Information processing system and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system which is used for printing processing without making a user use a screen provided on an image formation device, and can make a tray specified in printing data and paper information associated with each other.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes a processor, wherein the processor registers a plurality of pieces of corresponding information indicating a correspondence between a tray and paper information on paper, and registration information in which at least the one corresponding information among the plurality of pieces of corresponding information and identification information are associated with each other, when the identification information included in received printing data coincides with the identification information of the registration information, and the paper information based on the registration information of the coincident identification information is set to a tray used for printing processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an information processing device that includes a storage means for storing first paper attribute information that defines attributes of paper for a tray that stores paper, and second paper attribute information that defines attributes of the paper for a tray that stores paper and is valid only for a predetermined period of time, a selection means for selecting paper attribute information specified by a user from the first and second paper attribute information stored in the storage means, an image forming control means for controlling the formation of an image in accordance with the paper attribute information selected by the selection means, and a storage control means for controlling the storage of the second paper attribute information as the first paper attribute information in the storage means and the erasure of the second paper attribute information from the storage means when the number of times the second paper attribute information has been used by the image forming control means reaches a predetermined number of times.

[0003] Patent document 2 discloses an image forming apparatus characterized by having a receiving means for receiving a print job, a setting means for setting paper in a paper feed section based on the instruction information if the print job includes instruction information for instructing paper settings in a paper feed section, and an execution means for executing printing based on the print job.

[0004] Patent document 3 discloses an information processing device characterized by having an attribute combination storage means for storing combinations of multiple attribute values ​​related to recording paper, a group storage means for storing multiple combinations of the multiple attribute values ​​as groups, and an assignment means for assigning, within the group, to each recording paper storage means for storing recording paper provided in an image forming device, a combination of the multiple attribute values ​​that matches the specifications of the recording paper storage means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-062929 A [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2022-021843 [Patent Document 3] JP 2011-113146 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] There is an image forming device that executes a print process for one print data to be printed using one or more types of paper. A user associates a tray to be used in the print process with paper information related to the type of paper contained in the tray, and outputs the print data to the image forming device. Here, when there are many trays and types of paper to be used in the print process, the above association requires a lot of time and effort.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing system that enables a user to perform printing processing using paper information related to a tray specified in the print data without using a screen provided on an image forming device when outputting print data. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, an information processing system according to a first aspect includes a processor, which registers a plurality of pieces of correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship between a tray and paper information relating to paper, and registration information that associates at least one of the plurality of pieces of correspondence information with identification information, and when the identification information included in the received printing data matches the identification information of the registration information, performs printing processing using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information.

[0009] In addition, in an information processing system according to a second aspect, in the information processing system according to the first aspect, if the identification information included in the print data does not match the identification information in the registration information, the processor associates the identification information included in the print data with the corresponding information regarding the tray to be used for the printing process and registers them as new registration information.

[0010] In addition, in an information processing system according to a third aspect, in the information processing system according to the first aspect, when identification information contained in printing data received within a predetermined period after at least one of the multiple correspondence information is updated matches identification information in the registered information, the processor executes the printing process using the paper information based on the updated correspondence information.

[0011] In addition, in an information processing system according to a fourth aspect, in the information processing system according to the third aspect, when a setting regarding overwrite is enabled, the processor overwrites the correspondence information in the registration information of the matching identification information with the updated correspondence information.

[0012] In addition, in an information processing system according to a fifth aspect, in the information processing system according to the first aspect, when identification information included in the print data matches identification information in the registration information, and when the trays to be used for the print process include an additional tray, the processor performs the print process using paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information for trays other than the additional tray, and using paper information based on the correspondence information for the additional tray for the additional tray.

[0013] In addition, in an information processing system according to a sixth aspect, in the information processing system according to the fifth aspect, the processor updates registration information of the matching identification information so as to add the corresponding information regarding the additional tray.

[0014] In addition, an information processing system according to a seventh aspect is an information processing system according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, in which identification information included in the print data is assigned to a name of the print data or a parameter of the print data.

[0015] In addition, an information processing program according to an eighth aspect causes a computer to execute processing including registering a plurality of pieces of correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship between trays and paper information relating to paper, and registration information that associates at least one of the plurality of pieces of correspondence information with identification information, and when the identification information included in the received printing data matches the identification information of the registration information, executing a printing process using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information. Effect of the Invention

[0016] According to the first and eighth aspects, an advantage is achieved in that a user can execute a printing process by associating a tray specified in print data with paper information without using a screen provided on the image forming device.

[0017] According to the second aspect, even if identification information is not assigned to the print data, the user can execute the print process by associating the tray and paper information specified in the print data to be used for the print process without using a screen provided on the image forming device.

[0018] According to the third aspect, in a printing process of print data to which identification information has been assigned, if the correspondence information is updated immediately before the printing process, the printing process can be executed using the latest correspondence information.

[0019] According to the fourth aspect, there is an effect that the registered information can be updated without the user's intervention.

[0020] According to the fifth aspect, there is an effect that the user can execute the print process by associating paper information with a tray added in the print data without using a screen provided in the image forming apparatus.

[0021] According to the sixth aspect, there is an advantage that the user can update the correspondence between the added tray and the paper information so that it is automatically added to the registration information without using a screen provided on the image forming apparatus.

[0022] According to the seventh aspect, there is an effect that the location where the identification information is set can be designated according to the user's preference. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an outline of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating details of correspondence information registered in a storage unit of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a main screen displayed on a user interface. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a setting screen that is displayed on a user interface when an icon is selected. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a user interface when "Library" is selected. [Figure 7] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a user interface when "recommended paper information list" is selected. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a user interface when "Create new" is selected. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of updated correspondence information. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a main part of a PC and a server. [Figure 11] 6 is a flowchart showing an operation of a server when outputting print data to an image forming apparatus. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a print information setting screen displayed on a display unit of a PC. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a management table stored in a storage unit of the image forming apparatus; [Figure 14] 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of an updated management table. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] First, an overview of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0026] This embodiment includes an image forming apparatus 10, a PC (Personal Computer) 20, and a network 30. A print setting system is provided on the network 30 by a server 40. The image forming apparatus 10, the PC 20, and the server 40 are each connected via various communication lines.

[0027] 1 is an example. The present embodiment may be configured, for example, with only the image forming apparatus 10 and the PC 20. In this case, the print setting system provided by the server 40 may be provided in the PC 20 in advance.

[0028] The image forming apparatus 10 is an example of an "information processing system." The information processing system may be a single device or may be configured using multiple devices. The image forming apparatus 10 includes an in-house image forming apparatus that performs copying processes for in-house documents and printing processes for documents generated in clerical work, etc., as well as a production image forming apparatus (production printer) that performs printing processes on various types of paper.

[0029] According to this embodiment, the user can set print information for data to be printed in the print setting system. The print data including the set print information and data is output to the image forming device 10 by, for example, the server 40. The setting of the print information will be described in detail later (see FIG. 12).

[0030] Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0032] 2 includes a processor 10A, a document reading unit 10B, an image processing unit 10C, an image forming unit 10D, a display unit 10E, an operation unit 10F, a storage unit 10G, a paper feed unit 10H, a discharge unit 10I, and a communication unit 10J. The processor 10A includes a CPU 10a, a ROM 10b, a RAM 10c, a non-volatile memory 10d, and an input / output interface (I / O) 10e.

[0033] The processor 10A is a central processing unit, and reads out an information processing program 100 and various other programs from at least one of the ROM 10b, the non-volatile memory 10d, and the storage unit 10G. Details of the information processing program 100 will be described later (see FIGS. 14 and 15). The processor 10A uses the RAM 10c as a working area and executes the read programs to control the image forming apparatus 10.

[0034] The CPU 10a, the ROM 10b, the RAM 12c, and the non-volatile memory 10d are connected to an I / O unit 10e via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0035] The document reading unit 10B includes, for example, a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) image sensor for performing document reading processing, and is realized by, for example, an image scanner.

[0036] The image processing unit 10C executes image processing for generating an original image from the original read by the original reading unit 10B.

[0037] The image forming unit 10D executes an image forming process including a printing process for printing on paper an original image generated by the image forming unit 10D or an image based on the received print data, for example, using an electrophotographic method or an inkjet recording method.

[0038] The display unit 10E is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, etc. Information and the like corresponding to user operations and processes of the image forming apparatus 10 are displayed on the display unit 10E.

[0039] The operation unit 10F includes operation keys, operation buttons, a power button, and the like provided on the image forming apparatus 10. The operation unit 10F and the display unit 10E may be integrated into one unit, for example, a touch panel. Hereinafter, the display unit 10E and the operation unit 10F are collectively referred to as a user interface 10K.

[0040] The storage unit 10G is configured by, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The storage unit 10G stores, for example, an information processing program 100, correspondence information 60, a management table 300, and various programs. Details of the information processing program 100, the correspondence information 60, and the management table 300 will be described later.

[0041] The paper feed unit 10H includes a plurality of trays that accommodate a plurality of types of paper in a one-to-one correspondence. Although tray 1, tray 2, tray 3, and tray 4 are shown in Fig. 2 as representatives, the number of trays is not limited to this example.

[0042] In the discharge section 10I, for example, printed matter generated by a printing process is accumulated.

[0043] The communication unit 10J is an interface for communicatively connecting with the server 40, the PC 20, etc. For the communication unit 10J, a communication standard such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or LAN (Local Area Network) is used.

[0044] Processor 10A, document reading unit 10B, image processing unit 10C, image forming unit 10D, display unit 10E, operation unit 10F, memory unit 10G, paper feed unit 10H, discharge unit 10I, and communication unit 10J are electrically connected by a system bus.

[0045] The image forming apparatus 10 may be provided with a component (not shown) for realizing a function of binding printed materials, such as saddle stitching, and a function of sorting printed materials.

[0046] Here, the correspondence information 60 stored in the memory unit 10G will be described. A plurality of trays provided in the paper feed unit 10H of this embodiment accommodate a plurality of types of paper in a one-to-one relationship. The user associates each tray with "paper information" indicating information such as the type of paper accommodated in each tray, and registers the correspondence in advance in the memory unit 10G. The correspondence between the tray and the paper information of the paper accommodated in the tray, which is registered in advance by the user, is called "correspondence information." The correspondence information is registered for each correspondence between the tray and the paper information. The correspondence information 60 is a collective term for a plurality of pieces of correspondence information.

[0047] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the details of the correspondence information 60 registered in the storage unit 10G. For example, when a user places paper of "plain paper", "uncoated", "B5 size", and "thickness 90 g / m2" in the tray 1, the correspondence between the paper information of the paper and the tray 1 is registered in the storage unit 10G as the correspondence information A. The paper information may include the name of the paper determined by the user, for example. For example, when the name of the paper of "plain paper", "uncoated", "B5 size", and "thickness 90 g / m2" placed in the tray 1 is set as "paper A", "paper A" is also included in the paper information. The registration of the correspondence information is performed by operating the user interface 10K.

[0048] The registration of the correspondence information 60 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0049] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a main screen displayed on the user interface 10K. The main screen 500 shown in Fig. 4 is provided with icons indicating trays. The icon indicating the tray in which paper is stored displays paper information based on the registered correspondence information. For example, the icon 502 indicating tray 1 displays the paper information of the correspondence information A of the correspondence information 60 shown in Fig. 3. The user can check from the main screen 500 what paper is stored in each tray.

[0050] When a user places new paper in a tray that does not contain paper or when replacing paper placed in a tray, the user can associate new paper information with the target tray. Specifically, on the main screen 500 shown in FIG. 4, the icon of the target tray is selected and settings related to the association of paper information are performed. This allows new paper information to be associated with the target tray. According to this setting, new association information is registered in the storage unit 10G. When the user replaces paper A placed in tray 1 with another paper, the user selects icon 502 on the main screen 500. The processor 10A displays a screen required for registering association information on the user interface 10K according to the selected icon.

[0051] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a setting screen 510 that is displayed on the user interface 10K when the icon 502 shown in Fig. 4 is selected. In the setting screen 510, the user can select, for example, one of the icons shown in item 512, and set paper information for tray 1. Note that by providing an object 514 or the like on the setting screen 510, the user can check which tray the setting is currently being made for, etc.

[0052] When "Library" of item 512 is selected on setting screen 510 shown in Fig. 5, processor 10A displays screen 520 shown in Fig. 6 on user interface 10K. Screen 520 displays a list of paper information registered in advance in image forming apparatus 10. When setting paper information for tray 1 using paper information registered in advance in image forming apparatus 10, the user can select the target paper information from the list of paper information shown on screen 520 and set the paper information for tray 1.

[0053] 5, when item 512 "recommended paper information list" is selected, processor 10A displays screen 530 shown in FIG. 7 on user interface 10K. Screen 530 displays, for example, a list of frequently used paper information. The user can select target paper information from the list of recommended paper information displayed on screen 530, and set the paper information for tray 1.

[0054] Furthermore, when "Create New" is selected for item 512 on setting screen 510 shown in Fig. 5, processor 10A displays screen 540 shown in Fig. 8 on user interface 10K. On screen 540, new paper information for tray 1 can be created. For example, when storing paper in tray 1 that has paper information that is not in the "library" or "recommended paper information list", the user registers new paper information on screen 540. The newly created paper information may be registered, for example, as paper information to be displayed in the library list.

[0055] In this manner, for example, when the paper stored in a tray is changed and new paper information is set for the tray, the correspondence information 60 is updated as shown in Fig. 9. Fig. 9 shows an example in which the correspondence information A of the correspondence information 60 shown in Fig. 3 is updated by registering the correspondence between the newly created paper information and tray 1 in Fig. 8.

[0056] Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the PC 20 and the server 40. Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the PC 20 and the server 40. Note that since the PC 20 and the server 40 have a general computer configuration, the following description will be given by taking the server 40 as a representative.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 10, the server 40 according to the present embodiment includes a processor 40A, a display unit 40B, an operation unit 40C, a storage unit 40D, and a communication unit 40E. The processor 40A includes a central processing unit (CPU) 40a, a read only memory (ROM) 40b, a random access memory (RAM) 40c, a non-volatile memory 40d, and an input / output interface (I / O) 40e, and controls the overall operation of the server 40. For example, the ROM 40b stores various control programs and various parameters in advance. The RAM 40c is used as a work area when the CPU 40a executes various programs. The storage unit 40D stores a print setting program (not shown), various data, application programs, and the like. The operation unit 40C is used to input various information. The display unit 40B is used to display various information. The communication unit 40E is an interface for transmitting and receiving various data to and from external devices such as the PC 20 and the image forming device 10. The communication unit 40E may be configured to be capable of directly communicating with each device using short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The above-mentioned components of the server 40 are electrically connected to each other via a system bus.

[0058] In the above description, storage unit 40D is described as storing a print setting program, but the print setting program does not have to be stored in storage unit 20D of PC 20. Also, for example, in a configuration in which PC 20 is not connected to server 40, storage unit 20D may store the print setting program.

[0059] Next, the operation of the server 40 when outputting print data to the image forming device 10 will be described. In this embodiment, the output of print data when performing print processing using multiple types of paper will be described, but the print data may be a single page. Here, the print data when performing print processing using multiple types of paper is, for example, print data for bookbinding. In the print processing of print data for bookbinding, the type of paper is changed according to the page, such as the cover page, inner cover page, body page, etc., and the print processing is performed.

[0060] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server 40 when outputting print data to the image forming apparatus 10. Note that the process shown in Fig. 11 is executed by the server 40, which has received an instruction from the PC 20 to start the print setting program, starting the print setting program.

[0061] In step S100, the processor 40A sets print information for the data to be printed. Here, the print information is information in which parameters necessary for the print processing of the data are specified. The print information is set by the user on the print information setting screen 600 shown in FIG. 12, which is displayed on the display unit 10E, for example.

[0062] The user can specify parameters for each item shown on the print information setting screen 600. For example, in item 204 on the print information setting screen 600, the user can specify a tray to be used for print processing. The image forming apparatus 10 acquires information on the tray specified in the print information, transports paper from the specified tray, and executes print processing on the paper. Hereinafter, the tray specified in the print information is referred to as a "specified tray." When performing print processing using multiple types of paper, for example, a parameter item indicating a page range is specified in the print information setting, and a tray is further specified for each range.

[0063] In step S102, the processor 40A determines whether or not the identification information has been received. The identification information is information that is set in the print information setting screen 600. FIG. 12 shows an example in which the identification information "XYZ" is set in the item 221 of the print information setting screen 600. When the identification information is set in the print information, the processor 40A determines that the identification information has been received. The character string of the identification information is appropriately determined by the user. Also, FIG. 12 shows an example in which the identification information is set in the item 221, but the identification information may be set in other parameters without being limited to this example. For example, the identification information may be set in the parameter of the job name of the item 200 as "XXXX print_album@XYZ". It may be determined in advance which item's parameter the identification information is set in.

[0064] If the identification information is set on the print information setting screen 600 (YES in step S102), the processor 40A executes the process of step S104. If the identification information is not set on the print information setting screen 600 (NO in step S102), the processor 40A executes the process of step S106.

[0065] In step S104, the processor 40A outputs the print data with the identification information to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0066] In step S106, the processor 40A outputs to the image forming apparatus 10 the print data for which no identification information is set.

[0067] In the case of a configuration that does not include the server 40, the process shown in Fig. 11 may be executed by the processor 20A. Note that, in the above setting of the printing information, the process of specifying a tray in the printing information has been described, but a configuration in which paper information is specified instead of a tray may also be used.

[0068] The identification information and the like set in the print information are registered in the management table 300 of the storage unit 10G.

[0069] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a management table 300 stored in the storage unit 10G of the image forming apparatus 10. In the printing information, for example, tray 1, tray 2, and tray 3 are set as the designated trays, and the identification information "XYZ" is set, "XYZ" is registered in the identification information field in the management table 300. In addition, in the designated tray field and the paper information field, a collection of corresponding information related to each designated tray is registered based on the corresponding information 60 registered in advance in the storage unit 10G. That is, at least one piece of paper information is registered in the management table 300 as one piece of registered information for one piece of identification information. Specifically, for printing information in which "XYZ" is set as the identification information and tray 1, tray 2, and tray 3 are set as the designated trays, for example, the information of the corresponding information A, the corresponding information B, and the corresponding information C shown in FIG. 3 are registered as the registered information 1. In addition, in the management table 300 of FIG. 13, the name of the paper is shown as the paper information. In addition, in the case where the paper information is specified in the printing information, for example, corresponding information based on the specified paper information is registered.

[0070] As described above, a set of identification information set in one piece of print information and at least one piece of corresponding information is registered in the management table 300 as one piece of registration information.

[0071] The registration information may be registered in advance by a user. For example, in the user interface 10K, the user can register the identification information "XYZZZ", the correspondence information D shown in FIG. 3, and the correspondence information related to the tray 5 (not shown) in the management table 300 as the registration information 2. As described above, the user can register the identification information and at least one piece of correspondence information in the management table 300 as one piece of registration information. Thereby, when performing a print process using registered paper information, the user can set the registered identification information to the print information, thereby performing the print process without setting the paper information for the specified tray. In addition, by registering the association between the tray and the paper information using the identification information, the setting of the paper information for the specified tray can be reused.

[0072] The management table 300 also stores information that was previously registered by a user or information registered by print data with identification information that was previously accepted. For example, the registered information 3 in Fig. 13 indicates the registered information that was registered when the paper F was stored in the tray 1.

[0073] Next, a process of the image forming apparatus 10 that has received the print data will be described.

[0074] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus 10. The process shown in Fig. 14 starts when the information processing program 100 is started when the image forming apparatus 10 accepts print data.

[0075] In step S200, the processor 10A receives print data.

[0076] In step S202, processor 10A determines whether identification information is added to the received print data. If print data with identification information is received (YES in step S202), processor 10A executes the process of step S204. If print data without identification information is received (NO in step S202), processor 10A executes the process of step S210.

[0077] In step S204, the processor 10A determines whether the identification information of any of the registration information registered in the management table 300 matches the identification information added to the print data. If they match (YES in step S204), the processor 10A executes the process of step S208. If they do not match (NO in step S204), the processor 10A executes the process of step S206.

[0078] In step S206, the processor 10A associates the identification information assigned to the print data with the corresponding information related to the specified tray, and registers the association as new registration information in the management table 300. When paper information is specified in the print information, new registration information associated with the corresponding information related to the specified paper information is registered in the management table 300.

[0079] In step S208, the processor 10A associates the paper information with the specified tray using the registration information registered in the management table 300, and executes the print processing of the print data. Note that when paper information is specified in the print information, the tray is associated with the specified paper information based on, for example, the registration information, and the print processing is executed.

[0080] In step S210, the processor 10A associates the paper information with the specified tray using the preregistered correspondence information 60, and executes the print processing of the print data. When paper information is specified in the print information, the tray is associated with the specified paper information based on the correspondence information 60, and the print processing is executed.

[0081] According to steps S208 and S210, the printing process of the data is executed on the paper conveyed from the designated tray based on the printing information of the print data.

[0082] By the above process, when executing a print process for print data, the user can execute the print process without having to associate the designated tray with the paper information on the user interface 10K every time the print process is executed. Also, by adding identification information that has not yet been registered to the print information, the user can register new registration information in the management table 300 without operating the user interface 10K.

[0083] When the correspondence information 60 is updated due to, for example, changing the paper stored in the tray, the image forming apparatus 10 may execute the process shown in FIG.

[0084] Fig. 15 is a flow chart showing another example of the operation of the processing by the image forming apparatus 10. In the processing shown in Fig. 15, the same processes as those shown in Fig. 14 are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0085] In step S300, the processor 10A determines whether or not at least one piece of correspondence information 60 has been updated within a certain period of time from the time when the print data is received. The certain period of time is a predetermined time. For example, if at least one piece of correspondence information 60 has been updated within 15 minutes of receiving the print data, for example, due to the paper stored in any of the trays being replaced, the determination is positive.

[0086] If the correspondence information 60 is updated during the fixed period (YES in step S300), the processor 10A executes the process of step S302. If the correspondence information 60 is not updated during the fixed period (NO in step S300), the processor 10A executes the process of step S202.

[0087] In step S302, processor 10A determines whether identification information is added to the received print data. If print data with identification information is received (YES in step S302), processor 10A executes the process of step S304. If print data without identification information is received (NO in step S302), processor 10A executes the process of step S312.

[0088] In step S304, the processor 10A determines whether the identification information of any of the registration information registered in the management table 300 matches the identification information added to the print data. If they match (YES in step S304), the processor 10A executes the process of step S306. If they do not match (NO in step S304), the processor 10A executes the process of step S310.

[0089] In step S306, the processor 10A determines whether or not the setting regarding overwriting of registered information is valid in the print information. Whether or not the overwrite setting is valid is determined, for example, by whether or not the item 222 is selected on the print information setting screen 600 shown in FIG. 12. If the item 222 is selected, the processor 10A determines that the overwrite setting is valid. If the item 222 is selected (YES in step S306), the processor 10A executes the process of step S308. If the item 222 is not selected (NO in step S306), the processor 10A executes the process of step S312.

[0090] In step S308, processor 10A updates the corresponding information in the registration information of the identification information that matches the identification information assigned to the print data in management table 300, using the updated corresponding information 60. For example, when identification information "XYZ" is assigned to the print data, if the paper information for tray 1 of the specified tray is updated according to the example of Fig. 8, registration information 1 in management table 300 is updated as shown in Fig. 16. More specifically, "Paper A" in the paper information for tray 1 in registration information 1 in Fig. 13 is updated to "Paper M" and registered in Fig. 16 because correspondence information 60 has been updated according to the settings shown in Fig. 8.

[0091] In step S310, the processor 10A associates the identification information given to the print data with the correspondence information using the updated correspondence information 60, and registers the association information in the management table 300 as new registration information.

[0092] In step S312, processor 10A executes the print process using the paper information of the newly registered registration information according to the updated correspondence information 60, or the updated registration information in management table 300. That is, in step S312, the paper information according to the updated correspondence information 60 is associated with the specified tray, and the print process is executed. Note that, when paper information is specified in the print information, the tray is associated with the specified paper information based on the registration information, for example, and the print process is executed.

[0093] In step S314, processor 10A executes the print process using the paper information in updated correspondence information 60. In particular, the registration information in management table 300 is not updated, and the print process is executed by associating the paper information in updated correspondence information 60 with the specified tray. Note that, if paper information is specified in the print information, the print process is executed by associating the tray with the specified paper information using updated correspondence information 60.

[0094] According to the above example, when print data with identification information is received, even if the correspondence information 60 is updated immediately before the print data is received, the print process can be executed using the paper information in the updated correspondence information 60. When paper information is specified in the print information, the print process can be executed using the tray in the updated correspondence information 60. With the above process, even if the correspondence information is updated immediately before the print process of the print data, the user can update the registration information in the management table 300 without operating the user interface 10K. Also, the user can execute the print process using the updated correspondence information 60 without operating the user interface 10K.

[0095] When setting the print information of the print data with the identification information, the user can further set to add a designated tray in the setting of the print information shown in FIG. 12. In detail, assume that, for example, tray 1, tray 2, tray 3, and tray 8 are set as the designated trays in the print information, and furthermore, the identification information "XYZ" is set. When the image forming device 10 receives the print data including such print information, the processor 10A associates the paper information with the trays 1, 2, and 3 using, for example, the registration information 1 in the management table 300 shown in FIG. 13. Since the paper information in the registration information 1 cannot be used for the tray 8 of the designated trays, the processor 10A uses the correspondence information related to the additional tray among the predetermined correspondence information 60 for the tray 8.

[0096] As in the above process, when identification information is specified in setting the printing information, a tray that is not registered in the registration information having identification information that matches the identification information in management table 300 can be set as the designated tray for that printing information. A newly added designated tray that is not registered in the registration information including matching identification information in management table 300 in this way is called an "additional tray."

[0097] When the identification information of any of the registration information registered in the management table 300 matches the identification information assigned to the printing information, and when an additional tray is set in the printing information, the processor 10A can update the registration information having the matching identification information so as to add corresponding information regarding the additional tray to the registration information. This process may be performed, for example, when the determination in the process of step S306 is affirmative. With the above process, when an additional tray is specified, the user can update the registration information in the management table 300 without operating the user interface 10K. Also, the user can execute the printing process using the additional tray without operating the user interface 10K.

[0098] Although the embodiments have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. Various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the gist of the invention, and the modifications or improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0099] Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiments do not limit the disclosure of the claims, and not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention. The above-mentioned embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions are extracted by combining the multiple constituent elements disclosed. Even if some constituent elements are deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiments, as long as the effect is obtained, the configuration from which these several constituent elements are deleted can be extracted as an invention.

[0100] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0101] In addition, the operations of the processor in each of the above embodiments may be performed not only by one processor, but also by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0102] In the present embodiment, the information processing program is installed in the storage unit 10G, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present embodiment, the print setting program is installed in the storage unit 40D, but the present invention is not limited to this. The information processing program 100 and the print setting program according to the present embodiment may be provided in a form recorded in a computer-readable storage medium. For example, the application program according to the present embodiment may be provided in a form recorded in an optical disc such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM, or in a semiconductor memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and a memory card. In addition, the information processing program 100 and the print setting program according to the present embodiment may be obtained from an external device via the communication unit 10J, 20E, or 40E.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the processing in the image forming device 10 and the server 40 is realized by a software configuration using a computer by executing a program, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the information processing may be realized by a hardware configuration or a combination of a hardware configuration and a software configuration.

[0104] In addition, the configurations of the image forming device 10, the PC 20, and the server 40 described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted or new parts may be added without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0105] Furthermore, the processing flow of the information processing program 100 and the print setting program described in the above embodiment (see Figures 11, 14, and 15) is also an example, and it goes without saying that unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0106] Furthermore, each display screen described in the above embodiment (see Figures 4-8) is also an example, and it goes without saying that design changes may be made, such as deleting unnecessary elements, adding new elements, changing the arrangement of elements within an image, enlarging or reducing elements, etc., within the scope of the gist of this disclosure.

[0107] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[0108] (((1))) A processor is included. The processor, registering a plurality of pieces of correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship between the tray and paper information relating to the paper, and registration information in which at least one of the plurality of pieces of correspondence information is associated with identification information; If the identification information included in the received print data matches the identification information of the registration information, a print process is executed using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information. Information processing system. (((2))) The processor, if the identification information included in the print data does not match the identification information of the registration information, the identification information included in the print data is associated with the corresponding information on the tray to be used for the print process, and the associated information is registered as new registration information. 1. An information processing system as described in (((1))). (((3))) The processor, and executing the printing process using the paper information based on the updated correspondence information when identification information included in the print data received within a predetermined period after at least one of the plurality of correspondence information is updated matches identification information of the registered information. 2. An information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information processing system is a system for processing information according to any one of claims 1 to 10. (((4))) The processor, When the setting regarding overwriting is enabled, the corresponding information in the registration information of the matching identification information is overwritten with the updated corresponding information. The information processing system according to (((3))). (((5))) The processor, When the identification information included in the print data matches the identification information of the registration information, if the trays used in the print process include an additional tray, the print process is executed using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information for trays other than the additional tray, and using the paper information based on the correspondence information for the additional tray for the additional tray. 13. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 20. (((6))) The processor, updating the registration information of the matching identification information to add the corresponding information regarding the additional tray; The information processing system according to (((5))). (((7))) The identification information included in the print data is given to a name of the print data or a parameter of the print data. 13. An information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. (((8))) On the computer, registering a plurality of pieces of correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship between the tray and paper information related to the paper, and registration information in which at least one of the plurality of pieces of correspondence information is associated with identification information; If the identification information included in the received print data matches the identification information of the registration information, a print process is executed using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information. An information processing program that causes a process to be performed including the above.

[0109] According to (((1))) and (((8))), the effect is that a user can execute printing processing by associating a tray specified in print data with paper information without using a screen provided on the image forming device. According to (((2))), even if identification information is not assigned to the print data, the user can execute the print process by associating the tray and paper information specified in the print data used for the print process without using a screen provided on the image forming device. According to (((3))), in the printing process of print data to which identification information has been assigned, if the correspondence information is updated immediately before the printing process, the printing process can be executed using the latest correspondence information. According to (((4))), there is an advantage that the registered information can be updated without the user's intervention. According to (((5))), there is an advantage that the user can execute the printing process by associating paper information with a tray added in the print data without using a screen provided on the image forming device. According to (((6))), there is an advantage that the user can automatically update the correspondence between the added tray and the paper information to be added to the registration information without using a screen provided on the image forming device. According to (((7))), there is an advantage that the location where the identification information is set can be specified according to the user's preference. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 10: image forming apparatus, 20: PC, 40: server, 60: correspondence information, 100: information processing program, 300: management table.

Claims

1. A processor is included. The processor, registering a plurality of pieces of correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship between the tray and paper information relating to the paper, and registration information in which at least one of the plurality of pieces of correspondence information is associated with identification information; If the identification information included in the received print data matches the identification information of the registration information, a print process is executed using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information. Information processing system.

2. The processor, if the identification information included in the print data does not match the identification information of the registration information, the identification information included in the print data is associated with the corresponding information on the tray to be used for the print process, and the associated information is registered as new registration information.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1.

3. The processor, and executing the printing process using the paper information based on the updated correspondence information when identification information included in the print data received within a predetermined period after at least one of the plurality of correspondence information is updated matches identification information of the registered information. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

4. The processor, When the setting regarding overwriting is enabled, the corresponding information in the registration information of the matching identification information is overwritten with the updated corresponding information. The information processing system according to claim 3 .

5. The processor, When the identification information included in the print data matches the identification information in the registration information, if the tray used in the print process includes an additional tray, and executing the printing process for a tray other than the additional tray by using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information, and for the additional tray by using the paper information based on the correspondence information regarding the additional tray. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

6. The processor, updating the registration information of the matching identification information to add the corresponding information regarding the additional tray; 6. The information processing system according to claim 5.

7. The identification information included in the print data is given to a name of the print data or a parameter of the print data. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. On the computer, registering a plurality of pieces of correspondence information indicating a correspondence relationship between the tray and paper information related to the paper, and registration information in which at least one of the plurality of pieces of correspondence information is associated with identification information; If the identification information included in the received print data matches the identification information of the registration information, a print process is executed using the paper information based on the registration information of the matching identification information. An information processing program that causes a process to be performed including the above.

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