Image forming apparatus, settlement processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus, a settlement processing method, and a program that can suppress acquisition of printed matter by a user without charging from the user.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus includes: a reading control section which causes a reading device to read a two-dimensional code displayed on an information terminal for generating the two-dimensional code including printing data to be printed and settlement information, decodes the two-dimensional code read by the reading device, and acquires the printing data and the settlement information; a printing control section which executes printing processing of the printed data acquired by the reading control section; and an instruction section which instructs a server to perform the settlement processing on the basis of the settlement information acquired by the reading control section after the completion of the printing processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a settlement processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] When a user uses an image forming apparatus, there is known a technique in which settlement processing is performed by a settlement processing system according to the content of a printed matter printed and output.

[0003] As a technique of a settlement processing system for such an image forming apparatus, in order for an image forming system that performs charging settlement to eliminate the need for refund processing, after receiving a completion notice of output in the output process from the image forming apparatus selected as a printing target, and after the user has confirmed the printed matter from a mobile terminal, there is disclosed a technique in which settlement processing is instructed (for example, Patent Document 1).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, since settlement processing is executed according to the input of the confirmation result of the printed matter by the user to the mobile terminal after printing is completed (that is, the instruction input of approval or disapproval of settlement by the user), there is a problem that the user may take away the printed matter without making a settlement.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide an image forming apparatus, a settlement processing method, and a program capable of suppressing a user from obtaining a printed matter without being charged by the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention causes a reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on an information terminal that generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and payment information, and decodes the two-dimensional code read by the reading device to obtain the print data and the payment information. A reading control unit, a printing control unit that executes a printing process on the print data acquired by the reading control unit, and an instruction unit that instructs a server to perform a payment process based on the payment information acquired by the reading control unit after completion of the printing process. It is characterized by having.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress the acquisition of printed matter by the user without charging the user.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the image forming apparatus, payment processing method, and program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the constituent elements in the following embodiments include those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art, substantially the same ones, and those within the so-called equivalent range. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations of the constituent elements can be made without departing from the gist of the following embodiments.

[0010] (Overall Configuration of Payment Processing System) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the payment processing system according to the embodiment. The overall configuration of the payment processing system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0011] The payment processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing system for performing an electronic payment of the charge related to the use of the image forming function (for example, copy function, print function, scanner function, fax function, etc.) of the MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) 20 when a user uses the image forming function. As shown in FIG. 1, the payment processing system 1 includes an information terminal 10, an MFP 20, an external transaction server 30 (server), and payment service provider servers 40a to 40c. These can communicate with each other via a network N such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and the Internet. Here, the MFP is a multifunction device having at least two functions among a copy function, a print function, a scanner function, and a fax function.

[0012] The information terminal 10 is a portable terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal owned by a user who uses the MFP 20.

[0013] The MFP 20 is an image forming apparatus having various image forming functions. The MFP 20 is installed at a predetermined installation location (for example, a company, a store, etc.), and various image forming functions can be used by an unspecified number of users. When a user uses an arbitrary image forming function, the MFP 20 displays a charge amount corresponding to the use of the image forming function. At that time, as a method for settling the charge amount, the MFP 20 can present electronic payment by the payment provider servers 40a to 40c of a plurality of payment providers to the user. The user can select, as a payment method for settling the charge amount, electronic payment by an arbitrary one of the plurality of payment providers via the information terminal 10, for example. Note that the image forming apparatus having the image forming function used by the user is not limited to the MFP 20 which is a multifunction peripheral, and may be a printing apparatus that prints various printed materials, a scanner that reads various reading targets and media, or a combination of them, or a kiosk terminal, a payment device, an unattended payment device, or an automatic payment device, etc.

[0014] The external transaction server 30 is a server provided by a settlement window company that serves as a window for the settlement provider servers 40a to 40c of a plurality of settlement providers. The external transaction server 30 can perform data communication with the MFP 20 and the settlement provider servers 40a to 40c via the network N. When a user uses the MFP 20, the external transaction server 30 performs an electronic payment process for electronically paying the charge amount related to the use of the MFP 20 in cooperation with a server of an arbitrary one of the settlement providers (any one of the settlement provider servers 40a to 40c) selected by the user via the information terminal 10.

[0015] The settlement service provider servers 40a to 40c are servers for electronic payment processing respectively managed and owned by a plurality of settlement service providers. For example, when a user uses the image forming function of the MFP 20 and the user selects electronic payment by any one of the settlement service providers as the settlement method for the charge amount on the information terminal 10, the server corresponding to the one settlement service provider among the settlement service provider servers 40a to 40c executes the electronic payment for the charge amount in response to a request from the external transaction server 30.

[0016] Regarding the settlement service provider servers 40a to 40c, when indicating or generically referring to an arbitrary settlement service provider server, it shall be simply referred to as "settlement service provider server 40". Also, in the example shown in FIG. 1, three settlement service provider servers 40a to 40c are shown, but the number of settlement service provider servers 40 is not limited to this.

[0017] (Outline of the operation of the settlement processing system) FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the operation of the settlement processing system according to the embodiment. While referring to FIG. 2, the outline of the operation of the settlement processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0018] First, the user operates the information terminal 10 and gives a print instruction with arbitrary image data or the like as print data (step (1) in FIG. 2).

[0019] Next, the information terminal 10 analyzes the print data selected by the user and the print settings of the print data, etc., and calculates the settlement amount for printing the print data (step (2) in FIG. 2). The settlement amount is calculated according to, for example, the number of color pages and monochrome pages, or the number of pixels of the image data. Next, the information terminal 10 generates and displays a QR code (registered trademark) obtained by encoding the print data selected by the user and the settlement information including the calculated settlement amount (step (3) in FIG. 2).

[0020] Next, the user performs an operation to cause the MFP 20 to start reading the QR code generated and displayed on the information terminal 10 ((4) in FIG. 2). Then, the MFP 20 performs a reading process on the QR code displayed on the information terminal 10, decodes the QR code, and acquires print data and payment information including the payment amount ((5) in FIG. 2).

[0021] Next, the MFP 20 checks with the external transaction server 30 whether the payment process is possible based on the acquired payment information ((6) in FIG. 2). Then, the external transaction server 30 makes an inquiry to the payment provider server 40 corresponding to the received payment information, determines whether the payment process based on the payment information is possible, and responds with the determination result to the MFP 20.

[0022] Next, when the determination result of whether the payment process is possible received from the external transaction server 30 indicates that the payment process is possible, the MFP 20 executes printing using the print data acquired from the QR code ((7) in FIG. 2). Then, when the printing process of the print data is completed, the MFP 20 instructs the external transaction server 30 to execute the payment process based on the payment information acquired from the QR code ((8) in FIG. 2). Then, the external transaction server 30, in response to the instruction, instructs the payment provider server 40 corresponding to the payment information to execute an electronic payment based on the payment information. Then, the payment provider server 40 performs the electronic payment.

[0023] As described above, when the MFP 20 completes the printing process, it is the MFP 20 that instructs the external transaction server 30 to execute the payment process, rather than the user's judgment, so it is possible to prevent a malicious user from obtaining printed materials without being charged.

[0024] (Hardware Configuration of Information Terminal) FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information terminal according to the embodiment. The hardware configuration of the information terminal 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the information terminal 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 501, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 502, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 503, a storage 504, an imaging unit 505, an imaging I / F 506, an acceleration / azimuth sensor 507, and a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 508.

[0026] The CPU 501 is an arithmetic unit that controls the operation of the entire information terminal 10. The ROM 502 is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs used for driving the CPU 501, such as an IPL (Initial Program Loader). The RAM 503 is a volatile storage device used as a work area for the CPU 601.

[0027] The storage 504 is a non-volatile storage device such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) that stores programs and various data.

[0028] The imaging unit 505 is a built-in imaging device that captures an object with an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) according to the control by the CPU 501 to obtain image data. Note that an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) may be used instead of the CMOS image sensor. The imaging I / F 506 is an interface for controlling the drive of the imaging unit 505.

[0029] The acceleration / azimuth sensor 507 is various sensors such as an electronic magnetic compass that detects geomagnetism, a gyrocompass, and an acceleration sensor.

[0030] The GNSS receiver unit 508 is a receiving device that receives positioning signals from positioning satellites based on GNSS. Note that the GNSS receiver unit 508 receives GPS signals from, for example, GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites.

[0031] Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the information terminal 10 further includes a long-distance communication circuit 511, a short-distance communication circuit 512, a microphone 513, a speaker 514, an audio input / output I / F 515, a display 516 (display device), an external device connection I / F 517, a vibrator 518, and a touch panel 519.

[0032] The long-distance communication circuit 511 is a communication circuit that performs wireless communication with an external device via a network N according to a standard such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), 4G, or 5G.

[0033] The short-distance communication circuit 512 is a communication circuit that performs short-distance wireless communication with other devices according to a standard such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth.

[0034] The microphone 513 is a built-in sound collection device that converts sound into an electrical signal. The speaker 514 is a built-in acoustic device that converts an electrical signal into physical vibration and outputs sound such as music or voice. The audio input / output I / F 515 is an interface that processes the input / output of audio signals between the microphone 513 and the speaker 514 according to the control by the CPU 501. Note that the microphone 513 and the speaker 514 may be a wirelessly connected headset.

[0035] The display 516 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display that displays an image of a subject, various icons, etc. The external device connection I / F 517 is an interface of a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) for connecting various external devices.

[0036] The vibrator 518 is a device that generates physical vibrations according to the control by the CPU 501.

[0037] The touch panel 519 is an input device that is arranged on the display surface of the display 516 and enables various functions of the information terminal 10 to be exerted when the driver touches and operates it.

[0038] The above-mentioned CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, storage 504, imaging I / F 506, acceleration / azimuth sensor 507, GNSS receiver 508, long-distance communication circuit 511, short-distance communication circuit 512, audio input / output I / F 515, display 516, external device connection I / F 517, vibrator 518, and touch panel 519 are communicably connected to each other by a bus 510 such as an address bus and a data bus.

[0039] Note that the hardware configuration of the information terminal 10 shown in FIG. 3 is an example, and it is not necessary to include all the constituent devices, and other constituent devices may be included.

[0040] (Hardware Configuration of MFP) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP according to the embodiment. The hardware configuration of the MFP 20 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, the MFP 20 includes, for example, a main body 610 that realizes various image forming functions such as a copying function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function, and an operation unit 630 that receives user operations. Here, receiving user operations is a concept that includes receiving information input according to user operations (including signals indicating screen coordinate values, etc.).

[0042] The main body 610 and the operation unit 630 are communicably connected to each other via a dedicated communication path 650. The communication path 650 can use, for example, a USB standard one, but is not limited thereto, and can be of any standard whether wired or wireless. The main body 610 performs operations according to the operations received by the operation unit 630. Also, the main body 610 can communicate with an external device and perform operations according to instructions received from the external device.

[0043] <Hardware Configuration of the Main Body> As shown in FIG. 4, the main body 610 includes a CPU 611, a ROM 612, a RAM 613, a storage 614, a communication I / F 615, a connection I / F 616, a scanner unit 617, a printer unit 618, and a mobile body sensor 619.

[0044] The CPU 611 is an arithmetic unit that comprehensively controls the operations of the main body 610. The CPU 611 controls the operations of the entire main body 610 by executing programs stored in the ROM 612 or the storage 614, etc., using the RAM 613 as a work area. For example, the CPU 611 realizes various functions such as the above-described copy function, scanner function, fax function, and printer function.

[0045] The ROM 612 is, for example, a non-volatile memory that stores the BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) executed when the main body 610 is started up and various settings. The RAM 613 is a volatile memory used as a work area of the CPU 611, etc. The storage 614 is a non-volatile storage device that stores, for example, an OS (Operating System), application programs, and various data. The storage 614 is composed of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. Note that although the storage 614 is shown as being included in the main body 610 as shown in FIG. 4, it is not limited thereto and may be provided outside the main body 610.

[0046] The communication I / F 615 is a network interface for connecting the main body 610 to the network N and communicating with an external device connected to the network N. The connection I / F 616 is an interface for communicating with the operation unit 630 via the communication path 650.

[0047] The scanner unit 617 is hardware that performs processing other than general-purpose information processing and communication for realizing a scanner function of scanning and reading a document. The scanner unit 617 generates image data of the read document and stores the image data in a storage destination (e.g., the storage 614, a memory card, a USB memory, a cloud server, etc.) specified by the user.

[0048] The printer unit 618 is hardware that performs processing other than general-purpose information processing and communication for realizing a printer function of printing on a recording medium such as paper.

[0049] The moving body sensor 619 is a sensor that detects a moving body (such as a user) within a detection range around the MFP 20. The moving body sensor 619 is composed of, for example, a pyroelectric sensor or the like.

[0050] The system bus 620 is a transmission path that connects the above-described respective components to each other and transmits an address signal, a data signal, various control signals, and the like.

[0051] <Hardware Configuration of the Operation Unit> As shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 630 includes a CPU 631, a ROM 632, a RAM 633, a flash memory 634, a communication I / F 635, an operation panel 636, a connection I / F 637, an external connection I / F 638, a short-range wireless communication device 639, and a communication device 640 (reading device).

[0052] The CPU 631 is an arithmetic unit that comprehensively controls the operations of the operation unit 630. By executing programs stored in the ROM 632 or the flash memory 634, etc., with the RAM 633 as a work area, the CPU 631 controls the overall operations of the operation unit 630. For example, the CPU 631 realizes various functions such as displaying information (images) corresponding to inputs received from the user on the operation panel 636. Also, by executing an electronic payment application installed in the flash memory 634, etc., the CPU 631 can perform electronic payment processing for charging the user for using the image forming function of the MFP 20 in cooperation with the external transaction server 30.

[0053] The ROM 632 is, for example, a non-volatile memory that stores the BIOS executed when the operation unit 630 is started up and various settings, etc. The RAM 633 is a volatile memory used as a work area of the CPU 631, etc. The flash memory 634 is, for example, a non-volatile storage device that stores the OS, application programs, and various data, etc.

[0054] The communication I / F 635 is a network interface for connecting the operation unit 630 to the network N and communicating with external devices such as the external transaction server 30 connected to the network N. The communication I / F 635 corresponds to, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and enables wired or wireless communication compliant with TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) / IP (Internet Protocol), etc.

[0055] The operation panel 636 is a device having an input function and a display function that receives various inputs according to the operations of the user and displays various types of information (for example, information corresponding to the received operations, information indicating the operation status of the MFP 20, and setting information, etc.). The operation panel 636 is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display device (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) equipped with a touch panel function. Note that the operation panel 636 is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, and may be configured by, for example, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display device equipped with a touch panel function. In addition, the operation panel 636 may be provided with an operation unit such as a hardware key or a display unit such as a lamp in addition to or instead of the touch panel function.

[0056] The connection I / F 637 is an interface for communicating with the main body 610 via the communication path 650. The external connection I / F 638 is an interface for connecting an external device, such as a USB.

[0057] The short-range wireless communication device 639 is a short-range wireless device for communicating with a wireless tag within a predetermined range by short-range wireless communication. The short-range wireless communication device 639 includes, for example, an RFID tag reader, etc., and receives specific information from an RFID tag, etc., that returns a response to the radiated radio wave. Note that the short-range wireless communication device 639 may be a short-range wireless device that performs short-range wireless communication such as BLE or NFC described above.

[0058] The communication device 640 is a device that reads, for example, a QR code, etc.

[0059] The system bus 641 is a transmission path that connects the above-described components to each other and transmits an address signal, a data signal, various control signals, etc.

[0060] Note that in the MFP20 shown in FIG. 4, the main body 610 and the operation unit 630 are separate bodies, but it is not limited to this, and they may be integrated. Also, for example, the operation unit 630 may not operate as a single information processing device, but may operate in cooperation with the main body 610. Further, for example, the operation unit 630 is not limited to being provided in the MFP20, and may be provided, for example, as an information processing device installed together with or separately from the MFP20. Also, for example, the electronic payment application may be installed in the main body 610. Also, for example, the electronic payment application may be provided in an information processing device installed together with or separately from the MFP20. Further, the information processing device installed together with or separately from the MFP20 may be a kiosk terminal, a payment device, an unattended payment device, or an automatic payment device. Also, for example, the electronic payment application may be installed in a server communicably connected to the MFP20. In this case, the server may be a cloud server that provides a cloud service related to electronic payment.

[0061] (Hardware Configuration of External Transaction Server) FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an external transaction server according to an embodiment. With reference to FIG. 5, the hardware configuration of the external transaction server 30 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 5, the external transaction server 30 includes a CPU 701, a ROM 702, a RAM 703, an auxiliary storage device 705, a media drive 707, a display 708, a network I / F 709, a keyboard 711, a mouse 712, and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) drive 714.

[0063] The CPU 701 is an arithmetic device that controls the operation of the entire external transaction server 30. The ROM 702 is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs for the external transaction server 30. The RAM 703 is a volatile storage device used as a work area for the CPU 701.

[0064] The auxiliary storage device 705 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD that stores various data, programs, etc. The media drive 707 is a device that controls the reading and writing of data to and from a recording medium 706 such as a flash memory according to the control of the CPU 701.

[0065] The display 708 is a display device composed of a liquid crystal, an organic EL, etc. that displays various information such as a cursor, a menu, a window, characters, or an image.

[0066] The network I / F 709 is an interface for communicating data with external devices such as the information terminal 10 and the MFP 20 using the network N. The network I / F 709 supports, for example, Ethernet or Wi-Fi and enables wired or wireless communication compliant with TCP / IP, etc.

[0067] The keyboard 711 is an input device for performing operations such as inputting characters, numbers, selecting various instructions, and moving the cursor. The mouse 712 is an input device for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, and moving the cursor.

[0068] The DVD drive 714 is a device that controls the reading and writing of data to and from a DVD 713 such as a DVD-ROM or a DVD-R (Digital Versatile Disk Recordable) as an example of a removable storage medium.

[0069] The above-mentioned CPU 701, ROM 702, RAM 703, auxiliary storage device 705, media drive 707, display 708, network I / F 709, keyboard 711, mouse 712, and DVD drive 714 are communicably connected to each other by a bus 710 such as an address bus and a data bus.

[0070] Note that the hardware configuration of the external transaction server 30 shown in FIG. 5 is an example, and it is not necessary to include all the components shown in FIG. 5, or it may include other components.

[0071] (Configuration and Operation of Functional Blocks of the Settlement Processing System) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of functional blocks of the settlement processing system according to the embodiment. With reference to FIG. 6, the configuration and operation of the functional blocks of the settlement processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 6, the information terminal 10 includes a communication unit 101, a calculation unit 102, a generation unit 103, a display control unit 104, and a storage unit 105.

[0073] The communication unit 101 is a functional unit that performs data communication with an external device (such as the external transaction server 30) via the long-distance communication circuit 511 shown in FIG. 3.

[0074] The calculation unit 102 is a functional unit that analyzes the print data selected by the user via the touch panel 519 and the print settings of the print data, etc., and calculates the settlement amount for printing the print data.

[0075] The generation unit 103 is a functional unit that generates a QR code (an example of a two-dimensional code) obtained by encoding information including the print data selected by the user and the settlement information including the settlement amount calculated by the calculation unit 102. Note that the settlement information may include a settlement ID for identifying the settlement process, a settlement merchant ID for identifying the settlement merchant that performs the settlement process, etc. Further, the generation unit 103 is not limited to the QR code as long as it encodes information including the print data and the settlement information, and may be another two-dimensional code such as DataMatrix.

[0076] The display control unit 104 is a functional unit that controls the display operation of the display 516. The display control unit 104 causes the display 516 to display, for example, the settlement amount calculated by the calculation unit 102 and the QR code generated by the generation unit 103.

[0077] The storage unit 105 is a functional unit that stores print data and the like to be printed. The storage unit 105 is realized by the storage 504 shown in FIG. 3.

[0078] The above-described communication unit 101, calculation unit 102, generation unit 103, and display control unit 104 are realized, for example, by a program (electronic payment application) being executed by the CPU 501 shown in FIG. 3. Note that at least a part of the communication unit 101, calculation unit 102, generation unit 103, and display control unit 104 may be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0079] Note that each functional unit of the information terminal 10 shown in FIG. 6 conceptually shows the functions and is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a plurality of functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the information terminal 10 shown in FIG. 6 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the functions of one functional unit of the information terminal 10 shown in FIG. 6 may be divided into a plurality of functions and configured as a plurality of functional units. Further, each functional unit of the information terminal 10 does not necessarily need to be configured as a clear software module as the block shown in FIG. 6, and it is sufficient that the functions of each functional unit are realized as a whole when a program is executed in the information terminal 10.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 6, the MFP 20 includes a communication unit 201, a reading control unit 202, a confirmation unit 203, a printing control unit 204, a settlement processing instruction unit 205 (instruction unit), a display control unit 206, and a storage unit 207.

[0081] The communication unit 201 is a functional unit that performs data communication with an external device (such as the external transaction server 30) via the communication I / F 635 shown in FIG. 4.

[0082] The reading control unit 202 is a functional unit that controls the reading operation of the communication device 640. For example, the reading control unit 202 causes the communication device 640 to read the QR code displayed on the information terminal 10. Then, the reading control unit 202 decodes the read QR code and acquires print data and settlement information including the settlement amount.

[0083] The confirmation unit 203 is a functional unit that requests the external transaction server 30 to confirm the feasibility of the settlement process based on the settlement information acquired by the reading control unit 202 via the communication unit 201. Then, the confirmation unit 203 acquires the determination result of the feasibility of the settlement process for the said request by the external transaction server 30 via the communication unit 201.

[0084] The printing control unit 204 is a functional unit that controls the printing operation of the printer unit 618. For example, when the determination result of the feasibility of the settlement process acquired by the confirmation unit 203 indicates that the settlement process is possible, the printing control unit 204 executes a printing process using the print data decoded from the QR code by the reading control unit 202.

[0085] When the printing process of the print data is completed by the printing control unit 204, the settlement process instruction unit 205 is a functional unit that instructs the external transaction server 30 to execute a settlement process based on the settlement information decoded from the QR code by the reading control unit 202 via the communication unit 201.

[0086] The display control unit 206 is a functional unit that controls the display operation of the operation panel 636. For example, the display control unit 206 causes the operation panel 636 to display the determination result of the feasibility of the settlement process confirmed by the confirmation unit 203.

[0087] The storage unit 207 is a functional unit that stores the print data decoded from the QR code by the reading control unit 202, the payment information, and the like. The storage unit 207 is realized by the flash memory 634 shown in FIG. 4.

[0088] The above-described communication unit 201, reading control unit 202, confirmation unit 203, printing control unit 204, payment processing instruction unit 205, and display control unit 206 are realized, for example, when a program is executed by the CPU 631 shown in FIG. 4. Note that at least a part of the communication unit 201, reading control unit 202, confirmation unit 203, printing control unit 204, payment processing instruction unit 205, and display control unit 206 may be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC.

[0089] Note that each functional unit of the MFP 20 shown in FIG. 6 conceptually shows the functions and is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a plurality of functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the MFP 20 shown in FIG. 6 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the functions of one functional unit of the MFP 20 shown in FIG. 6 may be divided into a plurality of functions and configured as a plurality of functional units. In addition, each functional unit of the MFP 20 does not necessarily need to be configured as a clear software module as the block shown in FIG. 6, and the functions of each functional unit may be realized as a whole when a program is executed in the MFP 20.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 6, the external transaction server 30 includes a communication unit 301, a payment determination unit 302, and a payment processing unit 303.

[0091] The communication unit 301 is a functional unit that performs data communication with external devices (such as the information terminal 10 and the MFP 20) via the network I / F 709 shown in FIG. 5.

[0092] The payment determination unit 302 is a functional unit that, in response to a request from the MFP 20, makes an inquiry to the payment service provider server 40 corresponding to the payment information acquired together with the request, and determines whether payment processing using the payment information is possible.

[0093] The settlement processing unit 303 is a functional unit that, in response to an instruction from the MFP 20, instructs the execution of an electronic payment to the payment service provider server 40 corresponding to the settlement information based on the settlement information acquired together with the instruction. Note that the settlement processing unit 303 may instruct the execution of an electronic payment using the settlement information acquired by the settlement determination unit 302.

[0094] The above-described communication unit 301, settlement determination unit 302, and settlement processing unit 303 are realized, for example, by a program being executed by the CPU 701 shown in FIG. 5. Note that at least a part of the communication unit 301, settlement determination unit 302, and settlement processing unit 303 may be realized by a hardware circuit such as an ASIC.

[0095] Note that each functional unit of the external transaction server 30 shown in FIG. 6 conceptually shows the functions and is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a plurality of functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the external transaction server 30 shown in FIG. 6 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the functions of one functional unit in the external transaction server 30 shown in FIG. 6 may be divided into a plurality of parts and configured as a plurality of functional units. Also, each functional unit of the external transaction server 30 does not necessarily need to be configured as a clear software module as the block shown in FIG. 6, and it is sufficient that the functions of each functional unit are realized as a whole when a program is executed in the external transaction server 30.

[0096] (Flow of operation of the settlement processing system) FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of operation of the settlement processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a QR code display screen displayed on the information terminal according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a settlement completion notification screen displayed on the information terminal according to the embodiment. The flow of operation of the settlement processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0097] <Step S11> First, the user operates the touch panel 519 of the information terminal 10 to issue a print instruction for arbitrary image data or the like as print data.

[0098] <Step S12> The calculation unit 102 of the information terminal 10 analyzes the print data selected by the user via the touch panel 519 and the print settings of the print data, and calculates the number of monochrome pages (single-color image pages).

[0099] <Step S13> The calculation unit 102 analyzes the print data selected by the user via the touch panel 519 and the print settings of the print data, and calculates the number of color pages (multi-color image pages).

[0100] <Step S14> The calculation unit 102 calculates the settlement amount for printing the print data based on the calculated number of monochrome pages and color pages.

[0101] <Step S15> The generation unit 103 of the information terminal 10 generates a QR code encoding information including the print data selected by the user and the settlement information including the settlement amount calculated by the calculation unit 102.

[0102] <Step S16> The display control unit 104 of the information terminal 10 causes the touch panel 519 to display a QR code displayed in a QR code display area 1001 as shown in, for example, FIG. 8, an instruction to read the QR code, and a QR code display screen 1000 indicating the settlement amount and the like.

[0103] <Step S17> In response to the instruction to read the QR code shown on the QR code display screen 1000, the user performs an operation to cause the MFP 20 to start reading the QR code displayed on the information terminal 10. In this case, the user holds the QR code displayed on the information terminal 10 near the communication device 640 so that it can be read by the communication device 640.

[0104] <Step S18> Then, the reading control unit 202 of the MFP 20 causes the communication device 640 to read the QR code displayed on the information terminal 10.

[0105] <Step S19> Then, the reading control unit 202 acquires the information of the read QR code (QR code information).

[0106] <Step S20> Then, the reading control unit 202 decodes the QR code information and acquires settlement information including print data and the settlement amount.

[0107] <Step S21> The confirmation unit 203 of the MFP 20 makes a request for confirmation of the availability of settlement processing (settlement availability confirmation request) to the external transaction server 30 based on the settlement information acquired by the reading control unit 202 via the communication unit 201. The confirmation unit 203 transmits the settlement information to the external transaction server 30 together with the settlement availability confirmation request.

[0108] <Step S22> The settlement determination unit 302 of the external transaction server 30 makes an inquiry to the settlement service provider server 40 corresponding to the settlement information acquired together with the settlement availability confirmation request in response to the settlement availability confirmation request from the MFP 20, and determines the availability of settlement processing based on the settlement information.

[0109] <Step S23> The settlement determination unit 302 transmits the determination result of the availability of settlement processing based on the settlement information to the MFP 20 via the communication unit 301. The confirmation unit 203 of the MFP 20 acquires the determination result of the availability of settlement processing via the communication unit 201.

[0110] <Steps S24, S25> When the determination result of the availability of the settlement process obtained by the confirmation unit 203 indicates that the settlement process is possible, the print control unit 204 of the MFP 20 executes a printing process using the print data (print job) decoded from the QR code by the reading control unit 202. Then, the print control unit 204 ends the print job.

[0111] <Step S26> Then, when the printing process of the print data is completed by the print control unit 204, the settlement process instruction unit 205 of the MFP 20 instructs the external transaction server 30 to execute a settlement process based on the settlement information decoded from the QR code by the reading control unit 202 via the communication unit 201. The settlement process instruction unit 205 transmits the settlement information to the external transaction server 30 together with the instruction.

[0112] <Step S27> The settlement process unit 303 of the external transaction server 30 instructs the settlement service provider server 40 corresponding to the settlement information to execute an electronic settlement based on the settlement information acquired together with the instruction in response to the instruction from the MFP 20. Then, the settlement service provider server 40 performs the electronic settlement.

[0113] <Step S28> Then, the settlement process unit 303 responds (transmits) to the MFP 20 via the communication unit 301 that the electronic settlement has been completed.

[0114] <Step S29> In addition, the settlement process unit 303 notifies the information terminal 10 via the communication unit 301 that the electronic settlement has been completed.

[0115] <Step S30> Then, the display control unit 104 of the information terminal 10 causes the touch panel 519 to display a settlement completion notification screen 1100 notifying that the electronic settlement has been completed, as shown in, for example, FIG. 9.

[0116] As described above, in the settlement processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, the information terminal 10 includes a generation unit 103 that generates a QR code including print data to be printed and settlement information, and a display control unit 104 that causes the display 516 to display the QR code generated by the generation unit 103. The MFP 20 includes a reading control unit 202 that causes the communication device 640 to read the QR code displayed on the display 516, and decodes the QR code read by the communication device 640 to acquire the print data and the settlement information, and a print control unit 204 that executes a print process on the print data acquired by the reading control unit 202. After the completion of the print process, the MFP 20 includes a settlement process instruction unit 205 that instructs the external transaction server 30 to perform a settlement process based on the settlement information acquired by the reading control unit 202. Therefore, since printing is executed after the settlement process for the print data is completed, it is possible to suppress the acquisition of printed matter by a malicious user without charging the user.

[0117] (Modification example) The settlement processing system 1 according to the modification example will be described centering on the points different from the settlement processing system 1 according to the above-described embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the operation of using the number of pages to calculate the settlement amount for printing the print data was described. In this modification example, the operation of detecting the number of pixels from the print data and calculating the settlement amount using the number of pixels will be described. The overall configuration and the configuration of the functional blocks of the settlement processing system 1 according to this modification example, as well as the hardware configurations of the information terminal 10, the MFP 20, and the external transaction server 30, are the same as the configurations described in the above-described embodiment.

[0118] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the operation flow of the settlement processing system according to the modification example. The operation flow of the settlement processing system 1 according to this modification example will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0119] <Step S11> First, the user operates the touch panel 519 of the information terminal 10 to give a print instruction using arbitrary image data or the like as print data. Then, the process proceeds to step S12a.

[0120] <Step S12a> The calculation unit 102 of the information terminal 10 analyzes the print data selected by the user via the touch panel 519 and the print settings of the print data, etc., and detects the number of pixels of the image printed with the print data. Then, it proceeds to step S14.

[0121] <Steps S14 to S30> The processes of steps S14 to S30 are the same as the processes of steps S14 to S30 in FIG. 7 described above, respectively.

[0122] Also in the settlement processing system 1 according to this modification example as described above, the same effects as those of the settlement processing system 1 according to the above-described embodiment are achieved.

[0123] Note that each function of the above-described embodiment and modification example can be realized by one or a plurality of processing circuits. Here, the "processing circuit" includes a processor programmed to execute each function by software like a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, an ASIC designed to execute each of the above-described functions, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), a SoC (System on a Chip), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and devices such as conventional circuit modules.

[0124] Also, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, when at least any one of the functional units of the information terminal 10, the MFP 20, and the external transaction server 30 is realized by executing a program, the program is provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like. Also, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, the programs executed in the information terminal 10, the MFP 20, and the external transaction server 30 may be configured to be recorded and provided on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) in an installable format or an executable format file. Also, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, the programs executed in the information terminal 10, the MFP 20, and the external transaction server 30 may be configured to be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, the programs executed in the information terminal 10, the MFP 20, and the external transaction server 30 may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. Also, in the above-described embodiments and modifications, the programs executed in the information terminal 10, the MFP 20, and the external transaction server 30 have a module configuration including at least any one of the above-described functional units, and as actual hardware, the CPU reads the program from the above-described storage device and executes it, so that the above-described respective functional units are loaded and generated on the main storage device.

[0125] Aspects of the present invention are as follows. <1> A reading control unit that causes a reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on an information terminal that generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and payment information, and decodes the two-dimensional code read by the reading device to obtain the print data and the payment information; A print control unit that executes a print process on the print data acquired by the reading control unit; After completion of the printing process, an instruction unit that instructs a server to perform a settlement process based on the settlement information acquired by the reading control unit; An image forming apparatus comprising the above. <2>A settlement processing method for an information processing system including an information terminal and an image forming apparatus, comprising: A generation step in which the information terminal generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and settlement information; A display control step in which the information terminal causes the display device to display the generated two-dimensional code; A reading control step in which the image forming apparatus causes the reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on the display device, and decodes the two-dimensional code read by the reading device to acquire the print data and the settlement information; A print control step in which the image forming apparatus executes a print process on the acquired print data; An instruction step in which, after completion of the printing process, the image forming apparatus instructs the server to perform a settlement process based on the acquired settlement information; A settlement processing method having the above. <3>The information processing system further includes the server, The settlement processing method according to <2> above, further having a settlement processing step in which the server performs the settlement process using the settlement information in response to an instruction for the settlement process from the image forming apparatus. <4>The information terminal further has a calculation step of calculating a settlement amount according to a multicolor image page and a monochrome image page included in the print data, In the generation step, the two-dimensional code including the print data and the settlement information including the settlement amount calculated in the calculation step is generated, according to the settlement processing method according to <2> or <3> above. <5>The information terminal further has a calculation step of calculating a settlement amount according to the number of pixels of an image included in the print data, In the generation step, the two-dimensional code including the print data and the payment information including the payment amount calculated in the calculation step is generated by the payment processing method according to <2> or <3> above. <6>A confirmation step in which the image forming apparatus requests the server to confirm the availability of payment processing based on the acquired payment information; A payment determination step in which the server determines the availability of payment processing based on the payment information in response to the request in the confirmation step; further comprising: In the print control step, when the determination result in the payment determination step indicates that the payment processing is possible, the print processing is executed by the payment processing method according to <3> above. <7>In the display control step, the fact that the payment processing is completed by the payment processing step is displayed on the display device by the payment processing method according to <3> or <6> above. <8>Causing a computer to cause a reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on an information terminal that generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and payment information, decode the two-dimensional code read by the reading device, and acquire the print data and the payment information (reading control step); execute a print control step of performing print processing on the acquired print data; an instruction step of instructing the server to perform payment processing based on the acquired payment information after completion of the print processing; A program for causing the above to be executed.

Explanation of Signs

[0126] 1 Payment processing system 10 Information terminal 20 MFP 30 External transaction server 40, 40a to 40c Payment service provider server 101 Communication unit 102 Calculation unit 103 Generation unit 104 Display control unit 105 Memory unit 201 Communication unit 202 Reading control unit 203 Confirmation unit 204 Printing control unit 205 Settlement processing instruction unit 206 Display control unit 207 Memory unit 301 Communication unit 302 Settlement judgment unit 303 Settlement processing unit 501 CPU 502 ROM 503 RAM 504 Storage 505 Imaging unit 506 Imaging I / F 507 Acceleration and azimuth sensor 508 GNSS receiver 510 Bus 511 Long-distance communication circuit 512 Short-distance communication circuit 513 Microphone 514 Speaker 515 Audio input / output I / F 516 Display 517 External device connection I / F 518 Vibrator 519 Touch panel 610 Main body 611 CPU 612 ROM 613 RAM 614 Storage 615 Communication I / F 616 Connection I / F 617 Scanner unit 618 Printer unit 619 Mobile sensor 620 System bus 630 Operation unit 631 CPU 632 ROM 633 RAM 634 Flash memory 635 Communication I / F 636 Operation panel 637 Connection I / F 638 External connection I / F 639 Short-range wireless communication device 640 Communication device 641 System bus 650 Communication path 701 CPU 702 ROM 703 RAM 705 Auxiliary storage device 706 Recording medium 707 Media drive 708 Display 709 Network I / F 710 Bus 711 Keyboard 712 Mouse 713 DVD 714 DVD drive 1000 QR code display screen 1001 QR code display area 1100 Payment completion notification screen N Network

Prior art documents

Patent documents

[0127]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A reading control unit that causes a reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on an information terminal that generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and payment information, and decodes the two-dimensional code read by the reading device to obtain the print data and the payment information; A print control unit that executes a printing process on the print data acquired by the reading control unit; An instruction unit that, after completion of the printing process, instructs a server to perform a payment process based on the payment information acquired by the reading control unit; An image forming apparatus comprising the above.

2. A payment processing method for an information processing system including an information terminal and an image forming apparatus, comprising: A generation step in which the information terminal generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and payment information; A display control step in which the information terminal causes the generated two-dimensional code to be displayed on a display device; A reading control step in which the image forming apparatus causes a reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on the display device, and decodes the two-dimensional code read by the reading device to obtain the print data and the payment information; A print control step in which the image forming apparatus executes a printing process on the acquired print data; An instruction step in which the image forming apparatus, after completion of the printing process, instructs a server to perform a payment process based on the acquired payment information; A payment processing method having the above.

3. The information processing system further includes the server, The server further has a payment processing step of performing the payment process with the payment information in response to an instruction for the payment process from the image forming apparatus, according to Claim 2.

4. The information terminal further has a calculation step of calculating a payment amount according to a multicolor image page and a monochrome image page included in the print data, In the generation step, the two-dimensional code including the print data and the payment information including the payment amount calculated in the calculation step is generated, according to Claim 2 or 3.

5. The information terminal further has a calculation step of calculating a payment amount according to the number of pixels of an image included in the print data, In the generation step, the two-dimensional code including the print data and the payment information including the payment amount calculated in the calculation step is generated, according to Claim 2 or 3.

6. a confirmation step in which the image forming apparatus requests the server to confirm the availability of settlement processing based on the acquired settlement information; a settlement determination step in which the server determines the availability of settlement processing based on the settlement information in response to the request in the confirmation step; further comprising: The settlement processing method according to claim 3, wherein in the printing control step, when the determination result in the settlement determination step indicates that the settlement processing is possible, the printing processing is executed. **Claim 7** The settlement processing method according to claim 3 or 6, wherein in the display control step, the display device is caused to display that the settlement processing has been completed by the settlement processing step. **Claim 8** causing a computer to execute a reading control step of causing a reading device to read the two-dimensional code displayed on an information terminal that generates a two-dimensional code including print data to be printed and settlement information, and decoding the two-dimensional code read by the reading device to acquire the print data and the settlement information; a printing control step of executing printing processing on the acquired print data; an instruction step of instructing the server to perform settlement processing based on the acquired settlement information after completion of the printing processing; a program for causing the above to be executed.

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