Image forming apparatus, control method for the same, and program

Abstract

To prevent an image forming apparatus from performing an operation that does not match the actual situation after shipment.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 101 permits the setting and execution of jobs as an exception when a license is not granted and prohibits the setting and execution of jobs when the setting and execution of jobs is permitted as an exception.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a control method for an image forming apparatus, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes that a license is granted to an image forming apparatus after it is shipped from a factory, and the image forming apparatus performs printing at a printing speed in accordance with the license. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-5005 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, if a license is not granted to an image forming device, the functions permitted by the license cannot be used, and therefore there is a risk that the image forming device cannot be operated in a manner appropriate to the actual conditions after shipment. The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has an object to prevent an image forming apparatus from performing operations that are not suited to the actual conditions after shipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The image forming apparatus of the present invention is an image forming apparatus having a control means that performs control based on a license that permits the use of a function possessed by the image forming apparatus, and the control means is characterized in that it performs the following: exceptionally permitting use of the function when the license has not been granted, and prohibiting use of the function when use of the function is exceptionally permitted. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the image forming apparatus from performing operations that are not suited to the actual conditions after shipment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] 6 is a flowchart showing a process performed by the image forming apparatus at the time of startup. [Figure 4A] 4A and 4B are diagrams showing a home screen and a copy setting screen. [Figure 4B] FIG. 13 illustrates a job restriction screen. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing a license acceptance process. [Figure 6] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing screens displayed in the license acceptance process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for controlling a job. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing a process for restricting a job based on an elapsed time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image forming apparatus 101. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 101 includes a controller unit 102, a display unit 103, an operation unit 104, a printer unit 105, and a scanner unit .

[0009] Display unit 103 displays the contents of user operations and internal information of image forming apparatus 101. Display unit 103 includes, for example, a light emitting element (for example, an LED) and a computer display (for example, a liquid crystal display).

[0010] The operation unit 104 accepts operations from a user. The operation unit 104 has, for example, a plurality of operation buttons. The operation unit 104 may be realized as a touch display together with the display unit 103. In this embodiment, a case where a predetermined operation is performed on an operation button of the operation unit 104, and processing in a provisional startup mode described later is started is illustrated as an example.

[0011] The controller unit 102 includes, for example, a CPU 107, a ROM 108, a RAM 109, a HDD 110, an EEPROM 111, and a network I / F 112. The CPU 107 is an execution medium for a control program built into the image forming apparatus 101. The CPU 107 controls the operation of devices connected to the controller unit 102 via each I / F and memory of a storage medium. The image forming apparatus 101 may include another processor (e.g., a GPU) in addition to or instead of the CPU 107. The image forming apparatus 101 may also include one or more dedicated hardware pieces different from the CPU 107. At least a part of the processing by the CPU 107 may be executed by the dedicated hardware. Examples of the dedicated hardware include an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

[0012] ROM 108 is a read-only memory. ROM 108 stores a boot program and the like required for starting up the system. RAM 109 is a volatile memory. RAM 109 is a work memory required when executing a control program. HDD 110 is a storage medium such as a magnetic disk. HDD 110 stores the control program, image data, and the like. EEPROM 111 is a non-volatile memory. EEPROM 111 stores setting values ​​and the like required when executing the control program.

[0013] The printer unit 105 receives a print instruction from the controller unit 102, and prints on paper the image data transmitted from the controller unit 102. The scanner unit 106 receives a read instruction from the controller unit 102, optically reads information displayed on paper, and transmits image data based on the read information to the controller unit 102.

[0014] Here, an overview of this embodiment will be described. The image forming apparatus 101 of the present embodiment performs control based on a license that permits the use of functions possessed by the image forming apparatus 101. In this embodiment, a case where the license is a license that permits execution of a job including a print job is exemplified. In addition, in this embodiment, a case where the license is a license that specifies a print speed is exemplified. As described later, in this embodiment, a case where 0 (zero) is set as the print speed in the image forming apparatus 101 at the time of shipment from the factory is exemplified (therefore, the initial value of the print speed is 0 (zero)). Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 cannot perform printing unless a license is granted. By being granted a license, the image forming apparatus 101 can print paper at the print speed specified by the license. Note that granting a license refers to, for example, inputting a correct license key by operating the operation unit 104, and registering in the image forming apparatus 101 that it is possible to print at the print speed specified by the license. Whether or not the license key is correct may be determined by the image forming apparatus 101 or an external device.

[0015] If the printing speed can be changed after shipment from the factory by granting a license, the license can be provided to the user as a product, and the imbalance in inventory in the market can be eliminated. Also, if the image forming device is in a state where printing is not possible when it is shipped from the factory, printing can be enabled only after a license is granted to the image forming device.

[0016] On the other hand, for example, after shipment from a factory, a part used inside the image forming apparatus may need to be replaced, and so the part may be replaced. In that case, it may be necessary to check whether the image forming apparatus operates without any problems after the part replacement. Therefore, for example, it is conceivable to provide an image forming apparatus that is incapable of printing when shipped from a factory with a mode that allows printing, etc. to be performed exceptionally (provisionally) even if a license is not granted. In this way, convenience on the vendor side can be improved. Note that the vendor is, for example, a manufacturer, a distributor, or a maintenance company. An example of the mode is a provisional startup mode, which will be described later.

[0017] However, for example, if a user learns a method for enabling execution of processing in that mode, the user can cause the image forming device to perform operations such as printing without purchasing a license. Therefore, there is a risk that the image forming device will perform operations that do not match the reality of the situation in which only vendor-side workers or the like are permitted to exceptionally execute printing or the like even when a license is not granted (in other words, the user is not permitted to do so).

[0018] Therefore, in this embodiment, a case in which the image forming apparatus 101 operates as follows will be illustrated. First, in this embodiment, when a license is not granted to the image forming apparatus 101, a case is exemplified in which the setting and execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs are prohibited. Note that the jobs to be prohibited from being executed may be only some jobs (for example, at least one of print jobs and scan jobs) rather than all jobs. Also, the method of prohibiting the setting and execution of a job is not limited. For example, the image forming apparatus 101 may prohibit an operation of a GUI (for example, selection of an icon) for transitioning to a screen for setting a job and issuing an execution instruction. Also, the image forming apparatus 101 may be able to transition to a screen for setting a job and issuing an execution instruction, but may not allow the selection of a GUI (for example, a button) for setting a job, or may not allow the selection of a GUI (for example, a button) for issuing an execution instruction. Also, the image forming apparatus 101 may be able to select these GUIs, but may not execute a job. In this case, the image forming apparatus 101 may display a message on the display unit 103 indicating that the job cannot be executed because the license is not registered. Also, the image forming apparatus 101 may prohibit the execution of a job without prohibiting the setting of the job.

[0019] In addition, device settings that are not related to the job unit settings of a print job or a scan job may or may not be prohibited, similar to the setting and execution of a job. Examples of device settings that are not related to the job unit settings include image quality adjustment and network settings.

[0020] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 operates in the above-mentioned mode, and even if a license is not granted, the setting and execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs are exceptionally permitted. Note that the jobs permitted to be executed may not be all jobs, but only some jobs (for example, at least one of print jobs and scan jobs). Furthermore, the conditions for exceptionally permitting the setting and execution of a job are not limited. The condition may be that a predetermined operation has been performed on the operation unit 104. The condition may be that the image forming apparatus 101 has received a predetermined command. The command may be transmitted, for example, from a terminal carried by a vendor's worker, or from an information processing apparatus installed in a management center.

[0021] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when job setting and execution are exceptionally permitted (when the image forming apparatus 101 is operating in the above-mentioned mode), the case where execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs is prohibited is exemplified. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the image forming apparatus 101 from performing the above-mentioned operation that is not in line with the actual situation. Note that the jobs to be prohibited from being executed may be only some jobs (for example, at least one of print jobs and scan jobs) rather than all jobs. Furthermore, the method of prohibiting the setting and execution of a job is not limited. For example, the image forming apparatus 101 may prohibit the operation of a GUI (for example, selection of an icon) for transitioning to a screen for setting a job and issuing an execution instruction. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 101 may be able to transition to a screen for setting a job and issuing an execution instruction, but may not allow the selection of a GUI (for example, a button) for setting a job, or may not allow the selection of a GUI (for example, a button) for issuing an execution instruction. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 101 may be able to select these GUIs, but may not execute a job. In this case, the image forming apparatus 101 may display a message indicating that the job cannot be executed, together with the cause of the job not being executed, on the display unit 103. The image forming apparatus 101 may also prohibit the execution of the job without prohibiting the setting of the job.

[0022] In addition, device settings that are not related to the job unit settings of a print job or a scan job may or may not be prohibited, similar to the setting and execution of a job. Examples of device settings that are not related to the job unit settings include image quality adjustment and network settings.

[0023] The condition for prohibiting the setting and execution of a job when the setting and execution of the job is exceptionally permitted (when the image forming apparatus 101 is operating in the aforementioned mode) is not limited. The condition may be that a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 104. For example, the predetermined operation may be performed after a worker on the vendor's side checks the operation. The condition may be a condition determined based on the operation of the image forming apparatus 101 in the aforementioned mode. The operation may include at least one of counting performed by the image forming apparatus 101 in response to the execution of a job in the aforementioned mode and timing the period during which the image forming apparatus 101 is operating in the aforementioned mode. The counting performed in response to the execution of a job may be the number of printed sheets, the number of scanned sheets, or other items. In this embodiment, such a condition is an example of a predetermined stop condition. In addition, when the aforementioned mode is repeated at an interval, it is preferable that the aforementioned count value and timing value are accumulated. However, the aforementioned count value and timing value may be reset when the aforementioned mode ends.

[0024] As described above, when the setting and execution of a job is exceptionally permitted, the state in which the setting and execution of the job is prohibited may be released when a license is granted to the image forming apparatus 101 after the setting and execution of the job is prohibited. In this case, the state in which the setting and execution of the job is prohibited may be released when the image forming apparatus 101 is restarted, taking into consideration, for example, that the time required for part replacement is long and that the number of printed sheets for operation check is large. In this case, the state in which the setting and execution of the job is prohibited may be released when the image forming apparatus 101 is restarted. In this case, the state in which the setting and execution of the job is prohibited may be released when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 104, even if the image forming apparatus 101 is not licensed. In this case, the state in which the setting and execution of the job is prohibited may be released when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 104. In this case, the state in which the setting and execution of the job is prohibited may be released when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 104.

[0025] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified where the setting and execution of a job is prohibited in a state where the power required for setting and executing the job is supplied to the image forming apparatus 101 (a state where the power is ON). However, this is not necessarily required. For example, the image forming apparatus 101 may be put into a sleep state, and then the setting and execution of a job may be prohibited. In this case, a condition for releasing the sleep state may be set in the image forming apparatus 101. The condition may be that a predetermined operation has been performed on the operation unit 104. The condition may also be that the image forming apparatus 101 has received a predetermined command.

[0026] Next, a specific example of a method for performing the above-mentioned license-based control will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the setting information. The setting information shown in FIG. 2 is used when the image forming apparatus 101 performs control based on a license. The setting information shown in FIG. 2 is stored in, for example, the EEPROM 111. FIG. 2 illustrates an example in which the setting items 201 include a serial number 202, a print speed 203, a restart release setting 204, a print limit 205, a scan limit 206, a time limit 207, a previous print count 208, a previous scan count 209, and a previous elapsed time 210. FIG. 2 illustrates only an example of the setting items 201 necessary for explaining this embodiment. However, the setting items 201 are not limited to the contents shown in FIG. 2. In FIG. 2, the setting range indicates the range that can be set as information for each setting item, or the options of information that can be set as information for each setting item. The factory setting example indicates information for each setting item at the time of shipment from the factory.

[0027] The serial number 202 is a number for uniquely identifying the image forming apparatus 101. The serial number 202 is used to determine the validity of a license for determining the print speed. The serial number 202 is set before the image forming apparatus 101 is shipped from the factory. In addition, the serial number 202 of the image forming apparatus 101 is set to a number that does not overlap with the serial numbers of other image forming apparatuses.

[0028] The print speed 203 is a ppm (page per minute) value to be notified to the printer unit 105 when the image forming apparatus 101 is started. In this embodiment, the printer unit 105 is assumed to be able to switch the print speed 203 to 30 ppm, 40 ppm, or 50 ppm with the same hardware configuration. 0 ppm indicates that the print speed 203 is undetermined (see "0 (undetermined)" in the setting range column in FIG. 2). When a license is granted to the image forming apparatus 101, the print speed 203 is rewritten to the print speed (either 30 ppm, 40 ppm, or 50 ppm) specified by the license. This enables the image forming apparatus 101 to print at the rewritten print speed 203. The print speed 203 at the time of shipment from the factory is 0 ppm (see "0 (undetermined)" in the factory settings example column in FIG. 2). In this case, print speed 203 is rewritten from 0 ppm to the print speed specified by the license. Note that, in a state where a license has already been granted, a license specifying a print speed different from the print speed specified by the license may be granted to image forming apparatus 101. In this case, print speed 203 is rewritten from the print speed specified by the already granted license (e.g., 30 ppm) to the print speed specified by the newly granted license (e.g., 40 ppm).

[0029] The printing speed may be changed, for example, as described in Patent Document 1. For example, the printing speed may be changed by changing both the process speed, which is the speed at which a toner latent image is formed by the printer unit 105, and the image interval time, which is the time interval at which images are formed. Also, the printing speed may be changed by changing the image interval time without changing the process speed.

[0030] The restart release setting 204 is information indicating whether or not the provisional start mode is to be ended by restarting the image forming apparatus 101 when the image forming apparatus 101 is started in the provisional start mode and job setting and execution are prohibited.

[0031] Here, an example of the provisional start mode will be described. In this embodiment, when the print speed 203 is 0 ppm (unconfirmed), if a license for specifying the print speed is not granted, the state of the image forming apparatus 101 is in a state in which, in principle, setting and execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs are prohibited. However, as described above, for example, after shipment from the factory, it may be necessary to replace parts used inside the image forming apparatus. In this case, if a license is not granted, operation confirmation by the actual printing method cannot be performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, a mode in which the image forming apparatus 101 starts up at a provisional print speed even if a license is not granted is provided. Here, this mode is referred to as a provisional start mode. In this way, in this embodiment, a case in which the image forming apparatus 101 starts up in the provisional start mode, and setting and execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs are exceptionally permitted even if a license is not granted, is illustrated.

[0032] In the provisional startup mode, for example, setting and execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs are permitted. The print speed in the provisional startup mode is, for example, 30 ppm, which is the slowest print speed switchable by license. However, the print speed in the provisional startup mode is not limited to such a speed. The print speed in the provisional startup mode may be, for example, a speed other than the slowest print speed switchable by license. In addition, the print speed in the provisional startup mode may be selected by an operator on the vendor's side. In this case, the print speed to be selected may be a print speed switchable by license.

[0033] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which the image forming apparatus 101 can be powered on while a specific operation button on the operation unit 104 is being pressed in a state in which the print speed has not yet been determined, thereby enabling the image forming apparatus 101 to be started in a provisional start-up mode.

[0034] On the other hand, if the provisional startup mode is allowed to continue permanently, the image forming apparatus 101 can be used without purchasing a license. Therefore, in this embodiment, even if the image forming apparatus 101 is started in the provisional startup mode, if a specific condition is satisfied, setting and execution of all jobs including print jobs and scan jobs are prohibited. Although details will be described later, examples of the specific condition include a condition determined by using the number of printed sheets, a condition determined by using the number of scanned sheets, and a condition determined by using the elapsed time in the provisional startup mode.

[0035] The restart release setting 204 described above is information indicating whether or not to resolve a state in which job setting and execution are prohibited after startup in the provisional startup mode by restarting the image forming apparatus 101. When the restart release setting 204 is ON, restarting the image forming apparatus 101 again permits setting and execution of all jobs, including print jobs and scan jobs. As a result, even if it becomes necessary to print more than the limited number of prints when checking operation in printing after part replacement, for example, restarting the image forming apparatus 101 makes it possible to print more than the limited number of prints.

[0036] On the other hand, when the restart release setting 204 is OFF, if the specific condition described above is satisfied even once after starting up in the provisional start-up mode, the setting and execution of print jobs and scan jobs will remain prohibited even if the image forming apparatus 101 is restarted. This state will continue until, for example, a license to specify the print speed is granted to the image forming apparatus 101.

[0037] The print sheet limit 205 is a threshold value for the number of print sheets in the provisional startup mode. Here, the print sheet limit 205 being 0 means that there is no limit on printing. The scan number limit 206 is a threshold value for the number of scans in the provisional startup mode. Here, the scan number limit 206 being 0 means that there is no scan limit.

[0038] The time limit 207 is a threshold value for the time that has elapsed in the provisional activation mode. Here, the time limit 207 being 0 seconds means that there is no limit on the time that has elapsed in the provisional activation mode.

[0039] In this embodiment, the reboot release setting 204, print limit 205, scan limit 206, and time limit 207 are written in the EEPROM 111 before the image forming apparatus 101 is shipped from the factory. However, this is not necessarily required. For example, the information may be fixed in the control program.

[0040] In this embodiment, the information on the reboot release setting 204, the print page limit 205, the scan page limit 206, and the time limit 207 is exemplified as being not rewritten after the image forming apparatus 101 is shipped from the factory.

[0041] The previous print count 208 is used when the restart release setting 204 is OFF. The previous print count 208 is a value obtained by adding up the number of prints in each provisional startup mode up to the previous provisional startup mode. Here, a case is illustrated in which the previous print count 208 is updated when printing is performed in a provisional startup mode. Therefore, the previous print count 208 is a value obtained by adding the (current value of) the number of prints in the current provisional startup mode to the total value of the number of prints in each provisional startup mode up to the previous provisional startup mode. In this way, the total value of the number of prints in each provisional startup mode up to the middle of the current provisional startup mode is set as the previous print count 208. Therefore, the latest value as the total value of the number of prints in each provisional startup mode can be used as the number of prints to be compared with the limited print count 205.

[0042] The previous scan number 209 is used when the restart release setting 204 is OFF. The previous scan number 209 is a value obtained by adding up the number of scans in each provisional startup mode up to the previous provisional startup mode. Here, a case is illustrated in which the previous scan number 209 is updated when a scan is performed in the provisional startup mode. Therefore, the previous scan number 209 is a value obtained by adding the number of scans (the current value) in the current provisional startup mode to the total number of prints in each provisional startup mode up to the previous provisional startup mode. In this way, the total number of scans in each provisional startup mode up to the middle of the current provisional startup mode is set as the previous scan number 209. Therefore, the latest value as the total number of scans in each provisional startup mode can be used as the number of scans to be compared with the limit scan number 206.

[0043] The previous elapsed time 210 is used when the restart release setting 204 is OFF. The previous elapsed time 210 is a value obtained by adding up the elapsed time of each provisional startup mode up to the previous provisional startup mode. Here, a case is illustrated in which the previous elapsed time 210 is updated at regular intervals while the provisional startup mode is being executed. Therefore, the previous elapsed time 210 is a value obtained by adding (the current value of) the elapsed time of the current provisional startup mode to the total value of the elapsed time of each provisional startup mode up to the previous provisional startup mode. In this way, the total value of the elapsed time of each provisional startup mode up to the middle of the current provisional startup mode is set as the previous elapsed time 210. Therefore, the latest value as the total value of the elapsed time of each provisional startup mode can be used as the elapsed time to be compared with the time limit 207.

[0044] Here, a case will be illustrated in which the image forming apparatus 101 determines whether or not to prohibit job setting and execution after starting up in the provisional start mode using the setting information shown in Fig. 2. An example of control performed by the image forming apparatus 101 will be described below.

[0045] Fig. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing of image forming apparatus 101 at startup. Fig. 3 shows an example of an outline of processing in each of the cases where a license has been granted and therefore the print speed has been determined, where no license has been granted and therefore the print speed has not been determined, and where the image forming apparatus is in a provisional startup mode. The flowchart in Fig. 3 starts, for example, when image forming apparatus 101 is powered on. The processing according to the flowchart in Fig. 3 is realized, for example, when CPU 107 executes a control program.

[0046] First, in S301, CPU 107 determines whether or not the print speed is determined. If the value of print speed 203 is not 0 ppm, that is, if the value is 30 ppm, 40 ppm, or 50 ppm, CPU 107 determines that the print speed is determined. In this case, CPU 107 performs the processes of S302 to S305.

[0047] In S302, the CPU 107 notifies the printer unit 105 of the value of the print speed 203. Upon receiving the print speed, the printer unit 105 operates at the print speed notified by the CPU 107 thereafter. Then, in S303, CPU 107 switches the state of image forming apparatus 101 to a state that permits setting and execution of a print job, and in S304, switches the state of image forming apparatus 101 to a state that permits setting and execution of a scan job. Through the processing of S303 and S304, CPU 107 can set and execute a print job and a scan job.

[0048] Next, in S305, the CPU 107 displays a home screen on the display unit 103. Then, the CPU 107 accepts an operation from the user via the operation unit 104. FIG. 4A(a) shows an example of a home screen 401. FIG. 4A(a) shows an example of a case where information including a copy icon 402, a scan and send icon 403, a scan and save icon 404, a use icon 405 of a saved file, and a setting icon 406 is displayed on the home screen 401. Each icon is associated with a function provided by the image forming apparatus 101. For example, when the copy icon 402 is pressed, the CPU 107 displays a copy setting screen 411, as shown in FIG. 4A(b), on the display unit 103. The CPU 107 accepts settings for a copy job based on an operation on the copy setting screen 411. An example of a flow of processing of a copy job will be described later with reference to FIG. 7. In this way, by executing the processes of S302 to S305, CPU 107 can accept settings for print jobs and scan jobs when the printing speed of printer unit 105 has been determined.

[0049] Next, a description will be given of an example of processing performed by the image forming apparatus 101 when the print speed has not been determined. When the print speed 203 is 0 ppm in S301, that is, when the print speed has not been determined, the CPU 107 performs processing from S306 onwards.

[0050] In S306, CPU 107 determines whether image forming apparatus 101 is to be started in the provisional start mode. Specifically, for example, CPU 107 determines that image forming apparatus 101 is to be started in the provisional start mode if a specific operation button of operation unit 104 is pressed when image forming apparatus 101 is started, and determines that image forming apparatus 101 is not to be started in the provisional start mode if a specific operation button of operation unit 104 is pressed. If the result of this determination is that image forming apparatus 101 is not to be started in the provisional start mode, the processes of S307 to S309 are performed. In S307, CPU 107 switches the state of image forming apparatus 101 to a state in which setting and execution of a print job are prohibited, and in S308, switches the state of image forming apparatus 101 to a state in which setting and execution of a scan job are prohibited. Through the processes of S307 and S308, CPU 107 will no longer accept or execute settings for print jobs and scan jobs.

[0051] Next, in S309, the CPU 107 performs a license acceptance process. In this embodiment, the CPU 107 determines whether or not to grant a license to the image forming apparatus 101 in the license acceptance process, and changes the print speed when granting the license. An example of the flow of the license acceptance process will be described later with reference to FIG. 5.

[0052] When it is determined in S306 described above that the activation is to be performed in the provisional activation mode, the CPU 107 performs the process in S310 and thereafter. In S310, CPU 107 initializes the values ​​of the accumulated number of printed sheets, the accumulated number of scanned sheets, and the accumulated elapsed time stored in RAM 109 to 0 (zero). The accumulated number of printed sheets, the accumulated number of scanned sheets, and the accumulated elapsed time are used by CPU 107 to determine whether or not to restrict the operation (job setting and execution) of image forming apparatus 101 while the provisional startup mode is being executed.

[0053] Next, in S311, CPU 107 determines whether restart release setting 204 is ON or OFF. If the result of this determination is that restart release setting 204 is ON, there is no need to consider the state of the provisional startup mode up until the previous time. Therefore, CPU 107 starts counting the cumulative number of printed sheets and the cumulative number of scanned sheets, and timing the cumulative elapsed time from 0 (zero).

[0054] In this case, in S312, the CPU 107 judges whether the value of the time limit 207 is 0 (zero) or not. If the result of this judgment is that the value of the time limit 207 is 0 (zero), that is, if a time limit is not set, the CPU 107 performs the process of S314 without performing the timer process of the time limit in S313.

[0055] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S312 is that the value of the time limit 207 is other than 0 (zero), the process of S313 is performed. In S313, the CPU 107 starts timer processing of the time limit. In the timer processing of the time limit, processing is performed including counting the elapsed time in the provisional start mode and determining whether or not to prohibit the operation of the image forming apparatus 101 (setting and execution of a job). An example of a specific flow of the timer processing of the time limit will be described later with reference to FIG. 8. Also, here, a case is illustrated in which the CPU 107 starts processing of S314 described later at the time of starting the timer processing of the time limit. That is, here, a case is illustrated in which the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 described later is performed in parallel with the processing of the flowchart in FIG. 3, and the processing of S314 is performed without waiting for the end of the processing of the flowchart in FIG. 8.

[0056] In S314, the CPU 107 notifies the printer unit 105 of the provisional ppm. In this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which 30 ppm, which is the slowest printing speed among 30 ppm, 40 ppm, and 50 ppm, is used as the provisional ppm. In addition, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified in which the CPU 107 notifies the printer unit 105 of the provisional ppm. However, this is not necessarily required. For example, the CPU 107 may notify the printer unit 105 that it is in the provisional start mode, and the printer unit 105 may determine the printing speed in response to receiving the notification. An example of the process of S315 to S317 is the same as the process of S303 to S305 described above, so a detailed description of the process of S315 to S317 will be omitted.

[0057] Next, an example of the process of the image forming apparatus 101 when the reboot release setting 204 is OFF will be described. The process when the restart release setting 204 is OFF differs from the process when the restart release setting 204 is ON in that it is necessary to take into account the state of the provisional startup mode up until the previous time. An example of this difference will be described in S318 and thereafter.

[0058] First, in S318, CPU 107 determines whether or not the value of print limit number 205 is 0 (zero). If the result of this determination is that the value of print limit number 205 is 0 (zero), that is, if a print limit number has not been set, the processes of S319 to S320 are not performed, and the process of S321 described below is performed.

[0059] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S318 is that the value of the print limit number 205 is other than 0 (zero), the process proceeds to S319. In S319, the CPU 107 determines whether the value of the previous print number 208 is equal to or greater than the print limit number 205. If the result of this determination is that the value of the previous print number 208 is equal to or greater than the print limit number 205, the cumulative number of prints in the provisional startup mode has reached the upper limit.

[0060] In this embodiment, when the provisional start mode is repeated after a time interval, the number of printed sheets in the provisional start mode is accumulated. The same applies to the number of scanned sheets and the elapsed time described in S321 to S326 below. In the following description, the value of the previous printed sheet count 208, the value of the previous scanned sheet count 209, and the value of the previous elapsed time 210 reaching the value of the print limit number 205, the scan limit number 206, and the time limit 207, respectively, will be referred to as reaching the limit, as necessary.

[0061] If it is determined in S319 that the value of previous print count 208 is equal to or greater than the value of print limit 205, the processes of S327 to S329 are performed. In S327, CPU 107 switches the state of image forming apparatus 101 to a state in which setting and execution of a print job are prohibited, and in S328, switches the state of image forming apparatus 101 to a state in which setting and execution of a scan job are prohibited. Through the processes of S327 and S328, CPU 107 will no longer accept or execute settings for print jobs and scan jobs.

[0062] Then, in S329, the CPU 107 displays a job restriction screen on the display unit 103. The job restriction screen displays information for notifying the user that setting and executing a print job and a scan job is prohibited.

[0063] FIG. 4B shows examples of job restriction screens 421, 431, and 441. In the job limit screen 421 shown in FIG. 4B(a), an error code indicating that the limit has been reached is displayed in the error code display section 422. In the job limit screen 431 shown in FIG. 4B(b), a message indicating that the limit has been reached is displayed in the message display section 432. Also, as shown in FIG. 4B(b), a close button 433 may be provided in the job limit screen 431. In this case, when the close button 433 is pressed by the user who has confirmed the message, the CPU 107 makes the job limit screen 431 invisible. This allows the user to change settings that are not related to print jobs or scan jobs. In the job limit screen 441 shown in FIG. 4B(c), a message indicating that the limit has been reached is displayed in the status display section 442 of the home screen 401. In this case, the CPU 107 may make icons related to print jobs and scan jobs unselectable. 4B(c) illustrates an example in which the copy icon 402, the scan and send icon 403, the scan and save icon 404, and the use saved file icon 405 are in a non-selectable state. The CPU 107 may also make the setting icon 406 non-selectable.

[0064] Returning to the description of S319 in the flowchart of Fig. 3, if the result of the determination in S319 is that the value of the previous printed number 208 is less than the value of the limited number of printed sheets 205, the process of S320 is performed. In S320, the CPU 107 sets the value of the previous printed number 208 in a storage area for the accumulated number of printed sheets secured in the RAM 109. This makes it possible to carry over the accumulated number of printed sheets from the previous provisional startup mode to the current provisional startup mode.

[0065] Next, in S321, the CPU 107 determines whether the value of the scan limit number 206 is 0 (zero). If the result of this determination is that the value of the scan limit number 206 is 0 (zero), that is, if the scan limit number has not been set, the processes of S322 to S323 are not performed, and the process of S324 described below is performed.

[0066] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S321 is that the scan limit number 206 is other than 0 (zero), the process of S322 is performed. In S322, the CPU 107 determines whether the value of the previous scan number 209 is equal to or greater than the scan limit number 206. If the result of this determination is that the value of the previous scan number 209 is equal to or greater than the scan limit number 206, the cumulative number of scans in the provisional startup mode has reached the upper limit. For this reason, the CPU 107 performs the processes of S327 to S329 in the same manner as when the value of the previous print number 208 is equal to or greater than the print limit number 205, prohibits the setting and execution of print jobs and scan jobs, and then causes the display unit 103 to display a job restriction screen.

[0067] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S321 is that the value of the previous scan number 209 is less than the value of the scan number limit 206, the process of S323 is performed. In S323, the CPU 107 sets the value of the previous scan number 209 in a storage area for the accumulated scan number secured in the RAM 109. This makes it possible to carry over the accumulated scan number from the previous provisional startup mode to the current provisional startup mode.

[0068] Next, in S324, the CPU 107 determines whether or not the value of the time limit 207 is 0 (zero). If the result of this determination is that the value of the time limit 207 is 0 (zero), that is, if no time limit is set, the process of S314 described above is performed.

[0069] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S324 is that the value of time limit 207 is other than 0 (zero), the process of S325 is performed. In S325, CPU 107 determines whether the value of previous elapsed time 210 is equal to or greater than the value of time limit 207. If the result of this determination is that the value of previous elapsed time 210 is equal to or greater than the value of time limit 207, the cumulative value of the elapsed time in the provisional startup mode has reached the upper limit. For this reason, CPU 107 performs the processes of S327 to S329 in the same manner as when the value of previous number of printed sheets 208 is equal to or greater than the value of print limit number 205, prohibits setting and execution of print jobs and scan jobs, and then causes display unit 103 to display a job restriction screen.

[0070] On the other hand, if it is determined in S325 that the value of the previous elapsed time 210 is less than the value of the time limit 207, the process of S326 is performed. In S326, the CPU 107 sets the value of the previous elapsed time 210 in a storage area for the accumulated elapsed time secured in the RAM 109. This allows the accumulated elapsed time to be carried over from the previous provisional startup mode to the current provisional startup mode. When the process of S326 ends, the process of S313 described above is performed. The subsequent processes are the same as the processes of S313 to S317 that are performed when it is determined in S311 that the restart release setting 204 is ON. Therefore, a detailed description of S313 to S317 that are performed when it is determined in S311 that the restart release setting 204 is OFF will be omitted. The above is an example of the processing of the image forming apparatus 101 in each of the cases where the print speed has already been determined, where the print speed has not been determined because no license has been granted, and where the image forming apparatus 101 is in provisional startup mode.

[0071] Next, an example of the license acceptance process in S309 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 5. The process according to the flowchart in Fig. 5 is realized, for example, by the CPU 107 executing a control program.

[0072] First, in S501, the CPU 107 causes the display unit 103 to display a license registration screen. Fig. 6(a) is a diagram showing an example of a license registration screen 601. Fig. 6(a) illustrates an example in which information including a license key input section 602, an execution button 603, and a serial number display section 604 is displayed on the license registration screen 601.

[0073] The license key is linked to the serial number 202 of the image forming apparatus 101. FIG. 6A illustrates an example in which the value of the serial number 202 of the image forming apparatus 101 is displayed on the serial number display unit 604 for confirmation when inputting the license key. The user inputs a license key (e.g., a number of a predetermined number of digits) into the license key input unit 602 via the operation unit 104, and then presses the execute button 603. In S502, the CPU 107 waits until the execute button 603 is pressed. When the execute button 603 is pressed, the process of S503 is performed. In S503, the CPU 107 acquires the value of the serial number 202.

[0074] Next, in S504, the CPU 107 analyzes the license key based on the license key input to the license key input unit 602 and the value of the serial number 202 acquired in S503. For example, the CPU 107 performs an analysis to determine whether the license key input to the license key input unit 602 is a valid license key and what the print speed of the image forming apparatus 101 should be.

[0075] In S505, the CPU 107 determines whether or not the license key input to the license key input unit 602 is a valid license key based on the analysis result of S504. If the result of this determination is that the license key input to the license key input unit 602 is a valid license key, the process of S506 is performed. In S506, the CPU 107 rewrites the value of the print speed 203 to the print speed identified from the analysis result of S503.

[0076] Whether or not the license key is valid is determined, for example, by the CPU 107 judging whether or not the license key input to the license key input unit 602 is linked to the value of the serial No. 202 acquired in S503. Whether or not the license key is valid may also be judged by an external device. In this case, for example, the image forming apparatus 101 may transmit information on the license key input to the license key input unit 602 to the external device. In this case, the external device may judge whether or not the information on the license key is valid license key information, and transmit the result of the judgment to the image forming apparatus 101.

[0077] Next, in S507, the CPU 107 causes the display unit 103 to display a registration success screen 611 as shown in Fig. 6(b). The registration success screen 611 shown in Fig. 6(b) illustrates an example in which a message including a message indicating that the license registration was successful and a message prompting the image forming apparatus 101 to be restarted is displayed on the message display unit 612. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which, when the image forming apparatus 101 is restarted after the registration success screen 611 is displayed, printing becomes possible at the print speed rewritten in S503.

[0078] On the other hand, if it is determined in S505 that the license key input to the license key input unit 602 is not a valid license key (is an invalid license key), the process of S508 is performed. In S508, the CPU 107 displays a registration failure screen 621 as exemplified in FIG. 6(c) on the display unit 103. The registration failure screen 621 shown in FIG. 6(c) illustrates a case in which a message including a message indicating that the license registration has failed and a message prompting the user to confirm the license key is displayed in the message display unit 622. The registration failure screen 621 shown in FIG. 6(c) illustrates a case in which an OK button 623 is displayed. In S509, the CPU 107 waits until the OK button 623 is pressed. When the OK button 623 is pressed, the process of S501 is performed again. As described above, in S501, the CPU 107 displays the license registration screen 601 as exemplified in FIG. 6(a) on the display unit 103. The above is an example of the process of switching the print speed by granting a license.

[0079] Next, an example of the processing of the image forming apparatus 101 when controlling a job based on the number of printed sheets and the number of scanned sheets will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7. Here, a case where the job is a copy job will be exemplified. In the copy job, processing including printing and scanning is performed. The flowchart of FIG. 7 is started, for example, by pressing a copy icon on the home screen 401. The flowchart of FIG. 7 is also realized, for example, by the CPU 107 executing a control program.

[0080] First, in S701, the CPU 107 causes the display unit 103 to display a copy setting screen 411, as shown in Fig. 4A(b). Fig. 4A(b) illustrates an example in which a setting display section 412, a color selection setting button 413, a magnification setting button 414, a paper selection setting button 415, and other function buttons 416 are displayed on the copy setting screen 411.

[0081] The copy setting screen 411 displays the currently set contents as settings related to the copy job. The settings related to the copy job can be switched based on the operation of a color selection setting button 413, a magnification setting button 414, a paper selection setting button 415, and other function button 416. The settings performed by these buttons are not limited as long as they are related to the copy function.

[0082] Returning to the description of S702 in the flowchart of FIG. 7, in S702, CPU 107 accepts settings for the copy function until the start button is pressed via operation unit 104. When the start button is pressed, the process of S703 is performed. In S703, CPU 107 determines whether or not the device is running in provisional startup mode. If the result of this determination is that the device is not running in provisional startup mode, there is no need to restrict scanning. In this case, the processes of S704 to S705 are not performed, and the process of S706 described below is performed. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S703 is that the device is running in provisional startup mode, the process of S704 is performed.

[0083] In S704, CPU 107 determines whether or not it is necessary to limit scanning. Specifically, for example, CPU 107 determines whether or not the value of scan limit number 206 is 0 (zero). If the result of this determination is that the value of scan limit number 206 is 0 (zero), that is, if a scan limit number is not set, the process of S705 is not performed and the process of S706 described below is performed. On the other hand, if the value of scan limit number 206 is other than 0 (zero), the process of S705 is performed.

[0084] In S705, CPU 107 determines whether the value of the cumulative scan number is equal to or greater than the value of scan number limit 206. If the result of this determination is that the value of the cumulative scan number is equal to or greater than the value of scan number limit 206, the number of scans has reached the limit in the provisional startup mode at that point in time. Therefore, CPU 107 switches to a state in which setting and execution of a print job are prohibited in S720, and switches to a state in which setting and execution of a scan job are prohibited in S721. Through the processes of S720 and S721, CPU 107 cancels the currently executed print job, scan job, and subsequent jobs. Then, CPU 107 does not accept or execute settings for any subsequent jobs.

[0085] Next, in S722, the CPU 107 displays a job restriction screen on the display unit 103. An example of the process of S722 is the same as the process of S329 described above, so a detailed description of the process of S722 will be omitted.

[0086] In S705, if it is determined that the value of the accumulated scan number is less than the value of the scan number limit 206, the process of S706 is performed. In S706, the CPU 107 instructs the scanner unit 106 to scan one page. Next, in S707, the CPU 107 adds 1 (sheet) to the value of the cumulative number of scanned sheets. Next, in S708, the CPU 107 determines whether the restart release setting 204 is ON or OFF. If the result of this determination is that the restart release setting 204 is ON, the process of S709 is not performed, and the process of S710 described below is performed.

[0087] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S708 is that the restart release setting 204 is OFF, the process of S709 is performed. In S709, the CPU 107 rewrites the value of the previous scan number 209 to the value of the cumulative scan number. This makes it possible to carry over the value of the cumulative scan number to the provisional startup mode after the restart.

[0088] Next, in S710, CPU 107 determines whether or not scanning of all pages set in the copy job is complete. If the result of this determination is that scanning of all pages is not complete, the above-mentioned processing of S703 is performed again. The processing of S703 to S710 is repeated until scanning of all pages is complete.

[0089] If it is determined in step S710 that scanning of all pages has been completed, the process proceeds to step S711. In step S711, the CPU 107 performs image processing on the pages to be printed according to the settings for the copy job. Next, in S712, CPU 107 determines whether or not the application is running in provisional startup mode. If the result of this determination is that the application is not running in provisional startup mode, there is no need to restrict printing. In this case, the processes of S713 to S714 are not performed, and the process of S715 described below is performed.

[0090] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S712 is that the printer is not started in the provisional start-up mode, the process of S713 is performed. In S713, CPU 107 determines whether or not it is necessary to limit printing. Specifically, for example, CPU 107 determines whether or not the value of print limit number 205 is 0 (zero). If the result of this determination is that the value of print limit number 205 is 0 (zero), that is, if a print limit number has not been set, the process of S714 is not performed and the process of S715 described below is performed. On the other hand, if the value of print limit number 205 is other than 0 (zero), the process of S714 is performed.

[0091] In S714, CPU 107 determines whether the value of the cumulative number of printed sheets is equal to or greater than the value of print sheet limit 205. If the result of this determination is that the value is equal to or greater than the print sheet limit 205, the number of printed sheets has reached the limit in the provisional startup mode at that point. For this reason, the above-mentioned processes of S720 to S722 are performed. Through the processes of S720 to S721, CPU 107 cancels the currently executing print job, scan job, and subsequent jobs. CPU 107 then does not accept or execute settings for any subsequent jobs.

[0092] On the other hand, in S714, if it is determined that the value of the cumulative number of printed sheets is less than the value of the limited number of printed sheets 205, the process of S715 is performed. In S715, the CPU 107 instructs the printer unit 105 to print one page. Next, in S716, the CPU 107 adds 1 (sheet) to the value of the cumulative number of printed sheets. Next, in S717, the CPU 107 determines whether the restart release setting 204 is ON or OFF. If the result of this determination is that the restart release setting 204 is ON, the process of S718 is not performed, and the process of S719 is performed.

[0093] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in S717 is that the restart release setting 204 is OFF, the process of S718 is performed. In S718, the CPU 107 rewrites the value of the previous print count 208 to the value of the cumulative print count. This allows the CPU 107 to carry over the value of the cumulative print count to the provisional start mode after the restart.

[0094] Next, in S719, CPU 107 determines whether printing of all pages set in the copy job is complete. If the result of this determination is that printing of the previous page is not complete, the above-mentioned processing of S711 is performed again. The processing of S711 to S719 is repeated until printing of all pages is complete.

[0095] If it is determined in S719 that printing of all pages has been completed, the CPU 107 ends the process according to the flowchart in FIG. The above is an example of the process for controlling a copy job based on the number of printed sheets and the number of scanned sheets.

[0096] Finally, an example of the processing of the image forming apparatus 101 when restricting jobs based on the elapsed time in the provisional activation mode will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 8. As described above, the instruction to start the processing of the flowchart of Fig. 8 is given in the processing of S313 of Fig. 3. Moreover, the processing of the flowchart of Fig. 8 is realized, for example, by the CPU 107 executing a control program.

[0097] First, in S801, CPU 107 determines whether the value of the accumulated elapsed time is equal to or greater than the value of time limit 207. If the result of this determination is that the value of the accumulated elapsed time is equal to or greater than the value of time limit 207, the elapsed time in the provisional activation mode at that point in time has reached the limit in the provisional activation mode. For this reason, the processes of S806 to S808 are performed. An example of the processes of S806 to S808 is the same as the processes of S720 to S722 described above, and therefore detailed description of the processes of S806 to S808 will be omitted. Through the processes of S806 to S807, CPU 107 cancels the currently executed print job, scan job, and subsequent jobs. Then, CPU 107 does not accept or execute settings for subsequent jobs.

[0098] In S801, the processes of S802 to S803 are performed when it is determined that the value of the integrated elapsed time is less than the value of the time limit 207. In S802, the CPU 107 waits for one second, and in S803, adds 1 (second) to the value of the integrated elapsed time. Next, in S804, the CPU 107 determines whether the restart release setting 204 is ON or OFF. If the result of this determination is that the restart release setting 204 is ON, the process of S805 is not performed, and the process of S801 described above is performed again.

[0099] On the other hand, if the restart release setting 204 is OFF, the process of S805 is performed. In S805, the CPU 107 rewrites the value of the previous elapsed time 210 to the value of the integrated elapsed time. This makes it possible to carry over the value of the integrated elapsed time to the provisional startup mode after the restart. The above is an example of the process for restricting jobs based on the elapsed time in the provisional activation mode.

[0100] As described above, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 exceptionally permits the setting and execution of a job when a license is not granted, and prohibits the setting and execution of a job when the setting and execution of a job is exceptionally permitted. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the image forming apparatus 101 from performing an operation that does not match the actual state after shipment. For example, it is possible to allow a vendor's worker to exceptionally use a function such as printing even when a license is not granted, and to reduce the risk that a function such as printing is used by a user when a license is not granted. Therefore, for example, it is possible to prevent a function of the image forming apparatus 101 that is capable of printing by being granted a license from being used permanently without a license.

[0101] In the present embodiment, the case where the print limit 205, the scan limit 206, and the time limit 207 are not changed from the values ​​at the time of shipment is exemplified. However, this is not necessarily required. For example, when the restart release setting 204 is ON, the CPU 107 may automatically reduce (shorten) the print limit 205, the scan limit 206, and the time limit 207 in a range exceeding 0 (zero) according to the number of times the provisional start mode is executed. In this way, for example, if the image forming apparatus 101 is frequently restarted in the provisional start mode, the setting and execution of a job are more likely to be prohibited. Therefore, the risk that a user uses a function such as printing without being granted a license can be further reduced.

[0102] In the present embodiment, the license is a license that specifies a print speed as a license that permits execution of a job including printing. However, the license is not limited to this type of license. For example, the parameter for executing the job may be a parameter other than the print speed (for example, a parameter related to image quality).

[0103] Also, for example, the license may be a license that permits execution of all functions of the image forming apparatus 101. In this case, for example, when operating in the provisional startup mode, if the value of the elapsed time in the provisional startup mode (for example, the accumulated elapsed time) becomes equal to or greater than the value of the time limit 207, execution of all functions of the image forming apparatus 101 may be prohibited.

[0104] Also, for example, the license may be a license that permits the execution of optional functions (e.g., stapling and punching) of the image forming apparatus 101. In this case, for example, when operating in the provisional startup mode, if the integrated value of at least one of the number of times stapling is performed in the provisional startup mode and the number of cores used in the provisional startup mode becomes equal to or greater than a limit value, setting and execution of stapling may be prohibited. Also, for example, when operating in the provisional startup mode, if the integrated value of the number of times punching is performed in the provisional startup mode becomes equal to or greater than a limit value, setting and execution of punching may be prohibited. Also, if the value of the elapsed time in the provisional startup mode (e.g., the integrated elapsed time) becomes equal to or greater than the value of the time limit 207, setting and execution of at least one of stapling and punching may be prohibited.

[0105] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments of the present invention are merely examples of the implementation of the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited by these. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or main features.

[0106] The disclosure of the present embodiment also includes, for example, the following configurations, methods, and programs. (Configuration 1) An image forming apparatus, a control unit that performs control based on a license that permits use of a function of the image forming apparatus; The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the control means exceptionally permits use of the function when the license has not been granted, and prohibits use of the function when use of the function is exceptionally permitted. (Configuration 2) 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the functions include a function of executing a job including printing. (Configuration 3) 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the license includes a license for designating parameters for executing a job. (Configuration 4) 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the parameter designation includes a designation regarding a speed at which an image is formed. (Configuration 5) 5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the control means prohibits the use of the function in a state where power required for using the function is being supplied. (Configuration 6) 6. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the control means exceptionally permits use of the function when a predetermined operation is performed on the image forming apparatus. (Configuration 7) 7. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the control means cancels the state in which the use of the function is prohibited when a predetermined stop cancellation condition is satisfied. (Configuration 8) 8. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 7, wherein the stop release condition includes that the image forming apparatus is restarted. (Configuration 9) 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the suspension release condition includes that the license is granted. (Configuration 10) The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the control means prohibits the use of the function when a predetermined stop condition is satisfied when the use of the function is exceptionally permitted. (Configuration 11) 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined stop condition includes a condition determined based on the operation of the image forming apparatus when the use of the function is exceptionally permitted. (Configuration 12) The image forming apparatus according to configuration 11, characterized in that the operation includes at least one of counting performed in response to execution of a job when use of the function is exceptionally permitted, and timing a period including a period during which use of the function is exceptionally permitted. (Configuration 13) the predetermined stopping condition is a condition using at least one of the count value and the time value, 13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein when the state in which the use of the function is exceptionally permitted is repeated after a period of time, the count value and the time measurement value are accumulated. (Method 1) A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: a control step of performing control based on a license that permits use of a function of the image forming apparatus, The control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized in that the control process performs the following: exceptionally permitting use of the function when the license has not been granted; and prohibiting use of the function when use of the function is exceptionally permitted. (Program 1) 14. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 13. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 101: image forming device, 107: CPU, 109: RAM, 111: EEPROM

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, a control unit that performs control based on a license that permits use of a function of the image forming apparatus; The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the control means exceptionally permits use of the function when the license has not been granted, and prohibits use of the function when use of the function is exceptionally permitted.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the functions include a function of executing a job including printing.

3. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the license includes a license for designating parameters for executing a job.

4. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the parameter designation includes a designation regarding a speed at which an image is formed.

5. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit prohibits the use of the function while power required for using the function is being supplied.

6. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit exceptionally permits the use of the function when a predetermined operation is performed on the image forming apparatus.

7. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means releases the state in which the use of the function is prohibited when a predetermined stop release condition is satisfied.

8. 8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the stop release condition includes a restart of the image forming apparatus.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the suspension release condition includes that the license is granted.

10. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means prohibits the use of the function when a predetermined stop condition is satisfied while the use of the function is exceptionally permitted.

11. 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined stop condition includes a condition determined based on an operation of the image forming apparatus when use of the function is exceptionally permitted.

12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the operation includes at least one of counting performed in response to execution of a job when use of the function is exceptionally permitted, and timing a period including a period during which use of the function is exceptionally permitted.

13. the predetermined stopping condition is a condition using at least one of the count value and the time value, 13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein when the state in which the use of the function is exceptionally permitted is repeated after a period of time, the count value and the time measurement value are accumulated.

14. A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: a control step of performing control based on a license that permits use of a function of the image forming apparatus, The control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized in that the control process performs the following: exceptionally permitting use of the function when the license has not been granted; and prohibiting use of the function when use of the function is exceptionally permitted.

15. 3. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

Images