Image forming apparatus, driver program, and printing method

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus and the like that can perform appropriate output management of image information by performing control related to provision of additional information to the image information.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprises a control unit and an image forming unit. When print job data transmitted from an information processing apparatus includes information for providing additional information to image information, the control unit generates the additional information, and when the image information is image information related to a document certifying the authenticity of mentioned items, and when the settings of the image forming apparatus satisfy a condition for providing the additional information, controls the image forming unit to provide the additional information to the image information before performing image formation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Printing devices are known that can individually manage media on which electronic documents are printed, and can later track various information related to the electronic documents and various information obtained at the time of printing (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-25784 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image forming apparatus and the like capable of performing appropriate output management of image information by controlling the addition of additional information to image information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, the image forming device disclosed herein is an image forming device comprising a control unit and an image forming unit, and is characterized in that the control unit generates the additional information when print job data transmitted from an information processing device includes information for adding additional information to image information, and when the image information is image information relating to a document that certifies the authenticity of the written information and the settings of the image forming device satisfy the conditions for adding the additional information, controls the image forming unit to add the additional information to the image information and form an image.

[0006] In addition, the driver program according to the present disclosure is characterized by having a function of causing a computer to display an input screen for accepting input of print settings related to a print job, and a function of outputting information related to adding additional information to image information accepted from a user via the input screen, and print job data including the image information.

[0007] In addition, the printing method disclosed herein is a printing method in an image forming device, and when print job data includes information for adding additional information to image information, the additional information is generated, and when the image information is image information relating to a document that certifies the authenticity of the contents, and when the settings of the image forming device satisfy the conditions for adding the additional information, the additional information is added to the image information and image formation is performed. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus and the like capable of performing appropriate output management of image information by controlling the addition of additional information to image information. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a connection configuration between an image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating additional information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the information processing device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of an information processing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the second embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an operation example according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical content of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0011] Image forming devices are known that output various types of information as a printed matter together with a printed image, by encoding the information in one or more of a two-dimensional code (quick response code: QR code (registered trademark)), a one-dimensional code (barcode), a symbol, and alphanumeric characters.

[0012] For example, Patent Document 1 mentioned above describes a printing device that generates a code image as a printing code from code information that uniquely identifies the medium on which an electronic document is printed, and prints the generated code image and a document image on the medium.

[0013] The printing device of Patent Document 1 enables individual management of the media on which an electronic document is printed by using a code image printed along with the document image, and subsequently tracks various information related to the electronic document and various information obtained at the time of printing.

[0014] However, in the conventional technologies including Patent Document 1, it was not possible to perform output management of printed matter that satisfies the security level required by users, such as changing the contents of various information represented by codes (code images) according to electronic documents (document images) or adding codes only under specific conditions. Also, it was not possible to input information required for codes on the printer driver, determine whether the code can be added based on the input information and system settings, and notify the reason via the printer driver if the code cannot be added.

[0015] In the present disclosure, the following embodiments realize an image forming apparatus and the like that are capable of performing appropriate output management of image information by controlling printing of additional information for image information.

[0016] [1 First embodiment] [1.1 Overall structure] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a connection configuration between a multifunction peripheral 10 as an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment and a terminal device 30 as an information processing apparatus.

[0017] The multifunction device 10 is an example of an image forming device capable of performing various types of jobs such as printing, copying, faxing, and image transmission in one housing. The image forming device according to the present disclosure is not limited to the multifunction device 10, and may be, for example, an image forming device specialized for a specific function such as a printer or fax. The multifunction device 10 is not limited in type, configuration, or performance as long as it is configured to execute a job based on print job data received from the terminal device 30. In the present disclosure, a job for printing image information included in print job data or additional information (encoded information) added to the image information on a medium is referred to as a print job. The multifunction device 10 is connected to a network NW so as to be able to communicate with the terminal device 30 and other devices (not shown). The multifunction device 10 may be connected to another network NW (not shown) connected to the network NW, and a plurality of multifunction devices 10 may be connected to the network NW.

[0018] The terminal device 30 can be configured as a computer that operates under the control of a specific OS (Operating System). As long as the terminal device 30 communicates with the multifunction device 10 via a control unit that operates as a printer driver (described later) and can transmit a generated print job to the multifunction device 10, there is no restriction on the type, configuration, performance, etc. of the device (hereinafter, the control unit that functions as a printer driver may be simply referred to as a printer driver). Incidentally, the terminal device 30 may be connected to another network NW (not shown) that is connected to the network NW, and a plurality of terminal devices 30 may be connected to the network NW.

[0019] [1.2 Functional configuration] [1.2.1 About the multifunction device 10] The functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10. The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 19, an image forming unit 21, and an image input unit 23.

[0020] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is configured, for example, with one or more arithmetic devices (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19.

[0021] The display unit 13 is a display device that displays various information to a user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

[0022] The operation input unit 15 is an input device that accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys such as hard keys and software keys, and buttons. The operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method of the touch panel can be a general method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0023] The communication unit 17 includes a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other devices (terminal device 30) via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, a fax line, etc. The communication unit 17 may also include an interface related to (short-distance) wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near field communication), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), and wireless USB.

[0024] The image forming unit 21 feeds paper from a paper feed tray (not shown), prints an image of a code related to image information and additional information included in a print job, and then discharges the paper to a paper discharge unit (not shown). The image forming unit 21 can be configured, for example, as a laser printer using an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 21 performs printing using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to a toner color (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, black, etc.).

[0025] The image input unit 23 generates image information by scanning an original. The image input unit 23 can be configured as a scanner device having an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) and an automatic document feeder (ADF) or a flatbed for placing and reading an original. There is no particular limitation on the configuration of the image input unit 23 as long as it is configured to generate image information by reading a reflected light image from an original image with an image sensor. The image input unit 23 can also be configured as an interface capable of acquiring document information stored in an external storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or image information included in a print job transmitted from the terminal device 30.

[0026] The storage unit 19 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 19 can be configured with storage devices such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an HDD (Hard disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), and a ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0027] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a control program 191, a job control program 192, an authentication program 193, and an additional information related program 194, and reserves an authentication information storage area 195.

[0028] The control program 191 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when performing overall control of the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 that has read the control program 191 controls the driving of hardware such as the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, the image forming unit 21, and the image input unit 23.

[0029] The job control program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when executing a job such as print (including print hold), copy, fax, or image transmission. After reading the job control program 192, the control unit 11 transitions to a job mode (print (copy) mode, fax mode, image transmission mode, etc.) for executing each job and executes the job. When executing a job, the control unit 11 displays an execution screen on a touch panel configured as the operation input unit 15 (display unit 13) as necessary, which accepts selection of setting values ​​and functions required for executing the job from the user. The control unit 11 can process jobs based on setting values ​​and functions accepted via the execution screen, and jobs received from other devices such as the terminal device 30.

[0030] Incidentally, print hold is a print function that temporarily holds image information acquired as a print job in the storage unit 19 and prints it based on an operation instruction from the user. In this case, a preview image (including a code related to the additional information if additional information is added) generated based on the held image information is displayed on the touch panel, so that it is possible to check the print result before printing.

[0031] The authentication program 193 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when authenticating a user who attempts to log in to the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 that reads out the authentication program 193 operates as an authentication unit that operates based on a user authentication function, and when the user authentication function is enabled, displays a login screen (not shown) on the touch panel and accepts input of authentication information related to user authentication by the user. For example, when the authentication condition is a combination of a login user name and a login password, the control unit 11 can perform user authentication by previously storing the login user name and the login password related to the user authentication in association with each other, and collating the login user name and the login password input via the login screen. Note that the user authentication can be performed by, in addition to knowledge authentication that combines the login user name and the login password, for example, possession authentication using a token, a key, an IC (Integrated circuit) card, a smartphone, or biometric authentication such as face authentication or fingerprint authentication. Note that the control unit 11 can accept a setting of enable / disable of the user authentication function from an administrator having management authority via a system setting screen or the like described later. Incidentally, the control unit 11 that has read out the authentication program 193 can send to the terminal device 30 a response to an inquiry from the terminal device 30 regarding whether the user authentication function is enabled or disabled, and, if the user authentication function is enabled, a user authentication result based on authentication information sent from the printer driver of the terminal device 30.

[0032] The additional information related program 194 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when communication with the terminal device 30 is started and a print job transmitted from the printer driver of the terminal device 30 is received. When the control unit 11 that reads out the additional information related program 194 determines that the print job transmitted from the printer driver contains necessary information, it executes processing related to the addition of the additional information, assuming that the addition of the additional information to the image information has been instructed. Here, the additional information according to the present disclosure refers to information that is added to the image information related to the print job, includes specific information described later, and is converted into coded information (image) by coding. Moreover, the necessary information includes a part or all of the specific information and authentication information, and is information that is required to determine whether or not the additional information can be added to the image information.

[0033] The control unit 11 that reads the additional information related program 194 performs the following processing as an example of processing related to whether or not additional information is to be added: (1) Review of necessary information obtained (2) Check the system settings (3) Check the user authentication result (4) Check whether printing settings are set by an invalid user The control unit 11 executes the process related to the above and verifies the necessary information input by the user, the system setting contents of the device, the user authentication result, or the presence or absence of print settings by an invalid user to determine whether the conditions for adding additional information are met. If the control unit 11 determines that the conditions for adding additional information are met, it proceeds with a process for generating output image information, which will be described later, such as generating encoded information related to the additional information. On the other hand, if the control unit 11 determines that the conditions for adding additional information are not met, it notifies the printer driver of the terminal device 30 of the cause of the error.

[0034] Such additional information related program 194 includes an image information determination program 1941, a code generation program 1942, and an output image information generation program 1943. The control unit 11 that reads out the image information determination program 1941 determines whether the type of image information related to the print job is image information of a document that certifies the authenticity of the description. Here, the document that certifies the authenticity of the description is a type of document used within or outside the organization to which the user who executes the print job belongs, and is an official document (hereinafter, referred to as an official document in this disclosure) that has been approved by multiple supervisors as necessary for a document created by the user. On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the type of image information related to the print is not a document that certifies the authenticity of the description, it determines that the image information is image information related to another document (hereinafter, referred to as an unofficial document (general job) in this disclosure) different from the document that certifies the authenticity of the description. In addition, the control unit 11 that reads out the image information determination program 1941 can determine the type of image information related to the accepted print job based on the contents of the required information and an identifier indicating the type of image information (for example, numbers or letters such as "1" or "Yes" for official documents, and "0" or "No" for unofficial documents).

[0035] The code generating program 1942 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when generating a code related to the additional information. When the type of image information related to the print is image information related to an official document, the control unit 11 reads out the code generating program 1942 generates image information (encoded information) of a code related to the additional information by using specific information including organization information related to an organization to which a user who executes a print job belongs as additional information. On the other hand, when the type of image information related to the print is image information related to an unofficial document, the control unit 11 generates image information (encoded information) of a code related to the additional information by using specific information including job information related to a print job and device information of the multifunction device 10 as additional information. The encoded information may be a one-dimensional code such as a barcode (for example, EAN code, JAN code, Codbar, CODE128, etc.) or a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be a stack type two-dimensional code (for example, PDF417, CODE49, etc.) or a matrix type two-dimensional code (for example, Quick Response Code (QR Code (registered trademark)), DataMatrix, VeriCode, Aztec, etc.). In the following description, a quick response code (QR code (registered trademark)) will be used as an example of encoded information.

[0036] Here, with reference to FIG. 3, a description will be given of specific information that is added as additional information when the type of image information related to a print is image information related to an official document.

[0037] 3, when the type of image information is an official document, an example of specific information added as additional information to the image information to be printed can be organizational information such as a company code / department code, which is related to the organization to which the user who executes the print job belongs, and the specific information can further include login information such as the login name of the user who logged in to the multifunction device 10, and date and time information such as the print date and time. Note that the organizational information is not limited to the company code / department code, and is not particularly limited as long as it can identify the company (name) such as the company (company) name, company group name, branch (branch) name, store name, URL (Uniform Resource Locator), domain name, contact information such as telephone number, or the affiliation of the user who executed the print job.

[0038] Furthermore, when the type of image information is an informal document, examples of specific information added as additional information to the image information to be printed include job information related to the print job, such as a job mode and a job ID, and device information of the multifunction device 10, such as a serial number of an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral / Printer), and the job specific information can further include information related to login information, such as the login name of a user who has logged in to the multifunction device 10, and date and time information, such as the date and time of printing. Note that the job information is not limited to the job mode and job ID, and is not particularly limited as long as it is information related to the job to be executed, such as specific setting values ​​related to the execution of the print job, such as the number of prints and color mode / monochrome mode, when the job is a print job, or a setting history ID for identifying the setting history, when the print job to be executed is a print job that uses the setting history of an executed print job.

[0039] FIG. 3 also shows an example of specific information that is decoded by reading an image obtained by encoding the specific information with a reading device such as a code reader.

[0040] An example of decryption in the case of an official document (specific information) is a character string consisting of a company code / department code of "aabbcc", a login name of "tanaka", and a date and time of "230705091458" (2023 / 07 / 05 09:14:58). Regarding the decryption of codes related to official documents, it is preferable to express the character strings representing the company code / department code, login name, date and time, etc., concatenated without delimiters (e.g., underscores) so that the decryption result is difficult to read at a glance, in consideration of security against third parties. On the other hand, regarding the decryption of codes related to unofficial documents, it is preferable to express the character strings representing the job mode, MFP serial number, job ID, login name, date and time, etc., concatenated with delimiters so that the decryption result is easy to read at a glance, in consideration of the convenience of the (logged-in) user.

[0041] Returning to FIG. 2 again, the output image information generating program 1943 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when generating output image information to be printed on a medium by synthesizing image information related to a print job with encoded information generated by reading out the code generating program 1942. The control unit 11 that reads out the output image information generating program 1943 generates output image information in consideration of the print layout on the medium. For example, the code related to the additional information can be added together with other images (e.g., watermarks, stamps, date printing, etc.), but if the print position (display position) related to the code image overlaps with the print position (display position) related to the image based on the other display information, the printing of the code related to the additional information can be prioritized. In this case, the control unit 11 can adjust the print position of the code related to the additional information so that it does not overlap with the print position of the other image by restricting the printing of the other image or changing the print position of the other image. The print position of the code related to the additional information is preferably in the upper right corner of the image forming surface of the medium so as not to affect the printing of the image information related to the print job, but the user can change or set the print position of the code related to the additional information as appropriate. Meanwhile, when some image has already been printed at the print position of the code related to the additional information, the control unit 11 can overwrite the image with the image of the code related to the additional information. When the print job transmitted from the printer driver does not include necessary information, that is, when an instruction to add additional information is not given to the image information related to the print job, the control unit 11 that reads the output image information generating program 1943 generates output image information for printing only the image information related to the print job. Then, the control unit 11 that generated the output image information reads the job control program 192 to transition to a job mode for executing the print job and executes the print job.

[0042] The authentication information storage area 195 is a storage area for storing authentication information (for example, a combination of a login user name and a login password related to user authentication) of a user attempting to log in to the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11, which has read out the authentication program 193, performs user authentication processing by comparing authentication information related to a login user name and a login password received via a login screen (not shown) or a printer driver of the terminal device 30 with the authentication information read out from the authentication information storage area 195.

[0043] [1.2.2 Terminal device 30] The following describes the functional configuration of the terminal device 30. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 includes a control unit 31, a display unit 33, an operation input unit 35, a communication unit 37, and a storage unit 39.

[0044] The control unit 31 controls the entire terminal device 30. The control unit 31 is configured with, for example, one or more arithmetic devices (CPU, SoC, etc.). The control unit 31 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 39.

[0045] The display unit 33 is a display device that displays various information to the user, etc. The display unit 33 can be configured, for example, by an LCD, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0046] The operation input unit 35 is an input device that accepts information input by a user, etc. The operation input unit 35 may use, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel.

[0047] The communication unit 37 includes a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other devices (such as the multifunction device 10) via, for example, a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, a telephone line, etc. The communication unit 37 may include an interface related to (short-distance) wireless communication technology, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), IrDA, or wireless USB.

[0048] The storage unit 39 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the terminal device 30. The storage unit 39 can be configured with a storage device such as a RAM, an HDD, an SSD, or a ROM.

[0049] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 39 stores a control program 391, a driver program 392, and an application program 393, and reserves a screen information storage area 394.

[0050] The control program 391 is a program that is read by the control unit 31 when performing overall control of the terminal device 30. The control unit 31 that has read the control program 391 functions as an OS, and controls the operation of hardware such as the display unit 33, the operation input unit 35, and the communication unit 37, starts and ends applications that run on the OS, manages files, and so on.

[0051] The driver program 392 is a printer driver that runs on the OS. The driver program 392 is a program that the control unit 31 reads out when exchanging a print job with the multifunction device 10 via an application. The control unit 31 that reads out the driver program 392 functions as a printer driver. When a print instruction for an official document or an unofficial document is received via an application, the printer driver displays a print execution screen, described later, for printing the document on the display unit 33. The print execution screen is an input screen for receiving input of print settings (also called print settings) related to the print job. The printer driver generates a print job based on the print settings received from the user via the print execution screen, and transmits the generated print job to the multifunction device 10. In addition, when the printer driver receives a notification of an error cause from the multifunction device 10, it can display a notification screen related to the error cause on the display unit 33 (print execution screen) and prompt the user to resolve the error cause.

[0052] Application program 393 is a program that is read by control unit 31 upon receiving a start instruction from the user. After reading application program 393, control unit 31 functions as an application and provides specific functions according to the user's purpose, such as document creation such as official documents and unofficial documents, graphic drawing, and Internet browsing. Application program 393 can be acquired by installation using a recording medium such as a CD or DVD, or by downloading from a service providing server (not shown).

[0053] The screen information storage area 394 is a storage area for storing a setting screen for receiving the selection of the MFP 10 that will execute a print job, and screen information (images / screen contents) for configuring a print execution screen according to a printer driver.

[0054] [1.3 Processing flow] [1.3.1 Processing flow of the multifunction device 10] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining processing from when the multifunction device 10 starts communication with the terminal device 30, executes a print job, and ends communication with the terminal device 30. The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 executes the processing described in Fig. 5 by reading, among other things, a job control program 192, an authentication program 193, an additional information related program 194, and the like.

[0055] The control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 starts communication with the terminal device 30, for example, when the start of activation of the printer driver of the terminal device 30 is used as a trigger (step S100).

[0056] When the control unit 11, which has started communication with the terminal device 30, receives a print job from the terminal device 30, it determines whether or not it has acquired necessary information and image information along with the print job (step S100->step S110). If it has determined that it has acquired the necessary information and image information, it examines the acquired necessary information and determines whether there are any defects in the contents (step S110; Yes->step S120). On the other hand, if it has not acquired the necessary information and image information, the control unit 11 waits until it acquires the necessary information and image information (step S110; No).

[0057] When the control unit 11 determines that the necessary information is complete, it determines whether the type of image information related to the print job is an official document (step S120; Yes→step S130). When the control unit 11 determines that the type of image information related to the print job is an official document, it advances the process to step S140 (step S130; Yes→step S140). On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the type of image information related to the print job is not an official document, it determines that the type of image information related to the print job is an unofficial document, and advances the process to step S170 without checking the contents of the system settings of the own device (step S130; No→step S220→step S170).

[0058] In step S140, the control unit 11 checks the system settings of the own device. The control unit 11 checks the settings of the QR code print settings that accept a setting of whether or not to add a code (QR code) as additional information to an image related to image information of a print job to be executed in the own device. Even if the settings of the own device are a setting not to add a code as additional information (for example, "do not print"), if the type of image information related to the print job is an official document and the addition conditions based on the necessary conditions are satisfied, the control unit 11 ignores the settings of the own device and decides to add a code as additional information to the image.

[0059] Next, the control unit 11 judges whether the user authentication function is enabled and whether the user authentication based on the authentication information included in the necessary information has been successful (step S140→step S150). If it is judged that the user authentication function is enabled and the user authentication based on the authentication information included in the necessary information has been successful, the control unit 11 advances the process to step S160 (step S150; Yes→step S160).

[0060] In step S160, the control unit 11 judges whether or not a function for prohibiting printing by an invalid user is set. The function for prohibiting printing by an invalid user is a setting for restricting printing by an invalid user (e.g., a guest user, etc.) who has not been authenticated (user) for the multifunction device 10. If it is judged that the function for prohibiting printing by an invalid user is set, the control unit 11 generates coded information based on the necessary information (specific information) (step S160; Yes→step S170).

[0061] The control unit 11 generates output image information by combining the encoded information generated in step S170 with the image information related to the print job acquired in step S110 (step S180). Then, the control unit 11 executes printing based on the generated output image information (step S190). After executing printing, the control unit 11 ends communication with the terminal device 30 and ends the process (step S200).

[0062] Meanwhile, if it is determined that there is an error in the necessary information (step S120; No), if it is determined that the user authentication function is invalid or valid but the user authentication based on the authentication information included in the necessary information has failed (step S150; No), or if it is determined that the function to prohibit printing by invalid users has not been set (step S160; No), the control unit 11 notifies the printer driver of the multifunction device 10 of the cause of the error and terminates the process (step S210).

[0063] [1.3.2 Processing flow of terminal device 30] 6 is a diagram for explaining the process from after the printer driver of the terminal device 30 is started up to the end of communication with the multifunction device 10. The control unit 31 of the terminal device 30 executes the process explained in FIG. 6 by reading, among other things, a driver program 392, an application program 393, and the like.

[0064] For example, when the control unit 31 of the terminal device 30 receives an instruction to print an object from a user via an application, the control unit 31 reads the driver program 392 and starts up as a printer driver (step S300). The control unit 31 started up as a printer driver (hereinafter referred to as the printer driver) displays a print execution screen on the display unit 33 and starts communication with the multifunction device 10 (step S310).

[0065] Next, the printer driver determines whether the print settings accepted via the print execution screen are print settings related to an official document (step S320). If it is determined that the accepted print settings are print settings related to an official document, the printer driver displays an input field for a company / department code as specific information related to the official document (step S320; Yes → step S330). On the other hand, if it is determined that the accepted print settings are not print settings related to an official document, the printer driver proceeds to step S340 (step S320; No → step S340).

[0066] The printer driver accepts input of necessary information (step S340). Then, the printer driver transmits the necessary information and image information related to printing to the multifunction device 10 (step S350). After transmitting the necessary information and image information, the printer driver determines whether or not a notification of the cause of an error has been received from the multifunction device 10 (step S360).

[0067] If it is determined that no notification of the cause of the error has been received from the multifunction device 10, the printer driver ends communication with the multifunction device 10 and ends the process (step S360; No->step S380).

[0068] On the other hand, if it is determined that a notification of the cause of the error has been received from the multifunction device 10, the printer driver displays the notified cause of the error on the print execution screen (display unit 33) (step S360; Yes -> step S370). Then, the printer driver ends communication with the multifunction device 10 and ends the process (step S380). Note that, although a form in which the necessary information and image information are simultaneously transmitted to the multifunction device 10 as a print job has been described in Fig. 6, a form in which the necessary information is transmitted to the multifunction device 10 first, and if there is no problem with the necessary information, the image information may be transmitted.

[0069] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an operation example according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 7 shows an example of a QR code print setting screen W10 that accepts a setting of whether or not to add a code (QR code) as additional information to an image related to image information of a print job to be executed. The QR code print setting screen W10 can be displayed via a system setting screen of the multifunction device 10, etc.

[0070] 7 includes a pull-down menu P10 and a pull-down menu P12 that accept a selection as to whether or not to add a QR code to an image related to image information (unofficial document) related to a copy job or print job. In the pull-down menus P10 and P12, the user can select any one of the following items: "Always print", "User selectable", or "Do not print".

[0071] The pull-down menu P10 is a pull-down menu that accepts the selection of whether or not to add a QR code to an image related to the image information of a copy job when the job to be executed is a copy job. The pull-down menu P12 is a pull-down menu that accepts the selection of whether or not to add a QR code to an image related to the image information of a print job when the job to be executed is a print job. In the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment, a mode for adding a QR code can be selected according to the type of job.

[0072] For example, the "Always Print" menu shown in the pull-down menu P10 is a mode in which a QR code is always added regardless of the user's selection. On the other hand, the "User Selectable" menu shown in the pull-down menu P12 is a mode in which the user can select whether or not to add a QR code via the (job) execution screen of the multifunction device 10. Also, although not shown, the "Do Not Print" menu is a mode in which the addition of a QR code is restricted regardless of the type of job to be executed. Note that in the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment, even if the setting content of the device itself is a setting not to add a QR code as additional information ("Do Not Print"), when the type of image information related to the print job is an official document and the addition condition based on the necessary conditions is satisfied, the control unit 11 ignores the setting content of the device itself and adds a QR code as additional information to the image related to the image information.

[0073] 8 is an example of an initial setting screen W20 having a user authentication pull-down menu P14 that accepts a setting for enabling / disabling the user authentication function. The initial setting screen W20 can be displayed via a system setting screen or the like of the multifunction device 10. An administrator having administrative authority for the multifunction device 10 can switch between enabling / disabling the user authentication function via the user authentication pull-down menu P14 on the initial setting screen W20.

[0074] 9 is an example of an initial setting screen W20 having an invalid user print prohibition check box CB10 that accepts settings for the invalid user print prohibition function. The administrator can switch between enabling and disabling the invalid user print prohibition function via the invalid user print prohibition check box CB10 on the initial setting screen W20.

[0075] Fig. 10 shows an example of the configuration of a print execution screen W30 as an input screen displayed by the printer driver of the terminal device 30. The print execution screen W30 is an execution screen displayed by the printer driver when a print instruction is accepted in the terminal device 30 via a predetermined application. In the case of a print job, the subject to which a QR code is to be added as additional information is image information related to an image to be printed that is generated via a predetermined application. Fig. 10 explains an aspect of adding a QR code to the image information via the print execution screen W30.

[0076] The print execution screen W30 includes a print setting area R10. The print execution screen W30 illustrated in Fig. 10 is an example in which the print setting area R10 includes inserts, stamps, image quality, and detailed settings as print settings that can be selected by the user. In the print setting area R10, the user can make print settings according to the displayed setting contents for any of the settings of inserts, stamps, image quality, and detailed settings.

[0077] Fig. 10 is an example in which the setting related to the addition of a QR code is provided in the print setting related to the stamp. Note that, although the setting related to the addition of a QR code is provided in the print setting related to the stamp in Fig. 10, the setting related to the addition of a QR code can be provided in other print settings such as detailed settings.

[0078] Here, the QR code assignment target selection pull-down menu P20 is a pull-down menu that accepts the selection of the document type to which the QR code is to be assigned as additional information. FIG. 10 is an example of a case where the document to which the QR code is to be assigned is not selected (None). The QR code assignment target selection pull-down menu P20 can display a selection screen in which the display area is expanded downward in the figure by clicking on the downward arrow, etc. The expanded screen P20A displays "None" (not selected), "Official Documents", and "Non-Official Documents (General Job)" as items that can be selected by the user. By selecting the desired item, the user can set the QR code assignment target to either "Not Selected", "Official Document", or "Non-Official Document (General Job)".

[0079] The authentication information input box Bx10 is an input box that accepts input of a user's authentication information for the multifunction device 10. When a login user name (Login Name) and a login password (Password) are input by the user as authentication information, the printer driver transmits the input authentication information to the multifunction device 10 as necessary information.

[0080] FIG. 11 is an example of a screen transition when "Official Documents" is selected as the document type to which a QR code is to be assigned via the QR code assignment target selection pull-down menu P20 on the print execution screen W30 illustrated in FIG.

[0081] The print execution screen W40 illustrated in FIG. 11 includes a specific information input box Bx12 in addition to the configuration of the print execution screen W30. The specific information input box Bx12 is a box that accepts input of organizational information, which is an example of specific information. The specific information input box Bx12 is an input box that is displayed when an official document is selected as the document type to which a QR code is to be assigned in the QR code assignment target selection pull-down menu P20. FIG. 11 is an example of an input box that accepts input of "Company Code / Department Code" as organizational information. For example, by inputting a company code / department code such as "aabbcc", the user can include the input organizational information in the additional information (see FIG. 3).

[0082] The OK button B10, which serves as an input confirmation button, is a button that accepts an instruction to confirm the selection and input contents on the print execution screen W40. The Cancel button B12 is a button that accepts an instruction to cancel the selection and input contents on the print execution screen W40. It is preferable that the OK button B10 cannot be selected until the input of the required information is completed, such as in the QR code assignment target selection pull-down menu P20, the specific information input box Bx12, the authentication information input box Bx10, etc., by graying out or hiding it as shown in the example of FIG. 11.

[0083] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification of an error cause notified to the printer driver when the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 determines that there is an error in the necessary information in step S120 of FIG.

[0084] 12 is an example of an error cause notification screen W50 superimposed on the print execution screen W40, which displays the error cause notification message "There is an error in the information you entered. Please check the information you entered." By checking the error cause notification screen W50, the user can understand that there was an error in the input of required information.

[0085] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a notification of an error cause notified to the printer driver when the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 determines in step S140 of FIG. 5 that the user authentication function is not valid.

[0086] 13 is an example in which an error cause notification screen W52, which notifies the user of the error cause with "user authentication is invalid," is superimposed on the print execution screen W40. By checking the error cause notification screen W52, the user can understand that the user authentication function of the multifunction device 10 is invalid and that the administrator must be contacted.

[0087] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification of an error cause notified to the printer driver when the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 determines in step S150 of FIG. 5 that the function for prohibiting printing by an invalid user is not enabled.

[0088] 14 is an example in which an error cause notification screen W54, which displays "Printing by invalid users is not prohibited" as the error cause notification content, is superimposed on the print execution screen W40. By checking the error cause notification screen W54, the user can understand that the function of the multifunction device 10 to prohibit printing by invalid users is disabled and that it is necessary to contact an administrator.

[0089] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of a print result of an official document to which a QR code is added as additional information. In FIG. 15, in addition to the official document body as image information related to the print job, a QR code Q10 is printed in the upper right corner of a medium S10. The print position of the QR code Q10 is preferably the upper right corner of the medium so as not to affect the readability of the official document body, but is not limited thereto. In addition to the four corners of the medium, namely the upper left upper corner, the lower right lower corner, and the lower left lower corner, the QR code Q10 can be printed on the back side of the printed side of the official document body if the device configuration allows double-sided printing. The print position of the QR code Q10 can be set or changed as desired by the user. In addition, the print size of the QR code Q10 can be set as desired, but it is preferable to make it fixed regardless of the medium size, taking into consideration the reading performance of a reading device such as a code reader.

[0090] As described above, in the first embodiment, when the condition based on the necessary information is satisfied as a specific condition in a print job sent from the printer driver, it is possible to print an image with a code added as the added information added to the image information related to the printer job. If the condition is not satisfied, the multifunction device notifies the cause of the error, so that the user who operates the printer driver via the terminal device can easily understand the cause of the error and can take appropriate measures against the cause of the error.

[0091] [2 Second embodiment] The second embodiment is a form in which, in the first embodiment, when the granting conditions based on the necessary information are not satisfied, a permission request is made to the multifunction device 10 based on an instruction from the user to resolve the cause of the error.

[0092] The overall configuration of the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0093] [2.1 Functional configuration] [2.1.1 About Multifunction Printer 50] The functional configuration of the multifunction device 50 according to the second embodiment can be substantially similar to the functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same functional configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals as the multifunction device 10, and the description thereof will be omitted, and only the differences will be described.

[0094] 16 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction device 50. The multifunction device 50 includes a storage unit 59 instead of the storage unit 19 of the multifunction device 10.

[0095] The storage unit 59 includes a license program 591 in addition to the configuration of the storage unit 19. The license program 591 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when a license request is received from the printer driver. The control unit 11 that reads the license program 591 functions as a license unit and performs a license process related to eliminating the error cause notified to the printer driver by the multifunction device 50.

[0096] [2.1.2 Regarding the terminal device 70] The functional configuration of the terminal device 70 according to the second embodiment can be substantially similar to the functional configuration of the terminal device 30 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same functional configurations as those of the terminal device 30 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted, and only the differences will be described.

[0097] 17 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the terminal device 70. The terminal device 70 includes a storage unit 79 instead of the storage unit 39 of the terminal device 70.

[0098] The storage unit 79 includes a driver program 791 which is obtained by adding a permission request program 7911 to the configuration of the driver program 392 in the storage unit 39 .

[0099] The permission request program 7911 is a program that is read by the control unit 31 when resolving an error related to the error cause received from the multifunction device 50. The control unit 31 (printer driver) that reads out the permission request program 7911 performs the necessary processing to make a permission request to the administrator of the multifunction device 50 in order to resolve the error related to the error cause.

[0100] [2.2 Processing flow] [2.2.1 Processing flow of the terminal device 70] Fig. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing of the terminal device 70. The processing explained in the flowchart of Fig. 18 can be executed as part of the processing explained in the flowchart of Fig. 6 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the flowchart of Fig. 18 will be explained using the explanation of the processing related to the flowchart of Fig. 6.

[0101] In step S370 of FIG. 6, the printer driver displays the error cause received from the multifunction device 50 on the print execution screen, and displays a permission request screen inquiring of the user as to whether or not to request permission to resolve the error related to the error cause (step S400).

[0102] When a permission request is received from the user via the displayed permission request screen, the printer driver transmits a permission request to the multifunction device 50 to resolve the error related to the error cause (step S410; Yes→step S420).

[0103] After transmitting the permission request, the printer driver determines whether or not a notification that permission has been granted has been received from the multifunction device 50 (step S430). If it is determined that a notification that permission has been granted has been received, the printer driver executes the process from step S360 onward in FIG. 6 (step S430; Yes→step S540).

[0104] On the other hand, if the printer driver does not accept a permission request from the user via the displayed permission request screen (step S410; No), or if it receives a notification from the multifunction device 50 that permission has not been granted (step S430; No), the printer driver ends the process.

[0105] [2.2.2 Processing flow of the multifunction device 50] Fig. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing of the multifunction device 50. The processing explained in the flowchart of Fig. 19 can be executed as part of the processing explained in the flowchart of Fig. 5 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the flowchart of Fig. 19 will be explained using the explanation of the processing related to the flowchart of Fig. 5.

[0106] 5, when the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 50 notifies the printer driver of the cause of the error, it determines whether or not it has received a permission request from the printer driver (step S500). If it determines that it has received a permission request from the printer driver, the control unit 11 displays an permission permission screen that asks the administrator whether or not to give permission to resolve the error (step S500; Yes→step S510).

[0107] When the control unit 11 receives an input of approval from the administrator via the displayed approval screen, the control unit 11 changes the setting related to the error cause (step S520; Yes -> step S530). Then, the control unit 11 transmits a notification to the printer driver that approval has been given by the administrator in response to the approval request received from the printer driver (step S540). After transmitting the notification that approval has been given, the control unit 11 executes the process from step S170 in FIG. 5 onwards (step S550).

[0108] In step S500, if a permission request for the notified error cause is not received from the printer driver (step S500; No), the control unit 11 ends the process.

[0109] Furthermore, in step S520, if the administrator does not input approval via the displayed approval screen, the control unit 11 sends a notification of non-approval to the printer driver (step S520; No->step S560), and ends the process.

[0110] [2.3 Example of operation]

[0111] Fig. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a permission request screen W52A that queries the user as to whether or not to make a permission request to resolve the error. Fig. 20 is an example of an operation corresponding to the process related to step S400 in Fig. 18. Fig. 20 is an example in which "The user authentication function is not valid. Would you like to make a permission request to the administrator?" is displayed on the permission request screen W52A as the content of the query as to whether or not to make a permission request to the user.

[0112] The permission request screen W52A includes a Yes button B20 and a No button B22. The Yes button B20 is a button that accepts a user's instruction to execute the permission request as a response. The No button B22 is a button that accepts a user's instruction to cancel the permission request. When the printer driver receives the user's selection of the Yes button B20, it determines that the user has made a permission request, and transmits a permission request to the multifunction device 50 to resolve the error.

[0113] Fig. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of the permission screen W60 that queries the administrator as to whether or not to give permission to resolve the error. Fig. 21 is an example of the operation corresponding to the process related to step S510 in Fig. 19. Fig. 21 is an example in which "A permission request has been received regarding the user authentication function. Do you want to grant permission?" is displayed on the permission screen W60 as the content of the query to the administrator as to whether or not to grant permission.

[0114] The permission screen W60 includes a Yes button B24 and a No button B26. The Yes button B24 is a button that accepts an instruction to execute permission (settings change) to resolve the error by the administrator. The No button B26 is a button that accepts an instruction to cancel the permission to resolve the error by the administrator. When the control unit 11 receives the selection of the Yes button B24 by the administrator, it determines that the administrator has given permission to resolve the error related to the cause of the error, changes the settings of the function related to the cause of the error (for example, a user authentication function), and transmits to the printer driver the fact that permission to resolve the error related to the cause of the error has been given.

[0115] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, even if the grant conditions based on the required information are not satisfied, a permission request can be made to the administrator of the multifunction device, and when the grant conditions are satisfied (the error cause is resolved), image information can be sent to the multifunction device, thereby providing an image forming device, etc. that is highly convenient.

[0116] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, the technical scope of the present disclosure also includes embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure.

[0117] Although the above-described embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they may be combined and executed within a technically feasible range.

[0118] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and is then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as necessary.

[0119] Here, the computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which the program is recorded in the information processing device may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory cards, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc. In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer to realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments, and the functions of the present disclosure are realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc. based on instructions from the program.

[0120] In addition, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course included in the present disclosure.

[0121] Also, each functional block or feature of the device used in the above-mentioned embodiment can be implemented and executed by an electric circuit, for example, an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. The electric circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or trongistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The electric circuit described above may be composed of a digital circuit or an analog circuit. Also, when an integrated circuit technology that replaces the current integrated circuit appears due to the progress of semiconductor technology, one or more aspects of the present disclosure can use a new integrated circuit according to the technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 10, 50 multifunction devices 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19, 59 Memory section 191 Control Program 192 Job Control Program 193 Certification Program 194 Additional Information Related Programs 1941 Image information judgment program 1942 Code Generator 1943 Output image information generation program 195 Authentication information storage area 591 Licensed Program 30, 70 Terminal equipment 31 Control Unit 33 Display section 35 Operation input section 37 Communications Department 39, 79 Memory section 391 Control Program 392, 791 driver program 7911 Permission Request Program 393 Application Program 394 Screen information storage area

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus including a control unit and an image forming unit, The control unit is generating additional information for the image information when the print job data transmitted from the information processing device includes information for adding additional information to the image information; An image forming apparatus characterized in that, when the image information is image information relating to a document that certifies the authenticity of written information, and the settings of the image forming apparatus satisfy the conditions for adding the additional information, the image forming apparatus controls the image forming unit to add the additional information to the image information and form an image.

2. The control unit is The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the image information is image information relating to a document that certifies the authenticity of the written information, the additional information is generated to include organizational information relating to the organization to which the user who executes a job related to image formation of the document belongs.

3. The control unit is The image forming device according to claim 1, characterized in that even if the image information is image information relating to a document that certifies the authenticity of the written information and the print job data includes information to add the additional information, if the settings of the image forming device do not satisfy the addition conditions, an error is notified to the information processing device.

4. The condition for providing the above-mentioned is:

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a user authentication function is enabled.

5. a permission unit that receives an input of a response to a permission request from the information processing device, The control unit is The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 or claim 4, characterized in that when a response content indicating that the permission request is approved is received from an administrator having management authority of the image forming apparatus via the permission unit, the image forming unit is controlled to perform the image formation.

6. The control unit is generating the additional information as encoded information; The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the image forming section is controlled so as to perform the image formation by adding a code based on the encoding information to an image based on the image information.

7. The control unit is The image forming device described in claim 6, characterized in that when the image information is image information related to a document that certifies the authenticity of the described information, the encoded information is generated so that in addition to the organizational information, a string including login information for the image forming device or printing date and time information is generated as content, and the string represented by decoding the code is concatenated without delimiters.

8. The control unit is The image forming apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein when an image forming position of the code overlaps with an image forming position of an image different from the code, the image forming unit is controlled so as to give priority to the code when forming the image.

9. On the computer, A function of displaying an input screen for receiving input of print settings related to a print job; a driver program for implementing a function of outputting information relating to addition of additional information to image information received from a user via the input screen and print job data including the image information;

10. The input screen is 10. The driver program according to claim 9, further comprising a selection screen for receiving a selection of a type of the additional information by the user.

11. The selection screen includes: The driver program according to claim 10, characterized in that the type of additional information that can be selected by the user is displayed as selectable from additional information regarding image information of a document that certifies the authenticity of the written information, additional information regarding image information of a document other than the document that certifies the authenticity of the written information, or no additional information.

12. The input screen is 12. The driver program according to claim 11, wherein when additional information relating to image information of a document certifying the authenticity of the description is selected as the type of the additional information, input of the additional information is accepted.

13. The input screen is 13. The driver program according to claim 12, wherein an input confirmation button is displayed in an unselectable state until the input of the additional information is completed.

14. A printing method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: If the print job data includes information for adding additional information to the image information, the additional information is generated; A printing method characterized in that the image information is image information relating to a document that certifies the authenticity of the information written therein, and when the settings of the image forming device satisfy the conditions for adding the additional information, the additional information is added to the image information and an image is formed.

Images