Management server and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide a management server and an image forming apparatus that can manage various operations using a document created by a medium including an electronic device.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, a management server has a communication interface, a memory, and a processor. The communication interface communicates with an image forming apparatus comprising a printer that prints an image on a medium and a reader / writer that writes data in an electronic device provided on the medium, and a reader device that reads the data from the electronic device. The memory stores document management information including job information indicating a job that is executed by using a document obtained by using the reader / writer to write the data in the electronic device provided on the medium on which the image is printed by the printer in the image forming apparatus. The processor updates information indicating the operation situation of the job indicated by the job information in the document management information on the basis of information on the electronic device provided on the document read by the reader device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a management server and an image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a method has been proposed for managing documents using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags attached to the documents. Documents with RFID tags attached are created by printing documents on paper and then attaching an RFID tag with data written on it.

[0003] However, in conventional documents with RFID tags, printing of the document on the paper and writing of data to the RFID tag are done by separate devices. This causes a problem that the wrong RFID tag may be attached to the printed matter. Also, in conventional management methods, the RFID tag attached to the document is only used to identify the document. This causes a problem that the document with the RFID tag attached is not very convenient to create. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-147004 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a management server and an image forming apparatus capable of managing various operations using documents created on a medium equipped with an electronic device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an embodiment, the management server has a communication interface, a memory, and a processor. The communication interface communicates with an image forming apparatus having a printer that prints an image on a medium and a reader / writer that writes data to an electronic device included in the medium, and with a reader device that reads data from the electronic device. The memory stores document management information including job information indicating a job to be performed using a document on which an image has been printed by the printer in the image forming apparatus and data has been written by the reader / writer to an electronic device included in the medium. The processor updates information indicating the work status of a job indicated by the job information in the document management information based on information read by the reader device from the electronic device included in the document. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a document management system including a management server and a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an external view of a configuration example of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system in a digital multifunction peripheral as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control system in the management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of document management information that the management server according to the embodiment registers in the storage unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a first operation example as an operation example of the document management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a second operation example as an operation example of the document management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a third operation example as an operation example of the document management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of management processing for RFID-tagged documents by the management server according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of a document management system 1 according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a document management system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a document management system 1 includes a management server 2, a digital multi-functional peripheral (MFP) 3 as an image forming apparatus, a terminal device 4, an RFID reader 5, and the like.

[0009] The management server 2 is composed of a server computer etc. The management server 2 is communicatively connected to the digital multifunction device 3, the terminal device 4 and the RFID reader 5 via a network. The management server 2 manages information relating to documents made of media equipped with RFID tags, which are created by the digital multifunction device 3.

[0010] The management server 2 manages information related to jobs (processes) performed using documents created by the digital multifunction device 3. The management server 2 manages information indicating the implementation status of jobs performed using documents based on read information obtained by the RFID reader 5 reading the RFID tag of the document. The management server 2 also notifies the user or administrator who issues the document of information related to the status of jobs performed using the document and deadlines set for the document.

[0011] The digital multifunction machine 3 is an example of an image forming device placed in a workplace or the like. The digital multifunction machine 3 includes a printer that prints an image on a medium and an RFID reader / writer (RFID device) that writes data to an RFID tag serving as an electronic device. The digital multifunction machine 3 creates a document by printing an image on a medium equipped with an RFID tag and writing data to the RFID tag of the medium on which the image is printed. The configuration of the digital multifunction machine 3 will be described in detail later.

[0012] The terminal device 4 is an information processing device such as a personal computer (PC) or a mobile terminal (tablet terminal, smartphone). The terminal device 4 communicates with the management server 2 via a network 6. In the document management system 1, a plurality of terminal devices 4 may be connected to the network 6. The terminal device 4 includes an information processing device that allows a user to instruct the digital multifunction device 3 to create a document. The terminal device 4 may include an information processing device to which an RFID reader 5 described later is connected.

[0013] The terminal device 4 has a control circuit including a processor and memory, a communication interface, an operating device, a display, and the like. The communication interface is a communication interface for communicating with devices such as the management server 2 via the network 6. The operating device is a device such as a keyboard or touch panel operated by the user. The display is an alarm that displays information notified from the management server 2. The control circuit executes various processes by the processor executing programs stored in the memory. For example, the control circuit performs a process of transmitting information indicating the contents of the document to be created (document issuance information) input by the user using the operating device to the management server 2 or the digital multifunction device 3.

[0014] The RFID reader 5 is a device (reader device) that reads data from an RFID tag, which is an electronic device provided on a medium created as a document by the digital multifunction device 3. However, the RFID reader 5 may be configured as a reader / writer having a function of writing data to an RFID tag. The RFID reader 5 notifies the management server 2 of read information (read results) including data read from the RFID tag. There may be multiple RFID readers 5 on the network 6. The RFID reader 5 may be a device that connects to the terminal device 4. The RFID reader 5 may also be a handheld device that connects to the terminal device 4.

[0015] The RFID reader 5 has a control circuit including a processor and memory, an RFID communicator, and a communication interface for network communication. The RFID communicator is a device that communicates with an RFID tag as an electronic device provided on a document (medium). The RFID communicator in the RFID reader 5 may be any device that reads data from an RFID tag as an electronic device provided on a document. The communication interface for network communication is an interface for communicating with devices such as the management server 2 via the network 6. The control circuit executes various processes by the processor executing programs stored in the memory. For example, the control circuit performs a process of transmitting read information (read result) including data read from the RFID tag to the management server 2.

[0016] Next, a configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral 3 serving as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment will be described. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of a digital multifunction peripheral 3 as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment, and Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 3 as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 2, the digital multifunction peripheral 3 has a scanner 12, a printer 13, and an operation panel 14. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 3, the digital multifunction peripheral 3 has a system control unit 15 and an RFID device 16 inside the housing.

[0017] The scanner 12 is installed on the top of the main body of the digital multifunction device 3. The scanner 12 is a device that optically reads an image of an original. The scanner 12 has a platen glass on which the original to be scanned is placed. The scanner 12 has an image reading mechanism for scanning the original on the platen glass. The image reading mechanism of the scanner 12 is composed of a carriage and a photoelectric conversion unit installed below the platen glass. The scanner 12 may also be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF: Auto Document Feeder).

[0018] The printer (image forming mechanism) 13 has paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C. These paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C store media such as paper to be processed. The media stored in the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C may be media that can be transported by a transport system described later. For example, each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C can be detachably attached to the bottom of the digital multifunction printer body. Each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C has paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C, respectively. Each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C takes out one sheet of paper from each of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C. In this embodiment, it is assumed that one of the paper feed cassettes 21A, 21B, and 21C stores media equipped with multiple RFID tags.

[0019] The conveying system (conveying mechanism) 23 conveys a medium (hereinafter referred to as paper) within the printer 13. The conveying system 23 includes a plurality of conveying rollers 23a to 23d and a registration roller 24. The conveying system 23 conveys the paper picked up by each of the paper feed rollers 22A, 22B, and 22C to the registration roller 24. The registration roller 24 conveys the paper to a transfer position at the timing when an image is to be transferred.

[0020] The image forming units 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K) each form an image of a respective color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image as an image to be developed in each color on the image carrier in each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K). The exposure device 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the image carrier by scanning the image carrier with light emitted according to image data. For example, the exposure device 26 scans in the main scanning direction by irradiating the light emitted by the light emitting unit onto a photosensitive drum as an image carrier via a rotating polygon mirror. In addition, the irradiation position of the light from the exposure device 26 moves in the sub-scanning direction as the photosensitive drum rotates. The position and magnification of the image formed by the image forming unit 25 are adjusted by controlling the exposure device 26.

[0021] Each image forming unit 25 (25Y, 25M, 25C, 25K) develops an electrostatic latent image on each image carrier with toner of the corresponding color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). Intermediate transfer belt 27 is an intermediate transfer body. Each image forming unit 25 transfers (primarily transfers) a toner image of each color developed with toner of each color on each image carrier onto intermediate transfer belt 27.

[0022] The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds the transferred toner image and sends it to a secondary transfer position. The secondary transfer position is a position where the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27 is transferred to paper. The secondary transfer position is a position where the support roller 28a and the secondary transfer roller 28b face each other. The support roller 28a and the secondary transfer roller 28b constitute the transfer unit 28. The registration roller 24 transports the paper to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. The transfer unit 28 transfers the toner image held on the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the paper at the secondary transfer position.

[0023] For example, when forming a color image, each image forming unit 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K transfers toner images developed with toner of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 in a superimposed manner. The intermediate transfer belt 27 holds a color image in which the toner images of each color are superimposed. The transfer unit 28 transfers the color image formed by the multiple color toners on the intermediate transfer belt 27 to a sheet at a secondary transfer position. The registration rollers 24 transport the sheet to the secondary transfer position in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 27. As a result, the color image is transferred to the sheet.

[0024] The transfer unit 28 supplies the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred to the fixing unit 29. The fixing unit 29 fixes the toner image onto the paper. The fixing unit 29 has a heating unit 29a, a heat roller 29b, and a pressure roller 29c. The heating unit 29a heats the heat roller 29b. The heat roller 29b and the pressure roller 29c perform a fixing process in which the paper onto which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer unit 28 is heated under pressure. The heat roller 29b and the pressure roller 29c in the fixing unit 29 send the paper onto which the fixing process has been performed to the conveying roller 23d. The conveying roller 23d conveys the paper from the fixing unit 29 to the paper discharge unit.

[0025] The operation panel 14 is a user interface. The operation panel 14 displays guidance and accepts input of operation buttons or icons. For example, a user inputs setting information on the operation panel 14. The operation panel 14 has a display unit (display) 42, a touch panel 43, and a plurality of operation buttons 44. For example, the touch panel 43 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 42. The touch panel 43 detects a portion on the display screen of the display unit 42 that is touched by the user.

[0026] The RFID device 16 communicates with an RFID tag, which is an electronic device, provided on a medium that becomes a document. The RFID device 16 is a reader / writer that writes data to an RFID tag and reads data written on an RFID tag. The RFID device 16 is installed inside the housing of the digital multifunction machine 3 so as to communicate with an RFID tag provided on a medium transported by the transport system 23 in the printer 13.

[0027] RFID device 16 writes data to an RFID tag attached to a medium at a predetermined writing position on the transport path of the medium by transport system 23. RFID device 16 reads data written in an RFID tag attached to a medium after the medium has passed the predetermined writing position on the transport path. For example, RFID device 16 sets the size of its communication range by controlling the strength of the radio wave of a carrier wave output to the RFID tag.

[0028] 3, the RFID device 16 is provided so as to communicate with an RFID tag provided on a medium after printing an image on the medium. However, the RFID device 16 may be configured to write data to an RFID tag provided on a medium transported by the transport system 23. The position at which the RFID device 16 writes data may be set anywhere as long as data can be written to the RFID tag of the medium transported by the transport system 23. For example, the position at which the RFID device 16 writes data may be a position before an image is formed on the medium in the transport path of the transport system 23. The RFID device 16 may also be an external device that is detachable from an interface provided on the digital multifunction printer 3.

[0029] Next, the configuration of a control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 3 configured as above will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control system in the digital multifunction peripheral 3. As shown in FIG. The digital multifunction peripheral 3 has a system control unit 15 that controls the entire device. The system control unit 15 is connected to the scanner 12, the printer 13, the operation panel 14, and the RFID device 16. In the configuration example shown in Fig. 3, the system control unit 15 has a processor 50, a memory 51, an image memory 52, an image processing unit 53, a storage device 54, and a communication interface (I / F) 55.

[0030] Processor 50 is connected to processor 30 of scanner 12 and printer 13, processor 40 of operation panel 14, and processor 60 of RFID device 16 via interfaces. Processor 50 realizes various processing functions by executing programs stored in memory 51 or storage device 54. For example, processor 50 executes programs stored in memory 51 to output operation instructions to each unit and process various information from each unit.

[0031] The memory 51 includes memories such as a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), and an NVM. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. The ROM functions as a program memory. The NVM is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. The NVM stores setting data and the like. The image memory 52 stores image data. For example, the image memory 52 functions as a page memory for developing image data to be processed.

[0032] The image processing unit 53 processes image data. For example, the image processing unit 53 outputs image data that has been subjected to image processing such as correction, compression, or expansion on the input image data. The image processing unit 53 also includes a processor for image processing. The image processing processor in the image processing unit 53 has a variable operating frequency (operating speed). The image processing unit 53 changes the processing time required for image processing by changing the operating frequency of the processor. For example, the image processing unit 53 can set the processing time for image processing to a processing speed equivalent to 1.5 times or 2 times the normal speed by clocking up the operating frequency of the processor.

[0033] The storage device 54 stores data such as control data, control programs, and setting information. The storage device 54 is configured with a rewritable non-volatile memory. For example, the storage device 54 is configured with a storage device such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive).

[0034] The storage device 54 also has a scan counter and a print counter. The scan counter counts the number of pages scanned using the scanner 12. In the digital multifunction peripheral 3 serving as the image reading device according to this embodiment, the scan counter counts the number of pages scanned for each scan speed. The print counter counts the number of pages printed using the printer 13. In the digital multifunction peripheral 3 serving as the image forming device according to this embodiment, the print counter counts the number of pages printed for each print speed.

[0035] The communication I / F 55 is an interface for performing data communication with an external device. For example, the communication I / F 55 is an interface for communicating with an external device as an output destination that outputs an image scanned by the network scan function. The communication I / F 55 is also an interface for receiving an image to be printed and a print instruction from an external device by the network print function. The communication I / F 55 also includes an interface for transmitting FAX data generated from an image scanned by the FAX function to a FAX destination. The communication I / F 55 may also be an interface for communicating with an external device (such as a server) that collects values ​​of a scan counter and a print counter, etc.

[0036] Next, an example of the configuration of a control system in the printer 13 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the printer 13 includes a processor 30, a memory 31, a conveying system 23, an image forming section 25, an exposure device 26, a transfer section 28, a fixing unit 29, and the like. The processor 30 realizes various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 31. For example, the processor 30 controls the operation of each part in the printer 13 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing the programs. The processor 30 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 15 via an interface. The processor 30 executes print processing and the like in response to operation instructions from the system control unit 15.

[0037] The memory 31 includes memories such as a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), and a data memory. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. The ROM functions as a program memory. The data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. The conveyance system 23 conveys the paper inside the printer 13 under the control of the processor 30. That is, the conveyance system 23 conveys the paper by driving conveyance rollers of each section in response to an operation instruction from the processor 30.

[0038] Exposure device 26 irradiates each photosensitive drum of image forming section 25 with light (laser light) to form an electrostatic latent image in response to an operational instruction from processor 30. Processor 30 adjusts the print position and magnification by controlling the irradiation position of the laser light on the photosensitive drum by exposure device 26. Processor 30 executes image adjustment so as to obtain a desired print range by operational control according to the print range starting from a print reference described later.

[0039] The image forming unit 25 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum with toner of each color in response to an operation instruction from the processor 30. In addition, the image forming unit 25 transfers (primary transfer) the toner formed on the photosensitive drum to an intermediate transfer belt.

[0040] The transfer unit 28 transfers (secondarily transfers) the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27 onto paper in accordance with an operational instruction from the processor 30. The fixing unit 29 drives the heat roller 29b and the pressure roller 29c in accordance with an operational instruction from the processor 30. The heating unit 29a of the fixing unit 29 sets the surface temperature of the heat roller 29b to a desired fixing temperature under the control of the processor 30. The fixing unit 29 fixes the toner image transferred onto the paper onto the paper in a state controlled to the fixing temperature.

[0041] Next, an example of the configuration of a control system in the operation panel 14 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the operation panel 14 includes a processor 40, a memory 41, a display unit (display) 42, a touch panel 43, and operation buttons 44. The processor 40 realizes various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 41. For example, the processor 40 controls the operation of each part of the operation panel 14 and monitors the operating status of each part by executing the programs. The processor 40 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 15 via an interface. For example, the processor 40 notifies the system control unit 15 of information input by the user.

[0042] The memory 41 includes memories such as a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), and a data memory. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. The ROM functions as a program memory. The data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten.

[0043] The display content of the display unit 42 is controlled in response to an operational instruction from the processor 40. The touch panel 43 is provided on the display screen of the display unit 42, and detects a touched position on the display screen. For example, the processor 40 displays icons selectable by the touch panel 43 on the display screen of the display unit 42 together with an operation guide. The processor 40 determines information to be input by the user in accordance with the touched position detected by the touch panel 43. The operation buttons 44 are constituted by hard keys such as a start key and a reset key.

[0044] Next, a configuration example of a control system in the RFID device 16 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the RFID device 16 includes a processor 60 , a memory 61 , a communication control circuit 62 , and an antenna 63 . The processor 60 realizes various processes by executing programs stored in the memory 61. For example, the processor 60 controls the operation of each part in the RFID device 16 by executing the programs. The processor 60 is also connected to the processor 50 of the system control unit 15 via an interface. The processor 60 transmits commands to the RFID tag and processes responses in response to operational instructions from the system control unit 15.

[0045] The memory 61 includes memories such as a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), and a data memory. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. The ROM functions as a program memory. The data memory is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten.

[0046] The communication control circuit 62 processes signals transmitted and received by the antenna 63. The communication control circuit 62 is connected to the processor 60 and the antenna 63. The communication control circuit 62 includes, for example, a modulation circuit, an amplification circuit, an output setting circuit, and a demodulation circuit. The antenna 63 transmits and receives radio waves. The antenna 63 is connected to the communication control circuit 62. The antenna 63 transmits signals from the communication control circuit 62 as radio waves. In addition, the antenna 63 supplies signals received as radio waves to the communication control circuit 62.

[0047] For example, the communication control circuit 62 transmits a signal supplied from the processor as radio waves from the antenna 63. The communication control circuit 62 modulates the signal from the processor 60 using a modulation circuit, amplifies the modulated signal using an amplifier circuit, and outputs the signal as radio waves from the antenna 63. In this way, the processor 60 writes data into the RFID tag provided on the medium S at the writing position using the output signal output from the communication control circuit 62 via the antenna 63.

[0048] Furthermore, the communication control circuit 62 processes the radio waves received by the antenna 63 and supplies the processed signals to the processor 60. The communication control circuit 62 amplifies the radio wave signal received by the antenna 63 using an amplifier circuit, demodulates it using a demodulator circuit, and supplies the demodulated signal to the processor 60. In this way, the processor 60 uses the communication control circuit 62 and the antenna 63 to confirm and read the data written to the RFID tag provided on the medium S that has passed the writing position.

[0049] Next, the configuration of a control system in the management server 2 of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control system in the management server 2 according to the embodiment. The management server 2 includes a processor 71, a system memory 72, a storage unit 73, a communication unit 74, and the like.

[0050] The processor 71 is connected to the system memory 72, the storage unit 73, and the communication unit 74. The processor 71 realizes various processing functions by executing programs stored in the system memory 72 or the storage unit 73. For example, the processor 71 executes the programs stored in the system memory 72 to output operation instructions to each unit and process various information from each unit.

[0051] The system memory 72 includes memories such as a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), and an NVM. The RAM functions as a working memory or a buffer memory. The ROM is a non-volatile memory that cannot be rewritten. The ROM functions as a program memory. The NVM is a non-volatile memory that can be rewritten. The NVM stores setting data and the like.

[0052] The storage unit 73 stores data such as control data, control programs, and setting information. The storage unit 73 is configured with a rewritable non-volatile memory. For example, the storage unit 73 is configured with a storage device such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive).

[0053] The storage unit 73 is a memory that stores document management information for documents created by the digital multifunction device 3. The storage unit 73 records information about the document and information about the job (process) performed using the document in the document management information. The storage unit 73 updates information indicating the work status of the work or processing as a job using the document in the document management information.

[0054] The communication unit 74 is a communication interface for performing data communication with an external device. For example, the communication unit 74 is a communication interface for network communication. In the document management system 1, the communication unit 74 communicates with the digital multifunction peripheral 3, the terminal device 4, and the RFID reader 5 via the network 6. The communication unit 74 may also include an interface for connecting to the digital multifunction peripheral 3 in serial.

[0055] In the document management system 1 according to the embodiment, the digital multifunction peripheral 3 may be configured to include the above-mentioned management server 2. For example, the system control unit 15 of the digital multifunction peripheral 3 may operate as the above-mentioned management server 2 in addition to the function of controlling each unit of the digital multifunction peripheral 3. When the system control unit 15 operates as the management server 2, the processor 50, memory 51, storage device 54, and communication I / F 55 shown in FIG. 4 may operate as the processor 71, system memory 72, storage unit 73, and communication unit 74 shown in FIG.

[0056] Next, management of documents, which are media with RFID tags, in the document management system 1 according to the embodiment will be described. In the document management system 1 according to the embodiment, the digital multifunction device 3 creates a document using a medium equipped with an RFID tag. For example, a user inputs document issuance information indicating information to be recorded on the document created by the digital multifunction device 3 and the contents of a series of jobs (tasks or processes) to be performed using the document to the terminal device 4. The user may also select and specify a job to be associated with the document to be created from various jobs registered in the management server 2.

[0057] The document issuance information includes, for example, print data, RFID data, one or more pieces of job (process) information, and a delivery date. The print data indicates an image to be printed on an RFID-tagged medium S to be created as a document. The RFID data indicates data to be written to an RFID tag provided on the medium S to be created as a document. However, the RFID data may be data that is assigned to a document created by the management server 2 or the digital multifunction device 3.

[0058] Job (process) information is information indicating work or processing to be performed using a document. There may be multiple pieces of job information. The order in which the multiple pieces of job information are performed may be specified. Each piece of job information includes information indicating the work (processing) content, information indicating the reader (compatible reader) that reads the RFID tag of the document when performing the work, and the work (processing) time. The delivery date is information indicating the deadline for completing all jobs (processes) that should be performed using the document.

[0059] The terminal device 4 transmits a document issuance request to the management server 2, which requests the creation and management of a document based on the document issuance information input by the user. The management server 2 receives the document issuance request from the terminal device 4 via the network 6. The management server 2 generates document management information based on the document issuance request from the terminal device 4, and stores (registers) the generated document management information in the memory unit 73.

[0060] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of document management information registered in the storage unit 73 by the management server 2 according to the embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 6, management server 2 registers multiple pieces of document management information for each management number. Management server 2 assigns a management number to the document management information for each document to be created, and stores it in memory unit 73. Each piece of document management information includes print data, RFID data, print date and time, one or more job (first, second, third process) information, and delivery date. In addition to the information shown in Fig. 6, the document management information registered includes information indicating a notification destination (predetermined notification destination) to which information related to document management is notified, such as a user who issues the document or a terminal device used by an administrator.

[0061] The print data in the document management information is data for printing, on a medium, an image of a written document created by the digital multifunction device 3 in response to a document issuance request from the terminal device 4. The RFID data in the document management information is data to be written to an RFID tag of a medium S that the digital multifunction device 3 creates as a document in response to a document issuance request from the terminal device 4. The RFID data may be data specified in the document creation request, or may be data that is automatically assigned (generated) by the management server 2 (or the digital multifunction device 3) according to a predetermined rule.

[0062] The creation date and time in the document management information is information indicating the date and time when the document to be managed was created in response to a document issuance request from the terminal device 4. The management server 2 obtains information indicating the date and time when the document creation was completed from the digital multifunction device 3. The management server 2 registers the date and time when the document creation was completed obtained from the digital multifunction device 3 as the creation date and time in the document management information.

[0063] Job (process) information in document management information is information that indicates the content and implementation status of the work (or processing) to be performed using a document. There may be multiple job information for one document. Furthermore, the execution order of the multiple job information may be specified. Multiple job information for which an execution order is specified is registered as job (process) information of the execution order. In the example shown in FIG. 6, three jobs (processes) are registered as the first process, the second process, and the third process.

[0064] In the example shown in FIG. 6, information such as the corresponding reader, work content, processing time, and passing date and time is registered as each job information (information for each process) in the document management information. The corresponding reader for each process is information indicating an RFID reader that reads the RFID tag of a document when executing a job (process). For example, the corresponding reader for the first process is information indicating an RFID reader installed at a location where the work of the first process is performed. However, the RFID reader as the corresponding reader may be a hand reader connected to the user terminal of the worker who performs the job.

[0065] Also, as the corresponding readers, a reader that reads the RFID tag of a document before the execution of a job (process) and a reader that reads the RFID tag after the execution of a job may be set. For example, in the case of the operation example shown in Figs. 7 to 9 described later, RFID reader 5a may be registered as a reader (starting reader) that reads the RFID tag of document S at the start of the first process (arrival at the first process). Also, RFID reader 5b shown in Figs. 7 to 9 may be registered as a reader (ending reader) that reads the RFID tag of document S at the end of the first process (shipment from the first process).

[0066] The work content of each process is information indicating the work or processing to be performed as a job (process). For example, the work content may be information indicating the work of a designated approver (worker) attaching a mark (such as a seal or signature) to indicate that the document has been approved (confirmed). The work content may include information indicating the worker (user terminal of the worker) who is notified of the work content. In this case, when a reader corresponding to a certain process reads the RFID tag of a document, the management server 2 may notify the user terminal of the worker of the process of the guide of the work content.

[0067] The processing time for each process is information indicating the time required to work on a job (process). The processing time may be a time indicating the deadline for executing the work on a job. When the processing time is registered as the execution deadline, the management server 2 notifies the user or administrator that the work has not been performed when the execution deadline indicated by the processing time has passed. The processing time may also be the time required from the start of work on each job (process) to its completion (execution time). In this case, if the work is not completed within the processing time from the start of the work, the management server 2 may notify the user or administrator with an alert that the work is incomplete.

[0068] The passing date and time of each process is information indicating the date and time when the reader corresponding to the job (process) read the RFID tag of the document. When the starting reader and the ending reader are registered as the job (process) information, the starting date and time and the ending date and time of the job may be registered as the passing date and time. For example, the document management information stores the date and time when the RFID reader registered as the starting reader read the RFID tag as the starting date and time. The document management information also stores the date and time when the RFID reader registered as the ending reader read the RFID tag as the ending date and time.

[0069] The deadline in the document management information is information indicating the deadline for completing all registered jobs (processes). The deadline may be information indicating the deadline for the time elapsed from the creation date and time, or may be a specified date and time. If all jobs registered as document management information are not completed by the deadline, the management server 2 outputs an alert to the user or administrator indicating that the deadline has passed.

[0070] Next, a first operation example will be described as an operation example of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a first example of operation as an example of the operation of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment. A user inputs document issuance information, including information to be recorded on a document created by digital multifunction device 3 and job (process or work) details to be performed using the document, to terminal device 4. As described above, the document issuance information includes information such as print data, RFID data, job (process) information, and delivery date. Terminal device 4 transmits a document issuance request to management server 2, requesting the issuance and management of a document based on the document issuance information input by the user.

[0071] The management server 2 receives a document issuance request from the terminal device 4 via the network 6. The management server 2 generates document management information for the document to be created in response to the document issuance request from the terminal device 4. For example, the processor 71 of the management server 2 generates document management information as shown in FIG. 6 based on the document issuance request. The processor 71 of the management server 2 stores (registers) the generated document management information in the memory unit 73.

[0072] When the management server 2 registers the document management information, it requests the digital multifunction device 3 to create a document to be managed by the document management information. For example, the management server 2 transmits to the digital multifunction device 3 a creation (print) command including print data to be printed on the medium S to be created as the document and data to be written to an RFID tag provided on the medium S.

[0073] The digital multifunction device 3 creates document S using a medium with an RFID tag in response to a creation command from the management server 2. The digital multifunction device 3 prints the print data of the creation command on the medium S using the printer 13, and writes the RFID data of the creation command to the RFID tag of the medium S using the RFID device 16. Note that the digital multifunction device 3 may create the document that the user who requested the issuance of the document has instructed to be issued if authentication of the user who requested the issuance of the document is successful. When the digital multifunction device 3 completes the creation of the document, it transmits a notification of the completion of document creation and the date and time of completion of document creation to the management server 2.

[0074] After sending a document creation command to the digital multifunction device 3, the management server 2 waits for a notification of document creation completion from the digital multifunction device 3. The management server 2 receives the notification of document creation completion and information indicating the document creation completion date and time from the digital multifunction device 3. The management server 2 records (registers) the document creation completion date and time received from the digital multifunction device 3 as the document creation date and time in the document management information.

[0075] After registering the creation date and time of a document (after the document is completed), the management server 2 collects information indicating the date and time when each RFID reader 5 read the RFID tag of the document. When the management server 2 receives read information including the read date and time when the RFID reader 5 read the RFID tag of the document to be managed, the management server 2 records (registers) the received read date and time as document management information.

[0076] For example, the management server 2 acquires RFID tag read information from each RFID reader 5. The management server 2 identifies the read date and time when the RFID tag of the document to be managed was read from the read information acquired from each RFID reader. For example, the management server 2 identifies the read date and time when the RFID reader corresponding to each job (process) read the RFID tag of the document to be managed.

[0077] Furthermore, the management server 2 may specify the RFID tag data of the document to be managed for the RFID reader 5 corresponding to each job (process). In this case, the RFID reader 5 transmits to the management server 2 the read date and time when the RFID tag data of the document to be managed specified by the management server 2 is read. In this way, the management server 2 may obtain the read date and time when the RFID reader 5 read the RFID tag of the document to be managed.

[0078] A document as medium S having an RFID tag created by digital multifunction device 3 is carried by a worker to a place where the first step is performed. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the compatible readers for the first step are RFID reader 5a and RFID reader 5b. Therefore, in the document management information for document S, RFID reader 5a and RFID reader 5b are registered as the compatible readers for the first step.

[0079] When RFID reader 5a, which is a compatible reader for the first process, reads the RFID tag of document (medium) S, it transmits information indicating the read date and time to management server 2. When RFID reader 5b, which is a compatible reader for the first process, reads the RFID tag of document S, it transmits information indicating the read date and time to management server 2. When management server 2 receives information indicating the read date and time from RFID reader 5a or 5b, it registers the received read date and time as the passing date and time of the first process in the document management information. As a result, the passing date and time of the first process is registered in the document management information for document S.

[0080] Furthermore, the document management information of document S may set a reader that reads the RFID tag at the start of the first process (arrival) and a reader that reads the RFID tag at the end of the first process (shipment). When assuming the operation shown in Fig. 7, RFID reader 5a may be set as a reader that reads the RDID of document S at the start of the first process. In this case, management server 2 may register the reading date and time when RFID reader 5a reads the RFID tag of document S as the start date and time of the first process (arrival date and time) in the document management information.

[0081] Furthermore, RFID reader 5b may be set as a reader that reads the RDID of document S at the end of the first process (shipment from the first process). In this case, management server 2 may register the date and time when RFID reader 5b reads the RFID tag of document S as the end date and time of the first process in the document management information. This makes it possible to register the start date and time and end date and time of the first process in the document management information of document S as the date and time of passage through the first process.

[0082] Next, the document (medium) S that has completed the first process is carried to the second process by a worker. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the compatible readers for the second process are RFID reader 5c and RFID reader 5d. Therefore, in the document management information for document S, RFID reader 5c and RFID reader 5d are registered as the compatible readers for the second process.

[0083] When RFID reader 5c or 5d, which is a compatible reader for the second process, reads the RFID tag of document S, it transmits information indicating the read date and time to management server 2. When management server 2 receives the information indicating the read date and time from RFID reader 5c or 5d, it registers the received read date and time as the passing date and time of the second process in the document management information. As a result, the passing date and time of document S in the document management information is registered.

[0084] 7, the RFID reader 5c may be set as a reader that reads the RDID of the document S at the start of the second process (arrival at the second process). In this case, the management server 2 may register the reading date and time when the RFID reader 5c reads the RFID tag of the document S as the start date and time of the second process (arrival date and time) in the document management information.

[0085] Furthermore, the RFID reader 5d may be set as a reader that reads the RFID of the document S at the end of the second process (shipment from the second process). In this case, the management server 2 may register the reading date and time when the RFID reader 5d reads the RFID tag of the document S as the end date and time of the second process in the document management information. This makes it possible to register the start date and time and end date and time of the second process in the document management information of the document S as the passing date and time of the second process.

[0086] Furthermore, if the processes (jobs) registered in the document management information include up to the second process, the management server 2 determines that all jobs (processes) for the document S have been completed when the second process is completed. In the example shown in Fig. 7, when the RFID reader 5d reads the RFID tag of the document S, the management server 2 determines that all processes up to the second process have been completed. In this case, the management server 2 may register the read date and time of the RFID tag of the document S received from the RFID reader 5d as the end date and time of all processes in the document management information. Furthermore, when the management server 2 determines that all processes have been completed, it may delete the document management information from memory or make it unusable.

[0087] Furthermore, the management server 2 may provide various notifications to users or administrators based on the document management information. The management server 2 notifies pre-registered users or administrators of various information indicating the document management status based on the document management information by using a contact method such as email or chat.

[0088] For example, if there is an incomplete process for document S even after the deadline has passed (if the deadline has passed), the management server 2 notifies the user, administrator, etc. that the deadline has passed. Also, if the passing time of document S is not registered even after the processing time has passed (if the processing time has passed), the management server 2 may notify the user, administrator, etc. of the incomplete process. Furthermore, if the management server 2 registers the passing time (or start date and time, end date and time) of each process, it may notify the user or administrator who created the document of information indicating the progress (implementation status) of each process.

[0089] Next, a second operation example will be described as an operation example of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a second example of operation as an example of the operation of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment. First, the user inputs document issuance information including print data, RFID data, job information, and delivery date to the terminal device 4, similarly to the first operation example described above. In the second operation example shown in Fig. 8, the terminal device 4 transmits a document issuance request to the digital multifunction device 3, requesting issuance and management of a document based on the document issuance information input by the user. The digital multifunction device 3 stores the document issuance information received from the terminal device 4 in the memory 51, and transmits a document management information registration request to the management server 2.

[0090] The management server 2 receives a document management information registration request from the digital multifunction device 3. As in the first operation example, the management server 2 generates document management information in response to a document management information registration request based on a document issuance request received from the digital multifunction device 3. The management server 2 stores (registers) the generated document management information in the storage unit 73, and waits for a notification from the digital multifunction device 3 that document creation is complete.

[0091] The digital multifunction device 3 creates a document based on the print data and RFID data included in the document issuance request from the terminal device 4. The digital multifunction device 3 prints an image of the document on the medium S using a printer, and writes RFID data to the RFID tag of the medium S on which the image is printed using an RFID device. However, the RFID data may be obtained from the management server 2 that generates document management information, or may be generated by the digital multifunction device 3. When the digital multifunction device 3 completes the document creation, it notifies the management server 2 of the completion of the document creation and the document creation date and time.

[0092] The digital multifunction device 3 may obtain data to be written to the RFID tag of the document S from the management server 2 that generates document management information. In this case, the management server 2 may generate RFID data to be written to the RFID tag of the document according to a predetermined rule, and transmit the generated RFID data to the digital multifunction device 3. Also, the digital multifunction device 3 may generate RFID data to be written to the RFID tag of the document according to a predetermined rule, and notify the management server 2 of the generated RFID data.

[0093] In the second operation example shown in Fig. 8, the operation after the digital multifunction device 3 creates a document is the same as that of the first operation example shown in Fig. 7. That is, after registering the creation date and time from the digital multifunction device 3, the management server 2 collects the read date and time when each RFID reader 5 reads the RFID tag of the document, and updates the document management information.

[0094] Next, a third operation example will be described as an operation example of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a third example of operation as an example of the operation of the document management system 1 according to the embodiment. In the third operation example shown in Fig. 9, the digital multifunction peripheral 3 performs the operations of the management server 2 described in the first or second operation example. The third operation example shown in Fig. 9 is implemented in a document management system 1 including a digital multifunction peripheral 3 configured to operate as the management server 2, a terminal device 4, and an RFID reader 5.

[0095] A user inputs document issuance information including print data, RFID data, job information, and delivery date to terminal device 4. Terminal device 4 transmits a document issuance request to digital multifunction device 3, requesting issuance and management of a document based on the document issuance information input by the user.

[0096] The digital multifunction peripheral 3 receives a document issuance request from the terminal device 4. The digital multifunction peripheral 3 generates document management information based on the document issuance request received from the terminal device 4. The digital multifunction peripheral 3 stores (registers) in the storage device 54 the document management information generated based on the document issuance request.

[0097] When the digital multifunction device 3 registers the document management information, it creates the document S using a medium equipped with an RFID tag based on the print data and RFID data included in the document issuance request. Here, the digital multifunction device 3 may generate RFID data to be written to the RFID tag of the document to be created according to a predetermined rule.

[0098] When the digital multifunction device 3 completes the creation of the document, it registers the document creation date and time in the document management information registered in the storage device 54. After creating the document, the digital multifunction device 3 operates in the same manner as the management server 2 described in the first or second operation example. That is, after registering the creation date and time, the digital multifunction device 3 collects the read date and time when the RFID reader 5 read the RFID tag of the document and updates the document management information.

[0099] Next, a process of managing document management information for RFID-tagged documents created by the digital multifunction peripheral 3 by the management server 2 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the management process performed by the management server 2 according to the embodiment on documents with RFID tags attached thereto and created by the digital multifunction peripheral 3. In FIG. First, the user inputs information such as print data, RFID data, job information, and delivery date as document issuance information for issuing a document to the terminal device 4. The terminal device 4 transmits a document issuance request to the management server 2 or the digital multifunction device 3, requesting the issuance and management of a document based on the document issuance information input by the user.

[0100] The management server 2 receives a document issuance request from the terminal device 4 via the network 6 by the communication unit 74. The processor 71 of the management server 2 generates document management information based on the document issuance request received from the terminal device 4, and stores (registers) the generated document management information in the storage unit 73 (ACT11). For example, the processor 71 generates document management information as shown in FIG. 6 described above, and stores it in the storage unit 73.

[0101] When the processor 71 of the management server 2 registers the document management information, it causes the digital multifunction device 3 to create a document to be managed by the document management information (ACT12). The processor 71 transmits a document creation command including the print data and RFID data registered as the document management information to the digital multifunction device 3 via the communication unit 74.

[0102] The digital multifunction peripheral 3 receives a document creation command from the management server 2 via the communication interface 55 of the system control unit 15. The processor 50 of the system control unit 15 of the digital multifunction peripheral 3 causes the printer 13 to print an image (document) based on print data included in the document creation command onto a medium with an RFID tag. Furthermore, the processor 50 writes, via the RFID device 16, the RFID data included in the document creation command into the RFID tag of the medium on which the printer 13 prints the image. When the processor 50 has completed printing the document and writing the RFID data onto the medium with an RFID tag, it transmits a notification of completion of document creation and the creation date and time to the management server 2.

[0103] After transmitting the document creation command, the processor 71 of the management server 2 receives a notification of completion of document creation from the digital multifunction device 3 via the communication unit 74. The processor 71 receives information indicating the document creation date and time together with the notification of completion of document creation from the digital multifunction device 3 via the communication unit 74. Upon receiving the document creation date and time, the processor 71 registers (records) the received document creation date and time in the document management information (ACT13).

[0104] After receiving the notification of the completion of document creation, the processor 71 of the management server 2 collects read information including the date and time when each RFID reader 5 reads the RFID tag of the document. When each RFID reader 5 reads the RFID tag of the document, it notifies the management server 2 of the read result (read information) including the date and time when the RFID tag was read.

[0105] When the processor 71 of the management server 2 receives the RFID tag read result from the RFID reader 5, it determines whether the received read result is the read result of the RFID tag of the document to be managed. If the processor 71 has received the RFID tag of the document to be managed (ACT14, YES), it records the read date and time included in the received read information in the document management information (ACT15). The processor 71 identifies the job (process) in the document management information corresponding to the RFID reader 5 that is the sender of the read information (that read the RFID tag). When the processor 71 identifies the process corresponding to the RFID reader, it registers the read date and time when the RFID reader 5 read the RFID tag as the date and time of passage of the document at that process.

[0106] In the example shown in Fig. 7, the management server 2 registers the read date and time when the RFID reader 5a or 5b reads the RFID tag of the document S in the document management information as the passing date and time of the first process. Also, in the example shown in Fig. 7, the management server 2 may register the read date and time when the RFID reader 5a reads the RFID tag of the document S in the document management information as the arrival date and time (start date and time) of the first process. Also, the management server 2 may register the read date and time when the RFID reader 5b reads the RFID tag of the medium S in the document management information as the shipping date and time (end date and time) of the first process.

[0107] When the processor 71 has recorded the date and time when the RFID tag was read, or when the RFID tag was not read, it determines whether or not all jobs (processes) of the document management information have been completed (ACT16). If all processes have been completed (ACT16, YES), the processor 71 notifies a predetermined notification destination (the user who issued the document or the administrator) that all jobs for the document have been completed (ACT17).

[0108] When all the processes in the document management information are completed (ACT16, YES), the processor 71 determines whether or not to notify the work status indicated by the document management information (ACT18). The processor 71 may determine whether or not to notify the work status depending on whether the document management information has been updated. For example, when a read date and time (passage date and time) is recorded in any process in the document management information, the processor 71 determines to notify the work status of the process in which the read date and time is recorded.

[0109] Also, the determination as to whether or not to notify may be made based on whether the processing time (execution deadline) for each process has elapsed while the process is in an unexecuted state in the document management information. In this case, processor 71 determines to notify of the work status (unexecuted process) if there is an unexecuted process whose execution deadline has elapsed. Furthermore, processor 71 may store notification setting information relating to the work status in storage unit 73 in association with the document management information. In this case, processor 71 determines whether or not to notify of the work status indicated by the document management information according to the notification setting information.

[0110] When it is determined that the work status should be notified (ACT18, YES), the processor 71 notifies the user or administrator, who is the specified notification destination, of the work status indicated by the document management information (ACT19). For example, when a read date and time (passage date and time) is recorded for any process in the document management information, the processor 71 notifies the specified notification destination of the work status of the process in which the read date and time is recorded. In addition, when there is an unperformed process whose execution deadline has passed, the processor 71 notifies the specified notification destination of the process that has not been performed and whose execution deadline has passed.

[0111] Furthermore, when it is determined not to notify the work status (ACT18, NO), or when the work status is notified, the processor 71 determines whether the deadline in the document management information has passed (ACT20). If the deadline in the document management information has passed (ACT20, YES), the processor 71 notifies the user or administrator, who is the specified notification destination, of the passing of the deadline with an alert (ACT21). If the deadline in the document management information has not passed (ACT20, NO), the processor 71 returns to ACT14 and executes the above-mentioned processing.

[0112] As described above, the management server according to the embodiment stores in a memory document management information including job information indicating a job to be performed using a document with an RFID tag created by an image forming device. The management server updates information indicating the work status of a job indicated by the job information in the document management information based on information read from an RFID tag by a reader device associated with the job information in the document management information.

[0113] As a result, according to the embodiment, not only the management of documents having RFID tags but also the management of jobs using documents having RFID tags can be collectively performed. Also, according to the embodiment, the work status of a job using a document having an RFID tag can be managed by having an RFID reader read the RFID of the document.

[0114] In addition, the management server according to the embodiment can notify a predetermined notification destination of the work status of a job indicated by job information in the document management information stored in the memory, thereby making it possible to appropriately notify a user or an administrator of the status of a job using a document equipped with an RFID tag.

[0115] Furthermore, when the deadline for a document has passed without all jobs in the document management information being completed, the management server can notify a predetermined notification destination that the deadline for the document has passed. As a result, according to the embodiment, it is possible to prompt a user or an administrator to take action regarding documents that have passed the deadline and jobs that use the documents.

[0116] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] S...document, 1...document management system, 2...management server, 3...digital multifunction device (image forming device), 4...terminal device, 5 (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d)...RFID reader, 12...scanner, 13...printer, 14...operation panel, 15...system control unit, 16...RFID device, 23...conveyor system (conveyor mechanism), 50...processor, 51...memory, 52...image memory, 53...image processing unit, 54...storage device, 55...communication interface, 71...processor, 72...system memory, 73...memory unit, 74...communication unit.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus including a printer that prints an image on a medium and a reader / writer that writes data to an electronic device that the medium is provided with, and a communication interface that communicates with a reader that reads data from the electronic device; a memory for storing document management information including job information indicating a job to be performed using a document whose data has been written by the reader / writer to an electronic device of a medium on which an image has been printed by the printer in the image forming apparatus; a processor that updates information indicating a work status of a job indicated by job information in the document management information based on read information of an electronic device included in the document by the reader device; A management server having:

2. The processor records a creation date and time when the image forming device created the document in the document management information. The management server according to claim 1 .

3. The processor records a reading date and time when a reader device corresponding to a job indicated by job information in the document management information reads an electronic device of the document. The management server according to claim 1 .

4. The communication interface further communicates with a terminal device that is a predetermined notification destination; the processor notifies the predetermined notification destination of the work status of the job indicated by the job information in the document management information; The management server according to claim 1 .

5. The communication interface further communicates with a terminal device that is a predetermined notification destination; the processor notifies the predetermined notification destination that the deadline for the document has passed when all jobs indicated by the job information in the document management information have not been completed and the deadline has passed. The management server according to claim 1 .

6. a printer for printing an image on a medium; a reader / writer for writing data to an electronic device provided with the medium; a memory for storing document management information including job information related to a job to be performed using a document whose data has been written by the reader / writer in an electronic device provided with a medium on which an image has been printed by the printer; a communication interface that corresponds to a job indicated by job information in the document management information and communicates with a reader device that reads an electronic device included in the document; a processor that updates information indicating a work status of a job indicated by job information in the document management information based on read information of an electronic device included in the document by the reader device; An image forming apparatus comprising:

Images