Image forming apparatus, printing system, image forming method, and program

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus, a printing system, an image forming method, and a program with which it is possible to add information according to the purpose of use of a printing result to an image based on print data and print a resultant image.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprises an acquisition unit that acquires print data, and a control unit that executes processing of storing a print job added with the print data. The control unit executes processing of adding an image based on tracking information selected, by a user's operation, from tracking information about the time of storage when the print job is stored and tracking information about the time of execution when the print job is executed, to the image based on the print data, and printing a resultant image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus, a printing system, an image forming method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for printing a code image including printing time information, printer information, etc., and a document image on a medium. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-25784 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When a generated print job is immediately executed, tracking information at the time of printing (such as the user who instructed the print job to be executed and the date and time of printing) can simply be added as a code image or the like. On the other hand, when a print job is temporarily saved in an image forming device and executed later (by the same user who instructed the print job to be saved or a different user), depending on the intended use of the print result, it may be appropriate to add tracking information at the time of saving the print job (such as the user who instructed the print job to be saved and the date and time of saving) or to add tracking information at the time of execution of the print job (such as the user who instructed the print job to be executed and the date and time of printing). The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 adds only information at the time of printing to an image based on print data included in the print job and prints it. Therefore, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not allow information corresponding to the intended use of the print result to be added to the image based on the print data and printed. Therefore, one aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide an image forming device, a printing system, an image forming method, and a program that can add information corresponding to the intended use of the print result to an image based on print data and print it. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An image forming apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires print data and a control unit that executes a process of saving a print job to which the print data has been added, and the control unit executes a process of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time the print job was saved and tracking information at the time the print job was executed to an image based on the print data and printing the image.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a printing system including a terminal device and an image forming device capable of communicating with the terminal device. The terminal device includes a terminal control unit that executes a process of transmitting a print job to the image forming device, the print job being added with print data. The image forming device includes a control unit that executes a process of saving the print job, and the control unit executes a process of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time the print job was saved and tracking information at the time the print job was executed to an image based on the print data, and printing the image.

[0007] An image forming method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a step of acquiring print data, a step of saving a print job to which the print data has been added, and a step of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time the print job was saved and tracking information at the time the print job was executed to an image based on the print data and printing the image.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure causes a computer to perform the following functions: adding tracking information selected by the user's operation from tracking information at the time a print job is saved and tracking information at the time the print job is executed, and print data to the print job; and sending the print job to an image forming device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, a printing system, an image forming method, and a program that can add information according to the intended use of the print result to an image based on print data and print the image. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a printing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print job according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen displayed on a display unit of the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the image forming apparatus when a terminal device transmits a print job to the image forming apparatus. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus when the image forming apparatus acquires print data by reading a document placed on a document placing platen or by reading print data stored in an external storage medium. [Figure 9] 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus, following FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data selection screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen displayed on a display unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print job according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14]FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a system setting screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tracking information detail setting screen. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of a terminal device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a system setting screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a tracking content selection screen displayed on a display unit of an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (First embodiment) The first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. In the drawings, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0012] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a printing system 100. The printing system 100 includes an image forming apparatus 101 and a terminal apparatus .

[0013] The image forming apparatus 101 can save a print job (see FIG. 2) and executes the print job. When instructed to execute a print job, the image forming apparatus 101 adds an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time the print job was saved and tracking information at the time the print job was executed to an image based on print data added to the print job, and prints the image.

[0014] The terminal device 102 is an information processing device that can communicate with the image forming device 101 and is operated by a user. The terminal device 102 is connected to the image forming device 101 via a wired or wireless network. For example, the network between the terminal device 102 and the image forming device 101 is the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or the like. For example, the terminal device 102 is a smartphone, a laptop PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, a desktop PC, or the like. The terminal device 102 transmits a print job to the image forming device 101.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print job according to this embodiment. The print job illustrated in FIG. 2 includes print job identification information, print data, print setting information, user information, instruction information, and tracking content information. The print job identification information is a unique character string, unique number, or the like assigned to each print job. The print data indicates image data, data in a page description language format, or the like. The print setting information indicates settings related to printing. For example, the print setting information indicates single-sided printing or double-sided printing, or the like. The user information indicates the user name of the user. For example, the user is the user of the terminal device 102 that is the sender of the print job. The instruction information indicates instructions regarding the print job in the image forming device 101. For example, the instruction indicated by the instruction information indicates an instruction to save the print job in the image forming device 101, or an instruction to print the print job without saving it in the image forming device 101. The tracking content information indicates the content of the tracking information added to the image based on the print data.

[0016] For example, for a print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_1, this indicates that the print data is data having a file name of AAAAA.file. The print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_1 is set to double-sided printing, and the user name is UserA. Furthermore, the print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_1 is saved in the image forming device 101. Furthermore, the print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_1 indicates that an image or text indicating information at the time of saving and an image based on the print data are printed on paper.

[0017] For example, for a print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_2, this indicates that the print data is data having a file name of BBBBB.file. A print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_2 is saved in the image forming apparatus 101. Furthermore, a print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_2 indicates that an image or text indicating information at the time of printing and an image based on the print data are printed.

[0018] Also, for example, for a print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_3, this indicates that the print data is data having a file name of CCCCC.file. A print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_3 is printed without being saved in the image forming apparatus 101. Furthermore, a print job having print job identification information of JOB_NAME_3 indicates that an image or text indicating information at the time of printing and an image based on the print data are printed.

[0019] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 102. The terminal device 102 includes a communication unit 301, a storage unit 302, a terminal operation unit 303, a display unit 304, and a terminal control unit 305.

[0020] The communication unit 301 is an interface for connecting to a network.

[0021] The storage unit 302 is a storage medium capable of storing various data, programs, etc. For example, the storage unit 302 is configured by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a semiconductor memory, etc.

[0022] The terminal operation unit 303 accepts user operations. For example, the terminal operation unit 303 is configured with a touch panel or the like. The display unit 304 displays information to be presented to the user. For example, the display unit 304 is configured with a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, or the like. Note that the terminal operation unit 303 and the display unit 304 may be integrated into a touch panel display.

[0023] The terminal control unit 305 executes various processes in accordance with the programs stored in the storage unit 302. For example, the terminal control unit 305 is configured by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0024] The terminal control unit 305 executes a process of transmitting the print job to which the print data has been added to the image forming device 101. Specifically, the terminal control unit 305 executes a process of adding tracking content information indicating the content selected by a user operation for the tracking information to the print job and transmitting the print job to the image forming device 101.

[0025] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image forming apparatus 101. The image forming apparatus 101 includes a communication unit 401, a storage unit 402, an operation unit 403, a display unit 404, an image forming unit 405, a paper conveyance unit 406, an image output unit 407, an acquisition unit 408, and a control unit 409.

[0026] The communication unit 401 is an interface for connecting to a network.

[0027] The storage unit 402 is a storage medium capable of storing various data, programs, etc. For example, the storage unit 402 is configured with an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), a semiconductor memory, etc. The storage unit 402 stores a print job to which the print data acquired by the acquisition unit 408 has been added.

[0028] The operation unit 403 accepts user operations. For example, the operation unit 403 is configured with a touch panel or the like. The display unit 404 displays information to be presented to the user. For example, the display unit 404 is configured with a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, or the like. The operation unit 403 and the display unit 404 may be integrated into a touch panel display.

[0029] Image forming unit 405 forms an image on paper based on print data added to the print job. Specifically, image forming unit 405 applies color material to paper to form an image on paper based on the print data. For example, image forming unit 405 can be configured as a laser printer using an electrophotographic system, or an inkjet printer using an inkjet system. When image forming unit 405 is configured as a laser printer, it applies toner, which is a color material, to paper to form an image on paper. When image forming unit 405 is configured as an inkjet printer, it applies ink, which is a color material, to paper to form an image on paper.

[0030] Paper transport section 406 transports paper on which an image has been formed by image forming section 405. Paper transport section 406 is composed of rollers for transporting paper.

[0031] The image output unit 407 outputs the paper on which the image has been formed by the image forming unit 405 from a paper discharge outlet (not shown).

[0032] The acquisition unit 408 acquires print data. For example, the acquisition unit 408 receives a print job transmitted from the terminal device 102 and acquires the print data added to the print job. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 408 may read an original placed on an original placement table (not shown) and acquire print data indicating the read original. In this case, the acquisition unit 408 generates a print job to which the generated print data is added. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 408 may acquire print data by reading print data stored in an external storage medium. In this case, the acquisition unit 408 generates a print job to which the acquired print data is added.

[0033] The control unit 409 executes various processes in accordance with the programs stored in the storage unit 402. For example, the control unit 409 is configured by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0034] The control unit 409 executes a process to save the print job to which the print data has been added. By executing a process to save the print job to which the print data has been added, the control unit 409 stores the print job in the storage unit 402. Furthermore, the control unit 409 executes a process to add an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time the print job was saved and tracking information at the time the print job was executed to an image based on the print data, and print the image. The tracking information at the time the print job was saved indicates at least one of the person who saved it and the date and time of saving. Furthermore, the tracking information at the time the print job was executed indicates at least one of the person who printed it and the date and time of printing.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 102.

[0036] In step S501, the terminal control unit 305 determines whether the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation to select print data. If it is determined in step S501 that the terminal operation unit 303 has not accepted an operation to select print data (step S501; NO), the terminal control unit 305 returns the process to step S501. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S501 that the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation to select print data (step S501; YES), the terminal control unit 305 determines in step S502 whether the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation to select print settings including the contents of tracking information. For example, the terminal control unit 305 determines whether the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation to select the contents of tracking information, print setting information, and instruction information, and an operation to input print job identification information and user information on the print setting screen 601 (see FIG. 6).

[0037] If it is determined in step S502 that the terminal operation unit 303 has not accepted an operation to select print settings including the content of tracking information (step S502; NO), the terminal control unit 305 returns the process to step S502. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S502 that the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation to select print settings including the content of tracking information (step S502; YES), in step S503 the terminal control unit 305 generates a print job to which the print job identification information input by the operation accepted in step S502, the print data selected by the operation accepted in step S501, the print setting information selected by the operation accepted in step S502, the instruction information selected by the operation accepted in step S502, the user information input by the operation accepted in step S502, and tracking content information indicating the content selected by the operation accepted in step S502 are added.

[0038] In step S504, the terminal control unit 305 transmits the generated print job to the image forming apparatus 101.

[0039] 6 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen 601 displayed on the display unit 304. The print setting screen 601 includes an input area 602 for a user name, an input area 603 for print job identification information (job name), a setting area 604 for instruction information, and a setting area 605 for the contents of tracking information. The input area 602 is an area where an operation to input a user name is performed. The input area 603 is an area where an operation to input a character string, number, etc. indicated by the print job identification information is performed.

[0040] The setting area 604 is an area where an operation is performed to select whether or not to save a print job in the image forming apparatus 101. For example, "Hold without printing" shown in the setting area 604 illustrated in Fig. 6 indicates that the image forming apparatus 101 has selected to save the print job without printing an image based on print data added to the acquired print job after acquiring the print job.

[0041] The setting area 605 is an area where an operation to select the content of the tracking information is performed. For example, the setting area 605 illustrated in FIG. 6 indicates that tracking content information indicating content relating to the time of saving when a print job is saved is added to the print job. When the terminal operation unit 303 accepts an operation on the print setting screen 601, the terminal device 102 can allow the user of the terminal device 102 to select the content of the tracking information to be added to the print job. In other words, the terminal device 102 can allow the user of the terminal device 102 to select whether to add tracking information relating to the time of saving or tracking information relating to the time of printing to the print job.

[0042] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 101 when the terminal apparatus 102 transmits a print job to the image forming apparatus 101.

[0043] In step S701, the acquisition unit 408 acquires the print job transmitted in step S504 illustrated in Fig. 5. As a result, the acquisition unit 408 acquires the print data added to the print job.

[0044] In step S702, control unit 409 determines whether to save the print job. Specifically, if the instruction information added to the print job indicates an instruction to save the print job in image forming apparatus 101, control unit 409 determines to save the print job. On the other hand, if the instruction information added to the print job indicates an instruction to print the print job without saving it in image forming apparatus 101, control unit 409 determines not to save the print job.

[0045] If it is determined in step S702 that the print job is not to be saved (step S702; NO), in step S703, the control unit 409 determines tracking information according to the tracking content information added to the print job, and adds the tracking information to the print job.

[0046] In step S704, the control unit 409 executes a process to print an image based on the tracking information determined in step S703 and an image based on the print data added to the print job. Specifically, the control unit 409 executes a process to print an image based on the tracking information and an image based on the print data, thereby causing the image forming unit 405 to form an image based on the tracking information and an image based on the print data on paper. The image based on the tracking information indicates at least one of an image and text. For example, the image based on the tracking information is a code image. For example, the code image is a QR code (registered trademark).

[0047] For example, control unit 409 causes image forming unit 405 to form an image based on the tracking information on a sheet of paper at a position outside the frame of the image based on the print data. Alternatively, control unit 409 may cause image forming unit 405 to form an image based on the tracking information on the sheet of paper as a watermark, superimposed on the image based on the print data. Then, control unit 409 causes image output unit 407 to output a sheet of paper on which the image based on the tracking information and the image based on the print data have been formed. Then, in step S709, control unit 409 deletes the print job.

[0048] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S702 that the print job is to be saved (step S702; YES), the control unit 409 stores the print job in the storage unit 402 by executing processing to save the print job in step S705.

[0049] In step S706, the control unit 409 determines whether the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to instruct execution of a print job.

[0050] Note that before control unit 409 executes the process of step S706, control unit 409 may execute a process to authenticate the user of image forming apparatus 101. For example, when operation unit 403 receives an operation to input a user name and a password, control unit 409 authenticates the user through knowledge authentication using the input user name and password. Alternatively, control unit 409 may authenticate the user through possession authentication using the user's possession (IC card, smartphone, etc.). Alternatively, control unit 409 may authenticate the user through biometric authentication using the user's biometric information (fingerprint, voice, face, etc.). Then, when control unit 409 determines that the user of image forming apparatus 101 has been authenticated, control unit 409 enables operation unit 403 to receive an operation to instruct execution of a print job.

[0051] If it is determined in step S706 that operation unit 403 has not received an operation instructing execution of a print job (step S702; NO), control unit 409 returns the process to step S706. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S706 that operation unit 403 has received an operation instructing execution of a print job (step S706; YES), in step S707 control unit 409 determines tracking information according to the tracking content information added to the print job and adds the tracking information to the print job.

[0052] If the tracking content information added to the print job indicates content at the time the print job was saved, the tracking information determined in step S707 indicates at least one of the user name indicated by the user information added to the print job and the date and time when the print job was acquired in step S701. In other words, the tracking information for the time when the print job was saved indicates at least one of the saver and the save date and time.

[0053] On the other hand, if the tracking content information added to the print job indicates content related to the time of printing of the print job, the tracking information determined in step S707 indicates the date and time when the operation unit 403 accepted an operation to instruct execution of the print job in step S706. Furthermore, before executing the processing of step S706, the control unit 409 authenticates the user of the image forming apparatus 101, and if the tracking content information added to the print job indicates content related to the time of printing of the print job, the tracking information determined in step S707 also indicates the user name of the authenticated user. In other words, the tracking information for the time of printing of the print job indicates at least one of the person who printed it and the date and time of printing.

[0054] In step S708, the control unit 409 executes processing to print an image based on the determined tracking information and an image based on the print data added to the print job instructed to be executed. The processing in step S708 is similar to the processing in step S704, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The terminal device 102 allows the user of the terminal device 102 to select whether to add information at the time of saving or information at the time of printing, so that the image forming device 101 according to this embodiment can print an image based on the print data with added tracking information indicating the content selected by the user depending on the intended use of the print result. Then, in step S709, the control unit 409 deletes the print job.

[0055] Through the processing of steps S705 to S708, the control unit 409 saves the print job sent from the terminal device 102, and then the user operates the operation unit 403, causing the control unit 409 to execute the print job. Then, the user who performed the operation to instruct the execution of the print job obtains the printed sheets. Therefore, when the terminal device 102 sends a print job to the image forming device 101, the image forming device 101 according to this embodiment can prevent a third party from viewing the printed sheets and from accidentally or intentionally taking away the printed sheets.

[0056] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 101 when the acquisition unit 408 acquires print data by reading a document placed on a document tray or by reading print data stored in an external storage medium.

[0057] In step S801, the acquisition unit 408 acquires print data. For example, the acquisition unit 408 reads an original placed on an original placement plate (not shown) and acquires print data indicating the read original. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 408 acquires print data by reading print data stored in an external storage medium. For example, the external storage medium is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0058] Note that before acquisition unit 408 executes the process of step S801, control unit 409 may execute a process to authenticate the user of image forming apparatus 101. For example, before acquisition unit 408 executes the process of step S801, control unit 409 executes a process to authenticate the user by knowledge authentication, possession authentication, biometric authentication, or the like. When control unit 409 determines that the user of image forming apparatus 101 has been authenticated, it enables acquisition unit 408 to read an original placed on an original placement tray (not shown) and to read print data stored in an external storage medium.

[0059] In step S802, control unit 409 determines whether operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select saving the print data. If it is determined in step S802 that operation unit 403 has not accepted an operation to select saving the print data (step S802; NO), control unit 409 proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S802 that operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select saving the print data (step S802; YES), in step S803, control unit 409 executes processing to save the print data acquired in step S801, thereby causing the print data to be stored in storage unit 402.

[0060] In step S804, control unit 409 determines whether operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select print data to be printed. Specifically, in step S803, after control unit 409 stores print data in storage unit 402, if operation unit 403 accepts an operation to display data selection screen 1001 (see FIG. 10), control unit 409 displays data selection screen 1001 on display unit 404. Then, control unit 409 determines whether operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select print data to be printed on data selection screen 1001.

[0061] Note that before the control unit 409 executes the processing of step S804, the control unit 409 may execute processing to authenticate the user of the image forming apparatus 101. For example, before the control unit 409 executes the processing of step S804, the control unit 409 executes processing to authenticate the user by knowledge authentication, possession authentication, biometric authentication, or the like. When the control unit 409 determines that the user of the image forming apparatus 101 has been authenticated, it enables the operation unit 403 to accept an operation on the data selection screen 1001 to select print data to be printed.

[0062] If it is determined in step S804 that the operation unit 403 has not accepted an operation to select print data to be printed (step S804; NO), the control unit 409 returns the process to step S804. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S804 that the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select print data to be printed (step S804; YES), the control unit 409 determines in step S805 whether the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select the content of tracking information. Specifically, if the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to display a print setting screen 1101 (see FIG. 11) on the data selection screen 1001, the control unit 409 causes the display unit 404 to display the print setting screen 1101. If the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to display a tracking content selection screen 1104 (see FIG. 11) on the print setting screen 1101, the control unit 409 causes the display unit 404 to display the tracking content selection screen 1104. The tracking content selection screen 1104 is a screen that allows the user to select the content of tracking information. For example, the control unit 409 determines whether the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to display the tracking content selection screen 1104 on the print setting screen 1101.

[0063] If it is determined in step S805 that operation unit 403 has not accepted an operation to select the content of the tracking information (step S805; NO), control unit 409 returns the process to step S805. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S805 that operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to select the content of the tracking information (step S805; YES), in step S806 control unit 409 generates a print job to which the print data selected by the operation accepted in step S804 and tracking content information indicating the content selected by the operation accepted in step S805 are added. Then control unit 409 proceeds to step S901 shown in FIG. 9.

[0064] Note that tracking information selected by a user operation may be saved for each user. Specifically, after executing a process to authenticate the user of the image forming apparatus 101, if the control unit 409 determines tracking content information by receiving an operation from the operation unit 403 to select tracking content, the control unit 409 may associate the determined tracking content information with user information indicating the authenticated user and store the associated tracking content information in the storage unit 402. Then, assume that after the acquisition unit 408 acquires new print data in step S801, the control unit 409 executes a process to authenticate the user of the image forming apparatus 101 before executing the process of step S804. In this case, in step S806, the control unit 409 may generate a print job to which the print data selected by the operation received in step S804 and the tracking content information associated with the user information indicating the authenticated user are added. This allows the image forming apparatus 101 according to this embodiment to add tracking content information indicating the contents of items previously specified by the user to the print job for each user. As a result, the image forming apparatus 101 can prevent the user from having to repeatedly perform an operation to select the content of the tracking information, thereby improving user convenience.

[0065] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 101 following FIG.

[0066] In step S901, control unit 409 determines whether operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to instruct execution of a print job. If it is determined in step S901 that operation unit 403 has not accepted an operation to instruct execution of a print job (step S901; NO), control unit 409 returns the process to step S901. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S901 that operation unit 403 has accepted an operation to instruct execution of a print job (step S901; YES), in step S902, control unit 409 determines tracking information according to the tracking content information added to the print job and adds the tracking information to the print job.

[0067] If the tracking content information added to the print job indicates content belonging to the time of storage when the print job was saved, the tracking information determined in step S902 indicates the date and time when the print job was stored in the storage unit 402 in step S803. Furthermore, if the control unit 409 authenticated the user of the image forming apparatus 101 before the acquisition unit 408 performed the process of step S801, the tracking information determined in step S902 further indicates the user name of the authenticated user.

[0068] On the other hand, if the tracking content information added to the print job indicates content relating to the time of printing the print job, the tracking information determined in step S902 indicates the date and time when the operation unit 403 accepted an operation to instruct execution of the print job in step S901. Furthermore, if the control unit 409 authenticates the user of the image forming apparatus 101 before the acquisition unit 408 executes the process of step S804 illustrated in FIG. 8, the tracking information determined in step S902 further indicates the user name of the authenticated user.

[0069] In step S903, the control unit 409 executes processing to print an image based on the tracking information determined in step S902 and an image based on the print data added to the print job. The processing in step S903 is similar to the processing in step S704, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted. Then, in step S904, the control unit 409 deletes the print job.

[0070] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data selection screen 1001. The data selection screen 1001 shows that print data having a file name of log.txt has been selected. Furthermore, the data selection screen 1001 includes a button (print setting button) 1002 for changing settings and printing. The operation of selecting the print setting button 1002 is an operation of instructing that a print setting screen 1101 be displayed. When the operation unit 403 accepts the operation of selecting the print setting button 1002, the control unit 409 causes the display unit 404 to display the print setting screen 1101.

[0071] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen 1101 displayed on the display unit 404. The print setting screen 1101 shows a setting screen for printing print data having a file name of log.txt. For example, the print setting screen 1101 shown in FIG. 11 shows settings related to paper selection, output resolution, and double-sided printing. Furthermore, the print setting screen 1101 includes a tracking information button 1102 and a start button 1103. The operation of selecting the tracking information button 1102 is an operation of instructing the display unit 404 to display a tracking content selection screen 1104. When the operation unit 403 accepts the operation of selecting the tracking information button 1102, the control unit 409 causes the display unit 404 to display the tracking content selection screen 1104.

[0072] The tracing content selection screen 1104 includes a save information selection button 1105 and a print information selection button 1106. When the operation unit 403 accepts an operation to select the save information selection button 1105, the control unit 409 determines tracing content information indicating content that belongs to the save time when saving a print job to which print data having the file name log.txt is added. On the other hand, when the operation unit 403 accepts an operation to select the print information selection button 1106, the control unit 409 determines tracing content information that indicates content that belongs to the print time when a print job to which print data having the file name log.txt is added is added. The control unit 409 then adds the determined tracing content information to the print job. When the operation unit 403 accepts an operation to select the start button 1103, the control unit 409 executes the print job.

[0073] As described above, the image forming apparatus 101 according to this embodiment can add information that matches the intended use of the print result specified by the user to an image based on print data and print it.

[0074] (Variation) In a variation of the printing system 100 according to the present embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 101 re-executes a print job, if the print job is associated with information indicating that the print job has a print execution history, the image may be printed with tracking information selected by a user operation when the print job was previously executed. Specifically, when the control unit 409 executes a print job, the control unit 409 can associate the print job with the presence or absence of a print execution history and store the association in the storage unit 402. When the control unit 409 re-executes a print job, the control unit 409 determines whether the print job has a print execution history. If the control unit 409 determines that the print job has a print execution history, the control unit 409 executes a process of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation when the print job was previously executed to an image based on the print data and printing the image. This prevents the image forming apparatus 101 from having to repeatedly select the content of tracking information when re-executing a print job, and can standardize the content of tracking information for each print job, thereby improving user convenience.

[0075] Second Embodiment The second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 17. In the drawings, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted. Configurations and processes having substantially the same functions as those of other embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and explanations will be omitted, and differences from other embodiments will be described.

[0076] The control unit 409 according to this embodiment sets tracking information selected based on the type to which the print data belongs and the authority of the user who performed the operation related to the process of saving the print job. Furthermore, the control unit 409 according to this embodiment limits the execution of the process of saving the print job for print data belonging to the specified type when the execution of the process of saving the print job is selected by the operation of a user with the specified authority. Furthermore, the control unit 409 according to this embodiment does not limit the execution of the process of saving the print job for print data belonging to the specified type when the execution of the process of saving the print job is not selected by the operation of a user with the specified authority.

[0077] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a print job according to this embodiment. The print job shown in FIG. 12 differs from the print job shown in FIG. 2 in that the print job shown in FIG. 12 includes document type information. The document type information indicates the type of print data. For example, the document type information indicates an official document or a general document. An official document indicates a document that certifies the authenticity of the contents thereof. A document that certifies the authenticity of the contents thereof is a type of document used within or outside the organization to which the user belongs, and is an official document that has been approved by multiple supervisors as necessary for a document created by the user. A general document indicates an unofficial document (a document that is different from a document that certifies the authenticity of the contents thereof and is not official).

[0078] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen 1301. The print setting screen 1301 shown in Fig. 13 differs from the print setting screen 601 shown in Fig. 6 in that the print setting screen 1301 includes a setting area 1302 for official documents.

[0079] The setting area 1302 is an area where an operation to set document type information is performed. For example, when the operation unit 403 receives an operation to select a check box that reads "This is an official document" included in the setting area 1302, the terminal control unit 305 adds document type information indicating an official document to the print job that is the setting target on the print setting screen 1301.

[0080] On the other hand, if the operation unit 403 does not accept an operation to select the check box "This is an official document" included in the setting area 1302 illustrated in FIG. 13, the terminal control unit 305 adds document type information indicating a general document to the print job that is the setting target on the print setting screen 1301.

[0081] 14 is a diagram showing an example of a system setting screen 1401 according to this embodiment. The system setting screen 1401 is displayed on the display unit 304 or the display unit 404. For example, when the terminal control unit 305 authenticates a user having designated authority, the terminal control unit 305 causes the display unit 304 to display the system setting screen 1401. Alternatively, when the control unit 409 authenticates a user having designated authority, the control unit 409 may cause the display unit 404 to display the system setting screen 1401. For example, the designated authority is the authority of an administrator of the image forming apparatus 101.

[0082] The system setting screen 1401 includes setting areas 1402 to 1405 and a setting button 1406. The setting area 1402 is an area where an operation is performed to set whether or not the control unit 409 will execute processing to save the acquired print data when the acquisition unit 408 acquires print data by reading a document placed on the document tray. The setting area 1403 is an area where an operation is performed to set whether or not the control unit 409 will execute processing to save print data added to a print job sent by the terminal device 102.

[0083] Setting area 1404 is an area where an operation is performed to set whether or not control unit 409 will execute processing to save print data added to a print job when document type information indicating an official document is added to the print job. The setting area 1404 illustrated in Fig. 14 indicates that control unit 409 will save print data added to a print job when document type information indicating an official document is added to the print job. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 101 according to this embodiment can limit users who are allowed to print print data that is an official document by setting the print data to be saved without being printed by an operation by a user with designated authority.

[0084] The setting area 1405 is an area where an operation to select the content of the tracking information for the official document is performed. For example, if a responsible signature needs to be added to the official document, it is preferable to select the content of the tracking information for the official document at the time of saving. This allows the image forming apparatus 101 to print an image based on the print data representing the official document by adding an image indicating the date and time when the print data representing the official document was stored in the storage unit 402, information about the user who performed the operation to store the print data representing the official document in the storage unit 402, etc.

[0085] Furthermore, for example, when it is necessary to prevent information leaks of official documents, it is preferable to select the content of the tracking information for the official document as the content of the printing time, which allows the image forming apparatus 101 to print an image that is added to the image based on the print data representing the official document and indicates the time when the image based on the print data representing the official document was printed, the user who performed the operation to print the image based on the print data representing the official document, etc.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, the content of the tracking information for an official document may be selected from the content that belongs to the time of saving and the content that belongs to the time of printing. This allows the image forming apparatus 101 to print an image based on print data representing an official document, including an image that indicates the content that belongs to the time of saving and an image that indicates the content that belongs to the time of printing.

[0087] 14 indicates that, when document type information indicating that the print job is an official document is added to the print job, tracking content information indicating the content associated with the print job at the time of saving is added to the print job. Therefore, when the image forming apparatus 101 prints an official document, the printing system 100 according to this embodiment can add an image based on tracking information indicating the content set by an operation of a user with designated authority to an image based on print data and print it. In other words, the printing system 100 according to this embodiment allows a user with designated authority to select the content of the tracking information for official documents.

[0088] The operation of selecting the setting button 1406 is an operation of displaying a tracking information detail setting screen 1501 (see FIG. 15).

[0089] 15 is a diagram showing an example of a tracking information detail setting screen 1501. The detail setting screen 1501 includes a setting area 1502 for setting items to be included in the tracking information for general documents, and a setting area 1503 for setting items to be included in the tracking information for official documents.

[0090] When a user with designated authority selects the content of the tracking information from multiple contents included in the setting area 1502, the selected content is linked to document type information indicating a general document and stored in the storage unit 402. Specifically, the selected content from the multiple contents shown in the setting area 1502 is linked to the document type information indicating a general document and stored as tracking content information in the storage unit 402. For example, the setting area 1502 indicates that for a general document, the tracking information includes a serial number, a job ID, and the date and time of saving.

[0091] Furthermore, when content is selected from the plurality of contents included in setting area 1503 by an operation of a user with designated authority, the selected content is linked to document type information indicating an official document and stored in storage unit 402. Specifically, the selected content from the plurality of contents included in setting area 1502 is linked to document type information indicating an official document and stored as tracking content information in storage unit 402. Setting area 1503 indicates that, for an official document, the tracking information includes a company code, a serial number, a job ID, a date and time of saving, and a login name.

[0092] Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 15, since the tracking information selected by the user's operation can be selected depending on the type to which the print data belongs, in the printing system 100 of this embodiment, tracking content information indicating the content selected depending on the type to which the print data belongs is added to the print job.

[0093] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the terminal device 102 according to this embodiment. The process of step S1601 is the same as the process of step S501 illustrated in Fig. 5, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. At the time when the terminal control unit 305 executes the process of step S1601, the memory unit 302 stores tracking content information linked to document type information indicating an official document.

[0094] If the terminal control unit 305 determines in step S1601 that the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation to select print data (step S1601; YES), then in step S1602 it determines whether the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation indicating that the selected print data is an official document. For example, if the terminal operation unit 303 accepts an operation to select a check box that reads "Official Document" in the setting area 1302 on the print setting screen 1301, the terminal control unit 305 determines that the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation indicating that the selected print data is an official document. On the other hand, if the terminal control unit 305 does not accept an operation to select a check box that reads "Official Document" in the setting area 1302 on the print setting screen 1301, the terminal control unit 305 does not determine that the terminal operation unit 303 has accepted an operation indicating that the selected print data is an official document.

[0095] If it is not determined in step S1602 that the terminal operation unit 303 has received an operation indicating that the selected print data is an official document (step S1602; NO), the terminal control unit 305 proceeds to step S1603. The processes in steps S1603 to S1604 are the same as those in steps S502 to S503 illustrated in FIG. 5, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0096] In step S1605, the terminal control unit 305 adds document type information indicating that the print job is a general document to the print job generated in step S1604. The terminal control unit 305 then proceeds to step S504 shown in FIG.

[0097] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1602 that the terminal operation unit 303 has received an operation indicating that the selected print data is an official document (step S1602; YES), in step S1606 the terminal control unit 305 generates a print job to which tracking content information linked to document type information indicating an official document and the print data are added.

[0098] In step S1607, the terminal control unit 305 adds document type information indicating that the document is an official document to the generated print job.Then, the terminal control unit 305 proceeds to step S504 shown in FIG.

[0099] Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the image forming apparatus 101 according to this embodiment. Steps S701 to S702 shown in Fig. 17 are the same as steps S701 to S702 shown in Fig. 7, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] If it is determined in step S702 that the print job should not be saved (step S702; NO), in step S1701, control unit 409 determines tracking information according to the tracking content information and document type information added to the print job, and adds the tracking information to the print job. The tracking information determined in step S1701 differs from the tracking information determined in step S703 illustrated in FIG. 7 in that the tracking information determined in step S1701 includes information that has been preset for the document type information added to the print job. For example, the tracking information determined in step S1701 includes information that has been set in detail setting screen 1501 according to the document type information added to the print job. Then, control unit 409 proceeds to step S704. The processing from step S704 onward is similar to the processing from step S704 onward illustrated in FIG. 7, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0101] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S702 that the print job is to be saved (step S702; YES), control unit 409 proceeds to steps S705 to S706. The processes in steps S705 to S706 are the same as those in steps S705 to S706 illustrated in FIG. 7, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0102] If it is determined in step S706 that the operation unit 403 has accepted an operation instructing execution of a print job (step S706; YES), in step S1702, the control unit 409 determines tracking information according to the tracking content information added to the print job instructed to be executed and the document type information added to the print job, and adds the tracking information to the print job. The tracking information determined in step S1702 differs from the tracking information determined in step S707 illustrated in FIG. 7 in that the tracking information determined in step S1702 includes information that has been preset for the document type information added to the print job. For example, the tracking information determined in step S1702 includes information that has been set in detail on the detailed setting screen 1501 according to the document type information added to the print job. The control unit 409 then proceeds to step S708. The processing from step S708 onward is similar to the processing from step S708 onward illustrated in FIG. 7, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0103] As described above, when printing print data sent from the terminal device 102, the image forming device 101 according to this embodiment can print by adding an image based on tracking information corresponding to the specified tracking content information and the specified document type information.

[0104] (Variation) As a modification of the printing system 100 according to this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 101 may set the acquired print data as an official document through a user operation. In the image forming apparatus 103 according to this modification, the operation unit 403 may accept an operation indicating that the print data acquired by the acquisition unit 408 is an official document.

[0105] For example, when the acquisition unit 408 reads a document placed on a document tray and acquires print data indicating the read document, the operation unit 403 may accept an operation indicating that the print data acquired by the acquisition unit 408 is an official document. Alternatively, when the acquisition unit 408 acquires print data by reading print data stored in an external storage medium, the operation unit 403 may accept an operation indicating that the print data acquired by the acquisition unit 408 is an official document.

[0106] When the operation unit 403 receives an operation indicating that the print data acquired by the acquisition unit 408 is an official document, the control unit 409 adds document type information indicating that the print data is an official document to the print job to which the acquired print data has been added. The control unit 409 then determines tracking information according to the tracking content information and document type information added to the print job, and adds the tracking information to the print job.

[0107] On the other hand, if the operation unit 403 does not accept an operation indicating that the print data acquired by the acquisition unit 408 is an official document, the control unit 409 adds document type information indicating that the print data is a general document to the print job to which the acquired print data is added.

[0108] As described above, when printing print data generated by scanning a manuscript and print data obtained by scanning from an external storage medium, the printing system 100 according to this modified example can add and print an image based on tracking information according to the selected content and the type of specified document.

[0109] (Third embodiment) The third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 18 and 19. In the drawings, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted. Configurations and processes having substantially the same functions as those of other embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and explanations will be omitted, and differences from other embodiments will be described.

[0110] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a system setting screen 1801 according to this embodiment. The system setting screen 1801 shown in Fig. 18 differs from the system setting screen 1401 shown in Fig. 14 in that the system setting screen 1801 includes a setting area 1802 for the number of copies to be printed.

[0111] For example, if the user with the designated authority is the user of the terminal device 102, the terminal control unit 305 causes the display unit 304 to display the system setting screen 1801. Alternatively, if the control unit 409 authenticates the user with the designated authority, the terminal control unit 305 causes the display unit 404 to display the system setting screen 1801.

[0112] The setting area 1802 is an area where an operation to set whether or not to include information on the number of copies printed in the tracking information is performed. For example, when the terminal operation unit 303 receives an operation to select "Include information on the number of copies printed when printing multiple sheets" included in the setting area 1802, the tracking information determined by the control unit 409 includes information on the number of copies printed.

[0113] Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a tracing content selection screen 1901. The tracing content selection screen 1901 shown in Fig. 19 differs from the tracing content selection screen 1104 shown in Fig. 11 in that the tracing content selection screen 1901 includes a setting area 1902 for the number of copies to be printed.

[0114] For example, when the operation unit 403 receives an operation to display a tracing content selection screen 1901 on the print setting screen 1101 illustrated in FIG. 11, the control unit 409 causes the display unit 404 to display the tracing content selection screen 1901.

[0115] The setting area 1902 is an area where an operation is performed to set whether or not to include information on the number of copies to be printed in the tracking information. For example, if the terminal operation unit 303 receives an operation to select a checkbox included in the setting area 1902 that reads "Include information on the number of copies to be printed when printing multiple sheets," the tracking information determined by the control unit 409 will include information on the number of copies to be printed. As a result, when printing multiple sheets at once for one piece of print data stored in the storage unit 402, the image forming apparatus 101 according to this embodiment adds tracking information including information indicating the number of copies to be printed and prints the data. As described above, the image forming apparatus 101 according to this embodiment can add tracking information including information indicating that multiple sheets were printed at once for one piece of print data and print the data.

[0116] (Variation) As a modified example of the printing system 100 according to this embodiment, the terminal device 102 may be able to set, by a user operation, whether or not to include information on the number of copies to be printed in the tracking information when the terminal operation unit 303 accepts an operation to select print data. Furthermore, in the printing system 100 according to this modified example, the image forming device 101 may be able to set, by a user operation, whether or not to include information on the number of copies to be printed in the tracking information when the operation unit 403 accepts an operation to select print data. In this way, the printing system 100 according to this modified example allows the user to select whether or not to include information on the number of copies to be printed in the tracking information when selecting print data.

[0117] The processes executed in the above embodiments are not limited to the processing modes exemplified in the above embodiments. The above-described functional blocks may be realized using either a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit or the like, or software using a CPU. The processes executed in the above embodiments may be executed by multiple computers. For example, some of the processes executed in the functional blocks of the image forming apparatus 101 and the terminal apparatus 102 may be executed by another computer, or all of the processes may be shared and executed by multiple computers.

[0118] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be replaced with a configuration that is substantially the same as the configuration shown in the above-described embodiments, a configuration that achieves the same effect, or a configuration that can achieve the same purpose. The present disclosure also includes within its technical scope embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 100 Printing system, 101 Image forming device, 102 Terminal device, 103 Image forming device, 301 Communication unit, 302 Memory unit, 303 Terminal operation unit, 304 Display unit, 305 Terminal control unit, 401 Communication unit, 402 Memory unit, 403 Operation unit, 404 Display unit, 405 Image forming unit, 406 Paper conveying unit, 407 Image output unit, 408 Acquisition unit, 409 Control unit, 601 Print setting screen, 602 Input area, 603 Input area, 604 Setting area, 605 Setting area, 1001 Data selection screen, 1002 Print setting button, 1101 Print setting screen, 1102 Tracking information button, 1103 Start button, 1104 Tracking content selection screen, 1105 Information selection button when saving, 1106 Information selection button when printing, 1301 Print setting screen, 1302 setting area, 1401 system setting screen, 1402 setting area, 1403 setting area, 1404 setting area, 1405 setting area, 1406 setting button, 1501 detailed setting screen, 1502 setting area, 1503 setting area, 1801 system setting screen, 1802 setting area, 1901 tracking content selection screen, 1902 setting area

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires print data; a control unit that executes a process of saving the print job to which the print data has been added; Equipped with The control unit executes a process of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time when the print job was saved and tracking information at the time when the print job was executed to an image based on the print data and printing the image. Image forming device.

2. an operation unit that accepts the user's operation; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit sets tracking information selected by the user's operation according to the type to which the print data belongs.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. When execution of a process for saving a print job is selected by an operation of a user having a designated authority for print data belonging to a designated type, the control unit limits execution of the process for saving the print job, and when execution of the process for saving the print job is not selected by an operation of the user having the authority, the control unit does not limit execution of the process for saving the print job.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The tracking information selected by the user's operation is saved for each user.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

6. When the control unit re-executes the print job, the control unit executes a process of adding an image based on tracking information previously selected by the user's operation to an image based on the print data and printing the image.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The tracking information about the time of storage indicates at least one of the person who stored it and the date and time of storage, The execution time tracking information indicates at least one of the person who printed the item and the date and time of printing.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The tracking information includes information indicating the number of copies printed.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

9. A terminal device; an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with the terminal device; Including, The terminal device a terminal control unit that executes a process of transmitting a print job to the image forming device, the print job having the print data added thereto; the image forming apparatus, a control unit that executes a process of saving the print job; The control unit executes a process of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time when the print job was saved and tracking information at the time when the print job was executed to an image based on the print data and printing the image. Printing system.

10. The terminal device a terminal operation unit that accepts operations by the user; The printing system of claim 9 .

11. obtaining print data; storing the print job to which the print data has been added; a step of adding an image based on tracking information selected by a user operation from tracking information at the time of saving the print job and tracking information at the time of executing the print job to an image based on the print data, and printing the image; Contains Image forming method.

12. On the computer, a function of adding, to the print job, tracking information selected by the user's operation from tracking information at the time of saving the print job and tracking information at the time of executing the print job, and print data; a function of transmitting the print job to an image forming apparatus; A program that executes the following.

Images