PROGRAM, INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS

Abstract

To provide a mechanism that allows the processing of jobs to be changed depending on whether a job management device has a queuing function or not.SOLUTION: The control program controls a terminal device 100 (information processing device) that is communicatively connected to a printer 200 (job management device) that manages jobs and that can process information to and from the printer 200. This control program makes the terminal device 100 execute a transmission step of sending a job to the printer 200, an information acquisition step of acquiring functional information regarding whether the printer 200 has a queuing function for queuing multiple jobs when sending jobs in the transmission step, and a control step of making the number of jobs sent adjusted based on the functional information when sending the job in the transmission process.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control program for an information processing apparatus, a job management apparatus, a control program for a job management apparatus, a control method for an information processing apparatus, and a control method for a job management apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a printing device that receives a print job (print data) from a terminal device such as a personal computer, and forms an image by printing on paper such as a sheet based on the received print job. A printer driver (or a print application) designed for use with an individual printing device is installed in the terminal device. A print job is generated by this printer driver. In recent years, a method has become known in which a print job is generated by a generic printer driver based on standard specifications, without going through a printer driver designed for use with an individual printing device. A "general-purpose printer driver" is, for example, a standard printer driver that is pre-installed in an OS, that is, a printer driver that operates based on an industry standard protocol such as IPP (Internet Printing Protocol).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming device (print job management device) that queues multiple print jobs and processes the queued print jobs in order starting from the top print job, i.e., performs printing. The image forming device described in Patent Document 1 receives print jobs from a terminal device (print client) that can communicate with the image forming device. The print jobs are generated by a printer driver installed in the terminal device. This printer driver is not a general-purpose printer driver, but is considered to be a printer driver that corresponds to each image forming device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-165009 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in Patent Document 1, for example, when a generic printer driver is installed in a terminal device, the generic printer driver cannot determine whether an image forming device capable of communicating with the terminal device can queue multiple print jobs. In this case, for example, even if the image forming device can queue, multiple print jobs may not be sent from the terminal device, or conversely, multiple print jobs may be sent from the terminal device even if the image forming device cannot queue. Also, in Patent Document 1, when it is desired to change the execution order of multiple print jobs, even if the image forming device can queue multiple print jobs, the execution order in the image forming device cannot be changed.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that can change the processing for a job depending on whether or not a job management device has a queuing function. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the control program of an information processing device of the present invention is a program for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to a job management device that manages jobs and is capable of processing information between the job management device, and is characterized in that it causes the information processing device to execute a transmission process for transmitting the job to the job management device, an information acquisition process for acquiring functional information regarding whether the job management device has a queuing function for queuing multiple jobs when transmitting the job in the transmission process, and a control process for adjusting the number of jobs to be transmitted based on the functional information when transmitting the job in the transmission process. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, the processing for a job can be changed depending on whether the job management device has a queuing function or not. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a terminal device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 4 is a sequence diagram showing processes executed among a user, a terminal device, and a printing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of the terminal device. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the terminal device. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of communication between a terminal device and a printing device. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of communication between a terminal device and a printing device. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the printing device. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of the printing device. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a terminal device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the configurations described in the embodiments. For example, each part constituting the present invention can be replaced with any configuration that can exert a similar function. In addition, any configuration may be added. In addition, any two or more configurations (features) of each embodiment can be combined.

[0011] First Embodiment Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 9. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a terminal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The terminal device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a print client (print client device) that is communicatively connected to a printing device 200 (see FIG. 2) and is used in the connected state. The terminal device 100 is an information processing device that can process information between the printing device 200. The terminal device 100 is not particularly limited, and for example, a desktop or notebook personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, etc. are used. In addition, as information transmitted and received between the terminal device 100 and the printing device 200, as described later, functional information (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "functional information") regarding whether the printing device 200 has a queuing function for queuing multiple print jobs can be cited. Note that the information is not limited to the functional information. The terminal device 100 has a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a communication unit 104, an operation unit 105, and a display unit 106, which are communicatively connected to each other via a bus 107.

[0012] The CPU 101 is a computer that executes a program stored in the RAM 103. The program includes, for example, a control program (control program of the information processing device) for causing the CPU 101 to execute each part and each means (control method of the information processing device) of the terminal device 100. The CPU 101 can read and write data stored in the RAM 103 according to an instruction of the program. The ROM 102 is a non-volatile memory. The CPU 101 can read data from the ROM 102 to the RAM 103. The RAM 103 is a volatile memory. The RAM 103 stores programs executed by the CPU 101, various data, and the like. The communication unit 104 is a communication module that conforms to the wired (Ethernet (registered trademark)) or wireless (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) standard. The communication unit 104 can communicate with the communication unit 204 of the printing device 200 via an external network. The operation unit 105 is composed of a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, and the like. This allows the operation unit 105 to receive input from the user 300 who operates the terminal device 100. Also, the CPU 101 can detect input information received by the operation unit 105. The display unit 106 is configured with a display device. On the display unit 106, for example, information of various applications and the like are displayed.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a printing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The printing device (image forming device) 200 shown in FIG. 2 is configured as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) having various functions such as a printing function, a copying function, and a scanning function, and is a job management device that manages jobs. Note that the printing device 200 is not limited to an MFP, and may be, for example, an SFP (Single Function Peripheral) having a single printing function. The printing device 200 has a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a communication unit 204, an operation unit 205, a printing unit 207, a paper feed unit 208, a finishing unit 209, and a disk device 210, which are connected to each other via a bus 211 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0014] The CPU 201 is a computer that executes a program stored in the ROM 203. The program includes, for example, a control program (control program of the job management device) for causing the CPU 201 to execute each unit and each means (control method of the job management device) of the printing device 200. The CPU 201 can read and write data stored in the RAM 203 according to an instruction of the program. The ROM 202 is a non-volatile memory. The CPU 201 can read data from the ROM 202 to the RAM 203. The RAM 203 is a volatile memory. The RAM 203 stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. The communication unit 204 is a communication module that conforms to the wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi) standard. As described above, the communication unit 204 can communicate with the communication unit 104 of the terminal device 100 via an external network. The operation unit 205 is composed of a touch panel, buttons, and the like. This allows the operation unit 205 to receive input from the user 300. Furthermore, the CPU 201 can detect input information received by the operation unit 205. The display unit 206 is configured with a display device. On the display unit 206, for example, the status of the printing device 200 and the like are displayed.

[0015] The printing unit 207 includes, for example, an inkjet printer head (not shown) that ejects ink, and an ink supply unit (not shown) that supplies ink. This allows the printing unit 207 to form an image on paper supplied from the paper supply unit 208. The printing unit 207 is not limited to an inkjet type, and may be, for example, an electrophotographic type that emits laser light. The paper supply unit 208 supplies various types of paper, such as cut paper of A size or B size, and roll paper, to the printing unit 207 under the control of the CPU 201. The finishing unit 209 performs finishing processing on the paper printed by the printing unit 207 under the control of the CPU 201. The finishing unit 209 includes a stapler that staples the paper one by one, a cutter that cuts the roll paper at a specified position, a laminator that laminates the paper, and the like. The finishing unit 209 can also apply a special transparent ink to the paper for the purpose of giving it a glossy appearance or improving its weather resistance. The disk device 210 is a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk or an SSD, etc. In the disk device 210, for example, various jobs such as a print job (print document) transmitted from the terminal device 100 are stored.

[0016] As described above, the terminal device 100 and the printing device 200 are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other. This allows the terminal device 100 to transmit a job to the printing device 200 from the communication unit 104 (transmission process). In this manner, in the terminal device 100, the communication unit 104 functions as a transmission unit that transmits a job to the printing device 200. Meanwhile, the printing device 200 can receive a job from the terminal device 100 at the communication unit 204 (reception process). In this manner, in the printing device 200, the communication unit 204 functions as a reception unit that receives a job. Note that, in this embodiment, the job transmitted and received between the terminal device 100 and the printing device 200 is a print job, but is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a generic printer driver is installed in the terminal device 100. The print job is generated by the generic printer driver. The "general printer driver" is, for example, a standard printer driver that is pre-installed in the OS of the terminal device 100, that is, a driver that operates based on a standard protocol such as IPP (Internet Printing Protocol).

[0017] 3 is a sequence diagram showing the processing executed among a user, a terminal device, and a printing device. As shown in FIG. 3, in step S301, a user 300 operates the operation unit 105 of the terminal device 100 to issue a printer registration instruction for registering the printing device 200 in the terminal device 100.

[0018] In step S302, the CPU 101 of the terminal device 100 accepts the printer registration instruction in step S301. Then, the CPU 101 generates a printer attribute acquisition request 601 (see FIG. 6) requesting the attributes of the printing device 200, and transmits the request to the printing device 200 from the communication unit 104. The "printer attributes" are information for identifying the printing device 200.

[0019] In step S303, the CPU 201 of the printing device 200 receives (acquires) the printer attribute obtainment request 601 in step S302 via the communication unit 204. Then, the CPU 201 generates a printer attribute request response 602 (see FIG. 6) to the printer attribute obtainment request 601, and transmits it from the communication unit 204 to the terminal device 100.

[0020] In step S304, the CPU 101 receives the printer attribute request response 602 in step S303 via the communication unit 104. Then, the CPU 101 stores the printer attributes included in the printer attribute request response 602 in the RAM 103. This completes the printer registration in the terminal device 100.

[0021] In step S305, the user 300 operates the operation unit 105 of the terminal device 100 to display (call up) a print setting screen on the display unit .

[0022] In step S306, the user 300 issues a print start instruction to cause the printing device 200 to start printing on the print setting screen in step S305.

[0023] In step S307, the CPU 101 accepts the print start instruction issued in step S306. Then, the CPU 101 generates a printer attribute acquisition request 603 (see FIG. 6) requesting the attributes of the printing device 200, and transmits the request to the printing device 200 from the communication unit 104.

[0024] In step S308, the CPU 201 receives the printer attribute obtainment request 603 in step S307 via the communication unit 204. The CPU 201 then generates a printer attribute request response 604 (see FIG. 6) to the printer attribute obtainment request 603 and transmits it from the communication unit 204 to the terminal device 100.

[0025] In step S309, CPU 101 receives the printer attribute request response 604 received in step S308 via communication unit 104. CPU 101 then checks the status of printing device 200 based on the information included in the printer attribute request response 604. If the result of this check shows that printing device 200 is capable of printing, CPU 101 transmits a print setting verification operation 606 (see FIG. 6) based on the print start instruction received in step S306 to printing device 200 via communication unit 104.

[0026] In step S310, CPU 201 receives print setting verification operation 606 sent in step S309 via communication unit 204. CPU 201 then determines whether printing is possible under the printing conditions included in print setting verification operation 606. If the result of this determination is that printing is possible, CPU 201 generates print setting verification response 607 (see FIG. 6) including a "successful-ok status code" indicating that printing is possible (successful), and transmits this response to terminal device 100 via communication unit 204.

[0027] In step S311, CPU 101 receives print setting verification response 607 sent in step S310 via communication unit 104. CPU 101 then generates a job creation operation 701 (see FIG. 7) including a print job, and transmits the job creation operation 701 from communication unit 104 to printing apparatus 200.

[0028] In step S312, the CPU 201 receives the job creation operation 701 in step S311 via the communication unit 204. Then, the CPU 201 generates a print job response 702 (see FIG. 7) in response to the job creation operation 701, and transmits it from the communication unit 204 to the terminal device 100.

[0029] In step S313, the CPU 101 receives the print job response 702 received in step S312 via the communication unit 104. Then, the CPU 101 generates a print document transmission operation 703 (see FIG. 7) including print document information, and transmits it from the communication unit 104 to the printing device 200.

[0030] In step S314, the CPU 201 receives the print document transmission operation 703 in step S313 via the communication unit 204. The CPU 201 then generates a print document transmission response 704 (see FIG. 7) in response to the print document transmission operation 703, and transmits it from the communication unit 204 to the terminal device 100. The print document transmission response 704 indicates, for example, that the job state (Job-state) in the printing device 200 is pending. The CPU 201 also records the print document information included in the print document transmission operation 703 in the disk device 210, and sets the printing device 200 to a processing state in order to process the print document information.

[0031] In step S315, the CPU 101 receives the print document transmission response 704 sent in step S314 via the communication unit 104. Then, the CPU 101 generates a print job attribute acquisition 705 (see FIG. 7) for acquiring the attributes of the print job, and transmits the print job attribute acquisition 705 from the communication unit 104 to the printing device 200.

[0032] In step S316, CPU 201 receives print job attribute acquisition 705 in step S315 via communication unit 204. CPU 201 then generates a print job attribute acquisition response 706 (see FIG. 7) in response to print job attribute acquisition 705, and transmits it from communication unit 204 to terminal device 100. By this reception, CPU 101 of terminal device 100 can display information about the print job on display unit 106, based on the job attributes included in print job attribute acquisition response 706.

[0033] In step S317, the user 300 issues a print start instruction to start the second printing (print job) on the print setting screen, similar to step S306.

[0034] In step S318, CPU 101 accepts the second print start instruction issued in step S317. Then, CPU 101 transmits a printer attribute obtainment request 603 from communication unit 104 to printing device 200, similar to step S307.

[0035] In step S319, CPU 201 receives printer attribute obtainment request 603 sent in step S318 via communication unit 204. CPU 201 then checks the job status of the JOB-ID corresponding to printer attribute obtainment request 603 and generates an appropriate response. For example, if the check result shows that printing device 200 is processing a job, CPU 201 sets an attribute value indicating that the job is being processed, and transmits printer attribute request response 605 (see FIG. 6) from communication unit 204 to terminal device 100. If the check result shows that the print job has already been completed, print job completion response 707 (see FIG. 7) is set as the attribute value indicating that the job has been completed.

[0036] In step S320, CPU 101 receives the printer attribute request response 605 from step S320 via communication unit 104. CPU 101 then checks the status of printing device 200 based on the information included in the printer attribute request response 605. If the result of this check shows that printing device 200 is capable of printing, CPU 101 transmits a print setting verification operation 606 based on the second print start instruction from step S317 to printing device 200 via communication unit 104.

[0037] In step S321, the CPU 201 receives the print setting verification operation 606 in step S320 via the communication unit 204. Then, the CPU 201 transmits a print setting verification response 607 to the terminal apparatus 100 from the communication unit 204, similar to step S310.

[0038] In step S322, the CPU 101 receives the print setting verification response 607 sent in step S321 via the communication unit 104. Then, the CPU 101 transmits a job creation operation 701 to the printing apparatus 200 from the communication unit 104 in the same manner as in step S311.

[0039] In step S323, the CPU 201 receives the job creation operation 701 sent in step S322 via the communication unit 204. Then, similar to step S312, the CPU 201 transmits a print job response 702 from the communication unit 204 to the terminal device 100. Note that in this print job response 702, the job-id is incremented by one to become "12" (see, for example, FIG. 4(b)).

[0040] In step S324, the CPU 101 receives the print job response 702 from step S323 via the communication unit 104. Then, similar to step S313, the CPU 101 transmits a print document transmission operation 703 from the communication unit 104 to the printing device 200. Note that the job-id at this time is the same as "12" in step S323.

[0041] In step S325, the CPU 201 receives the print document transmission operation 703 in step S324 via the communication unit 204. Then, similar to step S314, the CPU 201 transmits a print document transmission response 704 from the communication unit 204 to the terminal device 100. Note that the job-id at this time is the same as "12" in step S323.

[0042] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of the terminal device. FIG. 4(a) is an example of a print setting screen displayed in the execution of step S305 in the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 4(b) is an example of a print job management screen displayed after the execution of step S325 in the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 3. The print setting screen 400 shown in FIG. 4(a) includes a setting display switching menu 401, a paper size selection section 402, a paper type setting section 404, a paper feed setting section 406, a finishing processing setting section 408, a queuing selection section 410, a cancel button 412, and a print decision button 413. The setting display switching menu 401 can switch the setting display on the print setting screen 400. In the setting display switching menu 401, in addition to print settings, settings can be switched to, for example, detailed settings, maintenance, etc.

[0043] The paper size selection unit 402 can change the paper size to any paper size within the range of paper sizes that the printing device 200 can handle by selecting a dropdown 403. The paper size that can be changed by the dropdown 403 is determined in relation to the "media-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602. The paper type setting unit 404 can change the paper type to any paper type within the range of paper types that the printing device 200 can handle by selecting a dropdown 405. The paper type that can be changed by the dropdown 405 is determined in relation to the "media-type-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602. The paper feed setting unit 406 can change the paper feed unit 208 (paper feed port), that is, the paper supply source, by selecting a dropdown 407. The paper feed port that can be changed by the dropdown 407 is determined in relation to the "media-source-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602. The finishing process setting unit 408 can change the finishing process in the finishing unit 209 by selecting a dropdown 409. The finishing processes that can be changed in the drop-down list 409 are set by options related to the “finishings-supported attribute” included in the printer attribute request response 602 .

[0044] The queuing selection section 410 can change whether or not queuing is performed in the printing device 200, which is also a print server (server), by selecting the dropdown 411. When the "job-queuing-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602 (functional information) is "true", the CPU 101 visualizes and displays the queuing selection section 410 and the dropdown 411 on the print setting screen 400. When the "job-queuing-supported attribute" is "false", the CPU 101 suppresses the display of the queuing selection section 410 and the dropdown 411 on the print setting screen 400. When the "job-queuing-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602 does not exist, the CPU 101 also suppresses the display of the queuing selection section 410 and the dropdown 411. The method of suppressing the display is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a display method in which visualization is impossible, a display method in which the display is grayed out, and the like. Thus, in this embodiment, the display unit 106 functions as a notification unit that notifies the user 300 by an image whether the printing device 200 has a queuing function. This allows the user 300 to know whether the printing device 200 has a queuing function. Notification of the presence or absence of the queuing function is not limited to notification by an image, and may be, for example, notification by sound from a speaker, notification by light emission from a signal lamp, etc.

[0045] The issuance of the print job can be cancelled by operating the cancel button 412. Furthermore, by operating the print confirmation button 413, the CPU 101 can determine that a print start instruction has been issued in step S306 or step S317.

[0046] The print job management screen 420 shown in FIG. 4B includes a job management area 421. The name, JOB-ID, and job status of the print job are displayed in the job management area 421. In the example shown in FIG. 4B, there are print jobs with the names "Document1.pdf", "Booklet1.pdf", and "Booklet2.pdf", and these print jobs are arranged in order from the top of the job management area 421. In addition, the JOB-IDs are "11" for "Document1.pdf", "12" for "Booklet1.pdf", and "13" for "Booklet2.pdf". This order is displayed, for example, based on the print job response 702, and is the order in which the jobs are executed by the printing device 200. The job status is displayed, for example, based on the print job response 702, with "Document1.pdf" being "executing (printing)" and "Booklet1.pdf" and "Booklet2.pdf" being "waiting (waiting to be printed)".

[0047] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the terminal device. The flowchart shown in Fig. 5 corresponds to the processing executed by the terminal device 100 in the sequence diagram shown in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 5, in step S501, the CPU 101 of the terminal device 100 starts execution (processing) of a program based on the flowchart shown in Fig. 5, and the processing proceeds to step S502. This start is performed when the print decision button 413 on the print setting screen 400 displayed on the operation unit 105 is selected.

[0048] In step S502, the CPU 101 holds the print job in a print queue provided in the RAM 103, and the process proceeds to step S503.

[0049] In step S503, CPU 101 acquires printer attribute request response 602 (printer attributes), printer attribute request response 604, and printer attribute request response 605 from printing device 200 through communication unit 104 (information acquisition step), and processing proceeds to step S504. Printer attribute request response 602 includes function information and the like relating to whether printing device 200 has a queuing function for queuing multiple print jobs. Printer attribute request response 604 and printer attribute request response 605 include information relating to whether printing device 200 is executing a print job. In addition, in terminal device 100, communication unit 104 functions as information acquisition means for acquiring various information such as function information.

[0050] In step S504, CPU 101 determines whether printing device 200 is executing a print job based on the results obtained in step S503, i.e., printer attribute request response 604 and printer attribute request response 605. In this manner, in terminal device 100, CPU 101 also functions as a determination unit capable of determining whether printing device 200 is executing a print job. Then, if it is determined in step S504 that a print job is being executed, processing proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S504 that a print job is not being executed, processing proceeds to step S506.

[0051] In step S505, the CPU 101 judges whether the printing device 200 has a queuing function (whether the printing device 200 supports queuing) based on the result of the acquisition in step S503, i.e., the printer attribute request response 602 (function information). In this way, in the terminal device 100, the CPU 101 also functions as a judgment means capable of judging whether the printing device 200 has a queuing function. If it is judged that the printing device 200 has a queuing function as a result of the judgment in step S505, the process proceeds to step S506. On the other hand, if it is judged that the printing device 200 does not have a queuing function as a result of the judgment in step S505, the process proceeds to step S507. Note that in step S505, if the "job-queing-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602 is "true", it is judged that the printing device 200 has a queuing function. Also, if the "job-queing-supported attribute" included in the printer attribute request response 602 is "false" or if the "job-queing-supported attribute" does not exist, it is judged that the printing device 200 does not have a queuing function.

[0052] In step S506, CPU 101 transmits the print job held in the print queue of RAM 103 to printing device 200 via communication unit 104, and processing proceeds to step S508. Also, in step S506, if multiple print jobs are held in the print queue of RAM 103, all of these print jobs can be transmitted in order. This allows printing device 200, which has a queuing function, to receive and hold all print jobs transmitted in step S506.

[0053] Furthermore, for printing devices 200 that do not have a queuing function, the CPU 101 determines whether the printing device 200 is currently executing a print job each time it sends one of the print jobs held in the print queue of the RAM 103 in step S506. If it is determined that a print job is not currently executing, the CPU 101 sends the remaining print jobs one by one. For printing devices 200 that do not have a queuing function, this type of control is repeated until sending of all print jobs held in the print queue of the RAM 103 is complete.

[0054] In step S507, CPU 101 repeatedly and continuously acquires printer attributes over a relatively short period of time and waits for a predetermined time. For example, waiting for about 1 to 10 seconds can prevent or reduce the load on printing device 200 and the network. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the process returns to step S503, and the subsequent steps are executed in sequence.

[0055] In step S508, CPU 101 ends the process.

[0056] As described above, when the terminal device 100 transmits print jobs in step S506 or step S507, the number of print jobs to be transmitted is adjusted based on the function information (control step). Thus, in the terminal device 100, the CPU 101 functions as a control unit that controls the number of print jobs to be transmitted. This control changes the transmission process for print jobs depending on whether the terminal device 100 has a queuing function. Specifically, all print jobs held in the print queue of the RAM 103 can be transmitted in order to the printing device 200 that has the queuing function. On the other hand, the printing device 200 that has the queuing function can hold all print jobs from the terminal device 100 and then execute each print job in order. Also, one print job held in the print queue of the RAM 103 can be transmitted to the printing device 200 that does not have the queuing function. On the other hand, the printing device 200 that does not have the queuing function can hold one print job from the terminal device 100 and then execute it. Furthermore, the determination in step S504 is made when the print decision button 413 is operated in step S501, that is, when an instruction is given to execute the print job to be sent. This allows the determination in step S504 to be made efficiently at an appropriate timing before the print job is sent.

[0057] 6 and 7 are diagrams showing an example of communication contents between a terminal device and a printing device. Note that the contents shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are excerpts of the parts necessary for the explanation here, and are not limited to these. A printer attribute acquisition request 601 shown in FIG. 6 is for requesting a response of printer attributes. Examples of printer attributes include "copies-supported" indicating support for copying, and "document-format-supported" indicating support for document formats. Other printer attributes include "finishings-supported" indicating support for finishing processing, "media-supported" indicating support for paper, and "media-type-supported" indicating support for paper types. Other printer attributes include "media-source-supported" indicating support for paper supply sources, and "job-queuing-supported" indicating support for queuing.

[0058] The printer attribute request response 602 includes capability information of the printing device 200. The "status-code attribute" of "successful-ok" indicates that the request from the terminal device 100 was successful. The "copies-supported attribute of 1-999" indicates that printing up to 999 copies can be specified. The "document-format-supported attribute" indicates that documents in PDF, JPEG, and pwg-raster formats can be processed. The "finishings-supported attribute" indicates that trim (paper cutting as a finishing process) and none (no finishing process) are possible. The "media-supported attribute" indicates the paper size that can be fed into the printing device 200. The "media-type-supported attribute" indicates the type of paper that the printing device 200 can handle. The "media-source-supported attribute" indicates the type of paper feed port that the printing device 200 has. Here, it indicates that auto (automatic), main (main paper feed port), tray-1 (first tray), and tray-2 (second tray) can be used as the paper feed port. The "job-queueing-supported attribute" is "true". In this case, the printing device 200 can receive multiple print jobs and queue these print jobs. The printing device 200 can then execute, i.e., print, these print jobs sequentially or by changing the order as appropriate. Note that if a large-capacity storage device such as the disk device 210 is omitted from the printing device 200, the printing device 200 can only receive one print job per transmission from the terminal device 100. In this case, the "job-queueing-supported attribute" is "false".

[0059] The printer attribute get request 603 requests a response for each attribute. Examples of these attributes include "printer-state" which indicates the current state of the printing device 200, and "printer-state-reasons" which indicates the completion state of the printing device 200. Other attributes include "job-queuing-supported" which indicates queuing support.

[0060] Printer attribute request response 604 is a response to printer attribute obtainment request 603. "successful-ok" in the "status-code attribute" indicates that the request from the terminal device 100 was successful. "printer-state" of "idle" indicates that the printing device 200 currently has no jobs to process and job execution is suspended. "printer-state-reason" of "none" indicates that no errors have occurred in the printing device 200. "job-queueing-supported" of "true" indicates that, like printer attribute request response 602, the printing device 200 can receive multiple print jobs and queue these print jobs.

[0061] The printer attribute request response 605 is a response to the printer attribute obtainment request 603, similar to the printer attribute request response 604. "processing" in "printer-state" indicates that the printing device 200 is currently processing.

[0062] For example, when a print command is issued under print conditions such as 100 copies, A4 paper size, plain paper type, and main paper feed port, the print setting verification operation 606 verifies whether printing under these conditions is possible. Note that these condition values ​​(setting values) are based on the setting values ​​of the dropdown 403, dropdown 405, dropdown 407, etc. when the print decision button 413 is operated on the print setting screen 400.

[0063] The print setting verification response 607 is a response to the print setting verification operation 606. "successful-ok" indicates that printing is possible normally under the printing conditions of the print setting verification operation 606. Note that if printing is not possible due to a combination of settings or if the setting values ​​are invalid, the value of "status-code" can be set to a different value.

[0064] 7 is a response to the previously executed print setting verification operation 606, and performs verified settings. The setting contents of the job creation operation 701 are almost the same as the setting contents of the print setting verification operation 606.

[0065] The print job response 702 is a response to the job creation operation 701. "Job-id" is an ID that uniquely specifies the print job. "Job-state" here is a "pending" state indicating that the job is waiting to be executed. "None" in "job-state-reasons" indicates that no errors have occurred that would interfere with the execution of the print job.

[0066] The print document send operation 703 includes print document information. The value of "document-format" here indicates that the print job (document) to be sent is in PDF format. This print job is specified by "job-id".

[0067] The print document send response 704 is a response to the print document send operation 703. Since there is no change in the print job status immediately after the print job is sent, the "Job-state" and "job-state-reasons" here are the same as those in the print job response 702.

[0068] The print job attribute acquisition 705 is for acquiring the attributes of the print job. Here, the "job-state attribute" and the "job-state- reasons attribute" are requested for the print job with "job-id" of "11".

[0069] The print job attribute acquisition response 706 is a response to the print job attribute acquisition 705. When "job-state" is "processing", it indicates that processing is in progress. When "job-state-reasons" is "job-printing", it indicates that the corresponding print job is being executed.

[0070] The print job completion response 707 is a response when the corresponding print job is completed. When "job-state" is "completed", it indicates that the print job is completed. When "job-state-reasons" is "job-completed-successfully", it indicates that the corresponding print job is completed successfully.

[0071] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the printing device. The flowchart shown in Fig. 8 corresponds to the processing executed by the printing device 200 in the sequence diagram shown in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 8, in step S801, the CPU 201 of the printing device 200 starts execution (processing) of a program based on the flowchart shown in Fig. 8, and the processing proceeds to step S802. Note that this start is performed when the printer attribute acquisition request 601 is received by the communication unit 204.

[0072] In step S802, the CPU 201 analyzes the attributes (requested-attributes) requested in the printer attribute obtainment request 601, the printer attribute obtainment request 603, etc., and the process proceeds to step S803.

[0073] In step S803, the CPU 201 determines whether or not "requested-attributes" includes "job-queueing-supported" or "all" indicating all attributes, based on the analysis result in step S802. That is, the CPU 201 determines whether or not a response is required to the terminal device 100 regarding the availability of a queuing function in the printing device 200. If it is determined in step S803 that "requested-attributes" includes "job-queueing-supported" or "all", the process proceeds to step S804. On the other hand, if it is determined that "requested-attributes" does not include either "job-queueing-supported" or "all", the process proceeds to step S807.

[0074] In step S804, the CPU 201 judges whether the printing device 200 has a queuing function, that is, whether the printing device 200 supports queuing. This judgment is made, for example, based on whether the printing device 200 has a disk device 210. If the printing device 200 has the disk device 210, it is judged that the queuing function is present. If the printing device 200 does not have the disk device 210, it is judged that the queuing function is not present. Note that the judgment in step S804 may be made, for example, based on a menu for switching between queuing support and non-support on the display unit 206 and a switching operation of support and non-support by the user 300. Then, if it is judged that the queuing function is present as a result of the judgment in step S804, the process proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, if it is judged that the queuing function is not present as a result of the judgment in step S804, the process proceeds to step S806.

[0075] In step S805, the CPU 201 sets the value of "job-queueing-supported" in the printer attribute request response 602 or 604 to be returned to the terminal device 100 to "true", and the process proceeds to step S807. As a result of the process in step S805, the printer attribute request response 602 and the printer attribute request response 604 include function information indicating that the queuing function is available.

[0076] In step S806, the CPU 201 sets the value of "job-queueing-supported" in the printer attribute request response 602 or 604 to be returned to the terminal device 100 to "false," and the process proceeds to step S807. As a result of the process in step S806, the printer attribute request response 602 and the printer attribute request response 604 include function information indicating that the queuing function is not present.

[0077] In step S807, CPU 201 sets an attribute value other than "job-queueing-supported" and generates printer attribute request response 602 and printer attribute request response 604. Note that detailed description of attribute values ​​other than "job-queueing-supported" will be omitted.

[0078] In step S808, CPU 201 transmits printer attribute request response 602 and printer attribute request response 604 generated in step S807 from communication unit 204 to terminal device 100 (transmission step), and processing proceeds to step S808. Thus, in printing device 200, communication unit 204 functions as a transmission unit that transmits function information to terminal device 100 in response to printer attribute obtainment request 601, printer attribute obtainment request 603, etc. from terminal device 100.

[0079] In step S809, the CPU 201 ends the process.

[0080] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of the printing device. FIGS. 9(a) to 9(c) sequentially show the operation process on the screen. It is also assumed that the printing device 200 here has a queuing function. As shown in FIG. 9(a), the print job display screen 900 includes a job display area 901 and a selection cursor 902. The job display area 901 displays the name of the print job, the JOB-ID, and the status of the job. In the example shown in FIG. 9(a), there are print jobs with the names "Document1.pdf", "Booklet1.pdf", and "Booklet2.pdf", similarly to the print job management screen 420 (see FIG. 4(b)). These print jobs are arranged in order from the top of the job display area 901. This order is the order in which the printing device 200 receives the print jobs from the terminal device 100. The print jobs are then executed in this order. Furthermore, the JOB-ID for "Document1.pdf" is "11," for "Booklet1.pdf" is "12," and for "Booklet2.pdf" is "13." The job status for "Document1.pdf" is "Executing (printing)," and for "Booklet1.pdf" and "Booklet2.pdf" are "Waiting (waiting to be printed)." By operating the selection cursor 902, a desired print job can be selected and the print job can be made ready for processing. In the example shown in FIG. 9(a), "Booklet1.pdf" is in a selected state by the selection cursor 902. Then, by operating the operation unit 205 in this selected state, the print job display screen 900 becomes the state shown in FIG. 9(b).

[0081] In the print job display screen 900 in the state shown in FIG. 9B, an operation window 903 is displayed in a job display area 901. In the operation window 903, options 905, 906, and 907 indicating changes to the execution order of print jobs, and a selection cursor 904 as an operation means for performing an operation to change the execution order of print jobs are displayed. The option 905 is "Move Up" indicating an intention to move up the execution order. The option 906 is "Move Down" indicating an intention to move down the execution order. The option 907 is "Cancel" indicating an intention to cancel the change to the execution order. By operating the selection cursor 904, one of the options 905 to 907 can be selected. In the example shown in FIG. 9B, the option 906 is in a selected state. Then, by operating the operation unit 205 in this selected state, the print job display screen 900 becomes the state shown in FIG. 9C.

[0082] In the print job display screen 900 in the state shown in FIG. 9(c), the execution order of "Booklet1.pdf" has been moved down from second to third. As a result, after the printing device 200 has completed the execution of the print job of "Document1.pdf", the printing device 200 executes the print job of "Booklet2.pdf", and then the print job of "Booklet1.pdf". In this way, the printing device 200 can execute print jobs in an order different from the order in which the print jobs were originally received. This allows the printing device 200 to change the processing for the print jobs, improving convenience for the user 300.

[0083] <Second embodiment> Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the similar matters will be omitted. This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except for the processing executed by the terminal device. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the terminal device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, in step S1001, the CPU 101 of the terminal device 100 starts the execution of a program based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, and the processing proceeds to step S1002. Note that this start is performed when the print decision button 413 on the print setting screen 400 displayed on the operation unit 105 is selected, as in the first embodiment.

[0084] In step S1002, the CPU 101 holds the print job in a print queue provided in the RAM 103, and the process proceeds to step S1003.

[0085] In step S1003, the CPU 101 acquires the printer attribute request response 602, the printer attribute request response 604, and the printer attribute request response 605 from the printing apparatus 200 via the communication unit 104, and the process proceeds to step S1004.

[0086] In step S1004, CPU 101 determines whether or not printing device 200 has a queuing function based on the result obtained in step S1003. If it is determined in step S1004 that printing device 200 has a queuing function, processing proceeds to step S1008. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1004 that printing device 200 does not have a queuing function, processing proceeds to step S1005.

[0087] In step S1005, CPU 101 determines whether printing device 200 is executing a print job based on the result obtained in step S1003. If it is determined in step S1005 that a print job is being executed, the process proceeds to step S1006. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1005 that a print job is not being executed, the process proceeds to step S1008.

[0088] In step S1006, the CPU 101 activates a timer (not shown) built into the terminal device 100, and the process proceeds to step S1007.

[0089] In step S1007, CPU 101 determines whether the timer has timed out, i.e., whether a predetermined time has elapsed. This predetermined time is not particularly limited, and can be set to, for example, the average time from when the execution of a print job in printing device 200 starts to when it ends. Then, if it is determined in step S1007 that the timer has timed out, the process returns to step S1005, and the subsequent steps are executed in sequence. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1007 that the timer has not timed out, the process remains at step S1007.

[0090] In step S1008, CPU 101 transmits the print jobs held in RAM 103 to printing device 200 from communication unit 104, and the process proceeds to step S1009. In step S1008, for printing device 200 with a queuing function, all print jobs can be transmitted in order regardless of the number of print jobs held in RAM 103. Furthermore, for printing device 200 without a queuing function, if there is one print job held in RAM 103, that one print job can be transmitted. Furthermore, for printing device 200 without a queuing function, if there are multiple print jobs held in RAM 103, one of these print jobs can be transmitted.

[0091] In step S1009, CPU 101 ends the process.

[0092] As described above, the terminal device 100 can transmit a print job to the printing device 200 having a queuing function, regardless of whether the printing device 200 is executing a print job. This is because the printing device 200 has a queuing function, and can sufficiently hold other print jobs even if a print job held in the print queue of the RAM 203 is being executed. Also, when transmitting one print job to the printing device 200 not having a queuing function, if the printing device 200 is executing a print job, the transmission of the print job is temporarily suppressed, that is, canceled. Then, if a print job is not being executed after a predetermined time has elapsed since this suppression, the one print job to be transmitted can be transmitted. This allows the printing device 200 not having a queuing function to receive and hold the one print job.

[0093] <Third embodiment> Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the similar matters will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the configuration of the print job management screen. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of a terminal device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 11(a) to 11(c) sequentially show the operation process on the screen. In addition, the printing device 200 in the third embodiment has a queuing function. As shown in FIG. 11(a), the print job management screen 420 further includes a selection cursor 422. By operating the selection cursor 422, a desired print job can be selected from three print jobs, and the print job can be processed. In the example shown in FIG. 11(a), "Booklet1.pdf" is selected by the selection cursor 422. Then, by operating the operation unit 105 in this selected state, the print job management screen 420 becomes the state shown in FIG. 11(b).

[0094] In the print job management screen 420 in the state shown in FIG. 11(b), an operation window 423 is further displayed in the job management area 421. In the operation window 423, options 425, 426, and 427 indicating changes to the transmission order of print jobs, and a selection cursor 424 as an operation means for performing an operation to change the transmission order of print jobs are displayed. The option 425 is "Move Up" indicating an intention to move up the transmission order. The option 426 is "Move Down" indicating an intention to move down the transmission order. The option 427 is "Cancel" indicating an intention to cancel the change of the transmission order. By operating the selection cursor 424, one of the options 425 to 427 can be selected. In the example shown in FIG. 11(b), the option 426 is in a selected state. Then, by operating the operation unit 105 in this selected state, the print job management screen 420 becomes the state shown in FIG. 11(c).

[0095] In the print job management screen 420 in the state shown in FIG. 11(c), the transmission order of "Booklet1.pdf" is moved down from second to third. As a result, the terminal device 100 transmits print jobs in the order of "Document1.pdf", "Booklet2.pdf", and "Booklet1.pdf". In this way, the terminal device 100 can transmit print jobs to the printing device 200 in an order different from the order in which the print jobs were originally generated. As a result, the terminal device 100 can change the transmission order of the print jobs prior to transmitting a plurality of print jobs, improving convenience for the user 300. For example, assume that the terminal device 100 and the printing device 200 are located in different rooms. In this case, the user 300 who operates the terminal device 100 will take the printed materials to the printing device 200 located in another room (for example, a printing room). Also assume that the original printing order of the printed materials is "Document1.pdf", "Booklet1.pdf", and "Booklet2.pdf". Assume that the user 300 considers that the printing order of the printed materials should be "Document1.pdf", "Booklet2.pdf", and "Booklet1.pdf" in order to bind the printed materials after taking them out. In this case, it is considered more convenient for the user 300 to change the printing order on the spot, i.e., on the terminal device 100, rather than going to the trouble of changing the printing order on the printing device 200 in another room. Then, the printing device 200 executes the print jobs in the order of "Document1.pdf", "Booklet2.pdf", and "Booklet1.pdf". Note that the printing device 200 can further change the execution order of the print jobs on the print job display screen 900.

[0096] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following programs, configurations, and methods. (Program 1A) A program for controlling an information processing device that is communicably connected to a job management device that manages jobs and is capable of processing information between the job management device, a sending step of sending the job to the job management device; an information acquiring step of acquiring, when transmitting the job in the transmitting step, function information regarding whether the job management device has a queuing function for queuing a plurality of the jobs; a control step of adjusting the number of transmissions of the job based on the function information when the job is transmitted in the transmission step, the control program for the information processing device, the control program causing the information processing device to execute the control step. (Program 2A) having a determination step of determining whether or not the job management device has the queuing function based on the result of the information acquisition step, A control program for an information processing device described in Program 1A, characterized in that, in the control process, if it is determined that the queuing function is present, multiple of the jobs are transmitted in the transmission process, and, if it is determined that the queuing function is not present, one of the jobs is transmitted in the transmission process. (Program 3A) In the determination step, the job management device is capable of determining whether or not a job is being executed, A control program for an information processing device described in program 2A, characterized in that in the control process, when it is determined that the queuing function is present, multiple jobs are sent in the transmission process regardless of whether the jobs are being executed or not, and when it is determined that the queuing function is not present, if the job is being executed, the transmission of the job is suppressed in the transmission process, and if the job is not being executed, one job is sent in the transmission process. (Program 4A) A control program for an information processing device described in Program 3A, characterized in that in the control process, when it is determined that the queuing function is not present, if the job is being executed, the sending of the job in the sending process is suppressed, and if the job is not being executed after a predetermined time has elapsed, one of the jobs can be sent in the sending process. (Program 5A) The control program for an information processing apparatus according to Program 2A, wherein the determination in the determination step is made when an instruction to execute the job to be transmitted in the transmission step is given. (Program 6A) The control program for an information processing device according to any one of Programs 1A to 5A, further comprising a notification step of notifying the presence or absence of the queuing function in the job management device based on the function information. (Program 7A) The control program for an information processing apparatus according to any one of Programs 1A to 6A, further comprising an operation step of performing an operation to change the transmission order of the jobs when a plurality of the jobs are transmitted in the transmission step. (Program 8A) The job management device is a printing device having a printing function, The control program for an information processing apparatus according to any one of Programs 1A to 7A, wherein in the transmitting step, a print job can be transmitted to the job management apparatus as the job. (Configuration 1) A job management device that is communicably connected to an information processing device capable of processing information and that manages jobs, comprising: a receiving means for receiving the job from the information processing device; a transmission means for transmitting, in response to a request from the information processing device, functional information regarding whether the job management device has a queuing function for queuing a plurality of the jobs, to the information processing device. (Configuration 2) The job management device according to configuration 1, further comprising an operation unit for performing an operation to change an execution order of the plurality of jobs when the plurality of jobs are received by the receiving unit. (Program 1B) A control program for a job management device for causing a computer to execute each means of the job management device according to configuration 1. (Method 1A) A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to a job management device that manages jobs and is capable of processing information between the job management device, comprising the steps of: a sending step of sending the job to the job management device; an information acquiring step of acquiring, when transmitting the job in the transmitting step, function information regarding whether the job management device has a queuing function for queuing a plurality of the jobs; a control step of adjusting a number of transmissions of the job based on the function information when the job is transmitted in the transmission step. (Method 1B) A method for controlling a job management device that is communicatively connected to an information processing device capable of processing information and that manages jobs, comprising the steps of: a receiving step of receiving the job from the information processing device; a transmission step of transmitting functional information regarding whether the job management device has a queuing function for queuing a plurality of the jobs to the information processing device in response to a request from the information processing device.

[0097] Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-mentioned embodiment to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and having one or more processors of a computer in the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 Terminal Equipment 101 CPU 104 Communications Department 105 Operation section 106 Display section 200 Printing device (image forming device) 201 CPU 204 Communications Department 205 Operation section

Claims

1. A program for controlling an information processing device having a generic driver that operates in accordance with IPP, On the computer, obtaining information regarding whether the printing device has a queuing function for queuing multiple jobs; and changing a transmission method for a job generated by the generic driver based on the acquired information.

2. The computer: and further executing a step of determining whether or not the printing device has the queuing function based on the information. The program according to claim 1, characterized in that if it is determined that the queuing function is present and the printing device is currently executing a job, a new job is sent, and if it is determined that the queuing function is absent and the printing device is currently executing a job, the sending of the new job is suppressed.

3. The program described in Claim 2, characterized in that when it is determined that the queuing function is not present and the printing device is currently executing the job, the new job is sent after the execution of the job is completed.

4. The program described in Claim 2, characterized in that the new job is sent when it is determined that the queuing function is not present and the printing device is not currently executing a job.

5. 3. The program according to claim 2, wherein the determination of whether or not the queuing function is present is made when an instruction to execute the job is given.

6. The computer:

2. The program according to claim 1, further comprising a notification step of notifying a user whether or not the printing device has the queuing function based on the information.

7. The program described in claim 1, characterized in that it accepts an operation from a user to change the order in which the jobs are sent.

8. The program described in Claim 1, characterized in that the job is a print job.

9. An information processing device having a generic driver that operates in accordance with IPP, an acquisition means for acquiring information regarding whether the printing device has a queuing function for queuing multiple jobs; a transmission control unit that changes a transmission method for a job generated by the generic driver based on the information acquired by the acquisition unit.

10. A method for controlling an information processing device having a generic driver that operates in accordance with IPP, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring information regarding whether the printing device has a queuing function for queuing multiple jobs; a transmission control step of changing a transmission method for a job generated by the generic driver based on the information acquired in the acquisition step.

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