Server system and method of controlling a server system

Abstract

A server system and a method of controlling the server system are disclosed. The server system according to the present application includes a publishing unit configured to publish a meeting identification (meeting ID), a storage unit configured to store the published meeting ID in association with a file, a first control unit configured to receive an instruction from a first user to display the file and display an operation of the first user on an image of the file for which the display instruction is issued on a display unit of an information processing apparatus operated by a second user, and a second control unit configured to display an icon to receive an instruction from the second user to print the file associated with the meeting ID in a state in which the user operation of the first user on the image of the file is shared with the information processing apparatus operated by the second user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a server system and a method for controlling the server system. Background Technology

[0002] One method for sharing a presentation screen at the presenter's location with a web conference screen at the audience's location, and for the audience to refer to the file displayed on the screen, is a known method of file sharing on a web conferencing system. In this method, a file opened locally by the presenter or on a shared server is selected and displayed from the web conferencing system. Further, in another file-sharing method, the file owner pre-uploads a file stored on a shared server or a local file to the system, and the audience downloads the uploaded file before or after the meeting to view it. Representative examples of web conferencing systems include Microsoft... and

[0003] In addition, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-198069 discusses a method in which members of a meeting upload documents related to the meeting to a web conferencing system to share the documents with other users participating in the meeting.

[0004] In a web conferencing system, members can reference and download files uploaded by other members. However, printing shared files requires downloading the file, opening it with an application different from the web conferencing system, and then issuing a print command.

[0005] Based on the above-mentioned problems, this application aims to provide a technology for receiving instructions to print files shared in a web conferencing system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a server system includes: a publishing unit configured to publish a conference identifier (conference ID); a storage unit configured to store the published conference ID and a file in association with each other; a first control unit configured to: receive an instruction from a first user to display a file, and display an image of the file to which the display instruction was issued by the first user on a display unit of an information processing device operated by a second user; and a second control unit configured to: display an icon for printing the file associated with the conference ID, together with the image of the file operated by the first user on the display unit of the information processing device operated by the second user.

[0007] Other features of the invention will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a client computer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a network configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of software block configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 4A This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen provided by a web conferencing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 4B This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen display using the channel function of a web conferencing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4C This is a diagram illustrating an example of an authentication screen for logging into a cloud printing service according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5A This is a flowchart illustrating the process of installing a printing plugin via an application button on a web conferencing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 5B This is a flowchart illustrating the process of installing a printing plugin via a chat or tab in a web conferencing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 5C This is a flowchart illustrating the collaborative processing between a printing plugin installed in a web conferencing system and a cloud printing service according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a table illustrating examples of file information managed by a cloud storage service according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a table illustrating an example of printer information managed by a cloud printing service according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 8A This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen provided by a printing plug-in according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 8B This is a diagram illustrating an example of a detailed printing settings screen provided by a printing plug-in according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 9AThis is an example diagram showing a web conference screen before the installation of the printing plug-in, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 9B This is a diagram illustrating an example of a web conference screen after the printer plug-in has been installed, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 9C This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed when printing is performed using a tabbed screen from a screen during a meeting, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9D This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed by a print plug-in server according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 10A This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed by a print plug-in server according to a third exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figure 10B This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing performed by a print plug-in server according to a third exemplary embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a table illustrating examples of meeting information stored on a web conferencing system according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the printing process via a cloud printing service according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed by a web conferencing system according to a second exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the processes performed by a web conferencing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] A first exemplary embodiment will now be described. Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the hardware configuration of a general-purpose computer (information processing device) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Unless otherwise stated, the present invention is obviously applicable to single-function systems, systems comprising multiple devices, and systems connected via a network to perform processing, as long as the functions of the present invention are performed. The client computer 100 includes... Figure 1 The system shown will be described in detail.

[0033] The central processing unit (CPU) 101 controls the entire device based on a program stored in the read-only memory (ROM) 1021, random access memory (RAM) 1022, or auxiliary storage device 105 of the main storage device 102.

[0034] RAM 1022 is also used by CPU 101 as a workspace to perform various types of processing. Secondary storage device 105 stores operating system (OS) 1054, applications 1051, device applications 1052, and printer drivers 1053. Hereinafter, primary storage device 102 and secondary storage device 105 are collectively referred to as storage devices.

[0035] Input devices such as keyboard 108 and pointing devices 109 (e.g., mouse or touchpad) are connected via input interface (input I / F) 103 and used by the user to issue various commands to client computer 100. Additionally, input devices such as camera 110 and microphone 111 are also connected via input I / F 103. For camera 110 and microphone 111, client computer 100 may include image capture and sound collection functions.

[0036] The output interface (output I / F) 104 is an interface for outputting data to output devices such as the monitor 112.

[0037] Communication with external systems is established via network 150 through communication interface (communication I / F) 106. Furthermore, data is exchanged between the I / F and modules via system bus 107, which serves as a shared data system bus. Additionally, CPU 101 executes processing based on a program stored in a storage device, thereby implementing the processing of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a network configuration diagram illustrating a simplified environment of network 150 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Client computer A 100 and printer 200 are connected to network 150 (on the same intranet) and can communicate with each other. Furthermore, client computer B 203 and printer 201, connected to another intranet, are connected via the Internet. Web conferencing system 300, cloud storage service 400, cloud printing service 500, and print plug-in server 600 are connected to network 150.

[0039] The web conferencing system 300 is a server system comprising one or more information processing devices. The web conferencing system 300 provides applications that run on client computer A 100. The web conferencing system 300 can be accessed from client computer 100 and can run on a web browser to provide online conferencing services. The web conferencing system 300 uses a user identifier (user ID) and password to manage accounts. Users access the web conferencing system 300 and enter their user ID and password. The web conferencing system 300 authenticates users so that they can use the web conferencing system 300 using their accounts. The web conferencing system 300 provides online conferencing functionality using video calls and chat. Users who have not registered an account with the web conferencing system 300 can use the web conferencing service by receiving meeting invitations from users who have registered accounts.

[0040] Cloud storage service 400 is a server system comprising one or more information processing devices. Cloud storage service 400 is a storage service configured on the server system. Cloud storage service 400 can connect to various intranets and can be accessed via the Internet from client computers A100 and 203. Cloud storage service 400 manages accounts. To access cloud storage service 400, users enter the cloud storage service 400's ID and password and send a login request to cloud storage service 400 to log in.

[0041] Users can upload and download files to and from the cloud storage service 400. Furthermore, files uploaded to the cloud storage service 400 can be shared with other users. Users can set viewing, editing, and download restrictions for uploaded files. These restrictions can be set for each user or for each group of multiple users.

[0042] Cloud printing service 500 is a printing system including one or more information processing devices. In this exemplary embodiment, cloud printing service 500 can be connected to client computer A100, printer 200, client computer 203, and printer 201 via the Internet. Cloud printing service 500 uses a user ID and password to manage accounts. A user accesses cloud printing service 500, enters their user ID and password, and sends an authentication request to cloud printing service 500, thereby performing user authentication processing. After user authentication is completed, the user can use the account to use cloud printing service 500.

[0043] Print plugin server 600 is a server system including one or more information processing devices. Print plugin server 600 can cooperate with cloud printing service 500 to provide printing functionality to web conferencing system 300. Users install a print plugin into web conferencing system 300 to use print plugin server 600. As a result of installing the print plugin into web conferencing system 300, a printing user interface (printing UI) is added to the user interface (UI) of web conferencing system 300. Users operate the added printing UI to send processing instructions to print plugin server 600, and print plugin server 600, upon receiving the instruction, performs printing processing through cloud printing service 500.

[0044] In this exemplary embodiment, single sign-on technology is used to access the web conferencing system 300, cloud storage service 400, and cloud printing service 500. This enables access to each service using an account used for the web conferencing system 300.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a software configuration diagram illustrating the components of a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Each software block is implemented by the CPU of the information processing device of each service, server, or apparatus executing a program stored in memory.

[0046] The web conferencing system 300 includes services such as business charting and video calling via the Internet, and various functions can be added to the web conferencing system 300. In this exemplary embodiment, the web conferencing system 300 includes the functions of a web conferencing account management unit 301, a storage account information management unit 302, a file management unit 303, an additional function management unit 304, a print information management unit 305, and a web conferencing control unit 306.

[0047] The web conferencing account management unit 301 manages user information (ID, password, and other settings) registered in the web conferencing system 300. The web conferencing account management unit 301 uses the information entered by the user for authentication to log in to the web conferencing system 300. Furthermore, the web conferencing account management unit 301 updates its internal information when the user changes their settings.

[0048] The storage account information management unit 302 manages account information used to access the cloud storage service 400 from the web conferencing system 300. The storage account information management unit 302 stores the account information of the web conferencing system 300 in association with the token used to access the cloud storage service 400.

[0049] The file management unit 303 manages access information about the cloud storage service 400 or about files within the cloud storage service 400, and modifies and manages access information for each user or group. Furthermore, the file management unit 303 also manages access information to the file storage of the web conferencing system 300.

[0050] The additional function management unit 304 displays applications that can be installed into the web conferencing system 300, receives installation requests, and manages the installed applications. The additional function management unit 304 adds the installed applications to the web conferencing system 300 and invokes their functions. The additional function management unit 304 stores a list file of additional functions that can be used in the web conferencing system 300. When a user selects a function to use, information for accessing the list file is stored in association with the user.

[0051] The print information management unit 305 manages access information (e.g., the Universal Resource Locator (URL) of the connection destination), registered users in the cloud printing service 500, and printer queue information to which the print plug-in server 600 is connected. Furthermore, the print information management unit 305 manages user information (ID and password) used when connecting to the cloud printing service 500. Although the web conferencing system 300 includes the print information management unit 305 in this exemplary embodiment, similar information may be stored in the print plug-in server 600.

[0052] The web conferencing control unit 306 enables users to chat, share screens, and change interfaces during web conferencing. Furthermore, based on meeting schedule settings or meeting start commands from logged-in users, the web conferencing control unit 306 issues a meeting ID to identify the web conferencing and a URL for joining the web conferencing.

[0053] The cloud storage service 400 is a file storage / sharing service prepared on the cloud. In this exemplary embodiment, the cloud storage service 400 includes the functions of a storage account management unit 401, an access information management unit 402, and a file storage unit 403.

[0054] The storage account management unit 401 manages user information (ID, password, and settings such as permission settings) registered in the cloud storage service 400. The user information is used to check the consistency of the information entered to log in to the cloud storage service 400, and the storage account management unit 401 updates the internal information when the user changes the settings.

[0055] Access information management unit 402 can set access permissions for another user or service to cloud storage service 400. Furthermore, access information management unit 402 sets user access permissions for files stored in file storage 403 and publishes shared URLs. (See reference...) Figure 6 This describes the information managed by the access information management unit 402.

[0056] File storage 403 stores files uploaded by users to cloud storage service 400.

[0057] Cloud printing service 500 is a service located in the cloud via the Internet, providing printing-related functions. In this exemplary embodiment, cloud printing service 500 includes the functions of a print account management unit 501, a printer management unit 502, a configuration filter 503, a graphic filter 504, and a job management unit 505. Furthermore, these functions can also be implemented on another cloud printing service that collaborates with cloud printing service 500.

[0058] The print account management unit 501 manages user information (ID, password, group / tenant information about the user's group or tenant, and information about permissions) for each user registered in the cloud printing service 500. This user information is used to check the consistency of the information entered by the user to log in to the cloud printing service 500 and to update internal information if the user changes their settings. Additionally, the print plug-in server 600 uses the group / tenant information when retrieving printer queue information.

[0059] Upon receiving a printer registration instruction from a virtual device application installed on a device or client terminal supporting cloud printing service 500, printer management unit 502 generates a printer queue and registers the generated printer queue. The registered printer queue is associated with printer identification information, and attributes such as printer location are added to and managed within the registered printer queue.

[0060] In addition, a list of printer information is generated based on user information and other information registered in the printer queue of the user's group or tenant.

[0061] Configuration filter 503 generates a print job based on the detailed settings data received by cloud printing service 500. Additionally, graphic filter 504 converts the print job into an appropriate format.

[0062] The job management unit 505 manages print jobs received from the print plug-in server 600. Received jobs are previously stored in a virtual printer queue (storage domain), and the job management unit 505, based on the output destination information received from the print plug-in server 600, copies the job to the corresponding printer queue and sends the print job to the appropriate printer. Optionally, the job management unit 505 uses a configuration filter 503 or a graphic filter 504 to convert standby print jobs in the virtual printer queue (storage domain) into an appropriate format, copies the resulting print jobs to the corresponding printer queue, and sends the print jobs. Furthermore, the job management unit 505 also manages the print target data, detailed settings data, and directory information (filename and print time / date).

[0063] Service Collaboration Information Management Unit 506 manages information about another cloud printing service that collaborates with Cloud Printing Service 500.

[0064] The cloud printing service 500 stores pre-registered user information and printer information. Figure 7A This example illustrates printer information registered with Cloud Printing Service 500. In addition to printer name data, printer ID data, registrant data, and status data, job acceptance capability information and operational status information are also registered and managed as printer information. Registration information can be changed by accessing the Cloud Printing Service 500 webpage, or by using a web application programming interface (API). Furthermore, Cloud Printing Service 500 includes tables that associate each user with their respective tenant, such as... Figure 7B As shown. For example, printer A is a printer registered with Luis who has logged into cloud printing service 500 and is available to users belonging to tenant A. More specifically, Daniela and Michael, who belong to tenant A, can access cloud printing service 500 and can send print jobs to printer A. On the other hand, even if Joe, who does not belong to tenant A, logs into cloud printing service 500, Joe cannot send print jobs from printer A to cloud printing service 500. Furthermore, printer B is also a printer registered with Luis who has accessed cloud printing service 500. Because printer B is not shared with tenants, users other than Luis cannot send print jobs from printer B to cloud printing service 500.

[0065] The print plug-in server 600 provides printing functionality to the web conferencing system 300 so that printing can be performed via the cloud printing service 500. In this exemplary embodiment, the print plug-in server 600 includes the functions of a file operation unit 601, a data input unit 602, a UI generation / operation receiving unit 603, and a cloud printing service collaboration management unit 604.

[0066] The file operation unit 601 obtains the target file from the cloud storage service 400 or the web conferencing system 300, from which a print command is issued by the print UI displayed on the web conferencing system 300.

[0067] The data input unit 602 sends all detailed settings data and user information received via the printing UI, printer queue information, and files obtained from the cloud storage service 400 to the cloud printing service 500.

[0068] The UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays a printing UI on the web conferencing system 300. The UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays a UI for obtaining printer queue and file information (filename and owner) from the cloud printing service 500, and receives detailed settings, printer queues, and file selections from the user. Furthermore, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays a UI for collaborating with the cloud printing service 500, and receives collaboration information including user information (ID and password).

[0069] The cloud printing service collaboration management unit 604 sends collaboration information to the cloud printing service 500 to collaborate with the cloud printing service 500, and sends the collaboration information, user information registered in the cloud printing service 500, and printer queue information to the print information management unit 305.

[0070] The details of this exemplary embodiment will be described below. First, reference will be made to... Figure 4A This describes the steps for starting a web conference. The user accesses the web conferencing system 300 using a web conferencing application or web browser installed on the client computer 100. The user enters a user ID and password to send an authentication request to the web conferencing system 300. Upon successful authentication by the web conferencing system 300, the following is displayed: Figure 4A The screen shown is as follows. Menu bar 310 displays the menu items of the web conferencing system 300. Icon 311 is used to display new information. When icon 311 is selected, area 319 displays unread messages sent to the user and meeting information about the meeting the user is attending. Icon 312 is used to display the chat screen. When the user selects icon 312, a screen is displayed for selecting a chat partner from the users or teams displayed in area 318. The user selects a chat partner and chats with the selected partner using area 319.

[0071] Icon 314 is used to display the schedule. When a user selects icon 314, area 319 displays the schedules of the user and other users belonging to the same team. The user selects a meeting time from the schedules of the users attending the meeting, enters the meeting details, and sets the schedule. In response to the user's meeting schedule settings, a meeting ID is published. The web conferencing system 300 stores the published meeting ID in association with the user IDs of the users who have already set the meeting schedule and the user IDs of each participating member. After a user schedules a meeting, a meeting invitation email is sent to each user set as a meeting participant. The meeting invitation email contains the URL for attending the meeting, the meeting ID, and the meeting date and time. Each user set as a participant accesses the URL specified in the invitation email to join the web meeting. Meeting invitations can be sent using the chat or publish tab of a channel.

[0072] In addition, users acting as the meeting host and participating users can upload files to the web conferencing system 300 in advance. Users select the web meeting schedule in which they will use the files from the timetable. A screen displaying meeting details is then displayed. The screen shows the meeting date and time, URL, participating members, and an upload button for uploading files. Users select the upload button and then choose the file to upload. Users then set permissions for other users on that file. Permissions include download and print permissions. The value "Download" indicates whether users participating in the web meeting are allowed to download the file. The value "Print" indicates whether users participating in the web meeting are allowed to print the file. Setting permissions and uploading files thus registers the meeting ID and files of the web meeting in a mutually related manner within the web conferencing system 300.

[0073] Files registered in the cloud storage service 400 can be used in meetings. To use a file registered in the cloud storage service 400, the web meeting ID and the file URL are associated with each other.

[0074] Figure 11This is the meeting information table stored in the web conferencing system 300. The meeting ID (as meeting identification information), the meeting URL required to participate in the web conference, the meeting date and time, the host information for registered meeting hosts, and the meeting participant information are registered in the meeting information table. Furthermore, when a host or participating user registers files for the meeting, the URL for accessing the file, file download permissions, and file print permissions are registered as file information. The registered URL is the URL used to access files uploaded to the web conferencing system 300 or the URL used to access files selected for use in the meeting and stored in the cloud storage service 400. Download permissions are specified by 1 or 0. A value of "1" indicates that users participating in the meeting are allowed to download files. A value of "0" indicates that users participating in the meeting are not allowed to download files. The value "Print" indicates whether printing files used in the meeting is allowed using the print plugin server 600. A value of "1" indicates that printing using the print plugin server 600 is allowed. A value of "0" indicates that printing using the print plugin server 600 is not allowed.

[0075] Additional descriptions will be provided regarding cases where files stored in cloud storage service 400 are registered as files for use in the meeting.

[0076] Figure 6 This refers to file information stored in file storage 403 of the cloud storage service 400. File information stores the filename, creator, data size, and update date / time as file attributes. Additionally, the file sharing scope is set. Examples of sharing scope options include "Creator Only," "Only the Creator's Team," "Specified Team Only," and "Allow All Members to Access the File." Access permissions specify the actions allowed for users sharing the file. The "Read" attribute indicates whether reading the file is allowed. The "Download" attribute indicates whether downloading the file is allowed. The "Write" attribute indicates whether writing to the file on the cloud storage service 400 is allowed. The "Print" attribute indicates whether printing the file is allowed. If the file stored in the cloud storage service 400 will be used for web conferencing, the permissions set at the cloud storage service 400 can be used to configure whether downloading and printing are allowed.

[0077] The above describes the process from users setting up web conference schedules to uploading documents used in the web conference.

[0078] Next, we will describe how to print uploaded documents for web conferencing using the print plugin server 600.

[0079] To use the print plugin server 600, users need to install the plugins provided by the print plugin server 600 on the web conferencing system 300. The following will refer to... Figure 5A and Figure 5B Describe the steps for installing the printing plugin.

[0080] Figure 5A This illustrates the process of a user logging into the web conferencing system 300 and installing a printer plugin. The CPU of the information processing unit of the web conferencing system 300 executes... Figure 5A The processing shown. Figure 5A The process shown begins when a user logs into the web conferencing system 300.

[0081] In step S1001, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays... Figure 4A The main screen shown. In step S1002, the network conferencing control unit 306 detects the user's selection of the icon 317 displayed in the menu bar 310.

[0082] In step S1003, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays an application category list screen in area 318 of the network conferencing system 300's screen. The category list screen displays a list of category groups for functions registered in the additional function management unit 304 and that can be added to the network conferencing system 300. Category groups for functions that can be added include "Personal," functions such as "Messages," "Robotics," "Tabs," and "Connectors," as well as "Popular" and "Latest." In step S1004, the network conferencing control unit 306 detects a category selection. In step S1005, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays the application list of the selected category in area 319.

[0083] In step S1006, the network conferencing control unit 306 detects the selection of a printer plug-in from the application list displayed in area 319. In step S1007, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays a dialog box or modal dialog box displaying an application description and an install button. In step S1008, the network conferencing control unit 306 detects the installation button being pressed. Then, in step S1009, the network conferencing control unit 306 performs the process of installing the printer plug-in. The additional function management unit 304 of the network conferencing system 300 stores a list file of additional applications that can be used in the network conferencing system 300. The list file describes the applications provided to the network conferencing system 300. Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 9AThe manifest file includes icons for the screen. It also describes information used to display the UI via the printing plugin. Furthermore, the manifest file describes the URL as the destination for notifications of scheduled operations. Notifications are sent when scheduled operations are performed on applications on the web conferencing system 300. The manifest file also describes the content of the notification given to the URL. Users install additional applications on the web conferencing system 300, associating their user ID with the information used to access the manifest file on the web conferencing system 300. This allows the additional applications to be used when a user logs into the web conferencing system 300.

[0084] After installation, in step S1010, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays additional buttons in the application running area. In this way, new application buttons are added to the menu bar 310 of the network conferencing system 300 or to other function buttons 316. Furthermore, based on the installed application, buttons are added to the chat input bar, tabs, and / or message bar of the network conferencing system 300. For example, in the case of a printing plugin, a button is added for issuing a command to print using the printing plugin, such as... Figure 9B Icons 327 and 328 in the image.

[0085] When installing the application, the scope of users to whom the application is registered in the Additional Functions Management Unit 304 is set. One of the following scopes is set: "Only the user who issued the application installation command" or "The team / channel to which the user who issued the application installation command belongs." With the "team / channel to which the user who issued the application installation command belongs" scope set, the web conferencing control unit 306 displays a screen for setting the application's scope after installation. The user selects either "User only" or "User's channel / team" and sets the application's scope. If the user's channel is selected, users other than the user who issued the application installation command can use the application in meetings associated with that channel.

[0086] The following method is another way to install applications from the Additional Functions Management Unit 304. (Refer to...) Figure 5B Describe another installation method. In this method, the application is installed from a screen shared by the logged-in user's team.

[0087] In step S1102, the network conferencing control unit 306 detects the pair Figure 4A The icon 313 in the middle is pressed. In step S1103, as shown on the team / channel selection screen 320, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays a list of teams to which the logged-in user belongs and the channels associated with those teams.

[0088] In step S1105, the network conferencing control unit 306 receives a channel selection. If no channel exists for which the user wishes to install the printer plugin, the user selects from... Figure 4B The screen shown generates a new channel.

[0089] In step S1107, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays the channel screen in area 319 of the screen. The channel screen displays information associated with the selected channel and includes content selected from tab area 321. The "Post" button in tab area 321 is used to display posts made by users who follow the channel. The "File" button is used to display a list of files shared in the channel. Icon 322 is an icon for installing an application that can be shared and used by all users belonging to the channel.

[0090] In step S1108, the web conferencing control unit 306 detects the selection of icon 322 on the tab. In step S1109, the web conferencing control unit 306 displays a list of applications that can be installed in the channel. The displayed applications are those registered in the additional function management unit 304, and any user in the channel can use them after installation. In other words, after a user belonging to the channel installs an application, any user can use the installed application during web conferences belonging to that channel.

[0091] In step S1110, the network conferencing control unit 306 receives a selection of a printer plug-in from the application list. In step S1111, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays an installation screen including a description of the printer plug-in and an install button. In step S1112, the network conferencing control unit 306 receives a selection of the install button. In step S1113, the network conferencing control unit 306 processes the installation of the printer plug-in. In step S1114, the network conferencing control unit 306 adds a printer plug-in item to the tab.

[0092] Another method of installation is through the chat window. The application can be installed from the function expansion button 323 displayed in the application bar of the chat input field on the channel's chat screen. When the web conferencing system 300 detects that the function expansion button 323 has been pressed, only the application associated with the chat is displayed, and steps S1110 to S1113 are executed sequentially to install the print plugin. As described above, the application can be installed from the team screen, allowing any user belonging to the team to use the application. Furthermore, although the method of installation from the channel screen has been described above, the application can also be installed from the chat screen opened by icon 328 in the web conferencing system 300.

[0093] Install a printing plugin before the web conference to display a button on the web conference screen for issuing a print command.

[0094] Figure 9A This example illustrates a web conference screen displayed on a client computer without the printer plugin installed. The web conference screen is displayed when a user accesses the published conference URL. Shared screen 325 displays the content of files shared by participating users and images taken by the cameras of the clients' terminals. Participants can interact with the images of the files displayed on shared screen 325. These interactions are shared with other participants, allowing them to view the actions being performed. Toolbar 347 displays icons for distributing or not distributing audio output, distributing or not distributing camera images, and showing or hiding the chat bar 326. For example, when icon 348 is selected, the chat bar 326 appears on the screen. When icon 349 is selected, a list of members is displayed on the screen. To display an uploaded document on shared screen 325, the user selects icon 340. The user selects the file to display on shared screen 325 from the list of uploaded documents and the screen displayed on their client terminal, thus sharing the screen displaying the selected file with the members.

[0095] Figure 9B An example of a web conference screen after the printing plugin is installed is shown. After installation, icons 327 and 328 are added to the toolbar on the shared screen 325 or the function area on the chat area 326. Users can select icons 327 or 328 to print files shared during the web conference. (See reference...) Figure 14 Describe the processing of icons 327 and 328 displayed in the web conferencing system 300. Figure 14 Each step in the process is executed by a module of the web conferencing system 300.

[0096] In step S1801, the network conferencing control unit 306 receives a command to display the network conferencing screen. In step S1802, the network conferencing control unit 306 displays... Figure 9A The image shows a screenshot of a web conference. In step S1803, the web conference control unit 306 determines whether to allow the logged-in user to use the printer plugin. The web conference system 300 stores a table that associates user IDs with allowed applications. The web conference control unit 306 refers to this table to determine whether to allow the user to use the printer plugin.

[0097] If the web conferencing control unit 306 determines that the user is not allowed to use the printer plug-in (No in step S1803), the process proceeds to step S1804. In step S1804, the web conferencing control unit 306 determines whether the channel associated with the meeting the user is attending is allowed to use the printer plug-in. The web conferencing system 300 stores the association between meeting IDs and channels. The web conferencing control unit 306 refers to this association and identifies the channel associated with the web conferencing the user is attending. Furthermore, the web conferencing system 300 stores a table in which channels are associated with applications that allow the use of those channels. The web conferencing control unit 306 determines whether the identified channel is associated with the printer plug-in.

[0098] If the user ID is associated with the print plugin, or if the print plugin is associated with a channel associated with the conference ID ("Yes" in step S1804), the process proceeds to step S1805. In step S1805, the network conference control unit 306 adds icons 327 and 328 to the network conference screen and displays the network conference screen with the added icons 327 and 328. As described above, as a result of installing the print plugin, icons 327 and 328 for using the print plugin server 600 are displayed on the network conference screen.

[0099] The description will cover the process of using a printing plugin installed in the web conferencing system 300 to instruct the cloud printing service 500 to perform printing. Figure 5C This is a flowchart illustrating the processes performed by the print plugin server 600 for collaboration between the print plugin and the cloud printing service 500. The flowchart is executed periodically the first time icon 327 or 328 is selected after the print plugin is installed.

[0100] In step S1301, the additional function management unit 304 displays... Figure 4C The authentication screen shown. When the additional function management unit 304 detects the selection of the print button, it notifies the print plug-in server 600 of this selection. The print plug-in server 600 then sends an authentication request to the cloud printing service 500. The cloud printing service 500 will then use this request to display... Figure 4C The URL of the authentication screen is sent to the print plugin server 600. The print plugin server 600 then sends the URL of the cloud printing service 500 to the additional function management unit 304 of the web conferencing service. The additional function management unit 304 accesses the URL of the notification to display the authentication screen.

[0101] exist Figure 4C The authentication screen shown displays area 610 for entering account information (ID and password) for the cloud printing service 500 as the connection destination. This information can be displayed... Figure 4CThe screen previously displayed allowed users to select the cloud printing service 500 to use. The print plugin server 600 then sends an authentication request to the selected cloud printing service 500, thus displaying... Figure 4C The screen shown can display multiple cloud printing services 500 as connection destinations, and the user can select the cloud printing service 500 to use. In this case, the print plug-in server 600 stores access destination information such as the URL of the cloud printing service 500 and sends the authentication request to the access destination associated with the selected cloud printing service 500.

[0102] In step S1302, the additional function management unit 304 receives the user ID and password input.

[0103] In step S1303, the additional function management unit 304 detects the selection of the allow button 611 after the input of the item is completed.

[0104] In step S1304, the additional function management unit 304 sends the input information and authentication request to the cloud printing service 500. The cloud printing service 500 performs authentication processing based on the received content and receives the authentication result. If authentication is successful, the cloud printing service 500 notifies the print plugin server 600 of the access token. The print plugin server 600 stores the user ID of the web conferencing system 300 and the access token obtained from the cloud printing service 500 in an associated manner. Thereafter, the print plugin server 600 uses the access token associated with the user using the web conferencing system 300 to access the cloud printing service 500.

[0105] This process is executed the first time the print button is selected after the print plugin is installed. A second or subsequent access to the cloud printing service (500 error) is performed using the acquired access token, thus preventing this process from being executed. Figure 5C The process shown is executed. Figure 9D The process is shown in the diagram. However, if authentication fails using the access token stored in the print plugin service, the print plugin server 600 executes again. Figure 5C The processing shown.

[0106] In addition, when the print button is selected, the following actions are performed. Figure 5C The processing shown. Figure 5C The process shown can be performed when the print plugin installation is complete.

[0107] The following will describe the process after completing the 500 certification for the cloud printing service.

[0108] Figure 9D This is a flowchart illustrating the processes performed after authentication with the cloud printing service 500 is completed. Figure 9DThe processing shown is achieved through the operation of the module of the print plug-in server 600.

[0109] In step S1601, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 obtains the user ID of the user who selected the print button and the meeting ID of the meeting the user is attending from the additional function management unit 304 of the web conferencing system 300.

[0110] In step S1602, the file operation unit 601 retrieves file information associated with the meeting ID obtained in step S1601 from the web conferencing system 300. This file information may include, for example, the filename and the username of the user who uploaded the file. Information other than the above may also be retrieved, such as the file upload date / time and page number. The web conferencing system 300 references the request from the print plug-in server 600. Figure 11 The table shown identifies the files associated with the meeting ID and permitted for printing. The web conferencing system 300 then sends information about the identified files to the print plugin server 600. In step S1602, information about files associated with the meeting ID can be sent to the print plugin server 600 without considering file permissions. In this case, after issuing a print command, the file operation unit 601 determines whether printing the file is permitted when retrieving it from the web conferencing system 300 or the cloud storage service 400. If printing is permitted, the file operation unit 601 sends the acquired data to the data input unit 602 and continues the printing process. If printing is not permitted, the file operation unit 601 provides an error notification and controls the process to prevent printing.

[0111] Next, in step S1603, the cloud printing service collaboration management unit 604 accesses the cloud printing service 500 and obtains printer information for users with the user ID obtained in step S1601. In step S1603, the cloud printing service collaboration management unit 604 uses an authentication token associated with the user ID obtained in step S1601 to access the cloud printing service 500. Then, it obtains printer information registered in the cloud printing service 500 associated with the user authenticated using the authentication token. The printer information notified to the cloud printing service collaboration management unit 604 in step S1603 is either printer information associated with the authenticated user or printer information shared by the user's tenant or team.

[0112] In step S1604, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 uses the file information obtained from the web conferencing system 300 to generate a print file selection screen, and displays the generated print file selection screen on the web conferencing system 300. Figure 9BThe screen displayed in area 329 is shown. Area 329 is the screen displayed by the print plugin, showing a list 331 of selectable files as the files to be printed. The user can select the print file by selecting checkbox 330. Area 332 is the area for selecting the printer as the print data output destination. Area 332 displays the printer information obtained from the cloud printing service 500 in step S1603. Button 333 is the button for setting detailed print settings. Button 334 is the button for issuing a print command. When displaying printer information in step S1604, printer information can be displayed only for printers near the user's current location using the user's location information.

[0113] In this exemplary embodiment, region 329 displays a list of files stored in association with a meeting ID. Files can be filtered to display only those uploaded in response to the meeting information guide.

[0114] In addition, each file that is not allowed to be printed in the files displayed in area 329 can be grayed out to be unselectable.

[0115] In step S1605, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 determines whether button 333 is selected. If the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 determines that button 333 is selected (yes in step S1605), the process proceeds to step S1606. On the other hand, if the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 determines that button 333 is not selected (no in step S1605), the process proceeds to step S1608.

[0116] In step S1606, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays... Figure 8B The image shows the detailed print settings screen. On this screen, users can configure layout settings such as original size and binding settings, duplex printing settings, and binding settings. The detailed print settings screen can display only the common detailed settings items of the cloud printing service 500 to allow user selection. Furthermore, the cloud printing service 500 can communicate with each printer to obtain printer capability information and can send this information to the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603, enabling the generation and display of detailed settings applied to the printer capability information.

[0117] Although the print detail settings screen is used to set print settings in this exemplary embodiment, some of the settings that can be set on the print detail settings screen can be set in area 329.

[0118] In step S1607, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 determines whether it has been selected. Figure 8BButton 335 on the print detail settings screen is shown. When button 335 is selected ("Yes" in step S1607), the data input unit 602 stores the information set on the print detail settings screen and hides the print detail settings screen. Therefore, the display... Figure 9B The screen shown is displayed. Then, the process returns to step S1605.

[0119] Next, in step S1608, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 determines whether region 332 has been selected. If region 332 has been selected (yes in step S1608), the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays a list of available printers for printing based on the printer information obtained in step S1603. The user can select a printer from the printer list for printing.

[0120] In step S1609, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 receives the printer selection from the user and changes the name of the printer displayed in area 332. Afterward, the process returns to step S1605.

[0121] In step S1610, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 determines whether a selection of button 334 has been received from the user. If button 334 is not selected ("No" in step S1610), the process returns to step S1605. On the other hand, if button 334 is selected ("Yes" in step S1610), the process proceeds to step S1611.

[0122] In step S1611, the file operation unit 601 accesses the cloud storage service 400 or the web conferencing system 300 and retrieves the file to which the print command was issued. If the file to which the print command was issued is stored in the cloud storage service 400, the file operation unit 601 retrieves the file from the cloud storage service 400. Conversely, if the file to which the print command was issued is uploaded to the web conferencing system 300, the file operation unit 601 retrieves the file from the web conferencing system 300. If file retrieval fails in step S1611, the file operation unit 601 receives an error notification from the cloud storage service 400. The UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays the error notification screen on the web conferencing screen.

[0123] In this exemplary embodiment, files uploaded to the web conferencing system 300 are stored in the web conferencing system 300's memory. Alternatively, when a file is uploaded to the web conferencing system 300, the file management unit 303 can send the file to the cloud storage service 400 for storage. In this case, the file operation unit 601 of the print plug-in server 600 accesses the cloud storage service 400 without accessing the web conferencing system 300, and retrieves the file for which the print command was issued.

[0124] In step S1612, the data input unit 602 generates print data based on the file obtained from the web conferencing system 300 or the cloud storage service 400 and the print settings stored in step S1607, and sends the generated print data to the cloud printing service 500.

[0125] Then, the print plug-in server 600 terminates the process. In the exemplary embodiment described above, the print plug-in server 600 displays... Figure 9B The area shown is 329. Alternatively, if icon 327 or 328 is selected, Figure 8A The print plugin screen shown can be displayed as a modal dialog box or a pop-up window. Figure 8A The image shown has the same Figure 9B The configuration of region 329 is similar, thus its redundant description is omitted. Furthermore, the display can be selected based on the user-selected icon. Figure 8A The screen shown is still displaying Figure 9B The screen shown. For example, it can be displayed when the user selects icon 328. Figure 8A The screen shown can be displayed when icon 327 is selected. Figure 9B The image shown.

[0126] Reference Figure 12 Describes the process from maintaining print data in the cloud printing service 500 to printing the retained print data. Figure 12 The processing shown is performed by a module of the cloud printing service 500.

[0127] The cloud printing service 500, having received print data from the print plug-in server 600, stores the print data in association with the user's account information. The user logs into the cloud printing service 500 using the operating unit of printer 201. The following process begins with the cloud printing service 500 receiving print data from the print plug-in server 600.

[0128] In step S1701, the job management unit 505 receives the print data generated in step S1612 and the token for user authentication from the print plug-in server 600.

[0129] In step S1702, the job management unit 505 stores print data in association with a user ID identified by a token used for authentication.

[0130] Next, in step S1703, the print account management unit 501 determines whether an authentication request has been received from the printer 201. The print account management unit 501 receives the user ID and password or an authentication token from the printer 201 and performs user authentication.

[0131] In step S1704, the print account management unit 501 determines whether authentication was successful. If authentication fails ("No" in step S1704), the process proceeds to S1705. In step S1705, the print account management unit 501 notifies the printer 201 of an error. The printer 201 displays the error on the display unit.

[0132] On the other hand, if authentication is successful ("Yes" in step S1704), the process proceeds to step S1706. In step S1706, the job management unit 505 sends information to the printer 201 about the print data associated with the authenticated user's user ID and held in the print queue of the printer that sent the authentication request. The information sent to the printer 201 includes the filename of the print data and the input date and time of the print data entered into the cloud printing service 500. Based on the information obtained from the cloud printing service 500, the printer 201 displays a list of printable files on the display unit and receives the user's selection of the file to be printed.

[0133] In step S1707, the job management unit 505 determines whether a print instruction has been received from the printer 201. If no print instruction has been received ("No" in step S1707), the job management unit 505 continues processing step S1707. On the other hand, if a print instruction has been received ("Yes" in step S1707), processing proceeds to step S1708. In step S1708, the graphics filter 504 and the configuration filter 503 convert the print data into a format that can be interpreted by the destination printer. Then, in step S1709, the job management unit 505 sends the print data to the printer 201. In step S1710, the job management unit 505 determines whether a print completion notification has been received from the printer 201. If no print completion notification has been received ("No" in step S1710), the job management unit 505 continues processing in step S1710. On the other hand, if a print completion notification has been received ("Yes" in step S1710), processing proceeds to step S1711. In step S1711, the job management unit 505 deletes the print data held in the cloud print service 500. Then, the process of printing the print data held in the cloud print service 500 ends.

[0134] from Figure 4B The system that issues print commands via the screen tabs shown is another possible printing method during a meeting in the web conferencing system 300. During the meeting... Figure 9A When icon 313 is selected on the screen shown, the shared screen 325 is shrunk, and as shown... Figure 9C The screen shown is the team / channel selection screen 320 and the tab bar 321. With the print plugin installed, "Print Plugin" 350 is added to the tab section. When the user selects "Print Plugin" 350, the following is displayed: Figure 9C The printer plug-in screen shown is displayed. The printer plug-in screen displays the output generated in step S1401. Figure 8A The printing order is the same, following steps S1402 to S1405.

[0135] As described above, the print plugin service is installed in the web conferencing system 300, allowing users to print documents for the web conference they are attending from the web conference screen.

[0136] In the first exemplary embodiment, printing from a web conference screen is described. In the second exemplary embodiment, printing via... Figure 4B The example shown illustrates uploading and printing files for a meeting via the channel screen. This allows for printing files associated with a web conference before or after the conference, even when no web conference is being held.

[0137] In the web conferencing system 300, when user A sets the meeting schedule, the "Publish" tab on the channel screen will display... Figure 13 The meeting notification 700 is used in the meeting system. Users who are channel members can upload files used in the meeting to the web conferencing system 300 by selecting meeting notification 700 and then selecting icon 701.

[0138] When the user selects icon 701, a screen is displayed for selecting the file to upload from the client computer or cloud storage service 400. When the user selects the file to print and selects icon 704, information about the uploaded file is displayed as shown in area 702. Area 702 displays the file name and a link for accessing the file.

[0139] When the user selects icon 703, the available operations for the uploaded file are displayed. If the print plugin is installed, "Print" is displayed as the file operation. When the user selects "Print," the additional function management unit 304 sends a notification to the print plugin server 600 and displays... Figure 8A The image shown.

[0140] Subsequent processing is similar to that in the first exemplary embodiment, therefore its redundant description is omitted. As described above, documents associated with a web conference can be referenced even when no web conference is being held, thus allowing documents used in a web conference to be printed even when no web conference is being held.

[0141] Although the cloud printing service 500 is used in the first exemplary embodiment, there may be situations where a user performs local printing using a print driver installed on client computer 100 or 203. The third exemplary embodiment relates to a technology that allows a user to use either a printer registered in the cloud printing service 500 or a printer with a local print queue on client computer 100 or 203 when printing using a print plug-in.

[0142] In a third exemplary embodiment, when an instruction to print a document is issued, the following is displayed: Figure 10A The print plugin screen is shown below. At this point, in addition to the printers registered in the cloud printing service 500, area 332 also displays "Local Printer". The "Local Printer" button is used to download files, open downloaded files, and print them.

[0143] Figure 10B This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of a print plug-in server 600 according to a third exemplary embodiment. Figure 10BThe processing shown is performed by a module of the print plug-in server 600. Redundant descriptions of points similar to those in the first exemplary embodiment are omitted.

[0144] In step S1604, the UI generation / operation receiving unit 603 displays a list containing printer information obtained from the cloud printing service 500 and the "local printer".

[0145] In step S1613, the file operation unit 601 determines whether the file output destination is a "local printer". If the selected printer is not a local printer ("No" in step S1613), the process proceeds to step S1612. On the other hand, if the file operation unit 601 determines that the selected printer is a "local printer" ("Yes" in step S1613), the process proceeds to step S1614. In step S1614, the data input unit 602 refers to the permissions of the acquired file and determines whether downloading is allowed. If downloading is allowed ("Yes" in step S1614), the process proceeds to step S1615. In step S1615, the data input unit 602 downloads the file to the client computer 100 or 203. On the other hand, if the selected file is not a file that is allowed to be downloaded ("No" in step S1614), the data input unit 602 issues an error notification. Figure 10B The processing shown has ended.

[0146] The above steps allow you to easily download files to be printed using the print queue of the user's client computer.

[0147] [Through the system described in this application, an instruction to print a file shared in the web conferencing system 300 is received on the web conferencing system 300.]

[0148] Other embodiments

[0149] In the exemplary embodiments described above, the printing plugin is always enabled after installation. However, users can enable or disable the installed plugin without requiring installation. When the printing plugin is enabled, icons 327 and 328 are displayed on the web conference screen, and the user can use the printing plugin server 600. Conversely, when the printing plugin is disabled, icons 327 and 328 are not displayed on the web conference screen, and the user cannot use the printing plugin server 600.

[0150] Other embodiments

[0151] The embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (programs) that perform the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer or central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device reads out and executes the program.

[0152] While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims is to be interpreted in the broadest possible sense to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A server system, comprising: The publishing unit is configured to publish the conference identifier, which is the conference ID; The storage unit is configured to store published meeting IDs and files in association with each other; The first control unit is configured to receive an instruction from a first user to display the file, and to display the first user's operation on the image of the file to which the display instruction was issued on the display unit of an information processing device operated by a second user. The installation unit is configured to install a printing plugin associated with the second user in the server system based on the instructions of the second user; as well as The second control unit is configured to: when the user operation of the first user on the image of the file is shared with the information processing device operated by the second user, cause the information processing device to display a print file selection screen, in which the file can be selected as the file to be printed; The second control unit is further configured to cause the information processing device to display a channel screen, which is associated with the printing plug-in, wherein the file can be uploaded and printed through the channel screen.

2. The server system according to claim 1, further comprising: The determination unit is configured to determine whether to display an icon. The second control unit displays an icon based on the determination.

3. The server system according to claim 1, in, The storage unit stores the meeting ID and multiple files in a linked manner, and The second control unit displays a list containing information about multiple files in response to the selection of an icon.

4. The server system according to claim 3, further comprising: The receiving unit is configured to receive selections of files to be printed from a list; as well as The sending unit is configured to send the selected file to another server system.

5. The server system according to claim 3, in, The storage unit stores information about whether printing is allowed for each of the multiple files, and The second control unit displays the files that are allowed to be printed in the list, and does not display the files that are not allowed to be printed in the list.

6. A method to be executed by a server system, the method comprising: Release a logo for the meeting; The published identifiers and files are stored in association with each other; The first user receives an instruction to display the file, and the first user's operation on the image of the file to which the display instruction was issued is displayed on the display unit of the information processing device operated by the second user; Based on the instructions of the second user, a printing plugin associated with the second user is installed in the server system; as well as When the user operation of the first user on the image of the file is shared with the information processing device operated by the second user, the information processing device displays a print file selection screen, in which the file can be selected as the file to be printed. The information processing device displays a channel screen, which is associated with the printing plug-in. The file can be uploaded and printed through the channel screen.

7. A non-volatile computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program, which, when executed by a server system, causes the server system to perform the method according to claim 6.

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