Schedule management method and schedule management apparatus

Abstract

To more easily and appropriately manage a job to be printed by a printer 102.SOLUTION: A program that causes a server 12, which is a computer, to manage print jobs, the program causing the server 12 to execute a process including a predicted value acquisition process of acquiring a time predicted value and an amount-of-ink-consumed predicted value for each of a plurality of jobs, a schedule display process of displaying information related to the plurality of jobs on a screen in a schedule format, and a process of receiving, from a user, an instruction to change the order of the plurality of jobs displayed in the schedule format, A server 12 is made to perform job order change processing for rearranging the order of jobs on the basis of the instruction of a user, and in schedule display processing, the jobs are arranged along a time series on the basis of a time prediction value for each job, and displayed on a screen, and at least information based on an ink consumption prediction value is displayed on the screen in association with the jobs.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a schedule management method, and a schedule management device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, printing devices such as inkjet printers have been widely used. When a printing device is made to print, for example, a computer or the like processes print jobs to control the operation of the printing device. Conventionally, methods for managing an execution schedule that determines the order in which jobs are processed have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-177363 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Printing devices such as industrial inkjet printers may print multiple jobs over long periods of continuous operation. In such cases, the operating hours (operational time) of the printing device may be limited by factors such as the business hours of the business using the printing device or the convenience of the user. Therefore, there has been a demand for easier and more appropriate management of jobs to be printed by the printing device. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a program, a schedule management method, and a schedule management device that can solve the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The inventors of the present application have conducted extensive research into methods for managing print jobs more easily and appropriately. They have conceived of a method for displaying multiple jobs to be processed in a schedule format on the screen of a user-operated computer, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instructions. This configuration allows the timing of job processing to be easily and appropriately adjusted, for example, to match the operating hours of the printing device. The inventors have also conceived of a method for acquiring a time prediction value, which is a prediction of the time required to print based on a job, and displaying the jobs in a schedule format based on the time prediction value. This configuration allows, for example, the display of jobs in a schedule format to be more accurate and appropriate.

[0006] Furthermore, when printing multiple jobs, it may be necessary to perform maintenance on the printing device as needed. The timing of maintenance may vary depending on the content of the print job. More specifically, when a printing device is operated continuously for an extended period of time, it may be necessary to replenish consumables such as ink as needed. Replenishing ink in a printing device may require, for example, user intervention, such as replacing an ink container. Furthermore, the amount of ink consumed during printing typically varies depending on the image being printed. Therefore, it is generally preferable to perform maintenance such as replenishing ink as needed when the remaining ink level becomes low, rather than performing it periodically at a set time.

[0007] Therefore, the inventors of the present application came up with the idea of ​​displaying jobs in a schedule format by further acquiring a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink consumed (used) when printing based on the job on a printing device, and associating it with the job and displaying information based on the predicted ink consumption value on the screen. This configuration makes it easier and more appropriate to adopt an order that takes ink consumption into consideration, for example, when rearranging the order of jobs. This also makes it possible to more appropriately manage print jobs, taking into account, for example, the timing of maintenance that requires ink replenishment.

[0008]

[0010] The present invention provides a program for causing a computer to manage jobs to be printed by a printing device, the program comprising: a process for acquiring a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job on the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of a plurality of the jobs; a schedule display process for displaying information related to the plurality of jobs on a screen in a schedule format that shows the timing of processing the jobs in chronological order; and a job order change process for accepting an instruction from a user to change the order of the plurality of jobs displayed in the schedule format and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction. In the schedule display process, the computer arranges the jobs in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each of the jobs and displays information based on the predicted ink consumption value on the screen in association with the jobs.

[0009] With this configuration, for example, in the schedule display process, by arranging jobs based on predicted time values, jobs can be displayed in a schedule format with high accuracy and appropriate. Furthermore, in the job order change process, by rearranging the order of jobs based on user instructions, for example, job schedules can be easily and appropriately changed. Furthermore, in the schedule display process, by associating information based on predicted ink consumption values ​​with jobs and displaying it on the screen, for example, predicted ink consumption values ​​in a printing device can be easily and appropriately associated with the job processing schedule. This also makes it easier and more appropriate to change schedules that take into account, for example, the timing of maintenance such as ink refills. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, jobs to be printed by a printing device can be managed more easily and appropriately.

[0010] In this configuration, displaying job-related information in a schedule format on a screen can be considered, for example, to display on a screen the timing at which printing corresponding to a job will be performed over time. Furthermore, in the schedule display process, for multiple jobs, information related to each job is displayed on a screen, for example, for each job. In the schedule display process, information related to multiple jobs may be displayed on a screen in association with the multiple jobs. In this configuration, a computer that performs job order change processing, etc., can be considered, for example, as a sequence processing computer. The sequence processing computer can also be considered, for example, as a computer that executes the above processes according to the above program. Furthermore, a computer that executes RIP processing based on a job can be considered, for example, as a RIP computer. The RIP computer may be the same computer as the sequence processing computer. In this case, for example, the sequence processing computer can also be considered to function as the RIP computer. Furthermore, separate computers, for example, may be used as the sequence processing computer and the RIP computer. More specifically, the sequence processing computer may be a computer such as a server installed in a location separate from the printing device. Such a sequence processing computer can be suitably a cloud server or the like used via a wide area network such as the Internet. In this case, during a schedule display process, the sequence processing computer displays jobs in a schedule format on the screen (monitor) of another computer operated by a user. In this case, the screen may be, for example, the screen of a RIP computer. The RIP computer may be, for example, a computer such as a PC that executes a RIP processing program. In this case, the RIP computer communicates with the sequence processing computer and the printing device via a network, causing the printing device to print the jobs according to the order of the jobs specified in the schedule format by the sequence processing computer.In this case, the RIP computer can be considered to be, for example, a computer for controlling the printing device.

[0011] In this case, the program executed by the sequence processing computer (hereinafter referred to as the schedule management program) further causes the sequence processing computer to perform a processing order designation process that designates the order in which jobs are to be processed by the RIP computer. The RIP computer then executes RIP processing corresponding to the jobs according to the order of the multiple jobs displayed on the screen in a schedule format in the schedule display process, for example, by following the order designated in the processing order designation process, and causes the printing device to execute printing corresponding to the jobs based on the data generated by the RIP processing. This configuration allows the printing device to appropriately execute printing operations according to a schedule designated by the user, for example. Furthermore, with regard to the relationship between the sequence processing computer and the RIP computer, if the order of jobs is rearranged in the job order change process, the sequence processing computer designates the order in which the jobs are to be processed to the RIP computer in accordance with the order in which the jobs are arranged after the change, for example. This configuration allows the results of the job order rearrangement to be appropriately reflected in the operation of the RIP computer, for example. Furthermore, in the predicted value acquisition process, the sequential processing computer may acquire, for example, predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values ​​corresponding to a job from the RIP computer. In this case, the RIP computer calculates the predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values ​​by, for example, performing the same or similar processing as RIP processing on the job. More specifically, in this case, the RIP computer calculates the predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values ​​by, for example, performing RIP processing with a lower image resolution than when RIP processing is performed to actually print on a printing device. With this configuration, for example, the RIP computer can accurately and appropriately calculate the predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values. This also allows, for example, the predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption values ​​to be more accurately acquired in the predicted value acquisition process.

[0012] Furthermore, in the schedule display process, the information based on the predicted ink consumption value may include, for example, a predicted value for the remaining amount of ink in the printing device. In this case, the schedule management program further causes the sequence processing computer to perform, for example, a remaining ink amount acquisition process that acquires the current remaining ink amount, which is the amount of ink remaining in the printing device at the current time, and a remaining ink amount prediction value calculation process that calculates a predicted value for the remaining ink amount based on the predicted ink consumption value and the current remaining ink amount. Then, in the schedule display process, the sequence processing computer displays, for example, the predicted value for the remaining ink amount calculated in the remaining ink amount prediction value calculation process as information based on the predicted ink consumption value. With this configuration, it is possible to more easily and accurately predict, for example, when the remaining ink will become low.

[0013] Furthermore, when a printing device is operated continuously for a long period of time to print multiple jobs, it may be preferable to predict the total amount of ink consumed by printing multiple jobs processed consecutively, rather than simply predicting the amount of ink consumed by each job. Therefore, the schedule management program may further cause the sequential processing computer to perform a total ink consumption prediction process, which calculates a total ink consumption prediction value, which is a prediction of the total amount of ink consumed by multiple jobs processed consecutively. In this case, the sequential processing computer calculates a total ink consumption prediction value for at least a portion of a period displayed in schedule format in the schedule display process based on the predicted ink consumption values ​​corresponding to jobs included in this period. This configuration allows, for example, the total amount of ink consumed by printing multiple jobs to be appropriately predicted. In this case, it is preferable that the schedule display process display information based on the predicted total ink consumption value on the screen, for example, in association with the jobs displayed in schedule format. When the order of jobs is rearranged in the job order change process, it is preferable to have the order processing computer perform the total ink consumption prediction process and schedule display process again, so that information based on the predicted total ink consumption value that matches the changed job order is displayed on the screen. With this configuration, even when the order of jobs is rearranged, the total amount of ink that will be consumed in the changed state can be easily and appropriately predicted.

[0014] Furthermore, it is conceivable that jobs may be displayed in a schedule format after printing corresponding to some of the jobs has been executed on the printing device. In this case, it is conceivable that the job reordering process may, for example, only rearrange jobs for which printing has not yet been executed. Furthermore, in this case, it is also conceivable that the schedule display process may further display information obtained at the time of printing for jobs for which printing has been executed. More specifically, in this case, the schedule management program further causes the order processing computer to perform, for example, a performance value acquisition process for acquiring performance values ​​related to printing. In this case, the performance value acquisition process is, for example, a process for acquiring performance values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to a job has been executed on the printing device. In the performance value acquisition process, the order processing computer acquires, for example, the actual printing time, which is the time required to print corresponding to the job, and the actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing, as performance values. In this case, in the schedule display process, the order processing computer may, for example, display information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption, associated with the corresponding printed job, on a screen displaying jobs in a schedule format. With this configuration, for example, the relationship between the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value and the actual value can be easily and appropriately confirmed. This also allows, for example, more appropriate management of job schedules. For example, information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption can be information (actual value) that directly indicates the actual printing time and actual ink consumption. Furthermore, for example, the difference between the predicted value and the actual value (difference between predicted and actual) can be used as information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption.

[0015] Furthermore, a printing device may, for example, print the same content as a previously executed print job. In this case, when printing is performed for the second or subsequent times, the sequential processing computer processes a job with the same content (repeat job), which is a job with the same content as an executed job, a job that has previously been printed by the printing device. Such a job with the same content can be considered a job for which actual values, such as the time required for printing and the amount of ink consumed, are known. Therefore, if multiple jobs displayed on the screen during the schedule display process include a job with the same content, for example, the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to the executed job with the same content as the job with the same content may be acquired through an actual value acquisition process, and the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to the executed job may be used as the estimated time and ink consumption corresponding to the job with the same content in the estimated value acquisition process. This configuration allows for more accurate use of estimated time and ink consumption values ​​without, for example, performing processes such as calculating the estimated time and ink consumption values.

[0016] Furthermore, to more appropriately manage the schedules of multiple jobs, it may be preferable to further consider the consumption of the media to be printed during printing. For example, when a printing device sequentially unwinds rolled media, it is preferable to predict the consumption of media during printing corresponding to a job in order to appropriately predict the remaining amount of media. Therefore, in the predicted value acquisition process, the sequence processing computer may further acquire a predicted media consumption value, which is a predicted value of the consumption of media during printing corresponding to a job when the printing device executes printing. In this case, in the schedule display process, the sequence processing computer may further display information based on the predicted media consumption value on the screen, for example, in association with the job displayed in schedule format. This configuration allows for more appropriate job management, for example, when management of the consumption and remaining amount of media is required.

[0017] Furthermore, when a printing device is instructed to print multiple jobs, a job may be added after a job processing schedule has been determined. For example, after printing has begun, it may be desirable to interrupt printing for a new job before printing for all jobs has finished. Therefore, it is preferable for the schedule management program to further cause the sequence processing computer to perform, for example, an additional job reception process that accepts the addition of an additional job. In this case, the additional job can be considered, for example, a new job added after multiple jobs are displayed in a schedule format in the schedule display process. Furthermore, in the additional job reception process, the sequence processing computer, for example, based on a user's instruction, inserts the additional job into the schedule of multiple jobs displayed on the screen at the time the additional job is added. This configuration allows, for example, appropriate processing for the addition of a new job. Furthermore, the present invention can also be configured, for example, with a schedule management method or schedule management device having the same characteristics as those described above. In these cases, the same effects as those described above can also be obtained. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, for example, it is possible to more easily and appropriately manage jobs that cause a printing device to perform printing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a printing system 10 that uses a program according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 1A shows an example of the configuration of the printing system 10. Fig. 1B shows another example of the configuration of the print execution unit 14 in the printing system 10. [Figure 2] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 12. [Figure 3]3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating the display contents displayed on the screen by the server 12. Fig. 3A shows an example of how jobs are managed in the RIP PC 104. Fig. 3B shows an example of the display contents displayed on the screen by the server 12. [Figure 4] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating the operation of receiving an instruction from a user to add an additional job. Fig. 4A shows jobs managed by the RIP PC 104, similar to Fig. 3A. Fig. 4B shows an example of a screen for receiving an instruction from a user regarding the position at which an additional job (interrupt job) will be inserted. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an operation of accepting an instruction from a user to change the order in which jobs are processed. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram showing another example of the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen. FIG. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen when printing is performed by a plurality of printing devices 102. FIG. [Figure 8] 8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating examples of display content that the server 12 displays on the screen when the print execution unit 14 has multiple RIP PCs 104. Fig. 8A shows an example of jobs managed by multiple RIP PCs 104. Fig. 8B shows an example of display content that the server 12 displays on the screen for the multiple jobs shown in Fig. 8A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 illustrates a printing system 10 using a program according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1(a) illustrates an example of the configuration of the printing system 10. FIG. 1(b) illustrates another example of the configuration of a print execution unit 14 in the printing system 10. Except as described below, the printing system 10 and its components may have the same or similar features as known printing systems and their components. In this example, the printing system 10 includes a server 12 and a print execution unit 14. The print execution unit 14 also includes a printing device 102 and a RIP PC 104. The server 12 is a computer accessed by the print execution unit 14 via a wide area network 20 such as the Internet, and executes processing based on user instructions received, for example, via the RIP PC 104 in the print execution unit 14. In this case, the server 12 displays information to the user and accepts instructions from the user via a user interface (UI) displayed on a screen such as a monitor of the RIP PC 104. In this example, the server 12 is an example of a schedule management device and an order processing computer that manages jobs that cause the printing device 102 in the print execution unit 14 to perform printing, and performs processing related to job management in accordance with a schedule management program. In this case, the order processing computer can be considered, for example, as a computer that at least performs processing related to job management, such as changing the order of jobs to be executed. The server 12 can also be considered to function as a schedule management device that manages jobs using a predetermined schedule management method, for example, by executing a schedule management program. The processing related to job management performed by the server 12 will be described in more detail later. A cloud server, for example, can be suitably used as the server 12. The cloud server can be, for example, a server in which one or more virtualized servers are made available via the wide area network 20. In this case, for example, the cloud server can be considered to function as the job management server 12 by executing a schedule management program.

[0021] The print execution unit 14 corresponds to a base where printing is performed in the printing system 10. As described above, in this example, the print execution unit 14 includes a printing device 102 and a RIP PC 104. The printing device 102 is connected to the RIP PC 104 via, for example, a local area network (LAN), and prints on a medium to be printed based on RIP-generated data, which is data generated by the RIP PC 104 performing RIP processing (Raster Image Processing). The printing device 102 may suitably be, for example, an inkjet printer that prints using an inkjet method. In this example, the printing device 102 is an industrial inkjet printer that continuously operates for a long period of time (e.g., several hours to several days) to produce multiple printouts based on multiple RIP-generated data sequentially supplied from the RIP PC 104. The printing device 102 may suitably be, for example, an inkjet printer that sequentially unwinds a roll of medium. By using such a printing device 102, it is possible to appropriately perform continuous operation for a long period of time without the user having to replace the medium, for example. A suitable example of such a printing device 102 is a vertical printer that prints on the medium while transporting the medium. It is also possible to use a configuration for printing on leaf-shaped media (leaf media) with a fixed size (length and width). In this case, too, it is possible to appropriately perform continuous operation for a long period of time by, for example, replenishing or replacing the medium as needed through user operation. A suitable example of such a printing device 102 is a flatbed configuration.

[0022] The RIP PC 104 is a computer (RIP computer) that executes RIP processing based on a print job. The RIP PC 104 can also be considered, for example, as a computer for controlling the printing device 102. The RIP processing can be considered, for example, as a process for converting a print image, which is an image to be printed, into a raster image (raster image) in a predetermined format. In this example, a print job is a unit that specifies the printing operation to be performed by the printing device 102, and indicates image data and printing conditions. The image data can be considered, for example, as data indicating a print image. In this case, the RIP PC 104 converts the print image into a raster image in accordance with the printing conditions based on the job, and generates RIP-generated data in a format that conforms to the specifications of the printing device 102 by appropriately performing processing tailored to the printing device 102. In this case, the RIP PC 104 generates RIP-generated data to be supplied to the printing device 102 based on the print image and printing conditions by, for example, performing color separation processing in accordance with the ink colors used in the printing device 102, resolution conversion processing in accordance with the printing conditions, and quantization processing (for example, binarization processing) for generating a raster image.The RIP PC 104 then supplies this RIP-generated data to the printing device 102, causing the printing device 102 to execute printing corresponding to the job.

[0023] In this example, the RIP PC 104 executes a program for RIP processing to perform RIP processing based on a job. In this case, the RIP PC 104 generates a job, for example, in response to a user's operation on the RIP PC 104. More specifically, in this case, the RIP PC 104 generates a job by, for example, reading image data representing a print image and accepting a user's operation to specify printing conditions. The RIP PC 104 may accept the specification of printing conditions by, for example, reading a file indicating the printing conditions. The RIP PC 104 may also automatically generate a job by, for example, reading a file placed in a predetermined folder. In this case, the RIP PC 104 generates a job based on a file corresponding to image data associated according to a predetermined rule and a file indicating the printing conditions. This operation of the RIP PC 104 can also be considered, for example, as reading a specified job. Furthermore, in this example, the RIP PC 104 is capable of storing (spooling) multiple jobs, and causes the printing device 102 to print corresponding to the multiple jobs by sequentially processing the stored jobs. In this case, the RIP PC 104 sequentially generates RIP-generated data corresponding to the jobs based on a schedule specified by the server 12, and supplies the data to the printing device 102. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to cause the printing device 102 to appropriately print corresponding to multiple jobs.

[0024] As described above, in this example, the RIP PC 104 is also used as a device that displays a user interface for the server 12. In this case, the RIP PC 104 executes, for example, a program (application) that displays a screen for inputting and outputting information to the server 12, thereby displaying information about jobs managed by the server 12 and changing schedules. With this configuration, for example, the server 12 can be appropriately controlled based on user operations via a screen of a device other than the server 12. An Internet browser, for example, can be suitably used as a program for displaying a user interface for the server 12. Furthermore, for example, a function included in a RIP processing program can be used as such a program. For example, a device other than the RIP PC 104 can be used as a device that displays a user interface for the server 12. In this case, for example, a tablet terminal or a smartphone operated by a user can be used as such a device.

[0025] Regarding the configuration of the printing system 10 of this example, the components of the print execution unit 14 can be considered to be configured, for example, by devices managed by a business that uses the printing device 102. In contrast, as described above, a cloud server or the like can be suitably used as the server 12. In this case, the server 12 can also be considered to be managed by a business separate from the business that manages the print execution unit 14. Furthermore, in this case, the server 12 can also be managed by a business that manufactures or sells the printing device 102. In this case, the server 12 can be considered to be a server that operates a service provided by such a business to users of the printing device 102. In a modified configuration of the printing system 10, the server 12 can be managed by the business that manages the print execution unit 14. In this case, the server 12 can be installed within the print execution unit 14. Furthermore, for example, the RIP PC 104 can also function as the server 12. In this case, for example, the server 12 and the RIP PC 104 can be considered to be configured as the same computer. For ease of illustration and explanation, FIG. 1A illustrates a configuration of the print execution unit 14 including one printing device 102 and one RIP PC 104. In contrast, in a modified configuration of the print execution unit 14, the print execution unit 14 may include multiple printing devices 102 and multiple RIP PCs 104, as shown in FIG. 1B. In this case, multiple printing devices 102 may be connected to a single RIP PC 104, and printing on the multiple printing devices 102 may be controlled by the single RIP PC 104. In this case, the server 12 manages jobs by, for example, allocating jobs to the multiple RIP PCs 104 and multiple printing devices 102. Therefore, even in this configuration, the RIP PC 104 sequentially generates RIP-generated data corresponding to jobs based on a schedule specified by the server 12 and supplies the data to the printing device 102. This configuration allows the printing device 102 to appropriately perform printing corresponding to multiple jobs, for example.

[0026] Next, the process related to job management executed by the server 12 will be described in more detail. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 12. When the server 12 of this example executes the process related to job management in accordance with the schedule management program, the server 12 acquires printer-related information, which is information related to the printing device 102 connected to the RIP PC 104 (S102). In this case, the printing device 102 connected to the RIP PC 104 can be considered, for example, as the printing device 102 registered in the RIP processing program executed by the RIP PC 104. The printing device 102 registered in the RIP processing program can be considered, for example, as the printing device 102 that can perform printing by receiving RIP-generated data from the RIP PC 104. In step S102 of this example, the server 12 acquires the printer-related information from the RIP PC 104. The server 12 also acquires, as the printer-related information, information about the model of the printing device 102 and the status of the printing device 102, for example. More specifically, in this example, the server 12 acquires, as information relating to the status of the printing device 102, the current ink remaining amount, which is information indicating the amount of ink remaining in the printing device 102, and the current media remaining amount, which is information indicating the amount of media remaining. Also, in this example, the operation of step S102 is an example of the operation of the ink remaining amount acquisition process, the media remaining amount acquisition process, the ink remaining amount acquisition stage, and the media remaining amount acquisition stage. The current ink remaining amount can be considered, for example, to be the current amount of ink remaining in the printing device 102. The current media remaining amount can be considered, for example, to be the current amount of media remaining in the printing device 102. Also, the ink remaining amount acquisition process can be considered, for example, to be a process for acquiring the current ink remaining amount. The server 12 acquires the current ink remaining amount for each color of ink used in the printing device 102, for example. The media remaining amount acquisition process can be considered, for example, to be a process for acquiring the current media remaining amount. As explained above, the print execution unit 14 may include a plurality of printing devices 102 and RIP PCs 104 .In this case, in step S102, the server 12 acquires printer-related information about the multiple printing devices 102 from the multiple RIP PCs 104. In this case, the server 12 also appropriately executes the operations described below for the multiple printing devices 102 and the multiple RIP PCs 104.

[0027] Following the operation of step S102, the server 12 acquires management target job information, which is information related to the job to be managed, from the RIP PC 104 (S104). In this case, the RIP PC 104 transmits, for example, information indicating the accumulated job as the management target job information to the server 12. In this example, the operation of step S104 is an example of a target job acquisition process and a target job acquisition stage. Furthermore, following the operation of step S104, the server 12 acquires job-related predicted values, which are various predicted values ​​related to individual jobs (S106). In this example, the operation of step S106 is an example of a predicted value acquisition process and a predicted value acquisition stage. For example, the server 12 acquires at least some of the job-related predicted values ​​from the RIP PC 104. Furthermore, the server 12 may calculate some of the job-related predicted values ​​based on information acquired from the RIP PC 104. In this case, the operation of calculating the predicted values ​​can also be considered, for example, an example of an operation of acquiring predicted values. More specifically, in step S106 of this example, the server 12 acquires, as job-related predicted values, for each job to be managed, a predicted time value that is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job in the printing device 102, and a predicted ink consumption value that is a predicted value of the amount of ink consumed (used amount) in the printing. In addition, the server 12 thereby acquires the predicted time value and predicted ink consumption value for each job for multiple jobs stored in the RIP PC 104.

[0028] Here, in relation to the operation of step S106, the RIP PC 104 calculates the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value by, for example, performing the same or similar processing as the RIP processing on the job. More specifically, in this case, the RIP PC 104 calculates the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value by, for example, using a function provided by the RIP processing program to perform the RIP processing at a setting that lowers the image resolution than when the RIP processing is performed to actually print on the printing device 102. With this configuration, for example, the RIP PC 104 can accurately and appropriately calculate the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value. Furthermore, this allows the server 12 to appropriately obtain, for example, the predicted time value and the predicted ink consumption value calculated with high accuracy. The above-mentioned function provided by the RIP processing program can be, for example, a pre-RIP function executed to predict the results of the RIP processing prior to the RIP processing performed to generate RIP-generated data. In step S106 of this example, the server 12 also acquires a predicted medium consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of medium to be consumed when printing corresponding to the job is executed by the printing device 102. In this case, the predicted medium consumption value can be thought of as, for example, a predicted value of the amount of medium to be consumed in printing corresponding to one job. The server 12 also acquires the predicted medium consumption value from, for example, the RIP PC 104. The server 12 may calculate the predicted medium consumption value based on information acquired from the RIP PC 104.

[0029] Calculating the predicted time value, predicted ink consumption value, and the like as described above can be considered to correspond to predicting the predicted time value and predicted ink consumption value based on, for example, the image represented by the image data in the job and the printing conditions. The printing conditions in the job may specify, for example, the number of times (number of copies) the same image is to be printed. In this case, the RIP PC 104 may calculate the predicted time value, predicted ink consumption value, and the like, taking into account the number of repetitions. The number of repetitions in the printing conditions may also be considered in the server 12, for example. In this case, the server 12 may obtain, from the RIP PC 104, predicted values ​​for the time and ink consumption corresponding to one printing cycle, and calculate the predicted time value, predicted ink consumption value, and the like, based on these predicted values ​​and the number of repetitions in the printing conditions. This configuration, for example, allows for more appropriate calculation of the predicted time value and predicted ink consumption value tailored to the printing conditions. Depending on the accuracy required for the calculation, the server 12 may also calculate the predicted time value based on, for example, the print area.

[0030] In this example, the server 12 uses not only job-related predicted values, which are predicted values ​​corresponding to individual jobs, but also schedule predicted values, which are predicted values ​​related to multiple jobs that are processed consecutively according to a schedule. In this case, the server 12 calculates the schedule predicted values ​​(S108), for example, based on information acquired from the RIP PC 104 in steps S102 to S106. More specifically, in this example, the server 12 calculates, as the schedule predicted values, a total ink consumption predicted value, which is a predicted value of the total amount of ink consumed in multiple jobs that are processed consecutively, and a predicted print length corresponding to the amount of medium consumed (total amount) in printing corresponding to the multiple jobs. In this case, the server 12 calculates the total ink consumption predicted value based on the ink consumption predicted value for each job acquired in step S106, for example. The server 12 also calculates the print length predicted value based on the medium consumption predicted value. In this example, the operation of calculating the total ink consumption predicted value is an example of the operation of the total ink consumption prediction process and the total ink consumption prediction stage. The operation of calculating the predicted value of the printing length is an example of a total media consumption prediction process and an operation of a total media consumption prediction stage. The predicted value of the printing length is an example of information based on the predicted media consumption value.

[0031] In this example, the server 12 displays the jobs to be managed in a schedule format on the screen of the RIP PC 104 or the like (S110). In this example, the operation of step S110 is an example of a schedule display process and a schedule display stage. The schedule display process can be considered, for example, as a process of displaying information related to multiple jobs on the screen in a schedule format. The schedule format can be considered, for example, as a format of displaying the timing of job processing in chronological order. Displaying job-related information on the screen in a schedule format can be considered, for example, as displaying the timing of printing corresponding to jobs over time. Displaying items related to multiple jobs on the screen can be considered, for example, as displaying items related to each job on the screen. In this example, in step S110, the server 12 arranges jobs in chronological order based on the time prediction value for each job obtained in step S104 and displays them on the screen. This configuration, for example, enables accurate and appropriate display of jobs in a schedule format. This also makes it possible to clearly and appropriately display, for example, the timing of printing corresponding to a job to a user managing the printing device 102. In this case, for example, work plans to be performed using the printing device 102 can be appropriately visualized, thereby improving work efficiency. Furthermore, visualizing the work plans makes it possible to more easily and appropriately formulate production plans for producing printed materials using the printing device 102. This also makes it possible to easily and appropriately manage the production of printed materials. In step S110, the server 12 displays, on the screen, at least information based on the predicted ink consumption values, for example, in association with the jobs. More specifically, in this example, the server 12 displays, on the screen, as such information, a predicted total ink consumption value calculated based on the predicted ink consumption values ​​and a predicted print length, in association with the jobs displayed in a schedule format.This configuration allows the user to easily and appropriately grasp, for example, the amount of ink and media consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs that are processed consecutively according to a schedule. This also allows for more appropriate job management, for example, when it is necessary to manage the amount of ink or media consumed or remaining.

[0032] In this example, the server 12 further receives instructions from the user, such as changing the order of jobs displayed on the screen in schedule format or adding a new job (S112). In this case, the server 12 receives instructions from the user regarding changing the order of jobs or adding a new job, for example, based on the user's operation on the screen displaying the job schedule. More specifically, in this example, the server 12 receives these instructions based on the user's operation on the screen of the RIP PC 104. In this example, the operation of step S112 is an example of the operation of a job order change process, an additional job reception process, a job order change stage, and an additional job reception stage. The job order change process can be considered, for example, as receiving an instruction from the user to change the order of multiple jobs displayed in schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction. The additional job reception process can be considered, for example, as receiving an instruction to add an additional job. The additional job can be considered, for example, as a new job (interrupt job) added after multiple jobs are displayed in schedule format in step S110. An additional job can be considered to be, for example, a job inserted into a schedule in response to a user instruction.

[0033] Furthermore, in step S112 of this example, if an instruction to change the job order or add an additional job is received from the user (S112, Yes), the server 12 repeats the operations from step S104 onwards as necessary. In this case, for example, if there is no change in the jobs to be managed and there is no need to acquire new managed job information, job-related predicted values, etc. from the RIP PC 104, the server 12 calculates predicted schedule values ​​in accordance with the changed job order in step S108 without acquiring new information in steps S104 and S106. Furthermore, if an additional job is added, the server 12 acquires managed job information, job-related predicted values, etc. related to the additional job from the RIP PC 104, for example, in steps S104 and S106. Then, in step S108, the server 12 calculates predicted schedule values ​​in accordance with the changed job order, including the additional job. After performing these operations as necessary, the server 12, in step S110, displays multiple jobs on the screen in a schedule format based on the schedule after the job order has been changed and the additional job has been added. In this case, the operations of steps S104 to S110, which are performed again after step S112, can be considered, for example, as processing for displaying a new schedule changed based on a user instruction. In this case, for example, in the process of adding an additional job, the server 12, based on a user instruction, inserts the additional job into the schedule of multiple jobs displayed on the screen at the time the additional job was added. This configuration allows, for example, appropriate processing for adding a new job. According to this example, for example, by rearranging the job order based on the user instruction received in step S112, the job schedule can be easily and appropriately changed. Furthermore, for example, even if an additional job is added after the schedule for processing jobs has been determined, the schedule can be easily and appropriately changed to take the additional job into consideration.

[0034] As described above, in this example, the server 12 displays the predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length on the screen in association with jobs displayed in schedule format. In this case, for example, for at least a portion of the period displayed in schedule format in step S110, the server 12 calculates the predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length based on the predicted ink consumption and predicted medium consumption corresponding to jobs included in this period. This configuration allows, for example, the total amount of ink and medium consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs to be appropriately predicted. Also, as described above, in this example, if the order of jobs is rearranged by changing the order of jobs or adding an additional job, the server 12 recalculates the predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length, which are schedule predictions, to match the changed job order. The server 12 then displays the calculated predicted total ink consumption and predicted print length on the screen in accordance with the changed job order. Therefore, according to this example, even if the order of jobs is rearranged, the total amount of ink or medium consumed in the rearranged state can be easily and appropriately predicted. This also makes it possible to more appropriately predict the total amount of ink or medium consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs processed consecutively, rather than simply predicting the amount of ink or medium consumed for each job, even when the printing device 102 is operated continuously for a long period of time. Furthermore, in this case, by displaying these predicted values ​​on the screen in association with the jobs, the user can easily and appropriately grasp, for example, the predicted amount of ink consumption in the printing device 102 in association with the job processing schedule. This also makes it easier and more appropriate to change the schedule, for example, to take into account the timing of maintenance such as ink refills. Furthermore, in this example, by displaying the predicted medium consumption value on the screen in association with the jobs, the remaining amount of media can be appropriately predicted, for example, when using rolled media.

[0035] Furthermore, in step S112, if there is no change in the order of jobs or the addition of a new job (S112, No), the server 12 sends an instruction to the RIP PC 104 to reflect the schedule, thereby specifying the order in which jobs should be processed to the RIP PC 104 (S114). In this example, the operation in step S104 is an example of the operation of the processing order specification process and the processing order specification stage. For example, the RIP PC 104 executes RIP processing corresponding to the jobs in accordance with the order of multiple jobs displayed on the screen by the server 12 in step S110 by following the order in which jobs should be processed specified by the server 12 in step S114. Furthermore, the RIP PC 104, for example, supplies RIP-generated data generated by the RIP processing to the printing device 102, causing the printing device 102 to execute printing corresponding to the jobs. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to cause the printing device 102 to appropriately execute printing operations in accordance with a schedule specified by the user. Furthermore, as can be understood from the operations described above, in step S112, for example, if the order of jobs is changed or an additional job is added, the server 12 specifies the order in which the jobs are to be processed to the RIP PC 104 according to the order in which the jobs are arranged in the changed schedule. Therefore, according to this example, even if the schedule is changed, for example, the changed schedule can be appropriately reflected in the operation of the RIP PC 104.

[0036] Here, displaying jobs in a schedule format or changing a schedule may be performed, for example, after printing corresponding to some of the managed jobs has been executed on the printing device 102. Furthermore, when adding an additional job, it may be desirable to interrupt printing of the new additional job after printing has started on the printing device 102 and before printing corresponding to all jobs has been completed. Taking these points into consideration, the job order change in step S112 may involve rearranging only jobs for which printing has not yet been executed. In this case, in the operation of displaying the schedule on the screen in step S110, the server 12 may further display information obtained during printing for jobs for which printing has already been executed. More specifically, in this case, the server 12, in accordance with the schedule management program, for example, in the operation of acquiring managed job information in step S104, checks whether the corresponding printing is a job that has already been executed, and acquires performance values ​​related to the printing for the jobs for which printing has already been executed. The operation of the server 12 to acquire such performance values ​​may be considered, for example, an example of the operation of a performance value acquisition process. The actual value acquisition process can be considered, for example, as a process for acquiring actual values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to a job is executed on the printing device 102. The server 12 acquires, as such actual values, for example, the actual printing time, which is the time required to print the job, and the actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing. In this case, in the operation of step S110, the server 12 displays information based on the actual printing time and the actual ink consumption on a screen that displays jobs in a schedule format, in association with the corresponding job for which printing has been executed. This configuration allows, for example, easy and appropriate confirmation of the relationship between predicted values ​​and actual values ​​for printing time and ink consumption. This also allows, for example, more appropriate management of job schedules. Information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption can be, for example, information (actual values) that directly indicate the actual printing time and actual ink consumption.Furthermore, as information based on the actual printing time and the actual ink consumption, for example, the difference between the predicted value and the actual value (difference between predicted and actual) may be used.

[0037] Furthermore, the above-described actual values ​​may be used as predicted values ​​for a repeat job, for example. More specifically, the printing device 102 may print the same content as a previously executed job. In this case, when printing is performed for the second or subsequent times, the server 12 may treat the job as a repeat job (job with the same content), which is a job with the same content as an executed job that has previously been printed by the printing device 102. Such a repeat job may also be considered a job for which actual values, such as the time required for printing and the amount of ink consumed, are known. Therefore, if the multiple jobs displayed on the screen in step S110 include a repeat job, in step S106, the server 12 may use, for example, the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to an executed job with the same content as the repeat job as the predicted time and ink consumption corresponding to the repeat job. In this case, the server 12 acquires the actual printing time and actual ink consumption, for example, in the same manner as described above, for example, during the operation of acquiring managed job information in step S104. Furthermore, the server 12 may acquire the actual printing time and actual ink consumption amount as the operation of step S106. With this configuration, for example, for a repeat job, it is possible to more appropriately use highly accurate predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption amount values ​​without performing processing such as calculating the predicted time values ​​and predicted ink consumption amount values ​​in the RIP PC 104 or the like.

[0038] A repeat job can be considered, for example, as a job whose image data and printing conditions are identical to those of a previously executed job. More specifically, in this case, a repeat job can be considered, for example, as a job whose image data is identical to those of a previously executed job, and whose printing conditions, such as resolution, printing area, and printing speed (mode), are identical to those of a previously executed job. Furthermore, in this case, the repeat job can be considered to have the same printing time and ink consumption as the previously executed job. Therefore, as described above, the server 12 can appropriately use the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to the previously executed job as the estimated time and ink consumption corresponding to the repeat job. Furthermore, a repeat job can be considered, for example, as a job that is treated as the same as a previously executed job by a RIP processing program executed by the RIP PC 104. More specifically, the RIP processing program can be considered to manage the history of jobs that have previously executed corresponding printing. In this case, it is also conceivable that the job selected from the history based on the user's instruction may be set as the job to be processed again in the RIP PC 104. Therefore, in such a case, it is conceivable that the job selected from the history and set as the job to be processed may be treated as a repeat job in the RIP PC 104.

[0039] Furthermore, when considering a broader concept than the above-described repeat job, a job similar to an executed job can be considered to have the same printing conditions as the executed job, such as resolution, print area, and print speed (mode), but differ only in the image data. In such a job, while there may be a difference in ink consumption, the printing time required for printing may be the same or similar to the executed job. Therefore, the server 12 may use the actual printing time corresponding to the executed job for only the predicted time value of the predicted time and ink consumption values ​​corresponding to such a job. In this case, the server 12 obtains the predicted ink consumption value calculated by the RIP PC 104 from the RIP PC 104, as with a normal job. This configuration allows the actual value corresponding to the executed job to be appropriately used, even when there is a job similar to the executed job other than a complete repeat job. Jobs similar to such executed jobs can be distinguished based on a user instruction, for example, in the RIP PC 104. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that such jobs may be automatically detected in the RIP PC 104 based on the history of jobs that have been printed in the past.

[0040] As described above, in this example, the server 12 displays the predicted total ink consumption and the predicted print length on the screen in association with jobs displayed in a schedule format. In this case, the predicted total ink consumption and the predicted print length can be considered, for example, as predicted values ​​related to the amount of ink or medium consumed by multiple jobs processed consecutively. To display more detailed information, the server 12 may also display job-related predicted values ​​corresponding to each job on the screen, for example, in association with each job. In this case, the server 12 displays, as job-related predicted values, at least a portion of the predicted time, predicted ink consumption, and predicted medium consumption for each job. In a modified version of the server 12's operation, the server 12 may, for example, not directly display the predicted total ink consumption and the predicted print length on the screen, but instead associate them with jobs displayed in a schedule format and display information based on them on the screen. In this case, the server 12 displays, for example, predicted values ​​indicating the remaining amount of ink or medium, rather than the amount of ink or medium consumed. More specifically, as explained above, in this example, in the operation of step S102, the server 12 acquires, as information regarding the status of the printing device 102, the current ink remaining amount, which indicates the amount of ink remaining in the printing device 102, and the current media remaining amount, which indicates the amount of media remaining. In this case, the server 12 calculates a predicted value for the remaining ink amount based on, for example, the predicted ink consumption amount and the current ink remaining amount. The server 12 also calculates a predicted value for the remaining media amount based on, for example, the predicted media consumption amount and the current media remaining amount. In this case, the predicted value for the remaining ink amount can be considered to correspond to, for example, the value obtained by subtracting the predicted total ink consumption amount from the current ink remaining amount. Therefore, the predicted value for the remaining ink amount can be considered to be, for example, a predicted value based on the predicted total ink consumption amount. Similarly, the predicted value for the remaining media amount can be considered to be, for example, a predicted value based on the predicted print length. The operation of the server 12 to calculate the predicted value for the remaining ink amount can be considered, for example, an example of the operation of the predicted ink remaining amount calculation process and the predicted ink remaining amount calculation stage.The operation of the server 12 to calculate the predicted remaining amount of medium can be considered, for example, as an example of the operation of the predicted remaining amount calculation process and the predicted remaining amount calculation stage of medium. In this case, in step S110, the server 12 displays the predicted remaining amount of ink and the predicted remaining amount of medium calculated as described above on the screen. With this configuration, it is possible to more easily and appropriately predict, for example, when the remaining amount of ink or medium will become low.

[0041] As explained above, in this example, the server 12 is an example of a schedule management device. In this case, the server 12 can be considered to function as a schedule management device by, for example, performing the above processes in accordance with a schedule management program. In this case, the CPU of the server 12 can be considered to function as a processing unit that executes the above processes. In this case, the schedule management device can be considered to include, for example, a processing unit corresponding to each of the above processes. Similarly, the RIP PC 104 can be considered to function as a RIP processing device by, for example, executing a program for RIP processing. In addition, the CPU of the RIP PC 104 can be considered to function as a processing unit that executes the above processes executed by the RIP PC 104. In this case, the RIP processing device can be considered to include, for example, a processing unit corresponding to each of the above processes.

[0042] Next, examples of the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen in step S110, as well as adding and changing the order of jobs, will be described in more detail. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the display content that the server 12 displays on the screen in step S110. FIG. 3(a) shows an example of how jobs are managed in the RIP PC 104. In this example, the RIP PC 104 manages multiple jobs in a queue format, arranging them in the order in which they should be processed, using the functions of a RIP processing program, as shown in FIG. 3(a). In this case, the RIP PC 104 can also rearrange the order of jobs based on, for example, a user's instruction. Furthermore, in this case, the RIP PC 104 can also predict the time required for printing and the amount of ink consumed for each job using the functions of the RIP processing program. However, when managing jobs using only the RIP PC 104 in this manner, for example, in order to confirm the actual printing timing for each job, the user must manually collect information related to jobs processed before that job. In this case, since multiple jobs are simply processed in order, it is usually difficult to specify the timing at which each job is processed, etc. Therefore, it is usually difficult to print according to, for example, the business hours of the business using the printing device 102 or the convenience of the user using the printing device 102.

[0043] In contrast, in this example, the RIP PC 104 cooperates with the server 12 to cause the printing device 102 to print at more flexibly set timing based on user instructions. In this case, the server 12 also displays information related to multiple jobs in a schedule format on the screen of a computer operated by a user, such as the RIP PC 104, as shown in FIG. 3B. FIG. 3B shows an example of the display content displayed on the screen by the server 12. More specifically, FIG. 3B shows an example in which the operating hours of the printing device 102, determined based on the business hours of the business using the printing device 102, are set to 9:00 to 20:00 daily based on user instructions input by the user, and jobs stored in the RIP PC 104 are assigned to any timing within the operating hours. In this case, the jobs stored in the RIP PC 104 can be considered, for example, as jobs managed by the RIP PC 104 in a queue format, as shown in FIG. 3A. In this case, the server 12 sorts jobs accumulated in the RIP PC 104 within daily operating hours, for example, based on the estimated time value for each job and, if necessary, changing the job processing order based on preset rules. This also allows the server 12 to determine a job processing schedule, for example, based on the operating hours of the printing device 102. In this case, the server 12's job sorting operation can also be considered, for example, as accepting input of the end time or operating hours for printing within a day and allocating jobs to fit within that time. The operation of the server 12 can also be considered, for example, as automatically sorting jobs input to the RIP PC 104 so that they fit within the operating hours. In this example, the server 12 reflects this schedule in the operation of the RIP PC 104, causing the RIP PC 104 to process jobs according to the schedule. This configuration allows the printing device 102 to appropriately print multiple jobs within its daily operating hours.In this case, for example, by displaying a schedule listing multiple jobs for a period including multiple days, the plan for printing-related work can be visualized, allowing for easy and appropriate production planning of printed materials.

[0044] As described above, in this example, the server 12 displays on the screen a predicted print length and a predicted total ink consumption amount in association with jobs displayed in a schedule format. In this case, the server 12 displays on the screen, for example, as shown in the figure as print length and ink consumption amounts, a predicted print length and a predicted total ink consumption amount corresponding to printing performed during the operating hours of the printing device 102 for each day that the printing device 102 is to print. This configuration allows, for example, appropriate prediction of the amount of media and ink consumed in a day. This also allows appropriate understanding of the timing when media and ink need to be replenished or replaced. In this regard, ink consumption may vary depending on, for example, the type of image printed for each job. In particular, when printing multiple jobs during the operating hours of the printing device 102 in a day, as in this example, the amount of ink consumed in a day may fluctuate significantly. In such a case, it may be desirable to adjust the amount of ink consumed in a day by, for example, appropriately changing the order in which jobs are processed. In contrast, according to this embodiment, for example, by displaying the predicted total ink consumption value on the screen as described above, such adjustments can be made more easily and appropriately. Furthermore, in this case, by accurately predicting the amount of ink consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs, it is possible to accurately predict, for example, the timing when ink replenishment is required. This also allows the printing device 102 to operate more appropriately for long periods of time, even when there is no user near the printing device 102 during printing execution. Furthermore, in this embodiment, by displaying the predicted print length on the screen, it is possible to, for example, formulate a production plan taking into account the remaining amount of media. More specifically, in this case, it is possible to manage the remaining amount of rolled media based on the predicted print length. Furthermore, in a modified example of the content displayed on the screen, the server 12 may display the predicted print length and the predicted total ink consumption on the screen in units other than daily units.In this case, for example, for each job processed in a day, the server 12 displays on the screen a predicted print length corresponding to the amount of medium and ink consumed at the time of printing corresponding to that job on that day, and a predicted total ink consumption amount. With this configuration, for example, more detailed predicted values ​​of medium and ink consumption amounts can be easily and appropriately grasped.

[0045] As explained above, in this example, the server 12 receives instructions from the user regarding adding an additional job or changing the order of jobs, and changes the schedule based on the instructions. The server 12 also displays multiple jobs in schedule format on the screen based on the changed schedule. In this case, the server 12 receives instructions from the user regarding adding an additional job or changing the order of jobs, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4 illustrates the operation of receiving an instruction to add an additional job from the user. FIG. 4(a) is a diagram similar to FIG. 3(a) showing jobs managed by the RIP PC 104, and illustrates an example of a state in which an additional job, shown as an interrupt job in the figure, has been added. FIG. 4(b) illustrates an example of a screen for receiving instructions from the user regarding the position at which the interrupt job, which is an additional job, should be inserted.

[0046] As described above, when printing multiple jobs on the printing device 102, it may be desirable to interrupt printing of an additional job before printing of all jobs is completed after printing has started on the printing device 102. In response to this, when an interrupt job that becomes an additional job is added to the RIP PC 104, the interrupt job is typically added to the end of multiple jobs lined up in a queue, as shown in FIG. 4A, for example. In contrast, in this example, the server 12 inserts the interrupt job into the schedule by, for example, replacing one of the multiple jobs currently displayed on the screen in a schedule format, based on a user instruction, as shown in FIG. 4B, for example. In this case, the user specifies the position where the interrupt job is to be inserted by, for example, dragging the object corresponding to the interrupt job on the screen. Also, in FIG. 4B, the length in the time direction of the object corresponding to the job (the width in the time direction in the schedule format display) corresponds to the time required to print the job. In this case, it is possible to replace a job, such as job 5 shown in the figure, whose corresponding printing time is similar to that of the interrupt job with the interrupt job. This configuration, for example, allows appropriate addition of an interrupt job. After the user specifies the position where the interrupt job is to be inserted, the server 12, for example, appropriately changes the position of other jobs in the schedule as needed. In this case, the server 12 appropriately adjusts the position of other jobs according to, for example, preset rules, in accordance with the daily operating hours of the printing device 102, etc. The server 12 may also adjust the position of other jobs based on, for example, a user instruction. In this case, the server 12 displays on the screen, for example, a message indicating to the user that a job that extends beyond the operating hours due to the insertion of an interrupt job or subsequent adjustments has exceeded the operating hours. This configuration, for example, allows more appropriate schedule adjustment based on user instructions.

[0047] The server 12 also accepts user instructions regarding changing the order of job processing, as shown in FIG. 5, for example. FIG. 5 illustrates the operation of accepting a user instruction to change the order of jobs, showing an example of a screen for accepting a user instruction regarding a job whose order is to be changed. In this case, the user rearranges the order of jobs by dragging an object corresponding to the job whose order is to be changed, as shown in the figure. In this case, the server 12 accepts an instruction from the user to change the order of jobs based on the user's rearrangement of the objects. This configuration allows the server 12 to appropriately rearrange jobs, for example. As described above, in this example, when the order of jobs is rearranged by adding an interrupt job (an additional job) or changing the order of jobs, the server 12 recalculates the print length and ink consumption corresponding to the predicted medium consumption value and the predicted ink consumption value, according to the changed order of jobs. As a result, the server 12 displays the new print length and ink consumption according to the changed schedule on the screen. Therefore, according to this example, when the order of jobs is rearranged, the print length and ink consumption that will be affected by the rearrangement can be easily and appropriately confirmed. This also makes it possible to more easily and appropriately change the job schedule, for example.

[0048] As described above, the server 12 may also acquire actual printing-related values ​​for jobs for which printing has already been performed. In this case, the server 12 may display information based on the actual printing time and actual ink consumption, which are actual values ​​of printing time and ink consumption, in association with the corresponding printed job on a screen displaying jobs in a schedule format, as shown in FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 shows another example of the display content displayed on the screen by the server 12. In the illustrated example, the server 12 displays the actual printing time for each job for which printing has already been performed on the screen using an object indicating the actual printing time by its length in the time direction, similar to the object indicating the job. This configuration allows, for example, the difference between the predicted time and the actual printing time to be displayed clearly for each job. In this example, the server 12 also displays information related to the actual media consumption on the screen. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the server 12 displays on the screen the actual print length, which corresponds to the sum of the actual media consumption values, and the actual ink consumption, which corresponds to the sum of the actual ink consumption values, for multiple jobs whose corresponding printing has been executed within the daily schedule. With this configuration, various information related to the actual values ​​can be appropriately displayed on the screen.

[0049] As described above, the print execution unit 14 in the printing system 10 may include multiple printing devices 102. In this case, the server 12 distributes jobs under its management to multiple printing devices 102, as shown in FIG. 7, for example. FIG. 7 shows an example of the display content that the server 12 displays on its screen when printing is performed using multiple printing devices 102. More specifically, in the example shown, the server 12 distributes multiple jobs, indicated as jobs 1 to 9, to n printing devices 102, indicated as printers 1 to n in the figure. As described above, the print execution unit 14 may include multiple RIP PCs 104. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8(a), for example, in the print execution unit 14, the RIP PCs 104 manage different jobs in a queue format. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display content that the server 12 displays on its screen when the print execution unit 14 includes multiple RIP PCs 104. FIG. 8(a) shows an example of jobs managed by multiple RIP PCs 104, which are distinguished as PC1 and PC2 in the figure. FIG. 8(b) shows an example of the display content that the server 12 displays on its screen for the multiple jobs shown in FIG. 8(a). In the example shown, before the server 12 adjusts the schedule, the RIP PC 104 corresponding to PC1 manages multiple jobs, shown as jobs 1-1 to 1-n in the figure, in a queue format. The RIP PC 104 corresponding to PC2 manages multiple jobs, shown as jobs 2-1 to 2-n in the figure, in a queue format. In this example, the print execution unit 14 has multiple printing devices 102, shown as printers 1 to n in the figure. These printing devices 102 are connected to any of the RIP PCs 104 in the print execution unit 14 and perform printing corresponding to the jobs based on the RIP-generated data received from the RIP PC 104. In this case, the server 12 allocates jobs managed by a plurality of RIP PCs 104 to a plurality of printing devices 102, for example, as shown in the drawing.

[0050] By allocating jobs in this manner, even when the print execution unit 14 has multiple printing devices 102 or multiple RIP PCs 104, the server 12 can appropriately manage the job processing schedule. In this case, the job processing schedule is fed back to the RIP PC 104, causing the RIP PC 104 to print on the multiple printing devices 102 according to the schedule. With this configuration, for example, printing corresponding to multiple jobs can be appropriately performed on the multiple printing devices 102. In this case, the schedules shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 can be considered, for example, as a one-day schedule. The server 12 manages schedules similar to those shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 for multiple days, and displays a one-day schedule on the screen for a day specified by a user instruction. With this configuration, for example, the schedule can be appropriately displayed on the screen even when printing is performed using multiple printing devices 102. In a modified example of the screen display method, for example, schedules for multiple days for printing using multiple printing devices 102 may be displayed on a single screen.

[0051] Next, supplementary explanations and explanations of variations regarding the configuration and operation described above will be provided. For convenience of explanation, the following examples may be referred to as the present example, including the variations described above and below. As described above, in the print execution unit 14, the RIP PC 104 manages jobs, for example, in a queue format. The RIP PC 104 can also predict the time required for printing and the amount of ink consumed as predicted values ​​for each job. Therefore, if the user aggregates the predicted values ​​for each job, for example, it may be possible to adjust job schedules and develop production plans without using the server 12. However, in this case, for example, the task of aggregating the predicted values ​​for each job requires a lot of effort. Furthermore, even if the predicted values ​​for each job are expressed numerically, it may be difficult to understand the total time and ink consumed when printing multiple jobs consecutively. Furthermore, in this case, for example, after creating a production plan, in order to execute printing according to the plan, it becomes necessary for the user to, for example, rearrange the order in which jobs are processed, specify the time at which processing is executed, and so on, for jobs managed in queue format in the RIP PC 104. Therefore, even at the stage of printing according to the production plan, a lot of work is required.

[0052] In contrast, in this example, by displaying multiple jobs in a schedule format, it is possible to more easily and appropriately present to the user, for example, the print completion time for each job. Furthermore, by adjusting the job schedule in the server 12 based on user instructions, it is possible to, for example, easily and appropriately plan a production schedule. In this case, for example, the ink consumption and print length related to the amount of ink and media consumed in printing corresponding to multiple jobs processed consecutively in the schedule are displayed on the screen, and if the job order is changed based on user instructions, the display of the ink consumption and print length is updated to match the changed schedule, making it easier and more appropriate to plan a production schedule that takes ink and media consumption into account. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to easily plan a production schedule while visualizing and displaying, for example, predicted results regarding printing time and ink and media usage. This also makes it easy and appropriate to re-plan a production schedule, for example, in the event of an interruption or unexpected trouble. Furthermore, by displaying information about multiple jobs in a schedule format, it is possible to display, for example, production plans that are being planned and have been planned in an easy-to-understand manner for the user. As described above, in this example, for example, by reflecting a schedule adjusted by the server 12 in the RIP PC 104, the RIP PC 104 can process jobs according to the schedule. This also allows the printing device 102 to appropriately print according to the schedule without placing an excessive burden on the user. In this case, the timing for printing by the printing device 102 can be easily and appropriately adjusted, for example, according to the business hours of the business using the printing device 102 or the convenience of the user using the printing device 102. More specifically, in this case, it is possible to find a suitable job and rearrange the order of the jobs so that printing on the printing device 102 is completed before the user returns home (e.g., 30 minutes before).In this case, for example, by performing an operation to adjust the schedule on the server 12, the order and timing of job processing on the RIP PC 104 can be appropriately changed without performing a direct operation on the RIP PC 104. Therefore, according to this example, for example, by simply rearranging the order of jobs displayed in schedule format, the printing order in which printing is actually performed on the printing device 102 can be appropriately changed without requiring the user to take any effort.

[0053] As described above, in this example, the server 12 arranges jobs chronologically based on the estimated time value for each job and displays them on the screen. In this case, the server 12 may arrange the jobs, for example, with a time gap between jobs, as necessary. More specifically, depending on the configuration of the printing device 102, it may be necessary to perform certain printing preparations after printing one job and before starting printing the next job. For example, in a configuration that performs printing while changing media, such as a flatbed (FB) printing device 102, after printing at least some jobs, it is necessary to change the media before printing the next job. Therefore, in such cases, it is preferable that the server 12 arranges the jobs while taking into account the time required for changing the media, etc. In addition to changing the media, it is also preferable that the server 12 take into account the time required for other tasks depending on the model of the printing device 102, etc. In this case, it is possible to more appropriately create a production plan tailored to the configuration of the printing device 102, for example. Furthermore, when printing multiple jobs by continuously operating the printing device 102 for an extended period of time, it is preferable to perform maintenance on the printing device 102 periodically. In this case, it may be preferable to perform maintenance, for example, during the course of a day's operation. Therefore, the server 12 may reserve time for maintenance between at least some jobs as needed. This configuration, for example, allows for more appropriate production planning, including a schedule for periodic maintenance. Regarding maintenance of the printing device 102, in addition to periodic maintenance, it is also possible to perform maintenance as needed. In this case, the server 12 receives a user instruction specifying the timing of maintenance (maintenance time), for example, according to a schedule management program. In this case, the server 12 appropriately changes the job schedule so that job processing stops at the specified maintenance timing, and displays the changed schedule on the screen.With this configuration, even when emergency maintenance is required due to unexpected work, for example, it is possible to easily and appropriately change the job schedule, etc. The time required for maintenance may be appropriately set depending on, for example, whether a user is present to perform the maintenance (manned management) or whether the maintenance is performed automatically using a robot or the like. With this configuration, it is possible to create a production plan more appropriately according to the maintenance method, for example.

[0054] Furthermore, with regard to job scheduling, the server 12 may, for example, notify the user of the job processing status in accordance with the schedule management program. In this case, the server 12 may, for example, notify the user by sending an email when printing of a specified job is completed based on the user's instructions. This configuration may appropriately improve the convenience of job schedule management, for example. The server 12 may, for example, notify the user of the completion of work when printing of the last job in a day's operating hours is completed. The server 12 may also further notify the user of the timing to replace or refill ink or media, for example. In this case, the server 12, after allocating a job to a schedule in accordance with the schedule management program, may, for example, notify the user of the timing to replace or refill ink or media based on predicted ink consumption values ​​and predicted media consumption values. This configuration may, for example, allow the user to more appropriately replace or refill ink or media, for example.

[0055] Furthermore, when printing multiple jobs, it may be necessary to prioritize some jobs. Therefore, in such cases, the server 12 may receive, for example, an instruction from a user to designate a job to be prioritized (priority job). In this case, the server 12 determines the position of the priority job in the schedule according to a schedule management program, for example, so that the job is processed earlier. Being earlier in the schedule can be understood as being earlier in the schedule than if the job was not designated as a priority job. This configuration allows, for example, printing corresponding to a priority job to be appropriately prioritized. Depending on the job content, it may be preferable to print multiple jobs in a predetermined relationship consecutively without printing corresponding to other jobs in between. More specifically, for example, when using a roll-type medium, it may be desirable to print multiple jobs in a predetermined relationship together on a continuous portion of the medium without separating them. Also, when using a leaf-type medium, it may be desirable to print multiple jobs in a predetermined relationship on a single medium without replacing the medium. In such a case, the server 12 may group a plurality of jobs designated by the user and determine the order of the jobs. More specifically, in this case, when the order of the jobs is changed or an additional job is added, the server 12 adjusts the job schedule so that no other job is placed between the grouped jobs. With this configuration, it is possible to more appropriately create a production plan that meets the conditions desired by the user, for example.

[0056] As described above, in this example, displaying jobs in a schedule format and changing the schedule may be performed after printing corresponding to some of the jobs being managed has been performed on the printing device 102. In this case, the server 12 may, for example, display information based on actual printing time and actual ink consumption, which are performance values ​​for the jobs for which printing has been performed, on a screen displaying jobs in a schedule format, in association with the jobs for which printing has been performed. These performance values ​​may also be considered, for example, as production results related to the jobs. Furthermore, such production results may be further displayed in a list format (list display) using, for example, the RIP PC 104 or the server 12. In this case, for example, the production results may also be displayed in a schedule format when displaying a schedule for processing jobs. This configuration, for example, allows for easy and appropriate comparison of planned and actual results. This also allows for, for example, more appropriate analysis of discrepancies between planned and actual results. More specifically, for example, if the difference between the predicted time calculated for a certain job and the actual printing time, which is the actual result of printing, becomes large, the result may be fed back from the server 12 to the RIP PC 104, and the RIP PC 104 may perform an analysis to analyze the cause of the difference. The analysis of the cause of the difference may also be performed, for example, by the server 12. In this case, by referring to the results obtained by such an analysis, it may be possible to calculate a predicted time value with higher accuracy when calculating a predicted time value for the same or similar job in the RIP PC 104. Furthermore, such analysis and the use of the analysis results may also be performed in the same way for other predicted values, such as a predicted ink consumption value.

[0057] The comparison of predicted values ​​and actual values ​​described above may be performed outside of the screen where the server 12 displays multiple jobs in a schedule format. In this case, for example, the server 12 may manage job history, and the operation of obtaining predicted values ​​for jobs may be linked with the operation of managing the job history to compare the plan and actual results. Furthermore, managing the job history may enable, for example, visualization of work performance and reduction of the effort required for repeat work. In managing the job history, for example, the job history and job data may be saved. This configuration allows, for example, appropriate visualization of work performance. Furthermore, when a repeat job occurs, for example, processed job data corresponding to the repeat job can be easily and appropriately used. The job history may be saved in a format such as a CSV file. Furthermore, in this case, for example, a user can specify a job in the job history to easily and appropriately identify the repeat job. Furthermore, for a repeat job, it may be possible to extract the job history from the job history into a RIP processing program and immediately print it. In this case, it is also possible to acquire history information from a user who has given consent and analyze it in the server 12. It is also possible to display thumbnail images of images indicated by image data in a job in the job history. With this configuration, it is possible to more easily identify the contents of jobs included in the history, for example.

[0058] In this example, the schedule management program executed by the server 12 can be considered, for example, as a tallying application that tallies jobs input to the RIP PC 104. In this case, the RIP PC 104 can be considered to calculate, for example, the printing time and ink usage required to print images indicated by image data for jobs input in any order, and upload the results to the tallying application. As described above, in this example, the server 12 displays information to the user and accepts instructions from the user via a user interface displayed on the screen of the RIP PC 104. In this case, a Web server, for example, can be used as the server 12. In this case, the schedule management program (tallying application) can be considered, for example, to run on the Web server and display, in a schedule format, on the screen of a client computer, the printing time and other information required to print each managed job in order. In this case, the schedule management program executed on the server 12 can be considered to communicate with the RIP processing program executed on the RIP PC 104, for example, and to provide feedback to the RIP processing program on the results of processing based on data acquired from the RIP processing program. In this example, such a feature can be considered to enable accurate production planning according to the user's wishes.

[0059] As described above, in this example, the server 12 arranges jobs in chronological order based on the estimated time value and displays them on the screen. In this case, the estimated time value is the estimated time required for printing based on the job in the printing device 102. In order to print based on the job, it is necessary to perform RIP processing, etc., in the RIP PC 104 before printing in the printing device 102. However, the time required for RIP processing is usually shorter than the time required for printing in the printing device 102. Therefore, when printing multiple jobs consecutively, the RIP PC 104 can usually perform RIP processing for the next job while printing for one job is being performed in the printing device 102. Therefore, when determining a schedule for processing jobs, the server 12 may, for example, determine a schedule for multiple jobs that are to be printed consecutively without including the time required for RIP processing between jobs. Furthermore, the server 12 may, as necessary, take into account the time required for RIP processing for at least some of the jobs. In this case, the server 12 may consider the time required for RIP processing, for example, for the first job processed in a day. In this case, the server 12 determines a job schedule for each day's operating hours so that the RIP PC 104 can perform RIP processing for the first job before printing the first job. This configuration allows for more accurate production planning, for example, for printing multiple jobs. As described above, the server 12 may handle schedules for multiple jobs, including repeat jobs. For repeat jobs, RIP processing can be omitted by, for example, saving the results of RIP processing for jobs whose corresponding printing has already been executed. In this case, if a repeat job is selected as the first job to be processed in a daily schedule, printing can be started immediately by the printing device 102 immediately after the start of business hours without waiting for RIP processing.Therefore, the server 12 may determine the schedule of the job so that, for example, the repeat job is assigned first during the operating hours. [Industrial Applicability]

[0060] The present invention can be suitably used, for example, in a program that causes a computer to manage jobs that cause a printing device to perform printing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0061] 10 Printing system, 102 Printing device, 104 RIP PC, 12 Server, 14 Print execution unit, 20 Wide area network

Claims

1. A program that causes a computer to manage a job that causes a printing device to perform printing, a process for acquiring a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job in the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of a plurality of the jobs; and a schedule display process for displaying information related to a plurality of the jobs on a screen in a schedule format that displays the timing of processing the jobs in chronological order; a job order change process for receiving an instruction from a user to change the order of the jobs displayed in a schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the instruction from the user; causing the computer to perform A program characterized in that, in the schedule display processing, the jobs are arranged in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each job, and displayed on the screen, and information based on the predicted ink consumption value is displayed on the screen in association with the job.

2. a process for calculating a predicted total ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the sum of the ink consumption amounts consumed by a plurality of the jobs that are processed successively, and causing the computer to further perform a total ink consumption prediction process for calculating the predicted total ink consumption value for at least a part of a period displayed in a schedule format in the schedule display process based on the predicted ink consumption values ​​corresponding to the jobs included in the part of the period; In the schedule display process, information based on the predicted total ink consumption amount is displayed on the screen in association with the job displayed in a schedule format; The program described in claim 1, characterized in that when the order of the jobs is rearranged by the job order change process, the computer is caused to perform the total ink consumption prediction process and the schedule display process again, thereby displaying information based on the total ink consumption predicted value adjusted to the changed job order on the screen.

3. When the computer that performs the job order change process is defined as an order processing computer, and the computer that performs the RIP process based on the job is defined as an RIP computer, causing the order processing computer to further perform a processing order designation process for designating an order in which the jobs are to be processed by the RIP computer; the RIP computer executes RIP processing corresponding to the jobs in accordance with the order specified in the processing order specification process, in accordance with the order of the jobs displayed on the screen in a schedule format in the schedule display process, and causes the printing device to execute printing corresponding to the jobs based on data generated by the RIP processing; In the predicted value acquisition process, the time predicted value and the ink consumption predicted value corresponding to the job are acquired from the RIP computer; The program according to claim 1, characterized in that when the order of the jobs is rearranged in the job order change process, the processing order designation process specifies the order in which the jobs are to be processed to the RIP computer according to the order in which the jobs are arranged after the change.

4. a process for acquiring performance values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to the job has been executed on the printing device, the process further causing the computer to perform a performance value acquisition process for acquiring an actual printing time, which is the time required for printing corresponding to the job, and an actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing, as the performance values; 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the schedule display process displays information based on the actual printing time and the actual ink consumption amount on the screen in association with the job for which corresponding printing has been executed.

5. a process for acquiring performance values ​​related to printing after printing corresponding to the job has been executed on the printing device, the process further causing the computer to perform a performance value acquisition process for acquiring an actual printing time, which is the time required for printing corresponding to the job, and an actual ink consumption, which is the amount of ink consumed during printing, as the performance values; The program described in claim 1, characterized in that when the multiple jobs displayed on the screen in the schedule display process include a job with the same content as an executed job, which is a job that has already been printed on the printing device in the past, in the predicted value acquisition process, the actual printing time and actual ink consumption corresponding to the executed job, which are acquired by the actual value acquisition process, are used as the time predicted value and the ink consumption predicted value corresponding to the job with the same content.

6. In the predicted value acquisition process, a medium consumption predicted value is further acquired, which is a predicted value of consumption of a medium to be printed when printing corresponding to the job is executed in the printing device; 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the schedule display process further displays the predicted media consumption value on the screen in association with the job displayed in a schedule format.

7. causing the computer to further perform an additional job reception process for receiving an addition of a new job, which is an additional job, after displaying the plurality of jobs in a schedule format in the schedule display process; The program according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the additional job acceptance process, the additional job is inserted into the middle of the schedule of the multiple jobs displayed on the screen at the time the additional job is added, based on a user's instruction.

8. A schedule management method for managing jobs that cause a printing device to perform printing, comprising: a predicted value acquisition step of acquiring a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job in the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of a plurality of the jobs; a schedule display step of displaying information related to the plurality of jobs on a screen in a schedule format that displays the timing of processing the jobs in chronological order; a job order changing step of receiving an instruction from a user to change the order of the jobs displayed in a schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the user's instruction; Equipped with A schedule management method characterized in that, in the schedule display stage, the jobs are arranged in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each job and displayed on the screen, and information based on the predicted ink consumption value is displayed on the screen in association with the job.

9. A schedule management device that manages jobs that cause a printing device to perform printing, a process for acquiring a predicted time value, which is a predicted value of the time required for printing based on the job in the printing device, and a predicted ink consumption value, which is a predicted value of the amount of ink to be consumed, for each of a plurality of the jobs; and a schedule display process for displaying information related to a plurality of the jobs on a screen in a schedule format that displays the timing of processing the jobs in chronological order; a job order change process for receiving an instruction from a user to change the order of the jobs displayed in a schedule format, and rearranging the order of the jobs based on the instruction from the user; and A schedule management device characterized in that, in the schedule display processing, the jobs are arranged in chronological order based on the predicted time value for each job and displayed on the screen, and information based on the predicted ink consumption value is displayed on the screen in association with the job.

Images