Display screen generation apparatus, display apparatus, display screen generation method, and recording medium

Abstract

The present application relates to a display screen generation device, a display device, a display screen generation method, and a recording medium recording a display screen generation program. The problem is to further improve the process management screen. The display screen generation device is configured to have: an acquisition unit that acquires the progress of a process for each of a plurality of printed matters produced through a plurality of processes; and a display unit that generates a display screen that displays a process to be executed, a process being executed, a process executed, and a process not an execution target in an identifiable manner for each of the plurality of printed matters.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a display screen generation apparatus, a display device, a display screen generation method, and a recording medium containing a display screen generation program. Background Technology

[0002] Process management techniques used in the production of finished products through multiple processes have been known for some time. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that produces a bound finished product by performing printing and cutting processes based on a document representing a submitted original manuscript.

[0003] The aforementioned prior art describes displaying work process progress information (not detected, in progress, completed, alarm) on a UI screen for multiple tasks. There is a need to further improve the work process management screen.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-155118 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The display screen generation apparatus for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: an acquisition unit that acquires the progress of a process for each of a plurality of printed materials produced through multiple processes; and a display unit that generates a display screen for each of the plurality of printed materials that displays the process to be performed, the process being performed, the process that has been completed, and the process that is not to be performed in a recognizable manner.

[0006] Furthermore, the display device for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: an acquisition unit that acquires the progress of a process for each of a plurality of printed materials produced through multiple processes; and a display unit that displays, in a recognizable manner, the process to be performed, the process in progress, the process that has been completed, and the process that is not to be performed for each of the plurality of printed materials.

[0007] Furthermore, the display screen generation method for solving the above-mentioned problems includes: obtaining the progress of the process for each of a plurality of printed materials produced through multiple processes, and generating a display screen for each of the plurality of printed materials that displays the process to be performed, the process being performed, the process that has been completed, and the process that is not being performed in a recognizable manner.

[0008] Furthermore, the display screen generation program for solving the above-mentioned problems enables the computer to function as a component that: acquires the progress of the process for each of the multiple printed materials produced through multiple processes; and generates a display screen for each of the multiple printed materials that displays the process to be performed, the process being performed, the process that has been completed, and the process that is not to be performed in a recognizable manner. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating an example of a production system.

[0010] Figure 2 A block diagram illustrating the structure of the server.

[0011] Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating the structure of the terminal.

[0012] Figure 4 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a printer.

[0013] Figure 5 This is an example diagram showing a process management screen.

[0014] Figure 6 A diagram showing an example of process overview information.

[0015] Figure 7 A diagram illustrating an example of file information.

[0016] Figure 8 A diagram illustrating an example of printer information.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of generating the display screen.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of a progress chart.

[0019] Figure 11 The diagram shows other examples of process management screens. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following order.

[0021] (1) System structure:

[0022] (1-1) Server structure:

[0023] (1-2) Terminal structure:

[0024] (1-3) The structure of the printer:

[0025] (2) Process Management:

[0026] (2-1) Process Management Screen:

[0027] (3) Display screen generation process:

[0028] (4) Other implementation methods:

[0029] (1) System structure:

[0030] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of a production system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The production system 1 includes a server 10, a terminal 20, and a printer 30. In this embodiment, the number of devices shown is an example, and the number is not limited. For example, the number of terminals 20 and printers 30 shown is not limited to a certain number. Figure 1 The number shown in the diagram, which includes one server 10, can also be multiple. These devices are able to communicate with each other via a network. The network can be of various types, including local networks or the Internet, enabling devices located in physically separate places to communicate with each other.

[0031] In this embodiment, the user who manages production and performs production operations receives a production order from the client. The user operates the terminal 20 to input information representing the content of the order. The terminal 20 sends this information to the server 10. The server 10 controls the printer 30 to carry out the ordered production.

[0032] In this embodiment, production system 1 is a system for producing printed materials. It produces finished products corresponding to the document by performing predetermined post-processing, such as surface finishing, on the printed materials that have been printed based on a document representing the printing object. If the document representing the printing object is different, the printed materials will be different, resulting in different finished products. On the other hand, if the same process is repeatedly performed based on the same document, multiple identical finished products can be produced.

[0033] In the production system 1 of this embodiment, printing can be performed based on any document representing the printing object, and the number of finished products produced based on a single document is also arbitrary. That is, it is possible to produce a quantity of printed materials corresponding to demand, the printed materials having content corresponding to the requirements of the client who commissioned the production of the finished products. In this embodiment, the commissioning unit is referred to as a case. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content of a case is determined based on a single document. For example, if two documents are received from the same client and finished products are produced based on those two documents, it would be considered a case where two cases have been commissioned from that client. The number of finished products produced based on a single document is arbitrary and can vary for each case.

[0034] The structure of each device in the production system 1 that enables such a display will now be described.

[0035] (1-1) Server structure:

[0036] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of server 10. Server 10 includes a processor 10a, a communication unit 10b, and non-volatile memory 10c. The processor 10a includes a CPU (not shown), ROM, and RAM, and is capable of executing various programs stored in the non-volatile memory 10c to control various parts of server 10 and network-connected devices. Furthermore, the processor 10a can be a single chip, multiple chips, or it can be configured as a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) along with various functional modules that enable printer operation. Alternatively, an ASIC can be used instead of the CPU, or a structure can be created where the CPU and ASIC work together. In the case where each device in this embodiment has a processor, this processor, like the processor 10a, can be implemented in various ways.

[0037] The communication unit 10b includes a communication interface for communicating with external devices according to various wired or wireless communication protocols. The server 10 is able to communicate with other devices via this communication unit 10b. Additionally, the communication unit 10b may also include an interface for communicating with various removable storage devices installed in the server 10.

[0038] Various types of information are stored in the non-volatile memory 10c of server 10. For example, the non-volatile memory 10c contains an original file 10c1 representing the finished product. The original file 10c1 is a file containing data representing the content to be printed on printed materials for the purpose of producing the finished product; for example, a PDF file can be the original file 10c1.

[0039] Furthermore, file information 10c3 is stored in the non-volatile memory 10c. File information 10c3 includes the file name, case name, delivery date, and number of copies of the documents to be printed. For details regarding file information 10c3, please refer to... Figure 7 This will be described later in the text.

[0040] Furthermore, process overview information 10c4 is recorded in the non-volatile memory 10c. Process overview information 10c4 defines the processes used to produce the printed material. For details regarding process overview information 10c4, please refer to... Figure 6 This will be described later. Furthermore, printer information 10c5 is recorded in the non-volatile memory 10c. Printer information 10c5 is information such as the current status of each of the multiple printers used in the production of printed materials. For details regarding printer information 10c5, please refer to... Figure 8 And will be described later. In this embodiment, document information 10c3, process overview information 10c4, and printer information 10c5 are used in the creation of the process management screen described later. The processor 10a functions as an acquisition unit 10a1 that obtains the progress of the process for each case. In addition, the processor 10a functions as a display unit 10a2 that generates a display screen (process management screen) for each case that displays the process to be executed, the process being executed, the process that has been completed, and the process that is not to be executed in a recognizable manner.

[0041] (1-2) Terminal structure:

[0042] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of terminal 20. Terminal 20 includes a processor 20a, a communication unit 20b, a non-volatile memory 20c, a display 20d, and an input unit 20e. The processor 20a includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM (not shown), and is capable of executing various programs recorded in the non-volatile memory 20c to control various parts of terminal 20.

[0043] The communication unit 20b includes a communication interface for communicating with external devices according to various wired or wireless communication protocols. The terminal 20 is able to communicate with other devices via this communication unit 20b. Furthermore, the communication unit 20b includes an interface for communicating with various removable storage devices installed in the terminal 20.

[0044] The original document file 10c1 representing the case is stored in the non-volatile memory 20c of the terminal 20. The original document file 10c1 can be stored in the non-volatile memory 20c in any manner. For example, it could be structured such that the original document file 10c1 prepared by the client who commissioned the production of the finished product is stored in a removable memory and forwarded from the removable memory to the non-volatile memory 20c via the communication unit 20b. Alternatively, the original document file 10c1 can be obtained from an external device via a network. Furthermore, the user can create the original document file 10c1 using the terminal 20 and an application program, and store it in the non-volatile memory 20c. Of course, the user can also edit the original document created by the client and store it as the original document file 10c1 in the non-volatile memory 20c. When inputting a case, the user identifies the case based on the filename of the original document file 10c1 stored in the non-volatile memory 20c. When a case is entered, the original document 10c1 is forwarded to the server 10. Alternatively, these documents can be temporarily stored in the volatile memory of the terminal 20 and forwarded to the server 10, where they are then permanently stored in the non-volatile memory 10c of the server 10.

[0045] The display 20d is a display device for displaying any image. The input unit 20e is a device for users to perform input operations, such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel. Regardless of the method used, the user can visually confirm the images and text displayed on the display 20d while operating the input unit 20e to input their intentions. In this embodiment, the user uses the display 20d and input unit 20e of the terminal 20 as a user interface to input the aforementioned setting information, and also visually confirms the process management screen described later.

[0046] (1-3) The structure of the printer:

[0047] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of printer 30. Printer 30 includes a processor 30a, a communication unit 30b, a non-volatile memory 30c, a printing unit 30d, and a user interface unit 30e. The processor 30a includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM (not shown), and is capable of executing various programs recorded in the non-volatile memory 30c to control the various parts of printer 30.

[0048] The communication unit 30b includes a communication interface for communicating with external devices according to various wired or wireless communication protocols. The printer 30 is able to communicate with other devices via this communication unit 30b. Additionally, the communication unit 30b may also include an interface for communicating with various removable storage devices installed in the printer 30.

[0049] The printing section 30d is the part that performs printing, and it can use various printing methods such as inkjet or electrophotographic printing. The printing section 30d includes actuators, various devices, sensors, drive circuits, and mechanical parts for performing printing on various media. Sensors include sensors in the printer 30 that detect various variable objects. The objects to be detected are not limited; examples include sensors that detect the remaining amount of media, and sensors that detect the remaining amount of ink for each color used in printing.

[0050] The UI unit 30e includes a touch panel display, various buttons, and switches. The touch panel display has a display panel that shows various information, such as the status of the printer 30 and the remaining ink level, and a touch detection panel superimposed on the display panel to detect touch operations performed by a human finger or similar means. The processor 30a can obtain the user's operation content via the UI unit 30e. Furthermore, the processor 30a can display various information on the UI unit 30e's display to notify the user.

[0051] In this embodiment, multiple printers 30 are installed in a facility owned by a printing business operator, allowing printing of various cases to be performed in parallel according to multiple orders from multiple clients. The server 10 establishes a correspondence between the processing order of each printing task and each of the multiple printers 30. Then, the server 10 issues a printing start instruction to the printers 30 according to the processing order. At this time, the server 10 performs various image processing based on the original document file 10c1 of the printing object and outputs printing data indicating the content to be printed to the printers 30 via the communication unit 10b. The processor 30a of the printer 30 obtains this printing data via the communication unit 30b and controls the printing unit 30d based on this printing data to perform printing. When printing is finished, the processor 30a outputs information indicating that printing has ended to the server 10 via the communication unit 30b. When the server 10 obtains this information via the communication unit 10b, the processor 10a determines the next processing order of the cases whose printing has ended and issues a printing start instruction for that case.

[0052] (2) Process Management:

[0053] As described above, in the production system 1 of this embodiment, multiple devices operate in parallel when there are multiple cases where the production of finished products requires multiple processes. Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to grasp the production status in the production system 1, a summary table that is easy for the user to understand is displayed.

[0054] In this embodiment, server 10 and terminal 20 work together to implement displays related to process management. The processor 20a of terminal 20 controls the display 20d to display a predetermined acceptance screen and accepts user-inputted information based on information output from input unit 20e. The user-inputted information includes items such as case name, delivery date, number of copies, process to be implemented, and printing settings.

[0055] The information entered by the user is sent to the server 10 via the communication unit 20b. When the processor 10a of the server 10 receives the sent information, the processor 10a records the information in the non-volatile memory 10c.

[0056] Furthermore, when sending this information, the processor 20a sends the original document 10c1 shown in the input information, i.e., the original document 10c1 specified by the case name, to the server 10. The processor 10a of the server 10 obtains the original document 10c1 via the communication unit 10b and records it in the non-volatile memory 10c. The filename of the original document 10c1 is recorded in the file information 10c3.

[0057] By employing the above method, when the server 10 receives case-related information from the terminal 20, the processor 10a establishes a correspondence between the initial process among multiple processes for producing printed materials, representing the process currently being executed for that case. In the production system 1 according to this embodiment, a process management screen can be displayed to the user, providing an overview of the progress of processes for multiple cases.

[0058] (2-1) Process Management Screen:

[0059] Figure 5This diagram illustrates an example of a process management screen. In the process management screen of this embodiment, cases are displayed in a vertical arrangement. Furthermore, a case information section 100 displaying information related to the case and a chart section 200 displaying the progress of the case are displayed horizontally. That is, in the process management screen, information about the same case is arranged horizontally, and information about different cases is arranged vertically. In the case information section 100, for each case, the case name, delivery date, file name, number of copies, and memo are displayed. In the chart section 200, a list of multiple processes is arranged according to the execution order. In this embodiment, the processes are arranged in execution order such that processes closer to the right are further back.

[0060] In this embodiment, the envisioned process consists of 11 steps: "Before Starting," "To Be Corrected," "To Be Set," "Color Matching," "To Be Printed," "Printing," "Printing Completed," "Laminating," "Packing," "Drilling," and "Completion." These steps are shown in the diagram section 200. "Before Starting" corresponds to the starting step among these steps. Rectangular areas are allocated to represent these steps for each case. In the area corresponding to the step being performed, an execution icon (I) is displayed, containing a circle indicating that the step is being performed. 21 I 22 I 23 I 24 (etc.). Execution icon I 21 I 22 I 23 I 24 The circular shape contained therein is equivalent to the first shape.

[0061] The display shows a progress bar (C1, C2, C3, C4, etc.) extending from the area of ​​the starting process (the first process among all processes, referred to as the "pre-start" process in this embodiment) to the area of ​​the process currently being executed. In each case, as the process progresses, the progress bar extends to the right from the starting process. The left end of the progress bar connects to the left end of the rectangle corresponding to the starting process, and the right end of the progress bar connects to the executing icon or error icon, etc., displayed in the process currently being executed, as described later.

[0062] The progress bar is thinner than the vertical length of the area corresponding to the process. Therefore, the user can visually confirm the background of the area where the progress bar is displayed. The process corresponding to the area the progress bar has passed through indicates the process that has been completed, excluding processes not subject to execution as described later, and corresponds to the area to the left of the area displaying the "in progress" icon. Furthermore, the process corresponding to the area the progress bar has not passed through indicates the process that is pending execution, excluding processes not subject to execution as described later, and corresponds to the area to the right of the area displaying the "in progress" icon.

[0063] In this embodiment, the process that is not the object of execution is shown by displaying a diagonal line on the area of ​​that process. Figure 5 In the example shown, diagonal lines are displayed in the "color matching" area for cases A, B, C, E, and G, indicating that this process is not executed during the production of these cases. Furthermore, although in this embodiment, when a process following the non-execution process (the process with the diagonal line) is being executed, the progress bar is also displayed in the area of ​​the non-execution process, the diagonal lines in the area of ​​the non-execution process can be visually confirmed even when the progress bar is displayed, allowing the user to recognize that the process is not being executed. Thus, in this embodiment, because there are processes with and without diagonal lines in the area, non-execution processes and processes that are to be executed are distinguished, allowing the user to recognize whether a process is to be executed based on the presence or absence of diagonal lines.

[0064] In this embodiment, the process is divided into three process groups: 210, 220, and 230. Figure 5 In the example shown, the "Preparation" and "To be Corrected" processes belong to process group 210, the processes from "To be Set" to "Print" belong to process group 220, and the processes from "Print Completed" to "Completed" belong to process group 230.

[0065] The "Pre-Start" and "To Be Corrected" processes belonging to process group 210 are equivalent to pre-processing processes of processes (process group 220) performed in coordination with printer 30. "Pre-Start" and "To Be Corrected" are manual transfer processes that manually transfer to the next process based on user-performed steps. Furthermore, in this example, the process interval from the "Pre-Start" process to the "To Be Corrected" process is also referred to as the manual transfer interval. In this embodiment, the user-performed step-up operation is as follows: Figure 5The user clicks on the area of ​​the destination process to be transferred in the screen. When the terminal 20 obtains information indicating that the operation of the advancement process performed by the user has been completed, the processor 10a functions as the acquisition unit 10a1.

[0066] The "pre-processing" step indicates that the case has been registered, and is... Figure 5 The example shown is the starting step in all the steps. When the user is correcting the original document 10c1 corresponding to the case, they operate the mouse on the terminal 20 to click the area of ​​the next "to be corrected" step. When a click is detected in the area of ​​the "to be corrected" step in a case where the current step is "before starting", the processor 20a sends information to the server 10 indicating that the current step has been moved from "before starting" to "to be corrected", and moves the execution icon of the case to the area of ​​"before starting" to the area of ​​"to be corrected". The server 10 moves the current step of the case to "before starting" to "to be corrected" based on the information sent from the terminal 20. Specifically, the processor 10a uses the value representing "to be corrected" to adjust the "current step management ID" (see reference) stored in the file information 10c3. Figure 7 The process in ) is updated.

[0067] When the user finishes the calibration job, they click on the area for the next "to be set" procedure. When a click is detected in the area for the next "to be set" procedure in a case where the current procedure is "to be calibrated," the processor 20a sends information to the server 10 indicating that the current procedure has been moved from "to be calibrated" to "to be set," and moves the execution icon of the target case from the "to be calibrated" area to the "to be set" area. The server 10 moves the current procedure for the target case from "to be calibrated" to "to be set" based on the information sent from the terminal 20.

[0068] In this embodiment, the four processes from "to be set" to "print" are automatically transferred processes that are executed in coordination with the printer 30 and automatically transfer to the next process when the process is completed. That is, the processor 10a obtains the progress of the process based on information sent from the printer 30, and automatically transfers the process to the next process after the completed process when the information sent from the printer 30 indicates that the process has been completed. Furthermore, the process interval from the "to be set" process to the "print" process is also referred to as the system coordination interval. When the processor 10a obtains the progress-related information sent from the printer 30, it functions as an acquisition unit 10a1.

[0069] The "Pending Setting" process is a process that waits for the completion of the printing condition setting operation performed by the user. The user operates the UI of the terminal 20 or the printer 30 to set the printing conditions for the target case. When it is detected that the setting has been completed, the processor 10a transfers the currently executing process to the next "Color Matching" process. The processor 10a sends information to the terminal 20 indicating that the currently executing process of the target case has been transferred to the "Color Matching" process. Based on this information, the processor 20a of the terminal 20 moves the executing icon to the area of ​​the "Color Matching" process for the target case. The "Color Matching" process is, for example, in the case of using special inks, performing the printing of a color matching pattern, measuring the color of the printing result, and adjusting the color conversion LUT, etc. The processor 10a obtains the color measurement result obtained by the colorimeter, and if it is determined based on the color measurement result that the color required by the client can be reproduced, it transfers the process to the next "Pending Printing" process.

[0070] The "Pending Printing" process is the process of waiting until printing begins. That is, the "Pending Printing" process is the process in which the printer 30, which has been assigned a print job for a specific case, remains in a state where it can begin executing the print job for that case. For example, if multiple print jobs are assigned to a printer and the print job of the initial printing sequence is not yet completed, the case corresponding to the second or subsequent print jobs becomes the "Pending Printing" process. When the print job of the specific case becomes the first in the printing sequence, it becomes a state where the print job for that case can begin. Alternatively, it can be structured such that after the user has performed preparatory work such as changing the media on the printer, and the user inputs the start of the print job, it is considered that the print job can begin. Regardless of the method used, upon receiving information from the printer 30 indicating that the print job can begin, the processor 10a will transfer the currently executing process to the next "Printing" process, and simultaneously move the execution status icon in the terminal 20 to the "Printing" process. Furthermore, the allocation of the printer 30 performing the color matching process and the printer 30 performing the printing process is carried out by selecting the printer 30 capable of printing the target case based on the printing conditions of the target case, and for example, the printer 30 with the shortest standby time until printing can begin. Alternatively, the allocation can be implemented by distributing the printing of a case among multiple printers 30.

[0071] The "printing" process is the process of printing the original document 10c1 of the case to be executed. When the processor 10a obtains information from the printer 30 indicating that the printing of the original document 10c1 is complete, it automatically transfers the process being executed to the next "printing completed" process, and in conjunction with this, it also moves the execution icon in the terminal 20 to the "printing completed" process.

[0072] The five processes belonging to process group 230 from "printing completed" to "completion" are post-processing processes of processes (process group 220) executed in coordination with printer 30, and are manual transfer processes that manually transfer to the next process based on the user's operation of advancing the process. In this example, the process interval from "printing completed" to "completion" is also referred to as the manual transfer interval.

[0073] The "Printing Completed" process is the destination process automatically transferred when the printing process of the original document 10c1 corresponding to the case has been completed. When the process of laminating the printed medium is the execution target in the case, the user clicks on the area of ​​the "Laminating" process. When a click is detected in the area of ​​the next "Laminating" process in the case where the current process is "Printing Completed," the processor 20a sends information to the server 10 indicating that the current process has been transferred from "Printing Completed" to "Laminating," and moves the execution icon of the case from the "Printing Completed" area to the "Laminating" area. Similarly, when the process is completed, the user performs an operation to move the execution icon to the next process, thereby moving the execution icon to the next process. Furthermore, the server 10 also updates the current execution process of the case. When the final "punching" process is completed, if the user performs an operation to move the executing icon to the next process in the following "Complete" process, the executing icon will also be moved to the "Complete" process through this operation. In addition, the executing process of the object's case will also be updated in the server 10.

[0074] Figure 5 The icon I shown is in execution. 21 For cases where all steps of the execution object have been completed, an icon is displayed in the "Completed" step area. The execution icon I is displayed in the "Completed" step area. 21 The status is displayed by marking a checkmark inside a circular graphic, and the color inside the circle is different from the color of the "Completed" icon. Therefore, users can easily distinguish between completed and incomplete statuses of all processes in a case based on the color of the "Completed" icon and the shape inside the graphic.

[0075] Furthermore, if the printing process is in progress, as indicated by icon I. 23 As shown, a box is displayed that emphasizes the outline of the circular graphic (first graphic) indicating that the process is in progress. Therefore, when a "printing" process is in progress, it is easy to grasp the progress of the case as a "printing" process. Furthermore, when a printing process is in progress, the expected completion time of the printing process is displayed in a designated display area corresponding to the "in progress" icon. In this embodiment, the designated display area is set in the same row as the case where the process is a printing process, but on the process side following the "in progress" icon. A dialog box (e.g., T) indicating the progress of the printing process is displayed in the display area set in this way. 23 The dialog box displays the expected printing completion time. By displaying the expected printing completion time in a display area corresponding to the "in progress" icon within the printing process area, the user can easily observe the expected completion time of the printing process. Furthermore, since the display area for the expected completion time is positioned behind the currently executing printing process, the display of the expected completion time prevents icons or progress bars in other cases from being hidden, and also prevents the progress bar in the case from being hidden. Alternatively, the expected printing completion time can be structured such that, in cases where the printing process is in progress, the "in progress" icon is displayed when the mouse hovers over it, and otherwise remains hidden.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 5As shown, the background of odd-numbered rows is gray, and the background of even-numbered rows is white. By using even-numbered and odd-numbered rows to differentiate the background colors, users can easily recognize the correspondence between the case information section 100 and the chart section 200 regarding the same case. Furthermore, in this embodiment, within the gray-background rows (odd-numbered rows), the background colors of the areas for automatic transfer processes (system coordination intervals, process groups 220) and the areas for manual transfer processes (manual transfer intervals, process groups 210, 230) are different. The background color of the system coordination interval is a gray that is less bright than the background color of the manual transfer interval. By differentiating the background colors of the areas for automatic transfer processes and the areas for manual transfer processes, users can easily distinguish between the intervals (system coordination intervals, process groups 220) where automatic transfer processes are continuous and the intervals (manual transfer intervals, process groups 210, 230) where manual transfer processes are continuous. Alternatively, the structure can be as follows: use even-numbered rows and odd-numbered rows to make the background color different, and in the even-numbered rows, make the background color of the area for automatic transfer of processes different from the background color of the area for manual transfer of processes.

[0077] Furthermore, when the ongoing process is a manually transferred process, the progress bar extending from the area of ​​the starting process to the area of ​​the currently executing process will be fully displayed (e.g., C1, C2, C4). Additionally, when the ongoing process is an automatically transferred process, the progress bar will be shaded (e.g., C3). By employing this method, it becomes easier for users to distinguish between automatically and manually transferred processes. Alternatively, it can be like... Figure 5 Case A is structured such that the progress bar for cases where all steps have been completed is displayed in a different color than the progress bar for cases where steps have not yet been completed (e.g., the former is a neutral gray, and the latter is colored). This structure makes it easier for users to distinguish between cases where all steps have been completed and cases where steps have not yet been completed.

[0078] Furthermore, if an error occurs during an ongoing process, a graphic indicating the error will be displayed in the area of ​​the ongoing process. The processor 10a determines the case of the error and the process based on information sent from the printer 30. Figure 5 Icon I shown 25 An example of an error icon displayed when an error occurs during the printing process is shown. Additionally, icon I... 26An example of an error icon indicating an error occurred during the color matching process is shown. Thus, the display of the error icon can also differ depending on the content of the error and the process in which the error occurred. In the case of an error occurring in an ongoing process, a progress bar extending from the area where the process started to the area where the error occurred is also displayed. Since error icon I can be displayed... 25 I 26 The process is automatically transferred, so the progress bar will be displayed in shadow.

[0079] Furthermore, if an event requiring notification to the user occurs during an ongoing process, a graphic indicating the presence of notification information will be displayed in the area of ​​the ongoing process. The processor 10a determines the case and process where notification information to be sent to the user exists based on information sent from the printer 30. Figure 5 icon I 27 An example icon representing the presence of a notification is shown. If a notification exists during an ongoing process, a progress bar will also be displayed, extending from the area where the process started to the area where the notification exists. This is because the notification icon I can be displayed. 27 The process is automatically transferred, so the progress bar will be displayed in shadow.

[0080] The details of the process overview information 10c4, document information 10c3, and printer information 10c5, which are referenced to display the above process management screen, will be explained in order. Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of process overview information 10c4. Process overview information 10c4 defines multiple processes used for producing printed materials. In process overview information 10c4, each process is recorded in the order of display (execution order). Each process is assigned a "process management ID." The "process name" of the process indicated by that process management ID is recorded in a way that establishes a correspondence between the process management ID and the process management ID. The "process name" is... Figure 5 The chart section 200 is used to display the names of each process.

[0081] Each process belongs to any process group. Process groups are identified using a "process group name". For example, in this example, the "Pre-Start" process with process management ID A1 belongs to process group AA, the "Printing" process with process management ID B4 belongs to process group BB, and the "Laminating" process (coating process) with process management ID C2 belongs to process group CC. Furthermore, a "System Collaboration Flag" value is recorded for each process group. When the System Collaboration Flag is set to ON, it indicates that the group consists of automatically transferred processes that automatically transfer to the next process based on information sent from printer 30. When the System Collaboration Flag is set to OFF, it indicates that the group consists of manually transferred processes that manually transfer to the next process based on user-performed process advancement operations.

[0082] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of document information 10c3. Document information 10c3 records for each document "Case Name," "File Name," "Delivery Date," "Number of Copies," "Memo Field," "Executing Process Management ID," and "Process Setting Information List." "File Name" is the name of the file registered by the user as an object of process management. "Delivery Date," "Number of Copies," and "Memo Field" record information set by the user. "Delivery Date" records the delivery date and time. "Number of Copies" records the number of copies to be delivered. The "Memo Field" records work instructions and supplementary information, and is flexibly used to make it easy for users to identify the type of file in the process management screen. "Case Name," "File Name," "Delivery Date," "Number of Copies," and "Memo Field" are generated... Figure 5 The data displayed in the case information section 100 of the process management screen is referenced.

[0083] The "Executing Process Management ID" records the process management ID of the currently executing process within the process being executed for the case of the target. The process management ID uses the process management ID defined in the process overview information 10c4. If the currently executing process is an automatically transferred process, when information indicating that the currently executing process has been completed is obtained from the printer 30, the processor 10a updates the "Executing Process Management ID" using the process management ID of the next process whose invalidation flag is not "on". The invalidation flag will be described later. If the currently executing process is a manually transferred process, the processor 10a updates the "Executing Process Management ID" based on the user's operation to advance the process. That is, when the terminal 20 detects an operation performed by the user to advance the process, the terminal 20 notifies the server 10 of the destination process the user wants to advance, and the processor 10a of the server 10 determines whether the destination process the user wants to advance is a process that can be transferred to the next step through this operation. If the processor 10a determines that the destination process the user wants to advance to is a process that can be transferred to the next step through this operation, the processor 10a sets the process management ID of the destination process the user wants to advance to to "the process management ID in progress".

[0084] The "Process Setting Information List" records "Process Management ID," "Invalidation Flag," and "Task Information List" for each process in the printed materials used to produce the target document. The Invalidation Flag records whether the process of the target document is a valid value for the production of the target document. Figure 7 In the example, for the original file 10c1 "aaa.pdf", the invalidation flag for the process with process management ID "B2" is enabled, and the invalidation flag for all other processes is disabled. In this case, it means that in the production process of the printed material based on the original file 10c1 "aaa.pdf", the color matching process with process management ID "B2" (see reference...) Figure 6 ) is a non-executable object.

[0085] The "Task Information List" records information related to tasks currently being performed in the process of the object. The "Task Information List" records the "Print Task ID," "Serial Number," "Print Settings," "Number of Copies," and "Estimated Print Completion Time" for the process performing the task while a printing task is in progress. The "Print Task ID" is an identifier used to identify the printing task. The "Serial Number" is the serial number of the printer 30 used in the object's printing task. The "Print Settings" are the print settings used in the object's printing task. The "Number of Copies" is the number of copies printed in the object's printing task. The "Estimated Print Completion Time" is the estimated time when the object's printing task is expected to complete. The processor 10a obtains the required time for the printing task performed by the printer 30 for the object's case. Specifically, for example, the processor 10a calculates the required time for each page based on printing conditions (e.g., media size or print quality), adds the required time to the number of pages for each copy, and further adds the summed time to the number of copies to obtain the required time for the printing task. Processor 10a calculates the expected completion time of the printing task by adding the required time of the printing task to the current time. The expected completion time is... Figure 5 The process management screen shown displays the expected completion time for the printing process. The calculation and updating of the expected completion time can be performed periodically. Alternatively, the calculation and updating of the expected completion time can be performed whenever the user loads the process management screen. The expected printing completion time is recorded in file information 10c3 when a printing task is being executed and its expected completion time has been calculated. When a printing task is completed, the printing task ID, serial number, printing settings, number of copies, and expected printing completion time are deleted from file information 10c3.

[0086] When multiple tasks are in progress within an object's workflow, each task is recorded with its "Print Task ID," "Serial Number," "Print Settings," "Number of Copies," and "Estimated Print Completion Time." Figure 7 The example shows the process (printing process, reference) currently being performed in "B4" for the original file "eee.pdf" 10c1. Figure 6 There are two tasks with "JOB001" and "JOB002" in the data. When the same process is performed by multiple printing tasks, in... Figure 5 The expected completion time displayed on the process management screen is the latest of the expected completion times for each of the multiple printing tasks. Figure 7In the example, the latter time, "17:00" or "17:15", is used as the later one, and is taken as... Figure 5 The expected completion time of the printing process for the document “eee.pdf” is displayed.

[0087] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of printer information 10c5. Printer information 10c5 records the current status, etc., of each printer 30 used in production system 1. When progress-related information is received from a printer 30, the processor 10a functions as an acquisition unit 10a1. In printer information 10c5, for each printer 30, the following are recorded: "Printer Name," "Model Name," "Serial Number," "Status," "Error Message," and "Notification Message." "Printer Name" is the name of the printer 30 in question. "Model Name" is the model name of the printer 30 in question. "Serial Number" is the serial number used to identify the printer 30 in question.

[0088] "Status" indicates the current state of the printer 30. When the state changes, it is recorded as "Printing" or "Error Occurring" based on the status information sent from the printer 30. "Error Information" indicates the content of an error currently occurring in the printer 30. In this embodiment, the shape of the error icon varies depending on the content of the error. When an error occurs in the printer 30, the printer 30 notifies the server 10 of the "Error Occurring" status information and information indicating the error. When the processor 10a of the server 10 receives this information, it records the error code indicating the error in the printer 30's "Error Information". Additionally, when the printer 30 receives a notification indicating that the error has been resolved, the processor 10a discards the error code recorded in the "Error Information". "Notification Information" indicates the content of a notification currently occurring in the printer 30. When a notification is received from the printer 30, the processor 10a records information indicating the content of the notification in the printer 30's "Notification Information".

[0089] (3) Display screen generation process:

[0090] Next, the process overview information 10c4, document information 10c3, and printer information 10c5 generated based on the above will be processed. Figure 5 The processing of the shown process management screen will be explained. Figure 5The process of updating the entire process management screen will be performed when a display request (or update request) for the process management screen is received from the terminal 20, when the status of any printer 30 changes, or when a certain amount of time has elapsed since the last screen update. During the process of updating the entire process management screen, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying the names of each item (case name, delivery date, file name, etc.) in the case information section 100, and display data for displaying the names of each item ("Before Start", "Pending Correction", etc.) in the chart section 200.

[0091] First, the process of generating display data for each item in the case information section 100 will be described. The processor 10a, referring to the document information 10c3, generates display data for each case recorded in the document information 10c3, displaying information corresponding to the case name, delivery date, file name, number of copies, and memo in a rectangular area (each area located at the bottom of each item in the case information section 100) set up for displaying them. Next, the process of generating display data for each item in the chart section 200 will be described. The processor 10a generates display data for each case in the chart section 200, displaying a rectangular area corresponding to the number of processes. Furthermore, in this embodiment, display data is generated such that the background color of odd-numbered rows is gray and the background color of even-numbered rows is white, both in the case information section 100 and the chart section 200. Additionally, display data is generated such that the area for automatically transferring processes in the chart section 200 is dark gray and the area for manually transferring processes is light gray in the odd-numbered rows.

[0092] Furthermore, in order to generate display data for displaying the chart section 200 in each case, the processor 10a performs the following for each case: Figure 9 The display screen generation process shown. Specifically, for... Figure 7 The document information 10c3 shown contains one case, such as Case A and Case B, and the execution is carried out separately. Figure 9 The display screen generation process. During execution Figure 9 In the case of display screen generation processing, the processor 10a functions as the display unit 10a2. When display screen generation processing begins for a specific case, the processor 10a executes steps S100 to S110, taking one step from the process setting information list of the case (document) as the processing target. Steps S100 to S110 are repeated for all steps in the process setting information list. For example, when executing for case A... Figure 9In the case of processing, steps S100 to S110, which are elements of the process setting information list for case A, are repeatedly performed a total of 11 times. In step S100, the processor 10a determines whether an invalidation mark is set in the process of the processing object. If an invalidation mark is set in the process of the processing object, the processor 10a generates display data for setting the background of the process of the processing object to a diagonal line indicating a non-execution object process (step S105).

[0093] If, in step S110, it is determined that all processing for the process setting information list has been completed, the processor 10a retrieves the process group containing the process management ID being executed from the process overview information (step S115). That is, the processor 10a retrieves the file information 10c3 of the case being processed (refer to...). Figure 7 The processor 10a then refers to the process overview information 10c4 (refer to the "process management ID in progress" in the process overview information 10c4). Figure 6 This is used to determine the process group to which the process management ID belongs.

[0094] Next, processor 10a determines whether the identified process group is a system collaborative region (step S120). That is, processor 10a checks the process overview information 10c4 (refer to...) Figure 6 The system refers to the inter-system collaboration flag of the process group to which the process management ID of the process belongs, and determines whether the system inter-system collaboration flag is a value that represents system collaboration.

[0095] If the process is not determined to be a system coordination zone in step S120, the processor 10a displays a circular graphic (first graphic) in the area of ​​the currently executed process and displays a progress bar (filled in) extending from the start of the process to the area of ​​the currently executed process (step S125). Thus, for example, it generates a display... Figure 5 The document describes the execution status of Case A, including the progress bar and related data. Additionally, it generates data for displaying an icon marked with a checkmark inside a circular graphic when the current execution step is "Completed." For Cases B, C, K, and L, the document also describes the execution process for each of Cases B, C, K, and L. Figure 9 In step S125 of the display screen generation process, display data is generated to display the execution icon and the progress bar.

[0096] If the system is determined to be in a cooperative zone in step S120, processor 10a selects one process from the process setting information list of the case being processed and executes steps S130 to S180. Steps S130 to S180 are repeatedly performed on all processes in the process setting information list. For example, when processing case A... Figure 9 In the case of processing, the processing of steps S130 to S180, which are elements of the process setting information list for case A, is repeated a total of 11 times.

[0097] In step S130, processor 10a determines whether a task ID exists in the task information list. That is, processor 10a checks whether a task ID exists in file information 10c3 ( Figure 7 The processor 10a determines whether the printing task ID corresponds to the process of the object being processed. If it is not determined in step S130 that the printing task ID corresponds to the process of the object being processed, the processor 10a considers the process of the object being processed to be a process that is not currently being executed and proceeds to step S180.

[0098] If, in step S130, it is determined that a correspondence has been established between the printing task ID and the processing operation, the processor 10a repeatedly performs the processing steps S135 to S175, which involve the number of task IDs. When the currently executing operation is performed within a single printing task, the processing steps S135 to S175, which treat the printing task as the object, are performed once. When the currently executing operation is divided into multiple tasks, the processing steps S135 to S175 are performed a number of times corresponding to the number of tasks. For example, in... Figure 7 In the B4 process, since the two task IDs have established a correspondence, the process of S135 to S175 will be repeated twice in this case.

[0099] In step S135, processor 10a obtains printer information that matches the serial number corresponding to the task ID of the processing object (step S135). That is, processor 10a determines the serial number corresponding to the printing task of the processing object and enters it into printer information 10c5 (refer to...). Figure 8 The printer that matches the serial number is identified in the [process / method / process]. Specifically, for example, in [the specific process / process / process]... Figure 7 If JOB001 in B4 is the task ID of the object being processed, the processor 10a determines the serial number of the printer executing the task of JOB001. Furthermore, the processor 10a obtains the printer information (see reference) for the printer with the determined serial number. Figure 8 To determine.

[0100] Next, processor 10a determines whether the printer information contains error messages (step S140). That is, processor 10a checks whether the printer information 10c5 (refer to...) contains error messages. Figure 8 In step S140, the processor 10a refers to the error information in the printer determined in step S135 to determine whether a correspondence exists between the error information and the printer. If it is determined in step S140 that error information is present, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying an error icon (step S145) and proceeds to step S175. That is, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying an error icon in the area of ​​the process being processed. Figure 5 For example, I 25 I 26 The display data can be formatted with an error icon that corresponds to the content (e.g., the type of error) of the error information recorded in the printer information 10c5.

[0101] If no error information is determined in step S140, the processor 10a determines whether the printer information contains notification information (step S150). That is, the processor 10a determines whether the printer information 10c5 (refer to...) contains notification information. Figure 8 In step S150, the processor 10a refers to the notification information in the printer determined in step S135 to determine whether a correspondence has been established with the notification information. If it is determined in step S150 that notification information is included, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying an icon for the notification (step S155) and proceeds to step S175. That is, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying a notification icon in the area of ​​the process being processed. Figure 5 I 27 The displayed data.

[0102] If no notification information is determined to be included in step S150, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying a circular graphic (first graphic) in the area of ​​the process being processed (step S160). Additionally, if the process being processed is a printing process, the processor 10a displays a box that emphasizes the outline of the circular graphic (first graphic). Figure 5 I 23 ).

[0103] Next, the processor 10a determines whether the task information contains a pre-determined printing completion time (step S165). That is, it determines whether the pre-determined printing completion time of the task being processed in the document information 10c3 is recorded. If it is determined in step S165 that a pre-determined printing completion time is included, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying the pre-determined printing completion time (step S170) and proceeds to step S175. Furthermore, in step S170, if the same process is divided into multiple tasks for execution, the processor 10a uses the latest pre-determined completion time among the pre-determined completion times of the multiple tasks as the display time in step S170.

[0104] In step S175, the processor 10a determines whether the processing of all task IDs has ended, and returns to step S135 if it has not. If it is determined in step S175 that the processing of all task IDs has ended, the processor 10a determines whether the processing of all process setting information lists has ended (step S180). If it is not determined in step S180 that the processing of all process setting information lists has ended, the processor 10a repeats the processing from step S135 for one of the unprocessed processes. If it is determined in step S180 that the processing of all process setting information lists has ended, the processor 10a generates display data for displaying a progress bar (shaded area) extending from the start process to the currently executing process (step S185).

[0105] Processor 10a repeatedly processes the number of cases recorded in file information 10c3. Figure 9 The display screen generation process generates progress charts for each case in the chart section 200. By employing the above method, when generating data for display... Figure 5 When the processor 10a sends the overall display data of the process management screen to the terminal 20, the terminal 20 then causes the display 20d to display the process management screen based on the display data.

[0106] (4) Other implementation methods:

[0107] The above-described embodiments are examples for implementing the present invention. In addition, various other embodiments can be adopted. For example, although in the above embodiments the server 10 and the terminal 20 are configured by different devices, they can also be the same device, or they can be distributed among three or more devices. Figure 9The processing shown can also be performed on the terminal 20 side. That is, it can also be structured as follows: the server 10 provides the terminal 20 with the latest file information 10c3, process overview information 10c4, and printer information 10c5, and the processor 20a of the terminal 20 performs the display screen generation process based on this information.

[0108] A case is a unit that is processed in multiple processes, and by completing the processes corresponding to the case, a finished product corresponding to the case is produced. Therefore, a case, for example, is a unit that indicates how to obtain a predetermined finished product by performing processing from the beginning to the end of one or more processes. The number of finished products to be completed in a case is not limited; there can be one or more. The finished products of each case only need to be items in a pre-defined state; of course, other finished products can also be completed by using the finished products produced through multiple cases.

[0109] The corresponding process for a case refers to at least a portion of the operations required to complete the case; this process can vary from case to case or be the same for each case. The process can be performed by a device, by a worker, or by both. When the process is performed by a device, it becomes a structure that performs the process by providing a start instruction and the necessary information electronically. When the process is performed by a worker, it becomes a structure that performs the process by transmitting a start instruction and the necessary steps to the worker.

[0110] The progress of a process only needs to indicate the degree to which the process has been completed. For example, it can be represented by information indicating that each process has started, that each process has been completed, or the percentage of the process that has been completed. The format used to display the progress of each process in the overview table is not limited to the above format, and can also be a structure that uses numerical values ​​to represent the degree of progress.

[0111] The direction in which cases are arranged and the direction in which procedures are arranged according to execution order can also differ from the implementation method described above. For example, the former could be horizontal and the latter vertical. Furthermore, the direction of movement at any given moment can also differ from the implementation method described above.

[0112] When displaying the procedures to be performed, the procedures in progress, the completed procedures, and the procedures not subject to execution for each case in a mutually identifiable manner, it is sufficient to display them in a way that allows the user to understand the progress of each procedure and whether the procedure exists. The form of the display used to make each procedure identifiable is not limited to the form described in the above-described implementation, but can be of various forms. For example, a structure can be used to display the procedures to be performed, the completed procedures, and the procedures not subject to execution in an identifiable manner using text, colors, and various icons.

[0113] When using similar markers to display processes awaiting execution, processes in progress, and completed processes in a recognizable manner, while displaying dissimilar marker structures for processes that are not execution targets, similar markers can be represented in various forms. For example, one could list markers of different colors but the same or similar shapes as similar markers, and markers with neither the same nor similar shapes as dissimilar structures. Furthermore, one could list markers that are enlarged or reduced as similar, and markers that do not overlap even when enlarged or reduced as dissimilar structures.

[0114] The process can be configured to be personalized, allowing for additions and deletions by the administrator. In addition to the processes listed in the above embodiments, various other processes can be envisioned as pre-printing or post-printing processes.

[0115] There are situations where multiple processes are being executed in parallel for a single case. For example, when a case with 3000 deliverables is divided into two groups of 1500 each and the process is advanced by group, there are cases where the two groups are executed in parallel within the same process, and there are also cases where different processes are executed in parallel. Thus, processes that may involve multiple processes being executed in parallel for a single case include the print setup process (automatic transfer process), the color matching process, the print process, and the printing process. In the case where multiple processes are being executed in parallel for a single case, an icon containing a circular graphic (first graphic) is displayed in each area corresponding to the multiple processes being executed in parallel. Figure 10 This is a display example of a situation where the printing process and the printing process are performed in parallel.

[0116] When the expected completion time for each of multiple processes being executed in parallel is displayed, and the display area for the expected completion time of processes other than the printing process overlaps with the display area for the expected completion time of the printing process, the expected completion time of the processes overlapping with the display area for the expected completion time of the printing process is not displayed, but the expected completion time of the printing process is displayed. For example, in Figure 10 In the example shown, the expected completion time of the printing process is not displayed; only the expected completion time of the printing process, which is the last process in process group 220, is displayed. Alternatively, the expected completion time of the printing process can be calculated by adding the required time of the printing task that precedes the current printing task to the processing order stored in the printer to which the printing task is assigned, to the current time.

[0117] Next, in reference Figure 11 At the same time, other examples of process management screens are explained. Figure 11 In the process management screen shown, there is a rectangular display box B representing a group. 21 B 22 The group is used when multiple cases are grouped together into the same group. (See display box B.) 21 B 22 The top Bt 21 Bt 22 The display shows the priority ranking of cases within a group, the delivery date (deadline), the group name, and the relationship between the group and the delivery date (remaining days). Additionally, it also displays in display box B... 21 B 22 The top Bt 21 Bt 22 The system displays the relationship between the current date and the delivery date. Additionally, the priority ranking is the order in which cases are prioritized for processing; this ranking is, for example, entered by the user when registering the case.

[0118] Furthermore, in display box B 21 B 22 The display shows a summary table of information related to the cases within the group. Cases within the group are displayed vertically, and procedures are displayed horizontally according to their execution order. That is, in display box B... 21 B 22 In the middle, information about the same case is arranged horizontally, and information about different cases is arranged vertically. (In display box B) 21 B 22 On the far left is an icon I1 that serves as a thumbnail preview of each case, and the case name is displayed to the right of the preview.

[0119] To the right of these previews and names, the procedures for each case are arranged in the order of execution. Figure 11 In the diagram, processes are arranged in execution order, with those closer to the right appearing later. Specifically, if... Figure 11 The example shown follows the sequence of pending manuscript, print setup, printing, surface finishing, and packaging, with the text representing these steps arranged from left to right in display box B. 21 Above. Figure 11 In the example shown, below the text representing each step, there is a rectangular area (area Bf, etc.) for displaying information related to each step. Therefore, below the text representing each step, information about different cases related to the same step is arranged vertically. Based on this structure, users can clearly distinguish and understand the information for each case. Furthermore, the execution order of the steps in each case can be clearly understood. Therefore, users can easily understand the individual progression of steps in multiple cases.

[0120] As mentioned above, in Figure 11 In the example shown, the processes for each case are arranged horizontally in the order of processing. In such a screen, the processor 10a displays an icon indicating that a process is in progress at the position corresponding to the process being executed. The server 10 assigns processing tasks to printers, surface treatment machines, etc., and instructs them to start. Furthermore, in processes such as printing performed by a printer, where processing can begin by instructing the device to start the process, the instruction to start the process is given to the device. On the other hand, in processes where processing can begin by instructing the worker to start the process, the instruction to start is given to the worker. For example, a structure that displays the start instruction on the terminal 20 can be cited. As a result, the worker performing the processing task can be notified of the start of the process, thereby making the worker aware that it is time to begin the task they are responsible for.

[0121] When a case is completed, printer 30 sends a message to server 10 indicating that processing has ended. Server 10 receives this message via communication unit 10b and confirms that the case and process have been completed. Furthermore, in processes where the message indicating completion is not output by the processing device, the process is considered complete by a predetermined operation performed by a worker. Server 10 receives this message via communication unit 10b and confirms that the case and process have been completed.

[0122] If any process has been completed, refer to Figure 7The server 10 uses file information 10c3 to determine whether a process exists after a completed process. If a process exists, it indicates the start of that process. When a process begins or ends, the server 10 records the process that has started (the process management ID of the process being executed) in file information 10c3. As described above, the processor 10a can indicate the start or capture the end of each process. Therefore, the processor 10a can determine the currently executing process in each case. When an executing process is determined, the process preceding it is determined to be a completed process, and the process following it is determined to be a process to be executed.

[0123] Once the ongoing processing of each case is determined, the processor 10a displays an icon indicating that the process is in progress at the location corresponding to the currently executing processing step. The icon indicating an ongoing processing step can take various forms, but... Figure 11 In the example shown, the blackened circular icon I2 indicates that the process is in progress. Furthermore, in... Figure 11 In the example shown, for case X1, the process currently being processed is the printing process. Therefore, in this case, the processor 10a displays an icon I2 indicating that the printing process is in progress in the area Bf corresponding to the currently executing printing process. Based on the above structure, the user can easily grasp the currently executing process for each case.

[0124] Furthermore, the processor 10a displays the procedures to be executed, completed procedures, and procedures not intended for execution for each case in a mutually identifiable manner. Specifically, the processor 10a also displays icons representing procedures to be executed and completed procedures on the procedure management screen. The icons representing procedures to be executed can take various forms, but... Figure 11 In the example shown, the white hollow circle icon I3 represents the icon to be executed. Furthermore, in... Figure 11 In the example shown, for case X1, the processes to be performed are surface finishing and packaging. Therefore, processor 10a displays icons I3 representing the processes to be performed in the areas corresponding to these processes.

[0125] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, the grayed-out circular icon I4 represents a completed process. Furthermore, in... Figure 11In the example shown, for case X1, the completed processes are the manuscript submission process and the printing setup process. Therefore, the processor 10a displays an icon I4 representing the completed process in the area corresponding to these processes. As described above, in this embodiment, the icon I3 representing the process to be performed and the icon I4 representing the completed process are of the same shape but different colors. Therefore, they are similar. Thus, when similar icons are used in the icon I3 representing the process to be performed and the icon I4 representing the completed process, it is possible to obtain the insight that the icons mean similar things (the process exists). Furthermore, by making the icons similar but different, it is possible to obtain the insight that the icons mean different things (different progress).

[0126] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, circular icons or text are not displayed in the non-execution process. That is, in the process management screen, since the area enclosed by a box is displayed vertically below the text representing the process, each area becomes a location for displaying information related to each process. The processor 10a does not display icons or text in the areas corresponding to non-execution processes. According to this structure, by not displaying icons or text in the areas, processes unnecessary for producing the finished product of each case can be clearly indicated.

[0127] When a process to be performed is explicitly indicated as in the structure described above, the user can monitor the status of that process in the future, enabling preparation and troubleshooting. When a completed process is explicitly indicated, the user can monitor the completion status of that process. Therefore, it is possible to determine if process management is no longer needed for producing the finished product of that case. Furthermore, when a process that is not an execution target is explicitly indicated, the user can determine if process management is not needed for producing the finished product of that case.

[0128] The process management screen described above is updated according to the progress of the process. That is, the processor 20a queries the server 10 for the currently executing process in each case based on a predetermined trigger (e.g., a periodic trigger or a trigger corresponding to the start or end of the process in the display unit). When the processor 10a of the server 10 replies with display data for displaying the process management screen in response to the query, the terminal 20 updates the process management screen based on that information.

[0129] Therefore, when a process has been completed for a certain step and the next step begins, the icon indicating the step in progress will move to the area on the right. Furthermore, in the area corresponding to the step that previously displayed an icon indicating in progress, a completion icon will be displayed. Additionally, when focusing on the same step within the same case, the states of pending, in progress, and completed will be displayed using the same graphic but different colors. Based on this structure, users can track the progress of each step for each case.

[0130] Additionally, the process management screen can be configured to allow users to perform various operations. For example, users can display detailed information about a case by its icon, name, or process, and can also modify settings. Furthermore, in... Figure 11 In the process management screen shown, there is a setting button B in the area for setting the printing process. 23 When the user operates the input section 20e of the terminal 20 to perform a setting operation on the button B... 23 During operation, the processor 10a displays a screen for implementing printing settings, allowing the user to implement printing settings using this screen.

[0131] exist Figure 11 In this embodiment, icons representing staff members are displayed in the area representing the work process. The icons are pre-registered facial photographs of the staff members. Figure 11 In the example, the icon for staff member D is represented by icon I. 61 That is illustrated schematically. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the icons of workers corresponding to ongoing and pending processes are displayed in their usual colors. On the other hand, the icons of workers corresponding to processes that have been completed and are now considered finished are displayed in gray.

[0132] Based on the above structure, users can manage the personnel involved in each process through the process management screen. Furthermore, when a worker is notified of the start of a process, that worker is displayed in a way that establishes a correspondence with the process. Therefore, workers can easily determine whether their task is one that they will be performing based on their worker's icon.

[0133] Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied as a program or method executed by a computer. Moreover, such systems, programs, and methods can be implemented either as a single device or using components of multiple devices, encompassing various approaches. Furthermore, they can be appropriately modified to be partly software and partly hardware. Furthermore, the invention can also be established using a recording medium for the program that controls the system. Of course, the recording medium for this program can be a magnetic recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and can be considered in the same manner in any recording medium developed in the future.

[0134] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are not intended to limit the invention. Since the embodiments include multiple inventions that result in different effects, a problem or effect read from the embodiments is not a problem or effect applicable to all inventions included in the embodiments.

[0135] Symbol Explanation

[0136] 1…Production system; 10…Server; 10a…Processor; 10a1…Acquisition unit; 10a2…Display unit; 10b…Communication unit; 10c…Non-volatile memory; 10c1…Original document; 10c3…Document information; 10c4…Process overview information; 10c5…Printer information; 20…Terminal; 20a…Processor; 20b…Communication unit; 20c…Non-volatile memory; 20d…Display; 20e…Input unit; 30…Printer; 30a…Processor; 30b…Communication unit; 30c…Non-volatile memory; 30d…Printing unit; 30e…UI unit.

Claims

1. A display screen generation device, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires progress of processes for each of a plurality of printed matters produced through a plurality of processes; and a display unit that generates a display screen that displays, for each of the plurality of printed matters, processes to be executed, processes being executed, processes executed, and processes not to be executed in a recognizable manner, wherein: regions representing the plurality of processes are arranged in an order of execution, a region of the processes being executed displays a first graphic representing the processes being executed, and a region of the processes not to be executed is displayed in a form representing that the processes are not to be executed.

2. The display screen generation device according to claim 1, wherein: in the same process, each of the states of to be executed, being executed, and executed are displayed by the same shape and different colors.

3. The display screen generation device according to claim 1, wherein: in a case where a printing process is being executed, a frame that emphasizes an outline of the first graphic is displayed.

4. The display screen generation device according to claim 3, wherein: a completion expected time of the printing process is displayed in a predetermined display region corresponding to the first graphic.

5. The display screen generation device according to claim 4, wherein: in a case where a plurality of processes are being executed in parallel for one file, the first graphic is displayed in each region corresponding to the plurality of processes being executed in parallel, respectively.

6. The display screen generation device according to claim 5, wherein: in the processes that can be executed in parallel, a printing setting process, a color matching process, a printing process, and the printing process are included.

7. The display screen generation device according to claim 6, wherein: in a case where a completion expected time is displayed for each of the plurality of processes being executed in parallel, and a display region of the completion expected time overlaps with a display region of the completion expected time of the printing process, the completion expected time of the process whose display region of the completion expected time overlaps with the display region of the completion expected time of the printing process is not displayed, and the completion expected time of the printing process is displayed.

8. The display screen generation device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: in a case where an error occurs in the process being executed, a graphic representing the error is displayed in the region of the process being executed.

9. The display screen generation device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: in a case where an event to be notified to a user occurs in the process being executed, a graphic representing that there is information to be notified is displayed in the region of the process being executed.

10. A display device, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires progress of processes for each of a plurality of printed matters produced through a plurality of processes; and a display unit that displays, for each of the plurality of printed matters, processes to be executed, processes being executed, processes executed, and processes not to be executed in a recognizable manner, wherein: regions representing the plurality of processes are arranged in an order of execution, a region of the processes being executed displays a first graphic representing the processes being executed, and a region of the processes not to be executed is displayed in a form representing that the processes are not to be executed. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ the regions representing the plurality of processes are arranged in the order of execution, a first graphic representing the process being executed is displayed in the region of the process being executed, the region of the process not to be executed is displayed in a form representing non-execution.

11. A display screen generation method comprising: acquiring progress of processes for each of a plurality of printed matters produced through a plurality of processes, generating, for each of the plurality of printed matters, a display screen that displays processes to be executed, processes being executed, processes executed, and processes not to be executed in a recognizable manner, the regions representing the plurality of processes are arranged in the order of execution, a first graphic representing the process being executed is displayed in the region of the process being executed, the region of the process not to be executed is displayed in a form representing non-execution.

12. A recording medium having recorded thereon a display screen generation program that causes a computer to function as: an acquisition section that acquires progress of processes for each of a plurality of printed matters produced through a plurality of processes; a display section that generates, for each of the plurality of printed matters, a display screen that displays processes to be executed, processes being executed, processes executed, and processes not to be executed in a recognizable manner, the regions representing the plurality of processes are arranged in the order of execution, a first graphic representing the process being executed is displayed in the region of the process being executed, the region of the process not to be executed is displayed in a form representing non-execution.

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