal device retrieves the print data. The first order modification process is performed on the print data, which is the order in which the first image forming apparatus outputs the print data. The print data after the first order change process is performed is transmitted to the second image forming apparatus. Processing method.

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