Image forming method, device, equipment, system, storage medium and program product

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides an image forming method, device, equipment and system, a storage medium and a program product. The method comprises the steps that a dynamic password is sent to first terminal equipment; receiving encrypted information sent by the first terminal equipment, wherein the encrypted information is information obtained by encrypting the dynamic password by the first terminal equipment by adopting the first account information; receiving second account information sent by the second terminal device based on the short-distance communication protocol, and decrypting the encrypted information by using the second account information; if the operation is successful, sending an issuing operation message to the first terminal device, the issuing operation message being used for instructing the first terminal device to send the first operation data to the image forming device; and receiving first job data sent by the first terminal device, and executing an image forming operation according to the first job data to obtain a first image forming file. According to the embodiment of the invention, the safety of image forming operation can be improved, the operation is simple, and the compatibility with different types of image forming devices can be improved.

Description

Image forming methods, apparatus, devices, systems, storage media and program products Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and more specifically to an image forming method, apparatus, device, system, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of office automation, networked image forming devices are widely used in enterprises, institutions, and public places. Distributing image forming jobs via network can improve document processing efficiency. However, in scenarios where multiple people share an image forming device, the output image files can be easily accessed or viewed intentionally or unintentionally by unauthorized personnel, posing a risk of information leakage. Therefore, a secure image forming mechanism is needed to release image forming jobs only after identity verification.

[0003] In related technologies, secure image forming mechanisms are typically implemented using PIN codes. For example, when a user submits an image forming job on a terminal device, they enter a preset PIN code, and upon arrival at the image forming apparatus, they enter the same PIN code again through the apparatus's interactive interface to trigger the release of the image forming job.

[0004] However, the above-mentioned technical solutions have at least the following drawbacks: on the one hand, PIN codes are usually fixed combinations of numbers, which are easy to leak and have low security; on the other hand, users need to perform input operations on both terminal devices and image forming apparatuses, which is cumbersome; furthermore, inputting PIN codes on image forming apparatuses usually requires the image forming apparatus to have an interactive panel or related hardware modules, which has poor compatibility with image forming apparatuses without interactive panels or low-end image forming apparatuses.

[0005] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section of this application is intended only to enhance the understanding of the general background of this application, and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that the information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides an image forming method, apparatus, device, system, storage medium, and program product to help solve the problems of poor security, cumbersome operation, and poor compatibility of PIN code-based secure image forming mechanisms in related technologies.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an image forming method applied to an image forming apparatus. The method includes: sending a dynamic password to a first terminal device; receiving encrypted information sent by the first terminal device, the encrypted information being information obtained by encrypting the dynamic password using first account information; receiving second account information sent by a second terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol, and decrypting the encrypted information using the second account information; if decryption is successful, sending a job dispatch message to the first terminal device, the job dispatch message being used to instruct the first terminal device to send first job data to the image forming apparatus; receiving the first job data sent by the first terminal device, and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the first account information is the account information of the first user corresponding to the first terminal device; or, the first account information is the account information of the second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device.

[0009] In one possible implementation, when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, receiving the second account information sent by the second terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol and using the second account information to decrypt the encrypted information includes: if the second account information sent by the second terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol is received within the valid pickup time, then the second account information is used to decrypt the encrypted information.

[0010] In one possible implementation, when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, after performing the image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain the first image forming file, the method further includes: sealing and encapsulating the first image forming file to prevent the content of the first image forming file from being leaked.

[0011] In one possible implementation, sealing the first image file includes: if sealing information is received from the first terminal device, sealing the first image file to prevent the content of the first image file from being leaked.

[0012] In one possible implementation, after receiving the first job data sent by the first terminal device and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file, the method further includes: receiving the second job data sent by the second terminal device; performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file; wherein the second job data is job data obtained by modifying the first job data on the second terminal device.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the step of performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file includes: determining whether the second job data is associated with the first job data based on the job ID of the second job data; if the second job data is associated with the first job data, then performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file.

[0014] In one possible implementation, sending the dynamic password to the first terminal device includes: receiving first account information sent by the first terminal device and verifying whether the first account information is valid; if the first account information is valid, then sending the dynamic password to the first terminal device.

[0015] In one possible implementation, receiving the first account information sent by the first terminal device and verifying whether the first account information is valid includes: sending authentication information to the first terminal device, wherein the first terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information, and sends the authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus after successful authentication; receiving the authentication result and the first account information sent by the first terminal device, and verifying whether the authentication result and the first account information are valid; and sending a dynamic password to the first terminal device if the first account information is valid includes: sending a dynamic password to the first terminal device if the authentication result and the first account information are valid.

[0016] In one possible implementation, sending authentication information to the first terminal device, wherein the first terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information and sends the authentication result and first account information to the image forming apparatus after successful authentication, includes: sending authentication information to the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device, wherein at least one of the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information and sends the authentication result and first account information to the image forming apparatus after successful authentication.

[0017] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an image forming method applied to a first terminal device. The method includes: receiving a dynamic password sent by an image forming apparatus; encrypting the dynamic password using first account information to obtain encrypted information; sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus; and if a job distribution message is received from the image forming apparatus, sending first job data to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first account information is the account information of the first user corresponding to the first terminal device; or, the first account information is the account information of the second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device.

[0019] In one possible implementation, when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, the method further includes: in response to a user-triggered valid pickup time setting operation, setting a valid pickup time for the second user, wherein when the valid time interval is exceeded, pickup cannot be completed based on the second user's account information.

[0020] In one possible implementation, when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, the method further includes: in response to a user-triggered sealing and encapsulation identifier setting operation, sending sealing and encapsulation information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus is used to seal and encapsulate the first image forming file according to the sealing and encapsulation information to prevent the content of the first image forming file from being leaked; wherein the first image forming file is an image forming file obtained by the image forming apparatus performing an image forming operation based on the first job data.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: sending the first job data to a second terminal device, wherein the second terminal device is configured to send second job data to the image forming apparatus when the first image forming file does not meet expectations; wherein the first image forming file is an image forming file obtained by the image forming apparatus performing an image forming operation based on the first job data; and the second job data is job data obtained by modifying the first job data on the second terminal device.

[0022] In one possible implementation, after sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus, the method further includes: outputting a pickup prompt message, which prompts the user to bring the second terminal device to the image forming apparatus to pick up the item.

[0023] In one possible implementation, before receiving the dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus, the method further includes: sending first account information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus verifies whether the first account information is valid, and sends the dynamic password to the first terminal device when the first account information is verified to be valid.

[0024] In one possible implementation, sending first account information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus verifies the validity of the first account information and, upon verification of the validity of the first account information, sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device, includes: receiving authentication information sent by the image forming apparatus and performing identity authentication based on the authentication information; if the identity authentication is successful, sending an authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus; wherein the image forming apparatus verifies the validity of the authentication result and the first account information and, upon verification of the validity of the authentication result and the first account information, sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device.

[0025] Thirdly, this application provides an image forming method applied to a second terminal device. The method includes: sending second account information to an image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol. The image forming apparatus is used to decrypt encrypted information according to the second account information, and after successful decryption, sends a job delivery message to a first terminal device, instructing the first terminal device to send first job data to the image forming apparatus.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving first job data sent by the first terminal device; modifying the first job data in response to a user-triggered job data modification operation to obtain second job data; and sending the second job data to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file.

[0027] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide an image forming method applied to an image forming apparatus. The method includes: sending a dynamic password to a terminal device; receiving encrypted information sent by the terminal device, the encrypted information being information obtained by encrypting the dynamic password using account information; receiving the account information sent by the terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol, and decrypting the encrypted information using the account information; if decryption is successful, sending a job dispatch message to the terminal device, the job dispatch message being used to instruct the terminal device to send first job data to the image forming apparatus; receiving the first job data sent by the terminal device, and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0028] In one possible implementation, after receiving the first job data sent by the terminal device and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file, the method further includes: receiving the second job data sent by the terminal device; performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file; wherein the second job data is job data obtained by modifying the first job data on the terminal device.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the step of performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file includes: determining whether the job ID of the second job data is the same as the job ID of the first job data; if the job ID of the second job data is the same as the job ID of the first job data, then performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file.

[0030] In one possible implementation, sending the dynamic password to the terminal device includes: receiving account information sent by the terminal device and verifying whether the account information is valid; if the account information is valid, then sending the dynamic password to the terminal device.

[0031] In one possible implementation, receiving account information sent by the terminal device and verifying the validity of the account information includes: sending authentication information to the terminal device, wherein the terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information, and sends the authentication result and account information to the image forming apparatus after successful authentication; receiving the authentication result and account information sent by the terminal device and verifying the validity of the authentication result and account information; and sending a dynamic password to the terminal device if the account information is valid includes: sending a dynamic password to the terminal device if the authentication result and account information are valid.

[0032] In one possible implementation, sending authentication information to the terminal device, wherein the terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information and sends the authentication result and account information to the image forming apparatus after successful authentication, includes: sending authentication information to the terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the terminal device, wherein at least one of the terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information and sends the authentication result and account information to the image forming apparatus after successful authentication.

[0033] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide an image forming method applied to a terminal device. The method includes: receiving a dynamic password sent by an image forming apparatus; encrypting the dynamic password using account information to obtain encrypted information; sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus; sending the account information to the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol, wherein the image forming apparatus is used to decrypt the encrypted information according to the account information, and after successful decryption, sends a job distribution message to the terminal device; if a job distribution message is received from the image forming apparatus, sending first job data to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus is used to perform an image forming operation according to the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0034] In one possible implementation, after sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus, the method further includes: outputting a pickup prompt message, which prompts the user to bring the terminal device to the image forming apparatus to pick up the item.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: modifying the first job data in response to a user-triggered job data modification operation to obtain second job data; sending the second job data to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file.

[0036] In one possible implementation, before receiving the dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus, the method further includes: sending account information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus verifies whether the account information is valid, and sends the dynamic password to the terminal device when the account information is verified to be valid.

[0037] In one possible implementation, sending account information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus verifies the validity of the account information and, upon verification of the validity of the account information, sends a dynamic password to the terminal device, includes: receiving authentication information sent by the image forming apparatus and performing identity authentication based on the authentication information; if the identity authentication is successful, sending the authentication result and account information to the image forming apparatus; wherein the image forming apparatus verifies the validity of the authentication result and the account information and, upon verification of the validity of the authentication result and the account information, sends a dynamic password to the terminal device.

[0038] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this application provide an image forming apparatus, including: a first controller configured to perform the method described in any one of the first aspects.

[0039] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a first terminal device, including: a first processor; a first memory; and a first computer program, wherein the first computer program is stored in the first memory, and when the first computer program is executed by the first processor, the first terminal device performs the method described in any one of the second aspects.

[0040] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a second terminal device, including: a second processor; a second memory; and a second computer program, wherein the second computer program is stored in the second memory, and when the second computer program is executed by the second processor, the second terminal device performs the method described in any one of the third aspects.

[0041] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this application provide an image forming system, comprising: the image forming apparatus of the sixth aspect, the first terminal device of the seventh aspect, and the second terminal device of the eighth aspect, wherein any two of the image forming apparatus, the first terminal device, and the second terminal device are communicatively connected to each other.

[0042] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of the first to fifth aspects.

[0043] In one aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of the first to fifth aspects.

[0044] Compared with the prior art, the embodiments of this application have at least the following technical effects: 1. By introducing a dynamic password and combining it with account information to control the release of image forming operations, the verification method of a fixed PIN code is replaced, which reduces the risk of verification information being reused for a long time, thereby improving the security of image forming operations.

[0045] 2. During the image forming job release process, the user does not need to enter a PIN code on the terminal device or the image forming apparatus, which reduces the repetitive interaction steps between the user and the terminal device and helps to simplify the usage process.

[0046] 3. It does not require the image forming apparatus to have an interactive panel or related hardware modules, thereby improving compatibility with different types of image forming apparatuses. Attached Figure Description

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0048] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario in the related art; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of another application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 is a flowchart of an image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application; Figures 4A-4D are schematic diagrams of another application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 is a flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 is a flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 is a flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 is a flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating another image forming method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating another image forming method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating another image forming method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 13 is a structural schematic diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 14 is a structural schematic diagram illustrating a first terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 15 is a structural schematic diagram illustrating a second terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 16 is a structural schematic diagram illustrating another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 17 is a structural schematic diagram illustrating a terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0051] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0052] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0053] With the development of office automation, networked image forming devices are widely used in enterprises, institutions, and public places. Distributing image forming jobs via network can improve document processing efficiency. However, in scenarios where multiple people share an image forming device, the image files output by the device can be easily obtained or viewed intentionally or unintentionally by unauthorized personnel, thus posing a risk of information leakage.

[0054] Referring to Figure 1, this is a schematic diagram of an application scenario in the related technology. As shown in Figure 1, this application scenario includes an image forming apparatus 110 and multiple terminal devices communicatively connected to the image forming apparatus 110. Terminal devices 121, 122, and 123 correspond to users 131, 132, and 133, respectively. Each terminal device can send an image forming job to the image forming apparatus 110 via a network. The image forming apparatus 110 performs the image forming operation according to the received image forming job and generates the corresponding image forming file.

[0055] In the aforementioned application scenario where multiple people share the image forming apparatus 110, the image forming files output by the image forming apparatus 110 are easily obtained or viewed intentionally or unintentionally by unauthorized personnel, thus posing a risk of information leakage. For example, if user 131 issues an image forming job to the image forming apparatus 110 through their terminal device 121, and after the image forming apparatus 110 generates the corresponding image forming file, if user 131 has not yet arrived near the image forming apparatus 110, but user 132 has arrived first, user 132 may obtain or view the image forming file belonging to user 131, thereby affecting the security of the image forming job.

[0056] Therefore, a secure image forming mechanism is needed to release the image forming job only after verification is completed. In related technologies, secure image forming mechanisms are typically implemented using PIN codes. For example, when a user submits an image forming job on a terminal device, they enter a preset PIN code, and upon arrival at the image forming apparatus, they enter the same PIN code again through the apparatus's interface to trigger the release of the image forming job.

[0057] However, the above-mentioned technical solutions have at least the following drawbacks: on the one hand, PIN codes are usually fixed combinations of numbers, which are easy to leak and have low security; on the other hand, users need to perform input operations on both terminal devices and image forming apparatuses, which is cumbersome; furthermore, inputting PIN codes on image forming apparatuses usually requires the image forming apparatus to have an interactive panel or related hardware modules, which has poor compatibility with image forming apparatuses without interactive panels or low-end image forming apparatuses.

[0058] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides an image forming method that controls the release of image forming operations by introducing a dynamic password combined with account information, replacing the fixed PIN code verification method. This reduces the risk of verification information being reused over a long period, thereby improving the security of image forming operations. Furthermore, this application eliminates the need for users to input PIN codes on the terminal device or image forming apparatus during the image forming operation release process, reducing repetitive interaction steps between the user and the terminal device and simplifying the user experience. In addition, this application does not require the image forming apparatus to have an interactive panel or related hardware modules, thus improving compatibility with different types of image forming apparatuses.

[0059] Referring to Figure 2, this is a schematic diagram of an application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the application scenario includes a first terminal device 211, a second terminal device 212, and an image forming apparatus 110.

[0060] The first terminal device 211 can communicate with the image forming apparatus 110 via a wired or wireless communication network. This communication network can be a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN) relayed through a relay device. For example, when the communication network is a LAN, it can be a Wi-Fi hotspot network, a Wi-Fi P2P network, etc. When the communication network is a WAN, it can be a 3G network, a 4G network, a 5G network, a 6G network, a future public land mobile network (PLMN), or the Internet, etc.

[0061] The second terminal device 212 can communicate with the image forming apparatus 110 via a short-range communication protocol. This short-range communication protocol can be Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), or the like.

[0062] It should be noted that Figure 2 is merely an illustrative description and should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application.

[0063] For example, the first terminal device 211 or the second terminal device 212 involved in the embodiments of this application can be a desktop computer, a laptop computer, an all-in-one computer, a workstation, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a smartwatch, a smart bracelet, smart glasses or other wearable devices, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not impose specific limitations on this.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since users typically need to carry the second terminal device 212 while moving, the second terminal device 212 is usually a portable terminal device. For example, a laptop computer, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, smart bracelet, smart glasses, or other wearable devices.

[0065] The image forming apparatus 110 involved in the embodiments of this application has functions including, but not limited to, printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. For example, the image forming apparatus 110 can be one of the following product types: a single-function printer, an image forming apparatus with only printing function; a multi-function printer, an image forming apparatus with printing, copying, scanning, and / or faxing functions, and the number of paper trays can be selectively set; a digital multifunction printer, based on the copying function, with standard or optional printing, scanning, and faxing functions, using digital principles, outputting documents by laser printing, allowing for editing of images and text as needed, having a large-capacity paper tray, high memory, large hard drive, strong network support, and multi-tasking parallel processing capabilities.

[0066] Referring to Figure 3, it is a flowchart illustrating an image formation method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be applied to the application scenario shown in Figure 2, and as shown in Figure 3, it mainly includes the following steps.

[0067] Step S301: The image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device.

[0068] In this embodiment, the dynamic password is a verification information generated by the image forming apparatus for participating in the release control of the image forming job. This dynamic password is used in conjunction with account information in subsequent processes to control the release of the image forming job, replacing fixed verification information in the verification process.

[0069] In practice, dynamic passwords can be generated based on timestamps or random numbers, and this application does not impose any specific restrictions on this.

[0070] Generally, dynamic passwords have usage limits or time limits, meaning they are typically only valid within preset restrictions. After exceeding the allowed number of uses or time limits, the dynamic password cannot be used for release control in subsequent image processing jobs. Compared to fixed PIN codes, dynamic passwords are not reused indefinitely, and even if obtained by others, they are difficult to use in other image processing jobs, thus helping to reduce the risk of misuse after leakage.

[0071] In one possible implementation, the image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device after receiving an image forming request from the first terminal device; or, the image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device when it detects that the first terminal device is in a state where image forming operations can be performed. The embodiments of this application do not impose specific restrictions on the timing of sending the dynamic password.

[0072] In one possible implementation, the dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus to the first terminal device can be generated temporarily or generated and stored in advance and sent directly when needed. This application embodiment does not impose specific restrictions on the timing and method of dynamic password generation.

[0073] Step S302: The first terminal device uses the first account information to encrypt the dynamic password and obtain the encrypted information.

[0074] In this embodiment, after receiving the dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus, the first terminal device can encrypt the dynamic password using the first account information to generate encrypted information. This encrypted information is used in subsequent processes for verification to help determine whether the release of the corresponding image forming operation is permitted.

[0075] Generally, encryption can be implemented using symmetric or asymmetric encryption algorithms. Account information can serve as a key or the basis for key determination, participating in the dynamic password encryption process. Correspondingly, in the decryption phase, the encrypted information can be decrypted using the same account information as a key, or using a key determined from the same account information. The specific encryption algorithm used can be selected based on the system's security requirements, computing power, and implementation conditions; this application does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0076] Step S303: The first terminal device sends encrypted information to the image forming apparatus.

[0077] In this embodiment, after the first terminal device completes the encryption process of the dynamic password and obtains the encrypted information, it can send the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus. This encrypted information is used by the image forming apparatus for verification in subsequent processes to assist in determining whether the release of the corresponding image forming operation is permitted.

[0078] In one possible implementation, after sending encrypted information to the image forming apparatus, the first terminal device outputs a pickup prompt message, which prompts the user to bring the second terminal device to the image forming apparatus to pick up the item.

[0079] In practice, the pickup notification information can be language information, text information output on the display screen, or other types of information, and this application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0080] Step S304: The second terminal device sends the second account information to the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol.

[0081] In this embodiment, after the first terminal device completes the transmission of encrypted information, the user typically carries their second terminal device to the location of the image forming apparatus to release the image forming operation. In this embodiment, the second terminal device is generally a device that is easy to carry and can communicate with the image forming apparatus over short distances, such as a smartphone, tablet, or wearable device.

[0082] After the user arrives at the location of the image forming apparatus with the second terminal device, the second terminal device can send second account information to the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol. In specific implementations, the short-range communication protocol may include Bluetooth communication protocol, near field communication (NFC) protocol, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit the specific type of short-range communication protocol used.

[0083] In a specific implementation, when a user arrives at the location of the image forming apparatus with a second terminal device, the second terminal device can automatically establish a communication connection with the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol. Of course, the second terminal device can also establish a communication connection with the image forming apparatus based on a user's trigger command (e.g., turning on Bluetooth, selecting the image forming apparatus to establish a Bluetooth connection, etc.), and this application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0084] In one possible implementation, after establishing a communication connection with the image forming apparatus, the second terminal device can automatically trigger the sending of second account information to the image forming apparatus; or, it can send the second account information to the image forming apparatus only after detecting a user's trigger command. The specific triggering method and sending timing can be flexibly configured according to actual needs, and this application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on them.

[0085] In this embodiment, the second terminal device sends second account information to the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol. This avoids complex manual input operations by the user on the image forming apparatus side, simplifies the image forming job release process, and improves the overall user experience. Simultaneously, this method also facilitates the input of relevant information without relying on the image forming apparatus's interactive panel, thereby improving compatibility with different types of image forming apparatuses.

[0086] Step S305: The image forming apparatus uses the second account information to decrypt the encrypted information.

[0087] In this embodiment, after receiving the second account information sent by the second terminal device, the image forming apparatus can use the second account information to decrypt the encrypted information sent by the first terminal device to determine whether the corresponding dynamic password can be successfully recovered.

[0088] Generally, if the second account information used for decryption matches the first account information used when generating the encrypted information, the decryption process will succeed; if the two do not match, the decryption process will usually fail, and a valid dynamic password cannot be obtained.

[0089] For example, in a common application scenario, the second terminal device and the first terminal device belong to the same user. In this case, the second account information is usually the same as or related to the first account information used to encrypt the dynamic password. The image forming device can successfully decrypt the encrypted information and thus obtain a valid dynamic password.

[0090] Conversely, if the second terminal device corresponds to an unauthorized user or an illegal user, its second account information usually does not match the first account information used in the encryption stage. The image forming device will usually fail to decrypt, thus failing to obtain a valid dynamic password.

[0091] Step S306: If decryption is successful, the image forming apparatus sends a job delivery message to the first terminal device.

[0092] In this embodiment of the application, when the image forming apparatus successfully decrypts the encrypted information based on the second account information, it can be determined that the second account information has passed the verification.

[0093] If the verification passes, the image forming apparatus can send a job dispatch message to the first terminal device to notify the first terminal device to dispatch an image forming job. Conversely, if decryption fails, the image forming apparatus will not send a job dispatch message to the first terminal device, thereby preventing the first terminal device from dispatching an image forming job.

[0094] Step S307: The first terminal device sends the first operation data to the image forming apparatus.

[0095] Upon receiving the job assignment message, the first terminal device can send the corresponding first job data to the image forming apparatus. The first job data may include document content and job parameters for performing the image forming job.

[0096] Step S308: The image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0097] In this embodiment, after receiving the first job data, the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the first job data, thereby generating a corresponding first image forming file.

[0098] Compared with the prior art, the embodiments of this application have at least the following technical effects: 1. By introducing a dynamic password and combining it with account information to control the release of image forming operations, the verification method of a fixed PIN code is replaced, which reduces the risk of verification information being reused for a long time, thereby improving the security of image forming operations.

[0099] 2. During the image forming job release process, the user does not need to enter a PIN code on the terminal device or the image forming apparatus, which reduces the repetitive interaction steps between the user and the terminal device and helps to simplify the usage process.

[0100] 3. It does not require the image forming apparatus to have an interactive panel or related hardware modules, thereby improving compatibility with different types of image forming apparatuses.

[0101] In one possible implementation, the first account information is the account information of the first user corresponding to the first terminal device. Typically, the "first user corresponding to the first terminal device" is the user currently logged into the first terminal device; correspondingly, the "first account information" is the account information of the user currently logged into the first terminal device. In other words, in this embodiment, the account information of the user currently logged into the first terminal device is used to encrypt the dynamic password.

[0102] For example, the application scenario shown in Figures 4A and 4B illustrates a first user 221, and a first terminal device 211 and a second terminal device 212 that are at the disposal of the first user 221. The first account information and the second account information are both account information of the first user 221.

[0103] As shown in Figure 4A, during the image forming job preparation stage, the first user 221 is located at the location of the first terminal device 211 (the first terminal device 211 is logged into the account information of the first user 221). The first user 221 performs operations related to the image forming job through the first terminal device 211, such as initiating an image forming request, receiving a dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus 110, encrypting the dynamic password based on the currently logged-in account information (first account information), generating encrypted information, and sending it to the image forming apparatus 110.

[0104] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 4B, during the image forming job release phase, the first user 221, carrying the second terminal device 212, arrives at the location of the image forming apparatus 110 (the second terminal device 212 is logged into the account information of the first user 221). The first user 221 establishes short-range communication with the image forming apparatus 110 through the second terminal device 212 and sends the currently logged-in account information (second account information) to the image forming apparatus 110. The image forming apparatus 110 decrypts the aforementioned encrypted information based on the second account information. Since both the first account information and the second account information are the account information of the first user 221, decryption is usually successful. After successful decryption, the release of the corresponding image forming job is triggered. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 110 sends a job distribution message to the first terminal device 211, receives the first job data sent by the first terminal device 211, and performs an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0105] Since after encrypting the dynamic password and sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus, it is still necessary to go to the image forming apparatus to release the image forming operation using the corresponding account information, this solution is particularly suitable for application scenarios where the first user can conveniently go to the image forming apparatus to complete the subsequent related work.

[0106] In some potential application scenarios, the first user may find it inconvenient to go to the image forming apparatus to complete subsequent related work. In this case, the first user can temporarily authorize another user to go to the image forming apparatus to complete the subsequent related work. Specifically, the first user can log in to their account on the first terminal device and then temporarily authorize another user through the first terminal device. For ease of description, the other user temporarily authorized by the first user is referred to as the "second user". After the authorization of the second user is completed, the first account information becomes the account information of the second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device. In other words, in this embodiment of the application, the dynamic password is encrypted using the account information of the second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device.

[0107] In this scenario, the second user brings their terminal device (the second terminal device) to the image forming apparatus. The encrypted information can be decrypted using the second user's account information, thereby releasing the image forming operation.

[0108] For example, in the application scenarios shown in Figures 4C and 4D, a first user 221 and a second user 222 are illustrated, along with a first terminal device 211 accessible to the first user 221 and a second terminal device 212 accessible to the second user 222. The first account information and the second account information both refer to the account information of the second user 222.

[0109] As shown in Figure 4C, during the image forming job preparation stage, the first user 221 is located at the location of the first terminal device 211 (the first terminal device 211 is logged into the account information of the first user 221). The first user 221 performs operations related to the image forming job through the first terminal device 211, such as initiating an image forming request, receiving a dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus 110, and temporarily authorizing a second user based on the currently logged-in account information. The dynamic password is then encrypted using the second user's account information (the first account information), and the encrypted information is sent to the image forming apparatus 110.

[0110] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 4D, during the image forming job release phase, the second user 222, carrying the second terminal device 212, arrives at the location of the image forming apparatus 110 (the second terminal device 212 is logged into the account information of the second user 222). The second user 222 establishes short-range communication with the image forming apparatus 110 through the second terminal device 212 and sends the currently logged-in account information (second account information) to the image forming apparatus 110. The image forming apparatus 110 decrypts the aforementioned encrypted information based on the second account information. Since both the first account information and the second account information are the account information of the second user 222, decryption is usually successful. After successful decryption, the release of the corresponding image forming job is triggered. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 110 sends a job distribution message to the first terminal device 211, receives the first job data sent by the first terminal device 211, and performs an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

[0111] Understandably, this solution is particularly suitable for application scenarios where the first user is unable to go to the image forming device and a second user is needed to complete the subsequent related work on behalf of the first user.

[0112] In practical applications, when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device (i.e., a temporary authorization scenario), if the effective pickup time of the second user is not constrained, certain security issues may be introduced.

[0113] For example, if a temporary authorization is granted by the first user and remains valid for an extended period, the second user may participate in the release operation of the image forming job for a considerable period of time based on that authorization. Even if the image forming job has been completed, there is still a risk that the authorization may be misused or reused.

[0114] Based on the above considerations, in one possible implementation, this application embodiment introduces a valid pickup time in the temporary authorized user scheme to limit the time range for the second user to participate in the image forming operation. Specifically, if the image forming apparatus receives the second account information sent by the second terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol within the valid pickup time, it uses the second account information to decrypt the encrypted information. Conversely, if the valid pickup time has expired, even if the second account information sent by the second terminal device based on the short-range communication protocol is received, the second account information will no longer be used to decrypt the encrypted information, making it impossible to complete the pickup based on the second user's account information. In general, the relevant operations are only permitted within the valid pickup time.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the valid pickup time can be set by the first user during the authorization process, for example, set to a certain time period or a certain deadline; in another possible implementation, the valid pickup time can also be automatically determined by the system according to a preset strategy, for example, configured in combination with the creation time of the image forming job, the validity period of the dynamic password or the system security policy. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the setting method of the valid pickup time.

[0116] In this embodiment of the application, by introducing a time limit on the effective pickup of temporarily authorized users, the authorization behavior can be matched with the specific pickup needs in the time dimension, thereby avoiding the potential risks brought about by the long-term validity of the authorization and helping to improve the security and controllability of the image forming job release process in the temporary authorization scenario.

[0117] In practical applications, when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device (i.e., a temporary authorization scenario), if the work content is not additionally protected, the second user may view or access sensitive information during the pickup process, thus posing a risk of information leakage.

[0118] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a protective measure: when the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, after performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain the first image forming file, the first image forming file is sealed and encapsulated to prevent leakage of its contents. For example, a protective page, cover page, or binding method can be added during the image forming operation to isolate the contents of the first image forming file from the outside, ensuring that the temporarily authorized user cannot directly view the contents of the first image forming file.

[0119] Through the above measures, the embodiments of this application can effectively reduce the risk of information leakage and improve security without affecting the release of image forming operations completed by temporarily authorized users.

[0120] In practical applications, even in temporary licensing scenarios, it may not be necessary to seal the first image file. For example, if the first image file is of low importance, sealing it is unnecessary. On the contrary, sealing it would increase the time required for the image formation operation, thereby increasing the user's waiting time.

[0121] To address the aforementioned issues, one possible implementation allows for flexible selection of whether to perform sealing and encapsulation based on the needs of the first user. Specifically, when the first user requires sealing and encapsulation of the first image file, a sealing and encapsulation flag setting operation can be triggered on the first terminal device. In response to the sealing and encapsulation flag setting operation triggered by the first user, the first terminal device sends sealing and encapsulation information to the image forming apparatus. Upon receiving the sealing and encapsulation information sent by the first terminal device, the image forming apparatus seals and encapsulates the first image file to prevent leakage of its contents.

[0122] Conversely, when the first user does not require the first image file to be sealed and encapsulated, the sealing and encapsulation flag setting operation can be omitted from the first terminal device, and the image forming apparatus will not seal and encapsulate the first image file by default. Alternatively, the first user can trigger a cancellation of the sealing and encapsulation flag setting operation on the first terminal device. In response to the cancellation of the sealing and encapsulation flag setting operation triggered by the first user, the first terminal device sends a cancellation of the sealing and encapsulation information to the image forming apparatus. After receiving the cancellation of the sealing and encapsulation information sent by the first terminal device, the image forming apparatus will not seal and encapsulate the first image file.

[0123] In this embodiment of the application, in the temporary authorization scenario, the sealing and encapsulation operation of the image file can be flexibly controlled according to the needs of the first user, so as to meet the personalized needs of different users.

[0124] Of course, in temporary authorization scenarios, the sealed encapsulation operation can also be enabled by default, that is, without the first user setting, the first image forming file output by the image forming apparatus is sealed and encapsulated. This application embodiment does not impose specific restrictions on this.

[0125] It is understood that in the above embodiments, the creation of image forming jobs and the distribution of job data are usually completed by the first terminal device, while the release of image forming jobs is completed by the user carrying a second terminal device at the image forming apparatus.

[0126] In practical applications, after reviewing the first job file, users may find that it does not meet their current needs. For example, the document content may not be as expected, or the job parameters may be configured incorrectly. In such cases, returning to the first terminal device to modify the job data is inconvenient and degrades the user experience.

[0127] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a technical solution, based on the embodiment shown in Figure 3, that allows modification of job data across terminal devices. This enables users to modify job data via a second terminal device and directly send the modified job data to the image forming apparatus, thereby avoiding the need for users to travel back and forth between the first terminal device and the image forming apparatus, thus improving convenience. The specific implementation will be described in detail below.

[0128] Referring to Figure 5, it is a schematic flowchart of another image forming method provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5, the method further includes the following steps based on the embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0129] Step S501: The first terminal device sends the first job data to the second terminal device.

[0130] In this embodiment, the first terminal device can send first job data for performing image forming tasks to the second terminal device. The first job data may include document content and job parameters for image forming.

[0131] In one possible implementation, the first terminal device may actively send the first job data to the second terminal device after completing the creation of the image forming job; or, after sending the first job data to the image forming apparatus, send the first job data to the second terminal device; or, after receiving a request from the second terminal device, send the first job data to the second terminal device. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the timing of sending the first job data to the second terminal device.

[0132] Through this step, the second terminal device can obtain complete first job data corresponding to the current image forming job, which facilitates the modification of the first job data in the future.

[0133] Step S502: The first terminal device responds to the job data modification operation triggered by the user, modifies the first job data, and obtains the second job data.

[0134] In this embodiment, if a user finds that the first job file does not meet their current needs after reviewing it, they can trigger a job data modification operation through a second terminal device to adjust the first job data. Specifically, the user can modify the document content and / or job parameters of the first job data on the second terminal device. Job parameters may include the number of pages to print, the number of copies to print, single / double-sided printing mode, binding method, paper type, color mode, etc. It is understood that at least some of the document content and / or job parameters of the second job data differ from those of the first job data.

[0135] It should be further noted that the embodiments of this application do not limit the method of modifying job data, or in other words, do not limit the interaction method between the user and the second terminal device during the modification of job data. In practical applications, the settings can be configured according to the capabilities of the second terminal device or actual business needs, and the embodiments of this application do not impose specific limitations on this.

[0136] In one possible implementation, after the image forming apparatus outputs a first image file, the second terminal device can output a modification prompt message to indicate to the user whether the first job data needs to be modified.

[0137] Furthermore, the modification prompt message may include a "Modify" control. When the user determines that they need to modify the first task data, they can click the "Modify" control to enter the modification interface for the first task data, facilitating user operation.

[0138] Step S503: The second terminal device sends the second operation data to the image forming apparatus.

[0139] In this embodiment of the application, after generating the second job data, the second terminal device can send the second job data to the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus can then perform the image forming operation again based on the second job data.

[0140] In a specific implementation, the second terminal device can directly send the second job data to the image forming apparatus based on the aforementioned short-range communication protocol. Of course, in addition to the short-range communication protocol, the second terminal device can also establish other types of communication connections with the image forming apparatus, and then send the second job data to the image forming apparatus based on other types of communication connections. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0141] Step S504: The image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the second work data to obtain a second image forming file.

[0142] In this embodiment of the application, after receiving the second job data sent by the second terminal device, the image forming apparatus performs the corresponding image forming operation according to the second job data, thereby generating a second image forming file.

[0143] In practical applications, the job data can carry a job ID, and the job IDs of the first job data and the second job data are the same. Therefore, before the image forming apparatus performs the image forming operation based on the second job data, the legality of the second job data can be verified by the job ID of the second job data to prevent non-target job data from being released incorrectly.

[0144] Specifically, based on the job ID of the second job data, it is determined whether the second job data is associated with the first job data; if the second job data is associated with the first job data, then an image forming operation is performed based on the second job data to obtain a second image file; otherwise, if the second job data is not associated with the first job data, then no image forming operation is performed based on the second job data.

[0145] In one possible implementation, determining whether the second task data is associated with the first task data specifically includes: determining whether the task ID of the second task data matches the task ID of the first task data; if they match, then the second task data is determined to be associated with the first task data; otherwise, if they do not match, then the second task data is determined not to be associated with the first task data.

[0146] It is understood that, in this embodiment of the application, for the second job data that is issued again, there is no need to perform the verification process such as encryption of dynamic password and decryption of encrypted information again. When the job data is adjusted and the user has not changed, the repeated verification process can be omitted, so that the image forming apparatus can respond to the user's request more quickly, which helps to improve the release efficiency of image forming jobs, shorten the user's waiting time, and improve the user experience.

[0147] In one possible implementation, determining whether the second job data is associated with the first job data specifically includes: querying encrypted information matching the job ID of the second job data; decrypting the encrypted information using third account information (the account information logged in when the second terminal device sends the second job data); if decryption is successful, then the second job data is determined to be associated with the first job data; otherwise, if decryption is unsuccessful, then the second job data is determined not to be associated with the first job data.

[0148] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, when the second terminal device sends the second operation data to the image forming apparatus, it will simultaneously send its currently logged-in account information (third account information) to the image forming apparatus; or, the image forming apparatus may actively query the currently logged-in account information (third account information) of the second terminal device.

[0149] Compared to methods that rely solely on job IDs for consistency checks, this application's embodiments introduce additional decryption steps for encrypted information, which further prevents job IDs from being misused or maliciously reused, thereby improving security in scenarios where users send job data multiple times through different terminal devices.

[0150] In this embodiment, the user can modify the job data through the second terminal device and directly send the modified job data to the image forming apparatus, thereby avoiding the user having to travel back and forth between the first terminal device and the image forming apparatus and improving ease of use.

[0151] Referring to Figure 6, a flowchart illustrating another image forming method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. As shown in Figure 6, based on the embodiment shown in Figure 3, step S301 specifically includes the following steps.

[0152] Step S3011: The first terminal device sends the first account information to the image forming apparatus.

[0153] In this embodiment of the application, before sending the dynamic password to the first terminal device, the image forming apparatus first receives the first account information sent by the first terminal device in order to verify the validity of the first account information.

[0154] As mentioned above, the first account information can be the account information of the first user corresponding to the first terminal device; or it can be the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device. Please refer to the description above for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0155] Step S3012: The image forming apparatus verifies whether the first account information is valid.

[0156] In this embodiment of the application, after receiving the first account information sent by the first terminal device, the image forming apparatus can verify the validity of the first account information. Specifically, the image forming apparatus can determine the validity of the first account information based on locally stored account data, by initiating a verification request to an authentication server via a network, or by using other authentication methods.

[0157] For example, if the first account information does not exist, has expired, or does not meet the preset authentication conditions, the first account information is determined to be invalid; if the first account information exists, is valid, and meets the preset authentication conditions, the first account information is determined to be valid.

[0158] Step S3013: If the first account information is valid, the image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device.

[0159] Specifically, the image forming apparatus sends the dynamic password to the first terminal device only when it determines that the first account information is valid; conversely, if the image forming apparatus determines that the first account information is invalid, it does not send the dynamic password to the first terminal device.

[0160] In this embodiment of the application, by verifying the validity of the first account information, it is possible to avoid issuing a dynamic password to the first terminal device without completing the basic account information verification, thereby reducing the possibility of the dynamic password being illegally obtained and helping to further improve the security and controllability of image forming operations.

[0161] In practical applications, the applicant discovered through research that relying solely on account information for verification still carries the risk of account misuse. Therefore, in another implementation of this application, an identity authentication process is introduced. By combining user identity verification, the security and reliability of the dynamic password issuance process are further improved. The specific implementation method will be described in detail below.

[0162] Referring to Figure 7, a flowchart illustrating another image forming method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. As shown in Figure 7, based on the embodiment shown in Figure 3, step S301 specifically includes the following steps.

[0163] Step S3014: The image forming apparatus sends identity authentication information to the first terminal device.

[0164] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus sends authentication information to the first terminal device to trigger authentication. Specifically, the authentication information may include a user list, which may include the user's username, role, biometric information, etc.

[0165] In one possible implementation, to facilitate user operation, the image forming apparatus may also send authentication information to the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device (devices logged into the same user account as the first terminal device), and the user may use any one or more of these devices to complete the authentication.

[0166] For example, if a user logs in to their account information on both their desktop computer and mobile phone, the terminal device can send authentication information to both the user's desktop computer and mobile phone simultaneously. The user can complete the authentication process using either the desktop computer or the mobile phone.

[0167] Step S3015: The first terminal device performs identity authentication based on the identity authentication information.

[0168] In this embodiment of the application, after receiving the identity authentication information sent by the image forming apparatus, the first terminal device can perform the corresponding identity authentication operation based on the identity authentication information.

[0169] For example, the first terminal device can collect the user's facial information through a camera or the user's fingerprint information through a fingerprint module, and then compare the collected information with the biometric information in the user list. If they match, the identity authentication is successful; if they do not match, the identity authentication fails.

[0170] In one possible implementation, when the image forming apparatus sends authentication information to the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device, the user can use any one or more of these devices to complete authentication. In other words, at least one of the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device can perform identity authentication based on the authentication information, and after successful authentication, send the authentication result and first account information to the image forming apparatus.

[0171] Normally, to avoid duplicate operations, once a user enters the authentication process through one device, other associated devices will automatically cancel the authentication request.

[0172] Step S3016: If the identity authentication is successful, the first terminal device sends the identity authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus.

[0173] In this embodiment of the application, when the first terminal device completes identity authentication and the authentication result is "identity authentication passed", the first terminal device sends the identity authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus together.

[0174] Understandably, when identity authentication is completed through an associated device belonging to the same user as the first terminal device and the authentication result is "authentication passed," the authentication result and the first account information can be sent to the image forming apparatus through the associated device. Alternatively, the associated device can also send the authentication result to the first terminal device, which in turn sends the authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus.

[0175] Step S3017: The image forming apparatus verifies whether the identity authentication result and the first account information are valid.

[0176] In this embodiment of the application, due to the distrust mechanism, after receiving the identity authentication result and the first account information, the image forming apparatus needs to verify whether the identity authentication result and the first account information are valid respectively.

[0177] For example, the validity of the identity authentication result can be confirmed by checking whether the "valid" mark exists in the authentication result. The validity verification process for the first account information can be found in the description above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0178] Step S3018: If the identity authentication result and the first account information are valid, the image forming device sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device.

[0179] Specifically, the image forming device sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device only if the identity authentication result shows that the identity authentication is successful and the first account information is verified. If either verification fails, the dynamic password is not sent to the first terminal device.

[0180] In this embodiment of the application, in addition to verifying the account information, an identity authentication process is introduced. This allows for dual verification of the legitimacy of the account information and the user's identity before sending the dynamic password to the first terminal device, thereby further improving the security and reliability of the image forming operation.

[0181] It is understood that, as described above, the first terminal device and the second terminal device are different terminal devices. In practical applications, the first terminal device and the second terminal device may also be the same terminal device. In other words, a user can use the same terminal device to complete the steps executed by the first terminal device and the second terminal device, which will be explained in detail below with reference to specific implementation methods.

[0182] Referring to Figure 8, this is a schematic diagram of another application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 8, this application scenario includes a terminal device 213 and an image forming apparatus 110.

[0183] The terminal device 213 can communicate with the image forming apparatus 110 through wired or wireless communication networks, or through a short-range communication protocol.

[0184] It should be noted that Figure 8 is merely an exemplary description and should not be taken as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application.

[0185] For example, terminal device 213 can be a desktop computer, laptop computer, all-in-one computer, workstation, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, smart bracelet, smart glasses, or other wearable devices, etc., and this application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this. Furthermore, in this application embodiment, since users typically need to carry the second terminal device 212 while moving, the second terminal device 212 is usually a portable terminal device. For example, a laptop computer, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, smart bracelet, smart glasses, or other wearable devices, etc.

[0186] For details regarding "communication network", "short-range communication protocol" and "image forming apparatus", please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0187] Referring to Figure 9, a flowchart illustrating another image formation method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. This method can be applied to the application scenario shown in Figure 8, and as shown in Figure 9, it mainly includes the following steps.

[0188] Step S901: The image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the terminal device; Step S902: The terminal device encrypts the dynamic password using account information to obtain encrypted information, which is usually the account information currently logged into by the terminal device; Step S903: The terminal device sends the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus; Step S904: The terminal device sends the account information to the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol; Step S905: The image forming apparatus decrypts the encrypted information using the account information; Step S906: If decryption is successful, the image forming apparatus sends a job distribution message to the terminal device; Step S907: The terminal device sends first job data to the image forming apparatus; Step S908: The image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image file.

[0189] In one possible implementation, after step S903, the method further includes: outputting a pickup prompt message, which prompts the user to bring the terminal device to the image forming apparatus to complete the pickup.

[0190] Compared with the prior art, the embodiments of this application have at least the following technical effects: 1. By introducing a dynamic password and combining it with account information to control the release of image forming operations, the verification method of a fixed PIN code is replaced, which reduces the risk of verification information being reused for a long time, thereby improving the security of image forming operations.

[0191] 2. During the image forming job release process, the user does not need to enter a PIN code on the terminal device or the image forming apparatus, which reduces the repetitive interaction steps between the user and the terminal device and helps to simplify the usage process.

[0192] 3. It does not require the image forming apparatus to have an interactive panel or related hardware modules, thereby improving compatibility with different types of image forming apparatuses.

[0193] It should be noted that the difference between the embodiments of this application and the embodiments shown in FIG3 is that, in the embodiments of this application, the steps executed by the first terminal device and the second terminal device in the embodiments shown in FIG3 are performed by the same terminal device. For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description of the embodiments shown in FIG3; for the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0194] In practical applications, after reviewing the first job file, the user may find that it does not meet their current requirements. In this case, the job data can be modified via a terminal device, and then the modified job data can be resent to the image forming apparatus. The specific implementation method will be explained in detail below.

[0195] Referring to Figure 10, it is a schematic flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 10, the method further includes the following steps based on the embodiment shown in Figure 9.

[0196] Step S1001: The terminal device responds to the user-triggered job data modification operation, modifies the first job data, and obtains the second job data; Step S1002: The terminal device sends the second job data to the image forming apparatus; Step S1003: The image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the second job data and obtains the second image forming file.

[0197] In one possible implementation, step S1003 specifically includes: determining whether the job ID of the second job data is the same as the job ID of the first job data; if the job ID of the second job data is the same as the job ID of the first job data, then performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file.

[0198] In this embodiment, the user can modify the job data through the terminal device and directly send the modified job data to the image forming apparatus, thereby improving ease of use.

[0199] It should be noted that the difference between the embodiments of this application and the embodiments shown in FIG5 is that, in the embodiments of this application, the steps executed by the first terminal device and the second terminal device in the embodiments shown in FIG5 are performed by the same terminal device. For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description of the embodiments shown in FIG5; for the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0200] Referring to Figure 11, it is a schematic flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 11, based on the embodiment shown in Figure 9, step S901 specifically includes the following steps.

[0201] Step S9011: The terminal device sends account information to the image forming apparatus; Step S9012: The image forming apparatus verifies whether the account information is valid; Step S9013: If the account information is valid, the image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the terminal device.

[0202] In this embodiment of the application, by verifying the validity of account information, dynamic passwords can be avoided from being sent to terminal devices without completing basic account information verification, thereby reducing the possibility of dynamic passwords being illegally obtained and helping to further improve the security and controllability of image forming operations.

[0203] It should be noted that the difference between the embodiments of this application and the embodiments shown in FIG6 is that in the embodiments of this application, the steps executed by the first terminal device and the second terminal device in the embodiments shown in FIG6 are performed by the same terminal device. For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description of the embodiments shown in FIG6; for the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0204] Referring to Figure 12, it is a schematic flowchart of another image forming method provided by an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 12, based on the embodiment shown in Figure 9, step S901 specifically includes the following steps.

[0205] Step S9014: The image forming apparatus sends authentication information to the terminal device; Step S9015: The terminal device performs identity authentication based on the authentication information; Step S9016: If the identity authentication is successful, the terminal device sends the identity authentication result and account information to the image forming apparatus; Step S9017: The image forming apparatus verifies whether the identity authentication result and account information are valid; Step S9018: If the identity authentication result and the first account information are valid, the image forming apparatus sends a dynamic password to the terminal device.

[0206] In one possible implementation, step S9014 specifically includes: sending identity authentication information to the terminal device and an associated device belonging to the same user as the terminal device, wherein at least one of the terminal device and the associated device belonging to the same user as the terminal device is used to perform identity authentication based on the identity authentication information, and after the identity authentication is successful, sending the identity authentication result and account information to the image forming apparatus.

[0207] In this embodiment of the application, in addition to verifying the account information, an identity authentication process is introduced. This process can double-confirm the legitimacy of the account information and the user's identity before sending the dynamic password to the terminal device, thereby further improving the security and reliability of the image forming operation.

[0208] It should be noted that the difference between the embodiments of this application and the embodiments shown in FIG7 is that, in the embodiments of this application, the steps executed by the first terminal device and the second terminal device in the embodiments shown in FIG7 are performed by the same terminal device. For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description of the embodiments shown in FIG7; for the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0209] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides an image forming apparatus.

[0210] Referring to Figure 13, a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. As shown in Figure 13, the image forming apparatus 1300 includes a first controller 1301, which is configured to execute some or all of the steps performed by the image forming apparatus in the embodiments shown in Figures 2-7.

[0211] For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0212] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a first terminal device.

[0213] Referring to Figure 14, a schematic diagram of the structure of a first terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. As shown in Figure 14, the first terminal device 1400 may include: a first processor 1401, a first memory 1402, and a first communication unit 1403. These components communicate through one or more buses. Those skilled in the art will understand that the structure of the first terminal device shown in the figure does not constitute a limitation on the embodiment of this application. It can be a bus topology or a star topology, and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0214] The first communication unit 1403 is used to establish a communication channel, so that the first terminal device 1400 can communicate with other devices.

[0215] The first processor 1401 serves as the control center of the first terminal device 1400. It connects various parts of the first terminal device via various interfaces and lines. By running or executing software programs and / or modules stored in the first memory 1402, and by calling data stored in the first memory, it performs various functions of the first terminal device and / or processes data. The first processor may be composed of integrated circuits (ICs), such as a single packaged IC or multiple packaged ICs with the same or different functions connected together. For example, the first processor 1401 may consist only of a central processing unit (CPU). In this embodiment, the CPU may have a single processing core or include multiple processing cores.

[0216] The first memory 1402 is used to store a first computer program. The first memory 1402 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic first memory, flash memory, magnetic disk or optical disk.

[0217] When the first computer program in the first memory 1402 is executed by the first processor 1401, the first terminal device 1400 is able to perform some or all of the steps performed by the first terminal device in the embodiments shown in Figures 2-7.

[0218] For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0219] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a second terminal device.

[0220] Referring to Figure 15, it is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 15, the second terminal device 1500 may include: a second processor 1501, a second memory 1502, and a second communication unit 1503.

[0221] The second communication unit 1503 is used to establish a communication channel, enabling the second terminal device 1500 to communicate with other devices. The second processor 1501 serves as the control center of the second terminal device 1500, connecting various parts of the device via interfaces and lines. It executes software programs and / or modules stored in the second memory 1502, and calls data stored in the second memory to perform various functions and / or process data. The second memory 1502 stores a second computer program. When the second computer program in the second memory 1502 is executed by the second processor 1501, the second terminal device 1500 can perform some or all of the steps executed by the second terminal device in the embodiments shown in Figures 2-7.

[0222] For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0223] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides an image forming system, which includes an image forming apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG13, a first terminal device of the embodiment shown in FIG14, and a second terminal device of the embodiment shown in FIG15. Any two of the image forming apparatus, the first terminal device, and the second terminal device are communicatively connected to each other.

[0224] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another image forming apparatus.

[0225] Referring to Figure 16, a schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. As shown in Figure 16, the image forming apparatus 1600 includes a second controller 1601, which is configured to execute some or all of the steps performed by the image forming apparatus in the embodiments shown in Figures 8-12.

[0226] For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0227] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a terminal device.

[0228] Referring to Figure 17, it is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 17, the terminal device 1700 may include: a processor 1701, a memory 1702, and a communication unit 1703.

[0229] The communication unit 1703 is used to establish a communication channel, enabling the terminal device 1700 to communicate with other devices. The processor 1701 serves as the control center of the terminal device 1700, connecting various parts of the terminal device via various interfaces and lines. It executes software programs and / or modules stored in the memory 1702, and calls data stored in the memory to perform various functions of the terminal device and / or process data. The memory 1702 stores computer programs. When the computer program in the memory 1702 is executed by the processor 1701, the terminal device 1700 can perform some or all of the steps performed by the terminal device in the embodiments shown in Figures 2-7.

[0230] For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0231] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides an image forming system, which includes an image forming apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG16 and a terminal device of the embodiment shown in FIG17. The image forming apparatus and the terminal device are communicatively connected.

[0232] For details regarding the embodiments of this application, please refer to the description above. For the sake of brevity, further details will not be repeated here.

[0233] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium may store a program, wherein when the program runs, it can control the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to execute some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments. In specific implementation, the computer-readable storage medium may be a magnetic disk, an optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0234] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer program product containing executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0235] In this application embodiment, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the existence of A alone, the simultaneous existence of A and B, or the existence of B alone. A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" and similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0236] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps described in the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of electronic hardware and software. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0237] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0238] In the several embodiments provided in this application, any function, if implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0239] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the protection scope of this application. The protection scope of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An image forming method, characterized in that, The method, applied to an image forming apparatus, includes: sending a dynamic password to a first terminal device; receiving encrypted information sent by the first terminal device, the encrypted information being information obtained by encrypting the dynamic password using first account information; receiving second account information sent by a second terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol, and decrypting the encrypted information using the second account information; if decryption is successful, sending a job dispatch message to the first terminal device, the job dispatch message instructing the first terminal device to send first job data to the image forming apparatus; receiving the first job data sent by the first terminal device, and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first account information is the account information of the first user corresponding to the first terminal device; or, the first account information is the account information of the second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, receiving the second account information sent by the second terminal device based on the short-range communication protocol and using the second account information to decrypt the encrypted information includes: if the second account information sent by the second terminal device based on the short-range communication protocol is received within the valid pickup time, then the second account information is used to decrypt the encrypted information.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, after performing the image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain the first image forming file, the method further includes: sealing and encapsulating the first image forming file to prevent the content of the first image forming file from being leaked.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of sealing and encapsulating the first image file includes: if sealing and encapsulation information is received from the first terminal device, then sealing and encapsulating the first image file to prevent the content of the first image file from being leaked.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After receiving the first job data sent by the first terminal device and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file, the method further includes: receiving the second job data sent by the second terminal device; performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file; wherein the second job data is job data obtained by modifying the first job data on the second terminal device.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The step of performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image file includes: determining whether the second job data is associated with the first job data based on the job ID of the second job data; if the second job data is associated with the first job data, then performing an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image file.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Sending a dynamic password to the first terminal device includes: receiving first account information sent by the first terminal device and verifying whether the first account information is valid; if the first account information is valid, then sending a dynamic password to the first terminal device.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of receiving the first account information sent by the first terminal device and verifying whether the first account information is valid includes: sending identity authentication information to the first terminal device, wherein the first terminal device is used to perform identity authentication based on the identity authentication information, and after the identity authentication is successful, sending the identity authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus; receiving the identity authentication result and the first account information sent by the first terminal device, and verifying whether the identity authentication result and the first account information are valid; the step of sending a dynamic password to the first terminal device if the first account information is valid includes: sending a dynamic password to the first terminal device if the identity authentication result and the first account information are valid.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The step of sending identity authentication information to the first terminal device, wherein the first terminal device is used to perform identity authentication based on the identity authentication information, and sends the identity authentication result and first account information to the image forming apparatus after the identity authentication is successful, includes: sending identity authentication information to the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device respectively, wherein at least one of the first terminal device and associated devices belonging to the same user as the first terminal device is used to perform identity authentication based on the identity authentication information, and sends the identity authentication result and first account information to the image forming apparatus after the identity authentication is successful.

11. An image forming method, characterized in that, The method, applied to a first terminal device, includes: receiving a dynamic password sent by an image forming apparatus; encrypting the dynamic password using first account information to obtain encrypted information; sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus; and if a job distribution message is received from the image forming apparatus, sending first job data to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image forming file.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first account information is the account information of the first user corresponding to the first terminal device; or, the first account information is the account information of the second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, When the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, the method further includes: in response to the user-triggered valid pickup time setting operation, setting the valid pickup time of the second user, wherein when the valid time interval is exceeded, pickup cannot be completed according to the account information of the second user.

14. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, When the first account information is the account information of a second user temporarily authorized by the first terminal device, the method further includes: in response to a user-triggered sealing and encapsulation identifier setting operation, sending sealing and encapsulation information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus is used to seal and encapsulate the first image forming file according to the sealing and encapsulation information to prevent the content of the first image forming file from being leaked; wherein the first image forming file is an image forming file obtained by the image forming apparatus performing an image forming operation according to the first job data.

15. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: The first job data is sent to a second terminal device, which is used to send second job data to the image forming apparatus when the first image forming file does not meet expectations; wherein, the first image forming file is an image forming file obtained by the image forming apparatus performing an image forming operation based on the first job data; and the second job data is job data obtained by modifying the first job data on the second terminal device.

16. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, After sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus, the method further includes: outputting a pickup prompt message, which prompts the user to bring the second terminal device to the image forming apparatus to pick up the item.

17. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Before receiving the dynamic password sent by the image forming apparatus, the method further includes: sending first account information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus verifies whether the first account information is valid, and when verifying that the first account information is valid, sending the dynamic password to the first terminal device.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The step of sending first account information to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus verifies the validity of the first account information and, upon verification of the validity of the first account information, sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device, includes: receiving authentication information sent by the image forming apparatus and performing identity authentication based on the authentication information; if the identity authentication is successful, sending the identity authentication result and the first account information to the image forming apparatus; wherein the image forming apparatus verifies the validity of the identity authentication result and the first account information and, upon verification of the validity of the identity authentication result and the first account information, sends a dynamic password to the first terminal device.

19. An image forming method, characterized in that, The method, applied to a second terminal device, includes: sending second account information to an image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol; the image forming apparatus decrypting encrypted information according to the second account information; and, after successful decryption, sending a job dispatch message to a first terminal device, instructing the first terminal device to send first job data to the image forming apparatus.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, Also includes: Receive the first job data sent by the first terminal device; In response to a user-triggered job data modification operation, the first job data is modified to obtain the second job data; The second job data is sent to the image forming apparatus, which performs an image forming operation based on the second job data to obtain a second image forming file.

21. An image forming method, characterized in that, The method, applied to an image forming apparatus, includes: sending a dynamic password to a terminal device; receiving encrypted information sent by the terminal device, the encrypted information being information obtained by encrypting the dynamic password using account information; receiving the account information sent by the terminal device based on a short-range communication protocol, and decrypting the encrypted information using the account information; if decryption is successful, sending a job dispatch message to the terminal device, the job dispatch message instructing the terminal device to send first job data to the image forming apparatus; receiving the first job data sent by the terminal device, and performing an image forming operation based on the first job data to obtain a first image file.

22. An image forming method, characterized in that, The method, applied to a terminal device, includes: receiving a dynamic password sent by an image forming apparatus; encrypting the dynamic password using account information to obtain encrypted information; sending the encrypted information to the image forming apparatus; sending the account information to the image forming apparatus based on a short-range communication protocol, wherein the image forming apparatus decrypts the encrypted information according to the account information and sends a job distribution message to the terminal device after successful decryption; if a job distribution message is received from the image forming apparatus, sending first job data to the image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus performs an image forming operation according to the first job data to obtain a first image file.

23. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: A first controller is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-10.

24. A first terminal device, characterized in that, include: First processor; First memory; And a first computer program, wherein the first computer program is stored in the first memory, and when the first computer program is executed by the first processor, causes the first terminal device to perform the method of any one of claims 11-18.

25. A second terminal device, characterized in that, include: Second processor; Second memory; And a second computer program, wherein the second computer program is stored in the second memory, and when the second computer program is executed by the second processor, causes the second terminal device to perform the method of any one of claims 19-20.

26. An image forming system, characterized in that, include: The image forming apparatus of claim 23, the first terminal device of claim 24, and the second terminal device of claim 25, wherein any two of the image forming apparatus, the first terminal device, and the second terminal device are communicatively connected to each other.

27. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of claims 1-20.

28. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of claims 1-20.

Images