Information terminal

Abstract

An information terminal is provided. An information processing apparatus includes a processor that accepts, from an external apparatus, an output request for a file output by an information terminal, specifies an information terminal that satisfies a predetermined condition from among a plurality of information terminals that are candidates for outputting the file by cooperating with the external apparatus, and outputs the file from the determined information terminal. Before a user instructs the specified information terminal to display information related to the file, the processor transmits first information for specifying a position at which the file is stored to the specified information terminal.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Information Processing Apparatus, Information Processing Method, Information Terminal and Information Processing System", filed on March 8, 2021, with application number 202110250369.8. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to information terminals. Background Technology

[0003] A service exists that allows a user to read files stored in a memory or server (hereinafter referred to as "memory, etc.") connected to a cloud network from any printing device operated by the user, and then output a printed copy of the read files. The user's selection of service usage is sent from the printing device to the server providing the service, which retrieves a list of files from the memory, etc., and provides it to the printing device. The user selects the file to be printed from the list displayed on the operation unit of the printing device and instructs the printing of the selected file. Furthermore, as a related technical document, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-006013 is cited, for example.

[0004] However, to obtain the information needed to determine the file, each communication must go through a hierarchical structure: communication from the printing device to the server, communication from the server to the storage device, communication from the storage device to the server, and communication from the server to the printing device. Therefore, multiple communications are required before the target file is reached, increasing the waiting time. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to shorten the time until the information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed, compared to the situation where the information for determining the location of the stored file is retrieved from the external system and displayed each time after the user instructs the information terminal to display the file.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an information processing apparatus is provided, wherein the information processing apparatus has a processor that receives an output request for a file output from an external device based on an information terminal, the processor, in cooperation with the external device, determines an information terminal that meets predetermined conditions from a plurality of information terminals that are candidates for outputting the file, and before a user instructs the determined information terminal to display information related to the file, sends first information for determining the location where the file is stored to the determined information terminal.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, when the processor receives a request to obtain the file from a determined information terminal, it sends the entity data of the file to the determined information terminal in a manner separate from the first information.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the predetermined condition is that the number of times the document is requested exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0009] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the number of times the document is requested is managed according to a predetermined period.

[0010] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the number of times the file is requested is managed in a manner that does not distinguish between users.

[0011] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, management is carried out according to the number of times each user requests to obtain the file.

[0012] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, even if the information terminal meets the predetermined conditions, if the state of not having a request to obtain the file meets the predetermined second condition, the information terminal will be excluded from the object of sending the first information.

[0013] According to the eighth aspect of the invention, the second condition is that the period during which no request to obtain the document is accepted exceeds a predetermined second threshold.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, the second condition is that the number of times the document is requested within a predetermined period is less than a predetermined third threshold.

[0015] According to the tenth aspect of the invention, the exclusion is managed on a per-user basis.

[0016] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, when the processor receives a notification of a change to the first information, it forwards information related to the received change to the information terminal that meets the predetermined conditions.

[0017] According to a 12th aspect of the present invention, an information terminal is provided, which has a processor, wherein, upon receiving an instruction from a user to display information relating to a file output by the information terminal, the processor displays, without performing communication requesting to retrieve the first information, the first information stored in the information terminal when first information for determining the location where the file is stored has been stored in the information terminal.

[0018] According to a 13th aspect of the present invention, when the processor is requested to display second information not included in the first information, it reflects the newly acquired second information obtained after the user has accepted the instruction to display information related to the document into the first information and displays it.

[0019] According to the 14th aspect of the present invention, the processor stores the first information reflecting the second information in the device.

[0020] According to a 15th aspect of the present invention, when the processor receives a notification of a change to the first information, it reflects the content of the notified change into the first information.

[0021] According to the 16th aspect of the present invention, in the case of the change being deletion, the processor deletes the corresponding information from the first information.

[0022] According to a 17th aspect of the present invention, when the change is added, the processor adds the notified information to the first information.

[0023] According to the 18th aspect of the present invention, a notification of the change to the first information is pushed.

[0024] According to a 19th aspect of the invention, the processor enables the first information to be saved for each user.

[0025] According to the 20th aspect of the present invention, the first information is stored in a manner shared by non-specific users.

[0026] According to the 21st aspect of the present invention, the first information is stored in a manner shared by multiple users to satisfy predetermined conditions.

[0027] According to a 22nd aspect of the present invention, an information processing system is provided, wherein the information processing system comprises: a plurality of information terminals having a first processor, which, upon receiving an instruction from a user to display information relating to a file output by the information terminal, displays the first information stored in the information terminal without performing communication requesting to retrieve the first information, provided that first information for determining the location where the file is stored is already stored in the information terminal; and an information processing apparatus having a second processor, which receives an output request for the file from an external device, determines, in cooperation with the external device, an information terminal satisfying predetermined conditions from the plurality of information terminals that are candidates for outputting the file, and sends the first information for determining the location where the file is stored to the determined information terminal before the user instructs the determined information terminal to display information relating to the file.

[0028] According to a 23rd aspect of the present invention, an information processing method is provided, wherein an output request for a file output from an external device is received from an information terminal, and an information terminal that meets predetermined conditions is determined from a plurality of information terminals that are candidates for outputting the file by cooperating with the external device, and before the user instructs the determined information terminal to display information related to the file, first information for determining the location where the file is stored is sent to the determined information terminal.

[0029] (Effect)

[0030] According to the first scheme, when a file stored in an external system is used in any information terminal operated by the user, the time until the information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened compared to the case where the information for determining the location of the stored file is obtained from the external system and displayed every time the user instructs the information terminal to display the file.

[0031] According to the second scheme, the time until the entity data can be used in the determined information terminal can be shortened.

[0032] According to the third scheme, for information terminals that retrieve files frequently, the time until information is displayed to determine the location of the stored file can be shortened.

[0033] According to the fourth scheme, for information terminals that frequently retrieve files, the time until information is displayed to determine the location of the stored file can be shortened.

[0034] According to the fifth scheme, for information terminals that have a high chance of obtaining files, the time until information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened.

[0035] According to the sixth scheme, the time until information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened for each user who obtains the file through the information terminal.

[0036] According to the seventh scheme, management can be differentiated between information terminals with fewer opportunities to obtain documents and information terminals with more opportunities to obtain documents.

[0037] According to the eighth scheme, management can be differentiated between information terminals with longer periods without document acquisition and information terminals with shorter intervals between document acquisition.

[0038] According to the ninth scheme, management can be carried out separately for information terminals that retrieve files less frequently and information terminals that retrieve files more frequently.

[0039] According to the 10th scheme, users who have fewer opportunities to obtain files through a specific information terminal and users who have more opportunities to obtain files through a specific information terminal can be managed separately.

[0040] According to the 11th scheme, even if the information used to determine the location of the stored file changes, the time until the information is displayed in the information terminal can be shortened.

[0041] According to the 12th solution, when a file stored in an external system is used in any information terminal operated by the user, the time until the information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened compared to the case where information for determining the location of the stored file must be obtained and displayed each time.

[0042] According to the 13th scheme, the newly acquired second information and the existing first information can be displayed to the user together.

[0043] According to the 14th scheme, when a second piece of information not present in the first piece of information is acquired, the time required to display subsequent pieces of information can be shortened.

[0044] According to the 15th solution, since the first information reflecting the changes to the first information is stored in the device, the time required to display subsequent information can be shortened.

[0045] According to the 16th solution, since the first information reflecting the changes to the first information is stored in the device, the time required to display subsequent information can be shortened.

[0046] According to the 17th solution, since the first information reflecting the changes to the first information is stored in the device, the time required to display subsequent information can be shortened.

[0047] According to the 18th scheme, the first information stored in this terminal can be kept up-to-date regardless of the user's operation.

[0048] According to the 19th scheme, the content of the information to be displayed can be changed according to each user.

[0049] According to the 20th scheme, the time until the information used to determine the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened.

[0050] According to the 21st scheme, the information to be displayed can be changed for each user who meets predetermined conditions.

[0051] According to the 22nd solution, when a file stored in an external system is used in any information terminal operated by the user, the time until the information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened compared to the case where the information for determining the location of the stored file must be obtained from the external system and displayed each time after the user instructs the information terminal to display the file.

[0052] According to the 23rd solution, when a file stored in an external system is used in any information terminal operated by the user, the time until the information for determining the location of the stored file is displayed can be shortened compared to the case where the information for determining the location of the stored file must be obtained from the external system and displayed each time after the user instructs the information terminal to display the file. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a network system used in a service that can retrieve and print document files stored in the cloud from any image forming apparatus.

[0054] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the print server used in Implementation 1.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the priority management table used in Implementation Method 1.

[0056] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the image forming apparatus used in Embodiment 1.

[0057] Figure 5 This is an example diagram showing an overview of the documentation files.

[0058] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing actions performed by the print server used in Implementation 1.

[0059] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 14 of embodiment 1.

[0060] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 16 of implementation method 1.

[0061] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing actions performed by the image forming apparatus used in Embodiment 1.

[0062] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when an image forming apparatus that is not registered as a priority machine is used for printing services anywhere.

[0063] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence in a case where an image forming apparatus newly registered as a priority machine is used for printing services anywhere.

[0064] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when an image forming apparatus that has been registered as a priority machine is used for printing services anywhere.

[0065] Figure 13 This describes the print server 40 used in Implementation 2 (see reference). Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of the processing action performed.

[0066] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the processing sequence performed in response to changes in a document file.

[0067] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating examples of changes to a list of document files stored in an image forming apparatus. (A) is an example of inserting a document file, (B) is an example of updating a document file, and (C) is an example of deleting a document file.

[0068] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the priority management table used in Implementation Method 3.

[0069] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing actions performed by the print server used in Implementation 3.

[0070] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 14A of embodiment 3.

[0071] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 16A of embodiment 3.

[0072] Figure 20 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when an image forming apparatus registered as a priority machine for a specific user is used for printing services anywhere.

[0073] Figure 21 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing actions performed by the print server used in Implementation 4.

[0074] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the processing sequence performed in response to changes in a document file. Detailed Implementation

[0075] The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0076] <Implementation Method 1>

[0077] <System Structure>

[0078] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a network system 1 used in a service that can retrieve and print document files stored in the cloud from any image forming apparatus 70.

[0079] This service is also known as "print anywhere". Furthermore, a document file is an example of a file.

[0080] Network system 1 in this embodiment is an example of an information processing system.

[0081] Figure 1 The network system 1 shown consists of a cloud storage 20, a user terminal 30, a print server 40, a directory server 50, a single sign-on (hereinafter referred to as "SSO") server 60, and multiple image forming devices 70 connected to the cloud network 10.

[0082] In the diagram, there is one cloud storage device 20 and one user terminal 30, but physically there can be multiple devices.

[0083] Cloud Network 10 is not limited to wired networks; it can also be a wireless network. Furthermore, Cloud Network 10 can also be a combination of wired and wireless networks.

[0084] exist Figure 1 In this system, the user terminal 30 and the image forming apparatus 70 are connected to the cloud network 10 via a LAN (Local Area Network). However, all or part of the user terminal 30 or the image forming apparatus 70 may also be directly connected to the cloud network 10.

[0085] Cloud storage 20 is a storage device for storing document files. In this embodiment, document files are computer-generated data files, such as those composed of characters, images, and pictures. Images include both still and moving images, such as image data captured by a camera or image sensor, or image data from a fax machine.

[0086] However, the document files processed in this embodiment are not limited to data files processed for a specific purpose or in a specific field. For example, they are not limited to data files processed within an office.

[0087] In this embodiment, the cloud storage 20 is equipped with a synchronous API (Application Programming Interface) for obtaining a list of document files, a synchronous API for obtaining the entity data of document files, and an asynchronous API for notifying changes to document files.

[0088] Regarding changes to document files, there are insertions, updates, and deletions.

[0089] When a user operating the image forming apparatus 70 selects a document file as the print target, a list of document files is used.

[0090] A list of document files consists of information identifying the user associated with the document file, information identifying the location of the document file, and the document file's display name. Furthermore, a list of document files is an example of the first piece of information.

[0091] User terminal 30 is a computer used by a user utilizing a print service anywhere to manipulate document files on cloud storage 20. Specifically, user terminal 30 is used to insert document files into cloud storage 20, update document files stored in cloud storage 20, and delete document files stored in cloud storage 20.

[0092] exist Figure 1 In this example, a laptop computer is shown as user terminal 30; however, it could also be a desktop computer, tablet computer, or smartphone. Furthermore, user terminal 30 is an example of an external device.

[0093] Print server 40 is a server that mediates communication between cloud storage 20 and image forming apparatus 70, and is capable of retrieving a specific document file specified by image forming apparatus 70 from cloud storage 20 and printing it.

[0094] The print server 40 has the following functions: using the synchronous API, it retrieves a summary of document files or the physical data of document files from the cloud storage 20 and sends it to the image forming apparatus 70, which is the target. The print server 40 also has the function of converting the retrieved physical data of the document files into a data format that can be printed by the image forming apparatus 70 and outputting it. The physical data output to the image forming apparatus 70 is described using PDL (Page Description Language).

[0095] The print server 40 has the following function: using the asynchronous API, it detects changes to document files stored in the cloud storage 20. Through this detection function, the print server 40 can monitor the status of document files in the cloud storage 20 in roughly real-time.

[0096] In addition, the print server 40 has the function of managing a specific image forming apparatus 70 that meets predetermined conditions as a priority device.

[0097] In this embodiment, the same criteria are used to determine whether to manage as a priority device for all image forming apparatuses 70. However, different conditions may be given for one or more image forming apparatuses 70.

[0098] The predetermined conditions provide a benchmark for judging the utilization of printing services in any location. In this embodiment, a situation where the number of uses or the frequency of use within a predetermined period is greater than a threshold is referred to as "meeting the predetermined conditions," and a situation where the number of uses or the frequency of use within a predetermined period is less than the threshold is referred to as "not meeting the predetermined conditions." In this embodiment, the number of uses and the frequency of use are calculated in a manner that does not distinguish between users of the image forming apparatus 70.

[0099] In this embodiment, the print server 40 sends a list of document files indicating the location of stored document files to the image forming apparatus 70, which is registered as a priority device and can utilize print services from anywhere, and stores it therein. That is, the print server 40 sends the list of document files to the image forming apparatus 70, which is a priority device, before a user instructs to display the list of document files when using print services from anywhere. As a result, whenever print services from anywhere are utilized in the image forming apparatus 70 registered as a priority device, it is not necessary to retrieve the list of document files from the print server 40, thus shortening the time until the list of document files is displayed.

[0100] However, in this embodiment, the print server 40 determines whether the conditions for priority status are met upon receiving a notification from the image forming apparatus 70 that accepts printing services from anywhere.

[0101] Therefore, when the print server 40 receives a notification that the image forming apparatus 70 for printing services anywhere has been registered as a priority device, it retrieves a list of document files from the cloud storage 20 without notifying the image forming apparatus 70. However, in subsequent uses, it is not necessary to retrieve the list of document files through user operation.

[0102] Additionally, a list of document files is an example of the first piece of information. Furthermore, print server 40 is an example of an information processing device.

[0103] Furthermore, the print server 40 also has the function of always keeping the list of document files of the image forming apparatus 70, which is registered as a priority machine, up-to-date. For example, if a document file stored in the cloud storage 20 is changed, the print server 40 notifies the image forming apparatus 70, which is registered as a priority machine, of the changes in real time. Thus, the list of document files stored in the image forming apparatus 70 is synchronized with the cloud storage 20. Therefore, even if an instruction to use a print service from anywhere is received, the list of document files will not be retrieved again. In other words, the list of document files is sent synchronously before the user instructs to display it. In this case, "before the user instructs to display the list of document files" includes both before the user logs in and before the instruction to display the list of document files.

[0104] In addition, the print server 40 in this embodiment also manages the deregistration of priority machines. The same criteria are used throughout the image forming apparatus 70 for deregistering priority machines. However, the criteria used to determine deregistration are different from those used to determine registration.

[0105] The print server 40 only notifies the image forming apparatus 70 of the document file overview when the print service is used anywhere, without instructing it to be stored. In other words, the document file overview is deleted from the image forming apparatus 70 when the use of the print service at any location ends.

[0106] As a result, in the image forming apparatus 70 that is not registered as a priority machine, whenever a print service is used anywhere, there is a time required to retrieve a list of document files from the cloud storage 20. This is different from the image forming apparatus 70 that is registered as a priority machine.

[0107] Directory server 50 is a server that manages the permissions of user terminal 30 and standardizes the authentication procedures from user terminal 30 to print server 40.

[0108] SSO server 60 is a server that can utilize multiple services through a single authentication and can access cloud storage 20.

[0109] The image forming apparatus 70 is an apparatus that, when a user requests a print service from anywhere, obtains a list of document files from the print server 40 and prompts the user to print the document file selected by the user. However, the image forming apparatus 70 used in this embodiment also includes functions other than printing.

[0110] For example, the image forming apparatus 70 has the function of requesting the print server 40 to authenticate the user, and the function of storing a list of document files obtained from the print server 40 within the apparatus.

[0111] With these functions, whenever a user requests a print service from anywhere, the image forming apparatus 70 in this embodiment can read a list of document files stored in the apparatus and display it to the user without querying the cloud storage 20. This eliminates the need for communication with the cloud storage 20 via the print server 40, thus shortening the user's waiting time until the list of document files is displayed.

[0112] However, the image forming apparatus 70 also has the function of requesting the print server 40 to obtain a document file that is not in the list of document files if the user-specified document file is not found in the list of document files provided.

[0113] In this case, communication is required to obtain a list of new document files, and there will be a waiting period until the list of new document files is reflected in the list of existing document files and is displayed.

[0114] However, since the newly acquired document files only contain insufficient information, a reduction in communication time can be expected compared to acquiring a complete list of all document files at once.

[0115] In addition, the image forming apparatus 70 also has the function of ensuring consistency between the state of the document files in the cloud storage 20 and the state of the document files in the maintained document file list when a notification of a change in the document file list is received from the print server 40. The image forming apparatus 70 in this embodiment is an example of an information terminal.

[0116] <Structure of the components that make up the system>

[0117] The structure of several devices constituting network system 1 will now be described in more detail.

[0118] <Structure of a print server>

[0119] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the print server 40 used in Embodiment 1.

[0120] Figure 2The print server 40 shown includes a processor 401 that controls the entire device by executing programs, a semiconductor memory 402 that forms a computer together with the processor 401, a hard disk device 403 that stores programs and manages the data required, an input / output port 404, and a communication device 405 that enables communication with the outside world. These parts are connected by a bus or various signal lines.

[0121] The processor 401 here is an example of a second processor.

[0122] The semiconductor memory 402 consists of ROM (Read Only Memory) storing BIOS (Basic Input Output System) and RAM (Random Access Memory) used as the working area. RAM is the main storage device.

[0123] The hard disk device 403 is an auxiliary storage device that uses a hard disk as a storage medium. However, semiconductor memory can also be used as an auxiliary storage device.

[0124] In this embodiment, a table 403A (hereinafter also referred to as "priority machine management table 403A") for managing priority machines is stored in the hard disk device 403.

[0125] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the priority machine management table 403A used in Embodiment 1. In this embodiment, the priority machine management table 403A is used in conjunction with the image forming apparatus 70 (see reference 1) to identify printing services available anywhere. Figure 1 The information will be stored in a way that links it to information about whether or not a priority registration machine has been registered and information about the usage history.

[0126] Information used to identify the image forming apparatus as a priority device includes, for example, email address, IP (Internet Protocol) address, MAC (Media Access Control) address, device name, etc.

[0127] In this embodiment, five devices are managed as an image forming apparatus 70 that can utilize printing services anywhere.

[0128] In this implementation, the registration of the priority machine is independent of the user. Therefore, in Figure 3 The priority management table 403A shown does not contain any association with information for user identification.

[0129] If the predetermined conditions are met when using historical data, a symbol ○ is displayed in the information related to whether or not a priority registration machine is available. On the other hand, if the predetermined conditions are not met when using historical data, a symbol × is displayed in the information related to whether or not a priority registration machine is available.

[0130] The communication device 405 is composed of modules based on various communication standards. For example, the communication device 405 uses a LAN (Local Area Network) module, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) module, and a module for communicating with the public telephone network.

[0131] <Structure of an image forming apparatus>

[0132] The image forming apparatus 70 used in this embodiment (refer to...) Figure 1 It has functions such as photocopying to produce copies of the original, printing documents or images on paper, scanning images of the original in an optical manner, and obtaining information required for user authentication.

[0133] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the image forming apparatus 70 used in Embodiment 1.

[0134] Figure 4 The image forming apparatus 70 shown includes a processor 701 that controls the entire apparatus by executing a program, a semiconductor memory 702 that forms a computer together with the processor 701, a hard disk device 703 that stores programs and print data, etc., a scanner 704 that optically reads images of original documents, a printing engine 705 that forms images on the surface of paper, such as a recording medium, an image processing unit 706 that performs color correction and grayscale correction on the image data to be processed, an operation receiving unit 707 for receiving user instructions and displaying information, a display 708 for displaying operation information, and a communication device 709 for communicating with the outside world. These parts are connected via a bus or signal lines not shown.

[0135] The processor 701 here is an example of the first processor.

[0136] The semiconductor memory 702 consists of a ROM storing BIOS and other data, and a RAM used as the working area. The RAM is the main storage device.

[0137] The hard disk device 703 is an auxiliary storage device that uses a hard disk as the storage medium. However, semiconductor memory can also be used as an auxiliary storage device.

[0138] In this embodiment, a list 703A of document files is stored in the hard disk device 703.

[0139] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a document file overview 703A. In this embodiment, the document file overview 703A is stored in the image forming apparatus 70 registered as a priority device (see reference 70). Figure 1 The hard disk device 703 (see reference) Figure 4 Therefore, the image forming apparatus 70, which is not registered as a priority device, does not have a list 703A of stored document files.

[0140] Figure 5 The document file overview shown in 703A consists of information for user identification, information for identifying the location of the document file, and the display name.

[0141] Information used to identify users includes, for example, email addresses, employee numbers, nominations, and affiliations. Figure 5 In the example, the email address was recorded as information for user identification.

[0142] Information identifying the location of document files indicates that the document files associated with the user are stored in cloud storage 20 (see reference). Figure 1 The location of the document file. Information that identifies the location of the document file is represented, for example, by a URL (=Uniform Resource Locator).

[0143] exist Figure 5 In the case of document file overview 703A shown, for Taro Yamada, there are two document files stored with the display names "Notepad" and "Report", and for Hanako Yokohama, there is one document file stored with the display name "Weekly Report".

[0144] return Figure 4 Explanation.

[0145] Scanner 704 is a device that optically reads images of original documents and is an example of an image reading unit. In this embodiment, scanner 704 is also equipped with a mechanism that moves the original documents sheet by sheet to the reading position. Such a mechanism is, for example, called an ADF (Auto Document Feeder).

[0146] Printing engine 705 is a device that prints images on the surface of paper using electrophotography or inkjet printing methods. Paper is an example of a recording medium. Printing engine 705 is also equipped with a mechanism for feeding paper sheet by sheet. Printing engine 705 is an example of an image forming unit.

[0147] The image processing unit 706 is composed of a dedicated processor or processing circuit, which is used to perform image processing corresponding to the functions to be used.

[0148] The operation receiving unit 707 is a device for allowing users to input instructions. The operation receiving unit 707 consists of a capacitive thin-film sensor or various buttons disposed on the surface of the display 708. The capacitive thin-film sensor has the characteristic of not obstructing the observation of the image displayed on the display 708 and is used to detect the position of the user's operation.

[0149] The display 708 is an organic EL (Electro Luminescent) display or a liquid crystal display.

[0150] The communication device 709 is composed of modules based on various communication standards. For example, the communication device 709 can communicate with LANs and public telephone networks.

[0151] <Processing Action>

[0152] <Print server processing actions>

[0153] Figure 6 This describes the print server 40 used in Implementation 1 (see reference). Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an example of a processing action performed. The symbol S in the diagram represents a step. Additionally, Figure 6 The processing actions shown are performed by the processor 401 of the print server 40 (see reference). Figure 2 ) to execute.

[0154] First, the processor 401 stores the image forming apparatus 70 (refer to) that has received instructions for printing services anywhere. Figure 1 Request the date and time of the document file (step 11).

[0155] Next, the processor 401 updates the number of requests and the frequency of requests from the image forming apparatus, which is the requesting party (step 12). That is, the processor 401 updates the priority management table 403A (refer to...). Figure 3 The history of the data is used for updating.

[0156] Next, the processor 401 determines whether the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is a priority device (step 13). In this embodiment, the processor 401 refers to the priority device management table 403A to determine whether the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is registered as a priority device.

[0157] When the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is the priority machine, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 13.

[0158] In this case, the processor 401 determines whether the usage history related to the image forming apparatus 70 as the requester meets the release condition (step 14).

[0159] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 14 of embodiment 1.

[0160] Processor 401 determines whether the period elapsed since the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, last requested a document file is greater than or equal to threshold A (step 141). This determination is performed with the aim of removing the image forming apparatus 70, which has not been used for a long time, from the priority machine registration.

[0161] Threshold A is set, for example, based on empirical rules. Threshold A can be changed by the staff managing print server 40.

[0162] In the case of the image forming apparatus 70 registered as the priority machine, communication for obtaining a list of document files can be omitted; however, communication for retrieving data from the cloud storage 20 (see reference 70) is still necessary. Figure 1 ) obtain specific document files from the print server 40 (see reference) Figure 1 The communication is conducted by the print server 40. The access history associated with obtaining the document file is managed by the print server 40.

[0163] If the period elapsed since the last requested document file is greater than or equal to threshold A, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 141.

[0164] On the other hand, if the period elapsed since the last requested document file is less than the threshold A, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 141.

[0165] If a negative result is obtained in step 141, the processor 401 determines whether the frequency of the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, requesting to obtain a document file is below threshold B (step 142). This determination is performed with the aim of removing the image forming apparatus 70 from the priority register, which is an apparatus that has been used less frequently although the period since its last use is relatively short.

[0166] Threshold B is also set based on empirical rules, for example. Threshold B can be changed by the staff managing print server 40.

[0167] If the frequency of requesting to obtain the document file is below threshold B, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 142.

[0168] On the other hand, if the frequency of requesting to obtain the document file exceeds the threshold B, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 142.

[0169] The case where a positive result is obtained in step 141 or step 142 is equivalent to the case where a positive result is obtained in step 14. In this case, processor 401 proceeds to step 15 (see reference). Figure 6 The processor 401 in this embodiment, upon deregistering the priority machine associated with the image forming apparatus 70 as the requesting party, instructs the image forming apparatus 70 as the requesting party to delete the list of document files after printing is completed.

[0170] On the other hand, the case where a negative result is obtained in both steps 141 and 142 is equivalent to the case where a negative result is obtained in step 14. The conditions shown in steps 141 and 142 are an example of the second condition. Furthermore, threshold A is an example of the second threshold, and threshold B is an example of the third threshold. In this case, processor 401 terminates. Figure 6 The processing actions.

[0171] return Figure 6 Explanation.

[0172] If the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is not the priority device, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 13.

[0173] In this case, the processor 401 determines whether the usage history related to the image forming apparatus 70 as the requester meets the registration conditions (step 16).

[0174] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 16 of implementation method 1.

[0175] Processor 401 determines whether the number of times the image forming apparatus, as the requester, requests document files within a predetermined period is greater than or equal to a threshold C (step 161). This determination is performed with the aim of registering the image forming apparatus 70, which uses printing services from any location more frequently, as a priority device.

[0176] The threshold C is set, for example, according to empirical rules. The threshold C can be changed by the staff managing the print server 40.

[0177] Furthermore, the scheduled period can be set based on empirical rules, for example. The scheduled period can also be changed by the staff managing the print server 40. Additionally, the number of document requests and usage frequency are reset each time the scheduled period expires. However, this history can also be stored as a log.

[0178] If the number of requests for the document file within the predetermined period exceeds a threshold C, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 161.

[0179] On the other hand, if the number of requests for the document file within the predetermined period is less than the threshold C, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 161.

[0180] If a negative result is obtained in step 161, the processor 401 determines whether the frequency of the image forming apparatus as the requester requesting the document file within a predetermined period is greater than or equal to a threshold D (step 162). This determination is performed with the aim of registering the image forming apparatus 70 as a priority device, which is a device that is used less frequently but more often.

[0181] Threshold D is also set according to empirical rules. Threshold D can be changed by the staff managing print server 40.

[0182] The case where a positive result is obtained in step 161 or step 162 is equivalent to the case where a positive result is obtained in step 16. In this case, processor 401 proceeds to step 17 (see reference). Figure 6 The image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is registered as the priority device.

[0183] On the other hand, the case where a negative result is obtained in both steps 161 and 162 is equivalent to the case where a negative result is obtained in step 16. In this case, processor 401 terminates. Figure 6 The processing actions.

[0184] Furthermore, the conditions shown in steps 161 and 162 are examples of predetermined conditions. Additionally, thresholds C and D are examples of predetermined thresholds.

[0185] <Processing actions of the image forming apparatus>

[0186] Figure 9 This describes the image forming apparatus 70 used in Embodiment 1 (see reference 70). Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an example of a processing action performed. The symbol S in the diagram represents a step. Additionally, Figure 9 The processing actions shown are performed by the processor 701 of the image forming apparatus 70 (see reference). Figure 4 ) to execute.

[0187] First, processor 701 determines whether the option to use print services anywhere has been accepted (step 21).

[0188] exist Figure 9 In the case where a negative result is obtained in step 21, the processor 701 repeatedly performs the determination in step 21.

[0189] If a positive result is obtained in step 21, the processor 701 determines whether a list of document files exists in the device (step 22).

[0190] If a list of document files exists, the processor 701 obtains a positive result in step 22. In this case, the processor 701 displays a list of the stored document files (step 23).

[0191] Next, the processor 701 determines whether it is requesting to display at a location that does not exist in the existing document file overview (step 24).

[0192] If the location is indicated as not present in the document file overview, the processor 701 obtains a positive result in step 24.

[0193] If a positive result is obtained in step 24, processor 701 requests print server 40 (see reference). Figure 1 Send a list of document files located at the indicated location (step 25).

[0194] Then, the processor 701 reflects the overview of the newly acquired document files into the overview of the existing document files and displays it (step 26).

[0195] In addition, the processor 701 stores the overview of the newly acquired document files in the overview of the existing document files (step 27).

[0196] After this process, processor 701 returns to the determination in step 24.

[0197] If the instruction is to print a document file that exists in the list of existing document files, the processor 701 receives a negative result in step 24.

[0198] If a negative result is obtained in step 24, the processor 701 requests entity data of the document file from the print server 40 (step 28), and performs printing based on the obtained entity data (step 29).

[0199] In contrast, if a negative result is obtained in step 22, the processor 701 executes step 30. Here, the negative result in step 22 occurs when a list of document files does not exist within the device. For example, this corresponds to the case where the image forming apparatus 70 is not registered as a priority device.

[0200] If a negative result is obtained in step 22, the processor 701 requests a list of document files from the print server 40 (step 30). However, in this embodiment, the request to utilize print services from anywhere is sent to the print server 40.

[0201] Upon receiving a list of document files from print server 40, processor 701 displays the list of received document files (step 31).

[0202] Next, the processor 701 determines whether an instruction has been given to store a list of document files (step 32).

[0203] In the case of an image forming apparatus 70 that is not registered as a priority machine, a list of stored document files is not displayed. Therefore, the processor 701 receives a negative result in step 32 and proceeds to step 28. Since a list of stored document files is not displayed, the list of document files is deleted from the image forming apparatus 70 after being displayed.

[0204] On the other hand, in the case of the image forming apparatus 70 registered as the priority machine, a list of stored document files is indicated. Therefore, the processor 701 obtains a positive result in step 32 and stores the list of document files (step 33). Furthermore, after executing step 33, the processor 701 proceeds to step 28.

[0205] <System overall processing sequence>

[0206] <Case where the image forming apparatus is not registered as a priority device>

[0207] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when the image forming apparatus 70, which is not registered as a priority machine, is used for printing services anywhere. The symbol S in the diagram signifies a step.

[0208] A series of processing steps begins when the user brings the IC card of any image forming apparatus 70 close to the image forming apparatus 70 (step 101).

[0209] The image forming apparatus 70, having obtained user information from the IC card, requests the print server 40 to authenticate the user (step 102). The print server 40, having accepted the request, requests the directory server 50 to authenticate the user (step 103). The authentication result is then notified from the directory server 50 to the image forming apparatus 70 via the print server 40.

[0210] A successfully authenticated user can operate the image forming apparatus 70. For example, on the display 708 of the image forming apparatus 70 (see reference 708)... Figure 4 The button classes that can be interacted with by the user are displayed in the ).

[0211] Additionally, during the successful authentication phase, the print server 40 determines whether to register the image forming apparatus 70 requesting authentication as a priority device (step 104). Figure 10This is the case where the machine is not registered as a priority machine; therefore, priority machine registration is not performed in print server 40.

[0212] Next, the user instructs to utilize the anywhere printing service (step 105). The image forming apparatus 70, having received the instruction, requests the print server 40 to utilize the anywhere printing service (step 106). The print server 40, having received the request, requests the SSO server 60 to perform authentication (step 107).

[0213] Upon successful authentication, print server 40 requests a list of document files from cloud storage 20 (step 108).

[0214] Cloud Storage 20 responds with a list of the requested document files (step 109).

[0215] The print server 40, having received a summary of the document file, notifies the image forming apparatus 70, which is the requesting party, of the summary of the document file (step 110). The image forming apparatus 70 stores the received summary of the document file.

[0216] When the image forming apparatus 70 receives an instruction from a user to display a list of document files, it displays a list of stored document files (step 111). In this embodiment, the list of document files to be displayed is limited to the document files of the user authenticated in step 102, and lists of document files related to other users are not displayed.

[0217] Then, when the user selects a specific document file and instructs to print (step 112), the image forming apparatus 70 requests the selected document file from the print server 40 (step 113). Additionally, the print server 40 requests the document file from the cloud storage 20 where the specific document file is located (step 114).

[0218] When the entity data of the document file is obtained, the print server 40 performs PDL conversion on the entity data (step 115) and outputs the generated print data to the image forming apparatus 70 (step 116). Then, the image forming apparatus 70 performs printing based on the print data.

[0219] like Figure 10 As shown, when the image forming apparatus 70, which has never been registered as a priority machine, requests to utilize print services from anywhere, a communication is generated to retrieve a list of document files from the cloud storage 20. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 70 experiences a waiting time from accepting the request to utilize print services from anywhere until displaying the list of document files.

[0220] <Cases where the image forming apparatus is newly registered as a priority device>

[0221] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when the image forming apparatus 70, newly registered as a priority machine, is utilized by a print service anywhere. Figure 11 In the middle, to and Figure 10 The corresponding parts are labeled with their corresponding numbers.

[0222] The processing sequence is also initiated by the user bringing the IC card of any image forming apparatus 70 close to the image forming apparatus 70 (step 101).

[0223] The image forming apparatus 70, having obtained the user's information from the IC card, requests the print server 40 to authenticate the user (step 102). The print server 40, having accepted the request, requests the directory server 50 to authenticate the user (step 103). The authentication result is then notified from the directory server 50 to the image forming apparatus 70 via the print server 40.

[0224] A successfully authenticated user can operate the image forming apparatus 70. For example, on the display 708 of the image forming apparatus 70 (see reference 708)... Figure 4 The button classes that can be interacted with by the user are displayed in the ).

[0225] During the successful authentication phase, print server 40 determines whether to register the image forming apparatus 70 requesting authentication as a priority device (step 104). Figure 11 In this case, the conditions for registration as a priority machine have been met. Therefore, the print server 40 registers the image forming apparatus 70 requesting authentication as a priority machine (step 104A).

[0226] Next, the user instructs to utilize printing services anywhere (step 105). Figure 11 The image forming apparatus 70 is the priority device; however, at this stage, a list of document files is not stored in the apparatus. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 70 requests the print server 40 to utilize print services from anywhere (step 106). The print server 40, having accepted the request, requests the SSO server 60 to perform authentication (step 107).

[0227] Upon successful authentication, print server 40 requests a list of document files from cloud storage 20 (step 108).

[0228] Cloud Storage 20 responds with a list of the requested document files (step 109).

[0229] The print server 40, having received a list of the document files, notifies the image forming apparatus 70, which is the requesting party, of the list of the document files and requests it to store the list of the document files (step 110A).

[0230] Upon receiving the request, the image forming apparatus 70 displays a list of document files (step 111A) and stores the list of document files (step 111B). However, in step 111A, only the list of document files related to the user authenticated in step 102 is displayed; lists of document files related to other users are not displayed.

[0231] Then, when the user selects a specific document file and instructs to print (step 112), the image forming apparatus 70 requests the selected document file from the print server 40 (step 113). Additionally, the print server 40 requests the document file from the cloud storage 20 where the specific document file is located (step 114).

[0232] When the entity data of the document file is obtained, the print server 40 performs PDL conversion on the entity data (step 115) and outputs the generated print data to the image forming apparatus 70 (step 116). Then, the image forming apparatus 70 performs printing based on the print data.

[0233] exist Figure 11 In this case, although the image forming apparatus 70 is registered as a priority device, a list of document files is not stored in the image forming apparatus 70 immediately after registration. Therefore, after being switched to priority device through the management of the print server 40, communication is initiated to retrieve a list of document files from the cloud storage 20.

[0234] Therefore, the image forming apparatus 70 will experience a waiting time from the time it receives a request for printing services from anywhere until it displays a preview of the document file.

[0235] <Cases after the image forming apparatus is registered as a priority device (second or subsequent times)>

[0236] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when the image forming apparatus 70, which has been registered as a priority machine, is used for printing services anywhere. Figure 12 In the middle, to and Figure 11 The corresponding parts are labeled with their corresponding numbers.

[0237] The processing sequence is also initiated by the user bringing the IC card of any image forming apparatus 70 close to the image forming apparatus 70 (step 101).

[0238] The image forming apparatus 70, having obtained the user's information from the IC card, requests the print server 40 to authenticate the user (step 102). The print server 40, having accepted the request, requests the directory server 50 to authenticate the user (step 103). The authentication result is then notified from the directory server 50 to the image forming apparatus 70 via the print server 40.

[0239] A successfully authenticated user can operate the image forming apparatus 70. For example, on the display 708 of the image forming apparatus 70 (see reference 708)... Figure 4 The button classes that can be interacted with by the user are displayed in the ).

[0240] During the successful authentication phase, print server 40 determines whether to register the image forming apparatus 70 requesting authentication as a priority machine (step 104). However, in Figure 12 In this case, the machine has already been registered as a priority machine. Therefore, print server 40 also determines whether the conditions for removing the priority machine are met.

[0241] Next, the user instructs them to utilize any printing service available anywhere (step 105). Figure 12 In the image forming apparatus 70 described herein, a list of document files is stored within the apparatus.

[0242] Therefore, the image forming apparatus 70 immediately displays a list of document files stored in the apparatus (step 111A). Of course, in step 111A, only a list of document files related to the user authenticated in step 102 is displayed, and a list of document files related to other users is not displayed.

[0243] Furthermore, if the image forming apparatus 70 is instructed by the user to display a different list of document files than the one currently displayed, it requests the print server 40 to retrieve a list of document files located at the user-instructed location. In this case, the image forming apparatus 70 awaits notification of a new list of document files from the print server 40. This new list of document files is an example of the second type of information.

[0244] In addition, the image forming apparatus 70 reflects the overview of newly acquired document files into the overview of existing document files for display.

[0245] Then, when the user selects a specific document file and instructs to print (step 112), the image forming apparatus 70 requests the selected document file from the print server 40 (step 113). Additionally, the print server 40 requests the document file from the cloud storage 20 where the specific document file is located (step 114).

[0246] When obtaining the entity data of the document file, the print server 40 performs PDL conversion on the entity data (step 115) and outputs the generated print data to the image forming apparatus 70 (step 116). Then, the image forming apparatus 70 performs printing based on the print data.

[0247] exist Figure 12 In the example shown, the image forming apparatus 70 can display a list of document files without communicating with the print server 40. That is, in Figure 12In the example of the image forming apparatus 70 shown, the waiting time from accepting a request to use a printing service from anywhere to displaying a preview of the document file is shortened.

[0248] <Registration of the priority machine of the image forming apparatus is cancelled>

[0249] When the image forming apparatus 70, which is registered as a priority device, meets the priority device release condition, and... Figure 11 The processing order shown is the same.

[0250] In this embodiment, if the print server 40 determines that the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, meets the conditions for deregistering the priority device, it deregisters the priority device in step 104A and instructs the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, to delete the list of document files. This is consistent with the above. Figure 11 The processing order shown is different.

[0251] Therefore, when a user instructs the image forming apparatus 70 to utilize printing services anywhere, the print server 40 retrieves a list of document files from the cloud storage 20 and notifies the image forming apparatus 70 of this list.

[0252] <Implementation Method 2>

[0253] In this embodiment, for the print server 40 (refer to...) Figure 1 The following explanation will be given regarding the case where the following function is provided in the image forming apparatus 70 (refer to) that is registered as a priority machine: Figure 1 The function to keep a list of document files stored in the system up-to-date.

[0254] Therefore, the system structure and the structure of each device used in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0255] Figure 13 This describes the print server 40 used in Implementation 2 (see reference). Figure 1 This is a flowchart of an example of a processing action performed. The symbol S in the diagram represents a step. Additionally, Figure 13 The processing actions shown are performed by the processor 401 of the print server 40 (see reference). Figure 2 ) to execute.

[0256] Processor 401 determines whether it has received a notification of a document file change from cloud storage 20 (step 31). Regarding this notification, cloud storage 20 uses an asynchronous API to send the notification. Additionally, from user terminal 30 (see...) Figure 1 This indicates changes to the document files stored in cloud storage 20.

[0257] Regarding changes to document files, there are insertions, updates, and deletions. When the cloud storage 20 detects a change to a document file, it immediately notifies the print server 40, which has been pre-set as the notification destination.

[0258] Additionally, print server 40 can periodically query cloud storage 20 for any changes to document files. This query utilizes the synchronous API provided in cloud storage 20.

[0259] During the period when a negative result is obtained in step 31, the processor 401 repeatedly performs the determination in step 31.

[0260] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 31, the processor 401 determines whether there is a priority machine that has notified the following list, which includes the document file as the object (step 32).

[0261] If a negative result is obtained in step 32, there is no object reflecting the change. Therefore, processor 401 terminates the series of processes.

[0262] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 32, the processor 401 notifies the corresponding image forming apparatus 70 of the change in the document file (step 33). The notification includes the content of the change.

[0263] Figure 14 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence performed when changes are made to a document file. The notation S in the diagram represents a step.

[0264] A series of processing steps begins when the user changes the document file in the cloud storage 20 using the user terminal 30 (step 121).

[0265] The cloud storage 20, which detects changes to the document file, notifies the print server 40 of the changes (step 122).

[0266] The print server 40 that received the notification determines that the notification was made to a priority list containing the document files as objects (step 123).

[0267] Next, the print server 40 notifies the image forming apparatus 70, which is the designated priority device, of the document file change (step 124). In other words, the document file change is pushed from the print server 40 to the image forming apparatus 70, which is the target.

[0268] The image forming apparatus 70, having received a notification of a change to a document file, reflects the content of the notification in the document file overview stored within the apparatus (step 125). This ensures synchronization between the document file overview stored in the image forming apparatus 70 and the cloud storage 20.

[0269] That is, the list of document files displayed in the image forming apparatus 70 operated by the user always reflects the state of the cloud storage 20. As a result, there will be no situation where the document file selected by the user is not present at the location indicated by the user for the image forming apparatus 70, and the waiting time for the user to retrieve the list of document files again can be eliminated.

[0270] In this case, the list of document files is stored in the image forming apparatus 70 before the user instructs that a list of document files be displayed. Therefore, when the user instructs that document files be displayed, the latest list of document files will be displayed without any waiting time.

[0271] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of the overview 703A of document files stored in the image forming apparatus 70. (A) is an example of inserting a document file, (B) is an example of updating a document file, and (C) is an example of deleting a document file.

[0272] For example, if the change involves insertion, information about the newly added document file is appended to the document file list 703A in the image forming apparatus 70. Figure 15 In the document file list 703A, Notepad was added.

[0273] For example, if the change involves updating a document file, the information for the changed items is updated in the document file overview 703A in the image forming apparatus 70. Figure 15 In this update, the display name is changed from "Notepad" to "Notepad2". In addition, information identifying the user and the location of the document file may also be updated.

[0274] For example, if the change involves the deletion of a document file, the information of the document file to be deleted is removed from the document file list 703A in the image forming apparatus 70.

[0275] <Implementation Method 3>

[0276] In this embodiment, the print server 40 is configured with priority machines according to different users. In this embodiment, there is one user.

[0277] Furthermore, the system structure and the structure of each device used in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0278] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the priority management table 403A1 used in Implementation Method 3. Figure 16 In the middle, to and Figure 3 The corresponding parts are labeled with corresponding numbers.

[0279] The priority machine management table 403A1, used by the print server 40 to manage priority machines, stores information about the image forming apparatus, whether a priority machine is registered, and the frequency of use, in a manner associated with information used to identify users.

[0280] Figure 16 The usage history in the priority machine management table 403A1 shown is the usage history of a specific user for a specific image forming apparatus 70. This differs from the previously described implementation. Therefore, the registration of a priority machine is determined on a user-by-user basis. Consequently, an image forming apparatus 70 that is a priority machine for one user may not be a priority machine for other users.

[0281] Figure 17 This describes the print server 40 used in implementation 3 (see reference). Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of a processing action performed. Figure 17 In the middle, to and Figure 6 The corresponding parts are labeled with corresponding numbers.

[0282] Figure 17 The processing actions shown are performed by the processor 401 of the print server 40 (see reference). Figure 2 ) to execute.

[0283] First, the processor 401 targets the image forming apparatus 70 (refer to) that has received instructions for printing services anywhere. Figure 1 The date and time of the requested document file are stored using a combination of the user and the authenticated user (step 11A).

[0284] Next, processor 401 updates the number of requests and the frequency of requests for this combination (step 12A). That is, processor 401 updates the priority management table 403A1 (refer to...). Figure 16 The history of the data is used for updating.

[0285] Next, the processor 401 determines whether the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is a priority machine of the authenticated user (step 13A). In this embodiment, the processor 401 refers to the priority machine management table 403A1 to determine whether the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is registered as a priority machine of the authenticated user.

[0286] If the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is the priority machine of the authenticated user, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 13A.

[0287] In this case, the processor 401 determines whether the usage history of the user who is using the image forming apparatus 70 as the requester meets the release condition (step 14A).

[0288] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 14A of embodiment 3.

[0289] Processor 401 determines whether the period elapsed since the last time the authenticated user requested a document file from the image forming apparatus 70 as the requester is greater than or equal to threshold A1 (step 141A). The purpose of this determination is to remove the combination of the user and the image forming apparatus 70, who have not used the printing service anywhere for a long time, from the priority machine registration.

[0290] Threshold A1 is set, for example, according to empirical rules. Threshold A1 can be changed by the staff managing print server 40.

[0291] In the case of a combination of a user and an image forming apparatus 70 for a period of more than a threshold A1 elapsed since the last request for a document file, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 141A.

[0292] On the other hand, in the case of a combination of a user and an image forming apparatus 70 where the period elapsed since the last request for the document file is less than the threshold A1, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 141A.

[0293] If a negative result is obtained in step 141A, the processor 401 determines whether the frequency with which the authenticated user requests document files using the image forming apparatus as the requester is below threshold B1 (step 142A). The purpose of this determination is to remove the combination of the user and the image forming apparatus 70, which has a short period of time elapsed since the last use but a low frequency of use, from the priority machine's registration.

[0294] Threshold B1 is also set based on empirical rules, for example. Threshold B1 can be changed by the staff managing print server 40.

[0295] In the case of a combination of a user and an image forming apparatus 70 whose frequency of requesting document files is below threshold B1, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 142A.

[0296] On the other hand, in the case of a combination of a user whose frequency of requesting document files exceeds threshold B1 and an image forming apparatus 70, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 142A.

[0297] The case where a positive result is obtained in step 141A or step 142A is equivalent to the case where a positive result is obtained in step 14A. In this case, processor 401 proceeds to step 15A (refer to...). Figure 17The processor 401 in this embodiment, upon deregistering the priority machine associated with the combination of the requesting image forming apparatus 70 and the user, instructs the processor 401 to delete the list of document files related to the user after printing has finished in the requesting image forming apparatus 70.

[0298] On the other hand, the case where a negative result is obtained in both steps 141A and 142A is equivalent to the case where a negative result is obtained in step 14A. The conditions shown in steps 141A and 142A are examples of the second condition. Furthermore, threshold A1 is an example of the second threshold, and threshold B1 is an example of the third threshold. In this case, processor 401 terminates. Figure 17 The processing actions.

[0299] return Figure 17 Explanation.

[0300] If the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is not the priority device of the authenticated user, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 13A.

[0301] In this case, the processor 401 determines whether the usage history associated with the combination of the authenticated user and the image forming apparatus 70 as the requester meets the registration conditions (step 16A).

[0302] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing action performed in step 16A of embodiment 3.

[0303] Processor 401 determines whether the number of times the authenticated user requests document files using the image forming apparatus 70 as the requester within a predetermined period exceeds a threshold C1 (step 161A). This determination is performed with the aim of registering the combination of users who frequently utilize printing services anywhere and the image forming apparatus 70 as priority users.

[0304] The threshold C1 is set, for example, according to a rule of thumb. The threshold C1 can be changed by the staff managing the print server 40.

[0305] Furthermore, the predetermined period can be set, for example, based on empirical rules. The predetermined period can also be changed by the personnel managing the print server 40. Additionally, each time the predetermined period elapses, the number of requested document files and the frequency of use associated with the combination of user and image forming apparatus 70 are reset. However, this history can also be stored as a log.

[0306] If the number of requests for the document file within the predetermined period exceeds the threshold C1, the processor 401 obtains a positive result in step 161A.

[0307] On the other hand, if the number of requests for the document file within the predetermined period is less than the threshold C1, the processor 401 obtains a negative result in step 161A.

[0308] If a negative result is obtained in step 161A, the processor 401 determines whether the frequency with which the authenticated user requests document files from the image forming apparatus (as the requester) within a predetermined period is greater than or equal to a threshold D1 (step 162A). The purpose of this determination is to register the combination of a user who uses the file less frequently but with higher usage frequency and the image forming apparatus 70 as a priority device.

[0309] Threshold D1 is also set according to empirical rules, for example. Threshold D1 can be changed by the staff managing print server 40.

[0310] The case where a positive result is obtained in step 161A or step 162A is equivalent to step 16A (refer to...) Figure 17 In the case where a positive result is obtained, processor 401 proceeds to step 17A (refer to...). Figure 17 The image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, is registered as a priority machine related to the authenticated user.

[0311] On the other hand, a negative result is obtained in both steps 161A and 162A, which is equivalent to step 16A (refer to...). Figure 17 The case where a negative result is obtained is described in steps 161A and 162A. The conditions shown in steps 161A and 162A are examples of predetermined conditions. Furthermore, thresholds C1 and D1 are examples of predetermined thresholds. In this case, processor 401 terminates. Figure 17 The processing actions.

[0312] Figure 20 This diagram illustrates an example of the processing sequence when an image forming apparatus 70, which has been registered as a priority machine for a specific user, is used for printing services anywhere. Figure 20 In the middle, to and Figure 12 The corresponding parts are labeled with their corresponding numbers.

[0313] Although Figure 12 The print server 40 shown determines whether to register the image forming apparatus 70 as a priority machine in a user-indiscriminate manner, however, Figure 20 When the print server 40 receives authentication from the image forming apparatus 70, it determines whether to register the image forming apparatus 70, as the requesting party, as the priority machine of the authenticated user (step 104B).

[0314] Furthermore, regarding the processing order when the image forming apparatus 70 operated by the user is not registered as a user-related priority device, please refer to... Figure 10 That's fine. Of course, whether it's a priority machine or not depends on the user requesting authentication.

[0315] Furthermore, the processing order of the image forming apparatus 70 operated by the user is referenced when it is newly registered as a priority device for the user. Figure 11 That's it. Of course, whether it's a priority machine depends on the user requesting authentication, and registration as a priority machine must be done on a per-user basis.

[0316] <Implementation Method 4>

[0317] Here, we will describe the case where the following function is added to the print server 40 described in Embodiment 3: the function is to register a specific image forming apparatus 70 (see reference 70) as a priority machine. Figure 1 The function to keep a list of document files stored in the system up-to-date.

[0318] The system structure and the structure of each device used in this embodiment are the same as those in embodiment 3.

[0319] Figure 21 This describes the print server 40 used in implementation method 4 (see reference). Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of a processing action performed. Figure 21 In the middle, to and Figure 13 The corresponding parts are labeled with corresponding numbers.

[0320] Figure 21 The processing actions shown are performed by the processor 401 of the print server 40 (see reference). Figure 2 ) to execute.

[0321] Processor 401 determines whether it has received a notification of a change to a document file from cloud storage 20 (step 31). Cloud storage 20 uses an asynchronous API to send this notification.

[0322] During the period when a negative result is obtained in step 31, the processor 401 repeatedly performs the determination in step 31.

[0323] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 31, the processor 401 determines the user who has the access rights to the notified document file (step 31A).

[0324] Next, the processor 401 determines whether there is a priority machine of a user who has been notified of a list containing document files as objects (step 32A).

[0325] If a negative result is obtained in step 32A, there is no object reflecting the change. Therefore, processor 401 terminates the series of processes.

[0326] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 32A, the processor 401 notifies the user of the document file change to the corresponding image forming apparatus 70 (step 33A). This notification includes the details of the change.

[0327] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the processing sequence performed when reflecting changes to a document file. Figure 22 In the middle, to and Figure 14 The corresponding parts are labeled with corresponding numbers.

[0328] A series of processing steps begins when the user changes the document file in the cloud storage 20 using the user terminal 30 (step 121).

[0329] The cloud storage 20, which detects changes to the document file, notifies the print server 40 of the changes (step 122).

[0330] The print server 40 that received the notification determines the priority machine registered for the user who has access rights to the document file that is the object (step 123A).

[0331] Next, the print server 40 notifies the user of the document file change to the image forming apparatus 70, which is designated as the priority machine (step 124A).

[0332] The image forming apparatus 70, which has received a notification of changes to the document files, reflects the content of the notification in a list of document files stored in the apparatus for a specific user (step 125A).

[0333] This ensures the synchronization between the overview of document files associated with a specific user stored in the image forming apparatus 70 and the cloud storage 20. In other words, the overview of document files displayed in the image forming apparatus 70 operated by the user always reflects the state of the cloud storage 20.

[0334] As a result, the user's selected document file will not be absent at the location indicated by the user to the image forming apparatus 70, thus eliminating the user's waiting time when the document file is retrieved again.

[0335] In this embodiment, the changes to the list of document files in the image forming apparatus 70 are managed in association with the user. However, the changes to the list of document files can also be performed independently of the user, and the list of document files can be filtered during the stage of prompting the user with the list of document files.

[0336] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0337] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above; however, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the embodiments. As can be seen from the claims, various modifications or improvements made to the embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0338] For example, the network system 1 described in the embodiment is built on cloud network 10, but it can also be built on a LAN.

[0339] Furthermore, in the case of embodiment 1, the image forming apparatus 70 (refer to) is registered as a priority machine. Figure 1 When using a printing service anywhere for the first time, the image forming apparatus 70 obtains a view of the document file, but the time at which the image forming apparatus 70 obtains a view of the document file is not limited to this.

[0340] For example, registration as a priority machine can also be used as a condition for print server 40 (see reference). Figure 1 A list of document files is pushed to the image forming apparatus 70. In this case, unlike embodiment 1, the list of document files is stored in the image forming apparatus 70 for a period of time before the first use of the local printing service. As a result, the list of document files can be displayed without waiting time from the first use of the local printing service.

[0341] In addition, the signal from user terminal 30 (see reference) can also be transmitted. Figure 1 The image forming apparatus 70 obtains a list of document files as a trigger upon receiving a print job notification. In this case, the list of document files is stored in the image forming apparatus 70 before the user logs in or is instructed to utilize any print service.

[0342] Alternatively, when a print job is notified to the print server 40, or when the image forming apparatus 70 notifies the print server 40 to receive a print job, the print server 40 may obtain a list of document files and send it to the image forming apparatus 70. In this case, the list of document files is stored in the image forming apparatus 70 before the user logs in or is instructed to use any print service.

[0343] Furthermore, in the case of embodiment 2, the cloud storage 20 is instructed by the user terminal 30 (refer to...). Figure 1In the event of a change to a document file, the print server 40 notifies the image forming apparatus 70 of the change. However, it is also possible to use the following structure: when the user terminal 30 uploads a document file to the cloud storage 20, a list of documents containing the uploaded document file is notified to the image forming apparatus 70 via the print server 40. In this case, the list of document files is stored in the image forming apparatus 70 before the user logs in or is instructed to use any print service.

[0344] In the aforementioned embodiment, the determination of priority machine registration and deregistration utilizes the history of requesting document files from the image forming apparatus 70 to the cloud storage 20. However, the request for user authentication performed using the image forming apparatus 70 as a previous operation can also be considered a request for document files. This is because user authentication is required before requesting document files. In this case, updating the history at the time of user authentication request can eliminate the time difference between the time of determining whether it is a priority machine and the last time it was used.

[0345] In the aforementioned embodiment, the number of image forming apparatuses 70 registered as priority machines is not limited; however, an upper limit may be set for the number of machines that can be registered as priority machines.

[0346] In the aforementioned implementation, the print server 40 (see reference) is used. Figure 1 Management Priority Machine Management Form 403A (Refer to) Figure 3 ) and Priority Machine Management Table 403A1 (refer to Figure 16 However, the tables can also be managed using directory server 50.

[0347] In the aforementioned implementation, a single user was assumed; however, priority machines can also be managed in units of multiple users. Regarding multiple users, in addition to organizational units such as departments, sections, and groups, private groups such as families, circles, and clubs can also be designated as units. In this case, in the image forming apparatus 70 registered as a priority machine, the list of document files is stored in the device not only before each user instructs to display the document file overview, but also even before logging into the priority machine. Therefore, each user can check the document file overview without waiting time.

[0348] In the aforementioned embodiments, the case of obtaining a document file from the cloud storage 20 and printing it in the image forming apparatus 70 which has multiple functions has been described. However, the image forming apparatus 70 may also be a printing-specific apparatus, or a three-dimensional printer that constructs a three-dimensional object by stacking cross-sectional shapes defined by three-dimensional data.

[0349] In the aforementioned implementation, as a cloud storage 20 (refer to...) Figure 1 An example of an image forming apparatus 70 (see reference 70) is a terminal for obtaining document files. Figure 1 However, an information kiosk can also be used instead of the image forming apparatus 70. An information kiosk is a terminal capable of providing information and services, and can also be used for payment and various procedures. That is, the services provided on network system 1 are not limited to printing services anywhere, but can include the provision of various information, financial services, etc.

[0350] In the foregoing embodiments, a print server 40 (see reference 1) is exemplified as an information processing device for relaying notifications between an information terminal that retrieves document files from a cloud storage device and the information terminal. Figure 1 However, it can also be a communication device such as a router or gateway.

[0351] In the described embodiment, the file stored in the cloud storage is a document file; however, it could also be a document file containing financial or medical data.

[0352] The processor in each embodiment refers to a processor in a broad sense, including not only general-purpose processors (such as CPUs) but also dedicated processors (such as GPUs, ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), FPGAs, program logic devices, etc.).

[0353] Furthermore, the actions of the processor in each of the embodiments can be executed by a single processor, or they can be executed collaboratively by multiple processors located in physically separate positions. Moreover, the execution order of the actions within the processor is not limited to the order described in each embodiment and can be changed individually.

Claims

1. An information terminal, wherein, The information terminal has a processor that, upon receiving an instruction from a user to display information related to a file output by the terminal, and if first information for determining the storage location of the file is already stored in the terminal, causes the processor to display the first information stored in the terminal without performing communication requesting to retrieve the first information. The first piece of information is stored in a manner that is shared by non-specific users.

2. An information terminal, wherein, The information terminal has a processor that, upon receiving an instruction from a user to display information related to a file output by the terminal, and if first information for determining the storage location of the file is already stored in the terminal, causes the processor to display the first information stored in the terminal without performing communication requesting to retrieve the first information. The first piece of information is saved in a manner shared by multiple users to satisfy predetermined conditions.

3. The information terminal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Regarding the first piece of information, during the stage of prompting the user with the first piece of information, the first piece of information is filtered based on information associated with the user.

4. The information terminal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Upon receiving a notification of a change to the first information, the content of the change is reflected in the first information.

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