Information processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, information processing system, content provision method and program

Abstract

This controls the content transmitted to the terminal device without using terminal device-specific information. [Solution] An information processing device capable of communicating with a terminal device via a network comprises a storage control unit that stores history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device in a storage device, and a content transmission unit that, based on the history information, transmits to the terminal device a first content specified by the first connection information, or a second content specified by the second connection information, in response to a second communication based on second connection information from the terminal device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus, an information processing system, a content providing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is a technology for providing content corresponding to a terminal for communication from the terminal. For example, in Patent Document 1, a management apparatus is disclosed that receives, from a terminal, a barcode URL read from a two-dimensional barcode by the terminal and usage language information indicating a language used in the terminal, and redirects the terminal to a content URL associated with the barcode URL and language information corresponding to the language indicated by the usage language information.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In the prior art, in order to provide appropriate content to a terminal device, information unique to the terminal device is required. Since the information unique to the terminal device may include information that requires permission for external transmission, there are cases where the information unique to the terminal device cannot be obtained and appropriate content cannot be provided.

[0004] One embodiment of the present invention aims to control content transmitted to a terminal device without using information unique to the terminal device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a terminal device via a network, and includes a storage control unit that stores, in a storage device, history information regarding a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, and a content transmission unit that transmits, to the terminal device, first content specified by the first connection information or second content specified by the second connection information for a second communication based on the second connection information from the terminal device, based on the history information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the content provided to a terminal device can be controlled without using information specific to the terminal device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a content provision system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of a copier according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the toner image and toner layer state formed by a copier according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] Block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] Block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a printed material according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates an example of a usage scenario for a printed material according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This block diagram shows an example of the functional configuration of a content provision system according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a customer information table according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a connection information table according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a history information table according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows an example of an image forming method according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows an example of a content provision method according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows an example of a content provision method related to Modification Example 1. [Figure 15] This flowchart shows an example of a content provision method related to Modification Example 2. [Figure 16] This flowchart shows an example of a content provision method related to Modification Example 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments of this invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that components having the same function are given the same number in the drawings, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0009] [Embodiment] One embodiment of the present invention is an example of an information processing system that provides content to a terminal device operated by a user. Hereinafter, the information processing system according to this embodiment will be referred to as the "content provision system." In the content provision system, an information processing device that manages content provides content electronically to the terminal device via a communication network.

[0010] The content according to this embodiment may be any content that can be provided electronically via a communication network. For example, the content may include at least one of the following: a web page, image data (which may include still images or videos), audio data, or document data (which may include, for example, PDF (Portable Document Format), word processing format, spreadsheet format, presentation format, etc.).

[0011] Conventionally, there is a technology that connects to an information processing device that manages desired content by reading a two-dimensional code that encodes connection information (e.g., a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)). In this type of technology, communication with the connecting terminal device may be redirected to appropriate content based on information specific to the terminal device. This terminal-specific information may include, for example, the language information set on the terminal device or the terminal device's location information.

[0012] The information unique to the terminal device may include information that requires permission for external transmission. In this case, if the user rejects the external transmission of such information, the information unique to the terminal device cannot be obtained, and appropriate content cannot be provided. Also, there may be cases where it is desired to control the content to be provided based on predetermined conditions unrelated to the information unique to the terminal device. As an example, in a game that uses location information, when it is desired to provide content according to the progress of the game, appropriate content cannot be provided even if only the location information is obtained.

[0013] The purpose of this embodiment is to control the content transmitted to the terminal device without using the information unique to the terminal device. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, in order to control the content transmitted to the terminal device without using the information unique to the terminal device, appropriate content can be provided to the terminal device even if the information unique to the terminal device cannot be obtained.

[0014] <Overall Configuration of the Content Providing System> The overall configuration of the content providing system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the content providing system according to an embodiment.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the content providing system 1000 includes an image forming apparatus 10, an information processing apparatus 20, and a terminal device 30. The image forming apparatus 10, the information processing apparatus 20, and the terminal device 30 are each connected to a communication network N. The communication network N is configured such that each connected device can communicate with each other.

[0016] Communication network N is constructed using wired communication networks such as the Internet, LAN (Local Area Network), or WAN (Wide Area Network). Communication network N may also include wireless communication networks such as Wi-Fi or short-range wireless communication, or mobile communication networks such as WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), or 5G (5th Generation).

[0017] Image forming apparatus 10 is an example of an electronic device that forms an image on an image forming medium. Image forming apparatus 10 may also be an electrostatic recording device that deposits toner onto printing paper, which is an example of an image forming medium, by the action of static electricity. Image forming apparatus 10 may also be a liquid ejection device that deposits liquid such as ink onto printing paper by ejecting it. Image forming apparatus 10 may also be, as an example, a laser printer, an inkjet printer, an electrostatic copier, etc.

[0018] The image forming apparatus 10 has the function of forming an invisible image and a visible image on an image forming medium. The image forming apparatus 10 may produce a printed material PM on which at least one of the invisible image or the visible image is formed. In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 produces a printed material PM on which an image (e.g., a two-dimensional code) containing connection information (e.g., a URL) to the information processing device 20 is formed. The printed material PM produced by the image forming apparatus 10 is distributed to a user U who operates the terminal device 30.

[0019] Information processing device 20 is an example of an information processing device that provides content to terminal device 30. Information processing device 20 may be a personal computer, workstation, or server, for example. Information processing device 20 accepts connections from terminal device 30. Information processing device 20 transmits (provides) content to the connected terminal device 30.

[0020] Terminal device 30 is an example of an information processing terminal operated by user U. Terminal device 30 may be a computer such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet terminal. Terminal device 30 reads the image formed on the printed material PM by the image forming apparatus 10 and starts communication with the information processing apparatus 20 based on the connection information contained in the image. Terminal device 30 presents the content provided by the information processing apparatus 20 to user U via communication with the information processing apparatus 20.

[0021] The information processing device 20 and terminal device 30 are not limited to computers, as long as they are devices equipped with communication functions. The information processing device 20 and terminal device 30 may be, for example, output devices such as PJ (Projector), IWB (Interactive White Board: an electronic whiteboard with the ability to communicate with each other), digital signage, HUD (Head Up Display) devices, industrial machinery, imaging devices, sound collection devices, medical equipment, networked home appliances, automobiles (Connected Car), notebook PCs (Personal Computers), mobile phones, smartphones, tablet devices, game consoles, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), digital cameras, wearable PCs, or desktop PCs.

[0022] <Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus> The hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. An example of the image forming apparatus 10 is a tandem-type color laser copier (hereinafter simply referred to as "copier") in which multiple photoreceptors are arranged in parallel.

[0023] The basic configuration of the copier according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the copier according to one embodiment. This copier is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus and includes a printer 100, a document feeder 200, a scanner 300, and an automatic document transporter 400. However, the image forming apparatus 10 may include only some of these components, as long as it is a printing apparatus equipped with a printing function to print and output printed materials, and is not limited by its designation.

[0024] The printer 100 is equipped with an image forming unit GU that has five developing stations 18S, 18G, 18R, 18B, and 18K for creating images of special colors (S: Special), invisible green (G: Invisible Green), invisible red (R: Invisible Red), invisible blue (B: Invisible Blue), and black (K: Key plate). The subscripts S, G, R, B, and K following the number (18) of each code indicate that they are components for special colors, invisible green, invisible red, invisible blue, and black, respectively. The same applies to other codes used in the following description. In the following description, the letters S, G, R, B, and K may also refer to special colors, invisible green, invisible red, invisible blue, and black, respectively. Special colors are a general term for colors that are different from invisible green, invisible red, invisible blue, and black. Black refers to black that is visible under visible light, and special colors refer to special colors that are visible under visible light. Printer 100 can form or print visible images by using visible colorants such as C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow) toners, metallic toners (gold, silver, copper), fluorescent toners, and light-colored toners. Visible and invisible images may be formed entirely in a single print, or they may be printed in two separate passes, overlapping each other.

[0025] Inside the printer 100 enclosure, in addition to the developing stations 18S, 18G, 18R, 18B, and 18K, there are also an optical writing unit 21, an intermediate transfer unit 17, a secondary transfer device 22, a pair of registration rollers 49, and a belt-type fixing device 25.

[0026] The optical writing unit 21 includes a light source, a polygon mirror, an f-θ lens, a reflective mirror, etc., and irradiates the surfaces of the photoreceptors 1S, 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K with laser light based on the image data.

[0027] The developing stations 18S, 18G, 18R, 18B, and 18K include, in addition to the drum-shaped photoreceptors 1S, 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K, a charging roller, a developing device, a drum cleaning device, and an anti-static lamp.

[0028] In the developing station 18S for S (special color), the surface of the photoreceptor 1S is uniformly charged by a charging roller, which is a charging means. The surface of the charged photoreceptor 1S is then irradiated with a laser beam modulated and deflected by the optical writing unit 21. This causes the potential of the irradiated area (exposure area) to decrease. Due to this decrease, an electrostatic latent image for S is formed on the surface of the photoreceptor 1S. The formed electrostatic latent image for S is developed by a developing device, which is a developing means, to become an S toner image.

[0029] The S toner image formed on the photoreceptor 1S for S is first transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 110. After the first transfer, the surface of the photoreceptor 1S is cleaned of any remaining toner by a drum cleaning device.

[0030] In the S-type developing station 18S, the photoreceptor 1S, which has been cleaned by the drum cleaning device, is discharged by a static eliminator. Then, it is uniformly charged by a charger and returned to its initial state. The same series of processes described above are carried out in the developing stations for other colors (G, R, B, K) (18G, 18R, 18B, 18K).

[0031] The intermediate transfer unit 17 includes an endless intermediate transfer belt 110 and a belt cleaning device 90. It also includes a drive roller 15, a secondary transfer backup roller 16, and four primary transfer bias rollers 62S, 62G, 62R, 62B, and 62K.

[0032] The endless intermediate transfer belt 110 is tensioned by multiple tension rollers, such as drive rollers 15, which are arranged inside its loop. The belt is then moved endlessly in a clockwise direction as shown in the figure by the rotation of the drive rollers 15, which are driven by a belt drive motor.

[0033] The primary transfer bias rollers 62S, 62G, 62R, 62B, and 62K for S, G, R, B, and K are positioned to contact the back surface (inner circumferential surface) of the intermediate transfer belt 110, and the primary transfer bias output from the power supply is applied to them. The intermediate transfer belt 110 is also pressed from its back side toward the photoreceptors 1S, 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K. This forms primary transfer nips for S, G, R, B, and K where the photoreceptors 1S, 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K come into contact with the surface (outer circumferential surface) of the intermediate transfer belt 110. In these primary transfer nips, a primary transfer electric field is formed between the photoreceptors 1S, 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K and the primary transfer bias rollers 62S, 62G, 62R, 62B, and 62K due to the influence of the primary transfer bias.

[0034] The S toner image formed on the photoreceptor 1S for S is first transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 110 due to the influence of the primary transfer field and nip pressure. On top of this S toner image, the G toner image, R toner image, B toner image, and K toner image formed on the photoreceptors 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K for G, R, B, and K are sequentially superimposed and first transferred. Through this superimposed primary transfer, a multi-color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 110.

[0035] The multi-color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 110 is secondarily transferred to the recording sheet by a secondary transfer nip, which will be described later. Any remaining toner on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 110 after passing through the secondary transfer nip is cleaned by a belt cleaning device 90 that sandwiches the belt between itself and the drive roller 15.

[0036] The secondary transfer device 22, located below the intermediate transfer unit 17, forms a secondary transfer nip by bringing the secondary transfer roller 23 into contact with the point on the intermediate transfer belt 110 where it is wrapped around the secondary transfer backup roller 16. The secondary transfer backup roller 16 is subjected to a secondary transfer bias of the same polarity as the toner, while the secondary transfer roller 23 is grounded. As a result, a secondary transfer electric field is formed in the secondary transfer nip that electrostatically moves the multi-color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 110 from the belt side towards the secondary transfer roller 23 side. The recording sheet, which is fed into the secondary transfer nip in synchronization with the multi-color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 110 by the register roller pair 49, has the multi-color toner image secondary transferred to it by the action of this secondary transfer electric field and nip pressure.

[0037] The paper feed device 200, located at the bottom of the printer 100's casing, includes a paper feed cassette 44 and a paper bank 43, which house multiple recording sheets stacked in a sheet bundle. The paper feed cassette 44 and paper bank 43 press a paper feed roller 42 against the top recording sheet of the paper bundle. By rotating the paper feed roller 42, the top recording sheet is fed towards the paper feed path 46.

[0038] The feeding path 46, which receives the recording sheet fed from the feeding cassette 44 or paper bank 43, has a plurality of transport roller pairs 47 and a registration roller pair 49 located near the end of the path. The recording sheet is then transported toward the registration roller pair 49. The recording sheet transported toward the registration roller pair 49 is sandwiched between the rollers of the registration roller pair 49. Meanwhile, in the intermediate transfer unit 17, the multicolor toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 110 enters the secondary transfer nip as the belt moves endlessly.

[0039] The registration roller pair 49 feeds out the recording sheet sandwiched between the rollers at a timing that allows it to come into close contact with the multi-color toner image at the secondary transfer nip. As a result, the multi-color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 110 comes into close contact with the recording sheet at the secondary transfer nip. It is then secondary transferred onto the recording sheet, forming a full-color image on the white recording sheet. The recording sheet with the full-color image formed in this way leaves the secondary transfer nip as the secondary transfer roller 23 rotates, and is then sent to the fixing device 25 via a sheet transport unit equipped with a transport belt.

[0040] The fixing device 25 includes a belt unit that moves an endlessly while tensioning a fixing belt 26 with two rollers, and a pressure roller 27 that presses toward one of the rollers of the belt unit. The fixing belt 26 and the pressure roller 27 come into contact with each other to form a fixing nip, and the recording sheet received from the sheet conveying unit is sandwiched in the fixing nip. Of the two rollers in the belt unit, the fixing roller that is pressed by the pressure roller 27 has a heat source (heater) inside, and the heat generated by this heat heats the fixing belt 26. The heated fixing belt 26 heats the recording sheet sandwiched in the fixing nip. Due to the effects of this heating and nip pressure, a full-color image is fixed to the recording sheet.

[0041] The recording sheet, which has been fixed in the fixing unit 25, is either stacked on a stacking section protruding from the left side panel of the copier's housing, or returned to the secondary transfer nip to form a toner image on the other side as well.

[0042] When a copy of an original document is to be made, for example, a stack of sheet originals is placed on the document tray 31 of the automatic document feeder 400. However, if the original document is a single-sided bound document, it is placed on the contact glass 32. Prior to this placement, the automatic document feeder 400 is opened relative to the copier body, exposing the contact glass 32 of the scanner 300. After this, the single-sided bound document is held down by the closed automatic document feeder 400.

[0043] After the document is set in this manner, when the copy start switch is pressed, the document scanning operation by the scanner 300 begins. However, if a sheet document is set in the automatic document transporter 400, the automatic document transporter 400 automatically transports the sheet document to the contact glass 32 prior to this document scanning operation.

[0044] In the document scanning operation, the first and second document scanning units 33 and 34 begin to move together, and light is emitted from the light source provided on the first document scanning unit 33. The reflected light from the document surface is then reflected by a mirror provided inside the second document scanning unit 34, passes through the imaging lens 35, and is then incident on the scanning sensor 36. The scanning sensor 36 constructs image information based on the incident light.

[0045] In parallel with this document reading operation, each device within each developing station (18S, 18G, 18R, 18B, 18K), as well as the intermediate transfer unit 17, the secondary transfer device 22, and the fixing device 25, begin to operate. Based on the image information constructed by the reading sensor 36, the optical writing unit 21 is driven and controlled to form S, G, R, B, and K toner images on the photoreceptors 1S, 1G, 1R, 1B, and 1K. These toner images are then superimposed and transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 110 to form a multi-color toner image.

[0046] Furthermore, almost simultaneously with the start of the document scanning operation, the feeding operation begins within the feeding device 200. In this feeding operation, one of the feeding rollers 42 is selectively rotated, and a recording sheet is fed out from the paper bank 43 or feeding cassette 44. The fed-out recording sheets are separated one by one by the separation roller 45 and enter the inverted feeding path, after which they are transported toward the secondary transfer nip by the transport roller pair.

[0047] The printer 100 houses a control unit consisting of a CPU and other components that control each device. An operation display unit 500, comprising an LCD display and various key buttons, is located on the top of the casing. The operator can send commands to the control unit via input to the operation display unit 500, allowing them to specify modes such as single-sided printing mode, which forms an image on only one side of the recording sheet, or double-sided printing mode, which forms an image on both sides.

[0048] A bottle storage section 65 is provided at the top of the printer 100's casing. This bottle storage section 65 houses toner bottles 51S, 51G, 51R, 51B, and 51K for replenishing S, G, R, B, and K toners. The bottle drive units 52S, 52G, 52R, 52B, and 52K for the S, G, R, B, and K toner replenishment devices, described later, are fixed to this bottle storage section 65. The bottle drive units 52S, 52G, 52R, 52B, and 52K for the S, G, R, B, and K toners detachably hold the toner bottles 51S, 51G, 51R, 51B, and 51K.

[0049] In Figure 2, the developing stations 18S, 18G, 18R, 18B, and 18K for each color are arranged so that the toner images are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 110 in the order of S, G, R, B, and K for primary transfer. However, depending on the type of special color S, it may be desirable to change the order of the superimposed colors.

[0050] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the toner image and toner layer state formed by a copier according to one embodiment. For example, when transparent is used as the special color S, it is common to form a transparent toner layer in order to give gloss to the image. In that case, as shown in Figure 3, the superposition of colors S, G, R, B, K (hereinafter referred to as the default color order) is acceptable. Specifically, when the multi-color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 110 by superposition of the default color order is secondarily transferred to the recording sheet, as shown in Figure 3(a), the S toner is positioned on top (surface side) of each color toner. When such a multi-color toner image is passed through the fixing device 25 together with the recording sheet SH, a multi-color toner image is formed on the surface of the recording sheet SH, as shown in Figure 3(b), with the K toner layer, B toner layer, R toner layer, G toner layer, and transparent toner layer stacked in order. The top transparent toner layer then plays the role of giving gloss to the color image.

[0051] <Computer Hardware Configuration> The information processing device 20 may be implemented by a computer. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device according to one embodiment.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 20 includes a CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, HD 504, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) controller 505, display 506, external device connection I / F (Interface) 508, network I / F 509, bus line 510, keyboard 511, pointing device 512, DVD-RW (Digital Versatile Disk Rewritable) drive 514, and media I / F 516.

[0053] Of these, the CPU 501 controls the operation of the entire computer. The ROM 502 stores programs used to drive the CPU 501, such as the IPL. The RAM 503 is used as the work area for the CPU 501. The HD 504 stores various data, such as programs. The HDD controller 505 controls the reading or writing of various data to the HD 504 according to the control of the CPU 501. The ROM 502, RAM 503, and HD 504 are examples of storage devices of the information processing device 20.

[0054] The display 506 displays various information such as cursors, menus, windows, characters, or images. The external device connection interface 508 is an interface for connecting various external devices. In this case, external devices include, for example, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and printers. The network interface 509 is an interface for data communication using the communication network N. The bus line 510 is an address bus and data bus for electrically connecting various components such as the CPU 501.

[0055] The keyboard 511 is a type of input means equipped with multiple keys for inputting characters, numbers, and various instructions. The pointing device 512 is a type of input means for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting processing targets, and moving the cursor. The DVD-RW drive 514 controls the reading or writing of various data to the DVD-RW 513, which is an example of a removable recording medium. Note that it is not limited to DVD-RW, but may also be DVD-R, etc. The media interface 516 controls the reading or writing (storage) of data to the recording medium 515, such as flash memory.

[0056] <Smartphone Hardware Configuration> The terminal device 30 may be implemented as a smartphone. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device according to one embodiment.

[0057] As shown in Figure 5, the terminal device 30 includes a CPU 601, ROM 602, RAM 603, EEPROM 604, CMOS sensor 605, image sensor I / F 606, acceleration / direction sensor 607, media I / F 609, and GPS receiver 611.

[0058] Of these, the CPU 601 is an arithmetic processing unit that controls the operation of the entire terminal device 30. The ROM 602 stores programs used to drive the CPU 601, such as the CPU 601 and the IPL. The RAM 603 is used as the work area for the CPU 601. The EEPROM 604 reads or writes various data, such as smartphone programs, according to the control of the CPU 601. The ROM 602, RAM 603, and EEPROM 604 are examples of storage devices for the terminal device 30.

[0059] The CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor 605 is a type of built-in imaging device that captures an image of a subject (mainly a self-portrait) and obtains image data according to the control of the CPU 601. Note that an imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor may also be used instead of a CMOS sensor.

[0060] The image sensor interface 606 is a circuit that controls the driving of the CMOS sensor 605. The acceleration / direction sensor 607 is a variety of sensors such as an electronic magnetic compass, gyrocompass, and acceleration sensor that detect the Earth's magnetic field. The media interface 609 controls the reading or writing (storage) of data to the recording medium 608, such as flash memory. The GPS receiver 611 receives GPS signals from GPS satellites.

[0061] Furthermore, the terminal device 30 includes a long-range communication circuit 612, an antenna 612a for the long-range communication circuit 612, a CMOS sensor 613, an image sensor interface 614, a microphone 615, a speaker 616, an audio input / output interface 617, a display 618, an external device connection interface 619, a short-range communication circuit 620, an antenna 620a for the short-range communication circuit 620, and a touch panel 621.

[0062] Of these, the long-distance communication circuit 612 is a circuit that communicates with other devices via a communication network. The CMOS sensor 613 is a type of built-in imaging means that captures an image of a subject and obtains image data according to the control of the CPU 601. The image sensor interface 614 is a circuit that controls the driving of the CMOS sensor 613. The microphone 615 is a built-in circuit that converts sound into electrical signals. The speaker 616 is a built-in circuit that converts electrical signals into physical vibrations to produce sounds such as music and speech. The sound input / output interface 617 is a circuit that processes the input and output of sound signals between the microphone 615 and the speaker 616 according to the control of the CPU 601.

[0063] The display 618 is a type of display means, such as a liquid crystal or organic EL (electroluminescence), that displays images of the subject and various icons. The external device connection I / F 619 is an interface for connecting various external devices. The short-range communication circuit 620 is a communication circuit such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The touch panel 621 is a type of input means that allows the user to operate the terminal device 30 by pressing the display 618. The display 618 is an example of a display unit of the terminal device 30.

[0064] Note that the hardware configuration shown in Figure 5 is just one example of a terminal device 30. The hardware configuration of the terminal device 30 is not limited to that shown in Figure 5. For example, the hardware configuration of the terminal device 30 may be the configuration shown in Figure 4.

[0065] <Printed material> The printed material PM produced by the image forming apparatus 10 will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. The printed material PM includes an invisible image that is invisible or difficult to see under visible light (bright places) but visible under black light (dark places). The printed material PM is used in such a manner that the invisible image printed on it is visible in dark places. The invisible image only needs to be an image that is more difficult to see under visible light than the visible image.

[0066] The image forming apparatus 10 can represent any invisible color (a color that is visible under invisible light but difficult to see under visible light) by superimposing invisible green, invisible red, and invisible blue, or by selecting any one of them. Invisible green means a green that is visible under invisible light but difficult to see under visible light. Invisible red means a red that is visible under invisible light but difficult to see under visible light. Invisible blue means a blue that is visible under invisible light but difficult to see under visible light. Invisible green, invisible red, and invisible blue are examples of invisible colors. Invisible colors are not limited to these; any color that is visible under invisible light but difficult to see under visible light is acceptable.

[0067] Visible light is electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths that are perceived as light by humans. Invisible light is electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths other than those of visible light. In this embodiment, invisible light includes ultraviolet light and long-wavelength ultraviolet light emitted by black lights, etc. In this embodiment, invisible colors are transparent under visible light such as light emitted by fluorescent lamps or sunlight, and become visible under invisible light such as ultraviolet light emitted by black lights.

[0068] Specifically, an invisible green image is realized using invisible green toner (hereinafter referred to as "G toner"), an invisible red image is realized using invisible red toner (hereinafter referred to as "R toner"), and an invisible blue image is realized using invisible blue toner (hereinafter referred to as "B toner"). Furthermore, images of invisible colors other than invisible green, invisible red, and invisible blue are realized by superimposing at least two invisible color toners from among the G toner, R toner, and B toner.

[0069] Invisible black, which is black visible under invisible light, is achieved by not applying G toner, R toner, or B toner. Images of special colors visible under visible light are achieved using special color toner (hereinafter referred to as "S toner"), and images of black visible under visible light are achieved using black toner (hereinafter referred to as "K toner").

[0070] In this embodiment, invisible toner is produced by combining transparent toner (clear toner) with a phosphor, transparent phosphor, etc. That is, invisible toner is typically produced using clear toner as a base. The transparent phosphor is a transparent fluorescent pigment or transparent fluorescent dye, etc. In this embodiment, invisible toner is a pulverized toner having a higher fixing temperature than polymerized toner. However, invisible toner may be polymerized toner. Invisible colors may also be represented by invisible ink (for example, ink produced by clear ink and transparent phosphor). Colorants including invisible toner and invisible ink are called invisible colorants (colorants that express invisible colors), and invisible colorants consist of a transparent phosphor and a medium (clear toner, clear ink, etc.). Invisible colorants are printed onto a recording medium by an image forming apparatus, for example, an electrophotographic printing apparatus in the case of toner, or an inkjet printing apparatus in the case of ink. An invisible image is an image in which invisible colorants including transparent phosphors are printed on a recording medium. Printed materials may include both invisible images created with invisible colorants and visible images created with visible colorants (such as visible CMYK toners or CMYK inks).

[0071] Figure 6 shows an example of a printed material according to one embodiment. The printed material PM according to this embodiment may also be a ticket TK for participating in an event. As shown in Figure 6, the ticket TK may have images 701 to 704 that show information about the event. Each of the images 701 to 704 may be a visible image that is visible under visible light, or an invisible image that is visible under invisible light.

[0072] Image 701 is a text image showing the name of the event. Image 702 is a text image showing the date of the event. Image 703 is a text image showing the seat assigned to the ticket TK purchaser. Image 704 is a text image showing how to obtain additional information about the event.

[0073] Ticket TK further has two QR codes C1 and C2 formed on it. Two-dimensional code C1 is a two-dimensional code that encodes the first connection information (e.g., URL, etc.) and corresponds to the first code. Two-dimensional code C2 is a two-dimensional code that encodes the second connection information (e.g., URL, etc.) and corresponds to the second code. Examples of these two-dimensional codes include PDF417 and QR code (registered trademark). Figure 6 shows an example in which two-dimensional codes encoding connection information are formed on ticket TK, but any code including barcodes or color codes may be formed on ticket TK.

[0074] Two-dimensional code C1 is formed from an invisible image that is visible under invisible light. Two-dimensional code C2 is formed from a visible image that is visible under visible light. Hereafter, two-dimensional code C1 will be referred to as the "invisible code" and two-dimensional code C2 as the "visible code". Furthermore, the first connection information encoded in invisible code C1 will be referred to as "invisible connection information", and the second connection information encoded in visible code C2 will be referred to as "visible connection information".

[0075] Invisible code C1 and visible code C2 may be formed overlapping in at least part. Invisible code C1 and visible code C2 may be formed in the same area with the same shape. Invisible code C1 may be formed in a smaller area than visible code C2. Invisible code C1 may be formed inside the area where visible code C2 is formed. Invisible code C1 may be formed on top of the area where visible code C2 is formed.

[0076] By forming invisible code C1 and visible code C2 in the same area, the space on ticket TK can be used effectively. Furthermore, by forming invisible code C1 inside the area where visible code C2 is formed, invisible code C1 can be made difficult to see under visible light. Since invisible color toner is generated using clear toner as a base, the surface texture of the area where the invisible image is formed will differ from the surrounding image-forming medium. By forming the invisible image inside the visible image, the difference in texture from the surroundings becomes difficult to see.

[0077] Visible code C2 may be formed with a visible color that is difficult to see under invisible light. For example, visible code C2 may be formed with a light color using CMYK. A light color is, for example, a color with small CMYK values. Forming visible code C2 with a light color allows invisible code C1 to be clearly visible under invisible light, improving the readability of invisible code C1.

[0078] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a usage scenario for a printed material according to one embodiment. Figure 7(a) shows the ticket TK shown in Figure 6 placed under fluorescent light (visible light). Figure 7(b) shows the ticket TK shown in Figure 6 placed under black light (invisible light).

[0079] As shown in Figure 7, of the invisible code C1 and visible code C2 formed on the ticket TK, only the visible code C2 is visible under visible light, and only the invisible code C1 is visible under invisible light. Therefore, when the two-dimensional code formed on the ticket TK is read under visible light, the visible connection information encoded in the visible code C2 is recognized. Conversely, when the two-dimensional code formed on the ticket TK is read under invisible light, the invisible connection information encoded in the invisible code C1 is recognized.

[0080] <Functional Configuration of the Content Delivery System> The functional configuration of the content provision system 1000 will be explained with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a content provision system according to one embodiment.

[0081] Image forming apparatus As shown in Figure 8, the image forming apparatus 10 comprises a communication control unit 110, a job reception unit 120, and an image forming unit 130.

[0082] The communication control unit 110 controls communication with the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 110 may receive image forming jobs from the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 110 may transmit image forming results to the information processing device 20.

[0083] An image forming job may include, for example, image data, media information, and setting information. Image data is electronic data that shows the image to be formed on the image forming medium. Image data may also be data in which text and images are laid out. Media information is information that indicates the type of image forming medium. Setting information includes information that indicates settings such as color (monochrome or color, etc.), image forming surface (single-sided or double-sided, etc.), number of copies, magnification, etc., and information that indicates whether the image shown by the image data will be formed as a visible image or an invisible image on the image forming medium.

[0084] The job reception unit 120 accepts image forming jobs. The job reception unit 120 may accept image forming jobs received from the information processing device 20. The job reception unit 120 may also accept input of image forming jobs in response to operations on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0085] The image forming unit 130 forms an image on the image forming medium based on the image forming job received by the job receiving unit 120. The image forming unit 130 may form an invisible code C1 on the image forming medium using an invisible colorant based on the setting information. The image forming unit 130 may form a visible code C2 on the image forming medium using a visible colorant based on the setting information. The image forming unit 130 may form both the invisible code C1 and the visible code C2 on the same image forming medium based on the setting information. After forming the visible code C2 on the image forming medium, the image forming unit 130 may form the invisible code C1 inside the area where the visible code C2 is formed.

[0086] Information Processing Device As shown in Figure 8, the information processing device 20 includes a customer information storage unit 201, a connection information storage unit 202, a content storage unit 203, a history information storage unit 204, a communication control unit 210, a storage control unit 220, a customer information acquisition unit 230, a connection information generation unit 240, a job transmission unit 250, a content transmission unit 260, and a history generation unit 270.

[0087] The customer information storage unit 201, connection information storage unit 202, content storage unit 203, and history information storage unit 204 are implemented, for example, using the HD504 shown in Figure 4. Reading or writing data stored in the HD504 is performed, for example, via the HDD controller 505.

[0088] The communication control unit 210, memory control unit 220, customer information acquisition unit 230, connection information generation unit 240, job transmission unit 250, content transmission unit 260, and history generation unit 270 are implemented, for example, by a program deployed from the ROM 502 to the RAM 503 shown in Figure 4, which is then executed by the CPU 501 and the network I / F 509.

[0089] Customer information is stored in the customer information storage unit 201. A customer information table for storing customer information may be constructed in the customer information storage unit 201. In this embodiment, it is assumed that customer information is stored in the customer information table in advance.

[0090] Customer information is information about the customer (e.g., user U) to whom the printed PM is distributed. Customer information may include identification information to identify the customer. Customer information may also include information for generating the image to be formed on the printed PM. Customer information is an example of user information.

[0091] Connection information is stored in the connection information storage unit 202. A connection information table for storing connection information may be constructed in the connection information storage unit 202. The connection information stored in the connection information table may be generated by the connection information generation unit 240.

[0092] Connection information is information that indicates the destination for receiving content. Connection information may include, for example, a URL. Connection information may include invisible connection information encoded in invisible code. Connection information may also include visible connection information encoded in visible code.

[0093] Connection information may be associated with customer information. Connection information may include identification information that identifies the customer.

[0094] The content storage unit 203 stores content managed by the information processing device 20. The content storage unit 203 may also store content identified by connection information. The content may include invisible content identified by invisible connection information. The content may also include visible content identified by visible connection information. Here, invisible content is an example of the first content, and visible content is an example of the second content, and each is content that differs in at least a part from both the invisible content and the visible content. However, the content storage unit 203 may also store a third type of content that differs in at least a part from both the invisible content and the visible content. Note that even if content is added to or deleted from invisible or visible content, it may still be described as different content.

[0095] History information is stored in the history information storage unit 204. A history information table for storing history information may be constructed in the history information storage unit 204. The history information stored in the history information table may be generated by the history generation unit 270.

[0096] The history information is information that shows the history of communication with the terminal device 30. The history information may also include the history of communication based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30. The history information may also include information indicating whether or not communication based on invisible connection information has been established. Whether or not communication has been established means whether or not communication based on connection information has occurred at least once after the connection information has been generated.

[0097] History information may be associated with customer information. History information may include identification information that identifies the customer.

[0098] The communication control unit 210 controls communication between the image forming apparatus 10 and the terminal device 30. The communication control unit 210 may send an image forming job to the image forming apparatus 10. The communication control unit 210 may receive an image forming result from the image forming apparatus 10. The communication control unit 210 may receive a connection request from the terminal device 30. The communication control unit 210 may send content to the terminal device 30.

[0099] The memory control unit 220 controls the storage of data in the storage device of the information processing device 20. The memory control unit 220 may read customer information from the customer information storage unit 201. The memory control unit 220 may write connection information to the connection information storage unit 202. The memory control unit 220 may read content from the content storage unit 203. The memory control unit 220 may read and write history information to the history information storage unit 204.

[0100] The customer information acquisition unit 230 acquires customer information. The customer information acquisition unit 230 may read customer information stored in the customer information storage unit 201. The customer information acquisition unit 230 may extract customer information stored in the customer information table. The customer information acquisition unit 230 may extract customer information from the customer information table that is not associated with connection information.

[0101] The connection information generation unit 240 generates connection information. The connection information generation unit 240 stores the generated connection information in the connection information storage unit 202. The connection information generation unit 240 may also generate connection information based on customer information acquired by the customer information acquisition unit 230. The connection information generation unit 240 may also store the connection information and customer information in association in the connection information storage unit 202.

[0102] The connection information generation unit 240 may generate invisible connection information for receiving invisible content. The connection information generation unit 240 may generate visible connection information for receiving visible content. The connection information generation unit 240 may generate invisible connection information and visible connection information based on customer information. The connection information generation unit 240 may include identification information to identify the customer in the invisible connection information and visible connection information.

[0103] The job transmission unit 250 transmits the image forming job to the image forming apparatus 10. The job transmission unit 250 may generate the image forming job based on the connection information read from the connection information storage unit 202. The job transmission unit 250 may generate an image forming job that includes an invisible code that encodes invisible connection information and a visible code that encodes visible connection information.

[0104] The job transmission unit 250 may store image forming jobs in the storage device of the information processing device 20. The job transmission unit 250 may monitor the job execution status of the image forming apparatus 10. When the image forming apparatus 10 becomes ready to execute a new image forming job, the job transmission unit 250 may read one of the image forming jobs stored in the storage device and transmit it to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0105] The content transmission unit 260 transmits content to the terminal device 30. The content transmission unit 260 may transmit content to the terminal device 30 via communication with the terminal device 30. The content transmission unit 260 may transmit content read from the content storage unit 203 to the terminal device 30.

[0106] The content transmission unit 260 may transmit content identified by connection information to the terminal device 30, depending on the connection information used by the terminal device 30 to connect to the information processing device 20. The content transmission unit 260 may transmit invisible content to the terminal device 30 in response to communication based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30. The content transmission unit 260 may transmit visible content to the terminal device 30 in response to communication based on visible connection information from the terminal device 30.

[0107] The content transmission unit 260 may control the content to be transmitted to communications based on visible connection information based on historical information. The content transmission unit 260 may transmit invisible content to communications based on visible connection information if the historical information indicates that communications based on invisible connection information are already connected, that is, if communications based on invisible connection information have been connected in the past. The content transmission unit 260 may transmit visible content to communications based on visible connection information if the historical information indicates that communications based on invisible connection information are not connected, that is, if communications based on invisible connection information have never been connected in the past.

[0108] The history generation unit 270 generates history information. The history generation unit 270 stores the generated history information in the history information storage unit 204. The history generation unit 270 may also generate history information relating to communication with the terminal device 30. The history generation unit 270 may also generate history information indicating whether or not communication based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30 is established.

[0109] <Terminal Devices> As shown in Figure 8, the terminal device 30 includes a code reading unit 310, a communication control unit 320, and a display control unit 330.

[0110] The code reading unit 310, the communication control unit 320, and the display control unit 330 are realized, for example, by a process in which a program loaded from the ROM 602 shown in Figure 5 onto the RAM 603 is executed by the CPU 601, the long-distance communication circuit 612, or the display 618.

[0111] The code reading unit 310 reads the code formed on the printed material PM. The code reading unit 310 may also read the code contained in the image data captured by the CMOS sensor 613 (or CMOS sensor 605) with the printed material PM as the subject.

[0112] The code reading unit 310 may read the invisible code C1 under invisible light. The code reading unit 310 may also read a two-dimensional code contained in image data obtained by imaging a printed document PM under invisible light (for example, ultraviolet light emitted by a black light).

[0113] The code reading unit 310 may read the visible code C2 under visible light. The code reading unit 310 may also read the two-dimensional code contained in the image data obtained by imaging a printed document PM under visible light (for example, light emitted from a fluorescent lamp or sunlight).

[0114] The code reading unit 310 recognizes the connection information encoded in the code it reads. The code reading unit 310 may also decode the connection information encoded in the code it reads. When the code reading unit 310 reads an invisible code C1, it recognizes the invisible connection information encoded in the invisible code C1. When the code reading unit 310 reads a visible code C2, it recognizes the visible connection information encoded in the visible code C2.

[0115] The communication control unit 320 controls communication with the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 320 may send a connection request to the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 320 may send a connection request based on connection information recognized by the code reading unit 310. When the code reading unit 310 recognizes invisible connection information, the communication control unit 320 sends a connection request to the information processing device 20 requesting communication based on the invisible connection information. When the code reading unit 310 recognizes visible connection information, the communication control unit 320 sends a connection request to the information processing device 20 requesting communication based on the visible connection information.

[0116] The communication control unit 320 may receive content from the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 320 may receive content transmitted by the information processing device 20 in response to a connection request. The communication control unit 320 may receive invisible content transmitted by the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 320 may receive visible content transmitted by the information processing device 20.

[0117] The display control unit 330 controls the display of information to be presented to the user U on the display 618. The display control unit 330 may also display content received from the information processing device 20 on the display 618. When the display control unit 330 receives invisible content from the information processing device 20, it displays the invisible content on the display 618. When the display control unit 330 receives visible content from the information processing device 20, it displays the visible content on the display 618.

[0118] ≪Customer Information Table≫ Figure 9 shows an example of a customer information table according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the customer information table may have data items such as customer ID, name, address, purchase information, seat information, etc.

[0119] A customer ID is an example of identification information that identifies a customer (e.g., user U). Name, address, purchase information, or seat information are examples of information used to form an image on the printed material PM. For example, seat information may be used to generate the image 703 formed on the ticket TK shown in Figure 6.

[0120] <<Connection Information Table>> Figure 10 shows an example of a connection information table according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the connection information table may have data items such as customer ID, visible connection information, and invisible connection information. The customer ID is the same as the customer ID in the customer information table.

[0121] Visible connection information indicates the connection destination for receiving visible content. Visible connection information may include a customer ID or information that can identify a customer ID. Invisible connection information indicates the connection destination for receiving invisible content. Invisible connection information may include a customer ID or information that can identify a customer ID.

[0122] In this embodiment, an example is shown in which connection information is generated in advance for each customer and stored in a connection information table. However, it is also possible to configure the system so that connection information can be constructed by adding a customer ID to basic connection information (e.g., root directory), and generate the connection information each time. In this case, it is not necessary to generate connection information in advance, and it is not necessary to construct a connection information table.

[0123] ≪History Information Table≫ Figure 11 shows an example of a history information table according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the history information table may have data items such as customer ID, invisible connection history, and usage history. The customer ID is the same as the customer ID in the customer information table.

[0124] The invisible connection history is an example of information indicating whether a communication based on invisible connection information is connected or not. The invisible connection history stores a first value indicating that it is connected (e.g., true, 1, or "completed"), or a second value indicating that it is not connected (e.g., false, 0, or "not yet connected"). In Figure 11, "completed" indicates that it is connected, and "not yet connected" indicates that it is not connected.

[0125] Usage history refers to the usage history of ticket TK, which is an example of printed PM. For example, usage history may include payment history for ticket purchases, entry history to event venues, and receipt history of novelty items. Multiple usage history entries may be included in the history information. Each usage history entry may relate to any specific use.

[0126] <Processing procedure for image formation method> The processing procedure for the image formation method executed by the content provision system 1000 will be explained with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of an image formation method according to one embodiment.

[0127] In step S1, the customer information acquisition unit 230 of the information processing device 20 requests customer information from the storage control unit 220. The storage control unit 220 reads customer information from the customer information table that is not associated with connection information stored in the connection information table. The storage control unit 220 sends the read customer information to the customer information acquisition unit 230. The customer information acquisition unit 230 sends the customer information received from the storage control unit 220 to the connection information generation unit 240.

[0128] In step S2, the connection information generation unit 240 of the information processing device 20 receives customer information from the customer information acquisition unit 230. Based on the customer information, the connection information generation unit 240 generates visible connection information. Specifically, the connection information generation unit 240 generates visible connection information by including the customer ID in the URL that indicates the connection destination for receiving visible content.

[0129] In step S3, the connection information generation unit 240 of the information processing device 20 generates invisible connection information based on customer information. Specifically, the connection information generation unit 240 generates invisible connection information by including the customer ID in the URL that indicates the connection destination for receiving invisible content.

[0130] In step S4, the connection information generation unit 240 of the information processing device 20 requests the storage control unit 220 to store the visible connection information generated in step S2 and the invisible connection information generated in step S3. The storage control unit 220 associates the customer ID, invisible connection information, and visible connection information and stores them in the connection information table.

[0131] In step S5, the job transmission unit 250 of the information processing device 20 requests connection information from the storage control unit 220. The storage control unit 220 reads the connection information stored in the connection information table. The storage control unit 220 may read connection information that satisfies predetermined conditions. For example, the storage control unit 220 may read only connection information for customer IDs for which tickets TK have not yet been issued. The storage control unit 220 sends the read connection information to the job transmission unit 250.

[0132] The job transmission unit 250 generates an image formation job for forming an image on the ticket TK based on the connection information received from the memory control unit 220. Specifically, the job transmission unit 250 encodes the visible connection information and the invisible connection information, respectively, to generate a visible code and an invisible code. The job transmission unit 250 then generates an image formation job that includes an image of the ticket TK with the visible code and the invisible code laid out. Here, the job transmission unit 250 may set setting information indicating that the visible code will be formed as a visible image on the image formation medium, and setting information indicating that the invisible code will be formed as an invisible image on the image formation medium. The job transmission unit 250 requests the communication control unit 210 to transmit the generated image formation job. The communication control unit 210 transmits the image formation job to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0133] In step S6, the communication control unit 110 of the image forming apparatus 10 receives an image forming job from the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 110 sends the received image forming job to the job receiving unit 120. The job receiving unit 120 accepts the image forming job received from the communication control unit 110. The job receiving unit 120 stores the accepted image forming job in a storage device.

[0134] In step S7, the image forming unit 130 of the image forming apparatus 10 reads an unprocessed image forming job from the storage device. Based on the read image forming job, the image forming unit 130 forms an image of ticket TK on the image forming medium. Specifically, the image forming unit 130 forms a visible code C2 on the image forming medium using a visible colorant. Next, the image forming unit 130 forms an invisible code C1 inside the area where the visible code C2 is formed using an invisible colorant. When forming the visible code C2, the image forming unit 130 may control the process by reducing the CMYK values ​​to below a threshold so that the visible code C2 is formed in a light color.

[0135] The ticket TK produced by the image forming apparatus 10 is distributed to the user U. The ticket TK may be distributed to the user U by any means, such as mail, courier, or in-store pickup.

[0136] <Processing procedure for content delivery methods> The processing procedure for the content provision method executed by the content provision system 1000 will be explained with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a content provision method according to one embodiment.

[0137] In step S11, the code reading unit 310 of the terminal device 30 reads the code formed on the ticket TK. The code reading unit 310 recognizes the connection information encoded in the read code. The code reading unit 310 sends the recognized connection information to the communication control unit 320.

[0138] The code reading unit 310 may read the code formed on the ticket TK under invisible light. In this case, the code reading unit 310 reads the invisible code formed on the ticket TK and recognizes the invisible connection information encoded in the invisible code.

[0139] The code reading unit 310 may read the code formed on the ticket TK under visible light. In this case, the code reading unit 310 reads the visible code formed on the ticket TK and recognizes the visible connection information encoded in the visible code.

[0140] In step S12, the code reading unit 310 of the terminal device 30 requests communication from the communication control unit 320 based on the connection information recognized in step S11. The communication control unit 320 sends a connection request to the information processing device 20 requesting communication based on the connection information received from the code reading unit 310 in step S11. If an invisible code is read in step S11, the communication control unit 320 sends a connection request to the information processing device 20 requesting communication based on invisible connection information. If a visible code is read in step S11, the communication control unit 320 sends a connection request to the information processing device 20 requesting communication based on visible connection information.

[0141] In step S13, the communication control unit 210 of the information processing device 20 receives a connection request from the terminal device 30. The communication control unit 210 accepts the received connection request. The communication control unit 210 sends the connection information indicated in the accepted connection request to the content transmission unit 260.

[0142] In step S14, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 receives connection information from the communication control unit 210. The content transmission unit 260 determines whether the connection request received in step S13 is a connection request using an invisible code. In other words, the content transmission unit 260 determines whether the connection information indicated in the connection request is visible connection information or invisible connection information.

[0143] Specifically, the content transmission unit 260 obtains a customer ID from the connection information and reads the invisible and visible connection information associated with that customer ID from the connection information table. The content transmission unit 260 compares the connection information shown in the connection request with the invisible and visible connection information read from the connection information table, respectively. If the connection information shown in the connection request matches the invisible connection information, the content transmission unit 260 determines that it is a connection request using an invisible code. On the other hand, if the connection information shown in the connection request matches the visible connection information, the content transmission unit 260 determines that it is not a connection request using an invisible code.

[0144] If it is determined that the connection request is made using an invisible code (YES), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection request is not made using an invisible code (NO), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S15.

[0145] In step S15, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 determines whether the customer (for example, user U) has already connected to communication using invisible code. Specifically, the content transmission unit 260 obtains the customer ID from the connection information and reads the history information associated with the customer ID from the history information table. The content transmission unit 260 determines whether the value of the invisible connection history in the history information is a first value indicating that a connection has been made, or a second value indicating that a connection has not been made.

[0146] If the content transmission unit 260 determines that communication via the invisible code is established (YES), it proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if it determines that communication via the invisible code is not established (in other words, not established) (NO), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S17.

[0147] In step S16, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 requests the storage control unit 220 to read the invisible content. The storage control unit 220 reads the invisible content from the content storage unit 203. The storage control unit 220 sends the read invisible content to the communication control unit 210.

[0148] The content transmission unit 260 requests the communication control unit 210 to transmit the invisible content. The communication control unit 210 transmits the invisible content to the terminal device 30 via communication with the terminal device 30 connected in step S13.

[0149] In step S17, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 requests the storage control unit 220 to read the visible content. The storage control unit 220 reads the visible content from the content storage unit 203. The storage control unit 220 sends the read visible content to the communication control unit 210.

[0150] The content transmission unit 260 requests the communication control unit 210 to transmit the visible content. The communication control unit 210 transmits the visible content to the terminal device 30 via communication with the terminal device 30 connected in step S13.

[0151] In step S18, the history generation unit 270 of the information processing device 20 generates history information indicating that communication based on invisible connection information has been established. At this time, the history generation unit 270 can generate history information in association with the customer ID obtained based on the connection information. The history generation unit 270 requests the storage control unit 220 to write the generated history information. The storage control unit 220 sets the value of the invisible connection history in the history information to a first value indicating that it has been established, in association with the acquired customer ID, and stores it in the history information table. If history information associated with the customer ID is already stored in the history information table, the storage control unit 220 updates the value of the invisible connection history in that history information to the first value indicating that it has been established.

[0152] In step S19, the communication control unit 320 of the terminal device 30 receives content from the information processing device 20. The communication control unit 320 sends the received content to the display control unit 330. The display control unit 330 displays the content received from the communication control unit 320 on the display 506.

[0153] If the information processing device 20 transmits invisible content in step S16, the display control unit 330 displays the invisible content. Invisible content is transmitted in step S16 if the terminal device 30 reads an invisible code in step S11, or if the terminal device 30 reads a visible code in step S11 and communication based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30 has already been established.

[0154] When the information processing device 20 transmits visible content in step S17, the display control unit 330 displays the visible content. Visible content is transmitted in step S17 if the terminal device 30 reads the visible code in step S11 and there is no communication based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30.

[0155] The information processing device 20 always transmits invisible content to the terminal device 30 when a code formed on the ticket TK is read under invisible light. Furthermore, if a code formed on the ticket TK is read under visible light, the information processing device 20 provides visible content if the code has never been read under invisible light in the past, and transmits invisible content to the terminal device 30 if the code has been read under invisible light at least once in the past. In other words, the information processing device 20 can control the content transmitted to the terminal device 30 when a code formed on the ticket TK is read under visible light, depending on whether or not the code has been read under invisible light in the past.

[0156] <Application Examples> The content provision system 1000 according to this embodiment can be applied to the following uses, for example.

[0157] Prepare two types of content for event attendees: content to be provided before admission and content to be provided after admission. The content provided before admission will be stored as visible content. The content provided after admission will be stored as invisible content.

[0158] When user U, an event attendee, reads the visible code C2 of the ticket TK using the terminal device 30 during the period between receiving the ticket TK and the start of the event, the visible content (content provided before admission) identified by the visible connection information is displayed on the terminal device 30. Examples of content displayed at this time include information such as a map of the area around the event venue and the event timetable.

[0159] On the other hand, when user U arrives at a specific location such as an event venue, the reception staff at the venue will shine a black light on the ticket TK, enabling them to read the invisible code C1 formed on the ticket TK. When user U reads the invisible code C1 using the terminal device 30, the invisible content (content provided after admission) identified by the invisible connection information will be displayed on the terminal device 30.

[0160] Once the invisible code C1 is read and connected to the information processing device 20, the invisible connection history is marked as "completed". When user U, who has completed the event admission registration, reads the code on ticket TK again inside the venue, the visible code is read because it is not under black light illumination. Even in this case, since the invisible connection history is marked as "completed", the invisible content (content provided after admission registration) is displayed on the terminal device 30.

[0161] Other potential applications include providing content for pre-event interaction among participants before the event begins. Furthermore, content displaying the results of this pre-event interaction could be provided after the event starts. For example, participants could be ranked based on their level of participation in the pre-event interaction, allowing them to see their ranking upon arrival at the venue. Even if participants are meeting for the first time at the venue, the shared topic of pre-event interaction helps them quickly bond and contributes to a more engaging event.

[0162] <Example 1> In the above scenario, if the information processing device 20 reads a code formed on the ticket TK under visible light, and if the code formed on the ticket TK under invisible light has been read at least once in the past, it transmits invisible content to the terminal device 30. In this case, even if the terminal device 30 reads the visible code to display visible content, only invisible content is displayed, which may be inconvenient for some users. Therefore, if the information processing device 20 reads a code formed on the ticket TK under visible light, and if the code formed on the ticket TK under invisible light has been read at least once in the past, it may transmit a third type of content to the terminal device 30.

[0163] Modified versions of the content provision method performed by the content provision system 1000 will be explained with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 is a flowchart of an example of the content provision method related to Modified Version 1. In the following, explanations will be omitted if they are the same as those already described.

[0164] In step S15, if it is determined that communication via invisible code is established (YES), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S20. On the other hand, if it is determined that communication via invisible code is not established (in other words, not established) (NO), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S17.

[0165] In step S20, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 requests the storage control unit 220 to read the third content. The storage control unit 220 reads the third content from the content storage unit 203. The storage control unit 220 sends the read third content to the communication control unit 210.

[0166] If the information processing device 20 transmits the third content in step S20, the display control unit 330 displays the third content in step S19. The third content is transmitted in step S20 only if the terminal device 30 reads the visible code in step S11 and communication based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30 has been established.

[0167] Here, the third content may include both visible and invisible content. However, the third content is not limited to this and may also include content that is different from both visible and invisible content.

[0168] As a result, the range of content that can be provided by the content provision system 1000 will be broadened, making it easier to meet user needs.

[0169] <Modification 2> In the above scenario, the information processing device 20 always transmitted invisible content (or a third type of content) when the invisible code formed on the ticket TK was read under invisible light conditions. Under invisible light conditions, when a person arrived at a specific location such as an event, a receptionist would shine a black light on the ticket TK and read the invisible code superimposed on the visible code. However, there is a possibility that a user may notice the existence of the invisible code before arriving at the event and shine a black light on the invisible code themselves to read it. In this case, there is a risk that the user may receive invisible content that can only be viewed by event attendees before arriving at the event. Therefore, the information processing device 20 may transmit visible content if the invisible code on the ticket TK is read at a stage earlier than a predetermined date.

[0170] Modified versions of the content provision method performed by the content provision system 1000 will be explained with reference to Figure 15. Figure 15 is a flowchart of an example of the content provision method according to Modified Version 2. In the following, explanations will be omitted if they are the same as those already explained.

[0171] If it is determined in step S14 that the connection request is made using an invisible code (YES), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S21.

[0172] In step S21, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 determines whether the connection request using the invisible code was received before a predetermined date, such as the event date. If it is determined that it was before the predetermined date (NO), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection request using the invisible code was received on or after the predetermined date (NO), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S16.

[0173] In step S22, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 requests the storage control unit 220 to read the visible content. The storage control unit 220 sends the read visible content to the communication control unit 210. The communication control unit 210 transmits the visible content to the terminal device 30. If the information processing device 20 transmits the visible content in step S22, in step S19, the display control unit 330 displays the visible content.

[0174] As a result, the provision of invisible content to users who are not present at the event venue can be restricted, thereby protecting information that should be provided after event registration.

[0175] <Variation 3> In the above, the information processing device 20 transmitted invisible content or third content when the invisible code formed on the ticket TK was read under invisible light conditions after a predetermined date. In other words, if a user has a ticket TK after a predetermined date and under invisible light conditions, anyone can read the invisible code and receive the invisible content. However, if a user who purchased a ticket TK loses it after a predetermined date, there is a risk that a third party who did not purchase a ticket may receive the invisible content. Therefore, when the information processing device 20 receives a connection request via an invisible code, it may send a request to the terminal device 30 for the input of authentication information.

[0176] Modified versions of the content provision method performed by the content provision system 1000 will be explained with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is a flowchart of an example of the content provision method related to Modified Version 3. In the following, explanations will be omitted if they are the same as those already explained.

[0177] If it is determined in step S14 that the connection request is made using an invisible code (YES), the content transmission unit 260 proceeds to step S23.

[0178] In step S23, the content transmission unit 260 of the information processing device 20 requests the terminal device 30 to input authentication information. In step S24, the communication control unit 320 of the terminal device 30 receives the request for authentication information input from the information processing device 20. In step S25, the display control unit 330 of the terminal device 30 displays the authentication information input screen. In step S26, the communication control unit 320 of the terminal device 30 transmits the authentication information entered by the user via the touch panel 621 to the information processing device 20.

[0179] In step S27, the communication control unit 210 of the information processing device 20 receives authentication information transmitted from the terminal device 30 and performs authentication processing by comparing the received authentication information with authentication information pre-registered in the information processing device 20. If authentication is successful through the authentication processing, that is, if the received authentication information matches the authentication information pre-registered in the information processing device 20, the information processing device 20 proceeds to step S16. The subsequent steps are the same as in the first embodiment. On the other hand, if authentication fails through the authentication processing, the information processing device 20 may notify the terminal device 30 that authentication has failed and terminate the process.

[0180] As a result, under invisible light conditions from a specified date onward, such as the event day, it is possible to prevent the leakage of invisible content, which is only provided to event attendees, to users who have not purchased a ticket TK.

[0181] <Effects of the Embodiment> The information processing device 20 according to this embodiment stores historical information relating to communications based on invisible connection information from the terminal device 30 in a storage device, and based on the historical information, transmits invisible content identified by the invisible connection information or visible content identified by the visible connection information to the terminal device 30 in response to communications based on visible connection information from the terminal device 30.

[0182] In one respect, this embodiment allows control over the content transmitted to a terminal device without using information specific to the terminal device. In another respect, this embodiment allows appropriate content to be provided to a terminal device even if information specific to the terminal device cannot be obtained.

[0183] The information processing device 20 may send invisible content to a communication based on visible connection information if the history information indicates that the communication based on invisible connection information is not connected. The information processing device 20 may also send invisible content to a communication based on visible connection information if the history information indicates that the communication based on invisible connection information is connected. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, appropriate content can be sent to a communication based on visible connection information depending on whether or not the communication based on invisible connection information is connected.

[0184] The invisible connection information and visible connection information may be associated with customer information relating to user U operating the terminal device 30. The information processing device 20 may store history information for each piece of customer information. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, appropriate content can be transmitted to each customer without using information specific to the terminal device.

[0185] Communication based on invisible connection information may be initiated by reading an invisible code containing invisible connection information. Communication based on visible connection information may be initiated by reading a visible code containing visible connection information. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, appropriate content can be transmitted with simple operation by the user.

[0186] An invisible code may be formed from an invisible image visible under invisible light. A visible code may be formed from a visible image visible under visible light. The invisible code and the visible code may be formed on the same image forming medium. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, once a code is read under invisible light, appropriate content can be transmitted even if the code is read under visible light.

[0187] The invisible code may be formed inside the region where the visible code is formed. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, the space of the image forming medium can be used effectively.

[0188] The visible code may be formed in a color that is difficult to see under invisible light. In one aspect, according to this embodiment, the invisible code can be read accurately under invisible light.

[0189] [supplement] Each of the functions of the embodiments described above can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Hereinafter, "processing circuit" as used herein includes processors programmed to execute each function by software, such as processors implemented by electronic circuits, as well as devices such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), DSPs (digital signal processors), FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays), and conventional circuit modules designed to execute each of the functions described above.

[0190] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims.

[0191] Examples of the present invention are as follows:

[0192] (Note 1) An information processing device that can communicate with a terminal device via a network, A storage control unit that stores in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, A content transmission unit transmits to the terminal device, based on the history information, the first content specified by the first connection information, or the second content specified by the second connection information, in response to a second communication based on the second connection information from the terminal device. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

[0193] (Note 2) The aforementioned content transmission unit is If the history information indicates that the first communication is not connected, the second content is sent to the second communication. If the history information indicates that the first communication is connected, the first content is transmitted to the second communication. The information processing device described in Appendix 1.

[0194] (Note 3) The first connection information and the second connection information are associated with user information relating to the user operating the terminal device. The memory control unit stores the history information for each user information. The information processing device described in Appendix 1 or 2.

[0195] (Note 4) When the content transmission unit receives the first communication based on the first connection information from the terminal device, if the reception of the first communication was before a predetermined date and time, it transmits the second content to the first communication. An information processing device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 3.

[0196] (Note 5) The content transmission unit requests the input of authentication information for a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, and transmits the first content identified by the first connection information based on the result of the input. An information processing device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0197] (Note 6) The first communication described above is initiated by reading a first code containing the first connection information, The second communication is initiated by reading a second code containing the second connection information. An information processing device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 5.

[0198] (Note 7) The first code is formed by an invisible image visible under invisible light, The second code is formed by a visible image that is visible under visible light. The information processing device described in Appendix 6.

[0199] (Note 8) The first code and the second code are formed on the same image-forming medium. The information processing device described in Appendix 6 or 7.

[0200] (Note 9) The first code is formed inside the region where the second code is formed. The information processing device described in Appendix 8.

[0201] (Note 10) The second code is formed in a color that is difficult to see under invisible light. An information processing device as described in any of the appendices 6 to 9.

[0202] (Note 11) An information processing device that can communicate with a terminal device via a network, A storage control unit that stores in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, In response to a first communication based on the first connection information from the terminal device, the first content identified by the first connection information is transmitted. A content transmission unit transmits a second content, or a third content different from the first and second content, to the terminal device in response to a second communication based on second connection information from the terminal device, based on the aforementioned history information. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

[0203] (Note 12) The image forming unit comprises an image forming unit that forms a first code visible under invisible light and a second code visible under visible light on the same image forming medium. The first code is formed inside the region where the second code is formed. Image forming apparatus.

[0204] (Note 13) The second code is formed in a color that is difficult to see under invisible light. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 12.

[0205] (Note 14) An information processing device described in any of the appendices 1 to 11, The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 12 or 13, The aforementioned information processing device and a terminal device capable of communicating via a network, An information processing system that includes this.

[0206] (Note 15) An information processing device that can communicate with a terminal device via a network, A procedure for storing in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, A procedure for transmitting, based on the history information, the first content identified by the first connection information, or the second content identified by the second connection information, to the terminal device for a second communication based on the second connection information, A method for delivering content that performs this task.

[0207] (Note 16) Information processing device that can communicate with terminal devices via a network, A procedure for storing in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, A procedure for transmitting, based on the history information, the first content identified by the first connection information, or the second content identified by the second connection information, to the terminal device for a second communication based on the second connection information, A program to execute. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0208] PM: Printed matter TK: Tickets C1: Invisible code C2: Visible Code 10: Image forming apparatus 20: Information Processing Devices 30: Terminal device 110: Communication Control Unit 120: Job Reception Department 130: Image forming unit 201:Customer information storage section 202: Connection Information Storage Unit 203: Content Storage Unit 204: History Information Storage Unit 210: Communication Control Unit 220: Memory Control Unit 230:Customer information acquisition department 240: Connection Information Generation Unit 250: Job submission section 260: Content transmission unit 270: History generation unit 310: Code reading unit 320: Communication Control Unit 330: Display Control Unit [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0209] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-152108

Claims

1. An information processing device that can communicate with a terminal device via a network, A storage control unit that stores in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, A content transmission unit transmits to the terminal device, based on the history information, the first content specified by the first connection information, or the second content specified by the second connection information, in response to a second communication based on the second connection information from the terminal device. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The aforementioned content transmission unit is If the history information indicates that the first communication is not connected, the second content is sent to the second communication. If the history information indicates that the first communication is connected, the first content is transmitted to the second communication. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The first connection information and the second connection information are associated with user information relating to the user operating the terminal device. The memory control unit stores the history information for each user information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. When the content transmission unit receives the first communication based on the first connection information from the terminal device, if the reception of the first communication was before a predetermined date and time, it transmits the second content to the first communication. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The content transmission unit requests the input of authentication information in response to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, and transmits the first content identified by the first connection information based on the result of the input. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The first communication is initiated by reading a first code containing the first connection information, The second communication is initiated by reading a second code containing the second connection information. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The first code is formed by an invisible image visible under invisible light, The second code is formed by a visible image that is visible under visible light. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The first code and the second code are formed on the same image forming medium. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

9. The first code is formed inside the region where the second code is formed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8.

10. The second code is formed in a color that is difficult to see under invisible light. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

11. An information processing device that can communicate with a terminal device via a network, A storage control unit that stores in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, In response to a first communication based on the first connection information from the terminal device, the first content specified by the first connection information is transmitted. A content transmission unit transmits a second content, or a third content different from the first and second content, to the terminal device in response to a second communication based on second connection information from the terminal device, based on the aforementioned history information. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

12. The image forming unit comprises an image forming unit that forms a first code visible under invisible light and a second code visible under visible light on the same image forming medium. The first code is formed inside the region where the second code is formed. Image forming apparatus.

13. The second code is formed in a color that is difficult to see under invisible light. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12.

14. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The image forming apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, The aforementioned information processing device and a terminal device capable of communicating via a network, An information processing system that includes this.

15. An information processing device that can communicate with a terminal device via a network, A procedure for storing in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, A procedure for transmitting, based on the history information, the first content identified by the first connection information, or the second content identified by the second connection information, to the terminal device for a second communication based on the second connection information, A method for delivering content that performs this task.

16. Information processing device that can communicate with terminal devices via a network, A procedure for storing in a storage device history information relating to a first communication based on first connection information from the terminal device, A procedure for transmitting, based on the history information, the first content identified by the first connection information, or the second content identified by the second connection information, to the terminal device for a second communication based on the second connection information, A program to execute.

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