Printing system, control method of printing system, and information processing apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a printing system that prints content using a printer at a desired date and time, a control method of the printing system, and an information processing apparatus. A server apparatus (200) includes: an acceptance unit (211) that accepts, from a personal computer (100), a printing completion date and time (TE) that is a date and time of completion of printing of teaching material content (CT); a determination unit (212) that determines a printing start date and time (TS) that is a date and time at which printing of the teaching material content (CT) is started, based on the printing completion date and time (TE) and a printing required time (PT) that is a time required for the printing of the teaching material content (CT); and a printing instruction unit (213) that transmits, to a printer (300), a printing start instruction (CM) that instructs the printer (300) to start the printing of the teaching material content (CT) at the printing start date and time (TS). The printer (300) includes a printing execution unit (312) that starts the printing of the teaching material content (CT) at the printing start date and time (TS) when the printing start instruction (CM) is received from the server apparatus (200).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a printing system, a control method for the printing system, and an information processing device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a system for printing textbook content.

[0003] However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that the teaching materials cannot be printed on the date and time desired by the user.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-333525 Summary of the Invention

[0005] One method for solving the above-mentioned problem involves a printing system comprising a first terminal device, a printing apparatus, and an information processing device, wherein the information processing device is communicatively connected to both the first terminal device and the printing apparatus, and wherein the information processing device comprises: a receiving unit that receives from the first terminal device a printing completion date and time, which is the date and time of printing completion of the content; a determining unit that determines a printing start date and time, which is the date and time of printing required for printing the content, based on the printing completion date and time and a printing required time, which is the time required for printing the content; and a printing instruction unit that sends a printing start instruction to the printing apparatus, instructing the printing of the content to begin printing at the printing start date and time. The printing apparatus comprises: a printing execution unit that, upon receiving the printing start instruction from the information processing device, begins printing the content at the printing start date and time.

[0006] Another approach to solving the aforementioned problem involves a control method for a printing system comprising a first terminal device, a printing device, and an information processing device. The information processing device is connected to the first terminal device and the printing device in a communicable manner. The information processing device performs the following steps: an acceptance step, accepting from the first terminal device a printing completion date and time (the date and time of completion of printing of the content); a determination step, determining a printing start date and time (the date and time of printing required to print the content) based on the printing completion date and time and a printing requirement time (the time required to print the content); and a printing instruction step, sending a printing start instruction to the printing device instructing printing of the content to begin at the printing start date and time. The printing device then performs the following steps: a printing execution step, upon receiving the printing start instruction from the information processing device, starting printing of the content at the printing start date and time.

[0007] Another method for solving the above-mentioned problem involves an information processing device that is communicatively connected to a first terminal device and a printing device, and includes: a receiving unit that receives from the first terminal device a printing completion date and time, which is the date and time when the printing of content is completed; a determining unit that determines a printing start date and time, which is the date and time when the printing of content is started, based on the printing completion date and time and a printing required time, which is the time required for printing the content; and a printing instruction unit that sends a printing start instruction to the printing device, which instructs the printing of the content to begin at the printing start date and time. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of the printing system according to this embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of the server device involved in this embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of the printer involved in this embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 A three-dimensional diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a printing mechanism.

[0012] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example of how a printing system works. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] First, refer to Figure 1 The structure of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 1 As shown, the printing system 1 includes a personal computer 100, a server device 200, a printer 300, and a smartphone 400.

[0015] Server device 200 is connected to personal computer 100, printer 300, and smartphone 400 via network NW in a communicable manner. Network NW is, for example, the Internet.

[0016] In this embodiment, the case where the network NW is the Internet is described, but it is not limited to this. The network NW may also be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0017] Printer 300 includes a first printer 300A and a second printer 300B. Smartphone 400 includes a first smartphone 400A and a second smartphone 400B. For example... Figure 1 As shown, a first printer 300A is configured in the room HA of the first user UA, and a second printer 300B is configured in the room HB of the second user UB. Furthermore, a first smartphone 400A is used by the first user UA, and a second smartphone 400B is used by the second user UB. The first user UA and the second user UB are, for example, students.

[0018] The first user UA and the second user UB each correspond to an example of "users who utilize printed content".

[0019] The first printer 300A and the second printer 300B each correspond to an example of a "printing apparatus". Furthermore, the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B each correspond to an example of a "multiple printing apparatuses".

[0020] Personal computer 100 sends the printing completion date and time TE of the CT, which is used as teaching material, to server device 200.

[0021] Personal computer 100 sends a first print completion date / time TE1 to server device 200, for example, based on an operation from a third user UC. The first print completion date / time TE1 is the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed in the first printer 300A. In other words, the first print completion date / time TE1 is the date and time specified by the third user UC as the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed in the first printer 300A.

[0022] Furthermore, the personal computer 100 sends a second printing completion date and time TE2 to the server device 200, for example, based on an operation from a third user UC. The second printing completion date and time TE2 is the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B is completed. In other words, the second printing completion date and time TE2 is the date and time specified by the third user UC as the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B is completed.

[0023] The third user UC is the user who provides the teaching material content CT to the first user UA and the second user UB. In other words, the third user UC is the user who instructs the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B to print the teaching material content CT. The third user UC is, for example, a teacher.

[0024] The third user UC corresponds to an example of "the user who instructs the printing of content".

[0025] The textbook content CT corresponds to an example of "content".

[0026] The first printing completion date and time TE1 and the second printing completion date and time TE2 each correspond to an example of "printing completion date and time". In this embodiment, "date and time" refers to, for example, year, month, day, and hour. Furthermore, "hour" refers to hour, minute, and second.

[0027] In this embodiment, the case where the "content" is the teaching material content CT is described, but it is not limited to this. The "content" can be anything such as a document printed by printer 300. For example, the "content" could also be a communication item for the first user UA and the second user UB. Furthermore, for example, the "content" could also be a questionnaire for the first user UA and the second user UB.

[0028] The personal computer 100 includes a first control unit 110. The first control unit 110 includes a first processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a first memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), thereby controlling various parts of the personal computer 100. The first memory stores a first control program. Furthermore, the first memory may also include a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor storage device such as an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0029] In the first control unit 110, the first processor reads the first control program stored in the first memory and executes it. In other words, the first control unit 110 executes the processing through the coordinated operation of hardware and software.

[0030] The first processor can consist of a single processor or a structure in which multiple processors function as the first processor.

[0031] In this embodiment, the first processor executes a first control program to control various parts of the personal computer 100, but is not limited to this. The first control unit 110 may, for example, include an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and the processing may be performed by the ASIC through its installed functions. Furthermore, the first control unit 110 may, for example, include a signal processing circuit, and the processing may be performed by the signal processing circuit performing signal processing.

[0032] The personal computer 100 corresponds to an example of a "first terminal device".

[0033] Upon receiving the printing completion date and time TE from the personal computer 100, the server device 200 determines the printing start date and time TS as the date and time to begin printing the teaching material content CT. Furthermore, the server device 200 sends a printing start instruction CM, instructing the printer 300 to begin printing the teaching material content CT at the printing start date and time TS, and the printing completion date and time TE.

[0034] For example, upon receiving a first print completion date and time TE1 from the personal computer 100, the server device 200 determines a first print start date and time TS1 as the date and time when the first printer 300A begins printing the teaching material content CT. Furthermore, the server device 200 sends a first print start instruction CM1 and the first print completion date and time TE1 to the first printer 300A. The first print start instruction CM1 indicates that printing of the teaching material content CT will begin at the first print start date and time TS1.

[0035] Furthermore, upon receiving a second printing completion date and time TE2 from the personal computer 100, the server device 200 determines a second printing start date and time TS2 as the date and time for the second printer 300B to begin printing the teaching material content CT. Additionally, the server device 200 sends a second printing start instruction CM2 and the second printing completion date and time TE2 to the first printer 300A. The second printing start instruction CM2 indicates that printing of the teaching material content CT will begin at the second printing start date and time TS2.

[0036] The first printing start date / time TS1 and the second printing start date / time TS2 each correspond to an example of a "printing start date / time".

[0037] The first print start indicator CM1 and the second print start indicator CM2 each correspond to an example of a "print start indicator".

[0038] Regarding the first printing start date and time TS1, the second printing start date and time TS2, the first printing start indication CM1, and the second printing start indication CM2, refer to... Figure 2 Let's explain further.

[0039] Regarding the structure of server device 200, refer to... Figure 2 Let's explain further.

[0040] Server device 200 corresponds to an example of an "information processing device".

[0041] Upon receiving a print start instruction CM from the server device 200, printer 300 begins printing the teaching material content CT at the print start date and time TS. Furthermore, if the printing of the teaching material content is completed before the print completion date and time TE, printer 300 sends print completion information JE1 to the server device 200 indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT is complete. Upon receiving print completion information JE1 from printer 300, server device 200 sends print completion information JE2 to personal computer 100 and smartphone 400 indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed before the print completion date and time TE.

[0042] For example, upon receiving a first print start instruction CM1 from server device 200, the first printer 300A begins printing the teaching material content CT at a first print start date and time TS1. Furthermore, if the printing of the teaching material content has been completed before a first print completion date and time TE1, the first printer 300A sends a first print completion information JEA1 to server device 200. The first print completion information JEA1 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the first print completion date and time TE1. The first print completion information JEA1 corresponds to an example of print completion information JE1. Upon receiving the first print completion information JEA1 from the first printer 300A, server device 200 sends a first print completion information JEA2 to personal computer 100 and the first smartphone 400A. The first print completion information JEA2 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the first print completion date and time TE1. The first print completion information JEA2 corresponds to an example of print completion information JE2.

[0043] Furthermore, the second printer 300B, for example, upon receiving a second print start instruction CM2 from the server device 200, begins printing the teaching material content CT at the second print start date and time TS2. Additionally, if the printing of the teaching material content has been completed before the second print completion date and time TE2, the second printer 300B sends a second print completion information JEB1 to the server device 200. The second print completion information JEB1 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the second print completion date and time TE2. The second print completion information JEB1 corresponds to an example of print completion information JE1. Upon receiving the second print completion information JEB1 from the second printer 300B, the server device 200 sends second print completion information JEB2 to the personal computer 100 and the second smartphone 400B. The second print completion information JEB2 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the second print completion date and time TE2. The second print completion information JEB2 corresponds to an example of print completion information JE2.

[0044] Printing completion information JE1, printing completion information JE2, first printing completion information JEA1, first printing completion information JEA2, second printing completion information JEB1, and second printing completion information JEB2 each correspond to an example of "printing completion information".

[0045] Regarding the structure of the first printer 300A, refer to... Figure 3 Let's explain further.

[0046] The first smartphone 400A and the second smartphone 400B are connected to the network NW in a communicative manner, for example, via wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The first smartphone 400A receives the first printing completion information JEA2 from the server device 200. The second smartphone 400B receives the second printing completion information JEB2 from the server device 200.

[0047] Upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA2 from the server device 200, the first smartphone 400A informs the first user UA that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1. For example, upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA2 from the server device 200, the first smartphone 400A displays an image on its LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0048] Upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB2 from the server device 200, the second smartphone 400B informs the second user UB that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B has been completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2. For example, upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB2 from the server device 200, the second smartphone 400B displays an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B has been completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2.

[0049] The first smartphone 400A and the second smartphone 400B each correspond to an example of a "second terminal device".

[0050] Although this embodiment describes the first smartphone 400A displaying an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A was completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1 upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA2, it is not limited to this. For example, the first smartphone 400A could also receive an email indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A was completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1, as the first printing completion information JEA2.

[0051] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, the second smartphone 400B displays an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B was completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2 upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB2, it is not limited to this. For example, the second smartphone 400B may also receive an email indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B was completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2, as the second printing completion information JEB2.

[0052] The personal computer 100 receives the first printing completion information JEA2 and the second printing completion information JEB2 from the server device 200.

[0053] Upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA2 from the server device 200, the personal computer 100 notifies the third user UC that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1. For example, upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA2 from the server device 200, the personal computer 100 displays an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0054] Furthermore, upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB2 from the server device 200, the personal computer 100 notifies the third user UC that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B has been completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2. For example, upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB2 from the server device 200, the personal computer 100 displays an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B has been completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2.

[0055] Although this embodiment describes the case where the personal computer 100 displays an image on the LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material CT in the first printer 300A is complete upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA2, it is not limited to this. For example, the personal computer 100 may also receive an email indicating that the printing of the teaching material CT in the first printer 300A is complete, as the first printing completion information JEA2.

[0056] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, the personal computer 100 displays an image on the LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B is complete upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB2, it is not limited to this. For example, the personal computer 100 may also receive an email indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B is complete, as the second printing completion information JEB2.

[0057] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the server device 200 will be described. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of the server device 200 according to this embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 2As shown, the server device 200 includes a second control unit 210, a second operating mechanism 220, a second display mechanism 230, and a second communication interface 240. The second control unit 210 includes a second processor 210A and a second memory 210B. The second control unit 210 controls the operation of each part of the server device 200.

[0058] In addition, a second operating mechanism 220, a second display mechanism 230, and a second communication interface 240 are connected to the second control unit 210.

[0059] The second operating mechanism 220 is equipped with various buttons and other controls to handle user operations. The user may be, for example, an administrator of the server device 200. Furthermore, the second operating mechanism 220 generates an operation signal corresponding to the received operation and outputs the generated operation signal to the second control unit 210.

[0060] The second display unit 230 includes an LCD and displays various images on the LCD according to instructions from the second control unit 210.

[0061] The second communication interface 240 includes a connector and interface circuitry, and is connected to the second control unit 210. In this embodiment, the second communication interface 240 is, for example, an interface for communicating with the personal computer 100, the printer 300, and the smartphone 400 respectively according to the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard.

[0062] The second processor 210A consists of a CPU, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a microcomputer, etc. The second processor 210A can be composed of multiple processors or a single processor.

[0063] The second processor 210A can also be hardware programmed to implement the functions of the parts described later. That is, the second processor 210A can also be a structure in which the second control program PG2 is mounted as a hardware circuit. In this case, for example, the second processor 210A is constructed from an ASIC, an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like.

[0064] In the following description, the various functions of the second control unit 210 will be explained by executing the second control program PG2 through the second processor 210A.

[0065] The second memory 210B has a storage area for storing the program executed by the second processor 210A and the data processed by the second processor 210A. The second memory 210B stores the second control program PG2 executed by the second processor 210A, as well as various image data, setting data, etc., related to the operation of the server device 200.

[0066] The second memory 210B has a non-volatile storage area for non-volatile storage of programs and data. As a non-volatile storage area, the second memory 210B may include, for example, ROM, HDD, SSD, etc. Furthermore, the second memory 210B may also constitute a working area with a volatile storage area for temporarily storing programs executed by the second processor 210A and data of the processed objects. As a volatile storage area, the second memory 210B may include, for example, RAM, etc.

[0067] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the second control unit 210 includes a receiving unit 211, a decision unit 212, a printing instruction unit 213, a second notification unit 214, a second communication control unit 215, a content storage unit 216, and a printing speed storage unit 217. These parts are implemented by the second processor 210A executing the second control program PG2, for example, through the coordinated operation of software and hardware.

[0068] The content storage unit 216 stores the teaching material content CT in advance. The teaching material content CT may be, for example, questions or topics for subjects such as English and mathematics. The teaching material content CT is stored in the content storage unit 216 according to instructions from the personal computer 100.

[0069] In addition, the content storage unit 216 stores in advance the number of printouts NC of the textbook content CT printed by the printer 300.

[0070] In this embodiment, the printing of the teaching material content CT on printing paper of a predetermined size by the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B will be described. The predetermined size is, for example, the A4 size as specified by ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 216. That is, by using the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B to print the teaching material content CT, the teaching material content CT is printed on a number of A4-sized printing papers corresponding to the number of printed sheets NC.

[0071] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes the printing of the teaching material CT on A4-sized printing paper as specified in ISO 216 by the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B, it is not limited to this. It is sufficient that the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B print the teaching material CT on printing paper of a predetermined size. The predetermined size could be, for example, B5 as specified in ISO 216, or A3 as specified in ISO 216.

[0072] The printing speed storage unit 217 stores the printing speed SP of the printer 300 in advance. The printing speed SP includes, for example, a first printing speed SP1 and a second printing speed SP2. The first printing speed SP1 is the printing speed SP of the first printer 300A. The second printing speed SP2 is the printing speed SP of the second printer 300B.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first printing speed SP1, for example, indicates how many A4-sized sheets of paper the first printer 300A can print in one minute. The second printing speed SP2, for example, indicates how many A4-sized sheets of paper the second printer 300B can print in one minute.

[0074] The receiving department 211 received the date and time of printing completion of the CT as teaching material from the personal computer 100.

[0075] In this embodiment, the receiving unit 211 receives from the personal computer 100 a first printing completion date time TE1, which is the date and time of printing completion of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A. The first printing completion date time TE1 corresponds to an example of a printing completion date time TE. Furthermore, the receiving unit 211 receives from the personal computer 100 a second printing completion date time TE2, which is the date and time of printing completion of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B. The second printing completion date time TE2 corresponds to an example of a printing completion date time TE. Additionally, the second printing completion date time TE2 may be the same date and time as the first printing completion date time TE1, or it may be a different date and time.

[0076] The decision-making department 212 determines the printing start date time TS, which is the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT begins, based on the printing completion date time TE and the printing required time PT, which is the time required to print the teaching material content CT.

[0077] In this embodiment, the decision unit 212 determines the first printing start date TS1 based on the first printing completion date TE1 and the first printing required time PT1. The first printing required time PT1 is the time required for the first printer 300A to print the teaching material content CT. The first printing required time PT1 corresponds to an example of the printing required time PT. The first printing start date TS1 is the date and time at which the first printer 300A begins printing the teaching material content CT. The first printing start date TS1 corresponds to an example of the printing start date TS.

[0078] The decision unit 212 determines the first printing start date and time TS1, for example, by the following formula (1).

[0079] TS1=TE1-PT1-ΔT1(1)

[0080] Here, the first buffer time ΔT1 is the time required to ensure that the printing of the teaching material content CT using the first printer 300A is reliably completed before the first printing completion date time TE1. The first buffer time ΔT1 is, for example, 30 minutes. In other words, if the first printer 300A starts printing the teaching material content CT at the first printing start date time TS1, and the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed within the first printing required time PT1, the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed before the first printing completion date time TE1 by the first buffer time ΔT1.

[0081] Furthermore, the decision unit 212 calculates the first printing time PT1 based on the number of sheets NC to be printed in the printing of the teaching material content and the first printing speed SP1 of the first printer 300A. The decision unit 212 calculates the first printing time PT1, for example, using the following formula (2).

[0082] PT1 = NC / SP1(2)

[0083] Furthermore, the decision unit 212 determines the second printing start date TS2 based on the second printing completion date TE2 and the second printing required time PT2. The second printing required time PT2 is the time required for the second printer 300B to print the teaching material content CT. The second printing required time PT2 corresponds to an example of the printing required time PT. The second printing start date TS2 is the date and time at which the second printer 300B begins printing the teaching material content CT. The second printing start date TS2 corresponds to an example of the printing start date TS.

[0084] The decision unit 212 determines the second printing start date and time TS2, for example, by the following formula (3).

[0085] TS2=TE2-PT2-ΔT2(3)

[0086] Here, the second buffer time ΔT2 is the time required to ensure that the printing of the teaching material content CT using the second printer 300B is completed before the second printing completion date time TE2. The second buffer time ΔT2 is, for example, 30 minutes. In other words, if the second printer 300B starts printing the teaching material content CT at the second printing start date time TS2, and the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed within the second printing time PT2, the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed before the second printing completion date time TE2 by the second buffer time ΔT2.

[0087] Furthermore, the decision unit 212 calculates the second printing time PT2 based on the number of sheets NC printed in the printing of the teaching material content and the second printing speed SP2 of the second printer 300B. The decision unit 212 calculates the second printing time PT2, for example, using the following formula (4).

[0088] PT2 = NC / SP2(4)

[0089] The printing instruction unit 213 sends a printing start instruction CM to the printer 300, instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin on the printing start date and time TS. Additionally, the printing instruction unit 213 sends a printing completion date and time TE to the printer 300.

[0090] In this embodiment, the printing instruction unit 213 sends a first printing start instruction CM1 to the first printer 300A, instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at a first printing start date and time TS1. The first printing start instruction CM1 corresponds to an example of the printing start instruction CM. Furthermore, the printing instruction unit 213 sends a first printing completion date and time TE1 to the first printer 300A.

[0091] Furthermore, the printing instruction unit 213 sends a second printing start instruction CM2 to the second printer 300B, instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the second printing start date and time TS2. The second printing start instruction CM2 corresponds to an example of the printing start instruction CM. Additionally, the printing instruction unit 213 sends a second printing completion date and time TE2 to the second printer 300B.

[0092] Upon receiving the printing completion information JE1 from the printer 300, the second notification unit 214 sends printing completion information JE2 to the personal computer 100 and the smartphone 400. Printing completion information JE1 and JE2 respectively indicate that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the printer 300 was completed before the printing completion date and time TE. That is, printing completion information JE1 and JE2 each correspond to an example of "printing completion information".

[0093] In this embodiment, upon receiving the first printing completion information JEA1 from the first printer 300A, the second notification unit 214 sends the first printing completion information JEA2 to the personal computer 100 and the first smartphone 400A. The first printing completion information JEA1 and JEA2 respectively indicate that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A was completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0094] Furthermore, upon receiving the second printing completion information JEB1 from the second printer 300B, the second notification unit 214 sends the second printing completion information JEB2 to the personal computer 100 and the second smartphone 400B. The second printing completion information JEB1 and JEB2 respectively indicate that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B was completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2.

[0095] The second notification section 214 corresponds to an example of the "second completion notification section".

[0096] The second communication control unit 215 receives the first printing completion date and time TE1 from the personal computer 100. Furthermore, the second communication control unit 215 receives the second printing completion date and time TE2 from the personal computer 100.

[0097] Furthermore, the second communication control unit 215 sends a first printing start instruction CM1 and a first printing completion date and time TE1 to the first printer 300A. Additionally, the second communication control unit 215 sends a second printing start instruction CM2 and a second printing completion date and time TE2 to the second printer 300B.

[0098] Furthermore, the second communication control unit 215 receives the first printing completion information JEA1 from the first printer 300A. Additionally, the second communication control unit 215 receives the second printing completion information JEB1 from the second printer 300B.

[0099] Furthermore, the second communication control unit 215 sends first printing completion information JEA2 to the personal computer 100 and the first smartphone 400A. Additionally, the second communication control unit 215 sends second printing completion information JEB2 to the personal computer 100 and the second smartphone 400B.

[0100] Next, refer to Figure 3 The printer 300 involved in this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of the printer 300 according to this embodiment. The printer 300 is an apparatus for printing text and images on a printing medium M such as printing paper. Furthermore, in Figure 3 First, the first printer 300A will be described. Furthermore, since the structure of the second printer 300B is largely the same as that of the first printer 300A, the following description will primarily focus on the differences between it and the first printer 300A.

[0101] like Figure 3 As shown, the first printer 300A includes a third control unit 310, a scanner mechanism 320, a third operating mechanism 330, a third display mechanism 340, a speaker 345, a third communication interface 350, a printing mechanism 360, an ink supply unit 370, and a printing media storage unit 380.

[0102] The third control unit 310 includes a third processor 310A such as a CPU and a third memory 310B such as ROM and RAM, thereby controlling various parts of the printer 300. The third memory 310B stores the third control program PG3. In addition, the third memory 310B may also include a magnetic storage device such as an HDD or a semiconductor storage device such as an SSD.

[0103] In the third control unit 310, the third processor 310A reads the third control program PG3 stored in the third memory 310B and executes it. In other words, the third control unit 310 executes the processing through the coordinated operation of hardware and software.

[0104] The third processor 310A can be composed of a single processor or a structure in which multiple processors function as the third processor 310A.

[0105] In this embodiment, the third processor 310A executes the third control program PG3 to control various parts of the printer 300, but is not limited to this. The third control unit 310 may also include an ASIC, for example, and the ASIC may perform processing through its installed functions. Furthermore, the third control unit 310 may also include a signal processing circuit, and the signal processing circuit may perform signal processing to execute the processing.

[0106] The scanner mechanism 320 is equipped with image sensors such as CCD (Charge Coupled Device), CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), and CIS (Contact Image Sensor), which reads images printed on printing media M such as printing paper and generates image data.

[0107] The third operating mechanism 330 includes an operating switch and an input unit such as a touch panel installed in the first printer 300A, thereby detecting the operation of the first user UA on the input unit and outputting a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the third control unit 310. The third control unit 310 performs processing corresponding to the operation of the first user UA based on the input from the third operating mechanism 330.

[0108] The third display unit 340 includes multiple LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), a display panel, etc., and performs functions such as turning on, turning off, flashing, and displaying information to the display panel in a predetermined manner according to the control of the third control unit 310.

[0109] The speaker 345 outputs voice according to the control of the third control unit 310.

[0110] The printing mechanism 360, under the control of the third control unit 310, prints text, images, etc., on a printing medium M such as printing paper using ink. As a printing-related structure, the printing mechanism 360 includes a print head 361, a carriage 362, a scanning motor 363, and a transport motor 364.

[0111] The printhead 361 is an inkjet printer that ejects ink supplied from the ink supply unit 370 toward the printing medium M. A carriage 362 mounts the printhead 361 and scans in the main scanning direction X. The main scanning direction X intersects with the secondary scanning direction Y. The secondary scanning direction Y represents the transport direction of the printing medium M. A scanning motor 363 causes the carriage 362 to scan in the main scanning direction X. A transport motor 364 transports the printing medium M in the transport direction.

[0112] Regarding printing agency 360, please refer to... Figure 4 Let's explain further.

[0113] The ink supply unit 370 stores the ink cans containing the ink and supplies ink from the ink cans to the print head 361 of the printing unit 360. The ink supplied by the ink supply unit 370 is, for example, various colors of ink such as blue-green (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K).

[0114] The printing media storage unit 380 is configured to store the printing media M. When the printing media M is paper cut, the printing media storage unit 380 unwinds the stored paper cut along a transport path (not shown) by the transport motor 364. The printing media storage unit 380 may also have a structure for recycling the printed material, which is the printed printing media M. The structure for recycling the printed material may also be a structure that places the paper cut in layers.

[0115] Next, the functional modules of the third control unit 310 of the first printer 300A will be explained.

[0116] The third control unit 310, as a functional module, includes an instruction receiving unit 311, a printing execution unit 312, a third notification unit 313, a printing shelving unit 314, a third communication control unit 315, a date and time storage unit 316, and a task storage unit 317.

[0117] The third processor 310A executes the third control program PG3, thereby functioning as an instruction receiving unit 311, a printing execution unit 312, a third notification unit 313, a printing shelving unit 314, and a third communication control unit 315. Furthermore, by executing the third control program PG3, the third control unit 310 enables the third memory 310B to function as a date and time storage unit 316 and a task storage unit 317.

[0118] Furthermore, the third control unit 310 has a timing function for measuring date and time. Additionally, the third control unit 310 adjusts the date and time of the timing function, for example, by periodically communicating with the server device 200.

[0119] The date and time storage unit 316 stores the first printing completion date and time TE1 and the first printing start date and time TS1. The first printing completion date and time TE1 and the first printing start date and time TS1 are received from the server device 200 by the instruction receiving unit 311 and stored in the date and time storage unit 316 by the instruction receiving unit 311.

[0120] The task storage unit 317 stores the printing tasks JB that have been placed in the printing shelving unit 314. The printing tasks are stored in the task storage unit 317 via the printing shelving unit 314. In addition, the printing tasks JB stored in the task storage unit 317 are executed by the printing execution unit 312 after the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed.

[0121] The instruction receiving unit 311 receives the first printing start instruction CM1 from the server device 200. The first printing start instruction CM1 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT will begin at the first printing start date and time TS1. In addition, the instruction receiving unit 311 receives the first printing completion date and time TE1 from the server device 200. The first printing completion date and time TE1 is the date and time when the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed in the first printer 300A.

[0122] When the instruction receiving unit 311 receives the first printing start instruction CM1, it causes the date and time storage unit 316 to store the first printing start date and time TS1. Furthermore, when the instruction receiving unit 311 receives the first printing completion date and time TE1, it causes the date and time storage unit 316 to store the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0123] When the instruction receiving unit 311 receives the first print start instruction CM1 from the server device 200, the printing execution unit 312 starts printing the teaching material content CT at the first print start date and time TS1. For example, when the date and time measured by the timing function reaches the first print start date and time TS1, the printing execution unit 312 starts printing the teaching material content CT performed by the printing unit 360.

[0124] If the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the first printing completion date TE1, the third notification unit 313 sends a first printing completion information JEA1 to the server device 200. The first printing completion information JEA1 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed before the first printing completion date TE1.

[0125] Furthermore, the third notification unit 313 notifies the first user UA that the printing of the teaching material content CT is complete. For example, the third notification unit 313 outputs a voice message from the speaker 345 indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT is complete. Additionally, the third notification unit 313 may also display an image indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT is complete on the display panel of the third display unit 340.

[0126] The third notification section 313 corresponds to an example of the "first completion notification section".

[0127] If the printing pause unit 314 receives an instruction to print content different from the teaching material content CT during the period from the first printing start date TS1 to the first printing completion date TE1, it pauses the printing of the other content. Furthermore, the printing pause unit 314 causes the task storage unit 317 to store the printing task JB corresponding to the instruction to print the other content different from the teaching material content CT.

[0128] Although in this embodiment, the printing pause unit 314 pauses the printing of additional content if it receives an instruction to print additional content different from the teaching material content CT during the period from the first printing start date time TS1 to the first printing completion date time TE1, it is not limited to this. For example, the printing pause unit 314 may also pause the printing of additional content if it receives an instruction to print additional content different from the teaching material content CT during the period from the first printing start date time TS1 to the completion of printing the teaching material content CT.

[0129] The third communication control unit 315 receives the first printing start instruction CM1 and the first printing completion date and time TE1 from the server device 200. Furthermore, the third communication control unit 315 sends the first printing completion information JEA1 to the server device 200.

[0130] Next, the differences between the third control unit 310 of the second printer 300B and the third control unit 310 of the first printer 300A will be explained.

[0131] The date and time storage unit 316 stores the second printing completion date and time TE2 and the second printing start date and time TS2.

[0132] The instruction receiving unit 311 receives the second printing start instruction CM2 from the server device 200. The second printing start instruction CM2 instructs the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the second printing start date and time TS2 in the second printer 300B.

[0133] When the instruction receiving unit 311 receives the second printing start instruction CM2 from the server device 200, the printing execution unit 312 starts printing the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B at the second printing start date and time TS2.

[0134] If the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B is completed before the second printing completion date and time TE2, the third notification unit 313 sends the second printing completion information JEB1 to the server device 200. Furthermore, if the printing of the teaching material content CT in the second printer 300B is completed, the third notification unit 313 notifies the second user UB that the printing of the teaching material content CT is complete.

[0135] If the printing postponement unit 314 receives an instruction to print content different from the teaching material content CT during the period from the second printing start date TS2 to the second printing completion date TE2, it postpones the printing of the content different from the teaching material content CT.

[0136] The third communication control unit 315 receives the second printing start instruction CM2 and the second printing completion date and time TE2 from the server device 200. Furthermore, the third communication control unit 315 sends the second printing completion information JEB1 to the server device 200.

[0137] Next, refer to Figure 4 The structure of the printing mechanism 360 is explained. Figure 4 A perspective view showing an example of the structure of a printing mechanism 360.

[0138] like Figure 4 As shown, the printing mechanism 360 includes a carriage 362, a scanning motor 363, a paper feed roller 365, a traction belt 366, a guide rail 367, an impression plate 368, and a printing media storage section 380.

[0139] The paper feed roller 365 is driven by the conveyor motor 364. The traction belt 366 is driven by the scanning motor 363. The guide rail 367 supports the carriage 362 in a manner that allows it to move in the main scanning direction X. The carriage 362 is supported by the guide rail 367 and driven in the main scanning direction X by the scanning motor 363 and via the traction belt 366.

[0140] The head unit 36A is mounted on the carriage 362.

[0141] The head unit 36A has multiple (e.g., four) ink cartridges 36B and a print head 361. The ink cartridges 36B are included in the ink supply section 370.

[0142] Multiple ink cartridges 36B are detachable from the carriage 362. Each ink cartridge 36B contains ink of a different color. For example, ink cartridges 36B contain cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K) ink. The ink contained in the ink cartridges 36B is supplied to the print head 361.

[0143] The print head 361 includes nozzles 36C, etc. Multiple nozzles 36C are arranged along the sub-scanning direction Y on the surface of the print head 361 opposite to the impression plate 368. The print head 361 ejects ink from the nozzles 36C toward the printing medium M.

[0144] The printing medium M is wound onto the paper feed roller 365 from the printing medium storage section 380 and conveyed along the surface of the impression plate 368 in the secondary scanning direction Y. The carriage 362 is pulled by the traction belt 366 driven by the scanning motor 363, thereby moving along the guide rail 367 in the main scanning direction X. Moreover, the print head 361 mounted on the carriage 362 also moves in the main scanning direction X.

[0145] In addition, the main scanning direction X is orthogonal to the sub-scanning direction Y.

[0146] Because of this structure, the printing mechanism 360 alternately performs liquid ejection operations, which involve moving the print head 361 in the main scanning direction X while simultaneously ejecting ink from the nozzle 36C, and conveying operations, which involve conveying the printing medium M in the secondary scanning direction Y. As a result, the printing mechanism 360 prints images such as text and graphics on the printing medium M.

[0147] Next, refer to Figure 5 The operation of printing system 1 will be explained. Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of printing system 1. Additionally, in Figure 5 For ease of understanding, the first printer 300A is described as an example of a printer 300, and the first smartphone 400A is described as an example of a smartphone 400. In other words, in Figure 5 The description of the second printer 300B and the second smartphone 400B is omitted.

[0148] like Figure 5 As shown, in step S101, the personal computer 100 sends a first printing completion date and time TE1 to the server device 200. The first printing completion date and time TE1 is the date and time when the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A is completed.

[0149] Next, in step S103, the receiving unit 211 of the server device 200 receives the first printing completion date and time TE1 from the personal computer 100.

[0150] Next, in step S105, the decision unit 212 of the server device 200 determines the first printing start date TS1 based on the first printing completion date TE1 and the first printing required time PT1. The first printing start date TS1 is the date and time when the first printer 300A begins printing the teaching material content CT. The first printing required time PT1 is the time required for the first printer 300A to print the teaching material content CT.

[0151] Next, in step S107, the printing instruction unit 213 of the server device 200 sends a first printing start instruction CM1 to the first printer 300A, instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the first printing start date and time TS1. Furthermore, the printing instruction unit 213 of the server device 200 sends a first printing completion date and time TE1 to the first printer 300A.

[0152] Next, in step S109, the instruction receiving unit 311 of the first printer 300A receives the first printing start instruction CM1 and the first printing completion date and time TE1 from the server device 200.

[0153] Next, in step S111, the printing execution unit 312 of the first printer 300A determines whether the date and time measured by the timing function has reached the first printing start date and time TS1. If the printing execution unit 312 determines that the date and time measured by the timing function has not reached the first printing start date and time TS1 (step S111; No), the process enters a standby state. If the printing execution unit 312 determines that the date and time measured by the timing function has reached the first printing start date and time TS1 (step S111; Yes), the process proceeds to step S113.

[0154] Then, in step S113, the printing execution unit 312 of the first printer 300A performs the printing of the teaching material content CT implemented by the printing mechanism 360.

[0155] Next, in step S115, the third notification unit 313 of the first printer 300A determines whether the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed. If the third notification unit 313 determines that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has not been completed (step S115; No), the process enters a standby state. If the third notification unit 313 determines that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed (step S115; Yes), the process proceeds to step S117.

[0156] Then, in step S117, the third notification unit 313 of the first printer 300A determines whether the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1. In other words, the third notification unit 313 of the first printer 300A determines whether the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT, determined in step S115, using the first printer 300A has been completed, is before the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0157] If the third notification unit 313 determines that the printing of the teaching material content CT was not completed before the first printing completion date TE1 (step S117; No), the process ends. If the third notification unit 313 determines that the printing of the teaching material content CT was completed before the first printing completion date TE1 (step S117; Yes), the process proceeds to step S119.

[0158] Then, in step S119, the third notification unit 313 of the first printer 300A sends first printing completion information JEA1 to the server device 200. The first printing completion information JEA1 indicates that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A has been completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0159] Next, in step S121, the second notification unit 214 of the server device 200 receives the first printing completion information JEA1 from the first printer 300A.

[0160] Next, in step S123, the second notification unit 214 of the server device 200 sends the first printing completion information JEA2 to the personal computer 100 and the first smartphone 400A.

[0161] Next, in step S125, the personal computer 100 receives the first printing completion information JEA2. Furthermore, the personal computer 100 displays an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A was completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1.

[0162] Next, in step S127, the first smartphone 400A receives the first printing completion information JEA2. Furthermore, the first smartphone 400A displays an image on its LCD indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT in the first printer 300A was completed before the first printing completion date and time TE1. After this, the process ends.

[0163] Additionally, step S103 corresponds to an example of the "acceptance step". Step S105 corresponds to an example of the "decision step". Step S107 corresponds to an example of the "printing instruction step". Step S113 corresponds to an example of the "printing execution step".

[0164] The above is for reference only. Figures 1 to 5 As explained, the printing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a personal computer 100, a printer 300, and a server device 200 that is connected to the personal computer 100 and the printer 300 in a communicable manner. The server device 200 includes: a receiving unit 211 that receives from the personal computer 100 a printing completion date time TE, which is the date and time of printing completion of the teaching material content CT; a determining unit 212 that determines a printing start date time TS, which is the date and time of starting to print the teaching material content CT, based on the printing completion date time TE and the printing time required PT, which is the time required to print the teaching material content CT; and a printing instruction unit 213 that sends a printing start instruction CM to the printer 300, which instructs to start printing the teaching material content CT at the printing start date time TS. The printer 300 includes: a printing execution unit 312 that, upon receiving the printing start instruction CM from the server device 200, starts printing the teaching material content CT at the printing start date time TS.

[0165] According to this structure, the server device 200 receives the print completion date time TE, which is the date and time when the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed, from the personal computer 100. Furthermore, based on the print completion date time TE and the print time required PT, which is the time required to print the teaching material content CT, a print start date time TS is determined as the date and time when printing the teaching material content CT will begin. In addition, a print start instruction CM, instructing the printer 300 to begin printing the teaching material content CT at the print start date time TS, is sent. Upon receiving the print start instruction CM from the server device 200, the printer 300 begins printing the teaching material content CT at the print start date time TS.

[0166] Therefore, since the printing start date time TS, which is the date and time at which the printing of the teaching material content CT begins, is determined based on the printing completion date time TE and the printing required time PT, which is the time required to print the teaching material content CT, the printing start date time TS can be appropriately determined. Furthermore, since the printer 300 begins printing the teaching material content CT at the printing start date time TS upon receiving a printing start instruction CM instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin printing at the printing start date time TS, the printing of the teaching material content CT can begin at an appropriate date and time. Therefore, the teaching material content CT can be printed using the printer 300 at the date and time desired by the third user UC, who is the user of the personal computer 100.

[0167] Furthermore, in the printing system 1 of this embodiment, the decision unit 212 calculates the printing time PT based on the number of prints NC of the teaching material content CT and the printing speed SP of the printer 300.

[0168] Based on this structure, the printing time PT can be appropriately calculated by using the number of sheets NC to be printed based on the textbook content CT and the printing speed SP of the printer 300.

[0169] Furthermore, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, a smartphone 400 is provided, which is connected to a server device 200 in a communicable manner and is operated by a user using printed materials containing teaching materials CT. A personal computer 100 is operated by a third user UC who instructs the printing of the teaching materials CT. A printing instruction unit 213 sends a printing completion date and time TE to a printer 300. The printer 300 has a third notification unit 313, which sends printing completion information JE1 indicating that the printing of the teaching materials CT has been completed before the printing completion date and time TE to the server device 200 when the printing of the teaching materials CT has been completed before the printing completion date and time TE. The server device 200 has a second notification unit 214, which sends printing completion information JE2 to at least one of the personal computer 100 and the smartphone 400 when it receives the printing completion information JE1 from the printer 300.

[0170] According to this structure, if the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed before the printing completion date and time TE, the printer 300 sends printing completion information JE1 to the server device 200, indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the printing completion date and time TE. Furthermore, upon receiving printing completion information JE1 from the printer 300, the server device 200 sends printing completion information JE2 to the personal computer 100 and the smartphone 400.

[0171] Therefore, the third-party user UC, who is a user of the personal computer 100, and the user of the smartphone 400, can easily confirm that the printing of the teaching material content CT has been completed before the printing completion date TE. This improves user convenience.

[0172] Furthermore, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, the printer 300 includes a printing pause unit 314, which pauses the printing of the additional content when it receives an instruction to print additional content different from the teaching material content CT during the period from the printing start date time TS to the printing completion date time TE.

[0173] According to this structure, if the printer 300 receives an instruction to print additional content different from the textbook content CT during the period from the printing start date time TS to the printing completion date time TE, the printing of the additional content is suspended. Therefore, the textbook content CT can be reliably printed without being affected by other printing tasks JB.

[0174] Furthermore, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, the printer 300 includes a printing resting section 314, which rests the printing of the other content when it receives an instruction to print other content different from the textbook content CT during the period from the printing start date time TS until the printing of the textbook content CT is completed.

[0175] According to this structure, if the printer 300 receives an instruction to print additional content different from the textbook content CT during the period from the printing start date TS until the printing of the textbook content CT is completed, the printing of the additional content will be postponed. Therefore, the printing of the textbook content CT can be reliably carried out without being affected by other printing tasks JB.

[0176] Furthermore, in the printing system 1 according to this embodiment, the printer 300 includes a first printer 300A and a second printer 300B. The determination unit 212 determines a first printing start date and time TS1 corresponding to the first printer 300A and a second printing start date and time TS2 corresponding to the second printer 300B. The printing instruction unit 213 sends a first printing start instruction CM1 to the first printer 300A, indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT will begin at the first printing start date and time TS1, and sends a second printing start instruction CM2 to the second printer 300B, indicating that the printing of the teaching material content CT will begin at the second printing start date and time TS2.

[0177] Based on this structure, a first printing start date and time TS1 corresponding to the first printer 300A and a second printing start date and time TS2 corresponding to the second printer 300B are determined. Furthermore, a first printing start instruction CM1 instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the first printing start date and time TS1 is sent to the first printer 300A. Additionally, a second printing start instruction CM2 instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the second printing start date and time TS2 is sent to the second printer 300B.

[0178] A first printing start date and time TS1 corresponding to the first printer 300A is determined, and a first printing start instruction CM1 instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the first printing start date and time TS1 is sent to the first printer 300A. Therefore, printing of the teaching material content CT can begin at an appropriate timing in the first printer 300A. Furthermore, a second printing start date and time TS2 corresponding to the second printer 300B is determined, and a second printing start instruction CM2 instructing the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the second printing start date and time TS2 is sent to the second printer 300B. Therefore, printing of the teaching material content CT can begin at an appropriate timing in the second printer 300B.

[0179] The control method of the printing system 1 according to this embodiment is a control method of the printing system 1 including a personal computer 100, a printer 300, and a server device 200. The server device 200 is connected to the personal computer 100 and the printer 300 in a communicable manner. The server device 200 performs the following steps: a receiving step, receiving from the personal computer 100 a printing completion date time TE, which is the date and time of printing completion of the teaching material content CT; a determining step, determining a printing start date time TS, which is the date and time of starting printing of the teaching material content CT, based on the printing completion date time TE and the printing time required PT, which is the time required to print the teaching material content CT; and a printing instruction step, sending a printing start instruction CM to the printer 300, which instructs to start printing of the teaching material content CT at the printing start date time TS. The printer 300 performs the following steps: a printing execution step, receiving the printing start instruction CM from the server device 200, starting printing of the teaching material content CT at the printing start date time TS.

[0180] According to this structure, it can achieve the same effect as the printing system 1 involved in this embodiment.

[0181] The server device 200 of this embodiment is connected to the personal computer 100 and the printer 300 in a communicable manner, and includes: a receiving unit 211 that receives from the personal computer 100 a printing completion date time TE, which is the date and time when the printing of the teaching material content CT is completed; a determining unit 212 that determines a printing start date time TS, which is the date and time when the printing of the teaching material content CT begins, based on the printing completion date time TE and the printing required time PT, which is the time required to print the teaching material content CT; and a printing instruction unit 213 that sends a printing start instruction CM to the printer 300, which instructs the printing of the teaching material content CT to begin at the printing start date time TS.

[0182] According to this structure, it can achieve the same effect as the printing system 1 involved in this embodiment.

[0183] This embodiment is an example of one approach, and can be modified and applied arbitrarily without departing from the main idea.

[0184] Although this embodiment describes the case where the "information processing device" is configured as a server device 200, it is not limited to this. For example, the "information processing device" may also be configured as a personal computer or a tablet computer terminal.

[0185] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes a printer 300 using an inkjet printer as the "printing apparatus," it is not limited to this. It is sufficient to define the "printing apparatus" as any device that prints text and images onto a printing medium M such as printing paper. For example, a so-called electrophotographic printer could also be used.

[0186] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes the printer 300 as including two printers, namely the first printer 300A and the second printer 300B, it is not limited to this. The printer 300 may also include three or more printers.

[0187] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes the case where the "first terminal device" is configured as a personal computer 100, it is not limited to this. For example, the "first terminal device" may also be configured as a tablet computer terminal, or it may be configured as a smartphone.

[0188] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes the "second terminal device" as being configured as a smartphone 400, it is not limited to this. For example, the "second terminal device" may also be configured as a personal computer, or it may be configured as a tablet computer.

[0189] In this embodiment, the case where the smartphone 400 includes two smartphones, namely the first smartphone 400A and the second smartphone 400B, is described, but it is not limited to this. The smartphone 400 may also include three or more smartphones.

[0190] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, the second notification unit 214 of the server device 200 sends printing completion information JE2 to the personal computer 100 and the smartphone 400 upon receiving printing completion information JE1 from the printer 300, it is not limited to this. The second notification unit 214 only needs to send printing completion information JE2 to at least one of the personal computer 100 and the smartphone 400 upon receiving printing completion information JE1 from the printer 300.

[0191] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, the printing pause unit 314 pauses the printing of additional content (different from the teaching material content CT) when it receives an instruction to print such additional content during the period from the first printing start date TS1 to the first printing completion date TE1, it is not limited to this. For example, the printing pause unit 314 may also pause the printing of additional content (different from the teaching material content CT) when it receives an instruction to print such additional content during the period from the first printing start date TS1 to the completion of printing the teaching material content CT.

[0192] Although this embodiment describes a control method implemented by executing a second control program PG2 through a second processor 210A provided in a server device 200, in order to implement this control method, it may also be configured such that a recording medium on which the second control program PG2 executed by the second processor 210A is recorded in a manner that can be read by a computer, or a transmission medium for transmitting the second control program PG2, is used.

[0193] The aforementioned recording media can use magnetic, optical, or semiconductor memory devices. Examples of portable or stationary recording media include floppy disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disk), Blu-ray discs, optical disks, flash memory, and card-type recording media.

[0194] The aforementioned recording medium may also be an internal storage device of the server device 200, such as RAM, ROM, HDD, or other non-volatile storage devices.

[0195] The functions of the second control unit 210 of the server device 200 can also be implemented by one or more processors or semiconductor chips. Alternatively, the second control unit 210 can be further configured as a co-processor such as a System-on-a-Chip (SoC), Microcontroller Unit (MCU), or FPGA. The second control unit 210 can also enable the CPU and the co-processor to work collaboratively, or selectively use one of them to implement various controls.

[0196] Although this embodiment describes a control method implemented by executing a third control program PG3 through a third processor 310A provided in the printer 300, in order to implement this control method, it may also be configured by means of a recording medium that records the third control program PG3 executed by the third processor 310A in a manner that can be read by a computer, or by a transmission medium that transmits the third control program PG3.

[0197] The aforementioned recording media can use magnetic, optical, or semiconductor memory devices. Examples of portable or stationary recording media include floppy disks, HDDs, CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, optical disks, flash memory, and card-type recording media.

[0198] The aforementioned recording medium can also be the internal storage device of the printer 300, such as RAM, ROM, HDD, or other non-volatile storage devices.

[0199] The functions of the third control unit 310 of printer 300 can also be implemented by one or more processors or semiconductor chips. The third control unit 310 can also be further equipped with a sub-processing device such as a SoC, MCU, or FPGA. The third control unit 310 can also enable the CPU and the sub-processing device to work collaboratively, or selectively use one of them to implement various controls.

[0200] Figure 5 The processing units in the flowchart are divisions based on the main processing content for the purpose of easily understanding the processing of the second control unit 210 of the server device 200 and the third control unit 310 of the printer 300. This invention is not limited by the method or name of the division of processing units. The processing units in the flowchart can also be divided into more processing units based on the processing content. It is also possible to divide the flowchart in a way that allows one processing unit to include more processes. The order of processing can also be appropriately changed without affecting the main idea.

[0201] Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The functional units shown are structural units representing functions, and their specific installation methods are not particularly limited. It is not necessarily required to install hardware independently corresponding to each functional unit; a structure where multiple functional units' functions are implemented by executing a program through a single processor can also be used. In the above embodiments, a portion of the function implemented by software can be implemented as hardware, or a portion of the function implemented by hardware can be implemented as software. Furthermore, the specific details of the structure of other parts of the server device 200 and printer 300 can be arbitrarily changed without departing from the main theme.

[0202] Symbol Explanation

[0203] 1… Printing system; 100… Personal computer (first terminal device); 110… First control unit; 200… Server device (information processing device); 210… Second control unit; 211… Receiving unit; 212… Decision unit; 213… Printing instruction unit; 214… Second notification unit (second completion notification unit); 215… Second communication control unit; 216… Content storage unit; 217… Printing speed storage unit; 300… Printer (printing apparatus); 300A… First printer 300B…Second printer; 310…Third control unit; 311…Instruction receiving unit; 312…Printing execution unit; 313…Third notification unit (first completion notification unit); 314…Printing placement unit; 315…Third communication control unit; 316…Date and time storage unit; 317…Task storage unit; 360…Printing mechanism; 400…Smartphone (second terminal device); 400A…First smartphone; 400B…Second smartphone; CM…Printing start instruction; CM 1…First printing start instruction; CM2…Second printing start instruction; CT…Textbook content; JE1; JE2…Printing completion information; JEA1; JEA2…First printing completion information; JEB1; JEB2…Second printing completion information; NC…Number of sheets printed; PG2…Second control program; PG3…Third control program; PT…Printing time required; PT1…First printing time required; PT2…Second printing time required; SP…Printing speed; SP1…First printing speed; SP2…Second printing speed; TE…Printing completion date and time; TE1…First printing completion date and time; TE2…Second printing completion date and time; TS…Printing start date and time; TS1…First printing start date and time; TS2…Second printing start date and time; UA…First user (user using the printed content); UB…Second user (user using the printed content); UC…Third user (user instructing the printing of the content).

Claims

1. A printing system comprising a first terminal device, a printing apparatus, and an information processing device, wherein the information processing device is communicatively connected to the first terminal device and the printing apparatus, respectively, wherein... The information processing device includes: The receiving department receives from the first terminal device the printing completion date and time of the content; The decision-making department determines the printing start date and time as the date and time to begin printing the content, based on the printing completion date and time and the printing required time as the time required to print the content. A printing instruction unit sends a printing start instruction to the printing apparatus, instructing printing of the content to begin at the specified printing start date and time. The printing apparatus includes: The instruction receiving department receives the printing start instruction from the information processing device; The printing execution unit, upon determining that the printing start date and time have been reached, begins printing the content.

2. The printing system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The decision unit calculates the printing time based on the number of sheets to be printed in the printing of the content and the printing speed of the printing device.

3. The printing system as described in claim 2, wherein, The device includes a second terminal unit, which is connected to the information processing device in a communicative manner and operated by a user utilizing the printed material containing the content. The first terminal device is operated by a user who instructs the printing of the content. The printing instruction unit sends the printing completion date and time to the printing device. The printing apparatus includes a first completion notification unit, which, if the printing of the content has been completed before the printing completion date and time, sends printing completion information to the information processing device indicating that the printing of the content has been completed before the printing completion date and time. The information processing device includes a second completion notification unit, which, upon receiving the printing completion information from the printing device, sends the printing completion information to at least one of the first terminal device and the second terminal device.

4. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The printing apparatus includes a printing pause unit that, when receiving an instruction to print additional content different from the original content during the period from the printing start date to the printing completion date, pauses the printing of the additional content.

5. The printing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The printing apparatus includes a printing standby section, which suspends the printing of additional content if, during the period from the start date of printing until the completion of printing of the content, it receives a request to print additional content that is different from the content.

6. The printing system of claim 1, wherein, The printing apparatus includes multiple printing units. The decision unit determines the printing start date and time corresponding to each of the plurality of printing devices. The printing instruction unit sends a printing start instruction to each of the plurality of printing devices, indicating that printing of the content shall begin at the printing start date and time corresponding to each of the plurality of printing devices.

7. A control method for a printing system, the printing system comprising a first terminal device, a printing device, and an information processing device, wherein the information processing device is communicatively connected to the first terminal device and the printing device, respectively, wherein... The information processing device performs the following steps: The acceptance step involves accepting the date and time of printing completion of the content from the first terminal device. The decision-making process involves determining the printing start date and time, which is the date and time at which the printing of the content begins, based on the printing completion date and time and the printing time required for printing the content. The printing instruction step involves sending a printing start instruction to the printing apparatus, indicating that printing of the content shall commence at the date and time specified in the printing start instruction. The printing apparatus performs the following steps: The printing start instruction acceptance step receives the printing start instruction from the information processing device; The printing execution step involves, if it is determined that the printing start date and time have been reached, starting the printing of the content at the printing start date and time.

8. An information processing apparatus, which is communicatively connected to a first terminal device and a printing device respectively, and comprises: The receiving department receives from the first terminal device the printing completion date and time of the content; The decision-making department determines the printing start date and time as the date and time to begin printing the content, based on the printing completion date and time and the printing required time, which is the time required to print the content. A printing instruction unit sends a printing start instruction to the printing apparatus, instructing printing of the content to begin at the specified printing start date and time. The printing apparatus includes: The instruction receiving department receives the printing start instruction from the information processing device; The printing execution unit, upon determining that the printing start date and time have been reached, begins printing the content.

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