Job processing apparatus, image processing apparatus, and job processing method

Abstract

To provide a job processing device and the like that are highly convenient for users in relation to job processing using a portable storage medium.SOLUTION: A job processing device includes an authentication unit that performs login authentication for a user, an execution unit that executes a job based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user, and a control unit that controls the output of the result of the job execution to a portable storage medium, and in a case in which the result is obtained via the portable storage medium, when the logged-in user is the same user as the user that issued the execution instruction for the job, the control unit notifies the user of the processing status of the job in the execution unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a job processing apparatus and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Image processing devices such as multifunction peripherals can use portable storage media such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory (hereinafter simply referred to as external memory) to perform scan jobs, in which the results of image reading are saved in the external memory as scanned data, and print jobs, in which a file saved in the external memory is selected and printed.

[0003] A user of an image processing device will attach an external memory to the image processing device when performing a scan job or a print job, and will remove the external memory from the image processing device after obtaining the results or completing the print job (after outputting the printed material).

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an image data output method that aims to prevent a user from having to wait at an image processing device when receiving image data from the image processing device and to increase the security of the transfer of image data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-66470 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present disclosure relates to job processing using a portable storage medium, and aims to provide a job processing device and the like that is highly convenient for users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, a job processing apparatus according to the present disclosure includes an authentication unit that performs login authentication for a user, an execution unit that executes a job based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user, and a control unit that controls output of a result of the execution of the job to a portable storage medium, and when the result is obtained via the portable storage medium, if the logged-in user is the same user as the user that issued the execution instruction for the job, the control unit notifies the user of the processing status of the job in the execution unit.

[0008] In addition, the image processing device according to the present disclosure includes an authentication unit that performs login authentication for a user, an image processing unit that executes a job related to image processing based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user, and a control unit that controls the output of the result of the execution of the job to a portable storage medium, and when the result is obtained via the portable storage medium, if the logged-in user is the same user as the user that issued the execution instruction for the job, the control unit is characterized in that it notifies the user of the processing status of the job in the execution unit.

[0009] In addition, the job processing method disclosed herein is a job processing method that performs login authentication for a user, executes a job based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user, and controls the output of the result of the job execution to a portable storage medium, and is characterized in that when the result is obtained via the portable storage medium, if the logged-in user is the same user as the user who issued the execution instruction for the job, the user is notified of the processing status of the job. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a job processing device and the like that is highly convenient for users in relation to job processing using a portable storage medium. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an identification information table. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a file identification information table. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of an image processing device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, for example, a multifunction peripheral capable of performing jobs related to printing, copying, scanning, faxing, email, etc. in a single housing will be described as one form of an image processing device that implements a job processing device according to the present disclosure. Note that the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical content of the description set forth in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0013] To save general scanned data to external memory (scan job), (1) Installing external memory into the multifunction device (2) Settings for image resolution and density, file format of the output, etc. (settings for whether or not to use special functions such as OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and file encryption), (3) Image reading, (4) OCR processing, file encryption processing, (5) Saving the results to external memory, (6) Remove external memory. This is carried out according to the procedure below.

[0014] In a scan job, the external memory cannot be removed until the results have been saved to the external memory. Therefore, it is expected that the user will have to wait in front of the multifunction device until the scan job is completed. In particular, when scanning a large number of documents and the OCR function is enabled, the processes (3) and (4) above take a long time, and the user may have to wait in front of the multifunction device for a long time.

[0015] To address this issue, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology in which an external memory can be removed from an image processing device when a scan job is being executed, and the above-mentioned (3) image reading, (4) OCR processing, file encryption processing, etc. continue to be executed even after the external memory is removed, and by reattaching the same external memory after the processing is completed, it is possible to resume the above-mentioned (5) process of saving the results to the external memory.

[0016] However, in Patent Document 1, (a) It is difficult to understand when to insert the external memory for the second time to obtain the deliverables (it is difficult for the user to understand whether the above processes (4) and (5) have been completed). (b) There is a possibility that scan data may be forgotten as a deliverable. (c) If the external memory used during the scan job is lost, the results cannot be retrieved. (d) There was a problem that the external memory had to be attached to the multifunction device at least twice (once when a scan job was executed and once when the output was obtained).

[0017] On the other hand, printing files stored in external memory (print jobs) (7) Installing external memory into the multifunction device (8) Accepting the selection of the file to be printed; (9) Print settings such as the document size and number of copies of the file to be printed, color / black and white setting, whether to print double-sided, etc. (10) Reading the file to be printed from external memory, (11) Printing, (12) Removing the external memory (generally, after the process in (10) (reading the file to be printed)), This is carried out according to the procedure below.

[0018] In a print job, the external memory can be removed from the multifunction device after the file to be printed has been read from the external memory (10), so the time required to insert the external memory into the multifunction device is not as long as in the case of a scan job. However, if the print job fails because the external memory is removed from the multifunction device before the file to be printed has been read from the external memory (10), re-executing the print job requires starting over from the process of inserting the external memory into the multifunction device (7). In this case, it may be necessary to reselect the file to be printed (8) and reset the print settings (9).

[0019] The present disclosure provides a solution to the above problem, and in the following embodiments, realizes a multifunction peripheral equipped with a job processing device that is highly convenient for users in regard to job processing using a portable storage medium.

[0020] [1 First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a form of saving scan data to an external memory (scan job) will be described.

[0021] [1.1 Functional Configuration] 1 is a diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an image processing device 100 that implements a job processing device 105 according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, a multifunction peripheral will be described as an example of the image processing device 100, but the image processing device 100 is not particularly limited as long as it has a configuration that implements the job processing device 105 according to the first embodiment, and may be, for example, a printer, a copier, a fax machine, or the like that has limited job functions.

[0022] Fig. 2(a) is a diagram illustrating the device configuration of an image processing device 100. The image processing device 100 has a control device 101, a display device 103, a job processing device 105, and an image forming device 107. The devices shown in Fig. 2(a) may be formed integrally, or may be configured as a combination of multiple devices. For example, the display device 103 and the job processing device 105 may be a single device.

[0023] Fig. 2(b) is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the image processing device 100. The functions shown in Fig. 2(b) may be performed by the devices shown in Fig. 2(a) as needed.

[0024] The image processing device 100 includes, as functional components, a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 19, an image forming unit 21, and an I / O port unit 23.

[0025] The control unit 11 controls the entire image processing device 100. The control unit 11 can be configured with one or more processing devices (for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an SoC (System on Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19.

[0026] The display unit 13 displays various information to the user. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 13 displays operation screens (for example, a home screen, a setting screen for executing each job, a history information screen, etc.) according to the state of the image processing device 100, a notification screen that notifies the user to obtain a deliverable if job processing has been completed, or a notification screen that notifies the user that job processing is incomplete if job processing has not been completed, etc.

[0027] The operation input unit 15 accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices such as operation keys, such as hard keys or software keys, and buttons. The operation input unit 15 can also be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. When configured as a touch panel, the operation input unit 15 can detect a user's touch, tap, swipe, or other operation on an object displayed via the display unit 13, and acquire coordinate information, pressure-sensitive information, and the like on the touch panel. The acquired coordinate information, pressure-sensitive information, and the like can be used to determine the user's operation position and operation time on the object. The input method for the touch panel can be, for example, a common method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitive method.

[0028] The communication unit 17 includes a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other external terminal devices (not shown) via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, a FAX line, etc. Furthermore, the communication unit 17 may include an interface related to (short-range) wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication 1), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0029] The storage unit 19 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data required for the operation of the image processing device 100. The storage unit 19 can be configured with storage devices such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0030] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 19 stores a control program 191, a job control program 192, an I / O port control program 193, and a user authentication program 194, and reserves an identification information storage area 195 and a job data storage area 196.

[0031] The control program 191 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when performing overall control of the job processing device 105 and the image processing device 100. The control unit 11 that reads the control program 191 controls the driving of hardware such as the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, the image forming unit 21, and the I / O port unit 23.

[0032] The job control program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing a print job related to printing, copying, etc., a scan job for saving scanned data generated by scanning an image in an external memory or a specific storage device (whether internal or external to the image processing device 100), or a transmission job related to sending a fax or e-mail, etc. After reading the job control program 192, the control unit 11 functions as an execution unit, transitions the device mode to a job mode (e.g., print mode, scan mode, etc.) for executing each job, and executes the job. After transitioning to each job mode, the control unit 11 can display an operation screen for receiving setting values ​​and function selections required for executing the job from the user as necessary. The control unit 11 executes the job based on the setting values ​​and functions received via the operation screen.

[0033] The I / O port control program 193 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when detecting whether a USB memory has been attached or detached as an external memory via the I / O port unit 23. The I / O port control program 193 supports communication standards such as USB1.1, USB2.0, USB5Gbps, USB10Gbps, USB20Gbps, and USB40Gbps, and when detecting that a USB memory has been attached or detached to or from the I / O port unit 23, it controls input and output of information to and from the attached USB memory.

[0034] The user authentication program 194 is a program read by the control unit 11 when authenticating a user attempting to log in to the image processing device 100. The control unit 11 that reads the user authentication program 194 operates as an authentication unit that operates based on a user authentication function. If the user authentication function is enabled, the control unit 11 displays a login screen (described later) on the operation input unit 15 (display unit 13) and accepts input of authentication information related to user authentication. For example, if the authentication condition is a combination of a login user name and a login password, the control unit 11 can perform user authentication by previously storing the login user name and the login password associated with the user authentication and comparing them with the login user name and the login password entered via the login screen. User authentication can be performed using knowledge authentication that combines the login user name and the login password, as well as possession authentication using a token, key, IC (Integrated Circuit) card, smartphone, etc., or biometric authentication such as face authentication or fingerprint authentication.

[0035] The identification information storage area 195 is a storage area for storing identification information, such as identification information for identifying a user who uses the image processing device 100 (user ID: user name, ID number, email address, etc.), and identification information for identifying an external memory (external memory ID (USB memory ID)), as an identification information table (to be described later). The identification information table may store identification information, such as a user's user name, ID number, email address, etc. (which may include authentication information, such as a login ID and login PW (password)), linked to (associated with) the identification information of the external memory (external memory ID (USB memory ID)), or may store identification information of the external memory linked to a file identifier of a file included in the external memory. The identification information table may also store a connection log of the external memory to the image processing device 100, a status related to job processing, and the like, linked to the identification information.

[0036] The job data storage area 196 is a storage area that stores job data (e.g., scan data, etc.) generated by the execution of each job as deliverables. Note that the job data storage area 196 may store not only deliverables but also intermediates generated in the course of execution of each job (e.g., image data before OCR processing, various image processing, and encryption processing). The job data stored in the job data storage area 196 is not limited in data format or form as long as it can be saved as intermediates or deliverables depending on the timing of attaching or detaching the external memory.

[0037] The image forming unit 21 includes a printing unit 211 and an image processing unit 213. The printing unit 211 feeds paper from a paper feed unit 25, forms an image on the paper based on image data, and then discharges the paper to a paper discharge unit 27. The printing unit 211 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that employs an electrophotographic method. In this case, the printing unit 211 forms an image using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) that corresponds to a toner color (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, or black).

[0038] The image processing unit 213 generates image data by scanning an original image. The image processing unit 213 can be configured as a scanner device having, for example, an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor), an automatic document feeder (ADF), a flatbed for placing and reading an original, and the like. The image processing unit 213 is not particularly limited in configuration as long as it is capable of generating image data by reading a reflected light image from an original image with an image sensor. The image processing unit 213 may also be configured to perform, for example, shading correction or density correction on image data input from the scanner device to generate image data for image transmission. In the present disclosure, the image data generated by the image processing unit 213 (including image data that has been subjected to various correction processes and encryption processes) is referred to as scan data.

[0039] The I / O port unit 23 is a physical interface for connecting to an external memory (USB memory). The I / O port unit 23 has an attachment port corresponding to the shape of the external memory, and when it detects that the external memory has been attached, it outputs a signal indicating that the external memory has been connected to the control unit 11. On the other hand, when it detects that the external memory has been removed, it outputs a signal indicating that the external memory has been removed to the control unit 11.

[0040] The functions described above may be provided redundantly when each of the control device 101, the display device 103, the job processing device 105, and the image forming device 107 realizes the function individually. For example, the display device 103, the job processing device 105, and the image forming device 107 may each have a control unit 11 and a memory unit 19. Furthermore, each device may share and use the control unit 11, the memory unit 19, etc.

[0041] [1.2 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating processing related to saving scan data to an external memory. Figs. 4 and 5 illustrate processing related to acquiring scan data in two modes, one with user authentication (Fig. 4) and one without user authentication (Fig. 5). The processing described in Figs. 3, 4, and 5 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading out the control program 191, job control program 192, I / O port control program 193, user authentication program 194, etc.

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which a user performs a login operation to the image processing apparatus 100, and after login authentication is successful, a scan job is executed for an original image.

[0043] First, the control unit 11 performs a user authentication process in response to a login operation by the user (step S100).

[0044] Next, the control unit 11 starts a scan job based on an instruction to execute the scan job from the user who has been successfully authenticated (hereinafter, may be referred to as a logged-in user) (step S110).

[0045] At this time, the control unit 11 updates the flag indicating the progress of the scan job to indicate that the process is not complete (step S120).

[0046] Then, the control unit 11 starts reading the image (step S130). Next, the control unit 11 performs OCR processing or file encryption processing as needed on the image data generated by reading the image (step S140).

[0047] The control unit 11 temporarily stores the scan data obtained as the result in step S130 or step S140 in the job data storage area 196 (step S150).

[0048] Then, the control unit 11 updates the flag indicating the progress of the scan job to indicate that the process is complete, and ends the process (step S160).

[0049] Next, the process when user authentication is required when acquiring scan data will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0050] First, the control unit 11 performs a user authentication process in response to a login operation by the user (step S200). Based on the user authentication result, the control unit 11 can determine whether the user who instructed to execute a scan job and the user who logged in to the image processing device 100 when acquiring the scan data are the same user. In the following explanation, an example will be described in which the user who instructed to execute a scan job and the user who logged in to the image processing device 100 when acquiring the scan data are the same user.

[0051] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not there is an unacquired job linked to the logged-in user (step S210). If the control unit 11 determines that there is no unacquired job linked to the logged-in user, it ends the process (step S210; No→"End").

[0052] On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that there is an unacquired job linked to the logged-in user, it determines whether or not the processing of the scan job related to the unacquired job has been completed (step S210; Yes→step S220).

[0053] When it is determined that the scan job related to the unacquired job is completed, the control unit 11 urges the login user to acquire the scan data as the deliverable related to the scan job (step S220; Yes → step S230). Note that in the first embodiment, a form will be described in which the login user is urged to acquire the unacquired scan data by a notification via a notification screen to be described later.

[0054] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not an external memory has been attached to the image processing device 100 by the logged-in user (step S240). If it is determined that an external memory has been attached, the control unit 11 copies the scan data as a deliverable to the external memory and ends the process (step S240; Yes → step S250 → “End”). Note that in the first embodiment, the external memory used to acquire the scan data may be different from the external memory used when issuing an instruction to execute the scan job. Even if the external memory used to acquire the scan data is different from the external memory used when issuing an instruction to execute the scan job, security is maintained because the user authentication process ensures that the operations are performed by the same user.

[0055] On the other hand, if it is determined that the external memory is not attached, the control unit 11 waits until the logged-in user attaches the external memory to the image processing device 100 (step S240; No).

[0056] In addition, if it is determined in step S220 that the scan job related to the unobtained job has not been completed, the control unit 11 notifies the user that the processing of the scan job has not been completed and that the processing is incomplete, and ends the series of processes (step S220; No → step S260 → “End”).

[0057] However, if the user who instructed the execution of the scan job and the user who logged in to the image processing device 100 when the scan data was acquired are not the same user, it is possible to perform processing from step S220 onwards in Figure 4 only if the external memory used when acquiring the scan data is the same as the external memory used when the instruction to execute the scan job was issued.

[0058] Next, the process when user authentication is not performed when scan data is acquired will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0059] First, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has attached an external memory to the image processing device 100 (step S300). If the control unit 11 determines that the external memory is not attached, it waits until the external memory is attached (step S300; No).

[0060] On the other hand, if it is determined that an external memory is attached, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a user linked to the external memory exists (step S300; Yes → step S310).If it is determined that a user linked to the external memory exists, the control unit 11 determines whether or not there is an unacquired job linked to the user (step S310; Yes → step S320).

[0061] When it is determined that there is an unacquired job linked to the user, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the processing of the scan job related to the unacquired job has been completed (step S320; Yes→step S330).

[0062] If it is determined that the scan job related to the unacquired job has been completed, the control unit 11 copies the scan data as the deliverable related to the scan job to external memory and terminates the processing (step S330; Yes → step S340 → “End”).

[0063] In addition, if it is determined in step S330 that the scan job related to the unobtained job has not been completed, the control unit 11 notifies the user that the processing of the scan job has not been completed and that the processing is incomplete, and ends the series of processes (step S330; No → step S350 → “End”).

[0064] Meanwhile, if it is determined in step S310 that there is no user linked to the external memory, or if it is determined in step S320 that there is no unobtained job linked to the user, the control unit 11 terminates the processing (step S310; No or step S320; No → “End”).

[0065] Here, an example of the configuration of the identification information table referred to by the control unit 11 in steps S210 and S220 in Fig. 4 and steps S310 to S330 in Fig. 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The identification information table described in Fig. 6 can be configured as a table that associates user identification information (e.g., user name) with external memory identification information, and the table can include a connection log of the external memory to the image processing device 100 and a status related to job processing.

[0066] 6 is an example of an identification information table in which the management items managed in the table are management ID, user ID, login user, login password (login PW), login date and time, external memory ID (USB memory ID), connection date and time, file name, job status, and acquisition status. Note that the identification information table can also be configured in a database format other than a table format.

[0067] The management ID is an identifier for uniquely identifying information managed in the identification information table. The user ID is an identifier for identifying a user who uses the image processing device 100, and is user identification information such as a user name, ID number, or email address. The login user and login password (login PW) are authentication information for a user identified by the user ID to log in to the image processing device 100.

[0068] The login date and time indicates the date and time when a user identified by a user ID logged in to the image processing device 100. The external memory ID (USB memory ID) indicates the identification information of the external memory used by the user identified by the user ID, and is the identification information of the external memory linked to the user identified by the user ID. The connection date and time indicates the date and time when the external memory was connected to the image processing device 100. The file name indicates the name of a file (job data such as scan data) saved as a deliverable in the external memory, or the name of a file that is the target of job processing such as a print job, which will be described later.

[0069] The job status indicates the processing status of an executed job. The job status stores a flag value that is updated according to the progress of the job in steps S120 and S160 in Fig. 3. The acquisition status indicates the acquisition status of the deliverable generated by job processing.

[0070] For example, the information identified by the management ID "#001" is identification information related to the user identified by the user ID "User A", and is an example showing the login user "usera", login password (login PW) "*****", login date and time "2023 / 12 / 10", external memory ID (USB memory ID) "usb-123456789", connection date and time "2023 / 12 / 10", file name "File_A", job status "Processing completed", and acquisition status "Acquired".

[0071] On the other hand, the management information identified by the management ID "#002" is identification information related to the user identified by the user ID "User B", and is an example showing the login user "userb", login password (login PW) "*****", login date and time "2023 / 12 / 15", external memory ID (USB memory ID) "usb-098765432", connection date and time "2023 / 12 / 15", file name "File_B", job status "Processing incomplete", and acquisition status "Not acquired".

[0072] [1.3 Example of operation] Next, an operation example according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a user authentication screen W10 for accepting a login operation by a user. Fig. 7 shows an operation example corresponding to the processing relating to step S100 in Fig. 3, step S200 in Fig. 4, etc.

[0073] The user authentication screen W10 can be configured as a login screen that the control unit 11, which has read out the user authentication program 194, displays on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) when the user authentication function is enabled.

[0074] The user authentication screen W10 includes a login user name input box Bx10, a login password input box Bx12, an authentication destination designation button B10, an OK button B12, and a cancel button B14.

[0075] The login user name input box Bx10 is an input box that accepts input of the login user name of a user attempting to log in to the image processing device 100. The login user name may be input directly using an input device such as a keyboard, or it may be input by selecting from a user name list (not shown) that is displayed by selecting a separately provided "select from list button."

[0076] The login password input box Bx12 is an input box that accepts input of a login password corresponding to a login user name. The control unit 11 performs user authentication processing by comparing the login user name input in the login user name input box Bx10 and the login password input in the login password input box Bx12 with the identification information table illustrated in Fig. 6. If the input values ​​of the login user name input in the login user name input box Bx10 and the login password input in the login password input box Bx12 match the authentication information for the login user and login password (login PW) managed in the identification information table, respectively, the control unit 11 can determine that the user authentication has been successful.

[0077] The authentication destination designation button B10 is a button for accepting designation of an authentication destination for performing user authentication. The user authentication destination may be the image processing device 100 alone, or, for example, an authentication server (not shown) separately provided on the network NW may be designated. In this case, the authentication server holds authentication information for each of the login users and login passwords (login PW) illustrated in FIG. 6, and performs user authentication processing by transmitting to the image processing device 100 a comparison result between the login user name and login password sent from the image processing device 100 and the input values ​​thereof.

[0078] The OK button B12 is a button that accepts an instruction to confirm an input operation by the user. The user selects the OK button B12 to confirm the input into the login user name input box Bx10 and the login password input box Bx12, and the designation of an authentication destination using the authentication destination designation button B10. The cancel button B14 is a button that accepts an instruction to cancel the input into the login user name input box Bx10 and the login password input box Bx12, and the designation of an authentication destination using the authentication destination designation button B10.

[0079] Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a setting screen W20 that accepts settings for linking user identification information with external memory identification information. Note that linking user identification information with external memory identification information can be performed at any time, but in consideration of user convenience, it is preferable to display the setting screen W20 illustrated in Fig. 8 to the logged-in user and accept settings by the logged-in user when the external memory is attached to the image processing device 100.

[0080] The settings screen W20 includes a settings area R10 for accepting settings related to linking external memory and an OK button B12. The settings area R10 can include an area R12 having check boxes for selecting the external memory link destination and for enabling / disabling the linking, a pull-down menu for selecting the link destination user, etc. Figure 8 shows an example in which area R12 includes a check box for selecting either "Link to currently logged-in user" or "Link to specified user" as the external memory link destination, a pull-down menu for selecting the link destination user when the "Link to specified user" check box is selected, and a "Do not link" check box.

[0081] The OK button B12 is a button that accepts an instruction to confirm an input operation by the user. When the user selects the OK button B12, the control unit 11 creates or updates the identification information table shown in FIG. 6 based on the settings accepted via the setting screen W20.

[0082] 9 shows an example of the display configuration of a notification screen W30 that prompts the user to acquire scan data as a deliverable related to a scan job when the control unit 11 determines that the scan job related to the unacquired job has been completed. Note that FIG. 9 shows an example of the operation corresponding to the process related to step S230 in FIG.

[0083] The notification screen W30 includes a notification display area R14 and an OK button B12. The notification display area R14 is a display area that displays a notification urging the user to acquire image data (scanned data). FIG. 9 shows an example of a notification that reads, "There is image data that has been scanned but has not yet been acquired. You can acquire the image data below by attaching an external memory." The notification display area R14 can be provided with a file name display area R16 that displays the file name of the image data. The logged-in user can determine the image data (scanned data) that should be acquired by checking the file name displayed in the file name display area R16.

[0084] The OK button B12 is a button that receives a confirmation instruction from the logged-in user who has confirmed the notification content on the notification screen W30. When the logged-in user selects the OK button B12, the control unit 11 terminates the display of the notification screen W30 and transitions the display screen to, for example, an operation screen related to a scan job.

[0085] Fig. 10 shows an example of the display configuration of a notification screen W40 that notifies the user that the processing of a scan job related to an unacquired job has not been completed when the control unit 11 determines that the processing of the scan job has not been completed. Note that Fig. 10 shows an example of the operation corresponding to the processing related to step S260 in Fig. 4 and step S350 in Fig. 5.

[0086] The notification screen W40 includes a notification display area R18 and an OK button B12. The notification display area R18 is a notification area that notifies the user that the scan job is not yet complete. FIG. 10 shows an example of a notification that reads, "Scan processing is in progress. After processing is complete, you can acquire image data by attaching an external memory."

[0087] The OK button B12 is a button that receives a confirmation instruction from the logged-in user who has confirmed the notification content on the notification screen W40. When the logged-in user selects the OK button B12, the control unit 11 ends the display of the notification screen W40 and transitions the display screen to, for example, an operation screen related to a scan job.

[0088] In the first embodiment, with regard to job processing using an external memory, by linking user identification information with external memory identification information in advance, it is not necessary to attach the external memory when executing the job, and the number of times the external memory is attached to the image processing device can be reduced. Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, when acquiring a deliverable by executing a job, the progress of job processing can be grasped, making it easy to grasp the timing of acquiring the deliverable and preventing forgetting to acquire the deliverable. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the output of the deliverable to the external memory can be controlled based on the user authentication function, so even if the external memory used to acquire the deliverable is different from the external memory used when issuing the job execution instruction, the deliverable can be saved in the external memory.

[0089] [2 Second embodiment] In the second embodiment, a form of printing (print job) of a file saved in an external memory will be described.

[0090] The functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral as the image processing device according to the second embodiment can be substantially the same as the functional configuration of the image processing device 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, a description of the functional configuration of the image processing device according to the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0091] [2.1 Processing flow] The flow of processing according to the second embodiment will be described. Figures 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating processing for printing a file stored in an external memory. The processing described in Figures 11 and 12 is executed by the control unit 11 reading out the control program 191, job control program 192, I / O port control program 193, etc.

[0092] First, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has attached an external memory to the image processing device 100 (step S400). If it is determined that the external memory has not been attached, the control unit 11 waits until the user attaches the external memory to the image processing device 100 (step S400: No).

[0093] On the other hand, if it is determined that an external memory is attached, the control unit 11 accepts the selection of a file to be printed that is saved in the external memory (step S410).

[0094] Next, the control unit 11 accepts print settings for printing the selected file to be printed (step S420). The control unit 11 temporarily stores an identifier for identifying the file to be printed and the print settings accepted in step S420 (step S430).

[0095] The control unit 11 reads the file to be printed from the external memory (step S440), and then determines whether or not the reading of the file has been completed normally (step S450).

[0096] If it is determined that the file has been read successfully, the control unit 11 erases the file identifier and print settings stored in step S430 (step S450; Yes → step S460).Then, the control unit 11 performs printing processing on the file and ends the processing (step S470 → "End").

[0097] On the other hand, if it is determined that the reading of the file has not been completed successfully, for example, because the external memory is removed from the image processing device 100 while the file is being read, the control unit 11 interrupts the processing (step S450; No → step S480).

[0098] After the process is interrupted, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the user has attached an external memory to the image processing device 100 (step S500). If it is determined that the external memory has not been attached, the control unit 11 waits until the user attaches the external memory to the image processing device (step S500; No).

[0099] On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that an external memory has been attached, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a file with the same identifier as the identifier of the file temporarily stored in step S430 of Fig. 11 exists in the external memory (step S500; Yes -> step S510). When it determines that a file with the same identifier as the identifier of the temporarily stored file does not exist in the external memory, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S500 (step S510; No -> step S500).

[0100] If it is determined that a file with the same identifier as the identifier of the temporarily stored file exists in the external memory, the control unit 11 displays a query screen inquiring whether or not to resume printing of the file using the print settings accepted in step S420 (step S510; Yes → step S520).

[0101] When a user's instruction to resume printing is received via the inquiry screen, the control unit 11 reads the file after reflecting the file identifier and print settings (step S530; Yes->step S540->step S550).

[0102] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the reading of the file has been completed successfully (step S560). If it is determined that the reading of the file has been completed successfully, the control unit 11 erases the file identifier and print settings (step S560; Yes → step S570). Next, the control unit 11 performs a print process on the file and ends the process (step S580).

[0103] On the other hand, if it is determined that the reading of the file has not been completed normally, the control unit 11 interrupts the process and returns the process to step S500 (step S560; No→step S600→step S500).

[0104] Incidentally, if a user's instruction to resume printing is not received via the inquiry screen, the control unit 11 erases the file identifier and print settings, and ends the process (step S530; No->step S590->"end").

[0105] Here, one configuration of the file identification information table referenced by the control unit 11 in step S510 etc. of Fig. 12 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. The file identification information table described in Fig. 13 can be configured as a table linking the identifier of the file to be printed with the print settings for printing the file, based on the processing relating to steps S410 to S430 of Fig. 11.

[0106] 13 is an example of a file identification information table in which the management items managed in the table are a management ID, external memory ID (USB memory ID), connection date and time, file name, file identifier, job type, print settings (job conditions), and job status. Note that the file identification information table can also be configured in a database format other than a table format.

[0107] The management ID is an identifier for uniquely identifying information managed in the file identification information table. The external memory ID (USB memory ID) indicates the identification information of the external memory used by the user. The connection date and time indicates the date and time when the external memory was connected to the image processing device 100.

[0108] The file name is a file stored in the external memory identified by the external memory ID, and indicates the name of the file (print data) that is the target of job processing such as a print job. The file identifier is an identifier that uniquely identifies the file indicated by the file name.

[0109] The job type indicates the type of job, such as a print job, executed for a file identified by a file name or file identifier. The job conditions (print settings) indicate the job conditions for executing a job identified by the job type. The job status indicates the processing status of an executed job. The job status stores a flag value that is updated according to the progress of the job in step S450 of FIG. 11 and step S560 of FIG. 12.

[0110] For example, the information identified by the management ID "#00x" is file identification information related to the external memory identified by the external memory ID (USB memory ID) "usb-098765432", and is an example showing the connection date and time "2023 / 12 / 15", file name "file_B", file identifier "file_b", job type "print", job conditions (print settings) "A4 (printing paper), 2 copies (number of copies), color (monochrome / color setting), double-sided printing (long edge binding) (double-sided / single-sided setting (binding direction))", and job status "processing incomplete".

[0111] [2.2 Example of operation] Next, an example of operation according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 14 shows an example of the display configuration of a query screen W50 that asks whether or not to resume printing when it is determined that a file with the same identifier as the temporarily stored file exists in external memory. Fig. 14 shows an example of operation corresponding to the process in step S520 of Fig. 12.

[0112] The inquiry screen W50 includes an inquiry display area R20, a print button B16, and a cancel button B14. The inquiry display area R20 is a display area that displays a question asking the user whether or not to resume printing using the currently set print settings. FIG. 14 shows an example of the inquiry, asking, "Do you want to print the previously selected file using the currently set settings?" The inquiry display area R20 can be provided with a file name display area R22 that displays the file name of the file to be resumed, and a job condition display area R24 that displays the job conditions (print settings) to be applied to the file identified by the file name. The user can determine the file to be resumed and the job conditions (print settings) by checking the display contents displayed in the file name display area R22 (e.g., File_B) and the job condition display area R24 (e.g., A4, 2 copies, color, double-sided printing (long edge binding)).

[0113] The print button B16 is a button that accepts a user instruction to execute a print job. After checking the contents displayed in the file name display area R22 and the job condition display area R24, the user can execute a print job for the file by selecting the print button B16. The cancel button B14 is a button that accepts an instruction to cancel the execution of a print job based on the contents displayed in the file name display area R22 and the job condition display area R24.

[0114] As described above, according to the second embodiment, even if reading of a file stored in an external memory fails, the print job for that file can be quickly resumed by attaching the same external memory to the image processing device.

[0115] [3 Third embodiment] The third embodiment is an image processing device that, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, is equipped with an alarm unit that prompts the user to obtain the deliverable scan data, for example, by voice, light, email, etc., if the deliverable scan data is not obtained within a specified period of time.

[0116] [3.1 Functional Configuration] 15 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the image processing device 200. The image processing device 200 includes a notification unit 30 in addition to the configuration of the image processing device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0117] The notification unit 30 includes a timer (not shown), an audio output device that generates and outputs an audio signal (e.g., a beep or a combination thereof, or a voice readout of the notification content) corresponding to the notification content (text information) to the user, and a light-emitting device that controls the light emission pattern and color to display the notification content to the user. When a scan job is completed and the deliverable is not acquired within a predetermined period after the creation of the deliverable, the notification unit 30 notifies the user by displaying the notification content on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15) or separately from the notification content, urging the user to acquire the scan data as the deliverable. Note that the notification unit 30 can be configured to notify the user by means of notification means other than the audio output device and the light-emitting device, such as e-mail or SMS (Short Message Service).

[0118] The processing flow and operation example according to the third embodiment can be the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0119] As described above, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the user can be prompted to obtain the scan data even in situations where the (logged-in) user is unable to check the notification content on the display unit (operation input unit) or has forgotten to obtain the deliverables.

[0120] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0121] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments are described separately for the sake of convenience, they may of course be combined and executed within the scope of technical feasibility.

[0122] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0123] Here, the computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which the program is recorded in the information processing device may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing not only the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments, but also the functions of the present disclosure, which are realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0124] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present disclosure.

[0125] Additionally, each functional block or feature of the device used in the above-described embodiments may be implemented or performed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or multiple integrated circuits. The electrical circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, a controller, a microcontroller, or a state machine. The electrical circuit may be composed of digital circuits or analog circuits. Furthermore, as advances in semiconductor technology emerge, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may utilize new integrated circuits based on such technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 19 Memory section 191 Control Program 192 Job Control Program 193 I / O port control program 194 User Authentication Program 195 Identification information storage area 196 Job data storage area 21 Image forming unit 211 Printing Department 213 Image Processing Unit 23 I / O port section 30. Information Department 100, 200 Image processing device 101 Control device 103 Display device 105 Job processing device 107 Image forming device

Claims

1. an authentication unit that performs login authentication for users; an execution unit that executes a job based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user; a control unit that controls output of a result of the execution of the job to a portable storage medium; The control unit A job processing device characterized in that, when obtaining the result via the portable storage medium, if the logged-in user is the same user as the user who instructed the job to be executed, the job processing status in the execution unit is notified to the user.

2. The control unit 2. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, if the processing of the job is completed, a notification is sent to prompt the user to acquire the deliverable, and, if the processing of the job is not completed, a notification is sent to indicate that the processing of the job is incomplete.

3. The control unit 2. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the portable storage medium is different between when the job is executed and when the result is acquired, the result is output to the portable storage medium.

4. The control unit storing the identification information of the portable storage medium and the identification information of the user in association with each other; 2. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the portable storage medium associated with the user who has issued the instruction to execute the job is attached, the output is output to the portable storage medium.

5. The control unit storing an identifier of a file stored on the portable storage medium; 2. The job processing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the removed portable storage medium is reinserted after the execution of the job for the file has been interrupted, the job processing device notifies the user whether or not to resume the execution of the job based on the identifier of the file.

6. an authentication unit that performs login authentication for users; an image processing unit that executes a job related to image processing based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user; a control unit that controls output of a result of the execution of the job to a portable storage medium; The control unit An image processing device characterized in that, when obtaining the result via the portable storage medium, if the logged-in user is the same user as the user who instructed the job to be executed, the image processing device notifies the user of the processing status of the job in the execution unit.

7. Perform login authentication for users, Executes a job based on an execution instruction from the authenticated user; A job processing method for controlling output of a result of execution of the job to a portable storage medium, comprising: A job processing method characterized in that, when the result is obtained via the portable storage medium, if the logged-in user is the same user as the user who instructed the job to be executed, the user is notified of the processing status of the job.

Images