Server, control method, and storage medium

Abstract

A server, a control method, and a storage medium are provided. A predetermined server provides an execution unit configured to, in a case where a print job of push printing is transmitted from a terminal device, execute push printing processing to cause a print device to perform push printing based on the print job of push printing and setting details of print settings of push printing without performing a user operation on the print device after the print job of push printing is transmitted from the terminal device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to servers, control methods, and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-013051 discusses a configuration in which an external server outside the printing device is used to instruct the printing device to perform printing.

[0003] Using an external server outside the printing device to instruct the printing device to perform printing has become popular, thus creating a need for improving the form of this configuration. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention is proposed to meet the above-mentioned needs and to improve the configuration form of using an external server outside the printing device to instruct the printing device to perform printing.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a reservation server includes: a modification unit configured to perform modification processing for modifying setting details of print settings input to a terminal device outside the reservation server; a sending unit configured to send setting display information for displaying setting details of pull-type printing settings to a printing device outside the reservation server; and an execution unit configured to, when a push-type printing job is sent from the terminal device, perform push-type printing processing such that the printing device performs push-type printing based on the push-type printing job and the setting details of the push-type printing settings, without performing user operation on the printing device after the push-type printing job is sent from the terminal device, and configured to, in response to the push-type printing job being sent from the terminal device, perform push-type printing processing when a pull-type printing job is sent from the terminal device. After a print job is completed, a user operation is performed on the printing device to perform pull-type printing processing, so that the printing device performs pull-type printing based on the print job and the setting details of the pull-type printing settings. If at least one setting detail of the push-type printing settings input to the terminal device does not meet predetermined conditions based on the printing device, push-type printing processing is performed after a change process is executed to change the setting details of the push-type printing settings that do not meet the predetermined conditions to setting details that meet the predetermined conditions. Furthermore, if at least one setting detail of the pull-type printing settings input to the terminal device does not meet the predetermined conditions, setting display information is sent to the printing device without changing the setting details of the pull-type printing settings that do not meet the predetermined conditions to setting details that meet the predetermined conditions.

[0006] Further features of the invention will become clear from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the service integration system.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information processing device.

[0010] Figure 4 This is an example diagram showing a service selection screen.

[0011] Figure 5 This is an example diagram showing the print selection screen.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the push-to-print process.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the pull-print process.

[0014] Figure 8 This is an example image showing a list screen.

[0015] Figure 9 This is an example diagram showing the settings display screen.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing performed by the relay server during push-to-print processing.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of a priority table.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing performed by the relay server during pull printing.

[0019] Figure 13 This is an image showing an example of the settings display screen. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that changes and modifications to the following exemplary embodiments, based on the ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art, are also included within the scope of the present invention without departing from its spirit.

[0021] <System Configuration>

[0022] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a service integration system including a relay server according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1The service integration system includes a client device 101, a multifunction peripheral device (MFP) 102, a relay server 104, a service server 106, and an MFP 108. Each component, upon obtaining the address of a communication partner device, can communicate with the communication partner device via network 103. Examples of network 103 are local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), telephone lines, and dedicated digital lines. Other examples are asynchronous transmission mode (ATM) lines, frame relay lines, cable television lines, and wireless lines for data broadcasting. Another example is any combination of the above, i.e., a communication network (such as the Internet). According to this exemplary embodiment, communication between MFP 102 and relay server 104, communication between client device 101 and service server 106, communication between MFP 108 and service server 106, and communication between relay server 104 and service server 106 are conducted via the Internet.

[0023] Client device 101 is equivalent to a first information processing device and is a personal computer (PC) according to this exemplary embodiment. Client device 101 is not limited to a PC; various information processing devices (such as mobile terminals, smartphones, tablet terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and digital cameras) can be applied to client device 101. According to this example in an embodiment, client device 101 includes a web browser and uses the web browser to display a screen corresponding to the services provided by relay server 104.

[0024] The MFP 102 is a multi-functional peripheral device that includes various functions such as copying, faxing, and printing, and is a printer that performs printing using an inkjet method. Furthermore, the MFP 102 includes a web browser and uses the web browser to display a screen corresponding to the printing services provided by the relay server 104. Additionally, the MFP 102 can perform printing using the printing services provided by the service server 106 via communication with the relay server 104.

[0025] MFP 108 is a multifunctional peripheral device including various functions (such as copying, faxing, and printing), and is a printer (image forming apparatus) that performs printing using an electrophotographic method. Furthermore, MFP 108 includes a web browser and uses the web browser to display a screen corresponding to the printing service provided by service server 106. According to this exemplary embodiment, MFP 108 cannot communicate with relay server 104, nor can it use the first printing service provided by relay server 104. However, MFP 108 can communicate with service server 106 without communicating with relay server 104. Furthermore, MFP 108 can perform printing using the second printing service provided by service server 106 via communication with service server 106.

[0026] Relay server 104 is equivalent to a second information processing device and is a server that provides the first printing service to client device 101 and MFP 102. Relay server 104 includes browsing application 105. Hereinafter, each application will be referred to as an "application". The first printing service is a printing service that enables MFP 102 to print content (data, such as image data and original documents) sent and provided to MFP 102 via the Internet from a cloud server outside MFP 102. Specifically, according to this exemplary embodiment, MFP 102 is capable of performing cloud printing to print content sent to MFP 102 from a server outside MFP 102. According to this exemplary embodiment, the printable content of the first printing service includes content sent from a second printing service described below. Examples of printable content of the first printing service include content sent from another service (such as a social networking service or online storage service). Furthermore, browsing application 105 is a program that provides a view for the first printing service. When client device 101 or MFP 102 accesses relay server 104, the screen is displayed by the web browser of client device 101 or the web browser of MFP 102. Relay server 104 is not limited to a single information processing device (e.g., a single server PC) and can be configured with multiple information processing devices (e.g., multiple server PCs).

[0027] Service server 106 is equivalent to a third information processing device and is a server that provides a second printing service to client device 101, as well as MFP 102 and MFP 108. Service server 106 includes service application 107. The second printing service is a service that enables printers (such as MFP 102 and MFP 108) to perform printing in response to instructions from personal accounts generated on the service, and manages information about printing performed based on instructions from accounts. Examples of information about printing performed based on instructions from accounts include information about the amount of recording material (ink, toner) consumed in printing performed based on instructions from accounts, information about the amount of sheet material consumed in printing performed based on instructions from accounts, and information about the content printed. Each piece of information managed by the second printing service can be viewed by an administrator managing the account. In addition, service application 107 receives, for example, content uploaded by users and manages the uploaded content on service server 106. The content managed by service server 106 can be viewed on the web browsers of client device 101, MFP 102, and MFP 108, as well as on other graphical user interfaces (GUIs). The service server 106 is not limited to a single information processing device (e.g., a single server PC), and can be configured with multiple information processing devices (e.g., multiple server PCs).

[0028] <Illustrative configuration of the device>

[0029] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of the MFP 102. The printing function of the MFP 102 is implemented by the printer unit 201. The scanning function of the MFP 102 is implemented by the scanning unit 202. The storage function of the MFP 102 is implemented by the memory card attachment unit 203 and the memory card 204.

[0030] The printer unit 201 uses recording methods (such as inkjet and electrophotographic methods) to print externally received image data or image data stored in the memory card 204 onto printing sheets. Furthermore, the printer unit 201 manages ink information, including the amount of ink, and sheet information, including the number of stored sheets.

[0031] The scanning unit 202 optically scans the original document placed on the platen glass (not shown), converts the scanned original document into electronic data, converts the electronic data into image data in a specified file format, and sends the image data to an external device via a network or stores the image data in a storage area (not shown, such as a hard disk drive (HDD)). The copying function is achieved by transmitting the image data generated by the scanning unit 202 scanning the original document placed on the platen glass to the printer unit 201, and the printer unit 201 performs printing based on the image data.

[0032] The memory card 204, attached to the memory card attachment unit 203, stores various types of file data. The file data can be read from an external device via a network and can be edited. File data can be stored from an external device into the memory card 204.

[0033] In addition, the MFP 102 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 205, a program memory 206, a working memory 207, a display unit 208, an operation unit 209, a network communication unit 210, a network connection unit 211, and flash memory 212. The CPU 205 controls the components of the MFP 102. The program memory 206 includes read-only memory (ROM) and stores various program codes and applications 214 for communicating with server devices. Furthermore, application 214 accesses the printer unit 201 and obtains consumable information (such as ink and sheets). The working memory 207 includes random access memory (RAM), and image data is temporarily stored and buffered in the working memory 207 during service execution. The display unit 208 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and displays various types of information. The operation unit 209 includes a switch, which the user uses to perform various input operations. The network communication unit 210 connects the MFP 102 to a network and performs various communications. Connection to a network (such as the Internet) can be established via the network connection unit 211. The network communication unit 210 supports both wired and wireless LAN. When the network communication unit 210 supports wired LAN, the network connection unit 211 is a connector for connecting the wired LAN cable. When the network communication unit 210 supports wireless LAN, the network connection unit 211 is an antenna. The flash memory 212 is a non-volatile memory for storing image data received by the network communication unit 210. These components are connected together via a bus 213.

[0034] According to this exemplary embodiment, CPU 205, program memory 206, and working memory 207 form the computer of MFP 102. The following description illustrates that each process performed by MFP 102 is implemented by CPU 205 loading a program stored in program memory 206 into working memory 207 and executing the loaded program.

[0035] In addition, unless otherwise stated, the MFP 108 has a configuration similar to that of the MFP 102.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of information processing devices corresponding to client device 101, relay server 104, and service server 106.

[0037] CPU 301 controls the following components: Disk device 302 stores application 312, database 313, operating system (OS), and various files to be read by CPU 301. External storage medium reading device 303 is a device for reading information (such as files) stored in a secure digital card (SD) used as external storage medium. Memory 304 includes RAM, and CPU 301 temporarily stores and buffers data in memory 304 as needed. Display unit 305 includes, for example, an LCD and displays various types of information. Operation unit 306 includes a keyboard and mouse, and the user uses the keyboard and mouse to perform various input operations. Network communication unit 307 is connected to a network (such as the Internet) via network connection unit 308 and performs various communications. Network communication unit 307 supports wired LAN and wireless LAN. When network communication unit 307 supports wired LAN, network connection unit 308 is a connector for connecting a wired LAN cable. When network communication unit 307 supports wireless LAN, network connection unit 308 is an antenna. The Universal Serial Bus (USB) communication unit 310 connects to various peripheral devices via the USB connection unit 311 and performs various types of communication. The aforementioned components are connected together via bus 309. The client device 101, relay server 104, and service server 106 can be virtual computers implemented on a computer.

[0038] Furthermore, according to this exemplary embodiment, the CPU 301, disk device 302, and memory 304 form the computer of the client device 101, the computer of the relay server 104, or the computer of the service server 106. Furthermore, the following description illustrates that each process performed by the client device 101, the relay server 104, or the service server 106 is implemented by the CPU 301 loading a program stored in the disk device 302 onto the memory 304 and executing the loaded program.

[0039] <First Registration Processing>

[0040] First, the initial registration process of associating the first account with MFP 102 will be described below. The first account is the user account of the owner of MFP 102 and is managed by relay server 104. The first account is used for the first printing service.

[0041] First, in response to a user operation on the MFP 102 to access the first printing service function, a first registration process begins. Upon receiving the operation, the MFP 102 accesses the relay server 104 using pre-stored information for accessing the relay server 104. Through this access, identification information and model information of the MFP 102 are sent to the relay server 104. Next, if the relay server 104 determines that a first account for the owner of the MFP 102 has not yet been generated and the MFP 102 is not yet associated with a first account, the relay server 104 generates the first account and sends security information (identity (ID), password) associated with the generated first account to the MFP 102. In this process, the relay server 104 manages the identification information and model information of the MFP 102 in association with the first account. Upon receiving the security information, the MFP 102 stores the received security information in the program memory 206 and manages the first account. This completes the first registration process. After completing the initial registration process, MFP 102 uses the stored security information when accessing relay server 104. This allows relay server 104 to identify which account MFP 102 is associated with when it accesses relay server 104.

[0042] Installation of the Second Printing Service Program

[0043] Next, the process of installing a program for a second printing service (hereinafter referred to as the "second printing service program") on the client device 101 will be described below. According to this exemplary embodiment, the second printing service program is a printer driver for the second printing service (hereinafter referred to as the "second printing service driver") and an application for the second printing service (hereinafter referred to as the "second printing service application").

[0044] First, client device 101 receives an operation from a user, for example, via a webpage for the second printing service, to install the second printing service program. Next, client device 101 downloads an installer from service server 106 to install the second printing service program. Then, client device 101 uses the installer to install the second printing service program on client device 101. In response to client device 101 activating the second printing service application, a process is performed to associate the second printing service application with a second account. Specifically, client device 101 displays a screen for logging into the second account on the screen displayed by the second printing service application. The second account is the user account of the owner of MFP 102 and is an account managed by service server 106 for the second printing service. A second account can be generated using any method. For example, an administrator can generate multiple accounts and assign each generated account to a different user. When the user enters the ID and password of the second account on the screen, client device 101 sends the input information to service server 106. If the input information matches the information about the second account managed by service server 106, service server 106 sends a notification to client device 101 that the second account login was successful. After successfully logging in with the second account, the client device 101 is able to send print jobs to the service server 106.

[0045] <Second and Third Registration Processing>

[0046] Next, the second registration process of associating the first account with the second account will be described below. Furthermore, the third registration process of associating the second account with MFP 102 will be described below.

[0047] As a result of the first registration process, the second and third registration processes are performed while the first account is associated with MFP 102. The second and third registration processes are performed while the client device 101 has successfully logged into the second account.

[0048] Upon completion of the first registration process or upon receiving an operation to perform the first print service while the first registration process is complete, the MFP 102 receives a display request from the relay server 104. Figure 4The service selection screen 400 is shown and displayed. The service selection screen 400 is a screen where the user selects the service to be used to obtain (receive) content to be printed using the first printing service, and it displays a list of selectable services. According to this exemplary embodiment, the selectable services include, but are not limited to, online storage services, social networking services, a second printing service, and a third printing service, and the desired type and number of services can be determined. According to this exemplary embodiment, the third printing service is for printing content sent from the relay server 104 and is a service for printing digital puzzles. The printing target is not limited to puzzles; for example, it could be coloring books, graph paper, or sheet music. The service selection screen 400 includes areas 401 to 404, each area for selecting a corresponding service.

[0049] Then, MFP 102 receives the selection operation performed by the user on area 403 for the second printing service and notifies relay server 104 that the second printing service has been selected. If relay server 104 determines that the second registration process is not complete, it sends information for displaying the registration key input screen to MFP 102, and MFP 102 displays the registration key input screen. The registration key input screen receives the registration key input from the user. The registration key is a random 16-bit value and is issued and generated by service server 106 in association with the second account. Furthermore, the registration key is a key displayed on client device 101 by the second printing service application installed on client device 101. The registration key can be displayed, for example, on a screen displayed by a web browser on client device 101, which is equivalent to the printing service provided by service server 106. The user checks the registration key displayed on client device 101 and inputs the displayed registration key into the registration key input screen. Upon receiving the input registration key, relay server 104 sends the input registration key to a registration key verification server (not shown). If the registration key verification server determines that the user-input registration key matches the registration key published by service server 106, the registration key verification server sends communication information used to communicate with service server 106 to relay server 104. Alternatively, the input registration key can be sent to service server 106, and service server 106 can determine whether the input registration key matches the registration key published by service server 106. Relay server 104 uses the received communication information to send information about the printer associated with the first account (e.g., MFP 102 here), the ID associated with the first account, and a notification Uniform Resource Locator (notification URL) used to notify relay server 104 about the print job to service server 106.

[0050] Then, service server 106 manages the association between the ID associated with the first account and the second account, thus associating the first account with the second account. The ID associated with the first account is used to send notifications about push-print jobs from service server 106 to relay server 104. Furthermore, service server 106 manages the association between information about MFP 102 associated with the first account and the second account, thus associating the second account with MFP 102. This completes the second and third registration processes. Then, service server 106 sends an access token for accessing the content managed by the second account to relay server 104. Relay server 104 uses the received access token to retrieve the content managed by service server 106.

[0051] <Push-type printing and pull-type printing>

[0052] Next, the process of causing the MFP 102 to perform printing using the second printing service based on instructions from the client device 101 will be described below. This process is performed after the first to third registration processes have been completed and various types of associations have been established. This process includes processes for causing the MFP 102 to perform push printing and processes for causing the MFP 102 to perform pull printing. First, the process of causing the MFP 102 to perform printing, executed by the client device 101, will be described below.

[0053] First, the client device 101 identifies the target content to be printed in a document application, spreadsheet application, image editing application, presentation application, etc., and receives the user's selection of the printer driver to be used in the printed content. Then, after the user selects a second print service driver, the client device 101 receives input from the user of print settings for printing the target content. Print settings can be received via the screen of a document application, spreadsheet application, image editing application, or presentation application, or the second print service driver can be activated to receive print settings via its screen. Furthermore, according to this exemplary embodiment, the items in the print settings input by the user include, for example, items for selecting the print sheet size, items for selecting the print sheet type, items for selecting between color printing and monochrome printing, items for selecting between duplex printing and single-sided printing, items for selecting between printing with margins and printing without margins, and layout selection items.

[0054] Then, upon receiving a print instruction from the user, the client device 101 converts the target print content into data in a predetermined data format, and then activates the second print service application from the second print service driver. The predetermined data format is, for example, a portable document format (PDF). Figure 5An example of a screen displayed by the second print service application in this process is shown. Print selection screen 500 is where the user selects whether to send (input) a print job for causing MFP 102 to perform push printing or a print job for causing MFP 102 to perform pull printing. Option 501 is the area for sending a print job for causing MFP 102 to perform push printing. Option 502 is the area for sending a print job for causing MFP 102 to perform pull printing. According to this exemplary embodiment, MFP 102 supports the first print service, but MFP 108 does not support the first print service. Furthermore, according to this exemplary embodiment, the instruction to perform push printing via the second print service is sent to the printer via the first print service. Therefore, push printing based on a print job sent by the second print service can be performed by MFP 102, but not by MFP 108. In other words, only a single printer can be identified as the printer to which push printing will be performed. Therefore, option 501 can display identification information (name, model) about the printer to which push printing will be performed. The printer to which push printing will be performed is the printer associated with the first and second accounts (here, MFP102). Furthermore, both MFP102 and MFP108 support the second printing service. Additionally, according to this exemplary embodiment, pull printing via the second printing service can be performed by any printer that supports at least the second printing service. Therefore, pull printing based on a print job sent by the second printing service can be performed in either MFP102 or 108. Specifically, the printer to which pull printing will be performed is not necessarily a single printer; therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, option 502 does not display identification information about the printer to which pull printing will be performed. Pull printing can be referred to by other names (such as security printing).

[0055] When option 501 or 502 is selected, client device 101 sends a print job, either push-to-print or pull-to-print, corresponding to the selected option to service server 106. According to this exemplary embodiment, the push-to-print and pull-to-print jobs respectively include content converted to a predetermined data format, print settings for printing that content, and information about a second account to which client device 101 is logged. When option 501 or 502 is selected by checking checkbox 503, in response to the next print command operation from the user, client device 101 performs printing corresponding to one of the previously selected options 501 and 502 without displaying print selection screen 500. The user can select a period during which the print selection screen 500 is not displayed even when client device 101 receives a print command operation from the user.

[0056] Push printing is very convenient because the user simply performs a print operation on the client device 101 to trigger the MFP 102 to print. However, due to factors such as a large distance between the client device 101 and the MFP 102, the user sometimes needs to spend time checking the printout after performing the print operation on the client device 101. In this case, security issues may arise, such as the printed matter being seen by other users. On the other hand, pull printing involves the user performing a print operation on the client device 101 and then on the MFP 102. Pull printing is less convenient than push printing but safer because the user can check the output printout promptly. According to this exemplary embodiment, since both push and pull printing are selectable, the user can choose the appropriate printing method for each purpose.

[0057] <Push-type printing sequence>

[0058] First, the following will refer to Figure 6 The sequence diagram shown describes the processes used to enable the MFP 102 to perform push-print. Processing in the sequence diagram begins when option 501 is selected.

[0059] First, in step S601, the client device 101 sends the print job for push printing to the service server 106.

[0060] Next, in step S602, the service server 106 processes the print job for push printing. Specifically, the service server 106 searches the account groups managed by the service server 106 and identifies the second account to which the client device 101 is logged in based on information about the second account included in the received print job. Then, the service server 106 identifies the first account associated with the identified second account.

[0061] Next, in step S603, service server 106 uses a notification URL to send the job number assigned to the print job received in step S601 to relay server 104, in order to notify relay server 104 that the print job has been received. In addition, service server 106 also sends the ID corresponding to the first account identified in step S602 and the print settings included in the print job received in step S601 to relay server 104.

[0062] Next, in step S604, the relay server 104 uses the access token corresponding to the second account to send a request to the service server 106 to obtain the content to be printed (including the content in the print job) of the print job corresponding to the job number received in step S603.

[0063] In step S605, the service server 106 sends the URL of the first area storing the content to be printed by the print job to the relay server 104.

[0064] In step S606, relay server 104 accesses the first area using the received URL and retrieves the content to be printed from the first area. The first area is an area within service server 106, and service server 106 sends the content to relay server 104; however, the invention is not limited to the above-described form. The content to be printed can be stored in an area of ​​a server other than service server 106, and the server's URL can be sent in step S605.

[0065] In step S607, relay server 104 stores the acquired content in a second area. Then, relay server 104 sends the URL of the second area and the print settings available in the acquired content as an instruction to execute printing to MFP 102. In step S607, relay server 104 is able to send content directly to MFP 102.

[0066] In step S608, the MFP 102, having received the URL, accesses the second area using the received URL and retrieves the content to be printed from the print job sent from the client device 101. The second area is an area within the relay server 104, which sends the content to the MFP 102; however, the invention is not limited to the above configuration. The content to be printed can be stored in an area of ​​a server other than the relay server 104, and the server's URL can be sent in step S607.

[0067] In step S609, MFP 102 uses the print settings received in step S607 to print the content obtained in step S608.

[0068] In step S610, MFP 102 sends result information regarding the printing result performed in step S609 to relay server 104. The result information includes, for example, information about the total number of pages printed, the number of color pages out of the total number of pages, the number of monochrome pages out of the total number of pages, and the number of duplex pages out of the total number of pages. Furthermore, the result information includes, for example, information about the job name of the print job corresponding to the print job and the execution time of the print job. According to this exemplary embodiment, since the term "page" refers to the print area corresponding to one side of the sheet, in the case of, for example, performing duplex printing, it is determined that two pages were printed on one sheet. The aspects of the invention are not limited to the above configuration, and the result information can include, for example, information about the amount of recording material consumed (used) in the print and the amount of sheet material consumed (used) in the print. Furthermore, the result information can include, for example, information about the sheet size used in the print and information about the number of pages printed by layout printing out of the total number of pages.

[0069] In step S611, relay server 104 sends the result information received in step S610 to service server 106. Service server 106, upon receiving the result information, manages it in association with the second account. Specifically, service server 106 manages information regarding printouts executed based on instructions from the second account. This allows the user of the second account and administrators managing multiple accounts including the second account to view information regarding printouts executed based on instructions from the second account.

[0070] <Pull-type printing sequence>

[0071] Next, the following will refer to Figure 7 The sequence diagram shown illustrates the processes used to enable the MFP 102 to perform pull printing. In response to the selection of option 502, the processes in the sequence diagram begin.

[0072] First, in step S701, the client device 101 sends the print job for pull printing to the service server 106.

[0073] Next, in step S702, the service server 106 processes the print job for pull printing. Specifically, based on the information about the second account contained in the received print job, the service server 106 searches for the account group managed by the service server 106 and identifies the second account logged in by the client device 101. Then, the service server 106 stores and manages the received print job in association with the identified second account. By repeating steps S701 and S702, multiple print jobs can be stored and managed in association with the second account. Then, the service server 106 waits for access from the relay server 104 or the MFP 108.

[0074] Next, in step S703, MFP 102 receives the user operation performed on area 403 for the second print service and notifies relay server 104 that the second print service has been selected.

[0075] In step S704, since the second registration process has been completed, the relay server 104 accesses the service server 106 using the access token corresponding to the second account. Then, the relay server 104 obtains list information about the list of print jobs managed and stored associated with the second account. The list information includes job name information about the single or multiple print jobs managed and stored associated with the second account, and information about the date and time when each of the single or multiple print jobs was received through the service server 106. Furthermore, the list information includes print settings information about each of the single or multiple print jobs.

[0076] Next, in step S705, the relay server 104 generates a list for display based on the acquired list information. Figure 8 The information displayed in the list screen 800 (list display information) is sent to MFP 102.

[0077] Next, in step S706, MFP 102 displays list screen 800 based on the information received in step S705. List screen 800 includes, for example, an area 801 displaying the job name of each of a single print job or multiple print jobs managed and stored in association with a second account, and an area 802 displaying the date and time of receiving each of the single print jobs or multiple print jobs through service server 106. Figure 8In the example shown, information about print jobs 803 to 805 is displayed as a single print job or multiple print jobs managed and stored in association with the second account. The information to be displayed on the list screen 800 is not limited to those described above, and other types of information about each of the single print jobs or multiple print jobs managed and stored in association with the second account can be displayed. Specifically, for example, information about the number of pages of content to be printed through each of the single print jobs or multiple print jobs managed and stored in association with the second account, and information about the print settings included in each of the single print jobs or multiple print jobs managed and stored in association with the second account can be displayed. The delete button 806 is a button for deleting a job selected by the user from the single print jobs or multiple print jobs managed and stored in association with the second account. When the delete button 806 is activated, an instruction to delete the selected print job is sent to the service server 106 via the relay server 104. The print job for which the delete instruction was issued is thus deleted from the print jobs managed by the service server 106.

[0078] According to this exemplary embodiment, when one of the print jobs displayed on the list screen 800 is selected, the MFP 102 notifies the relay server 104 of the selected print job. The relay server 104 then sends a command to display the print job as shown in the example. Figure 9The information displayed on the settings display screen 900 (setting display information) of the print settings included in the selected print job is sent to the MFP 102. The MFP 102 then displays the settings display screen 900 based on the received information. According to this exemplary embodiment, the settings display screen 900 displays sheet size 901, layout 902, duplex setting 903, and color mode 904 as areas representing item setting details. Sheet size 901 represents item setting details for printing sheet size. Layout 902 represents item setting details for selecting layout. Duplex setting 903 represents item setting details for selecting between duplex and single-sided printing. Color mode 904 represents item setting details for selecting between color and monochrome printing. Aspects of the invention are not limited to the foregoing configuration and may also include areas representing setting details of another item included in the print settings. According to this exemplary embodiment, the MFP 102 can change the set item setting details by receiving user operations performed on the item. Each setting detail that the user can select to change corresponds to model information about the MFP 102 and does not cause the first conflict described below. Specifically, when MFP 102 receives a user operation to perform on a project, MFP 102 sends a request to relay server 104 to change the print settings. This changes the print settings managed by relay server 104, and information for a settings display screen 900 showing the details of the changed print settings is sent to MFP 102. MFP 102 then displays the settings display screen 900 based on the sent information. The print button 905 is a start button used to print on MFP 102 using the print settings displayed on the settings display screen 900 based on the print job selected on the list screen 800.

[0079] Client device 101 can receive information from service server 106 for displaying list screen 800 so that list screen 800 can also be displayed on the second print service application. Furthermore, instructions to delete print jobs and to change print settings can be sent from client device 101 to service server 106 via the second print service application. The content of list screen 800 displayed on MFP 102 can be compared to... Figure 8 The illustration is simpler. For example, area 802 can be excluded from the list screen 800 displayed on the MFP 102. Furthermore, for example, the delete button 806 can be excluded from the list screen 800 displayed on the MFP 102, thus preventing the execution of a delete print job command from the MFP 102.

[0080] In step S707, MFP 102 receives a user press operation on print button 905. Then, MFP 102 sends a request to relay server 104 to retrieve content. This request includes information about which print job was selected on list screen 800 and settings details representing the print settings displayed on settings display screen 900.

[0081] Next, in step S708, the relay server 104 sends a request to the service server 106 using the access token corresponding to the second account to obtain the content to be printed (including the content in the print job) selected on the list screen 800.

[0082] In step S709, the service server 106 sends the URL of the first area storing the content to be printed in the print job to the relay server 104.

[0083] In step S710, the relay server 104 accesses the first area using the received URL and obtains the content to be printed from the first area.

[0084] In step S711, the relay server 104 stores the acquired content in a second area, and then sends the URL of the second area and the print settings available in the acquired content as an instruction to perform printing to the MFP 102. In step S711, the relay server 104 is able to send the content directly to the MFP 102.

[0085] In step S712, the MFP 102, which has received the URL, accesses the second area using the URL and retrieves the content to be printed from the print job selected on the list screen 800.

[0086] In step S713, MFP 102 uses the print settings received in step S711 to print the content obtained in step S712.

[0087] In step S714, MFP 102 sends the result information about the printing results performed in step S713 to relay server 104.

[0088] In step S715, relay server 104 sends the result information received in step S714 to service server 106. Service server 106, having received the result information, manages it in association with the second account. Specifically, service server 106 manages information regarding printing executed based on instructions from the second account.

[0089] As described above, the MFP 102 performs push printing based on print settings input by a user operation performed on the client device 101. However, there may be situations where, for example, the print settings input by a user operation performed on the client device 101 do not correspond to the capabilities of the MFP 102, and the MFP 102 cannot perform printing based on the print settings input by the user operation performed on the client device 101. This problem occurs for the following reasons. Specifically, according to this exemplary embodiment, the application that receives the print settings from the user and the second print service driver do not obtain capability information about the printer to be printed. Furthermore, the control processing for configuring the print settings based on the capability information is not performed.

[0090] Therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, if the MFP 102 cannot execute printing based on a print job sent from the client device 101 to the second print service, the relay server 104 performs processing to enable the MFP 102 to execute printing based on the print job. According to one aspect of the invention, the relay server 104 operates as a control device. In push printing, after a print job for push printing is sent from the client device 101, the MFP 102 executes printing without user operation on the client device 101 or the MFP 102. Therefore, after a print job is sent from the client device 101, there is no timing for the user to change the print settings based on the push printing print job. Therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, specifically, if push printing is selected for printing on the second print service application based on a print job sent from the client device 101 to the second print service, and the model information of the MFP 102 does not correspond to the print settings used for printing, the relay server 104 changes the print settings to the print settings corresponding to the model information of the MFP 102.

[0091] On the other hand, in pull printing, after a pull print job is sent from client device 101, printing is performed by MFP 102 when a user operation is executed on MFP 102. Therefore, printing is not performed immediately after a pull print job is sent from client device 101, and thus, there is a time interval for the user to change the print settings based on the print job. Push printing is performed only by the MFP 102 associated with the first or second account, while pull printing can be performed by any printer associated with the second account. Therefore, even if the relay server 104 automatically changes the configuration of the pull print settings managed by service server 106 based on the model information of MFP 102, pull printing can still be performed by other printers. Therefore, if a print job sent from client device 101 to the second print service is selected for printing on the second print service application, and the print settings used for printing do not correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102, the relay server 104 controls the display on MFP 102 to indicate that the print settings used for printing do not correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102. Then, if a change in print settings is performed on MFP 102 after the screen is displayed, the relay server 104 changes the print settings.

[0092] <Processing performed by the relay server in push printing>

[0093] The following will refer to Figure 10 The flowchart shown describes the processes performed by relay server 104 in the process of enabling MFP 102 to perform push printing.

[0094] In step S1001, relay server 104 receives a notification that a print job has been received from service server 106. Specifically, relay server 104 receives the job number assigned to the push-to-print job received by service server 106. Additionally, in this process, the print settings (hereinafter referred to as "push-to-print settings") entered by the user into client device 101 and included in the push-to-print job received by service server 106 are also obtained from service server 106. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S603.

[0095] In step S1002, the relay server 104 uses the access token corresponding to the second account to send a request to the service server 106 to obtain the content to be printed (including the content in the print job) corresponding to the job number received in step S1001. This process is equivalent to the process performed by the relay server 104 in step S604.

[0096] In step S1003, relay server 104 receives from service server 106 the URL of the first area storing the content to be printed in the print job. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S605.

[0097] In step S1004, relay server 104 accesses the first area using the received URL and retrieves the content to be printed from the first area. Then, relay server 104 stores the retrieved content in the second area. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S606.

[0098] In step S1005, the relay server 104 determines whether a first conflict occurs with the push-type printing settings obtained in step S1004 based on the model information of MFP 102. A first conflict refers to the situation where at least one item setting detail in the printing settings does not correspond to the model information of MFP 102. In other words, a first conflict refers to the situation where at least one item setting detail in the printing settings fails to meet the condition that each setting detail corresponds to the model information of MFP 102. Specifically, for example, if the item setting detail selected between duplex printing and single-sided printing in the printing settings for push-type printing indicates duplex printing, but the model information of MFP 102 does not correspond to duplex printing (MFP 102 is a model that cannot perform duplex printing), a first conflict is determined to have occurred. However, some models can perform duplex printing. Therefore, whether or not a first conflict occurs in the printing settings depends on the model information of MFP 102. In other words, the determination of whether a first conflict occurs is based not only on the setting details of the push-type printing settings but also on the model information of MFP 102. If relay server 104 determines that a first conflict has occurred ("Yes" in step S1005), the process proceeds to step S1006. If relay server 104 determines that no first conflict has occurred ("No" in step S1005), the process proceeds to step S1007.

[0099] In step S1006, the relay server 104 modifies the push-type printing settings details based on the model information of the MFP 102 to resolve the first conflict. The settings details to be modified are those stored in the relay server 104. Specifically, the relay server 104 modifies multiple items in the push-type printing settings that do not correspond to the model information of the MFP 102 to settings that correspond to the model information of the MFP 102. For example, if the selected item setting detail between duplex and single-sided printing in the push-type printing settings indicates duplex printing, but the model information of the MFP 102 does not correspond to duplex printing, the selected item setting detail between duplex and single-sided printing is changed to indicate single-sided printing. Furthermore, for example, if the selected item setting detail between color and monochrome printing in the push-type printing settings indicates color printing, but the model information of the MFP 102 does not correspond to color printing, the selected item setting detail between color and monochrome printing is changed to indicate monochrome printing. In the event of a first conflict with multiple setting details, relay server 104 modifies multiple setting details during processing. Relay server 104 determines how to modify the setting details using a table based on model information about MFP 102. This table defines the correspondence between each target setting detail in the push-to-print settings and the setting detail that the target setting detail will be changed to. Furthermore, the table content varies depending on the model information corresponding to the table. Processing then proceeds to step S1007.

[0100] In step S1007, the relay server 104 determines whether a second conflict has occurred with the push-type printing settings based on the model information of MFP 102. If step S1006 has already been performed, the changed push-type printing settings are determined. A second conflict occurs when the combination of setting details for at least one item in the printing settings and another setting detail for at least another item in the printing settings does not correspond to the model information of MFP 102. In other words, a second conflict occurs when the setting details for at least one item in the printing settings do not satisfy the condition that each setting detail is included in the combination corresponding to the model information of MFP 102. Specifically, for example, if the setting details for the duplex and single-sided printing selections in the push-type printing settings indicate duplex printing, and the setting details for the sheet size selection indicate B5, and the combination of these two setting details does not correspond to the model information of MFP 102 (MFP102 is a model that cannot use B5 size sheet for duplex printing), then a second conflict is determined to have occurred. However, some models of the MFP 102 are capable of performing duplex printing using B5-sized sheets. Therefore, the possibility or absence of a second conflict in the print settings depends on the model information of the MFP 102. In other words, determining whether a second conflict occurs is based not only on the print settings details of the push-type printing but also on the model information of the MFP 102. There may be combinations of second conflicts that are unrelated to the model of the MFP 102. For example, if the item setting details for selecting between color printing and monochrome printing in the push-type printing settings indicate color printing while the item setting details for selecting the print sheet type indicate glossy paper, it can be determined that the occurrence of a second conflict is unrelated to the model type of the MFP 102. If the relay server 104 determines that a second conflict occurs with the push-type printing settings ("Yes" in step S1007), the process proceeds to step S1008. If the relay server 104 determines that no second conflict occurs with the push-type printing settings ("No" in step S1007), the process proceeds to step S1009.

[0101] In step S1008, the relay server 104 modifies the settings details of the push-to-print settings to resolve the second conflict. The settings details to be modified are those stored in the relay server 104. Specifically, the relay server 104 changes at least one settings detail included in the combination that does not correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102 to a settings detail that corresponds to the model information regarding MFP 102. According to this exemplary embodiment, one of the settings details included in the combination that does not correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102 is modified, while the others are not modified. Which settings detail to be modified is based on... Figure 11The priority table 1100 shown is used to determine the priority of items. Priority table 1100 defines the priority of items. Then, the setting details of items with a priority lower than other setting details included in combinations that do not correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102 are changed first, according to the priority table 1100. The selection of which setting detail to set instead of the setting details of the lower-priority item is based on a separate table defined and determined according to the model information regarding MFP 102. Specifically, for example, in a push-print setting, the item setting detail selected between duplex and single-sided printing represents duplex printing, and the item setting detail selected for the sheet size represents B5. If the combination of these two item setting details does not correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102, the item setting detail selected between duplex and single-sided printing is changed to a setting detail representing single-sided printing. Relay server 104 uses a table based on the model information regarding MFP 102 to determine how to change the setting details. This table defines the correspondence between each target setting detail of an item in the push-print setting and the setting detail that the target setting detail will be changed to. Furthermore, the content of the table changes depending on the model information corresponding to the table. Then, the process proceeds to step S1009.

[0102] For example, control is implemented such that the setting details changed by the change processing in step S1006 are not included in the combination where a second conflict occurs. Specific examples of setting details not included in the combination where a second conflict occurs are details that do not cause a second conflict and are unrelated to setting details of other items. Furthermore, control is implemented such that the setting details changed by the change processing in step S1008 are setting details that do not cause a first conflict. Setting details that do not cause a first conflict refer to setting details corresponding to the model information regarding MFP 102.

[0103] In step S1009, relay server 104 sends the URL of the second area and the print settings for the printed content as an instruction to perform printing to MFP 102. If the print settings are changed in step S1006 and / or step S1008, the changed print settings are sent in step S1009. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S607.

[0104] In step S1009, relay server 104 receives the access from MFP 102 and sends the target print content. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S608.

[0105] In step S1010, relay server 104 receives result information from MFP 102 and sends the received result information to service server 106. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in steps S610 and S611. Then, the process in the flowchart ends.

[0106] With the above configuration, even if a push-to-print instruction is issued via the second print service and the print settings entered by the user into the client device 101 do not correspond to the model information of the MFP 102, the MFP 102 will still perform push-to-print.

[0107] <Processing performed by the relay server in pull printing>

[0108] The following will refer to Figure 12 The flowchart shown describes the processes performed by relay server 104 in the process of enabling MFP 102 to perform pull printing.

[0109] In step S1201, relay server 104 receives a notification from MFP 102 that the second printing service has been selected. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S703.

[0110] In step S1202, relay server 104 accesses service server 106 using the access token corresponding to the second account. Then, relay server 104 obtains list information about the list of print jobs managed and stored in association with the second account. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S704.

[0111] In step S1203, the relay server 104 generates information for displaying the list screen 800 based on the acquired list information, and sends the generated information to the MFP 102.

[0112] In step S1204, relay server 104 receives a notification from MFP 102 indicating which print job has been selected on list screen 800. Then, relay server 104 identifies the print settings (pull print settings) included in the selected print job.

[0113] In step S1205, the relay server 104 determines, based on the model information of the MFP 102, whether a first conflict occurs with the print settings for pull-type printing identified in step S1204. Except for determining that the target is the print settings for pull-type printing, the determination process is the same as in step S1005. If the relay server 104 determines that a first conflict occurs with the print settings for pull-type printing identified in step S1204 ("Yes" in step S1205), the process proceeds to step S1206. If the relay server 104 determines that no first conflict occurs with the print settings for pull-type printing identified in step S1204 ("No" in step S1205), the process proceeds to step S1207.

[0114] In step S1206, the relay server 104 modifies the settings details of the pull-to-print settings to resolve the first conflict. The settings details to be modified are those stored in the relay server 104, not those stored in the service server 106. Except for changing the print settings targeted at pull-to-print, this process is performed the same as in step S1005. The process then proceeds to step S1207. According to this exemplary embodiment, since the first conflict with the settings details cannot be displayed on the settings display screen, the first conflict with the pull-to-print settings is also resolved.

[0115] In step S1207, the relay server 104 determines, based on the model information of the MFP 102, whether a second conflict occurs with the print settings of the pull-to-printer identified in step S1204. If the processing of step S1205 and / or step S1212 has already been performed, the changed print settings of the pull-to-printer are determined. Except for determining that the target is the print settings of the pull-to-printer, the determination is performed in the same way as in step S1007. If the relay server 104 determines that a second conflict occurs with the print settings of the pull-to-printer identified in step S1204 ("Yes" in step S1207), the process proceeds to step S1208. If the relay server 104 determines that no second conflict occurs with the print settings of the pull-to-printer identified in step S1204 ("No" in step S1207), the process proceeds to step S1209.

[0116] In step S1208, the relay server 104 generates information for displaying the settings display screen after notification processing, to notify the user that the current pull-to-print settings do not correspond to the model information of the MFP 102 or that the MFP 102 cannot perform printing using the current pull-to-print settings. Specifically, for example, the relay server 104 performs processing on the display of item setting details in the pull-to-print settings as notification processing, so that the item setting details included in the combination where the second conflict occurs are emphasized compared to the item setting details not included in the combination where the second conflict occurs. Specifically, for example, generating information for displaying... Figure 13 The settings shown are displayed on screen 1300. Figure 13 The settings display screen 1300 shown includes areas 1301 to 1304, and displays the details of the selection between duplex printing and single-sided printing, indicating duplex printing, and the details of the selection of the printing sheet size, indicating B5. A combination of these two settings details leads to a second conflict. Therefore, area 1301, indicating the sheet size selection, and area 1303, indicating the duplex setting, are highlighted by predetermined marks (icons) on areas 1301 and 1303. The method of emphasis is not limited to those described above; for example, the area corresponding to the item causing the second conflict is displayed in a more prominent color than the area corresponding to the item not causing the second conflict. Furthermore, for example, the area corresponding to the item causing the second conflict can be enclosed in a box. Additionally, the notification processing can be the display of a message indicating that the current pull-to-print settings do not correspond to the model information of the MFP 102, or that the current pull-to-print settings of the MFP 102 are used to execute printing. In the event of the second conflict, the MFP 102 cannot perform printing based on the current print settings, and therefore, the print button 1305, which is used to perform printing on the MFP 102 based on the current print settings, is disabled. The process then proceeds to step S1210.

[0117] In step S1209, the relay server 104 generates information for displaying the settings display screen without requiring notification processing. An example of a settings display screen without notification processing is settings display screen 900. Then, the process proceeds to step S1210.

[0118] In step S1210, the relay server 104 sends the information generated in step S1208 or S1209 to the MFP 102. Therefore, the MFP 102 displays either the settings display screen 900 or the settings display screen 1300.

[0119] In step S1211, relay server 104 receives a request from MFP 102 and determines whether the received request is a request to change print settings. If the request is not a request to change print settings, the request is a request to retrieve content. If relay server 104 determines that the received request is a request to change print settings ("Yes" in step S1211), the process proceeds to step S1212. If relay server 104 determines that the received request is not a request to change print settings ("No" in step S1211), the process proceeds to step S1213.

[0120] In step S1212, the relay server 104 modifies the print settings details of the pull print based on the received request to change the print settings. The settings details to be changed are those stored in the relay server 104, not those stored in the service server 106. Then, the process returns to step S1207.

[0121] In step S1213, relay server 104 sends a request to service server 106 to retrieve the content to be printed by the print job selected on list screen 800. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S708.

[0122] In step S1214, relay server 104 receives the URL of the first region from service server 106. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in step S709.

[0123] In step S1215, relay server 104 accesses the first area using the received URL and retrieves the content to be printed from the first area. Then, relay server 104 stores the retrieved content in the second area.

[0124] In step S1216, relay server 104 sends the URL of the second area and the print settings available in the printed content as an instruction to perform printing to MFP 102. Steps S1215 and S1216 are equivalent to the processes performed by relay server 104 in steps S710 and S711.

[0125] In step S1217, relay server 104 receives result information from MFP 102 and sends the received result information to service server 106. This process is equivalent to the process performed by relay server 104 in steps S714 and S715. Then, the process in the flowchart ends.

[0126] With the above configuration, even if a pull-to-print instruction is issued via the second print service and the print settings entered by the user into the client device 101 do not correspond to the model information of the MFP 102, the MFP 102 will still perform pull-to-print.

[0127] <Other exemplary embodiments>

[0128] Although model information regarding MFP 102 is used to determine whether a first conflict or a second conflict has occurred, the present invention is not limited to the above-described form, and different model information regarding MFP 102 can be used instead. For example, capability information regarding MFP 102 can be used in the above determination. Specifically, determining whether the print settings details correspond to the capability information regarding MFP 102 can be used instead of determining whether the print settings details correspond to the model information regarding MFP 102.

[0129] In the above configuration, in the event of a first conflict with the print settings of pull-out printing, the print settings of pull-out printing are automatically changed to resolve the first conflict before sending the list display information or setting display information to MFP 102. The invention is not limited to the above configuration, and even in the event of a first conflict with the print settings of pull-out printing, it is possible to send the list display information or setting display information to MFP 102 without automatically changing the print settings of pull-out printing to resolve the first conflict.

[0130] In the above configuration, in the event of a second conflict with the print settings of pull-type printing, the relay server 104 does not automatically change the print settings of pull-type printing based on the model information of MFP 102. Alternatively, in the event of a second conflict with the print settings of push-type printing, the print settings of pull-type printing can be automatically changed.

[0131] Furthermore, for example, the second print service application can be configured to send only one of pull print jobs and push print jobs. In such a case, the relay server 104 and the service server 106 can be configured to perform only one of the following processes: processing the sending of pull print jobs from the second print service application, and processing the sending of push print jobs from the second print service application.

[0132] Furthermore, the relay server 104 performs the process of determining whether a first conflict or a second conflict has occurred (steps S1005, S1007, S1205, S1207) and the process of resolving the first conflict or the second conflict (steps S1006, S1008, S1206, S1212 by the relay server 104) in the manner described above. The invention is not limited to this configuration, and the control device according to an aspect of the invention can be a device different from the relay server 104. For example, the control device according to an aspect of the invention can be an MFP 102. In this case, the MFP 102 receives the unchanged push-to-print settings from the relay server 104, determines whether a first conflict or a second conflict has occurred with the received print settings, and performs the process of resolving the first conflict or the second conflict. Then, the MFP 102 performs printing based on the push-to-print settings changed by the MFP 102 to resolve the first conflict or the second conflict in such a manner. Furthermore, the MFP 102 receives the unchanged pull-to-print settings from the relay server 104 and determines whether a first conflict or a second conflict occurs with the received print settings. Then, the MFP 102 automatically changes the print settings to resolve the first conflict based on model information about the MFP 102, applies setting notification processing to the setting display screen, and displays the obtained setting display screen. When the user selects push-to-print in the second print service application, the client device 101 can operate as a control device according to one aspect of the invention. Specifically, when the user selects push-to-print in the second print service application, the determination of the first or second conflict and the processing to resolve the first or second conflict can be performed on the client device 101. Even in this case, when the user selects pull-to-print in the second print service application, the relay server 104 or the MFP 102 is also suitable to operate as a control device according to one aspect of the invention.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above configuration, processes for determining whether a first conflict has occurred, determining whether a second conflict has occurred, resolving the first conflict, and resolving the second conflict are performed. The invention is not limited to the above configuration, and it is possible to perform only one of the processes for determining whether a first conflict has occurred and determining whether a second conflict has occurred. Similarly, it is possible to perform only one of the processes for resolving the first conflict and resolving the second conflict. In this case, even if the MFP 102 attempts to print in the event of both a first and a second conflict, the MFP 102 will not print due to an error if either the first or second conflict occurs.

[0134] Other embodiments

[0135] 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.

[0136] Although 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 following claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A predetermined server, the predetermined server comprising: The change unit is configured to perform change processing for changing the settings details of the print settings input to a terminal device outside a predetermined server; The sending unit is configured to send setting display information for displaying the setting details of pull-type printing to a printing device outside the predetermined server; as well as An execution unit is configured to, when a push-to-print job is sent from a terminal device, perform push-to-print processing such that the printing device performs push-to-print based on the push-to-print job and the settings details of the push-to-print settings, without requiring user operation on the printing device after the push-to-print job is sent from the terminal device; and is also configured to, when a pull-to-print job is sent from the terminal device, perform pull-to-print processing in response to user operation on the printing device after the pull-to-print job is sent from the terminal device, such that the printing device performs pull-to-print based on the pull-to-print job and the settings details of the pull-to-print settings. Where, if at least one setting detail of the push-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet a first predetermined condition based on the printing device, push-to-print processing is performed after performing a change process that changes the setting detail of the push-to-print settings that does not meet the first predetermined condition to the setting detail that meets the first predetermined condition. In cases where at least one setting detail of the pull-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet a first predetermined condition, setting display information, as a notification to be displayed, is sent to the printing device without requiring a change process to modify the setting details of the pull-to-print settings that do not meet the first predetermined condition to the setting details that meet the first predetermined condition.

2. The reservation server according to claim 1, in, The first predetermined condition is not met when the combination of setting details of at least one item in the print settings and another setting detail of at least one other item in the print settings does not correspond to the model information or capability information of the printing device. The process of changing the setting details of the printing settings that do not meet the first predetermined condition to the setting details that meet the first predetermined condition is the process of changing at least one of the combined setting details to a different setting detail.

3. The pre-defined server according to claim 1 or 2, in, If at least one setting detail of the push-to-print settings input to the terminal device is based on the printing device and does not meet a second predetermined condition that differs from the first predetermined condition, push-to-print is performed after a change process is executed to change the setting detail of the push-to-print settings that does not meet the second predetermined condition to the setting detail that meets the second predetermined condition. In cases where at least one setting detail of the pull-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet the second predetermined condition, after performing a change process to change the setting detail of the pull-to-print settings that does not meet the second predetermined condition to the setting detail that meets the second predetermined condition, setting display information is sent to the printing device.

4. The reservation server according to claim 3, in, The second predetermined condition is not met when at least one setting detail of the printing settings does not correspond to the model information or capability information of the printing device, and The process of changing the setting details of the printing settings that do not meet the second predetermined condition to the setting details that meet the second predetermined condition is the process of changing the setting details that do not meet the second predetermined condition to another setting detail.

5. The reservation server according to claim 4, wherein, The execution control is such that another setting detail set in the change process, which involves changing the setting details of the printing settings that do not meet the second predetermined condition to the setting details that meet the second predetermined condition, is a setting detail that is not included in the combination that does not correspond to the model information or the capability information of the printing device.

6. The pre-defined server according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, If at least one setting detail of the pull-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet a first predetermined condition, setting display information emphasizing the setting details of the pull-to-print settings that do not meet the first predetermined condition is sent to the printing device, compared to displaying the printing details of the pull-to-print settings that meet the first predetermined condition.

7. The reservation server according to claim 6, wherein, If at least one setting detail of the pull-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet a first predetermined condition, setting display information for displaying a predetermined mark together and the area corresponding to the setting detail of the pull-to-print settings that does not meet the first predetermined condition is sent to the printing device.

8. The pre-defined server according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The change processing is performed based on information sent from the printing device in response to operations on the screen displayed on the printing device using setting display information.

9. The pre-defined server according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second sending unit configured to send list display information for displaying a list of print jobs for pull printing to the printing device based on information sent from the printing device in response to an operation for pull printing on the printing device.

10. The reservation server according to claim 9, wherein, The setting display information is sent to the printing device based on the information sent from the printing device in response to the operation performed on the printing device after the list is displayed on the printing device using the list information.

11. The reservation server according to claim 10, in, The print job is sent from the terminal device to a service server outside the designated server. This includes retrieving information about the print job list for pull printing from the service server, and Specifically, a list display is generated based on information about the list of print jobs for pull-type printing.

12. The reservation server according to claim 11, in, The print settings details input to the terminal device are sent from the terminal device to the service server, and The reservation server obtains the print settings details that are input into the terminal device from the service server.

13. The reservation server according to claim 12, wherein, The printing device is a device that performs printing functions using an inkjet method.

14. The reservation server according to claim 12, wherein, When the printing device performs push-type printing or pull-type printing, information about the results of push-type printing or pull-type printing is obtained from the printing device.

15. The reservation server according to claim 12, wherein, The pre-defined server may include a single information processing device or multiple information processing devices.

16. A computer-readable storage medium for enabling a computer to be used as each unit of a predetermined server according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A method for controlling a reservation server, the method comprising: The procedure is changed to perform a change process for modifying the settings details of the print settings input to a terminal device outside a predetermined server; The sending step is used to send setting display information, which is used to display the setting details of the pull-type printing settings, to a printing device outside the predetermined server. as well as The execution step is used to perform push-print processing when a push-print job is sent from a terminal device, such that the printing device performs push-print based on the push-print job and the setting details of the push-print settings, without requiring user operation on the printing device after the push-print job is sent from the terminal device; and to perform pull-print processing in response to user operation on the printing device after the pull-print job is sent from the terminal device, such that the printing device performs pull-print based on the pull-print job and the setting details of the pull-print settings. Where, if at least one setting detail of the push-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet a first predetermined condition based on the printing device, push-to-print processing is performed after performing a change process that changes the setting detail of the push-to-print settings that does not meet the first predetermined condition to the setting detail that meets the first predetermined condition. In cases where at least one setting detail of the pull-to-print settings input to the terminal device does not meet a first predetermined condition, setting display information, as a notification to be displayed, is sent to the printing device without requiring a change process to modify the setting details of the pull-to-print settings that do not meet the first predetermined condition to the setting details that meet the first predetermined condition.

Images