System, server, image forming device, and login method

Abstract

To provide a system and the like that can output information indicating that processing can be performed appropriately in the system in accordance with the state of a network, for example, on an image forming device and the like.SOLUTION: A system of the present disclosure is a system including a server, a plurality of image forming devices, and a data center utilized in a service. When a request for starting the service is made from one of the image forming devices, a screen for logging in to the service is displayed on the one of the image forming devices when a session number established between the data center and the other image forming devices is less than a first threshold value, and a screen for waiting for execution of the service is displayed on the one of the image forming devices when the session number established between the data center and the other image forming devices is more than or equal to the first threshold value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an invention in which a server device determines and responds to a reservation amount, which is an amount of processing that is permitted, so that the upper limit of image processing is not exceeded. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-6775 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system or the like that is capable of outputting information indicating that the system can perform appropriate processing in accordance with the state of the network, from an image forming apparatus or the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The system disclosed herein includes a server, a plurality of image forming devices, and a data center used in a service. When a request to start the service is received from one image forming device, if the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is less than a first threshold, a screen for logging in to the service is displayed on the one image forming device. If the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is equal to or greater than the first threshold, a screen for waiting for the service to be executed is displayed on the one image forming device.

[0006] The server of the present disclosure is a server in a system in which multiple image forming devices and a data center used in a service can communicate via a network, and is equipped with a control unit and a display control unit, wherein the control unit receives a session registration request from one of the image forming devices when the service is launched, and when the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is less than a first threshold, registers a session of the one image forming device in the data center, and when the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is equal to or greater than the first threshold, registers a session with sequence information for the session of the one image forming device in the data center, and when the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is less than the first threshold, the display control unit controls the one image forming device to display a screen for logging in to the service, and when the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is equal to or greater than the first threshold, controls the one image forming device to display a screen waiting for the service to be executed.

[0007] The image forming apparatus of the present disclosure includes a communication unit that communicates with a server that can communicate with a data center used in the service, a control unit, and a display unit. When the control unit starts the service, it sends a request to the server via the communication unit to create a session to the data center. If the number of sessions established between the data center and other image forming apparatuses is less than a first threshold, it displays a screen for logging in to the service on the display unit. If the number of sessions established between the data center and other image forming apparatuses is equal to or greater than the first threshold, it displays a screen for waiting for the service to be executed on the display unit.

[0008] A login method for a system including a server, a plurality of image forming devices, and a data center used in a service includes the steps of, when a request to start the service is received from one image forming device, displaying a screen for logging in to the service on the one image forming device if the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is less than a first threshold, and, when the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming devices is equal to or greater than the first threshold, displaying a screen for waiting for the execution of the service on the one image forming device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system or the like that is capable of outputting information indicating that the system can perform appropriate processing in accordance with the state of the network, from an image forming apparatus or the like. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the entire image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a server device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a communication path in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the first embodiment. [Figure 15] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the first embodiment. [Figure 16] 3A to 3C are diagrams illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation (example of a display screen) in the second embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration according to a third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the third embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a processing flow in the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is one embodiment of the present disclosure, and the contents of the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited based on the following description.

[0012] Generally, in an image forming apparatus, a service is known in which content designated by a user is acquired from a network and output, such as a network print service provided by the applicant.

[0013] In recent years, sudden line congestion has become an issue due to the network issues of the corporations using the service (for example, convenience stores). When the service cannot be used due to line congestion, users give up on using the service, leading to lost opportunities.

[0014] These issues are difficult to address on the system side alone, and there has been a need to maintain services as much as possible even with insufficient network lines. For example, one feature of the network print printing system provided as a network service is that users can print images and documents stored in the cloud directly from image forming devices in convenience stores.

[0015] However, when users log in and start using the service, they download large amounts of files and data from the cloud, which creates a large amount of communication traffic and puts strain on the lines, which is an issue.

[0016] In addition, with such services, for example, a user uses an image forming device installed in a convenience store or the like to obtain data such as desired content from a data center shared by the content provider via a network and output the data.

[0017] However, there are cases where the network of a business using the service (for example, a convenience store company) suddenly becomes congested. In such cases, because the data center is shared, data for the entire service is frozen, making it difficult to use the service for an extended period of time.

[0018] In such cases, one solution is to increase the line speed of the entire network, but it is difficult to increase the line speed of all businesses that install image forming devices.

[0019] Furthermore, when a user directly prints content stored in a convenience store or other location using an image forming device, multiple pieces of content must be downloaded over the network, resulting in a large volume of data traffic and putting strain on the network.

[0020] In view of these problems, the following embodiment describes a system that presents information such as the situation and countermeasures to the user appropriately depending on the state of the communication path.

[0021] [1. First embodiment]

[0022] [1.1 Overall System] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a system 1 according to the present disclosure. The system 1 includes one or more image forming devices 10 in each network 5. The image forming devices 10 may be aggregated by an aggregation device 30.

[0023] The aggregation device 30 is one of the devices that aggregates the image forming devices 10 included in each network. For example, the aggregation device 30 may be a server device that aggregates the image forming devices 10, or may be a gateway device. The aggregation device 30 is configured to be able to communicate with the server device 20. The aggregation device 30 may also function as a data center for the network 5.

[0024] The data center 40 is a device that manages one or more pieces of content, etc. The data center 40 may be made up of one or more devices.

[0025] Here, network 5 is a network including various devices. For convenience of explanation, FIG. 1 shows one aggregation device 30, but multiple aggregation devices 30 may be included. Furthermore, aggregation devices 30 may be connected in multiple layers, and image forming devices 10 may be aggregated into small networks.

[0026] For example, when image forming devices 10 are installed in convenience stores (hereinafter simply referred to as "convenience stores"), networks 5 may be constructed for each convenience store company (affiliated convenience store). For example, image forming devices 10 of convenience store A are aggregated into network 5A, and image forming devices 10 of convenience store B are aggregated into network 5B. In addition, although the affiliation of companies is described as convenience store affiliates in this embodiment, it may also include other types of stores, such as supermarkets, bookstores, stationery stores, and home improvement stores.

[0027] The image forming apparatus 10 can realize general copy functions, fax functions, and scanner functions. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 can execute a copy job by executing the copy function.

[0028] Furthermore, the image forming device 10 can select and print content stored in the data center 40. The data center 40 may store content acquired from a service provider, or may store content sent from a user. The data center 40 only needs to be able to manage content, and may be composed of one or more devices, or may be a blockchain-based system.

[0029] [1.2 Hardware Configuration] [1.2.1 Image forming device] An example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 10 has a control unit 100, a storage 110 as a storage device (storage unit), a ROM 120, and a RAM 130, a display unit 140, an operation unit 150, an image forming unit 160, an image reading unit 165, and a communication unit 170.

[0031] The control unit 100 controls the entire image forming apparatus 10. The control unit 100 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in a storage device (for example, storage 110 or ROM 120). The control unit 100 may be realized by one or more control devices / arithmetic units (CPUs (Central Processing Units), SoCs (System on a Chip)). The control unit 100 may also be configured by a control circuit.

[0032] The storage 110 is a non-volatile storage device capable of storing programs and data. For example, the storage 110 may be configured as a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage 110 may also be configured as an externally connectable USB memory. The storage 110 may also be, for example, a storage area on the cloud.

[0033] The ROM 120 is a non-volatile memory that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off.

[0034] The RAM 130 is a main memory that is mainly used when the control unit 100 executes processing. The RAM 130 is a rewritable memory that temporarily stores programs read from the storage 110 or the ROM 120, and data including execution results.

[0035] The display unit 140 is a display device capable of displaying various types of information and execution screens. The display unit 140 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, an electrophoretic display, or other display device. The display unit 140 also includes an interface to which a display device can be connected. For example, the display unit 140 may be configured as an external display device connected via an HDMI (registered trademark) High-Definition Multimedia Interface, a DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or a Display Port.

[0036] The operation unit 150 is an operation device that allows a user to input operations. For example, it may be an operation device such as a touch panel integrated with the display unit 140 or operation buttons. The operation unit 150 may also be an operation device such as a keyboard or a mouse. The operation unit 150 may also include an interface (for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB)) to which an operation device can be connected. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 may be connected to a different operation device (an operation device having a touch panel).

[0037] The image forming unit 160 forms an image, for example, on recording paper. The image forming unit 160 includes, for example, an image carrier, and forms a toner image on the image carrier and transfers the image on the image carrier onto recording paper to form an image. The image forming unit 160 may be configured as an image forming device such as a printer. The image forming unit 160 may also form an image electronically as an image file.

[0038] Image reading unit 165 reads an original (image) and outputs it as image data. Image reading unit 165 is, for example, a scanner, and may be a reading device that uses a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor).

[0039] The communication unit 170 is a communication interface for communicating with other devices. For example, it may be a network interface that can provide a wired connection or a wireless connection. In this embodiment, communication with other devices is possible via a network.

[0040] [1.2.2 Server Device] An example of the hardware configuration of the server device 20 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 3, the server device 20 includes a control unit 200, a storage 210 as a storage device (storage unit), a ROM 220, and a RAM 230, and a communication unit 270.

[0042] The control unit 200 controls the entire server device 20. The control unit 200 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in a storage device (for example, storage 210 or ROM 220). The control unit 200 may be realized by one or more control devices / arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip)). The control unit 200 may also be configured by a control circuit. The control unit 200 also functions as a display control unit by generating and transmitting display screens for the image forming device 10 and other devices.

[0043] The storage 210 is a non-volatile storage device capable of storing programs and data. For example, the storage 210 may be configured as a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). The storage 210 may also be configured as an externally connectable USB memory. The storage 210 may also be, for example, a storage area on the cloud.

[0044] The ROM 220 is a non-volatile memory that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off.

[0045] The RAM 230 is a main memory that is mainly used when the control unit 200 executes processing. The RAM 230 is a rewritable memory that temporarily stores programs read from the storage 210 or the ROM 220, and data including execution results.

[0046] The communication unit 270 is a communication interface for communicating with other devices. For example, it may be a network interface that can provide a wired connection or a wireless connection. In this embodiment, communication with other devices is possible via a network.

[0047] Furthermore, the server device 20 may further include a display unit, an operation unit, an input / output unit, etc., as necessary.

[0048] Furthermore, the aggregation device 30 and the data center 40 may have substantially the same hardware configuration as the server device 20. For example, the control unit reads and executes a program stored in a storage device to realize each function. Furthermore, the communication unit communicates with other devices via a network.

[0049] For convenience of explanation, the server device 20, the aggregation device 30, and the data center 40 are described as single devices, but they may be configured from multiple devices. In this case, it is sufficient that some of the multiple devices have a configuration or circuit that operates as a control unit, or a configuration or circuit for storing data as storage.

[0050] [1.3 Software Configuration] The software configuration will be explained with reference to FIG.

[0051] [1.3.1 Image forming device] In the image forming apparatus 10, the control unit 100 may implement a content output unit 1010 and a restricted mode execution unit 1020 by executing a program or application stored in the storage 110 or the like.

[0052] The content output unit 1010 acquires and outputs content selected by the user from the data center 40. Here, the content is preferably an image such as a photograph or a graphic, but may also be, for example, a document file such as a PDF. When transferring the content to the user's smartphone, it may also be music data or video data.

[0053] The process of content output by the content output unit 1010 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. The image forming device 10 is put into a content acquisition mode by the user (S10). When the content acquisition mode is executed, the image forming device 10 transmits a content candidate request to the server device 20. In FIG. 5, the image forming device 10 transmits the content candidate request to the server device 20 via the aggregation device 30 (S12 → S14). The content candidate request may include, for example, the category of content desired by the user. The content candidate request may also include information necessary to identify the content, such as the type or region selected by the user.

[0054] Here, when the server device 20 receives the content candidate request, it transmits the content candidate request to the data center 40 (S16). The data center 40 transmits a content candidate response based on the content candidate request (S18). The data center 40 includes content candidates identified from the field, type, price, region, name, etc. of the content desired in the content candidate request as content candidate information in the content candidate response. The content candidate information may include, for example, a thumbnail image of the content, price, file name, data amount, etc.

[0055] When the server device 20 receives the content candidate response, it transmits the content candidate response to the image forming device 10. In Fig. 5, the server device 20 transmits the content candidate response via the aggregation device 30 (S20 → S22).

[0056] When the image forming device 10 receives the content candidate response, it displays a list of content candidates based on the information included in the content candidate response (S24). Then, when the user selects the content that he or she wishes to output (S26), the image forming device 10 transmits a content request to the server device 20 via the aggregation device 30 in order to output the selected content (S28 → S30). Note that, when the selected content is paid content, the image forming device 10 may transmit the content request after the user has paid the fee and approved the payment.

[0057] Upon receiving the content request, the server device 20 transmits the content request to the data center 40 (S32). The data center 40 identifies the content based on the information included in the content request, and transmits a content response including the content to the server device 20 (S34). Here, the data center 40 may identify the content based on information for identifying the content included in the content request (e.g., an identification number, a file name, a content name, etc.). The data center 40 may also include the content data in the content response.

[0058] Upon receiving the content response, the server device 20 transmits the content response to the image forming device 10 via the aggregation device 30 (S36→S38). Then, the image forming device 10 outputs the content included in the received content response (S40).

[0059] The restricted mode execution unit 1020 executes the restricted mode. The restricted mode is different from the normal mode in that some functions, such as content selection, are restricted. For example, the following contents can be selected in the restricted mode:

[0060] (1) The number of contents and data volume that can be requested for transmission (2) The number and amount of data that can be uploaded (3) Prohibition of output of specified content

[0061] Furthermore, when the image forming apparatus 10 is in the restricted mode, the restricted mode execution unit 1020 may display a message indicating that the image forming apparatus 10 is in the restricted mode. The details of the restricted mode process will be described later.

[0062] The restriction information storage area 1110 stores information indicating whether the image forming apparatus 10 is in a restriction mode. The restriction information storage area 1110 may also store specific restriction details. For example, the number of contents for which a transmission request can be made may also be stored.

[0063] [1.3.2 Server Device] The server device 20 may realize a communication speed detection unit 2010, a restriction mode determination unit 2020, and a session management unit 2030 by the control unit 200 executing a program or application stored in the storage 210 or the like.

[0064] The communication speed detection unit 2010 detects the communication speed of the communication path. There are various methods for detecting the communication speed, but for example, the server device 20 may transmit a predetermined amount of data to the other end of the measured communication path, and measure and detect the communication speed from the transmission time. Alternatively, the server device 20 may measure and detect the communication speed using commands such as Ping or traceroute. Alternatively, the server device 20 may detect the communication speed using the SNMP protocol.

[0065] Furthermore, the server device 20 may detect the communication speed of each communication path. Fig. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a session as an example of a communication path and a logical communication path in this embodiment. Sessions will be described later.

[0066] Here, we assume three main communication paths. In this system, we identify problem areas based on the congestion status (communication speed) of each communication path.

[0067] (1) First communication path The first communication path is a communication path between the server device 20 and the data center 40. When the communication speed of the first communication path is equal to or lower than a predetermined communication speed (for example, due to congestion within the communication path, data backlog, etc.), the amount of communication upstream of the entire system 1 is large, and the entire network is congested.

[0068] (2) Second communication path The second communication path is a communication path (second A communication path) between the aggregation device 30 and the server device 20 or a communication path (second B communication path) between the aggregation device 30 and the data center 40. When the communication speed of the second communication path is equal to or lower than a predetermined communication speed, the communication volume in the network 5 is high and the network 5 is congested. Therefore, if a network is aggregated by different aggregation devices 30, it is assumed that the network is not congested.

[0069] The third communication path is a communication path between the image forming device 10 and the aggregation device 30. When the communication speed of the third communication path is equal to or lower than a predetermined communication speed, the communication volume on the network 5 is large and the network 5 is congested. Also, the communication volume on the communication path between a specific image forming device 10 and the aggregation device 30 may be large and congested.

[0070] Note that these communication paths are shown schematically, and network devices included in each communication path (e.g., switching hubs, routers, etc.) are not shown. Also, the server device 20 side may be referred to as the upstream side, and the image forming device 10 side may be referred to as the downstream side.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first communication path is an upstream communication path, and the second communication path and the third communication path are downstream communication paths.

[0072] Here, server device 20 may measure the communication speeds of the first communication path, the second communication path, and the third communication path. For example, aggregation device 30 may use a Ping command to measure the communication speeds of the first communication path, the second communication path (second-A communication path, second-B communication path), and the third communication path, and transmit the measurement results to server device 20.

[0073] In this embodiment, the server device 20 determines the degree of network congestion based on the communication speed, but may also determine the degree based on the amount of data, for example. Furthermore, the server device 20 may calculate the communication speed from the line speed if it can calculate the amount of data passing through each communication path.

[0074] The restriction mode determination unit 2020 determines to transition the image forming apparatus 10 to the restriction mode. The restriction mode determination unit 2020 transmits restriction information to the image forming apparatus 10, thereby causing the image forming apparatus 10 to transition to the restriction mode.

[0075] The session management unit 2030 manages sessions established between devices. For example, in response to a request to create a session from an image forming device 10, which acts as a first device acting as a client in this embodiment, a second device acting as a server in this embodiment makes a request to register the session to the data center 40. When the data center 40 completes the session registration, a session is established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40. At this time, the session management unit 2030 manages which image forming devices 10 have established sessions with the data center 40. The session management unit 2030 may also manage the number of image forming devices 10 with which sessions have been established.

[0076] The session management unit 2030 may also manage sessions with sequence information. Sessions with sequence information can reserve the image forming device 10 that will establish a session next when, for example, the number of sessions that the data center 40 can establish exceeds the number of sessions that can be established. This allows the image forming device 10 to establish sessions in the order in which they were reserved, in the order in which sessions were released in the data center 40.

[0077] In addition, the session management unit 2030 may determine that the image forming device 10 has failed to establish a session with the data center 40 when the number of sessions exceeds the number allowed by the data center 40 or when the number of sessions exceeds the number that can be managed in order.

[0078] 6, the present embodiment manages the status of sessions established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40. The session management unit 2030 establishes a new session between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40 while the number of sessions established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40 is less than a first threshold. When the number of sessions established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40 becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold, the session management unit 2030 may manage the session creation request from the image forming device 10 to the data center 40 as a queued process (for example, a waiting queue).

[0079] Furthermore, the session management unit 2030 processes the image forming device 10 as if the establishment of a session with the data center 40 had failed until the number of sessions managed with respect to the data center 40 (here, the total number of sessions established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40 and the number of sessions being processed as queued in response to a session creation request from the image forming device 10) becomes less than a second threshold value that is greater than the first threshold value.

[0080] Here, the number of sessions established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40 and the number of image forming devices 10 waiting in line are collectively referred to as the number of sessions using the data center 40 (number of used sessions). Therefore, when the number of used sessions for the data center 40 becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold, the session management unit 2030 responds with a failure to a session creation request from a new image forming device 10.

[0081] When the number of used sessions is less than the first threshold, it refers to the number of sessions established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40, and does not include the number of sessions waiting in line. This is because when the number is less than the first threshold, the image forming device 10 can establish a session with the data center 40 without waiting in line. When the number is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the number of sessions exceeds the number that the data center 40 can establish, so the number includes the number of waiting sessions.

[0082] Note that the above numerical ranges are only examples. For example, the number of usage sessions is expressed as less than the first threshold, greater than the first threshold and less than the second threshold, or greater than the second threshold. However, it may also be expressed as less than the first threshold, greater than the first threshold and less than the second threshold, or greater than the second threshold.

[0083] The server device 20 may also store in the storage 210 a network management table 2110, a communication speed management table 2112, a restriction information storage area 2114, and a session management table 2116.

[0084] The network management table 2110 is a table for managing the configuration of a network, for example, the configuration of the network 5 including the image forming apparatuses 10 aggregated by the aggregation device 30.

[0085] The communication speed management table 2112 is a table for managing communication speeds detected by the communication speed detection unit 2010. For example, the communication speed may be stored for each communication path and for each date and time.

[0086] The restriction information storage area 2114 stores restriction information. For example, the restriction information is information indicating what restrictions are imposed on the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the restriction information may include the amount of data that the image forming apparatus 10 can transmit (e.g., the size of the content, the number of pages, etc.). The restriction information may also be associated with each network 5. The restriction information may also be associated with each aggregation device 30. For example, the server apparatus 20 can limit the amount of data transmitted to and received from the image forming apparatuses 10 included in the network 5 and the image forming apparatuses 10 aggregated in the aggregation device 30 by limiting the amount of data for each network 5 or aggregation device 30.

[0087] The session management table 2116 stores information about sessions. For example, the session management table 2116 stores the number of sessions used for each data center 40. The session management table 2116 may also store the number of sessions established between the image forming apparatus 10 and the data center 40, and information about the image forming apparatus 10 that has established a session with the data center 40. The session management table 2116 may also store the number of image forming apparatuses 10 that are waiting in line for the data center 40 (information about the image forming apparatuses 10 that are registered as sessions with turn information for the data center 40). If there are multiple data centers 40, information about sessions may be stored for each data center 40.

[0088] [1.3.3 Aggregation Device] The aggregation device 30 may realize an image forming device management unit 3010 by the control unit 300 executing a program or application stored in the storage 310 or the like.

[0089] The image forming apparatus management unit 3010 manages the aggregated image forming apparatuses 10. For example, information on the image forming apparatuses 10 managed by the aggregated apparatus 30 is stored in an image forming apparatus management table 3110.

[0090] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus management unit 3010 may acquire and manage, for example, the communication speed and data volume with the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the control unit 300 measures the communication speed of the communication path (third communication path) with the image forming apparatus 10 via the communication unit. Then, the control unit 300 stores the communication speed in the image forming apparatus management table 3110 in association with the image forming apparatus 10.

[0091] [1.3.4 Data Center] In the data center 40, the control unit 400 may implement a content management unit 4010 by executing a program or application stored in the storage 410 or the like.

[0092] When the content management unit 4010 receives a content candidate request from the server device 20, it transmits content candidates that match the information included in the content request (e.g., acquisition conditions, etc.) from the content storage area 4110 as a content candidate response to the server device 20. Furthermore, when the content management unit 4010 receives a content request from the server device 20, it transmits the content to the server device 20 as a content response based on the information included in the content request (e.g., identification information that identifies the content, etc.).

[0093] The content management unit 4010 may also receive and manage content from a content provider. The content management unit 4010 may also receive and manage content sent by a user. The user may send content to the data center 40 from the image forming apparatus 10, or may send content to the data center 40 from another terminal device such as a smartphone or a computer.

[0094] The content management unit 4010 may also perform deletion processing, update processing, image processing, etc. on content registered by content providers or users.

[0095] [1.4 Processing flow] The processing flow of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following processing will be described with a focus on points that clarify the characteristics of the present disclosure.

[0096] [1.4.1 System Processing]

[0097] 1.4.1.1 Login Sequence 7 is a diagram illustrating the overall processing flow when the image forming apparatus 10 logs in. In the system 1, when the user requests the image forming apparatus 10 to start a service (S1002), the image forming apparatus 10 attempts to establish a session with the data center 40.

[0098] For example, the user requests the image forming apparatus 10 to start a service by selecting a login button or by selecting to start a service. Here, the image forming apparatus 10 requests the server apparatus 20 to create a session so that the service can establish a session between the image forming apparatus 10 and the data center 40 (S1004).

[0099] The server device 20 acquires, via the session management unit 2030, the number of sessions used in the data center 40 for which a session creation request has been received from the image forming device 10. For example, the number of sessions used may be read from the session management table 2116. In other words, the number of sessions used may be the number of people using the service (data center 40).

[0100] Then, depending on the number of usage sessions, the server device 20 determines whether to display a login screen, a waiting screen on which the service is to be executed, or an unavailable screen on which the service cannot be executed on the image forming device 10. Each screen display will be described below.

[0101] First, if the number of sessions in use at the data center 40 for which the image forming apparatus 10 has requested session creation is less than a first threshold, the image forming apparatus 10 sends a session registration request to the data center 40 (S1006). The first threshold may be, for example, "2." The first threshold may also be, for example, "4" or "8." The first threshold may also be changed depending on the communication speed of the communication path, the processing capacity of the data center 40, or the line speed.

[0102] In response to the session creation request from the image forming apparatus 10, the data center 40 registers the session, thereby establishing a session with the image forming apparatus 10. Then, the data center 40 transmits a session registration completion to the server apparatus 20 (S1008).

[0103] When the server device 20 receives notification that the data center 40 has registered a session in response to the session creation request from the image forming device 10, the server device 20 transmits a notification to the image forming device 10 that the session registration has been completed (S1010). That is, at this time, a session has been established between the image forming device 10 and the data center 40. After receiving the notification of the completion of the session registration, the image forming device 10 is able to communicate with the data center 40 because a session has been established with the data center 40. Therefore, the image forming device 10 displays a login screen to the user (S1012).

[0104] Next, if the number of sessions in use at the data center 40 for which the image forming device 10 has requested session creation is equal to or greater than a first threshold, the data center 40 cannot register a new session. If the number of sessions in use at the data center 40 for which the image forming device 10 has requested session creation is less than a second threshold, the session management unit 2030 transmits a session registration request with a sequence number to the data center 40 (S1020).

[0105] Here, the second threshold is a value greater than the first threshold, i.e., indicates the number of image forming apparatuses 10 that can wait for a session. For example, when the first threshold is 1 to 4, the second threshold may indicate approximately 10 to 15.

[0106] For example, when the data center 40 receives a session registration request with order information indicating that the image forming apparatus 10 is first, the data center 40 registers the image forming apparatus 10 at the end of the session waiting queue and transmits a notification of completion of waiting registration to the server apparatus 20 (S1022).

[0107] The server device 20 transmits to the image forming device 10 a notification that the waiting registration has been completed, including information about the registered order (S1024). Then, the image forming device 10 may display a waiting screen for waiting for the execution of the service based on the completion of the waiting registration (S1026). Here, the waiting screen may include, for example, information about the order. For example, the information about the order is information about the number of users waiting in line. For example, if the information about the order is "3," this means that three users of three other image forming devices are waiting to use the service. Then, after the three users have finished using the service (after the session registration and deletion have been completed), it is the image forming device 10's turn.

[0108] Next, when the number of sessions in use at the data center 40 to which the image forming device 10 has requested session creation is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the data center 40 cannot register a new session, nor can it be added to the session waiting queue. Therefore, the session management unit 2030 notifies the image forming device 10 that the session creation has failed (S1032). The image forming device 10 receives the notification of the session creation failure and displays a screen indicating that the session cannot be used (unavailable screen) (S1034).

[0109] [1.4.1.2 Order Check Sequence] Next, in response to a turn confirmation request from the user (S1052), the image forming apparatus 10 sends a turn confirmation request to the server apparatus 20 (S1054). The turn confirmation request is a request to confirm how much time is left until the user's turn when the user is registered in a waiting list. The turn confirmation request preferably includes, for example, information that identifies the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the turn confirmation request may include, for example, the IP address of the image forming apparatus 10, an identification code of the image forming apparatus 10, or the like.

[0110] Also, while FIG. 8 shows a state in which the request is based on a user's request, for example, the image forming apparatus 10 may transmit a turn confirmation request to the server apparatus 20 at predetermined time intervals.

[0111] When the server device 20 receives the turn confirmation request from the image forming device 10, it makes a turn confirmation request to the data center 40 (S1056). Based on the turn confirmation request, the data center 40 transmits to the server device 20 a turn response including the turn of the image forming device 10 that transmitted the turn confirmation request (S1058). Furthermore, when it is the turn of the image forming device 10, the turn response may include information to that effect. For example, the turn response may set the turn number to 0, or may include a flag indicating that it is the image forming device's turn.

[0112] When the server device 20 receives the turn response from the data center 40, the server device 20 transmits the turn response to the image forming device 10 (S1060).

[0113] Here, when the image forming apparatus 10 determines that it is the user's turn, that is, when it determines from the turn response from the data center 40 that it is the image forming apparatus 10's turn, the image forming apparatus 10 displays a login screen (S1062). This is because a session has been established between the image forming apparatus 10 and the data center 40.

[0114] Furthermore, when the image forming apparatus 10 determines that it is not the user's turn, it updates and displays the waiting screen (S1064). For example, the image forming apparatus 10 displays a new order on the waiting screen based on the order included in the turn response.

[0115] 8, the order confirmation request is sent from the image forming apparatus 10, but the order response may be sent from the data center 40. For example, when the order is changed, the order response may be sent from the data center 40 to the server apparatus 20.

[0116] [1.4.1.3 Overall sequence of restricted mode] 9 is a diagram showing the overall processing flow in the restricted mode in the system 1. In the system 1, the server device 20 controls the image forming device 10 to transition to the restricted mode depending on the state of the communication path.

[0117] First, the server device 20 detects the communication speed of the communication path in the system 1 (S2000). Here, the server device 20 detects, for example, the communication speed of the communication path between the server device 20 and the aggregation device 30 (network 5). Specifically, the server device 20 acquires the communication speed of the second communication path and the communication speed of the third communication path shown in FIG. 6. The server device 20 may use a response to a predetermined command (for example, a Ping command) to acquire the communication speed of the second communication path and the communication speed of the third communication path. Furthermore, the server device 20 may acquire the communication speed of each communication path measured by the aggregation device 30.

[0118] When the communication speed satisfies the restriction condition, the server device 20 switches the image forming device 10 to the restriction mode. For example, the server device 20 determines the amount of data that the image forming device 10 can transmit and receive as the restriction information (S2006).

[0119] Here, the processing of S2004 and S2006 will be described. For example, server device 20 determines whether the communication speed of the communication path (second communication path) between server device 20 and aggregation device 30 is below a predetermined value. If the communication speed of the communication path is below the predetermined value, server device 20 calculates and determines the amount of data that can be transmitted at that communication speed.

[0120] The server device 20 may determine that the limiting condition is met when the communication speed falls below, for example, 60% of the line speed. Here, the line speed is, for example, the following speed.

[0121] (1) Theoretical communication speed (2) The fastest communication speed ever (3) Communication speed when the amount of data is clearly low, such as late at night (4) Communication speed set by the administrator, etc.

[0122] When the detected communication speed is lower than 60% of the line speed, the server device controls the image forming device 10 to enter the restricted mode. At this time, the server device 20 determines the restricted data amount as the limited amount of data that the image forming device 10 can send and receive.

[0123] The limited data amount may be, for example, a limited number of pages, which is the number of pages of content that can be transmitted and received by the image forming device 10. For example, the server device 20 may uniformly determine that the limited number of pages that can be transmitted and received by the image forming device 10 is six pages when in the limited mode.

[0124] The server device 20 may also determine the data amount limit depending on the status of the communication path. For example, the data amount limit may be determined as follows.

[0125] Communication speed is between 60% and 80% of the line speed. Limit: 8 cards Communication speed is between 50% and 60% of the line speed. Limit: 6 cards Communication speed is less than 50% of the line speed. Limit: 4 cards

[0126] Alternatively, the server device 20 may determine the data amount limit based on the total data size of the contents. For example, Communication speed is between 60% and 80% of the line speed Total content size 20MB Communication speed is between 50% and 60% of the line speed Total content size 10MB The communication speed is less than 50% of the line speed. The total size of the content is 5MB. It may be determined that:

[0127] The server device 20 may also use the value of the communication speed. For example, when the communication speed is less than 10 Mbps, the number of pieces of content that can be transmitted and received may be limited to six pieces.

[0128] In this way, the server device 20 can cause the image forming device 10 to transition between restricted modes depending on the state of the communication path. Furthermore, the server device 20 can determine the amount of data of the content of the image forming device 10 that can be transmitted and received when the image forming device 10 is in the restricted mode.

[0129] The server device 20 transmits the restriction information to the image forming device 10 as information for transitioning to the restriction mode (S2008). Note that the server device 20 may transmit the restriction information to the image forming device 10 via the aggregation device 30. The restriction information may also include information regarding the data limit determined in S2006.

[0130] When the image forming apparatus 10 receives the restriction information from the server apparatus 20, the image forming apparatus 10 transitions to the restriction mode (S2012). The process when the image forming apparatus 10 transitions to the restriction mode will be described later.

[0131] Next, the server device 20 continues to detect the communication speed (S2020). If the communication speed matches the lifting condition (S2024; Yes), the server device 20 transmits a restriction lifting signal to the image forming device 10 (S2026).

[0132] When the image forming device 10 receives the restriction information removal information from the server device 20 (or from the aggregation device 30), it releases the restriction mode (S2014). When the image forming device 10 releases the restriction mode, it transitions to the normal mode. The normal mode is a mode with no particular restrictions, and the user can send and receive any number of content pages.

[0133] 1.4.2 Device Processing [1.4.2.1 Main Processing] 10 shows the process when a user uses image forming apparatus 10 to receive a service. First, when the user operates image forming apparatus 10, control unit 100 of image forming apparatus 10 requests session creation processing from data center 40 (S52). The session creation processing is the same as that described in FIG. 7. Furthermore, when the user performs a login operation to start a service, for example, control unit 100 issues a session creation request.

[0134] Next, when the control unit 100 determines that the service is available (S54; Yes), it executes a login process for the service (S64). That is, by logging in to the service, the user can execute content processing to output content stored in the data center 40, for example (S66).

[0135] Here, the availability of the service can be confirmed, for example, by the control unit 100 acquiring that a session has been registered in the data center 40, as described in Fig. 7. For example, by receiving a session registration completion from the server device 20, the control unit 100 determines that the service is available and executes the login process.

[0136] If the login process fails, the control unit 100 may perform a process that prevents the user from using the service, or may perform a process that executes content processing in guest mode.

[0137] If the control unit 100 determines in S54 that the service is unavailable, it determines whether the user is in a waiting state (S56). As described in Fig. 7, for example, when the control unit 100 receives a waiting registration completion notice from the server device 20, it displays a waiting screen based on the information included in the waiting registration completion notice (S58).

[0138] The control unit 100 may also transmit a turn confirmation request to the server device 20 based on an instruction from the user or at a predetermined time (S60). The control unit 100 may also acquire information on the current waiting status of users from the server device 20 as appropriate.

[0139] Then, the control unit 100 may repeat the process from S58 until it is the user's turn (S62; No→S58). The display of the waiting screen may be updated by executing, for example, the process described with reference to FIG.

[0140] When the control unit 100 determines that it is the user's turn (S62; Yes), it executes a login process (S64). The user's turn occurs when the control unit 100 receives a notification of completion of session registration from the server device 20, which means that the session has been registered in the data center 40, for example.

[0141] Furthermore, in S56, when the control unit 100 determines that the user is not in a waiting state, that is, when it determines that the service is unavailable, it displays a display screen indicating that the service is unavailable (S56; No→S68).

[0142] 1.4.2.2 Content Handling 11 shows an embodiment of content processing in the image forming apparatus 10. The content processing is a process executed by the image forming apparatus 10 to output content.

[0143] The control unit 100 determines whether the current screen is the home screen (S102). The home screen is, for example, a screen on which the user selects content to print when a print service is being executed, or a screen on which the user selects each function of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0144] The control unit 100 displays a message based on the restriction information on the home screen (S102; Yes → S104). For example, in the restricted mode, the control unit 100 may display a message urging the user to change the usage time because the network is currently congested, or a message urging the user to use an image forming device 10 installed in another convenience store, or a message indicating that there is currently a limit on the number of pages of content that can be sent or received.

[0145] Furthermore, when the current content selection screen is displayed (S106; Yes), the control unit 100 may display the limit number of images on the content selection screen (S108). The control unit 100 may use the limit data amount (e.g., limit number of images) included in the limit information received from the server device 20.

[0146] Here, the control unit 100 may display the number of pieces of content that can currently be transmitted and received as the limit number display. Alternatively, the control unit 100 may display the number of remaining pieces of content that can be selected as the limit number display. Alternatively, the control unit 100 may display the amount of data that can be transmitted and received (amount of limit) instead of the limit number of pieces of content, or may display the amount of data that can be selected for the remaining content.

[0147] Here, when the user selects content (S110; Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether the number of selected content sheets exceeds the limit (S114). If the number of selected content sheets exceeds the limit, the control unit 100 displays an alert (S114; Yes → S116). The control unit 100 then displays a content selection screen to prompt the user to reselect content (S108).

[0148] Furthermore, if the number of pages of content selected by the user does not exceed the limit, the control unit 100 transmits a content request based on the selected content. Then, the control unit 100 receives a content response corresponding to the content request from the server device 20 (aggregation device 30) and outputs the content included in the content response (S118).

[0149] Then, the control unit 100 performs a process to display the home screen again (S102). Note that, in S110, if no content is selected and the user selects a process to return to the home screen, the process to return to the home screen is also performed (S110; No → S112; Yes → S102).

[0150] 10 and 11 have been described as examples in which the image forming apparatus 10 executes the processes, but the processes may instead be executed by the server apparatus 20, for example. For example, a browser function of the image forming apparatus 10 may be used to display a screen generated by the server apparatus 20 on the image forming apparatus 10. In addition, in FIGS. 10 and 11, some of the processes may be executed by the image forming apparatus 10, and some of the processes may be executed by the server apparatus 20. In addition, in FIGS. 10 and 11, some of the processes may be executed by another external server apparatus.

[0151] [1.5 Screen example] Next, an example of a screen in this embodiment will be described. Fig. 12(a) shows an example of a display screen W50, which is a waiting screen displayed in S1026 of Fig. 7 or S58 of Fig. 10. The display screen W50 displays, for example, a number indicating the number of people waiting in line in an area R50. The display screen W50 displays "Current number: 14," indicating that there are 14 people waiting until the service becomes available.

[0152] The number of people waiting may be updated automatically, or the user may manually update the display at any timing. For example, by selecting button B50, the control unit 100 queries the server device 20 and updates the display of the number of people waiting.

[0153] Fig. 12(b) is an example of a display screen W60, which is a screen indicating that the service is unavailable and is displayed in S1034 of Fig. 7 or S68 of Fig. 10. The display screen W60 indicates that the service is currently unavailable. For example, the display screen W60 may display a button to end the service.

[0154] FIG. 13 is an example of a display screen W70, which is a screen showing the login screen displayed in S1012 of FIG. 7 or S64 of FIG. 10. Display screen W70 is a screen for inputting information for logging in to a service. FIG. 13 is an example of a display screen for prompting a user to input a user number, for example. The login screen can also be switched to display one or more screens, such as a password screen or a login name input screen, as needed. Note that the login-related processing and display screens can use known methods for logging in to any of the services, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0155] 14(a) is an example of a display screen W100 showing a home screen in normal mode (unrestricted state). The display screen W100 displays a menu of selectable services (document print, image print, postcard print).

[0156] FIG. 14(b) is an example of a display screen W110 showing a home screen in restricted mode. The display screen W110 displays a message based on the restricted information in a predetermined display area R110. Here, the message in area R110 may have a red background, for example. The message in area R110 may also be displayed in a flashing manner. Although area R110 is displayed, for example, at the top of the display screen W110, the location is not limited to this. For example, the message may be displayed near the bottom or at the edge of the screen.

[0157] 15(a) is an example of the display screen W120 showing the content selection screen in normal mode (when no restrictions are imposed). The display screen W120 displays a list of content, with a "+" button for increasing the number of pieces of content to be selected and a "-" button for decreasing the number of pieces to be selected for each piece of content.

[0158] Also, on the right side of the display screen W120, the total number of selected content items and the amount required to output the content items are displayed.

[0159] Furthermore, when the user selects button B120, the control unit 100 transmits information about the currently selected content (for example, content for which the number of selected pages is one or more) as a content request to the server device 20. Then, the control unit 100 receives content data as a content response from the server device 20. Based on the received content data, the control unit 100 outputs (prints) the number of pages selected by the user onto, for example, recording paper.

[0160] FIG. 15(b) is an example of a display screen W130 showing a content selection screen in the restriction mode. On the display screen W130, a message based on the restriction information is displayed in an area R130. For example, the area R130 may display a message saying, "The number of print files is limited." Furthermore, the area R130 may display the message in a color (e.g., red) different from the background of the normal screen, or may display a blinking message. Furthermore, the area R130 may display a limit on the number of pages based on the restriction information in the message. For example, the area R130 may display the limit on the number of pages as "up to 6 files."

[0161] Here, when the user selects button B130, the number of selected content items in FIG. 15(b) is "10," which means the limit has been exceeded. Therefore, the control unit 100 displays an alert in area R140, as shown in display screen W140 in FIG. 16(a). The alert may be displayed as a pop-up, or everything except the alert may be grayed out. The alert may also display a message such as, "The limit on the number of files has been exceeded. Please select files within the limit." The user can select the "OK" button included in the alert to transition to display screen W130 in FIG. 15(b). That is, the user must select content items again so that the limit is met.

[0162] Furthermore, the control unit 100 may display an alert when the user selects a number of images that exceeds the limit. For example, when the limit is six and the user selects a seventh image, a display screen W150 including an alert message may be displayed, as shown in FIG. 16(b). The area R150 includes an alert message, and may display, for example, "The file limit has been exceeded. No more files can be added."

[0163] [1.6 Effects] Thus, according to this embodiment, when a user uses a service, the server device 20 obtains the number of sessions currently using the service (for example, a network print service), and depending on the congestion level, a system can be provided in which the transition is branched to one of a normal login page, a waiting page, or a page unavailable due to communication congestion.

[0164] Thus, according to this embodiment, when the number of sessions in the system (data center 40) is relatively large, the user is kept on the waiting page, thereby reducing communication volume and avoiding opportunity loss due to the user canceling use.

[0165] In addition, the waiting page of this embodiment displays the number of people remaining waiting, updates the number of people waiting when the user presses a button or a certain amount of time passes, and transitions to the normal login page when it is your turn.

[0166] In addition, in this embodiment, if the number of sessions reaches the upper limit, the system transitions to a page informing users that the service is unavailable due to communication congestion, thereby preventing a decrease in user satisfaction and line congestion due to excessive waiting in line.

[0167] For example, when applied to a print service in an affiliated company with a high line load, limiting the number of people who can log in and use the service can reduce the amount of data traffic for file downloads and maintain normal performance. It can also keep users who are waiting in line by updating the number of people waiting with minimal data traffic. It can also prevent users from having to wait excessively long periods of time, which can lead to a decrease in satisfaction with the service, and from causing line congestion due to data traffic to maintain queues.

[0168] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, data is sent and received while imposing restrictions according to the communication speed situation, thereby ensuring maximum performance at that time, which leads to improved usability of the entire system.

[0169] In the present embodiment, a session has been used as an example of a virtual communication path between the image forming apparatus 10 and the data center 40, but depending on the application or program implementation, a session may be replaced with a connection.

[0170] [2. Second Embodiment] A second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is an embodiment for detecting communication speeds with other communication paths and other networks. In this embodiment, communication speeds are used to determine the state of the network, but the amount of data or traffic passing through the network may also be used.

[0171] The second embodiment has the same hardware and software configuration as the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the processing in FIG. 17 is executed instead of the processing in FIG. 9. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the other processing and configuration are almost the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0172] [2.1 Processing flow] As shown in Fig. 17, unlike Fig. 9, aggregation device 30A and aggregation device 30B are included. Here, image forming device 10 will be described as an image forming device aggregated in aggregation device 30A. Also, Fig. 17 omits the illustration of image forming device 10 aggregated in aggregation device 30B. Furthermore, since a user operates image forming device 10 included in network 5A, image forming device 10 displays a message according to the status of network 5A (aggregation device 30A).

[0173] The server device 20 acquires the communication speeds between the aggregation device 30A and the aggregation device 30B (S1000, S1002). The communication speeds here are mainly communication speeds resulting from the network 5 (5A, 5B). For example, the server device 20 may detect the communication speed of the third communication path (e.g., the communication speed between the image forming device 10 and the aggregation device 30). The server device 20 may also detect the communication speed of the second communication path (e.g., the communication speed of the secondA communication path between the server device 20 and the aggregation device 30, or the communication speed of the secondB communication path between the data center 40 and the aggregation device 30).

[0174] Next, the server device 20 detects the communication speed with the data center 40 (S2052). The server device 20 detects the communication speed of the first communication path.

[0175] Next, the server device 20 determines whether the communication speed satisfies the restriction condition. The determination of the communication speed has been explained in the first embodiment, but in this embodiment, it is determined whether any of the first communication path, the second communication path, and the third communication path has a communication speed that satisfies the restriction condition.

[0176] Next, when the communication speed matches the limiting condition, the server device 20 determines a message to be output by the image forming device 10 as limiting information, and determines a limit on the amount of data (for example, a limit on the number of sheets) (S2054).

[0177] Here, the server device 20 identifies a communication path that meets the restriction conditions and is experiencing a problem. Then, the server device 20 sets the identified communication path as a specific communication path and determines a message to be output based on the specific communication path.

[0178] Here, the server device 20 may determine the specific communication path as follows.

[0179] (1) When the communication speed that meets the restriction conditions is the first communication path, the server device 20 designates the specific communication path as the first communication path. If a problem occurs with the first communication path, it is considered that access to the server device 20 is concentrated, placing a load on the entire system 1. Therefore, when the specific communication path is the first communication path, the server device 20 determines a message to encourage the user to change the time period during which the system 1 is used.

[0180] (2) When the communication speed that meets the restriction conditions is the second communication path or the third communication path, the server device 20 determines the specific communication path to be the second communication path or the third communication path. If a problem occurs with the second communication path or the third communication path, it is considered that the access is concentrated mainly due to the network 5. Therefore, when the specific communication path is the second communication path or the third communication path, the server device 20 determines a message indicating that another network will be used.

[0181] Note that if the communication speed that meets the restriction condition is the third communication path, different processing may be performed. If a problem occurs in the third communication path of the specific communication path, the server device 20 considers that a problem has occurred in the image forming device 10. Therefore, if the specific path is the third communication path, the server device 20 determines a message that uses a different image forming device.

[0182] Here, the limiting condition may be uniform for each communication path, or may differ for each communication path. For example, if the limiting condition is uniform, the communication speed threshold may be set to 10 Mbps, and the server device 20 may determine that the limiting condition is met when the communication speed on any communication path falls below 10 Mbps. Alternatively, the limiting conditions may be set such that the communication speed threshold for the first communication path is 50 Mbps, the communication speed threshold for the second communication path is 30 Mbps, and the communication speed threshold for the third communication path is 10 Mbps. The server device 20 may determine that the limiting condition is met when each communication speed falls below the threshold.

[0183] Furthermore, when multiple communication paths satisfy the restriction conditions, the server device 20 may identify the communication path with the slowest line speed as the specific communication path. Furthermore, the server device 20 may take into consideration line usage rates and identify the communication path with the highest line usage rate as the specific communication path. The line usage rate can be calculated by dividing the detected communication speed by the theoretical line speed (or the maximum communication speed for the communication path).

[0184] Furthermore, the server device 20 may set priorities for multiple communication paths. For example, when both the first and second communication paths meet the restriction conditions, the first communication path may be designated as the specific communication path. This is because if the line of the first communication path is congested, the entire system is under load regardless of the status of the second and third communication paths.

[0185] Furthermore, the server device 20 determines the data volume limit (e.g., the number of sheets limit) based on the line speed, data volume, and traffic volume of the specific communication path, and then transmits the limit information to the image forming device 10, including information indicating the message to be output by the image forming device 10 and information regarding the data volume limit (S2008).

[0186] The server device 20 also detects the communication speed. For example, the server device 20 detects the communication speed between the aggregation device 30A (S2020), the aggregation device 30B (S2056), and the data center 40 (S2058). When the communication speed matches the lifting condition, the server device 20 transmits restriction lifting information to the image forming device 10 (S2026).

[0187] Here, the server device 20 may transmit a restriction removal signal when all communication paths do not match the restriction conditions. Also, the server device 20 may transmit new restriction information when the specified communication path is different.

[0188] For example, server device 20 has transmitted restriction information indicating that the first communication path is the specified communication path, but later determines that the second communication path is the specified communication path, and then transmits restriction information including information indicating that the second communication path is the specified communication path to image forming device 10. As a result, image forming device 10 initially outputs a message requesting the user to shift their fleet when using the device, but may change the display to indicate that the device can be used appropriately on other networks (for example, convenience stores in a different chain from the convenience store where image forming device 10 is installed).

[0189] [2.2 Screen example] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in this embodiment. Fig. 18(a) is an example of a display screen W200 showing a home screen. Fig. 18(a) shows a case where a message is displayed when the specified communication path is the second communication path or the third communication path. Area R200 displays the message "The convenience store you are currently using is busy with printing. Please use another convenience store."

[0190] Here, when the server device 20 determines that the specific communication path is the first communication path, it displays the display screen W110 of Fig. 14(b), which allows the user to know what action to take depending on the location of network congestion.

[0191] Furthermore, the server device 20 acquires the status of the communication paths of the network 5 via the aggregation device 30. Therefore, the server device 20 may identify and display the network 5 with an available communication path.

[0192] 18(b), a different message is displayed in area R210. Here, the message displayed in area R210 reads, "Convenience store A, which you are currently using, is busy with printing. You can print as usual at convenience store B." This is because server device 20 has detected the communication speed and is displaying convenience stores on networks with sufficient communication path capacity (networks where the communication speed is below a predetermined threshold).

[0193] Furthermore, display screen W210 in FIG. 19(a) illustrates an example in which the specific route is the third route. Here, the message displayed in area R220 reads, "There is a problem with this copier's network. Please use another copier." This message indicates that the server device 20 detects the communication speed and, if the communication speed of the third route is below a predetermined value, will use an image forming device other than the image forming device 10. Furthermore, display screen W220 in FIG. 19(b) displays information about image forming devices 10 with no communication path problems in area R230. For example, the server device 20 can recommend image forming devices 10 with less network congestion by utilizing the speed of the communication path with nearby image forming devices 10 or the speed of the communication path with the aggregation device 30.

[0194] 3. Third Embodiment A third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, a case where a specific user is not subject to restrictions even in the restricted mode will be described.

[0195] The third embodiment has the same hardware and software configuration as the first embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the other processing and configuration are almost the same as the first embodiment.

[0196] 20 is a diagram showing the software configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 in the third embodiment. The third embodiment further includes a login authentication unit 1030, and stores login information in a login information storage area 1114.

[0197] The login authentication unit 1030 performs login authentication based on login information input by the user. Here, the login authentication unit 1030 may perform login authentication using an external user authentication server. Furthermore, when the server device 20 manages users in the system 1, the login authentication unit 1030 performs login authentication using the server device 20.

[0198] Furthermore, the login information storage area 1114 stores information about the user who has logged in. Here, for example, in addition to the user's identification information (for example, ID, email address, etc.), attributes may also be stored.

[0199] The attribute may indicate the qualification of the user. For example, in addition to the guest user and general user, a plurality of attributes such as a business user and an administrative user can be set as the user attribute.

[0200] 21 is a diagram for explaining a process for receiving content in the third embodiment. First, the control unit 100 acquires whether a login process has been performed.

[0201] If the user does not log in, the control unit 100 stores the user as a guest user (S302; No→S306). If the user correctly logs in, the control unit 100 stores the user who logged in, including their attributes (S302; Yes→S304).

[0202] The control unit 100 determines whether the current mode is the restricted mode (S308). If the current mode is not the restricted mode, the control unit 100 accepts content selection from the user without any upper limit (S308; No→S312).

[0203] Furthermore, when the control unit 100 is currently in the restricted mode, it displays a restriction and accepts the selection of content within the restricted number (S308; Yes → S310; No → S314 → S316). Here, although the control unit 100 is in the restricted mode, if the user has a specific attribute, it does not restrict the content. In other words, the control unit 100 does not display a restriction and accepts the selection of content without an upper limit (S308; Yes → S310; Yes → S312). For example, the control unit 100 may determine that a user has a specific attribute when the user has a "business user" or an "administrative user" attribute.

[0204] [4. Fourth Embodiment] A fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, a threshold value for determining unusability, etc., is changed depending on the user.

[0205] The fourth embodiment has the same hardware and software configuration as the first embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the other processing and configuration are almost the same as the first embodiment.

[0206] In this embodiment, Fig. 22 is executed instead of Fig. 10 of the first embodiment. In Fig. 22, the same processes as those in Fig. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0207] In FIG. 22, the login process is executed first (S64). That is, information about the user who will use the service is acquired first. Here, in this embodiment, for example, the data center 40 may register the temporary session. Also, the server device 20 may manage the temporary session.

[0208] Then, the control unit 100 or the server device 20 determines a threshold value according to the user (S72). For example, when the first user is a free user and the second user is a paid user, the threshold value for the second user may be set to be larger.

[0209] For example, for the first user, the second threshold may be set to 10 users to determine that the service is "unavailable," but for the second user, the second threshold may be set to 20 users to determine that the service is "unavailable."

[0210] Also, for the first user, the number of sessions that can be registered may be set to "1", but for the second user, the number of sessions that can be registered may be set to "3".

[0211] In this way, according to this embodiment, it is possible to change the number of available sessions depending on the user.

[0212] [5. Fifth Embodiment] A fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, a specific user can use a service regardless of the number of sessions.

[0213] The fifth embodiment has the same hardware and software configuration as the first embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the other processing and configuration are almost the same as the first embodiment.

[0214] In this embodiment, Fig. 23 is executed instead of Fig. 10 of the first embodiment. In Fig. 23, the same processes as those in Fig. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0215] In FIG. 23, the login process is executed first (S64). That is, information about the user who will use the service is acquired first. Here, in this embodiment, for example, the data center 40 may register the temporary session. Also, the server device 20 may manage the temporary session.

[0216] If the logged-in user's attribute is a specific user, the control unit 100 forcibly creates a session (S82; Yes → S84). If the user's attribute is not a specific user, the control unit 100 executes normal processing (S82; No).

[0217] Here, a user with specific user attributes may be in a specific state compared to a normal logged-in user, such as when the logged-in user's account is a business account or a paid account.

[0218] That is, in this embodiment, a specific user can use the service without having to wait in line. Also, in this embodiment, when a specific user is logged in, the first threshold and the second threshold may be changed. For example, in order to give priority to use by a specific user, the first threshold and the second threshold may be changed to values ​​lower than normal.

[0219] [6. Modifications] 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 present disclosure are also included in the technical scope.

[0220] In the above-described embodiment, an image forming apparatus has been described as an example of an information processing apparatus. However, the information processing apparatus can be applied to other devices. For example, examples of the information processing apparatus may include information processing apparatuses such as smartphones and tablets. It may also be home appliances equipped with IoT functions (e.g., air conditioners, refrigerators, televisions, etc.). It is not limited to stationary devices, and may also be, for example, portable devices or in-vehicle devices. For example, the in-vehicle device may be a device such as a car navigation system.

[0221] Although the above-mentioned embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they can be combined to the extent possible. Furthermore, the present invention intends to obtain rights to any of the technologies described in the specification through amendments or divisional applications, etc.

[0222] In addition, the programs that run on each device in each embodiment 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 ROMs and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0223] Here, the recording medium for storing the program 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), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), etc.), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc.

[0224] 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 device is also included in the present disclosure.

[0225] Furthermore, the above-mentioned data may not be stored within the device, but may be stored in an external device and called up as needed. For example, the data may be stored in a NAS (Network Attached Storage) or on the cloud.

[0226] The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the configurations explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of the technologies disclosed in the specification. The configurations of the present disclosure for which a patent is sought are set forth in the appended claims, but it is not intended to exclude them from the technical scope on the grounds that they are not set forth in the claims.

[0227] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned specification, the statements "in the case of" and "when" are given as examples and are not intended to limit the configuration to the described contents. The disclosure also includes configurations that are not in these cases or situations, even if they would be obvious to a person skilled in the art, and the applicant intends to obtain rights to them.

[0228] Furthermore, the processes and data flows described in the specification are not limited to the order in which they are described. For example, the patent also discloses configurations in which some processes are deleted or the order is changed, and the patent holder intends to obtain the rights to such configurations.

[0229] Furthermore, although the functions described in the embodiments are executed by each device, they may be realized by one device or may further utilize an external server.

[0230] Furthermore, each functional block or feature of the device used in the above-described embodiments may be implemented or performed by an electrical circuit, for example, an integrated circuit or multiple integrated circuits. The electrical circuit designed to perform 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, or a conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or 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 that technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0231] 1 System 10 Image forming device 100 control section 110 Storage 120 ROM 130 RAM 140 Display section 150 Operation section 160 Image forming unit 165 Image reading unit 170 Communications Department 20 Server equipment 200 control section 210 Storage 220 ROM 230 RAAM 270 Communications Department 30 Aggregation Device 40 data centers

Claims

1. In a system including a server, a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a data center used in a service, When a request to start the service is received from one image forming apparatus, When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is less than a first threshold, a screen for logging in to the service is displayed on the one image forming apparatus; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold, a screen indicating that the image forming apparatus is waiting for execution of a service is displayed on the one image forming apparatus. system.

2. The server receiving a request to create a session when the service is started from the one image forming apparatus; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is less than a first threshold, registering the session of the one image forming apparatus in the data center; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold, a session with sequence information for the session of the one image forming apparatus is registered in the data center. The system of claim 1 .

3. When the session with the order information is registered in the data center, the server receives information about the order from the data center; The image forming apparatus acquires information about the order from the server and displays the information about the order on a screen that is waiting for the execution of the service. The system of claim 2 .

4. The image forming apparatus displays the order until the session is registered in the data center as information about the order on a screen waiting for execution of the service. The system of claim 3 .

5. The server acquires information about the order from the data center based on a request from the one image forming apparatus. The system of claim 3 .

6. the information about the order includes the number of the image forming apparatuses registered as waiting in the order at the data center; The server When the total number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus and the number of the image forming apparatuses registered as waiting in the data center is equal to or greater than a second threshold value that is greater than a first threshold value, a display screen is displayed on the one image forming apparatus indicating that the service is unavailable. The system of claim 3 .

7. A server in a system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses and a data center used in a service can communicate with each other via a network, A control unit and a display control unit are provided, The control unit receiving a session registration request from the one image forming apparatus when the service is started; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is less than a first threshold, registering the session of the one image forming apparatus in the data center; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold, registering a session with sequence information for the session of the one image forming apparatus in the data center; The display control unit When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is less than a first threshold, control is performed to display a screen for logging in to the service on the one image forming apparatus; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold, control is performed to display a screen on the one image forming apparatus that indicates a wait for execution of a service. server.

8. a communication unit that communicates with a server that can communicate with a data center used in the service; A control unit and a display unit are provided, The control unit When starting the service, a request to create a session with the data center is sent to the server via the communication unit; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is less than a first threshold, a screen for logging in to the service is displayed on the display unit; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold, a screen indicating that the service is waiting to be executed is displayed on the display unit. Image forming device.

9. A login method for a system including a server, a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a data center used in a service, comprising: When a request to start the service is received from one image forming apparatus, displaying a screen for logging in to the service on the one image forming apparatus when the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is less than a first threshold; When the number of sessions established between the data center and the other image forming apparatus is equal to or greater than a first threshold, displaying a screen on the one image forming apparatus indicating that the one image forming apparatus is waiting for execution of a service; Login methods including.

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