Image forming apparatus, method of controlling the same, and storage medium

Abstract

The present invention provides, for example, a novel mechanism that allows a user to arbitrarily print a print target in a system capable of reserving a print job.SOLUTION: An image forming device capable of communicating with a cloud print service is provided with a display means capable of displaying a bar code indicating specific information which can specify the image forming device in the cloud print service, a reception means capable of receiving input of first information which is information relating to display setting of the bar code, and a control means capable of controlling the display means and the reception means, wherein the control means can execute control to set the first information by using the input, to display the set first information on the display means, and to display the bar code on the display means by using the set first information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a control method thereof, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Cloud printing mechanisms have become popular in recent years (Patent Documents 1 and 2). In Patent Document 1, a user uses a terminal to select a printing device registered in a cloud print service (CPS) as the output destination and sends a print job to the CPS. The CPS then receives the print job and transfers it to the selected printing device. The printing device then prints based on the transferred print job. Patent Document 2 proposes a technology for obtaining the cloud printer ID of a printing device by reading a QR code (registered trademark) displayed on the printing device, and associating the cloud printer ID with the print job to perform pull printing on the printing device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-133489 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-183237 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When a printing device is registered with the CPS, a QR code that can identify this registered printing device among the printing devices registered with the CPS may be automatically displayed on the operation screen of that printing device. In such a case, a user who wants to print on this printing device scans this QR code and requests job release from the CPS. However, if the setting for using QR codes in the CPS is disabled, the print job that the user previously sent to the CPS is not held and is sent directly to another printing device (hereinafter referred to as direct printing). Therefore, no job is released in the CPS, and no printing process occurs. Therefore, the pull print function is not provided.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of at least one of the above problems, and provides a novel mechanism that allows a user to print a print target at will in a system that allows print jobs to be reserved. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention is, for example, an image forming device capable of communicating with a cloud print service, and is equipped with a display means capable of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming device in the cloud print service, a receiving means capable of receiving input of first information that is information regarding display settings of the barcode, and a control means capable of controlling the display means and the receiving means, wherein the control means sets the first information using the input, displays the set first information on the display means, and displays the barcode on the display means using the set first information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, in a system in which a user can reserve a print object, the user can print the print object at will. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing screen information generated by a CPS according to an embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen of a printing device according to a comparative example. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a screen of a printing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] A flowchart showing a processing procedure in a printing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment; [Figure 9] A flowchart showing a processing procedure in a CPS according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing a processing procedure in a printing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram of a printing system according to an embodiment; [Figure 12] A flowchart showing a processing procedure in a printing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing screen information generated by a CPS according to an embodiment; [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a screen of a printing device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0010] In this specification, the term "printing device" broadly includes devices that form (record) images on recording materials (recording media), such as single-function printers, copiers, multifunction devices, commercial printing machines, etc. The printing device may also be a system (image forming system) that connects a printing device main body that forms an image on recording materials with devices such as a sheet processing device and a sheet feeding device.

[0011] (First embodiment) <Network configuration> First, the configuration of a printing system 10 according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. The printing system 10 according to this embodiment includes a printing device 101, a cloud print service (hereinafter also referred to as CPS) 102, an administrator terminal 103, and a client terminal 104. The printing system 10 is an example of an "image forming system" according to the present invention. The printing device 101 is also an example of an "image forming device" according to the present invention.

[0012] The printing device 101 communicates with the CPS 102 on the Internet via a network. The network may be configured by combining, for example, a communication network such as a LAN or WAN, a cellular network (e.g., LTE or 5G), or a wireless network conforming to IEEE 802.11. In other words, the network may be configured to transmit and receive data, and any physical layer communication method may be used. The administrator terminal 103 and the client terminal 104 also communicate with the CPS 102 on the Internet via a communication network or a cellular network. The printing device 101 also communicates with the CPS 102, the administrator terminal 103, or the client terminal 104 using standards such as the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) PWG5100.18, RFC3995, or RFC3996. Alternatively, the printing device 101 communicates with the CPS 102, the administrator terminal 103, or the client terminal 104 via a Graph API.

[0013] The printing device 101 has a scanning function that transmits data based on an image read using a scanner to an external device, a printing function that prints an image on a sheet such as paper based on a print job received from an external device, and a copying function. In other words, the printing device 101 can receive a print job via the CPS 102 and perform printing.

[0014] In this embodiment, an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) having multiple functions is used as an example of a printing device, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a single-function SFP (Single Function Peripheral) having only a printing function may also be used. Furthermore, in this embodiment, printing on a sheet such as paper is used as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present embodiment can also be applied to print control in 3D printing, which forms a three-dimensional object based on three-dimensional shape data.

[0015] The CPS 102 receives a print job from a client terminal such as the client terminal 104 and stores the print job. If the CPS 102 subsequently receives a job release request, it notifies the printing device 101 registered in the CPS 102 that the print job has been submitted. Upon receiving the notification, the printing device 101 acquires the print job and starts printing.

[0016] <Block configuration of printing system 10> The functional blocks of each device included in the printing system 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0017] <<Block configuration of printing device 101>> The printing device 101 has a reading function for reading an image on a sheet, a file transmission function for transmitting the read image to an external communication device, etc. The printing device 101 also has a printing function for printing an image on a sheet. The printing device 101 also has a function for receiving and printing a print job from the CPS 102, the user management function described above, and a reservation printing function.

[0018] The printing device 101 includes a control unit 110 (an example of a "control unit capable of controlling a display unit and a receiving unit" of the present invention) and an operation unit 116 (an example of a "display unit capable of displaying information including specific information capable of identifying an image forming device" of the present invention). The printing device 101 also includes a scanner 118 and a printer 120. The control unit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a ROM 112, a RAM 113, a storage 114, an operation unit I / F 115, a scanner I / F 117, a printer I / F 119, and a network I / F 121. The network I / F 121 is an example of a "communication unit capable of communicating with an external device of the image forming device" of the present invention. The control unit 110 controls the overall operation of the printing device 101.

[0019] The CPU 111 reads out control programs stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) 112 or storage 114 to perform various controls such as print control and read control. The ROM 112 stores control programs executable by the CPU 111. The RAM (Random Access Memory) 113 is a main memory accessed by the CPU 111 and is used as a work area or a temporary storage area for expanding various control programs. The storage 114 stores print jobs, image data, various programs, and various setting information. In this way, the hardware such as the CPU 111, ROM 112, RAM 113, and storage 114 constitutes what is known as a computer.

[0020] In the printing device 101, one CPU 111 executes each process shown in the flowcharts described below using one memory (RAM 113), but each process may be executed in other ways. For example, each process shown in the flowcharts described below may be executed by multiple processors, memories, and storages working together. Also, some processes may be executed using hardware circuits.

[0021] A printer I / F (interface) 119 connects a printer 120 (printer engine) and the control unit 110. The printing device 101 generates a print image and print control commands to be transferred to the printer 120 based on a print job. The printer 120 prints an image on a sheet fed from a paper feed cassette (not shown) based on the print image and print control commands input via the printer I / F 119. The printing method may be an electrophotographic method in which toner is transferred and fixed on paper, or an inkjet method in which ink is ejected onto paper to print.

[0022] The scanner I / F 117 connects the scanner 118 to the control unit 110. The scanner 118 reads an original placed on a platen (not shown) and generates image data. The image data generated by the scanner 118 is printed by the printer 120, stored in the storage 114, or transmitted to an external device via the network I / F 121.

[0023] The operation unit I / F 115 connects the operation unit 116 and the control unit 110. The operation unit 116 is equipped with a liquid crystal display unit with a touch panel function, various hard keys, and the like. The operation unit 116 functions as a display unit that displays information to the user and a reception unit that receives instructions from the user. The CPU 111 cooperates with the operation unit 116 to control the display of information and the reception of user operations.

[0024] The network I / F 121 is configured to include a communication module and is connected to a network cable. The printing device 101 can communicate with external devices on the network (NW) 100 and the Internet via this network I / F 121. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the network I / F 121 is a communication interface that performs wired communication compliant with Ethernet (registered trademark), but it is not limited thereto. For example, it may be a wireless communication interface compliant with the IEEE802.11 series. Also, both may be wireless communication interfaces. Further, it may be a communication interface that performs mobile communication such as a 3G line such as CDMA, a 4G line such as LTE, or a 5G line such as NR.

[0025] <<Block Configuration of CPS102>> CPS102 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU, a main storage device such as a ROM and a RAM, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive, and a communication module such as a network interface card (NIC) and a wireless circuit. The auxiliary storage device stores an operating system (OS), various programs, information in various table formats, and the like. Then, the stored program is loaded into the working area of the main storage device and executed, and by controlling each component through the execution of the program, various functions that meet a predetermined purpose as described later are realized.

[0026] CPS102 includes a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication unit 203. The control unit 201 is configured to include a processor or a CPU and executes various controls in CPS102. The storage unit 202 is configured to include a main storage device such as a ROM and a RAM, and an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive. The communication unit 203 is configured to include a communication module such as a NIC and a wireless circuit, and communicates with various servers and information terminals on the network by being connected to, for example, NW100.

[0027] <<Block Configuration of Administrator Terminal 103>> The administrator terminal 103 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU, a main memory such as a ROM or RAM, an auxiliary memory such as a hard disk drive, and a communication module such as a NIC or a wireless circuit. The auxiliary memory stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various table-format information, etc. The stored programs are then loaded into the working area of ​​the main memory and executed, and the execution of the programs controls each component, etc., thereby realizing each function that meets a predetermined purpose, as will be described later.

[0028] The administrator terminal 103 includes a control unit 301, a storage unit 302, a display unit 303, an operation unit 304, and a communication unit 305. The control unit 301 includes a processor and executes various controls on the administrator terminal 103. The storage unit 302 includes a main storage device such as a ROM or RAM, and an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive. The display unit 303 includes a display and displays information on this display. The operation unit 304 includes a display with a touch panel function and various hard keys, and functions as a reception unit that receives instructions from the user. The communication unit 305 includes a communication module and, by being connected to the NW 100, for example, communicates with various servers and information terminals on the network.

[0029] <<Block Configuration of Client Terminal 104>> The client terminal 104 is a computer having a processor such as a CPU, a main memory such as a ROM or RAM, an auxiliary memory such as a hard disk drive, a communication module such as a NIC or a wireless circuit, and a camera module. The auxiliary memory stores an operating system (OS), various programs, various table-format information, etc. The stored programs are then loaded into the working area of ​​the main memory and executed, and the execution of the programs controls each component, etc., thereby realizing each function that meets a predetermined purpose, as will be described later.

[0030] The client terminal 104 includes a control unit 401, a storage unit 402, a display unit 403, an operation unit 404, a communication unit 405, and an imaging unit 406. The control unit 401 includes a processor and executes various controls on the client terminal 104. The storage unit 402 includes a main storage device such as a ROM or RAM, and an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive. The display unit 403 includes a display and displays information on this display. The operation unit 404 includes a display with a touch panel function and various hard keys, and functions as a reception unit that receives user instructions. The communication unit 405 includes a communication module and, by being connected to the NW 100, for example, communicates with various servers and information terminals on the network. The imaging unit 406 includes a camera module and performs processing of captured images.

[0031] <Outline of sequence processing of printing system 10> An overview of the sequence processing of the printing system 10 will be described using Figure 2. Note that the sequence processing in Figure 2 is realized, for example, by the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 reading a program stored in the ROM 112 into the RAM 113 and executing it. Also, this sequence processing is realized, for example, by the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 reading a program stored in the storage unit 202 and executing it. Also, this sequence processing is realized, for example, by the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 reading a program stored in the storage unit 302 and executing it. Also, this sequence processing is realized, for example, by the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 reading a program stored in the storage unit 402 and executing it.

[0032] First, the differences between Patent Document 2 and this embodiment will be described regarding the pull print sequence using a QR code (a two-dimensional barcode, an example of the "barcode" of the present invention). The invention of Patent Document 2 is configured to include a virtual printer. When a mobile communication device reads the QR code, it selects a job, and the job is transferred from the logical printer corresponding to the virtual printing device to the actual physical printer associated with the logical printer. On the other hand, in this embodiment, no logical printer is provided, and when the client terminal 104 reads the QR code as shown in FIG. 2, it issues a job release request to the CPS 102. The CPS 102 then sends the print job to the actual physical printer (printing device 101).

[0033] 2, in S201, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 sends a printer registration request to the CPS 102 via the network I / F 121. In this example, the printer to be registered is the printing device 101 itself. The control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives this request via the communication unit 203 and registers the printing device 101 with a service provided by the printing system 10. The service is, for example, a pull printing service. Furthermore, registration refers to storing, in the storage unit 202, information, such as identification information, that allows the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 to identify the printing device 101 that can use the pull printing service.

[0034] In S202, the operation unit 304 of the administrator terminal 103 accepts a login operation by the administrator. In S203, in accordance with the login operation, the control unit 301 transmits a login request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 305. In S204, the control unit 301 transmits a change request for the setting of "Use QR Code" to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 305 in response to the operation of the administrator. In S205, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 accepts this change request via the communication unit 203 and actually changes the setting of "Use QR Code". Then, the control unit 201 stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the setting of "Use QR Code" has been changed from OFF to ON.

[0035] In S206, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts a login operation from the user. In S207, the control unit 401 transmits a login request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. In S208, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 authenticates this login request. If the authentication is successful, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 transmits a notification that the login request was successful to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. The control unit 201 also transmits a user token to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. The user token includes, for example, user identification information, and is information indicating that the user has been authenticated. In S209, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts an operation from the user to upload a print job to the CPS 102. Then, the control unit 401 transmits the print job to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405.

[0036] In S210, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives the print job via the communication unit 203. The control unit 201 then determines whether the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 is ON. If it is determined that this setting is ON, the control unit 201 associates this print job with user information and stores it in the storage unit 202. The user information is information including identification information of the logged-in user, such as a user ID, received from the client terminal 104 when the user logs in. In S211, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts a logout operation by the user. The control unit 401 then transmits a logout request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. The user's operation then ends for the time being (S212).

[0037] In S213, the operation unit 404 of the client terminal 104 accepts the user's login operation again. In S214, the control unit 401 transmits a login request to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. In S215, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 authenticates this login request and transmits to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203 a notification that the login request was successful. The control unit 201 also transmits a user token to the client terminal 104 via the communication unit 203. The client terminal 104 then receives this user token.

[0038] In S216, the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 receives printer management screen information (see, for example, FIG. 3) from the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405 and reads the QR code information included in this screen information. In S217, the control unit 401 acquires printer identification information, such as a universally unique identifier (UUID), from the information represented by the QR code information. The printer management screen information is screen information created by the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 in response to a user's login, and includes QR code generation information that can encode, into a QR code, the identification information of a printer that the logged-in user is permitted to use. The user and the printer that the user is permitted to use may be associated, for example, based on a tenant, which is an example of a management unit for a cloud print service, and printers managed by the same tenant as the user may be considered printers that the user can use. Of course, this is just one example, and users and printers may be associated with each other in smaller management units.

[0039] Alternatively, in S216a, the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 may capture an image of a QR code (for example, FIG. 6(B) described later) displayed on the display of the printing device 101 via the imaging unit 406. In such a case, in S217a, the control unit 401 acquires the printer UUID from the information included in the QR code.

[0040] In S218, the control unit 401 sends a job release request including this printer UUID and information about the user token received in S215 to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. Here, the user token indicates that the release request has been made by an authenticated user with authority. In S219, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives this job release request via the communication unit 203 and executes the job release. Note that job release means that the control unit 201 identifies the print job that has been stored in the storage unit 202 using, for example, the user token received in S218, and releases the reservation setting for this print job.

[0041] Here, the print job reservation setting is, for example, a setting for each print job, and is a setting for reserving print jobs uploaded from the client terminal 104 in the CPS 102. For print jobs uploaded from the client terminal 104, the reservation setting may be set to ON (i.e., a setting to reserve in the CPS 102), for example, as a default setting. Note that if multiple print jobs uploaded by the user related to the release request are reserved in the CPS 102, a list of the target print jobs is sent from the CPS 102 to the client terminal 104 to allow the user to select one. The selected print job may then be the target of job release. Alternatively, all print jobs uploaded by the user related to the release request may be the target of job release.

[0042] In S220, the control unit 201 notifies the printing device 101, identified by the printer UUID received together with the job release request, of a job release event via the communication unit 203. In S221, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives this event notification via the network I / F 121. The CPU 111 then requests the CPS 102 to acquire the print job via the network I / F 121. In S222, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives the request to acquire the print job via the communication unit 203. The control unit 201 then transmits the print job, the reservation setting of which has been released, to the printing device 101 via the communication unit 203. In S223, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives this print job via the network I / F 121. The CPU 111 then causes the printer 120 to execute print processing via the printer I / F 119.

[0043] 6A to 6D are examples of display images displayed on the operation screens (601 to 604) of the printing device 101. The operation screens (601 to 604) display "Use Cloud Print" (an example of "service availability information" of the present invention). The operation screens (601 to 604) also display the current state (ON or OFF) of "Use QR Code" (an example of "first information" and "second information" that are information related to the display settings of specific information) of the present invention. The operation screens (601 to 604) also display icons that can be set to ON or OFF for "Use Cloud Print" and "Use QR Code." Note that the "ON" icon for "Use Cloud Print" being lit is an example of "service use enabled" of the present invention, and the "OFF" icon being lit is an example of "service use disabled" of the present invention. Setting values ​​corresponding to the respective settings of "Use Cloud Print" and "Use QR Code" may be stored in the printing device 101, for example, in the storage 114. Regarding the registration status, when the printer is successfully registered in S201 of FIG. 2, information indicating that the printer has been registered may be stored in, for example, the storage 114 or the like.

[0044] The operation screens (601-604) also display the registration status of the printing device 101 with the CPS 102 (an example of "service availability information" of the present invention). A comparison of the operation screens (601-604) according to the first embodiment with the operation screens of the printing device shown in FIGS. 4A-4C according to the comparative example reveals that the operation screens (601-604) according to the first embodiment include a new icon for displaying the current status of "Use QR Code" and turning it on or off. The comparative example is based on FIG. 15 of Patent Document 2, etc.

[0045] When "Use Cloud Print" is OFF as shown in FIG. 6A, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen 601. Note that although "Use QR Code" is OFF in FIG. 6A, even if this setting is ON, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen 601. Also, when "Use Cloud Print" and "Use QR Code" are ON as shown in FIG. 6B, and the printing device 101 is successfully registered with the CPS 102 and can be executed normally, the QR code is displayed on the operation screen 602. When "Use Cloud Print" is ON and "Use QR Code" is OFF as shown in FIG. 6C, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen 603 regardless of the registration status with the CPS 102. When "Use Cloud Print" and "Use QR Code" are ON as shown in FIG. 6D, but the printing device 101 is not successfully registered with the CPS 102 for some reason, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen 604.

[0046] 6A to 6D are merely examples, and the screen displaying the QR code does not have to be the same screen as the screen for selecting the setting values. For example, the QR code may be displayed on a login screen where the user logs in to the printing device 101 using an IC card or the like, or the QR code may be displayed on the top screen of the printing device 101 after logging in.

[0047] FIG. 7 is an example of a flowchart of display control by the CPU 111 of the printing device 101, which realizes control of the display of QR codes, such as those shown in FIGS. 6A to 6D above. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 111 reading a program stored in the ROM 112 into the RAM 113 and executing it. Note that the procedure in FIG. 7 is particularly related to the processing related to the display control of QR codes, and widgets on the UI screen other than QR codes may be displayed according to predetermined text or setting values. For example, the procedure in FIG. 7 is executed after the widgets other than the QR code shown in FIG. 6 are displayed. Alternatively, the remaining widgets may be displayed after the procedure in the figure.

[0048] In S701, the CPU 111 checks the setting of "Use Cloud Print." If the setting is OFF, the process proceeds to S705. Then, in S705, the CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen (FIG. 6A). On the other hand, if the setting is ON, the process proceeds to S702.

[0049] In S702, the CPU 111 checks the setting of "Use QR Code." If the setting is OFF, the process proceeds to S705. In S705, the CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen as described above (FIG. 6C). On the other hand, if the setting is ON, the process proceeds to S703.

[0050] In S703, the CPU 111 checks whether the printing device 101 is properly registered in the CPS 102 and is ready to print. If the CPU 111 determines that the printing device 101 is not properly registered in the CPS 102 and is not ready to print (an example of a case in which the service cannot be used) of the present invention, the process proceeds to S705. In S705, the CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen, as described above (FIG. 6(D)). Note that in such a case, the CPU 111 does not display the QR code on the operation screen, regardless of whether the "Use QR code" setting is ON or OFF. On the other hand, if the CPU 111 determines that the printing device is properly registered in the CPS 102 and is ready to print, the process proceeds to S704. In S704, the CPU 111 displays the QR code on the operation screen (FIG. 6(B)). The process of this flowchart then ends.

[0051] <Actions and Effects> 7, one of the conditions for displaying a QR code on the operation panel is that the "Use QR Code" setting is ON. Therefore, even if the "Use QR Code" setting is OFF, the QR code is prevented from being automatically displayed on the operation panel. This prevents the user from misunderstanding whether or not pull printing is possible.

[0052] Furthermore, with the printing system 10 described above, for example, an administrator can check the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 via the administrator terminal 103 (S203). The administrator can then operate the "Use QR Code" setting icon displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. Therefore, for example, if the "Use QR Code" setting is set to ON in the CPS 102 and OFF in the printing device 101, the administrator can turn ON the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101 by operating the operation screen of the printing device 101. In such a case, a QR code is displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. Here, the user sends a print job to the CPS 102 via the client terminal 104 (S209) and photographs the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 (S216). Then, because the print job is reserved in the CPS 102 (S210), in S223 this print job is printed by the printing device 101 on which the QR code is displayed (pull print).

[0053] On the other hand, if the "Use QR Code" setting is set to OFF on the CPS 102 and ON on the printing device 101, for example, an administrator operates the operation screen of the printing device 101. This allows the "Use QR Code" setting on the printing device 101 to be turned OFF. In such a case, the QR code is not displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. Therefore, a print job subsequently sent to the CPS 102 is not retained in the CPS 102 (S209). This job is sent to the printing device 101 as is (hereinafter also referred to as direct printing).

[0054] According to this invention, the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 is manually coordinated with the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101. This prevents the user from misunderstanding whether or not pull printing is possible. This allows the user to print the print target as desired.

[0055] Furthermore, this invention can be applied to management operations that prevent the "Use QR Code" setting from being changed automatically. Therefore, since it can accommodate a variety of policies, the printing system 10 can be introduced to many companies.

[0056] Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, in addition to the processing of the first embodiment, a mechanism for controlling synchronization of the "Use QR Code" setting between the printing device 101 and the CPS 102 will be described. Note that the hardware configuration of each device in the second embodiment is the same as in the first embodiment. The following mainly describes the differences between the first and second embodiments.

[0057] 8 shows an example of the details of sequence processing in the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 reading a program stored in the ROM 112 into the RAM 113 and executing it. It is also realized, for example, by the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 reading a program stored in the storage unit 202 and executing it. It is also realized, for example, by the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 reading a program stored in the storage unit 302 and executing it. It is also realized, for example, by the control unit 401 of the client terminal 104 reading a program stored in the storage unit 402 and executing it.

[0058] In the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment, a change in the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 is notified to the printing device 101. This setting change is then synchronously controlled in the printing device 101. More specifically, in S801, the operation unit 304 of the administrator terminal 103 accepts an operation to change the "Use QR Code" setting, for example, from an administrator. In S802, the control unit 301 transmits a request for this setting change to the CPS 102 via the communication unit 405. Note that the setting change includes changing the state of "Use QR Code" from ON as shown on the screen in FIG. 3(A) to OFF as shown on the screen in FIG. 3(B). The setting change also includes the reverse change of the state of "Use QR Code" from OFF to ON.

[0059] In S803, the communication unit 203 of the CPS 102 receives a request to change the settings. The control unit 201 then detects the request to change the settings. The control unit 201 then changes the setting of "Use QR Code" in accordance with the change. The control unit 201 then stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. By changing the settings in this way, for example, when the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 accesses the CPS 102 via the communication unit 305, the control unit 301 can obtain image information in which the setting change is reflected from the CPS 102. The control unit 301 can then display the image information in which the setting change is reflected on the display unit 303.

[0060] In S804, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 notifies the printing device 101 via the communication unit 203 that the setting for "Use QR Code" has been changed. In S805, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives the change via the network I / F 121. The CPU 111 then updates the "Use QR Code" setting for the printing device 101, which is stored in, for example, the storage 114, to the received change. The CPU 111 also controls the display of the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 in accordance with the notified change. For example, if the "Use QR Code" setting is changed from OFF to ON, the CPU 111 lights up "ON" in the "Use QR Code" setting icon and displays the QR code, as shown in FIG. 6(C) to FIG. 6(B). On the other hand, if the "Use QR Code" setting is changed from ON to OFF, the CPU 111 lights up "OFF" in the "Use QR Code" setting icon and does not display the QR code, as shown in FIG. 6(B) to FIG. 6(C). In this way, the "Use QR Code" setting is synchronized between the CPS 102 and the printing device 101.

[0061] Fig. 9 is an example of a flowchart in the CPS 102 that enables the sequence processing as shown in Fig. 8. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the control unit 201 reading and executing a program stored in the storage unit 202. In S901, the control unit 201 detects the reception of a request to change the setting of "Use QR code" via the communication unit 203.

[0062] In S902, the control unit 201 reflects the received change. That is, the control unit 201 changes the setting of "Use QR Code" according to the change. The control unit 201 then stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. In S903, the control unit 201 notifies the printing device 101 of the change in the setting of "Use QR Code" via the communication unit 203. The processing of this flowchart then ends. Note that the processing of FIG. 9 may be started when an operation to save the setting value of "Use QR Code" is performed on the client terminal 104 and a request to save the setting value is received from the client terminal 104.

[0063] Fig. 10 is an example of a flowchart in the printing device 101 that enables the sequence processing shown in Fig. 8 to be realized. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 111 reading a program stored in the ROM 112 into the RAM 113 and executing it. In S1001, the CPU 111 receives a setting change to "Use QR Code" via the network I / F 121. This processing corresponds to S903 in Fig. 9.

[0064] In S1002, the CPU 111 stores the changes in, for example, the storage 114. The CPU 111 also controls the display of the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 in accordance with the notified changes. To do this, for example, the processing of FIG. 7 shown in the first embodiment may be performed. Then, the processing of this flowchart ends.

[0065] The change notification from the CPS 102 to the printing device 101 may be sent using the IPP protocol or a graph API. The timing of the notification may be in real time when the CPS 102 and printing device 101 are constantly connected. The timing of the notification may be such that the printing device 101 polls the CPS 102 at regular intervals to check whether a setting event for "Use QR Code" has occurred, and the notification is sent when a setting event is detected. Instead of using polling processing, the printing device 101 may irregularly request the CPS 102 to check whether a setting event for "Use QR Code" has occurred, and when a setting change for "Use QR Code" has occurred, the printing device 101 may receive this change from the CPS 102.

[0066] Fig. 11 is another example of sequence processing in the printing system 10 according to the second embodiment. That is, Fig. 11 differs from Fig. 8 in that first, a change to the setting of "Use QR Code" is accepted in the printing device 101. Then, the setting change is sent to the CPS 102, and the setting of "Use QR Code" in the CPS 102 is changed.

[0067] The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 111 reading a program stored in the ROM 112 into the RAM 113 and executing it. It is also realized, for example, by the control unit 201 reading a program stored in the storage unit 202 and executing it. It is also realized, for example, by the control unit 301 reading a program stored in the storage unit 302 and executing it. It is also realized, for example, by the control unit 401 reading a program stored in the storage unit 402 and executing it.

[0068] In S1101, the CPU 111 of the printing apparatus 101 accepts an operation to change the setting of "Use QR Code" via the operation unit I / F 115. In S1102, the CPU 111 changes the setting of "Use QR Code" in accordance with the change. The CPU 111 then stores the change in the storage 114. The CPU 111 also controls the lighting of the setting icon for "Use QR Code" that is displayed on the display in accordance with this setting change, and the display of the QR code. In S1103, the CPU 111 notifies the CPS 102 via the network I / F 121 that the setting of "Use QR Code" has been changed.

[0069] In S1104, the communication unit 203 of the CPS 102 receives this change in setting. The control unit 201 then changes the setting of "Use QR Code" in accordance with the change. The control unit 201 then stores the changed setting information in the storage unit 202. With this change in setting, for example, when the control unit 301 of the administrator terminal 103 accesses the CPS 102 via the communication unit 305, the control unit 301 can acquire image information reflecting the change in setting from the CPS 102. The control unit 301 can then display the image information reflecting the change in setting on the display unit 303. Note that if the printing device 101 does not receive a response indicating that the transmission or the update of the setting in the CPS 101 was successful after transmitting the changed setting to the CPS 102, the printing device 101 may return the display to the state before the change.

[0070] Therefore, for example, if the "Use QR Code" setting is changed from ON to OFF, the CPS 102 lights up "OFF" in the "Use QR Code" setting icon as shown in FIG. 3(B), and can generate image information without the QR code displayed. On the other hand, in the case of a notification in which the "Use QR Code" setting has been changed from OFF to ON, the CPS 102 lights up "ON" in the "Use QR Code" setting icon as shown in FIG. 3(A), and can generate image information with the QR code displayed. In this way, the "Use QR Code" setting is automatically synchronized between the printing device 101 and the CPS 102.

[0071] Fig. 12 is an example of a control flowchart of the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 that enables the sequence processing in Fig. 11. The processing described below is realized, for example, by the CPU 111 reading a program stored in the ROM 112 into the RAM 113 and executing it.

[0072] In S1201, the CPU 111 accepts an operation to change the setting of "Use QR Code" via the operation unit I / F 115. If a setting change is detected, the process proceeds to S1202; if not, this determination is repeated. In S1202, the CPU 111 changes the setting of "Use QR Code" according to the change. The CPU 111 then stores the change in the storage 114. The CPU 111 also controls the illumination of the setting icon for "Use QR Code" that is displayed on the display according to this setting change, and the display of the QR code. In S1203, the CPU 111 notifies the CPS 102 via the network I / F 121 that the setting of "Use QR Code" has been changed. The process of this flowchart then ends. Note that the control flow of the CPS 102 that enables the sequence processing in FIG. 11 to be realized may be the same as that in FIG. 10.

[0073] <Actions and Effects> According to the second embodiment of the invention, for example, a user can touch the setting icon for "Use QR Code" displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 to change it from OFF to ON. In this case, the setting for "Use QR Code" in the CPS 102 is automatically synchronized to ON. In this case, a QR code is displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. The user then sends a print job to the CPS 102 via the client terminal 104 (S209) and photographs the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 (S216). This causes the print job to be reserved in the CPS 102 (S210). Therefore, when the user photographs the QR code displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 (S216), in S223 this print job is printed by the printing device 101 on which the QR code is displayed (pull print).

[0074] Also, for example, an administrator can first change the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 from OFF to ON via the administrator terminal 103. In such a case, the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 is automatically synchronized to ON, allowing the user to perform pull printing.

[0075] Also, for example, the setting icon for "Use QR Code" displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 can be changed from ON to OFF by touching it. In such a case, the QR code will no longer be displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101. In such a case, the setting for "Use QR Code" in the CPS 102 is automatically synchronized to OFF. Therefore, print jobs sent to the CPS 102 thereafter are not retained in the CPS 102 (S209). These jobs are directly printed by the printing device 101 as is. The same applies when "Use QR Code" in the CPS 102 is first changed from ON to OFF.

[0076] According to this invention, the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 is automatically synchronized with the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101. This prevents the user from misunderstanding whether or not pull printing is possible. With this printing device 101, the user can print the print target at will.

[0077] <Third embodiment> In the third embodiment, the control up to notifying the administrator of the setting change to "Use QR Code" is the same as in the second embodiment (S804 and S1103). However, in the third embodiment, the CPS 102 or printing device 101 that receives the notification does not synchronize the setting change, but rather differs from the second embodiment in the control to notify the administrator that a change has occurred.

[0078] For example, if an administrator changes the "Use QR Code" setting of the printing device 101 to ON, the control unit 201 of the CPS 102 receives a notification of the change in the "Use QR Code" setting from the printing device 101 via the communication unit 203, as in step S1103. However, the control unit 201 does not change the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102, and does not store this setting change in the storage unit 202. The control unit 201 leaves the "Use QR Code" OFF icon lit in the CPS 102, as shown in FIG. 13, and generates image information that does not include a QR code and includes a message indicating that the "Use QR Code" setting of the printing device 101 has been enabled. The control unit 201 then transmits this image information to the administrator terminal 103 via the communication unit 203. In the administrator terminal 103, the control unit 301 receives this image information via the communication unit 305. The control unit 301 then displays this image information on the display unit 303. In such a case, the administrator can recognize that the "use QR code" setting of the printing device 101 has been turned on.

[0079] Next, unlike in FIG. 13, an image displayed on the display of the printing device 101 when the setting of "Use QR Code" in the CPS 102 is changed for the first time will be described with reference to FIG. 14. For example, in step S805, the CPU 111 of the printing device 101 receives the change in the setting of "Use QR Code" from the CPS 102. In response, the CPU 111 does not change the setting of "Use QR Code" and does not store the change in the storage 114. The CPU 111 leaves the OFF icon for "Use QR Code" on the printing device 101 lit as shown in FIG. 14, and does not display the QR code. The CPU 111 then displays a message on the operation screen indicating that the setting of "Use QR Code" in the CPS 102 has been changed.

[0080] <Actions and Effects> The printing system 10 according to the third embodiment achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. In addition, according to this invention, even if a user attempting to operate the operation screen of the printing device 101 is not an administrator, the user can recognize a change to the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102. Therefore, by the user changing the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101, inconsistencies in the "Use QR Code" settings between the CPS 102 and the printing device 101 are quickly resolved. This prevents the user from misunderstanding whether or not pull printing is possible. This allows the user to print the print target as desired. Furthermore, if an administrator who changed the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 forgets to change the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101, the administrator can be prompted to change the setting. The same applies if the administrator changes the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101 but forgets to change the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102. This invention allows the user to reliably print the print target as desired.

[0081] <Modification> The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications are possible. For example, in the first embodiment, when the "Use QR Code" setting in the CPS 102 is changed from OFF to ON, the "Use QR Code" setting in the printing device 101 may be automatically synchronized from OFF to ON. However, the "Use QR Code" OFF icon displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101 may remain lit. Then, for example, the administrator may touch the "Use QR Code" ON icon on the operation screen of the printing device 101 to display the QR code on the operation screen of the printing device 101 for the first time.

[0082] Furthermore, the change in the "Use QR Code" setting sent from the CPS 102 to the printing device 101 may be a change in the setting related to the display of the QR code. That is, the change in the "Use QR Code" setting may be a change in the "Use Cloud Print" setting, a change in the registration status, or a change in a combination of these settings. Furthermore, if the "Use Cloud Print" setting change in the CPS 102 fails, information about the failure of the setting change may be sent to the printing device 101 and displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101.

[0083] As another example of S217, the CPS 102 may be provided with a display and display a QR code. The client terminal 104 may then acquire the printer UUID associated with the QR code by capturing an image of the QR code via the imaging unit 406.

[0084] Furthermore, the setting of "use QR code" may be notified from CPS 102 to printing device 101 periodically, not just when the setting of "use QR code" is changed in CPS 102. Then, printing device 101 may determine whether the notified setting of "use QR code" differs from the existing setting. If it differs, the setting of "use QR code" may be changed. The setting of "use QR code" may also be notified from printing device 101 to CPS 102 periodically.

[0085] Furthermore, the code capable of identifying the printing device 101 is not limited to a QR code; other two-dimensional codes such as barcodes may be used instead. The QR code may also be a one-dimensional barcode. Instead of a barcode, the printing device 101 may be identified by the UUID of the printing device 101, the internal management number of the printing device 101, or information about the location of the printing device 101 on a floor. These letters, numbers, etc. (examples of "identification information" according to the present invention) may be displayed directly on the operation screen. A setting icon for the direct print mode and maintenance information for the CPS 102 (examples of "first information" and "second information" according to the present invention) may be displayed on the operation screen of the printing device 101, and this information may be synchronized between the printing device 101 and the CPS 102. When the direct print mode is ON or the CPS 102 is undergoing maintenance, the CPU 111 may not display the QR code on the operation screen.

[0086] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the printing device 101 was applied to a pull print service and a direct print service, but it may also be applied to a different network print service using the CPS 102.

[0087] <Other embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0088] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention.

[0089] The disclosure of this specification includes the following image forming apparatus, its control method, and program. (Item 1) An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print service, a display unit capable of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming apparatus in the cloud print service; a receiving means for receiving input of first information which is information relating to display settings of the barcode; a control unit capable of controlling the display unit and the reception unit, The control means setting the first information using the input; displaying the set first information on the display means; displaying the barcode on the display means using the set first information; Image forming device. (Item 2) The image forming apparatus further includes a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device, the communication unit receives second information that is information about a display setting of the barcode set in the cloud print service; the control means, when the received second information is set later than the first information and the second information and the first information do not match, causes the display means to display that the received second information and the first information do not match. Item 1. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. (Item 3) The communication unit transmits the set first information to the cloud print service. Item 3. The image forming apparatus according to item 2. (Item 4) the information about the display settings of the barcode includes information about settings for using the barcode; the control unit does not display the barcode regardless of a setting state of use of the barcode when the pull print service provided by the image forming apparatus and the image forming system including the cloud print service is unavailable. 4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3. (Item 5) The service availability information includes information on whether the use of the service is enabled or disabled. Item 5. The image forming apparatus according to item 4. (Item 6) the information on the availability of the service includes information on the registration status of the image forming device with the service; Item 6. The image forming apparatus according to item 4 or 5. (Item 7) The barcode is a two-dimensional code. 7. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 6. (Item 8) A control method for an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print service, comprising: a display step of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming apparatus in the cloud print service by a display means; a receiving step in which a receiving means receives input of first information which is information relating to display settings of the barcode; a control step in which a control means controls the display step and the receiving step; The control means setting the first information using the input; displaying the set first information on the display means; displaying the barcode on the display means using the set first information; A control method for an image forming apparatus. (Item 9) A program for causing a computer to execute each step of a control method for an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print service, the control method comprising: a display step of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming apparatus in the cloud print service; a receiving step of receiving input of first information which is information regarding display settings of the barcode; a control step of controlling the display step and the reception step, setting the first information using the input; Displaying the set first information, displaying the barcode using the set first information; program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 10: printing system, 100: network, 101: printing device, 103: administrator terminal, 104: client terminal, 110, 201, 301, 401: control unit, 111: CPU, 112: ROM, 113: RAM, 114: storage, 115: operation unit I / F, 116, 304, 404: operation unit, 117: scanner I / F, 118: scanner, 119: printer I / F, 120: printer, 121: network I / F, 202, 302, 402: storage unit, 203, 305, 405: communication unit, 303, 403: display unit, 406: imaging unit, 601 to 604: operation screen

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print service, a display unit capable of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming apparatus in the cloud print service; a receiving means for receiving input of first information which is information relating to display settings of the barcode; a control unit capable of controlling the display unit and the reception unit, The control means setting the first information using the input; displaying the set first information on the display means; displaying the barcode on the display means using the set first information; Image forming device.

2. The image forming apparatus further includes a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device, the communication unit receives second information that is information about a display setting of the barcode set in the cloud print service; the control means, when the received second information is set after the first information and the second information and the first information do not match, causes the display means to display that the received second information and the first information do not match. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The communication unit transmits the set first information to the cloud print service. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 .

4. the information about the display settings of the barcode includes information about settings for using the barcode; the control unit does not display the barcode regardless of a setting state of use of the barcode when the pull print service provided by the image forming apparatus and the image forming system including the cloud print service is unavailable. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 .

5. The service availability information includes information on whether the use of the service is enabled or disabled. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 .

6. the information on the availability of the service includes information on the registration status of the image forming device with the service; The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 .

7. The barcode is a two-dimensional code. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .

8. A control method for an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print service, comprising: a display step of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming apparatus in the cloud print service by a display means; a receiving step in which a receiving means receives input of first information, which is information relating to display settings of the barcode; a control step in which a control means controls the display step and the receiving step; The control means setting the first information using the input; displaying the set first information on the display means; displaying the barcode on the display means using the set first information; A control method for an image forming apparatus.

9. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of a control method for an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a cloud print service, the control method comprising: a display step of displaying a barcode indicating specific information that can identify the image forming apparatus in the cloud print service; a receiving step of receiving input of first information which is information relating to display settings of the barcode; a control step of controlling the display step and the reception step, setting the first information using the input; Displaying the set first information, displaying the barcode using the set first information; program.

Images