Image forming article ordering system

Abstract

To reduce complexity of a contract or the like for an orderer and a load on a printing company when generating an image forming article.SOLUTION: An image forming article ordering system 100 comprises: an acquisition unit (management server 1; control unit 11) for acquiring image forming job information from an orderer terminal (orderer terminal device 2) of an orderer of an image forming article; an image forming unit (image forming apparatus 3; an image forming unit 34) which forms an image on a recording medium based on the received image forming job information to generate an image forming article; and a discharge unit (image forming apparatus 3; discharge unit 36) for discharging the image forming article. Only a delivery person associated with the image forming article can receive the image forming article discharged from the discharge unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an ordering system for image-formed products. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as described in Patent Document 1, printing is requested to a printing company, and the printed matter is delivered by a delivery company. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2002-334236 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] By the way, when printing is requested to a printing company and the printed matter is delivered by a delivery company, since the workers at the printing company can see the printed matter, it may be desirable to conclude a confidentiality agreement with the printing company. Therefore, from the client's perspective, the time and effort required for the contract can be cumbersome. In addition, if a printing company enters into such a contract, it must strictly manage the printing shop, which increases the burden on the printing company.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to reduce the complexity of contracts and other issues for the client and the burden on the printing company when producing an image formed product. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the image forming product ordering system according to the present invention comprises: An acquisition unit that acquires image formation job information from an orderer terminal of an orderer of an image formation product; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium based on the received image forming job information to generate the image formed product; a discharge section that discharges the image-formed product, Only the deliverer associated with the image-formed object can receive the image-formed object discharged from the discharge section. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, when an image is formed, it is possible to reduce the complexity of contracts for the client and the burden on the printing company. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image-formed product ordering system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a management server. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an orderer terminal device. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image forming plant management device. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a deliverer terminal device. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an image formation product ordering process. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an image formation product ordering process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and drawings.

[0010] <Image Formation Product Ordering System> First, the configuration of an image-formed product ordering system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the image-formed product ordering system 100 includes a management server 1, an orderer terminal device 2, an image forming device 3, an image forming facility management device 4, and a deliverer terminal device 5. The management server 1, the orderer terminal device 2, the image forming device 3, the image forming facility management device 4, and the deliverer terminal device 5 transmit and receive information via a communication network N. The various types of information will be described later.

[0011] The management server 1 is a device that manages image formation job information and the like ordered by an orderer. An orderer is a person who orders an image formation product. A delivery company is a company that delivers an image formation product (delivery person). The delivery person is assumed to be, for example, a gig worker. The management server 1 is configured as an on-premise or cloud device. The orderer terminal device 2 is a terminal used by an orderer to order an image-formed product. For example, the orderer terminal device 2 is a notebook PC (personal computer) or the like. For example, the orderer terminal device 2 is placed in the orderer's office OF. The image forming apparatus 3 is an apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium based on image formation job information. Recording media include, for example, various types of paper, envelopes, postcards, etc. Postcards also include postcards with glue applied to hide some information. The image forming apparatus 3 is disposed in an image forming facility PO, which will be described later. The image forming apparatus 3 is managed by an administrator of the image forming apparatus 3. The image formation facility management device 4 is a device that manages the image formation facility PO in which the image forming apparatus 3 is disposed. The image formation facility management device 4 ensures security of the image formation facility PO. The image formation facility management device 4 is also disposed in the image formation facility PO, which will be described later. The deliverer terminal device 5 is a device that a deliverer holds for delivery purposes. For example, the deliverer terminal device 5 is a tablet terminal. The deliverer can use the deliverer terminal device 5 to check the delivery destination, delivery date, and the like. The deliverer terminal device 5 is also configured to acquire location information, and location information of the deliverer holding the deliverer terminal device 5 is acquired. The communication network N is a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, or the like.

[0012] <Management Server> Next, the configuration of the management server 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the management server 1 includes a control unit 11, a communication unit 12, and a storage unit 13.

[0013] The control unit 11 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The CPU of the control unit 11 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 13, loads them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and controls the operation of each part of the management server 1. The control unit 11 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires image formation job information from an orderer terminal of an orderer of an image-formed product. The control unit 11 functions as a selection unit that selects a delivery person who will collect and deliver the image-formed material. The control unit 11 functions as a first control unit that controls the delivery of the image-formed product based on delivery permission information that permits the delivery of the image-formed product from the orderer terminal.

[0014] The communication unit 12 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0015] The storage unit 13 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11 and various information such as parameters required for executing the programs. The storage unit 13 includes a delivery company information DB (database) and an image formation job information DB.

[0016] The delivery company information DB is a database that manages delivery companies for each orderer. The purchaser information includes the purchaser ID, name, address, etc. of the purchaser. The delivery company information is information that manages the delivery company information for each company to which the delivery person belongs. The delivery company information includes the delivery company ID, name, etc.

[0017] The image formation job information DB is a database for managing image formation job information ordered by an orderer. The image formation job information includes image information, orderer information, delivery date information, image formation quantity information, collection time information, start time information, deliverer information, and delivery permission information. The image information is information (image data) such as images and characters to be formed. The orderer information is information indicating the orderer who has ordered each image formation job information, and is, for example, an orderer ID. The delivery date information is information that indicates the delivery date to the orderer of the recording medium (image-formed product) on which the image information is formed. The image formation amount information is information indicating the amount of the image formation, such as the number of sheets or weight. The collection time information is information indicating the time when the deliverer will collect the image-formed material from the image forming facility PO and start delivering it. The start time information is information that indicates the start time at which the image forming apparatus 3 starts forming an image on a recording medium. The deliverer information (first deliverer information) is information about a deliverer who delivers an image-formed product. For example, it is a deliverer ID. The second deliverer information described later is the deliverer information image-formed on a recording medium based on the first deliverer information. The delivery permission information is information that indicates that the delivery person is permitted to deliver the image-formed material.

[0018] <Orderer terminal device> Next, the configuration of the orderer terminal device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the orderer terminal device 2 includes a control unit 21, a communication unit 22, a storage unit 23, a display unit 24, and an operation unit 25. An orderer uses the orderer terminal device 2 to input image information, orderer information, and delivery date information, and transmits image formation job information in order to order an image-formed product.

[0019] The control unit 21 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 21 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 23, expands them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the expanded programs, and controls the operation of each part of the purchaser terminal device 2.

[0020] The communication unit 22 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0021] The storage unit 23 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11, parameters required for executing the programs, and the like.

[0022] The display unit 24 is configured with a monitor such as an LCD, and displays various screens and the like according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 21.

[0023] The operation unit 25 is a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel laminated on the surface of the display unit 24, etc. The operation unit 25 is configured to be operable by an operator. In addition, the operation unit 25 outputs various signals to the control unit 21 based on operations performed by the operator.

[0024] <Image forming device> Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 4, the image forming apparatus 3 includes a control unit 31, a communication unit 32, a storage unit 33, an image forming unit 34, a reading unit 35, and a discharge unit 36. The image forming apparatus 3 forms an image on a recording medium based on the image formation job information. The image forming apparatus 3 uses the image formation job information in a state in which secondary use is not possible.

[0025] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 31 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 33, loads them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and controls the operations of each unit of the image forming apparatus 3. The control unit 31 functions as a first transmission unit that transmits the read image to the orderer terminal. The control unit 31 functions as an inspection unit that inspects the read image for the presence or absence of an abnormality in the image-formed product. The control unit 31 functions as a second control unit that causes the image forming unit to start image formation based on the image formation job information, based on the collection time by the delivery person. The control unit 31 functions as a second acquisition unit that acquires image formation job information based on the collection time by the delivery company. The control unit 11 of the management server 1 may have the functions of the control unit 31, and the control unit 11 may control the operations of the various units of the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication network N.

[0026] The communication unit 32 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0027] The storage unit 33 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11, parameters required for executing the programs, and the like.

[0028] The image forming unit 34 forms an image on a recording medium such as paper supplied from a paper feed unit (not shown) by electrophotography. The image forming unit 34 forms an image based on image formation job information received from the management server 1. The image forming unit 34 includes photoconductor drums corresponding to the respective colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, an intermediate transfer belt, a secondary transfer roller, a fixing unit, and the like. The image forming section 34 forms an image on a recording medium based on the received image formation job information, thereby generating an image-formed product.

[0029] The reading unit 35 is a device that reads the surface of the recording medium on which an image is formed by the image forming unit 34 and which is being transported. The reading unit 35 reads the image-formed material and generates a read image.

[0030] The discharge unit 36 ​​is a tray or the like onto which the recording medium on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit 34 and which has passed through the reading unit 35 is discharged.

[0031] <Image forming facility management device> Next, the configuration of the image formation facility management device 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 5, the image formation facility management device 4 includes a control unit 41, a communication unit 42, a storage unit 43, a collation reception unit 44, and an imaging unit 45. The image forming facility management device 4 allows only a deliverer associated with an image-formed object to enter the image forming facility PO, and manages the image forming facility PO by confirming that the deliverer has the image-formed object and allowing him / her to leave.

[0032] The control unit 41 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 41 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 43, expands them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the expanded programs, and controls the operation of each unit of the image forming facility management device 4. The control unit 41 functions as a second transmission unit that transmits photographed data captured from the start of execution of the image formation job information to the collection to the orderer terminal.

[0033] The communication unit 42 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0034] The storage unit 43 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11, parameters required for executing the programs, and the like.

[0035] The matching reception unit 44 receives matching information displayed on the delivery person terminal device 5 described below and matching information image-formed on an image-formed product. For example, the matching reception unit 44 is a QR (Quick Response) Code (registered trademark) reader. Note that the matching reception unit 44 is not limited to QR codes and may receive information by various wireless communications via the communication unit 52. Also, the matching reception unit 44 is not limited to QR codes and may receive information by various authentication methods using passwords, etc.

[0036] The photographing unit 45 is a security camera or the like installed near the entrance / exit of the image forming facility PO or near the image forming apparatus 3 in the image forming facility PO. The photographing section 45 functions as a photographing section that photographs the image forming apparatus 3.

[0037] The lock unit 46 is a device that regulates entry and exit in the image forming facility PO. The lock unit 46 is provided on a door D of the image forming facility PO in which the image forming apparatus 3 is disposed. The lock unit 46 is unlocked by key information given only to a deliverer associated with an image-formed object.

[0038] <Delivery company terminal device> Next, the configuration of the deliverer terminal device 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. As shown in Fig. 6, the deliverer terminal device 5 includes a control unit 51, a communication unit 52, a storage unit 53, a display unit 54, and an operation unit 55. The deliverer uses the deliverer terminal device 5 to enter the image forming facility PO and delivers the image-formed product to a specified address (eg, the address of the orderer). The deliverer terminal device 5 holds a deliverer ID for each device, and the deliverer terminal device 5 is managed using the deliverer ID.

[0039] The control unit 51 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 51 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 53, expands them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the expanded programs, and controls the operation of each unit of the deliverer terminal device 5.

[0040] The communication unit 52 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0041] The storage unit 53 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11, parameters required for executing the programs, and the like.

[0042] The display unit 54 is configured with a monitor such as an LCD, and displays various screens and the like according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 51.

[0043] The operation unit 55 is a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel laminated on the surface of the display unit 54, etc. The operation unit 55 is configured to be operable by an operator. In addition, the operation unit 55 outputs various signals to the control unit 51 based on operations performed by the operator.

[0044] <Image Formation Center> Next, the image forming facility PO will be described with reference to FIG. When the deliverer C holds key information such as a QR code displayed on the display unit 54 of the deliverer terminal device 5 over the verification reception unit 44 and is confirmed to be the deliverer corresponding to the image-formed object, the lock unit 46 provided on the door D is unlocked. Then, the deliverer C can enter the image forming facility PO and receive the image-formed object from the discharge unit 36 ​​of the image forming apparatus 3. When the deliverer C holds up key information such as a QR code formed on the received image-formed object over the verification reception unit 44, it is confirmed that the deliverer C has correctly received the image-formed object, and the lock unit 46 provided on the door D is unlocked. Then, the deliverer C can exit the image-formed object at the image-formed facility PO and deliver the image-formed object. Simultaneously with the above-mentioned entry and exit, the photographing unit 45 photographs the movement of the delivery person C around the entrance and exit and the image forming device 3, and records the log.

[0045] <Image Formation Order Processing> Next, the image-formed product ordering process will be described with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. The image-formed product ordering process is a process in which an orderer orders an image-formed product and a deliverer delivers the image-formed product. The image-formed product ordering process is executed by the management server 1, the orderer terminal device 2, the image forming device 3, the image forming facility management device 4, and the deliverer terminal device 5 working together.

[0046] First, when an orderer inputs information about an image formation job, such as image information, orderer information, and delivery date information, using the operation unit 25 of the orderer terminal device 2, the control unit 21 generates image formation job information (step S1). Next, the control unit 21 transmits the image formation job information to the management server 1 via the communication unit 22 (step S2).

[0047] Next, the control unit 11 receives the image formation job information from the orderer terminal device 2 via the communication unit 12 (step S3). Upon receiving the image formation job information, the control unit 11 calculates image formation quantity information based on the image formation job information. Next, the control unit 11 calculates the collection time based on the delivery date information, and determines the start time for starting image formation according to the collection time (step S4). That is, at this time, collection time information and start time information are generated. Next, the control unit 11 transmits the delivery information (orderer information, delivery date information, collection time information, image formation quantity information) to the deliverer terminal device 5 of the deliverer ID linked to the orderer ID via the communication unit 12 (step S5). For example, the delivery information is transmitted to the deliverer terminal devices 5 owned by multiple gig workers (deliverers).

[0048] Next, the control unit 51 receives the delivery information from the management server 1 via the communication unit 52, and displays it on the display unit 54 (step S6). The deliverer checks the delivery information displayed on the display unit 54 and determines whether delivery is possible. Next, when the deliverer uses the operation unit 55 of the deliverer terminal device 5 to press the delivery possible button displayed on the display unit 54, the control unit 51 sends delivery possible information (deliverer information, location information) indicating that the deliverer is able to deliver the image-formed material to the management server 1 via the communication unit 52 (step S7).

[0049] Next, the control unit 11 receives the delivery availability information from the deliverer terminal device 5 via the communication unit 12 (step S8). Next, the control unit 11 selects a delivery person (step S9). For example, the control unit 11 may select a delivery person within a predetermined distance from the image forming facility PO based on the location information. In addition, the control unit 11 may select a delivery person by taking into consideration the delivery person's travel route. Also, for example, the control unit 11 may select a delivery person with a rating higher than a predetermined level. At this time, the control unit 11 generates selection information indicating that a delivery person has been selected. Next, the control unit 11 transmits the selection information to the deliverer terminal device 5 of the selected deliverer via the communication unit 12 (step S10). Next, the control unit 51 receives the selection information from the management server 1 via the communication unit 52 (step S11). Next, when the deliverer uses the operation unit 55 of the deliverer terminal device 5 to press the selection confirmation button displayed on the display unit 54, the control unit 51 transmits selection confirmation information indicating that the selection has been confirmed to the management server 1 via the communication unit 52 (step S12). After pressing the selection confirmation button, the deliverer heads to the image formation facility PO so as to be in time for the collection time. Next, the control unit 11 determines the deliverer (step S13). The control unit 11 generates the deliverer information (first deliverer information). The control unit 11 adds the deliverer information to the image formation job information. This increases the probability that a deliverer located close to the image forming facility PO will deliver the package, thereby improving the efficiency of delivery. Next, the control unit 11 transmits the image formation job information to the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication unit 12 (step S14).

[0050] Next, the control unit 31 receives the image formation job information from the management server 1 via the communication unit 32 (step S15). Next, the control unit 31 causes the image forming unit 34 to form the image information on the recording medium based on the image formation job information at the start time based on the start time information included in the image formation job information (step S16). At the same time, the control unit 31 causes the second delivery company information to be formed on the recording medium. The second delivery company information is information image-formed on the recording medium based on the first delivery company information determined in step S13. This allows the time from when the image-formed product, on which an image is formed on the recording medium, is discharged to the discharge section 36 until it is delivered to a limited short time. Next, the control unit 31 causes the reading unit 35 to read the recording medium on which the image has been formed, and generates a read image. The control unit 31 inspects the read image by comparing it with a correct image, and generates inspection information. Examples of the inspection information include "an image that should have been formed is missing" and "the recording medium is dirty." The control unit 31 transmits the read image and the inspection information to the orderer terminal device 2 via the communication unit 32 (step S17). The control unit 31 may transmit only the scanned images or only the inspection information. The scanned images transmitted by the control unit 31 may be scanned images of all recording media on which images have been formed, or only scanned images determined to have an abnormality by inspection.

[0051] Next, the control unit 21 receives the read image and the inspection information from the image forming apparatus 3 via the communication unit 22, and causes the display unit 24 to display them (step S18). Next, when the orderer inputs the confirmation results of the read image and the inspection information using the operation unit 25 of the orderer terminal device 2, the control unit 21 judges the confirmation results of the read image and the inspection information (step S19). If the confirmation result regarding the read image and the inspection information is judged to be OK (step S19; YES), the control unit 21 advances the image-formed product ordering process to step S20. If the confirmation result regarding the read image and the inspection information is judged to be NG (step S19; NO), the control unit 21 advances the image-formed product ordering process to step S16 via the communication unit 22. This ensures the quality of the image formed product required by the client, although the manager of the image forming facility PO cannot check the read image and inspection information of the image formed product. Next, the control unit 21 transmits the delivery permission information to the management server 1 via the communication unit 22 (step S20).

[0052] Next, the control unit 11 receives the delivery permission information from the orderer terminal device 2 via the communication unit 12 (step S21). Next, the control unit 11 transmits the delivery permission information to the image forming device 3 and the deliverer terminal device 5 via the communication unit 12 (step S22).

[0053] Next, when the control unit 31 receives the delivery permission information from the management server 1 via the communication unit 32, it erases the image formation job information received in step 10 from the storage unit 33 (step S23). For example, the control unit 31 overwrites the image formation job information with information that does not contain the predetermined information. This makes it possible to prevent the image formation job information from remaining in the image forming apparatus 3.

[0054] Next, the control unit 51 receives the delivery permission information from the management server 1 via the communication unit 52, and displays it on the display unit 54 (step S24). The deliverer checks the delivery permission information displayed on the display unit 54 and recognizes that delivery permission has been issued.

[0055] When the deliverer arrives at the image formation facility PO, the deliverer displays key information such as a QR code indicating the deliverer ID on the display unit 54 of the deliverer terminal device 5 and holds it over the verification reception unit 44. That is, the control unit 51 transmits the first deliverer information to the image formation facility management device 4 (step S25).

[0056] Next, the control unit 41 receives the first deliverer information from the deliverer terminal device 5 (step S26). Next, the control unit 41 transmits the first deliverer information to the management server 1 via the communication unit 42 (step S27).

[0057] Next, the control unit 11 receives the first deliverer information from the image formation facility management device 4 via the communication unit 12, and compares the received first deliverer information with the first deliverer information determined in step S13 (step S28). If the first deliverer information is the same, the control unit 11 determines that the result is OK (step S29). If it is determined to be OK (step S29; YES), the image-formed product ordering process proceeds to step S30 based on the control by the control unit 11 via the communication unit 12. If it is determined to be NG (step S29; NO), the image-formed product ordering process proceeds to step S25 based on the control by the control unit 11 via the communication unit 12.

[0058] Next, the control unit 41 unlocks the lock unit 46 provided on the door D of the image forming facility PO (step S30). The deliverer enters the image forming facility PO and receives the image-formed object from the discharge unit 36 ​​of the image forming apparatus 3. When the deliverer enters, the lock unit 46 provided on the door D is locked. This allows only delivery personnel of a delivery company linked to the orderer to enter the image forming facility PO.

[0059] When the deliverer receives the image-formed object, he / she faces the door D, displays an image such as a QR code formed on the image-formed object, and holds it over the verification reception unit 44. That is, the control unit 41 receives the second deliverer information. After that, the control unit 41 transmits the second deliverer information to the management server 1 via the communication unit 42 (step S31).

[0060] Next, the control unit 11 receives the second deliverer information from the image formation facility management device 4 via the communication unit 12, and compares the received second deliverer information with the first deliverer information determined in step S13 (step S32). If the first deliverer information and the second deliverer information are the same, the control unit 11 determines that the result is OK (step S33). If it is determined to be OK (step S33; YES), the image-formed product ordering process proceeds to step S34 based on the control by the control unit 11 via the communication unit 12. If it is determined to be NG (step S33; NO), the image-formed product ordering process proceeds to step S31 based on the control by the control unit 11 via the communication unit 12.

[0061] Next, the control unit 41 unlocks the lock unit 46 provided on the door D of the image forming facility PO (step S34). The delivery person leaves the image forming facility PO and delivers the image-formed object. When the delivery person leaves the facility, the lock unit 46 provided on the door D is locked. As a result, a delivery person of a delivery company linked to the orderer correctly receives the image-formed material from the image forming facility PO and leaves the facility.

[0062] According to the embodiment as described above, only the deliverer associated with the image-formed object can receive the image-formed object discharged from the discharge unit 36. Specifically, only the deliverer confirmed in step S13 can enter the image-formed object by unlocking the lock unit 46 of the image-formed object PO in step S30. This allows only that deliverer to receive the image-formed object. In addition, when the deliverer receives the associated image-formed object, relocks the lock unit 46 of the image-formed object PO in step S34, and leaves the premises, it is confirmed that the deliverer has received the associated image-formed object.

[0063] <Other> In the above embodiment, the image-formed product is sent to the address of the orderer included in the orderer information in the storage unit 13, but is not limited to this example. For example, the delivery destination may be an address designated by the orderer.

[0064] The control unit 41 may transmit photographed data obtained by photographing the image formation job information from the start of execution (step S16) to the collection (step S34) to the orderer terminal device 2. At this time, the control unit 41 functions as a second transmission unit.

[0065] Moreover, in the above embodiment, a step may be added in which the orderer confirms that there is no one in the image forming facility PO before image formation. Specifically, a predetermined time before the start time, the control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3 transmits to the orderer terminal device 2 a message indicating that image formation will be performed at the start time, and a current state of the inside of the image forming place PO photographed by the photographing unit 45. When the orderer uses the orderer terminal device 2 to confirm that there is no person in the image forming place PO, the orderer transmits instruction information to instruct the image forming apparatus 3 to perform image formation. The control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3 causes the image forming unit 34 to form an image based on the instruction information instructing the execution of image formation. Conversely, when the orderer uses the orderer terminal device 2 to confirm that there is a person in the image forming place PO, the orderer transmits instruction information to the image forming apparatus 3 to stop the execution of image formation. The control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 3 causes the image forming unit 34 to stop image formation based on the instruction information instructing the stop of image formation. In the above specific example, the client confirms that there are no people in the image formation facility PO, but a human presence sensor or the like may be provided in the image formation facility PO, and the control unit 41 of the image formation facility management device 4 connected to the human presence sensor may automatically determine that there are no people in the image formation facility PO.

[0066] In the above embodiment, in step S16, the control unit 31 causes the image forming unit 34 to form an image at the start time, but the control unit 31 may acquire image formation job information based on the collection time by the delivery person. At this time, the control unit 31 functions as a second acquisition unit.

[0067] In addition, in the above embodiment, the deliverer is determined based on the calculated collection time, but it is also possible to determine the deliverer first and then calculate the start time based on the deliverer's schedule while taking into account the delivery date. Specifically, the control unit 11 of the management server 1 acquires the schedule of the deliverer from the deliverer terminal device 5 and selects a deliverer based on the availability of the schedule. Next, the control unit 11 transmits the selection information and delivery information to the deliverer terminal device 5. Next, the deliverer checks the delivery date information included in the delivery information and transmits the time of arrival at the image formation facility PO (collection time) to the management server 1. Next, the control unit 11 calculates the start time so that image formation is completed in accordance with the received collection time.

[0068] In the above embodiment, the number of image forming facilities PO is one, but multiple image forming facilities PO may be used. The control unit 11 of the management server 1 may determine the image forming facility PO to form an image based on the address of the orderer or a specified address.

[0069] There may be a plurality of image forming devices 3. In this way, even if one image forming device 3 becomes unusable due to a paper jam or the like, the control unit 31 can cause another usable image forming device 3 to perform image formation, thereby reducing the occurrence of image formation not being completed at the time of delivery by the delivery person's collection time.

[0070] In the above embodiment, when the control unit 31 receives the delivery permission information from the management server 1 in step S23, it erases the image formation job information, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in step S16, the control unit 31 may inspect the read image after the final sheet is discharged, and if it is determined that there is no problem, erase the image formation job information. In other words, the image formation order processing is a flow in which steps S17 to S22 are not executed, the control unit 31 judges the read image, and if it is determined that there is no problem, it transmits delivery permission information to the deliverer terminal device 5, and if it is determined that there is a problem, it causes image formation to be performed again.

[0071] In the above embodiment, the lock unit 46 is provided in the image forming facility PO, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the lock unit 46 may be provided in the discharge unit 36 ​​of the image forming apparatus 3 so that the delivery person cannot take out the image-formed object from the discharge unit 36 ​​when the lock unit 46 is in the locked state.

[0072] In the above embodiment, the inspection is performed by comparing the read image with the correct image in a certain job, that is, the inspection is performed for each image forming job information. The control unit 11 of the management server 1 may calculate the probability of wear occurrence by obtaining and accumulating such inspection results from the image forming device 3. The control unit 11 may also calculate the probability of wear occurrence for each paper type. The control unit 11 may also calculate the probability of wear occurrence for each image forming device 3. By calculating the probability of wear occurrence, various times can be set, taking into account the time for reprinting.

[0073] In addition, in the image forming device 3, the control unit 31 may perform an inspection by comparing the read image with the correct image, and purge any waste paper that is found to be abnormal to an output unit other than the output unit 36, so that only printed materials that are found to be normal are output to the output unit 36, which is the collection location. In addition, the purged waste paper may be cut by a paper cutter or the like.

[0074] In addition, in the above embodiment, the control unit 11 calculates the collection time based on the delivery date information, and determines the start time for starting image formation according to the collection time. However, the start time for starting image formation may be determined based not only on the collection time but also on the probability of occurrence of the above-mentioned waste. Further, the control unit 31 may acquire image formation job information based on not only the collection time but also the occurrence probability of the waste. In addition, if image formation cannot start at the start time because the start time determined based on the collection time or the probability of occurrence of the above-mentioned waste is earlier than the current time, the control unit 11 may send information to the orderer terminal device 2 requesting a revision of the delivery date.

[0075] <Effects> As described above, the image-formed product ordering system 100 includes an acquisition unit (management server 1; control unit 11) that acquires image formation job information from the orderer terminal (orderer terminal device 2) of the orderer of the image-formed product, an image forming unit (image forming device 3; image forming unit 34) that generates the image-formed product by forming an image on a recording medium based on the received image formation job information, and a discharge unit (image forming device 3; discharge unit 36) that discharges the image-formed product, and only a delivery person associated with the image-formed product can receive the image-formed product discharged from the discharge unit. Therefore, the client does not need to enter into a non-disclosure agreement with the printing company, which reduces the complexity of contracts for the client. The printing company does not need to enter into a non-disclosure agreement with the client, which reduces the management burden (employees, equipment, etc.) for the printing company.

[0076] The image-formed product ordering system 100 also includes a reading unit 35 that reads the image-formed product and generates a read image, a first transmission unit (control unit 31) that transmits the read image to the orderer terminal, and a first control unit (control unit 11) that controls the delivery of the image-formed product based on delivery permission information that permits the delivery of the image-formed product from the orderer terminal. This allows the orderer to check the read image, and although the manager of the image forming facility PO cannot inspect the image-formed product, the quality of the image-formed product is guaranteed.

[0077] In addition, the image-formed product ordering system 100 further includes an inspection unit (control unit 31) that inspects the presence or absence of abnormalities in the image-formed product from the read image, and the first transmission unit (control unit 31) further transmits information regarding the result of the inspection. This allows the client to check the inspection results, and although the manager of the image forming facility PO cannot inspect the image-formed product, the quality of the image-formed product is guaranteed.

[0078] In addition, the image-formed product ordering system 100 further includes an imaging unit 45 that images the image forming unit, and a second transmission unit (control unit 41) that transmits the image data captured from the start of execution of the image formation job information to delivery to the orderer terminal. This ensures the security of the image-formed product.

[0079] The image-formed product ordering system 100 also includes a second control unit (control unit 31) that causes the image forming unit to start image formation based on the image formation job information, based on the collection time by the delivery person. This allows the time from when the image-formed product is placed in the discharge section 36 until it is delivered to a limited short time, thereby ensuring the security of the image-formed product.

[0080] The image formation product ordering system 100 also includes a second acquisition unit (control unit 31) that acquires image formation job information based on the collection time by the delivery company. This allows the time from when the image-formed product is placed in the discharge section 36 until it is delivered to a limited short time, thereby ensuring the security of the image-formed product.

[0081] The image-formed product ordering system 100 also includes a selection unit (control unit 11) that selects a delivery person who will collect the image-formed product, and the selection unit selects the delivery person based on the collection time of the image-formed product. This increases the probability that a deliverer located close to the image forming facility PO will deliver the package, thereby improving the efficiency of delivery.

[0082] The image-formed product ordering system 100 also includes a lock unit 46 that is provided on the door of the room in which the image-formed product is installed and regulates entry and exit, and key information that is given only to the delivery person associated with the image-formed product, and the lock unit is unlocked by the key information. This ensures security at the image forming facility PO and prevents the image-formed material from falling into the hands of anyone other than the intended deliverer.

[0083] The present invention has been specifically described above based on an embodiment, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above description, a hard disk or a non-volatile semiconductor memory is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this example. As another computer-readable medium, a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM can be used.

[0084] In addition, the detailed configuration and operation of each device may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 100 Image forming product ordering system 1 Management Server 11 Control unit (acquisition unit, first control unit, selection unit) 12 Communications Department 13 Storage section 2. Purchaser terminal device 21 Control section 22 Communications Department 23 Memory section 24 Display 25 Control section 3. Image forming equipment 31 control unit (first transmission unit, inspection unit, second control unit, second acquisition unit) 32 Communications Department 33 Storage section 34 Image forming section 35 Reading unit 36 Discharge section 4 Image forming facility management device 41 Control unit (second transmission unit) 42 Communications Department 43 Storage section 44 Matching Reception Department 45 Photography Department 46 Rock Section 5. Delivery terminal device 51 Control section 52 Communications Department 53 Storage section 54 Display section 55 Operation section N Communication Network OF Office PO Imaging Laboratory D Door

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires image formation job information from an orderer terminal of an orderer of an image formation product; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium based on the received image forming job information to generate the image formed product; a discharge section that discharges the image-formed product, An image-formed product ordering system in which only a delivery person associated with the image-formed product can receive the image-formed product discharged from the discharge section.

2. A reading unit that reads the image-formed material and generates a read image; A first transmission unit that transmits the read image to the orderer terminal; A first control unit controls delivery of the image-formed product based on delivery permission information from the orderer terminal that permits delivery of the image-formed product; The image forming product ordering system according to claim 1 .

3. An inspection unit that inspects the image formed on the image forming apparatus for abnormalities based on the read image, The image-formed product ordering system according to claim 2 , wherein the first transmission unit further transmits information relating to a result of the inspection.

4. An imaging unit that images the image forming unit; The image formation product ordering system according to claim 1 , further comprising a second transmission unit that transmits photographed data obtained by photographing the image formation job information from the start of execution to collection to the orderer terminal.

5. 2. The image-formed product ordering system according to claim 1, further comprising a second control unit that causes the image forming unit to start image formation based on the image formation job information, based on a collection time by the delivery person.

6. The image-formed product ordering system according to claim 5 , wherein the second control unit causes the image forming unit to start image formation based on the image formation job information, also based on a probability of occurrence of waste.

7. The image formation product ordering system according to claim 1 , further comprising a second acquisition unit that acquires the image formation job information based on a collection time by the delivery person.

8. The image-formed product ordering system according to claim 7 , wherein the second acquisition unit acquires the image formation job information based on a probability of occurrence of waste.

9. A selection unit is provided for selecting a delivery person who will collect and deliver the image-formed material, The image-formed product ordering system according to claim 1 , wherein the selection unit selects the delivery person based on a collection time of the image-formed product.

10. a locking unit provided at a door of a room in which the image forming unit is disposed and restricts entry and exit; key information given only to a delivery person associated with the image-formed product; 2. The image-formed product ordering system according to claim 1, wherein the locking section is unlocked by the key information.

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