Information processing system, program product, and information processing method

Abstract

An information processing system, a program product, and an information processing method are provided, the information processing system including a processor that displays schedule areas defined by a first axis and a second axis, and performs processing in which schedule frames of job execution devices serving as assignment candidates of jobs are arrayed and displayed in the direction of the first axis, and the second axis forms a time axis; displaying, in a schedule frame of the job execution device, job display elements corresponding to jobs allocated to the job execution device and representing execution time and required time of the jobs in the job execution device; calculating the required time of the job in the job execution device by referring to the processing capability information of the job execution device corresponding to the moving position of the job display element and the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element according to the moving operation of the user on the job display element corresponding to the unarranged job to the schedule area; and displaying the job display element in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing system, a program artifact, and an information processing method. This invention can also be applied to programs and program artifacts. Background Technology

[0002] For example, sometimes a schedule is used to manage job scheduling, with the horizontal axis set to time and the names of job execution devices such as printers arranged along the vertical axis as assignment candidates. The schedule manager refers to the schedule displayed on the screen to schedule unscheduled jobs.

[0003] As a more specific interface, for example, there is a user interface that displays a schedule on the screen, and allows users to drag and release display elements such as icons of unscheduled tasks to place them in the free time slots of the schedule, thereby scheduling the unscheduled tasks.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-332178

[0005] The time required for a job varies depending on the attributes indicating the content of the job. For example, in the case of a printing job, it varies depending on attributes such as the number of pages to be printed or whether it is single-sided or double-sided. Furthermore, even for the same job, the time required varies depending on the processing capacity of the job execution device.

[0006] Therefore, when the required time for a task is represented by the shape of a task display element that is set in a corresponding association with each task, it is preferable to display the task display element in a shape that corresponds to the processing capacity of the task execution device. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to display, in a visually recognizable manner, the time required for a task, which varies depending on the processing capacity of the task execution device.

[0008] The information processing system of the present invention is characterized by having a processor that performs the following processing: displaying a schedule area defined by a first axis and a second axis, wherein schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment are arranged and displayed along the first axis, and the second axis forms a time axis; displaying job display elements corresponding to jobs already assigned to the job execution devices in the schedule frames of the job execution devices, and indicating the execution time and required time of the job in the job execution device; calculating the required time of the job in the job execution device based on the user's movement operation of the job display element corresponding to the unscheduled job to the schedule area, referring to the processing capacity information of the job execution device corresponding to the movement position of the job display element and the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element; and displaying the job display element in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

[0009] Furthermore, the processor performs the following processing: in the schedule frame of the job execution device corresponding to the moving position, it further refers to the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element that existed before the moving position, and calculates the required time.

[0010] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that it performs the following processing: if it refers to the attribute information of a job arranged after the moving position, it executes the job corresponding to the job display element, and if this affects the execution of the job arranged after the moving position, it issues a warning.

[0011] Furthermore, the characteristic is that the attribute information of the job is the attribute information of the preparation job that is needed to execute the job after the subsequent jobs when the attribute information settings of each subsequent job are different.

[0012] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that it performs the following processing: calculates the time required for the job to be executed by the job execution device that is most likely to be assigned to the job display element corresponding to the unscheduled job, based on a predetermined rule; and displays the job display element in a shape corresponding to the calculated time required.

[0013] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that, when a user moves an unscheduled job display element by dragging it as the moving operation, the shape of the job display element is changed within the schedule area according to the required time of the job in the job execution device corresponding to the current position of the job display element.

[0014] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that it performs the following processing: arranging a job corresponding to the job display element at the position where the user has released the job display element.

[0015] Furthermore, the processor is characterized in that it displays information related to the impact on the scheduled jobs before assigning unscheduled jobs to the positions after the job display elements have been moved.

[0016] The program artifact involved in this invention records a program for enabling a computer to perform the following functions: displaying a schedule area defined by a first axis and a second axis, and arranging schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment along the direction of the first axis, with the second axis forming a time axis; displaying job display elements corresponding to jobs assigned to the job execution devices in the schedule frames of the job execution devices, and indicating the execution time and required time of the job in the job execution device; calculating the required time of the job in the job execution device based on the user's movement operation of the job display element to the schedule area, referring to the processing capacity information of the job execution device corresponding to the movement position of the job display element and the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element; and displaying the job display element in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

[0017] The information processing method of the present invention includes the following steps: displaying a schedule area defined by a first axis and a second axis, and arranging schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment along the first axis, and the second axis forming a time axis; displaying job display elements corresponding to jobs assigned to the job execution device in the schedule frames of the job execution devices, and indicating the execution time and required time of the job in the job execution device; calculating the required time of the job in the job execution device based on the user's movement operation of the job display element to the schedule area, referring to the processing capacity information of the job execution device corresponding to the movement position of the job display element and the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element; and displaying the job display element in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

[0018] Invention Effects

[0019] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the required time for a task, which varies depending on the processing capacity of the task execution device, can be displayed in a visually recognizable manner.

[0020] According to the second aspect of the invention, it is possible to calculate the required time for the scheduled task by taking into account the impact of tasks performed before the scheduled time.

[0021] According to a third aspect of the present invention, if a job is scheduled to move to a job display element displayed in an unassigned job display area, and this affects jobs to be executed after the scheduled time, the intention can be notified.

[0022] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the required time can be calculated by taking into account the time required for preparation work generated during the execution of the work.

[0023] According to the fifth aspect of the invention, the approximate time required can be notified before the actual work is scheduled.

[0024] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to notify the time required for the actual execution of the task by the task execution device corresponding to the current position of the task display element before the task is actually scheduled to be executed.

[0025] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to determine the schedule of the job corresponding to the job display element being operated.

[0026] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to notify in advance of the impact on the scheduled work when actually scheduling the work that has not yet been scheduled.

[0027] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the required time for a task, which varies depending on the processing capacity of the task execution device, can be displayed in a visually recognizable manner.

[0028] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the required time for a task, which varies depending on the processing capacity of the task execution device, can be displayed in a visually recognizable manner. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following figures.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the block structure of the information processing device in Embodiment 1;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the display of the schedule setting screen in Implementation Method 1;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the schedule setting process in Implementation Method 1;

[0033] Figure 4 This indicates that in implementation method 1, for Figure 2 The diagram shows the user interaction on the schedule setting screen;

[0034] Figure 5 This indicates that in implementation method 1, in Figure 2The image shown shows the state of the task cards in the unassigned task display area as they move according to user operations on the schedule setting screen.

[0035] Figure 6 This indicates that in implementation method 1, in Figure 2 The image shown shows the state of the job card in the unassigned job display area when it moves to the printer's schedule frame based on user operation on the schedule setting screen.

[0036] Figure 7 This indicates that in implementation method 1, in Figure 2 The diagram shows the state of the job card in the unassigned job display area after it moves to the printer's schedule frame according to the user's operation, and then moves to the schedule frame of another printer.

[0037] Figure 8 In implementation method 2, Figure 2 The schedule setting screen shown includes an image depicting the status of the job cards in the unassigned job display area as they move to the printer's schedule frame based on user actions.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the verification process in Implementation Method 2.

[0039] Symbol Explanation

[0040] 10-Information processing device, 11-User interface unit, 12-Printer information management unit, 13-Job management unit, 14-Schedule management unit, 15-Schedule setting processing unit, 16-Printer information storage unit, 17-Job information storage unit, 18-Schedule information storage unit, 20-Schedule setting screen, 22-Display condition setting area, 24-Unassigned job display area, 26-Schedule setting area, 28, 28a, 28b, 30, 30a~30h-Job cards, 32a~32e-Schedule frames. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Implementation method 1.

[0043] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of the block structure of the information processing apparatus 10 in this embodiment. The information processing apparatus 10 in this embodiment is an information device for managing job schedules. In this embodiment, a printing job will be described as an example of a job. Therefore, the job execution device is implemented using a printer or a multifunction printer equipped with a printing function (collectively referred to as a "printer" in this embodiment).

[0044] The information processing device 10 in this embodiment can be implemented using a common hardware structure that has existed before, such as a personal computer (PC). That is, the information processing device 10 has a processor, ROM, RAM, a hard disk drive (HDD) as a storage device, a network interface as a communication device, and a user interface including an input device such as a mouse or keyboard and a display device such as a monitor.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the information processing device 10 in this embodiment includes a user interface unit 11, a printer information management unit 12, a job management unit 13, a schedule management unit 14, a schedule setting processing unit 15, a printer information storage unit 16, a job information storage unit 17, and a schedule information storage unit 18.

[0046] The user interface unit 11 displays information to the display and accepts data input according to user operations. The printer information management unit 12 manages information related to candidate printers that become the destination for scheduling in this embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "printer information"). The printer information management unit 12 stores the printer information in the printer information storage unit 16 and performs information management. The job management unit 13 manages information related to jobs performed by any printer (hereinafter referred to as "job information"). The job management unit 13 stores the job information in the job information storage unit 17 and performs information management. The schedule management unit 14 manages information related to the schedule of jobs that are the objects of management (hereinafter referred to as "schedule information") based on the job information. The schedule management unit 14 stores the schedule information in the schedule information storage unit 18 and performs information management. The schedule setting processing unit 15 refers to the printer information, job information, and schedule information, and performs the processing of setting the schedule for jobs according to user operations. The schedule information set for each job by the schedule setting processing unit 15 is registered in the schedule information storage unit 18 and managed by the schedule management unit 14.

[0047] The printer information stored in the printer information storage unit 16 includes at least the printer's processing capability information in its identification information, such as the printer's name. In this embodiment, the case where the "printer name" is used as identification information will be described as an example. The processing capability information is attribute information indicating the printer's processing capability. Furthermore, the processing capability information includes information indicating whether or not a function is specified by the printing attribute information of the job is present. The processing capability information includes, for example, the type of printer (continuous-printer, digital / offset printer, or model), the type of paper that can be printed (e.g., continuous paper / cut paper), the paper size that can be handled, single-sided / double-sided, color / black and white, printing speed (ppm: pages per minute, etc.). In addition, the processing capability information exemplified here is an example, and other indicators indicating the printer's processing capability may be included.

[0048] The job information stored in the job information storage unit 17 includes corresponding job attribute information associated with the unique identification information (hereinafter referred to as "job ID") inherent to the job. The job attribute information includes information defining the job such as the job owner, creation date and time, and priority, as well as printing attribute information. The printing attribute information includes the type of paper processed, paper type, paper size, single-sided / double-sided, color / black and white, and number of copies. However, the job information illustrated here is an example and is not intended to be limited to this.

[0049] The schedule information stored in the schedule information storage unit 18 contains schedule-related information for jobs that are scheduled. Jobs that are scheduled are managed according to job information, but are classified into scheduled jobs, i.e., jobs assigned to any printer (hereinafter also referred to as "assigned jobs") and jobs that have not yet been assigned to a printer due to not being scheduled (hereinafter also referred to as "unassigned jobs"). The schedule information contains information (e.g., job ID) for each printer to determine the job assigned to that printer (i.e., the aforementioned "assigned jobs") and information to establish corresponding associations with information related to the execution of that job. The information related to the execution of the job includes the execution time and the required time. The execution time and the required time will be described in detail later.

[0050] Additionally, in the schedule information, as long as it includes the option to generate a schedule setting screen ( Figure 2 Only the required information items are needed; the data items or data structures are not limited to those described above. Schedule information is associated with printer name and printer information, and with job ID and job information.

[0051] Next, using Figure 2 The structure of the schedule setting screen used when setting schedules for unassigned tasks in this embodiment will be explained.

[0052] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example of the display of the schedule setting screen 20 in this embodiment. The schedule setting screen 20 includes a display condition setting area 22, an unassigned job display area 24, and a schedule setting area 26. In the display condition setting area 22, conditions are set for locking jobs that are scheduled for display. Figure 2 In this context, the display range is set using the date and time, along with a display ruler. Figure 2 The example shown illustrates setting April 1, 2024 (24 hours) as the display range. Furthermore, the display scale is not limited to days; it can also be set by month, week, AM, and other ranges. Additionally, the display device indicates the work execution device set as the display object; in other words, it indicates the type of work being processed. Figure 2The image shows an example of a device selected for printing and processing. Figure 2 Examples of the corresponding equipment selections "PRT_A", "PRT_B", "PRT_C", "PRT_D", and "PRT_E" are shown.

[0053] In the unassigned job display area 24, job cards 28 corresponding to unassigned jobs in the jobs whose job information is stored in the job information storage unit 17 are displayed as job display elements. In this embodiment, the job display elements are displayed in the shape of rectangular cards, hence the name job cards 28. Figure 2 The example shown is an example of a job card 28 with unassigned jobs displaying the type of processing and the job ID, but the job information displayed is not limited to this.

[0054] Furthermore, the arrangement order of assignment cards 28 can be set according to the assignment's attributes. Figure 2 In the middle, the job cards 28 are arranged in order of the registration date and time of the job. If all job cards 28 cannot be displayed in the unassigned job display area 24, the user can scroll to display the job cards 28 that are not displayed on the screen.

[0055] The schedule setting area 26 is an area for displaying the schedules of jobs that have been scheduled for each printer, i.e., assigned jobs, and is also an area for setting schedules for unassigned jobs. In the schedule setting area 26, job cards 30 corresponding to assigned jobs in the jobs whose job information is stored in the job information storage unit 17 are displayed as job display elements. Additionally, in Figure 2 In this context, without needing to distinguish between them, work cards 30a to 30e are collectively referred to as "work cards 30".

[0056] The schedule setting area 26 is defined by the first axis (vertical) of the attached diagram and the second axis (horizontal) of the attached diagram, which is orthogonal to the first axis. Note that the axes only indicate direction and are not shown themselves. The second axis forms the time axis. Figure 2In this diagram, April 1, 2024 (24 hours) is designated as the display range, and therefore the designated timeline is shown. Schedule boxes 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, and 32e, arranged along the first axis, are displayed according to the scheduling of each printer as a job assignment candidate. Furthermore, schedule boxes 32a-32e are collectively referred to as "Schedule Box 32" unless otherwise distinguished. Schedule Box 32 displays the printer name and job cards 30 for the assigned jobs scheduled to that printer within the designated display range. Multiple jobs cannot be assigned to a single printer on the same date and time. Unscheduled periods, in other words, periods when job cards 30 are not displayed in Schedule Box 32, are considered idle times for that printer. In principle, unscheduled jobs are scheduled to any idle time. For example, in PRT_D, the time period 34 between job cards 30c and 30d is considered an idle time. In other words, the period from the end of the assigned job corresponding to job card 30c to the start of the assigned job corresponding to job card 30d located after job card 30c is called idle time.

[0057] Furthermore, in the following description, for example, "assigned work corresponding to work card 30c" will also be recorded as "assigned work 30c". Similarly, unassigned work will also be recorded as "unassigned work 28" for work card 28. Moreover, in other symbols, when referring to constituent elements with suffixes such as "34a" and "34b", the suffixes will be removed and they will all be referred to as "34".

[0058] In this embodiment, a work card 30, represented by a rectangular shape, is used to represent the execution time and required time of a task. "Execution time" refers to the period during which the task is executed, expressed as a start date and time, and an end date and time. The start date and time are indicated by their position to the left of the work card 30, which is orthogonal to the time axis. The end date and time are indicated by their position to the right of the work card 30, which is orthogonal to the time axis. Furthermore, "required time" refers to the time required from the start of the task to its completion. The required time is the difference between the start date and time and the end date and time of the work card 30, and is represented in the accompanying drawings by the top and bottom edges along the time axis. In this embodiment, all the time represented by the length of the side of the work card 30 along the time axis shown in the figure is also referred to as the "width" in the work card 30.

[0059] The required time includes, of course, the time for the computer and devices such as printers to operate as the job is executed, as well as the preparation time for enabling the printer and other devices to operate according to job attributes and other settings. For example, the time required to change the type of paper or toner cartridge mounted on the printer is also included in the required time described in this embodiment. In addition, unlike Embodiment 2 described later, for convenience, this embodiment focuses on the time required to execute the job, without considering preparation time.

[0060] In this embodiment, the execution time and required time of the task are represented by the shape of the task card 30, but they can also be represented by numerical values, i.e., character information, within the task card 30. Figure 2 The example shown illustrates how the type of processing, job ID, required time, and execution time are displayed on job cards 30a and 30b. However, users can also select which information to display. Additionally, job cards 30a and 30b correspond to jobs with shorter required times, for example... Figure 2 In the case of assignment cards 30d and 30e shown, it may be impossible to display all the information on the card. In this case, for example, tooltips or dialog boxes (not shown) can be used to display the attribute information displayed on assignment card 30d or 30e when the mouse hovers over it.

[0061] Next, in this embodiment, using Figure 3 The flowchart shown illustrates the process of assigning a printer to an unassigned job and setting a schedule. Furthermore, since the information processing unit 10 is already used for job scheduling, it is configured to be used for display purposes. Figure 2 The schedule setting screen 20 shown contains the required information, namely printer information, job information, and schedule information, which are set and registered in each storage unit 16 to 18.

[0062] Users such as schedule managers instruct the display of the schedule setting screen 20 by performing a prescribed operation. If the user interface unit 11 accepts the operation instruction, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays the schedule setting screen 20 on the user interface unit 11 according to the instruction (step S110). In addition, as explained above, in reality, the user interface unit 11 may display the screen according to the instruction from the schedule setting processing unit 15, but for the sake of convenience, the following description will assume that the schedule setting screen 20 is displayed by the schedule setting processing unit 15.

[0063] In the initial state of the schedule setting screen 20, job cards 28 and 30 and the printer name are not displayed in the unassigned job display area 24 and the schedule setting area 26. The user sets the display range and display device conditions in the display condition setting area 22 of the schedule setting screen 20. For example, ... Figure 2 For example, if April 1, 2024 (24 hours) is set as the display range and designated as the display device for printing / processing, the schedule setting processing unit 15 reads the corresponding schedule information, the printer information associated with the schedule information, and the job information, such as... Figure 2 As illustrated, the list displays the corresponding printer names and the schedule boxes 32 corresponding to each printer. Then, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays the job cards 30 corresponding to assigned jobs in the schedule setting area 26, and the job cards 28 corresponding to unassigned jobs in the unassigned job display area 24. For example... Figure 2 As shown in the example, the task card 28 corresponding to the unassigned task is displayed on the same screen as the schedule setting area 26.

[0064] Next, the scheduling processing unit 15 calculates the default required time for each unassigned job (step S120). However, as mentioned above, the required time also depends on the processing capacity of the printer executing the job, so the accurate required time cannot be calculated before the printer is assigned the job. Therefore, the "default required time" mentioned in this embodiment is a temporary required time set for unassigned jobs. The temporary required time is set according to a prescribed rule.

[0065] For example, a printer that serves as a common benchmark across all unassigned jobs can be pre-determined as the default printer, and the required time can be calculated based on the processing capacity of the default printer. Alternatively, a default printer can be determined for each unassigned job, rather than a default printer shared across all unassigned jobs. For example, the required time can be calculated based on the processing capacity of the printer with the highest priority among those capable of performing unassigned jobs. "Printer capable of performing jobs" refers to a printer whose printing attributes match the job's, such as a printer capable of performing jobs with printing attributes like A3 size printing or duplex printing, which can be set as the default printer for that unassigned job. Alternatively, in the case of a job generated based on a customer's request, a printer that meets the customer's requested machine type or print quality, or a printer selected based on past performance with respect to the customer, can be set as the default printer for that unassigned job. Thus, the default required time for the job can also be calculated by referring to the job's printing attributes or past performance, by estimating the printer most likely to be assigned to the unassigned job.

[0066] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the calculation method for the required time can utilize conventional methods. The required time depends on the printing attributes of the job or the processing capacity of the printer. Regarding the printing attributes of the job, for example, if the number of printed materials generated due to the job is large, the required time will be relatively longer. Regarding the printer's processing capacity, if the processor's processing speed or printing speed is high, the required time will be relatively short. The required time is calculated based on the printing attributes of this job or the printer's processing capacity.

[0067] The assignment card 28 can also have different shapes depending on the length of the default required time. That is, the assignment card 28 can be displayed in a shape where the wider it is, the longer the default required time. On the other hand, since the default required time is undetermined, the assignment card 28 can also be displayed in the same shape in the unassigned assignment display area 24, regardless of the calculated default required time. Figure 2 An example is shown where the work card 28 is displayed in the same shape. Furthermore, regarding the work card 30 displayed in the schedule setting area 26, the required time has been determined, so it is displayed in a shape corresponding to that required time.

[0068] Next, the user selects any unassigned job from the unassigned job display area 24 as the scheduling target and performs the operations described below. Using... Figure 4 Explain the user's actions.

[0069] Figure 4 Is with Figure 2 The same diagram as the schedule setting screen 20 shown schematically illustrates user operations on the schedule setting screen 20. Figure 4 The example shown illustrates a scenario where the user selects job card 28a, whose job ID "P0123" is displayed in the unassigned job display area 24, as the target for scheduling. Furthermore, this embodiment describes an example where the user operates the job card 28 using a mouse, but the method of user operation is not limited to this example. For example, in the case of a touch panel display, the user can also operate the job card 28 with their finger.

[0070] In this embodiment, the user interface is configured to schedule unassigned jobs during the idle time of the job card 28, which is dragged and released by the user to any printer. Figure 4 The example shown is an instance where a user sets the idle time 34b in printer "PRT_B" and the idle time 34c in printer "PRT_C" as candidate assignment positions for unassigned jobs.

[0071] Incidentally, it is assumed here that the idle times 34b and 34c are sufficient for assigning unassigned jobs. To assign an unassigned job corresponding to job card 28a to the printer "PRT_C" during idle time 34b, the user drags job card 28a, as shown by arrow B, moving the mouse cursor 36 within the unassigned job display area 24 to the position of idle time 34b. Then, after confirming that the mouse cursor 36 (i.e., job card 28a) is positioned within the schedule frame 32b at the position of idle time 34b, the user releases the mouse cursor. Thus, unassigned job 28a is assigned to printer "PRT_B," and the idle time 34b is scheduled. Furthermore, to assign an unassigned job corresponding to job card 28a to the printer "PRT_C" during idle time 34c, the user drags job card 28a, as shown by arrow C, moving the mouse cursor 36 to the position of idle time 34c. Then, after the user confirms that the mouse cursor 36 (i.e., job card 28a) is located in the idle time 34c within the schedule box 32c, the user releases the cursor. As a result, the unassigned job 28a is assigned to the printer "PRT_C", and the idle time 34c is scheduled.

[0072] Users can schedule unassigned jobs corresponding to job card 28a by dragging and releasing the button. Furthermore, in this embodiment, scheduling unassigned jobs and assigning printers to unassigned jobs have the same meaning. Figure 4 For ease of explanation, the diagram shows the mouse cursor 36 existing in three positions, but only in one position at a time.

[0073] The above instructions explained the user operations. The following instructions will guide you back to... Figure 3 The processing performed by the information processing device 10 based on the above user operation will be explained.

[0074] If the user selects job card 28a with job ID "P0123" as the schedule setting object from the job cards 28 displayed in the unassigned job display area 24, and a drag operation is detected (step S130), then the schedule setting processing unit 15 starts to detect the position of the mouse cursor 36, that is, the display position of job card 28a (step S140).

[0075] Figure 5 It means and Figure 2 The same schedule setting screen (image 20), but... Figure 5The diagram shows a scenario where the mouse cursor 36 is located outside the unassigned job display area 24 and does not exist in any schedule box 32. In this case (No in step S150), the job card 28a is displayed in the same shape as when it is displayed in the unassigned job display area 24. That is, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays the job card 28a in a shape corresponding to the default required time (step S160).

[0076] Furthermore, when the moving job card 28a is located outside the unassigned job display area 24 and does not exist in any schedule frame 32, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays it in a different manner than when it is displayed in the unassigned job display area 24. Figure 5 In this example, the frame of the work card 28a is represented by a dashed line, and the character information is faintly displayed. The schedule setting processing unit 15 continues to detect the position of the work card 28a until the user releases it (step S140).

[0077] Figure 6 It means and Figure 2 The same schedule setting screen (image 20), but... Figure 6 The image shows the case where the mouse cursor 36 is located in schedule frame 32b. If the current position of job card 28a is located in any schedule frame 32 (here, schedule frame 32b) due to the user's movement operation of job card 28a ("Yes" in step S150), the schedule setting processing unit 15 calculates the required time for unassigned job 28a using the same calculation method as the default required time (step S170). Figure 6 In this process, the work card 28a is located in the schedule frame 32b of the printer "PRT_B", so the schedule setting processing unit 15 calculates the required time with reference to the printer information of the printer "PRT_B". Then, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays the work card 28a with a shape corresponding to the required time in the printer "PRT_B", that is, a width corresponding to the required time (step S180). Figure 6 As can be seen from the diagram, the width of job card 28a when it is located in the schedule frame 32b of printer "PRT_B" is narrower than its width when it is located in the unassigned job display area 24. Therefore, the required time for unassigned job 28a in printer "PRT_B" is shorter than the default required time. Furthermore, when job card 28a is located in the schedule frame 32b, the required time for unassigned job 28a can also be displayed as character information. Additionally, here, to indicate that the user has not released the operation, the frame of job card 28a is represented by a dashed line.

[0078] In order to make the homework card 28a like Figure 4The cursor moves as shown by arrow B to the schedule box 32b, and the mouse cursor 36 passes through the schedule box 32a of printer "PRT_A". The calculation of the required time for unassigned job 28a in printer "PRT_A" in this case can also be handled by any of the following methods.

[0079] First, consider the scenario where the work card 28a is released and moved into the schedule frame 32a of the printer "PRT_A". The schedule setting processing unit 15 begins calculating the required time for the printer "PRT_A" the moment the work card 28a enters the schedule frame 32a. Now assume the calculation stops midway if the mouse cursor 36 leaves the schedule frame 32a.

[0080] Alternatively, the calculation of the required time for printing "PRT_A" may begin only if the mouse cursor 36 is not located at the position of an existing job card 30 within the schedule frame 32a, but rather during idle time within schedule frame 32a. The existence of a job card 30 can be determined by referring to the schedule information. Alternatively, the calculation of the required time for printing "PRT_A" may begin from the moment the mouse cursor 36 stops within schedule frame 32a. Furthermore, the calculation of the required time begins in step S170 because the mouse cursor 36 stops within schedule frame 32b.

[0081] Here, the schedule setting processing unit 15 verifies whether the unassigned job 28a can be assigned (step S190). In this embodiment, it verifies the case where the job card 28a is located in the idle time 34b of the schedule frame 32b and the case where the required time for the unassigned job 28a is shorter than the idle time 34b. For convenience, the verification process in this embodiment is limited to the verification of the above-mentioned content.

[0082] If the mouse cursor 36 is present in schedule frame 32b but no release operation is detected (No in step S200), return to step S140 and repeat steps S140 to S200. Furthermore, if the detection position of the mouse cursor 36 does not change, strictly speaking, as long as the mouse cursor 36 remains in schedule frame 32 of the printer whose required time is calculated (here, printer "PRT_B"), it is not necessary to recalculate the required time for the unassigned job 28a corresponding to that printer.

[0083] Furthermore, if a release operation is detected when the current position of the mouse cursor 36 is at the location of the idle time 34b within the schedule frame 32b (Yes in step S200), the schedule setting processing unit 15, referring to the verification result performed in step S190, confirms whether the unassigned job 28a can be scheduled to the idle time 34b. If it is determined that it can be scheduled (Yes in step S210), the schedule setting processing unit 15 determines the schedule for the time period of the idle time 34b of the printer "PRT_B" corresponding to the location of the release operation (step S220). The schedule information of the unassigned job 28a generated in this way is registered in the schedule information storage unit 18 by the schedule management unit 14 and managed. Furthermore, by determining the schedule, the unassigned job 28a becomes an assigned job.

[0084] On the other hand, if it is determined that the unassigned job 28a cannot be scheduled to the free time 34b (No in step S200), the schedule setting processing unit 15 notifies the user based on a message indicating its purpose and reasons (step S230).

[0085] The message may include, for example, a warning message indicating that the length of the idle time 34b, which can be determined based on the calculated required time and schedule information of the unassigned job 28a, cannot be scheduled due to the shortness of the idle time 34b. The user refers to this message and attempts to schedule the unassigned job 28a to a schedule other than the idle time 34b.

[0086] In this embodiment, a message indicating that an arrangement cannot be made after a release operation is performed is displayed ("Yes" in step S200, "No" in step S210, step S230). However, if an arrangement cannot be made at the position of the mouse cursor 36, as a result of the verification process, the aforementioned message is displayed as a warning message on the screen before the release operation is performed, and the user is notified of the intention. In the following description, it is explained that if it is determined in the verification process in step S190 that an arrangement cannot be made, the message is displayed before the user performs a release operation.

[0087] The above explanation illustrates an example where the user moves job card 28a with the mouse and assigns it to idle time 34b in printer "PRT_B". When the user assigns idle time 34c in printer "PRT_C", the same process can be performed.

[0088] It is conceivable that if a warning message is displayed, the user will not release the operation at the idle time 34b position, but will instead move the mouse cursor 36 to the idle time 34c in the printer "PRT_C" to confirm whether scheduling is possible. Furthermore, it is conceivable that even if no warning message is displayed, the user will move the mouse cursor 36 from the idle time 34b position to the idle time 34c to confirm the required time for the unassigned job 28a in the printer "PRT_C".

[0089] Figure 7 It means and Figure 2 The same schedule setting screen (image 20), but... Figure 7 The middle part is a diagram showing the situation where the mouse cursor 36 moves from the position of idle time 34b to the position of idle time 34c while being dragged, as shown by arrow D.

[0090] If the user does not release the operation at the idle time 34b position ("No" in step S200) and moves the mouse cursor 36 to the idle time 34c position in the printer "PRT_C", the schedule setting processing unit 15 also detects the position of the job card 28a (step S140). Then, if it is detected that the job card 28a is located in the schedule frame 32c of the printer "PRT_C" ("Yes" in step S150), the schedule setting processing unit 15 calculates the required time with reference to the printer information of the printer "PRT_C" using the same calculation method as the default required time (step S170), and displays the job card 28a with a width corresponding to the required time (step S180).

[0091] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, the width of job card 28a changes in a manner that it becomes smaller during idle time 34c compared to when it is in idle time 34b. From this, it can be inferred that printer "PRT_C" has a higher processing capacity than printer "PRT_B," indicating that unassigned job 28a is completed earlier by printer "PRT_C." However, if the user still wants to assign unassigned job 28a to printer "PRT_B," they can return to the position in idle time 34b while keeping the mouse cursor 36 dragged, and release the job card 28a at the position in idle time 34b.

[0092] For ease of explanation, Figure 7When the mouse cursor 36 is moved to the idle time 34c, the task card 28a in the idle time 34b is also shown to facilitate comparison of the shape of the task card 28a. However, the task card 28a in the idle time 34b can also be set to not be displayed in response to the movement of the mouse cursor 36. This allows the temporarily held task card 28a to be deleted from the screen, for example, at the time when the schedule is determined by releasing the task card 28a or when the schedule setting is temporarily suspended.

[0093] According to this embodiment, by performing the drag-and-release operation described above, the user can assign unassigned jobs to any printer and schedule them. The job card 28 corresponding to the unassigned job is then displayed as job card 30 in the schedule setting area 26 after the unassigned job is scheduled.

[0094] In addition, in this embodiment, the time required for unassigned jobs in the printer is represented in the schedule frame 32 by the shape of the job card 28 (specifically, the width of the job card 28), but it can also be displayed as character information in the job card 28. For example, a window screen such as a dialog box can be displayed separately, and the character information can be displayed in the display area therein.

[0095] Implementation method 2.

[0096] As described in Embodiment 1 above, the "required time" for a task is the time required from the start of the task to its completion. This includes not only the time for the computer and printer to perform their actions, but also the preparation time for enabling the printer to operate according to the printing attribute information. In Embodiment 1 above, the preparation time was not considered for ease of explanation, but in this embodiment, the situation where the required time reflects the preparation time will be explained.

[0097] Figure 8 It means and Figure 2 The same schedule setting screen (image 20), but... Figure 8 In the diagram, dialog boxes 38 are used to illustrate unassigned and assigned jobs. Dialog box 38 displays the paper type (paper A, paper B) and color information (color / monochrome) included in the job's print attribute information. The attribute information displayed in the dialog box indicates that a new preparation job is needed for an assigned job to be executed after the unassigned job, provided the schedule for the unassigned job is determined by releasing the job card 28. Furthermore, dialog box 38 is illustrated for ease of explanation and does not need to be displayed on a screen, but it can be set to be displayed on a screen according to specified user operations.

[0098] Here, we will use the case where the user assigns the unassigned job corresponding to job card 28b to idle time 34e or idle time 34f in the printer's "PRT_B" register as an example. Also, as mentioned above, for ease of explanation, the unassigned job corresponding to job card 28b will also be recorded as "unassigned job 28b". Furthermore, in Figure 8 The mouse cursor icon has been omitted from the text.

[0099] The frame structure of the information processing device 10 in this embodiment ( Figure 1 ) and schedule setting processing ( Figure 3 The basic process can be the same as in implementation method 1. In this implementation method, Figure 3 The specific processing content of the verification process (step S190) shown is different from that of Implementation Method 1.

[0100] The following uses Figure 3 The flowchart shown illustrates the schedule setting process in this embodiment. Additionally, descriptions of processes identical to those in Embodiment 1 are omitted where appropriate.

[0101] First, if the user moves the job card 28b to the idle time 34e position of the printer "PRT_B" as shown by arrow E (steps S110 to S140, "Yes" in step S150), the schedule setting processing unit 15 calculates the required time for the unassigned job 28a using the same calculation method as the default required time (step S170), and displays the job card 28b in a shape corresponding to the required time (step S180). Then, the schedule setting processing unit 15 performs a verification process to determine whether the unassigned job 28b can be assigned to the idle time 34e (step S190). Figure 9 The flowchart shown illustrates the verification process implemented in this embodiment.

[0102] The idle time 34e of job card 28b is located between job cards 30f and 30g. If the schedule setting processing unit 15 determines, by referring to the schedule information, that jobs 30f and 30g are scheduled before and after the idle time 34e respectively (step S191), then it obtains the job information of the assigned jobs 30f and 30g (step S192). In addition, by obtaining the job information, the print attribute information displayed in the dialog box 38 can be determined. Specifically, the assigned job 30f is to be printed in monochrome on paper A. The assigned job 30g is to be printed in color on paper A.

[0103] exist Figure 8In the example shown, unassigned job 28b performs color printing on paper A. The assigned job 30f, performed prior to unassigned job 28b, performs monochrome printing on paper A, therefore not using a color toner cartridge. Therefore, it is possible that a preparation job will be generated to switch to a color toner cartridge before starting unassigned job 28b. This explanation assumes the generation of a preparation job.

[0104] In step S170, the schedule setting processing unit 15 calculates the required time for unassigned tasks 28b, but preparation time is not considered at this time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the schedule setting processing unit 15 recalculates the required time based on the generation of preparation tasks (step S193).

[0105] The system can anticipate the content of preparatory operations such as parts replacement or item handling. Therefore, for each preparatory operation, the preparation time can be preset, taking into account factors such as the operation time for replacing parts like toner cartridges, the operation time corresponding to the replacement operation level, and the location of the storage warehouse (i.e., the movement time to the storage warehouse). Furthermore, the schedule setting processing unit 15 determines each preparatory time for recalculation by referring to the print attribute information of the assigned job 30f from the preset preparatory times, and then recalculates the required time by including the determined preparatory time in the required time calculated in step S170.

[0106] Next, if it is determined that the required time for the recalculated unassigned job 28b is less than or equal to the idle time 34e, that is, if the unassigned job 28b can be scheduled to the idle time 34e of the printer "PRT_B" ("Yes" in step S194), the schedule setting processing unit 15 confirms whether the schedule change of the assigned job 30g that will continue to be executed after the unassigned job 28b is necessary if the unassigned job 28b is scheduled to the idle time 34e.

[0107] Here, as described above, unassigned job 28b performs color printing on paper A. On the other hand, assigned job 30g performs color printing on paper A. That is, even if unassigned job 28b is scheduled for idle time 34e, no new preparation job will be generated in assigned job 30g. Therefore, there is no need to change the required time in assigned job 30g.

[0108] Thus, if even if the unassigned job 28b is scheduled, there is no need to change the schedule of the assigned job 30g that will be executed after the unassigned job 28b (No in step S195), it is determined that the unassigned job 28b can be scheduled for the idle time 34e (step S196). Alternatively, a message indicating that this verification result can be scheduled can be displayed on the schedule setting screen 20 at the time when step S190 is performed.

[0109] On the other hand, if it is determined that the recalculated time required for the unassigned job 28b is longer than the idle time 34e, and therefore the schedule of the assigned job 30g needs to be changed to schedule the unassigned job 28b to the idle time 34e (No in step S194), the schedule setting processing unit 15 determines that the unassigned job 28b cannot be scheduled to the idle time 34e (step S197). Furthermore, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays a message indicating its purpose (step S198). The user can then understand from this message that job card 28b cannot be scheduled for the idle time 34e before performing the release operation. Other processing procedures for situations where scheduling is not possible will be described later.

[0110] Next, the user will place the homework card 28b as follows: Figure 8 The situation where the arrow F indicates the position of the printer "PRT_B" during idle time 34f will be explained.

[0111] If the user moves job card 28b to the position of idle time 34f (steps S110 to S140, "Yes" in step S150), the schedule setting processing unit 15 calculates the required time for unassigned job 28a using the same calculation method as the default required time (step S170), and displays job card 28b in a shape corresponding to the required time (step S180). Then, the schedule setting processing unit 15 performs a verification process to determine whether unassigned job 28b can be assigned to idle time 34f (step S190). Figure 9 The flowchart shown illustrates this verification process.

[0112] The idle time 34f where work card 28b is located is between work cards 30g and 30h. The process of the schedule setting processing unit 15 recalculating the required time for preparation work based on the work information of the assigned work 30g and 30h scheduled before and after the idle time 34f (steps S191 to S193) has been described, so it is omitted.

[0113] Incidentally, both unassigned job 28b and assigned job 30g perform color printing on paper A, therefore no preparation job is generated in unassigned job 28b. That is, even if the required time is recalculated, it will be the same as the required time calculated in step S170. In addition, as in this example, if the result of comparing the print attribute information with the attribute value associated with the generation of preparation time is the same, it is not necessary to recalculate the required time (step S193).

[0114] Next, if it is determined that the time required for the recalculated unassigned job 28b is less than or equal to the idle time 34f, that is, if the unassigned job 28b can be scheduled to the idle time 34f of the printer "PRT_B" ("Yes" in step S194), the schedule setting processing unit 15 confirms whether the schedule change of the assigned job 30h that should continue to be executed after the unassigned job 28b is required if the unassigned job 28b is scheduled to the idle time 34f.

[0115] Here, if we refer to the print attribute information of the assigned job 30h, the assigned job 30h will perform color printing on paper B. The unassigned job 28b will perform color printing on paper A. Therefore, in the assigned job 30g, a preparation job may be generated to change the type of paper filled in the paper feed tray. Here, we will explain on the premise that a preparation job is generated.

[0116] Thus, the need for new preparation work in assigned task 30g means that the time required for assigned task 30g has increased, and it cannot be executed according to the current schedule information. That is, scheduling unassigned task 28b to idle time 34f is equivalent to affecting the execution of assigned task 30g.

[0117] Thus, in the event that a schedule setting change (i.e., resetting) is required for the 30-hour assigned task ("Yes" in step S195), the schedule setting processing unit 15 determines that the unassigned task 28b cannot be scheduled to the free time 34f (step S197). Furthermore, the schedule setting processing unit 15 displays a message indicating its purpose (step S198). The user can then understand from this message that task card 28b cannot be scheduled for the free time 34f before the release operation is performed.

[0118] However, even if it is determined that the unassigned job 28b cannot be scheduled to idle time 34f, there is a possibility that scheduling may be possible by implementing the procedures described below. Here, other procedures for situations where scheduling is determined to be impossible will be explained.

[0119] First, in step S194 above, the reason why unassigned job 28b cannot be scheduled for idle time 34e is because the required time for unassigned job 28b is longer than idle time 34e. Therefore, by shifting assigned jobs 30f scheduled before idle time 34e forward or shifting assigned jobs 30g scheduled after idle time 34e backward, or by shifting both, idle time 34e can be increased.

[0120] When the assigned task 30f is shifted forward, i.e., when the execution time of the assigned task 30f is changed, the schedule setting processing unit 15 can also automatically and forcibly change the schedule information of the assigned task 30f. Alternatively, the process can be as follows: the information processing device 10 or the user can ask the owner of the assigned task 30 (assigned task 30f in this example), which is the subject of the schedule setting change, whether to make a schedule setting change.

[0121] Furthermore, not only can the assigned job 30f be shifted forward, but one or more assigned jobs 30 scheduled before job 30f can also be shifted forward as well. However, in this case, it goes without saying that the schedule of the currently executing job and the jobs preceding it cannot be adjusted.

[0122] In the case of shifting the assigned job 30g backward, that is, changing the execution time of the assigned job 30g, it can be handled in the same way as in the case of shifting the assigned job 30f forward.

[0123] In addition, when the schedules of the assigned jobs 30 are staggered, the execution time that should be changed, specifically the execution start date and time of each assigned job 30 or the range of available execution start dates and times, can be included in the message that notifies the user.

[0124] Furthermore, in step S195, the necessary changes to the schedule of the assigned task 30h include shifting the assigned task 30h backwards and extending the required time within the assigned task 30h. Regarding the former, as already explained, the execution time of the assigned task 30h is changed. If there is sufficient leeway (i.e., enough free time) between the assigned task 30 and the assigned task 30 that follows the assigned task 30h, then there is no need to change the schedule of the assigned task 30 that is scheduled later than the assigned task 30h.

[0125] Furthermore, regarding the latter, it refers to extending the required time within the 30-hour allocated task. In this case, similarly to the former, if there is sufficient time between the allocated task 30 and the subsequent assigned task 30, then only the schedule information for the 30-hour allocated task needs to be reset.

[0126] Additionally, in the event of a change to the schedule of an assigned job 30h, the execution time that should be changed, specifically the start date and time of the assigned job 30f, or a range of available start dates and times, can be included in the message that notifies the user.

[0127] Thus, if scheduling unassigned tasks to idle time affects assigned tasks located before or after the idle time, the user can be notified by displaying a message indicating the purpose of the task. However, in this embodiment, even in this situation, the user attempts to schedule unassigned tasks to idle time by changing the schedules of assigned tasks located before or after the idle time. As a result, if scheduling is possible, the user is notified of the purpose and the corresponding solution via a message.

[0128] Therefore, users can respond as follows: if it is impossible to schedule unassigned job 28 to free time 34 under the current settings, users can temporarily suspend the scheduling of unassigned jobs and entrust the owner of the assigned job to make the schedule change, so that scheduling can be carried out.

[0129] According to this embodiment, when an unassigned job that will be the subject of a schedule is scheduled for idle time, the schedule can be determined by referring not only to the attribute information of the unassigned job, but also to the attribute information of the assigned jobs located before and after the unassigned job.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the schedule for the unassigned job is determined by releasing the job card 28, but before determining the schedule based on the position the job card 28 moves to after the release operation, information related to the impact on the assigned jobs is displayed. According to the example above, before the schedule for the unassigned job 28b is determined to be within the idle time 34f, information related to the impact on the assigned job 30g and the assigned jobs scheduled before it, or the assigned job 30h and the assigned jobs scheduled after it, is displayed as a message. Moreover, in this embodiment, if scheduling is not possible, the user can be notified via a message of specific coping methods to enable scheduling.

[0131] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the tasks affected by scheduling unassigned jobs are essentially the assigned jobs executed before or after the unassigned job (strictly speaking, the unassigned job becomes an assigned job due to the scheduling being determined) in the printer. According to the example above, if unassigned job 28b is scheduled for idle time 34e, the affected assigned jobs are assigned jobs 30f and 30g in printer "PRT_B". However, this also shows its potential to affect assigned jobs in other printers (i.e., printers other than printer "PRT_B" that has unassigned job 28b scheduled). For example, if unassigned job 28b is executed first, it may affect assigned jobs using the same consumables (toner cartridges or paper, etc.) as unassigned job 28b.

[0132] Furthermore, while the above description focuses on the preparatory work before the operation, it is also possible to recalculate the required time for post-processing of the printed material obtained by performing the operation, such as the resting time for drying and the rewinding operation to suppress curling.

[0133] In this embodiment, each process is executed by any computer. Furthermore, any computer can execute these processes via a processor, a program, or a combination thereof. Any computer can also be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a workstation, or other hardware components that can execute programs.

[0134] The processor can be composed of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, the processor can be composed of programmable logic devices such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), MPUs (Micro Processing Units), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), dedicated circuits for performing specific processes such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), or NPUs (Neural Processing Units). Furthermore, the processor has units or means that execute the various processes described in this embodiment. Moreover, different types of hardware can be combined. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a processor, these multiple hardware components can exist in physically separate devices or in the same device. Furthermore, in any embodiment, the order of the processor's processes is not limited to the above order and can be appropriately modified. Additionally, the hardware is composed of circuits, such as those combining semiconductor elements.

[0135] Furthermore, this embodiment can also be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. Software, firmware, and microcode consist of programs. Furthermore, a program can be, for example, a group of program modules, each of whose functions can be implemented by a processor configured to execute those functions. A program can also be program code or multiple code segments stored in one or more non-transitory computer-readable media (e.g., storage media or other memory). A program can also be segmented and stored in multiple non-transitory computer-readable media existing in physically separate devices. Program code or code segments can represent any combination of steps, functions, subroutines, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, commands, data structures, or program statements. Program code or code segments can also be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0136] (Postscript)

[0137] (1) An information processing system, characterized in that,

[0138] Equipped with a processor

[0139] The processor performs the following processing:

[0140] The schedule area is defined by the first axis and the second axis, and the schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment are arranged along the direction of the first axis, and the second axis forms the schedule area of ​​the time axis;

[0141] The schedule frame of the job execution device displays job display elements corresponding to the jobs assigned to the job execution device, and also displays job display elements indicating the execution time and required time of the job in the job execution device;

[0142] Based on the user's movement operation of the task display element corresponding to the unscheduled task to the schedule area, and referring to the processing capacity information of the task execution device corresponding to the movement position of the task display element and the attribute information of the task corresponding to the task display element, the required time for the task in the task execution device is calculated; and

[0143] The task display elements are shown in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

[0144] (2) The information processing system according to (1), characterized in that,

[0145] The processor performs the following processing: in the schedule frame of the job execution device corresponding to the moving position, it further refers to the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element that existed before the moving position, and calculates the required time.

[0146] (3) The information processing system according to (1) or (2), characterized in that,

[0147] The processor performs the following processing: if it refers to the attribute information of the job arranged after the moving position, it executes the job corresponding to the job display element, and if this affects the execution of the job arranged after the moving position, it issues a warning.

[0148] (4) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (3), characterized in that,

[0149] The attribute information of the job is the attribute information of the preparation job that is needed to execute the job when the attribute information settings of the subsequent jobs are different.

[0150] (5) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (4), characterized in that,

[0151] The processor performs the following processing:

[0152] Calculate the time required for the job to be executed by the job execution device with the highest probability of being assigned to the job display element corresponding to the unassigned job, based on the prescribed rules; and

[0153] The task display elements are shown in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

[0154] (6) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (5), characterized in that,

[0155] The processor performs the following processing: when a user moves an unscheduled job display element by dragging it as the moving operation, within the schedule area, the shape of the job display element is changed according to the required time of the job in the job execution device corresponding to the current position of the job display element.

[0156] (7) The information processing system according to (6), characterized in that,

[0157] The processor performs the following processing: it arranges the job corresponding to the job display element at the position where the user has released the operation on the job display element.

[0158] (8) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (7), characterized in that,

[0159] The processor performs the following processing: before assigning unscheduled jobs to the position after the job display element has been moved, it displays information related to the impact on the scheduled jobs.

[0160] (9) A program that enables a computer to perform the following functions:

[0161] The schedule area is defined by the first axis and the second axis, and the schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment are arranged along the direction of the first axis, and the second axis forms the schedule area of ​​the time axis;

[0162] The schedule frame of the job execution device displays job display elements corresponding to the jobs assigned to the job execution device, and also displays job display elements indicating the execution time and required time of the job in the job execution device;

[0163] Based on the user's movement operation of the task display element to the schedule area, and referring to the processing capacity information of the task execution device corresponding to the movement position of the task display element and the attribute information of the task corresponding to the task display element, the required time for the task in the task execution device is calculated; and

[0164] The task display elements are shown in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

[0165] According to the invention described in (1), the required time for a task, which varies depending on the processing capacity of the task execution device, can be displayed in a visually recognizable manner.

[0166] According to the invention described in (2), it is possible to calculate the time required for the scheduled operation by taking into account the impact of the operation performed before the scheduled time.

[0167] According to the invention described in (3), if a job is scheduled to move to a job display element displayed in an unassigned job display area, and this affects a job to be performed after the scheduled time, the intention can be notified.

[0168] According to the invention described in (4), the required time can be calculated by taking into account the time required for preparation work generated during the execution of the work.

[0169] According to the invention described in (5), the approximate time required can be notified before the actual work is scheduled.

[0170] According to the invention described in (6), it is possible to notify the time required for the actual execution of a task by the task execution device corresponding to the current position of the task display element before the task is actually scheduled to be executed.

[0171] According to the invention described in (7), it is possible to determine the schedule of the job corresponding to the job display element being operated.

[0172] According to the invention described in (8), it is possible to notify in advance of the impact on the scheduled work when actually scheduling the work that has not yet been scheduled.

[0173] According to the invention described in (9), the required time for a task, which varies depending on the processing capacity of the task execution device, can be displayed in a visually recognizable manner.

[0174] The embodiments of the present invention described above are provided for illustrative purposes. Furthermore, these embodiments do not encompass the entirety of the invention, nor do they limit the invention to the disclosed methods. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations will be readily understood. These embodiments were chosen and described to most readily explain the principles and applications of the invention. Thus, those skilled in the art can understand the invention through various modifications that are assumed to be optimized for specific uses of various embodiments. The scope of the invention is defined by the foregoing claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An information processing system, characterized in that, Equipped with a processor The processor performs the following processing: The schedule area is defined by the first axis and the second axis, and the schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment are arranged along the direction of the first axis, and the second axis forms the schedule area of ​​the time axis; The schedule frame of the job execution device displays job display elements corresponding to the jobs assigned to the job execution device, and also displays job display elements indicating the execution time and required time of the jobs in the job execution device; Based on the user's movement operation of the task display element corresponding to the unscheduled task to the schedule area, and referring to the processing capacity information of the task execution device corresponding to the movement position of the task display element and the attribute information of the task corresponding to the task display element, the required time of the task in the task execution device is calculated. and The task display elements are displayed in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The processor performs the following processing: in the schedule frame of the job execution device corresponding to the moving position, it further refers to the attribute information of the job corresponding to the job display element that existed before the moving position, and calculates the required time.

3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The processor performs the following processing: if it refers to the attribute information of the job arranged after the moving position, it executes the job corresponding to the job display element, and if this affects the execution of the job arranged after the moving position, it issues a warning.

4. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The attribute information of the job is the attribute information of the preparation job that is needed to execute the job when the attribute information settings of the subsequent jobs are different.

5. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The processor performs the following processing: Calculate the time required for the job to be executed by the job execution device that is most likely to be assigned to the job display element corresponding to the unscheduled job, based on the prescribed rules. and The task display elements are displayed in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

6. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The processor performs the following processing: when a user moves an unscheduled job display element by dragging it as the moving operation, within the schedule area, the shape of the job display element is changed according to the required time of the job in the job execution device corresponding to the current position of the job display element.

7. The information processing system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The processor performs the following processing: it arranges a job corresponding to the job display element at the position where the user has released the operation of the job display element.

8. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The processor performs the following processing: before assigning unscheduled jobs to the positions after the job display elements have been moved, it displays information related to the impact on the scheduled jobs.

9. A program article containing a program for enabling a computer to perform the following functions: The schedule area is defined by the first axis and the second axis, and the schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment are arranged along the direction of the first axis, and the second axis forms the schedule area of ​​the time axis; The schedule frame of the job execution device displays job display elements corresponding to the jobs assigned to the job execution device, and also displays job display elements indicating the execution time and required time of the jobs in the job execution device; Based on the user's movement operation of the task display element to the schedule area, and referring to the processing capacity information of the task execution device corresponding to the movement position of the task display element and the attribute information of the task corresponding to the task display element, the required time of the task in the task execution device is calculated. and The task display elements are displayed in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

10. An information processing method, comprising the following steps: The schedule area is defined by the first axis and the second axis, and the schedule frames of job execution devices that are candidates for job assignment are arranged along the direction of the first axis, and the second axis forms the schedule area of ​​the time axis; The schedule frame of the job execution device displays job display elements corresponding to the jobs assigned to the job execution device, and also displays job display elements indicating the execution time and required time of the jobs in the job execution device; Based on the user's movement operation of the task display element to the schedule area, and referring to the processing capacity information of the task execution device corresponding to the movement position of the task display element and the attribute information of the task corresponding to the task display element, the required time of the task in the task execution device is calculated. and The task display elements are displayed in a shape corresponding to the calculated required time.

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